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Elon Musk Champions AI Regulation in California: Is that Good, Bad or Ugly?

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AI

In a significant development for the AI sector, Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and owner of the social media platform X, recently voiced his support for California’s proposed SB 1047 bill. This bill aims to enforce stricter regulations on advanced AI models, particularly focusing on safety testing conducted by tech companies and AI developers. Musk’s endorsement highlights a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue about AI regulation, given his previously more skeptical stance on such measures.

California’s legislative session has been marked by a flurry of AI-related proposals, with 65 bills introduced, many of which have already been shelved. Among these, AB 3211, which calls for the labeling of AI-generated content, has garnered backing from tech giants like Microsoft and OpenAI. This bill seeks to address the growing concerns about the impact of AI-generated content, from harmless memes to potentially harmful deepfakes influencing political landscapes, especially as several countries prepare for elections this year.

Andreas Hassellof, CEO of Ombori, a company with a strong presence in UAE and at the forefront of responsible AI development, shares his perspective on this evolving situation. “Elon Musk’s recent endorsement of California’s SB 1047 has sparked a crucial conversation within the tech community. I believe this debate represents a critical juncture in the evolution of AI technology and policy,” Hassellof comments.

He notes the surprise within the industry at Musk’s shift in stance on AI regulation. “Musk’s support for this bill underscores the complexity of the issues we face as we push the boundaries of AI capabilities,” Hassellof adds. While his company supports the need for regulation to ensure AI is developed and deployed safely, Hassellof expresses concerns about the bill’s approach, particularly its potential limitations on compute capacity. “While the intention behind SB 1047 is understandable, we worry that restricting compute power could inadvertently stifle innovation without effectively addressing the core safety concerns.”

Hassellof emphasizes the importance of open-source development in AI. “The collaborative nature of open-source development has been a cornerstone of AI innovation. Many ventures, including potentially Musk’s own xAI, have thrived in this ecosystem. We must be cautious not to implement regulations that could hinder this vital aspect of AI development.”

He also highlights the global perspective on AI regulation, noting that regions like the UAE, with a strong support for innovation, could emerge as new hubs for AI development if they adopt a more balanced regulatory approach. “Rather than imposing broad restrictions, we advocate for targeted regulations that address specific high-risk applications of AI while still promoting innovation and collaboration,” Hassellof suggests.

As the AI sector continues to advance, Hassellof calls for a nuanced approach to governance. “The future of AI is too important to be decided by hasty legislation or blanket solutions. We must work together—policymakers, industry leaders, and the tech community—to create regulations that protect against genuine risks without sacrificing our innovative edge or the spirit of open-source collaboration that has driven so much progress.”

Hassellof reaffirms the company’s commitment to responsible AI development and stresses the need for ongoing dialogue to shape a future where AI benefits everyone. “We believe that open dialogue and collaboration are key to crafting regulations that ensure AI’s potential is realized responsibly,” he concludes.

As the debate over AI regulation continues, it’s clear that finding a balance between safety and innovation is paramount. The growing support for regulatory measures like SB 1047 reflects a recognition of the need to address potential risks associated with advanced AI technologies. However, the challenge lies in crafting regulations that are both effective in mitigating risks and conducive to fostering innovation.

As we move forward, the question remains: How can policymakers design AI regulations that safeguard against genuine threats while preserving the open and collaborative environment that has driven so much progress in the field? The answer will likely involve a thoughtful dialogue between regulators, industry leaders, and the tech community. Only by working together can we ensure that AI’s development is guided by principles that protect society without stifling the innovative spirit that has propelled the industry to new heights.

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Bosch and Juffali Celebrate 60 Years of Collaboration

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Bosch and Juffali

Bosch commemorates its more than 60-year relationship with Juffali Co. For more than six decades, Juffali has been the representative of Bosch’s automotive aftermarket and power tools business in Saudi Arabia. This milestone was marked at Juffali’s headquarters, with attendees from both organizations, including Khaled Juffali, Chairman of Juffali Co.; Per Johansson, Vice President and Board Member of Bosch Middle East and Haneen Al Saleh, Managing Director at Bosch Saudi Arabia Regional Headquarters.

Speaking on this long-standing partnership, Per Johansson, Vice President and Board Member of Bosch Middle East, emphasised the mutual trust, shared values, and strong cooperation that have strengthened Bosch and Juffali’s relationship over the past six decades. “As we recognize our partnership with Juffali, I am happy about our ongoing successful collaboration and joint accomplishments. This enduring relationship enabled us to deliver innovative solutions to our customers following our company’s claim ‘Invented for life’.”

Haneen Al Saleh Bassam, Managing Director at Bosch Saudi Arabia Regional Headquarters, also shared her thoughts on the partnership, stating, “The 60-year partnership with Juffali underlines our strong collaboration and commitment to progress. By combining our strengths, we continue to support Saudi Arabia’s industrial growth and contribute to the realization of Vision 2030.”

“We at Juffali are committed to supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and foster growth across various sectors. Our collaboration contributes to key aspects of the Vision, including infrastructure development, industrial expansion, and technological innovation. We aim to continue building on our successful history and delivering value to our customers in the Kingdom,” said Khaled Juffali, Chairman of Juffali Co.

