How it works—built for real life

Through the Whish Money app, users in Lebanon can initiate international transfers in near real time. Depending on the receiving market, beneficiaries can take funds into a bank account, a mobile wallet, or in cash. Additionally, senders in Lebanon can choose how to fund the transfer: cash remains available, yet they can now use cards to fund their Whish Money wallet as well. Because the service sits on Mastercard’s money movement capabilities, it benefits from reach, compliance rigor, and operational visibility across corridors.

First mover in Lebanon’s wallet space

This is Mastercard’s first collaboration with a mobile wallet in Lebanon to facilitate remittances, which matters in a market where international transfers are essential to household finances. Moreover, the timing aligns with a long-standing reality: remittances are a vital lifeline. The World Bank estimates Lebanon received US$6.4 billion in inflows in 2022, ranking third in MENA by absolute volume. Therefore, any improvement in speed, safety, or convenience can meaningfully affect day-to-day life.

Speed and trust—why Mastercard Move

Mastercard Move is the company’s portfolio of domestic and cross-border money-movement solutions. In practice, that means access to 200 markets, 150+ currencies, and coverage for more than 95% of the world’s banked population. Consequently, Whish Money can scale its cross-border business faster, while users gain dependable time-to-funds. Toufic Koussa, Co-founder and CEO of Whish Money, summed it up clearly: families rely on remittances, so the experience must be fast, efficient, and secure. Likewise, Mastercard’s regional leadership highlights the collaboration’s ability to deliver reach, transparency, and speed across inbound and outbound flows.

A choice that fits every corridor

Because each country handles payouts differently, flexibility is key. Some recipients prefer bank credits; others rely on mobile wallets; certain corridors still require cash pickup. Accordingly, Whish Money’s interface lets senders select what works best for their beneficiaries. Meanwhile, card-to-wallet funding adds convenience at origin, complementing cash top-ups and reducing friction for first-time users. As adoption grows, more customers can move from cash dependence toward digital rails without losing access to familiar options.

Near real-time in practice

“Near real-time” isn’t just marketing language. On many corridors, funds are available within minutes, subject to standard compliance checks. Because the platform integrates verification, screening, and routing underneath a simple consumer flow, customers see clear status updates and faster settlement. Furthermore, the combination of network reach and local partners helps keep fees competitive and delivery predictable.

Why this matters now

Lebanon’s diaspora spans the GCC, Europe, North America, and beyond. Therefore, send-home corridors must be reliable, transparent, and flexible. By pairing Whish Money’s local presence and agent network with Mastercard Move’s global rails, this collaboration lowers barriers for both inbound and outbound transfers. Notably, it also gives senders better control—choose the receive method, choose the funding method, and track the transfer with confidence.

What users can expect

Getting started is straightforward: download the Whish Money app, onboard, and choose a destination. Then select the payout method—bank account, mobile wallet, or cash—and fund the transfer via card or cash. Finally, confirm and track. As corridors expand, users should see additional options and features; however, the core promise will stay the same: faster, safer, near real-time remittances supported by global infrastructure.

In short, Whish Money Mastercard Move brings modern cross-border capabilities to a market that truly depends on them. With speed, flexibility, and trusted rails, the service helps families bridge distance—one transfer at a time.

Check out our previous post, AlRayan Bank Digital Banking Boost with Finastra

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More than 175 yachts and watercraft from globally renowned shipyards such as Azimut, Ferretti, Gulf Craft, Princess, San Lorenzo, Sunreef, and Sunseeker Gulf will sail into the shores of Dubai to put on an incredible display over the five days of the show’s 29^th edition.

“We are looking forward to welcoming marine enthusiasts, maritime investors and those who are interested in all things ocean to DIBS23,” says Riju George, Group Director, Exhibitions, DWTC. “Dubai has a rich maritime heritage and over the years has created an extensive ecosystem and a sophisticated hub to nurture some of the greatest boat designers and manufacturers in the world; that’s why every year we see an influx of international visitors to the show.”

