Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: SAS, a leader in data and AI, is set to showcase its advanced AI-powered solutions at LEAP 2025, reinforcing its commitment to Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation journey. As the Kingdom accelerates its adoption of AI and data-driven technologies, SAS is expanding its presence and partnerships to support key industries.
Saudi Arabia has emerged a regional leader in transformation – driven by government initiatives such as Saudi Vision 2030 and the rapidly advancing technological landscape. The Kingdom has taken a proactive approach to AI adoption, regulatory compliance, and cybersecurity, cementing its place as a regional hub for innovation and trust.
“With AI adoption accelerating across Saudi Arabia, SAS is committed to empowering organizations with the right tools and expertise to unlock new opportunities. The company is actively investing in local talent, strengthening its team, and collaborating with key stakeholders to drive innovation in data analytics and AI applications. We are excited to participate in LEAP25 and showcase cutting-edge technology and real-world applications of AI-driven solutions in the public sector, financial institutions, and the oil & gas sector” says Mohammed Kiki, General Manager of SAS in Saudi Arabia.
Across the world, governments are leveraging SAS’ AI-driven solutions to improve infrastructure, mitigate fraud, and enhance security. For instance, a European infrastructure agency is currently monitoring 15,000 sensors on bridges, tunnels, and waterways in real time using SAS Analytics for IoT, ensuring safety and operational efficiency. Defense and intelligence agencies also rely on SAS solutions for strategic, operational, and tactical decision-making. One government agency, for example, uses SAS for Insider Threat detection, preventing sensitive information leaks that could harm national security.
Showcasing AI and Analytics for a Smarter Future
At LEAP 2025, SAS will collaborate with key partners, including Microsoft and Al Moammar Information Systems Co. (MIS), to present AI-powered solutions tailored to the needs of various industries. Visitors to the SAS booth will experience:
AI Smart City Solutions – Demonstrating how AI and advanced analytics can optimize urban development, enhance public services, and improve overall city efficiency.
AI-Powered Forecasting & Simulation – A VR-powered showcase of AI-driven predictive analytics for industries such as government, banking, telecom, airlines, and oil & gas.
Cross-Industry AI Solutions – Practical applications of AI and machine learning for financial crime detection, risk management, and intelligent decision-making.
SAS will highlight its AI-Powered IoT Monitoring: SAS on Microsoft Azure, will be presented by Mohamed Alammary, AI Solutions Lead, Customer Advisory EMEAP at SAS. This session is scheduled for Wednesday, February 12th, from 1:40 PM to 2:00 PM, also at the Microsoft Mini Theatre.
LEAP 2025 will take place at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center in Malham, Riyadh, from 09 – 12th February 2025. Doors will be open to visitors from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM each day. You can find us at booth number H1-E30 and H3-D110.
Alliance will focus on providing advanced AI and automation technologies to enhance efficiency for enterprises building out their operations in the region
Riyadh, – Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) announced today a three-year strategic partnership with Upsource by Solutions, a distinguished business process outsourcing (BPO) company in Saudi Arabia. This collaboration brings Upsource by Solutions local expertise alongside Cognizant’s global reach to enhance operational efficiencies and strive for exceptional customer satisfaction for clients in the area. The agreement was signed at LEAP 2025.
Through this alliance, businesses across the region will gain access to Cognizant’s advanced Intuitive Operations & Automation (IOA) solutions, including a Gen AI-powered financial suite, automation frameworks, and enhanced operational controls. These technologies are designed to assist businesses in meeting modern business demands, ensuring compliance with national and global standards, and delivering services that drive efficiency, scalability, and long-term success.
“Cognizant’s commitment to investing in the region and supporting capability transfer was a key factor in our decision to partner with them,” said Eng. Naif AlMogbel, CEO at Upsource by Solutions. “By aligning our vision with Cognizant’s expertise, we’re reshaping what excellence in BPO means. This agreement represents the beginning of a journey to create future-ready solutions that redefine value for our clients.”
The BPO industry is undergoing a pivotal transformation as companies increasingly outsource essential processes such as finance, human resources, and customer management. This shift requires a strategic blend of local insights and global innovation to enhance efficiency and drive growth through next-generation solutions.