The ceremony was also attended by notable figures, including Ali Dulaim, Group CEO of Juffali Co.; Dana Juffali, Board Member of Juffali Co.; Husni Rifai, CEO of JTECO; Faisal Charara, Group CFO of Juffali Co.; and Mate Muskat, CFO of Bosch Group Middle East.

Fastest growing automotive aftermarket business in Saudi Arabia

With over 12 million vehicles in Saudi, the demand for repairs and replacement parts is booming. This surge has fostered the growth of independent garages and service chains offering cost-effective alternatives. Additionally, e-commerce platforms specializing in automotive parts are revolutionizing distribution channels, thereby enhancing consumer access to an extensive range of products.

Bosch has successfully introduced state-of-the-art technologies and premium components, such as advanced engine parts and diagnostic tools. Together with Juffali, investments in technician training have equipped workshops with the skills needed for modern vehicles, particularly as automotive technology continues to advance. The partnership also supports independent workshops through the Bosch Car Service Concept, contributing to a stronger automotive repair infrastructure in the Kingdom.

Fostering growth through professional power tools and accessories

Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 and significant investments in giga projects have fueled unprecedented growth in the construction sector. With large-scale developments reshaping the nation’s infrastructure, the demand for high-performance tools is at an all-time high. Bosch’s professional power tools and accessories are essential in driving efficiency and precision across these transformative projects.

Building on a legacy of trust and collaboration, Bosch Middle East and Juffali earlier this year expanded their long-standing partnership into the home appliances industry through a strategic distribution agreement between Juffali Home Appliances and BSH Middle East. This alliance aims to grow the presence of Bosch Home Appliances across Saudi Arabia.

Bosch remains committed to delivering advanced solutions tailored to the unique demands of the Saudi market, further strengthening its partnership with Juffali Co. as they work together to drive innovation and sustainability across the Kingdom.

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How this Dubai company built a 1,000+ strong workforce to become one of the UAE’s largest private sector employers in just two decades

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Data Direct Group

In an era defined by digital transformation and workforce localisation, Data Direct Group has emerged as one of the UAE’s largest and most enduring private employers.

Founded in 2002 with a vision to offer reliable, locally grounded customer experience (CX) solutions, Data Direct Group recently surpassed 1,000 + employee milestone in the UAE alone. The company, today employs, more than 1500 people across four GCC countries, quietly redefining what sustainable private sector impact looks like – with a workforce that today represents 35+ nationalities.

“Our story is Dubai’s story — built on ambition, innovation, and a belief in people,” said Rajiv Dalmia, Founder and Chairman of Data Direct Group that marks 23 years of operations this month. “When we started over two decades ago, back in 2002, we had a clear focus: build a company that not only delivers operational excellence but also contributes meaningfully to the economy and society around us. That vision has stayed the same.”

Supporting On-Shore Employment and Emiratisation

In an industry often driven by offshore outsourcing, Data Direct Group has doubled down on creating meaningful, on-shore employment opportunities within the UAE. Its diverse portfolio includes call centre services, digital onboarding, and IT support — all delivered by a workforce physically present in the country and trained to global standards.

“Our journey reflects not only business resilience, but a deep-rooted commitment to on-shore job creation, inclusivity, and economic value generation,” said Dalmia explaining how this ‘localisation drive’ has allowed the company to support both government and private sector entities across the UAE while aligning with national initiatives such as Emiratisation.

“We’ve never believed in exporting jobs; we’ve always believed in exporting  knowledge and capabilities,” Dalmia noted. “That’s why we’ve invested heavily in building local talent — our growth is measured not just in numbers, but in lives uplifted and careers shaped.”

A True UAE-Grown Success Story

With its roots deeply embedded in Dubai, Data Direct Group has become a textbook example of homegrown enterprise success. From early challenges to regional expansion, the company has retained its core commitment to service, speed, and scalability.

Today, it is trusted by leading names in banking, healthcare, government services, utilities, logistics, and telecom, delivering bespoke business solutions that enhance customer experience and drive digital agility.

“The UAE allowed us to dream big. The leadership here created an ecosystem where entrepreneurs like myself could build something real and long-lasting,” Dalmia said.

One of the UAE’s Largest Employers in its Category

Employing more than 1,500 people in the region and growing, Data Direct Group has carved out a reputation not only for its size but also for its inclusive work environment. With more than 35 nationalities represented, the company mirrors the cosmopolitan fabric of the UAE itself.

“We don’t just talk diversity — we live it every day,” said Dalmia. “Whether it’s a young graduate from Sharjah or a systems analyst from India, we’ve built a space where people from all backgrounds, walks of life and academic qualifications can grow and lead.”

The company’s female participation has also grown steadily over the past decade, particularly in middle-management and client delivery roles — a focus area it aims to accelerate in the coming years.

