By Thea Rowe, Associate Director, Middle East & Cross Border Retail at Savills Middle East

As luxury brands become increasingly selective in their global expansion strategies, the Middle East is strengthening its position as a key destination for premium retail investment, supported by rising wealth levels, significant investment in luxury hospitality and lifestyle-led developments, and the region’s longer-term appeal as a global destination, according to Savills Global Luxury Retail Outlook 2026.

While global luxury retail expansion has entered a more measured phase, this reflects a strategic shift rather than a slowdown in demand. In 2025, total new store openings globally fell to their lowest level since 2020, as brands prioritised high-quality locations that align with their long-term positioning.
Across the Middle East, luxury retail is increasingly being shaped by a broader ecosystem that combines retail, hospitality, branded residences, dining and entertainment. This trend is particularly evident in destinations such as Dubai and Riyadh, where major investments in luxury hotels, waterfront developments and mixed-use districts continue to appeal to both international visitors and affluent residents.
The report highlights the growing influence of luxury hospitality in shaping future retail demand, with destination cities benefiting from significant luxury hotel development pipelines. This reflects a broader shift in consumer behaviour, where luxury spending is increasingly linked to experiential offerings during travel rather than traditional shopping trips alone. Ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region are impacting air travel routes and costs, which will temper international visitor volumes in the near term. However, the medium to long-term fundamentals for the region remain compelling, underpinned by strong domestic wealth and continued investment in luxury infrastructure.

Thea Rowe, Associate Director, Middle East & Cross Border Retail at Savills Middle East,
said, The luxury retail sector is becoming increasingly focused on quality over quantity. Brands
are prioritising destinations that offer access to affluent consumers, strong tourism performance
and a wider lifestyle proposition, rather than simply pursuing expansion for the sake of it.
Over the years, Middle Eastern cities such as Dubai and Riyadh have evolved into global
lifestyle destinations, where luxury retail is supported by world-class hospitality, branded
residences, cultural attractions and a growing presence of high-net-worth individuals. This
creates an environment where brands can engage consumers across multiple touchpoints and
build a stronger long-term presence.

The trend is also creating opportunities beyond established luxury retail corridors. As destination-led developments continue to emerge across the region, luxury brands are increasingly assessing locations based on the overall visitor experience, accessibility and surrounding amenities. Riyadh is a prime example, the city is forecast to see the largest percentage increase in luxury hotel room supply of any global market currently under construction, a pipeline that is expected to significantly strengthen its long-term luxury retail
credentials alongside Dubai.
Looking ahead, Savills expects luxury retail demand across the Middle East to remain resilient over the medium to long term, underpinned by strong domestic wealth, government investment initiatives and the region;s appeal as a destination for international business and high-net-worth individuals.

The future of luxury retail is closely linked to the destinations consumers choose to live, stay
and spend time in, added Rowe. The most successful locations will be those that combine
retail with hospitality, culture and lifestyle, creating environments that encourage longer stays
and deeper consumer engagement.

