The much-awaited HONOR Magic7 Pro has launched in the UAE and is available for pre-order in the UAE.

The AI-powered device revealed at a glittering ceremony at Dubai’s One&Only Za’abeel on January 15, features advanced technology and a sleek design.

The Magic7 Pro brings together high-performance features with practical, everyday usability. Whether you’re capturing breathtaking photos, diving into immersive gaming, or managing a busy workday, this smartphone is built to keep up with your pace.

For those who live through the lens of their phone, the Magic7 Pro takes smartphone photography to the next level. At its heart is the 50MP Super Dynamic HONOR Falcon Main Camera, which brings professional-grade photography to your pocket. The advanced AI-driven features enhance every shot, even in challenging lighting conditions. With HONOR IMAGE ENGINE, photos have amazing clarity and detail.

The AI Super Zoom feature lets you zoom in on distant objects with ease, up to 100x, while HD Super Burst ensures that you never miss a fast-moving moment. Whether you’re capturing your child’s first steps or attending an event with friends, the AI Portrait Modes ensure that your images are always vibrant, crisp, and social-media-ready.

AI-Powered Living with MagicOS 9.0

HONOR’s MagicOS 9.0 is where the smartphone becomes an extension of your everyday life. Integrating AI in creative and practical ways, this operating system makes sure you stay connected and informed at all times.

For example, the Magic Portal feature allows you to circle objects on your screen to get instant, detailed information. Whether you’re looking for the best local restaurants or checking out travel destinations, it’s as easy as a simple tap. On top of that, the Google Gemini Assistant provides seamless access to a suite of tools like Google Maps, YouTube, and more, simplifying your day-to-day tasks and making everything just a little bit smarter.

The seamless integration with the INSTAX MINI LINK app allows you to instantly capture, print, and share your favourite memories in one quick step, keeping you connected and sharing on the go.

The Magic7 Pro also supports AI Translation for 13 languages, perfect for those travelling or communicating across cultures. Meanwhile, AI Noise Reduction ensures that your voice and conversations remain clear even in noisy environments, making it ideal for work calls or family chats from home.

Power to perform: Gaming, work and more

Performance is key to a satisfying smartphone experience, and the Magic7 Pro does not disappoint. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform, this device offers responsive, fast performance across all your apps, from gaming to multitasking.

The 5850mAh battery ensures you can go through your day without worrying about running out of power, while 100W Wired SuperCharge allows you to fully charge the phone in just 33 minutes.

Whether you’re binge-watching your favourite series, gaming on the go, or switching between work and social apps, AI Real-Time Rendering guarantees smooth, lag-free performance.

HONOR also prioritises user comfort with the Natural Light HONOR AI Eye Comfort Display, which adjusts screen brightness and colour temperature to simulate natural lighting. This means longer, more comfortable browsing and viewing sessions without straining your eyes.

With HONOR NanoCrystal Shield for enhanced durability, the Magic7 Pro can handle everyday drops and scratches, ensuring it stays looking good for longer.

HONOR Magic7 Pro: Price and colours

The Magic7 Pro is priced at Dhs3,999. Customers can choose from three stylish colour options: Lunar Shadow Grey, Breeze Blue, and Black.

Customers pre-ordering the latest HONOR Magic offering will receive an exclusive package worth Dhs2,197, including the HONOR Watch4 Pro, HONOR CHOICE X5 Pro earbuds, and a 12-month HONOR CARE 360 Protection plan.

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a tech lover, or simply looking for a smartphone that makes your day a little easier, the HONOR Magic7 Pro is designed to meet your needs with cutting-edge features and sleek design.

With pre-orders now open, this is the perfect time to bring AI-powered innovation into your daily life.

Read: HONOR launches MagicBook Art 14 in the UAE

Dubai’s largest developer, Emaar Properties, said on Thursday that it is in talks with “a few groups” in India, including Adani Group, to sell a stake in its local business.

“With reference to media reports regarding the discussions with Adani Group about the company’s business in India, the company would like to confirm that it is currently in discussion with a few groups in India, including Adani Group,” the developer said in a bourse filing.

Emaar – best known for building the world’s tallest tower — said the valuation and other terms of a potential transaction are not finalised.

The statement followed media reports stating that Adani Realty, the real estate arm of Indian billionaire Gautam Adani’s Adani Enterprise, was in advanced talks to acquire a majority stake in Emaar India.

