Gulf Insider July 2025

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The multi-award winning Arabian Magazine

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Nicholas C. Cooksey

CO-PUBLISHER & DIRECTOR Charlie H. Cooksey

EDITORIAL

Deepika Rao

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Angela Acosta

Andrea Raj

Yara Bahman

Vinita V.

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For advertising contact Charlie Cooksey +973 3652 0004 charlie@gulf-insider.com

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LEGAL TRAINING

How one program is building an ecosystem for Bahrain’s next generation of lawyers.

Bahrain’s legal sector faces a defining moment, with an increasing demand for proficient, businesssavvy, ethical, and globally competent lawyers. In a rapidly evolving legal landscape, the need for structured training and mentorship for law graduates has become increasingly critical.

Law firms must go beyond recruitment and actively invest in the next generation. The Professional Legal Practice Certificate (PLPC) Course is helping the landscape with exactly that, a bold and collaborative initiative that serves as a solid foundation for the Kingdom’s young legal talent.

Since its inception in 2019, the PLPC has become a cornerstone of legal training in Bahrain. Now in its

fourth cohort with 30 graduates, this six-month course by the Judicial & Legal Studies Institute (JLSI) bridges the gap between academic study and the real-world demands of legal practice.

Beyond a very robust curriculum, what sets the PLPC apart is the collective commitment it has garnered from Bahrain’s leading law firms.

Why are Bahrain’s Top Law Firms Backing the PLPC?

PLPC’s success is no accident. The program has grown into a robust, 16-module experience that covers everything from legal ethics and negotiation to corporate law and anti-money laundering. The entire program is delivered in English and is designed with input from Bahrain’s top legal minds.

Dr. Khaled Serry Seyam, Chairman of JLSI, emphasizes the program’s broader impact: “PLPC goes beyond the scope of legal training; it’s a vehicle for achieving Bahrain’s Vision 2030. By equipping graduates with practical skills and strong English proficiency, we’re preparing them to be catalysts for legal and economic progress.”

Dr. Reyadh Seyadi, JLSI’s Director, who ensures that the program remains aligned with the ever-evolving needs of Bahrain’s legal and corporate sectors, believes that the program enhances legal expertise, fosters proactive risk management, and strengthens corporate governance. “It empowers young lawyers to become ethical, strategic contributors within their organizations,” says Dr. Seyadi.

At the core of this initiative is Sulaf Zakharia, Head of Institutional Relations, who conceptualised and developed the course. The leadership at JLSI has built a national pathway that’s nurturing and equipping Bahrain’s future legal professionals with hands-on experiences.

For many of the program’s supporters, the PLPC is a means to build a sustainable legal ecosystem in the Kingdom.

the program as essential to closing the gap between theory and practice. “This program goes beyond theory. It provides young lawyers with the skills, confidence, and ethical grounding they need to succeed. Being involved in their development has been deeply rewarding,” she said. “It’s the passion and commitment demonstrated by every participant in this program that gives us hope for a strong legal future in Bahrain.”

Hassan Ali Radhi, Founder & Senior Partner at Hassan Radhi & Associates shares a similar perspective: “The diversity of topics and the practical insights offered by PLPC help prepare young professionals to handle real-life legal challenges. These efforts uplift the entire profession and reflect positively on Bahrain’s legal reputation.”

The entire program is delivered in English and is designed with input from Bahrain’s top legal minds.

For Saad Al Doseri, Founder of Al Doseri Law, the motivation to support the PLPC is deeply personal. “As a bilingual legal professional, I recognise the paramount importance of English proficiency and practical training within our industry. The PLPC adeptly equips graduates with these essential skills. It is an honour to contribute to a program that so closely aligns with our mission to cultivate and enhance Bahraini legal talent.”

Elevating Standards, Shaping Futures

The PLPC has evolved into a platform for transformation as law graduates step out of the program with the readiness to take on the challenges of the professional world.

