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At the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), procurement isn’t just about supply chains and purchase orders—it’s about shaping a smarter, more sustainable future. Leading this mission is Mansour Al Blooshi, Head of Procurement at MBZUAI, whose unconventional career path has uniquely equipped him to play a pivotal role in advancing the UAE’s AI aspirations.

From Football Pitches to Procurement Desks

Before stepping into the world of procurement, Mansour’s life was anything but ordinary. As a professional football referee in the UAE league, he mastered skills like fairness, patience, and decision-making under pressure—qualities he now applies to procurement.

His unexpected journey into the profession began during his tenure as cabin crew at Etihad Airways, where a chance conversation with a manager introduced him to procurement. “I’d never even heard the term before,” he admits, but a combination of curiosity, mentorship, and relentless hard work launched his career.

After honing his skills at Etihad Airways and later at Masdar Institute (now part of Khalifa University), Mansour joined MBZUAI in 2020. In August 2022, he assumed his current role, steering procurement for the world’s first graduate research university dedicated to artificial intelligence.

Powering an AI-Driven Institution

Established in 2019, MBZUAI is more than a university—it’s a trailblazer in AI research and education. Its eco-friendly, purpose-built campus is home to 283 students from 41 countries, all studying on full scholarships that cover tuition, accommodation, flights, and stipends. This generosity places unique demands on Mansour’s procurement team, which must balance operational efficiency with sustainability and innovation.

“Our primary suppliers are in IT,” Mansour explains, noting partnerships with Emircom, Alpha Data, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) to develop the university’s cutting-edge IT infrastructure and High-Performance Computing (HPC) data center. Whenever possible, MBZUAI prioritizes working with local companies, underscoring its commitment to supporting Abu Dhabi’s tech ecosystem.

Sustainability at the Core

For Mansour, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a guiding principle. Inspired by Abu Dhabi’s 2050 sustainability goals, he has integrated eco-conscious practices into every facet of procurement at MBZUAI.

One of his first initiatives was eliminating plastic water bottles on campus. He then introduced a sustainability policy requiring suppliers to meet strict environmental standards. “Sustainability now accounts for 20% of our commercial evaluations,” he says. From IT equipment to kitchen supplies, the focus is on recyclable, sustainable products that minimize environmental impact.

This forward-thinking approach ensures that MBZUAI isn’t just advancing AI—it’s doing so responsibly.

Overcoming Challenges with Innovation

When Mansour joined MBZUAI, the procurement system was in flux, with processes being handled manually. He tackled these inefficiencies head-on, creating custom workflows and tools to streamline operations and prevent open purchase orders from impacting the annual budget.

“No two days are the same in procurement,” he reflects. “It’s a routine job, but never a routine scenario.” Despite challenges, Mansour thrives on educating others about the importance of procurement and fostering greater understanding within the organization.

Training AI Leaders for Tomorrow

MBZUAI’s mission extends beyond academia. The university runs executive training programs to equip UAE government and private sector leaders with the tools they need to integrate AI into their organizations. Its flagship Executive Program has already trained over 120 leaders, fostering a thriving AI ecosystem in the UAE.

“Leadership buy-in is essential for successful digital transformation,” Mansour emphasizes. Through its training programs and world-class faculty, MBZUAI is building a foundation for AI adoption across industries.

A Vision for Global Leadership in AI

As Mansour looks to the future, his optimism for MBZUAI and the UAE is palpable. “We have all the resources when it comes to talent and brilliant ideas,” he says. “The UAE can become a global hub for AI, and MBZUAI is at the heart of this transformation.”

With its innovative curriculum, cutting-edge research, and unwavering commitment to sustainability, MBZUAI isn’t just a university—it’s a symbol of the UAE’s ambition to lead the world in artificial intelligence. As Mansour proudly puts it:

“MBZUAI is the paradise of AI.”

With the UAE’s EV market racing ahead—bolstered by a projected annual growth of 30% between 2022 and 2028—it’s no wonder electric SUVs are in the spotlight. From sleek Scandinavian minimalism to wallet-friendly innovation, here’s our roundup of the best new electric SUVs that blend luxury, sustainability, and cutting-edge tech.

1. Polestar 3: Scandinavian Cool Meets Sci-Fi Tech

Arriving in the UAE in 2024, the Polestar 3 is a head-turner with futuristic flair. Backed by Volvo, this SUV boasts clean lines and innovative tech like onboard passenger detection to prevent overheating in the desert sun. Choose between two versions: the standard model or the Performance Pack, which offers extra power and torque.

