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  • Anthropic Launches Web Search for Claude AI Assistant

    Anthropic Launches Web Search for Claude AI Assistant

    Anthropic has rolled out web search capabilities for Claude, marking a significant expansion of the AI assistant’s functionality. The feature, now available in preview across all paid subscription tiers in the United States, enables Claude to search the internet for information beyond its knowledge cutoff.

    The implementation includes inline citations with each response, allowing users to verify sources—a feature designed to enhance transparency and trustworthiness of AI-generated content.

    “Claude can now search the web,” Anthropic announced in a social media post, noting that users can activate the feature through settings. The company also revealed plans to extend web search access to free-tier users and expand availability to international markets “soon.”

    This development positions Claude 3.7 Sonnet more competitively in the AI assistant market, where real-time information access has become increasingly standard. By combining Claude’s reasoning capabilities with current web data, Anthropic addresses one of the primary limitations of large language models.

    The gradual rollout approach suggests Anthropic is monitoring performance carefully as it introduces this feature to a broader audience, balancing innovation with its stated commitment to responsible AI development.

  • Jordan’s U.S. Foreign Aid: 2025 Budget Cuts and Their Regional Impact

    Jordan’s U.S. Foreign Aid: 2025 Budget Cuts and Their Regional Impact

    • Jordan remains one of the top recipients of U.S. foreign aid, receiving $4.4 billion between 2023-2025.
    • A significant reduction in 2025 funding ($930 million) raises concerns over economic and regional stability.
    • The primary allocation of aid to government and civil society ($706.4 million in 2025) highlights Jordan’s priority areas.
    • U.S. aid cuts could impact Jordan’s governance, security, and humanitarian capabilities.

    Jordan has consistently ranked as one of the top recipients of U.S. foreign aid, reflecting its strategic significance in the Middle East. Between 2023 and 2025, the country is set to receive approximately $4.4 billion in aid, positioning it as the second-highest beneficiary after Ukraine. However, a noticeable reduction in funding for 2025 raises concerns about the broader implications for Jordan’s governance, stability, and regional influence.

    Jordan’s U.S. Foreign Aid Trends: Budget Stability vs. 2025 Reductions

    Jordan’s U.S. foreign aid allocation has remained relatively stable in recent years, making it one of the top Middle Eastern countries benefiting from U.S. assistance. With $1.7 billion allocated in 2023 and $1.8 billion in 2024, Jordan maintained steady funding. However, in 2025, this figure is expected to drop to $930 million—nearly half of the previous year’s funding. This decline signals a shift in U.S. foreign policy priorities, possibly in response to global geopolitical shifts or domestic budget adjustments.

    Despite this reduction, Jordan continues to prioritize governance and civil society development, with $706.4 million allocated to these sectors in 2025. This commitment underscores the importance of institutional stability, economic resilience, and social services in ensuring Jordan’s long-term development.

    Study on U.S. Aid Cuts and Their Impact on Jordan

    A recent study analyzing over 20 recipient nations assessed the impact of potential U.S. foreign aid cuts, particularly under the policy framework proposed by the Trump administration. The study, based on data from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), examined the total aid allocations from 2023 to 2025 and identified sectors requiring the most financial support in the coming years.

    20 recipient nations assessed the impact of potential U.S. foreign aid cuts

    Jordan’s high ranking among recipient nations highlights its reliance on sustained external support. While the study emphasizes the overall aid distribution, it also raises concerns about the potential consequences of sudden or significant reductions, particularly in government funding, humanitarian aid, and civil infrastructure projects.

    How U.S. Aid Cuts Impact Jordan’s Stability, Economy, and Governance

    The potential consequences of U.S. aid reductions for Jordan could be profound. As a country that plays a critical role in Middle Eastern stability, Jordan relies on foreign assistance to maintain its institutional frameworks, social services, and economic stability. The 2025 funding cut raises questions about the country’s ability to sustain its current development trajectory.

