Company is expanding into new fruits and leafy greens through horizontal high-tech agriculture UAE-based agritech firm Armela is finalising plans for a horizontal high-tech strawberry facility and evaluating production of baby spinach and blueberries, its founder and chief executive said. “This will support year-round production and distribution,” Avir Shah told Zawya Projects on the sidelines of Gulf Food event in Dubai. Shah said the company holds 80–85 percent share of the UAE’s lettuce market and is expanding its footprint in kale and cucumber through farm acquisitions. The company produces an average of 4.2 tonnes of premium hydroponic lettuce annually from its high-tech facilities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, alongside kale and cucumbers from lower-tech farms. It is also conducting trials for broccoli, a crop it currently imports at scale from Kenya. “We are among the largest importers of broccoli in the UAE. Now we’re testing whether we can grow it locally year-round through mid-tech greenhouse solutions,” Shah said. Backed by the UAE-based AWR, Armela operates both horizontal and vertical farms but has stayed away from high-tech vertical farming. Shah noted that high-tech vertical farming requires higher upfront investment, carries higher production costs and offers limited crop variety compared with horizontal farming. Moreover, abundant sunlight makes high-tech horizontal farms more cost-efficient and scalable. “Vertical farming is still in the research and development (R&D) stage. There are only a few niche products like microgreens that work economically,” said Shah. Growth story Armela was founded in 2016, initially operating a small research farm growing herbs, lettuce and tomatoes. After two years of R&D, the company converted its facility entirely to lettuce production, selling out within six to eight months and triggering an expansion strategy centred on high-tech horizontal hydroponics. “We were the only player at the time to successfully operate a high-tech hydroponic lettuce facility at scale, delivering consistent yield all year round,” said Shah. The company owns and operates all its farms and supplies Tier 1 and Tier 2 retailers across the UAE, wholesale markets as well as e-commerce platforms like Talabat with Noon, Amazon, and Careem expected to follow shortly. Armela also operates a temperature-controlled logistics fleet of more than 30 vehicles, monitored around the clock. Over the past six months, the company has launched and grown a trading arm sourcing fruits and commodities globally and branding premium produce under its Armela label. A newer brand, Origins by Armela, focuses on origin-based sourcing, grading and repackaging of high-quality produce from trusted international suppliers. Shah said the company has positioned itself at the premium end of the market, with locally grown lettuce now priced above imports, driven by growing brand recognition. Bank talks Looking ahead, Armela plans to fund expansion through bank financing and potential equity investment. “With revenues growing and strong cash flow, we’re now exploring banking facilities for expansion and working capital. we're open to equity investment as well,” Shah said. He added that UAE banks have shown increasing appetite for agritech financing, reflecting growing confidence in controlled-environment agriculture.

smart, the premium intelligent electric automotive brand, presented by AW Rostamani Group (AWR Group) in the UAE, announced the official launch of the highly anticipated smart #5 at a landmark event at the iconic Skydive Dubai. The all-electric mid-size SUV is smart’s most versatile electric SUV to date, designed to bridge the gap between city living and outdoor exploration. The launch arrives at a pivotal moment for the UAE’s automotive market. The nation has established itself as a global leader in electric mobility readiness, supported by the UAE’s National Electric Vehicles Policy which aims to have 25% of all vehicles on the road be electric or hybrid by 2030. With the UAE’s EV market projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 41.2% between 2025 and 2030, the introduction of the smart #5 is perfectly timed to meet the surging consumer demand for innovative and sustainable vehicles. “The UAE is a global hub for innovation and an important market for smart. Launching the smart #5 here is a testament to our commitment to this forward-thinking nation,” said Ms. Mandy Zhang, Global CMO of smart. “The #5 is the physical manifestation of our beyond conventional boundaries philosophy, a vehicle that empowers users to see, to move, to explore, and to grow. It is engineered for a new generation of adventurers who desire sustainability, sophistication and safety. We are confident that with our trusted partner, AWR Group, the smart #5 will resonate deeply with the lifestyle and aspirations of customers in the UAE.” Roberto Colucci, Director of EVs at AWR Group, commented, “As the official distributor for smart in the UAE, we are proud to bring the revolutionary smart #5 to our discerning customers. We understand that drivers here need a vehicle that can navigate the dynamic energy of Dubai and Abu Dhabi yet also offer the freedom to explore the country’s beautiful natural