AB Majlis
AB Majlis is a podcast from Arabian Business, focusing on the latest trends in the GCC. It serves as a gateway to business and economic developments across the Gulf region. The show provides insights into the region's markets, industries, and business culture. It is designed for professionals and enthusiasts interested in the Gulf's economic landscape.
Episodes
ESG, sustainable finance and the UAE’s future | In conversation with Mashreq's Faisal Al Shimmari
What will it take to turn sustainability commitments into investment that improves people’s lives?Faisal Al Shimmari, Head of ESG, Mashreq, joins Arabian Business to discuss the future of sustainable finance in the UAE and beyond.From rethinking public-private partnerships to putting communities at the centre of ESG, Al Shimmari explains how governments, banks and investors can work together to mo
Smart city tech could add $6.9 billion to Dubai's economy | A chat with JLL's Dr. Matthew Marson
Smart cities are no longer just about impressive technology. They are becoming serious investments capable of generating measurable economic returns.Dr Matthew Marson, Managing Director Technology Advisory EMA & APAC at JLL, joins AB Majlis to explain why smart city technology could add $6.9 billion to Dubai’s economy and almost $16bn to Riyadh’s. He also explains why AI-powered energy systems
Why the Middle East is moving faster on infrastructure | In conversation with Siemens’ Hakan Ozdemir
SPONSORED - The Middle East is investing heavily in smarter cities, power grids, data centres and AI-enabled infrastructure. According to Siemens’ latest Infrastructure Transition Monitor, the region is also showing greater urgency than global peers when it comes to transforming the systems that power its economies.Hakan Ozdemir, CEO of Siemens Smart Infrastructure in the Middle East and Siemens Q
Planes, power and the new Gulf economy | In conversation with Boeing's Fahad Al Mheiri
The Gulf has built some of the world’s biggest airlines, airports and aviation hubs. Now it wants to build more of the industry behind them.Managing Editor Tala Michel Issa sits down with Fahad Al Mheiri, Boeing’s Vice President for the Middle East, Gulf and North Africa, to discuss why the region could need another 3,000 aircraft over the next 20 years, why delivery slots are “like gold” and how
Visa’s Walter Lironi on rebuilding banking for the AI age
SPONSORED - AI, mobile-first consumers and rising fraud risks are transforming the payments industry. Walter Lironi, Visa’s Senior Vice President and Head of Value Added Services for Central Europe, the Middle East and Africa, joins AB Majlis to discuss how banks can modernise ageing systems, embrace AI and deliver faster, safer and more personalised digital experiences.This episode is sponsored b
InvestGate founder Kunal Varma targets GCC’s emerging-affluent investment market
SPONSORED - Kunal Varma, founder and CEO of InvestGate, joins the Arabian Business podcast to explain why he left banking to build his own company, the opportunity he sees among the GCC’s emerging affluent and what it takes to create a regulated regional investment platform. We also discuss why he believes the Gulf’s financial-services market is ready for change—and what comes next for InvestGate.
Yolk Brands' Steve Flawith on Pickl, Iraq and the road to 1,000 stores
Yolk Brands founder Steve Flawith never planned to own a restaurant. Seven years after launching Pickl from a single outlet in JLT, his Dubai-born business is operating across multiple markets, preparing to enter Iraq and pursuing an ambition of 1,000 stores globally.In this episode of AB Majlis, Arabian Business reporter Nicole Abigael sits down with Flawith to discuss why Gulf-born restaurant br
Banking at the speed of business: Why SMEs cannot afford to wait - In conversation with Mashreq's Rajeev Chalisgaonkar
SPONSORED - For SMEs, growth can stall before the business has even properly begun. A delayed bank account, slow payments or limited access to working capital can affect hiring, supplier relationships and the ability to enter the market quickly.In this episode of AB Majlis, Reporter Nicole Abigael speaks with Rajeev Chalisgaonkar, Head of Business Banking and NEO BIZ at Mashreq, about the changing
Inside the modern risk playbook - In conversation with Mashreq's Anuratna Chadha
SPONSORED- For years, risk management in banking was often seen as a defensive function: compliance, controls, audits and regulation. But in a world of cyber threats, fraud risks, geopolitical volatility, supply chain shocks and rapid technological disruption, that view is starting to change.In this episode, Reporter Nicole Abigael sits down with Anuratna Chadha, Group Chief Risk Officer at Mashre
The business logic of Spartan races | A chat with Layova Group's Najib Yaacoub
What does an obstacle-course race have to do with juice, coffee and hospitality?In this special episode, in partnership with Spartan Middle East, Justin Harper, Senior Contributor at Arabian Business and Editor of CEO Middle East, speaks to Najib Yaacoub, Chief Operating Officer of Lavoya Restaurants Group, about why Joe & The Juice has teamed up with Spartan in the UAE.The episode comes ahead
