The Market Makers in MEA with Abrar Hussain

Had an enlightening conversation with Omar M. Almahmoud, CEO of ICT Fund – TDRA. Omar has been a key player in catalysing the ICT sector in the UAE, and we explored a myriad of topics shaping the landscape:

🌟 Discover some of the most significant success stories and impactful projects supported by ICT Fund – TDRA.

🚀 Unravel the significance of the UAE’s Astronauts Program, the Mars 2117 Initiative, and the Emirates Lunar Mission in advancing space exploration.

📈 Digital Government Initiative: A closer look at the evolution and anticipated impact of the Digital Government Initiative on citizen-government interactions and overall government efficiency. 

🌍 Future of UAE's Digital Economy: Role of emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain in shaping the UAE's future digital economy

🎙️ 'The Intellect': Omar shares insights on Life, Business, Public Policy, Psychology, and Technology through 'The Intellect' and the mission behind it. 

🤝 ICT Fund's sponsorship of the World Government Summit in fostering global collaboration and enhancing the UAE's international standing 

Watch the full episode of ‘@The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa’ Video Podcast on:

• YouTube: 
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KJRsnDwKsRgvCXl5M1nCU
• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-market-makers-in-mea-with-abrar-hussain/id1674391999 

🚀 #ICTSector #TechnologyInnovation #MarketMakersMEA #techleadership

🎙️ 🚀 Episode 24: I had the privilege of talking with Borko Handjiski, an esteemed former economist at The World Bank and seasoned management consultant with decades of experience advising governments, including entities within the Abu Dhabi Government, on economic and fiscal policies ✨

In this episode, we explored key topics that are shaping the economic landscape of the UAE and beyond:

🌍 Global Economic Impact: Borko shared his experiences working in 30+ countries and the key learnings from diverse economic development projects.

📈 UAE's Promising Economic Outlook: Insights into the future economic outlook of the UAE and the GCC region.

💡 Innovative Policies: How innovative policies are developed to promote investment and economic growth.

📘 Upcoming Book: Borko is currently writing his first book, "The Great Public Sector CEO." Learn what motivated him to embark on this insightful project.

Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on the economic landscape, policy development, and future trends. Watch the full episode of ‘@The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa’ Video Podcast on:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dh6hX0IVRpI  
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KJRsnDwKsRgvCXl5M1nCU 
• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-market-makers-in-mea-with-abrar-hussain/id1674391999 

Stay informed and inspired! 🚀 #EconomicOutlook #PolicyDevelopment #MarketMakersMEA #PodcastEpisode #FutureofEconomy

🚀 Do you want to hear from best legal firm in the MEA region? Do you know M&A market in the MEA is estimated to be worth $43.8 billion🎙️

Join me in an insightful conversation with Jimmy Haoula, Managing Partner at BSA Ahmad Bin Hezeem & Associates LLP, as we unravel the complexities of Legal Landscapes in the Middle East, focusing on M&As and Regulatory Trends. 🌐📈

Key Highlights:

📊 M&A Insights: Explore the growth of M&As in the UAE and the broader ME region, understanding their impact on the local economy. Jimmy Haoula shares expert advice for businesses navigating complex regulatory environments while pursuing growth and M&A opportunities.

🌐 Regional Nuances: Understand specific challenges and nuances in M&A transactions within the Middle East and Africa compared to other global regions.

📑 Regulatory and Compliance Matters: We explored the current trends in regulatory and compliance matters within the corporate sector, shedding light on how businesses navigate these complexities.

🚀 Technology Industry Dynamics: Jimmy provided insights into how the technology industry is navigating regulatory challenges, particularly in the context of M&As.

💰 Banking, Finance, and Insurance Sectors: Anticipated regulatory and compliance developments in these sectors were discussed, providing a comprehensive view of their evolving landscapes.

📈 Challenges and Opportunities: Jimmy shared his perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in the bankruptcy landscape, considering recent economic shifts.

🏠 Future of Real Estate Transactions: Regulatory dynamics influencing real estate transactions were explored, offering valuable insights for investors and businesses.

💡 Virtual Assets and Regulatory Considerations: With the rise of virtual assets, we delved into the regulatory considerations businesses and individuals need to keep in mind in the Middle East and Africa.

