Anthon Garcia

In 2019, retail tourism contributed 6 percent — or about $178 billion — to the gross domestic product (GDP) of the global travel and tourism industry. This is according to a report released by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and Hospitality and Tourism Research Center of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University in September last year.

Dubai's real estate sector has an exceptionally strong foundation. The city has a supportive government and a robust tourism industry, is safe and clean, and boasts many exceptional neighborhoods. In fact, according to financial services provider Remitly, Dubai is the top city for expats to live in. But thanks to social media, Dubai's real estate scene is getting a significant boost.

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is a region vulnerable to environmental challenges. According to a report by the World Economic Forum , temperatures here rise twice as fast as the global average. This reality calls for an urgent pivot to sustainable practices, which extend well into the finance space.

Adequate housing is one of the most essential things in life. Yet around 1.8 billion people globally don't have it. By 2030, an estimated 3 billion people will need access to it. According to UN-Habitat, the world needs to construct 96,000 new homes daily to accommodate that.

Global aviation is of substantial economic importance. Supporting about 87.7 million jobs worldwide, the sector injects $3.5 trillion into the global gross domestic product (GDP). This further makes aviation one of the world's largest economic sectors — and if it were considered a country, it would be the 17th largest in terms of GDP.

The Middle East is a region traditionally dominated by male leaders, both in the government and business sectors. In recent years, a new era has emerged with the ascent of female figures who are shattering stereotypes and barriers — from top executive roles to tech startups.

Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, UAE Minister of Cabinet Affairs, delivers opening remarks. (Photo Credit: World Economic Forum)

The intersection of 5G and autonomous vehicles (AVs) was a major focus at GITEX GLOBAL 2024, one of the world’s largest tech gatherings held annually in Dubai. The event, themed “Global Collaboration to Forge a Future AI Economy,” highlighted how 5G is reshaping the AV industry, enabling faster data processing, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, and new AI applications that are pivotal for safe and efficient AV operations.

During the recently concluded GITEX GLOBAL event in Dubai, groundbreaking digital city innovations were showcased that provided a glimpse into how advanced technologies like AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and edge computing are shaping tomorrow’s urban landscapes. These technologies are not only transforming cities but are pivotal for driving global economic growth.

The Future Investment Initiative (FII) recently concluded its 8th edition with the theme “Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow”. The event was held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from October 29 to 31.