DUBAI, 7th March, 2024 (WAM) — Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI) brought together representatives from 33 Dubai government entities to foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation within the field of Artificial Intelligence.

The AI Majlis, part of a series of gatherings held for leaders in AI adoption among government entities, addressed the technology’s key global trends and emerging opportunities, as well as strategies that will shape the future of AI in the Government of Dubai, achieving the key objectives of the DCAI.

The Centre was launched in June 2023 by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of the Executive Council, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Dubai Future Foundation, to position Dubai as a world leader in adopting AI in public sector work.

During the AI Majlis, Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, emphasised the importance of different government entities pursuing a common goal through exchanging knowledge and experiences.

He said, “Government entities must be thoroughly prepared for technological advancements that will change how they operate and provide services. A high level of future readiness is critical to meeting the needs of stakeholders and capitalising on the opportunities that emerge as a result of rapid AI development.”

Participants highlighted the importance of collaboration in developing legislation and regulatory frameworks that support the integration of AI into government systems. These frameworks can enhance the flexibility, efficiency, and ability of government entities to develop innovative services. The meeting also emphasised the significance of knowledge exchange among government entities and the need to support young talents in the field of AI. Participants underlined the need to foster a culture of innovation and creativity where individuals are encouraged to adopt novel ideas for using AI in their work.

DCAI recently concluded an accelerator programme for 30 companies from 13 countries who worked in AREA 2071 over a period of eight weeks to develop more than 300 projects where AI was used to tackle more than 100 different challenges that had been put forward by 33 of Dubai’s government entities.

The Centre also announced that 72 collaborative AI projects will be developed in cooperation between government agencies and companies participating in the programme, which has two tracks: the future of the government services sector, and the future of the media and communication services sector.

DCAI is designed to support Dubai government entities in employing future technologies to boost future readiness. The Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), Government of Dubai Media Office, and Dubai Digital Authority are supervising DCAI’s work alongside various stakeholders. They are particularly focused on developing legislation related to AI, implementing strategies for adoption, attracting the best global solutions and supporting promising national talents.

These days, working with people from diverse backgrounds is the norm. With more than 221 work sites around the world and operations in more than 74 countries, Samsung Electronics is home to employees of various nationalities, religions, generations and values. Samsung believes respecting diversity and communicating with transparency not only drives individuals to fulfill their potential but also fuels innovation and growth. As the company creates products and services that meet the needs of consumers around the world, this open mindset is seen as the key to true connection and success.

To honor International Women’s Day on March 8 and reflect on the value of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), Samsung Newsroom sat down with Samsung employees from different backgrounds ­— from executives to new hires and DEI managers — to hear their thoughts on the company’s thriving DEI culture.

“Diversity is the engine of sustainable growth in a global company, and Samsung is committed to Innovation for All,” said Younghee Lee, President and Chief Marketing Officer of Global Marketing Office at Samsung Electronics.

“As a global company, our brand philosophy emphasizes solving customers’ problems and helping them enjoy a better life with our technology and innovation, regardless of their region, race or gender in any part of the world. We are making an effort to genuinely share this value with customers while supporting our mission throughout the organization,” she said.

Lee urged employees to establish a culture of accepting differences by “listening to colleagues’ opinions and having open discussions so that each person can fully realize their capabilities based on their unique background.”

In celebration of International Women’s Day, she advised women to always be themselves and trust their potential. “I believe that if women challenge themselves and pursue what they truly want — in a way that’s true to who they are, rather than blindly following others — it will be a meaningful step forward not only for them but also for society as a whole.”

As a designer for Samsung Electronics’ Interaction Design Team responsible for inclusive design, Gunho Chae considers the brand’s wide customer base to develop products and services that respect the diversity of all users.

Samsung developed a glossary of terms to inform its inclusive language and created guidelines and training materials so employees are well-equipped to incorporate DEI values into all user interface elements and images.