Watch the full episode of ‘@The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa’ Video Podcast on:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5a5Lrgy50g 
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0q8xkGgEpGgiOdPjQN62Zg 
• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-health-frontiers-george-yacoub-on-it-innovation/id1674391999?i=1000641605370 

#LegalLandscapes #MandA #RegulatoryTrends #MiddleEast #Africa #BusinessLeadership #MarketMakersMEA #MandAInsights

Exciting Episode Alert! Join me in a riveting conversation with @George Yacoub, Group Chief Information Officer at @Burjeel Holdings. We delve into his remarkable journey to the C-suite, exploring the dynamic landscape of healthcare IT. 🌐💡

Here's a sneak peek into our discussion:

👉🏼 Navigating the responsibilities and challenges of a CIO in the healthcare sector. 

👉🏼 The transformative impact of digitalization on patient care and operational efficiency. 

👉🏼 Unveiling innovative IT solutions implemented at Burjeel Holdings. 

👉🏼 Balancing technological advancement with data security and patient privacy.

👉🏼 Exploring the most significant trends in healthcare IT today.

Watch the full episode of ‘@The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa’ Video Podcast on:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONTuaku0904 
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KJRsnDwKsRgvCXl5M1nCU 
• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-market-makers-in-mea-with-abrar-hussain/id1674391999 

🏥 #HealthcareIT #DigitalTransformation #CIOInsights #InnovationInHealthcare

I had an enlightening conversation with Alex, the Founder and CEO of Dubai-based prop-tech Realiste AI. 

Alex shared his views on:

👉🏼 The transformative impact of Realiste's AI engine on global property investment.

👉🏼 Insights into the challenges and triumphs of scaling Realiste across 100 cities

👉🏼 The attractiveness of Dubai as a vibrant market for real estate investment.

👉🏼 Exploring the role of AI in potentially replacing traditional real estate agents.

👉🏼 How AI is reshaping the dynamics of buying and selling

🌍 Join us in this exploration of the intersection between real estate and cutting-edge AI technology!

Watch the full episode of ‘@The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa’ Video Podcast on:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dh6hX0IVRpI  
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7cKHamcmbl9Nq3lrxGmrXG
• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/empowering-innovation-with-nader-albastaki/id1674391999?i=1000638001638 

🔍 #AI #RealEstateInvestment #PropTech #AgentVsAI #DubaiProperty #RealEstate

I had the privilege of talking with Nader AlBastaki, the Pioneering Investor and Managing Director at Dubai Future District Fund.

We delved into Nader's remarkable journey, the mission of the Dubai Future District Fund, and strategies for impactful investments. Our conversation explored the fund's role in Dubai's innovation ecosystem, its unique advantages for startups, and the pivotal role of technology in shaping future investments. 

🌍 Join us as we unravel insights into the thriving startup landscape of Dubai, the fund's contributions to growth, and Nader's vision for fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in the Middle East and

Watch the full episode of ‘@The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa’ Video Podcast on:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFBDQ-RIch0
• https://open.spotify.com/episode/3kMtwGOiwE9Gn3qVtBI5Q1 
• https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/empowering-the-future-insights-from-shaikha/id1674391999?i=1000633361405 

#Investment #DubaiFutureDistrictFund #Startups #Tech 

In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with a true global expert, Martin Roll. As a distinguished fellow at INSEAD, senior advisor to Fortune 500 companies, family-owned businesses, and family offices, Martin brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the world of family businesses and family offices. 

We discussed a wide range of topics, including:

🌟 The interplay of branding, marketing, and strategy in his successful career as a global business strategist. 

🌟 Key principles for formulating strategies for Fortune 500 companies and their alignment with branding and marketing

🌟 The unique dynamics and guiding principles when advising family businesses, distinct from other types of companies 

🌟 Valuable insights into the Next Gens of global business families and the drivers of their success. 

🌟 The incorporation of family office expertise into his guidance for business families and high-net-worth clients 

🌟 Leadership development in the ever-changing business landscape. 

🌟 Strategies for fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in organizations across the Middle East, Asia, and Emerging markets. 

To watch the full episode of “The Market Makers of Middle East & Africa Podcast” on the below links to hear the valuable insights Martin shared in this episode.  🔥

• https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuWyrLK0k1T-oKUXYGKU0oA
• https://open.spotify.com/show/6KJRsnDwKsRgvCXl5M1nCU
• https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-market-makers-in-mea-with-abrar-hussain/id1674391999

#FamilyBusiness #FamilyOffice #Podcast #BusinessStrategy #Leadership #Innovation

A Conversation with David Stockton, CEO of Dulsco Group: Leading with 16,000+ strong workforce. 

 🚀 Join us as we delve into the remarkable journey and insights of a dynamic leader, David Stockton, CEO of Dulsco Group. His wealth of experience and Dulsco's path to success are incredibly inspiring: 

In this episode, we explore:

🌍 Dulsco's Evolution, key factors behind its success and Innovative solutions and services that set Dulsco apart.

