News
TP-LINK to showcase NEFFOS smartphones at GITEX Shopper
TP-LINK Technologies, a leading manufacturer of SOHO and SMB networking products and wireless solutions, has announced it is at GITEX Shopper Spring Edition 2016 to showcase and promote the recently launched Neffos smartphone, which also marked the company’s entry into the mobile handset market.
TP-LINK has its own stand at this year’s show to make sure that the smartphone breakthrough with the new handset introduction will help the company to expand its business scope and complement the existing portfolio of networking, wireless products and accessories.
According to the company which designs and supplies a range of networking products to distributors, resellers and retailers in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) including Routers, Range Extenders, 4G and 3G Mobile WiFi, ADSL, Switches, IP Cameras, Powerline Adapters, Print Servers, Media Converters and Network Adapters, the latest smartphone will help TP-LINK to set up a link with smart devices through standard protocol to create an ideal digital ecosystem for end user customers in the region.
Lucas Jiang, country manager, TP-LINK Middle East and Africa (MEA), said the company has decided to participate at GITEX Shopper this year with its own stand in addition to the support it’s providing its retail partners, to highlight the Neffos smartphone range directly to visitors that will come to the booth.
Jiang said TP-LINK’s confidence to enter the smartphone market is derived from the consistent and steady growth of its WLAN business and a deep insight to meet end user needs with a compelling mobile device. “The investment we are making into the smartphone business is long-term and a global one,” he declared.
Jiang added that the Neffos smartphone portfolio aims to strike a perfect balance between smart technology and stylish design, to create a unique digital experience by establishing a seamless connection between people and devices.
“The moniker Neffos derives from the Greek word ‘nephos’, which means ‘cloud’,” Jiang explained. “We picked this name because it also represents our vision of venturing into the smartphone business to establish a seamless connection between people and devices through the cloud.”
He pointed out that TP-LINK through the Neffos brand is fully committed to developing its products, services and consumer relations through extensive research and development (R&D) and acting on customer feedback. “We will implement and adhere to strict quality assurance practices and effective outreach initiatives by consistently focusing on the needs of end users to create superior products of the highest quality,” Jiang stated.
He said throughout GITEX Shopper this year, the company will be focusing on promoting activities that reinforce the Neffos brand building, visibility and product awareness across the entire range. “We have prepared a lot of fun activities and competitions for visitors that will come to our stand,” he said. “We want to ensure the Neffos message is received by our retail partners as well as consumers during the show and beyond.”
According to TP-LINK, the Neffos range aims to strike a balance between smart technology and fashionable design. The company said by leveraging cutting-edge technology, it is cultivating a harmonious relationship with people to power their everyday lives.
“For us, the launch of Neffos in the Middle East is appreciation of not only the aesthetic aspects of the design that make up a remarkable device, but a continued celebration of all the people that use the smartphone,” he added. “We want consumers to harness the ability to capture the essence of life in a moment, and save the beauty of it all for a lifetime.”
Jiang reiterated that the Neffos handset is competitively priced to meet the needs of an enthusiastic smartphone aficionado. “We are also looking forward to hearing feedback from our partners and most importantly the consumers whom we are targeting with this product,” he said.
Hospitality
Lavoya Restaurant Group expands its culinary portfolio in the GCC through the acquisition of Em Sherif Deli in UAE
Lavoya Restaurant Group has announced its acquisition of Em Sherif Deli franchise in the GCC, marking a significant step in the group’s strategic expansion within the culinary landscape. The partnership emphasizes Lavoya’s commitment to diversifying its portfolio and enhancing its presence in casual dining sector.
Em Sherif Deli, known for its authentic Mediterranean flavors and innovative deli offerings, has quickly gained recognition since its launch. With its flagship location in downtown Beirut, Em Sherif Deli respresents the rich culinary heritage of Lebanon while appealing to a modern audience.
