Author: Business Dunes

Progress towards a clear renewables agenda in Kuwait Mubarak Naser Al Sayer, CEO of the ALSAYER Group, talks to Business Dunes about pursuing opportunities in emerging technologies and the growing appetite among Kuwaiti banks to finance renewables projects. The ALSAYER Group conducts business in the industrial, automotive, energy and finance sectors, among others. How do you assess Kuwait’s renewable energy targets, and what role can ALSAYER play in this journey?There is new energy and vision in Kuwait’s government. With the recent cabinet changes and the leadership of H.H. Mishal Al Ahmad A Jaber Al Sabah, there is now a much…

Business Dunes spoke with Sune Stilling, CEO of Egyptian Drilling Company (EDC), about the hurdles facing drilling contractors in Egypt, the impact of inflation and price regulations, and the country’s untapped upstream potential. Market Realities: Low Oil Prices & Government Price Controls Q: How has the oil price slump affected Egypt’s drilling sector? Sune Stilling: At $50 per barrel, upstream operators face tight margins, which trickles down to drilling contractors like EDC. When operators demand lower rig day rates, contractors must push suppliers for discounts—creating a downward pricing spiral. The only segment that should benefit from low oil prices is transport, since fuel costs drop. But in Egypt, the government…

Business Dunes sat down with Jurie Swart, CEO of African Infrastructure Investment Managers (AIIM), to discuss the critical role of private investment in Africa’s infrastructure development, the continent’s untapped potential, and how AIIM mitigates risks to attract global capital. The African Opportunity: Why Invest in Infrastructure? Q: Old Mutual acquired AIIM from Macquarie in 2015. What does this say about Africa’s potential? Jurie Swart: Old Mutual’s acquisition reflects a long-term commitment to Africa’s growth. Unlike Macquarie, which focuses on large global projects, Old Mutual is expanding its African footprint—currently in 14 countries, with plans for 10 more. Infrastructure is key to this strategy. At AIIM,…

IntroductionSaudi Arabia is no longer just an oil giant—it’s fast becoming a startup powerhouse. With Vision 2030 driving economic diversification, the Kingdom has unleashed a wave of entrepreneurship, innovation, and venture capital. From fintech to clean energy, Saudi startups are redefining the region’s business landscape. This article explores:✔ The rise of Saudi startups (key sectors & success stories).✔ Government initiatives fueling growth.✔ Challenges & opportunities for new founders.✔ Predictions for the next decade. 1. The Startup Surge: From Oil to Innovation Saudi Arabia’s startup ecosystem has exploded in recent years, with $1 billion+ invested in 2023 alone (MAGNiTT Report). Key sectors leading the charge: Success Story: Saudi Unicorns 2. How Vision 2030 is Accelerating…

Introduction Saudi Arabia’s extreme climate, coastal exposure, and industrial growth make corrosion a major challenge for infrastructure, oil & gas facilities, and transportation. The Kingdom’s high temperatures, humidity, and sandstorms accelerate metal degradation, leading to billions in annual losses. This article explores the causes, economic impacts, and innovative solutions to combat corrosion in Saudi Arabia. Why is Corrosion a Major Problem in Saudi Arabia? 1. Harsh Environmental Conditions 2. Industrial & Energy Sector Vulnerabilities 3. Infrastructure & Urban Development Economic & Safety Impacts Innovative Corrosion Solutions in Saudi Arabia 1. Advanced Protective Coatings 2. Cathodic Protection 3. Corrosion-Resistant Materials 4. Smart…

“Bahrain’s strategic location in the GCC makes it an ideal logistics hub, providing access to Asia, Europe, and Africa. The country’s seaport, advanced infrastructure, and economic incentives create a business-friendly environment.” Editor Olivia to Yanal Anz, General Manager of Aramex Bahrain, about competition, trends in the logistics sector, and expansion plans for the coming year. How does Aramex differentiate itself in the Bahraini logistics sector? Aramex has been a global leader in logistics and transportation, known for innovation and customized solutions. Listed on the Dubai Financial Market since 2005, we operate in over 600 cities across more than 70 countries…

RIYADH: ADNOC Gas has strengthened its position in Asia’s energy market through a new 10-year liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply agreement with India’s Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL). The deal will see the Abu Dhabi-based energy provider deliver 500,000 metric tonnes of LNG annually to India, sourced from its Das Island production facility. Strategic Energy Partnership The agreement marks ADNOC Gas’ third major LNG supply contract with Indian energy companies within a year, following earlier deals with Indian Oil Corporation and GAIL India. These partnerships align with India’s goal to increase natural gas’ share in its energy mix to 15% by…

For over 150 years, Arbonia provided a huge selection of products for the home, from kitchens & refrigeration, space heaters, showers to steel pipe technology. While the strategy had brought much joy throughout the company’s history, in 2015, Claudius Moor was bold enough to suggest a change. “When I joined as Head of Strategy, I suggested streamlining our offering,” Claudius, now CEO of Arbonia, begins. “There were two factors behind this move. Firstly, though we could provide a lot of products, we would never be able to supply all the products needed for a family home. And secondly, in every single product category,…

Nicola Schutrups is the Managing Director of The Mortgage Hut, a mortgage brokerage founded in 2011. She oversees a team of over 50 people and operations generating a multi-million-pound turnover. Before joining the team Nicola worked in banking and then as part of the British Airways cabin crew, which gave her a unique understanding of the complexities of obtaining a mortgage on an unpredictable income. She provides much of The Mortgage Hut’s expert advice with a focus on how to get a mortgage approved and what changes in the housing market mean for buyers.  Here, Nicola speaks to Start Your Business…

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia emerged as the Middle East and North Africa’s top-funded startup market in the first half of 2025, securing approximately 64 percent of the region’s total capital. Investments in the Kingdom surged to $1.34 billion, representing a 342 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to a report by Wamda and Digital Digest. This performance, supported by sovereign wealth backing, targeted government incentives, and strong domestic venture activity, solidified Saudi Arabia’s dominance amid a broader regional funding rebound. The Kingdom’s fintech sector accounted for the bulk of capital, raising $969 million across 20 transactions. Construction…