Emaar forayed into the Indian market in 2005 and has a portfolio of residential and commercial properties in Gurugram, Mohali, Lucknow, Jaipur and Indore, according to information on its website.

Read: Emaar, DWTC unveil Expo Living community in Dubai South

Dubai’s real estate sector is on track for another strong year in 2025, following an exceptional performance in 2024. The emirate demonstrated impressive resilience and growth, reaching record-breaking transaction volumes and values. This upward trajectory reflects a broader trend of increasing investor confidence, bolstered by initiatives aimed at improving market transparency and fostering trust.

Looking ahead, industry experts anticipate that the momentum will carry into 2025, driven by ongoing growth in Dubai’s off-plan market. The recent launch of innovative projects like the Smart Rental Index by the Dubai Land Department underscores the emirate’s commitment to creating a more transparent and dynamic real estate environment.

As the market continues to evolve, key trends and shifts in demand are expected to shape the landscape for both investors and developers in the year to come.

Here are some of the most important trends to watch in 2025 in Dubai’s real estate sector, according to these developers.

Satish Sanpal, chairman, ANAX Holding

Sustainability is reshaping the way we think about real estate. More developers are now prioritising energy-efficient designs, renewable energy integration, and climate-resilient construction.

At ANAX Holding, we’re already taking action — for example, in our upcoming Evora Residences project in Al Furjan, we’re integrating solar panels, which will be a significant step towards our long-term sustainability goals. We’re also seeing the UAE government’s push for solar energy accessibility through rooftop panels, which will only accelerate this shift.

This change is not only driven by environmental concerns but also by the growing demand from consumers and tightening regulations. As developers, embracing these innovations not only makes us more efficient but also strengthens our position as leaders in the market.

Imran Khan, CEO and founder, PIXL Group

Technology is at the heart of the real estate revolution. Over the past few years, it’s become clear that tech is not just improving efficiency; it’s creating new opportunities for businesses to scale up and innovate in ways we couldn’t have imagined a decade ago. In the post-pandemic world, we’ve seen how technology is streamlining operations, enhancing customer experiences, and reshaping market dynamics through data analytics.

At PIXL Group, we made a huge shift ourselves — we went from a lead generation business in 2019 to a full-stack tech partner, offering proptech services, CRM marketing, web services, and market intelligence. But here’s the thing: technology is only a tool. Its success depends on how quickly and effectively we integrate it into our business processes to deliver both lucrative returns and exceptional client satisfaction.

Ramjee Iyer, chairman and MD, Acube Developments

The UAE’s real estate market is thriving, and the growth we’ve seen in 2024 speaks for itself. In Dubai, sale and rental prices surged by 21 per cent, while in Abu Dhabi, we saw a 7 per cent increase in sale prices and a 4 per cent rise in rentals.

This growth can be attributed to several factors: the influx of foreign investors, government initiatives, and economic diversification. I’m also seeing a growing interest in sustainable and wellness-focused developments, with more people looking for eco-friendly homes and communities that prioritise health and well-being.

As the UAE becomes a global hub for innovation, I expect demand for tech-enabled homes and mixed-use developments — those that combine residential, commercial, and retail spaces — to continue to rise. There’s a lot of potential here, and I’m excited about the future.

In 2025, I see the market continuing its upward momentum. We’ll likely see even stronger demand for sustainable properties, especially as more developers embrace green building practices. There’s also increasing interest in smart homes and tech-driven solutions, which will create new opportunities for developers. We anticipate that 2025 will be a year of significant innovation in the sector, with more focus on developments that offer both lifestyle value and long-term investment potential.

Humera Khan, general manager, Al Zarooni Developments

Affordable housing is going to be a key growth segment in 2025. There’s a massive gap in the market for well-designed, affordable properties, especially in areas like Dubai Sports City, Al Furjan, and Arjan. As demand outstrips supply, this segment presents a real opportunity for investors to achieve strong financial returns.

At Al Zarooni Developments, we’ve already launched All Seasons Residences in Dubai Sports City, focusing on this growing demand. We believe that this isn’t just a market opportunity — it’s about creating communities that bring meaningful impact and offer long-term financial success. It’s a chance for developers to lead the way in building socially conscious, future-focused developments.

