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Information Security solutions vendor Paladion is betting big on the Middle East, with major investments in the region that has seen more than its fair share of online threats. CEO Rajat Mohanty and Firosh Ummer, Managing Director, MEA, discuss this regional strategy
There’s a lot more awareness and concern today in the Middle East of online threats. What is driving this renewed vigilance?
RM: The security situation has changed considerably in the Middle East in recent years and the conversation around online security has shifted sharply. This is primarily driven by a few factors chief among them a rise in the number of attacks on targets in the Middle East coming courtesy of state actors as well as organized hacking groups. There have also been a lot of threats targeting financial transactions and institutions. Subsequently, there has also been a lot more awareness and education on the threat landscape and the vulnerabilities that exist. A lot of this awareness is driven by vendors like Paladion with the message targeted not just at CIOs, but at business owners as well.
FU: In the last few years, there have been several hacking incidents in the region, some politically motivated and targeting critical infrastructure like oil & gas. There have also been several attacks on ME financial institutions. The region is currently at the centre of global attention as a result of the awarding of Expo 2020 to Dubai as well as football World Cup in Qatar. That interest however also tends to attract unwanted attention from hackers. In addition, an increasing number of people are simply getting online whether to access public or private resources online. There are risks associated with that-now you have application issues, infrastructure protection concerns etc. These are the priorities for a lot of organizations here.
How does Paladion handle these threats that is different from the norm
RM: Our focus is to help companies build internal capabilities to defend themselves. We do not simply sell tools to be installed by organizations and then leave them to fend for themselves. That will not build the capability organizations need to effectively defend themselves. This type of capability comes when you know how to use those tools and the process around it, then having the requisite people skills for it and finally having in place a long term programme to continuously harness those resources. Thus, as a company, we provide the managed security solution which we either build for the customer or offer it remotely via the cloud. At the end of the day, wherever there’s a problem organizations want to solve, our objective is to put together a holistic way to solve the problem. We work with multiple parties to bring the right technology, but our focus remains to help the customer get the capability to defend against threats. Whether organizations have been attacked or not, they need to have the capability to prevent any kind of attack.
Discuss how you offer your managed security solution and how this is a better delivery model for Paladion solutions
FU: We want to be recognized as a one-stop-shop for Managed Security services. We make sure that our customers’ security preparedness is intact to protect them from known and emerging threats. Paladion Managed Security offering is delivered in co-source and in-source models. It is delivered with a mix of both the onsite and off-site teams that leverage existing investment in security technologies at the customer premises. For management of risks, Paladion brings in its repository of risk and controls, security tools and automated processes. Managed Security services are offered in a modular manner with the following components-Managed Governance, Risk and Compliance; Managed Security Operation Centre; Managed Testing and Assurance and; Managed Identity and Access.
RM: We are also in the process of launching a cloud product for our managed security for which we will be going primarily through our reseller partners. For large enterprises, we go with one-to-one deals.
Discuss Paladion’s market strategy for the MEA region and the importance of the region to company’s bottom-line
RM: The Middle East is one of the most potential markets in the world right now. We are thus making a lot of investments here. We seek to set-up a Security Operations Centre here in Dubai. Like aforementioned, we are setting up the cloud operations where we will be working with resellers and value added service providers in the region. We are also increasing our people here having doubled the workforce here in the Middle East in the last year. The industry is expected to grow at between 20-23% YoY while Paladion as a company has set up aggressive targets for us by increasing our investments. We want to see ourselves growing much more than the market average.
FU: Paladion’s strategy in the Middle East is to consolidate more of the existing markets like UAE, Saudi and Qatar by bringing more capabilities like the local monitoring centre we are in the process of setting up. The second front is to expand into the African market. We already have ongoing projects in Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa. So the strategy moving forward is to consolidate where we are stronger, bring more capabilities and take a market leadership position at the same time. We will work on the partnership model in new markets to learn about markets before we venture directly into these markets.
Discuss future offerings from Paladion and expected impact in the market
RM: Apart from the Cloud-managed security, we are implementing security intelligence solutions using machine learning to understand how security performs in real time. For a typical organization that has set up multiple security products in their environment that are producing a lot of data, it’s not feasible to have teams of people sitting and analysing the same. The solution is having machines that can do the analysing for them. So we are bringing a solution that is based on machine-learning to understand security and provide action-level intelligence.
News
Deep Dive Dubai Launches Sunken City Walk, a Cinematic Underwater Experience that Makes Adventure Just a Step Away

Deep Dive Dubai has unveiled its newest attraction for experience seekers with the launch of Sunken City Walk. The guided underwater activity invites guests to step into a cinematic cityscape filled with surreal details. From an underwater swing and motorbike to a café table that looks straight out of a movie scene, this is Dubai’s latest must-try attraction.

