Wednesday, February 25, 2026
The premier choice for executive insight. •
Big vision. Real influence. •
Leadership, in real time. •
Turning milestones into headlines. •
Executive insight—first, finest, and factual. •

Air Arabia Reports Record AED 1.6 Billion Profit Before Tax in 2024

February 13, 2025: Air Arabia (PJSC), the first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC) operator in the Middle East and North Africa, today announced its financial and operational results for the full year ending December 31, 2024. The airline posted a record pre-tax net profit of AED 1.6 billion, reflecting a 4% increase compared to AED 1.5 billion in 2023. Total turnover for the year surpassed AED 6.63 billion, marking an 11% growth from AED 6 billion in 2023. In 2024, Air Arabia reinforced its commitment to expansion and operational excellence by growing its network across six hubs and adding 31 new routes. This strategic expansion led to a 13% increase in operational capacity and a 12% rise in total passengers carried, reaching 18.8 million across the group. The airline also reported a 2% increase in average seat load factor, reaching 82%, further underscoring the sustained strong demand for Air Arabia’s value-driven, low-cost services. Full Year 2024 Performance: AED FY 2024 FY 2023 % Revenue AED 6.63 billion AED 6 billion 11% Passenger Numbers*all hubs* 18.8 million 16.7 million 12% Seat Load Factor 82% 80% 2% Net Profit Before Tax AED 1.6 billion AED 1.54 billion 4% Net Profit After Tax  AED 1.46 billion – – Air Arabia’s Board of Directors has proposed a dividend distribution of 25% of share capital, equivalent to 25 fils per share. This proposal was made during a recent board meeting and is subject to approval by Air Arabia’s shareholders at the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM). Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohamed Al Thani, Chairman of Air Arabia, said: “2024 has been a record-breaking year for Air Arabia Group, marked by significant expansion and an increased footprint across all key markets. Building on our strong foundation, we have continued to achieve remarkable financial and operational growth, reaffirming the strength of our business model, the resilience of our management team, and the effectiveness of our strategic vision.” He continued: “Despite the geopolitical tensions and economic challenges impacting the region, Air Arabia Group has successfully sustained its strong growth trajectory in 2024. This was driven by increased operating capacity, the launch of new routes, and continued network expansion from all our hubs. We take great pride in our ability to deliver a value-driven travel experience to a growing customer base, strengthening our presence across global markets while maintaining operational excellence.” In the fourth quarter ending December 31, 2024, Air Arabia reported a record net profit of AED 351 million, marking a 56% increase compared to AED 225 million in the same quarter last year. Total turnover for the fourth quarter of 2024 rose 7% to AED 1.65 billion, driven by an 11% increase in passenger numbers, as the airline carried over 4.7 million passengers across all hubs during the quarter. Meanwhile, the seat load factor increased by 2% reaching a strong 83%, reflecting sustained demand for Air Arabia’s services. Fourth Quarter 2024 Performance: AED Q4 2024 Q4 2023 % Revenue AED 1.65 billion AED 1.54 billion 7% Passenger Numbers*all hubs* 4.7 million 4.2 million 11% Seat Load Factor 83% 81% 2% Net Profit AED 351 million AED 225 million 56% Al Thani continued: ” “The fourth quarter of the year was remarkable for Air Arabia, as we successfully expanded our network while maintaining solid margins. This strategic growth, coupled with rigid cost control and strong operational efficiency, resulted in an outstanding performance for the quarter”. Full Year 2024 Highlights: Fleet Network Liquidity ESG Recognition Outlook Al Thani concluded: “As the global aviation industry continues to navigate challenges, including geopolitical tensions, inflationary pressures, and supply chain disruptions, Air Arabia remains committed to growth and expansion. Our focus is on enhancing connectivity, increasing operational capacity, and providing our customers with the best options for affordable and value-driven air travel. We have full confidence in our unique business model, operational excellence, and customer-centric approach, which enable us to continuously expand our network and deliver a seamless travel experience to an ever-growing customer base.”

