The Gulf Business panel, held on June 25, 2025, head at the Metropolitan Hotel Dubai, brought together an exceptional lineup of industry leaders to delve into some of the most pressing topics shaping the future of finance and investment in the region.

Read-Dubai attracts 8.68 million international visitors in first 5 months of 2025

The event explored a range of key themes, from the growing popularity of residence-by-investment programs — commonly referred to as “golden visas” — to the evolving outlook for UAE initial public offerings (IPOs) in 2025 and beyond. Another critical focus was the impact of the world’s largest generational wealth transfer, and how it is expected to reshape investment strategies not only in the UAE but across global markets.

Each panel session was thoughtfully curated, featuring insights from leading voices in investment, banking, and business setup.

Among the standout speakers were:

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• Damian Hitchen, CEO of Saxo Bank MENA
• Muhammed Hassan, capital markets Leader at PwC
• Yasmine Omari, head of wealth planning at Bank of Singapore
• George Hojeige, group CEO of Virtugroup
• Yogesh Khairajani, global market strategist at Century Financial

Their collective expertise offered attendees a comprehensive understanding of emerging financial trends and actionable strategies for navigating the evolving economic landscape.

As global and regional dynamics continue to shift, the Gulf Business panel reaffirmed the UAE’s position as a strategic hub for investment innovation and long-term growth planning.

Agenda

Panel Discussion 1: From the UAE to the world: global mobility & residence by investment

Topic: How geopolitical shifts are reshaping citizenship and relocation strategies

Moderator: Claire Vuylsteke, Director, Orbcom

Speakers

• George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtugroup
• Rahul Singh, managing director, Thrifty & Dollar Car Rental
• Sanjay Sachdev, group marketing director at Leptos Estates Greece and Cyprus
• Vishwajit Patil, senior executive officer (SEO) for Nuvama Private DIFC

Key discussion points:

• Residence-by-investment options for UAE-based HNWIs
• Global mobility trends in a volatile world
• Strategic planning for personal and capital security

Panel Discussion 2: UAE IPO outlook: 2025 and beyond

Topic: What’s next in the UAE’s capital markets — and how investors can benefit

Moderator: Nigel Sillitoe – CEO of Insight Discovery

Speakers:

• Yogesh Khairajani, Global Market Strategist, Century Financial
• Manasvi Ghelani, Associate Director – Customer Engagement, Middle East Africa, Frost & Sullivan
• Muhammed Hassan, Capital Markets Leader at PwC

Key discussion points:

• The next wave of public listings
• Market readiness vs global exchanges
• The impact of macroeconomic factors like interest rates and tariffs

Panel Discussion-3: How the world’s largest shift in capital is reshaping investment strategies in the UAE and beyond

Moderator: Karishma Hingorani, Founder & Podcaster, Karishma Konnect

Speakers:

• Damian Hitchen, CEO of Saxo Bank MENA
• Yasmine Omari, head of wealth planning, Bank of Singapore
• Gemma Wild, head of global collaboration, MENA GPB, HSBC
• Dave Chaggar, sales director, Capital Club Limited

Key discussion points:

• Trillions in motion: The great wealth transfer and what it means
• Digital natives and changing investment priorities
• Succession planning, private banking, and wealth tech in the UAE

Business exits are often celebrated as the ultimate badge of entrepreneurial success—but the truth behind the glossy headlines tells a more complex story. From clashes in corporate culture to misaligned visions and the hidden pressures of investor relationships, exits are less about escape and more about evolution. At the Gulf Business panel event held on June 25, 2025, industry leaders like Virtugroup’s George Hojeige dismantled the myth of “free money” and underscored the vital importance of choosing the right partners.

Meanwhile, Dubai continues to position itself as a magnet for global wealth and IPO activity, setting the stage for a new era in capital movement, family investment strategy, and entrepreneurial transformation.

Untold truth behind business exits: It’s not as rosy as it looks

Investors are not passive backers—they become deeply involved in the business.