With a range of 610 km and a lightning-fast 30-minute charging time, the Polestar 3 delivers both style and substance. Its eco-conscious interior—featuring flax-based composite materials and recycled PET bottle floor mats—is as spacious as it is sustainable. Polestar also uses blockchain to trace battery materials, ensuring conflict-free sourcing.

Looking to dive in now? Opt for the Polestar 2, already available in the UAE.

2. Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: Futuristic Elegance and Raw Power

The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV is redefining luxury on wheels. With its sleek design and cutting-edge features, it zips from 0-100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds—no wonder Dubai Police added it to their fleet!

Offering a remarkable 717 km range and fast-charging capabilities (15 minutes for up to 200 kW), this seven-seater is as practical as it is opulent. Inside, the MBUX Hyperscreen provides a personalized, AI-driven experience, while its spacious three-row design makes room for passengers and even four golf bags.

Whether you’re commuting or cruising, the EQS SUV is a class apart.

3. Audi Q8 e-tron: Luxury and Performance Redefined

Making its UAE debut in March, the Audi Q8 e-tron is an electric powerhouse. With a starting price of AED 419,900, it delivers a luxurious experience backed by an impressive 582 km range (up to 600 km for the Sportback).

Built for adventure, this SUV charges from 10% to 80% in just 31 minutes and includes an onboard AC charger for convenient home charging. Comfort reigns supreme with its four-zone climate control, optional massage seats, and ambient lighting. With acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds, it’s a perfect blend of speed and sophistication.

4. Volvo EX90: Safety First, Style Always

Slated to hit UAE roads in early 2024, the Volvo EX90 is a seven-seater electric marvel. It combines family-friendly practicality with cutting-edge safety, featuring eight cameras, five radars, and a 360-degree view of its surroundings.

The EX90 offers a 600 km range on a single charge and fast-charging capabilities (10% to 80% in just 30 minutes). Acceleration clocks in at 5.9 seconds, while the Volvo Cars smartphone app makes managing everything—from finding charging stations to keyless entry—a breeze.

5. BYD Atto 3: Affordable Innovation for Everyone

Chinese carmaker BYD has made waves with the Atto 3, the most budget-friendly electric SUV in the UAE, starting at AED 149,000. Its sporty exterior and futuristic interior make it a stylish choice without breaking the bank.

The Atto 3 is powered by one of the world’s safest batteries, offering a 480 km range and fast-charging capabilities (30% to 80% in just 29 minutes). It’s packed with smart features like automatic lane keeping, blind-spot detection, and intelligent voice control. With a top speed of 160 km/h and acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 7.3 seconds, it’s an ideal entry point for UAE residents making the electric switch.

Charging the Future

The UAE is paving the way for a greener tomorrow, with plans for 3,000 charging stations by 2030 and innovative launches like the nation’s first electric car brand, Rabden. Whether you prioritize performance, luxury, or affordability, these electric SUVs represent the future of sustainable driving. Which one will power your next adventure?

Saudi Arabia’s stc Group is solidifying its reputation as a global tech powerhouse, making bold strides in telecommunications and IT infrastructure. This year, the Group underscored its ambitions with a landmark $2.27 billion investment for a 9.9% stake in Telefónica, one of the world’s largest telecom players.

Expanding Horizons with Telefónica

Telefónica’s influence spans major markets, including Spain, Germany, the UK, and Brazil, with cutting-edge capabilities in cognitive intelligence, edge computing, and IoT. stc Group Chairman Mohammed K. A. Al Faisal hailed the acquisition, stating, “This long-term, significant investment reflects our strategy to build and invest in critical digital infrastructure globally.”

This bold move follows Tawal, an stc subsidiary, acquiring telecom tower assets in Bulgaria, Croatia, and Slovenia from United Group, further enhancing stc’s global reach.

A Vision for Digital Transformation

stc Group continues to position itself as a digital transformation leader in Saudi Arabia and beyond. Its diversified portfolio spans telecommunications, IT, fintech, digital media, and cybersecurity. CEO Eng. Olayan Mohammed Alwetaid highlighted the Group’s DARE 2.0 strategy, a comprehensive roadmap for growth in sectors like gaming, smart home technology, cloud services, cybersecurity, and mega-projects.

In a historic move, stc Group increased its share capital from SAR 20 billion to SAR 50 billion ($13.3 billion) in 2022—the largest in Saudi Capital Market history—fueling its ambitious growth strategy.