What’s next for Dubai real estate? In conversation with Yousuf Fakhruddin
In this episode of AB Majlis, Reporter Nicole Abigael sits down with Yousuf Fakhruddin, CEO and Managing Partner of Fakhruddin Properties, for a conversation on Dubai’s evolving real estate market, investor confidence and the shift toward sustainability and wellness-led development.Yousuf discusses how Dubai’s property sector continues to show resilience amid regional uncertainty, supported by the
Grip strength, circadian lighting and the antifragile employee - A chat with FAB's Chief Wellness Officer Diego Carrete
In this episode, Managing Editor Tala Michel Issa sits down with Diego Carrete, First Abu Dhabi Bank’s Chief Wellness Officer, for a deep dive into the future of workplace wellness.Diego unpacks what biological resilience and antifragility really mean in a high-pressure corporate world, why modern offices often work against our biology, and how small environmental and behavioral changes — from cir
Inside Million Dollar Listing UAE’s new season - What you didn’t see on TV, according to Ben Bandari and Rami Wahood
Season two of Million Dollar Listing UAE comes with higher stakes and far more pressure.On this episode of AB Majlis, host Tala Michel Issa sits down with real estate veterans and reality TV stars Ben Bandari and Rami Wahood to talk candidly about what really changed this season - on screen and off.From bigger properties and larger deals to heightened drama and personal risk, the pair reveal how t
Can crypto be trusted? | In conversation with Binance's Jessica Walker
SPONSORED - Crypto still faces trust challenges in many markets but how is that changing in the Middle East? In this episode of AB Majlis, Reporter Nicole Abigael sits down with Jessical Walker from Binance in a dive deep into the evolving crypto landscape with a focus on education, regulation and community building.The episode explores how Binance approaches communication without overwhelming new
Inside the $36bn Biohacking boom | Dave Asprey on Ozempic, 'peaseant food' and why sleep beats every supplement
In this episode of AB Majlis, host Tala Michel Issa, Chief Reporter at Arabian Business, sits down with Dave Asprey – bestselling author, entrepreneur, and founder of Bulletproof Coffee and Upgrade Labs – during his visit to Dubai to unpack the fast-growing business of biohacking, longevity and performance optimisation.Asprey discusses why he believes Dubai and the UAE are becoming a global hotspo
Trust, technology and the future of audit - A chat with Mashreq's Hasan Ali
SPONSOREDAs banking becomes increasingly digital, the way institutions manage trust and accountability must evolve. AB Majlis host Tala Michel Issa sits down with Hassan Ali, Group Chief of Internal Audit at Mashreq, to explore the next frontier of internal audit.From transforming traditional risk frameworks to adopting AI-powered analytics, Ali outlines how Mashreq is leading the charge toward pr
Crypto's biggest week is almost here! Kim Murphy on what to expect at Dubai's Binance Blockchain Week 2025
Dubai is days away from hosting one of the most influential events in global crypto. Binance Blockchain Week returns to the Coca-Cola Arena on December 3 and 4, bringing together industry heavyweights including Richard Teng, Michael Saylor, Brad Garlinghouse and leaders across Web3, policy, DeFi and AI.In this episode of AB Majlis, Chief Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with Kim Murphy, Binance
What makes a song go viral? CKay talks music, money & the business of Afrobeats
Nigerian hitmaker CKay joins Reporter Nicole Abigael on the latest episode of AB Majlis in Dubai to unpack the storm inside his head and the sound that turned Love Nwantiti into a 5-billion-stream global phenomenon. This episode dives into CKay’s self-styled “emo Afrobeats” how a heartbreak and a pandemic-era TikTok dance turned a deeply personal song into a worldwide anthem and why he refuses to
Inside the burnout epidemic: Addiction, success and recovery with Abdullah Boulad
In this episode of AB Majlis, Arabian Business reporter Nicole Abigael sits down with Abdullah Boulad, founder of The Balance Luxury Rehab Clinic, to discuss the hidden mental health struggles of CEOs, high-net-worth individuals, celebrities and royals. Boulad unpacks how burnout, addiction and performance pressure manifest differently in the Middle East and why wealth and status often amplify – n
Innovation and brand legacy - In conversation with Hasan Fardan Al Fardan
SPONSOREDIn this week’s episode of AB Majlis, Tala Michel Issa sits down Hasan Fardan Al Fardan is the CEO of Al Fardan Exchange. From humble beginnings in the pearl trade 70 years ago to becoming one of the UAE’s most trusted names in financial services, Al Fardan Exchange embodies a story of vision, resilience, and enduring family legacy.