Here is a link to the full report: Global Luxury Retail 2026

By Nagham Hassan, Market Analyst at eToro

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – June 24, 2026: Just two weeks after one of the most anticipated public listings in market history, SpaceX remains at the center of investor attention as the market continues to assess its valuation and long-term prospects.
The company debuted on June 12 at $135 per share, with trading opening around $150. Investor enthusiasm quickly pushed the stock higher, with shares reaching approximately $226 within days and briefly making SpaceX the fourth most valuable publicly traded company in the world, ahead of both Amazon and Microsoft.
However, the rally proved short-lived. Over the following sessions, the stock experienced a sharp pullback, shedding more than $600 billion in market value and retreating toward its IPO price. On Tuesday, shares briefly traded below the $150 debut level before recovering to close marginally higher.
As of today, the stock is trading around $157 per share, remaining above the IPO price but significantly below its recent highs.
Several factors have contributed to the volatility. A key consideration is the limited share float. Only around 4.2% of total shares were made available during the IPO, amplifying price movements and increasing sensitivity to shifts in investor sentiment.
Markets are also beginning to price in upcoming lock-up expirations. A 20% insider share unlock linked to the company’s August earnings release is expected to increase the number of shares available for trading, with additional unlocks anticipated later in August and September.
Investor focus has also turned to SpaceX’s recent debt issuance. As shares came under pressure, the company launched its first bond offering, initially targeting approximately $20 billion in senior unsecured notes before increasing the size of the deal to $25 billion following nearly $90 billion in investor demand. Proceeds are expected to be used to refinance a bridge loan associated with the company’s merger with xAI and support future AI-related investments.
While the strong demand for the bond offering highlights continued investor confidence in the company’s long-term growth story, the timing of the fundraising effort so soon after a record-setting IPO raised questions among some market participants.
Commenting on the stock;s recent performance, Nagham Hassan, Market Analyst at eToro, said: “The extreme volatility we have seen since SpaceX;s market debut reflects the challenge investors face when valuing a company of this scale and ambition. A limited public float, expectations around insider share unlocks, and the company's move into the debt markets have all contributed to significant price swings.
While the pullback may appear dramatic, the stock remains above its IPO price, suggesting investors
continue to see long-term potential despite the near-term uncertainty.”
With the company’s first earnings report expected in August and several significant lock-up expirations
approaching, the coming months are likely to play a key role in shaping investor sentiment and establishing a clearer picture of the company’s public market valuation.

By Nagham Hassan, Market Analyst at eToro

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – June 23, 2026: According to Nagham Hassan, Market Analyst at eToro, the misconception that women sit on the sidelines of financial decision-making is fast becoming outdated. In the UAE, recent Ministry of HumanResources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) data shows that women hold around 1.039 million jobs in the UAE private sector, including more than 72,000 managerial and leadership roles. As more women earn more money, more are taking control of their finances and shaping the economy.

eToro’s latest UAE Retail Investor Beat survey offers a current view of how women are investing their  money. The findings challenge the idea that women investors are disengaged or passive. Instead, women in the UAE are taking an active role in building their financial futures. Money is a long-term business for women Financial independence is the primary goal for women investors in the UAE, cited by 60% of respondents. This is followed by investing to supplement income (40%) and provide long-term security (39%). Notably, compared to men, women are more likely to invest for long-term security (31% for men) and to generate capital for a future payment (32% for women, 23% for men), demonstrating their forward-looking approach. The survey also found that 71% of women investors in the UAE have been investing for more than three years. Women are also more likely to hold an investment for at least some years (47%) compared to men (43%).

Savings accounts are the most widely held financial products among women investors at 84%, alongside investments such as shares, bonds and funds at 79%, which may point to a preference for balancing capital preservation with market exposure. Interestingly, women are more likely to have a pension (16%) than men (14%), once again demonstrating their long-term approach to finances.

Where women allocate their capital

Within their investment portfolios, cash is king, currently stored by 54% of women investors, and commodities follow closely with almost half (49%) currently invested in this asset class. Among those invested in commodities, gold is currently the most prevalent holding (87%) with 54% of gold investors viewing it as a long-term store of value, and 53% expecting that prices will rise. Silver is the second-most popular commodity investment at 38%, followed by energy commodities like oil (31%) and natural gas (22%). Domestic equities are held by 47%, while alternative investments like real estate accounts for 46%.
On sectors, financial services take the lead at 51% of women currently invested, followed by real estate (42%) and technology (35%). For their future investments, however, female investors are most interested in renewables (43%), communications (41%), and discretionary consumer goods (39%), indicating a desire to continue diversifying their portfolios.

The insight that emerges is that women investors are protecting capital through cash and real estate, while still putting money to work in future-facing sectors such as technology and renewables, as well as taking advantage of recent market opportunities in commodities.