Gadget Guide: Ring 2 – The sleek smart ring that tracks your health in style

This is a health tracker designed for everyday comfort and sophistication. This innovative smart ring features advanced heart health monitoring with ECG capabilities, providing detailed insights into your heart’s performance. Whether you’re tracking your fitness or monitoring your well-being, it delivers accurate, real-time data to help you stay proactive. Thanks to its extended battery life, the Circular Ring 2 offers up to 8 days of uninterrupted use. When it’s time to recharge, the upgraded wireless charging dock ensures a seamless and quick power-up. Made for style and durability, the ring boasts an elegant titanium design with a jewellery-like aesthetic. It’s available in stunning finishes, including Gold, Silver, Black, and Rose Gold. It’s the perfect blend of form and function, adding a touch of luxury to your everyday look. Pair it with the enhanced Circular app, which features intuitive navigation and personalised AI-driven insights, to easily control your health journey. With its cutting-edge technology, premium build, and sophisticated design, the Circular Ring 2 is more than just a health tracker – it’s a statement piece for modern living.

Gadget Guide: XREAL One Pro: Sleek AR glasses that turn any space into your personal cinema

Transform your entertainment experience with the XReal One Pro, a groundbreaking innovation in AR smart glasses that redefines immersive viewing. Enjoy stunning Full-HD visuals with a 57° field of view, 700 nits of brightness, and vibrant colours, powered by XReal’s advanced X1 spatial computing chip. Integrated Bose sound complements the visuals, ensuring rich and immersive audio and taking your entertainment to the next level. Designed for comfort, the XReal One Pro weighs just 87g and features an adjustable interpupillary distance, allowing a personalised fit for prolonged use. These glasses are available in two sizes, catering to IPD ranges of 57-66mm and 66-75mm, making them suitable for a broad audience. Future-ready, the XReal One Pro supports modular upgrades, such as the upcoming XReal Eye – a 12MP camera module that adds AI-enhanced capabilities and photo-capturing features. Whether you’re streaming movies, playing games, or exploring AR applications, the XReal One Pro delivers a seamless and immersive experience. Its lightweight design, exceptional visuals, and premium audio combine to create a wearable home theatre that fits in the palm of your hand. Elevate your entertainment experience with the XReal One Pro.

Dubai Supreme Council of Energy launches 5th Emirates Energy Award 2023–2025 in Doha

Doha, Qatar – Dubai, United Arab Emirates, February 12, 2025: The Dubai Supreme Council of Energy announced today the launch of the 5th cycle of the Emirates Energy Award (2023–2025) in Qatar during a press conference held at The St. Regis Doha. The conference was attended by Mr. Hussein Al Naqbi, Head of the Economic, Political, and Media Section at the UAE Embassy in Qatar, along with representatives from the energy and environmental sectors, private and academic institutions, and various media outlets. Also participating in the conference were Mr. Taher Diab, Secretary-General of the Emirates Energy Award, and Mr. Ali Al Suwaidi, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications and Media, Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Vice Chairman of the Marketing and Events Committee of Emirates Energy Award (EEA). HE Ahmad Buti Al Muhairbi, Secretary General of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, and Vice Chairman of the Executive Committee of Emirates Energy Award (EEA), stated: “We are pleased to launch the 5th cycle of the Emirates Energy Award (2023–2025) under the theme ‘Empowering Carbon Neutrality’ in Qatar, a country that plays a pivotal role in supporting regional and global efforts to accelerate the transition to clean and renewable energy. This initiative aligns with the award’s objectives of fostering innovation and promoting the use of creative technologies to address climate change challenges and enhance sustainability.” His Excellency added: “The Emirates Energy Award has successfully attracted outstanding submissions from various countries, with Qatar contributing a significant share of innovative energy solutions. We look forward to receiving more valuable projects from Qatar in this new cycle, further supporting efforts to tackle climate change challenges and promote sustainable development.” During the conference, Mr. Ali Al Suwaidi highlighted the importance of the Emirates Energy Award in recognizing the efforts of both the public and private sectors in the fields of energy efficiency, sustainable energy projects, education, and scientific research, while also encouraging key contributors in this vital sector. Al Suwaidi concluded by expressing his gratitude and appreciation to all attendees, including officials, institutions, partners, and media representatives. He also commended Qatar’s pivotal role in supporting sustainability and renewable energy initiatives at the regional and international levels. For his part, Mr. Taher Diab provided a detailed overview of the Emirates Energy Award, its objectives, and its various categories, which have established it as a global platform in the energy sector. He explained that the award aims to highlight best practices in energy efficiency and innovation, promote the use of renewable energy, and drive positive economic and environmental impact. The Emirates Energy Award serves as a global platform for public and private institutions, as well as individuals, to showcase their achievements and initiatives in energy management and conservation, while highlighting their contributions to the use of clean and renewable energy sources. It also seeks to support development and innovation in the energy sector and raise awareness of the importance of environmental sustainability. The Emirates Energy Award has invited the public and private sectors, as well as the academic community and youth in Qatar, to participate in its 5th cycle. Applications can be submitted through the official website: https://emiratesenergyaward.com/ . Additionally, details about the award categories can be accessed via the following link: https://emiratesenergyaward.com/ar/about-eea/#award-categories-about .