From Fujairah to the world - Inside the UAE's most unlikely festival empire | A chat with Snoopy Beats' Tarek Aboudib
In this episode of AB Majlis, host Tala Michel Issa, Chief Reporter at Arabian Business, sits down with Tarek Aboudib, the creative force behind Snoopy Beats, the cult-favourite Fujairah festival that blends music, community and escapism.What started as a “full moon party” for 100 friends has evolved into a full-fledged brand spanning events, weddings, retreats, and production houses. Aboudib open
Follow the money? Steve Bertamini and Mukund Bhatnagar on mortgages, models, & banks without baggage
Gulf banks say they can leapfrog legacy rivals in the AI era — but only if they move faster. In this AB Majlis episode, host Tala Michel Issa (Chief Reporter, Arabian Business) speaks with Steve Bertamini (ex-CEO, Al Rajhi and KGI; Kearney adviser) and Mukund Bhatnagar (Partner, Kearney; Global Lead for Financial Services) on where AI is already paying off, why mortgages still need humans, and how
Cisco's David Meads on how the Gulf outruns the world – and why AI-ready infrastructure decides the future
SPONSOREDWhy can the UAE and Saudi Arabia adopt cutting-edge tech faster than almost anywhere else? Cisco’s regional chief David Meads joins host Tala Michel Issa to argue it’s not just the money. It’s the decision-making culture: fewer committees, more action.Together they follow the data trail – from AI-ready networks and “agentic” digital assistants to the hidden plumbing of global internet tra
Alex Zagrebleny wants your building to heal you – and make you rich
SPONSOREDWhat if the next property boom isn’t about sustainability at all, but regeneration — buildings that give back more than they take? In this episode of AB Majlis, Tala Michel Issa, Chief Reporter at Arabian Business, sits down with Alex Zagrebleny, founder and CEO of R.Evolution, the developer behind Dubai’s ambitious EYWA “Tree of Life” project.Zagrebleny explains why he believes “sustaina
Inside Mashreq’s vision to build a digital bank for the future - In conversation with Fernando Morillo
SPONSOREDIn this episode, Reporter Nicole Abigael sits down with Fernando Morillo, Group Head of Retail Banking at Mashreq, to unpack the bank’s bold digital banking transformation. As one of the region’s most digitally advanced financial institutions, Mashreq is reimagining what modern banking can look like by placing the customer at the centre of everything, leveraging AI, and rethinking traditi
Protecting two lives with one shot - In conversation with Dr. Nawal Al Kaabi
SPONSOREDVaccine hesitancy continues to pose a serious public health challenge, particularly when it comes to maternal immunisation. In the latest episode of AB Majlis, Nicole Abigael, Arabian Business journalist sits down with Dr. Nawal Al Kaabi, Pediatrician and Infectious Diseases Consultant, Hayat Biotech to talk about the importance of maternal vaccines, common misconceptions, and the science
A Saudi freehold boom is coming and so is the 'return on ego' - A chat with real estate veteran Ziad El Chaar
What happens when the world’s last untapped property giant opens its doors to foreign buyers?In this episode of AB Majlis, Arabian Business chief reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with Dar Global CEO Ziad El Chaar to unpack Saudi Arabia’s forthcoming freehold law, the $100 billion local property market, and how Vision 2030 is reshaping global capital flows.From Dubai’s early freehold boom to Riy
No pain, no gain? Ice baths, new-age therapies and why we pay to suffer in the name of health
What if we told you there's a $5.6 trillion industry built on making people deliberately uncomfortable — and it's projected to hit $8 trillion by 2027? Arabian Business journalists Tala Michel Issa and Nicole Abigael dive into the counterintuitive world where paying hundreds of dollars to sit in ice baths, hyperventilate through breathwork, and sweat in saunas has become the ultimate status symbol
She went viral on Netflix. Now she's running the deal table: Dubai Bling's Zeina Khoury unfiltered
In this exclusive episode of the AB Majlis podcast, host Tala Michel Issa, Chief Reporter at Arabian Business, sits down with Zeina Khoury, Founder of Zed Capital and fashion brand I Am The Company, and star of Netflix’s hit reality show Dubai Bling.From surviving a public office showdown in Season 1 to turning a trademark ambush into a viral marketing triumph in Season 3, Khoury opens up about t
Saygin Yalcin on marketplace economics, viral tools, and going public - Inside SellAnyCar.com's path to IPO
What do license plates, biochemistry, and rocket ships have in common? According to tech entrepreneur Saygin Yalcin, they're all pieces of the puzzle in building the Middle East's next internet champion. In this episode, the founder of SellAnyCar.com reveals to Chief Reporter Tala Michel Issa how his company's number plate valuation tool went from 50,000 daily queries to over 3 million total valua
