News

Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ upcoming visit to China in January for the long-awaited resumption of the UK-China Economic and Financial Dialogue has been hailed as a pivotal opportunity for economic cooperation.

However, leading advisory firm Blick Rothenberg has urged her to adopt a pragmatic approach to secure meaningful outcomes for both nations.

Winnie Cao, Head of the firm’s China desk, described the dialogue’s return after a six-year hiatus as “great news for both China and the UK.” She emphasised that pragmatism in these talks could not only bolster trade relationships but also signal a broader commitment to international cooperation, potentially easing global tensions.

Cao noted the potential for mutual benefit, with China offering the UK affordable electric vehicles and battery storage solutions — vital for achieving the UK’s net-zero ambitions. Conversely, the UK provides Chinese businesses with opportunities to expand into a stable, growth-oriented market amid slowing domestic growth in China.

A closer economic relationship with China, Cao suggested, could support Labour’s growth plans, particularly given China’s role as one of the UK’s top trading partners. She argued that China might prove a more predictable ally than the US under President-elect Donald Trump, whose administration has hinted at leveraging sanctions to drive economic compliance.

Despite the potential for collaboration, caution is expected on both sides. The UK’s National Security Law, which limits foreign investments, reflects concerns over the influence of external investors. Meanwhile, China’s delegation, led by He Lifeng, is likely mindful of how enhanced UK-China ties might be perceived in Washington.

“Both nations need to play to their strengths,” Cao advised. “For the UK, that means leveraging China’s complete supply chain for green technologies, and for China, tapping into the UK’s stable market as its companies look outward for growth.”

With economic pressures mounting globally, Reeves’ ability to strike a balanced and strategic agreement could yield significant benefits for both economies, demonstrating the importance of pragmatic diplomacy in uncertain times.

Read more:
Rachel Reeves urged to approach China talks with pragmatism

The appointment of Tom Hayhoe as the UK’s COVID corruption commissioner has been criticised as unlikely to recover significant taxpayer funds, according to leading audit and advisory firm Blick Rothenberg.

Fiona Fernie, a partner at the firm, questioned the value of the role, particularly given the time elapsed since the alleged corruption took place during the pandemic.

“Four years after the events occurred, it’s unclear why Rachel Reeves believes this appointment will achieve more than previous investigations, including the National Audit Office’s 2020 review or the Boardman Review in 2021,” Fernie said.

Hayhoe’s 12-month tenure has also been criticised as insufficient for such a complex inquiry. Fernie warned that those involved in questionable activities during the pandemic have had years to obscure evidence, making recovery efforts even more challenging.

Although Hayhoe is expected to provide recommendations on future government procurement processes during crises, Fernie questioned what additional insights this could offer beyond existing reviews, including the COVID inquiry led by Baroness Heather Hallett and the National Crime Agency’s ongoing investigations into potential PPE-related criminal offences.

The delay in appointing Hayhoe has also come under scrutiny. Despite being a Labour manifesto pledge, it took five months into their government for the appointment to be finalised, with frequent public promises of an imminent announcement.

Fernie expressed support for efforts to investigate fraud and recover public funds but cautioned that the cost of Hayhoe’s role might outweigh the financial recoveries it achieves. “This appointment may easily cost the Exchequer more than it will recover and is unlikely to bring any new information to light,” she said.

The criticism raises broader questions about the effectiveness of retrospective investigations and the balance between accountability and the cost of pursuing historical cases.

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COVID corruption commissioner unlikely to recover taxpayers’ money

Small businesses in some of Britain’s most disadvantaged areas are poised to benefit from £1 billion in lending, thanks to a government-backed initiative by community-based finance organisations.

The British Business Bank (BBB) has launched a £150 million, two-year scheme to bolster community development finance institutions (CDFIs), which lend to businesses turned down by mainstream banks. The initiative is expected to increase CDFI lending from £102 million a year to £500 million annually by 2029, with Responsible Finance estimating the total impact to reach £1 billion as funds are recycled through loan repayments.

“This is a huge step forward,” said Theodora Hadjimichael, chief executive of Responsible Finance, which represents 50 CDFIs across the UK. “We’ve often been constrained by limited capital, but now we’ve been recognised for the good that we do.”

CDFIs focus on supporting viable businesses that can repay loans but struggle to secure funding elsewhere. Last year, 99% of CDFI borrowers had been rejected by other lenders, yet 89% of loans were repaid in full, demonstrating the model’s effectiveness.