For Balall Maqbool, Knowledge Lawyer and Regional Knowledge Manager at DLA Piper Middle East, who has contributed to both the content and delivery of the program

Dr.
From her role as Partner, Head of the Dispute Resolution Department at Al Tamimi & Company, Noor Al Rayes sees

- “PLPC students emerge with foundational legal knowledge, critical thinking abilities, and commercial awareness. These are precisely the attributes that law firms value today.”

This sentiment is echoed by Ahmed Al Fardan, Partner at Newton Legal, the results are tangible. “The course fosters practical application of law and sharpens skills needed for both in-house and private practice roles. The level of engagement and enthusiasm from the participants is always inspiring.”

Other legal leaders also commend the program’s strategic vision. Ali Abdullah Al Aradi, Founder & Senior Partner, Ali Al Aradi Attorneys & Legal Consultants sees it as a meaningful bridge between education and employment - “The PLPC is successful in exposing young lawyers to realworld challenges. The involvement of experienced practitioners prepares them for future service to clients and the community.”

The Power of Industry-Led Training

What makes the PLPC uniquely impactful is its industry-led model. Law firms are not passive sponsors—they are active participants in shaping the curriculum, teaching modules, and mentoring students. This real-world exposure is instrumental in preparing graduates for the multifaceted demands of legal practice.

MENA Chambers Bahrain’s Senior Associate, Ameena Saleh sums it up perfectly: “PLPC covers everything from commercial law to critical soft skills like negotiation and interpersonal skills. It’s a comprehensive package that prepares students to transition smoothly into the profession.”

For academics like Yasmin Sebah, Senior Lecturer at Middlesex University Dubai, PLPC offers a model of legal education worth emulating. “This program symbolizes Bahrain’s commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability. It continually evolves,

incorporating global best practices and training methods.”

The course also benefits from crossdisciplinary expertise. José M. Zapatero, Director of Waste Management –Middle East at Urbaser Bahrain noted, “The program’s organization and the students’ drive are exemplary. I was honoured to contribute to the training of a legal community committed to high standards and accountability.”

Building a Talent Pipeline, Together

Since its inception, the program has seen a total of over 90 graduates walk into the professional realm, signifying that the PLPC’s legal talent pipeline is growing steadily, and so is its impact. Beyond employability, the program shapes legal minds ready to uphold justice, navigate complex regulations, and contribute meaningfully to the corporate world.

A Call to Action

The PLPC represents a collective investment in Bahrain’s legal future. Law firms that engage with the program today are shaping the standards, values, and capabilities of tomorrow’s legal profession.

As the next cohort prepares to embark on this journey, the message is clear: structured, collaborative training is not optional, but essential.

THE LEADERSHIP MINDSET

Staying out of one’s head, building stamina to make decisions all day long, and practising self-care are hallmarks of any leader. UFC Gym Bahrain tells us the importance of a good gym routine and what workout routines set the tone for a successful day.

Leadership doesn’t begin in the boardroom; it starts before the first email is sent, before the first meeting is held. It starts with how you show up for yourself. At the UFC Gym Bahrain, a growing number of business leaders, entrepreneurs, and executives make early morning workouts part of their daily strategy - and it’s no coincidence.

The way you train influences the way you lead. When your body is strong, your focus sharpens. When your routine is disciplined, your decision-making improves. Fitness, for many leaders, has become a non-negotiable part of success.

Why are More Leaders Prioritising the Gym?

Before the day ramps up, high performers use their gym sessions to get grounded, energised, and mentally prepared. It’s not just about staying in shape; it’s about building a mindset of consistency, grit, and focus. Just 45 minutes of intense training can completely shift how someone approaches the rest of their day.

The gym is where pressure turns into progress.

What Workouts are Executives Choosing?

Today’s leaders are choosing workouts that challenge both body and mind. These are high-effort, high-reward sessions - the kind that build stamina, resilience, and confidence.

Some of the most common routines among professionals at UFC Gym Bahrain include:

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Just 45 minutes of intense training can completely shift how someone approaches the rest of their day.

Boxing, Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu - A fast-paced, high-intensity way to release stress, improve mental clarity, and build a fighter’s focus.