Navigating geopolitical uncertainty

Women in the UAE are attuned to current affairs, strategically positioning their portfolios around recent developments in the region. With 77% of women believing that geopolitical tensions will have an impact on their investment portfolio, nearly one-third (29%) of survey respondents have already adjusted their portfolios in response to tensions in the Middle East, and almost half (48%) plan to do so.

Among those who have adjusted or plan to, most are investing in precious metals (52%) and energy commodities like oil (36%). Just under one-third each are also increasing exposure to global equities outside of affected regions (31%) and are opting to hold more cash or bonds (30%).
The fact that many have not retreated from the market is a sign that this is not a total loss of confidence. Indeed, many are still very confident in the country’s trajectory in particular: 7 in 10 expect the UAE stock market to rise over the next 12 months and 86% are confident in the UAE’s economy right now, reflecting a degree of optimism.

Altogether, women are actively engaged with their financial futures

One thing that stood out to me in the survey was that, while both men and women prioritise trusted parties such as professional financial advisors and online investment platforms for financial advice, women are far more likely to talk to their family, friends or colleagues (71% vs 59% of men) as well. Contrary to stereotypes, money is not a taboo or unapproachable theme of conversation for women. The survey finds that women are hands-on with their investments. They are adjusting to market conditions as they evolve and staying diversified. Women investors in the UAE are looking ahead with purpose. The story is not that women are catching up. It is that the old assumptions have not kept pace with how women in the UAE are already growing their wealth in 2026.

Spain vs Saudi Arabia FIFA World Cup 2026: Yamal, Oyarzabal Bring Dominating Lead For Spain, ESP 3-0 KSA. 21.6.2926.
​
By Josh Gilbert, Lead Analyst at eToro

Every four years the World Cup turns into the biggest commercial moment in sport, and for Nike, Adidas and Puma it is showtime. Shirts fly off the shelves, retro kits find a new generation, and the ad campaigns live long in the memory of football fans.
Start with the brand on the winning team;s shirt. Since 1998, only once has the World Cup winner;s kit maker also been the best-performing stock during the World Cup year. That was Puma back in 2006 when Italy beat France to lift the trophy. Every other tournament, the logo on the winner;s shirt was outdone by a rival. Winning the World Cup and winning the market are rarely the same thing.
The biggest share price moves have lined up with company turnarounds, not the football calendar. Puma’s best run came in 2002 and 2003, rising 93% and then 114%, but that was driven by Jochen Zeitz’s restructuring of the business. Adidas surged 62% in 2015, helped by the revival of the Stan Smith, not by anything that happened on the pitch.
Across the seven World Cups since 1998, Nike has been the best performer of the trio, and the only one to deliver a positive compounded return every year there was a World Cup. But at roughly 32% over 7 tournaments (7 years) it is hardly a trophy-winning performance.
Which brings us to 2026. This time, the three giants will dress 37 of the 48 teams between them. Adidas
leads with 14, Nike has 12, and Puma has 11.
Nike has history on its side in World Cup years, and shareholders would love to see that repeat in 2026.
Shares are down 28% this year and sit 78% below their 2021 peak. Their latest earnings showed why the
stock has been under pressure. Revenue was flat, margins slipped due to US tariffs, and Greater China
struggled again. Digital revenue fell 9% as Nike deliberately pulled back on discounting to protect the
brand.
Puma is the surprise package, up 27% this year. The market has re-rated the turnaround story on the
back of a solid first quarter, and Anta Sports moving to take a controlling stake. The caveat is that Puma
is still loss-making on a trailing basis. The market is forward-looking, so investors are pricing in the
recovery ahead, but Puma still needs to deliver.
Adidas is the one in form. The stock is up around 5% on the year and rallied roughly 13% in May alone,
its strongest month in nearly three years. Management believes the tournament could add more than
€1 billion in revenue, and with 14 teams including Argentina and Spain, Adidas has more shirts to sell
than anyone. The fact that the tournament is being held in Nike’s core market also gives Adidas a real
opportunity to claw back ground in North America.
The numbers are solid, too. First-quarter revenue rose 14%, with apparel demand running hot, and
Adidas is also leaning hard on its higher-margin direct-to-consumer channels, its own stores and
website, where it shares no margin with wholesalers. And unlike normal quarters, where discounts are