The scheme has also attracted private sector interest, with hopes of raising an additional £100 million annually. Lloyds Bank recently partnered with Big Society Capital to invest £62 million in CDFIs, and JP Morgan Chase has committed £4 million to help community lenders upgrade their systems and improve efficiency.

Gareth Thomas, the small business minister, hailed the initiative: “CDFIs’ local know-how enables them to lend effectively when traditional banks cannot. Access to finance is a key barrier for small businesses, and this is a big step towards addressing that challenge.”

One beneficiary is Hyde Accessible Transport in Manchester, which secured a £125,000 loan from the Business Enterprise Fund, a CDFI, after being declined by mainstream banks. Founder Shaun Delaney used the funds to expand operations, tripling turnover and increasing staff to 228 employees and contractors, most of whom are local.

The programme not only provides financial lifelines to small firms but also strengthens local economies by creating jobs and fostering growth in underserved areas, reinforcing the vital role CDFIs play in Britain’s financial ecosystem.

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Community lenders unlock £1bn to support small firms rejected by banks

HMRC has confirmed the settlement of its high-profile IR35 tax case with Gary Lineker, ending a long-running dispute over a £4.9 million tax liability tied to his presenting work with the BBC and BT Sport.

The case, initially decided in Lineker’s favour by the First-tier Tribunal (FTT), was set for an Upper Tribunal hearing after HMRC appealed. However, the appeal was withdrawn, and the case was settled out of court. The terms of the settlement remain undisclosed.

Dave Chaplin, CEO of IR35 compliance firm IR35 Shield, shed light on the complexities of the case, explaining that Lineker operated through a general partnership, a structure that already subjected him to income tax akin to a sole trader. “Almost all income tax was already paid upfront,” Chaplin said, adding that Lineker also paid both employer and employee National Insurance Contributions due to the partnership structure.

The disputed amount, Chaplin clarified, was far lower than the widely reported £4.9 million, amounting instead to between £300,000 and £400,000 spread across several years. This represented the marginal difference between employer NICs and sole trader NICs.

While this chapter is closed for Lineker, the broader IR35 saga continues, with other tribunal cases still pending. “Our tribunal visits are far from finished,” Chaplin remarked.

The settlement marks the end of a contentious chapter for Lineker while underscoring the ongoing challenges around IR35 compliance and enforcement.

Read more:
Case closed: HMRC settles £4.9m tax case with Gary Lineker

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New Forrester Study Highlights Efficiency and Enhanced Employee Experience: Streamline Time-Off Requests with Paycom’s GONE

Greg Wasz, hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio, is a dynamic professional who balances a thriving career in sales with his passion for video creation and storytelling.

After earning his degree in communications at Ohio University and interning at The Late Show with David Letterman, Greg carved out a successful path in sales, driven by his natural ability to connect with people and build meaningful relationships. Outside of his career, he channels his creativity into Greg Wasz Productions, documenting family moments and crafting videos that preserve memories for years to come. With his wife, Jenna, and their three children at the center of his world, Greg has mastered the art of integrating work, creativity, and family life into a fulfilling journey.

In this interview, Greg reflects on the lessons learned from his unique blend of personal and professional experiences, offering insights into his perspective on creativity, connection, and living a meaningful life.

What does creativity mean to you, and how do you incorporate it into your daily life?

Creativity, to me, is about seeing the world differently and finding unique ways to express that perspective. It’s not just about making videos or writing scripts—it’s a mindset. In my career, creativity comes into play when I’m crafting a sales strategy or brainstorming solutions for a client. It’s about connecting the dots in ways others might not see and delivering something meaningful and unexpected.

In my personal life, creativity thrives in my video projects. Whether I’m editing footage from a family trip or documenting everyday moments, I’m always looking for ways to tell a story that captures the heart of the experience. Creativity isn’t something I turn on and off—it’s woven into everything I do, from how I parent to how I approach challenges at work.

How has storytelling shaped your approach to both work and family life?

Storytelling is at the core of everything I do. In sales, it’s about more than just presenting a product or service—it’s about showing people how it fits into their lives, how it solves a problem, or how it makes things better. People connect with stories far more than they do with facts and figures. That’s why I always focus on building a narrative that resonates with my clients.

At home, storytelling is how we preserve memories and create a sense of belonging. When I make videos of our family, I’m not just capturing events—I’m crafting a narrative that my kids can look back on and see who we were as a family. It’s about reminding them of our shared experiences, the love we have for one another, and the little moments that make life special.

