Content Managers: Daniel Edwards, Sumana Shankar, Ana Watson
Content Writers: Baldeb Ram
Business Development
Leo Morgan, Alisha Taylor, Jane Sanders, James Smith, Jason Brown, David Johnson, Stella Grace, John Davis, Nancy Miller, Alex Milo
Graphic Designer Chandan R
Video Editor
C Gidieon Sam Issac
Account Manager
Agnes Wong
Registered Address: Sharjah Media City (Shams), Al Messaned City, Al Bataeh, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, P.O. Box: 515000
Office Address:
Suite No 502, Al Tawhidi 1 Building, Floor 5, Khalid Bin Al Waleed Road, Bur Dubai, Dubai, UAE.
Email: info@intlbm.com Phone: +971 503211164
.......Note From EDITORIAL Welcome
The Middle East’s Digital Renaissance: A New Era of Innovation
The Middle East is rapidly cementing its status as a global technology powerhouse, driven by visionary government initiatives like Saudi Vision 2030 and the UAE’s digital strategies. The region is witnessing a profound shift towards a digital-first economy, with accelerated adoption of Artificial Intelligence, robotics, and cloud computing reshaping sectors from finance to infrastructure. Equity markets remain resilient, with fintech platforms and challenger banks reshaping investor access, while AI-driven compliance and digital identity solutions are redefining enterprise risk management. The region’s focus on smart cities, automation, and sustainable finance is creating fertile ground for startups and global firms alike. As Europe and the MENA region navigate complex financial markets, the prevailing trend is a steadfast commitment to digital transformation, sustainability, and creating robust, innovation-led ecosystems that attract global investment and foster economic diversification.
This Special Edition of International Business Magazine celebrates the winners of the Annual Awards 2025—trailblazers who have set new benchmarks in excellence. Inside, you will discover how Freedom24 is revolutionising wealth management with its proprietary platform that offers seamless access to global stock exchanges. We spotlight ZAPS Premium, recognised for setting new benchmarks in luxury travel through its exclusive airport concierge and lifestyle services. The edition also celebrates barn’s, a coffee brand achieving rapid growth through homegrown excellence, and PR1MA, lauded for its impactful affordable housing initiatives in Southeast Asia. Furthermore, we delve into the strategic prowess of MEFIC Capital in structured equity, the leisure innovation of AURA Skypool, and Asialink Finance Corporation’s drive for financial inclusion.
Adding to this stellar lineup are other Gold and Platinum Pass winners. EL SEIF Engineering Contracting has distinguished itself with landmark infrastructure projects across Saudi Arabia, combining engineering precision with sustainability. United Facilities Management has set new standards in integrated property and asset management, ensuring efficiency and innovation in facility services. XTreme Drivers League has redefined motorsport entertainment in the region, blending technology, safety, and adrenaline to captivate audiences. Crypto Fund Trader has emerged as a pioneer in digital asset investment platforms, offering secure, transparent, and diversified crypto trading solutions. Beltone Leasing and Factoring continue to empower businesses in Egypt with innovative financing models, supporting SMEs and corporates with tailored leasing and factoring services. On the Platinum side, Masdar City stands as a global symbol of sustainable urban development, integrating clean energy and smart infrastructure to create a future-ready ecosystem. Riyadh Airports, meanwhile, has transformed passenger experience and operational excellence, positioning Saudi Arabia as a hub for global aviation.
As we honour these outstanding achievements, we look forward to welcoming industry pioneers, innovators, and changemakers at the International Business Magazine Awards 2025. The grand ceremony will be held on December 7th at Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai, bringing together the brightest minds and most influential leaders from across the globe. We invite our readers, partners, and stakeholders to join us in celebrating excellence, forging meaningful connections, and shaping the future of business together.
Be sure to check out our website at www.intlbm.com
Connect with us on Twitter: @ibmag_magazine, Facebook:@intlbm and Instagram: @intlbm LinkedIn: @international-business-magazine
Cover Story - 08
“We stand out for our unwavering commitment to bringing innovation in Fintech solutions”
Bulat Latypov, CCO, Freedom24
18 Excellence Brewed to Perfectionbarn’s
30 XDL Announces 2026 as Its Official Global Arrival
38 Prominent Role of Integrated Facility Management Service Providers In Kuwait - United Facilities Management
42 Asialink Finance Corporation: Driving Financial Inclusion and Innovation in the Philippines
50 Low-Carbon Cities: The Next Frontier of Investment and Urban Efficiency - Masdar City
64 THE RISE OF A SAUDI TECHNOLOGY LEADER - Megamind IT Solutions
“We stand out for our unwavering commitment to bringing innovation in Fintech solutions”: Bulat Latypov, CCO, Freedom24
In an age when investors want to move their funds effortlessly from New York exchanges to Frankfurt to Hong Kong, the real advantage is no longer access alone, it’s access that feels simple, fast, and trustworthy. Freedom24, the European arm of Nasdaq-listed Freedom Holding Corp. (FRHC), was created with exactly that in mind. Headquartered in Limassol, Cyprus, the company has grown into one of Europe’s most preferred online investment platforms by pairing proprietary technology with a user-first product philosophy and a rigorous approach to compliance.
From a single secure account, on web or mobile, clients can trade more than one million financial instruments across 15 leading exchanges in the US, Europe, and Asia. That breadth matters because genuine diversification rarely lives inside one market or sector. Whether an investor
wants blue-chip stability, thematic ETFs, or advanced strategies using listed options on U.S. equities, Freedom24 brings the universe together in one place and keeps the experience consistent across devices.
Built on product craft, governed by European standards
Cyprus is not merely an administrative base; it is the engineering and product heart of Freedom24. Product, data and client-support teams work side by side in Limassol to move features from concept to production quickly and safely. That delivery model sits on a governance framework designed for a public-market environment: Freedom24 operates under MiFID II and is licensed by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC). Client money is safeguarded in segregated accounts in line with EU requirements, while Deloitte conducts regular audits as part of Freedom Holding Corp.’s public reporting. The
group’s inclusion in the Russell 3000 Index and S&P Global Ratings’ ‘B+’ (positive outlook) for Freedom24 underscores a culture of prudent, transparent growth.
Compliance isn’t an afterthought in this story; it’s the design constraint that makes the product better. The team’s approach can be summed up simply: remove friction where it doesn’t add value, keep the controls where they matter, and make the whole journey, from account opening to trade execution, clear and predictable for the user.
Access at scale, without the clutter Freedom24’s platform covers the major venues investors expect: Nasdaq and the NYSE in the US; the London Stock Exchange and Deutsche Börse in Europe; HKEX and others in Asia, so clients can build portfolios that reflect both conviction and caution. The range is continually broadened: the platform recently expanded its ETF universe to more than 3,600 funds from leading issuers, widening the set of options for both core allocation and thematic
exposure. The goal is not to overwhelm users with choice but to make diversified portfolio construction practical, whether that means pairing U.S. large caps with European dividend payers or mixing sector ETFs with regional growth ideas.
Under the hood, the product philosophy is to reduce cognitive load. Navigation is clean, search is fast, instrument profiles are rich and comparable, and workflows are designed so investors can move from research to decision without losing context. Advanced users will recognize the depth; newcomers will appreciate that the interface does not require a manual.
Where AI helps, without replacing human judgment
Artificial intelligence and data science are applied pragmatically, where they add clear value. In compliance and onboarding, AI-assisted checks help accelerate KYC and ongoing monitoring, cutting wait times from days or weeks to hours, while maintaining strict standards. In discovery and research, data-driven insights and
assistive tools surface what’s relevant (from earnings timing to price-sensitive events) so clients can focus on decisions rather than data mining. Throughout, the philosophy is constant: AI should clarify and compress the path from information to action, not make decisions for the client.
That approach is anchored in Cyprus as well. Freedom24’s teams in Limassol are building and iterating these capabilities to European standards, with privacy and security designed into the stack. It’s a practical example of how Cyprus can serve as an EU “build-and-scale” hub for digital finance, where ideas are engineered locally and then rolled out across other markets in a controlled, compliant way.
Education as a feature, not an afterthought Confidence follows understanding. Freedom24 Academy offers free, structured learning in multiple languages, from diversification basics to advanced topics like factor investing and bond laddering, backed by weekly market commentary and investment ideas prepared by in-house
analysts. Content is designed to be actionable: explain the “why,” connect it to tools in the platform, and let users choose at their own pace. This capability is more than a library; it is part of the product journey, helping first-time investors progress methodically while giving experienced clients a steady stream of context.
A European footprint with local presence
Freedom24’s growth has been deliberately European. Alongside its headquarters in Limassol, the company maintains a physical presence in Warsaw, Vienna, Paris, Berlin, Athens, Milan, Madrid, Amsterdam, Vilnius and Sofia, so clients get a single, consistent platform experience with local language support and region-aware content. That footprint also supports the company’s responsiblegrowth model: grow access, keep service close to the customer, and invest in the communities where the business operates.
Security, governance and the long game
Trust is earned in layers. For an online investment platform, that starts with licensing, segregation of assets, and robust
audits, but it extends to how the company handles risk communication, platform reliability and user support. Freedom24’s operating model emphasizes stability: scalable infrastructure, careful change management, and a service organization that values clarity and speed over scripts.
The roadmap: from brokerage to a broader financial canvas
Freedom24’s longer-term direction draws on Freedom Holding Corp.’s experience building an integrated financial ecosystem in Central Asia, combining brokerage, digital banking, insurance and everyday services in a unified, data-driven environment. In Europe, the ambition is to adapt that model within the EU regulatory perimeter: deepen market coverage and analytics, expand paymentsadjacent features, and explore additional services that help clients manage more of their financial lives securely in one place (subject to regulatory approvals). The guiding principle won’t change: put client interests and compliance first, and let technology serve that purpose.
Cyprus offers a rare combination: EU law & market access, high-caliber talent, a growing technology community and a business culture that encourages cooperation between firms, universities and regulators. Freedom24’s experience shows how those elements can be harnessed to build a credible, export-ready fintech product from the island. As Europe moves toward deeper digitalization in financial services, Cyprus has an opportunity to lead in the practical work of implementation, piloting AI-assisted onboarding, smarter analytics and secure data practices to European standards, then deploying them at scale across the bloc.
To meet the demands of investors executing millions transactions each month, Freedom24 has introduced cutting-edge innovations across its financial services processes, ensuring exceptional speed, security, & reliability. Freedom24 delivers secure, high-performance fintech solutions that enable investors to easily invest in stock options, ETFs, stocks, and futures across major US, European, and Asian stock exchanges.
The team’s dedication to implementing and delivering the best financial procedures/solutions has earned proprietary platform Tradernet (Freedom24) the reputable title of “Excellence in Challenger Banking Innovation Europe 2025” from International Business Magazine.
In today’s markets, opportunity moves quickly. But speed without trust is noise. Freedom24’s promise is straightforward: a single, EU-regulated platform that brings global exchanges, practical analytics and investor education a tap away, so users can focus on what matters: turning ideas into well-informed decisions.
