Morning Drive

Could the cost of moving oil through one of the world's busiest shipping lanes soon hit consumers everywhere? Fresh concerns are emerging that proposed charges for vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz could push up energy prices, disrupt global trade, and fuel another wave of inflation. 

Joining us is Ryan Bohl, Senior Middle East and North African Analyst at the RANE Network, to unpack what this could mean for businesses, markets, and consumers around the world.

The latest GCC People Pulse from Ipsos and Employee Experience Exchange reveals a surprising contradiction in the region's workforce. Employees are more confident in their organisations than the global average, yet more than half say they are under constant strain at work, while AI optimism is rising alongside fears over job security. 

Joining Tim Elliott is James Tarbit, Global Head of Employee Experience at Ipsos, to unpack what these findings mean for business leaders across the Gulf.

 A ceasefire has eased tensions between the US and Iran, but uncertainty over the next round of peace talks means risks remain in the Strait of Hormuz. So, how safe is one of the world's busiest shipping routes today?

Joining Tim Elliott is Christopher Long, Head of Intelligence & Compliance at Neptune P2P Group, to discuss the latest maritime security situation, vessel traffic, and what it means for global trade and businesses.

Dubai's retail property market is off to a flying start in 2026, with sales values jumping 171% to AED2.1 billion, driven by a surge in off-plan deals. At the same time, rents continue to climb even as more businesses choose to renew leases instead of relocating.

Joining Tim Elliott is Ali Siddiqui, Research Manager at Cavendish Maxwell, to unpack what's driving these trends and what they mean for investors, retailers and the wider economy.

A major change to how businesses issue invoices is officially underway. The UAE launches the pilot phase of its new e invoicing framework from July 1, marking the start of one of the country's biggest tax and digital compliance reforms. With mandatory deadlines approaching in 2027, businesses are now being urged to prepare.

Joining Tim Elliott is Nils Vanhassel, Partner and Head of Tax Middle East at Addleshaw Goddard, to explain what the new rules mean, what companies need to do next, and how the UAE's approach compares with its Gulf neighbours.

Is hiring slowing for summer, or are employers still actively recruiting? We take a look at what's really happening in the job market.Joining Tim Elliott is Zachary Beckett, Talent Partner at Professional Pyramid, with the latest insights on hiring trends and what job seekers should do next.

Tim Elliott sits down with Mario Volpi, Senior Manager at Eva Real Estate, to discuss the official launch of passenger services on Etihad Rail. They explore the phased rollout of the network and what this enhanced connectivity means for commuters, residents, and the UAE real estate landscape.

As Vision 2030 drives global multinationals to relocate corporate operations to Riyadh, can property ownership market shifts convince top executive talent to move? Tim Elliott talks to Ajay Menon, CEO of Luxe Vista Properties, to analyse why Dubai’s liberal, cosmopolitan lifestyle ensures it remains preferred for expatriate family living.

We consume it daily, but do we truly know what’s in our water? Tim Elliott sits down with BE WTR Founder Mike Hecker to unpack growing concerns over microplastics and the heavy environmental toll of imported bottles, exploring whether locally produced premium water is the sustainable path forward.

As schools close for summer, demand for holiday camps is rising, transforming childcare into a fast-growing business. Charlotte D’Souza, Co-Founder of Blah Blah Blah, joins Tim Elliott to explore what is driving this demand, whether parents will spend more, and just how profitable the market has become.