often needed to clear stock, World Cup hype can help Adidas sell jerseys at full price. That means a
jersey boom in the second and third quarters could flow much more directly into profit.
According to Josh Gilbert, Lead Analyst at eToro,the bottom line is that the World Cup has not done
much to help these stocks over the years. Share prices still follow earnings, margins and management
execution. Nike needs support more than ever, but this year it looks like Adidas is the most likely to
thrive.

By Josh Gilbert, Lead Analyst, Middle East at eToro

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – June 16, 2026: Global markets responded positively after US President Donald Trump confirmed that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen and the US naval blockade will be lifted, bringing relief to investors following months of heightened geopolitical uncertainty. Oil prices moved lower following the announcement, with Brent crude falling more than 3% toward USD 84 per barrel and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) trading near USD 81. Equity futures also advanced as investors welcomed the prospect of reduced disruptions to global energy supplies.

The conflict has been a dominant driver of market movements since February, with concerns over shipping routes and energy security contributing to volatility across asset classes. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz removes one of the most significant geopolitical risks facing energy markets and is expected to reduce the risk premium embedded in oil prices.
Oil had already been trending lower in recent weeks as expectations of a diplomatic breakthrough increased. Today's announcement has accelerated that decline, improving the outlook for inflation by lowering energy costs for households and businesses worldwide. The development is also expected to provide support for equities and broader risk assets.

Josh Gilbert, Lead Analyst, Middle East at eToro, said: “Markets have been waiting for this
news for months, and the relief is already showing across asset classes. The confirmation
that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen and the US naval blockade will be lifted removes one
of the biggest geopolitical risks hanging over global markets, which is why we are seeing oil
prices fall and risk assets move higher.
“The reopening of this critical shipping route takes a significant risk premium out of oil prices at a time when investors have been closely watching energy markets for signs of disruption. Lower energy costs can help ease inflationary pressures globally, which is supportive for both consumers and businesses and provides a positive backdrop for equities.
“That said, investors should be careful not to get carried away by today;s market reaction. The agreement is not due to be formally signed until June 19, and recent months have shown how quickly geopolitical developments can change. While the outlook has improved considerably, there is still a difference between optimism and certainty. For global investors, a sustained decline in oil prices would be a welcome development, particularly with a busy week of central bank decisions ahead. A resolution to the conflict
would remove a major tail risk that has weighed on global growth expectations throughout the year. However, markets are likely to remain sensitive to further developments until the agreement is formally signed and implemented.”

Despite the positive market reaction, investors are likely to remain cautious until a formal agreement is signed on June 19. While the announcement represents a significant step toward de-escalation, details of the deal remain limited and recent months have demonstrated how quickly developments in the region can change. The broader outlook for global markets remains constructive. A sustained decline in oil prices could ease pressure on central banks ahead of a key week of monetary policy decisions and help improve global growth expectations. A lasting resolution in the Middle East would remove a major source of uncertainty that has weighed on economic forecasts throughout the year.
However, market participants are expected to remain focused on the finalisation of the agreement before fully pricing in a long-term improvement in geopolitical conditions. While optimism has returned to markets, investors are likely to seek confirmation through the successful signing and implementation of the deal before confidence fully stabilises.