What has been the most rewarding part of documenting your family’s life through video?

The most rewarding part is how these videos have become a treasure chest of memories for my family. My kids love watching themselves grow up on screen, and it’s incredible to see their faces light up when they relive those moments. It’s not just about the big milestones, like birthdays or vacations—it’s the everyday laughter, the impromptu dance parties, and the quiet moments of connection.

These videos are also a gift for the future. One day, when my kids are grown, they’ll have these videos to remind them of where they came from, who we were as a family, and how much they were loved. It’s a way of preserving our story, and that’s something truly priceless.

How do you stay motivated when balancing a busy career, a creative passion, and family life?

Motivation comes from understanding my “why.” Everything I do—whether it’s working hard in my career, staying up late to edit a video, or making time for family—is rooted in my love for my family and my desire to create a meaningful life.

Of course, there are days when it feels overwhelming, but I remind myself of the bigger picture. My work allows me to provide for my family, my creativity keeps me inspired, and my family is the reason I do it all. Staying organized and intentional with my time helps, too. I make a point to block out time for each priority, and I don’t let distractions take away from what matters most.

What is one lesson you’ve learned about connection through your work in sales and your creative projects?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that connection is about authenticity. In sales, people want to feel like they’re being heard and understood—they’re not just buying a product; they’re buying trust. The same goes for creativity. A video resonates with people when it’s real and authentic, when it shows life as it truly is, imperfections and all.

Whether I’m meeting with a client or editing a family video, my focus is always on staying true to the story I’m trying to tell. Authenticity builds trust, fosters connection, and ultimately creates something meaningful.

What advice would you give to someone who feels like they don’t have time for their creative passions?

Start small and make it a priority, even if it’s just 15 minutes a day. Creativity doesn’t have to be this grand, time-consuming project. For me, it started with recording little clips of my kids or jotting down ideas for videos. Over time, those small efforts added up, and now it’s a natural part of my routine.

The key is to view creativity as a gift to yourself, not an obligation. It’s your time to unwind, recharge, and express yourself. Even in the busiest seasons of life, carving out a little time for something you’re passionate about can make a big difference in your overall happiness.

What’s next for you creatively or professionally?

Creatively, I want to keep pushing the boundaries of what I can do with Greg Wasz Productions. Whether it’s exploring new storytelling techniques, experimenting with editing styles, or diving deeper into travel vlogs, I’m always looking for ways to grow.

Professionally, my focus is on continuing to build strong relationships with my clients and finding innovative ways to bring value to them. I also hope to explore how my creative skills can complement my work in sales, whether that’s through video presentations or storytelling-based strategies.

Ultimately, my goal is to keep learning, growing, and creating. Whether it’s through my career, my videos, or my time with family, I want everything I do to reflect the values that matter most to me.

Read more:
Greg Wasz: Building Connections Through Sales, Creativity, and Family

As an investor, I like simple solutions for complex problems. If you can make someone’s life easier and remove some of the friction between them and what they want, then you can probably charge a dollar or two. If you can do that at scale and charge more than you spend, you’ve got a business.

For that reason, I sympathise with people who look at crypto and blockchain and see only more friction. Wallets, passphrases, chains and bridges – it all sounds a bit complicated.

Those of us who are deep on the inside recognise the transformative potential of the technology, but that means it’s our job to make it simple for others. If you fancy yourself a crypto evangelist, an ambassador or whatnot, then the task at hand is to make crypto as simple for others as it is for you. Instead of explaining and persuading people about the merits of blockchain, though, wouldn’t it be better if we actually made crypto simpler, by removing some of that friction?

We are seeing this in action already. Look at Revolut. An intuitive app that successfully integrates blockchain and fintech into its operating system, and provides all the services you’d expect from a high street bank, only faster.

The most impressive thing about Revolut is that it operates just like a traditional banking app; with the powerful capabilities of crypto and blockchain all working in the background. As a customer, you don’t have to know you are using crypto to reap the benefits of its ingenuity.

Some of the confusion people have about crypto is down to the number of speculative projects built on short-term thinking with no real economic substance. The rise and fall of the NFT markets was a classic gimmick-investment bubble. The initial interest in digital ownership of art was quickly followed by market oversaturation and inevitable market collapse. The loss of money, value, and time certainly contributed to a feeling of distrust in crypto investment and confusion among consumers who may not have been aware of or interested in technology that sits behind NFTs.