FAQ
As a leader of one of the most preferred online investment platforms, how important is it to provide users a seamless trading experience through user-friendly apps, multilingual support and a versatile mobile product?
Bulat Latypov, CCO, Freedom24: It’s essential, and not only for convenience. Simplicity reduces mistakes, lowers anxiety and helps investors stay disciplined. We’ve built Freedom24 so that a first-time user can open an account, explore markets and place a trade confidently, while power users find the depth they expect. Multilingual client support and local presence across Europe mean we meet clients where they are, in their language and time zone. The mobile app mirrors the web experience—research, watchlists, alerts and execution—so people can act with the same clarity on the go. In short: one account, one experience, everywhere.
Your platform has received multiple awards—how do you earn and maintain investor trust?
Bulat Latypov, CCO, Freedom24: Trust is cumulative. For us it begins with being a regulated European broker
under MiFID II and CySEC, with client assets held in segregated accounts and audited by Deloitte as part of a Nasdaq-listed group. But it’s also about the everyday basics: platform stability, transparent pricing, clear risk communication and real human support when clients need it. We publish educational content to help users understand, not just follow markets. And we invest in controls and security that are often invisible but fundamental. Awards are encouraging; trust is what we work for daily.
Which user-focused technological innovations should platforms like Freedom24 prioritise to stay competitive?
Bulat Latypov, CCO, Freedom24: Three areas stand out. First, assistive AI that compresses the path from information to action, helping users find what matters faster, while keeping control with the investor and within regulatory boundaries. Second, personalisation that respects privacy: context-aware alerts, smarter screeners and relevant ideas tailored to a client’s stated interests and risk profile, not their data exhaust. Third, resilience by design: faster, safer onboarding; high-availability infrastructure; and clear, human support. New features matter, but reliability and clarity are what keep clients long-term.
What guidance would you offer to someone seeking passive income via a platform like Freedom24?
Bulat Latypov, CCO, Freedom24: Start with purpose and horizon, not with tickers. Define whether you want income, growth, or a balance of both. For many investors, a disciplined, diversified core, often through broad market ETFs, paired with a modest satellite of convictions, is a sensible foundation. Reinvest income until you need it; automate contributions to remove timing bias; and review allocations a few times a year rather than reacting to headlines daily. Education is part
of the journey: use Freedom24 Academy to build confidence, and remember that capital is at risk, consistency and diversification tend to beat heroics over time.
About Freedom24
Freedom24 is a stockbroker connecting European clients to major international capital markets. Operating its own proprietary platform, it offers investors access to a wide array of stocks, ETFs, corporate and government bonds, and US stock options across American, European, and Asian markets.
Freedom24 is licensed by CySEC and operates under the MiFID II regulatory framework, serving all EU/EEA states, with physical presence in 10 countries. Freedom24 is the European subsidiary of Freedom Holding Corp. (FRHC), an international financial group operating across the US, Europe and Central Asia, listed on the NASDAQ exchange.
More information at https://freedom24.com/
Disclaimer: Your capital is at risk. Past performance is not indicative of future results and there is no guarantee that any investment strategy will achieve its objectives. It is important to conduct thorough research and consider seeking advice from a qualified financial professional before making any investment decision. Access to a specific financial instrument is subject to a suitability test. The company may participate in trading the financial instruments mentioned in this material, acting as a counterparty or a liquidity provider. However, all the recommendations and information presented in this material are independent in nature and are not associated with the company’s trading positions. We take all necessary steps to prevent any conflict of interest and to ensure the objectivity of the information provided.
The Middle East is witnessing a transformation in the way people travel and experience luxury. From bustling international airports to world-class hospitality and entertainment venues, premium services have become an essential part of modern lifestyles. With business executives, high-net-worth individuals, and frequent travellers demanding seamless and time-efficient journeys, the concierge and luxury travel industry in Saudi Arabia and the UAE is booming like never before.
Amid this changing landscape, one brand has emerged as a leader in delivering exceptional, personalized services — ZAPS Premium, the flagship lifestyle and travel solutions brand of the ZAPS Group.
Elevating Travel Beyond Expectations
Founded under the umbrella of ZAPS Group, ZAPS Premium
was created with a simple yet powerful vision: to redefine how travellers and VIP clients experience mobility, convenience, and exclusivity.
The brand caters primarily to premium cardholders of leading banks and corporate clients, ensuring that every journey reflects both comfort and prestige. From Airport Meet & Greet services to Fast-Track Immigration, Lounge Access, Airside Limousine Transfers, Valet Parking, Porter Services, and Buggy Rides, ZAPS Premium covers every detail that matters for a stress-free and memorable journey.
Its offerings don’t stop at airports. Through strategic B2B partnerships with banks, retailers, and enterprises, ZAPS Premium continues to add value by extending exclusive privileges, discounts, and rewards to its clientele. Representational Image
Recognition on the Global Stage
In 2025, ZAPS Premium’s dedication to excellence was recognized with double honors “Luxury Transfer Services
Provider Middle East 2025” & “Best Airport Transfer Company Middle East 2025” at the International Business Magazine Awards. These awards highlight the brand’s commitment to service innovation, customer experience, and partnerships that deliver long-term value.
These recognitions not only strengthens ZAPS Premium’s reputation but also places it among the region’s most trusted premium service providers — a position earned through a combination of innovation, collaboration, and a relentless focus on client satisfaction.
Bridging Partnerships for a Premium Future
At the core of ZAPS Premium’s growth strategy is its ability to build strong partnerships with banks and retail businesses. These collaborations allow the brand to offer exclusive benefits for premium customers, creating a win-win ecosystem where banks enhance loyalty, retailers gain exposure, and customers enjoy elevated experiences.
Whether it’s arranging corporate gift hampers from retailers, offering airport concierge services for bank clients, or integrating with loyalty and rewards programs, ZAPS Premium has positioned itself as the bridge between enterprises and premium clients.
Expanding Horizons Across GCC
With operations already active in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Bahrain, ZAPS Premium is steadily expanding its reach.
The brand is investing in its digital app platform, ensuring that eligible clients can access services with just a few taps. At the same time, it continues to strengthen its presence by exploring new partnerships with banks and corporate enterprises across the GCC.
This growth is driven by the region’s rising demand for exclusivity, speed, and convenience — all areas where ZAPS Premium has consistently set benchmarks.
A Lifestyle Brand with Purpose
Unlike traditional concierge providers, ZAPS Premium positions itself as more than just a service brand. It is a lifestyle brand — one that aligns with the aspirations of its clients and ensures every interaction reflects quality, reliability, and sophistication.
Through continuous innovation, customer feedback integration, and future-ready planning, ZAPS Premium is on course to shape the future of premium mobility and lifestyle services in the region.
Looking Ahead
As premium lifestyles evolve, ZAPS Premium is committed to staying ahead of the curve. The brand’s goal is not just to serve but to elevate journeys, making every travel and lifestyle experience more seamless, rewarding, and unforgettable.
With its recent global recognition, expanding partnerships, and client-first approach, ZAPS Premium is poised to continue setting new standards for luxury and convenience in the Middle East and beyond.
Excellence Brewed to Perfection- barn’s
Over the past decade, coffee has evolved far beyond being a simple beverage. Right from being a morning ritual to a reason for sharing experiences and building connections, coffee has become a much-needed part of modern life today. It has grown into an emotion that transcends borders and symbolises both comfort and ambition. It is, in fact, one of the most sought-after accomplices in today’s fast-paced world and is loved and cherished all across the globe.
Market reports attest to the growing love for coffee and quality cafes worldwide. A report by Grand View Research reveals the significant growth registered by the global cafe market, which is expected to reach USD 430.02 billion by 2030. Additionally, the demand for cosy coffee outlets and high-quality coffee is on the rise across all leading markets – from India and the US to Saudi Arabia. Numbers suggest that the Saudi Arabia cafe and coffee chain market alone is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% between 2024 and 2033, and is likely to reach a whopping USD 10.81 billion by the end of 2033.
The impressive growth of the coffee sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is largely owing to the youthdriven entrepreneurship and the government’s focus on supporting local coffee brands. Amid this, there’s one name that has managed to maintain its crown as a coffee leader in the Kingdom ever since its inception in 1992. Yes, we’re talking about barn’s, a legacy brand that’s popular for being the largest in number of stores and the first drive-thru in the region.
1) Rooted in Faith & Connections – barn’s
barn’s has established itself as a go-to name in Saudi Arabia’s coffee segment by staying equally impressive and relevant for over three decades. Being an emotionally deep-rooted entity has only helped barn’s in maximising their business, backed by goodwill and thorough networking.
Major contributions to this network come from Islamic pilgrims who make it to Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to complete their Hajj pilgrimage. Every year, barn’s hosts millions of these pilgrims because of its strategic location and
serves them with pure bliss in a cup to further amp up their overall experience. True credit needs to be given to the passion poured by the team at barn’s, which ultimately translates into meaningful coffee conversations and lasting connections, eventually creating a clan of barn’s loyalists.
Even as international players enter Saudi Arabia’s coffee market, barn’s continues to stand strong by staying true to its roots while constantly evolving with time. Its key USP lies in how beautifully the brand balances tradition with transformation, offering its customers a premium experience that feels authentic and very much approachable.
2) From Classics to Innovations – A Blend for Every Palate
barn’s offers a wide range of coffee alternatives, right from the basics like Espresso and Cappuccino to the more experimental versions like Spanish Latte and Long-shot Iced Shaken variety. Moreover, visiting barn’s means an opportunity for cafe lovers to explore their tea and pastry spread as well.
For those travelling to Saudi Arabia for the first time, barn’s is a must-try as it is a hot seller and a local favourite, too. It won’t be an exaggeration to say that barn’s offers a 360-degree experience to coffee connoisseurs by introducing them to bitter and sweet coffee variants, black and full of flavors coffee options, and cream/ plain picks. They are number one in terms of variety and versatility.
Over the years, barn’s has become synonymous with comfort, making their coffee a universal relaxation element for those looking to wind down over a good fiction book or others who are keen on being woken up from dull days. No wonder barn’s customers often quote that their coffee is less of a beverage and more of an experience – exactly what this native brand stands for.
3) A Year of Triumphs for barn’s – The Rewards and Recognition:
Founded on a vision to make exceptional coffee accessible to everyone, barn’s has become a symbol of homegrown excellence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. However, this year, 2025, has been a special one for barn’s as its unmatched hold over the coffee segment has been proven yet again after it bagged several coveted prestigious awards from International Business Magazine.
