Tag: Dubai

  • Senco strikes gold with record Rs 1,700 Cr festive sales

    Senco strikes gold with record Rs 1,700 Cr festive sales

    MUMBAI: Talk about glittering results! Senco Gold & Diamonds has struck festive fortune, clocking record-breaking sales of over Rs 1,700 crore in October, the highest in its 85-year history. The sparkle came courtesy of Diwali and Dhanteras, as buyers flocked to stores undeterred by sky-high gold prices.

    The jewellery giant reported a 56 per cent year-on-year jump in sales, with gold value surging 60 per cent and diamonds glittering 32 per cent higher compared to last October. Even as gold touched a record Rs 132,294 per 10 grams on October 31, Senco managed to grow both in volume and value, with a 4 per cent uptick in gold volume, 5 per cent in diamonds, and 8 per cent in silver.

    New design launches, buoyant consumer sentiment, and irresistible festive offers kept cash registers ringing across Senco’s 185 stores in India and online platforms.

    “These record numbers reflect a very positive customer sentiment,” said Senco Gold & Diamonds managing director and CEO Suvankar Sen. “We are geared up to meet the strong demand through the upcoming wedding season and beyond. Our focus remains on new design innovation, operational efficiency, and enhanced returns for our stakeholders.”

    The company also expanded its footprint in October with new showrooms in Etawah, Bikaner, and Dehradun, while maintaining steady growth momentum with a 25 per cent year-on-year retail value increase across Q1, Q2, and October.

    With 185 showrooms in India, two in Dubai, and eight Sennes lifestyle stores, Senco’s festive sparkle shows no sign of dimming. Even as gold prices reach dizzying heights, it’s clear that for Indian shoppers, love for gold never loses its shine.

  • Amazon expands Anish’s empire across Middle East and Africa

    Amazon expands Anish’s empire across Middle East and Africa

    DUBAI: Amazon has promoted a veteran marketing executive to oversee both deal-making across the Middle East and North Africa and marketing operations in South Africa, as the American e-commerce giant doubles down on emerging markets.

    Anish  Rajan, who previously orchestrated Amazon India’s flagship sale events generating over $2 billion in revenue, has been handed the expanded role effective September 2025. His promotion adds south African marketing responsibilities to his existing mandate as head of deals and events across the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Egypt.

    The appointment reflects Amazon’s growing ambitions in regions where it sees significant untapped potential. Rajan’s west Asian operation already contributes 23 per cent of the region’s annual revenue, whilst launching Amazon-first innovations that have since been rolled out globally.

    His track record spans 15 years across e-commerce, consumer electronics and logistics. Before joining Amazon in 2020, he held senior marketing roles at Samsung Electronics and led marketing communications for fashion platform Jabong during its high-growth phase.

    At Amazon India, Anish spearheaded the deals programme that accounted for 39 per cent of store revenue, building scalable systems and customer experience improvements that were subsequently adopted across Amazon’s global marketplaces.

    His earlier career included stints at Micromax, where he led brand strategy and product launches, and DHL Express, where he managed global partnerships including Formula 1 and Manchester United, overseeing a $30 million retail portfolio.

    The dual-region role positions Anish at the centre of Amazon’s emerging markets strategy, where the company is competing fiercely with local players and other global platforms for market share.

  • Betting racket whacked for Rs 307 crore as ED strikes in Dubai

    Betting racket whacked for Rs 307 crore as ED strikes in Dubai

    NEW DELHI: India’s financial crimes enforcers have seized Dubai property and domestic bank deposits worth Rs 307 crore in a crackdown on an online betting operation centred around the Fairplay platform, according to a PTI report. 

    The Enforcement Directorate froze land, villas and flats in the Gulf emirate alongside Indian bank accounts under anti-money laundering laws, the agency said on Monday. The haul represents one of the largest asset seizures in India’s escalating war against illegal online gambling.

    The probe stems from a complaint filed by Viacom18 Media with Mumbai Police’s cyber wing, alleging the betting platform had inflicted revenue losses exceeding Rs 100 crore through violations of information technology and copyright laws.

    Investigators subsequently bundled together multiple cases against Fairplay and its associates for illegal online betting operations. The web of connected entities suggests a sophisticated money-laundering network spanning domestic and international jurisdictions.

    The seizures underscore how Indian authorities are pursuing betting operators’ offshore assets with increasing vigour. Dubai has emerged as a favoured destination for parking proceeds from India’s booming but largely illegal online gambling sector.

