Business
(8 January 2024, Middle East) - British-born automotive brand, MG is expanding its comprehensive range of sedans and SUVs in the Middle East as the brand kicks off 2024 with the launch of the
all-new MG Whale SUV Coupe. This sporty mid-size SUV is designed to cater to the travel requirements of younger buyers, ambitious professionals and families who reside in urban environments but are always aspiring to add a dash of adventure into their lives.
The futuristic design and the daring coupe-like silhouette of the MG Whale embody the youthful and progressive spirit of the people who live and work in the vibrant cities of the region. The Whale-inspired details like its signature front grille and Baleen daytime running lamps help convey the playfulness, intelligence, and grace of its namesake. Other marine-related cues include Whale-fin door mirrors and a Whale-tail spoiler and gearshift.
Additionally, traits like the two-tone glossy black roof, matte gold bumper accents, chrome dual exhaust pipes, and silver decoration add to the visual appeal of the SUV Coupe. The car also rides on stylish alloy wheels which have a large 19-inch diameter indicating its stylistic dominance over its competitors.
The SUV Coupe offers a well-laid-out, premium quality cabin that will ensure daily commutes and long journeys are quiet, hassle-free, and comfortable thanks to features like electric seat adjustments with memory seats, dual-zone air conditioning, and a power-operated panoramic sunroof.
Passengers will also be entertained and remain connected thanks to the superlative technologies and features like the 9-speaker BOSE sound system, 256-colour ambient lighting setup, and the seamlessly integrated dual 12.3-inch Curved Panoramic Screen.
The comprehensive list of safety features includes an HD 360°surround view system and a host of active and passive safety features, electronic aids to make the journey incident-free as well as comfortable. Moreover, the MG Whale is built on a chassis with a high-strength structure that is rated for high levels of torsional stiffness, which will provide maximum protection and a dynamic advantage.
The sleek SUV Coupe is driven by a powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine producing 231 HP and 370 Nm torque which is coupled to a reliable 8-speed automatic gearbox. The forced-induction motor provides the torque necessary to transport five passengers and their luggage swiftly and efficiently, while the low-displacement configuration aided by the 8 speeds of the modern transmission helps minimise fuel consumption.
Tom Lee, Managing Director of MG Motor’s Middle East operations, commented: “MG’s campaign to deliver great value SUVs continues with the launch of our all-new Whale model. The MG Whale will be appreciated by those who are progressive and believe in self-expression. The emotive design language draws cues from the whale to reflect power and grace in its lines. It also offers an exceptional list of comfort options with an affordable package to cater to the demands and needs of our customers in the Middle East.”
The starting price for the MG Whale is USD 23,700 (excluding taxes) and prices for each market will be announced shortly. All-new MG Whale models will also benefit from the brand’s acclaimed six-year/200,000 km warranty.
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About MG Motor:
MG Motor is a British-born automotive brand established in 1924, known for its historic models, awards and achievements throughout the past 100 years. MG was founded by William Morris and Cecil Kimbers and has one of the oldest car clubs in the automotive industry. Best known for its two-seat open sports cars, MG Motor also produced saloons and coupes. Since its acquisition of MG, SAIC MOTOR, as a Global Top 500 company, has opened a new chapter for this British icon. MG Motor is at the forefront of the introduction of innovative technologies and new energy vehicles for car buyers.
In the development decade of the 1960s, the issue of trade and not aid cropped up because much of the industrialisation was debt-driven and business leaders started talking about increasing domestic savings, investment, production and exports.
But over time, the trade gap mostly continued to widen. Tight monetary policy to depress domestic demand and ease external sector pressures resulted in de-industrialisation. Farm production suffered badly due to backward cultural practices and a lack of modernisation of agriculture. Agri-food imports rose by 64 per cent to $3.847 billion during July-December 2023.
Foreign investment was attracted with no priority set for development but to shore up dollar reserves, ignoring its overall economic impact. Now, repatriation of dividends and profits invariably exceed foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, forcing the authorities to restrict remittances to their parent companies.
Foreign firms are reported to have divested their assets or temporarily reduced or halted their operations in Pakistan since 2022. Ignoring past experience, an effort is being made to attract FDI from friendly Arab countries without rationalising FDI policy.
All sub-nationalities need to be equitably empowered to work together to mobilise the country’s unutilised local resources
The thinking (of the caretaker government) that we must first bring foreign investment is flawed, said one of the country’s leading entrepreneur’s Muhammad Ali Tabba in an interview.
Stressing the need for a long-term investment policy, he pointed out that there is a lot of cash in the private sector and system. It is just that it is not being motivated to invest locally. Similarly, he also identified sectors which could be developed through joint foreign-local ventures based on indigenous resources.
