Author: Neel Achary

The Potbelly Curates an Evening of Live Sarod and Dining in Delhi

KEZAD Group Attracts AED 147 Million in New Projects Across Al Ain and Abu Dhabi

Five new projects span more than 84,000 sqm and create 500 jobs, extending KEZAD’s strong 2025 growth momentum

Abu Dhabi, UAE – 06 April 2026: Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi – KEZAD Group, one of the largest operators of integrated and purpose-built economic zones in the region, today announced that it has attracted five new industrial and logistics projects across KEZAD Al Ain and KEZAD Al Ma’mourah – Abu Dhabi, with investors committing a combined investment of AED 147 million, a total footprint of over 84,000 square metres, and the creation of 500 jobs.

The projects include Haber/Elixir, which will establish an oilfield chemicals blending facility; Grand Line Industries, which will set up a car cleaning products manufacturing facility; Precent Enterprises Metals Coating, which will develop a metal forming and coating facility; Unibal Group Investment, which will develop its second industrial and logistics warehousing project in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and its first project in KEZAD Al Ain (Unibal Park II). Meanwhile, Al Lul Transport & General Contracting, will develop a major industrial and logistics warehousing project in KEZAD Al Ma’mourah.

The projects add to the momentum KEZAD built in 2025, when it reached 73.6 sq km of leased land, recording 3.3 sq km of net new land leases, with 67 per cent of total land leases linked to industrial and manufacturing activity. The AD Ports Group’s Economic Cities & Free Zones cluster, which KEZAD Group is a part of, also reported AED 2.87 billion in revenue in 2025, up 45 per cent year on year. 

Abdullah Al Hameli, Chief Executive Officer, Economic Cities & Free Zones, AD Ports Group, said: “These new projects reflect steady demand for industrial and logistics assets that support real economic activity in Abu Dhabi. The combined scale of investment, the diversity of sectors involved, and the 500 jobs these projects are expected to create are the highlights of these projects. This is the kind of growth that strengthens Abu Dhabi’s industrial base in practical terms, adding production capability, warehousing capacity, and long-term value across the wider trade ecosystem.”

Four of the projects are in KEZAD Al Ain, where they represent a little more than a combined 37,400 square metres, AED 47 million in investment, and 200 jobs. The fifth project, located in KEZAD Al Ma’mourah in Abu Dhabi, represents more than 46,500 square metres, AED 100 million in investment, and 300 jobs, making it the largest of the five by both value and employment.

The latest agreements show that businesses continue to choose KEZAD for infrastructure that is ready, connected, and built for growth. From specialist chemicals and metal processing to warehousing and logistics development, these projects add depth to KEZAD’s industrial offering and support its role in enabling investors to scale with confidence in the emirate of Abu Dhabi.

The new agreements come at a time when KEZAD continues to expand its industrial and warehousing base. In 2025, the Economic Cities & Free Zones cluster delivered 146,000 square metres of new warehouse capacity, while maintaining 91 per cent warehouse occupancy despite this additional supply. KEZAD also continued to advance specialised hubs including Metal Park, Rahayel Auto and Mobility City, Agtech Park, and Abu Dhabi Food Hub, widening its offer across core industrial sectors.

As Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen its industrial and logistics base, KEZAD Group remains focused on enabling investors with integrated solutions that bring together industrial land, warehousing, utilities, and connectivity within one operating environment.

SUD Life puts customers at the center of its technology-led transformation

Mumbai, Apr 06: Star Union Dai-ichi Life Insurance (SUD Life) has strengthened its customer experience with the deployment of a proprietary AI-enabled voice bot and a series of operations-led enhancements to improve service efficiency. The Voice Bot is designed to bridge the gap between the insurer and its customers by enabling faster access to policy-related information, quicker service resolution, and reducing reliance on manual touchpoints.

These initiatives support the company’s goal of making insurance simpler and more accessible to customers across life stages.

The AI-powered voice bot is a significant addition to SUD Life’s technology–led customer experience transformation, as the company eyes deeper insurance penetration in the country.