Strength & Conditioning - Ideal for improving overall performance, endurance, and mental toughness.

DUT (Daily Ultimate Training)Functional training designed to improve how you move, perform, and stay injury-free in real life.

Yoga - Increasingly popular for improving flexibility, breathing, posture, and mental reset. It’s key for long-term performance.

The Results Go Far Beyond Physical

The benefits aren’t just in how you look, they’re in how you lead. Regular training helps leaders manage stress, stay sharp, and make better decisions under pressure. When workouts become part of the lifestyle, they create a sense of structure that carries

into the rest of the day and often, the rest of the organisation.

Built for More

If you want to lead with purpose, clarity, and control, start your day in the gym. UFC Gym Bahrain is built for those who want more out of life and business. The Gym’s two locations in Bahrain offer the tools, classes, coaching, and community to help build not just strength, but leadership from the inside out.

Lead by example.Train like it matters. Show up strong.

MuayThai
Daily UltimateTraining (DUT)
Strength & Conditioning

THE TEMERARIO GT3

Lamborghini has introduced the Temerario GT3, its first race car based on the new Temerario road model.

What sets this model apart, along with its origin, is its entire development from design to build, taking place at Lamborghini’s headquarters in Sant’Agata Bolognese. It’s also the first competition car from the brand developed entirely in-house, built with motorsport integration in mind from day one.

Race Engineering from the Ground Up

The GT3 version is built around a modified aluminium spaceframe chassis

taken from the road car, adjusted for racing durability and serviceability. The chassis is simplified for quicker removal of front and rear subframes, which makes a significant difference during pit operations.

The rear section has been adapted to house the engine and transmission, while race-specific components have replaced the hybrid systems found in the road model. A roll cage has also been integrated to meet FIA GT3 safety standards.

Carbon Bodywork and Aerodynamics

New carbon composite body panels

help reduce weight while preserving some of the production car’s design language. These panels were developed in collaboration with Lamborghini’s motorsport and design teams to improve aerodynamic performance, especially under braking and through corners. The car’s front and rear bodywork is modular, allowing for quick removal and reassembly; a practical feature during endurance races.

Cooling systems have also been overhauled. The updated radiator layout and improved airflow help regulate temperatures, particularly for

A roll cage has also been integrated to meet FIA GT3 safety standards.

the turbochargers, which face more demand in the absence of hybrid components.

Performance and Powertrain

Under the hood is a revised version of Lamborghini’s 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine. While the road car produces around 800 hp, the race version is tuned to meet GT3 regulations and delivers approximately 550 hp (subject to balance-of-performance rules). The engine maintains its flat-plane crankshaft for even firing order and sound quality, with titanium connecting rods to reduce rotational mass.

Paired with a six-speed transverse gearbox, the engine also benefits from a redesigned airbox and recalibrated software for a broader rev range. The exhaust system, developed specifically for this model, is supplied by Capristo, and the car runs on racing oil by Pertamina Fastron Lubricants.

Suspension, Steering, and Handling

The Temerario GT3 has a longer wheelbase and wider track than its predecessor, which contributes to improved stability. It features KW’s six-way adjustable dampers, also used in Lamborghini’s SC63 prototype, designed for both performance and ease of setup. These components are mounted on new chassis plates rather than carbon inserts, streamlining pit work.

Tires are mounted on 18-inch wheels by Ronal AG, and a custom hydraulic steering rack has been installed to ensure compatibility across a variety of tyre brands and racing series.

Driver-Focused Interior

The cockpit has been shaped with input from factory drivers Marco Mapelli and Andrea Caldarelli. Updates

include a redesigned steering wheel, new switchgear with improved graphics, and enhanced data logging. Lamborghini’s in-house software team has also customised the electronics for improved usability and responsiveness during high-stress driving situations.

On-Track Debut in 2026

The Temerario GT3 is expected to make its racing debut at the 12 Hours of Sebring in March 2026. It is currently undergoing final testing and development ahead of a phased rollout during the 2026 racing season. Lamborghini has stated that it will continue supporting teams still running the Huracán GT3 during this transition period.