With more than 12% of the world’s superyachts in the MENA region, it’s no surprise that Dubai has become one of the top-10 nautical hubs of the world within the marine industry – home to several world-class waterfront property developments and many exquisite marinas. Such infrastructure has made DIBS the perfect platform for the more than 1,000 global brands to showcase their wares and launch their latest innovations this year.

Alongside over 50 global and regional launches to be announced at the show, DIBS23 will feature a stunning lineup of yachts, with more than 10 new brands on display including Abeking & Rasmussen, Boutique Yachts, Finnmaster, Greenline Yachts, Nordhavn, SAY Carbon Yachts, Sirena Yachts, and Tecnomar. And that’s not all – for those that enjoy life on the waves and who are looking for a luxury vessel for their next adventure; due to be unveiled at the 2023 edition of the Dubai International Boat Show, is Gulfcraft’s the Majesty 111 – described as ‘anything but an average superyacht’ and will set a design precedent, offering more than ever before in terms of its design, engineering, architecture, and technical features.

“At Gulf Craft, we have always been a staunch supporter of our ‘home show’ since its inception; as an international manufacturer of cutting-edge yachts and boats we are proud to be part of such a prestigious event on our home ground,” said Mohammed Alshaali, Gulf Craft Chairman. “At this year’s edition of Dubai International Boat Show, we are thrilled to introduce our brand-new Majesty 111 superyacht – a vessel that will redefine industry standards and set the precedent for our future Majesty models. We are committed to continue our contribution to the region’s yachting industry and look forward to further supporting the UAE’s reputation as an exceptional global yachting destination.”

Ocean lovers can also explore the ocean with Sunseeker Gulf at its debut as the new regional distributor of Sunseeker Yachts across the GCC; known for exceptional yacht designs and innovative technology, Sunseeker Gulf is poised to impress everyone with its latest offerings.

Explore the latest technology and design within the Equipment, Supplies and Services area, where there is plenty to discover; Elcome, will introduce the Starlink internet connection service, the revolutionary high speed service from Space X, available worldwide, which enables boat owners to connect from the most remote waters across the world to enhance experience and productivity. On the water make sure to stop by Silent-Yachts, the premier ocean-going production yachts in the world which are powered solely by clean energy, with solar panels and batteries feeding electric motors, which will be showcasing a partnership with EV Labs and demonstrating sustainable energy at sea to recharge boats entirely through the sun’s rays.

The Middle East Yachting Conference (MEYC), 28 February brings together senior representatives from around the industry to hear diverse perspectives from across the global landscape, discuss some of the industry’s key trends around technology, geo-politics, investments and debate the industries strategy and policies of the future in a challenging yet optimistic market; DIBS looks forward to welcoming a diverse panel of speakers from across the seas. Make sure you don’t miss Thomas Weigend, Managing Director of Meyer Werft who are building the remarkable Njord yacht, a 948-foot luxury vessel, described as “the world’s largest private residence yacht” with 117 private apartments, who will take about the ambition of scale and elegance – a fitting tribute to the city of Dubai.

Premiering in Dubai, and hosted at DIBS, is the world’s second edition of the Experiential Yachting Forum from 2 to 3 March, bringing investors into the yachting world and exploring alternative uses of superyachts. Investors, industry leads, and marine enthusiasts will gather to tackle pressing concerns like the alternative use of superyachts and yachting to make a positive impact for the communities at sea and on land. Other topics will grapple with the future of yachts beyond relaxation and exploration, including the possibility of medical tourism at sea. Many prominent personalities from the community will give their views.

In the year of sustainability and in the approach to COP28 DIBS pushes forward with their sustainability promise and 2023 will see the launch of the DIBS S.E.A. (Sustainable Environmental Action) Mission to support Dubai’s marine life. The show features a programme of initiatives to promote the sustainability of our oceans – combining community, creativity, and a love for the marine world. Event partners include Dubai Can, Dubai Harbour, trust your Water, GEMS Schools, Ethical Yacht Wear, and the Arabian Ocean Rowing Team, who in January completed the record-breaking Atlantic Row Mission, raising awareness about ocean pollution – look out for the S.E.A logo around the show for more sustainable initiatives and exhibitors.

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Premier Inn, which currently has 11 hotels across the UAE and Qatar, is also planning further expansion in its existing markets and elsewhere in the region as part of its long-term Middle East growth strategy.

