A tax on carbon emissions tied to imports would cut profits for foreign suppliers of oil, steel, and other goods with high greenhouse gas footprints but could pose an opportunity for GCC companies to gain a competitive edge, BCG research finds   Dubai, United Arab Emirates, July 08, 2020:   A plan being considered by the European Commission to tax the carbon emissions attributed to imported goods could create competitive advantages for foreign companies with low greenhouse gas footprints--and “serious near-term challenges” for other exporters, adding to financial strain caused by the COVID-19 crisis. The tax could slash the profits generated by imported materials such as oil, flat-rolled steel, and wood pulp by a range of 10% to 65%, and impact both EU and non-EU producers of goods such as chemicals and ......read more

● LIXIL EMENA has set itself the goal of creating plastic-free product packaging for its GROHE brand by 2021 ● Thanks to the initiative, approx.10 million plastic packaging could already be saved until today ● Cooperation with Pacific Garbage Screening (PGS) supports common vision to reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste   7 July 2020 -  In 2018, GROHE, a leading global brand for complete bathroom solutions and kitchen fittings, launched its initiative to replace plastic in product packaging with more sustainable alternatives. Until today, approximately 10 million items of product packaging made from plastic could be eliminated; by 2021, this figure is to be significantly increased to up to 35 million.  The transition to plastic-free packaging is a process that involves all ......read more

The second annual report for the implementation of the Ras Al Khaimah Energy Efficiency and Renewables Strategy 2040 was released on the newly launched Reem website.     Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, July 06, 2020:  Ras Al Khaimah Energy Efficiency and Renewables Strategy 2040 has completed its second year of implementation in 2019. Last week Ras Al Khaimah Municipality released the second edition of the annual report for the strategy. The report describes progress of the strategy, including achievements, new initiatives and expected developments in the coming years. Click here to download the report from the Reem website.   The annual report highlights concrete savings of 7 GWh of electricity, 109 MIG of water and 423 GWh thermal of direct fuel savings achieved in 2019. Apart from these energy ......read more

Successfully renewed three ISO certifications in Quality Management System, Environmental Management System and Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems Dubai, UAE, 06 July 2020:   Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower), the world’s largest district cooling services provider, announced that it has successfully renewed three ISO certifications in Quality Management System (ISO 9001: 2015), Environmental Management System (ISO 14001: 2015), and Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSAS 18001: 2007), that are related to internationally recognized practices for management Systems in Quality, Environment and  Health and Safety respectively. Empower is certified for all these three International Standards since 2006, which are integrated into one platform, that adds values to ......read more

Complementary portfolios and technology strengths to ensure continuity, enhance customer value and bring growth opportunities.    Dubai, United Arab Emirates, July 01, 2020:   In accordance with the agreement signed on December 17, 20181 , Hitachi Ltd. and ABB Ltd today announced the completion of all required procedures as planned, and the formation of Hitachi ABB Power Grids Ltd. Hitachi has an 80.1 percent stake in this new joint venture entity (which has business volume of approximately 10 billion USD2 ) and ABB holds the balance. Toshikazu Nishino, Executive Vice President of Hitachi, is the Chairman of the new entity and Claudio Facchin the CEO. The new entity is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, and the current management team will ensure business continuity. “Hitachi’s leading ......read more

• Dubai Startup Hub Market Access programme’s second cohort attracted 44 startup submissions, 55% of which came from outside the UAE   • Corporate members Emirates NBD, Sumitomo and Accenture team up with 9 startups offering cutting-edge solutions to existing challenges     Dubai, United Arab Emirates, July 01, 2020:    Dubai Startup Hub, an initiative of Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has announced the successful conclusion of the Market Access programme’s second cohort, which saw several high-potential startups joining forces with leading UAE corporates at a recent business pitching and matchmaking event.   The virtual event, held  on June 17th, 18th and 22nd, saw Market Access corporate members Emirates NBD, Sumitomo and Accenture team up with nine ......read more