“Nobody gives you money and walks away. They’ll ask what you’re doing with it, what your future looks like. Free money doesn’t exist,” George Hojeige, group CEO, Virtugroup said at a keynote session at the Gulf Business panel event.

A mismatch in vision or values, he warned, can derail even the strongest companies. “It doesn’t matter how much capital they bring—if they don’t share your vision, you’re doomed from day one,” Hojeige added.

He pointed to Microsoft’s 2014 acquisition of Nokia as a cautionary tale. “It looked like a perfect match—two giants coming together. But the cultures clashed. Microsoft was fast-moving and innovation-driven. Nokia was traditional and process-focused. The result? Massive layoffs and a failed merger.”

The message to fellow founders is clear: an exit is not just a transaction—it’s a transformation.

“Pick the right partner. It’s not just about money. It’s about shared goals, culture, and a vision for the future. If you get that wrong, no amount of funding can fix it.”

UAE stays ahead in global race for investment, and quality of life

Globally, jurisdictions are now competing to offer the most attractive conditions for businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals looking to relocate. The UAE, especially since the introduction of the Golden Visa, has positioned itself as a strong hub for business operations and investment.

However, it’s important to note that other jurisdictions are also enhancing their offerings to increase their appeal. As a result, the UAE must continue to attract both locals and internationals by remaining competitive and forward-thinking.

Dubai’s ecosystem a magnet for global family offices

With Dubai emerging as a premier destination for global wealth and family office services, Vishwajit Patil, senior executive officer (SEO) of Nuvama Private DIFC, believes the city’s strategic location, efficient systems, and favorable regulatory environment are key drivers in attracting high-net-worth families from across the globe.

Speaking at an early morning panel discussion, Patil highlighted the recent expansion of Nuvama Private into the UAE. “We launched our operations in Dubai around August 2024, and it’s been an incredibly exciting journey,” he said. “Our management strategy reflects the growing importance of the region in serving global clients, especially in navigating financial strategies and tax-related challenges.”

When evaluating relocation destinations, clients typically consider five key pillars:

• Geopolitical stability
• Healthcare and education infrastructure
• Cost of living and lifestyle
• Strategic location and connectivity
• Ease of business setup and residency options

“In all these aspects, Dubai stands out,” Patil stated. “Whether it’s the efficiency of the Golden Visa process, access to top-tier healthcare and education, or the agility of government systems — the UAE offers an unmatched level of service and speed.”

UAE IPO outlook: 2025 and beyond

An Initial Public Offering (IPO) occurs when a private company offers its shares to the public for the first time. This process marks a significant milestone for any business and involves multiple stakeholders including company leadership, regulatory authorities, investment bankers, lawyers, and both institutional and retail investors.

A major development in the UAE capital markets is the emergence of IPO-focused investment funds. These funds allow retail investors to gain exposure to a broad portfolio of IPOs, rather than picking individual companies.

“IPO funds have become a powerful tool for investors,” Yogesh Khairajani, global market strategist, Century Financial explained. “They’re particularly useful in cases where IPOs are oversubscribed, which is quite common in the UAE. Through these funds, investors can still gain exposure to promising public listings.”

Among the most notable initiatives is the Abu Dhabi IPO Fund, which has drawn considerable interest from both institutional and retail participants.

“The Abu Dhabi IPO Fund has made it much easier for investors to participate in a wide array of new listings,” said Khairajani. “It reduces the risk of having to choose just one company to invest in. Instead, investors benefit from the fund manager’s expertise in selecting high-potential IPOs, which in turn provides a more diversified and balanced investment strategy.”

Family investment strategies undergoing a structural shift

During a panel discussion titled “How the World’s Largest Shift in Capital is Reshaping Investment Strategies in the UAE and Beyond,” Yasmine Omari, head of wealth planning at Bank of Singapore, highlighted a significant transformation in how families are managing and deploying their capital.

“What I’ve noticed is a real evolution in how families are investing,” Omari said. “We’re not just talking about a generational transition; we’re talking about a transformation in process, strategy, and mindset.”

