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Middle East Edition
16th January 2026
 
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THE HOT STORY

UAE simplifies degree recognition process

The UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has announced an automatic recognition initiative for degrees from 34 UAE-based universities. This initiative, launched on January 14 2026, aims to eliminate bureaucratic delays by allowing immediate recognition of qualifications, benefiting over 25,000 graduates so far. The system supports the UAE's digital transformation goals by enabling digital verification of degrees through QR codes, streamlining the transition to employment or further studies. The initiative will also extend to Emirati students studying abroad under ministry-supervised scholarships.
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WORKFORCE

Kuwait's new permit revolutionises travel

Kuwait's Public Authority for Manpower has launched a new “multiple-trip exit permit” service for expatriate workers. The initiative aims to streamline processes and reduce administrative burdens for employers and employees. The upgraded system allows workers to obtain permits for multiple exits and re-entries within a specified timeframe. Applications can be submitted online via the Ashal portal or Sahel app. The authority noted that this service enables automatic approval for exit permits, easing the administrative load on employers while ensuring quicker service for workers. The new rule requires expatriates to obtain employer permission before leaving the country.
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TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

Marketing skills drive GCC growth

As organisations in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) expand, they require marketing teams with globally relevant skills and ethical standards. Marketing is now a strategic necessity, directly influencing growth and long-term value creation. The region's rapid evolution demands tailored capability development to address skills gaps. High-performing marketing teams can attract investment, compete internationally, and lead innovation. Partnerships with training providers and local institutions enhance professional development.
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LEGAL

Aid workers acquitted after long trial

In a landmark ruling, a Greek court acquitted 24 aid workers, including Sara Mardini and Sean Binder, of charges related to rescuing migrants on Lesbos. The volunteers, who worked for the Emergency Response Centre International (ERCI) from 2015 to 2018, faced accusations of human trafficking and other offences. Presiding judge Vassilis Papathanassiou stated: "All defendants are acquitted of the charges" as their actions were aimed at providing humanitarian aid. Prosecutor Dimitris Smyrnis noted that "no independent basis establishing the criminal liability of the defendants has been demonstrated." Amnesty International welcomed the decision, urging protection for humanitarian efforts.

Labubu dolls linked to worker exploitation

A recent investigation by China Labor Watch (CLW) has uncovered potential worker exploitation at Shunjia Toys Co Ltd, a factory producing the popular Labubu dolls. The report alleges excessive overtime, incomplete contracts, and lack of paid leave for over 4,500 employees. CLW conducted 51 interviews, highlighting issues such as illegal overtime and inadequate safety training. While no child labour was found, 16-year-old workers faced the same conditions as adults. CLW urged Pop Mart to take immediate action to rectify these issues and ensure compliance with labour laws. Pop Mart is currently investigating the claims.
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TECHNOLOGY

Saudi Arabia leads global AI revolution

Executives from OpenText praised Saudi Arabia's advancements in artificial intelligence during the opening of their new regional headquarters in Riyadh. Harald Adams, OpenText's senior vice president, stated: "Saudi Arabia is leading the modernisation towards AI globally." The Kingdom's significant investments and unified strategy are driving rapid progress. OpenText aims to support Saudi Vision 2030 by developing local talent and fostering innovation. The AI sector is projected to contribute $235.2 bn to Saudi Arabia's GDP by 2030, with education initiatives set to teach AI in schools starting in 2025.

UAE's Falcon-H1 Arabic AI excels

The UAE's Technology Innovation Institute has developed Falcon-H1 Arabic, an AI model that surpasses larger systems in Arabic language proficiency. Ranking first on the Open Arabic LLM Leaderboard, the 34bn-parameter model outperforms Meta's Llama-70B and China's Qwen-72B. Falcon-H1 Arabic is designed to handle Arabic dialects and cultural nuances, achieving 75.36% accuracy on comprehensive tests. Available in three sizes, the model supports various sectors, including education and healthcare, by providing AI tools that respect cultural context.
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CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

CARMA boosts leadership with new hire

CARMA has appointed Paula Jacobson as its new group director of people and culture, aiming to enhance its global people strategy across 23 offices. With over 700 professionals, CARMA focuses on talent acquisition and employee engagement. Jacobson, who previously led her own consultancy, brings extensive experience in building inclusive cultures. Mazen Nahawi, founder and chief executive, said: "Paula's extensive background in scaling organisations makes her the perfect person to lead our global people strategy." Jacobson expressed excitement about joining a company making a significant impact in a rapidly growing region.

Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi welcomes new director

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal has appointed Saloni Mehta as director of people and culture. Mehta is recognised for her expertise in human capital development and organisational leadership. She previously served as director of human resources at Marriott Hotel Al Forsan.
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WORKPLACE

Kick-off for ministry's football championship

The Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs held a draw for its second internal football championship, featuring 20 teams divided into four groups. The event, attended by ministry officials and former Qatar national player Raed Yacoub, aims to foster teamwork and positive competition among employees. Matches will take place at the ministry's stadium in Abu Hamour after the Isha prayer. Ahmed Shaheen Al Ghanim, firector of the Public Relations and Communication Department, said: "This initiative reflects our commitment to strengthening communication and cohesion among employees." The championship starts on January 20, 2026, and concludes on February 8, 2026.
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INVESTMENT

GCC invests $110bn in logistics

Governments across the GCC have allocated $110bn towards logistics and infrastructure investments in 2024, with the UAE and Saudi Arabia leading the charge. The 10th edition of Breakbulk Middle East, scheduled for February 2026 in Dubai, will spotlight these developments. The event will gather global stakeholders to discuss project cargo and heavy-lift logistics, aligning with the UAE's goal to enhance its role as a global trade hub. Dubai's strategic investments, including a new maritime service and infrastructure programs, underscore its position as a top global maritime hub.

Saudi Arabia unveils mining initiatives

Saudi Arabia has launched a new initiative to bolster its mining infrastructure, announced by Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh. The plan aims to reduce investment risk and accelerate project development, with the first project being a 75km treated water pipeline in the Jabal Sayid area. Additionally, a financing portal has been introduced in collaboration with the Bank of Montreal to address funding challenges. The Kingdom is advancing its Vision 2030 objectives, offering significant exploration opportunities and increasing exploration spending to over $280m in 2024.
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SUSTAINABILITY

UAE leads the charge in sustainability

HSBC's Global Sustainability Pulse Survey reveals that 94% of UAE businesses view climate transition as a commercial opportunity. Over the next three years, 90% plan to accelerate their climate strategies, significantly above the global average. Mohamed Al Marzooqi, chief executive of HSBC Bank Middle East, noted: "The survey underscores the extent to which sustainability is embedded in the UAE's economic agenda." Additionally, 53% of businesses highlighted the need for affordable financing to support climate technology adoption, emphasising the importance of collaboration across sectors to achieve sustainability goals.

Sustainability label boosts business credibility

The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry has recognised several companies with the Sustainability Label during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026. This initiative aims to promote sustainable business practices and enhance competitiveness in line with the UAE's economic development goals. His Excellency Shamis Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri stated: "Honouring companies that have received the Sustainability Label reflects the Chamber's commitment to supporting the private sector." The programme provides companies with tools to improve sustainability practices, enhance credibility, and prepare for future challenges.
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INTERNATIONAL

Denmark's seniors embrace longer working lives

Denmark is witnessing a significant rise in the number of seniors working beyond retirement age, now exceeding 100,000. This trend is attributed to tax breaks, flexible working options, and supportive government policies. Employment Minister Kaare Dybvad Bek noted that changes in pension rules have made it "more economically attractive" for seniors to remain in the workforce. Jesper Rangvid, a finance professor, highlighted the appeal of tax-free bonuses for older workers. Despite the benefits, the government acknowledges that not all seniors can continue working until the state pension age of 70.
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AND FINALLY...

Secrets of a century-long career

Walter Orthmann, who worked for 84 years at the RenauxView company, shared his secrets to longevity in the workplace. He emphasised the importance of "staying curious, learning constantly, and really doing what you love." Walter advised maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress, stating: "Don't get nervous, do everything laughing." His colleagues viewed him as a mentor, appreciating his kindness and leadership. Born in Brazil in 1922, Walter began working at 15 to support his family and adapted through various roles until his retirement at 102 in August 2024.
 
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