“We are excited to collaborate with Upsource by Solutions and continue to bring our expertise in digital transformation to the Saudi Arabian market,” said Gagan Syal, Head of Southern Europe & Middle East at Cognizant. “Saudi and this region is buzzing with innovation and progress. With Upsource by Solutions local experience and forward-thinking vision and our leadership in advanced technologies, we are building a foundation for the future of business operations. This collaboration reflects our deep commitment to supporting the region’s long-term success by enabling organizations to embrace cutting-edge innovation and achieve operational excellence.”
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Dentsu, in collaboration with Snapchat and Kantar, has unveiled the results of its latest study that dives into the evolving dynamics of video consumption across screen sizes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with an event hosted at Majlis Snap for Creators in Riyadh. This research offers valuable insights into how consumer behaviours on small screens (mobile) and big screens (TV) are reshaping the advertising landscape, equipping marketers with the knowledge to optimize their strategies for maximum impact.
The comprehensive study surveyed over 1,000 Snapchat users aged 13-49 in KSA, revealing critical trends in video consumption. By leveraging advanced methodologies, including biometric analysis, this research underscores the rising prominence of small screens as the primary platform for video consumption.
Small is Beautiful
While daily video consumption remains high on both mobile and TV, small screens are starting to dominate in KSA. The findings show that 62% of consumers watch video on their mobile devices daily, compared to 48% on their TVs
The motivations for viewing also differ by screen type. Consumers turn to both screens for entertainment and relaxation, but when it comes to staying connected or discovering new topics, they prefer small screens. This shift highlights the necessity for a dual-screen strategy in media planning, recognizing the importance of both platforms.
Video is Social
Small screens and social apps are pivotal for reaching KSA consumers. The study found that 66% of respondents watch video content through social apps daily, while 41% consume video via streaming services.
Small Screens, Big Attention
Most consumers in KSA give their full attention to content on both mobile devices and TV. However, mobile viewing continues to prevail. The question was “Which of these best describes how you usually watch video content on your mobile device/TV?”, and the insights showed that 68% of Gen Z gives their full attention to small screens.
More Screens, More Impact
The research found that in KSA, dual-screen exposure significantly enhances brand metric growth across full-funnel KPIs compared to reliance on big screen advertising alone. This highlights the importance of advertising on both small and big screens to achieve optimal brand outcomes, emphasizing a strategic approach that engages consumers across multiple platforms.
To further understand the impact of creative across platforms, exposure to both small and big screens resulted +6% increase in brand favourability and +7% in purchase intent, illustrating the platform’s unique ability to engage its most active users.
Utilization of both big Screen and Snapchat proved to be highly memorable and impactful amongst KSA Gen Z consumers, illustrating the platform’s unique ability to sway opinions. Gen Z consumers also reported a +6% lift in Aided Brand Awareness compared to Big Screen Only.
Implications for Marketers
As the video landscape evolves, marketers must optimize their video budgets to maximize reach and effectiveness. This research emphasizes the importance of running ads across various screen sizes and platforms to achieve the greatest brand impact.
While daily video consumption remains high on big screens, mobile device usage is becoming increasingly dominant in KSA. This shift creates opportunities for brands to advertise effectively on both screens.
Incorporating small screens into the media mix amplifies the brand lift from big screen ads, highlighting the significance of a dual-screen strategy. Advertising across both screen sizes drives stronger full-funnel growth and is particularly memorable among Gen Z audiences.
Lastly, including Snapchat alongside big screen ads enhances overall campaign performance, proving to be particularly impactful in driving brand favourability and consideration intent among daily Snapchat users especially in KSA.
Lara Tabet’s journey began when she graduated from Switzerland with a degree in Hospitality Management and joined the family business, managing hotels—a role she enjoyed tremendously for several years. At one point, she was discovered by the first English-language satellite station, InTv, later rebranded as City 7 TV. There, she hosted nine of her own shows, producing and presenting them while conducting over seven thousand interviews with celebrities from all over the world, including Donald Trump, Donald Trump Jr., HH Sheikh Mohamed, the Ruler of Dubai, the King of Bahrain, and celebrities from Arab Cinema, Bollywood, and Hollywood, such as Amitabh Bachchan, George Clooney, Sharon Stone, and Morgan Freeman, to name a few. Lara later decided to take a break from television and became a brand ambassador, representing luxury brands from Europe. For the last ten years, she has been practicing philanthropy, representing various organizations worldwide.