She pointed to a range of contributing factors, including increasing diversification across asset classes, growing sophistication, and a marked shift toward institutional-style investing. According to Omari, many families are moving beyond the traditional model of simply reinvesting profits from their operating businesses. Instead, they are using those businesses as platforms for broader investment activity.

“Some families have set up internal investment teams or even mini family-owned funds, complete with governance structures and dedicated professionals,” she noted. “In certain cases, they’ve even spun off entirely separate businesses focused on investing or technology.”

As these efforts scale, Omari emphasised the growing importance of structure and governance. The evolution is not only in capital deployment but also in decision-making dynamics.

“Whereas before, you might have had the founder and maybe one or two close relatives making decisions, now you have multiple generations and branches of the family participating,” she explained. “That increases the need for clear communication, governance, and consensus-building.”

Emirates has resumed its regular flight operations after experiencing only minor disruptions on June 23 following regional airspace closures.

The Dubai-based carrier confirmed that scheduled services were back online within hours, with no flight diversions, only a small number of cancellations, and some rerouted paths due to airspace congestion.

In a statement issued by Emirates and published on its website on June 24, the airline said it had “quickly activated its robust contingency and disruption plans”, ensuring continued connectivity for travellers across its global network.

“Emirates’ passengers experienced minimal disruptions to their travel plans after last night’s regional events,” the airline said. “Despite rapidly evolving developments, it’s been business as usual across the Emirates network.”

Over the past two weeks, Emirates has served more than 1.7 million passengers on over 5,800 flights.

Emirates is working with aviation authorities to ensure passenger and crew safety

The airline maintained scheduled services by rerouting around ‘crisis’ zones, including a brief suspension of services to Amman and Beirut, which resumed shortly after.

The carrier emphasised that it continues to work in coordination with aviation regulators and local authorities to ensure passenger and crew safety.

“The safety of Emirates’ passengers and crew is its absolute priority, and the airline would never fly if it was not safe to do so,” the statement added.

Emirates noted it had kept customers informed via operational updates on its website and social media channels, with reservations teams assisting affected travellers.

Looking ahead to the peak summer travel season, the airline said it will continue to adapt quickly and appropriately to ensure uninterrupted operations.

The airline also credited the UAE’s leadership for implementing strong contingency measures that support essential services, helping Emirates sustain safe and reliable operations even during periods of geopolitical uncertainty.

More than 30,000 customers will depart DXB on June 25 and 26, and this level of departures will be at a similar level until June 30, the airline shared. See tips to ensure a seamless airport experience.

flydubai flights from Dubai

Meanwhile flydubai reported that flights on June 24 have resumed as scheduled. The airline said that some delays may still be expected due to airspace congestion.

The carrier has rerouted select flights across the network to avoid restricted airspace.

The airline said it would continue to monitor the situation closely, and that the safety of passengers and crew remained its highest priority.

Flights to Iran, Iraq, Syria, and St. Petersburg remain suspended until June 30.

Airline operations in the region are slowly normalising after Israel and Iran agreed to a ceasefire agreement brokered by US President Donald Trump after 12 days of conflict. The ceasefire came into effect on Tuesday.

Read: UAE, GCC, Egypt denounce Iran’s strike on Qatar’s Al Udeid Air Base

Dubai attracted 8.68 million international visitors from January to May 2025, marking a 7 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024, which recorded 8.12 million tourists, according to the latest data released by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

In May alone, the city welcomed 1.53 million international tourists, the Tourism Performance Report January – May 2025 showed.

Western Europe was the leading source market, contributing 1.917 million visitors and accounting for 22 per cent of the total. Russia, the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries, and Eastern Europe followed with 1.396 million tourists (16 per cent).

International visitors from Asia and MENA region

South Asia came third with 1.242 million visitors (14 per cent), while the GCC region accounted for 1.275 million (15 per cent).

The Middle East and North Africa brought in 989,000 visitors (11 per cent), followed by Northeast and Southeast Asia with 771,000 tourists (9 per cent).

The Americas contributed 601,000 visitors (7 per cent), Africa 346,000 (4 per cent), and Australia 141,000 (2 per cent).