Contrast that with using crypto to transfer money across national borders. Cryptocurrency increases transaction speed, accessibility of funds, and lowers transaction fees. All things people want. Stablecoins provide a robust anchoring to traditional currencies and international transactions, and have shown resilience against the volatility that has plagued the market in the past. This is genuine real-world utility. Once getting on and off the blockchain becomes a less complex task, and the processes retreat into the background, I believe blockchain and cryptocurrency will become the default method for international payments.

Simple interfaces that deliver clear customer benefits are what will help crypto and blockchain go mainstream. We’ve already realised the ‘quick wins’ offered by crypto – we know how to move money quickly and securely across borders, we understand the value of an immutable ledger. They are here to stay. What we need now is to deliver the second order benefits of crypto to a wide public, without them even realising they’re using the blockchain.

Another advantage of the blockchain is that it doesn’t discriminate. Access to reliable, effective, and safe financial services could be expanded globally. Providing communities access to conventional financial services that traditional banks are not able to do. This is what excites me about this sector, and as an experienced investor in this field, this is what I look forward to.

Imagine what these changes could mean for a small business, say a family-owned coffee shop. No one is going to fiddle around with different crypto wallets in a morning coffee queue, and no barista is going to spend their time looking for bridges and offramps for whatever currency or crypto a given customer wants to use to pay for their latte. But if a Point-of-Sale system did the work in the background, the system could manage all conversions and transactions seamlessly for a small fee.

It could become as reliable, as fast, and as trusted as a contactless payment. It would revolutionise travel money, reduce costs for point of sale systems and speed up payments for small businesses. Not only would the customer experience improve, but the system could facilitate sending money across borders to small suppliers who otherwise wouldn’t be able to access such efficient financial services.

It’s exciting to be building a new digital economy, but we’ll only succeed if the digital infrastructure we’re setting up fits seamlessly into the world we live in and interact with every day. As an investor, I’ll know the crypto and blockchain economy has really arrived the moment we stop noticing that we’re using it.

Read more:
Hidden in Plain Sight: Tim Heath on how the New Digital Economy Goes Mainstream

The UK has established itself as a leader in equestrian excellence, with its thoroughbred horses celebrated worldwide for their pedigree, performance, and prestige.

As global demand for elite thoroughbreds continues to grow, the UK’s equine industry has flourished into a dynamic and influential enterprise, shaping markets and competitions on an international scale.

This article explores the factors behind the UK’s success in the thoroughbred industry, its growing influence on global markets, and the economic and cultural significance of British-bred horses.

The UK’s Dominance in Thoroughbred Breeding

Thoroughbred breeding in the UK is a centuries-old tradition, refined through generations of expertise to produce some of the world’s finest horses. At the heart of this industry lies Newmarket, a town steeped in equestrian history and globally recognized as the birthplace of horse racing.

The UK’s dominance in the industry can be attributed to several vital components:

Pedigree Breeding Programs: Carefully planned breeding practices focus on achieving the perfect combination of speed, endurance, and temperament, ensuring thoroughbreds excel on the global stage.
World-Class Training Facilities: With modern facilities and exceptional trainers, the UK is a breeding ground for championship-winning horses. Facilities like those in Newmarket play a pivotal role in shaping raw equine talent into elite competitors.
Prestigious Racing Events: Iconic competitions such as the Epsom Derby and Royal Ascot showcase the capabilities of UK-bred thoroughbreds, further cementing their reputation and appeal worldwide.

These unparalleled advantages have made the UK a premier destination for investors, trainers, and jockeys seeking elite equine talent, solidifying its position as a leader in the global thoroughbred industry.

UK Horses Impact on Australia

’Thoroughbred horses from the UK have become a driving force in international equestrian events, leaving a significant mark on prestigious competitions worldwide. This influence is especially notable in horse racing in Australia, a country where the sport enjoys immense cultural significance and enthusiastic participation.

UK-bred horses, known for their unmatched speed, stamina, and pedigree, are now a common feature in Australian racing events, offering thrilling performances that draw widespread interest. Horse racing in Australia also has dedicated platforms that provide fans and professionals alike with the tools to follow key events, analyze equine performance, and stay updated on the latest developments in the racing world. With renowned races such as the Melbourne Cup and The Everest increasingly spotlighting UK-bred horses, these thoroughbreds continue to raise the profile of British breeding on the global stage.

