CFI Financial Group was honored to host last week a special Suhoor event in Dubai to celebrate Women’s Month and honor the incredible achievements of women in business and entrepreneurship. The exclusive event, which took place on March 13th, brought together a distinguished group of successful businesswomen, entrepreneurs, and media professionals for an inspiring evening designed to empower and connect women in the professional world.

The event featured a keynote by Carol Glynn, a renowned finance coach and chartered accountant, known for inspiring attendees to pursue sustainable careers and entrepreneurial efforts confidently. Glynn shared essential insights on empowering women to manage financial futures and advancing careers.

In addition to the keynote address, attendees were treated to a unique experience, as an illustrator designed personalized Ramadan keepsakes for each guest, adding a thoughtful and personal touch to the evening while celebrating the spirit of generosity during the holy month of Ramadan.

CFI remains committed to empowering women year-round by providing opportunities to grow, learn, and connect within their professional fields. This ongoing support helps women build sustainable careers and establish valuable networks, highlighting CFI’s dedication to fostering women’s advancement in business.

“We were thrilled to host this Suhoor event for Women’s Month and are proud to have fostered a space for learning and empowerment,” said Zarrin Baig, CFI’s Group Head of HR. “CFI is committed to financial literacy as a crucial tool for empowering women. We are grateful to our distinguished attendees for enriching our mission with their valuable insights, furthering our commitment to support women in their personal and professional growth, and building a more equitable future.”

The event was a resounding success, providing an evening of meaningful conversations, networking, and empowerment, reflecting CFI’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive community for women.

Ras Al Khaimah’s (RAK) real estate market is poised for significant growth and price appreciation, driven by surging demand and a housing shortage in the next few years, according to Metropolitan Premium Properties (MPP).

Despite the launch of new projects on Marjan Island, the market is expected to face a substantial deficit of homes by the time the Wynn Gaming resort structure is completed in late 2025.

Maxim Novikov, Head of RAK branch at Metropolitan Premium Properties, said: “Even with new projects underway on Marjan Island, RAK will face a shortage of available homes. Demand is expected to continue to outpace supply, making it an exciting market to watch in the near future. There has been strong demand, particularly for waterfront and beachfront properties in RAK with many new developments selling out quickly. Several projects are selling out during their launch phase or even before they are officially announced.”

According to MPP, while numerous new projects are anticipated to be announced this year, the current delivery timeline is creating a significant gap. The number of new units expected to be delivered in RAK this year remains relatively low. For example, in 2024, very few projects were completed, with only 318 units delivered in Marina Residence at Al Hamra and 89 units in Marbela 2. In 2025, the delivery pipeline is slightly more promising, with two projects set to be completed in Mina (formerly Mina Al Arab). These include 648 apartments and 13 lofts in Bay Residence, along with 146 apartments in Gateway 2.

Despite the additional units coming to the market, the demand is still expected to outstrip supply.

The shortage of ready units has resulted in off-plan property prices increasing on average 15-20% in 2024 and this trend is expected to continue this year as well. The highest demand is for studios and one-bedroom units in waterfront projects near the Wynn Resort.

“We are witnessing exceptionally strong demand, particularly for beachfront properties. Properties close to the Wynn Resort are seeing significant interest, especially smaller studio and one-bedroom units. At the same time, there is a noticeable demand for commercial, retail spaces, as well as villas and townhouses in prime waterfront locations. However, the supply of these types of properties remains limited,” said Mr. Novikov.

Several key factors are expected to drive demand for real estate in RAK over the next few years. The population of the emirate is projected to nearly double, reaching 650,000 residents by 2030. Additionally, the rapid progress of the Wynn Resort construction is fueling excitement and interest in the area.

Ras Al Khaimah’s Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is also attracting entrepreneurs from around the world, boosting demand for both residential and commercial properties. RAKEZ achieved record growth in 2024, welcoming 13,141 new companies, which represents a 66% increase in registrations compared to 2023. Also, the emirate’s forward-thinking approach to cryptocurrency trading and blockchain technology is another factor contributing to its appeal.

While Marjan Island continues to capture much attention, other areas in RAK are also poised for significant growth, according to MPP. Areas such as Mina, Al Hamra and RAK Central are expected to see substantial development, offering high growth potential for real estate investors.

Mr. Novikov concluded, “The real estate market in RAK is set for dynamic growth and entering an exciting phase. Investors and homebuyers alike should be prepared for rising prices and increased competition for the limited available properties.”

Who says the contract space can’t be fun? At MillerKnoll, we believe that the possibilities for facilitating connections and experiences into the workspace are limitless. Not only do playful designs energize employees, but they also promote overall wellbeing and enhance workplace culture. By incorporating vibrant and fun aesthetics, you can create an environment that not only sets a positive tone, but also boosts productivity.

Join us as we explore our top picks for transforming your office into an inspiring and dynamic environment that incorporates both work and play. 

1. Truffle Pouf by NaughtOne – A Playful Pouf with a Charming Form

The Truffle pouf brings a playful energy wherever it pops up. Intentionally organic in form, its curvaceous profile charms from all sides, while the seamless top offers a smooth, durable sit. 

Truffle’s clever one-piece upholstery creates a seamless waterfall edge that accentuates the pouf’s organic form, revealing curves on curves with the play of light, and creates surprising contrasts along the seams.

 2. Facet Cabinet by HAY – Combining visual appeal with distinct functionality

Designed by Stefan Scholten and named after faceted surfaces, the Facet Cabinet by HAY is a versatile, multifunctional storage solution that is easy to move around. It is post-consumer recycled ABS plastic made up of three compounds: acrylonitrile, butadiene and styrene that is non-toxic, fully recyclable, durable and safe to use. It features a revolving integrated door and can come on wheels, making the Facet Cabinet versatile and playful.

3. Cyclade Table by Herman Miller – Sculpted Form, playful nature    

Each of the three set coffee tables in the Cyclade family is distinctive in their varied forms, with smooth organic curves, sculptural forms, playful nature and intriguing negative space that can stand on their own or be nested together.

Embrace the perfect fusion of function and beauty with these nesting tables and invite endless play and flexibility with their varying heights, openings, and purpose.

 Arrange and rearrange, based on the needs of a particular space to elevate your workplace with organic modern design inspiration.

4. Percy by NaughtOne – A Bold, Versatile Lounge Chair  

Inspired by the continuous, curving frames of mid-century waiting room chairs, the practical yet playful Percy lounge chair is perfect for office lounge seating.

Bold design, plush cushioned upholstery comfort, and customizable finishes for any workspace, the Percy lounge chair is abundant in creativity, with a choice of 16 colours and over 100 upholstery options. With frames that can be specified to a wide range of potential combinations and adaptable designs. Percy is ideal for a plethora of modern spaces in offices, universities and hospitality environments.

5. Nerd Chair/Bar Stool by Muuto – A playfully contemporary expression  

For use as a bar stool or desk chair, Nerd brings new perspectives to Scandinavian design by combining the traditional material of wood with a simple yet eccentric design language. The seamless integration of its back and seat makes for a characterful detail alongside the curved edges of its seat.

Conclusion

Transforming your workplace, empowering people to foster a sense of community while incorporating playful elements into your office environment is not merely about aesthetics; it’s about fostering an atmosphere that encourages creativity, collaboration, and employee wellbeing. At MillerKnoll, we believe that your office should be a place where work and play coexist harmoniously. By choosing pieces like the Truffle Pouf, Cyclade Table, or the Nerd Chair, you’re not just investing in furniture; you’re investing in a culture that values innovation, productivity and connection.