The January expansion of the BRICS bloc to include several key Middle Eastern nations was widely seen as a major geopolitical development that could reshape global power dynamics. Bringing Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and others into the fold opened new possibilities for cooperation and trade outside the Western-led order. Key questions remain around whether efforts to introduce a shared trading currency will gain momentum and what effects this could have on the US dollar's dominance globally. It also remains to be seen how Saudi Arabia might leverage its new position within BRICS to advance its Vision 2030 agenda of economic diversification. Meanwhile, it also begs the question of how might the UAE further develop its diplomacy and trade partnerships through deeper BRICS engagement.

In this episode, Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa speaks with geopolitical risk expert Nicolas Michelon, Partner at strategic advisory firm Confluence Consultants, about the expansion's strategic implications and potential impacts on reshaping global trade in the coming years.

In this episode, Lisa Amnegard, editor of Arabian Business Traveller, speaks with Dr. Dirk Kremer about the worrying trend of young people trading social media filters for fillers. The conversation focuses on how unrealistic beauty standards can trigger a vicious cycle of plastic surgery procedures, leaving many young patients looking older and losing their natural glow. Dr. Kremer provides alternative solutions for how young adults can maintain radiant, youthful skin without resorting to cosmetic injections.

In this episode, host and Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa discusses strategy with Marc Biosca, a partner with global management consulting firm Kearney. The conversation focuses on common misconceptions about strategic planning. Rather than getting bogged down in complexity, Biosca advocates for clear strategic frames of reference that can be easily communicated and executed.

In this episode, R.Evolution's COO Qasim Mansour speaks with Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa about the developer's novel approach to combining wellness, design and sustainability within luxury real estate at Eywa - a one-of-a-kind new project that will become the most distinctive addition to Dubai's already impressive skyline. By engaging all five senses, Eywa aims to attract those seeking more than just material goods. Mansour will provide insight into how the company is achieving the ideal balance between luxury real estate, well-being, and sustainability to provide residents with a true feeling of calm and equilibrium within their homes.

In this episode of AB Majlis, reporter Nicole Abigael dives into the digital landscape in the UAE with Steve Foster. Join us as we unravel the web of cybercrime and its far-reaching impact on society, learning how to protect our technological identities.

With over 30 years working in corporate finance, Tariq Khan made a bold move into the beauty industry by establishing CTZN Cosmetics along with his daughters. Since its launch in 2019, the award-winning brand has experienced exponential growth and global recognition, demonstrating the potential for independent beauty brands to thrive amidst intense competition in the multi-billion dollar industry.

In this episode, Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with behavioural coach Justin Kent, founder of Hawksby, to discuss the promises and pitfalls of remote work. While the flexible schedules allowed by working from home have benefits like improved work-life balance, studies show the isolation of prolonged remote work during pandemic lockdowns also took a toll on many people's mental health. Justin explains how a lack of in-person interactions and separation of work/life spaces can increase anxiety, depression and loneliness.

At the same time, remote arrangements may pose challenges for those early in their careers who need face-time and networking opportunities within their organizations to advance. As companies transition to hybrid or office-centric models, Justin offers insights on balancing professional demands with personal well-being as professionals re-integrate into the new world of work.

In this empowering episode of AB Majlis, reporter Nicole Abigael delves into the world of leadership with corporate commercial lawyer, Rima Mrad, a woman in a male dominated industry.

Join us as we explore the challenges and triumphs of navigating woman leadership in a male-dominated space, uncovering the strategies and insights that have propelled Rima to success in her career.

Spartan Race founder Joe de Sena sits down with Editor in Chief Matthew Amlot to discuss his philosophy on life - how people should live hard and not take the easy way, because a healthy body can lead to healthy relationships, both in business and personal life

In this episode, Arabian Business Traveller Editor, Lisa Amnegard, sits down with renowned British chef Jason Atherton to uncover his secrets to building a culinary empire in the cutthroat restaurant industry. As the mind behind 17 restaurants worldwide, including four venues in Dubai, Atherton has risen to become one of the industry's most decorated names. He shares invaluable lessons from over two decades in Dubai, including insights on developing new concepts and adapting to shifts in the regional dining scene.As one of the first high-profile chefs to establish a Saudi presence through Maraya Social, Atherton weighs in on prospects for future growth in the Kingdom's evolving dining scene.