 🏦 Approach to talent development and Employee engagement.

 📈 How Dulsco's solutions enhance client productivity, efficiency, and sustainability. 

💡 The strategic thought process behind Dulsco's recent acquisitions, long-term vision & how these acquisitions fit into Dulsco's growth roadmap. 

🌏 Dulsco's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. 

🌟 The evolving business landscape in the MEA region, Market challenges and opportunities, especially in terms of sustainability.

Watch the full episode of ‘@The Market Makers in the Middle East & Africa’ Video Podcast to learn about Dulsco's journey and our commitment to shaping a sustainable future in the region on:

• https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuWyrLK0k1T-oKUXYGKU0oA
• https://open.spotify.com/show/6KJRsnDwKsRgvCXl5M1nCU
• https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-market-makers-in-mea-with-abrar-hussain/id1674391999

#Dulsco #Leadership #Innovation #Sustainability #TheMarketMakersMEA

I had the honor of hosting Shaikha AlMazrouei, Vice President of the UAE Clusters unit under UAE Investments platform at Mubadala. We immersed ourselves in a detailed discussion about Mubadala's pivotal role, its investments, and the dynamic UAE and global economic landscape. Mubadala, one of the largest & successful sovereign wealth funds with 300+ billion assets under management. Mubadala invested USD 30+ billion during last year across various markets and sectors. 

We explored:   

🌟 Shaikha's inspiring journey to her role at Mubadala.  

🌍 Mubadala's foundational mission and vision, both in the UAE and globally.  

🚀 Decade-long growth strategies, emphasizing emerging markets and sectors.  

♻️ Mubadala's commitment to diversifying the UAE economy across tech, healthcare, and sustainable energy sectors.  

🌿 The weightage of sustainable and ethical investments in Mubadala's portfolio.  

👩‍💼 The journey of women empowerment & UAE's progressive policies advancing women's rights.  

🌟 Mubadala's unwavering support for women's professional growth.  

Watch the full episode of ‘@The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa’ Video Podcast that uncovers Mubadala's transformative impact in the UAE and beyond on:

• https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuWyrLK0k1T-oKUXYGKU0oA
• https://open.spotify.com/show/6KJRsnDwKsRgvCXl5M1nCU
• https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-market-makers-in-mea-with-abrar-hussain/id1674391999

#Mubadala #Investments #UAE #EconomicDevelopment #Innovation #Empowerment #TheMarketMakersMEA

In our latest episode, I had the honor of hosting Nameer Khan, Chairman of MENA Fintech Association. Our conversation delved deep into the world of fintech and its transformational impact on the MENA region.

We discussed: 

🌐 Nameer's incredible journey in shaping the fintech ecosystem in MENA. 

📈 The primary goals and initiatives of the MENA Fintech Association in fostering fintech innovation. 

🌿 The intersection of sustainability and fintech and its impact on financial institutions.

🌟 Fintech's role in promoting financial inclusion and addressing societal challenges in MENA.

🚀 The future of fintech in MENA, key opportunities, and challenges. 

💡 How fintech startups can leverage MENA Fintech Association's resources for growth. 

💰 Growth hacking strategies for fintech success.

 🤝 Mentorship and advisory roles of established leaders in fostering fintech innovation. 

Listen to this Episode of the Market Makers in the Middle East & Africa Podcast at 

• Youtube 
• Spotify 
• Apple Podcast

#Fintech #MENA #Innovation #FinancialInclusion #TechTransformation #TheMarketMakersMEA

In this episode, I had a conversation with Mahmoud Adi, Founding Partner of Shorooq Partners and Co-Founder & Board Member at Pure Harvest Smart Farms, the largest Agri tech business in MENA region. Mahmoud is a celebrated Entrepreneur, a successful Venture Capitalist leading one of the largest tech investment firms in emerging markets and sitting on the Board of various companies. 

Mahmoud shares his view on:

👉🏼 Vision and mission of Shorooq Partners to help build the next generation of economy in UAE and the wider MENAPT region

👉🏼 How Shorooq partners invested in 65+ companies, created 15,000+ jobs, generated more than $3.5 billion in Gross Equity Value and contributed positively to the economy. 

👉🏼 Beside funding, how does Shorooq Partners assist portfolio companies in their growth trajectory and help scale the ventures 

👉🏼 Story of Pure Harvest Farm becoming the largest Agri Tech business in MENA region. 

👉🏼 The most rewarding and challenging aspects of VC and tech investing business 

If you are interested in the world of entrepreneurship, venture capital, and the growth of innovative startups, don't miss this episode.