“Samsung accepts all customers and recognizes their differences — regardless of their age, disability, family structure, gender identity, race, culture or socioeconomic status,” said Chae. “We respect all users and strive to make our products, services, manuals and advertisements relevant to our customers for an enhanced user experience.”

Michelle Anne Manglal-Lan, who oversees DEI at Samsung Electronics America, seeks to create an environment where employees can smoothly communicate, understand and learn from each other. She is particularly committed to providing motivation to female employees and fostering a corporate culture where they feel empowered to unlock their potential. Last year, she organized the Americas Employee Resources Groups (ERGs) conference to establish a network for collaboration and share best practices in DEI.

“The ERGs were born out of our employees’ interest and engagement with DEI,” said Manglal-Lan. “Together, we are stronger and can achieve our goals faster. I’m proud of the fact that our North America Region is the first office to launch an ERG.”

A new employee at Samsung Electronics’ Visual Display (VD) Division, Jiyoon Jang realized the company was more diverse than she had imagined when she first stepped foot in Digital City, Samsung’s Suwon office. “We received DEI training during our new employee onboarding sessions, and I realized the importance of an inclusive culture in a place with such a diverse group of people.”

“I knew Samsung made donations to social responsibility efforts,” she said. “Since joining I also learned that the company is sincerely committed to developing technologies that are truly inclusive.”

Relumino Mode for people with low vision and Audible Subtitles for people who are hard of hearing are among some of the projects the VD Division has developed to make the company’s products more accessible — and align with the department’s slogan, Screens for All.

“I hope the products that I work on in the future will contribute to diversity and inclusion and that I will be able to take pride in what I do,” Jang said. “I believe that discrimination against minorities and intergenerational conflicts stem from ignorance, so I am working hard to educate myself by attending sessions and reading about diversity, equity and inclusion whenever I get the opportunity.”

The new EQV and V-Class from Mercedes-Benz: In brief

• Mercedes-Benz MPVs follow the refocused business strategy
• New EQV and new V-Class with an even more classy appeal 
• New design, additional comfort equipment with a plus in intelligent, digital networking and advanced driver assistance systems form the core of its attractiveness

Mercedes-Benz will pursue a differentiated strategic approach with its vans in the future. As presented last year (2023), the company is aiming for a premium strategy for its commercial vans. In the future, a focused luxury strategy will apply to all newly developed, privately positioned vans, as is the case for all Mercedes‑Benz passenger cars. The aim is to fully implement this strategic change with the introduction of the upcoming modular and scalable Van Electric Architecture – VAN.EA for short – from 2026. The new private midsize vans EQV and V-Class are an important milestone on this path. Both are further elevated with new exterior and interior designs. There is also an increase in comfort and safety, especially thanks to more intelligent, digital networking. The models have been available to order from Mercedes‑Benz sales partners and online since January 2024. The standard equipment has been comprehensively upgraded and thereby tailored more precisely to customer requirements. The new V-Class starts at a list price of 59,470.25 euros^[1], the new EQV from 75,281.78 euros¹. The new V-Class also forms the basis for the V-Class Marco Polo camper van, which is offered ex factory. It starts at 80,004.89 euros¹ and adopts the model’s attractiveness almost completely.

“We want to offer the most desirable vans and services. To this end, we carefully analysed the wishes of our customers. The new models now have even greater visual appeal and offer even more digital extras. Our MPVs standard equipment has been significantly enhanced, with many previously highly demanded optional features now coming as standard: a well-rounded overall package.”
Klaus Rehkugler, Head of Sales & Marketing Mercedes-Benz Vans

Bridge to the future

The Mercedes‑Benz EQV and V‑Class MPVs are very popular in Europe and the Asian market. The customer spectrum ranges from families and leisure enthusiasts to VIPs and businesspeople. The models have always been particularly impressive thanks to their generous amount of space combined with a high level of comfort, as well as a high-quality and unique design. They also offer numerous customisation options with several attractive equipment lines. For the EQV there is the AVANTGARDE line, while the V‑Class is available as an entry-level model, as well as in the STYLE and AVANTGARDE lines and as the top-end EXCLUSIVE version. There are also optional design packages such as the AMG Line and the Night Package for the V‑Class, as well as the EQV Design Packages Exterior and Interior. All these qualities have been further honed.

