Announcements

Gargash Group partners with Mashreq for Sustainable Finance

Published

1 year ago

October 3, 2024

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In a strategic step towards achieving its sustainability goals, Gargash Group, a leading business enterprise in the UAE, has partnered with Mashreq, one of the leading financial institutions in the MENA region. This collaboration, officially inaugurated with an MoU signing ceremony at the Mercedes-Benz Brand Center in Dubai Design District, was crystalized with their debut Green Loan that was extended earlier for a number of projects across Gargash Group. The two institutions are also in discussion on future ESG integration initiatives for the Group, including but not limited to other Sustainability-Linked facilities.

By obtaining its first Green Loan, Gargash Group aligns itself with a prestigious and select group of UAE enterprises that have leveraged impactful and sustainable financing solutions. The partnership aims to promote and advance robust sustainability agendas for both Gargash Group and Mashreq by setting and achieving ambitious sustainability targets.

As a tangible expression of these goals, Gargash Group is planning solar installations across 25 sites in the next three years, with an energy potential totaling over 5 MW. While 5 sites are expected to be completed as early as 2025, plans are also underway to execute energy efficiency projects spanning across 25 of its sites. Finance requirements for these plans are to be covered through the Green Loan facility from Mashreq.

Walid Hizaoui, Group Chief Strategy Officer at Gargash Group shared his insights at the event, stating, “This partnership marks a critical milestone in our sustainability journey. With a reliable and trusted banking partner supporting us, we are wholeheartedly committed to integrating sustainability practices into every aspect of our operations for a greener future. We have meticulously scoped our businesses and implemented the necessary infrastructure to monitor our progress towards decarbonization—our ultimate long-term goal. This initiative not only underscores our unwavering commitment to reducing the nation’s carbon footprint but also aligns with the UAE Green Agenda 2030 and UAE Net Zero Strategy 2050, promoting sustainable practices across the board.”

Thomas Schulz, General Manager Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars at Gargash Enterprises, added, “This is an important milestone that will help drive the Mercedes-Benz brand forward, a brand long rooted in values of innovation and sustainability. This collaboration is a main catalyst fueling our commitment to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030 in the UAE. Our commitment to this objective reflects our dedication to the brand and our responsibility to the UAE, as we push forward in sustainable mobility. With a solid framework in place, we are confident our efforts will drive meaningful progress towards a greener future.”

Karim Amer, Head of Automotive Sector at Mashreq commented, “Mashreq is proud to support Gargash Group’s transition towards a sustainable future through their inaugural Green Loan and other potential Sustainability-Linked facilities. This financing is designed to enable remarkable reductions in emissions and accelerate decarbonization initiatives which we have been actively driving across the Automotive sector, through proactive engagement with our clients on both formulization as well as execution of their Sustainability Strategies. By aligning financial incentives with sustainability objectives, we aim to enhance operational efficiencies for our partners and set a benchmark that encourages other organizations to integrate energy efficiency and sustainability into their core strategies.”

The partnership between Gargash Group and Mashreq is a significant step forward in the collective effort to achieve a sustainable future and it also demonstrates their commitment to a more responsible and environmentally conscious business landscape.

Announcements

DP World ILT20 Crowns ‘Habibi & Habibti’ as mascot winners

Published

2 weeks ago

November 2, 2025

Staff Reporter

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The DP World International League T20 concluded its first-of-its-kind Mascot Design Competition this week. The competition was held from 4 July to 21 September.

The competition captured the imagination of students across the UAE. With an overwhelming number of entries, the activation demonstrated the extraordinary creativity, enthusiasm, and energy that cricket inspires among young minds, making it a truly nationwide celebration of sport, culture, and community.

The grand mascot unveiling was held at the Sheikh Rashid Auditorium, Indian High School, Oud Metha. The winning student, Levin Veeroy Fernandes, was officially announced, and his imaginative design (Habibi and Habibti) was transformed into the official mascot of the DP World ILT20, now set to become the face of the league for seasons to come.

The event featured an exciting reveal ceremony, with the student’s design brought to life and presented in front of a vibrant audience, celebrating not only Levin’s creativity but also the remarkable participation of schools and students across the UAE.

The DP World ILT20 extends its heartfelt thanks to all participants whose contributions made this initiative a resounding success. Each entry brought unique ideas and perspectives, reinforcing the league’s commitment to inspiring young minds and celebrating the spirit of cricket.

DP World ILT20 CEO David White: “On behalf of team DP World International League T20, I want to thank all the participants for their efforts. For us, all of you are winners, we are delighted with the interest that the competition created across the UAE.