Qatar International Food Festival 2025 kicks off with an unforgettable culinary showcase

Visit Qatar inaugurates the 14th edition of the Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) with a grand opening ceremony at Hotel Park today, kicking off a ten-day long celebration of gastronomy and entertainment. The festival will feature over 100 local vendors, 27 international restaurants and cafes, and plenty of entertainment shows. QIFF 2025 is set to be the largest and most exciting edition to date. The festival promises an unparalleled culinary experience, showcasing global and local flavours, while also reflecting Qatar’s vision to strengthen its position as a leading destination for cultural exchange and tourism. During his opening remarks, Eng. Abdulaziz Al-Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, said, emphasised QIFF’s significance in positioning Qatar as a premier global destination for gastronomy and hospitality. He said: “The Qatar International Food Festival has evolved into a global platform that celebrates culinary excellence while reflecting Qatar’s rich cultural diversity and commitment to innovation. Its continued success underscores the pivotal role of the hospitality and dining sectors in advancing Qatar’s tourism landscape, serving as a key driver in delivering world-class experiences to visitors and residents alike.” Among the highlights of this year’s festival is the experience of the epitome of culinary excellence at the Michelin Guide Village, where you can savour exclusive creations from some of the world’s finest Michelin-star chefs. QIFF Ring, which is a competition Arena, where visitors will witness chefs cook and compete on centre stage. In addition, a Cooking Studio will welcome renowned chefs from both Qatar and abroad, hosting interactive workshops and cooking classes. For those seeking a truly unique experience, Dinner in the Sky offers an exhilarating dining adventure suspended 50 meters above the ground, providing guests with stunning views of the entire festival and the Doha skyline. This year’s festival expansive location is divided into immersive districts, each offering unique dining experiences and interactive activities. The Flavours within Qatar section celebrates Qatar’s rich culinary landscape and showcases both traditional street food and fine dining, while the Latin Food District offers authentic dishes such as tacos, empanadas, and ceviche, providing a taste of Latin America. The International Flavours District brings together global street food and gourmet flavours, while the Healthy Corner focuses on plant-based and sustainable cuisine. The Coffee & Bakeries Corner serves as a haven for coffee and dessert enthusiasts, offering artisanal coffee and a wide range of sweet treats. The QIFF VIP Area provides an exclusive, luxurious dining experience with gourmet food, personalised service, and top-tier decor, offering a refined atmosphere for guests seeking a premium experience. Families are also invited to enjoy daily movie screenings, kids’ workshops within QIFF Juniors, and other engaging outdoor activities, ensuring entertainment for visitors of all ages. QIFF 2025 runs until February 22nd, offering visitors an unmissable chance to indulge in the world’s finest flavours, explore new culinary trends, and enjoy the dynamic atmosphere that has become synonymous with this signature event. Visitors attending QIFF are advised to park at the DECC parking facility and access Hotel Park via the designated tunnel. Alternatively, those using the DECC Metro Station can reach Hotel Park with a short walk. For more information and updates, visit https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/events-calendar/qatar-international-food-festival follow @qiff.qa on social media.