Morning Drive

Tim Elliott interviews ZIGChain Co-founder Abdul Rafay Gadit, live from Abu Dhabi Finance Week, on how blockchain is revolutionising the $4.2 trillion Sharia-compliant finance market. Abdul discusses the launch of Nawa Finance, a Sharia-certified on-chain yield platform, and ZIGChain's mission to democratise investment access. He explains how tokenisation is opening up sophisticated opportunities.

Ramla Al Ansaari (Head of Emiratisation at TASC Outsourcing) joins Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM to discuss the critical disconnect in UAE national employment. Recent data reveals 74% of Emiratis are unhappy with pay, with many confined to fully on-site roles. The discussion shifts focus from achieving hiring quotas to a proactive retention strategy. Ramla highlights the vital role of employer trust, fair remuneration, and the urgent need for flexible working models to successfully integrate nationals into the private sector and avoid 2026 compliance penalties.

Tim Elliott welcomes Jiacek Ziomek, Manager of X Motors, for a chat on automobiles. They discuss the Dubai climate's impact and explore the world of luxury off-road vehicles, including models starting at $175,000 built for off-grid desert survival. The programme also covers the inherent quality of German engineering and the rising trend of electric vehicles (EVs), touching upon design features like Goldwing doors and manufacturing issues seen with the Tesla Cybertruck.

Tim Elliott interviews the CEO of Strategic Housing Group on the UAE's record-breaking real estate market and the future of urban living. They analyse the affordable housing shortage for essential workers and young professionals, and how the company's innovative co-living model provides scalable, quality, and accessible living spaces to ease the financial burden and the psychological trauma of long commutes.

Lushescapes CEO Abhishek Dadlani tells Tim Elliott the figures people are dropping on bespoke winter holidays. Hear how the luxury travel consultancy secures VIP, transformative experiences—from the best suites to behind-the-scenes F1 access—as demand for exclusivity soars.

Goldstrom Advisory CEO Jeff Rhodes reveals explosive predictions for precious metals with Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM. Hear his detailed analysis on why gold is projected to hit $4400 next year, potentially surging to $6500 by 2026. Plus, Rhodes shares his forecast for silver heading towards $125, driven by its reclassification as a strategic metal. An essential listen on how interest rates and inflation are shaping the future of metal markets.

James Thomas, Independent Financial Consultant, joins host Tim Elliott to discuss crucial strategies for safeguarding your financial future. They delve into the current investment climate, covering topics like managing risk, diversified portfolios, and making informed decisions to weather economic uncertainty. Tune in for practical advice on achieving your long-term financial goals and securing your wealth.

David Mackenzie, CEO of Mackenzie Jones, sits down with Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM to debate the realisation of remote and hybrid working models in Dubai and the Middle East. He explains why a traditional 'see-them-working' mentality still prevails, shares his company's flexible policy, and discusses the nuances of recruitment and productivity in a diverse cultural environment.

Tim Elliott asks Dr. David Tully, Head of Media at Middlesex University Dubai, the million-dollar question: "How Much Does Mariah Carey Earn Every Christmas?" They discuss the astronomical revenue generated by 'All I Want for Christmas Is You' and unpack the business model behind the entire festive media season. The discussion explores the psychology of nostalgia, why Christmas content is the ultimate 'evergreen' goldmine, and how Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol first created this lucrative, reliable revenue stream for creative industries.

Tim Elliott interviews Nasser Bostan, Founder & CEO of Simulacra.X, on the profound impact of Artificial Intelligence. They discuss AI's enormous potential for efficiency and breakthroughs in healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing—showing how AI can solve major global problems. The debate also focuses on the social risks, including over-reliance for companionship, and the potential for a decline in human critical thinking skills.