Alef Group announces AED310 million sales transaction at ACRES 2024


SHARJAH: Alef Group concluded its participation in the ACRES Real Estate Exhibition 2024 with resounding success, generating significant demand and securing approximately AED310 million in sales transactions for its residential projects.

Issa Ataya, CEO of Alef Group, commented, “ACRES was a good opportunity to connect with local and international investors, real estate agents, and other participants. We showcased our key real estate projects, Al Mamsha Sharjah and Hayyan, which were well-received.”

Al Mamsha Sharjah and Hayyan have emerged as the Emirate’s latest premier destinations for residents seeking an enhanced living experience. Situated conveniently close to Sharjah International Airport, children’s school complexes, the University of Sharjah, and Sharjah Healthcare City, these two distinguished residential and retail projects attract investors interested in upscale living.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Dubai records over AED3.3 bn in realty transactions Monday


DUBAI: Dubai real estate market recorded 715 sales transactions worth AED2.28 billion, in addition to 201 mortgage deals of AED993.9 million, and 30 gift deals amounting to AED76.3 million on Monday, data released by Dubai’s Land Department (DLD) showed.

The sales included 653 villas and apartments worth AED1.65 billion, and 62 land plots worth AED624.87 million

The mortgages included 178 villas and apartments worth AED696.76 million and 23 land plots valued at AED297.14 million, bringing the total realty transactions of today to over AED3.3 billion.

Source: Emirates News Agency

UMEX and SimTEX reflect advanced capabilities of UAE in unmanned systems: Hamid Al Dhaheri


ABU DHABI: Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and CEO of ADNEC Group, emphasised that the Unmanned Systems (UMEX) and Simulation and Training (SimTEX) exhibitions showcase the United Arab Emirates’ capabilities in unmanned systems and technological innovation.

He highlighted that these exhibitions, organised by ADNEC Group in association with the Ministry of Defence and EDGE Group, contribute to the growth and development of defence industries, enhancing their competitiveness in global markets and diversifying the national economy.

In his comments to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Al Dhaheri also noted the pivotal role of these industries in civil and commercial sectors, aligning with the strategy to promote non-oil sectors and adopt Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies, thus bolstering the country’s global position as a centre for innovation and advanced technologies.

He explained that such specialised international events contribute to the growth of non-oil GDP by promoting unmanned technol
ogies and systems, fostering economic growth, and creating new job opportunities across various sectors within the country. He pointed out that UMEX and SimTEX exhibitions contribute to enhancing Abu Dhabi’s prominent position in the global business tourism sector by hosting leading international companies and attracting audiences and participants from around the world.

Al Dhaheri emphasised that UMEX and SimTEX exhibitions have solidified their status as two main platforms for major international companies specialising in unmanned systems, simulation, and training. The exhibitions and accompanying conferences have witnessed significant growth in terms of expanded display areas and increased participation from new countries, in addition to introducing civil, commercial, and medical services to this sector.

He stated that UMEX and SimTEX provide unique and exceptional platforms to showcase the latest ideas regarding the advanced use of unmanned systems technologies, driven by the adoption of artificial intel
ligence that is likely to be seen in the coming years. He pointed out that the two exhibitions play a crucial role in accelerating innovation and strategic business partnerships, contributing to attracting more investments for the growth and development of the sector.

He added, “Being the only event of its kind in the Middle East dedicated to unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and robotics, UMEX and SimTEX is a testament to Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a global hub for Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies, showcasing our status as a centre for innovation.”

He noted that the sixth exceptional edition of UMEX and SimTEX witnesses an increase in the number of participating companies to 214, representing a growth rate of 19%. The exhibitions attract participants from 35 countries, including 11 countries participating for the first time, indicating that they have become among the most important events on the global agenda for decision-makers, companies, and innovators in these fields.

He added
, “UMEX and SimTEX exhibitions provide a platform for companies and institutions to showcase the latest developments in the field of unmanned systems and related technology. They support exchange and collaboration between companies and professionals, in addition to their significant impact in enhancing the UAE’s capabilities in the technology field and promoting its position as a major hub for innovation and development.”

He further explained that the exhibitions, in turn, encourage the exchange of ideas and knowledge and contribute to building international partnerships in the field of unmanned systems technologies. They also enhance innovation and raise public awareness about the importance and benefits of unmanned systems technology in areas such as security, exploration, and commercial applications.

He stated that the largest and most significant edition of UMEX and SimTEX 2024 witnesses the launch of five new initiatives, including live marine and land demonstrations at the main platform of the Abu Dha
bi National Exhibition Centre in the Marina ADNEC area. Additionally, live air shows will take place in the Sweihan Hills near Al Ain. The “UMEX Business” platform will also be launched, serving as a platform for both civilian and military companies to showcase their latest technologies, products, and services, as well as exchange innovative ideas and insights.