Apple recorded 50% Gain Over the Past Year Has Not Put AI Concerns to Rest

Markets had been longing for Apple’s AI story to take shape, and although that story started at its WWDC event, it wasn’t quite the chapter that investors were hoping for. Apple showed it has a clearer AI strategy, but it did not completely silence concerns that it is still playing catch-up. Shares fell around 2% after the event, after a 50% rally in the last 12 months.
The centrepiece was Siri AI, a long-awaited overhaul designed to make Apple’s voice assistant more
conversational, more contextual and more useful across apps. Apple also rolled out broader AI tools across areas like the Photos app, writing assistance and visual intelligence, while its developer tools will let apps tap into Apple Intelligence and on-device models. It will also lean on Google’s Gemini technology under the hood, a partnership that helps Apple move more quickly in AI without having to build everything from scratch. That adds some external dependency, but Apple’s strength has always been hardware and turning complex technology into simple, useful products that fit seamlessly into its ecosystem.
But the problem is timing. The new Siri won't arrive until later this year, with initial limits around
language and availability in key markets. China and Europe won’t be getting Siri AI at launch, which is
significant given that they are two of Apple’s most important markets. That is disappointing for investors
hoping this would be the catalyst that powers the September iPhone 18 cycle.
According to Josh Gilbert, Lead Analyst, Middle East at eToro, Apple has laid out a more credible AI
vision, and with more than 450 million Apple Intelligence-capable iPhones already in users' hands, it
doesn't need to win the AI race outright, it just needs AI to feel useful and seamless. If it can do that
across the iPhone, Mac, Watch, Vision Pro and future devices, it has a huge opportunity to deepen
loyalty and drive upgrades.
The question now is execution, and the market is telling Apple it wants to see actual delivery rather than
more promises.

Dubai, UAE, 16th June 2026 - Al-Futtaim Contracting has been awarded the construction contract for 142 ultra-luxury villas at Eden Hills, the landmark residential development by H&H in Dubai, further strengthening its presence in the UAE’s high-value residential sector.
Scheduled for completion in 2028, the development comprises four bespoke 5-bedroom villa typologies, Vera, Mira, Maia, and Bella. Architecture is designed by Loci, with interiors curated by Studio M. Al-Futtaim Contracting has been appointed as the main contractor responsible for delivering these villas across the development.
The agreement was signed in the presence of Shahab Lutfi, Chairman of H&H, Miltos Bosinis, CEO of H&H, and Murali S, Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Contracting, marking another milestone in Al-Futtaim Contracting’s growing portfolio of premium residential and lifestyle developments across the UAE.
Located within one of Dubai’s most sought-after emerging residential destinations, Eden Hills has been designed as a nature-led community that blends contemporary architecture with landscaped surroundings, wellness-driven living, and expansive green spaces. The masterplan features exclusive five- and six-bedroom villas set across distinct neighbourhoods connected by a Central Wadi and pedestrian-friendly community environment, reflecting a growing demand for low-density, design-led living in Dubai.