The stellar line-up of accolades that barn’s has been recently showered with includes:
• Best Coffee Franchise Brand of the Year – Saudi Arabia 2025
• Best Franchise Development & Operations Excellence – Saudi Arabia 2025
• Fastest Growing Coffee Chain – Saudi Arabia 2025
• Best Drive-Thru Coffee Experience – Saudi Arabia 2025
The visionary leader of barn’s, Mr Mohammed Al-Zain, whose strategic and forward-thinking approach enabled
the transformation of a local brand into a beloved global contender, also received two top honours from International Business Magazine:
• Best Visionary CEO of the Year – Food & Beverage Industry, Saudi Arabia 2025
• CEO of the Year – Food & Beverage Industry, Saudi Arabia 2025
Mr Al-Zain is the man who has navigated barn’s through immense growth & innovation with his sheer farsightedness. Under his prescient headship, barn’s has not only expanded its footprint across Saudi Arabia but has also strengthened its operational backbone. Mr Al-Zain’s consistent emphasis on customer experience, quality management, and employee empowerment has enabled barn’s to stand today as a strong, purpose-driven organisation that’s not only gaining popularity and trust on a local level but also garnering significant international recognition.
Building on this strong foundation, barn’s is now setting its sights on the world stage and is aspiring to take its
authentic coffee experience beyond Saudi Arabia’s borders through a well-structured franchise program.
4) A Franchise Model That’s as Inviting as Coffee:
The Middle East has undergone a franchise revolution, with Saudi Arabia representing almost 60% of the Middle Eastern franchise market. To enable passionate and aspiring entrepreneurs to ride this wave of growth, barn’s is offering one of the most sought-after business opportunities through its well-structured franchise program.
Backed by its proven business structure and a huge family of brand loyalists, barn’s extends a franchise model that stands out for its simplicity and supportdriven structure. Here, every franchisee is supported with training, logistics, and marketing resources to ensure uniform quality across all outlets. This means every franchise partner will have a chance to grow under a trusted name, with ample handholding from a brand that millions love.
Onboarding the barn’s Franchise Program is extremely easy and is designed to benefit its franchise partners with lucrative returns and incentives. In fact, barn’s has simplified the franchise opportunity to an extent wherein they are happy to include those who love coffee and are interested in serving customers in their system. The best part is that, since their franchisees are geographically widespread, the headquarters assures to be available for assistance.
The company has laid out strict guidelines for potential franchisees:
• Preference is given to retail outlets or shopping malls, especially those with established brand presence and consistent customer flow.
• The Franchisee team must follow the procedures set by the Barns team and also regularly participate in training programs to ensure smooth operations.
• In addition to the company’s centralised digital marketing campaigns, the franchisee is responsible for implementing localised marketing strategies tailored to their specific market.
5) barn’s – Taking Local Excellence to the Global Stage
From its beginnings as a local coffee brand in 1992 to its status as a symbol of authenticity and quality in Saudi Arabia’s coffee industry today, barn’s success story is a testament to the vision, perseverance, and passion behind it. The journey, however, is far from over.
Today, barn’s is all set to expand its footprint beyond the Kingdom with its thoughtfully framed franchise program. The focus is definitely on making barn’s a preferred name among coffee lovers worldwide. However, the emphasis is on something else, too – building a family where the brand’s every franchise, barista, and customer is equally valued and treated as a special part in shaping its journey ahead.
PR1MA: Redefining Affordable Living in Southeast Asia
In the rapidly evolving housing landscape of Southeast Asia, one Corporation has emerged as a beacon of hope for the middle-income segment. PR1MA Corporation Malaysia (PR1MA), a leading housing agency under Malaysia’s Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT), was established under the PR1MA Act 2012 to provide affordable and high-quality homes that embody modern living for Malaysia’s homeowners. With its recent recognition as the “Affordable Housing Brand of the Year Southeast Asia 2025”, PR1MA stands not just as a national success story, but also as a regional benchmark in affordable housing excellence.
A Clear Mandate: Quality Homes for the Middle-Income
The foundation of PR1MA lies in the Malaysian Government’s drive to address the housing needs of the middle-income households, which had often been squeezed out of the homeownership opportunities, too well-off for low-cost public housing, yet finding private-market homes out of reach. Anchored by its mission to plan, develop, and deliver modern, affordable homes, PR1MA objectives further
extend to the development of integrated community facilities that enhance homeowners’ quality of life. Every project adheres to stringent design, comfort, and sustainability standards, preserving the PR1MA brand and ensuring consistent excellence.
What Sets PR1MA Apart
PR1MA recognition at the regional level stems from the Corporation’s strategic approach towards the targeted segment and a clear market gap. When first launched, PR1MA homes were priced between USD 24,000 to USD 96,000 for households earning between USD 600 to USD 3,600 monthly, which is approximately 20% below market value. By bridging this affordability gap, PR1MA has carved a niche for families who fall between low-income public housing and private market options.
Each development emphasises good design, modern concepts, safeguarding standards, and community-driven amenities, while sustainable design practices have led to reduced carbon footprints and fostered greener,
more inclusive neighbourhoods. Beyond development construction, PR1MA leverages its subsidiaries to enhance both operational excellence and resident experience. PR1MA Facilities Management Sdn Bhd ensures wellmanaged communities and facilities management across PR1MA developments, ensuring safe, well-maintained, and vibrant living environments. Meanwhile, PR1MA Communications Sdn Bhd provides reliable high-speed internet and smart home connectivity.
The Corporation continually enhances the everyday living experience for its residents. PR1MA homes are designed to support active, connected, and vibrant communities with thoughtful layouts, multifunctional spaces, and initiatives that enrich social interaction and wellbeing. The Corporation also emphasises recreational activities, educational programmes, and community engagement efforts that strengthen bonds among the residents, ensuring that PR1MA homes do not stop at providing houses, but create thriving communities where families can grow and flourish.
Impact and the Significance Across Southeast Asia
PR1MA success extends beyond Malaysia, serving as a model for affordable housing across Southeast Asia. Its approach demonstrates how governmentlinked housing entities can bridge the affordability gap without compromising standards and quality. With strong governance, technology partnerships, and communityfocused planning, PR1MA provides a practical blueprint for policymakers in the region.
As of 2025, PR1MA has developed 91 projects comprising 54,142 units nationwide, with a Gross Development Value (GDV) of USD 3.50 billion. Over 44,000 units are completed, and more than 24,000 units are occupied. The Corporation’s portfolio spans urban high-rise, suburban developments, and mixed-use integrated townships. This very geographical and typological spread allows the brand to address the housing gap in the region.
Looking ahead, PR1MA remains committed to its leadership in delivering affordable homes for the middle-income group Malaysians. The Corporation currently oversees
24 active projects comprising more than 9,000 units with a total GDV of USD 488 million, scheduled for completion by 2030. Several new strategic projects are planned, including premier homes, Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs), and mini townships such as Bandar PR1MA. Over the next decade, PR1MA aims to deliver over 50,000 new affordable homes nationwide, valued at USD 4.21 billion GDV. Through regional collaboration and knowledge sharing, the Corporation sets a benchmark for regional affordable housing strategies across Southeast Asia.
In 2025 alone, PR1MA has garnered 15 awards, including the “Affordable Housing Brand of the Year Southeast Asia 2025” by the International Business Magazine. Beyond the accolades, this recognition affirms PR1MA progress and increasing footprint in the housing industry.
Inspiring the Future of Inclusive Living
In a region where housing affordability, quality, and demand intersect under increasing pressure, PR1MA Corporation Malaysia has shown how a structured government-backed mandate supported by strong governance and innovation can deliver meaningful results. For Malaysia’s middle-class aspiring homeowners, PR1MA provides a real pathway to owning a quality home that fulfils their dream house without compromise. Across Southeast Asia, it offers a proven blueprint demonstrating that affordable housing can achieve both quality and accessibility, setting a new regional standard for sustainable and inclusive urban living.
Structured Equity and Private Funds Define the Next Chapter of Saudi Investment
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to solidify its position as a regional centre for capital efficiency, regulatory structure, and institutional participation.
Over the years, public and private mandates have supported the buildout of a more complex financial sector: one that’s grounded in transparency, modular fund design, and local compliance. This movement has relied on key actors, particularly CMA-licensed firms that can carry weight across asset classes.
As this transition matures, the International Business Magazine has acknowledged MEFIC Capital for its distinct contributions to this shift. With strategic activity across fund management, investment banking, and real estate finance, the firm has received honours in three focused categories:
• Best Initiative in Corporate Transformation, Saudi Arabia 2025
• Best Private Equity Fund – MEFIC Capital Opportunity Fund 1 and 5, Saudi Arabia 2025
• Best Equity Fund – MEFIC Saudi Freestyle Equity Fund Saudi Arabia 2025
Each award highlights a distinct aspect of MEFIC Capital’s operational approach, encompassing internal shifts and platform setup to fund execution and oversight. The Opportunity Funds follow a full-cycle model with clear sector targeting, while the Freestyle Equity Fund adapts allocation under CMA protocols.
Corporate Transformation Driven by Strategic Execution Awarded: “Best Initiative in Corporate Transformation – Saudi Arabia 2025”
MEFIC Capital’s recent phase of rebuilding has unfolded through measured steps. In early 2025, the firm entered an exclusive arrangement with Russell Investments to serve in a technical advisory role.
Russell’s technical advisory supports revisions now underway across MEFIC’s equity and multi-asset operations, with each change tied to CMA-supervised requirements.
MEFIC also worked through key events inside its portfolio. It had earlier secured a 40% stake in Body Masters, a Saudi operator in the fitness space.
Representational Image
Private Equity with Verified Outcomes
Awarded: “Best Private Equity Fund – MEFIC Capital Opportunity Fund I and V, Saudi Arabia 2025”
The MEFIC Capital Opportunity Funds I and V employ a private equity structure centred on timed deployment and mapped exits.
In early 2025, the fund released a portion of its holdings in Sports Club Company through an offering on the Tadawul Main Market. The exit delivered clear value for participants and positioned a domestic operator within Saudi Arabia’s public capital ecosystem.
MEFIC tracks specific release conditions: governance fit, reporting cadence, and sector outlook before initiating any move. Entry decisions are based on utility and scale, while exits are structured for outcome. This approach sets MEFIC apart, and the 2025 recognition affirms that structure, consistency, and timing. These define a successful private capital delivery in the Kingdom.
Equity Fund with Market Responsiveness
Awarded: “Best Equity Fund – MEFIC Saudi Freestyle Equity Fund, Saudi Arabia 2025”
The MEFIC Saudi Freestyle Equity Fund maintains a high-risk, Shariah-compliant equity model built entirely on Saudilisted companies. Since its inception, the strategy has centred on long-cycle capital appreciation while operating inside the regulatory and religious frameworks set by the Kingdom.
By Q1 2025, the fund reported a five-year return of 135.29%. Holdings feature financial services, software, real estate, and healthcare, anchored by positions in Al Rajhi Bank, Elm Co., Saudi Tadawul Group, and Leejam Sports. Every equity selected trades on Tadawul or Nomu and is benchmarked against the S&P Saudi Shariah Index.
Reporting cycles are CMA-compliant, and the structure is lean, consistent, and purpose-built for domestic capital growth. It avoids complexity and scales with local sectors.
