News
Cloud + Robotics as a Service – The Ultimate Business Game Changer
PROVEN Robotics’ Mohammed Aldousari, Regional Robotics Lead, explains the benefits of service robots and how cloud computing is enabling the growth of robotics as a service in the region
In the post-pandemic era and due to the growing trend of digitalization, companies across sectors are expected to be agile and responsive with their processes and customer service. In addition, companies must be efficient and sustainable, to remain competitive and relevant in the market. All of this points to one thing – companies need cutting edge automated solutions that are dependable and enable their business aspirations, as well as diverse customer requirements.
One potential avenue businesses have for automating operations, boosting efficiency, and reducing costs is to take advantage of robotics. By deploying advanced machinery/robotics, businesses can boost their productivity and better manage operations, whenever human skills are limited or unavailable at certain times, are too costly or there are potential health risks.
Modern service robots are intelligent and capable of accomplishing well defined, repetitive manual tasks inside homes, commercial establishments, large enterprises, and even massive master-planned communities. Due to this, service robots are increasingly being relied on for a variety of applications including cleaning; delivery; entertainment; hospitality; inspection; quality control; sanitization, and security across healthcare, retail, and logistics hubs, amongst others.
That said, while manufacturers design clock and robots to be collaborative, domestic, educational etc., they are rarely relied on around the clock, and rolling them out is capital-heavy. The latter means it could be several months or even years before a business could expect to see a return on its investment, if the company chose to buy the machine outright, as is the case with typical robotics implementations. Given the already significant pressures that many businesses face, especially post-pandemic, this has been a major roadblock for firms considering robots.
In addition, robots must be programmed with several crucial parameters and the tasks that they must carry out on a day-to-day basis. This mix of issues has unfortunately limited the ramp-up of robotics within the region, and even across the globe.
A New Way Forward
Key service providers like PROVEN Robotics in the GCC have found a solution to the challenge through cloud computing and robotics as a service (RaaS). As per Markets and Markets, the RaaS market in 2023 is valued at US $1.8 billion, with a forecast to grow to $4.0 billion by 2028.
RaaS is an ideal and flexible option for small and medium enterprises which are considering robotics but lacks the internal resources and in-house expertise to operate and maintain robotics solutions. By leveraging a cloud-based subscription service and renting robotic equipment, RaaS enables businesses to enjoy the benefits of robotic process automation, without needing to purchase equipment outright or worry about maintenance issues.
Another benefit of RaaS is that businesses have the power to quickly and easily scale up or down their deployments in response to customer- and market demands. Simply put, RaaS requires far less start-up capital and offers more predictable cost structures in the long term. Thanks to the affordability, flexibility, and scalability that RaaS brings to the table, it is increasingly piquing the interest of small- and medium-sized businesses keen on robotics and automation.
Due to globalization, the price of hardware has decreased to some degree, and it is now possible for companies to locate and sign-up for robust cloud computing systems that allow the inclusion of robots as a variable cost service. And since many businesses already rely on software as a service (SaaS), the adoption of RaaS won’t require a sea change in business policy and culture.
Many businesses across multiple sectors and industries are now already benefitting from RaaS. And since the barriers to entry are limited, more and more firms are experimenting with robotics solutions, as they seek to find a competitive edge.
From a business standpoint, companies adopting RaaS can expect an easy selection of the type of service; shorter implementation time and projects kick-offs; easy selection of the type of robot; easy selection of the number of hours on-site versus the cost; shared setup model for a robot thereby reducing the professional skills cost, and on-demand services that can be scaled up or down based on seasonal and operational demand.
There has been plenty of dialogue around the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), and RaaS can be considered an extension of that concept, as it encompasses intelligent devices with computing capacity. RaaS can also be considered a flexible and powerful financial model that enables companies to purchase and enjoy the benefits of physical service robots.
Through a RaaS purchase contract, the business in question is paying for the rental and usage of a physical device through an online subscription service. That said, RaaS is different from a typical lease contract because the regional service provider remains the owner of the robot, and carries the machine as an asset on its books.
Taking all this into account, it’s fair to say that the RaaS model will see regional service providers and small- and medium-sized businesses work together on a path of mutual benefit and ROI. PROVEN Robotics is eager to usher in an era of robotics adoption in the Middle East, through solutions that are personalized, strategically designed, and will ultimately aid a business and its employees to thrive. Through on-site assistance and training across PROVEN Robotics’ portfolio of advanced solutions, businesses can expect sustained productivity and growth.
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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