Building on her successful media career and brand ambassador roles, Lara Tabet’s passion for giving back to the community led her to dedicate herself to philanthropic efforts. Over the past decade, she has worked closely with a variety of global organizations, using her platform and influence to raise awareness for causes that are close to her heart. In this article we will explore Lara’s biggest achievements, her message to future entrepreneurs, her personal leadership strategy and much more.
What are the main factors that guided you to where you are now?
The main factors that guided me to where I am now, are that I am very focused, organized and disciplined and plan my weeks well in advance and I believe in time management. If you know how to balance your time, you can achieve anything and everything you put your mind to.
Given your years of experience and accomplishments, what would you say was your biggest achievement?
My biggest achievement was my career in television where I had the opportunity to travel the world and interact with some of the most interesting people I have ever come across. Another great achievement is Luxurywithlara, my brand, which represents different luxury brands from Europe that I am extremely proud of. Arab Fashionpreneur is another great achievement where I help start ups as well as established businesses take their business to the next level.
What is the quote that inspires you the most?
The quotes that inspire me the most are: “never judge anyone before walking a mile in their shoes”. “Treat others as you want to be treated”, “spread love and kindness everywhere, it doesn’t cost a thing”, and “behind every successful woman is a tribe of other women”.
How would you balance the pursuit of wealth and success with personal fulfillment and happiness?
Personal fulfillment and happiness come first. That is my priority. However, if you can balance both, that would be the ideal situation and I am fortunate enough to have the support to achieve both.
What personality traits contributed to you being a successful Founder?
The personality traits that contributed to me being a successful founder are: discipline, organization, planning, time management, ambition, passion, resilience, perseverance and determination.
What metrics do you prioritize when evaluating the success of a marketing campaign? Why?
The most important priority is creating brand awareness and exposure for any brand that I work with. We always start doing that with a launch event which is followed by marketing events and strategies. I have been very fortunate with my clients that they are pleased with my services. That is why I have a long list of clients.
In light of your journey and experiences, what message would you like to convey to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Have a vision, a passion and a dream, and work hard to make it come true. Never give up. Be persistent and resilient.
What is your personal team leadership philosophy, and how does it shape the approach and methodologies used by Arab Fashion Preneur ?
I believe a team leader needs to have empathy and to lead from the front. Never expect your team to do anything that you are not able to willingly do. Always surround yourself with talented people who have at least the same drive and ambition as you.
What is the most valuable lesson learned from your professional journey ?
It is about vision, passion and hard work. There is no short cut to long term sustainable success. Short term success is easy but to translate that to a long-term career is hard and requires passion and perseverance.
Tell us more about what distinguishes Arab Fashion Preneur from others providing similar services?
Arab Fashion Preneur treats its clients with a personalized service and caters our packages in a bespoke manner. My clients have become my friends because of the long term nature of the relationship I build with them which is why my business is recurring again and again.
Where do you see the future of networking events within the beauty industry in the next 3-5 years, and how do you plan to adapt to those changes?
The future of networking and beauty will evolve over the next few years as digital transformation becomes increasingly prominent, and AI will bring many new changes that we have yet to experience. Therefore, we must adapt and ensure that our services are more personalized and tailored.
Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re particularly excited about?
The project I am working on at the moment is the launch of the Lara Luxury Club that I will tell you more about in due course.
Yvonne Winter is a seasoned entrepreneur and business leader with a wealth of experience across various industries. Her journey has been shaped by a deep-rooted entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to driving innovation and success. With a track record of founding and co-founding businesses, Yvonne has cultivated a unique skill set that allows her to thrive in dynamic and challenging environments.
Yvonne grew up in a typical German SME, so being an entrepreneur is in her DNA. After completing an apprenticeship as an industrial clerk, she studied business administration and worked for an international company. Working for seven years in the family business provided her with the right background to start founding and co-founding her own businesses. She has now been doing this for 18 years. To sum it up, Yvonne has amassed nearly 25 years of experience in C-level positions across a diverse range of industries. This breadth of exposure has equipped her with a unique perspective and the versatility to navigate complex challenges in different fields.