Aligning Institutional Models with National Direction
Operating from Riyadh, MEFIC Capital remains closely linked to national capital market priorities. It associates directly with regulatory feedback loops that inform all fund documentation, reporting cycles, and disclosure flows.
The firm has supported high-net-worth clients, family offices, and institutional mandates through a range of vehicles, right from equity strategies to sector-focused PE deployments.
The 2025 awards acknowledge this modular strength and reinforce the view that institutional progression in Saudi Arabia now depends on firms that combine specialisation with structural clarity.
As the Kingdom continues its capital recalibration, firms like MEFIC stand as structural contributors to its next phase of financial definition.
XDL Announces 2026 as Its Official Global Arrival
Auckland, New Zealand — In a nation celebrated for its tradition of performance-led sport, Xtreme Drivers League (XDL) has emerged as a pioneering force in high-performance competition, redefining the global landscape of Long Drive. Founded in 2016 by visionary sports entrepreneur Olna Ford, XDL was conceived as a fully integrated, self-owned sporting ecosystem, uniting elite athlete development, cutting-edge technology, and internationally recognised competition formats.
From its inception, XDL established two national teams — the New Zealand Long Blacks and the Aussie Long Ballers— strategically positioning both nations on the world stage. Over the past decade, XDL has delivered more than 40 premier events across eight countries, built proprietary technology platforms, and launched franchises to expand its global footprint. Ford retains a 50% share of XDL TV, providing a digital stage that elevates the league’s athletes, competitions, and innovations to an international audience.
With 42 events successfully completed across 8 countries, Ford declares 2026 as the official year of XDL’s global
arrival, positioning the league as a premier authority in Long Drive.
A Vision Realised: Designing the XDL Ecosystem
XDL was conceived not merely as a competition platform, but as a complete, self-sustaining ecosystem. Every element — from athlete development and structured competitions to digital engagement and franchise growth — has been meticulously designed and fully owned by Ford. This ensures consistent competition standards, a repeatable operational model, and a globally recognised brand.
A Legacy of Recognition and Impact
XDL and Ford’s leadership have been lauded with unprecedented honours:
• 2020: Long Drive officially recognised as an independent high-performance sport by the New Zealand Sports Minister — a global first.
• 2021: The New Zealand Long Blacks were nominated for the prestigious Halberg Award.
• 2022: XDL’s leading female athlete received a Queen’s Honour, following nomination by Olna Ford.
• 2023–2025: XDL amassed 18 International Business Awards, including Best Sporting League for three consecutive years
Building a Multi-Tier Long Drive System
XDL’s development followed a deliberate, performance-first approach. Early-stage competitions allowed organisers to refine rules, event delivery, and competition formats. A defining moment arrived in 2018, when the New Zealand Long Blacks delivered a win for the first Trans Tasman Clash on home soil, securing the Darren Wise customcrafted Stingray Trophy. This triumph demonstrated that XDL’s team-based formats are not only repeatable and competitive but also compelling for spectators and sponsors alike.
Olna Ford’s vision has grown many strands of sports business development since inception. She has introduced three competition formats and a five-grid grading system for golf courses, establishing clear pathways from regional and state events to the National Title, while simultaneously nurturing youth participation and overseeing both male and female elite divisions.
A Global, Integrated Ecosystem
XDL operates as a holistic, high-performance ecosystem, where athlete management, event delivery, technology, and IP ownership converge under a single, unified standard. Ford’s expertise in athletic performance, live event execution, and strategic sponsorship ensures that every touchpoint
— from competition to digital engagement — adheres to the highest standards.
Guided by a comprehensive Six-Pillar Growth Strategy, XDL blends national representation, franchise development, event innovation, digital integration, youth engagement, and proprietary technology to create a scalable, sustainable model for global expansion.
International Reach
XDL continues to extend its global influence, including the rollout of a virtual grid across multiple international markets, delivering world-class competition to new audiences. Recently, Olna Ford was appointed President of the ESWF (E-Sports World Federation), reflecting her commitment to integrating eSports into XDL’s strategic expansion and the broader Six-Pillar Worldwide Growth Plan. Upcoming phases also include digital distribution via XDL TV, a platform designed to broadcast live events, training content, and behind-the-scenes programming to multiple markets. The technology stack features virtual coaching modules, interactive leaderboards, and content extensions built for youth, amateur, and professionallevel athletes alike.
Looking Ahead: December 19th, 2025
XDL is set to unveil a series of major, high-profile initiatives on December 19th, 2025, including:
• XDL Global Celebrity Drive, with a core purpose of raising awareness and funds for a soon-to-be-
• revealed charitable initiative, uniting elite athletes, media, and communities in a celebration of sport with impact.
• XDL Franchise – 3-Year Growth Plan – a strategic expansion designed to cement XDL’s global footprint.
• The Most Anticipated Global Tour – a sophisticated, media-driven event that has already awarded the largest prize purse in XDL history, personally funded by Olna Ford, underscoring her commitment to both athlete excellence and elevating the sport on the world stage.
As XDL enters its landmark 2026 season, the league stands ready to define the pinnacle of high-performance sport, offering elite athletes, global audiences, and strategic partners a fully owned, world-class sporting ecosystem unmatched in vision, execution, and ambition.
Prestigious Recognition for Olna Ford and Xtreme Drivers League!
The Jury at International Business Magazine has taken note
of Olna Ford’s tireless commitment and outstanding contributions to the field of golf, as well as the positive international impact of the Xtreme Drivers League.
In recognition of their remarkable achievements, International Business Magazine has conferred the following honors:
• Best Sporting League – New Zealand 2025
• Olna Ford – Most Innovative Sports Business Founder – New Zealand 2025
These awards celebrate Olna Ford’s visionary leadership and the Xtreme Drivers League’s role in redefining the sport of golf, fostering innovation, and inspiring new audiences worldwide.
As XDL enters its landmark 2026 season, the league stands ready to define the pinnacle of high-performance sport, offering elite athletes, global audiences, and strategic partners a fully owned, world-class sporting ecosystem unmatched in vision, execution, and ambition.
The Expanding Role of Structured Pool Experiences in the UAE’s Leisure Sector
Dubai’s hospitality sector is entering a phase where visual access is becoming an important part of guest value. The ability to view the city’s most recognisable structures, without obstruction or noise, is influencing the way new destinations are planned and established venues are evaluated.
It’s not just about offering a rooftop or a view; it’s about curating how, when, and under what conditions that view is experienced. So, rather than relying solely on exclusivity for luxury, more venues are focusing on the way space and time interact, creating visual moments that are both accessible and scheduled.
Skyline interaction, time-led experiences, and environmental atmosphere are becoming central to how leisure is delivered.
In this context, poolside venues have taken on a new role: not just for relaxation, but for spatial engagement. It is
influencing design choices and programming across the UAE’s hospitality model while giving rise to places that operate as much through timing as through aesthetics.
AURA Skypool has met this demand and earned the title of “Most Outstanding Scenic Pool Views UAE 2025” from International Business Magazine for specially designing guest access to uninterrupted city views throughout the day.
Recognizing AURA’s Role in View-Based Hospitality
At 210 metres above ground, AURA’s pool deck wraps around the full perimeter of the Palm Tower. It gives guests spectacular views in all directions, including key city attractions such as Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, Burj Al Arab, and the open Gulf.
However, it’s not the height that defines the experience. It is the way the design team has managed height to create an enticing one for visitors. AURA runs on time-based
access blocks, allowing guests to book specific sunrise, morning, afternoon, or evening sessions in advance. Seating is organised by row and view angle, with clear allocation systems that prevent overcrowding and protect the visibility guests have paid for.
Structuring the Guest Experience Through Time-Based Access
With a 360-degree infinity pool located 210 meters above the ground, and a circular guest flow format that ensures clarity in every direction, AURA has set a new operational benchmark for view-led hospitality.
Rather than defaulting to full-day entry, AURA operates in controlled blocks. The Skypool deck features a circular layout, providing uninterrupted sightlines in all directions.
Seating is tiered and booked in advance, with each guest assigned a specific row and slot to make sure that capacity remains balanced and movement stays fluid.
This format allows AURA to offer every guest one of the most memorable experiences at each point in the day. Morning sessions draw wellness-focused or early-rising guests, afternoons invite relaxed lounging and warm hospitality, and evenings settle into a calm, elegant ambience as Dubai’s skyline shifts into night.
A Consistent Approach to Scenic Value Delivery
What defines AURA’s success is not a single design feature, but a system-wide approach to how visual access is delivered. The brand doesn’t rely on grand gestures or thematic gimmicks; instead, it prioritizes clarity of sightlines, well-paced timing, and intuitive guest movement.
From the circular deck layout to the session calendar and curated event programming, every element is engineered to protect and elevate the viewing experience.
Special events such as The AURA Sleepover, the 360 Pool Party, and an expanding lineup of AURA Art activations - including Comedy in the Sky, live music, and brands collaborations - add variety while staying firmly within the same operational guardrails.
This consistency, paired with thoughtful innovation, is a major reason AURA has become a regional reference point for view-based leisure.
Contributing to the UAE’s Broader Hospitality Strategy
UAE’s tourism and city-planning goals are deeply linked to how its most photographed areas are experienced. Venues like AURA contribute to this direction by offering guests not just a place to visit, but a way to navigate the day, with skyline interaction as a continuous theme.
By receiving the title of “Most Outstanding Scenic Pool
Views UAE 2025” from International Business Magazine for this year, AURA is not only being recognised for what guests see, but for how it ensures they see it with space, time, and intentionality. It demonstrates that scenic experiences, when properly structured, can support both short-term enjoyment and long-term reputation.
“A breathtaking view may bring guests to AURA once, but what keeps them connected is how we make them feel. From the beginning, my vision has been to evolve AURA beyond being the world’s highest 360° infinity pool into a brand that lives in people’s minds and hearts and signifies a true aspirational lifestyle. The true strength of
a hospitality brand lies in how it diversifies and deepens its relevance through creativity, innovation, and meaningful connection. Whether guests experience AURA in person, through our boutique collections, podcast, or artistic collaborations, each touchpoint is designed to extend the spirit of AURA far beyond the venue itself.” Says Dean Stuart Jarvis, Director of Operations – Daylife Division at Sunset Hospitality Group.
Clearly, AURA’s approach has set an example for viewbased destinations in urban settings. Its operations are shaped by scheduling, guest clarity, and protection of sightlines. These three factors will likely define the next wave of urban hospitality across the region.
Prominent Role of Integrated Facility Management Service Providers In Kuwait
Kuwait, a prominent nation in the GCC, is famous for its modern and traditional architectural buildings, including its corporate offices. With expansion happening in every sector of Kuwait’s economy, facilities management has gained prominence. This service sector has gained a cult status as it has fulfilled its role in contributing to Kuwait’s real estate and infrastructure development. With the implementation of AI technology in every industry, the facilities management services sector is undergoing a rapid transformation to enhance efficiency, reduce expenses, and promote sustainability goals in new housing projects, commercial centres, and industrial enterprises.