“The DP World ILT20 is all about UAE and the development of the sport amongst present and future generations of cricketers. Sport and cricket in particular has helped bring together a number of communities and nationalities across the UAE. Cricket has a four-decade long legacy in the country and with the continued growth of the league, the future of cricket not only in the UAE but across the Gulf region is bright and exciting.”

Indian High Schools Group CEO Shri Punit MK Vasu: “Our partnership with DP World ILT20 presents a remarkable platform for our learners to witness world-class cricket in Dubai while embracing the deeper lessons the sport imparts.

“At The Indian High Group of Schools, we uphold the belief that cricket’s enduring spirit fosters respect, discipline, leadership, resilience, teamwork, and composure under pressure, values that cultivate not only accomplished athletes, but also well-rounded, future-ready individuals prepared to lead with integrity, ethics and purpose in a global arena.”

The DP World International League T20 Season 4 will begin on Tuesday, 2 December – UAE National Day (Eid-Al-Etihad) with a blockbuster opening, the six-team, 34-match tournament will conclude with the final on Sunday, 4 January 2026.

Announcements

Royal Champs announce star-studded squad for Abu Dhabi T10 debut

Published

2 weeks ago

October 31, 2025

Staff Reporter

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The Abu Dhabi T10 is set to welcome an exciting new entrant this season, Royal Champs, a team built on talent, tenacity and international flair. Led by cricketing legends and rising stars, the Royal Champs promise to bring a bold new energy to the fastest format of cricket.

The squad boasts a powerhouse lineup that blends global experience with emerging brilliance.

From England’s dynamic opener Jason Roy to Sri Lanka’s stalwart Angelo Mathews, Bangladesh’s talismanic all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, and Australia’s explosive Daniel Sams — the Royal Champs are primed to make an immediate impact.

The team’s complete roster includes: Jason Roy, Angelo Mathews, Shakib Al Hasan, Chris Jordan, Daniel Sams, Mohammad Shehzad, Niroshan Dickwella, Rishi Dhawan, Liam Dawson, Brandon McMullen, Isuru Udana, Quentin Sampson, Rahul Chopra, Haider Razzaq, Zahid Ali, Kelvin Pitman, Vishen Halambage, Ziaur Rahman Sharifi, and Aaron Jones.

At the helm is Head Coach Sir Courtney Walsh, one of the most respected figures in world cricket, who brings decades of international experience, leadership and an unwavering belief in the game’s evolving dynamics. Head Coach Sir Courtney Walsh share, “The Royal Champs are more than just a new team, we are a statement of intent. This squad has the right mix of skill, fearlessness and adaptability to thrive in the high-octane T10 format. Our goal is simple — to play bold, entertain fans and compete with heart and integrity”

“T10 is redefining modern cricket, and the Royal Champs are here to be part of that evolution. Every player in this line-up brings something unique, and I believe our balance of experience and flair will make us a formidable force.” Head Coach Courtney Walsh added

Announcements

UAE borrowing costs drop as Central Bank cuts base rate: What it means for businesses and residents

Published

2 weeks ago

October 30, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Good news for UAE residents and businesses. The UAE Central Bank has just lowered its Base Rate by 25 basis points, from 4.15% to 3.90%, effective this Thursday. This move follows the US Federal Reserve’s recent decision to cut its interest rates, keeping things in sync because of the UAE’s currency peg to the US dollar.

What does this mean for you? Expect borrowing to get a bit cheaper. Whether you’re eyeing a new mortgage, a personal loan, or business credit, the rates should ease up. In simple terms, monthly payments could get friendlier, especially for those with variable-rate loans.

This comes after the US Fed trimmed its federal funds rate to a range of 3.75% to 4%, hoping to support the job market and tackle stubborn inflation. The ripple effects are clear, softening employment numbers, and ongoing economic headwinds are pushing for these cuts.

Which sectors will benefit

For the UAE, lower interest rates could give a boost to sectors like real estate, tourism, and small businesses by making funding easier. But keep in mind, analysts say the impact might be modest unless the Fed decides to cut rates more aggressively in the future.

Why is the Fed making these rate cuts? Their goal is a tricky balance: tame inflation while keeping employment strong. With big companies cutting jobs and inflation still slightly above target, the Fed is playing it safe, using these rate cuts as insurance against a potential economic slowdown.

Future interest rates

Looking ahead, another cut might come in December, possibly bringing rates closer to 3% in 2026, but things could shift depending on economic data and new Fed leadership.

Stay tuned for more updates and how these changes could affect your wallet!