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
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.
Why Budgeting Fails—and What You Should Do Instead
Tim Elliott and Independent Financial Consultant James Thomas dissect a BBC report on Lloyds Bank CEO Charlie Nunn’s controversial personal finance advice. They explore why manual budgeting fails, the risks of social media ‘finfluencers’, and how automated savings offer UAE residents a practical defence against high living costs.
Global Hiring Slowdown: What It Means for Candidates
As global recruitment giants face staggering profit falls and regional office closures, a hiring slowdown is gripping major international markets. Presenter Tim Elliott sits down with David Mackenzie, Managing Director of Mackenzie Jones Middle East, to analyse these shifting macroeconomic trends and unpack what this cooling landscape means for local job seekers.
Gold Expert Projects Surge Past $5,000 Mark
Tim Elliott is joined by Monetary Metals’ Jeff Rhodes to analyse the global gold market’s resilient performance amidst inflation fears and looming interest rate hikes. Despite recent sharp corrections, Rhodes projects a highly bullish future with central banks continuing to buy, predicting gold will comfortably breach the $5,000 mark.
MENA's Auto Slowdown. Who Is Still Buying Cars?
Halfway through 2026, the MENA automotive sector is facing a sharp 3.9% decline in vehicle sales. Presenter Tim Elliott sits down with Anna-Marie Baisden, Head of Autos and Infrastructure Research, BMI, to unpack a story of extreme divergence, examining how shipping disruptions and geopolitical strain are punishing some markets whilst others show surprising resilience.
Why Landlords Prefer Empty Homes Over Flexible Pay
Dubai’s rental market is moving toward a more modern, flexible future. Speaking on Mira Business FM today, EVA Real Estate’s Mario Volpi tells Tim Elliott that while some premium landlords are still holding on to traditional single-cheque payments, the growing demand for European-style monthly rent is paving the way for exciting, tenant-friendly options that will ultimately make Dubai an even more
USD 375 Million Deal to Power the Middle East's Clean Energy Growth
UAE-based energy transition platform Positive Zero has closed a landmark non-recourse debt facility of up to $375 million, marking a major milestone for the region's decentralized utility sector. Host Tim Elliott is joined by David Auriau, CEO of Positive Zero, to analyze how this structured financing—arranged with Natixis CIB and The Arab Energy Fund—aims to accelerate solar, energy efficiency, a
Is Georgia the Plan B of Dubai Investors?
Is Georgia the new frontier for luxury real estate? Following a high-profile Mira Verde launch in Tbilisi, Luxe Vista Properties CEO Ajay Menon sits down with Tim Elliott. He analyses why major UAE developers are aggressively targeting the market, offering investors premium, fully serviced master communities at a fraction of European capital prices.
Can Your Investments Survive the US-Iran Crisis?
Fresh tensions between the US and Iran are rattling global markets once again, and raising fresh questions about inflation, interest rates, and where investors should put their money next. As geopolitical risks return to the spotlight, what should investors expect in the weeks ahead? Joining Tim Elliott is Ryan Lemand, Founder and CEO of Neovision Wealth Management, with insights on navigating tod
Peace on Hold: What the US-Iran Escalation Means for Business
Fresh uncertainty hangs over the Middle East as US-Iran escalations transform into a conditional war over the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Tim Elliott speaks with Dr Zeidon Alkinani, Founding Director of the Arab Perspectives Institute, to analyse whether Oman’s talks offer a temporary truce or permanent scars for regional security, business resilience, and global investor confidence.
Can Emirati Ingredients Become a Global Food Trend?
One UAE entrepreneur believes dates and camel milk could be the foundation of a new generation of premium, high protein snacks, while also supporting food security, local manufacturing and sustainable innovation. Joining Tim Elliott is Rashid Gargash, Founder of Rashtions, the homegrown nutrition brand reimagining regional ingredients for modern consumers.
Will Gold Prices Go Up?
Tim Elliott speaks with gold expert Jeff Rhodes of Monetary Metals about the forces shaping the gold market. They discuss recent price movements, interest rates, inflation, geopolitical tensions and what could determine whether gold continues to climb in the months ahead.
How Do You Keep a 130 Year Old Business Relevant?
Tim Elliott speaks with Nahel Selo, Creative Director of Sedar Global, about how a company founded in 1892 continues to thrive. They discuss innovation, changing consumer expectations, global expansion, design leadership and the challenge of keeping a heritage business relevant in a fast moving world.