In this article, we will explore Yvonne’s leadership philosophy, her advice for future entrepreneurs, the biggest challenges she has faced and much more.
What are the main factors that have guided you to where you are now?
The main factors are my exposure to the entrepreneurial environment from childhood, hard work, overcoming many challenges, the luck of meeting and learning from exceptional people, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Having worked with a range of global organizations, what are some of the most rewarding experiences you’ve had in your career so far?
The organizations I worked for were more on a national than a global level. For instance I recall a logistic forum that I attended more than 20 years ago as a speaker. It was quite surprising to find out that I was not only the only female speaker but I was the only female participating. From all the work I did, FlyNow Aviation is dearest to my heart, as I know that this technology is solving so much issues we are facing globally and especially with our international non-profit association “Sky Alliance for Automated Air Mobility” www.salaam.earth we will be on the forefront to enable an entire new means of transportation.
What is the quote that inspires you the most?
Mahatma Gandhi: “Be the change that you wish to see in the world”
Margaret Mead: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
As a female entrepreneur in a traditionally male-dominated industry, how have you navigated challenges, and what advice would you offer to other women looking to start their own ventures?
For me it was nothing special as I grew up in a male-dominated industry (logistic and wholesale). I think my biggest role model was my mother, who is a very tough business woman. More and more I find out that it is mainly about being authentic. The only advice (if it is one) I can give, is to follow your heart and then just do it! There are too many reasons and excuses why someone is not doing what his/her inner voice is telling – just do it and seek for strong and likeminded partners.
What personality traits contributed to you being a successful Co-Founder?
What has made me attractive to co-founders is that I know how to start and run a company. Concerning traits: being solution-driven by heart.
What advice would you give to entrepreneurs or professionals considering entering the Saudi market?
I have the feeling that the Kingdom is where the heart of transformation is happening. It offers big opportunities, but one should only consider it, if he/she is really dedicated to be part of the movement, the Vision, the culture. I love the people, the country and I deeply admire the Vision of His Royal Highness Mohammed Bin Salman. If you want to build a ship, teach the men the longing for the sea – MBS has this kind of leadership. Saudi is great, the place to be, but be prepared to work hard, to show commitment and to walk the talk.
What is your personal team leadership philosophy, and how does it promote innovation?
My personal team leadership philosophy is to encourage, enable, leverage the knowledge of every team member and have high expectations.
Starting a business in the aviation industry is no small feat. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in the early stages of founding Fly-Now, and how did you overcome them?
Oh – this is a question for days… To be honest, the decision if I should do it took me 3 months, because I already knew that this would be a heavy lift. Fortunately our CEO is very senior and anticipated a lot. This is why our approach is so different from most of the startups in the eVTOL sector. Before we even founded the company in 2019 our CEO talked to the Air Authorities and only after they gave the green light that they are going to support us, we legally founded the company. We are strictly following the V-model from the automotive industry and engaged with our suppliers from the beginning. With every hard- and software development we focus on certification and alignment with the existing regulations and/or pre-alignment with the Air Authority. Nevertheless we faced many challenges – from funding, identifying the right market to begin with, challenges within the team, delays and shortage in supply due to the pandemic…
Tell us more about what distinguishes Fly-Now Aviation from other similar services?
Minimal Infrastructure and Energy Needs: FlyNow`s eCopter require less infrastructure than conventional transit options, with automated charging systems and a low physical footprint, reducing operational costs while aligning with sustainable infrastructure goals.
Advanced Technology with a Fast Path to Certification: FlyNow’s eCopter technology follows existing EASA standards, making certification more efficient, which could lead to early entry into the market. With Flynow`s cargo eVTOL anticipated to begin operations by 2026/27, we offer a path to early adoption, supporting the goals of many countries in next-generation logistics and transport.
Why is FlyNow such a game changer?
· All of existing eVOL leaders are still extremely expensive to produce and maintain (~5m USD per unit + maintenance)
· All of them focus on delivering 4 or even more seats
· Almost all require pilot on board
· Many of them are still noisy (which will cause low tolerance to introduce it to already overly noise polluted cities)
· All of them start with immediately going into only human transportation (natural resistance “if it’s safe”)
· Most of the leaders come from US (obvious), Germany (valley for automotive industry) and China, raised multiple rounds and it’s still not obvious if they survive, get the certification and they are limited when it comes to scale (cost, pilots, regulations are stoppers)· All of the companies (including FlyNow) have rock solid teams of specialists. But all of the above are stuck with the concept of “big, expensive machines”. FlyNow is radically different, amazingly simple and designed the way it works.
