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  • Zhuanzhuan to Establish Regional HQ in Dubai Under New DAFZ Partnership

    Zhuanzhuan to Establish Regional HQ in Dubai Under New DAFZ Partnership

    Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ) has entered into a new strategic partnership with China’s Zhuanzhuan Group, one of the country’s top platforms for second-hand goods, to create a supply chain hub in Dubai for re-exporting used items across the Middle East and beyond.

    MoU Highlights

    The agreement, reported by Emirates News Agency, was signed by Arif Al Khoori, Senior VP of Customer Care at DAFZ, and Wang Su, Corporate VP of Zhuanzhuan.

    As part of the arrangement, Zhuanzhuan will set up its first Middle East headquarters at DAFZ, enabling recycling, product inspections, sorting, and packaging within the region.

    DIEZ will play a key role in linking Zhuanzhuan with shipping providers, customs agents, and distributors, ensuring a seamless and efficient operational framework.

    “We are confident that Dubai will serve as an ideal gateway to regional markets, thanks to its advanced infrastructure, trade facilitation services, logistical efficiency, and strategic geographic location,” said Wang Su.

    DAFZ has committed to guiding Zhuanzhuan through technical, regulatory, and administrative processes for company registration, while also easing customs and introducing the firm to Dubai’s commercial network.

    Zhuanzhuan aims to align with both Chinese and Dubai compliance regulations and will assess how to integrate more global logistics partners within the free zone.

    Joint efforts are also planned to publish data-driven insights and studies on second-hand commerce and sustainability, aiming to strengthen circular economy practices.

    Company Snapshot

    Zhuanzhuan serves over 400 million registered users and 50 million monthly active users as of 2024, with 960 retail outlets operating across 80 Chinese cities. Its primary audience is Gen Z.

    Bilateral Trade Context

    China is the UAE’s largest trade partner, while the UAE remains China’s most significant partner in the MENA region. Over 15,500 Chinese businesses have operated in the UAE, with Abu Dhabi witnessing a 69.4% year-on-year increase in new registrations last year.

    Chinese investments in the UAE have exceeded $6 billion, primarily across real estate, finance, retail, and construction.

    In early 2025, an Abu Dhabi business delegation to China signed milestone agreements, including one with the Shanghai government, covering everything from education and healthcare to tourism and technology.

    Future Outlook

    UAE-China trade is projected to reach $200 billion (AED 734 billion) by 2030, reflecting deepening economic ties.

  • Alpha Dhabi Reports $1.8B First-Half Earnings as Revenue Hits New High

    Alpha Dhabi Reports $1.8B First-Half Earnings as Revenue Hits New High

    Abu Dhabi-based Alpha Dhabi Holding (ADH) has posted a first-half net profit of $1.8 billion (AED 6.6 billion) for 2025, reflecting a modest 1% decline from the previous year, despite delivering robust revenue growth.

    H1 Snapshot

    The company noted that profits were stable compared to H1 2024, even when adjusting for non-recurring gains of $380 million (AED 1.4 billion) recorded last year. ADH maintained an 18% profit margin for the period.

    Total revenue jumped 23% year-on-year to $9.8 billion (AED 35.9 billion), underpinned by solid results in industrials, real estate, construction, and services.

    The industrial division led with $3.7 billion (AED 13.4 billion) in revenues, followed by real estate at $3.5 billion (AED 12.8 billion), and construction at $1.8 billion (AED 6.6 billion).

    Adjusted EBITDA surged 34% to $2.4 billion (AED 8.7 billion) in the first half compared to the same period last year.

    By the end of June 2025, the firm held $9.2 billion (AED 33.7 billion) in cash, while net debt totalled $1.4 billion (AED 5.3 billion).

    Ranked 14th on Forbes Middle East’s 2025 Top 100 Listed Companies, Alpha Dhabi oversees more than 250 businesses spanning industries such as healthcare, energy, construction, property, and hospitality.