With its race-focused design and in-house development approach, the Temerario GT3 marks a new chapter in Lamborghini’s motorsport strategy; one aimed squarely at privateer teams looking for performance, reliability, and serviceability in a competitive GT3 package.

MODERN COMMUNITY LIVING

Discover ALDANAH by ROSHN, a vibrant, sustainable community in Dhahran offering modern homes, green spaces, and everyday convenience.

Looking to settle down in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Region?

ROSHN Group has introduced ALDANAH, a new residential community in the heart of Dhahran. Just minutes from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Ithra, and Aramco Stadium, and 20 minutes from King Fahd Causeway, the property offers a prime location for modern urban living.

Despite its central location, ALDANAH boasts a peaceful and spacious lifestyle with over 2,000

homes. The development features nine different home typologies and two façade options, all inspired by local architecture. Villas and duplexes come with maids’ and drivers’ rooms, shaded parking, and large, light-filled interiors with ample storage.

For those seeking extra space and luxury, the premium villas make up just 6% of the community and include landscaped gardens and provisions for private swimming pools. These homes also offer direct views of the “green spine,” a central landscaped corridor

that promotes outdoor activity and connects residents with nature.

Green spaces are central to ALDANAH’s design, with 145,000 square metres dedicated to shaded walkways, jogging paths, and pedestrian-friendly streets. The community embraces sustainability with thermally insulated homes, highefficiency air conditioning, EV charging provisions, and smart irrigation systems using recycled water.

More than a residential project, the property is a self-contained, family-

The development features nine different home typologies and two façade options, all inspired by local architecture.

friendly community designed around the 15-minute living concept. Schools, retail outlets, restaurants, mosques, and community centres are all within easy reach, making daily life convenient and connected.

Sales will open soon. If you’re thinking of planting roots in the Eastern Province, keep an eye on ALDANAH, a fresh take on modern living from ROSHN.

For more, visit roshn.sa

KUWAIT EXIT PERMITS

Over 35,000 permits issued as new rule requires private sector expat workers to get employer approval before departure.

Since July this year, Kuwait has issued more than 35,000 exit permits following the enforcement of a new regulation requiring expatriate workers in the private sector to secure employer approval before leaving the country.

Introduced by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al Yousuf, the rule is part of an initiative to align the departure process with Kuwait’s labour and residency laws.

Marzouq Al Otaibi, Director General of the Public Authority for Manpower,

confirmed that all permits were processed through official employer channels and met the required legal criteria. The process has been digitised to streamline applications and enhance accessibility for both employers and workers.

Exit permit requests can now be submitted and approved via the “Sahel” mobile app or the “Ashal” manpower portal. Employers must give their consent through “Sahel Business” or the corporate version of “Ashal,” ensuring compliance with manpower authority regulations.

The system operates around the

clock, and expatriate workers must complete an electronic form with personal and travel details. According to Al Otaibi, the objective is to protect the rights of both employees and employers while promoting transparency.

If an employer refuses or delays approval without valid justification, workers have the right to file a complaint with the labour relations unit linked to their company. Al Otaibi also clarified that there is no limit on the number of exit permits that can be issued, as long as employers approve the request.

EMIRATES EMBRACES CRYPTO

Dubai’s flagship airline to introduce cryptocurrency payments in partnership with Crypto.com

Emirates Airline is set to enable cryptocurrency payments as part of its evolving digital infrastructure, following a newly signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) with leading platform Crypto.com. The integration of Crypto.com Pay is expected to go live in late 2025.

The agreement was signed in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group. Signing on behalf of Emirates was Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, while Mohammed Al Hakim, President of Crypto.com UAE, represented the crypto firm.

“This strategic move is in line with Dubai’s vision to be at the forefront of financial innovation while providing our customers with greater flexibility and choice in how they transact with Emirates,” said Kazim.

The initial implementation will focus on technical integration, compliance protocols, and enhancing the customer experience. A phased rollout is planned, which may begin with select routes or regions before expanding globally.