Inside UAE's Real Estate Revolution | A Chat with Bayut & dubizzle’s CEO
Host Nicole Abigael, Reporter at Arabian Business, sits down with Haider Ali Khan, CEO of Bayut and dubizzle, and CEO of Dubizzle Group MENA, to explore how technology is reshaping the UAE’s real estate sector.Khan discusses how Bayut and dubizzle are driving market transparency and enhancing the home search experience in a booming property market. With Dubai’s real estate sector experiencing unpr
How will you get around Dubai when the population hits 4 million? Hala CEO explains their plan
Host Tala Misha Issa, Chief Reporter at Arabian Business, sits down with Khaled Nuseibeh, CEO of Hala, the joint venture between Dubai's Road and Transport Authority (RTA) and Careem that has revolutionised taxi hailing in the emirate.Nuseibeh reveals how Hala has captured a significant portion of Dubai's e-hailing market while growing its customer base by 21% year-on-year, even as new competitors
The brand that dared to compete with Netflix - Inside Yango Play
In this exclusive episode of AB Majlis, Roman Shimansky, Chief Executive at Yango Play, sits down with host and Arabian Business Chief Reporter Tala Michel Issa to discuss how this tech company is challenging global streaming giants. Shimansky reveals Yango Play's unique strategy of offering seamless transitions between music, video, and gaming while focussing on culturally relevant content for Mi
Would you trust AI with your 25-year mortgage? Mashreq's Mohamed Abdel Razek on building trust in tech
SPONSOREDCan your bank's AI agent talk to your personal AI agent to handle your finances? Mashreq's technology chief Mohamed Abdel Razek reveals how the UAE's largest private bank is deploying 70-80 AI use cases across fraud detection, credit decisions, and customer experience.While he envisions a future of conversational banking—imagine talking to an ATM like a person—Razek questions whether you'
Is the UAE winning the global AI race? A conversation with TII"s Dr. Chaouki Kasmi
SPONSOREDIn this episode of AB Majlis, host Tala Michel Issa, Chief Reporter at Arabian Business, sits down with Dr. Chaouki Kasmi, Chief Innovation Officer of the Technology Innovation Institute (TII). Dr. Kasmi takes us behind the scenes of the UAE's ambitious AI strategy, exploring how cloud partnerships helped develop the country's first homegrown language model. He discusses the Emirates' ear
Inside Ras Al Khaimah's economic revolution | A chat with the CEO shaping UAE's next business hub, Ramy Jallad
SPONSORED - In this exclusive episode, Arabian Business Chief Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with Ramy Jallad, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ). Jallad reveals how this "hidden gem" of the UAE has been strategically positioning itself as a major business destination long before making headlines with its Wynn casino announcement. He discusses RAKEZ's remarkable achievement of doubli
Dubai real estate's 'Blockbuster' moment? Ainsley Duncombe on why 90% of brokers could vanish in 2 years
In this eye-opening episode of AB Majlis, Arabian Business Chief Reporter Tala Michel Issa speaks with Ainsley Duncombe, founder of Off Market Listing Dubai and former Property Finder executive. Duncombe delivers a stark prediction: 90% of Dubai real estate brokers will see their roles transformed by AI within 18 months. From his journey watching Dubai's Palm Jumeirah being built on TV to now livi
Behind the rankings - Inside Arabian Business' Dubai 100 power list
Join Arabian Business reporters Tala Michel Issa and Nicole Abigael as they take you behind the scenes of the highly anticipated Dubai 100 power list. Discover how Mohamed Alabbar secured the top spot, why cultural figures like Balqees Fathi and Anas Bukhash are reshaping influence, and how the list's sophisticated nine-parameter ranking system captures Dubai's evolution from a business hub to a g
The Arabic language barrier keeping AI engineers up at night - A chat with Google's Anthony Nakache
SPONSORED - In this episode, host Tala Misha la Issa sits down with Anthony Nakache, Managing Director of Google MENA, to explore the monumental challenge of developing AI that truly understands Arabic in all its complexity. With 25 distinct dialects across the region, Arabic presents one of the most formidable language barriers in AI development today.Nakache reveals how Google's Gemini AI has al
The hidden psychology of AI attachment with Marisa Peer