Simon Leigh, Managing Director, Premier Inn MENA, said: “Premier Inn’s focus for 2023 is to further evolve our brand and footprint in the region – on our existing ‘home grounds’ of the UAE and Qatar, elsewhere in the GCC and in other markets in the wider Middle East.

“With its huge investment in tourism under Vision 2030, a bid to host EXPO 2030 and world-class developments in full swing across the country, Saudi Arabia offers excellent opportunities for Premier Inn.  We would be immensely proud to bring our much-loved brand to the Kingdom and be part of its ever-growing tourism and hospitality sector. Fruitful discussions are continuing, and we are confident that Premier Inn will make its KSA debut this year.”

Premier Inn also plans to launch a new, higher-grade room category in the Middle East, as well as more enhancements at its existing properties this year, reinforcing its commitment to the region and to maintaining its position as MENA’s hotel brand of choice for high-quality, high-value accommodation.

“2022 was a record year for Premier Inn MENA in terms of trading and growth, fueled by large-scale events such as Expo 2020 and the World Cup, the continued post-pandemic bounce-back, and the opening of our 11^th property, Premier Inn Barsha Heights. With the peak travel season in full swing and a surge of visitors from China since borders reopened, it’s been an equally superb start to 2023 – a year in which we plan to continue to trade brilliantly, invest in our business, harness new technology and attract – and retain – great talent,” said Simon Leigh.

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The digital gaming sector is one that many compare to a rollercoaster; experts describe it as a hit-or-miss market. Similar to a roller coaster, the gaming industry experiences spikes in demand during certain seasons and drops to near-zero sales during other times.

As people were confined to their homes and had to turn to internet entertainment during the pandemic, the video game industry experienced a significant uptick in growth. The pandemic also witnessed multiple new gaming companies jumping into the pile to take advantage of the massive and sudden demand.

However, once everyone resumed their typical routine of returning to the office and most physical grounds and sections had opened up after the pandemic, most video game firms reported their lowest-ever quarterly profits. The gaming business previously reported a drop in its fortune due to the pandemic squeeze. The US gaming sector reported a dip in video games of 11%, with a further decline of 8.7% projected for this year.

Additionally, this year had the lowest sales for consoles, including Nintendo, Sony’s Playstation, and Microsoft’s Xbox. The digital gaming market is not invincible and tends to prosper only during specific times of the year. This puts brands under a lot of pressure to make the most of the demand while it lasts.

How can gaming businesses ensure they have the proper financial support to capture the $3.14 billion MENA gaming industry?

Despite the ups and downs, it is predicted that the MENA gaming sector, particularly in the UAE, KSA, and Egypt, will increase to $3.14 billion by 2025. It is well known, however, that obtaining quick capital for a business is difficult despite the market potential, and it is critical to get your foot in the door when demand is high.

Opening a bank account specifically for an SME can take up to a year, and getting a loan is considerably more challenging because SMEs lack collateral and track records. This begs the question, what is the best alternative method of securing funding, especially when time is of the essence?

One way is to sell your receivables rather than apply for a loan. Loans are a time-consuming and complicated process, especially when it comes to financing an industry that is purely based on the right timing.

Selling your receivables can make better financing possible. In a financial transaction known as “accounts receivable financing,” a business sells its invoices to a factor.

3 things to consider when looking for financial solutions for the gaming industry:

1. Opt for accounts receivable financing rather than loans

In a general setting, most games go without promotions as developers usually put all their money into making the game/app and have nothing left for promotions. Obtaining loans in these cases is often complicated as, other than predicted revenue, there needs to be more proof or collateral for the banks to rely on. This is where accounts receivable financing or trade financing is the most beneficial. A trade finance company can pay you for the predicted income upfront, which generally takes at least 90 days. The instant cash flows help the gaming industry clear up its bills and concentrate on other aspects of the business. Trade finance is an excellent substitute to fill the gap between when you issue an invoice and when you will receive the money. It also allows you to concentrate on other aspects of the business.