The hour-long journey begins with a full briefing and safety overview, followed by guests changing into wetsuits and equipment provided on-site. They then join trained instructors for a 20-minute guided underwater walk through the Sunken City—an accessible, certification-free experience that requires no swimming skills, making it ideal for guests aged 10 and above. Currently offered at an introductory price of AED 600, with an optional 30-second keepsake video for AED 200, the experience is currently available in four daily slots at 11 AM, 12 PM, 2pm, and 3pm.
Jarrod Jablonski, Director, Deep Dive Dubai, said that “With Sunken City Walk, we’re continuing to shape Dubai’s reputation as a city of unforgettable experiences. It’s a unique attraction that reflects Dubai’s spirit, where visitors can discover adventure in ways they never thought possible.”
The launch reflects a global trend that travellers are choosing experiences over possessions. Supporting this, Shamal’s Experience Economy Report stated that 75% of UAE residents are more willing to spend on experiences, with 80% allocating a dedicated monthly budget. The launch also aligns with Dubai’s commitment to strengthening its global tourism appeal. According to Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the city welcomed 9.88 million international visitors in the first half of 2025, a six percent increase year-on-year, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s leading lifestyle and tourism hubs. Sunken City Walk at Deep Dive Dubai adds a new way for visitors to experience the city’s spirit of reinvention, where adventure is always just a step away.
While Sunken City Walk offers a first taste of underwater adventure, guests can plunge into the incredible world of diving at Deep Dive Dubai, choosing from experiences such as scuba diving, freediving, and specialised diving courses.
News
Free Mineral Water for All: UAE Startup to Launch Groundbreaking Public Hydration Initiative

Staying hydrated just got easier, and greener, thanks to Ourwatr, that’s launching a nationwide free mineral water programme starting June 2025. It’s a first in the region: clean, refreshing mineral water made freely available across the country, delivered through a unique model that blends sustainability, community care, and social impact.
From metro stations and shopping malls to parks and government offices, thousands of chilled bottles of mineral water, sourced locally from Dibba, Fujairah, will soon be within everyone’s reach, every day. Ourwatr’s mission is simple: hydration is a right, not a privilege.
“At Ourwatr, we believe that drinking water should be accessible to all,” says Abhinav Murali, Co-founder.
“That’s why we’re giving away premium mineral water for free, and every bottle supports communities in need. It’s hydration with heart, proudly made right here in the UAE.”
Stamp of UAE quality
All Ourwatr bottles carry the prestigious EQM (Emirates Quality Mark) certification, guaranteeing they meet strict UAE national and international quality standards. When you grab a bottle, you’re assured of top-quality water, safe, pure, refreshing and approved by the country’s standardisation authority.
Mission in a bottle
With temperatures rising across the UAE, especially during summer, access to clean drinking water is more important than ever, for workers, families, children, and the elderly alike.

“In our desert climate, hydration isn’t just healthy; it’s life-saving,” adds co-founder Bharath Mohan.
“Each bottle we provide is a small act of kindness toward our community.”
Ourwatr is more than just a startup, it’s a mission in a bottle. Launched by three young, UAE-based entrepreneurs, the idea was sparked by a simple but powerful observation: access to free, convenient hydration isn’t always a given.
Wanting to change that, the trio built a business with heart at its core. The team is also in talks with various UAE charitable organisations and government agencies to expand its reach and impact. For every bottle distributed, a portion will be donated to local charities, turning everyday hydration into a meaningful act of giving.
A Model Built on Purpose and Sustainability
Ourwatr isn’t just about water, it’s about doing good. Instead of selling to consumers, the company partners with brands and organisations who cover the production and distribution costs. In return, sponsors co-brand the bottles, using them as a platform to share positive messages and shared values, while making a real difference.
“Sustainability isn’t just about less waste, it’s about creating lasting, meaningful change,” explains Sharat Nair, Co-founder.
The bottles are crafted from recyclable materials, aligning with the UAE’s zero-waste goals and green agenda.
Backing UAE Vision 2030
Ourwatr’s initiative supports the UAE’s Vision 2030 goals around health, sustainability, and quality of life. The startup is already collaborating with local authorities to expand water access and reach as many people as possible.
More than just water, Ourwatr is delivering hope, equality, and care, one bottle at a time.
Home Integrator
Ardee Developments Announces Sales Launch for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island

