Al Ansari Financial Services PJSC (AAFS), an integrated financial services group in the UAE and parent company of Al Ansari Exchange, has successfully finalized its acquisition of BFC Group Holdings (BFC). This deal, valued at USD 200 million, positions AAFS as the largest non-banking financial institution (NBFI) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, particularly...
EXA Capital Explores Opportunities with European Family Businesses
EXA Capital is actively engaging in discussions with family-owned businesses, advisors, and institutional investors across Europe. The firm aims to identify and capitalize on new investment opportunities that align with its strategic vision for growth. The company is focused on driving value through operational excellence and strategic expansion, particularly from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)...
GCC Airlines Announce New Routes for 2025 to Enhance Global Connectivity
In 2025, airlines across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Bahrain, will significantly expand their flight routes and services. This expansion aims to meet the rising demand for both regional and international travel, providing enhanced options for travelers worldwide. The increase in flight...
GCC Nations Invest in Smart Cities to Transform Travel and Tourism
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is significantly transforming its urban development landscape. These countries are making substantial investments in smart cities—urban areas that utilize technology to improve the quality of life for both residents and tourists. This transformation focuses on how...
Quantum Gears to Present HiTrust r2 Certified AI Platform at Gartner Summit in Dubai
Quantum Gears, a provider of AI solutions, will showcase its HiTrust r2 Certified Agentic AI Platform at the Gartner Security & Risk Management Summit. This event is scheduled for April 7-8, 2025, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The platform reflects Quantum Gears’ commitment to advancing Safe AI practices within the GCC region. At the summit,...
GCCIA Plans $1.3 Billion Investment for Regional Grid Expansion by 2027
The Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA) has announced plans to invest up to $1.3 billion in network expansion between 2025 and 2027. This significant investment is expected to impact the authority’s credit metrics, as all projects will be financed through debt, according to S&P Global Ratings. S&P Global Ratings anticipates that GCCIA will invest...
GCC Faces $7 Billion Food Waste Crisis: Retailers Urged to Lead Change
Food waste is a significant challenge in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where it averages 150 kilograms per person each year. This figure is approximately 14 percent higher than the global average of 132 kilograms. While the GCC’s food waste levels are lower than those in the United States, they exceed those in many...
One in Four GCC Companies Plan Significant AI Investments by 2025
One in four companies in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is planning to invest more than $25 million in artificial intelligence by 2025, according to a recent study by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG). This finding aligns with a broader trend, as one in three companies globally intends to allocate a similar amount to AI...
AI to Create Economic Opportunities in the GCC, Says BCG Executive
Faisal Hamady, Managing Director and Partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), told that Artificial Intelligence will generate substantial economic opportunities in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) over the next 5 to 10 years. Key sectors such as energy, smart cities, logistics, and healthcare are expected to benefit significantly from AI advancements. According to Zawya, Hamady...
Apparel Group’s R&B Brand Plans to Open 250 Stores by 2025
Apparel Group, a major player in the retail sector, is set to enhance its presence in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region with its fast fashion brand, R&B. The company has announced an ambitious plan to open 250 stores by 2025, aiming to solidify R&B’s status as one of the leading fast fashion brands in...