    The Fairplay case highlights the complex interplay between broadcasting rights violations and betting operations, with platforms allegedly using pirated content to drive traffic to gambling sites.
    India’s regulatory crackdown on online betting has intensified as authorities grapple with the sector’s explosive growth and its links to money laundering and tax evasion.

  • How Expats Can Get True Copy Attestation for UAE Visa Applications

    How Expats Can Get True Copy Attestation for UAE Visa Applications

    Applying for a UAE visa entails more than simply forms and documentation. True copy attestation is an important step that many expats tend to overlook. Without it, applications may be delayed or even rejected. This article describes what true copy attestation is, why it’s important for visa applications, and how to complete the process efficiently and accurately.

    What Is True Copy Attestation in Dubai?

    True copy attestation refers to an attestation method by which a skilled lawyer verifies that a photocopy of an original document is authentic and identical to the original. In Dubai, only licensed lawyers typically offer this service.

    Unlike other photocopies, a certified true copy attestation in Dubai carries legal weight and confirms that the original document has been verified against the true copy.

    Why Expats Need True Copy Attestation for Visa Applications

    Expats often need to present certified copies of documents to prove their identity, education, or proof of residence. As a result of this, UAE visa authorities commonly request attested copies of: 

    • Passports 

    • Address proof that can be obtained through utility bills or tenancy contracts 

    • Employment or experience letters 

    • Educational certificates  

    So what happens if you submit an uncertified copy? Your document approval could be delayed or rejected. With true copy attestation, expats demonstrate that their documents are genuine and officially verified.

    Certified True Copy Attestation in Dubai vs. Notarization 

    It is important to distinguish between attestation and notarization.  

    Certified true copy attestation in Dubai: A licensed lawyer certifies that a photocopy matches the original document.  
       
     Notarization: A notary public verifies but does not typically certify photocopies of passports or bills.  

    For UAE visa applications, immigration departments and free zones usually require certified true copies and not notarized documents.

    Step-by-Step Guide to True Copy Attestation in Dubai 

    1. Check Requirements

    The first step is to confirm with the visa authority or employer which documents need certified true copies.

    2. Prepare Photocopies

    Ensure all copies are clear, complete and free from distortions. Poor quality or blurred copies do not get approved.

    3. Bring Originals to a Lawyer

    Lawyers must inspect the original document before certifying the copy. Originals are essential for verification.

    4. Certification by Lawyer

    Following document inspection, the lawyer signs and stamps the copy, adding a statement that it is a true copy of the original, along with the date.

    5. Use in Visa Applications

    You can then submit the certified true copies instead of the originals to immigration or other authorities.

    6. Additional Legalization if Needed

    Documents issued overseas, such as marriage certificates or university degrees may require additional embassy legalization or Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) attestation, following the true copy certification.

    Why Use Professional True Copy Attestation Services in Dubai? 

    While expats can approach lawyers directly, many prefer professional services that simplify the whole process for convenience. These professional services connect applicants with licensed lawyers. Many of these service providers also handle scheduling and ensure documents meet the legal requirements. This is particularly helpful when several documents from different countries need to be attested for a single visa application.

    For expats, true copy attestation Dubai is not just a formality but a vital requirement in the visa process. It confirms the authenticity of essential documents and reassures authorities of their validity. By understanding the difference between notarization and certified true copy attestation, preparing documents properly and using professional services when needed, expats can ensure their visa applications proceed smoothly and without unnecessary delays.

  • TVS Motor turbocharges its global team with Peyman Kargar at the helm

    TVS Motor turbocharges its global team with Peyman Kargar at the helm

    MUMBAI: Bengaluru has just thrown another spice into the global business curry with TVS Motor Company’s latest executive shuffle. The appointment of Peyman Kargar as head of international business isn’t just another corporate chess move—it’s akin to placing a turbocharger in an already speeding vehicle. Settling in Dubai, Kargar is expected to race through the global markets with the grit of a seasoned rally driver.

    With a swagger that could rival any high-flyer’s, Kargar steps into his new role with over three decades of vrooming across the automotive sectors of Europe, Asia, and the middle east. “Peyman’s prolific global leadership experience and expertise will add significant value to the company,” declared TVS Motor Company director & CEO K.N. Radhakrishnan.