Dubai hotel inventory

As of May, Dubai’s hotel inventory grew to 825 establishments offering 153,356 rooms, up from 822 hotels and 150,202 rooms in May 2024.

Average hotel occupancy increased to 83 per cent, up from 81 per cent during the same period last year. Total occupied room nights reached 19.09 million, a 4 per cent rise from 18.34 million in 2024.

Visitors stayed an average of 3.8 nights per trip. The average daily room rate climbed to Dhs620, a 5 per cent increase from Dhs590 in the previous year.

Revenue per available room (RevPAR) also rose by 7 per cent, reaching Dhs513, compared to Dhs478 in the same period of 2024.

Tawasul Transport, in collaboration with Al Maryah Community Bank (Mbank), has launched the first digital payment system in Abu Dhabi taxis using AE Coin, a stablecoin pegged to the UAE dirham.

The initiative, carried out in coordination with the Integrated Transport Center (ITC), marks a global first in deploying a government-regulated stable digital currency for public transport fares.

Passengers in Abu Dhabi can now use the AEC Wallet app to pay for taxi rides by scanning a QR code displayed inside the vehicle.

The wallet, available on Apple Store, Google Play, and Huawei AppGallery, enables seamless transactions with a fixed exchange rate of Dhs1 to AEC 1, providing financial stability and ease of use.

Part of wider strategy to boost smart mobility ecosystem in Abu Dhabi

The move is part of a broader strategy by ITC to support digital transformation and enhance the smart mobility ecosystem in Abu Dhabi.

Officials say the deployment aims to simplify the payment process while aligning with the UAE’s fintech and digital government goals.

“This initiative serves as a model of effective collaboration between all entities striving for continuous development within the integrated transport ecosystem,” said Ghena Jbour, GM of Tawasul Transport. “The adoption of AE Coin in public transport reflects our commitment to future-focused financial solutions that combine technology, convenience, and sustainability.”

Mohammed Wassim Khayata, CEO of Mbank, described the project as a milestone in real-time consumer payments using blockchain. “AE Coin is not just a digital currency; it’s a key pillar of the UAE’s emerging financial infrastructure,” he said. “We are introducing a transformative payment experience that supports the UAE’s Digital Government Strategy 2025.”

Ramez Rafeek, GM of AED Stablecoin, which manages AE Coin, said the collaboration underscores how digital currencies can integrate into daily life. “This partnership exemplifies the power of innovation and cooperation in driving the future of digital payments,” he noted.

The AEC Wallet is expected to expand its reach across additional transport services, merchants, and retail outlets in the UAE in the near future.

The 28th edition of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) returns from June 27 to August 31, 2025, promising its most value-packed season yet. Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), DSS 2025 will kick off with an exciting opening weekend from June 27 to 29, launching a city-wide celebration of unbeatable shopping deals, live entertainment, mega prizes, and family fun.

Read-Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 to start soon: 11 unmissable experiences

For the first time, DSS 2025 will feature three specially curated retail seasons to keep shoppers engaged all summer long. Launching on opening weekend is the Summer Holiday Offers, running from June 27 to July 17, with discounts ranging from 25 per cent to 75 per cent across hundreds of brands.

From fashion and beauty to tech and homeware, this first phase offers major savings and exclusive mall promotions. The season continues with the DSS Sales Season, featuring nine weeks of deals from over 800 brands at more than 3,500 stores citywide.

Opening weekend entertainment line-up

The DSS Opening Weekend will feature free-to-attend concerts at top malls. On Friday, June 27, Dubai Festival City Mall hosts Japanese dance sensation Sabrina and Palestinian-Jordanian pop artist Reina Khoury. The next day, Abri & the Band and singer-songwriter Noel Kharman take the stage.

Meanwhile, City Centre Mirdif welcomes Syrian singer Al Shami and indie rock band Jadal on Saturday, June 28, with roaming acts and live performances adding to the atmosphere.