Building architectural marvels as per innovative design and cultural significance is common in Kuwait. After the architects leave and the ribbon is cut, it’s the Facilities Management Services team that determines whether lights stay on, systems run clean, and tenants remain satisfied. In many Kuwaiti buildings, this post-construction phase has been a worry for many businesses and entrepreneurs. The tasks of cleaning, maintenance and property security are sourced to different contractors or agencies.
The result: Delays, duplicated costs, and shifting of responsibilities during an incident. This operational disorder was common in the industry, but UFM and other service providers have designed foolproof solutions to resolve the challenges.
The Company That Gave a New Dimension to Facilities Management
UFM (United Facilities Management) was founded in 2007 by the United Real Estate Company. Rather than being another service vendor in the industry, UFM succeeded in designing a one-stop management system that absorbed everything, right from maintenance to cleaning, security, utilities, and property oversight. UFM was a corporate
member of IFM Since 2013, and are currently a Strategic Member of the Kuwait Green Building Council (KGBC)
Their idea was simple: one building, one system, one command centre.
That clarity eliminated overlapping contracts and multiple chains of communication. UFM provided property owners with a centralised point for data, decision-making, and accountability.
They integrated services like:
• Integrated Facilities Management
• Technical maintenance (MEP, HVAC, systems)
• Soft services (security, cleaning, landscaping)
• Property Management (leasing, tenant relations)
• Admin support (helpdesk, scheduling, audits)
The major reason why United Facilities Management Company became one of the preferred service providers in Kuwait was because of:
Integrated Model from Inception
Rather than retrofitting coordination into siloed services, UFM was structured to be unified from the start.
Sector-Wide Coverage
UFM provides services to ministries, education institutions, corporate headquarters, medical centres, residential towers, and reputed names in the hospitality industry.
Certified Systems in All Key Areas
UFM has obtained and retained:
• ISO 9001: High-quality systems
• ISO 14001: Environmental operations
• ISO 45001: Worker safety and health
• ISO 41001: Facilities system framework
It also maintains:
• Silver-Level Corporate Partnership with IFMA
• Strategic Member of the Kuwait Green Building Council (KGBC)
The multi-layered system validation shows structural consistency.
What Makes their Model Effective?
UFM uses CAFM (Computer-Aided Facilities Management) software to connect teams, track task statuses, and automate scheduling. The clients can log in, view live updates, and download reports. A fault in a ventilation system can be tracked from detection to resolution, so it’s all within a closed-loop digital environment.
Real estate doesn’t need another vendor. It requires a partner with oversight and visibility built into every line of service.
Regional Relevance & Future Focus of Building Operations
As regional cities evolve into high-density, mixed-use environments, the demands placed on facility operators increase multi-fold. Energy consumption must be monitored in real-time. Tenant expectations around hygiene, safety, and accessibility continue to shift. Building assets is no longer passive. They are data-driven, service-sensitive ecosystems.
UFM is already aligning its roadmap to support this transition. From deploying energy metering tools to integrating occupancy sensors and tenant experience platforms,
the company is investing in forward-ready systems. Its structured approach ensures that each innovation is deployed with clear governance and measurable value.
Key priorities in 2025 – 2026 include:
• Deploying IoT sensors for asset tracking and predictive maintenance
• Integrating sustainability data streams (energy, water, waste)
• Expanding into institutional portfolios (REITs, public infrastructure)
• Continuing audit-based system validations with external oversight
The ability to adapt through various operational infrastructures is what positions UFM as a steady anchor in the next phase of Kuwait’s facility services industry. It has made them win the prestigious award title of “Leading Integrated Facilities Management Services Company in Kuwait 2025” from International Business Magazine.
Asialink Finance Corporation: Driving Financial Inclusion and Innovation in the Philippines
Awarded Fastest-Growing Non-Banking Financial Institution, Most Accessible and Convenient Financing Company Philippines 2025 & Leading NonBanking Financial Institution Philippines 2025
In a rapidly transforming financial landscape, Asialink Finance Corporation (AFC) stands as a symbol of inclusive growth, innovation, and service excellence. Recognized by the International Business Magazine Awards 2025 as both the “Fastest- Growing Non-Banking Financial Institution”, “Most Accessible and Convenient Financing Company – Philippines” & “Leading NonBanking Financial Institution Philippines 2025” Asialink continues to redefine how Filipinos access finance—making it simpler, faster, and more humancentered.
Empowering Filipinos Since 1997
Founded in 1997, Asialink began with a clear mission: to bridge the financial gap between traditional banking systems and underserved communities. At a time when credit was limited to large corporations and high-income borrowers, Asialink positioned itself as a trusted partner for everyday Filipinos—employees, MSME owners, and families seeking opportunities to grow.
From humble beginnings, the company has expanded into over 250 branches nationwide, serving more than 1.5 million clients and disbursing billions of pesos in loans. Its products cover a full spectrum of needs— from vehicle and real- estate financing to business and personal loans—helping clients turn aspirations into achievable milestones.
Asialink’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: finance should be accessible to everyone. Whether it’s a sari-sari-store owner needing capital or an overseas Filipino family investing in a home, AFC ensures that funding is never out of reach.
The Digital Leap: Blending Reach with Technology
By 2025, Asialink had fully embraced digital transformation. Understanding the evolving needs of customers, the company digitised core operations—from loan applications and document submission to approval tracking and customer support.
Through its user-friendly website and mobile platforms, clients can now apply for loans anytime, anywhere— reducing turnaround times from days to mere hours. The hybrid setup combines nationwide branch access with 24/7 digital convenience, giving borrowers the freedom to choose between in-person guidance and fully online service.
This digital agility positions Asialink ahead of many traditional lenders while preserving its trademark “human touch.”
The result is a customer-first ecosystem that blends reliability, speed, and accessibility.
Balancing Profitability, Purpose, and Sustainability
Asialink’s rise is driven by a business model that balances financial success with social purpose. Strong credit-risk management and operational efficiency have enabled the company to sustain profitability while maintaining high repayment rates.
At the same time, Asialink integrates environmental and social responsibility into its operations—pursuing paperless initiatives, supporting e-vehicle financing, and partnering with green SMEs. These initiatives align with national goals for sustainable and inclusive growth, proving that profit and purpose can thrive together.
Empowering Women and MSMEs
One of Asialink’s hallmark programs, the WAIS Loan, exemplifies its inclusive spirit. Tailored for women entrepreneurs and MSMEs, WAIS provides flexible financing to help women-led businesses scale up and compete in a dynamic market.
By championing women’s economic participation and extending support to micro-entrepreneurs, Asialink reinforces its role as a catalyst for progress in local communities. It is finance with empathy — turning access into empowerment.
Leadership with Vision, Culture with Heart
Behind Asialink’s momentum is a leadership team guided by vision and integrity. Group CEO and Vice Chairperson Robert B. Jordan Jr., President and CEO Samuel Z. Cariño, and COO Eleanor E. Yap lead the organization with a shared commitment to “uplifting lives through responsible financing.”
Under their stewardship, Asialink has transformed from a modest financing firm into the Philippines’ most dynamic NBFI. They have instilled a company culture anchored on innovation, integrity, and excellence— values reflected in every branch employee and partner nationwide. Continuous training, leadership programs, and performance recognition ensure that AFC’s people remain its greatest asset.
Community Focus and National Impact
Asialink’s 250-plus-branch network is not just an operational advantage—it’s a declaration of its commitment to the Filipino people. By embedding itself in both major cities and remote provinces, the company ensures that financial access becomes a right, not a privilege.
This community-driven approach has fostered deep customer loyalty. Borrowers praise the company’s
approachable staff, localized service, and genuine care—qualities that set Asialink apart in an industry often dominated by rigid systems and impersonal transactions.
In addition, AFC actively supports financial-literacy programs across the country, teaching responsible borrowing, budgeting, and entrepreneurship. These initiatives empower clients to make smarter financial choices, transforming loans into long-term progress.
Recognized Excellence
Asialink’s consistent performance and impact have earned it multiple honors both locally and internationally. In addition to its International Business Magazine awards, AFC has received:
• Best Inclusion for MSME Empowerment – Asian Banking & Finance Awards
• Innovative Finance Company of the Year –Philippine SME Excellence Awards
• Customer-Centric Financial Institution of the Year – National SME Awards
These accolades validate Asialink’s relentless pursuit of excellence and reaffirm its position as a benchmark in non- banking financial services and hence, Asialink was crowned with the accolade “Leading NonBanking Financial Institution Philippines 2025” from International Business Magazine.
The Road Ahead: Expanding Horizons
Looking to the future, Asialink aims to push boundaries further—digitally, geographically, and socially. Plans include:
• Expanding services for freelancers, gig workers, and digital entrepreneurs
• Enhancing data-driven decision-making and AIenabled loan processing
• Extending financing to agriculture, sustainability, and green enterprises
• Exploring ASEAN-regional expansion to carry Filipino financial innovation to neighboring markets
These initiatives underscore Asialink’s ambition to be a globally recognized Filipino brand that leads with impact and integrity.
A Legacy of Accessible Finance
As Asialink Finance Corporation celebrates 28 years of empowering Filipinos, its story continues to inspire the financial sector. From its early days bridging credit gaps to its current status as a digital-first NBFI, Asialink has proven that growth anchored in empathy can transform lives and economies alike.
Finance, at its core, is about enabling dreams—and for millions of Filipinos, Asialink is the bridge that makes those dreams real. With innovation as its engine and inclusivity as its compass, Asialink Finance Corporation is not just leading the way forward—it is shaping the future of non-banking finance in the Philippines and beyond.
Forex Education Shifts Toward Real-World Utility with a Structured Delivery Model
Retail interest in forex has expanded rapidly, yet the education formats surrounding it remain inconsistent. New entrants often rely on unstructured tutorials, recycled frameworks, or influencer-led advice that lacks continuity.
Few systems provide a stepwise structure that builds capability over time, backed by traders engaging in the same markets they teach. As a result, learning often becomes fragmented, technical terms are absorbed, strategies are tried, losses occur, and confidence deteriorates before any foundation is formed.
This gap has led to growing demand for a mapped mode that introduces essential concepts, builds measurable skills, and surrounds learners with real-time support.
Forex Knowledge Base (FKB), based in Dubai, has delivered such a system. Built under WAYOND Media, the platform combines certified coursework with platform-guided
instruction, led by traders who operate in the same environments their students are preparing to navigate. For its structured approach to forex education and its multi-tier learning system, the International Business Magazine has honoured FKB as the “Best Forex Education Platform Global 2025”. The award demonstrates multiple core strengths: a clear course progression from foundational modules to strategy refinement; KHDA-certified programs; and direct access to experienced instructors through mentorship, webinars, and platform communities. FKB doesn’t rely on passive content libraries. Its format prioritises active learning, sustained guidance, and long-term retention, turning theory into usable methods.