Whereas FlyNow:
· Affordable (350k EUR per one eCopter)
· Silent (less noise then “city background noise”)
· Net zero (proven!)
· No pilot (the eCopter is flying automatically with a redundant autopilot but not autonomous. There is a connectivity to the ground station that is connected with Air Traffic Control – the air authority of the country. This means it’s predefined like a tramline, so it’s efficient to operate and acceptable for people like “no driver metro”)
· Flexible (1 seater, 2 seater – up to 90% of all taxi rides are with 1 person)
· The future means of transporting goods and people (it sounds counterintuitive but it will be actually cheaper and more ecological to fly people and goods; there is one eCopter version that is adjusted to transport europalettes up to 200kg)
· Multiple use cases, not only “taxi”, but also disaster management, emergency transportation, firefighting, sensitive and difficult deliveries, supply chain to remote places
What role do you think companies like Fly-Now Aviation will play in the wider transformation of the aviation industry, particularly with regard to sustainability and environmental responsibility?
FlyNow`s eCopter is the Ford Model T of the sky. By bringing an air vehicle that is affordable and available for the broad public and suitable for cost effective logistics and having a solution for the necessary ecosystem through SALAAM we consider ourselves as the enabler of 3D-mobility. In terms of sustainability: the empty weight of our eCopter is approximately 350 kg and a battery electric car weighs in average 2 tons. Energy consumption is approximately half in comparison to the car and the infrastructure needed is a hundredth. Silent, efficient, net-zero, a lot less resources – tell me a solution that is better…
Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re particularly excited about?
Indeed – a lot. First of all we start a Sandbox (pilot project) with many stakeholders this year in the Kingdom, additionally a lot of exciting events are coming up and we will fill our company in Riyadh with more life and activities. I am certain that it will be one of our best years so far, Happy 2025 to everyone!
Dubai, UAE, 03 Feb 2025:The International Code Council (ICC) MENA is excited to announce its debut participation in The Big 5 Saudi, taking place from February 15th to 18th, 2025 at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center. This highly anticipated event will spotlight the latest innovations in construction and building technologies, with this year’s theme, “Strong Foundations: From Design to Build.“
This marks a significant milestone for ICC MENA as it expands its footprint in the region to support the thriving construction industry. With Saudi Arabia witnessing an unprecedented construction boom driven by Vision 2030, ICC MENA’s involvement underscores its commitment to fostering safer, more sustainable, and innovative building practices across the Kingdom and the wider region.
Commenting on ICC MENA’s participation in The Big 5 Saudi, Mohamed Amer, Regional Director of Operations for ICC MENA, stated, “This marks a pivotal moment for ICC MENA as it aligns its global expertise with the Kingdom’s ambitious vision for growth and innovation. With plans to establish a branch office in Riyadh, ICC MENA is poised to be a strategic partner in shaping the future of construction in Saudi Arabia.”
Saudi Arabia’s construction landscape is transforming at an accelerated pace. From mega-projects like NEOM and the Red Sea Development to infrastructure expansions in Riyadh and Jeddah, the industry demands robust standards to ensure safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
A key highlight of ICC MENA’s presence at the event is the announcement of its ongoing efforts to establish a branch office in Riyadh. This strategic move will position ICC MENA to better serve the Kingdom’s stakeholders by:
Enhancing Local Accessibility: Providing localized training, credentialing, and certification programs.
Facilitating Compliance: Assisting with the implementation of globally recognized codes tailored to local needs.
Streamlining Services: Offering on-the-ground support for evaluation services, including product compliance and innovative construction technologies.
With a strong commitment to driving excellence and sustainability in the region’s rapidly evolving construction sector, ICC aims to be a key partner in shaping a safer and more sustainable future. Attendees are encouraged to visit booth no. 5B01 to explore how ICC’s global expertise can enhance the construction industry’s growth.
