THE HOT STORY

Business got tougher in 2025, WEF survey says

A World Economic Forum (WEF) survey says companies found it more difficult to do business in 2025 amid a deterioration in global cooperation on issues including trade, climate, technology and security. Nearly four in 10 of the 799 executives in 81 economies indicated growing barriers to trade, talent and cross-border capital flows had made it harder to do business. Only 10% of respondents took the opposite point of view. "Undeniably, a series of US tariff announcements in 2025 raised questions about the future of trade," said the WEF in its Global Cooperation Barometer 2026 report, nevertheless observing that the fact that six out of 10 executives did not highlight trade problems indicated that many had found ways to readjust.

Reuters

World Economic Forum

HIRING

AI transforms UAE's hiring landscape

According to a LinkedIn study, 76% of UAE recruiters believe AI helps them fill roles faster, yet 68% feel unprepared for its impact on hiring. Nearly half of recruiters rely on AI for job screening, but many express concerns about its impersonal nature. Job seekers are also adapting, with over one in three enhancing their skills to remain competitive. The UAE is projected to need 1m workers in technology and AI by 2030. Ali Matar from LinkedIn emphasised the need for guidance and support as AI becomes integral to recruitment.

Khaleej Times Online

LEGAL

Dubai Chambers hosts workshop in cooperation with MoHRE

Dubai Chambers, in cooperation with the UAE's Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), recently organised a workshop aimed at raising awareness on the latest work permit services, employment contract models, and the Wage Protection System. The initiative came as part of the chamber's ongoing efforts to support the business environment and enhance corporate compliance with relevant legislation and regulations. The event attracted more than 40 representatives of private sector companies operating across diverse industries.

Zawya EN

LEADERSHIP

QIIB appoints new HR head

QIIB has appointed Sheikh Ali bin Abdullah Al Thani as its new head of human resources. The appointment aligns with the bank's strategy to enhance Qatari talent and support Qatar National Vision 2030. Sheikh Ali holds a Bachelor's degree in Finance and Investment Management from Northumbria University and has experience in investment and human resources.

The Peninsula

WORKPLACE

Best places to work in Saudi Arabia

Sisco Holding and Aseer Investment Company are among the top five organisations recognised in the Best Places to Work certification program for 2025. Kinan topped the small companies category, while Al-Amjaad Trading & Manufacturing Company led mid-sized firms. Roshn maintained its position as the best large company for the fourth year, and the Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services excelled in the ministries category. Special awards highlighted outstanding HR practices and initiatives for female employees.

Zawya EN

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Weight lost on medications 'likely to be regained in under two years'

People who stop taking anti-obesity drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro will within two years return to their original weight and forfeit benefits to the heart, cholesterol levels and blood pressure, a review of studies suggests. A research paper published in the British Medical Journal analysed data from more than 9,000 people from 37 studies.

CBC News

Financial Times

Sydney Morning Herald

INTERNATIONAL

DOJ civil rights chief uses social media to identify anti-DEI targets

Bloomberg Law reports that Harmeet Dhillon, assistant attorney general for the US Civil Rights Division, is using social media to single out anti-DEI targets, including Knoxville Symphony Orchestra chief executive Rachel Ford following a series of viral X posts by a musician alleging he was denied a role at the orchestra due to DEI initiatives. “Rachel, we have questions,” Dhillon wrote in a post she shared which listed Ford's email and phone number. “Suggesting a violation of the law has occurred - through social media or press - before a full investigation risks vilifying the target before all the facts are known,” and “undermines the credibility of the department,” said Regan Rush, former chief of the division’s special litigation section.

Bloomberg Law

CGT labour union at LVMH calls strike

The CGT labour union at LVMH is calling a strike on Thursday to demand compensation for lost bonuses. Representatives from Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot urged workers to stop tasks for "at least three hours." LVMH management offered a one-off payment of €1,000 but the union deemed it insufficient. The CGT emphasized the need to pressure the company and announced further talks for Wednesday. No strike action has been reported at LVMH's other drinks businesses, including Hennessy.

Reuters

Cathay Pacific cuts some jobs in efficiency push

Cathay Pacific Airways is seeking to identify savings and efficiencies as it prepares for a slower rate of growth this year. The airline is targeting savings of about 5% on non-operational staff, and there will be a limited number of job cuts for Hong Kong and overseas staff. The airline also said it has plans to hire 3,000 people this year. Cathay spokesman Andy Wong said the carrier is “dedicated to continuously assessing and refining our operations and organisation to ensure optimal delivery of our long-term strategic goals.”

Bloomberg

Singapore seeks to improve conditions for low-paid migrants

In Singapore, migrant workers typically earn low wages while contributing significantly to the local economy. Despite earning more than in their home countries, their salaries are far below the median income in Singapore. The government has initiated improvements in living conditions and safety for these workers, who make up over 70% of the foreign workforce. Manpower Minister Tan See Leng noted progress in housing and healthcare. However, challenges remain, and experts warn that relying on low-wage labour is unsustainable for the future.

Bangkok Post

OTHER

Mattel unveils groundbreaking autistic Barbie

Mattel has launched an autistic Barbie, expanding its Fashionistas line to promote diversity. Developed over 18 months with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, the doll features design elements reflecting autistic traits, such as slightly shifted eyes and articulated limbs for stimming. The A-line dress and flat shoes cater to sensory sensitivities. Each doll includes a fidget spinner, noise-canceling headphones, and a communication tablet. Jamie Cygielman, Mattel's global head of dolls, said: "We're proud to introduce our first autistic Barbie as part of that ongoing work."

CNN

USA Today

US News and World Report

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