    • Government and Civil Society Strengthening: The $706.4 million allocated to this sector in 2025 demonstrates the importance of institutional development. Any reduction in this funding could weaken governance structures, reduce public service efficiency, and slow reform efforts.
    • Regional Stability Concerns: Jordan serves as a buffer zone in a volatile region, hosting refugees and contributing to regional security efforts. A drop in aid could strain resources and limit the government’s ability to address humanitarian challenges.
    • Economic and Social Services Impact: U.S. foreign aid supports key social programs, including education, healthcare, and employment initiatives. Funding cuts could lead to reduced public services and heightened economic challenges, particularly in underprivileged communities.

    As U.S. foreign aid priorities evolve, Jordan’s ability to adapt and secure alternative financial support will be crucial in maintaining its regional stability and economic resilience. Policymakers and stakeholders must navigate these changes carefully to ensure continued progress.

  • Zakat Al-Fitr Value in Egypt for 2025 & How to Donate Online

    Zakat Al-Fitr Value in Egypt for 2025 & How to Donate Online

    As Ramadan 2025 comes to an end, Muslims across Egypt are preparing to fulfill their Zakat Al-Fitr obligation. This year, Dar Al-Ifta Egypt has set the minimum Zakat Al-Fitr value at 35 EGP per person, ensuring that those in need can celebrate Eid Al-Fitr with dignity. With digital platforms making donations easier than ever, Egyptians have multiple ways to contribute, from traditional cash payments to online giving.

    How Much is Zakat Al-Fitr in Egypt for 2025?

    The official amount for Zakat Al-Fitr is based on the cost of staple food items like wheat, rice, or dates. In 2025, Dar Al-Ifta Egypt has announced that the recommended minimum per person is 35 EGP. However, those who can afford to give more are encouraged to do so.

    Who Must Pay?

    • Every Muslim who has enough food and basic needs beyond one day must pay for themselves and their dependents.
    • It must be paid before Eid prayer to be valid.

    Ways to Donate Zakat Al-Fitr in Egypt

    Egyptians now have more ways than ever to fulfill their Zakat Al-Fitr obligations, with NGOs and fintech platforms making the process seamless.

    1. Online Donations (Megakheir, Resala, Egypt Food Bank, Misr El-Kheir)

    • Platforms like Megakheir.com, Resala, and Misr El-Kheir allow Egyptians to donate digitally in just a few clicks.
    • Users can choose the amount, preferred charity, and receive instant confirmation.
    • Mobile wallets (Vodafone Cash, Etisalat Cash, etc.) also integrate with these platforms.

    2. Mobile Payment & Banking Apps

    • Banks such as CIB, Banque Misr, and National Bank of Egypt (NBE) offer direct Zakat donation options through their apps.
    • Mobile payment services like Fawry, Aman, and InstaPay enable easy transfers to registered NGOs.

    3. Traditional Methods (Mosques & Charity Centers)

    • Many Egyptians prefer to donate in-person at mosques or through local charity organizations.
    • Cash donations to local Islamic centers and food distribution hubs are also widely accepted.

    Zakat Al-Fitr’s Impact in Egypt

    Last year, Egypt saw record-breaking Zakat Al-Fitr contributions, with platforms like Megakheir.com processing over 25 million EGP in donations. These funds went directly to providing food, clothing, and Eid celebrations for underprivileged families.

    How It Helps:

    • Ensures no one goes hungry during Eid.
    • Supports families with essential needs.
    • Strengthens community bonds and solidarity.

    Final Reminder: Pay Before Eid Prayer

    To ensure your Zakat Al-Fitr is valid, remember to donate before Eid prayer. Whether online, through mobile banking, or in person, fulfilling this obligation on time helps maximize its impact.

    For digital donations, visit trusted platforms like Megakheir.com, Egypt Food Bank, or Resala to complete your contribution easily and securely.

    This year, let’s make Zakat Al-Fitr more impactful than ever, ensuring that every family in Egypt can celebrate Eid with dignity and joy.