By making them more attractive, Mercedes‑Benz Vans wants to strengthen the market position of its MPVs. This sets the course for further profitable growth at the upper end of the segment. In the next few years, the new vehicles will form the bridge not only to an elevated experience in an MPV, but also to an all-electric future. The key element for this future is the upcoming innovative “electric-only” vehicle architecture VAN.EA which will be introduced from 2026. In the future, all newly developed midsize and large vans will be based on it. The introduction of VAN.EA is also an important milestone on the way to a net carbon-neutral new vehicle fleet from 2039, which will achieve one of the most important transformation goals in the sustainable business strategy of Mercedes‑Benz AG.

New exterior design for an unmistakable appearance

The highlights of the new EQV and V-Class include a new look. The further-developed design gives them a more distinctive and unique visual position in their segment. The new front design is characterised by a striking radiator grille in different forms and a powerfully defined bumper. Depending on the equipment, the radiator grille is surrounded by an LED light band. The top-line V-Class EXCLUSIVE also has a prestigious, upright Mercedes star on the bonnet for the first time. The adaptive MULTIBEAM LED headlights with their elegant design, which are available either as standard or as an option depending on the equipment line, add another stylish touch to all models. At the rear, a new chrome trim strip with Mercedes-Benz lettering and newly designed LED lights ensures an unmistakable appearance^[2]. The contour of the rear lights is darkened, creating a more precise light signature. The upgraded appearance is rounded off by new alloy wheels with an aerodynamically optimised design in the formats 43.2, 45.7 and 48.3 centimetres (17, 18 and 19 inches) as well as four new paint colours.

New cockpit design with a high-tech look and additional comfort features

The interior design also impresses with an upgraded look, centred on digitisation. The cockpit is primarily characterised by a redesigned instrument panel with two 31.24-centimetres (12.3-inch) widescreen displays, stylish new air vents and a new-generation steering wheel with capacitive hands-off recognition. The modern high-tech design raises the style and perceived value of the MPVs to a new level.

The centre console, which has also been redesigned, supports wireless charging for smartphones if desired^[3]. Other new convenience features, some of which are optional, include the KEYLESS start function, heated steering wheel and dimmed rear cabin lighting for driving at night. With 64 colours, the ambient lighting offers an even more individual and homely atmosphere. For more convenient access to the rear, the V-Class and EQV now also have a sliding door on the left-hand side of the vehicle as standard.

MBUX infotainment system: intelligent, interactive, and individual

The new MPVs are equipped as standard with the current generation of the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system, offering an incomparable digital and interactive experience. With the enhanced MBUX, drivers of the V‑Class and EQV can benefit from additional functions such as ENERGIZING comfort control and navigation with augmented reality.

The intuitive display and operating concept provides personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort, and vehicle functions. It is operated via the central display, the touch control panels on the steering wheel, the touchpad on the centre console or via dialogue with the teachable voice assistant “Hey Mercedes”, which has also been optimised. Further advantages of the new MBUX generation include increased computing power, additional EV-specific functions and views for the EQV, and parking support features that are shown on the central display.

Customers can create their personal profile directly in their vehicle and synchronise it with the existing profile data in their Mercedes me account^[4],[5]. Up to seven different profiles can be stored per vehicle – each with individual information such as the last navigation destination or favourite radio station. By scanning a QR code with the Mercedes me app, the vehicle is automatically connected to the Mercedes me account.