Low Credit Scores: What They Really Cost
Tim Elliott welcomes independent financial consultant James Thomas to explore the implications of having a low credit score. They discuss borrowing, mortgages, business finance, rebuilding financial confidence, practical steps for improvement, and common misconceptions, helping listeners make informed decisions for a stronger financial future with realistic guidance and lasting resilience.
Are You Bored at Work?
Are you bored at work? It might not be laziness—it could be the first sign of burnout. Mackenzie Jones MD David Mackenzie joins Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM to expose how aggressive "grind culture" is backfiring across the Middle East, and why corporate stability depends on shifting toward mental wellbeing.
Ever Wonder How Your Delivery Arrives So Fast?
In this exclusive interview, Mira Business FM presenter Tim Elliott sits down with Constantin Kodsi, Director of Logistics for Talabat UAE. They pull back the curtain on a massive operation handling millions of regional customers. Kodsi reveals the complex machine-learning models, driver welfare frameworks, and rigorous forecasting driving their seamless delivery network.
How UAE Universities are Transforming Vacation into Career Launchpads
As global employers demand real-world readiness, the traditional summer break is transforming into a critical career launchpad. Tim Elliott tackles the perennial graduate employability discussion with Dr Anita Patankar, Executive Director, Symbiosis International University Dubai.
WhatsApp’s New Privacy Feature Weaponised by Cybercriminals, Experts Warn
As WhatsApp rolls out its highly anticipated username feature to boost user privacy, cybersecurity experts are warning of a potential disaster. Cyronel founder Nikita Astionov joins Tim Elliott to unpack how automated AI-driven fraud and sophisticated impersonation tactics are transforming this privacy tool into a dangerous new weapon for cybercriminals.
What’s Next for UAE Property Investors?
Tim Elliott sits down with Mario Volpi, senior manager at Eva Real Estate, to break down the pivotal developments shaping Dubai’s booming property sector over the last seven days. They dissect key market shifts, emerging investor trends, and crucial updates driving the emirate's landscape.
Peace Talks, Oil Shock and Qatar's Economic Contraction
Tim Elliott sits down with AGBI - Arabian Gulf Business Insight Editor-at-large Frank Kane Frank Kane to analyse why Qatar faces a 14% economic contraction. Despite ongoing peace talks, severe infrastructure attacks at Ras Laffan and total reliance on the volatile Strait of Hormuz leave the energy giant uniquely vulnerable to a prolonged, multiyear recession.
"It's Too Far"... Or Is It? Challenging Property Location Myths
Why do so many buyers judge a property by its distance from familiar landmarks rather than what it truly offers? Tim Elliott speaks with Ajay Menon, CEO of Luxe Vista Properties, about changing perceptions of location, buyer behaviour, transport, lifestyle, and why value often lies beyond the obvious.
Taylor Said I Do. What Does It Cost in the UAE?
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding has captured headlines around the world, putting the spotlight back on lavish celebrations and what it really costs to say "I do." Joining Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM is Kholod El Amrani, Founder of The HY Soiree Events, to discuss how weddings are changing, where couples are spending less, and whether celebrity weddings influence what people want f
How a Fragile US-Iran Ceasefire Impacts Gulf Banks
Fitch Ratings has revised its Gulf banking sector outlook to deteriorating, warning that structural health relies on a sustained US-Iran ceasefire. Whilst capital buffers protect lenders, macroeconomic slowdowns will depress credit growth. Tim Elliott speaks to Redmond Ramsdale, Senior Director, Head of Middle East Bank Ratings and Islamic Banking.
British Degree for Less? New UAE Scholarships Could Change the Cost of University
Tim Elliott sits down with De Montfort University Dubai Provost, Simon Bradbury, to discuss groundbreaking financial relief initiatives. The interview analyses how newly launched tuition scholarships are making British higher education more accessible, reshaping regional student recruitment strategies, and reducing the financial burden for families navigating the Emirates' evolving academic landsc
What's Driving GCC Demand for UK Property?
GCC investor interest in UK property has surged by 16%, driven by regional conflicts and a desire to mitigate risk. While London’s Westminster remains a prime target, buyers are heavily diversifying into Manchester and Birmingham. Hamish McAllister, Senior UK Property Consultant - Middle East at Select Property, joins Tim Elliott to discuss the massive shift towards completed, income-generating tu
How Etihad Rail Will Change Where We Live and Work
As passenger services officially commence on the Etihad Rail network, host Tim Elliott sits down with Mackenzie Jones Middle East MD David Mackenzie to dissect how mass transit will reshape the regional economy. The discussion highlights how high-speed rail could alleviate surging urban rental stresses and transform the daily commute.