Watch the full episode of ‘@The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa’ Video Podcast with @Abrar Hussain on:

· YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuWyrLK0k1T-oKUXYGKU0oA 

· Market Makers MEA - https://marketmakersmea.com 

· Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6KJRsnDwKsRgvCXl5M1nCU

· Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-market-makers-in-mea-with-abrar-hussain/id1674391999  

#venturecapital #Entreprenuership #Agritech #Innovation #TheMarketMakersMEA #InvestingInMEA #Startups #shorooqpartners #venturecapital #venturedebt #tech #investments

I had a discussion with Antonio Di Cecca, Chief Operating Officer at Tabreed, one of the world's largest district cooling utilities.

Antonio shares his view on:

 👉🏼 How Tabreed's district cooling solutions contribute to a more environmentally friendly approach to cooling significantly reducing its carbon footprint 

👉🏼 The role that district cooling plays in the broader context of sustainable development and achieving climate goals in decarbonizing the buildings sector 

👉🏼 Some notable projects such as cooling at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque highlight the positive impact Tabreed is having on local communities and the environment.

👉🏼 Managing the peak cooling demand in a cost-effective way benefitting the diversity factor and thermal energy storage and utilising the infra with high efficiency

In this episode, I had a conversation with Gaurav Dhar, CEO at Marshal & Board member at MENA FinTech Association. Gurav is also a successful venture investor having invested in more than 400+ startups across the globe with a focus in MENA region.

Gaurav shares his view on:

👉🏼 His journey as a 2nd generation entrepreneur and the path that led him to champion fintech ecosystems in the MENA region.

👉🏼 We dived deep into the current state of the fintech industry in the MENA region, shedding light on its opportunities and challenges.

👉🏼 Gaurav's perspectives on the importance of having a sound Board of Directors and how to select board members for the new venture. 

👉🏼 The strategy and approach that Gaurav uses to select promising ventures for investment. 

👉🏼 And lastly, the dynamic role he plays wearing multiple hats – from leading Marshal, being on multiple boards, to investing in innovative startups.

In this episode, I had a discussion with Ruban Shanmugarajah, Chief Executive Officer of Babyshop at Landmark Group. 

Ruban shares his view on:

👉🏼 Factors that have contributed to the growth of Babyshop in UAE, MEA and South Asia. 

👉🏼 We explored how Babyshop harnessed the power of the Omnichannel retail model to seize opportunities and cater to our customers' evolving needs. 

👉🏼 Retailing is an experience & its people’s business - How Babyshop keep it simple and drive excellence. 

👉🏼 Innovation is at the core of Babyshop’s strategy, and the various approaches Babyshop has taken to enhance customer experiences and foster lasting loyalty. 

👉🏼 We explored how Babyshop is continuously adapting to the changing landscape and emerging trends to cater to the evolving needs of parents and their little ones.

In this episode, I had a discussion with Katarina Hasbani, Partner at AESG

Katarina shares his view on:

👉🏼 Defining Sustainability – Environment, Social impact and governance. 

👉🏼 How sustainability can help companies run better. 

👉🏼 How organizations can build sustainability across their supply chains. 

👉🏼 What governments and business can do to educate various stakeholders and people on sustainability practices. 

👉🏼 Advice to companies, management and C level on how to implement sustainability initiatives. 

Watch the full episode on 

• https://www.youtube.com/@themarketmakersinmea
• https://marketmakersmea.com/
• https://open.spotify.com/show/6KJRsnDwKsRgvCXl5M1nCU
• https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-market-makers-in-mea-with-abrar-hussain/

Enjoy and share your thoughts in the comment section after you listen to our conversation!

#TheMarketMakersinMEA #AESG #Supplychains #Sustainability #socialimpact #Thoughtleadership

Andrea shares her inspiring story and provides valuable insights into her role at @Mastercard, where she spearheads innovation, CX, UX, UI, research, and ESG efforts across the EMEA region.

During our conversation, Andrea sheds light on:

• Successful partnerships and collaborations that @Mastercard has undertaken to drive innovation and enhance the customer experience in the EEMEA region. 
• Mastercard's ambitious commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040 and the measures the company is taking to accelerate its sustainability journey.
• The Priceless Planet Coalition: Mastercard's initiative that brings together issuers, merchants, and people to address environmental challenges and support sustainable initiatives, including a commitment of $100 million towards preserving and restoring 100 million trees.
• How Mastercard's regional offices contribute to the company's sustainability drive and explore the concept of sustainable cards, their definition, and the enthusiastic response from issuers in the region. 
• How Mastercard incorporates ESG considerations into its products and services, showcasing the company's dedication to creating a positive impact