In this episode of AB Majlis, host Nicole Abigael sits down with acclaimed therapist Marissa Peer to explore the emerging phenomenon of human-AI relationships and their potential psychological impacts. As AI companions become increasingly sophisticated and integrated into daily life, this discussion examines the fine line between beneficial technological support and problematic emotional dependenc
WGS Special with e& | Disrupt or become irrelevant - e& capital's Kushal Shah on what VCs really look for
In this World Government Summit special episode of AB Majlis, Arabian Business Chief Reporter Tala Michel Issa delves into the mindset of modern venture capital with e& Capital Managing Director Kushal Shah. With $250 million deployed across 17 companies, Shah reveals why they seek startups that fundamentally disrupt traditional business models. From following the fintech wave to aggressively
A collector's tale: Victor Gastou on the art of collecting men's rings
SPONSORED - In this episode of AB Majlis, Reporter Nicole Abigael sits down with Victor Gastou who takes us on a journey through his late father Yves Gastou’s extraordinary collection of over 700 rings—each piece a testament to history, craftsmanship, and passion.From 17th-century Venetian poison rings to Vatican treasures, we uncover the stories behind these hidden gems and the art of collecting
WGS Special with e& | Khalifa Al Shamsi on building the region's next super app empire
In this episode of AB Majlis, e& Life and e& International CEO Khalifa Al Shamsi discusses the technology giant's ambitious plans to create four unicorns by 2030 through its digital lifestyle arm. Two years after e&'s major rebranding from Etisalat, Al Shamsi reveals how the company is leveraging its massive telecom customer base to expand into fintech, super apps, and entertainment ac
WGS Special with e& | Inside the UAE's plan to cut government red tape - In conversation with e& enterprise's Ragy Magdy
In this special edition from the World Government Summit, Arabian Business Chief Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with Ragy Magdy, Chief Commercial Officer of e& enterprise, to unpack the UAE's ambitious zero government bureaucracy initiative. Magdy offers unique insights into how the UAE is revolutionizing government services by not just digitalizing them, but completely reimagining them.
WGS Special with e& | Khalid Murshed charts the Middle East's path to $320bn AI economy
In this special edition from the World Government Summit, Arabian Business Chief Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with Khaled Murshed, who took the helm as CEO of e& Enterprise in January 2024. With over 25 years in technology, Murshed discusses the meteoric rise of AI in the Middle East, predicting it will contribute to 11% of the region's GDP by 2030. He shares insights on e& Enterpri
WGS Special with e& | Digital transformation isn't optional, it's existential - A chat with Masood M. Sharif Mahmood
In this World Government Summit special episode of AB Majlis, Arabian Business Chief Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with e& UAE CEO Masood M. Sharif Mahmood to explore the critical imperative of digital transformation. Mahmood reveals how e& navigated the challenging dynamics of rising infrastructure investments and declining consumer prices, transforming from a traditional telco into
WGS Special with e& | Inside e&'s 900 AI projects: A conversation with Group CEO Hatem Dowidar
In this special World Government Summit episode of AB Majlis, Arabian Business Chief Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with e& Group CEO Hatem Dowidar to explore the company's ambitious AI strategy, including its 900 ongoing AI projects and vision for technological transformation. From discussing the UAE's pioneering role in AI adoption to addressing workforce concerns in an AI-driven future
Dubai built premium office spaces, now London's top firms can't resist | A chat with Savills' Toby Hall
What happens when a city reimagines what premium office space can be? In this episode of AB Majlis, Savills Middle East's Head of Commercial Agency Toby Hall reveals how Dubai's commercial real estate market evolved from oversupply to becoming a global magnet for blue-chip tenants. Drawing on two decades of experience across London and Dubai markets, Hall unpacks why major firms are migrating east
The digital health revolution is here - Estonia's health minister Riina Sikuut shows the world how it's done
SPONSORED - In this episode of AB Majlis, host Tala Michel Issa sits down with Estonia's Minister of Health, Riina Sikkut, to explore how the Baltic nation became a global leader in digital healthcare. From implementing the world's first nationwide e-health system to leveraging blockchain technology since 2007, Minister Sikkut shares insights on Estonia's journey from paper records to AI-assisted
Four decades of UAE automotive evolution with Al Masaood's Irfan Tansel