A Growing Influence on Global Markets

The influence of UK thoroughbreds stretches far beyond its borders, shaping the global horse racing industry with their exceptional pedigree and performance. Countries with deep-rooted horse racing traditions increasingly rely on the UK for breeding partnerships and top-tier horses that can compete at the highest levels.

Nations like the United States, Japan, and the UAE have emerged as significant importers of British thoroughbreds, drawn by their superior genetics, versatility, and proven track record in international competitions.

In the United States, UK-bred horses often dominate prestigious races, including events in the Breeders’ Cup series. In Japan, where horse racing enjoys immense popularity, UK-bred thoroughbreds are prized for their adaptability to varying race conditions and their contributions to local breeding programs.

The UAE, home to the globally renowned Dubai World Cup, consistently invests in UK-bred horses, recognizing their ability to excel in both speed and endurance-focused events.

The Economic Impact of UK Thoroughbreds

The global reputation of UK thoroughbreds is not only a source of national pride but also a key economic contributor. The thoroughbred industry plays a major role in the UK economy through:

Exports: British thoroughbreds command high prices in international markets, with demand continuing to grow worldwide.
Tourism: Iconic events like Royal Ascot draw visitors from across the globe, boosting local economies and promoting UK equestrian culture.
Job Creation: The industry supports thousands of jobs in breeding, training, and event management, underlining its significance to rural communities and the broader economy.

In 2022, the UK’s equine export market experienced a growth of over 15%, highlighting the enduring appeal and resilience of British-bred horses, even amid global challenges.

Future Trends in the Industry

The UK thoroughbred industry continues to evolve and adapt, ensuring its place as a global leader in equine excellence. Main emerging trends include:

Sustainability Practices: Implementing environmentally friendly breeding and training methods to reduce the industry’s ecological footprint
Genetic Advancements: Utilizing cutting-edge genetic research to refine breeding programs, enhancing the speed, stamina, and health of thoroughbreds.
Digital Innovation: Expanding global reach through online marketplaces and virtual events, making it easier than ever for international buyers and sellers to connect.

These initiatives demonstrate the industry’s commitment to innovation and its ability to remain competitive in an increasingly dynamic global market.

Historically Breeding Global Domination

The UK’s thoroughbred industry stands as a symbol of quality and tradition, leaving a lasting mark on the global horse racing scene. With its prestigious breeding programs and consistent success in international competitions, UK horses have set the benchmark for equine excellence.

Through ongoing innovation and an unwavering commitment to high standards, the UK is well-positioned to maintain its status as a global leader in thoroughbred breeding, fostering cultural pride and driving economic growth for years to come.

Read more:
Thoroughbred Horses in the UK Becoming a Globally Renowned Business 

Emotional intelligence (EI) is way more than just knowing your emotions in and out. It’s also about putting this awareness into practice to make sense of life’s day to day challenges and fully connect with others.

EI development comes with a lot of good things. It can improve relationships, boost career success, and improve your overall well-being. In this guide, you’ll find five practical strategies that can help you develop EI proficiency.

Developing Self-Awareness

Self-awareness means recognizing how your emotions impact decisions, interactions, and even team dynamics. To get a better grip on this major aspect of emotional awareness, focus on the following:

Use Reflection Techniques After Meetings

Take a few moments post-meeting to reflect on your emotions and responses. Ask yourself, “Did I react thoughtfully?” or “What could I have done better?” This assessment builds insight over time, helping you develop an authentic and balanced approach to team interactions.

Identify Emotional Triggers

Notice recurring stress points, such as tight deadlines or challenging clients. Recognizing these patterns helps you prepare and respond with professionalism.

Self-awareness plays a huge role in the overall EI outlook. To know how to better get it going, look up EI at work or any other resources that show you the way. These guides can bring great insights that can help you improve your emotional management and make better relations with your colleagues, improving your experiences altogether.

Building Empathy With Colleagues and Clients

When you empathize, you’re better equipped to resolve conflicts, support team members, and create solutions that align with client expectations. In high-pressure situations, empathy can help defuse tension, allowing you to address concerns without escalating issues.

To build empathy at the workplace:

Practice Active Listening

Show attentiveness by paraphrasing or summarizing what others say before offering your perspective. Simple phrases like, “I understand where you’re coming from,” can be a show of respect and can make room for open communication.