    Having previously chaired the luxury skids as Infiniti global chairman & president, and having steered Nissan’s Datsun across 80 countries, Kargar isn’t new to the fast lanes. His stint with Infiniti turned heads not just for sleek designs but for robust sales, catapulting the brand’s volume by 20 per cent and cruising towards a billion-dollar profit mark. Before his grand tour with Nissan and Renault, Kargar had already been mapping the terrains of 50 countries, steering a whopping 4 billion euros in turnover. It’s safe to say, when it comes to the global auto-route, Kargar knows every shortcut and speed bump.

    Stationed in Dubai, the crossroad of continents, Kargar’s gearbox is well-equipped with a Mechanical Engineering degree and an MBA focusing on finance, strategy, and leadership. This isn’t just about managing auto parts; it’s about driving a corporate philosophy that shifts gears towards expansive horizons. “We are confident that under his leadership, we will further strengthen our market position and continue to set benchmarks. We wish him the very best and welcome him to the TVSM family,” Radhakrishnan revved up.

    For now, Kargar’s hands are firmly on the wheel, and it looks like he’s got the road map to success.

  • Danube Properties hosts roadshow in Pune to built ties with Indian investors

    Danube Properties hosts roadshow in Pune to built ties with Indian investors

    Mumbai: Danube Properties, recently hosted an exclusive roadshow in Pune, Maharashtra, aimed at fostering stronger connections with Indian investors and expatriates. The event showcased the developer’s premium property portfolio in the UAE, underscoring its commitment to expanding its footprint in the Indian market.

    At the roadshow, Danube unveiled its latest campaign, “Danube Hai Na!!”, which highlights over 40 exclusive amenities across its projects. The campaign focuses on intelligently designed living spaces, with standout features like 24/7 Doctor-On-Call services, reinforcing the company’s dedication to convenience and holistic living. The slogan, “Whatever convenience you think of, it’s there in Danube’s projects,” reflects the developer’s aim to blend luxury with practical, resident-focused solutions.

    Danube Group, founder and chairman, Rizwan Sajan said, “India remains a key focus area for us, and the roadshow is designed to bring Dubai’s world-class real estate closer to Indian investors and expatriates,” he stated, further promoting Danube’s affordable yet luxurious offerings in Dubai’s thriving property market.

    The event also served as a platform to recognise Danube’s Channel Partners in India, offering attractive incentives for their sales achievements. It highlighted the growing interest among Indian investors in Dubai’s real estate, particularly in Danube’s projects, which are renowned for their strong launch-to-delivery ratio.

    With the UAE’s Golden Visa programme opening doors to long-term residency and property ownership, the event emphasised the potential of Dubai’s real estate as a lucrative investment opportunity. Danube’s properties offer an impressive return on investment of 6-10%, along with flexible payment plans, making them particularly appealing to Indian investors.

    Pune was strategically chosen for the roadshow due to its dynamic business environment, flourishing IT sector, and active investor community. The event forms part of Danube’s ongoing efforts to expand its presence in India and connect with investors seeking high-quality, affordable homes in Dubai.

  • Nick Nikolov launches  GLE – Global Light Entertainment LLC

    Nick Nikolov launches GLE – Global Light Entertainment LLC

    MUMBAI: Dubai-based media & entertainment executive Nick Nikolov has launched his own firm  GLE – Global Light Entertainment LLC, and announcement he mad recently on Linkedin. As its CEO, Nikolov  aims to forge strategic collaborations with telecom and TV operators, driving a new era of engaging and accessible TV entertainment.

    “My idea is to  steer GLE toward fostering innovative partnerships and redefining television entertainment globally,” he said. 

    Based in the United Arab Emirates, Nikolov brings decades of expertise in content strategy, business development, and media production. 

    Nikolov’s extensive career spans more than two decades, highlighted by pivotal roles such as CEO of Global Network TV Channels, and managing director of Sky Pal Network. His diverse portfolio includes leading content strategies for pay TV, IPTV, OTT, and VOD platforms, reflecting a profound understanding of the evolving media landscape.

    He also established and managed Mimyuni Media Entertainment Ltd., an influential media company where he served for nearly 16 years, delivering premium media solutions across international markets.

    Prior to getting into television, Nikolov worked for more than fifteen years in advertising and marketing in agencies and companies like Mondelez, L’Oreal, O&M, M&C Saatchi, in Russia, Europe and London. 

    A strong advocate for lifelong learning, Nikolov holds advanced degrees in business administration, NLP business communications, and film/TV production from prestigious institutions like London Business School, NLP University New York, and London Film Academy. His cinematic background, coupled with his business acumen, uniquely positions him to bridge creative and operational aspects in the entertainment sector
     

  • Shemaroo aims to set up metaverse and blockchain offshoot in Dubai

    Shemaroo aims to set up metaverse and blockchain offshoot in Dubai

    MUMBAI: Shemaroo Entertainment is spreading its wings. The emerging media and entertainment giant is planning to set up a 100 per cent offshoot in Dubai called ShemarooVerse Digital. 