SPONSORED - On this episode with Reporter Nicole Abigael and Irfan Tansel, CEO of Al Masaood, we take an in-depth look at the UAE's evolving automotive landscape. Starting as a mechanic's apprentice in Germany, Tansel's remarkable 40-year journey provides unique insights into the industry's transformation.He shares perspectives on the future of electric vehicles (EVs) in the UAE, the evolution of
Meet Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths - The man with a radical plan to kill queues and make airports pleasant again
From a cathedral organist to the CEO of the world's busiest international airport, Paul Griffiths has helped transform Dubai's aviation sector into a $37 billion economic powerhouse. In this episode of AB Majlis, Griffiths reveals his revolutionary vision for Al Maktoum International Airport - not one mega-hub, but eight intimate airports connected by advanced transport systems. He discusses how D
The cost of financial fraud - In conversation with HSBC's Collin Lobo
SPONSORED - Financial criminals in the Middle East are increasingly exploiting advanced technologies and the region’s economic disparities to orchestrate sophisticated scams, Collin Lobo, HSBC’s regional head of financial crime warned on this episode.The region’s unique combination of high-net-worth individuals, transient populations, and proximity to sanctioned nations makes it particularly vulne
Shattering sterotypes: Women leadership, breaking barriers and navigating corporate challenges with Amnah Ajmal
SPONSORED - In this episode of AB Majlis with Reporter Nicole Abigael and Amnah Ajmal, Executive Vice President of Market Development at Mastercard, we get an unfiltered look into the challenges and opportunities for women in corporate leadership.Drawing from her extensive experience in financial services and technology, Ajmal explores critical issues including gender stereotypes, career progressi
Lab-grown diamonds are winning over luxury consumers - Here's why
What's driving 70% of US engagement ring buyers to choose lab-grown diamonds? Host Tala Michel Issa discusses this shift with industry leaders Nathalie Morrison, co-founder of Astrea London and Arnaud Flambeau, Executive Chairman of 2DOT4 Diamonds. Learn why these sustainable gems are winning over luxury consumers, how they compare to mined diamonds in terms of quality and value, and why Dubai is
Ras Al Khaimah's tourism vision: From Jebal Jais accommodations to historic villages with Raki Philips
This episode dives into the future of Ras Al Khaimah with Raki Philips, CEO of RAKTDA, as he unveils the emirate's transformation plan. From the highly anticipated Wynn Al Marjan resort to mountain-top accommodations on Jebel Jais, discover how RAK aims to triple its tourism by 2030.Philips shares exclusive insights into upcoming luxury hotel brands, innovative attractions, and the restoration of
The hidden economic engine of investing in culture, according to Dubai Opera’s Paolo Petrocelli
In this episode, Arabian Business Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with Paolo Petrocelli, Head of Dubai Opera, for a discussion on the transformation of Dubai's cultural scene. A cultural manager with over 20 years of experience in performing arts, Petrocelli shares exclusive insights into Dubai Opera's record-breaking season, its unique approach to programming, and how it's becoming a m
Tetra Pak's vision for a sustainable F&B future in the Gulf - In conversation with Sonya Kayani
SPONSORED - This episode dives into the evolving landscape of food packaging and sustainability in the Gulf with Tetra Pak, Join us as we explore how one of the world's leading food packaging companies is addressing critical challenges in the F&B industry while advancing regional food security goals.As Gulf Food approaches, we also get an exclusive preview of Tetra Pak's latest technologies an
Are you delusional enough? Mindvalley's Vishen Lakhiani on why being unrealistic changes the world
Join Arabian Business Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa and Mindvalley founder Vishen Lakhiani for a provocative conversation about why being "delusional" might be your greatest asset. From healing his eyesight through meditation to building a global empire that now trains Dubai government employees, Lakhiani shares why abandoning realism was key to his success. Plus, hear his refreshing take on au
AI is giving wine experts a run for their money, here's why - In conversation with CityDrinks' CEO
In this episode, Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with Dominique Szymura, founder of CityDrinks, to discuss the launch of its AI Sommelier, Genie, earlier this year. They'll explore the origins of this innovative idea and its impact on CityDrinks' rapid growth. The conversation also explores how Genie is revolutionising at-home drink selection, from personalised recommendations to virtua