Driving Innovation and Connectivity

stc Group has consistently prioritized innovation. Key initiatives include:

• Establishing iot squared, a joint venture with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), to tap into the growing Internet of Things market.
• Partnering with Alibaba Cloud, SCAI, and SITE to create the General Cloud Computing Company for Information Technology.
• Launching center3, a digital hub housing data centers and submarine cables, capitalizing on Saudi Arabia’s pivotal location at the crossroads of east and west.

The company also marked a milestone with the Saudi Vision Cable (SVC), the first high-capacity, high-speed submarine cable in the Red Sea.

Global Expansion and Strategic Moves

Beyond its investments at home, stc has expanded its global footprint. Acquiring Egypt’s Giza Systems and Pakistan’s AWAL Telecom, along with Tawal’s acquisition of telecom tower assets in Southeast Europe, reflect its broad ambitions.

Telefónica: A Natural Ally

The recent stake in Telefónica comes as the Spanish telecom giant reported strong Q2 2023 performance, with a 44.5% year-on-year increase in net income, reaching $495 million. Telefónica’s Chairman, José María Álvarez-Pallete, outlined an ambitious 2023-2026 roadmap focused on growth, profitability, and sustainability, emphasizing the company’s readiness to “shape the future.”

With its global strategy, stc Group is not just participating in the digital revolution—it’s leading the charge. Its partnership with Telefónica signals another milestone in its journey to becoming a world-class digital leader.

The rapid pace of technological advancements in 2023 has set the stage for transformative breakthroughs in the Gulf region. From quantum computing to generative AI, here are the key trends poised to shape industries and economies.

1. Quantum Computing

Quantum computing leverages quantum mechanics to solve problems too complex for traditional systems, promising to revolutionize various sectors. With heavy investments from global tech giants such as AWS, Microsoft, and Google, consumer spending in the field is projected to surge from $1.1 billion in 2022 to $7.6 billion by 2027 (IDC).

The Gulf region has embraced this innovation, exemplified by Dubai Water and Electricity Authority’s collaboration with Canadian quantum computing company Xanadu and Abu Dhabi University’s efforts to enhance quantum computing skills among students.

2. Green Tech

Sustainability remains a top priority in the Gulf, with green technologies driving environmental and energy transition initiatives. AI and blockchain are central to advancements in recycling, clean energy, green construction, agricultural technology, and carbon capture. The region is positioning itself as a leader in developing circular and sustainable IT systems.

3. Generative AI

Generative AI, capable of creating content in various forms, will continue to redefine industries in 2024. Gartner forecasts that by 2026, over 80% of enterprises will integrate generative AI into their applications, a sharp increase from less than 5% in 2023.

Arun Chandrasekaran, VP Analyst at Gartner, highlights the rising demand for generative AI in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and public services. However, as noted by Manish Ranjan from IDC META in Dubai, challenges such as resource demands and skill gaps must be addressed for widespread adoption.

4. Blockchain

Blockchain technology is set to evolve further in 2024, improving scalability, interoperability, and security for industries across the Gulf. The shift towards hybrid work environments and scattered IT architectures has increased privacy concerns, boosting demand for blockchain-based solutions.

Business Market Insights predicts blockchain adoption will continue to grow as organizations seek robust methods to secure sensitive information.

5. Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity remains an urgent priority as the frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks escalate. The UAE, for example, faces 50,000 cyberattacks daily. AI-driven scams, including voice-based fraud, are predicted to rise in 2024, necessitating advanced defenses.

Rafael Pena from Trellix emphasizes the psychological manipulation behind such scams, while Joseph Carson from Delinea highlights the critical role of stricter privacy regulations like the UAE’s Data Protection Law. The integration of AI and machine learning will be pivotal for automating threat detection and ensuring compliance across industries.

Looking Ahead

The Gulf region stands at the forefront of technological innovation, leveraging these trends to drive sustainable growth, enhance security, and cement its role as a global tech leader. With proactive investments and strategic collaborations, 2024 is set to be a transformative year for the region.

As tensions rise across the Middle East, a growing number of global airlines are suspending flights to the region, prioritizing the safety of their passengers amid the increasing instability. Airlines including Aegean, British Airways, Lufthansa, and United Airlines have halted operations to major cities like Tel Aviv, Beirut, and Tehran, with many cancellations extending well into 2025.

The decision to ground flights reflects the aviation industry’s sensitivity to geopolitical events, with the risks of operating in the region becoming too significant to ignore. In response to the unrest, these airlines have either adjusted flight paths to avoid conflict zones or canceled services entirely.

The suspensions underscore the far-reaching impact of regional conflicts on global travel, as air carriers navigate the complexities of safety and security. Travelers are urged to stay updated with their airlines on the latest flight statuses as the situation continues to evolve.