The Wireless Festival Middle East 2024 at Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Park faced an uphill battle after last-minute cancellations by major headliners threatened to overshadow the event. The enthusiastic audiences helped smooth over a rocky lead-up. The turbulence began weeks before the event when SZA, originally slated as the headliner, cancelled her performance along with the rest of her tour. This setback forced organisers to secure a replacement in the form of US rapper Playboi Carti. However, just hours before the gates opened, Carti also withdrew, with Live Nation Middle East attributing the decision to the artist’s “unfortunate and last-minute” choice.

Adding to the disruption, Punjabi hip-hop star Karan Aujla and American rapper Flo Milli also pulled out just days before the festival. Their slots were quickly filled by Saweetie and A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie. Despite these challenges, the show went on, with fans rallying to celebrate a dynamic mix of international and regional talent.

However, the festival’s diverse lineup and the energy of its performers ultimately created an unforgettable evening, showcasing the global breadth and depth of hip-hop talent. From seasoned international superstars to emerging regional voices, the event delivered a vivid tapestry of music that resonated with the eclectic audience.

21 Savage Brings It Home

The night’s highlight came from 21 Savage, who stepped into the headlining slot with a commanding performance that balanced cool professionalism with raw energy. The rapper delivered a minimalist yet impactful set, leaning on his decade-long catalog of hits. Tracks like On BS and Red Opps showcased his signature staccato delivery and brooding beats, while collaborations like Rockstar with Post Malone and Creepin with The Weeknd underscored his versatility as one of hip-hop’s most in-demand collaborators.

Saweetie and Fridayy Keep the Momentum Alive

Among the global acts, US rapper Saweetie proved her star power with hits like Best Friend, which showcased her playful charisma, and her tropical-infused single Nani, hinting at a promising debut album on the horizon. Meanwhile, Haitian-American artist Fridayy brought soulful versatility to the stage, seamlessly transitioning from trap beats to 90s-inspired R&B. Tracks like When It Comes to You and Forever left the audience eager for his next album, set to release next year.

Vibrant Regional and Desi Talent

Adding a unique flavor to the event was the festival’s celebration of South Asian hip-hop and regional talent. Delhi-based rap duo Seedhe Maut commanded attention with their high-octane performance, blending sharp bars, clever references, and unrelenting energy. As reigning stars of the Indian hip-hop scene, they brought a raw, authentic vibe to the festival, thrilling the audience with their bold lyricism and electrifying stage presence.

Pakistani rapper Faris Shafi added a dose of fun and cultural pride to the evening. Known for his witty wordplay and sharp commentary, Shafi’s performance was a seamless blend of modern rap flows and renditions of traditional folk tunes, creating a dynamic set that had the crowd both laughing and reflecting. His ability to merge meaningful lyrics with a playful delivery made him a standout act, showcasing the growing influence of South Asian artists on the global hip-hop stage.

Mixed Performances and Regional Representation

Not all performances hit the mark, however. Homixide Gang, part of Playboi Carti’s Opium collective, fell short with a chaotic set that prioritised volume over coherence. Despite the power of tracks like Sharp Shooter, their delivery lacked finesse, leaving much to be desired.

On the second stage, regional acts shone brightly. Egypt’s Afroto delivered an electrifying performance, blending mahraganat-inspired autotune with pulsating beats on tracks like Tege Goal and Brazil. Meanwhile, Moroccan-American rapper Dina Ayada captivated the crowd with her precision and charisma. Fresh off a performance at Rolling Loud Thailand, Ayada’s tracks like Starlight and 100 Bands underscored her potential as a breakout artist in the US.

Challenges Met with Creativity

Despite the setbacks of last-minute changes, Wireless Festival Middle East 2024 retained its reputation as a global platform for hip-hop’s rising stars. By spotlighting artists from different cultural backgrounds and genres, the festival underscored its commitment to diversity and inclusivity in the music industry. While this year’s execution faced hurdles, the range of talent and the passion of the performers ensured that the festival remained a dynamic and celebratory event, setting the stage for a stronger return in 2025.

The Government of Zimbabwe has entered into a strategic partnership with T Ten Global Sports to enhance the nation’s global profile and attract significant foreign investment. This initiative aligns with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s vision of showcasing Zimbabwe as ‘Open for Business’ and leverages international platforms to highlight the country’s substantial economic potential.

With a viewership exceeding 500 million on television and OTT platforms, and a social media reach of 2.5 billion across 100 countries, T Ten’s cricket leagues offer Zimbabwe an unparalleled opportunity to promote its investment prospects. The partnership will officially be launched at the 2024 Abu Dhabi T10 in Abu Dhabi, positioning Zimbabwe as a premier destination for international business.

Speaking on the partnership, Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa said, “Zimbabwe is open for business, and this partnership with T Ten Global Sports is a testament to our commitment to engaging with the world. Through T Ten’s extensive reach, we will showcase Zimbabwe as a thriving hub for investment and innovation. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in building our nation’s global reputation and economic future.”

Under President Mnangagwa’s leadership, Zimbabwe has experienced notable economic growth. In 2023, Zimbabwe’s GDP was valued at $26.54 billion, reflecting a 4.5% growth rate from the previous year. The nation has also attracted significant investments across various sectors including the beverage industry, mining sector, real estate and infrastructure, renewable energy and agriculture modernization.

