In a landmark fusion of technology and talent, Aligned Automation, an AI-driven global professional technology services company, has taken its data intelligence expertise to the motorsport arena through a partnership with Diana Pundole, the first Indian woman to race a Ferrari. The collaboration was unveiled at a high-energy event at Taj Exotica, Dubai, where Pundole revealed the Ferrari 296 Challenge car, emblazoned with the Aligned Automation (AA) brand, marking the start of her Middle East race tour.

More than a sponsorship, the partnership represents a unique experiment in applying enterprise-grade data analytics to real-time racing performance. For Aligned Automation, it’s an extension of the same precision and decision-making it delivers to corporate clients, this time, at 300 km/h.

“This partnership embodies our core philosophy,” said Nitin Ahuja, CEO of Aligned Automation. “At Aligned Automation, we don’t just sponsor speed. We engineer it. Diana’s debut with Ferrari represents not only individual excellence but the coming together of two powerhouses to drive data-driven performance. Together, we’re pushing boundaries, on the track and in the enterprise.”

Data as the new pit crew

From the outside, it’s a sleek red Ferrari on the track. But beneath the carbon-fibre bodywork, every race is a test of data. A single race weekend can generate over a gigabyte of telemetry — from braking pressure and throttle positions to tire temperatures and G-forces. Turning that torrent of raw data into actionable insight is exactly what Aligned Automation specialises in.

“So Diana was talking about getting into the racing universe, and for us, it was a natural fit,” Ahuja explained in a conversation on the sidelines of the launch. “Racing is all about speed, making quick decisions, and being precise. Precision is key and that’s our business model. We have to precisely deliver business outcomes for our clients.”

The company’s proprietary delivery platform, AAxon, already powers projects for global high-tech firms. “We’ve infused AI into customer operations at scale, and now, we’re bringing that same intelligence to motorsport,” Ahuja revealed.

In Diana’s case, Aligned Automation will analyse her racing data across the 2025–2026 Middle East Ferrari Challenge Series, covering Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Jeddah, Qatar, and Dubai. Its AI and machine learning models will identify patterns, optimise decision-making, and uncover split-second opportunities for improvement — from corner entry speeds to acceleration zones.

A racer’s new edge

For Pundole, the collaboration represents a new dimension in her career; one where instinct meets analytics. “Starting this season with Aligned Automation, this is the first time I’ll be working with them, and I’m looking forward to it because they are experts at deciphering and analoging data,” she said. “They will look into my data for the first time — motorsport data, which is a lot of data every split second, has so many parameters: braking points, accelerations, turning points, where the car is pointed, where the engine goes off or maximises. This is something I will need their help for.”

The collaboration, she explained, will enable her to “compare a lot of data” from each run — an essential skill for any elite racer. “As a race car driver, you can’t just keep driving because it’ll get you nowhere. You need to figure out where you can go slower, and where you can go faster. With that comparison comes learning, and with that learning comes results,” she said.

The partnership will see both sides learning from each other. “This is, I believe, the first time that they will also be working with a race car and a race car driver, and we both will learn from each other,” Pundole added.

Beyond the finish line

The collaboration goes beyond performance engineering. It signals Aligned Automation’s official entry into the Middle East, aligning with the UAE Vision 2031 and Saudi Vision 2030 agendas focused on innovation, AI adoption, and technology-driven economic diversification.

“Aligned Automation is entering an exciting new phase of growth in the UAE as we strengthen and expand our regional presence,” Ahuja said. “With our base in Dubai already established and a second now underway in Abu Dhabi, we are deepening our commitment to the market. Our recent MoU with Kamali & Kamali Holding reflects our strategic focus on positioning the UAE as a hub for developing and exporting advanced digital and IT services globally.”

The company’s goal is to develop homegrown AI capabilities that serve both regional and global clients. “We want to create a sustained economy in terms of IT services — developing here in the UAE and exporting services outside, rather than relying on other markets,” Ahuja explained. “This dual focus — building the next generation of AI talent while applying data science to real-world performance — underscores Aligned Automation’s positioning as more than a consultancy. It’s a performance engineering company in the truest sense.”