landscapes over the weekend. The smart #5 is that vehicle. From its game-changing 10% to 80% (SoC) charging capability in 15 minutes to the UAE-exclusive Dune variant, it is engineered with local lifestyles firmly in mind. For those who demand the ultimate in performance, the smart #5 BRABUS delivers an exhilarating experience, combining 475 kW peak output with exclusive design details that set a new benchmark for electric performance SUVs. This launch represents an important milestone in our continued commitment to advancing electric mobility and expanding premium EV choice in the UAE.” The smart #5 is built on a foundation of cutting-edge technology and user-centric design. At its heart is the industry-leading 4C super-fast charging battery technology, capable of charging from 10% to 80% (SoC) in just 15 minutes. This breakthrough effectively eliminates range anxiety, enabling spontaneous journeys across both urban environments and off-road terrain. The interior redefines “Contemporary Premium” with features including a 20-speaker Sennheiser® Signature Sound system with Dolby Atmos, dual 13-inch OLED touchscreens, and an exceptionally quiet cabin achieving an industry-leading 86.5% Articulation Index, reinforcing its position as one of the most refined cabins in its class. Four distinct variants of the smart #5 are now available to customers in the UAE, offering a tailored proposition across performance, luxury, and adventure-focused driving needs: • Pro: Starting from AED 159,900, the well-equipped entry point features rear-wheel drive, 250 kW of power, and an impressive 465 km of WLTP range, delivering 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds. • Premium: Starting from AED 199,900, this mid-tier choice offers enhanced luxury, an extended range of up to 590 km, and advanced technology features including the premium Sennheiser audio system. • Dune: Starting from AED 209,900, this UAE-exclusive edition is tailored for desert adventures, featuring specialized capabilities for sand driving and unique styling that celebrates the region's landscape. • BRABUS: Starting from AED 219,900, the pinnacle of performance and design, co-created with the renowned tuning house to deliver an exhilarating 475 kW as the peak output with all-wheel drive, achieving 0-100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, alongside exclusive BRABUS-embroidered Dinamica® seats and 21-inch Monoblock Z wheels. The launch of the smart #5 signals a bold new era for the brand, expanding its product family to cater to a growing demand for versatile, sustainable, and premium mobility solutions. It is a vehicle designed not just for the journey, but for the destination and the discoveries along the way. For more information or to book your smart #5, please visit: https://uae.smart.com/en/models/smart-5

On 4th December 2025, AWR Group formalised a strategic academic partnership with the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement, signed at the UOWD campus by Professor Mohamed Salem, President of UOWD, and our own Caroline Hobeika, Chief Human Resources Officer at AWR Group , lays the foundation for deeper collaboration in future talent development, applied research, and cross-sector innovation. This partnership reflects a shared vision to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry application - one that will unlock value not only for students, but for our business and the broader community. A partnership with purpose The MoU creates a platform for long-term cooperation across several key focus areas: • Internship and early-career programmes to support student exposure and on-the-job learning • Future skills and graduate readiness initiatives aligned with national youth pathways • Capstone projects and real-world problem statements , particularly within engineering, business, AI, financial services, and supply chain • Joint research and development initiatives that tie into AWR Group’s strategic priorities The partnership will initially engage teams from across our Engineering, Shared Services, and Real Estate businesses, with the potential to expand further across disciplines and sectors. Bringing relevance to the classroom Through this collaboration, our teams will co-create opportunities with UOWD’s School of Engineering and School of Business to inject real-world insights into academic programming. By contributing live industry challenges and participating in applied research, we aim to strengthen students’ career readiness and deepen their understanding of the complexities and opportunities within the business landscape. “At AWR Group, we believe in the power of partnerships that create tangible value – for students, for business, and for the broader community,” said Caroline Hobeika, Chief Human Resources Officer, AWR Group. “This MoU reflects our shared belief in learning that is grounded in relevance and purpose, and we look forward to working closely with UOWD to empower young minds through exposure, opportunity, and real-world impact.” A shared commitment to shaping future talent As AWR Group continues to invest in upskilling and youth pathways, partnerships such as this one demonstrate how purposeful collaboration can create a more agile, empowered, and industry-ready generation.