Diverse digital extras from Mercedes-Benz

A large number of digital extras are available with the MBUX infotainment system. They make the EQV and V-Class even more intelligent – and everyday life even easier and more efficient. Additional functions can be used before and after the journey, or even while on the road. These include free services such as maintenance, accident and breakdown management, as well as remote services including locking and unlocking the doors, and opening and closing the windows via the Mercedes me app. Other helpful services include navigation with Live Traffic Information, Car-to-X communication and extended MBUX functions with the “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant. If desired, it can, for example, search online for nearby restaurants or hotels. In addition, customers can use the satellite view for the first time. They also now have the option of sharing their location or estimated arrival time with their contacts thanks to Social Navigation.

The Mercedes me Charge^[6] digital service is also available for the EQV. It offers customers access to one of the largest public charging networks in Europe with over 620,000 charging points – including the European fast-charging network IONITY. Mercedes me Charge enables charging with electricity from renewable sources at all stations^[7]. As the fully electric MPV is equipped with Plug & Charge, drivers can charge and pay particularly quickly and conveniently at compatible charging stations. Manual authentication is not necessary because the charging station communicates directly with the vehicle via the charging cable.

Thanks to MBUX, the EQV is also integrated into the electric mobility ecosystem of intelligent navigation with active range management and cloud-based services and apps. It ensures relaxed driving with transparency and the greatest possible planning security. All EV-specific displays and settings can be operated via the high-resolution central display in the MBUX. Examples include individual settings for cabin pre-conditioning and vehicle charging as well as navigation with Electric Intelligence and Mercedes me Charge functions.

Driving assistance systems: Even better support in all situations

Safety and assistance systems^[8] with enhanced and additional functions further elevate the overall appeal. For example, Active Brake Assist now includes the cross-traffic function. It can warn the driver of orthogonal crossing or oncoming vehicles and dangerous overtaking manoeuvres, as well as intervene to brake in an emergency and assist when turning.

The standard equipment of the EQV and V‑Class is extensive: ATTENTION ASSIST, Headlamp Assist including rain sensor, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function, Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Intelligent Speed Assist and Parking Package.

The adaptive MULTIBEAM LED headlights with Highbeam Assist PLUS are available for the first time. Featuring 84 individually controllable LEDs, they enable extremely fast and precise adjustment of the headlights to the current traffic situation. Highbeam Assist PLUS continuously illuminates the road ahead without dazzling other road users.

Further systems are included in the new driving assistance package. It contains the Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC with route-based speed adjustment and extended automatic restarting in traffic jams, Active Steering Assist and Active Speed Limit Assist. The new parking package with 360-degree camera is available for convenient and quick parking. It provides a 360-degree visualisation of camera-assisted parking using 3D images. The parking package includes Active Parking Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Pedestrian Emergency Braking and Drive-Away Assist. It also includes a trailer manoeuvring assistant in combination with a trailer hitch and automatic transmission.

Broad drive portfolio

Customers of the fully electric EQV model can choose between two battery sizes (90 and 60 kWh), with a peak output of 150 kW (204 hp) and a continuous output of 70 kW (95 hp) (WLTP: combined power consumption: 29.43-27.04 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km)^[9]. The electric WLTP range of the EQV is up to 277-365 kilometres^{9, [10]} – also thanks to efficient recuperation and optimised thermal management; the latter further increases real-world efficiency and range. The fully electric MPV supports both alternating current charging (AC) at home or at public charging stations with up to 11 kW, as well as direct current charging (DC) at fast charging stations with up to 110 kW as standard^[11]. At a fast charging station, the charging time is around 40 minutes from 10-80 percent SoC (State of Charge)^[12] .

For the V-Class, the proven and efficient diesel engine OM654 is available in three performance levels: 120 kW (163 hp), 140 kW (190 hp), 174 kW (237 hp) (WLTP: combined fuel consumption: 8.7‑6.9 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 229‑182 ^g/km)[13]. In addition, a new petrol engine, the M254, will be available over the course of the year (2024) as a mild hybrid with 170 KW (231 hp) (provisional values WLTP: combined fuel consumption: 11.3–8.9 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 257-204 g/km)^[14] – new for Europe and particularly relevant in many Asian markets where the V-Class has established itself, especially China.

