Happy Monday everyone!

In today’s top stories: Syria has signed an $800 million port development deal with UAE’s DP World, marking one of its first major foreign investments since the lifting of U.S. sanctions. Meanwhile, a Toluna survey reveals 87% of Saudis now use AI tools like ChatGPT to plan their travel, with Turkiye emerging as the top destination. And in a key financial reform, Saudi Arabia has opened its main stock market, Tadawul, to UAE and GCC residents, aiming to boost regional investment and liquidity.

But before that: For quick daily updates, follow us on Instagram, and you can watch our Smashi Business Show live every weekday from 10AM onwards (UAE time). Also, you can join our Whatsapp channel to receive updates from the business world.

Smashi Sports – Your Home for Regional Sports

Want front-row access to the UAE’s top sports action?

Subscribe to Smashi.tv and stream every match from the UAE Basketball League, UAE Futsal League, UAE Volleyball League, and UAE Handball League — live. Smashi Sports also brings you exclusive coverage of the Emirates Drift Championship and the MINA Cup. Watch in HD, enjoy replays anytime, and stay updated with in-depth local coverage you won’t find anywhere else.

🎯 Subscribe Now for a Full Season Plan: Get 30% OFF and unlock full access to premium sports content all season long.

Syria Signs $800 Million Port Deal With UAE’s DP World After US Sanctions Lifted

🔹 What Is It About

Syria’s General Authority for Land and Sea Ports has signed an $800 million agreement with UAE-based logistics giant DP World to develop port infrastructure and logistics services in the country. The deal, announced by state agency SANA, includes the construction of a multi-purpose terminal in Tartous and cooperation in setting up industrial and free trade zones. It builds on an earlier memorandum of understanding signed between both sides in May.

🔹 Why It Matters

The agreement marks one of the most significant foreign investment moves in Syria since the end of U.S. sanctions. With President Ahmed al-Sharaa attending the signing, the deal signals Syria’s push to re-enter global trade networks and attract investment. DP World’s involvement provides the credibility and capability to modernize Syria’s Mediterranean gateway, potentially boosting trade and economic recovery following years of war and international isolation.

🔹 What’s Next

With U.S. sanctions formally lifted by President Trump last month, international organizations and investors are expected to engage more freely in Syria’s rebuilding efforts. The DP World agreement may pave the way for other Gulf investors to enter Syria’s logistics, construction, and infrastructure sectors, as the country looks to revive its economy and re-establish regional trade links.

Markets

Majority of Saudis Use AI to Plan Travel, Prefer Turkiye and Experience-Driven Journeys: Survey

🔹 What Is It About

A new Toluna survey reveals that 87% of Saudi travelers now rely on AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini for trip planning. From discovering activities to translating languages and finding restaurant recommendations, generative AI is emerging as a go-to travel assistant. “Generative AI is no longer niche… it is becoming mainstream and cross-generational,” said Georges Akkaoui, Middle East director at Toluna. The trend spans all age groups, with even 40% of travelers aged 45–60 adopting AI tools for deals and suggestions.

🔹 Why It Matters

This surge in AI adoption reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader national push toward digital transformation and AI leadership. With initiatives like Project Transcendence and high global rankings in AI research, the Kingdom is embedding smart technologies into daily life. But traditional influences persist—41% still rely on family and friends for travel tips, and safety, scenery, and emotional connections remain top factors in destination selection. The hybrid of digital and human decision-making is redefining how Saudis travel.

🔹 What’s Next

Looking ahead, 47% of respondents plan to travel internationally this summer, with Turkiye, Egypt, and the UAEtopping the list. Younger travelers show growing interest in East Asia, especially Japan, while older travelers lean toward the UK. With 40% budgeting over SAR10,000 per person, demand for high-quality, tech-supported travel experiences is strong. Saudi Arabia’s own domestic tourism is also rising, as the Kingdom targets 150 million annual visitors by 2030, driven by cultural tourism and a “people-first” strategy.

Saudi Arabia Opens Main Stock Market to UAE and GCC Residents in Major Investment Reform

🔹 What Is It About

Saudi Arabia’s Capital Market Authority (CMA) has announced that residents of the UAE and other GCC countries can now directly invest in Tadawul, the Kingdom’s main stock exchange. This marks a significant shift from previous restrictions, which limited GCC residents to indirect investments via swap agreements or access to secondary markets like Nomu and the debt market.

🔹 Why It Matters

The policy update is designed to boost regional capital flows, investor confidence, and market liquidity, while aligning with Saudi Arabia’s broader economic diversification agenda. The Kingdom’s Tadawul is already the largest stock market in the Gulf, with $183.5 billion in trading value in H1 2025—far ahead of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and other GCC exchanges.

🔹 What’s Next

In addition to expanding access, the CMA has confirmed that foreign individuals who opened accounts while living in Saudi or the GCC may continue trading even after relocating. The move could catalyze greater cross-border investment in the Gulf and enhance Saudi Arabia’s standing as a regional financial hub. Further capital market reforms are likely as the Kingdom pushes ahead with Vision 2030 goals.

👨‍💻From Smashi Business’ Desk

• Dreamers: Saudi billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal—one of the Middle East’s most influential investors — is back in the spotlight.

• Sequoia Capital partner Shaun Maguire is once again under fire—this time for targeting Zohran Mamdani’s former intern, Hadeeqa Malik, a City College student.

• The ICP has debunked viral rumours claiming Indians and Bangladeshis can buy a lifetime Golden Visa for AED 100,000.

🔍In other news…

• Saudi firms sign $8.3 billion clean energy deals

• Hotel revenue slump hits Omani state developer’s profits

• PIF launches Tasama to deliver world-class business services in Saudi Arabia

• PIF-owned firm New Murabba tapped London-based construction engineering firm Arup to design a new 45k-seat stadium, the company said on X on Thursday

🏦Crypto Corner

• BTC smashed its 6th all-time high in 48 hours, soaring past $118,600!

• You can soon use crypto when paying at Dubai Duty Free and when flying Emirates in new landmark deal

• UAE authority clarifies no Golden Visa issuance for crypto investors

• Dubai Land Department teams up with Crypto.com on digital real estate investment plan

• Bitcoin Miner Tied to Trump Sons Plans Dubai Crypto Trading Team

Latest from the Smashi Business Studio

Apple Podcasts: http://aug.us/40B9h6I

Spotify: http://aug.us/4exbk1m

Youtube: http://aug.us/3TYduO5

Were you forwarded this email? Subscribe here