2. Opt for simple and quick bankless finance methods

Banking has always been an intense procedure for new or upcoming businesses. According to a survey by the Pearl Initiative GCC in the first half of 2022, 39% of SMEs cited a shortage of cash or finance as one of their key challenges. A straightforward bank account can become complicated since banks see SMEs as a risky industry and have high minimum balance requirements and bureaucratic processes.

Therefore, as an upcoming business, starting with a financing company that does not require intense banking is good. In fact, there is no need to have a bank involved in a factoring or accounts receivables transaction – all transactions are handled through the trade finance company. It is one of the simplest and easiest methods for gaming companies to get the funding they need to ensure all finances go well.

3. Choose a source that provides multiple injections of finance rather than just one major initial injection

A steady income stream is essential if one is working in the “prone to hiccups” gaming industry. The major problem with traditional financing is that it never produces constant cash flow because traditional accounting is based on a one-time sizable initial investment in the company. This makes it challenging to keep the wheels running after the initial investment is used and the accounts receivables still need to be submitted.

On the other hand, trade financing is a constant stream of capital into the business and is not dependent on a one-time injection. This occurs when a trade finance company purchases accounts receivable so that you can begin working on your next project immediately and avoid waiting 90 days. You will have consistent revenue from trade finance as long as you continue to serve your clients and have bills to collect.

The post How Trade Financing Can Help the Gaming Industry Overcome Their Financial Woes? appeared first on The Integrator.

We understand ASBIS extends its winning streak from the past year to this year. Elaborate a little on your current achievements

Yes. 2022 is treating ASBIS well, especially in terms of growth in the core products, irrespective of the less market growth in general.

Hesham Tantawi, Vice President- MENA, ASBIS Middle East

We have already achieved what we had planned for the last five years. We aimed for a solid partnership, and we are yielding the results now. We are also planning to open new segments in the distribution business, incorporating consumer-centric products with targeting a specific league of customers.

How competent are you in providing customers with advanced technologies (AI, cybersecurity, data analytics, etc.)

In addition to ASBIS’ earlier portfolio in the key business verticals (i.e., volume, value-added, and commercial services), we have recently added one more segment focused on consumers.

ASBIS aims to help business advance with emerging technologies, including data analytics, cyber security, and AI, and that is handled through our value vertical. It gives a competitive advantage for organizations when configuring themselves with these latest technologies. We enthusiastically work with system integrators and solution providers to make that happen. Supermicro, Seagate System, Infinidat, and TP-Link are a few leading vendors we present to customers from the value-added divisions. Plus, ASBIS is presenting itself as a one-stop shop for all organizational needs, incorporating retail, building management, agriculture, etc., of our customers.

Explain how ASBIS optimizes its business strategies around GITEX GLOBAL 2022

At GITEX, we are representing leading vendors with the entire portfolio in the following categories:

• VOLUME: AMD, Intel, AFOX, Sapphire, PNY, AOC, ECS, and Lexmark
  • Storage: Western Digital, Seagate, Toshiba, Kingston, Transcend, QNAP, Synology, Dahua, Solidigm, Infortrend, DDN, and infinidat
• VALUE:
  • Networking: TP-Link, Ubiquiti, Grandstream, Mimosa, Yealink, Yeaastar, and Mikrotik.
  • Server: Supermicro, NVIDIA, and Gigabyte
• CONSUMER: Logitech, Bang and Olufsen, Loewe, Prestigio, Canyon, Lorgar, Aeno, and Perenio

Even though ASBIS’ policy is not to show itself at the event, we are conducting a client reach out and meeting program soon.

ASBIS’ strategies for 2023

The key strategy we have is that we will continue to create a solid association with our partners. We will integrate more brands, offer excellent support to the existing ones, and that’s the culture we followed since the beginning.

What is the size and structure of the organization you focus on as a distributor?

ASBIS is focusing on micro, medium, and big companies. Plus, we are open to working with everybody as we believe that everyone is adding value to the supply chain.

How do you evaluate the growth of ASBIS in the future?

ASBIS gained revenue of $3.7 billion. We are expecting a growth of $7.97 billion, which is bottom-line profitability, and we are determined to grow and go beyond.