  • URL Shorteners: Top Providers Compared

    URL Shorteners: Top Providers Compared

    In today’s fast-paced digital landscape optimizing your online presence is more important than ever. One effective strategy is using URL shorteners. URL Shortener transforms long, unwieldy URLs into concise, manageable links, enhancing user experience and providing valuable analytics.

    Whether you’re a business owner, marketer, or casual user, leveraging a powerful URL shortener can significantly boost your digital strategy.

    What is a URL Shortener?

    A URL shortener is a tool that converts lengthy URLs into shorter, more shareable links while preserving the original destination. These services are widely used in digital marketing, social media, and SEO optimization to improve user engagement, track link performance, and enhance branding efforts.

    Why Use a URL Shortener?

    • SEO Benefits: Shortened URLs can improve link trust and click-through rates, which are crucial for SEO success.
    • Improved Aesthetics: Clean, concise links appear more professional and are easier to share.
    • Enhanced Engagement: Simplified links lead to higher user interaction and better engagement on social media platforms.
    • Tracking & Analytics: Gain insights into clicks, user locations, and devices, allowing for data-driven decisions.
    • Customization: Branded URLs increase brand recognition and credibility, making them ideal for marketing campaigns.

    Top URL Shortener Services in 2025

    1. Bitly (Best for Businesses and Analytics)
      • Website: Bitly.com
      • Key Features: SEO-friendly branded URLs, advanced analytics, bulk link shortening, and integration with Google Analytics and social platforms.
      • Pros: Robust analytics, customization options, and strong security features.
      • Cons: Limited free plan, expensive paid plans.
    2. TinyURL (Best for Quick, No-Signup Usage)
      • Website: TinyURL.com
      • Key Features: No signup required, custom short URL keywords, permanent short links.
      • Pros: Free, simple to use, no link expiration.
      • Cons: No analytics or tracking, lacks bulk shortening options.
    3. Short.io (Best All-in-One Solution)
      • Website: Short.io
      • Key Features: Google Analytics and Facebook Pixel integration, built-in SEO-friendly analytics, bulk link import, link cloaking, and broken link detection.
      • Pros: Comprehensive SEO and branding features, strong analytics, cost-effective.
      • Cons: Some advanced features require a paid plan.
    4. Rebrandly (Best for Brand Customization)
      • Website: Rebrandly.com
      • Key Features: Branded short links with custom domains, UTM tagging, social media pixel tracking, API access, and advanced analytics.
      • Pros: SEO-friendly link management, enhances brand authority, excellent tracking tools.
      • Cons: Expensive, advanced features locked behind premium plans.
    5. eg.gd (Best Free Alternative to Rebrandly)
      • Website: eg.gd
      • Key Features: Free URL shortening with custom domain support, basic analytics, and no premium restrictions.
      • Pros: Completely free, feature-rich.
      • Cons: Less established, potential scalability issues.

    SEO Benefits of Using a URL Shortener

    • Boost Click-Through Rates (CTR): Short, branded links appear more trustworthy, driving higher clicks.
    • Enhance Social Media Engagement: Platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn favor clean, trackable links.
    • Better Tracking & Attribution: Detailed analytics provide insights into traffic sources.
    • Improve Branding: Custom short links establish authority and increase recall value.
    • Optimize for Search Engines: Keyword-rich short links can improve SEO rankings.

    By understanding and utilizing URL shorteners, you can significantly enhance your digital strategy, whether you’re focusing on SEO, branding, or simply improving user experience.

  • Talabat buys InstaShop from Delivery Hero for $32M in a major grocery push

    Talabat buys InstaShop from Delivery Hero for $32M in a major grocery push

    Talabat is doubling down on grocery delivery. The UAE-based delivery giant has acquired InstaShop, a Dubai-born on-demand grocery platform, from its German parent company, Delivery Hero, for $32 million. The deal, first announced in September, was fully funded through Talabat’s internal cash reserves, the company confirmed on Thursday.

    Talabat’s InstaShop Deal: What’s Behind the Deal?