Observe Workplace Dynamics and Non-Verbal Cues

Take note of non-verbal signals like body language or tone of voice in your interactions. If a colleague seems withdrawn in a meeting, check in privately. Small gestures like this show care and can build trust in a team environment.

Empathy can take your EI competencies to the next level. To get there faster and sooner, consider enrolling for an EI training course. Such programs will equip you with skills that can help you build interpersonal relationships and get along better with colleagues and clients. Research and settle for the best fit.

Practicing Self-Regulation

Self-regulation is about managing your emotions to prevent hasty reactions, especially in high-stress situations like deadline crunches or disagreements. To build this muscle:

Take a Pause Before Responding

Taking a few seconds to breathe allows you to think clearly, leading to a more constructive reply. This can be as simple as saying, “I’d like a moment to consider your feedback.”

Redirect Negative Energy Productively

If a project doesn’t go as planned, channel any frustration into a solution-oriented mindset. Instead of focusing on what went wrong, think of practical steps forward, like asking, “How can we improve this process for next time?”

Strengthening Motivation Management in a Business Environment

Managing motivation means not only keeping yourself driven but also inspiring others by setting an example. This skill allows you to maintain momentum, even when setbacks arise, and to show colleagues the value of persistence.

To develop motivational management:

Set Clear, Achievable Goals

Break larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks. Instead of aiming to “increase client retention,” set a weekly target, like “reach out to three clients to discuss ongoing needs.” Small wins keep you motivated and visibly contribute to the bigger picture.

Stay Focused on the Bigger Purpose

If you’re working on a challenging project, emphasize the positive outcomes it will bring, such as improved client satisfaction or growth for the company. Purpose-driven motivation creates resilience.

Enhancing Social Skills for Workplace Success

Social skills are foundational for effective teamwork, negotiation, and leadership. They help you build rapport, handle conflicts diplomatically, and collaborate smoothly with people from various backgrounds.

Here’s how to harness these skills;

Prioritize Active Listening in Meetings and Discussions

Show that you’re fully engaged by nodding, maintaining eye contact, and summarizing what others say to ensure understanding. A simple comment like, “So if I understand correctly, you’re suggesting…” shows you’re truly invested in the conversation.

Respond Constructively to Feedback

Whether feedback is positive or critical, respond with gratitude and a growth mindset. If your manager suggests an area of improvement, reply with, “Thanks for the insight—I’ll make sure to work on that.”

Closing Thoughts

Developing emotional intelligence can transform your professional relationships and workplace success. Focusing on the strategies reflected upon in this guide can help you build a solid foundation in business environments. Start small—one skill at a time—and watch as these strategies help you become a more adaptable, understanding, and effective team member and leader.

Read more:
Unlocking Success: 5 Key Strategies to Develop EI Proficiency

Yousef Al Shelash, Chairman of Dar Al Arkan, has reshaped the company’s trajectory, transforming it into a global leader in luxury real estate.

Through strategic partnerships and an unwavering focus on innovation, Yousef Al Shelash has ensured that Dar Al Arkan stands out in an increasingly competitive market. From landmark projects like Trump Tower Dubai to its expansion into international markets through Dar Global, Yousef Al Shelash’s vision has been pivotal in elevating the company’s reputation and reach.

Trump Tower Dubai: A Global Statement

The recently announced Trump Tower Dubai highlights Yousef Al Shelash’s strategy of aligning Dar Al Arkan with globally recognized brands. This collaboration with the Trump Organization marks the third such venture, following the Trump International Golf Club in Oman and the upcoming Trump Tower Jeddah. Trump Tower Dubai will feature luxury residential units, a Trump-branded hotel, and the exclusive Trump Private, a members-only club offering bespoke services.

Set to redefine luxury in the Gulf, Trump Tower Dubai exemplifies the company’s ability to merge iconic branding with world-class design. The project, whose location and design are expected to be unveiled by late 2024, has already generated excitement among investors. By integrating the Trump brand’s prestige, Yousef Al Shelash aims to attract high-net-worth individuals and global buyers seeking properties with both exclusivity and investment potential.

This collaboration also reflects Dar Al Arkan’s broader strategy of creating architectural landmarks that stand out in vibrant markets like Dubai. The city’s booming real estate sector, characterized by record-breaking sales of prime properties, offers the perfect backdrop for such an ambitious development. With Dubai consistently ranked as one of the fastest-growing luxury real estate markets in the world, Trump Tower Dubai is poised to capitalize on the growing appetite for branded residences.