A Platform Built for Layered Instruction and Measurable Retention
With its base in Dubai and access to the education infrastructure of WAYOND Media, the Forex Knowledge Base offers a mapped pathway that serves both entry-level
and developing traders. Its instructional model is defined by gradual access, starting from the Basic Trading Program and moving toward advanced tracks only after foundational steps are completed.
Each stage introduces tools in a specific order: language, pattern understanding, price context, trade management, and strategic repetition. The course material is presented by traders with current market involvement, offering relevance and immediate application. Sessions are distributed over time, with pauses built in to ensure retention rather than volume accumulation.
Community access runs in parallel. Through Discord and Whop server channels, learners can test their approach, discuss trade ideas, and receive feedback in a monitored environment. The goal is steady integration of concepts under real-world expectations.
Mentorship Delivered by Practitioners with Field-Based Instruction
Experience FKB’s instructional credibility rests on access to professionals who remain active within the markets they teach. This is not limited to course footage. It includes mentorship, feedback, and calibrated review from traders who are accountable to both the platform and their own trading standards.
Leading this group is Raul Attara, whose emphasis on structured trade plans and risk tolerance shapes much of the platform’s intermediate and advanced content. His instruction avoids noise and favours process. Instead of pushing setups, he trains learners on timing discipline, chart conditions, and decision spacing across varying market phases.
Lesson Access Aligned With Instructional Timing and Course Milestones
Progress through the FKB platform is based on structure. Each module is unlocked in order, giving traders space to process the material before advancing. Lessons are designed for steady reinforcement without bypassing the core topics.
Participants move forward only after completing the required steps, keeping the focus on retention. Entry-level concepts are reviewed before advanced material is introduced, limiting confusion later in the process.
Platform access includes space for review and clarification. Traders can revisit prior modules or join scheduled discussions to resolve gaps. This format helps reduce overload and keeps focus tied to the section at hand.
Certified Market Instruction Adds Depth to the UAE’s Learning Landscape
The Forex Knowledge Base contributes to the UAE’s wider training goals through certified course progression in a sector that often lacks consistency. Its KHDA-approved programs offer a format where instruction, correction, and review are all integrated, providing a cleaner alternative to loosely formed online material.
Sessions hosted across the UAE, be it one-on-one or through group seminars, introduce local participants to strategies that are filtered, explained, and reviewed by instructors with real exposure. This structure mirrors national efforts to anchor learning outcomes in applicable knowledge, especially within finance and trading education.
Rather than delivering tutorials in isolation, Forex Knowledge Base places its sessions within a broader learning rhythm that aligns with regional initiatives for performance-based instruction in high-participation categories.
Low-Carbon Cities: The Next Frontier of Investment and Urban Efficiency
Across the Gulf, economic diversification has long moved in parallel with infrastructural modernisation. In the UAE, that alignment has become more technical, policy-driven, and metrics-based.
The national urban sector today is not merely concerned with zoning or density. Instead, it is shaped by digital integration, resource optimisation, and compliance with multi-tier sustainability frameworks. Anchored by initiatives such as Estidama, LEED, and Net Zero 2050, cities are now designed with defined obligations to reduce their operational impact while showcasing architectural form.
Masdar City has emerged from this policy setting as a fully functional urban innovation zone. One that delivers real-time outcomes across emissions reduction, social equity, and economic participation. Built on a master plan that integrates environmental and community targets at every level, Masdar City has moved beyond the demonstration phase.
It now serves a fully operational role in the UAE’s innovation economy. With over 2,000 registered companies, a cleantech investment ecosystem, and 25 certified green buildings, the city operates as a node for policy, private capital, and technological innovation.
Considering this, the International Business Magazine awards Masdar City across four critical pillars:
• Most Sustainable Free Zone – UAE
• Fastest-Growing Business Community – UAE
• Most Sustainable Urban Development & Design – UAE
• Excellence in Customized Business Solutions – UAE
Masdar City applies sustainability as an operational baseline rather than a separate feature. Construction materials are selected for low impact; recycled aluminum and green concrete are used by default. LEED and Estidama certifications are embedded in most properties across the zone. These practices have positioned Masdar City as the “Most Sustainable Free Zone – UAE 2025”, demonstrating
that this is achieved through the consistent application of a clear standard across its entire urban layout.
The title “Fastest-Growing Business Community – UAE 2025” shows the pace and consistency of company formation within the city’s Free Zone. Over 2000 firms now operate from within its boundaries, spanning climate systems, food resilience, automation, mobility, and health innovation. Their Free Zone combines modular offices, build-to-suit leasing, and layered licensing, all of which lower entry barriers and shorten setup timelines. Growth has come not just in volume but also in the diversity of operating sectors.
Its recognition for “Most Sustainable Urban Development & Design – UAE 2025” is tied to the city’s ability to reduce thermal load, optimise wind movement, and cut utility consumption through passive architectural strategies. Each building, street, and transit corridor has been constructed with the region’s environmental conditions in mind.
The award for “Excellence in Customized Business Solutions – UAE 2025” shows the way Masdar City approaches commercial infrastructure. Offices, retail units, and full-scale developments are shaped in partnership with tenants, allowing each space to serve a specific operational need. This level of adaptability supports early-stage ventures as well as large multinationals seeking regional hubs. Leasing structures are designed to accommodate both short-term agility and long-term presence, without compromising environmental or design standards.
Infrastructure Expansion Aligned With Functional and Environmental Outcomes
Built from the ground up to function under regional climate constraints, Masdar City applies passive design as a starting point rather than a design add-on. The next generation of projects is shaped around modular delivery, net-zero readiness, and integrated AI functionality.
Since its establishment in 2006, Masdar City has become one of the world’s most recognised models for sustainable urban development. It began as a strategic step by the UAE’s leadership to advance clean energy, drive innovative business, and establish a new standard for low-carbon urban living.
Today, Masdar City, a Mubadala company, has evolved into a thriving ecosystem. It hosts global organisations such as IRENA, Siemens, and the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, alongside 2000 registered entities, forming a community where research, technology, and business converge within the Free Zone. The city also focuses on six high-impact industry clusters: AI, agritech, space tech, energy, life sciences, and mobility, fostering collaboration and innovation across these sectors.
The city’s achievements are equally impressive. Buildings in Masdar City consume around 40% less energy and water than conventional structures, and the city features the region’s highest cluster of LEED Platinum certified buildings, with 25 in total. It has also delivered several regional firsts, including the region’s first net-zero energy mosque, alongside pioneering work in autonomous mobility.
By blending traditional architectural principles with advanced technology, Masdar City shows how sustainability can become a natural part of daily life. Ahmed Baghoum, CEO of Masdar City, guides the city as it stands not just as a community but as a living testbed and business hub for the UAE’s net zero ambitions, offering a realworld “green print” for future cities.”
Translating Technical Experience into Global Impact
The global footprint of Masdar City is defined less by size than by situational relevance. In many host regions like Central Asia, West Africa, and the Western Balkans, climate volatility exists alongside fragile infrastructure and fragmented regulation.
Deploying energy systems into these conditions requires clean technology and institutional precision. Masdar City enters through agreements that layer utility development with workforce training, grid integration, and sectorspecific outcomes.
This approach draws from the company’s work in Abu Dhabi, where it learned to build under thermal stress, water scarcity, and evolving compliance standards.
Masdar City’s value lies in translating technical familiarity with constrained environments into project design that remains operable, bankable, and nationally aligned even in states with limited resilience capacity.
Urban Development Framed Around National Outcomes
Masdar City holds a defined position within the UAE’s long-range development architecture. It supports the national direction across three functional areas: climate performance, industrial adaptation, and infrastructure planning, each of which ties directly into the Net Zero 2050 initiative.
Urban growth is shaped through standards that prioritise emissions control, energy load balancing, and building efficiency at every stage of construction and occupancy. Design systems within the city are geared to limit utility intensity at scale. Core infrastructure is laid out to reduce pressure on national grids, optimise water distribution, and enable passive energy use. With photovoltaic integration across rooftops and canopies, together with highperformance facades and digital metering, the built environment acts as a replicable format for low-emission urbanisation.
Beyond construction, Masdar City contributes to the country’s knowledge economy by serving as a base for innovation-led sectors. Firms operating in energy, mobility, agri-tech, and AI development are co-located with educational and research institutions. This integration reinforces economic diversification through practical channels, through real tenancy, local hiring, and platform sharing.
The city’s visibility also extends to international sustainability diplomacy. Its frameworks and projects are regularly shared at forums hosted under the UAE’s climate strategy, including Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week and the Zayed Sustainability Prize platform.
These mechanisms allow for domestic advances in water, energy, and transport to be translated into exportable formats, helping position the UAE as a regional provider of low-carbon urban systems.
Masdar City’s contribution is not based on symbolic development. Its function lies in showing that long-term infrastructure can meet environmental and commercial criteria at the same time without placing strain on state capacity, policy cohesion, or utility resources.
RAC-The Ultimate Gateway To Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Management
Saudi Arabia has been a core aviation hub and a key epicentre for tourists, trade, businesses and the Middle East’s Economic powerhouse. The aviation sector has always played a pivotal role in shaping global connectivity, fostering cultural exchange, and powering economic growth. Airports, often regarded as the gateways to countries, facilitate this vital exchange, thus serving as the lifeline for travel and tourism.
Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector contributes to 8.5% of the country’s GDP and supports 1.4 million jobs. The country’s aviation infrastructure is crucial for connecting its cities domestically and globally.
Major international airports include King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah, King Khalid International
Airport (RUH) in Riyadh, King Fahd International Airport (DMM) in Dammam, and Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) in Medina.
Regional and domestic airports ensure connectivity within Saudi Arabia’s diverse geography. Some airports, like the terminal at King Fahd International Airport, include dedicated facilities for employees of Saudi Aramco. Saudi Arabia is investing in expanding its airport infrastructure, with projects like King Salman International Airport in Riyadh aiming to increase capacity, boost tourism, and enhance global connectivity.
A Brief Introduction to Riyadh Airports Company
Riyadh Airports Company (RAC) stands as a pivotal institution in Saudi Arabia’s aviation landscape. Riyadh Airports
Company (RAC) was established in 2016 as part of the privatisation program of the aviation sector in Saudi Arabia. RAC operates as a state-owned enterprise under the umbrella of Matarat Holding, primarily managing the King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. This company plays a crucial role in shaping the future of air travel, not only in the capital but across the region.
The founding of Riyadh Airports Company came as part of a strategic move by Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation. In response to fluctuating oil revenues, the government initiated a broader plan to privatise certain public assets, optimising operational efficiency while encouraging investment in vital infrastructure. By entrusting airport operations to specialised entities like RAC, the Kingdom aims to bolster its economic diversification efforts and enhance the quality of services for millions of passengers passing through its gateways.
In its pursuit of excellence, Riyadh Airports Company continually invests in upgrading its infrastructure, enhancing services, and employing cutting-edge technology. This commitment is evident in its recent marketing initiatives, which have significantly transformed the engaging experience for travellers. It is this relentless pursuit of modernisation and customer engagement that has positioned Riyadh Airports Company as a trusted leader in the aviation sector.