Often aware of the hassles involved in setting up new projects, some foreign investors prefer to work with local partners. This is also evident from foreign investors currently taking up stakes in existing companies where risks are much lower and returns much quicker.
Unless foreign investment in joint ventures is matched by sizeable local equity, the bulk of dollars would be spent on new projects and would not provide much support for building up dollar reserves. Foreign investors also expect more incentives for new projects in adverse business environments.
Foreign investors expect more incentives for new projects in adverse business environments
Among other factors, political uncertainty weighed heavily on business and consumer sentiments, resulting in a contraction of 0.2pc real GDP in FY23, says State Bank Governor Jameel Ahmed. That brings into question whether economic stability can be achieved without political stability.
Some pin hopes that the next government, empowered with a fresh electoral mandate, will undertake long-term reforms to build upon short-term improvements in some macroeconomic indicators, including a reduction in trade and current account deficit as a result of administrative and regulatory actions taken by the caretaker government and the central bank.
The view is not shared by many others. With the impression that electoral manipulation is afoot, analysts fear such an eventuality could damage democracy and national cohesion. The outlook for political stability after the general elections appears murky.
Speaking at a press conference after the rejection of the nomination papers of his and his party candidates, Balochistan National Party chief Akhtar Mengal warned that if justice was not served, the matter would be taken to the people of Balochistan. “If you weaken the political parties, you weaken the federation,” warned PML-N Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed, addressing the Senate recently.
Dealing with Pakistan’s estranged nationalists needs political sagacity and a willingness to accept them as equal citizens of Pakistan who have been wronged, says Pervez Hoodbhoy. Otherwise, he warns, be prepared for unending militancy and a miserable 2024.
As it appears, Pakistan’s external sector challenges will also become more formidable. Among the big issues and trends listed by eminent international scholars and political economists that will dominate global attention in 2024 are threats to democracy, major wars, looming economic risks and multiplying humanitarian crises. The Israeli massacre of Palestinians, it is argued, will bring seismic change in global geopolitics as ‘guns do not kill ideas but reinforce them’.
It is time for people of all sub-nationalities to be equitably empowered to work together in harmony to unleash the potential for mobilising the country’s unutilised local cash, human, and physical resources required for national reconstruction.
International Media Investments (IMI) announced two significant leadership changes. Abdou Gadallah has been promoted to the role of Group Editorial Director across the group, while Nadim Koteich has been appointed as General Manager of Sky News Arabia (SNA). Both are newly created positions, and both executives will report directly to Rani R. Raad, the recently appointed IMI CEO.
Raad joined IMI last September with a brief to transform the company and its media brands and to grow its assets both regionally and globally. "These appointments strengthen our commitment to upholding the highest standards of editorial integrity whilst we grow and strengthen our relationships with our audiences" stated Rani R. Raad, IMI CEO. “Our mission is to deliver a full and comprehensive picture of what is happening in our region and beyond, so our audiences can make informed decisions and have the facts to form their own opinions. Technology is offering us the opportunity to reach more and more people and to change how we interact with them. But it is our engaging and differentiated content that is at the heart of our relationship with them. With Abdou and Nadim in these roles we are going to start to redefine what makes a great news product.”
Previously, Gadallah served as the Head of News at Sky News Arabia, responsible for the channel's coverage of major events, as well as overseeing day-to-day newsroom operations. He first joined Sky News Arabia in 2012, taking on various editorial leadership positions, with a focus on building and upskilling the channel's digital and social media teams and output. Before joining Sky News Arabia, Gadallah served as Media Advisor to the US Embassy in Doha, Qatar.
Nadim Koteich will continue to host his own show on SNA, 'Tonight with Nadim' and will be tasked with both the editorial tone and making sure the channel's content is optimised across all platforms. SNA is expected to launch a number of new programming initiatives over the next few months and Koteich will be responsible for expanding its coverage into new genres. Koteich brings more than 20 years of experience in the media industry and has played an instrumental role in shaping the landscape of political dialogue and commentary in Middle Eastern media. He has worked with a variety of regional outlets across print, broadcast, and online platforms, including hosting his acclaimed ‘DNA’ program which aired on Future TV and Al Arabiya, as well as contributing to a weekly political column on Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper.
Both appointments are effective immediately.
About International Media Investments
International Media Investments (IMI), is a privately-owned investment company focused on building a portfolio of quality media assets across the globe. Producing digital first, relevant, and responsible news content which connects with people is at the core of International Media Investments’ mission.
The company has built an impressive line-up of brands each with a digital growth focus. International Media Investments’ portfolio of assets includes The National, CNN Business Arabic, Al -Ain News and interests in Sky News Arabia and Euronews.