Zai Miztiq is the CEO and Founder of Step Up Journey, a platform dedicated to empowering individuals and fostering resilience and growth. Her journey into speaking, writing, and coaching began with a deeply personal experience that shaped her life—overcoming a life-threatening accident that left her with a mere 5% chance of walking again. She decided not only to walk but to turn this challenge into her life’s work, inspiring others to step up despite life’s adversities. Since then, she has been on a mission to share her story globally, writing books, training, and coaching to help others unlock their potential.
In this article, we will discuss Zai’s incredible journey of resilience and determination, how her personal challenges shaped her mission, and the impact she continues to make through her work at Step Up Journey.
What are the main factors that guided you to where you are now?
Resilience, purpose, and the desire to make a difference guided me to where I am now. I’ve always believed that life’s challenges are stepping stones to growth and self-discovery. My passion for humanizing humanity and empowering people to live purpose-driven lives has been the compass guiding every endeavor—whether it’s speaking, training, or writing. My mentors and the amazing community I’ve built through Step Up Journey also inspire and motivate me daily.
Given your many years of experience and accomplishments, what would you say was your biggest achievement?
One of my most cherished achievements is converting my book Turn Your Passion into Profit into Braille, making it accessible to the visually impaired and promoting inclusivity. Additionally, founding Step Up Journey and reaching thousands through our coaching programs, events, and corporate initiatives have been incredibly fulfilling, knowing it’s changing lives and inspiring people to lead with resilience and purpose.
What is the quote that inspires you the most?
“Change. But start slowly, because direction is more important than speed.” – Paulo Coelho. This quote reminds me that growth is a journey that must be approached mindfully. It’s not about rushing but about creating a sustainable path that aligns with your values and dreams.
What inspired you to start writing, and how did you come up with the ideas for your publications?
Writing was a natural extension of my desire to share my story and offer tools for transformation. My first book, Turn Your Passion into Profit, was inspired by my journey from surviving adversity to thriving and building a purpose-driven life. My fiction book The Day The Sky Turned Pink draws from my own experiences and resilience, focusing on themes of empowerment and following your own path.
Can you share a particularly memorable event you spoke in? What made it stand out?
One unforgettable experience was speaking at the Women Economic Forum, where I was recognized as one of the Iconic Global Women Creating a Better World for All. The atmosphere was incredible—being surrounded by powerful women from all over the world who are dedicated to positive change was incredibly inspiring. It was a reminder of the collective strength and resilience we share.
How would you describe your coaching philosophy? What core principles guide your practice?
My coaching philosophy centers on resilience, identifying your inner-calling, and gaining authentic confidence and courage to turn your dreams into reality with clarity. I believe that every individual has unique strengths waiting to be uncovered and that success comes from aligning those strengths with purpose. My approach combines personal growth with actionable strategies and encourages clients to embrace their vulnerabilities and grow from within.
What has been the most surprising or rewarding aspect of your work as a life coach?
Witnessing profound transformations in my clients’ lives is the most rewarding part of what I do. Seeing someone gain clarity about their purpose, overcome limiting beliefs, or step into a life of impact reminds me why I started this journey. The surprising part is how often the clients teach me—they show me resilience, creativity, and strength that inspires me to keep evolving in my own life and work.
What advice would you give to other aspiring entrepreneurs or advocates looking to make a difference in their communities?
Start by understanding your “why.” Passion is the fuel, but purpose is the compass that keeps you focused on meaningful impact. Surround yourself with supportive mentors and stay open to learning. And remember, every small step you take contributes to a bigger picture. Embrace your unique path and use it to uplift others.
What trends or innovations in the life coaching field are you most excited about? How are they shaping your practice?
I’m excited about the integration of technology with personal development, especially through online platforms that make coaching accessible to a global audience. At Step Up Journey, we’re tapping into these trends with online masterclasses, group coaching, and memberships to create a connected community where people can grow together, regardless of location.
What is the most valuable lesson learned from your professional journey?
The importance of resilience and adaptability. Life often unfolds in unexpected ways, and success isn’t always a straight path. I’ve learned that embracing change and finding strength in vulnerability are keys to both personal and professional growth. They remind me that every setback can be a setup for a comeback.
Are there any new projects or initiatives on the horizon?