Gold Surges Past $4,200 as US Payroll Growth Slows
US non-farm payrolls came in significantly lower than expected, dampening aggressive interest rate hike noise and sparking a massive overnight gold rally back to $4,200. Presenter Tim Elliott checks in with Monetary Metals' Jeff Rhodes to discuss the commodity's decoupling from traditional correlations and its long-term bullish outlook.
Will Higher Hormuz Fees Push Up Prices Worldwide?
Could the cost of moving oil through one of the world's busiest shipping lanes soon hit consumers everywhere? Fresh concerns are emerging that proposed charges for vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz could push up energy prices, disrupt global trade, and fuel another wave of inflation. Joining us is Ryan Bohl, Senior Middle East and North African Analyst at the RANE Network, to
More Than Half of GCC Employees Feel Constantly Stressed
The latest GCC People Pulse from Ipsos and Employee Experience Exchange reveals a surprising contradiction in the region's workforce. Employees are more confident in their organisations than the global average, yet more than half say they are under constant strain at work, while AI optimism is rising alongside fears over job security. Joining Tim Elliott is James Tarbit, Global Head of
Strait of Hormuz: Can Fragile Peace Keep Global Shipping Safe?
A ceasefire has eased tensions between the US and Iran, but uncertainty over the next round of peace talks means risks remain in the Strait of Hormuz. So, how safe is one of the world's busiest shipping routes today? Joining Tim Elliott is Christopher Long, Head of Intelligence & Compliance at Neptune P2P Group, to discuss the latest maritime security situation, vessel traffic, and
Dubai Retail Property Sales Hit Record Highs
Dubai's retail property market is off to a flying start in 2026, with sales values jumping 171% to AED2.1 billion, driven by a surge in off-plan deals. At the same time, rents continue to climb even as more businesses choose to renew leases instead of relocating. Joining Tim Elliott is Ali Siddiqui, Research Manager at Cavendish Maxwell, to unpack what's driving these trends and what they mea
UAE E-Invoicing Is Here. Is Your Business Ready?
A major change to how businesses issue invoices is officially underway. The UAE launches the pilot phase of its new e invoicing framework from July 1, marking the start of one of the country's biggest tax and digital compliance reforms. With mandatory deadlines approaching in 2027, businesses are now being urged to prepare. Joining Tim Elliott is Nils Vanhassel, Partner and Head of Tax Middle
UAE Hiring Update. Is Summer the Best Time to Land a Job?
Is hiring slowing for summer, or are employers still actively recruiting? We take a look at what's really happening in the job market.Joining Tim Elliott is Zachary Beckett, Talent Partner at Professional Pyramid, with the latest insights on hiring trends and what job seekers should do next.
Real Estate Impact of the Etihad Rail Launch
Tim Elliott sits down with Mario Volpi, Senior Manager at Eva Real Estate, to discuss the official launch of passenger services on Etihad Rail. They explore the phased rollout of the network and what this enhanced connectivity means for commuters, residents, and the UAE real estate landscape.
Can Saudi Property Laws Lure Corporate Talent Away From Dubai?
As Vision 2030 drives global multinationals to relocate corporate operations to Riyadh, can property ownership market shifts convince top executive talent to move? Tim Elliott talks to Ajay Menon, CEO of Luxe Vista Properties, to analyse why Dubai’s liberal, cosmopolitan lifestyle ensures it remains preferred for expatriate family living.
Microplastics, Imported Bottles: What Are We Actually Drinking
We consume it daily, but do we truly know what’s in our water? Tim Elliott sits down with BE WTR Founder Mike Hecker to unpack growing concerns over microplastics and the heavy environmental toll of imported bottles, exploring whether locally produced premium water is the sustainable path forward.
Summer Camps Cash In as Schools Close
As schools close for summer, demand for holiday camps is rising, transforming childcare into a fast-growing business. Charlotte D’Souza, Co-Founder of Blah Blah Blah, joins Tim Elliott to explore what is driving this demand, whether parents will spend more, and just how profitable the market has become.