Varun Beverages, the bottling partner of PepsiCo, has invested over $40 million, creating employment opportunities and bolstering the manufacturing sector.  Zimbabwe is endowed with vast mineral resources, including lithium, platinum, gold, and diamonds. Investments from companies such as Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt and Prospect Resources are positioning Zimbabwe as a key player in the global green energy revolution.

UAE-based conglomerate Mulk International is developing the $500 million Zim Cyber City in Mount Hampden, Harare. This state-of-the-art mixed-use development is set to transform Zimbabwe’s real estate landscape, offering high-end residential and commercial spaces. Collaborations with international firms are underway to harness Zimbabwe’s abundant solar and hydropower resources, supporting sustainable energy solutions and reducing reliance on non-renewable sources. Partnerships with global agribusinesses have enhanced Zimbabwe’s agricultural output, ensuring food security and creating export opportunities.

Shaji Ul Mulk, Chairman of T Ten Global Sports further said, “We are honored to partner with Zimbabwe to deliver this transformative vision. Through T Ten’s five global leagues, we will ensure that Zimbabwe’s message reaches key markets, connecting the nation with influential investors and creating new opportunities for growth and collaboration.”

There are numerous unparalleled opportunities for global investors in Zimbabwe across various sectors. The country is home to vast reserves of lithium, platinum, gold, nickel, and rare earth minerals, essential for the global renewable energy and technology industries. With a growing industrial base and favorable policies, Zimbabwe provides opportunities in food processing, automotive assembly, and consumer goods production.

Abundant sunshine and river systems make Zimbabwe ideal for large-scale solar and hydropower projects, attracting renewable energy investors globally. Rapid urbanization and modernization efforts create lucrative opportunities in construction, transport, and logistics.

Paul Tungwarara, Special Presidential Investment Advisor, UAE further said, “This partnership reflects Zimbabwe’s forward-looking strategy for international outreach. By leveraging T Ten’s global media presence, we will amplify the message that Zimbabwe is ready for business and global partnerships. It has been a privilege to contribute to this historic initiative.”

Through its collaboration with T Ten Global, Zimbabwe will gain exposure across the five cricket leagues’ (Abu Dhabi T10, US Masters T10, Lanka T10 Super League, African T10, Sri Lanka T10) influential markets. It allows the nation to engage audiences in the Middle East and Asia, and also target North America’s business leaders. The partnership further helps Zimbabwe in strengthening their presence in South Asia’s thriving markets and highlighting Zimbabwe’s leadership in Africa.

This partnership represents a bold step toward economic reform, global engagement, and solidifying Zimbabwe’s position as a premier investment destination.

The 2024/25 Dubai Endurance Season got underway at Dubai International Endurance City with a healthy dose of excitement as MRM Stables became the first unit to strike when claiming the campaignopening Seeh Al Salam Endurance Challenge by a mere second courtesy of star rider Saif Ahmed Al Mazrouei, who delivered aboard Magic Glenn Torque. 

Organised by Dubai Equestrian Club, the 119km four loop ride witnessed stiff competition from all the major stables involved in endurance riding in the UAE, with a total of 119 rider-horse pairings venturing into the sands of the Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve. 

And it was Al Mazrouei and his 13yearold companion who won with a consistent approach that witnessed them stay close to the top of an evolving leaderboard. The pair posted a time of four hours, 12 minutes and 16 seconds (4:12:16), which was a mere second quicker than the 4:12:17 recorded by F3-1 Stables pair of Hamad Humaid Al Tamimi and 765 Sargon, even as third placed F3 Stables pair of Rashed Mohammed 

Al Mehairi and A’Bandom’s Rockabilly cantered in third a further 26 seconds behind in 4:12:43.  Al Mazrouei started the day in seventh, 20 seconds off the pace set by Al Tamimi, who was quickest over the 40-km first loop, but was dethroned from the summit during the course of the 32km second loop by his MRM teammate Mansour Al Faresi, riding Tatarinu, the latter erasing a massive 2min21sec deficit and climbing into top spot from 25th. Al Faresi seemed to have control going into the 20km final loop after holding on to the summit at the end of the third spanning 27km. However, with plenty of reserve left in Magic Glenn Torque’s tank, Al Mazrouei, third at the end of the penultimate loop, was able to rev up his mount significantly and went from 26.99kph over the third to 34.4kph over the fourth, which guaranteed him success despite a hard push from Al Tamimi, who made his bid for success from fourth. Al Mehairi finished a comfortable third. 

Meanwhile, Zabeel 2 Stables clinched victory in the Al Wasl Endurance Cup for Private Stables after Ebrahim Fayed Al Shamsi’s nervewracking success in the 101km contest aboard Bobang Al Andalus. The pair completed the four loop ride in a time of 3:30:46, denying Al Ain Endurance Stables’, represented by Uruguayan Federico Ferber and his mount HC Nael, by fractions of a second. Zabeel 3’s Saeed Ghanim Al Marri took third aboard Woodbourne Wednesday. Board Member and General Manager of Dubai Equestrian Club, Major General Dr. Mohammed Essa Al Adhab, presented the winners with their trophies. “It was a very good effort from all of the stables to have their horses and riders ready for a very exciting finish on the opening day of the season,” commented Dr Al Adhab. 

“We have a long season ahead of us, but that finish to the first ride shows, it is going to be a very exciting season and we wish all of those involved all the very best for what lies ahead.” 

The season at Dubai International Endurance City includes a series of top rides with its worldrenowned HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Festival and the Crown Prince of Dubai Endurance Festival, the two showpiece events on its calendar.