The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission and a selection of different chassis and driving programmes ensure equally agile and comfortable driving characteristics in all models. The combustion engine variants are rear-wheel drive; the diesel models also have optional all-wheel drive. The electric models are front-wheel drive. Further technical data and values are available in the “Technical data” chapter.

[1] Recommended retail price in Germany including 19% VAT.

[2] In combination with the separately opening rear window.

[3] The “wireless charging” function requires the smartphone used to have the corresponding functionality (Qi standard 1.2).

[4] A personal Mercedes me ID and consent to the terms of use for the Mercedes me connect services are required to use the Mercedes me connect services. In addition, the respective vehicle must be linked to the user account. After the initial term has expired, the services can be extended for a fee, provided that they are then still offered for the vehicle in question. The services can be activated for the first time within one year of initial registration or commissioning by the customer, whichever comes first.

[5] Only available in markets where Mercedes me has been introduced for Mercedes-Benz Vans models.

[6] To be able to use the Mercedes me connect service Mercedes me Charge, a separate customer charging contract with a selected third-party provider is required.

[7] Green Charging uses guarantees of origin to ensure that an equivalent amount of electricity from renewable energy sources is fed into the grid for the charging processes.

[8] The driver assistance and safety systems from Mercedes-Benz are aids and do not release the driver from his or her responsibility.

[9] Power consumption and range were determined on the basis of Commission Regulation (EU) No. 2017/1151.

[10] The actual range also depends on the individual driving style, road and traffic conditions, outside temperature, use of air conditioning/heating, etc. and may vary.

[11] Maximum charging power at DC charging station with supply voltage 400 V, current 300 A; the maximum charging power depends on various factors, such as the ambient and battery temperature and the state of charge of the battery at the start of charging.

[12] Minimum charging time of 10 to 80% under optimum conditions at DC charging station with supply voltage 400 V, current 300 A; the charging time may vary depending on various factors, e.g. ambient and battery temperature and the use of additional auxiliary consumers, e.g. heating.

[13] The specified values are the determined WLTP CO₂ values in accordance with Art. 2 No. 3 Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1153. The fuel consumption values were calculated on the basis of these values.

[14] Fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions are provisional and were determined internally in accordance with the “WLTP test procedure” certification method. To date, neither confirmed values from an officially recognised testing organisation nor an EC type approval nor a certificate of conformity with official values are available. Deviations between the values quoted and the official values are possible.

+++ Eagles for Education: €1,000 per eagle supports UNICEF for children in crisis situations +++ 33 markets represented at the highlight of the biggest international tournament series for amateur golfers +++ ‘Once-in-a-lifetime’ experience at Fancourt Resort +++ Gary Player visits as guest of honour +++

Munich/George. Located on the wonderful Garden Route in South Africa, roughly halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, is Fancourt Golf Resort – venue this week for the 33^rd BMW Golf Cup World Final. In keeping with the motto for the largest international tournament series for amateur golfers – ‘once in a lifetime’ – Fancourt provides the perfect conditions for a unique sporting and social experience. Golfers have qualified for the World Final through roughly 1,000 tournaments around the world. Together with their guests, they will now enjoy breathtaking golf courses, an exclusive resort, a tournament held in professional conditions, and a thrilling programme away from the golf course.

Through their sporting efforts, the world finalists will also do their bit for a good cause, as BMW Group is supporting UNICEF* in its work in crisis regions with €1,000 for each net eagle carded over the course of the tournament.

BMW Group’s educational involvement on the golf scene comes under the tagline ‘Eagles for Education’ and was launched last year at the company’s headquarters in Munich during the BMW International Open on the DP World Tour. South Africa is also a country with which the BMW Group has been closely associated on the golf scene and beyond for more than 50 years.