    Crucial Quote

    “We are well-positioned to keep building on this momentum, with growth remaining our top priority—in revenue, acquisitions, and profitability, as well as in capabilities, innovation, and impact—as we push the boundaries of what is possible throughout the rest of 2025 and beyond,” said CEO Eng Hamad Al Ameri.

    Big Number

    As of June 2025, Alpha Dhabi’s total assets stood at $54 billion (AED 198.4 billion), marking a 12% increase year-on-year, largely supported by the continued expansion of its business units.

  • A New Week of GDSS Daily Surprises Rolls Out During Dubai Summer Surprises 2025

    A New Week of GDSS Daily Surprises Rolls Out During Dubai Summer Surprises 2025

    Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2025 keeps the momentum going with unbeatable offers during the Great Dubai Summer Sale (GDSS), with another exciting week of GDSS Daily Surprises live until 7 August. Every day unveils a fresh, one-day-only deal at a new venue across the city, where shoppers can enjoy discounts of up to 90 per cent off across top-tier brands in fashion, beauty, electronics, jewellery, and more. Powered by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), now is the time to shop smart and make the most of the savings.

    Each surprise is revealed just 24 hours in advance on the Dubai Summer Surprises website, as well as @DubaiFestivals on Instagram and TikTok – so savvy shoppers are encouraged to stay tuned and move fast.

    FRIDAY, 1 AUGUST

    Step into style this Friday, 1 August at Chattels & More, Mall of the Emirates, where contemporary living meets unbeatable value. Enjoy up to 90 per cent off on everything from statement sofas to chic décor accents. Refresh any space with quality, design-led pieces, all unbelievable prices, for one day only.

    Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 is supported by Key Sponsor Commercial Bank of Dubai and Strategic Partners which include: Al Futtaim Malls (Dubai Festival City Mall & Festival Plaza), Al Zarooni Group (Mercato Shopping Mall), AW Rostamani Group, DHAM (Al Seef, Bluewaters, Ibn Battuta Mall, Nakheel Mall, and The Outlet Village), Emirates Airline, ENOC, e&, Majid Al Futtaim (City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, Mall of the Emirates), Merex Investment (City Walk and The Beach, JBR), and talabat.

    For more information, visit the Dubai Summer Surprises website and follow @DubaiFestivals on Instagram and TikTok.

  • August at Hyde Dubai: Design-Led Luxury in the Heart of Business Bay

    August at Hyde Dubai: Design-Led Luxury in the Heart of Business Bay

    Located in the lively Business Bay area, Hyde Dubai invites guests to experience a bold mix of elegance, artistic design, and vibrant cultural influences. The property boasts 277 contemporary rooms and suites that strike the perfect balance between comfort and style, making each stay feel effortlessly indulgent.

    With a rooftop pool that frames panoramic views of the city skyline and the legendary Burj Khalifa, Hyde Dubai is an ideal haven for relaxation. The on-site spa enhances the offering with top-tier facilities designed for total wellness, ensuring all guests find something to enjoy.

    Hyde Dubai is home to creativity, sophistication, and innovation. With its prime location along the Dubai Canal, guests can easily explore the vibrant Business Bay area on foot or by bike and make the most of the lovely sunny weather.

    Hyde

    What: Suite Escape Offer

    About: Keep the good vibes rolling with an exclusive 25% discount when guests book a suite for 4 nights or more. Designed for those who like their getaways with a slice of luxe, guests can check in and enjoy a lush stay in one of Hyde Dubai’s spacious suites, perfect for unwinding and making the most of a long weekend getaway. At Hyde Dubai, guests can check-in and let the skyline views, plush comforts, and signature Hyde energy take their stay to the next level.