IMI has also recently partnered with Redbird to create RedBird IMI, a joint venture investment vehicle focused on acquiring and investing in large-scale media, entertainment, and sports content properties on a global basis.
Whether it be television, print, radio or digital, International Media Investments believes that reliable and credible information is key to communities.
For more information visit www.internationalmediainvestments.com
About Sky News Arabia
Sky News Arabia is a leading pan-Arab news organisation broadcasting 24/7 to households across the Arabic-speaking world. With a free-to-air TV channel, audio platforms and digital platforms, it is the home of breaking news, business, lifestyle, arts, culture, and sports coverage.
Committed to delivering outstanding analysis of the regional and international news agenda since 2012, Sky News Arabia has become a trusted and respected news outlet appealing to people of all ages, nationalities, and backgrounds. Alongside its core news coverage, the channel has built a strong audience for its business coverage, daily sports analysis, and current affairs.
Sky News Arabia has a network of bureaus across MENA, Europe, and the US, ensuring viewers are up to date with all the news and the stories behind the news as it unfolds.
5 January 2024, Abu Dhabi, UAE: Wizz Air, Europe’s fastest growing and most environmentally sustainable airline globally*, has taken home the award for being among The World’s Top 5 Safest Low Cost Airlines by AirlineRatings.com. AirlineRatings’ World TOP 5 Safest Low Cost Airline award recognises airlines with a fleet of over 50 aircraft, that have excellent safety culture and low incident rates. In making its evaluation, AirlineRatings.com takes into account a comprehensive range of factors that include serious incidents, recent fatal accidents, audits from aviation’s governing and industry bodies, profitability, industry-leading safety initiatives, expert pilot training assessment and fleet age. With AirlineRatings’ award, Wizz Air also confirms its global leadership in Safety, along with Sustainability.
About Wizz Air:
Wizz Air, the fastest growing European ultra-low-cost airline, operates a fleet of 195 Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft. A team of dedicated aviation professionals delivers superior service and very low fares, making Wizz Air the preferred choice of 60.3 million passengers in the Rolling 12 months ending 31 December 2023. Wizz Air is listed on the London Stock Exchange under the ticker WIZZ. The company was recently named one of the world's top ten safest airlines by airlineratings.com, the world's only safety and product rating agency, and named Airline of the Year by Air Transport Awards in 2019 and in 2023. Wizz Air has also been recognised as the "Most Sustainable Low-Cost Airline" within the World Finance Sustainability Awards in 2021-2023 and the "Global Environmental Sustainability Airline Group of the Year" by the CAPA-Centre for Aviation Awards for Excellence 2022-2023.
UAE, Dubai, January 5, 2023 – Global Village, the UAE and wider region's leading multicultural family destination for culture, shopping, and entertainment, has announced the performance of the legendary superstar, Amr Diab, who will be gracing its Main Stage on January 18, 2024 at 8 PM.
Amr Diab, is one of the most iconic and beloved artists in the Arab world. With a career spanning over three decades, the Egyptian artist has captured the hearts of millions with his timeless hits and charismatic stage presence. From "Nour El Ain" to "Ana Ayesh" and "Tamally Maak," Amr Diab's music has transcended borders and made him into a global sensation.
This concert is the latest in Global Village’s Season 28 concerts series, known for bringing world-class entertainment to Dubai and providing its guests a diverse cultural experience to its visitors.
Concerts at the Global Village Main Stage are open to all guests inside the park, with designated areas for families and ladies. Tickets for Global Village can be purchased through the Global Village official website, or award-winning mobile app.
About Global Village:
Global Village is the region’s original family destination for multicultural entertainment, dining, and shopping, welcoming more than 100 million visitors since opening its gates in 1997.
In Season 28, Global Village is hosting 27 pavilions representing over 90 cultures from around the world, over 3,500 shopping outlets and over 250 dining options. The park also host 400+ performers and showcase more than 200 performances each night. Guests can enjoy +195 rides and attractions at the Carnaval funfair. Global Village offers the largest and most varied range of events, shows, shopping and dining experiences.
In 2023, Global Village was named as the most visited attraction in the region by YouGov welcoming a record 9 million visitors and was once again recognised as one of the top 10% of attractions globally by TripAdvisor.
Transfer money and win big!
Transfer your money through Al Muzaini or use any of Al Muzaini Exchange’s services for a chance to win incredible prizes worth over $30,000!
Al Muzaini Exchange, the number one money exchange in Kuwait since 1942 announces its “Transfer and Win Campaign 2023”. Participants of the campaign must transfer money through Al Muzaini either by visiting any of Al Muzaini’s branches and self-service kiosks, transferring online through the website and by using the Al Muzaini application. Utilizing services such as Foreign Currency Exchange, Western Union, Bill Payments, Visa Direct and Bank-to-Bank transfers for the purpose of transferring money shall make customers eligible to win with Al Muzaini.