Where AI meets adrenaline

The alignment between AI and motorsport may seem unlikely, but both disciplines demand precision, resilience, and an obsession with marginal gains. Each lap of data will provide Aligned Automation and Diana with new insights: a continuous feedback loop where machine intelligence amplifies human instinct.

For Pundole, it’s a chance to elevate her racing journey. “I would like to go into Ferrari Challenge races, which will be the next step with this particular car,” she said. “It’s GT car racing — very interesting, with its own fan following — and we’re looking at big things with this.”

For Aligned Automation, the collaboration serves as both metaphor and proof point. Racing becomes a live demonstration of what the company does for enterprises — transforming raw data into performance.

“AI is the most misunderstood concept,” Ahuja reflected. “People think it can think on its own, but it can’t. Artificial intelligence is not real intelligence, it’s all about the data. Getting to know the data, governing it ethically, and turning it into the right decisions — that’s where the value lies.”

China said on Friday that it would take necessary measures to protect the legitimate rights of Chinese enterprises and citizens in response to US sanctions related to Iran’s oil trade that targeted a Chinese refinery.

China urges the United States to stop resorting to sanctions, Guo Jiakun, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry, told a regular press briefing, adding that China will protect its energy security.

The sanctions were imposed on about 100 individuals, entities and vessels, including a Chinese independent refinery and terminal, that helped Iran’s oil and petrochemicals trade.

DMCC, the global business district driving international trade through Dubai, and REIT Development have announced the appointment of the National Engineering Bureau (NEB) as the design and supervision consultant for Crypto Tower — the world’s first commercial tower dedicated to Web3 and digital assets.

Situated in the heart of Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), Crypto Tower will provide purpose-built commercial space for companies in blockchain, crypto, and digital assets. The appointment of NEB marks a key milestone in the project’s development, underscoring DMCC’s commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure that supports the growth of next-generation technologies.

With over four decades of experience, NEB will oversee all aspects of the project’s architectural design, engineering, regulatory approvals, and on-site supervision. The consultancy’s track record in delivering complex developments across the UAE ensures that Crypto Tower will meet the highest standards of design, execution, and sustainability.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, executive chairman and CEO, DMCC, said: “The appointment of the National Engineering Bureau marks a defining milestone in realising our vision for the world’s first commercial tower dedicated to Web3 and digital assets. Serving as a physical anchor for DMCC’s growing community of over 3,400 tech companies – including more than 700 within our Crypto Centre – the tower will provide premium, purpose-built office space for the next generation of digital enterprises. It will also accelerate the transformation of Uptown Dubai and Jumeirah Lakes Towers into two of Dubai’s most dynamic business districts, reinforcing DMCC’s position as a global hub for crypto, Web3, and advanced technologies.”

Karen Kriska, VP of operations, Crypto Tower, said: “We are thrilled to partner with the National Engineering Bureau as our trusted design and supervision consultant. NEB has an extraordinary legacy of designing and supervising hundreds of buildings across Dubai, including many iconic projects in the JLT area. Their deep knowledge of the local regulatory environment, paired with their track record of architectural innovation, makes them the perfect partner to bring Crypto Tower to life as a landmark destination for the Web3 community.”

Jamil Jadallah, CEO, National Engineering Bureau, added: “Being selected for this visionary project is a proud moment for NEB. Crypto Tower is set to become a cornerstone of the digital economy in the UAE, and we are committed to delivering a service that reflects its innovation, ambition, and impact. At NEB, we have always believed in shaping the future of urban development – and this project exemplifies that ethos. We look forward to leveraging our decades of experience and deep-rooted presence in Dubai to deliver a landmark that stands as a symbol of the UAE’s leadership in technology and smart infrastructure.”

A joint initiative by DMCC and REIT Development, Crypto Tower will serve as a central hub for the more than 700 crypto and blockchain companies already based in DMCC. It reinforces Dubai’s position as a global leader in the digital economy, providing an integrated ecosystem for Web3, fintech, and emerging technology firms.

A new generation of Emirati entrepreneurs is reshaping how global capital meets local opportunity. Among them is Maha Al Shamsi, co-founder of MSKD Global, a firm redefining commercial brokerage through strategic alignment, cross-border expertise, and a deep understanding of the UAE’s economic vision.