From East Europe and Russia, ASBIS used to have 22 percent annual revenue. But now, the business isn’t operational there due to the ongoing geographic tensions. However, ASBIS is trying to add 2-3 percent additional revenue from other countries to compensate.

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The MENA region is a fast-growth market for digital transformation, as organizations look to gain greater business agility, better understand customer needs and trends, and scale up on emerging technology innovations. In particular, software spend is the fastest growing technology sector in the MENA region, increasing by 11 percent year-on-year to a record-high of USD 6.2 billion in 2018, according to Gartner.

In anticipation of digital business growth, global technology company SAP, which has 12 MENA offices, is advancing its senior leadership to support digital transformation. SAP provides packaged software solutions for 25 industries and 7 lines of business across on-premise, cloud, and hybrid environments.

With immediate effect, Zakaria Haltout moves from leading the channel partner program as Vice President of Global Channels and General Business, SAP MENA, to Managing Director, SAP UAE. In turn, Julien Bertin moves from Managing Director, SAP UAE and Oman, to Vice President of Channels for Emerging Markets, SAP.

Zakaria Haltout will advance SAP’s 5-year USD 200 million UAE investment plan, onboarding customers to SAP’s local cloud data center, and support Expo 2020 Dubai as a Premier Partner. Julien Bertin will expand and specialize channel partners, which primarily support small- and medium-sized enterprises. SAP is seeing strong interest in digitally transforming financial processes, e-commerce, procurement, and talent.

“Record MENA software spend shows that organizations value real-time operations to drive digital business success, from smart cities and mega-events, to digital oilfields and connected malls,” said Gergi Abboud, Senior Vice President and General Manager, SAP Middle East South. “Our regional leadership advancement optimizes our talent to continue to grow our UAE ecosystem and channel business. I am confident that the leadership skills of Zakaria Haltout and Julien Bertin will support our strategy with a customer-first approach.”

Zakaria Haltout and Julien Bertin will continue to be based in Dubai. Both bring strong IT experience, having worked in the IT sector since 2000. Zakaria Haltout joined SAP since 2008, and Julien Bertin joined in 2018.

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“Abu Dhabi shoppers are largely comprised of young Millennials who are looking for a non-traditional retail experience, one characterized by the ability to experience products before making a purchase,” says Fahad Al Bannai.

“Today’s customers are tech-savvy and know exactly what they are looking for in a product. Not only do they have specific requirements – they are searching for ways to make the most of their product and maximize their return on investment. This consumer thirst for experiential shopping is what inspired the creation of our new store concept, which we are introducing for the first time in Abu Dhabi.”

The launch of axiom’s innovative shopping concept in Abu Dhabi Mall marks the retailer’s third store renovation in the UAE after Dubai Festival City and The Dubai Mall. It is also the sixth axiom revamp in the region, with three recent store launches in Saudi Arabia.

Dubai Festival City’s ongoing transformation has made it a preferred shopping destination, with a new 2,500-seat indoor food court, and a beautiful waterfront promenade that overlooks Dubai’s expansive skyline and is progressively offering a host of exciting outdoor dining and entertainment options – all just moments away from the axiom store.

“In today’s fast-paced lifestyle and competitive market environment, customer convenience and service excellence are key to the success of any business. Through our deep understanding of the local and regional market, we are able to offer a one-stop-shop approach that caters to customers’ diverse requirements,” says Al Bannai. “Shoppers are now able to walk into our store, experience the latest gadgets, personalize their chosen device, activate it, and sign up for reliable aftercare services all under one roof. So customers leave not only with a personalized product they can begin using immediately, but also peace of mind, knowing that they truly got value for their purchase.”

The region’s tech lovers have been widely receptive to axiom’s unique approach to retail, with an average footfall increase of 30 per cent at each of its new stores. Among the many exciting new services shoppers will discover at axiom is ‘X-Customs’, a first-of-its-kind in-store customization zone that allows customers to personalize their most prized possession – their smartphone.

From gold plating, engraving, and colorful skins, to UV printing, clear protection, and Swarovski crystals, XCustoms allows gadget owners to express their individuality – whether it is supporting a favorite band or team, or showcasing a unique sense of style. Nearly all services are completed in-store, allowing customers to make a statement with their personalized device in as little as 15 minutes.