Achievements that Speak Volumes: RAC’s AwardWinning Campaigns
Riyadh Airports Company has recently earned recognition through a series of prestigious awards, including noteworthy
titles such as “Most Effective Media Engagement Campaign Saudi Arabia 2025” and “Best Airport Marketing Campaign of the Year Saudi Arabia 2025”. These accolades, awarded by International Business Magazine, are a testament to the company’s strategic approach and innovative methods.
Most Effective Media Engagement Campaign – Saudi Arabia 2025
The award for the ‘Most Effective Media Engagement Campaign Saudi Arabia 2025‘ reflects Riyadh Airports Company’s outstanding ability to connect with its travellers seamlessly. Utilising integrated marketing communication strategies, the company crafted campaigns that addressed the needs and preferences of travellers. Engaging with multiple channels, including social media, online platforms, and traditional media, the campaign has resonated well with both native and global audiences.
By focusing on storytelling, the campaign illustrated real travel experiences at the airport and demonstrated the customer-centric ways in, Riyadh Airports Company goes above and beyond to ensure seamless journeys. The emphasis on customer narratives not only humanised the brand but also built trust and loyalty among passengers. In an era where consumers crave authentic connections, the campaign struck a chord, solidifying the company’s position in the market.
Riyadh Airports offers extensive advertising opportunities across 270 platforms, including billboards, street-level displays, digital networks, and both fixed and mobile sites. Notably, the billboards updated on King Khalid
International Airport (KXIA’s) terminals, access roads and private aviation areas is one of the largest and most prominent globally, spanning 250 meters in width and 12 meters in height.
Best Airport Marketing Campaign of the Year – Saudi Arabia 2025
The accolade for the “Best Airport Marketing Campaign of the Year Saudi Arabia 2025” with International Business Magazine further signifies the emergence of Riyadh Airports Company as a core player in innovative marketing strategies in the aviation sector. This campaign wasn’t just about promoting flights or services but consolidated the rich culture, hospitality, and experiences that Riyadh Airports company has to offer.
Through well-crafted advertisements and promotional material, the campaign showcased the unique values and attributes defining the Kingdom. Furthermore, it utilised visually compelling content, highlighting the scenic beauty of Saudi Arabia, local heritage, and various attractions, enticing travel enthusiasts to explore the destination. This holistic approach has not only amplified awareness about Riyadh as a travel hub but also promoted tourism that directly benefits the local economy.
Riyadh airport company offers outdoor advertising formats like LED billboards and bridge screens, while indoor advertising options include digital screens, gate displays, and digital spheres for full campaign visibility, ensuring brand resonance with travellers.
A Leader Worth Noting – Mr. Yasser Al Sanad
Under the leadership of Mr. Yasser Al Sanad, the journey at Riyadh Airports Company has been nothing short of transformational. As the “Marketing & Corporate Communications Leader of the Year for the Middle East in 2025”, Al Sanad’s vision has been integral to the company’s recognition on both domestic and international stages.
Mr. Al Sanad’s strategic insights and emphasis on innovation have revolutionised the operational framework of the company. His ability to harness data-driven insights to develop campaigns that resonate with the audience is commendable. An advocate for leveraging technology, he meticulously integrates advanced analytics to craft personalised experiences for travellers.
Moreover, his leadership fosters a culture of creativity and motivation among the team. He embodies collaboration, encouraging the sharing of ideas and ensuring the team thrives amid challenges. As a result, not only has the company flourished under his mentorship, but it has also garnered trust among travellers and stakeholders.
With nearly twenty years of diverse experience across sectors such as aviation, banking, real estate, infrastructure, and national transformation initiatives, he has played a pivotal role in elevating communication from a tactical function to a strategic executive discipline, focusing on building trust, crafting effective messaging, and fostering institutional unity.
At Riyadh Airports Company (RAC), Al Sanad transformed the Marketing and Communications (MarCom) function into a vital component of institutional trust, creating a cohesive framework that integrated executive communication, stakeholder engagement, brand management, crisis preparedness, protocol leadership, and audience-focused campaigns under a unified strategic vision.
The Future Ahead
Looking forward, the Riyadh Airport Company envisions to propel the aviation sector further. In alignment with the country’s Vision 2030, the company aspires to boost the operational efficiency and passenger experience together. The forthcoming initiatives promise the introduction of new technologies and infrastructure improvements aimed at meeting the increasing demand for air travel.
An upcoming focus on sustainable practices is also on the horizon, with the company planning to adopt ecofriendly solutions throughout its operations. Initiatives to promote environmental sustainability reflect the growing understanding of responsible tourism and corporate social responsibility, which enhances Riyadh Airports Company’s image as a conscientious leader.
Riyadh Airports Company is also geared towards further engaging with local and global stakeholders to strengthen its position as a connector for tourism. Formulating strategic
partnerships with tourism authorities, local businesses, and travel agencies will be pivotal in showcasing the charm of Saudi Arabia and attracting more visitors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Riyadh Airports Company stands as a prominent example of how an organisation can transform its operations through innovative marketing and effective communication strategies. The recognition it has received through these awards depict its remarkable ability to connect with its audience and promote the vibrant experiences available in Saudi Arabia.
Under the dynamic leadership of Mr. Yasser Al Sanad, Riyadh Airports Company is not only raising the bar for airport management but is also significantly contributing to the growth of the travel and tourism sector in the region. As the company looks to the future, it is clear that its dedication to excellence, innovation, and sustainability will continue to shape the landscape of aviation, ensuring that Riyadh remains a vital lifeline for travellers worldwide.
The journey ahead promises exciting developments, and with each award, Riyadh Airports Company forges a stronger connection to its travellers/passengers, inspiring a new generation of travellers to explore the rich tapestry of experiences that await them in Saudi Arabia.
Redefining Integrated Financing in Africa’s Evolving Leasing & Factoring Landscape
Across Africa, the finance function is becoming more operational. From contractors completing delayed projects to exporters managing slow remittances, the need for tailored liquidity has outgrown the reach of traditional loans. Leasing and factoring, once treated as niche instruments, have now become the most reliable link between effort and earnings.
Be it bridging shortfalls from receivables or converting fixed assets into usable capital, these instruments now power the middle layer of enterprise growth.
Rather than being defined solely by scale, the leaders in this field are shaped by speed, versatility, and sector fluency, while delivering financing formats that adapt to shifting demand without exposing clients to high-cost risk.
Established in 2021, Beltone Leasing & Factoring is a wholly owned subsidiary of Beltone Holding and has rapidly become one of Egypt’s fastest-growing non-banking financial institutions (NBFIs). The company achieved an 18% market share in leasing and 8.5% in factoring as of Q2 2025, with a net financed amount exceeding EGP 5.6 billion and an outstanding portfolio of EGP 9.9 billion, reflecting exceptional growth, prudent risk management, and market leadership.
The firm issues structured financing tied to verified receivables, registered assets, and confirmed contracts, all while avoiding excessive exposure and maintaining liquidity access. BLF’s paid-in capital has reached EGP 1.5 billion, backed by facilities from more than 26 banks totalling EGP 15.4 billion. The company also secured USD 30 million in foreign funding from SANAD, the Green for Growth Fund (GGF), and Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait (ABK), along with a new USD 20 million facility from Germany-based Finance in Motion GmbH, underscoring strong international confidence in its performance and governance standards.
The award “Best Leasing and Factoring Company in Africa 2025” recognises Beltone Leasing & Factoring’s ability to provide flexible, asset-based financing that supports SMEs and large corporates alike, while maintaining strong credit discipline and operational efficiency. Its approach focuses on sector-driven solutions across real estate, construction, education, trading, and tourism, combining local expertise with international best practices.
Structure-First Model with Multi-Sector Reach
Beltone Leasing and Factoring offers a comprehensive product suite including Direct Lease, Sale & Leaseback, Domestic Factoring, and Reverse Factoring, each designed to match the client’s cash flow cycle and asset utilization. Every transaction is reinforced by robust internal controls from origination to closure, ensuring transparency, auditability, and minimal exposure to rollover risk.
Regional Impact Through Strategic Expansion
In a landmark achievement, Beltone Leasing and Factoring became the first non-banking financial institution to establish a branch in the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZone) a strategic gateway linking Egypt to Africa and global markets. This expansion enhances the company’s ability to serve exporters, logistics operators, and industrial clients, strengthening its regional footprint.
Furthermore, Beltone Leasing & Factoring’s membership in Factors Chain International (FCI) the world’s largest global factoring network enables it to deliver crossborder factoring solutions, positioning the firm as a regional player with both an African base and global reach.
By reducing reliance on high-leverage loans and shortening the distance between earned revenue and usable capital, Beltone Leasing and Factoring has redefined access to working capital for Egyptian and African enterprises, driving sustainable economic growth through structured, contractbacked finance.
Leadership Excellence
At the forefront of this success is Amir Ghannam, CEO of Beltone Leasing & Factoring and Deputy Head of NBFIs at Beltone Holding, whose leadership has been pivotal in steering the company’s exponential growth and regional expansion. With over 20 years of experience across corporate banking, syndications, and M&A, Ghannam has transformed BLF into a top-tier market leader recognized for its innovative products, governance excellence, and client-centric model.
This recognition by International Business Magazine celebrates Beltone Leasing & Factoring’s record-breaking performance, strategic milestones, and regional expansionreaffirming the company’s position, under Amir Ghannam’s leadership, as a driving force in Africa’s evolving financial ecosystem.
THE RISE OF A SAUDI TECHNOLOGY LEADER
How Megamind IT Solutions Is Shaping the Future of Digital Transformation in the Region
In a region undergoing one of the most ambitious technological transformations in modern history, one Saudi-born technology company continues to set new standards for innovation, intelligence, and operational excellence. Headquartered in Jeddah and active across the GCC and North Africa, Megamind IT Solutions has evolved from a focused healthcare technology provider into a diversified digital transformation powerhouse. Today, Megamind serves hospitals, enterprises and universities with solutions that strengthen infrastructure, elevate digital experience, and drive measurable impact.
What began as a concentrated mission to digitize healthcare operations has expanded into a broader, long-term vision: to build the technology backbone for a smarter, more
connected, and more efficient regional economy. With operations in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and Morocco, Megamind combines engineering expertise, deep sector knowledge, and strategic vision to support organizations on their journey toward innovation. This is not merely a story about technology—it is a story about building impact, shaping industries, and contributing to national transformation in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030.
A Vision Rooted in Saudi Innovation
Megamind IT Solutions was founded on a core belief: technology must elevate human experience, simplify complex operations, and deliver measurable, lasting value. This philosophy shaped the company’s early engagements in healthcare—one of the most demanding and mission-critical sectors due to its need for reliability, accuracy, and seamless coordination.
