Bahrain’s natural pearl sector has witnessed prices surge by at least 40% over the past year, buoyed by the renewed global demand for rare gemstones as laboratory-grown alternatives gain market share, said a top official of Bahrain Institute for Pearls and Gemstones (Danat).
Aldar and Mubadala Investment Company have completed a strategic joint venture to create a premier retail platform that will anchor the next phase of Abu Dhabi’s evolution as a global destination for curated luxury retail experiences.
Middle East-based HITEK AI, a part of the Farnek group of companies, has signed a three-year SAFETEK Services Agreement with Ghassan Ahmed Al Sulaiman Furniture Trading Co (IKEA Saudi Arabia and Bahrain), marking a major step in IKEA’s commitment to elevating Health, Safety, Security, and Environmental (HSSE) governance.
Ithra Dubai has officially launched Dubai Gold District, a purpose-built destination designed to elevate Dubai’s position as the world’s leading destination for gold and jewellery trade.
Canon has made two key leadership appointments covering its EMEA and Central and North Africa regions.
Kanoo Real Estate, a division of the Yusuf bin Ahmed Kanoo Group, has officially inaugurated its Sitra service station in Bahrain. A fully integrated service destination, it features eight drive-thru units, 12 retail outlets with the mezzanine levels hosting a curated mix of international and local brands.
Deliverect, a global ecosystem of on and off-premise solutions that empowers restaurants and retailers to sell anywhere and deliver everywhere, has launched Deliverect Kiosk in the MENA region.
Diriyah Company has unveiled eight new brands for Diriyah Square, its mixed-use retail and lifestyle destination, as construction progresses on more than 400 shopping and dining outlets.
Precious metals kick-started the New Year on a strong note resuming their rally after unprecedented gains in 2025. Spot gold climbed 1.3% to $4,372 per ounce on Friday, while spot silver added 2.8% to hit $73.30 per ounce after hitting a record high last year.
Gold was steady on Wednesday but remained on track for its strongest annual gain in over four decades, while other precious metals fell sharply as investors booked profits after a strong, record-setting rally.