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, July 01, 2020:   The dual crisis engendered by the conflict over production levels within OPEC + and the reduced demand caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have prompted a global, sector-wide downturn in the Oil and Gas (O&G) industry that has left the oil-dependent economies vulnerable in terms of fiscal revenue. Demand for oil has fallen by over 18 percent since the beginning of the year, leading to a steep decline of more than 70 percent in the price of oil. Deloitte has just released its new report, Impact of oil industry crisis on the GCC and potential responses, which explores different potential responses GCC countries can take to address the impact of the oil industry crisis on their economies. “The oil industry is facing its gravest crisis in 100 years, leading to a steep decline ......read more

BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Ranking reveals strong brands across categories prove resilient to extreme stress Just launched, the report examines pandemic impact and implications for future growth   • Investment in marketing and brand-building critical for business recovery post-COVID-19  • Innovation and creativity key drivers of growth as BrandZ Top 100’s total worth hits $5 trillion and delivers US$277bn in additional brand value growth • Amazon maintains no. 1 spot and accounts for a third of the Top 100 total growth • TikTok enters the ranking for the first time at no. 79   30th June 2020; Dubai, UAE: The world’s most valuable brands have seen their total brand value increase by 5.9% despite the economic, social and personal impacts of COVID-19, according ......read more

Calligaris collection includes fabric and leather beds with contemporary and welcoming shapes, available in a large variety of colors. Also available in the "container" version, which offers extra space, accessible without effort thanks to an easy and safe mechanism.    SLEEPING In the sleeping area, the sober elegance of Calligaris is best expressed, leaving space for sleep, dreams and intimacy with beds and furniture that tiptoe into the room. Calligaris beds are the result of the desire to offer everyone an island of well-being, which reflects the personality and tastes of those who sleep there.   SLEEPING CATEGORIES Double beds Calligaris beds are the result of the desire to offer everyone an island of well-being, which reflects the personality and tastes of those who sleep ......read more

Dubai, UAE, 29 June 2020:   As part of its efforts to raise awareness about the importance of adopting sustainability practices and provide environment friendly district cooling services, Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower) has launched a consumption rationalization campaign under the theme ’ Set your AC at 24°C Auto and Save’. The campaign will run until the end of summer and aims to encouraging its customers to rationalize the district cooling consumption during the summer season by setting the air- conditioner thermostat at 24°C, as well as using innovative and eco-friendly methods that help in reducing indoor temperature and monthly costs, and achieving significant savings in energy and resources.. Empower pointed out that the campaign targets all the customer segments across ......read more

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, June 29, 2020:   As the summer temperatures continue to rise, it’s time to unleash your wild side and bring a bit of sunshine into your home. Give your interiors a sweet taste of the exotic with the latest collection from 2XL Furniture & Home Décor that will transform your living space into a tropical paradise.  Inspired by the warm and vibrant colors of faraway lands, the new tropical collection features a wide range of home furnishings and unique accessories that can instantly uplift your interiors and give you a holiday vibe all year. Whether you are looking to add just a little ‘island-chic’ to your apartment or give your house a complete ‘tropical wonderland’ makeover, the collection has been carefully curated to create a vibrant yet tranquil home ......read more

Say goodbye to traditional white ceilings and create a striking interior with a wallpapered ceiling by Sedar Global Dubai, United Arab Emirates, June 29, 2020:   Forget accent walls statement ceilings are the new hot interior trend. The ceiling rarely plays the starring role in a room. It is often forgotten, or simply given a simple whitewash. However, according to wallpaper specialists Sedar Global, the fifth wall is becoming more mainstream. Nahel Selo Creative Director at Sedar Global comments “with people spending more time in the home than ever before, wallpapered ceilings are becoming a popular option for a quick and cost-effective room makeover. Offering an incredible and underrated design element that can instantly add colour, personality, and art to your space”  Famous for its bespoke made to fit ......read more

- Dubai Chamber webinar attended by over 130 business leaders from the UAE, Mozambique and Southern Africa   - Event familiarised Dubai-based companies with competitive advantages of doing business in Mozambique and process of setting up in the African country    - Khan: Dubai-based companies that have the right level of expertise and investments to fill gaps in the Mozambican market     Dubai, United Arab Emirates, June 29, 2020:    Mozambique is on its way to becoming one of the world’s largest energy producers, and its growing oil and gas market is ripe with business opportunities that companies in Dubai can capitalise on, industry experts said during a recent Dubai Chamber webinar.   Sharing their insights, experts identified rising demand for digital solutions ......read more