Srishti Gaur, head of Marketing and Media Relations, Arista Properties

The luxury and ultra-luxury property segment is undoubtedly going to dominate Dubai’s market in 2025. In 2024 alone, we saw a remarkable 35 per cent year-on-year increase in transaction volume, underscoring the resilience and enduring appeal of high-end real estate.

As demand continues to surge, Dubai is becoming a global hub for luxury living, attracting investors from Europe, Asia, and beyond.

Locations like Dubai Marina, Meydan, MBR City, and Palm Jumeirah remain the most sought-after areas, and we’re tapping into this demand with our Wadi Villas project, which offers ultra-luxury villas blending exclusivity, world-class amenities, and architectural excellence.

For UHNWIs, these properties aren’t just about prestige; they’re about creating homes that stand out — assets that offer both status and substantial returns.

Yogesh Bulchandani, CEO, Sunrise Capital

Dubai’s real estate market remains a powerhouse of opportunity, offering exceptional rental yields between 5 and 9 per cent, making it attractive for investors. Branded residences, a trend synonymous with luxury and exclusivity, are taking centre stage, reflecting the city’s appeal to a sophisticated clientele. Off-plan sales continue to thrive, fuelled by investor confidence and a promising market outlook.

Today’s clients are more discerning and well-informed than ever, prioritising quality and long-term value over short-term cost savings. This shift underscores a maturing market where superior craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and reputable developers are the cornerstones of investment decisions. Dubai is not just a market; it’s a benchmark for quality-driven real estate success.

Strategic investments, robust demand, and a diverse range of premium projects all paint a promising picture for Dubai’s real estate market in 2025.

The market outlook suggests a balance between supply and demand, bolstered by regulatory policies that foster a sustainable environment with ample opportunities. Property prices are expected to rise, particularly over the next six months, driven by the current surge in off-plan investments.

It’s also interesting to see villa communities continuing to surge in size, quality, and popularity.

This trend has not only transformed the property market but also the way people live and engage with their surroundings.

In 2024 alone, villa prices in Dubai skyrocketed by 31.6 per cent according to industry reports. Specific neighborhoods like Jumeirah Islands and Palm Jumeirah led the charge, enjoying annual growth rates of 42.5 and 42.3 per cent respectively. This upward trajectory is a clear indication that the demand for spacious, long-term living solutions is stronger than ever, particularly among millennials and young professionals who view villas as both a wise investment and an attractive lifestyle choice.

Several factors underpin this exciting trend. Government initiatives play a crucial role, with policies such as the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the Golden Visa program driving investor confidence and promoting sustainable developments. These initiatives have set the stage for continued growth, ensuring that demand for villas in the UAE significantly outpaces supply. This dynamic creates favourable conditions for property owners, leading to significant capital gains and solidifying villa communities as lucrative revenue-generating assets.

Among the many projects sprouting up, Wasl Gate in Dubai deserves special mention for the year ahead.

This mixed-use development embodies the essence of what urban living should be – a space designed not just for residential needs but one that fosters community, connectivity, and sustainability.

Looking ahead, emerging areas such as Dubai South and Mohammed Bin Rashid City are also anticipated to become hotspots for development and investment. With its proximity to the currently being revamped Expo 2020 site and Al Maktoum International Airport, Dubai South is poised for rapid growth. Meanwhile, Mohammed Bin Rashid City is targeting affluent buyers with luxury living and integrated community features, solidifying its position within the market.

Nestlé has been a staple in our lives — a comforting, trusted presence, subtly intertwined into the fabric of our daily routines, memories, and even family traditions. From the robust and aromatic flavour of Nescafé and the quiet nostalgia of Nido to a hearty bowl of Maggi soup or noodles to the crispiness of a KitKat bar — the company’s offerings have nurtured generations across continents, through moments of joy and times of uncertainty, particularly in the Middle East.

At the helm of Nestlé’s vast operations in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is Yasser Abdul Malak, a man whose own story is as deeply interwoven with the company’s journey as the brands it produces. “When I think of Nestlé, I think of a brand that people know and trust,” says the chairman and CEO with a reflective pause.