Yes! I’m currently expanding my masterclass series and working on new content for Step Up Journey’s community programs, focusing on corporate social responsibility and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. I’m also finishing up my book The Day The Sky Turned Pink, which is aimed at inspiring young women to embrace their unique journeys and live courageously.
What is the legacy you want to leave through your digital content and mentorship programs, and how do you envision the Step Up Journey impacting future generations?
My legacy is one of empowerment and resilience. I want future generations to know that no matter their circumstances, they have the strength to rise. Step Up Journey is designed to equip people with the tools they need to transform their lives and leave a lasting impact on the world.
Lastly, for anyone who would like to get in touch with you or learn more about your work, who should they contact, and what’s the best way to reach you?
Visit www.stepupjourney.com and follow me on social media @ZaiMiztiq. I’m available across platforms to connect, inspire, and guide those ready to embark on their own journey of transformation.
Let’s Step Up and bring out the resilient, confident, and compassionate human leader in you! – Zai Miztiq
FlyNow Aviation: Revolutionizing Urban Air Mobility.
LYNEports: The Advanced Air Mobility Planning Software
We are excited to announce that LYNEports has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FlyNow Aviation, an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft technology, called eCopter. This partnership signifies a shared commitment to pushing advanced air mobility (AAM) forward and creating smarter, more adaptable solutions for the future of transportation.
A Shared Vision for Innovation Urban air mobility is rapidly transforming the way people and goods move across cities. At LYNEports, our unique geospatial software platform enables early-stage vertiport planning, site location identification, and seamless flight simulations in line with various regulatory frameworks. Partnering with FlyNow Aviation, known for its innovative family of eCopters, allows us to further refine and expand our capabilities to meet the current and future demands of AAM systems.
“At LYNEports, we are committed to fostering innovation in the rapidly evolving advanced air mobility sector,” said Rasha Alshami, Founder and CEO of LYNEports. “Our partnership with FlyNow Aviation is a testament to the power of collaboration, combining cutting-edge eVTOL technology with our advanced geospatial software to create smarter, more efficient solutions. Together, we aim to transform urban mobility, enabling seamless integration of air and ground infrastructure for a sustainable future.”
“FlyNow and Sky Alliance for Automated Air Mobility www.salaam.earth is keen to join forces with LYNEports to integrate a digital twin and AI technologies for a safe infrastructure planning. This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to advancing next-generation urban air mobility through innovative and reliable solutions” said Yvonne Winter, a Co-Founder and COO of FlyNow Aviation GmbH.
What This Partnership Means This collaboration focuses on integrating FlyNow’s eCopters specifications into LYNEports’ platform, offering insights that empower operators to:
Identify optimal vertiport landing locations in EMNA
Integrating FlyNow Aviation Aircraft into LYNEports software
Enabling early-stage vertiport planning in line with various regulatory frameworks.
Seamless flight simulations with FlyNow Aircraft
By combining our software’s robust capabilities with FlyNow’s operational expertise, we aim to provide a comprehensive toolkit that addresses the complex challenges of urban and advanced mobility planning and execution.
Looking Ahead This MoU represents just the beginning of what LYNEports and FlyNow Aviation can achieve together. As we continue to collaborate, we’re excited to explore new possibilities, refine our solutions, and contribute to the broader adoption of urban air mobility.
Why It Matters This partnership reflects our commitment to an agnostic and adaptable platform that supports diverse eVTOL technologies, helping operators and urban planners create tailored solutions for their specific needs.
Start flying FlyNow’s aircraft with LYNEports software: Start today
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 23 January 2025 – Pluto, UAE’s leading corporate card and expense management platform, has announced the successful raise of US$4.1 million in a pre-Series A funding round. The news comes just weeks after co-founder Mohammed Ridwan announced that the company had crossed AED 1Billion in spend under Pluto’s management.
The round was led by existing and new investors, including Rhino Ventures – a leading early-stage venture capital firm in Canada, Born Capital – a venture capital firm exclusively backing CFO-focused technologies, Goanna Capital – known for its investments in Ramp, Rippling and Figma, Evolution VC who has backed unicorns like Brex, Ramp and Freshbooks, Freesearch VC and Tiferes VC.