New Analysis by Boston Consulting Group Reveals That the COVID-19 Crisis May Have Accelerated Peak Demand for Fossil Fuel by More Than a Decade, Causing It to Reach Its Zenith in 2019   Dubai, United Arab Emirates, June 28, 2020:   As the short-term economic fallout of the global COVID-19 pandemic becomes increasingly visible, recent research by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) suggests that the crisis may have a significant long-term impact on global energy markets. Most notably, it may have caused demand for fossil fuels to reach its peak last year. BCG’s article, titled Have We Passed Peak Demand for Fossil Fuels? explores energy scenarios through 2030. BCG’s analysis of the future energy demand and energy mix for three economic scenarios, representing V-, U-, and L-shaped recoveries, points to a high ......read more

3,339 panels covering 2,000 Sqm to result in approximate cost savings worth AED 158,000 annually Dubai, UAE, 28th June 2020:   Emirates Insolaire, a pioneer in the development and application of new solar technologies and a joint venture of Dubai Investments PJSC and Swissinso SA, Switzerland has announced the undertaking  of the installation of solar panels at the DEWA Innovation Centre project, part of Dubai's Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park (MBR Solar Park), being developed as the largest single-site solar park in the world based on the independent power producer model. Registering the peak power at 225 KWp, more than 3,339 customized solar panels covering an area of 2,000 Sq.m will aid towards generating more than 360,000 KWh electricity annually, resulting in approximate cost savings of AED ......read more

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, June 27, 2020:   A coffee table is more than just a place to put down your coffee or books. It’s that sacred corner of the home where the most important decisions take place, and definitely some beautiful memories are made there too.    One might wonder what color, shape and size is best for the right coffee table, and Natuzzi Italia’s vast collection of coffee tables will ease this dilemma of you. Be it a square, rectangle, round, trapezial or any other shape, every table from the house of Natuzzi were crafted to perfection.    Natuzzi Italia’s contemporary side tables and unique design coffee tables add a casual ambience that complements any living room interiors. We’ve assorted some incredible looking coffee tables for you:    

...read more

By Ole Hansen, Head of Commodity Strategy Saxo Bank   Crude oil's rally to the highest levels since early March has paused with the technical outlook beginning to look more challenging. The attention has for now turned from OPEC+ and successful production cuts to concerns that a renewed spike in COVID-19 cases may slow the process towards a further recovery in global demand. On tap today we have EIA's weekly inventory report at 14:30 GMT. What is our trading focus? OILUKAUG20 – Brent Crude Oil (August) OILUSAUG20 – WTI Crude Oil (August) XOP:arcx – Oil & Gas Exploration & Production XLE:arcx – Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (Large-cap US energy stocks) ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Crude oil’s ......read more

• PAN Emirates Home Furnishings unveils its latest collection • PAN Emirates Home Furnishings showrooms in Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Fujairah in the UAE.     Dubai, United Arab Emirates 25 June 2020:  PAN Emirates PAN Emirates Home Furnishings, the leading home-grown indoor, patio and outdoor furniture brand in the region, invites you to explore the fabulous new collection across its showrooms in Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Fujairah or shop through the online store.   The new collection consists of a wide range of furniture pieces in bright, quirky colours and designs that can be used as a statement piece as well. The new collection presents the residents of UAE the opportunity to refresh their homes from a wide range of home furnishing options – from ......read more

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, June 25, 2020:   Cyril Abiteboul, Managing Director of the Renault DP World F1 team and Keith Pelley, CEO of the European Tour, open up over the challenges they have faced and the important decisions they have had to make in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, as part of a three episode mini-series produced by their partner in common, DP World. The conversation highlights the contrasting personalities of each CEO, but also shines a light on their shared approach to progressive leadership and their determination to ensure sport continues to deliver for fans safely despite coronavirus.  They explore the challenges of working with hundreds of people, across multiple geographies and discuss the huge logistical complexities of their organisations in the wake of the current pandemic. Both are ......read more

