News
ABU DHABI SHOPPER TO FEATURE PARTICIPATION FROM LEADING RETAILERS
By Editor

The four-day event is set to leverage UAE’s mammoth consumer Electronics Market valued at Over AED 14 Billion in 2014
Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) is set to host the second edition of the Abu Dhabi Electronics Shopper (ADES 2014) from 26 February to 1 March, offering a clutch of exclusive deals and bundled offers on the latest technology and consumer gadgets.
The largest consumer electronics exhibition in Abu Dhabi, ADES 2014 will take centre-stage over 10,000 sq metres of exhibition space to accommodate more than 100,000 visitors. Organised by DOME Exhibitions, the mega shopping event has received the confirmed participation of leading names in the retail sector that are looking to grab a share of the burgeoning UAE consumer electronics market that stood at AED14.32 billion in 2013. Similar trends are being witnessed in the global electronics consumer industry with RCNOS business research consultancy indicating CAGR of around seven per cent during 2012–2015.
Abu Dhabi Electronics Shopper 2014 is being staged at a time when the emirate is set to achieve a robust seven per cent annual growth between 2010 and 2015 and a six per cent year-on-year growth through to 2030 according to Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030. The UAE capital is one of the world’s wealthiest economies globally, with an estimated per capita GDP of US$109,000 in 2013.
Humaid Al Dhaheri, Chief Commercial Officer at Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC), said: “Through hosting exhibitions like ADES, we hope to consolidate ADNEC’s portfolio as a premier venue for leading consumer and trade events. The first edition of ADES was an unmitigated success both in terms of the footfall generated and in the number of participating exhibitors. The overwhelming response has led to our doubling the exhibition space this year and bringing in many more exhibitors to allow customers to benefit from the pick of the best deals right at their doorstep.”
Dony Cyril, Exhibition Director at DOME Exhibitions, said: “Smartphone demand is rising rapidly, and will be further boosted by the strong take-up of 4G LTE subscriptions. Computer Sales is expected to increase from AED 8 bn in 2013 to AED 9 bn in 2017. Leveraging this trend, the second edition of ADES is looking to extend the benefits of exclusive deals across a wider target segment – a significant reason behind our strategy to double the exhibition space and bring in more value-additions in terms of event agenda.”
According to a survey conducted during Abu Dhabi Electronics Shopper among visitors to the exhibition, 81 per cent of the respondents visited the event to buy the latest in technology – clear proof perhaps of the growing appeal ADES holds for bargain hunters wishing to secure the best deals. Meanwhile, 95 per cent of survey respondents described ADES shopper as a must-attend event for consumer electronics, 99 per cent said the event exceeded their expectations in terms of venue, products and retailer space, and 85 per cent said they saved money by shopping at ADES 2014.
Neelesh Bhatnagar, CEO of Emax Electronics, said: “We identified the potential of the Abu Dhabi market when we participated in ADES 2013. E-max is home to a wide range of brands in computers, gaming, home appliances, mobile phones, cameras and electronics that are available at competitive prices. We hope to add value to the growing retail electronics market in Abu Dhabi by offering the best in quality services and lucrative deals to visitors.”
Jehas Habison, Purchase Manager at Costless Electronics, said: “Consumer electronics is a sector that has witnessed prolific year-on-year growth. ADES is a trendsetter for the electronics industry in the Middle East, given its potential as a launch pad for a gamut of new technology products. Prime factors for the success of such electronics and consumer exhibitions are the bargain prices and irresistible discounts that electronics and computer companies offer to customers on their products.”
According to a research report from Business Monitor International conducted on the UAE Consumer Electronics Market, Windows 8 tablets and ultra books should provide growth, with consumers increasingly interested in services that can be used wirelessly. AV sales are expected to increase from AED 5 billion in 2013 to AED 6 billion in 2017, while flat-screen TV sets will remain the main growth driver. Handset Sales are expected to reach AED 1.9 billion in 2013 to AED 2.6 billion in 2017.