Available in 2 Indian languages—English and Hindi and offering 24×7 assistance, the Voice Bot simplifies insurance interactions by helping customers access policy details, check premiums due and payment status, and get answers to policy-related queries and services, and the Voice Bot will help you raise the service requests. It supports existing policyholders with faster servicing while also assisting new customers with product information. By reducing reliance on human intervention, the innovation reduces wait times and delivers accurate information, thereby enhancing service efficiency and customer trust.

The solution received external validation when it was awarded “Best Use of Technology to Enhance Customer Experience” at the UBS Forums (Insurance Summit), reinforcing the company’s leadership in insurance tech adoption. 

For SUD Life, the initiative reflects its focus on leveraging automation and conversational AI to create seamless, scalable, and efficient service models. 

Complementing this innovation, SUD Life has bolstered its backend operations to ensure faster and more efficient service delivery.  Increased adoption of ECS and auto-debit mandates have streamlined premium collections, reduced policy lapses, and improved persistency ratios.

Process automation in payouts, including workflow-enabled systems and auto-receipting of online renewal premiums, has minimized manual errors, ensured timely premium updates, and reduced administrative burden for both customers and service teams. 

SUD Life has also simplified its operations to enable a clearer and more transparent premium handling process that is aligned with the recent regulatory and tax changes.

Further enhancing its customer-first approach, SUD Life’s “You Matter” wellness and self-service app serves as an integrated platform that allows policyholders to seamlessly access policy details and self-service options but also gain from wellness tips such as guided yoga and fitness sessions. 

Together, these digital and operational enhancements reflect a shift towards a more customer-centric insurance ecosystem that goes beyond traditional servicing. 

“At SUD Life, we are constantly innovating to enhance customer experience and strengthen feedback mechanisms as we take insurance to the hinterland. Our focus is not just on leveraging technology, but also on making it simple even for those who are not tech-savvy. We will continue to drive operational improvements to make insurance more affordable and accessible, while ensuring that more people are financially protected,” said Abhay Tewari  MD & CEO, SUD Life .

SUD Life remains committed to its broader goal of scalable growth while maintaining service quality across its expanding customer base. With over 1.52 crore lives covered, 6000+ employees, and 170+ offices, robust technology-driven operations are critical to sustaining consistency, and speed. The company will continue to develop future-ready insurance services that blend human support with intelligent automation.

Varun Dhawan Unboxes Fossil’s Big Tic, Bringing the Y2K Energy Back

Following the reintroduction of its iconic Big Tic collection, Fossil brings the spotlight onto the relaunch through a candid unboxing moment featuring India brand ambassador Varun Dhawan. Reviving a cult-favourite from the late ’90s and early 2000s, the Big Tic returns with its signature ana-digi display and animated scrolling seconds blending nostalgia with a fresh, contemporary edge with two collections: Machine and Y2K.

 In a recently released Instagram Reel, Varun Dhawan is seen unboxing a Fossil box two distinct iterations from the Big Tic collection, offering a first-hand take on how the watches translate into everyday style.

He first picks up the Big Tic Machine FS6165, calling out its “Y2K watch vibe” and noting that it feels like “not just a time-telling watch, but something that has a personality of its own.” With its gold-tone stainless steel case and signature animated digital seconds, the piece leans into a bold, expressive aesthetic that taps into the resurgence of retro-inspired style.

He then styles the Big Tic Machine FS6157, highlighting its versatility, sharing that he “likes it a lot,” especially for how seamlessly it pairs across looks “whether you’re wearing boots or shoes,” adding that “if you want to look formal, it fits the bill.” Designed with a black stainless steel case and brown leather strap, the watch brings a more grounded, wearable take on the Big Tic design, balancing statement with everyday ease.

 

Noatum Ports Safaga Terminal – Egypt Receives STS and RTG Cranes, Enhancing Connectivity Across the Red Sea

Abu Dhabi, UAE – 06 April 2026: Noatum Ports, the international ports operating arm of AD Ports Group (ADPORTS:ADX), today confirmed the delivery of three new ship-to-shore (STS) and six rubber tyred gantry (RTG) cranes to its new multipurpose terminal in Safaga, Egypt, marking a crucial step ahead of the opening later this year of a major new commercial maritime gateway on the Red Sea in southern Egypt.