The premium automobile manufacturer opened its first plant outside of Germany in Rosslyn, near Johannesburg, from which 1.6 million cars have since been delivered to more than 40 countries. Right from the word go, BMW Group has also been committed to work in the community in South Africa, focussing on the subject of STEM education (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

For this reason, South Africa was last year selected as the starting point for a long-term partnership between BMW Group and UNICEF*. This comes under the slogan ‘BRIDGE. Educating young people for tomorrow, today’ and also focusses on educational projects in STEM. Over the course of 2024, the collaboration will be expanded to Brazil, India, Mexico and Thailand – all of which have programme needs and have BMW Group presence. The partnership will contribute to UNICEF’s global aim to reach 10 million children and young people each year through education.

BMW Group also has the opportunity to raise funds to support UNICEF’s work in emergencies and protracted crises. The United Nation’s International Children’s Fund uses these resources to support children to develop skills to cope with trauma and to provide them with a safe environment in which to continue their learning.

Over the course of nine rounds of golf, the competitors can raise money by taking fantastic golf shots and hitting as many net eagles as possible. The World Final is played across three rounds in three categories: Men’s A (up to HCP 12), Men’s B (HCP 13-28) and Ladies (HCP up to 28). As well as in these individual categories, a title is also up for grabs in a national team competition.

In keeping with tradition, the World Final kicks off on Monday evening with a welcome evening and the parading of flags from all the nationalities present. The event draws to a worthy close on Friday evening with the Gala Dinner and a very special guest of honour. South African golf legend Gary Player, who has no fewer than 18 major titles to his name, including nine on the Seniors tour, will present the trophies after first entertaining the BMW guests with his famous charisma and legendary fitness during a unique golf clinic. The 88-year-old is the perfect guest of honour for the BMW Golf Cup World Final – not only due to his status as one of the greatest golfers of all time, but also because he designed the three spectacular golf courses at Fancourt.

*UNICEF does not endorse any company, brand, product or service.

With features like Virtual Try-On and Inspire, Amazon’s mobile app makes your shopping experience interactive and fun.Even if you’ve been a longtime Amazon customer, you may not be aware of all the features available to level up your shopping experience. The app is loaded with fun and useful tools that can help you discover new products and give you confidence in your purchases.

Need some inspiration for a new home project? Check out the Inspire tab for content ideas from your favorite creators. Not sure if a new piece of furniture will fit in your living room? The View in Your Room feature can help you measure the right size with augmented reality.

Here are 7 features of the Amazon Shopping app you may not know about.