For Al Shamsi, commercial brokerage is no longer about transactions — it’s about transformation. “Commercial brokerage is no longer about simply connecting buyers and sellers; it has evolved into a strategic advisory role that requires deep knowledge of global capital flows, regulatory frameworks, and local market opportunities,” she says. “As the UAE continues to attract unprecedented levels of foreign investment, brokers must act as trusted partners who can align investors with the right structures, secure regulatory clarity, and ensure seamless market entry.”

Al Shamsi describes the changing role of brokers as a reflection of the UAE’s own economic maturity. Once viewed as middlemen, today’s leading brokers are becoming “investment architects,” building bridges between institutional investors and national priorities.

“The future of brokerage here is about value creation, long-term partnerships, and enabling investors to scale with confidence in a rapidly growing economy,” she explains. “The UAE is transforming into one of the world’s most dynamic investment gateways.”

This evolution mirrors the UAE’s broader diversification agenda under Vision 2030, which is attracting record foreign direct investment across technology, clean energy, logistics, and advanced manufacturing. In this context, Al Shamsi and her team at MSKD Global have positioned their firm as both connector and curator — guiding capital toward opportunities that drive sustainable growth.

Access and alignment: the MSKD Global model

MSKD Global operates on two defining pillars: access and alignment. “We bring together international investors with sovereign wealth funds, private equity players, and family offices by leveraging our on-ground networks and credibility in the UAE,” Al Shamsi says. “But beyond introductions, we focus on structuring partnerships that are Sharia compliant, regulatory sound, and strategically aligned with the UAE’s long-term economic vision.”

For Al Shamsi, this distinction is critical. The firm’s goal isn’t simply to close deals but to ensure that investments align with both market demand and policy direction. “Our role is not transactional; it is about curating opportunities that balance investor appetite with the UAE’s diversification strategy. That is why we see ourselves as bridge builders between global capital and national priorities.”

In practice, that means MSKD Global facilitates everything from large-scale real estate transactions to cross-border investment partnerships that align with the UAE’s key growth sectors. The firm’s network spans global private equity funds, sovereign investors, and regional conglomerates seeking to enter or expand in the GCC.

As one of the UAE’s emerging voices in cross-border investment, Al Shamsi has also become a symbol of the growing influence of Emirati women in high-stakes commercial ventures.

“My journey has been about breaking perceptions and setting new standards,” she says. “Navigating high-stakes projects requires resilience, clarity, and the ability to lead through uncertainty. As an Emirati woman, I believe we are redefining leadership by bringing empathy, adaptability, and long-term vision into the business ecosystem.”

Read: Celebrating Emirati achievers and role models

Her perspective reflects a broader shift in the UAE, where women are leading in government, finance, and entrepreneurship at unprecedented levels. “Women today are not only participating but actively shaping investment flows, policies, and industries. In the UAE, leadership is no longer about gender; it is about results, integrity, and the ability to deliver impact globally.”

Where global appetite meets national ambition

The UAE’s economic transformation has turned it into a magnet for institutional capital. According to Al Shamsi, the most significant investor interest is now flowing into sectors aligned with the country’s long-term economic resilience and innovation goals.

“We are seeing strong momentum in sectors aligned with UAE Vision 2030 and beyond: technology, fintech, and AI-driven industries are attracting major institutional capital, while healthcare, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing are high on the agenda for sovereign wealth funds,” she explains.

“Real estate continues to remain a cornerstone of investor appetite, particularly luxury and hospitality, but the real growth is in strategic industries that support national resilience such as food security, logistics, and energy transition projects.”

This combination of diversification and stability continues to position the UAE as one of the most competitive investment destinations globally — with Al Shamsi and her peers helping shape how capital is deployed to support those ambitions.

While capital attraction is vital, Al Shamsi emphasizes that trust remains the foundation of sustainable investment. “Government partnerships are fundamental,” she says. “The UAE has built its reputation as an investment hub by ensuring regulatory clarity, transparent frameworks, and investor-friendly policies.”

She points to free zones such as ADGM and DIFC as “strong examples of how regulatory innovation instills confidence.” “Government partnerships also ensure that investors feel aligned with the country’s long-term strategy, whether in energy, technology, or infrastructure. Trust is the currency of investment, and the UAE government has been exemplary in fostering that trust globally.”