    When: Valid until 31st December 2025

    Offer: 25% off on bookings for four nights or longer

    *Bookings must be made at least three-days before arrival

    For bookings, visit https://hydehotels.com/offers/suite-escape/

    What: Summer Getaway

    About: Make it a summer to remember at Hyde Dubai where bold design, electric energy, and unapologetic fun come together in the heart of the City with its Summer Getaway offer. Guests can enjoy up to 30% off their stay and toast to the golden hour overlooking the Burj Khalifa with a complimentary drink by the pool. With this offer, guest can also enjoy an extra 15% on F&B when dining at Occo Restaurant and Frankie’s Café. Whether planning a spontaneous city break or a weekend of sun-soaked lounging, Hyde Dubai is serving sunshine, style and serious summer vibes.

    When: Valid until 30th September 2025

    Offer:

    • 30% off on staycation
    • One complimentary drink per night by the pool
    • 15% off at Occo Restaurant and Frankie’s Cafe

    For bookings, visit https://hydehotels.com/offers/summer-getaway/

  • Binghatti’s USD 500 Million Sukuk Sees Heavy Demand, Oversubscribed Five Times

    Binghatti’s USD 500 Million Sukuk Sees Heavy Demand, Oversubscribed Five Times

    • Profit rate on Regulation S Sukuk set at 8.125%
    • Part of Binghatti’s broader USD 1.5 billion sukuk programme
    • Half of investor demand came from international markets, spurred by strong H1 results

    Binghatti Holding Ltd (“Binghatti Holding”), a leading property developer in the UAE, has completed the successful pricing of a USD 500 million Senior Unsecured Sukuk, issued for a 5-year period under its USD 1.5 billion Trust Certificate Issuance Programme. The offering drew demand five times greater than the issue size.

    The Regulation S Sukuk drew interest from a wide array of investors across the region and globally, amassing over USD 2.5 billion in orders. It was priced with a profit rate of 8.125%, representing a 418 basis point spread above the 5-year US Treasury yield. Demand significantly exceeded expectations, allowing pricing to tighten from the initial 8.500% guidance. The strong response reflects investor confidence in Binghatti’s credit profile, strategic growth plan, and solid financial footing. Moody’s and Fitch have rated the company at Ba3 and BB- respectively, both with stable outlooks.

    The Sukuk will be listed on both Nasdaq Dubai and London Stock Exchange.

    Muhammad BinGhatti, Chairman of Binghatti Holding, commented: “Binghatti’s landmark sukuk marks a pivotal milestone in our journey, reinforcing our position as one of the region’s most dynamic and diversified developers. The strong demand and investor trust shown in the USD 500 million issue from our sukuk programme highlights Binghatti’s unique model, a vertically integrated platform underpinned by phenomenal growth and market leading execution.”

    Ahmed Abdelaal, Mashreq Group Chief Executive Officer,  said: “We are proud to have played a pivotal role in Binghatti’s return to the sukuk market, having supported their journey since their inaugural issuance last year. The exceptional investor response—both regional and international—underscores the strong appetite for the Dubai growth story and confidence in Binghatti’s trajectory. This landmark issuance not only affirms their access to global capital markets but also establishes a new 5-year benchmark for the sector. Mashreq continues to lead in advising regional corporates on accessing international capital markets from inception. Our partnership with Binghatti reflects the trust placed in our expertise and capabilities.”

    Binghatti Holding’s H1 2025 net profit more than tripled  to AED 1.82 billion, driven by resilient demand for Dubai real estate. The Group’s total sales reached AED 8.8 billion, with revenue climbing 189% YoY to AED 6.3 billion.

    The Group launched seven new projects and delivered five developments in H1 alone, handing over 15 projects in the last 18 months. Its AED 12.5 billion revenue backlog and over AED 70 billion development portfolio positions it as one of Dubai’s leading developers. Binghatti currently has ca. 20,000 units under development across 30 projects in prime Dubai locations including Downtown, Business Bay, Jumeirah Village Circle, and Meydan as well as its flagship branded residences in collaboration with luxury partners Bugatti, Mercedes-Benz and Jacob & Co.

    The company’s development pipeline was further reinforced by the recent acquisition of ca. 9 million sq. ft. megaplot in Nad Al Sheba 1, which will host Binghatti’s first master-planned community, with a projected development value of over AED 25 billion.

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