Deep roots in the region

For Abdul Malak, who has worked with the company for 25 years, Nestlé’s presence in the MENA region isn’t just about profitability or market share – it’s deeply personal. He recalls an encounter from one of his trips where he visited a family in Lebanon. “I walked into their home, and there it was, a can of Nido sitting on the kitchen counter. The can’s exterior had faded, but you could tell it had been there for decades. It was also home to a small plant,” Abdul Malak shares with a smile. “It was a touching reminder of how our products are more than just food on a shelf.”

The importance of this personal connection isn’t lost on him. Having worked his way up through the ranks at Nestlé, Abdul Malak’s leadership is rooted in a deep understanding of the region’s people, cultures and values. “When I travel across the region (which could be any of the 19 countries he oversees), I am constantly reminded of how integral Nestlé is to families. We’ve been here for over 120 years, adapting and evolving with the people we serve. And that’s what keeps me passionate about what I do.”

Abdul Malak carries the weight of not just corporate aspirations, but also a deep responsibility towards consumers that have relied on the brand for more than a century. It’s a legacy that runs deep. “We don’t just operate here – we belong here. We’re part of these communities,” he says emphatically. His excitement is palpable, as he explains: “Nestlé has had a presence in the region since 1900, with Egypt and Lebanon being some of the first countries to sell the brand. We’ve adapted and stayed relevant by focusing on what our consumers want while maintaining our core values of quality, trust and innovation. Nestlé’s global scale, combined with our local presence, allows us to create tailored offerings such as Nescafé Arabiana – our branded Arabic coffee – and other region-specific products like shawarma and falafel mixes.”

He adds: “Over time, we’ve made significant changes internally, shifting to a more localised leadership structure to ensure we are closer to our consumers and can make decisions faster. Adaptation is key, and we understand that to stay relevant, we must constantly evolve.”

Nestlé’s strategy is clear, Abdul Malak says. “The key to success in the MENA region is staying connected to the local consumer. Understanding their needs, pain points and aspirations is vital. Nestlé’s strength lies in our ability to adapt our global offerings to local tastes while maintaining our commitment to quality. As long as we continue to build on that foundation — with a focus on sustainability, innovation and local engagement — we will continue to thrive in this dynamic region.”

This approach has served Nestlé well; its presence across the region is by no standards modest. The food and beverage giant operates 24 factories across the MENA region, providing direct employment to more than 12,000 people. The portfolio of its brands – over 60 and counting – encompasses everything from dairy products to infant nutrition, coffee and creamers, confectionery, bottled water, breakfast cereals, culinary products, health science and pet care.

Creating shared value

What underscores this growth is the commitment to creating shared value for the global brand that cherishes its local connections. Abdul Malak says, “We’ve made substantial investments in the MENA region. Over the past decade, we’ve invested over $1.1bn in manufacturing across the region. For example, in Dubai, we have state-of-the-art factories that export products to around 30 countries such as Australia, the US and Canada, and some Asian markets.”

The UAE is a key market for Nestle’s operations, with Dubai serving as the regional head office for the MENA region. The company’s office, currently based in Dubai South, will move to Expo City shortly. The company locally produces confectionery, dairy and culinary products, and coffee at two food and beverages factories in Dubai. It also operates two water manufacturing sites, one in Dubai and the other in Abu Dhabi.

Saudi Arabia is also a focus market for Nestlé. The company has committed to investing SAR7bn over the next decade in the kingdom, focusing on human capital, local sourcing, and research and development.

Abdul Malak says, “We are deeply committed to advancing scientific research in Saudi Arabia, collaborating with the government to explore locally sourced ingredients with future potential.”

A core principle at Nestlé is sourcing locally, not only to strengthen the economy but to build resilience against global supply chain disruptions. “Our new, state-of-the-art factory, with a capacity of 15,000 tonnes annually, is set to open in 2025 in Saudi Arabia. It will initially focus on infant food production and contribute significantly to local needs and food security. A major R&D focus for us is fortifying products for children, especially addressing widespread nutrient deficiencies such as iron, through products like Cerelac. We believe supporting children’s health is key to building stronger communities.”

Showcasing Nestle’s operations across other markets in the region, Abdul Malak adds: “In Egypt, we have a strong manufacturing presence and continue to invest in expanding capacity and growth. Egypt remains a key strategic market for us, alongside our facilities in Morocco, Lebanon, Qatar, and Bahrain. Our footprint across the region has made a significant impact, and in the coming years, we are committed to increasing our investments. The Middle East represents a region of immense opportunity, with over half a billion consumers driving demand.”