AWR Group has been honoured at the third Emirates Labour Market Awards, receiving recognition in the Elite category for its outstanding contribution to Emiratisation and progressive workforce development. The award was presented by H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development, at a glittering ceremony in Abu Dhabi, held under the p atronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court. AWR Group was acknowledged as one of the UAE's leading private sector employers for its pioneering efforts in driving labour market excellence and meaningful Emiratisation outcomes. Accepting the award on behalf of AWR Group were Eman AlBastaki, Director of Emiratisation and Government Relations, and Nasser AlAhmed, Executive Director of Business Development, who represented the Group at the event. Eman AlBastaki, Director of Emiratisation and Government Relations said, “This recognition reflects our deep commitment to empowering Emirati talent and supporting the nation's vision for economic growth. Through our comprehensive Wa’ed strategy that includes in-house training and mentorship programmes, we're creating very specific growth pathways for Emiratis to build rewarding careers in industries that are shaping the future. We're proud to invest in the next generation of leaders who will drive the UAE forward." AWR Group's Wa’ed strategy is dedicated to supporting Emirati talent, fostering future leaders while growing and retaining the number of nationals within the workforce. Wa’ed meaning promise drives Emirati talent development through structured learning and real-world experience. The strategy includes internships, a one-year graduate programme, continuous learning modules, educational partnerships, and recognition awards, among others. AWR Group’s Graduate Programme leads to permanent roles after a year of rotations, with over 32 dedicated training modules for UAE nationals. Strategic educational partnerships with universities including Higher Colleges of Technology and Ajman University provide Emiratis direct access to career opportunities. Collaborations with government entities such as the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation and Nafis ensure initiatives are impactful and meet national Emiratisation goals. Further strengthening these efforts, the AWR Automotive Academy at HCT Sharjah offers technical and vocational training. It has pioneered electric vehicle training for Grade 9 and 10 students, building a future-ready talent pipeline at the grassroots education level. In October 2025, the Group launched its Sales Academy. This six-month programme blends classroom learning with practical experience. Partnering with the Emirates Institute of Finance and utilising the Nafis Programme, it covers sales training, product expertise, and cross-departmental exposure. The Wa’ed Awards recognise top performers, presenting Individual Development Plans for fast-tracked career growth. A dedicated Wa’ed Committee drives further initiatives and deeper engagement.

In a landmark collaboration, the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), Dubai Chambers, AW Rostamani Group, Nissan Middle East, and Dubai Business Group Auto Parts & Accessories convened a dedicated workshop to reinforce the UAE’s vehicle safety framework under Cabinet Resolution No. 12 of 2018. The workshop provided a comprehensive overview of the resolution’s requirements, emphasizing the role of conformity assessment Schemes in ensuring that spare parts comply with national safety standards. Discussions highlighted the regulation’s impact on safeguarding critical vehicle components such as brakes, seat belts, and lighting systems, all essential to driver and passenger safety. Aligned with the UAE’s Operation 300bn strategy, which seeks to grow the industrial sector’s GDP contribution to AED 300 billion by 2031, this collaboration positions the country as a global hub for quality, innovation, and industrial excellence. HE Dr. Farah Al Zarooni, Assistant Undersecretary for Standardization Affairs sector, at ministry of Industry & Advanced Ttechnology (MoIAT), highlighted the UAE’s strong progress in advancing a robust and future-ready quality infrastructure that underpins sustainable industrial growth and consumer safety. She noted that the UAE has advanced its ranking from 11th to 5th place globally in the 2024 Quality Infrastructure for Sustainable Development Index (UNIDO) in group L, reflecting the country’s leadership in technical regulations, standardization, and conformity assessment. Dr. Al Zarooni emphasized that maintaining a robust, efficient, and economically sustainable regulatory ecosystem is essential to ensuring the safety and competitiveness of products in local and global markets. Under Cabinet Resolution No. (12) of 2018, the mandatory UAE system for vehicle spare parts has achieved significant milestones as followed: 88 companies representing 184 brands from 68 countries, with 3,475 conformity certificates issued for over 81,000 products. This advancement reflects the strong collaboration between MoIAT and industry partners, whose commitment joint efforts support the implementation of national standards and reinforces consumer confidence. Aligned with the “Make it in the Emirates” (MIITE) initiative and the Operation 300bn strategy, MoIAT continues to foster innovation, sustainability, and investment attractiveness through modernized regulations, digital transformation, and incentive programs that empower national industries. Maha Al Gargawi, Vice President of Business Advocacy, Dubai Chambers, said: “Our collaboration with MoIAT, Nissan Middle East, and AW Rostamani Group reflects Dubai Chamber’s commitment to raising industry standards and protecting consumer confidence. The UAE’s automotive sector is expanding rapidly, and with growth comes the responsibility to ensure that every spare part in our market meets the highest levels of safety, quality, and compliance. In line with this growth, Dubai has been spearheading the facilitation of platforms such as the workshop for the private sector and policymakers to work hand in hand, strengthen regulations, eliminate counterfeits, and drive the competitiveness and sustainability of the industry.” Thierry Sabbagh, Divisional Vice President, President – Middle East, KSA & CIS, Nissan and INFINITI, said: “At Nissan, safety and quality are of utmost importance . As a global automotive manufacturer, we are deeply committed to ensuring that our genuine parts reach our customers and that their Nissan and INFINITI vehicles continue to perform to the highest standards. This collaboration with MoIAT, Dubai Chambers, and AW Rostamani Group underscores the power of public-private partnerships in protecting consumers and reinforcing the UAE’s leadership in automotive safety and industrial excellence.” Tom Fux, CEO AWR Automotive, AW Rostamani Group, said: “Our collaboration with MoIAT, Dubai Chambers, and Nissan Middle East is reinforcing the UAE’s position as a leader in automotive safety and consumer confidence, while contributing to the nation’s broader industrial vision. Beyond compliance, this initiative reflects the importance of open and meaningful dialogue between the public and private sectors, ensuring that together we establish higher standards, greater trust, and a stronger, safer future for every driver and community we serve.” On his part, Yousef Abu Alaish, Director – Aftersales, AWR Automotive & Chairman of Dubai Business Group Auto Parts; Accessories, said: “Business gatherings such as this one are vital in fostering dialogue between the public and private sectors. These platforms not only promote regulatory compliance but also ensure alignment with the UAE’s national vision and strategic priorities. They create valuable opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and a shared sense of responsibility. Our message was clear and unified: by working together, we can strengthen standards, build greater trust, and ensure the safety of our customers and communities—ultimately contributing to the UAE’s long-term goals of safety, innovation, and sustainable growth. Framed within the Year of Community, declared by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the initiative was recognized as more than a regulatory exercise. It reflects shared responsibility, one that extends beyond products to building trust, unity, and confidence, and gains tangible meaning through initiatives such as this workshop. The four partners concluded with a collective call to action for industry stakeholders to align with national safety standards and work together to ensure that every spare part in the UAE market is genuine, certified, and safe. In doing so, they reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to protecting lives and raising global benchmarks for automotive safety.