Who's Training AI? Data Workers Speak Out
AI is transforming business and daily life, but questions are growing over how the people training these systems are treated. Joining Tim Elliott to discuss the push for fair pay, transparency, and better working conditions for this vital workforce is AI trainer and Turkopticon organizer Krista Pawlowski.
Why Every World Cup Team Wants a Hit Song
As the World Cup intensity peaks in the knockout stages, music has become as crucial to a team's campaign as their tactical formation. Julie Hanse, Director of Partnerships at MassiveMusic, joins Tim Elliott to unpack the lucrative business of sports anthems, exploring why global teams and major brands are obsessively investing in sonic strategies, stadium chants, and official tracks to fuel natio
A New Approach to Senior Care for Emiratis
As businesses adapt to a period of economic uncertainty shaped by regional geopolitical tensions, flexibility has become the new constant. Joining Tim Elliott in the studio, Sawsan Shalabi, founder of Rafeeq Connect, discusses navigating today's challenges and explains why shifting focus locally with "Izwetna"—a tailored companionship initiative for Emirati seniors—could be her smartest operationa
Can Uncertainty Make Your Business Stronger?
Dubai is doubling down on confidence. After the recent regional conflict, government leaders brought businesses together to protect the emirate's status as a global hub, while launching the new Dubai-it campaign to reinforce resilience and growth. So, what can every business, from startups to SMEs, learn when uncertainty becomes the new normal? Joining Tim Elliott is startup investor and serial en
Is Gold Mispriced? Bullion Hits 7-Month Low as Market Pressures Mount
High inflation, a surging US dollar, and expected interest rate hikes have pushed gold to a seven-month low. With stabilizing oil prices and easing geopolitical tensions further cooling the market, Monetary Metals’ Jeff Rhodes joins Tim Elliott to break down the bearish momentum and discuss whether gold is currently mispriced.
Dubai Car Ownership Costs Soar Amid 30% Fuel Price Hike
As regional developments drive Dubai fuel prices up by 30 per cent, resident motorists face escalating costs. On Mira Business FM, independent financial consultant James Thomas joins Tim Elliott to analyse the true cost of vehicle ownership, breaking down surging insurance premiums, registration fees, Salik tolls, and the financial reality of switching to electric vehicles.
UAE Job Market: What to Expect in Q4
The UAE's private sector workforce grew by 2.5% in the first quarter of 2026, according to MoHRE, with skilled workers also on the rise. But with regional uncertainty and changing business conditions, can the hiring momentum continue through the rest of the year?Joining Tim Elliott to share her analysis is Sonam Haider, Founder and Global Mobility Strategist at Aethra Advisory.
Why Slashing Marketing Budgets Is a Fatal Mistake
As economic pressure mounts, can transparent narrative marketing save struggling UAE businesses? Plug’s Brand Commander, Lucy Bradley, joins Tim Elliott to discuss her ‘Save a Soap’ masterclass. They discuss why slashing marketing budgets is a fatal mistake, how friction fuels raw creativity, and why relying on internal teams often stifles innovation.
From Hormuz to New Trade Routes: What's Changing?
With tensions around the Strait of Hormuz putting global trade routes under scrutiny, Gulf businesses are looking at new ways to keep goods moving. From the UAE-Oman cargo corridors and Fujairah as an important route, supply chain resilience is becoming more important than ever. Joining Tim Elliott to unpack this is Dr. Fabienne Chedid, Assistant Professor in Operations Management and Logistics at
Saudi Tourism Revenue Surges to 82.7B Riyals in Q1
Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector has visualised dramatic growth, generating over 82 billion rials in Q1 2026. Whilst international visitor numbers fell due to regional instability, a high-spending luxury threshold offset low volumes. Kevin Duffield, Director of Built Asset Consulting at Cavendish Maxwell, joins Tim Elliott to analyse how maturing infrastructure, religious tourism, and entertainment s
DLD's Flexi Rent: The End of Upfront Cheques in Dubai?
Tim Elliott sits down with EVA Real Estate’s Senior Manager Mario Volpi to break down the Dubai Land Department’s groundbreaking Flexi Rent initiative. Designed to ease tenant financial burdens, this new programme introduces flexible monthly or quarterly rental options, challenging the region's traditional upfront cheque system and reshaping future landlord-tenant dynamics across Dubai.