Walid Hajj, Co-Founder and CEO of Lavoya, said: “This move represents a significant milestone for Lavoya. By integrating Em Sherif Deli into our portfolio, we are not only expanding our culinary offerings, but also reinforcing our dedication to fostering exceptional dining experiences. Em Sherif Deli’s commitment to quality and authenticity aligns perfectly with our vision for growth.”
Dani Chaccour, CEO of Em Sherif, said: “We are excited to be working with Lavoya to develop Em Sherif Deli in a market that we strongly believe in and have great plans for. Lavoya’s track record will in no doubt help us grow the footprint of this young, hip and new age brand. We look forward to our launch in the UAE soon”
As part of this collaboration, Lavoya plans to open multiple new locations for Em Sherif Deli in key locations across the UAE, further solidifying its position as a leader in the culinary sector. This move aligns with the UAE’s vision, which aims to promote economic diversification, grow the tourism and hospitality sectors, and solidify the country’s reputation as a premier dining destination.
Financial
Dubai Islamic Bank Celebrates Fifth Cohort of High Potential Programme, Paving the Way for Future Leadership
Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) celebrated a notable milestone with the successful graduation of the 5th batch of high potential employees in DIB’s High Potential Employee Development Programme (HIPO).
In the bank’s ongoing endeavour to hone talent within the organisation and provide them with a platform to excel individually as well contribute in fulfilling the bank’s ambitious growth opportunities, the HIPO programme began in 2015 and has already delivered an army of nearly 150 professionals who are not just excelling in the workforce but leading by example.
The 5th batch of HIPO graduates were felicitated by the Group CEO, Dr. Adnan Chilwan, as well as other executives from the senior leadership team of the organisation.
The HIPO programme is an 18-month intensive leadership training schedule that includes a comprehensive suite of assessments, specialised training, mentorship, and coaching. Developed in partnership with globally recognised institutions, HIPO equips participants to excel in their roles and drive the bank’s strategic objectives.
To ensure the momentum is maintained, DIB has begun rolling out nominations for the next cohort for the next programme that is scheduled to commence in Q4 2024.
Commenting on the success and effectiveness of the journey undertaken so far, Dr. Adnan Chilwan, Group Chief Executive Officer of DIB, said, “The High Potential Programme is central to our inclusive talent development approach within the organisation, designed to prepare the next wave of leaders in the banking and financial sector. This initiative reflects our dedication to fostering outstanding talent by empowering individuals who possess the inherent traits with advanced skill sets ensuring both professional and personal elevation as well as quality contribution to further the organisation’s strategic goals. Our ambition is to unleash these individuals into the financial world so that they support and positively impact the larger economic objectives of the UAE. I extend my warmest congratulations to all our graduates and look forward to their future contributions to our collective ambitions. We also extend our profound thanks to all our partners for their enduring commitment and involvement in our training endeavours, which are crucial in systematically cultivating quality professionals within our organisation.”
As DIB steadfastly invests in its workforce, the bank upholds its position of leadership in the banking sector as an Employer of Choice, committed to promoting professional development and fostering inclusivity at every level of the organisation including the vital Emiratisation Agenda.
Hospitality
Dubai Airports to grow its solar footprint to cut its carbon footprint
In the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Chairman of Dubai Airports,and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, and His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Managing Director and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), Dubai Airports announced a landmark collaboration with Etihad Clean Energy Development Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of DEWA, to launch the world’s largest rooftop solar panel installation project at an airport.
To solidify this ambitious initiative, Dubai Airports and Etihad Energy Services Company formalised an agreement during the prestigious World Green Economy Summit organised by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, and the World Green Economy Organization. The event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, took place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 2 to 3 October 2024.
The agreement was signed by Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports and Dr. Waleed Alnuaimi, CEO of Etihad ESCO.