Chery UAE, presented in the UAE by AW Rostamani Group (AWR Group), has announced an exclusive partnership with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The landmark collaboration establishes Chery UAE as the "Exclusive VIP Mobility Partner" of the 2025 IUCN World Conservation Congress. The partnership was formalised during a signing ceremony at the Chery Dubai Showroom on Sheikh Zayed Road. The event was attended by Marc Magaud, Director of the IUCN World Conservation Congress, alongside senior leadership including Tom Fux, CEO of AWR Automotive; Sanaa Ouahmane, CEO of AWR Mobility; Zaher Sabbagh, Director of Chery UAE; and Peter Retief, Director of SHIFT Car Rental, amongst other distinguished representatives. As part of the collaboration, SHIFT Car Rental, a premium car rental provider under AWR Group’s Automotive division, will provide a dedicated fleet of 28 Chery plug-in hybrid vehicles for the event. The fleet, comprising twenty-five Arrizo 8 Plug-In Hybrid sedans and three TIGGO 9 Plug-In Hybrid SUVs, will be used to transport VIPs and key delegates during the Congress, which is taking place from 9 to 15 October 2025, at the ADNEC Centre, Abu Dhabi. Recognised as one of the world's largest environmental forums, the Congress is expected to convene around 10,000 participants. The initiative not only ensures seamless mobility for high-profile guests but also highlights Chery UAE's commitment to sustainability, innovation, and its ESG vision. “This partnership with IUCN is the result of over a year of strategic discussions, and it reflects our commitment to aligning with global sustainability goals. As Chery’s flagship models take centre stage at the Congress, we are proud to contribute to an event of such international importance, reinforcing our ESG vision and supporting the UAE’s journey towards a more sustainable future”, said Tom Fux, CEO of AWR Automotive. Marc Magaud – IUCN World Conservation Congress Director – commented: “Our partnership with Chery UAE and AWR Group is a real enabler for the IUCN World Conservation Congress. Through their affiliate company, SHIFT car rental, they will be providing hybrid Chery vehicles for our VIP guests and exclusive discounts on hybrid vehicles for our registered participants onsite. This collaboration contributes meaningfully to the overall Congress experience and to the minimisation of the carbon footprint, which IUCN is intent on applying throughout the event.” "Our collaboration with IUCN is a defining moment for Chery UAE and AWR Group,” added Zaher Sabbagh, Director of Chery UAE, AWR Automotive. He highlighted: “By placing our plug-in hybrid fleet at the service of the IUCN World Conservation Congress, we are proving that mobility can be an enabler of environmental progress. This partnership reinforces AWR Group’s sustainability legacy and positions Chery as a global player driving innovation with purpose." The IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 will feature high-level dialogues, exhibitions, and a Members’ Assembly where delegates will vote on motions that will shape the global conservation agenda for years to come. The event’s core themes, from resilient conservation action to disruptive innovation, align closely with Chery UAE’s values of progress, innovation, and sustainable mobility. With Abu Dhabi’s ADNEC Centre being the first event venue in the region powered entirely by clean energy, the partnership underscores the UAE’s ambition to lead global conversations on climate action and sustainable development while positioning Chery UAE at the forefront of mobility innovation in service of a greener tomorrow.

Emirates Petroleum Company (Emarat) and AW Rostamani Group (AWR Group) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to form a strategic partnership aimed at redefining mobility and customer experience across the UAE. This collaboration brings together Emarat’s extensive retail network and AWR Group’s expertise in the automotive sector. This milestone agreement reflects both companies’ shared vision for innovation, convenience, and future-ready mobility experiences. By uniting their respective strengths, the partnership will explore and implement a range of integrated solutions designed to create a more enriched motorist journey, including loyalty integration and seamless fleet-fuelling capabilities. As part of this collaboration, Emarat and AWR Group will now work together to define and implement initiatives that leverage the strengths of both brands. This will include exploring joint activations and promotions, as well as exploring opportunities for co-branded programmes that provide greater value and engagement for customers. Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi, Chief Executive Officer of Emarat, commented: “This strategic partnership brings together Emarat’s high-footfall retail network and AWR Group’s automotive leadership to create a more service-rich, convenience-led experience for motorists. At the heart of this collaboration is a shared ambition to define a new standard for fuel station experiences in the UAE, and we are excited to now move forward in developing the innovative solutions that will achieve this goal.” Tom Fux, Chief Executive Officer of AWR Automotive, said: “Our partnership with Emarat is a significant step in our commitment to enhancing the lives of our customers. By combining our automotive expertise with Emarat’s market- leading network, we are creating a more holistic and convenient journey for every motorist in the UAE, both today and in the future.” Emarat and AWR Group remain committed to driving innovation, advancing sustainability, and upholding the highest standards of safety, quality, and customer experience across every aspect of this partnership.