Investing in youth

Investing in human capital though is a priority for the leader. Abdul Malak understands that nurturing the next generation of talent is key to both Nestlé’s future and the region’s prosperity. “The youth in MENA are our greatest asset. The region has one of the youngest populations in the world, and they bring an incredible amount of energy, ideas, and innovation,” he says, his voice filled with enthusiasm.

The company’s youth initiatives, like the Nestlé Academy in Saudi Arabia, are designed to equip young people with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-evolving job market. “Our Nestlé Academy is not just about upskilling – it’s about empowering young people to take ownership of their careers and their futures. In a region where youth make up such a large portion of the population, we must invest in their potential. We are also investing in the local startup ecosystem, working with partners like Monsha’at to foster innovation in the food service industry.

In addition to the academy, Nestlé MENA has also been actively involved in programmes that focus on entrepreneurship and business leadership. Another initiative that has been pivotal to Abdul Malak’s vision for youth engagement is Next Level (NxL). Launched in 2022 in partnership with L’Oréal, the virtual training programme equips young people with essential skills crucial to thrive in today’s dynamic and rapidly changing workforce, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and digitalisation. Since its inception in 2022, the programme has impacted more than 23,000 young individuals across the region. The recently launched Season 3 introduces new key partners, offering modules on AI, digital skills, green skills, entrepreneurship and more.

In December 2024, Nestlé MENA launched the ‘Sustainability Heroes’ initiative in the UAE and Kuwait in collaboration with key partners from the government and private sectors, aiming to empower 200 university students in each country with essential business and entrepreneurship skills. “Another initiative we’re proud of is NesTalent, where we bring 15-20 fresh graduates into the organisation each year. This programme is vital because we not only offer them opportunities for professional growth but also listen to their ideas and encourage them to contribute,” shares Abdul Malak.

The company’s priority on nurturing and developing talent is deeply integrated into its values, says Abdul Malak. “Our commitment to creating a positive work environment is something we take very seriously — it’s not just a slogan, it’s demonstrated in everything we do. External recognitions like being named a ‘Great Place to Work’ in the UAE, Saudi and Egypt, the ‘Best Place to Work’ in Morocco, and being recognised as a ‘Great Place to Work for Women’ in the GCC, are a testament to our efforts.

“At Nestlé, respect for oneself, respect for others and respect for our community are core values that guide every decision. It’s not just about policies or HR initiatives; it’s about living these values every day. We believe that everyone in the organisation is responsible for HR. Everyone has a role in fostering a positive work environment. Our culture is built on trust, transparency, and collaboration. We also foster a deep connection to our people — there’s no hierarchy here that prevents us from connecting and learning from each other. Moreover, we’re pushing to become the most ‘fascinating’ organisation in MENA, and we’ve set up a MENA Council to gather insights from young employees to help make that happen. The idea is to continually evolve and make the workplace a place where people feel engaged, respected, and valued.”

This collaborative approach has helped the company stay strong in the face of challenges, both geopolitical crises and economic pressures affecting the region.

 Resilience and response

“The year 2024 has been another challenging one, but we’ve seen some great achievements. First and foremost, I’m proud of the exceptional team we have. Despite the intensity of challenges — global and local — the team has not only met our commitments but also had a positive impact on the community,” says the resolute leader.

 He adds: “We’ve continued investing in our brands, people, and sustainability initiatives. One of the standout moments was our ability to keep key products in stock throughout the global supply chain crisis. We did not have a single day of stockouts on essential products, which speaks to the agility and resilience of the team.”

Reflecting on the lessons recently learned, Abdul Malak shares a candid perspective on the importance of humility and realignment. “We’ve made our mistakes, but what’s crucial is how we respond. At Nestlé, we don’t shy away from our challenges. We acknowledge them, learn from them, and then adapt. The key to sustained success is agility — the ability to pivot, to realign our efforts in the face of changing dynamics.”

In an industry as competitive and dynamic as food and beverage, where consumer tastes evolve constantly, the ability to course-correct and stay ahead of the curve is vital.

Abdul Malak emphasises that Nestlé’s success in the MENA region stems from its constant self-assessment and willingness to change when necessary. “I often tell my team that perfection is a process. We can’t afford to get comfortable. Every setback is an opportunity to refine our approach and come back stronger. The companies that endure are those that are not afraid to rethink their strategies, even when things seem to be going well.”

