Morning Drive

Dr Ramzi Ben Ouaghrem of the Mohammed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence speaks with Tim Elliott about the new Institute for Agriculture and AI (IAAI), launched in partnership with the Gates Foundation. The IAAI focuses on deploying open-access AI models and digital advisory tools at scale to support over 43 million smallholder farmers, tackling data relevance issues and boosting food security, sustainability, and global development in the Global South. This initiative brings AI out of the laboratory and into the field.

In this insightful interview on Mira Business FM, Paras Raichura, Founder and CEO of PNDigital, joins presenter Tim Elliott to discuss the latest trends and essential strategies for digital transformation. Learn how businesses can effectively implement new technologies, foster a culture of innovation, and strategically leverage digital tools to maintain a competitive edge and drive sustainable growth in the fast-paced modern economy.

Tim Elliott speaks to Dr. Stavroula Kalogeras, MBA Programme Director at Edinburgh Business School, Heriot-Watt University, about the role of Generative AI in marketing. They analyse the overwhelming public backlash to McDonald's AI-generated Christmas campaign in the Netherlands, discussing why it failed to connect emotionally. The discussion covers the importance of consistent brand behaviour and authentic storytelling for big brands experimenting with emerging technology.

Century Financial's Chief Market Analyst, Arun Leslie John, joins Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM to analyse if the AI tech boom is a "super cycle" or a bubble, contrasting it with the dot-com era. Discussion covers the bullish outlook for 2026, cooling inflation, and how geopolitical volatility is shaping key investment themes like European defence spending and the institutional push for gold.

Mackenzie Jones CEO David Mackenzie joins Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM to discuss the Middle East job market. He confirms a hiring slowdown in Saudi Arabia due to PIF budgeting/project delays, compares it to the UAE's strength, and details the big demand for talent in AI and cyber security. Crucial CV/LinkedIn advice included.

Financial consultant James Thomas joins Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM to analyse the world of ethical investing. They centre the discussion on its definition, aligning it with personal beliefs, negative screening, and the importance of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance). Learn how to invest your hard-earned money in socially responsible and productive ventures.

X Motors' General Manager Jiacek Ziomek joins Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM to deliver a brutal critique of modern supercar design, slamming the "ugly" colours and controversial aesthetics. He reveals exclusive insight into why Ferrari's sales are struggling on models like the Roma and 296, and how the iconic marque is shifting its future design direction towards a Chinese influence. Plus, his shock takes on the F1 season champion being an "average driver" and the game-changing 'white light' traffic system for autonomous cars.

Tim Elliott interviews Merlin Real Estate Co-Founder Rohit Bachani following Sharjah's record-breaking month of 9.5 billion dirhams in property transactions. Bachani credits quality developers, notably Arada, for the surge, drawing investors looking for growth outside Dubai. They also discuss the increasing scarcity of townhouses and villas across the Emirates, Merlin's use of HexaGene software for trend prediction, and the essential role of regulatory clarity.

Managing Director of TBreak Media and Tech Expert Abbas Jaffar Ali joins Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM to analyse the 'RAMageddon' phenomenon. They discuss how soaring demand from AI data centres and a supply squeeze are impacting the consumer tech market, PC building, and what the rise in enterprise-grade memory means for the future of hardware prices. Get essential advice on whether you should be upgrading now or waiting.

Allegiance Real Estate VP Mario Volpi analyses the latest Dubai property report on Mira Business FM, revealing Indian and British nationals lead tenancy across key communities. He discusses the long-term bullish market outlook, rental vs. buying trends, wealth migration to the UAE, and the cash buyer preference. Plus, an essential Chelsea FC chat!