Headline acts across the city include:

• Miami Band and Mutref Al Mutref at Coca-Cola Arena, June 28
• Jazziyat featuring Banah at Dubai Opera, June 27
• A Tribute to Adele at Theatre by QE2, June 27–28
• Comedian Atul Khatri at Dubai College, June 28
• We Call It Ballet at Zabeel Theatre, June 28
• Pinoy Comedy Mixtape at Dubai World Trade Centre, June 29

Mega promotions and raffles galore

DSS 2025 will feature dozens of citywide promotions and raffles throughout the summer. Highlights include:

• Win a Polestar 4 LRSM at Dubai Festival City Mall
• SHARE Millionaire Activation at Majid Al Futtaim malls
• Shop, Win, Drive at Dubai Festival Plaza
• DSS Win a Soueast S06 at Dubai Outlet Mall

Slide Into the Summer Surprises at Mercato Mall, featuring free circus acts, comedy shows, workshops, and a summer slide

Shoppers can also take advantage of the Interiors Warehouse Sale at Dubai World Trade Centre, from June 27 to July 5, with up to 55% off luxury furniture brands including Giorgio Collection, Michael Amini, and Theodore Alexander.

Exclusive loyalty perks and lucky draws

Loyalty programme members of Tickit and AURA will get access to exclusive prize draws and giveaways. The Lucky Receipt promotion returns from June 27 to July 17, offering 210 winners exciting prizes.

Special DSS raffles, including the DSMG DSS Raffle, Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group Raffle, and the VISA Jewellery Program, will give participants chances to win luxury prizes throughout the Summer Holiday Offers phase.

Fitness and family fun with DSS indoor runs

DSS 2025 encourages residents and visitors to stay active with its Indoor Mall Runs, beginning with a fun run at Dubai Hills Mall on June 28, powered by Skechers. Participants can choose from 1 km, 2.5 km, 5 km, or 10 km routes, suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

These family-friendly runs promise a lively, inclusive environment filled with energy and community spirit.

Unmissable hotel and dining deals

DSS also brings incredible value to Dubai’s renowned hospitality and leisure scene. More than 100 hotels and 15 major attractions are offering exclusive summer packages for families.

Launching alongside DSS on June 27 is the DSS Entertainer App, offering over 7,500 buy-one-get-one-free deals across restaurants, attractions, spas, fitness, and beauty. The app is available for just Dhs195, with offers valid for three months from activation.

Top venues include:

• Wild Wadi Waterpark
• Motiongate Dubai
• IMG Worlds of Adventure
• STK, Asia Asia, Shake Shack, and At.mosphere

Meet Modesh and Dana across Dubai

Beloved DSS mascots Modesh and Dana return to delight children and families. Special appearances are planned across several malls:

• Dubai Festival City Mall on June 28
• City Centre Mirdif on June 29
• Ibn Battuta Mall on June 30

Expect roaming entertainment, themed giveaways, and interactive family activities all summer long.

More highlights throughout the season

The 66-day celebration also includes some of DSS’s most anticipated recurring events and brand-new launches:

• Beat the Heat DXB Concert Series – July 4–13
• Summer Restaurant Week – July 4–13
• 10 Dirham Dish – August 1–31 (DSS debut)

DSS Gahwa Beats – Coffee pop-ups on Saturdays: July 26, August 2, 9, 16, 31

With a blend of cultural events, culinary experiences, and unbeatable retail promotions, DSS 2025 offers something for everyone—residents and tourists alike.

Supported by major brands and institutions

Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 is supported by its Key Sponsor Commercial Bank of Dubai and Strategic Partners, including:

• Al Futtaim Malls (Dubai Festival City Mall & Festival Plaza)
• Al Zarooni Group (Mercato Shopping Mall)
• AW Rostamani Group
• DHAM (Al Seef, Bluewaters, Ibn Battuta Mall, Nakheel Mall, The Outlet Village)
• Emirates Airline, ENOC, e&
• Majid Al Futtaim (City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, Mall of the Emirates)
• Merex Investment (City Walk, The Beach at JBR)
• talabat

Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 runs from June 27 to August 31, promising unforgettable memories, exceptional savings, and unique experiences only Dubai can offer.