Techies looking to take their mobile experience to the next level can choose from a host of accessories, including products from industry leaders Beats, Fitbit, Jawbone, JBL, Monster, Merlin, and Sandisk. From the latest in wearables to cutting edge connected devices, such as Virtual Reality headsets, 360-degree cameras, and truly wireless Bluetooth headphones, axiom provides a compelling selection of the latest that mobile technology has to offer.

What’s more, live demo stations make it possible for customers to experience some of these exciting technologies and accessories before making a purchase. This includes the largest selection of smartphone cases, allowing shoppers to choose from a wide assortment of protective covers that cater to every taste – be it contemporary, chic, or classic. And with animated LED screens running across the store walls, customers will always feel fully engaged.

Meanwhile, the new du service desk at axiom allows customers to immediately activate their phone through a host of attractive packages.

Customers can also benefit from axiom’s signature value-added services, which include Extended Warranty, Damage Protection, Priority Repair, Pick-up and Delivery for Phone Repairs, and Trade-in offers, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity.

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“The mobile penetration in the UAE is one of the highest in the region and our addressable base in UAE would be approximately 10 million subscribers. After succeeding in other prepaid economies globally with highly innovative solutions, mCarbon is looking at UAE to be the hub of its Middle Eastern strategy. By having a base in Dubai, it’s easier for us to expand into other GCC countries and leverage the business potential of this region. Telecom operators in the UAE, Etisalat and Du, can immensely benefit from some of our innovative offerings. Apart from the UAE we plan to partner with other leading telco groups like Ooredoo, MTN and Zain,” said Rajesh Razdan, Founder and CEO, mCarbon.
The new presence comes in response to the ongoing demand from the telecom operators in the Middle East and African region to help fast rack supporting them in launching innovative offerings. The solution developed by mCarbon is highly scalable and provides enhanced customer analytics and usage information that enhances effectiveness of the service and drive revenues from increased usage.
“mCarbon’s key value proposition in usage and revenue category is the ‘Airtime Advance and Credit’ service. With this service, a subscriber can request a talk-time or data or a value added service advance from the operator each time they are in need, thus generating incremental minutes of usage in the network. Offered as various business models like an emergency need based or just as an overdraft kind of facility, a user may request an emergency top-up via a phone, SMS, or Mobile App, and the system will offer corresponding amount instantly. If accepted, the advance will be made available immediately with the validity period as defined by the telco. The system runs advanced analytics in the background to check in real-time things like eligibility, credit score which gets dynamic rating with pay backs,” added Sabri Amireh, Executive Vice President, mCarbon
The company has already implemented its technology in India and Bangladesh and is looking for opportunities in other countries.
“The most effective ways of increasing revenues of telcos is by introducing products and services which put the consumer at the heart of the interaction and information exchange. mCarbon’s products under revenue uplift portfolio covers these needs and through strategic implementation ensure higher revenue generation,” added Razdan.
“The business need for the product ‘Instant credit service’ was to create new revenue opportunities from operator’s existing low ‘average revenue per user’ subscriber base with an innovative service that would both enhance the end-user experience and will not only help to recoup potentially lost revenues from insufficient balance in prepaid accounts but will also boost customer loyalty. Solution and product architects at mCarbon felt they had a very innovative solution for the mobile operator’s problems – create and secure a robust talk time/data replenishment system,” concluded Razdan.

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Jason rejoins Epson having spent three years as Regional Sales Director for Giesecke and Devrient based in Dubai. He, initially, joined Epson in 1997 as a business unit manager for the Australian business systems division, and later moved to Epson Europe in 2006 where he became responsible for the development and support of system devices in the Nordics, Middle East and Africa. After that he was appointed as Director of Business Systems for Epson Europe where he was responsible for the development and implementation of strategy for business systems products across EMEA.

“I am excited to be back in Epson at a time when Epson Middle East is on a strong growth path. Our focus is to enhance our regional structure, continue to develop our partner network and increase our product and services portfolio to further build on our market leadership. I look forward to working with the entire Middle East team to achieve this,” says Whiley.

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