Morning Drive

Luxe Vista properties CEO Ajay Menon talks to Tim Elliott about why international capital continues to favour Dubai real estate. Menon analyses true market drivers, explains off-plan yield realities, and warns unsuspecting buyers against manufactured "distress deals" peddled by rogue property brokers.

Middle East brands are being warned over the rampant use of unlicensed music in social media campaigns. In this episode, MassiveMusic MENA Managing Director Pierre Carnet joins Tim Elliott to unpack the critical legal differences between personal and commercial licensing, while exploring why local artists are missing out on vital royalties.

Italian luxury trade is experiencing unprecedented growth in the Gulf region, driven by record-breaking lifestyle and jewelry exports to the UAE. Italian Trade Commissioner Valerio Soldani joins Tim Elliott to analyse how authentic craftsmanship, omnichannel marketing strategies, and robust intellectual property protection are cementing Dubai’s status as the ultimate gateway for regional expansion.

PRHub.ae’s PR Manager Kathrine Hamdan joins Tim Elliott to analyse a new industry report. They discuss how geopolitical shifts, economic tensions, and the rapid rise of AI are forcing an incredible 72 per cent of regional brands to completely overhaul their communication strategies and crisis management.

A major global survey by ACCA highlights a profound shift in the Middle East finance profession. Kush Ahuja, Head of Middle East and Eurasia at ACCA, tells Tim Elliott that young professionals, particularly Generation Z, are prioritising corporate values, social impact, and ESG integration over salaries, forcing regional employers to adapt or risk losing top-tier talent.

Tim Elliott sits down with Monetary Metals' gold expert Jeff Rhodes to dissect the current inertia gripping the bullion market. As geopolitical tensions persist, find out why gold remains heavily dependent on energy prices and shifting US interest rate expectations.

Fuel prices are climbing, health alerts are back in the headlines, and tensions around the Strait of Hormuz are raising fresh concerns for airlines and global tourism. So how resilient is the travel industry heading into the second half of the year? Tim Elliott is joined by global tourism strategist Anita Mendiratta, Special Advisor to the Secretary-General of UN Tourism, for a closer look at the risks, recovery and what travelers and businesses should expect next.

Abu Dhabi’s rent freeze policy continues to shape conversations across the property market, with landlords and tenants both adjusting to the changing landscape. As attention turns to renewals and new lease agreements, joining Tim Elliott is joined by Ben Crompton, Managing Partner at Crompton Partners, to break down what the policy means for the market moving forward.

Tim Elliott discusses how households can navigate financial pressure without sacrificing long-term stability. Joining him is independent financial consultant James Thomas, offering practical advice on when to spend, when to save and how to make smarter financial decisions during uncertain economic times, rising living costs and shifting consumer confidence.

Tim Elliott examines the Strait of Hormuz crisis and its impact on global trade, shipping and energy markets. Joining him is Abigail Mathias, Editor at Global Supply Chain Magazine, to discuss rising freight costs, supply chain vulnerabilities, market reaction and what businesses and consumers should prepare for next.