Modern day 'patriarchal quientening' according to WILD's Emma Burdett
In this episode, host Tala Michel Issa, senior reporter at Arabian Business, sits down with Emma Burdett, founder of WILD (Women in Leadership Deliver). Emma shares her inspiring journey from personal adversity to creating one of the Gulf's largest women's networking communities. The conversation delves into practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, the importance of building side hustles, and
Inside the Nissan saga: Carlos Ghosn on power, politics, and persecution
In this exclusive interview, host Tala Michel Issa sits down with Carlos Ghosn, the former Chairman of Nissan and one of the most controversial figures in the automotive industry. Breaking years of silence, Ghosn discusses the charges brought against him in Japan, his dramatic escape to Lebanon, and the alleged economic warfare that led to his downfall.Carlos Ghosn, once hailed as the saviour of N
Is there really a market for 'collector's edition' real estate? In conversation with Dubai's Muhammad Binghatti
In this episode, Muhammad Binghatti, Chairman and Co-founder of Binghatti, sits down with host Tala Michel Issa to discuss Dubai's thriving real estate market. Binghatti shares insights on the company's journey from its inception to becoming a leading force in branded residences. He discusses their innovative collaborations with luxury brands like Bugatti, Mercedes-Benz, and Jacob & Co., expla
Deseeding the lemon with Kelly Lundberg & how to make your personal brand work for you
In this episode, host Tala Michel Issa, Senior Reporter at Arabian Business, sits down with acclaimed author and personal branding expert, Kelly Lundberg. Drawing insights from her latest book "Deseeding the Lemon," Lundberg unpacks her unique seven-slice framework for creating an authentic and impactful personal brand. From the power of consistency to the nuances of digital presence, this episode
Why Dubai continues to capitvate tourists globally, according to DET's Hoor Al Khaja
In this special World Tourism day episode, host Tala Michel Issa engages in an insightful conversation with Hoor Al Khaja, Senior Vice President of International Operations at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).Throughout the interview, they explore Dubai's current tourism landscape, its preparation for the upcoming busy tourist season, and the emirate's long-term vision for maintai
Inside Dubai's premium office space boom - In conversation with Brookfield Properties CEO Rob Devereux
In this episode, Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with Rob Devereux, CEO of Brookfield Properties and ICD Brookfield, to discuss Dubai's commercial real estate sector.They explore the evolution of premium office spaces, the iconic ICD Brookfield Place development, and the growing demand for high-quality workspaces in the region. Devereux shares valuable insights on market trends, expansi
Memes, masks, and millions: Shiba Inu's anonymous founders break their silence
In this episode, AB Majlis brings you an exclusive interview with Shytoshi Kusama and Kaal Dhairya, the enigmatic figures behind the Shiba Inu cryptocurrency phenomenon, conducted by Arabian Business' very own Editorial Director, Matthew Amlot.For the first time ever, these anonymous leaders break their silence, sharing insights into their vision for decentralization, the power of memes in driving
Understanding the transformative potential of AI - In conversation with Microsoft's Rima Semaan
SPONSORED - In this episode of AB Majlis with Reporter Nicole Abigael and Rima Semaan from Microsoft, we explore the cutting edge world of artificial intelligence (AI) and it's profound impact on the UAE's technological landscape. Join us to get unique insights into how the UAE has embraced AI as a cornerstone of innovation, growth and more.
The rules of investing - In conversation with HSBC's Basit Saiyed
SPONSORED - Join Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa as she interviews Basit Saiyed, Head of Investments & Wealth Solutions at HSBC. This episode breaks down the complexities of investing for young adults and new investors. Learn why starting early is crucial, get practical tips for building long-term wealth, and discover how HSBC's WorldTrader platform can help you begin your investment journey
Exploring the future of the digital landscape beyond payments - In conversation with Mastercard’s J.K. Khalil
SPONSORED - In this episode of AB Majlis, with reporter Nicole Abigael and J.K. Khalil Division President for East Arabia at Mastercard, we explore the transformative world of digital payments. Discover insights on financial inclusion, enhancing security measures, and pioneering future payment trends in the region and beyond.