ADES debuted in Abu Dhabi in 2013 and provides exhibitors with an ideal platform to showcase products and services related to information technology, consumer electronics, mobile technology, lifestyle and leisure, gaming, home and office automation appliances, sports and medical equipment, security and control systems. ADES 2013 drew 35 exhibitors and close to 68,000 visitors.
DOME Exhibitions, organisers of ADES 2014, hosts consumer retail exhibitions in the emirate of Abu Dhabi to provide UAE-based businesses with visibility in the global marketplace.
News
GFH Partners Manrre REIT (CEIC) PLC and Palmon Group unveil new temperature-controlled chemical warehouse in JAFZA
GFH Partners Manrre REIT (CEIC) PLC (“Manrre” or “the Fund”), managed by GFH Partners Ltd. (“GFH Partners”), together with its development manager Palmon Group FZCO (“Palmon Group”), today announced the opening of a specialised temperature-controlled chemical warehouse in Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), further expanding the Fund’s Grade A logistics portfolio.
The inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of Mr Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director, DP World GC, alongside senior officials and dignitaries from Jebel Ali Free Zone, GFH Partners, and Palmon Group.
Purpose-built and developed by Palmon Group to meet stringent international safety and compliance standards, the new facility reflects the rising regional demand for certified chemical storage infrastructure that supports manufacturing, energy, industrial services, and third-party logistics. The warehouse is situated on a 180,000sq ft plot with a built-up area of 112,000 sq ft, divided into three temperature-controlled chambers that reach a maximum height of 13 metres. The warehouse has been designed with advanced Early Suppression Fast Response (ESFR), and in-rack sprinkler systems to ensure safety and resilience across all operations.
The facility’s layout allows storage of a diverse range of hazard-classified chemicals. One chamber is configured for UN Class 3 and 4 chemicals, a second accommodates UN Class 5 chemicals, while the third has been developed for UN Class 6, 8, 9 and non-regulated materials. The warehouse offers capacity for 17,400 pallets and includes nine loading docks and three loading bays. The office space has been intentionally limited to three percent of the total built-up area, maximising operational efficiency and warehouse utility.
Speaking on the launch, Kunal Lahori, CEO of Palmon Group and Board Member of Manrre, said: “This new facility brings together precision engineering, regulatory compliance, and long-term value creation. Specialised chemical storage requires a high degree of control and risk management, and we have developed this warehouse to meet those expectations while offering flexibility and scalability for tenants. As one of the earliest developers in Jafza, Palmon Group remains committed to supporting the UAE’s logistics and industrial growth.”
Mohamed Ali, Head of GCC at GFH Partners, said: “The opening of this warehouse marks another important milestone in the expansion of the GFH Partners Manrre REIT portfolio, particularly in mission-critical industrial and logistics assets that serve high-growth sectors. The UAE continues to see strong demand for specialised storage solutions, and this facility reinforces our strategy to develop resilient, future-ready assets that deliver long-term value for our investors.”
The logistics hub is now fully operational and is leased to Safe Logistics. The new facility is expected to play a significant role in strengthening regulated supply chains and supporting Dubai’s position as one of the region’s foremost logistics and industrial hubs.
News
Big Ticket joins DP World ILT20 Season 4 as Official Partner
Big Ticket, the largest and longest-running guaranteed raffle draw in the Middle East (known for cash prizes, dream luxury cars, gold bars and coins) has joined the DP World International League T20 Season 4 as an Official Partner.
In recent years, Big Ticket has become more than just a raffle, it has gained the reputation of being a brand built around rewarding dreams and celebrating ambition, growing into one of the region’s largest and one of the most anticipated monthly draws in the UAE.