Planning, strategy and teamwork were also key factors driving the company’s response to the crises in Gaza and Lebanon, highlighting the human side of Nestlé’s operations, which are often not public knowledge. “When the crisis in Gaza unfolded, we had to act quickly. Our number one priority was the safety and wellbeing of our people. But we didn’t stop there. We also stepped in to provide essential supplies to those in need,” he recalls.

“Our employees in Lebanon, Egypt, Jordan, and beyond were quick to mobilise, providing aid and offering support to those affected. It was a moment of solidarity that showed us what it truly means to be a global company with a heart for local communities.”

Nestlé has actively supported humanitarian efforts with a total donation of approximately $1.5m for medical assistance extended to Gaza. As part of the support for Gaza, Nestlé enabled the treatment of more than 1,000 children in Egypt in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the Terous Foundation. Additionally, the company facilitated the air evacuation of 32 critically ill incubated infants from Gaza to Egypt for urgent care. Recognising the urgency, Nestlé also donated a fully equipped mobile hospital to the Jordanian Armed Forces to support medical relief efforts.

“In Lebanon, we have contributed half a million dollars in partnership with local organisations such as the Lebanese Food Bank and Beit El Baraka, ensuring the distribution of one million meals to those in need,” shares Abdul Malak. The company also provided 1.5 million litres of water to those affected, recognising the scarcity and urgency of resources.

“We supported the Lebanese Red Cross, which was in dire need, especially for critical emergency medical services. Internally, we encouraged our people to volunteer and donate, through our Helping Hands initiative, and the response was overwhelming. Whether it was in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, or Dubai, we saw incredible solidarity. It’s heartening to see how our teams rallied around the cause — what we call a ‘helping hand to Gaza, a helping hand to Lebanon’.

“At the same time, we focused on ensuring that the team felt supported in these tough times. Acknowledging the emotional strain at the same time, we focused on ensuring that the team felt supported during this tough period. Considering the challenges was important, but we emphasised how, together, we were making a tangible impact.”

This sense of solidarity is at the core of Abdul Malak’s leadership philosophy. He emphasises transparency, authenticity and a deep commitment to people — not just employees, but communities at large.

A new direction

Undeterred by the challenges, Nestlé MENA’s chairman and CEO remains hopeful and optimistic about the future. Nestlé, under the guidance of its new global CEO Laurent Freixe, is entering a new era, one defined by greater efficiency, innovation, and a more sustainable approach to growth. Abdul Malak, along with his team in the MENA region, is fully aligned with this vision.

“The appointment of Laurent as CEO has ignited a fresh energy within the company,” Abdul Malak reflects.

“His vision for Nestlé is clear: Invest more in our brands, our people, and the communities we serve. And in the MENA region, we are fully aligned with this direction. Nestlé MENA is one of the top 10 geographies for the group and will continue to play a key role in driving growth for the company. We are committed to innovation, to being a partner to our local communities, and to ensuring that our growth is not just financial but meaningful.” One of the key areas where Nestlé is focused is sustainability. From reducing the environmental impact of its manufacturing processes to investing in local sourcing, the company is dedicated to making a positive impact in the region.

“Sustainability is not just a buzzword for us. It’s a core part of our strategy. Whether it’s through our work with local farmers in Egypt or our commitment to reducing plastic waste across the region, we’re making tangible changes that will benefit generations to come,” says Abdul Malak.

Hope for 2025 and beyond

As the MENA region continues to evolve, so too does Nestlé. “The future is bright,” says Abdul Malak with conviction. “The MENA region is home to one of the youngest, most dynamic populations in the world. With Nestlé’s unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability, and youth development, we are perfectly positioned to grow alongside this region and make a meaningful impact.”

He elaborates: “I’m fortunate to be surrounded by some of the brightest minds — people who are passionate, creative and dedicated to pushing Nestlé to the forefront of innovation. That’s how we drive change.”

Looking ahead, the company is primed to address emerging trends and challenges head-on. One of the most significant shifts is the rising demand for convenience, accelerated by Covid-19 and evolving lifestyles. More dual-income households, coupled with an increasingly fast-paced world, have made ultra-convenient products a necessity. Nestlé is responding by innovating products that cater to this need while maintaining its commitment to health and quality. Another key trend is the growing focus on nutrition and preventive health. As consumers become more health-conscious and aware of the role food plays in wellbeing, Nestlé remains dedicated to providing affordable, nutritious options. “Food plays a crucial role in preventive health, and as a nutrition, health and wellness company, we’re committed to addressing malnutrition in the region with fortified products,” says Abdul Malak.