His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer said: “This initiative aligns with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum vision to establish Dubai as one of the most sustainable cities in the world. While our roadmap outlines clear targets of achieving 25% of the energy mix from clean energy sources by 2030, and 100% by 2050, we are proactively accelerating our efforts. We anticipate surpassing these goals, potentially reaching 27% clean energy capacity as early as 2030, which would enable us to achieve our 2050 vision ahead of schedule. Undoubtedly, innovation and cutting-edge technologies are instrumental in expediting our progress towards a greener future.
This phased project of total 39MWp of clean energy, which will be fully operational by 2026, involves the installation of 62,904 solar panels across Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) airports, set to generate 60,346MWh annually. It marks a significant stride toward decarbonising airport operations.
The solar panels, which will span passenger terminals and concourses across both airports, are expected to offset 23,000 tonnes of CO2 annually — equivalent to taking 5,000 cars off the road or powering 3,000 homes for a year. The energy generated will meet 6.5% of DXB’s power needs and 20% of DWC’s, reinforcing Dubai Airports’ long-term vision for cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable operations.
Sharing his insights on the initiative, Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports said, “Airports are significant energy consumers, but with that comes tremendous opportunity and responsibility to drive real change. For us, this is not just about installing solar panels; it’s about embedding sustainability into the core of everything we do. Every kilowatt we generate from renewable sources brings us closer to shrinking our carbon footprint and future-proofing our operations. This is about setting the standard and leading the way for what a truly sustainable airport can achieve.”
Dr. Waleed Alnuaimi, CEO of Etihad ESCO, remarked, “Our longstanding partnership with Dubai Airports plays a pivotal role in our strategy to accelerate Dubai’s sustainability agenda. By broadening the solar footprint and implementing transformative initiatives like Shams Dubai, we are not only reducing energy demand but also driving the adoption of sustainable energy solutions across the emirate. This project, and others like it, demonstrates our commitment to building an integrated ecosystem that aligns with Dubai’s vision for a greener, more energy-efficient future.”
This solar initiative complements a series of ongoing environmental sustainability efforts by Dubai Airports, from strategic partnerships in the aviation sector to collaborative efforts within the oneDXB community, which includes airlines, service providers, and regulatory authorities managing the airport’s critical touchpoints. Whether it’s retrofitting hundreds of thousands of LED lights, optimising cooling systems, switching to biodiesel-powered ground vehicles, or cutting food waste to landfill, Dubai Airports is committed to making measurable, impactful changes — one step at a time.
The project builds on the successful installation of solar panels at DXB’s Terminal 2 and Concourse D, where solar power is already playing a vital role in reducing energy consumption and lowering emissions. While ambition and innovation drive progress, the key to achieving sustainable transformation lies in collaboration, foresight, and consistent action. Dubai Airports is focused on ensuring these values guide every initiative, aligning with Dubai’s and the UAE’s broader environmental objectives to create a better tomorrow, together.
-
Tech News3 months ago
Denodo Bolsters Executive Team by Hiring Christophe Culine as its Chief Revenue Officer
-
Tech Interviews7 months ago
Navigating the Cybersecurity Landscape in Hybrid Work Environments
-
Tech News7 months ago
Brighton College Abu Dhabi and Brighton College Al Ain Donate 954 IT Devices in Support of ‘Donate Your Own Device’ Campaign
-
Features5 months ago
Security in the Cloud Age: Combating Risks with Hybrid Cloud Solutions
-
Tech Features4 months ago
The Middle East to Lead with Next-generation Mission Critical Communication Advancement
-
Automotive8 months ago
Al-Futtaim Automotive Builds On 23-Year Legacy of Trust & Leadership in UAE’s Pre-Owned Car Market to Sell Over 25,000 Used Vehicles in 2023
-
Tech News10 months ago
Senet enters MENA’s Competitive Gaming Scene with ‘skill-to-earn’ Platform
-
Tech News9 months ago
Google Appoints Ziad Jammal as Google Cloud Country Manager in the United Arab Emirates