Importantly, while customers will have the option to pay using cryptocurrencies, the transactions will be instantly converted to AED using real-time exchange rates. Emirates will not hold any digital assets on its books, ensuring compliance and minimising

foreign exchange exposure.

In addition to payment integration, Emirates and Crypto.com will collaborate on promotional campaigns to drive awareness and adoption.

The move aligns with Dubai’s broader ambition to become a global hub for digital finance and blockchain innovation. The city is already home to hundreds of crypto-focused companies and has seen increasing use of cryptocurrency in sectors like real estate and telecommunications.

With regulatory support and rising demand for seamless, tech-driven experiences, Emirates’ crypto initiative is a strong signal of where the future of travel and commerce may be headed.

RAIL REVOLUTION

Launching in 2026, Etihad Rail is set to transform the UAE’s economy, create jobs, and enable greener travel nationwide.

Imagine boarding a sleek, highspeed train in Abu Dhabi and arriving in Dubai in under an hour, no traffic, no stress, just a quiet, seamless journey across the desert. This vision is becoming reality with the launch of Etihad Rail, the UAE’s national railway project, scheduled to begin operations in 2026.

But Etihad Rail is about much more than fast travel. It’s a national engine for economic growth, job creation, and sustainability.

According to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), the Abu Dhabi–Dubai passenger line alone could contribute up to AED 145 billion to the UAE’s GDP in the long term. The wider network

is projected to add AED 3.5 billion annually to the economy by 2030, with a return rate of 15.5%.

Driving Economic Growth and Jobs

Etihad Rail is expected to create over 9,000 jobs by 2030 across engineering, logistics, maintenance, operations, and construction. Part of the UAE’s “Projects of the 50” initiative, the

railway programme aims to connect all seven emirates and key industrial hubs, unlocking AED 200 billion in economic opportunities.

Already, thousands have been employed in the project’s construction phase, with local factories producing materials like railway sleepers and service sectors benefiting from the supply chain expansion. Partnerships with institutions such as ADVETI are also equipping young Emiratis for

long-term careers in transportation and engineering.

Sustainable, Smart Infrastructure

Etihad Rail aligns with the UAE’s environmental goals. The electricpowered trains will significantly cut carbon emissions by removing thousands of vehicles from the roads. The UAE Government projects a 70% to 80% reduction in emissions over the next 50 years.

The Journey Begins

Etihad Rail promises faster travel, lower logistics costs, improved tourism, and sustainable development. As trains prepare to roll out in 2026, the UAE’s economic transformation is already well underway.

A CULTURAL BEACON

Opening in December 2025, the Zayed National Museum in Abu Dhabi will honour the UAE’s founding values and cultural legacy.

The much-anticipated Zayed National Museum is set to open to the public in December 2025, marking a major milestone in the UAE’s cultural journey. Located in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District, home to one of the world’s highest concentrations of cultural institutions, the museum will honour the vision and legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan,

Founding Father of the UAE.

Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Lord Norman Foster, the museum features a striking falconinspired design, with five steel structures shaped like wings rising above the building. Falconry, a cherished part of Emirati heritage, serves as the design’s key inspiration. The museum’s architecture also reflects the UAE’s commitment to sustainability

and cultural accessibility.

A Tribute to Legacy

Sheikh Zayed believed that understanding the past was key to shaping the future. The museum’s exhibitions will reflect this philosophy through immersive galleries, research initiatives, and public programmes that highlight the nation’s history and evolving identity. Artefacts include

ancient tools, Bronze Age relics, and the Abu Dhabi Pearl, one of the world’s oldest natural pearls.

Other highlights include the Blue Qur’an, a rare manuscript of Islamic art, and a Magan Boat recreation from the museum’s first research collaboration with Zayed University and NYU Abu Dhabi.

More Than a Museum

According to Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, the museum is not only a cultural institution but “a promise to future generations” and “a beacon of our identity.”

Part of the UAE’s broader cultural

vision, Zayed National Museum will stand alongside the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, and other institutions in shaping Abu Dhabi’s role as a global centre for culture, dialogue, and innovation.

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