The exciting Grand Prize for the campaign is $10,000.
The campaign lasts from December 26, 2023 to February 29, 2024
There shall be daily winners winning cash prizes of $100, weekly winners winning cash prizes of $1000 and monthly winners winning cash prizes of $2500 each month until the end of the campaign.
Mr. Hugh Fernandes, the General Manager of Al Muzaini said “We are extremely excited to bring forth our Transfer and Win Campaign and wish to reward our customers for performing transactions with us and for giving us the chance to serve them. There are lots of prizes to be won and the campaign spans the length of two months. We will be immensely happy to see you winning big with the Al Muzaini Transfer and Win Campaign.”
Al Muzaini, always near you!
Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, December 21, 2023: Daikin Air Conditioning Saudi Arabia (“Daikin”), a leading manufacturer of Air Conditioning, Heating, Ventilation, & Refrigeration solutions announces its agreement signed with Al-Hatab Bakery Factory 2 in Sudair Industrial Area, Saudi Arabia. Al Hatab Bakery’s strategic expansion to implement climate-friendly refrigeration solutions in its business model is in line with Daikin’s agenda to support its partners and customers in adopting advanced and sustainable cooling solutions.
The agreement was signed by Mr. Ammar Al Daajan, Vice President of Al-Hatab Bakery, and Mr. Shinji Jodo, Managing Director of Daikin Saudi Arabia. It consists of supplying, installing, and commissioning 11 Daikin Zanotti Ammonia compressors, 150 coolers, and 6 Evaporative Condensers along with all other plant room equipment on a turnkey basis.
Al-Hatab Bakery, a part of the Al Daajan Group of Companies is a leading bakery in Saudi Arabia with a strong passion for baking that has emerged to provide its customers with a wide variety of freshly baked goods and gourmet specialties with a diverse line of fresh breads, decadent sweets, delicate pastries, juice, salads, and sandwiches.
Mr. Hany Elbegawi, Executive Manager of Al Daajan for Construction Co. Ltd. said “Our relationship with Daikin started from Al-Hatab Bakery Factory - Sudair 1, where Daikin supplied the complete HVAC solution. For our second factory, we wanted an efficient, reliable, durable, and environmentally friendly solution for our refrigeration plant. Daikin has played a crucial role from the early stages of the factory’s establishment and was able to meet our requirements, by providing our consultants with the technical information needed promptly. We are confident that Daikin will deliver on their commitments as they usually do."
Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Shinji Jodo, Managing Director of Daikin Saudi Arabia said, “We are honored that Daikin has been selected as a partner for Al-Hatab Bakery Factory 2 in Saudi Arabia. Our state-of-the-art refrigeration solutions will enable Al-Hatab Bakery to improve operations and achieve energy efficiency. Al Hatab Bakery is our long-standing trusted partner, and we are looking forward to achieving another milestone together.”
“With this agreement, Daikin has reiterated its leadership in the HVAC & Refrigeration Industry in Saudi Arabia, and its efforts to fuel sustainable solutions to the Kingdom’s growing business landscape, an important milestone towards local commitment to the realization of Vision 2030 goals,” Mr. Shinji added.
Daikin has over 100 years of experience as a comprehensive manufacturer, the company offers a ‘total solution’ that combines refrigeration, heating, air conditioning, and air handling systems to meet the strict demands of the food industry and deliver lower running costs. Daikin provides a diverse product line-up for all aspects of the entire cold chain that covers food production and processing, transportation, storage warehouses, and stores.
About Daikin
Daikin Industries is the global leader in developing and manufacturing advanced, high-quality air conditioning, heating, ventilation, and refrigeration products (HVAC-R) and solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Founded in Japan in 1924, the company strives to combine expertise and experience to create new innovative technologies by anticipating the future requirements of customers and society. Daikin has evolved over nearly 100 years to employ 96,000 people with 117 production bases and operations in more than 170 countries worldwide.
Daikin Saudi Arabia promotes and provides aftermarket support for a full range of air conditioning equipment and systems in the Kingdom, with the HQ in Riyadh, 2 branches in Dammam and Jeddah, and the new factory in Sudair Industrial City.
More information can be found at www.daikin-ksa.com
Media contacts
Taleih Halaby – Regional Marketing Manager – Daikin Middle East and Africa
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Selma Lakhoua – Regional PR and Marketing Specialist – Daikin Middle East and Africa
T: +971 52 171 6035
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Ronak Thakkar - Associate Director – FleishmanHillard (Omnicom Public Relations Group)
T: +971 54 586 9828
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