• 1. Inspire
• 
• Looking to discover new products and ideas? Amazon’s Inspire tab lets you explore shoppable content created by other customers and influencers without ever leaving the app. You can also upload your own photos and videos featuring your favorite products directly from your phone to share with the community.
• 2.Find on Amazon
• 
• If you’ve ever fallen for an item while browsing online and wondered where to get one for yourself, the Find on Amazon feature has your back. Whether you’re scrolling the web or social media, just hit the Share button and select Find products on Amazon to be directed to a page inside the app filled with similar products. It’s that simple—you don’t even need the item’s name.
• 3.View in Your RoomTrying to picture how a new piece of furniture or home decor will fit in your space is never easy, but you don’t have to with Amazon’s View in Your Room feature. Using augmented reality, you can see how a sofa or TV will look, and more importantly, make sure there’s enough room. A recent update lets you arrange items like a lamp or coffee maker on tabletop surfaces too.
• 4.Consult-a-FriendAnytime you’re in need of a second opinion on a new purchase, the Consult-a-Friend feature lets you seek feedback in a fun way. By sharing a Consult-a-Friend link with your friends, they’ll be able to view the product, and add comments or react with a playful or disapproving emoji. All their feedback is conveniently located in the Amazon Shopping app—making it easy to see everyone’s responses in one place.
• 5.Skincare Quiz
• 
• Even the most knowledgeable skincare fans need help determining what type of cleanser or moisturizer might be best for them with so many great options to choose from in our stores. Amazon’s Skincare Quiz gives you a starting place by recommending products just for you. To get your personalized results, just open the in-app quiz and answer a few simple questions about your skin type.
• 6.Virtual Try-OnThere’s nothing quite like seeing exactly how a new purchase will look on you to make you feel confident in your purchase. Amazon’s Virtual Try-On feature brings the in-store experience to your mobile device by using augmented reality to help you visualize a new pair of sneakers or sunglasses yourself, as well as lip colors and eyeshadow in real time, wherever you are. The feature is available on thousands of items from hundreds of brands including adidas, New Balance, Ray-Ban, bareMinerals, L’Oreal, and more. Plus, with just one tap, you can seamlessly swap between colors and compare how items look on you.
• 7.View in 3D
• When shopping for products online, sometimes it’s challenging to find a picture that shows you exactly what you’d like to see. Amazon’s View in 3D shopping feature, available on millions of products worldwide, provides an in-hand like experience to help you inspect a product at your leisure and determine whether it is right for you. Using View in 3D, you are able to see a 3D model of the product and can rotate, pinch, and zoom to see it from all angles, in great detail.

• haifin’s consortium includes 13 banks and two fintech lenders
• Processed over AED 200 billion in transaction value
• haifin will now widen the scope of its success to regions across GCC, MENA and APAC

UAE Trade Connect (UTC), an e& enterprise company and the first commercialised blockchain platform transforming trade finance in the UAE, unveiled its new brand identity, “haifin”, as part of its commitment to extend its innovative solutions beyond the UAE, aiming for a significant presence in APAC, MENA, and GCC regions.

The new brand name, “haifin”, reflects the platform’s evolution and carries an ambitious roadmap to expand globally with its fraud-detection solution and further use cases to resolve current market challenges. The rebranding is symbolic of its vision as a leading fintech to connect and protect financial institutions for a more resilient ecosystem.

Salvador Anglada, CEO of e& enterprise, said: “This strategic rebranding reflects e& enterprise’s dedication to nurturing scalable cloud-based solutions that drive substantial market impact by supporting and advancing the global and regional fintech space, paving the way for more inclusive, efficient, and secure financial services.

Zul Javaid, CEO of haifin, said: “This rebranding reflects haifin’s mission to serve as the connective tissue in the financial industry. Incorporating AI, FIs and FinTech into its very name, haifin is set to replicate its UAE success in other countries within our region and beyond. The new branding reflects our aspirations to expand our cloud-native and blockchain-based Intellectual Property (IP) to design tailored solutions to support financial institutions into new territories.”

haifin’s solution can manage various types of trade-related documents, which are inspected, validated, and tested for authenticity in real time. Its proprietary technology ensures trust, transparency, and privacy between multiple organisations with a stack of leading-edge technologies deployed locally on e& enterprise’s E1Cloud platform. The robust system validates trade finance transactions, identifies duplication, and combats potential fraud in real time. These capabilities empower banks to make informed lending decisions, increase lending confidence and safeguard funds.

The haifin network has grown from seven banks in 2021 to 15 lending institutions comprising 13 major UAE banks and two fintechs, DP World Financial Services and Beehive. Banking members include Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), Al Masraf, Commercial Bank International, Commercial Bank of Dubai, Dubai Islamic Bank, Emirates NBD PJSC, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), Invest Bank, Mashreq Corporate & Investment Banking Group, National Bank of Fujairah, RAKBANK, and United Arab Bank, with several more in advanced discussions to join the consortium.

Since its commercial launch in 2021, the platform has inspected transactions worth more than AED 200 billion and identified potential frauds worth several millions of dirhams. The system handles over 4 million data points monthly, and its machine learning capability increases as the dataset grows each month.