Ardee Developments has announced the launch of sales for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island, its highly anticipated branded residential offering in partnership with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.
Official sales will commence on 1 June 2025 with expression of interest starting 15 May 2025, marking a major milestone in the evolution of Ardee Al Marjan Island, the company’s flagship, multi-billion-dirham development set to redefine coastal living in Ras Al Khaimah.
Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island will comprise 523 upscale residences — including apartments, townhouses, and sea villas — ranging from one to six bedrooms and spanning 86 m² to over 300 m². Every home is thoughtfully designed to embody refined beachfront living, with uninterrupted sea views and elegant interiors that reflect timeless sophistication.
Bringing together the prestige of the Fairmont brand with the ease of resort-style living, residents will enjoy exclusive access to a private beach, the Fairmont Fit Fitness Centre and Studio, family & kids pool, adults sky pool & terrace & bar, dedicated boardroom and private dining room, resident’s owners lounge as well as wellness facilities including treatment rooms, screening room, games room, kids club and seamless connectivity to the adjacent Fairmont resort.
Further enriching the offering is a tailored suite of à la carte services. From in-home catering and private chef experiences to childcare, dog walking, housekeeping, personal concierge support, and a home maintenance program while residents are away, every element is designed to simplify and enhance everyday living. In addition, residents will enjoy exclusive access to the Accor Owner Benefits Program. This includes Diamond status in the Accor Live Limitless (ALL) programme, the ability to gift Gold status to family and friends, and VIP privileges at over 5,700 hotels and resorts around the world.
With prices starting from AED 2.49 Million, Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island offers an exclusive opportunity for discerning buyers seeking long-term value, effortless luxury, and a lifestyle defined by exceptional quality in one of the region’s most iconic coastal destinations.
Beyond the residences, guests were given an exclusive look at the next phase of the Ardee Al Marjan Island masterplan. The development is progressing into a fully integrated coastal destination that blends residences, hospitality, leisure, retail, and entertainment on an unprecedented scale.
Key components of the masterplan include branded and serviced residences, private villas, townhouses, a flagship luxury hotel, and a vibrant retail and F&B promenade. The destination will also feature a variety of curated lifestyle offerings — from wellness hubs and gaming lounges to family entertainment zones and waterfront experiences — all designed to create a future-ready, immersive community.
Prioritizing walkability, nature access, and sea connectivity, the project will boast expansive green spaces, direct beach access, and panoramic views, setting a new standard for contemporary island living in Ras Al Khaimah.
Vishal Mehta, CEO of Ardee Developments, added: “As we prepare to open sales of Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island this June, we are proud to invite buyers into a community that reflects excellence at every level. In partnership with Al Marjan Island, Fairmont Hotels, and Christie’s International Real Estate, we are shaping a new era of luxury coastal living in Ras Al Khaimah — one defined by world-class design, hospitality, and lifestyle, brought together in a truly integrated destination.”
To support global sales efforts, Ardee Developments has appointed Christie’s International Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah as the exclusive master agency. Christie’s will lead GCC and international outreach and client servicing, ensuring a seamless buyer journey.
“This is a vibrant and integrated coastal lifestyle community that combines natural beauty, unparalleled hospitality and leisure not seen in the area before,” said Jackie Johns and Dinesh Chhatwani, Managing Partners at Christie’s International Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah. “Ras Al Khaimah’s momentum as a global hospitality and investment hub, and its rapidly growing real estate market, makes it the ideal launchpad for Ardee Developments to execute its grand vision.”
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