“Pluto is delivering a winning product to a market underserved by modern procure-to-pay solutions. Their vision to be the future back office for enterprises is consistent with an AI-augmented world. Having demonstrated a speed of execution and quality of product on par with global leaders in the space, we feel privileged to partner with the team at Pluto,” says Rhino Ventures.
Pluto has previously received backing from Silicon Valley spearheads including investment leaders like Ramp, Soma Capital, Graph Ventures and angel investors including Plaid Co-founder Willliam Hockey, Not Boring’s Packy McCormick and past executives from Cash App, Shopify, Amazon and more.
Founded in 2021 by Mohammed Ridwan, Mohammed Aziz and Nayeem Zen, Pluto’s platform unifies dynamic budget tracking, AI-powered corporate cards with an unmatched cashback program, petty cash management, procurement, invoice and vendor management into a single, intuitive product. Since its inception, Pluto has rapidly gained traction across SMEs & enterprises in the UAE, working with leading companies including Property Finder, Knight Frank, Tamara, Petrochem and more.
Launching Pluto Connect
With Pluto Connect, recently launched as a flagship solution, Pluto introduces a new business model that allows banks and financial institutions to seamlessly embed its corporate card and spend management capabilities directly into their own products, allowing banks to modernize their commercial banking capabilities. Pluto currently powers more than 30,000 SMEs through Pluto Connect with one of the largest banks in the world. With this fresh injection of capital, Pluto will double down on its bank-integrated approach, forging additional partnerships globally – with markets including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar – and further enhancing its AI-driven capabilities to deliver on a fully automated Account Payables management platform for SMEs.
“In 2025, SMEs expect way more from their banks than just using them as depository accounts. Value added services are a key strategy for most banks in the region. Partnering with banks and financial institutions allows Pluto to bring our world class solutions to more customers globally and allows such institutions to provide a world class experience back to their customers,” said Mohammed Aziz, CEO of Pluto.
Pluto stands apart in the UAE as the only platform serving banks and integrating every critical aspect of financial management – from AI-driven spend control to modern procurement management to automated invoice management – into a single, unified solution. By eliminating the need for shared corporate cards, manual data entry and lengthy reconciliation periods, Pluto empowers banks and financial institutions to deliver a seamless, value-added experience that deepens customer relationships, streamlines workflows and drives meaningful financial efficiency for SMEs.
This raise is a significant step forward in Pluto’s growth strategy. The news follows recent achievements, including being ranked #1 in EMEA for Procure to Pay Solutions and recognised as a Top 10 provider globally in both Enterprise and SMB Expense Management by G2, Pluto’s collaboration with neoleap by Al Rajhi Bank to expand operations into Saudi Arabia and Pluto’s strategic partnership with Mastercard to further fuel B2B payment solutions across the GCC.
The Brain & Performance Centre, a DP World company, has been honoured with the Gold Stevie® Award for Excellence in Innovation in Health Care Industries – Organisations with up to 100 Employees. This prestigious accolade highlights the Centre’s progressive approach to healthcare and its dedication to delivering innovative, patient-focused solutions.
The award recognises The Brain & Performance Centre’s pioneering work in advancing healthcare through the integration of cutting-edge technology and holistic protocols, including Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). These methods address complex health challenges such as traumatic brain injuries, post-stroke recovery, and chronic conditions, while also supporting peak cognitive and physical performance.
This achievement underscores the Centre’s alignment with UAE Vision 2040, which emphasises the development of a world-class healthcare system driven by innovation and excellence. The Brain & Performance Centre remains steadfast in its commitment to contributing to the UAE’s ambitions of becoming a global leader in advanced healthcare, enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
Dr Craig Cook, CEO of The Brain & Performance Centre, commented: “This recognition reaffirms our commitment to innovation and our role in supporting the UAE’s vision for an advanced and sustainable healthcare system. We strive to set new standards and improve lives through holistic and transformative care.”
The Stevie® Awards, internationally renowned for celebrating excellence in business, attracted thousands of entries from over 70 nations. Winning Gold in this highly competitive category highlights The Brain & Performance Centre’s contributions to advancing healthcare practices and driving meaningful change within the sector.
Through personalised care, holistic healthcare approaches, and advanced treatments, the Centre aligns its objectives with Dubai’s strategic priorities, solidifying its position as a key contributor to the region’s healthcare landscape.