Through its early work in digitizing hospital information systems, building digital patient platforms, and deploying world-class IT infrastructure, Megamind demonstrated that Saudi innovation can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with global providers. These early successes paved the way for further expansion and positioned Megamind as one of the region’s most trusted partners in digital transformation.
“Our mission has always been clear: to build technology that creates impact, improves outcomes, and elevates the standards of digital excellence in the region.” — Hamza Sobhi Batterjee, President & CEO of Megamind IT Solutions
Under Hamza’s leadership, Megamind has grown its influence across regional and international innovation circles. His leadership reflects a commitment to championing the future of digital healthcare, enterprise technology, and AI-driven transformation in the region.
Transforming Healthcare Through Intelligent Digital Ecosystems
Healthcare remains a defining pillar of Megamind’s technological identity. Over the years, the company has built one of the most comprehensive, integrated, and scalable healthcare technology portfolios in the region. These solutions connect every layer of clinical, operational, administrative, and financial activity—creating smarter, more responsive healthcare ecosystems.
Hospital Information System (HIS)
Megamind’s HIS is a robust enterprise platform that digitizes the entire hospital ecosystem. It provides fully integrated electronic health records, departmental modules, administration tools, mobile access, & real-time insights. By unifying clinical and operational workflows into one digital system, the HIS improves patient safety, accelerates decision-making, strengthens clinical communication, and enhances the overall experience for both care providers and patients.
Digital Engagement Solutions
Megamind’s digital engagement solutions modernize how patients and visitors interact with healthcare institutions. These solutions include:
• Patient Mobile Application
• Queue Management System (QMS)
• Real-Time Location System (RTLS)
• Virtual Interactive Digital Solutions (VIDS)
Together, these platforms create a journey that is faster, more transparent, and more intuitive. They give patients immediate access to essential services while providing hospitals with the insights needed to improve flow, efficiency, and satisfaction. They also support hybridcare environments by enabling mobile-first access to critical services.
Among these solutions, the patient mobile application stands out as a flagship, award-winning product and
one of Megamind’s best-selling innovations. Designed to serve as a complete digital companion for patients, the app consolidates critical services into a seamless, intuitive interface. Patients can access lab and imaging results, manage appointments, make payments, view prescriptions, request services, and communicate with care teams from anywhere.
What makes the application an industry benchmark is its combination of user-centric design and intelligent features. The platform integrates securely with hospital systems, enabling real-time updates and supporting high-volume usage. Its multilingual interface, accessibility features, and patient-self management capabilities have made it one of the most adopted healthcare applications. Hospitals using the platform have reported enhanced patient satisfaction, reduced administrative burden, and improved operational flow—further solidifying the app’s reputation as one of Megamind’s top-performing solutions.
Revenue Cycle Management (RCM)
Megamind’s RCM offering automates claims processes, reduces errors, accelerates reimbursements, & strengthens financial visibility. This system is vital for healthcare providers seeking improved financial sustainability, as it enhances compliance and creates consistent, predictable cashflow cycles.
IT Infrastructure: Strengthening the Digital Backbone of the Region
Beyond healthcare, Megamind plays a major role in shaping the regional digital infrastructure landscape. Its IT infrastructure capabilities ensure that organizations have secure, reliable, and scalable systems capable of supporting modernization initiatives.
These include:
• Cybersecurity operations and SOC services
• Network infrastructure and enterprise wireless systems
• Cloud hosting, data centers, and virtual environments
• Command centers and centralized monitoring environments
• CCTV, access control, and low-current systems
Support Services That Sustain Digital Excellence
Megamind recognizes that technology is not a one-time implementation—it is an evolving journey. To support the long-term success of its clients, the company offers:
• IT outsourcing services
• Managed services
• On-site and remote support
• Custom development
• Cyber operations and continuous monitoring
• Customer success and training
Intelligence Embedded Into Every Digital Solution
A defining trait of Megamind’s technology philosophy is the belief that intelligence should be built into every system. Artificial intelligence is not promoted as a separate product—it is an invisible layer woven into the foundation of all solutions.
Through this embedded intelligence, organizations benefit from:
• Predictive analytics
• Automated routing and workflows
• Real-time anomaly detection
• Dynamic resource optimization
• Smarter security and infrastructure performance
Industry Recognition: Why International Business Magazine Honored Hamza Sobhi Batterjee
In 2025, International Business Magazine honored Hamza Sobhi Batterjee with the prestigious title of ‘Most Influential Health Tech Leader, Middle East 2025.’ This award highlights his significant influence on the evolution of healthcare technology across the region.
Hamza’s recognition was driven by four key contributions: 1. Transforming Healthcare at Scale
His leadership accelerated digital modernization across multiple hospital networks, reducing inefficiencies, improving patient outcomes, and enabling smarter, data-driven clinical operations.
2. Expanding Saudi Innovation Beyond Borders Through strategic expansion, he helped elevate Saudi
Arabia’s health-tech capabilities to international markets, demonstrating the Kingdom’s ability to lead in technology innovation.
3. Championing Intelligent, AI-Driven Healthcare
Hamza’s commitment to embedding intelligence into every system positioned Megamind as a pioneer in proactive, predictive healthcare technologies.
4. Strengthening the Region’s Global Competitiveness
His leadership helped place the Kingdom on the global map as a rising center for digital health and enterprise innovation.
Regional Footprint and Strategic Growth
Today, Megamind operates across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and Morocco—building strong relationships with public and private institutions. The company maintains active involvement in regional industry ecosystems, continuously evolving its solutions to meet emerging needs and global standards.
Leadership at the Intersection of Innovation and HumanCentered Design
Leadership continues to be one of Megamind’s strongest pillars.
“Technology becomes powerful when it is human-
centered. Our responsibility is to deliver solutions that make organizations smarter, people’s lives easier, and our region’s future stronger.”
— Hamza Sobhi Batterjee, President & CEO, Megamind IT Solutions
Aligned With Vision 2030 and the Future of the Region
Megamind’s work directly supports Saudi Vision 2030 goals of digital transformation, economic diversification, infrastructure modernization, and smarter government and healthcare systems. Its intelligent solutions empower organizations to reach new levels of performance, sustainability, and competitiveness.
Looking Ahead
Megamind IT Solutions is entering a powerful new phase of growth—focused on deeper AI integration, cybersecurity, automation, advanced cloud environments, and nextgeneration digital experiences. With a strong foundation and expanding regional influence, the company is positioned to remain one of the Middle East’s most significant technology transformation leaders.
As Saudi Arabia, the GCC, and North Africa transition toward economies defined by intelligence, connectivity, and innovation, Megamind stands ready to lead, support, and inspire—helping organizations navigate the future with clarity, confidence, and excellence.
How CFT became the crypto prop firm everyone is talking about
Introduction
For years, trading was something only people with enough capital could access. If you wanted to trade for a living, you had to risk your own money and take every loss personally. But a few years ago, that changed with the rise of prop firms: companies that back traders based on skill, not on how much money they have.
Instead of risking their own funds, traders operate with simulated accounts funded by the firm. If they show consistency and discipline, they get paid real profits based on their performance. In short, you trade in demo, we pay you in real money.
This model took off in traditional markets like Forex, indices, and commodities because it opened a door to professional trading without personal risk. But the crypto world was a different story: high volatility, 24/7 markets, and little regulation. Everything that usually keeps prop firms away.
Still, at CFT, we’ve never been drawn to the safe route. We believe innovation begins right where others hesitate. That’s why we decided to bring the prop firm model into crypto and become pioneers in a space no one had dared to build in before.
How a prop firm works
Think of a prop firm as a trading school that rewards you with real payouts if you can prove your skills.
1. You start with a challenge: You trade in a demo account under specific rules, for example, a maximum drawdown and a profit target.
2. You prove your consistency: It’s not about luck, it’s about control and discipline. If you reach your targets without breaking the rules, you move forward.
3. You become a funded trader: You now operate a larger simulated account where your results determine your real earnings.
4. You get paid in real money: Even though trades happen on a demo account, the profits you generate are paid out in real funds.
This structure allows anyone with skill and patience to access the professional trading world without risking their own capital. If you perform well, you earn. If you don’t, you learn and can try again.
Why we entered the crypto space
When prop firms started gaining traction, everything revolved around traditional markets. But we noticed something new: a generation of traders who had started directly in crypto. They were young, self-taught, and comfortable with volatility. Many came from tech, gaming, or decentralized finance, not from Wall Street. They didn’t wait for market hours or rely on banks. For them, trading was global, instant, and always on.
What most people saw as chaos, we saw as potential. We asked ourselves: what if we could bring structure to this energy? What if we could offer these traders a way to turn their crypto experience into a professional path?
It wasn’t easy. The crypto market never sleeps, prices can move 10% in minutes, and liquidity changes constantly across exchanges. But every challenge was an opportunity to innovate. We adapted our systems, built new evaluation methods, and refined our technology to create a stable, transparent, and fair experience for crypto traders.
Bridging two worlds
When we opened the first crypto trading accounts, we saw something fascinating happen. Traders from both worlds, traditional and digital, started to meet in the middle.
On one side, experienced Forex traders looking to expand their opportunities and take advantage of crypto volatility.
On the other, a new generation who had never traded EUR/USD but understood Bitcoin, Ethereum, and emerging tokens inside out.
That mix became the heart of CFT. Our mission is not just to offer challenges or accounts, but to build a community where the discipline of professional trading meets the innovative spirit of the crypto ecosystem.
Here, success is not about luck or hype. It’s about adaptability, risk management, and long-term thinking. It’s not about winning one trade, but about building a career.
From pioneers to leaders
Being among the first to bring the prop firm model into crypto meant walking through unknown territory. We had to adjust processes, design new metrics, and, most importantly, educate traders.
We showed them that crypto prop trading is not about gambling with leverage. It’s about applying structure, patience, and consistency to a market that moves fast.
Over time, that effort paid off. We built a sustainable model that doesn’t depend on trends or market spikes.
A model that proves professional trading can exist in the crypto space when done with structure and purpose.
The future of trading
Today, the prop firm model is evolving faster than ever. New generations of traders are entering the market, and many of them are starting through crypto. CFT remains at the forefront, combining the best of both worlds: the experience and structure of traditional trading with the innovation and freedom of the digital frontier.
Our mission has never changed. We reward skill, protect capital, and give real opportunities to those who earn them. Because we believe the future of trading does not belong to a single market. It belongs to the traders who know how to adapt.
In the end, what truly makes the difference is not the asset you trade or the platform you use. It is the mindset you bring to the market. And that mindset, disciplined, open, and resilient, is what drives us at CFT every single day.
In this evolving space, the International Business Magazine has awarded Crypto Fund Trader the title of “Fastest
Growing Crypto Prop Trading Firm Switzerland 2025” for its contribution to transforming the entry points for aspiring traders.
With a foundation anchored in performance filters, rather than deposits, the firm delivers on a model that helps traders grow capital access through consistent outputs.
Disclaimer: This article is provided by Crypto Fund Trader.