The Super Post-Panamax-class cranes made by Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Co. Ltd (ZPMC), a leading global manufacturer of industrial cranes, were successfully delivered following ocean transport from China, confirming the commencement of phased operational activities at Noatum Ports – Safaga Terminal, subsequent to the completion of major infrastructure development works.

Strategically located on Egypt’s Red Sea coast, Noatum Ports – Safaga Terminal is poised to be the first internationally operated port terminal in the Upper Egypt region of southern Egypt, serving as a key gateway for the region and strengthening connectivity across Egypt, the Middle East, Africa, and global shipping routes. Designed to handle containers, general cargo, dry and liquid bulk, and Ro-Ro cargo, the terminal will support regional and international trade flows while delivering high productivity, deep draft capabilities, and best-in-class port operations, in addition to playing a central role in enabling industrial development across Upper Egypt and the wider Red Sea region, including container trade, project cargo for industrial and green energy infrastructure, and mining logistics.

Mohammed Al Tamimi, Chief Executive Officer of Noatum Ports, said: “The arrival of the STS and RTG cranes marks a key operational milestone for Noatum Ports – Safaga Terminal, ahead of its opening later this year as a major gateway for economic development in southern Egypt. This milestone signals the transition from development to operations at a strategically important location. The terminal will serve as a key Red Sea gateway, supporting global trade flows and contributing to Egypt’s economic growth.”

Noatum Ports – Safaga Terminal will span approximately 810,000 m², featuring a 1,000-metre quay wall designed to handle up to 450,000 TEUs, alongside 5 million tonnes of dry bulk and general cargo, 1 million tonnes of liquid bulk, and 50,000 CEUs of Ro-Ro cargo.

The development includes administration buildings, workshops, warehouses, and authority facilities, supported by comprehensive infrastructure, including roads, utilities, and integrated security systems.

AD Ports Group has invested AED 193 million to procure the cranes for Noatum Ports – Safaga Terminal, which is expected to commence operations in the second half of 2026. The cranes form a part of a total investment of USD 200 million committed by the Group for the Safaga Terminal, following the award in 2023 of a 30-year concession to develop and operate the multipurpose terminal in partnership with Egypt’s Red Sea Ports Authority (RSPA).

The project is partially financed through a USD 115 million facility from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), with participation from the National Bank of Kuwait – Egypt (NBK – Egypt) and other institutional investors, as announced by the Group in February 2026. The IFC managed co-lending portfolio programme carries a tenor of 15 years and reflects strong international confidence in AD Ports Group, as well as Egypt’s strategic role in the global supply chain.

The new terminal forms part of AD Ports Group’s broader strategy to develop and operate high-performance port assets across high-growth trade corridors, particularly in Egypt, one of the Group’s most important international markets. The successful delivery of the cranes reflects Noatum Ports’ long-term commitment to investing in advanced infrastructure and state-of-the-art equipment, reinforcing its role in delivering safe, efficient, and reliable terminal operations worldwide.

Keturah Resort to reinforce UAE’s place among world’s fastest-growing wellness destinations

Developer reveals four ultra-luxury waterfront mansions and 110 luxury apartments secured at Ritz-Carlton Residences 

Dubai, UAE, 6^th April; 2026:  Investors have secured four ultra-prime waterfront mansions and more than half of the luxury apartments at The Ritz-Carlton Residences at Keturah Resort, the Middle East’s first fully wellness-certified resort in Dubai. 

Located on the shores of Dubai Creek and adjacent to the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, the Resort continues to advance steadily, with construction activity continuing as planned in recent weeks, luxury developer Keturah said in a project update today. 

The gated community comprises 12 Creek-side mansions of 42,000 sq ft, eight residential buildings with 193 apartments – 110 now sold – a five-star Ritz-Carlton boutique hotel, a standalone wellness centre, and a private marina with moorings for yachts up to 120 feet. 

With eight remaining mansions priced in the AED335 million to AED363 million range, Keturah is confident of continued interest from buyers, many aiming to make Dubai their home. The developer also believes the resort will help reinforce the UAE’s $40.8 billion wellness economy. 

