Morning Drive

From strained ports to disrupted energy routes, global trade is under pressure. Tim Elliott speaks with Tobias Maier, CEO of DHL Global Forwarding MEA, on how supply chains are adapting across air, sea and land. How resilient is logistics in rising volatility—and what risks could still derail global movement?

Regional tensions are testing resilience across UAE campuses. Tim Elliott speaks with Nick Bradley, Regional Recruitment Director at Heriot-Watt University Dubai, on contingency planning, distance learning pivots, safeguarding student wellbeing, supporting educators, protecting international students, and preserving academic integrity. 

Independent Financial Consultant James Thomas joins Tim Elliott to analyse essential strategies for managing "lifestyle creep". They discuss practical budgeting techniques tailored for the UAE, exploring how to balance high-cost living—such as schooling and rent—whilst prioritising long-term financial security and avoiding the common traps of unnecessary discretionary upgrades.

Tim Elliott discusses the future of trade with Aurélien Paradis, CEO of AU Group Middle East & Africa. They explore how businesses are prioritising financial security and robust risk management to ensure resilience, navigating global volatility while capitalising on the Middle East’s rapid economic expansion.

Tim Elliott discusses the current state of the UAE job market with David Mackenzie, Managing Director of Mackenzie Jones. Despite regional uncertainty, they explore how the UAE effectively manages difficult situations. David offers vital advice on resilience, highlighting thriving sectors like supply chain, logistics, and cyber tech.

Tim Elliott is joined by precious metals expert Jeff Rhodes to discuss why gold prices are pivoting around the $5,000 mark. They explore how surging crude oil prices and energy-led inflation have temporarily sidelined anticipated US interest rate cuts.

Ajay Menon, CEO of Luxe Vista Properties, joins Tim Elliott to analyse the current impact of global geopolitical tensions on Dubai’s real estate sector. Menon shares vital insights on market resilience, explaining why holding your assets is currently the most strategic move for long-term capital growth.

Tim Elliott sits down with John Raffoul, General Manager of Cheval Maison The Palm, to discuss the demand for luxury staycations in the UAE. Raffoul shares insights into their bespoke concierge services, the unique proposition of their Expo City property, and how they are navigating current holiday booking trends.

Matt Stanley, Head of Market Engagement (EMEA & APAC) at Kpler, joins Tim Elliott to analyse the deepening energy crisis as supply disruptions escalate. They examine the potential market fallout from a Strait of Hormuz closure, discussing soaring crude prices and the critical role of diesel. The conversation explores key mitigants and whether global reserves can stabilise the sector.

In this episode of Morning Drive, Tim Elliott is joined by Indranil Ghosh — Editor, Middle East and Africa at Rest of World. They explore why Gulf nations are prioritising overland data corridors to bypass vulnerable maritime choke points, ensuring that vital global digital connectivity remains secure and resilient.