DP World ILT20 – the 34-match cricketing extravaganza – the biggest T20 tournament in the region featuring some of the most renowned global cricket stars is currently being played at the Dubai International Stadium, Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

DP World ILT20 Head of Partnerships Ishan Chopra: “We are delighted to welcome a UAE born raffle giant like Big Ticket as an Official Partner of the DP World ILT20. Their legacy of helping dreams come true aligns perfectly with our vision of delivering unforgettable, fan-first experiences across the league. This partnership strengthens our commitment to creating moments of excitement both on and off the field, and we look forward to elevating Season 4 together. With a household name like Big Ticket on board, we are confident of unlocking even more opportunities for fans to engage, celebrate and go All In for Cricket.”
Meanwhile, DP World ILT20 match tickets across all categories are available for the remaining tournament matches. Various spectator stand tickets start at AED 20 and hospitality packages start from AED 325. Fans can also book the new Sixes Lounge experience for AED 395, which includes unlimited food and beverages. Tickets can be purchased by visiting tickets.ilt20.ae or Virgin Megastores.
News
The Maritime Standard Awards 2025 winners list showcases high levels of innovation and operational excellence across the maritime sector
The maritime sector’s leading awards event, The Maritime Standard (TMS) Awards 2025, has announced this year’s winners, honoring outstanding companies and industry leaders from across the Middle East and Indian Subcontinent. The Awards showcased achievement and innovation in 25 categories covering shipping, logistics, ship repair, offshore services, marine technology and related sectors, as well as a series of special awards for individual achievement. The prestigious event took place at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai on October 29th, attracting over 1000 senior executives, decision-makers and industry leaders, from the region, and across the globe.
Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, the event recognised organisations and individuals for setting new standards in operational excellence and leadership in the sector amid significant shifts in the industry, including decarbonisation, digitalization, and a renewed emphasis on supply chain resilience. From clean-fuel projects and AI-powered port operations to international collaborations that boost trade efficiency, the 2025 Awards showcased the industry’s progress in turning goals into tangible outcomes.
The evening was hosted by Yalda Hakim, a renowned international correspondent and documentary filmmaker, whose engaging presence added distinction to the occasion. The keynote address was delivered by Captain Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO of ADNOC Logistics and Services, who shared valuable insights on the evolving maritime landscape and the UAE’s leadership in advancing sustainable and innovative practices across the sector.
Clive Woodbridge, Editor of The Maritime Standard and Chairman of the Judging Panel, stated, “This year’s competition was exceptionally tough, and we received an unprecedented number of entries across all categories. Each finalist demonstrated remarkable achievements and operational standards over the past year, which underlines the significant advances that continue to be made in the regional maritime sector.”
A rigorous assessment process was conducted as part of the award selections, and this was supervised by an independent panel of distinguished judges that included some of the most prominent names in the maritime industry.
Trevor Pereira, Managing Director of The Maritime Standard, commented, “These Awards are not just about celebrating success, but also about encouraging excellence. This year’s event recognised innovative concepts, exciting new initiatives, and outstanding performance standards. As the region continues to expand its maritime infrastructure and digital port systems, with significant developments across the Middle East and the Indian Subcontinent, events like The Maritime Standard Awards play a key role in reinforcing its position as a global leader in shipping and maritime.”
Reaction from the individual winners on the night of October 29th was highly appreciative. Captain Mohamed Al Ali, Senior Vice President, Operations (Offshore Logistics), at ADNOC L&S, who received the Outstanding Achievement Award, added: “It was one of the greatest honours of my professional career to receive this Award. It really means a lot to me to have TMS recognise the years of dedication and hard work.”
Tony Dagher, the Founder and Managing Director of TMC Shipping Group was the recipient of the Young Person in Shipping and was similarly honoured. He said: “I have been fortunate to have had great support from many people during my journey in shipping, and to have a fantastic team around me now. This Award is as much for them as it is for me.
Over the past 12 years The Maritime Standard Awards has consolidated its standing as one of the most prominent annual gatherings within the global maritime calendar, gaining worldwide recognition for recognising excellence and promoting a more resilient and sustainable maritime future.

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