The UAE ranks first in the latest global five-year wellness growth figures, and Talal M. Al Gaddah, CEO and Founder of the Keturah luxury brand, says this reflects the UAE’s Wellbeing 2031 agenda to make the country a global leader in quality of life. 

“The UAE’s wellness economy is already the fastest-growing in the MENA region, as a direct result of genuine intent, and Keturah Resort is our contribution to that vision,” says Talal. 

“Dubai recognises that there has been a clear shift in how luxury real estate is defined and valued, with buyers now asking whether a home will improve their health, enhance sleep, lift mood, support family wellbeing, and strengthen their connection to nature.” 

Added Talal: “Dubai’s luxury property market has always emerged from periods of uncertainty with renewed momentum. We see high-net-worth capital continuing to flow from international buyers, particularly those seeking freehold assets underpinned by a globally recognised hospitality brand.” 

A recent Keturah survey of Dubai real estate brokers showed that the majority of global investors in luxury real estate want to live in the city, not just own property. It also found that lifestyle quality and wellness are key factors shaping luxury purchasing decisions.

According to the latest Global Wellness Institute (GWI) rankings, the UAE is No.1 globally for five-year wellness growth. In the GWI’s 2025 report it also led the MENA region in wellness real estate ($1.4 billion), spa revenue ($2.9 billion), and personal care and beauty ($14.8 billion).

Meanwhile, the Emirates has been growing faster than any other MENA country in public health, prevention and personalised medicine, physical activity and workplace wellness. Reflecting these trends, the Keturah Resort, is certified by Delos, the US-based wellness real estate and technology firm, and the International WELL Building Institute.

Management under The Ritz-Carlton brand brings residents a full range of personalised attention, including dedicated concierge and butler services and in-residence dining. They also have access to the Keturah Wellness Centre featuring a 5-star Spa, health & fitness club, multiple yoga rooms and organic health care facility.

The resort features over 550 meters of waterfront promenade and 80,000 sqm of landscaped green spaces. The nearby sanctuary’s natural mangroves attract over 20,000 birds of 67 species, including the renowned greater flamingo.

AWE Funds appoints Steve Taub as Venture Partner, Bringing Global Deep Tech Investing Expertise

April 6: AWE Funds, an early-growth venture equity platform focused on building scalable innovations across Climate Tech, HealthTech, FinTech, announced the appointment of Steve Taub as Venture Partner, Deep Tech and Innovation. With 17 years of experience investing in breakthrough technologies across corporate and strategic venture platforms, Steve will support AWE Funds in strengthening its deep tech strategy, enhancing technical diligence, and scaling high-impact innovations globally.

 Steve brings a distinguished track record in venture capital and technology investing. He previously held senior roles at GE Ventures, where he played a key role in building and scaling the firm’s corporate venture investing capabilities across energy, advanced manufacturing, robotics, and industrial technologies. He later served as a Partner at In-Q-Tel (IQT), the strategic investment arm supporting emerging technologies for national security applications.

Most recently, Steve was Managing Director of Investments at JetBlue Technology Ventures, where he led sourcing, evaluation, and execution of investments in climate tech, aerospace, transportation, and other frontier technologies. His investment approach combines technical depth with commercial insight, enabling early-stage innovations to translate into scalable, market-ready solutions.

Steve holds master’s degrees in Technology and Policy and Mechanical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Columbia University.

“AWE Funds is building a disciplined, forward-looking deep tech platform at a critical moment in global industrial transformation. I’m excited to partner with the team to strengthen technical diligence and support founders developing scalable, globally relevant technologies.” says Steve Taub, Venture Partner at AWE Funds.

In his role as Venture Partner, Steve will work closely with AWE Funds’ leadership and portfolio companies to refine investment theses, strengthen technical evaluation frameworks, and mentor founders building next-generation technologies.

“At AWE Funds, we believe deep tech requires both conviction and expertise,” said Seema Chaturvedi, Founder and Managing Partner, AWE Funds. “Steve’s experience across breakthrough technologies and his disciplined investment lens will help us further strengthen our deep tech strategy and back companies shaping the future of industry and society.”

Steve’s appointment reinforces AWE Funds’ commitment to backing scalable, technology-driven ventures that generate both financial returns and meaningful social impact.