Driving Economic Impact Beyond Numbers

Beyond employment figures, Data Direct Group plays a pivotal role in supporting the business infrastructure of the UAE and wider GCC. From managing millions of customer interactions to helping clients streamline operations, the company’s services are woven into the fabric of everyday business in the region.

This impact translates to cost-efficiencies, customer satisfaction, and scalable support for public services — key drivers of GDP contribution in UAE’s digital economy.

“Economic impact is not just about revenue — it’s about relevance,” Dalmia added.

“The fact that we’ve been around for over two decades, evolving every step of the way, is proof that you can be relevant, resilient, and responsible — all at once.”

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Galaxy Tab S10 FE Series Brings Intelligent Experiences to the UAE

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Samsung FE

Samsung Gulf Electronics has launched the Galaxy Tab S10 FE and Galaxy Tab S10 FE+, offering new entry points for UAE consumers to the Galaxy ecosystem on a premium tablet design. Equipped with the largest screen yet on the Galaxy Tab FE Series and slimmer bezels that expand its display, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ provides a fun, immersive viewing experience for everything from entertainment to studying and day-to-day tasks. Samsung’s Intelligent Features empower users to get more done with ease, while a slimmer design helps users to achieve their creativity and productivity on the go.

Fadi Abu Shamat, Vice President and Head of the Mobile eXperience Division at Samsung Gulf Electronics, said: “With the new Galaxy Tab S10 FE Series, we’re bringing Samsung’s powerful Galaxy AI and connected ecosystem into the hands of even more users in the UAE, unlocking new levels of productivity, creativity and immersion. Designed with ultra-slim bezels, expansive displays and seamless integration, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE empowers users to work, create and connect in smarter and more meaningful ways.”

Stunning Clarity on a Bigger, Vibrant Display

Combining the Galaxy Tab S Series’ heritage design with slim bezels, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ 13.1-inch display offers immersive entertainment on a screen that’s almost 12% larger than the previous FE+. Smooth visuals enabled by a 90Hz refresh rate and new levels of visibility up to 800 nits HBM on the Galaxy Tab S10 FE Series ensure an optimal viewing experience when watching videos and gaming. Vision Booster’s automatic adjustments enhance brightness and visibility even in ever-changing outdoor environments while blue-light emissions are safely reduced to minimize eye strain, meeting every unique viewing need.

Robust Performance in a Portable Design

The Galaxy Tab S10 FE Series boosts productivity when working or studying, and delivers fast, smooth gameplay without interruption. Performance upgrades enable the Galaxy Tab S10 FE Series to help users switch effortlessly between multiple apps when they are being creative, allowing for improved multitasking. And when capturing everyday moments in the classroom or in workspaces, a newly upgraded 13MP high resolution rear camera produces clear and vivid photos.

These versatile experiences, from powerful work to seamless play, accompany users everywhere they go. Now more than 4% lighter than its predecessor, Galaxy Tab S10 FE is even easier to carry around, while the Galaxy S10 Tab FE Series offers hassle-free storage and mobility at home, on campus, in the workplace and elsewhere with its slim design. Engineered for resilience and durability to withstand the elements, the FE Series also comes with the same IP68 rating as the newest Galaxy Tab S10 Series.

Advanced Features Unleash Potential

Building on Samsung’s legacy of delivering premium experiences across the Galaxy ecosystem, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ and Galaxy Tab S10 FE are the first models in the FE Series to come equipped with cutting-edge AI capabilities right out of the box, fueling user productivity.

  • Fan-favorite Circle to Search with Google allows you to search what you see on your tablet without switching apps. Quickly get the info you need, translate text on screen or get homework help with step-by-step explanations – all on one large screen.
  • Samsung Notes features like Solve Math for quick calculations of handwriting and text, and Handwriting Help to tidy up notes easily, make notetaking easier than ever so users can stay focused in the moment.
  • AI assistants are instantly launched with a single tap of the Galaxy AI Key on the Book Cover Keyboard. Plus, AI assistants can be customized based on users’ preferences for a more personalized experience.
  • An upgraded Object Eraser lets users effortlessly remove unwanted objects from photos, with automatic suggestions for quick and easy edits.
  • Newly introduced Best Face ensures perfect group photos by selecting and combining the best expressions and features.
  • Auto Trim brings cherished moments to life by sifting through multiple videos to seamlessly compile highlight reels. 
  • The Galaxy Tab S10 FE Series also serves as the perfect canvas for creativity with pre-loaded apps and tools including LumaFusion, Goodnotes, Clip Studio Paint and more, alongside other spotlight apps like Noteshelf 3, Sketchbook and Picsart.

For an even more intuitive AI experience, the FE Series seamlessly integrates with other Samsung Galaxy devices. Similar to the Galaxy Tab S10, users can access a comprehensive overview of their home status with the Home Insight widget dashboard and 3D Map View feature. Summarized status updates of SmartThings-enabled devices give users peace of mind when out and about.

Security Your Way

As with any Galaxy device, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE Series is fortified by strong security, Samsung Knox, Samsung Galaxy’s defense-grade, multi-layer security platform built to safeguard critical information and protect against vulnerabilities with end-to-end hardware, real-time threat detection and collaborative protection.

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