He highlighted that the exhibitions provide an opportunity for Emirati programmers to participate in the coding challenge organised by the Ministry of Defence for nationals to showcase their skills and capabilities in innovation and creativity in the field of unmanned systems. Furthermore, it provides an opportunity for exhibitors and specialists to explore the advantages of the “UMEX NextGen” platform dedicated to startups. This platform allows them to connect with top professionals, form strategic partnerships, and access valuable investment opportunities.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Sharjah Shopping Promotions wraps up activities


SHARJAH: The annual retail extravaganza Sharjah Shopping Promotions has come to a close after 36 days packed with shopping and entertainment activities. Since its launch on 15th December, large crowds across Sharjah flocked to the event, which was organised by Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI).

Thousands of major shopping centres and commercial stores participated, offering promotional deals and huge discounts on a diverse array of products, merchandise, and famous brands.

Sharjah Shopping Promotions succeeded in creating a fun atmosphere for the whole family, as shoppers turned out for the Sharjah winter season to take advantage of the sales and join in on the contests and games.

Amidst the celebrations, artistic presentations and spectacular shows delighted the audiences, while folklore troupes gave performances depicting the nation’s rich heritage. Other events organised by the shopping centres spread joy and laughter, bringing smiles to the faces of all.

This year’s edition of Sharjah Sh
opping Promotions featured heritage, folklore, and entertainment activities that attracted the attention of visitors and entertained shoppers at all participating retail centres.

The festivities spanned the whole Emirate to include Sharjah’s Eastern Region through the “Kalba Winter” initiative, which welcomed audiences with various heritage performances by folklore troupes from the UAE, Egypt, and India. Valuable gifts and prizes were passed out to individuals, families, and the general public as they participated in open contests and attended the artistic and heritage activities, which contributed to attracting broad audiences who thronged to the participating stores.

Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director-General of the SCCI, highlighted the importance of Sharjah Shopping Promotions, an outstanding retail event that caters to Sharjah’s community and visitors and provides them with numerous unique entertainment and marketing experiences.

It is regarded as one of the most important economic and commercial
events organised by the Chamber to enhance the Emirate’s position as a leading regional shopping destination. The SCCI is exerting great efforts in putting on Sharjah Shopping Promotions to continue the event’s role in achieving economic growth, solidifying the sustainable development of the business community, increasing sales at markets, shopping centres, and shops, and fortifying the retail and tourism sectors across Sharjah’s cities.

Abdulaziz Mohammed Shattaf, Assistant Director-General of the Communication and Business Sector at the Sharjah Chamber, said, “We are proud of Sharjah Shopping Promotions’ outcomes, from bringing profits to the retail sector to serving the shopping community. This success is a joint effort of the Sharjah Chamber and the public and private sectors. We are all seeking to create a holistic, premium shopping experience for the public and an opportunity for shops to boost their sales and attract more visitors and customers.’

Sharjah Shopping Promotions was a diverse event that p
resented major discounts on international brands throughout the promotional period from mid-December through 20th January. It achieved its targets of supporting the retail and commercial sectors, revitalising marketing momentum, boosting sales, attracting visitors, and promoting Sharjah tourism, with thousands of shops participating in the fun family environment.

Source: Emirates News Agency

UAE recorded second-highest increase in number of new foreign investment projects in 2023: UNCTAD


ABU DHABI: A recent report issued by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has unveiled a noticeable increase in new foreign investment projects in the UAE during the year 2023, explaining that the number of these projects increased by 28 percent compared to 2022.

The report stated that the UAE recorded the second-highest increase in the number of new foreign investment projects around the world after the US, which came in first place.

The report, entitled’ Investment Trends Monitor’ confirmed that the UAE has continued to maintain its global attractiveness in attracting foreign direct investment flows, despite the decline of these flows in many regions of the world.

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, emphasised that the UAE is benefiting from the forward-looking vision of its leadership by enhancing investment and trade openness globally. The country is also focused on improving the business environment to attract foreign direct investment, entre
preneurs, international talents, and creative individuals seeking an environment supportive of innovation and sustainable economic growth.

He noted that the UAE’s record foreign direct investment projects, as highlighted in the UNCTAD report, demonstrate the country’s growing stature as a global business hub, attracting creative ideas and investments from around the world. Al Zeyoudi also emphasised that these numbers signify the remarkable recovery of the national economy, surpassing global benchmarks in economic growth, non-oil foreign trade, and the attraction of foreign direct investment. This underscores the increasing confidence of the global business community in the UAE’s economy, policies, legislative environment, and commitment to sustainable growth.

Source: Emirates News Agency