    The company got a go-ahead  from its board for this proposal and informed the Bombay stock exchange about its intent over the weekend.

    Shemaroo said it is taking this step to innovate and stay ahead in the evolving digital entertainment landscape. Shemarooverse will focus on creating immersive experiences and leveraging block chain technology to redefine ownership and interaction in the entertainment ecosystem.  

    Dubai, according to the company is welcoming web3 ventures and it has a very friendly web3 regulatory environment, which is critical for token-based transactions  and block chain integration. Talent too is available aplenty aside from cutting edge tech to support the development of a globally competitive product.

    The company added that the objective is to position Shemaroo as a leader in the web3 and metaverse space, ensuring scalability, innovation, and long-term growth. It aligns with Shemaroo’s vision of creating transformative consumer experiences and strengthening its position in the next era of entertainment. 

  • Dubai-based Landmark Reach hires Vivek Mishra as head of audience

    Dubai-based Landmark Reach hires Vivek Mishra as head of audience

    MUMBAI: He spent a good five years at Broadcast Audience Research Council (Barc India) between 2017 and 2022 as vice-president digital products & business. Vivek Mishra  then moved on to Dubai to work with Aqilliz – a Saas platform – for a couple of years. At Aqilliz, he  led the development of innovative data solutions across multiple markets, building privacy-compliant audience targeting solutions and managing large-scale data implementations.

    And now Vivek has joined  Landmark Reach, Landmark Group’s retail media team as head of audience in Dubai  The Landmark group  has  over 2,000 retail stores across the Middle East, India and south east Asia.

    “Vivek will be instrumental in developing our audience strategy, leveraging our first-party data from millions of loyalty customers to create value for our brand partners across the Landmark group ecosystem and the open internet. Looking forward to the impact he’ll make in shaping the future of our retail media business across the trinity of channels,” said head of media retail Landmark group Sohail Nawaz in a post on Linkedin.

    Prior to Barc, Vivek had stints with Nielsen and Tata Consultancy Service in the US.

     

  • West Asia cinema market to get growth urge from Saudi Arabia

    West Asia cinema market to get growth urge from Saudi Arabia

    MUMBAI: For movie lovers in the middle east north Africa (Mena) region, this is great news. And for Indian movie producers and distributors it is probably even better news. Analysis by London-based research outfit Omdia has revealed that the Mena cinema market is poised to catapult to new heights with revenue growing from $900 million in 2024 to $1.5 billion by 2029. The main driver of this growth is going to be Saudi Arabia which will account for almost two-thirds of the region’s cinema revenue. 

    West Asia, according to Omdia, has emerged as the fastest cinema building market, adding 1,000 new screens, starting 2019 to reach 2.500 screens by end 2024. Saudi Arabia, which is on aggressive city and entertainment hub building spree is expected to lead the additions, reaching 803 screens by year end 2024. The UAE is expected to be next in the pecking order with 734 screens.

    To top that, OMDIA says that even though west Asia is focusing on local productions, expanding its theatre count, and spreading cinema culture there is still much work to be done to sustain interest in local films and broaden their appeal.

    Beyond cinema, the online video streaming market in Mena is also on a strong growth trajectory, projected to reach $2.7 billion by 2029. This reflects the region’s evolving entertainment landscape, where audiences are embracing both traditional cinema and digital streaming platforms, creating a diverse and dynamic entertainment ecosystem.

    Says Omdia senior  director of media & entertainment  Maria Rua Agute: “With films no longer made solely for cinema; streaming platforms play a major role in financing and offer audiences a great variety of films, including those that might not reach traditional cinemas due to cost or limited availability of screens. In a region with relatively few arthouse cinemas in the region, there is a growing need for more diverse venues and programming to reflect the evolving film culture and cater to different tastes and genres. Expanding the availability of diverse cinema will be key to meeting demand.

    “The growth of cinema in the Mena  region, particularly in Saudi Arabia, signals a major shift in both the regional entertainment landscape and global filmmaking. Investments in infrastructure, local film production, and streaming are helping diversify cinema offerings. As audiences embrace both traditional theater and digital platforms, the region’s film culture has immense potential to flourish and gain international recognition.”