News
Western European Tablet Market Close to Flat: IDC
Tablet shipments to Western European countries in 2015Q3 totaled 8.7 million units, down by only 1% from the same quarter last year, according to figures published by International Data Corporation (IDC). This is a clear signal of stabilization following the previous quarter result; however, product mix developments show a shift of vendors towards detachable devices.
With vendors of detachable tablets doubled in number from 2014Q3, and thanks to a broader offer of devices with wide-ranging specs catering for the diverse needs of consumers, professionals, and businesses, shipments of detachable devices broke the one million unit mark in 2015Q3 to account for almost 14% of the Western European overall market.
“In the context of struggling sales of consumer slate tablets and in view of the fast-rising demand for devices with a detachable keyboard observed over the past few quarters, several industry players have adjusted their product portfolios to include the detachable form factor,” said Marta Fiorentini, senior research analyst, IDC EMEA Personal Computing. “The home segment in particular benefitted from this supply boost as most of the new products introduced this quarter targeted consumers to attract back to school demand but also in preparation for the holiday season.”
Despite the remarkable growth of detachables, the overall consumer segment declined by 5% as demand for the slate form factor contracted by 11% YoY due to an absence of compelling reasons to renew existing devices with the same form factor as well as the dwindling share of first time buyers.
Although the bulk of devices destined for the Christmas market are expected in the last quarter of the year, shipments in Q3 already showed some signs of seasonality with the increase, especially among local vendors, of models aimed at children, as well as the return of Amazon into the Top 10 vendor ranking as the vendor refreshed its Kindle Fire series.
“Lukewarm acceptance for their previous Fire HDX, mainly due to a very ambitious price point, led the ecommerce giant to redefine the strategy for their own brand devices,” said Daniel Goncalves, research analyst, IDC EMEA Personal Computing. “The new Fire tablets are positioned at the entry level and together with an aggressive marketing proposition fuel the already fierce competition in the below €100 segment.”
Commercial tablets experienced solid growth (+24% YoY) driven by expanding adoption across European companies as well seasonal education deployments. While growth in the slate segment remained in the high single-digit territory as this form factor seems to be more popular for vertical applications and specific usage scenarios supported by ad-hoc software, detachables increased by 74% YoY. Their total volume, however, remains a small share of all commercial computing devices shipped in Q3 as enterprises evaluate their hardware strategies in light of new products expected in the market in the coming quarters which integrate Windows 10 and Intel’s new silicon.
The arrival in Europe of new designs based on Windows 10 and the sixth generation of Intel CPUs should support shipment volume in the coming quarters as IT departments focus their purchasing decisions on increased security features, application costs (Windows Universal Apps reducing the burden) and device and applications management across all of their employees’ devices.
In terms of vendor performance Samsung and Apple continued to lead the market. The Korean vendor grew slightly (0.5% YoY) thanks to the introduction of new models, the high-end Galaxy Tab S2 and the affordable Galaxy Tab E, confirming its commitment to target all market segments. In expectation of new models in Q4, Apple suffered further from slow replacement rates while the average price paid for its devices increased.
Lenovo climbed to third place as the vendor continues to execute on its commitment to become market leader and leverages the success of its YOGA line while preparing for the introduction of YOGA Tab 3 Pro. Asus regained the lead of the detachable segment, but overall shipments recorded a severe contraction and the vendor slipped to fourth place.
Huawei entered the Top 5 ranking for the first time as the Chinese vendor strengthens its presence in the telco segment with connected devices.
Western Europe Tablets: Vendor trends
2015Q3 (Calendar Year) (000 Units)
Vendor | Unit Shipments 14Q3 | Unit Shipments 15Q3 | Unit % Share 14Q3 | Unit % Share 15Q3 | Unit Growth 14Q3 vs 15Q3 |
Samsung | 2,094 | 2,105 | 23.6% | 24.0% | 0.5% |
Apple | 2,247 | 1,961 | 25.3% | 22.3% | -12.7% |
Lenovo | 498 | 620 | 5.6% | 7.1% | 24.5% |
ASUS | 759 | 457 | 8.6% | 5.2% | -39.8% |
Huawei | 186 | 295 | 2.1% | 3.4% | 58.6% |
Others | 3,090 | 3,347 | 34.8% | 38.1% | 8.3% |
Total | 8,874 | 8,785 | 100.0% | 100.0% | -1.0% |
Table Notes:
- Tablets include slate and detachable tablets. According to IDC’s Taxonomy, a detachable tablet – previously referred by IDC as 2-in-1 – is designed to function as a standalone slate/tablet as well as a clamshell device through the addition of a physical detachable keyboard, specifically designed for the given tablet.
IDC’s Quarterly Tablet Tracker provides unmatched market coverage and forecasts for the entire device space, covering PCs, tablets, and smartphones in more than 80 countries — providing fast, essential, and comprehensive market information across the entire connected device market.
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.”
Home Integrator
MERED Unveils Strategic Vision for Saudi Arabia at Saudi Giga Projects 2025

MERED outlined its long-term investment plans and strategic vision for Saudi Arabia at Saudi Giga Projects 2025 in Riyadh. The event, a key platform aligned with Vision 2030, brought together government bodies, giga project leaders, and private sector executives to discuss development, contracting, and talent-building opportunities within the Kingdom’s fast-growing construction and real estate sectors. As part of MERED’s participation, CEO Michael Belton joined a fireside chat where he shared insights into the company’s market entry approach and growth plans for the Saudi market.
“The Kingdom’s rapid urban and infrastructure growth is reshaping residential demand and creating new opportunities for long-term development,” said Michael Belton, CEO of MERED. “Vision 2030 and ongoing economic diversification are driving strong demand across residential, retail, commercial, and hospitality sectors, supported by investor-friendly reforms. In major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, we’re seeing increased interest in premium and luxury living, as well as growing demand for Class A office spaces that reflect the ambitions of a modern business environment. MERED is well-positioned to meet these changing market needs through high-quality, innovative developments that offer lasting value.”
Yazan Al-Khalidi, Chief Commercial Director at MERED, joined a panel alongside leading developers, consultants, and contractors to discuss workforce capabilities and the skills required to deliver Saudi Arabia’s giga projects efficiently and at scale. The Kingdom’s real estate sector is projected to contribute 10% to GDP by 2030, while non-oil economic activity now accounts for over 50% of national GDP. Knight Frank’s Saudi Report 2025 reveals that 93% of high-income Saudi nationals are actively seeking to buy property, reinforcing the country’s ambition to build a competitive luxury real estate market.
Alongside its growth plans in Saudi Arabia, MERED is supporting the development of future architectural talent in line with the region’s broader goal of equipping young people with in-demand skills. As part of this effort, the company is sponsoring a select group of students to attend the Pininfarina Architecture Summer School in Turin this July, through its partnership with the prestigious Pininfarina Academy, founded by the renowned Italian design house. The program offers hands-on training and exposure to international design practices, giving participants valuable experience they can apply to architectural projects across the region.
MERED’s participation underscores its broader commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s real estate ambitions through innovation, sustainability, and knowledge transfer. With a pipeline of projects already launched in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including the 290-meter ICONIC Residences designed by Pininfarina, the brand is well-positioned to introduce high-end, future-ready developments to the Saudi market.
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