Join us as @Andrea eloquently explains how Mastercard brings its purpose of ‘doing well by doing good’ to life and shares her own experiences as a Senior Vice President, highlighting the best parts of her role. Watch the full episode 10 of The Market Makers in the Middle East & Africa - Podcast with Abrar Hussain on

🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@themarketmakersinmea 
💻 Website: https://marketmakersmea.com/ 
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KJRsnDwKsRgvCXl5M1nCU
🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-market-makers-in-mea-with-abrar-hussain/id1674391999    

#Mastercard #Innovation #Sustainability #ESG #FinancialIndustry #DiversityAndInclusion #WomenEmpowerment #DoingWellByDoingGood

In this episode, I had a discussion with Krishnan Gopi, Group Chief Disruption Officer at GEMS Education, one of the oldest and largest Kindergarten to Grade 12 / Year 13 private education providers in the world.

Krish shares his view on:

👉🏼 His career Journey from two successful entrepreneurial exits and now a C level executive 

👉🏼 The evolving role of a Chief Disruption Officer
👉🏼 Technology Disruption Journey at GEMS Education 

👉🏼 The Future of Education and how Technology is shaping it. 

👉🏼 How companies can drive disruption and be future ready

Watch the full episode on 

• https://www.youtube.com/@themarketmakersinmea
• https://marketmakersmea.com/
• https://open.spotify.com/show/6KJRsnDwKsRgvCXl5M1nCU
• https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-market-makers-in-mea-with-abrar-hussain/

In this captivating episode, I had a discussion with Miguel Rio-Tinto, Group Chief Digital and Information Officer at Emirates NBD, One of the largest banking groups in MEA. 

Miguel shares his view on:

👉🏼 Emirates NBD’s Dhs1bn ($270 mil) Digital transformation program 
👉🏼 Organizing 2000+ IT engineers into different squads to foster collaboration between IT and business units 
👉🏼 Navigating Emirates NBD to be future-ready and at the forefront of industry developments
👉🏼 Banking Landscape in MEA and emergence of Fintech’s
👉🏼 Digital Transformation at Scale 

Don't miss out on this insightful conversation! Watch the full episode 08 of @The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa’ Video Podcast with @ Abrar Hussain on 

🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@themarketmakersinmea
💻 Website: https://marketmakersmea.com/
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KJRsnDwKsRgvCXl5M1nCU
🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-market-makers-in-mea-with-abrar-hussain/

After listening, we would love to hear your thoughts in the comment section!
#EmiratesNBD #DigitalTransformation #Innovation #BankingIndustry #Podcast #Collaboration

In this episode, I had a discussion with Sundeep Sahni, CEO and Co-Founder at Valeo Wellbeing, about his successful billion dollar exits, Valeo’s vision for building a Healthcare platform and how to scale and build successful companies. 

Sundeep Sahni previously co-founded Lazada Indonesia, Southeast Asia's e-commerce platform which was acquired by Alibaba for $3 billion. He was also a CEO of Asan Pardhakt (Largest Fintech company in the Middle East) and COO of SNAPP, ride hailing company.

In this Episode, Sundeep shares his views on:

• Grand vision of Valeo Health and making healthcare more convenient and accessible.
• Entrepreneurship journey of Sundeep Shani and successful exits 
• Scaling up, hiring, and building teams for successfully growing Tech start ups
• How did Sundeep manage to grow Lazada to a $3 Billion company 
  
  

Don't miss out on this insightful and inspiring podcast: Revolutionizing Healthcare: Building a State-of-the-Art Academic Hospital with Cutting-Edge Technology & Compassionate Care 🎧

🌟 I had the pleasure of joining @Abrar Hussain on 'The Market Makers in Middle East & Africa’ Video Podcast to discuss a variety of healthcare topics that will surely spark your interest! 🎙️

💡 Dive into these captivating topics:

🔸 The journey of creating the groundbreaking Fakeeh University Hospital in UAE, a $500M investment that's transforming healthcare 💰🏥

🔸 Merging state-of-the-art technology with heartfelt patient care for better outcomes 💙🤖

🔸 The power of multi-disciplinary collaboration in driving exceptional patient care 🤝🩺

🔸 A glimpse into the future of healthcare and the role of emerging technologies 🚀🔬

🔔 Keep your eyes peeled for the full episode on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts soon! A huge thank you to @Abrar Hussain for this fantastic opportunity to share my thoughts.

🏷️ #healthcare #futureofhealthcare #technology #collaboration #podcast #interview #FakeehUniversityHospital #MiddleEast #Africa #patientoutcomes #cuttingedgetechnology #compassionatecare #multidisciplinary #innovation #investment #success