Expanding Horizons with Dar Global

Yousef Al Shelash’s leadership extends beyond regional projects to global markets through Dar Global, the international arm of Dar Al Arkan. Established to manage the company’s international assets, Dar Global has rapidly built a presence in key markets, including the UAE, the UK, Spain, and Bosnia. With over $5.9 billion in active projects, Dar Global plays a crucial role in bringing Yousef Al Shelash’s vision of global luxury to life.

One standout project under Dar Global’s umbrella is Les Vagues Residences by Elie Saab in Qatar. Combining the renowned fashion designer’s elegance with Dar Al Arkan’s expertise, this project highlights the company’s ability to adapt its luxury-focused ethos to diverse international markets. Similarly, the partnership with Missoni on bespoke villas in Saudi Arabia and the collaboration with Aston Martin on unique residences in Spain reflect Yousef Al Shelash’s strategy of aligning with world-class brands to enhance market appeal.

Dar Global’s focus on international expansion under Al Shelash’s guidance is not just about geographic diversification; it’s about setting benchmarks in luxury real estate. By integrating global brands and maintaining high standards across every development, the company ensures its properties are synonymous with quality and exclusivity. Al Shelash’s vision of crafting premium developments with bespoke design ensures that each project caters to the preferences of its elite clientele.

Leadership That Drives Success

At the core of Dar Al Arkan’s transformation is Yousef Al Shelash’s innovative leadership. With a background in Shariah law and an acute understanding of market dynamics, Al Shelash blends tradition with forward-thinking strategies to deliver results. His ability to identify trends and forge meaningful collaborations has helped Dar Al Arkan thrive in an ever-evolving industry.

One of the key pillars of Yousef Al Shelash’s leadership is his focus on partnerships. He understands that aligning with globally recognized brands not only adds prestige but also brings specialized expertise to each project. By collaborating with industry leaders, Dar Al Arkan has been able to elevate its offerings and create properties that stand out in competitive markets.

Al Shelash’s leadership is also characterized by his emphasis on sustainability and innovation. Dar Al Arkan’s projects increasingly incorporate cutting-edge technologies, such as smart home systems and energy-efficient designs, to meet the demands of modern buyers. These forward-looking approaches ensure that the company remains relevant and competitive while delivering exceptional value to its clients.

Shaping Dubai’s Luxury Landscape

The Trump Tower Dubai project is not just a milestone for Dar Al Arkan but also a significant contribution to Dubai’s luxury real estate market. Known for its architectural wonders like the Burj Khalifa and The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai has consistently set global benchmarks in design and innovation. Trump Tower Dubai aims to add another iconic structure to the city’s skyline, solidifying its reputation as a hub for world-class developments.

Dubai’s real estate market has shown extraordinary resilience and growth, with luxury property sales reaching record highs in recent years. The city’s appeal to international investors, driven by favorable policies like long-term visas and tax advantages, aligns perfectly with the aspirations of high-net-worth individuals seeking prestigious properties. Yousef Al Shelash’s decision to expand Dar Al Arkan’s presence in Dubai reflects his strategic foresight and ability to capitalize on global trends.

By positioning Trump Tower Dubai as a flagship project, Al Shelash not only enhances Dar Al Arkan’s portfolio but also contributes to the broader narrative of Dubai as a global destination for luxury living. The project’s emphasis on exclusivity, bespoke services, and iconic branding ensures it will stand out in a crowded market.

A Legacy of Excellence

Under Yousef Al Shelash’s leadership, Dar Al Arkan has consistently set new benchmarks for luxury and quality. By combining local expertise with international collaborations, Al Shelash has created a portfolio that resonates with discerning buyers worldwide. Projects like Trump Tower Dubai and Dar Global’s initiatives across Europe and the Middle East are testaments to his ability to adapt and innovate.

Looking ahead, Yousef Al Shelash continues to focus on expanding Dar Al Arkan’s footprint while maintaining the company’s reputation for excellence. His ability to navigate challenges and seize opportunities ensures that Dar Al Arkan remains a leader in luxury real estate, both regionally and globally. Through bold leadership and strategic partnerships, Yousef Al Shelash is not only driving the company’s success but also shaping the future of luxury real estate on a global scale.

Read more:
Yousef Al Shelash’s Vision: Driving Dar Al Arkan’s Partnerships with Global Brands