Al-Futtaim Contracting Awarded Contract for Ultra-Luxury Villa Development at Eden Hills by H&H
Dubai, UAE, 16th June 2026 - Al-Futtaim Contracting has been awarded the construction contract for 142 ultra-luxury villas at Eden Hills, the landmark residential development by H&H in Dubai, further strengthening its presence in the UAE’s high-value residential sector.
Scheduled for completion in 2028, the development comprises four bespoke 5-bedroom villa typologies, Vera, Mira, Maia, and Bella. Architecture is designed by Loci, with interiors curated by Studio M. Al-Futtaim Contracting has been appointed as the main contractor responsible for delivering these villas across the development.
The agreement was signed in the presence of Shahab Lutfi, Chairman of H&H, Miltos Bosinis, CEO of H&H, and Murali S, Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Contracting, marking another milestone in Al-Futtaim Contracting’s growing portfolio of premium residential and lifestyle developments across the UAE.
Located within one of Dubai’s most sought-after emerging residential destinations, Eden Hills has been designed as a nature-led community that blends contemporary architecture with landscaped surroundings, wellness-driven living, and expansive green spaces. The masterplan features exclusive five- and six-bedroom villas set across distinct neighbourhoods connected by a Central Wadi and pedestrian-friendly community environment, reflecting a growing demand for low-density, design-led living in Dubai.
​
Commenting on the partnership, Murali S, Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Contracting, said: “Eden Hills represents a new benchmark for ultra-luxury residential living in Dubai, combining thoughtful design, nature-led planning, and exceptional quality standards. We are proud to partner with H&H on a project of this scale and significance, which reflects the continued evolution of Dubai’s premium real estate market. Through our expertise in delivering large-scale and high-quality developments, we look forward to bringing this vision to life while reinforcing our commitment to craftsmanship, reliability, and excellence in execution.”
Shahab Lutfi, Chairman of H&H added: “At H&H, we are committed to working with partners who share our vision for quality, innovation, and excellence in execution. The appointment of Al-Futtaim Contracting marks an important step forward in the delivery of Eden Hills, a community designed to redefine upscale living through thoughtful architecture, expansive green spaces, and a strong connection to nature. As we continue to shape one of Dubai’s most distinctive residential communities, this partnership with Al-Futtaim Contracting will support bringing this vision to life and create enduring value for generations.”
This appointment reflects Al-Futtaim Contracting’s continued growth within the premium residential sector, building on its strong track record in delivering large-scale, high-quality developments across the UAE. As a fully integrated, end-to-end specialist division of Al-Futtaim Real Estate, Al-Futtaim Contracting brings together an unmatched suite of solutions, products, and services spanning construction, engineering, technologies, and facilities management. Backed by over 50 years of expertise, the company continues to be a Partner of Possibilities, supporting the evolution of Dubai’s luxury real estate landscape through communities that prioritise craftsmanship, quality, sustainability, and long-term value.
This appointment reflects Al-Futtaim Contracting’s continued growth within the premium residential sector, building on its strong track record in delivering large-scale, high-quality developments across the UAE. As a fully integrated, end-to-end specialist division of Al-Futtaim Real Estate, Al-Futtaim Contracting brings together an unmatched suite of solutions, products, and services spanning construction, engineering, technologies, and facilities management. Backed by over 50 years of expertise, the company continues to be a Partner of Possibilities, supporting the evolution of Dubai’s luxury real estate landscape through communities that prioritise craftsmanship, quality, sustainability, and long-term value.

By Nermin A., Ed.
 
Paris, France - The Bvlgari Hotel Paris has been honoured with the prestigious "Palace" award, making it one of the most exclusive hotels in France. The award recognizes hotels that meet the highest standards in the areas of service, excellence, individuality and hospitality.
 
Located in the heart of Paris' Golden Triangle, the Bvlgari Hotel Paris combines Italian elegance with French sophistication. From the architecture designed by ACPV ARCHITECTS Antonio Citterio and Patricia Viel, to the culinary concept of Niko Romito, to the 1,300-square-metre Bvlgari Spa, every detail reflects the demand for excellence, craftsmanship and timeless elegance.
 The award is also a recognition of the commitment and exceptional performance of the Bvlgari Hotel Paris teams, whose passion and attention to detail contribute significantly to the unique identity of the establishment.

 Ashok Kumar is a seasoned C-suite executive and aviation industry specialist with over 30 years of experience

United Arab Emirates – 8 June 2026 RoyalJet, the Abu Dhabi-based global premium private jet operator, has announced the appointment of Ashok Kumar as Vice-President for Resources and Transformation.
Ashok Kumar is a seasoned C-suite executive and aviation industry specialist with
over 30 years of experience spanning financial leadership, corporate services, and
operational excellence. A member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India
and a Chartered Financial Analyst, he brings a rare combination of deep financial expertise and sector-specific knowledge that has made him a trusted leader across some of the region's most prominent aviation organizations.
Having previously served as Vice President of Finance and Corporate Services at RoyalJet, Ashok has spent nearly two decades with RoyalJet. During his tenure, he oversaw a portfolio generating approximately AED 1 billion in annual revenue and led a team of over 400 employees, driving robust financial management, cost
optimization, and enterprise-wide risk strategy.  My focus will be on digital transformation and fleet replacement, twostrategic priorities that will position RoyalJet for sustainable growth.” — Ashok Kumar, Vice-President, Resources and Transformation, RoyalJet