The everyday economics of fine dining - In conversation with Gault&Millau UAE's David Constable
In this episode, host Tala Michel Issa, Senior Reporter at Arabian Business, sits down with David Constable, acclaimed journalist, food writer, and editor of Gault&Millau UAE. They delve into the economics of fine dining in Dubai, exploring whether it's dead, thriving, or evolving. Constable shares his expert insights on the changing definition of fine dining, the challenges faced by high-end
The future of money - In conversation with Dr. Saeeda Jaffar
On this episode we explorer the future of money with Dr. Saeeda Jaffar, discussing emerging financial technologies, evolving payment systems and the changing landscape of global transactions. Listen more for a fascinating glimpse into the financial world of tomorrow.
The making of a unicorn - Careem's Bassel Al Nahlaoui reveals the app's recipe for success
In this episode, Arabian Business' Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with Careem's Managing Director Bassel Al Nahlaoui to dive into the power of partnerships and how they helped propel the "everything app" into a household name in the region and the multi-service platform as we know it today. Al Nahlaoui weighs in on key players such as Amazon Web Services and the integral role it played
Can Saudi's billion-dollar splurge to bring sports legends lift its economy beyond oil? A chat with Jürg Kronenberg of Bain & Co.
Can Saudi Arabia's massive investments in attracting sports legends like Cristiano Ronaldo revive its economy beyond oil? Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa discusses this with Jürg Kronenberg of Bain & Company on the latest AB Majlis podcast. Kronenberg analyses Saudi's Vision 2030 diversification goals through the sports lens, From football's surging popularity to opportunities in basketball,
The case for ethical AI - A chat with Microsoft's Ali Haidar and MBRSG's Dr. Fadi Salem
SPONSORED - The rise of AI brings exciting potential but also raises concerns about responsible use. However, highly advanced countries like the UAE have already laid the groundwork.In this episode of AB Majlis, Arabian Business' Senior Reporter, Tala Michel Issa, sits down with Dr. Fadi Salem, Director of Research and Advisory at the Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG), and Ali Haida
Transforming real estate in Ras Al Khaimah - In conversation with Sameh Al Muhtadi, CEO of RAK Properties
On this episode, the CEO of RAK Properties talks about the latest real estate developments in Ras Al Khaimah. Discover ambitious launch plans, the impact of global brand partnerships, new developments and more.
Why Gulf banks must prioritise SMEs now - In conversation with Zeeshan Khwaja and Naman Sharma of Kearney Middle East
In this episode, Senior Reporter at Arabian Business and Podcast Producer Tala Michel Issa sits down with 2 Partners in Financial Services at Kearney Middle East, Zeeshan Khwaja and Naman Sharma, to discuss the pivotal role SMEs must play in Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and overall Gulf economic diversification plans. Khwaja and Sharma also weigh in on the massive SME funding gap, why banks have und
The crypto industry's road to redemption - In conversation with Arushi Goel and Nicola Buonanno of Chainalysis
In this episode of AB Majlis, Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with Chainalysis' VP Southern EMEA, Nicola Buonanno, and Policy Lead for Middle East & Africa, Arushi Goel, to discuss the current state of crypto crime. They discuss the alarming rise in romance scams and trends in ransomware attacks, as well as the steady decline of illicit activity on the blockchain. The experts also
Inside Microsoft and M42's mission to change the future of medicine - A chat with Ashish Koshy and Elena Bonfiglioli
SPONSORED - In this episode, experts from Microsoft and M42 provided a glimpse into their groundbreaking collaboration aimed at using AI to transform drug discovery, clinical research, and precision medicine delivery.Arabian Business Editorial Director Matthew Amlot sits down with Ashish Koshy, Group Chief Operating Officer at M42, and Elena Bonfiglioli, Global Business Leader for Healthcare and L
Leading the UAE's AI revolution - How Microsoft and e& are shaping the future
SPONSORED - This episode explores how AI is revolutionising the UAE with Dina Al Mansoori, Group Chief AI and Data Officer at e& Group, and Maitha Al Suwaidi, Chief Operating Officer at Microsoft UAE. They discuss the country's visionary leadership and investments transforming it into a global AI powerhouse.Through examples like healthcare advances saving lives and sustainable battery discover
The most coveted ingredient on Earth? In conversation with Truffle House Dubai's Mihai Florescu
Truffles have long been revered as one of the most decadent and expensive ingredients in haute cuisine. But what exactly are these mysterious fungi and why do they command such astronomical prices?In this episode, Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa goes in depth with Mihai Florescu, co-founder of Truffle House Dubai, to uncover the fascinating world of truffles. We learn how Truffle House got its st