This focus will continue to guide Nestlé’s strategy, ensuring that it meets the nutritional needs of a rapidly growing and evolving population. The rise of e-commerce and omni-shopping also presents new opportunities.

Abdul Malak re-emphasises that Nestlé’s success in the MENA region is driven by more than just market trends. “Our focus on nutrition, sustainability and innovation helps us address the challenges that families face every day. It’s not just about selling products — it’s about improving lives. And that’s why we invest so heavily in the region, from our manufacturing facilities to our community programmes.

We’re here for the long haul, and that’s what matters,” affirms the leader.

___
Leadership lessons: Yasser Abdul Malak

Nestlé MENA’s chairman and CEO shares his mantras for leadership and management

• Leading through challenging times has taught me a valuable lesson: As leaders, we face two choices — either we allow the situation to overwhelm us, or we take ownership and keep delivering, regardless of the obstacles. A true leader focuses on finding solutions and closing gaps, rather than justifying delays or setbacks.
• The second lesson is the importance of straight talk. In difficult times, sugarcoating only wastes time. Clear, direct communication is essential — it’s not about impressing others but about making progress together.
• Another critical lesson is balancing talent management. While it’s important to nurture and hold onto high performers, addressing low performers is equally crucial. A team thrives when it’s made up of people who elevate one another. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to surround myself with incredible leaders and mentors. I’ve always sought to learn from people who are smarter, more experienced, or even older than me.
• Transformation is a constant journey. Change is inevitable and, especially in today’s world, it has no endpoint. At Nestlé, we’re unapologetically committed to continuous transformation – to becoming more relevant, stronger, and having a greater impact on our communities and people.
• One key aspect of change is speed and agility. We strive to move quickly, but we never compromise on quality or compliance. Speed is critical but so is getting the details right. Leadership at every level understands this balance, and I encourage my team to make decisions confidently.
• Mistakes will happen, but what matters is how we respond. Acknowledging mistakes quickly and learning from them is vital. I always tell my team that I won’t blame you for making a mistake, but I will hold you accountable if you don’t make a decision when it is needed.
• I believe leadership is about continuous learning, and I’ve always sought to learn from those around me, whether it’s a mentor, my team, or even friends. It’s important to remain self-reflective and acknowledge areas where you can grow.
• Staying fit is crucial, especially in leadership roles. I’ve always believed in the idea of “fit to grow”. If I’m not physically and mentally fit, how can I expect my team to be? I make health a priority.
  
• I also encourage my team to prioritise wellbeing, as it’s important for long-term performance. You can’t sustain leadership effectiveness without taking care of that yourself.

The world’s biggest messaging platform, WhatsApp, has kicked off the new year with a suite of features and design updates aimed at enhancing user experience.

The updates – revealed by WhatsApp’s owner Meta – include creative camera effects, personalised selfie stickers, and improved message reactions, with a focus on making the platform more engaging and intuitive.

Here’s what users can expect in terms of the four key updates:

Revamped camera effects

Users can now transform their photos and videos with 30 new backgrounds, filters, and effects when sending media in chats. The move is designed to provide a more interactive and visually appealing way to communicate.

Personalised selfie stickers

WhatsApp has introduced the ability to turn selfies into custom stickers, a feature currently available on Android and set to launch on iOS soon. To create a sticker, users simply tap the “create sticker” icon, snap a selfie, and personalise their new digital expression.

Enhanced sticker sharing

The platform has also made it easier to share sticker packs. Users can now send entire packs to friends directly through their chats, adding a new layer of convenience to sharing popular stickers.

Quicker message reactions

Responding to messages is faster and more efficient with a new double-tap feature. Users can instantly react to messages and access their most-used reactions with a quick scroll, making conversations smoother and more dynamic.

WhatsApp is the world’s most widely used messaging app. According to Meta, it has 2 billion daily users who send more than 100 billion messages every day in 60 languages across 180 countries.

Some 400 million of those users are in India, WhatsApp’s biggest market, followed by another 120 million in Brazil.