To Buy or to Rent in Dubai? Moving Beyond the Excel Sheet
It’s the ultimate Dubai dilemma: is it better to buy property or keep renting? While calculators and spreadsheets can crunch the upfront costs, the true decision goes far deeper than just financial metrics. In this segment, Ajay Menon, CEO of Luxe Vista, joins the show to look beyond the Excel sheet. We explore the lifestyle factors, long-term stability, and market psychological shifts driving res
Bracing for the Bounce: Inside the UAE’s 2026 Property Rebound with Grovy Developers
Abhishek Jalan, CEO of Grovy Developers, joins the show to break down the post-ceasefire market dynamics. We dive into why the sub-AED 3 million segment is positioned to lead the rebound, how buyer behavior is shifting between end-users and investors, and what current demand reveals about changing priorities in affordability. From shifting luxury sentiment to a comparison of Dubai and Abu Dhabi's
UAE's Under-15 Social Media Ban: Could It Change Consumer Behaviour?
The UAE has announced a ban on social media access for children under 15, a move that could reshape the way brands market, advertise and connect with young consumers. Could it change consumer behaviour, influence family spending habits, and force marketers to rethink their strategies? Joining Tim Elliott are Sourjo Mukherjee, Assistant Professor of Marketing at the University of Wollongong Dubai,
Emiratisation Deadline: Are UAE Firms Ready?
As the 30 June Emiratisation deadline fast approaches, businesses across the UAE are scrambling to meet strict targets. Dawlati founder Zakaria Doleh joins Tim Elliott to discuss how their AI-powered platform moves local hiring beyond mere box-ticking compliance, transforming regional recruitment strategies into a major competitive advantage for private sector growth.
Luxury Watches Become a New Source of Cash in the UAE
As luxury timepieces increasingly transition from status symbols to genuine financial assets in the UAE, a pioneering buyback model is transforming the regional market. George Flo, Founder of The Heritage Club, joins Tim Elliott to discuss unlocking immediate liquidity from high-end timepieces while preserving the option for sentimental repossession.
Can Peace Deliver a Boost for UAE's F&B Sector?
UAE food and beverage operators are looking ahead with renewed confidence following months of regional uncertainty. Speaking to Tim Elliott, Roster co-founder Paul Clifford and Cafe Isan owner Lisa Knight analyse the transition from local resident footfall to an expected autumn tourist boom, whilst addressing critical operational challenges and industry longevity.
Gold Market Shaken by Fed Signals and Middle East Peace Shifts
As Middle East peace developments and oil prices reshape the region, gold markets face a fresh wave of volatility. Monetary Metals' Jeff Rhodes joins Tim Elliott to analyse how a surprise hawkish stance from the US Federal Open Market Committee is rattling investor sentiment globally.
The Impact of the US-Iran Peace Deal on the Gulf Economy
Following the historic US–Iran peace memorandum, the vital Strait of Hormuz has reopened, easing global energy supply anxieties. However, whilst buoyant financial markets are cheering the breakthrough, Oxford Economics' Azad Zangana warns that the full operational recovery of regional shipping and trade will still take months.
Are You Saving Enough to Retire Comfortably?
New analysis reveals a comfortable retirement now demands a staggering £1.2 million pension pot. Independent Financial Consultant James Thomas joins Tim Elliott on Mirabisis FM to unpack this sobering figure. They explore soaring property markets, shifting global demographics, and crucial strategies to help you secure your financial future.
Will AI Make the Recruitment Industry Redundant?
Are AI advancements about to trigger widespread corporate redundancies? David Mackenzie, Managing Director of Mackenzie Jones Middle East, joins Tim Elliott to analyse how technology is reshaping the future of human resources. The industry expert addresses uncomfortable boardroom questions regarding automation, career evolution, and the shifting job market.
UAE's Strait of Hormuz Exit Plan. Is Zero Dependence Possible?
The UAE is moving to cut its dependency on the Strait of Hormuz to zero, as concerns over regional security and supply chain resilience remain in focus. What would that mean for trade, energy exports and the wider economy? Joining Tim Elliott is Dr Lijo John, Assistant Professor in Logistics and Supply Chain Management at Edinburgh Business School, Heriot-Watt University Dubai.
Has Sharjah Become the UAE’s Real Estate Hotspot?
Sharjah’s property market has hit record highs, with real estate sales surging 64% to AED65.6 billion. Foreign ownership reforms, lower living costs and major infrastructure projects are fueling demand across the emirate. Joining Tim Elliott to explain the surge is Ali Siddiqui, Research Manager at Cavendish Maxwell.