• Providing reliable power supply to Ramadi, Fallujah, Saqlawyah, Khalediyah cities and surrounding areas in Al Anbar governorate • Enabling efficient transmission and a higher utilization of Al Anbar power plant’s generated power to support demand growth     Siemens Energy and the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity have signed a contract for the Al Hamudhia substation, which will provide reliable and efficient power supply to the cities of Ramadi, Fallujah, Saqlawyah, Khalediyah and surrounding areas in Al Anbar governorate, North West of Baghdad.     Located about 20 kilometers away from Ramadi city, the turnkey 400- kilovolt (kV) Al Hamudhia substation will support greater grid connectivity and allows for a higher utilization of the Al Anbar power plant’s generated power, ......read more

Abu Dhabi, UAE. 22 June 2020:   ADNOC Distribution, the UAE’s largest fuel and convenience store retailer, has been named the No1. retail brand in the region in the Forbes Middle East Top 100 Companies 2020.  Compiled of the largest and most successful listed companies in the region, the validation comprises in-depth research and data from all stock exchanges in Arab countries, and analysis of market value, sales, assets and profits. ADNOC Distribution, ranking at number 52 overall, is one of 21 UAE companies to be listed, with GCC companies accounting for 90% of the total 100. “It is an honor to be recognized as the number one retail brand in the region, testament to the hard work we do every day to deliver convenient and accessible fuel and convenience retail to customers,” said Ahmed Al Shamsi, ......read more

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, June 21, 2020:   Decluttering is a task for some but, a hobby for others. It is not just about getting rid of unnecessary junk but also place them in a well and organized manner within the four walls of any storage unit.     Here are 5 easy solutions that will help you declutter your home in a uber fashionable way: 1.      Select your choice of furnishing which you may use as storage or display like cabinets, sideboards, table with storage, bookcase or shelves. 2.      Use tables to place centre pieces like bowls, vases, candles, etc… 3.      Use the storage units to store things in it that are currently not in use but can be useful later. 4.      Make sure to add some plants around these storage units to spruce up ......read more

Dubai, UAE, 21st June 2020 – Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC), a free economic zone set up to meet the demand for high-quality healthcare, has adopted a simple yet effective energy-conservation initiative with the help of Sharaf DG Energy. In just 30 days, the renowned Dubai-based solar energy and lighting company retrofitted DHCC’s entire parking area. The scope of the project provided a smart car parking solution across all DHCC blocks, which now manages the entire supply, installation and maintenance of high-quality LED energy saving lighting solutions. The outcome of the development has been tremendous and has significantly reduced DHCC’s electricity consumption by 1,237,745 kWh (equivalent to AED 550,000 annual savings). Sanjay Dabur, Vice-President of Strategic Business, Sharaf DG, said: “We are ......read more

● Co-developed with AVEVA, industrial edge reference designs enable system integrators to simplify IT deployments and facilitate their customers’ digital transformations ● Schneider Electric Exchange digital community connects IT solution providers and system integrators to expand their business  ● New tools, training, and community programs open easy-to-implement business models for system integrators     Dubai, United Arab Emirates, June 20, 2020:    Schneider Electric, the leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, today announced the expansion of its partnerships with leading technology companies to address the convergence of IT and OT. Bringing together system integrators with IT solution providers to build integrated industrial edge computing ......read more

Dubai, United Arab Emirates - June 20, 2020 - Trina Solar Co., Ltd., a leading global PV and smart energy total solution provider, announced the global launch of TrinaPro Mega, an ultra-high power smart PV solution featuring modules with power output exceeding 500W. With further improvements in product selection and integrated design, the solution enhances the overall system performance and reduces the levelized cost of energy (LCOE). Following the debut of the Vertex ultra-high-power new 500W-plus module in February, TrinaPro Mega marks yet another benchmark for the era of the 500W power output, as it delivers an optimized solution for the application of Vertex modules in downstream systems.  In 2018, Trina Solar unveiled the smart PV solution "TrinaPro" for large-scale power stations. Based on system design and ......read more