Innovation in brokerage comes with its own set of challenges, particularly when dealing with international investors accustomed to fast deal cycles. “Innovation in brokerage often comes with the challenge of bridging different expectations,” Al Shamsi notes. “Global investors demand speed, while local markets prioritize regulatory compliance and relationship building.”

To address this, MSKD Global has built a model that blends agility with accountability. “We invested in knowledge, credibility, and a strong ecosystem of legal, financial, and government partners. This allows us to anticipate challenges, mitigate risks, and structure deals that can withstand market volatility.”

Such resilience, she adds, is key to operating in a region where opportunities move quickly, but trust and governance remain paramount.

At the core of MSKD Global’s culture are the leadership principles that guide Al Shamsi’s own approach to business. “My leadership is guided by three principles: integrity, empowerment, and adaptability,” she says. “I believe in empowering my team to take ownership of outcomes while ensuring we never compromise on trust and transparency.”

Balancing that empowerment with the demands of global investors requires clarity and accountability. “Global investors expect precision, speed, and results. Balancing both requires setting clear standards, ensuring accountability, and fostering an environment where people are motivated to innovate while still aligned with investor expectations.”

The UAE’s next chapter in global finance

Looking ahead, Al Shamsi envisions a decisive shift in the UAE’s position in global finance. “The UAE is no longer just a regional hub; it is positioning itself as a global capital markets player,” she says. “With ADX, ADGM, and DIFC offering platforms for IPOs, fund domiciliation, and capital raising, the UAE will continue to attract both institutional and private capital.”

MSKD Global’s ambition, she adds, is to sit at the centre of that evolution. “Our mission is to not only broker opportunities but to build long-term bridges that anchor the UAE as a cornerstone of global capital flows. We want to remain a trusted partner to investors seeking entry, expansion, and scale in this market.”

As the UAE’s capital markets continue to expand in depth and sophistication, leaders like Maha Al Shamsi embody the country’s next chapter: one defined not by transactions, but by transformation, trust, and long-term impact.

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the UAE’s largest lender, has issued its second blue bond — a $20m, three-year issuance — marking another step in its efforts to finance ocean and water-related projects that advance climate resilience and environmental sustainability.

The new issuance follows FAB’s inaugural blue bond in August, bringing the bank’s total blue bond issuances to $70m.

Blue bonds, still relatively new in global capital markets, channel investment toward initiatives that conserve marine ecosystems, safeguard coastlines, and promote blue carbon projects.

The bank’s issuance aligns with its 2023 Sustainable Finance Framework and the International Capital Market Association’s Green Bond Principles, ensuring proceeds are dedicated to impactful environmental initiatives.

FAB’s latest blue bond fund to enable water recycling across Abu Dhabi and Al Ain

Funds from the latest bond will support several projects, including wastewater treatment facilities with a daily capacity of 430,000 cubic metres that enable water recycling across Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, and a renewable-powered desalination facility producing 37 million litres per day, supported by 410,000 MWh of renewable energy and 700 MWh of battery storage.

All projects undergo rigorous ESG assessments and ongoing monitoring.

“These initiatives contribute directly to the UAE Water Agenda 2036 and further advance the country’s sustainable development commitments,” FAB said in a statement.

Shargiil Bashir, group chief sustainability officer at FAB, said: “This second Blue Bond shows FAB’s ongoing commitment to supporting water resilience and marine protection across the UAE. With $70m now raised, we’re setting new standards for sustainable finance in the region. This milestone is especially timely, as Abu Dhabi prepares to host the IUCN World Conservation Congress, where FAB is proud to serve as principal and official banking partner.”

Bashir added that FAB’s leadership in sustainable finance enables clients “to directly contribute to climate-positive outcomes through their investments,” positioning the bank as a catalyst for a more resilient and inclusive financial future.

Matt Lawton, head of Impact, Fixed Income at T. Rowe Price, said: “T. Rowe Price Associates is pleased to support First Abu Dhabi Bank’s second blue bond issuance, which marks a significant step forward for sustainable finance in the region. Our investment, made on behalf of client accounts, reflects our commitment to mobilising capital for advancing the blue economy.”

The bank said its latest blue bond reflects growing collaboration between the public and private sectors to drive climate-resilient infrastructure and sustainable economic growth in the UAE and beyond.