    With this acquisition, Talabat’s grocery and retail market value for 2024 has shot past $2.5 billion. The company has already started integrating InstaShop’s platform to optimize operations and enhance its tech stack.

    For context, Delivery Hero originally snapped up InstaShop in 2020 for a whopping $360 million, hoping to cement its presence in MENA’s fast-growing grocery delivery market.

    “As part of Delivery Hero’s corporate restructuring in September 2024, ahead of Talabat’s IPO, the agreed $32 million sale price of InstaShop reflects its capital amount rather than its fair market value,” Talabat noted in a statement.

    Will InstaShop Stay Independent? Despite the acquisition, InstaShop will continue to operate as an independent brand under Talabat’s grocery and retail division. This keeps vendors on both platforms plugged into a broader audience, creating new cross-listing opportunities.

    In 2024, InstaShop reported $631 million in gross market value—up 16% year-over-year—underscoring its staying power in the grocery delivery space.

    Where Does This Put Talabat in the Market?

    Talabat already dominates the UAE’s quick-commerce industry, where instant grocery delivery is becoming the norm. The InstaShop buyout further fortifies its position against rivals like London-based Deliveroo and Dubai-born Careem, both of which have been doubling down on multi-category delivery services, from food to pharmacy essentials.

    Founded in Kuwait in 2004, Talabat moved its headquarters to the UAE in 2012. It now operates in eight countries, including Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Egypt, Oman, Jordan, and Iraq. The platform serves over six million customers through a network of 65,000 partner vendors and 119,000+ riders.

    Talabat’s IPO and Its Blockbuster Financials Talabat made headlines in December 2024 when it launched a $2 billion IPO on the Dubai Financial Market, making it the biggest public listing in the Gulf that year. The stock offering saw massive investor demand, with double-digit oversubscription.

    Since going public, the company has posted impressive growth numbers. In Q4 2024, net profit surged 54% year-on-year to $138 million, while revenue climbed 32% to $801 million. Full-year earnings reflected the momentum, with net profit jumping 64% to $346 million and revenue hitting $2.9 billion, a 32% year-on-year increase. Adjusted EBITDA also climbed 55% to $497 million.

    InstaShop’s Next Chapter with Talabat The InstaShop acquisition gives the brand a chance to “tap into Talabat’s vast network and operational muscle,” said Nikola Cabarkapa, CEO of InstaShop.

    “With Talabat’s backing, we can amplify our impact and unlock even more opportunities for customers and partners,” he added.

    The deal marks another major bet on quick-commerce dominance, cementing Talabat and InstaShop’s role in shaping the future of online grocery delivery in the UAE and beyond.

     

  • The Zeigarnik Effect: How Unfinished Business Fuels Modern Customer Engagement

    The Zeigarnik Effect: How Unfinished Business Fuels Modern Customer Engagement

    In the bustling cafés of 1920s Vienna, Soviet psychologist Bluma Zeigarnik made a fascinating observation: waiters could remember complex, unpaid orders with remarkable accuracy, yet once the bills were settled, these details quickly faded from their minds. This observation led to the discovery of what we now know as the Zeigarnik Effect – a cognitive bias that explains why unfinished tasks dominate our memory and attention more than completed ones.

    Understanding the Zeigarnik Effect

    At its core, the Zeigarnik Effect states that people remember uncompleted or interrupted tasks better than completed ones. This psychological principle creates a cognitive tension that persists until the task reaches closure. It’s the same mechanism that explains why cliffhangers in TV shows are so effective, or why you might find yourself thinking about that one unfinished project more than all your completed ones combined.

    The Science Behind the Effect

    Research has shown that when we leave tasks unfinished, our brain creates a “task tension” – a state of psychological discomfort that maintains the information in our working memory. This tension serves as a mental placeholder, keeping the unfinished business at the forefront of our consciousness until we can return to it and complete it.

    Strategic Applications in Modern Marketing

    1. Product Launch Campaigns
    Modern brands have mastered the art of the prolonged product launch. Take Apple’s iconic product releases: weeks before each launch, they release carefully crafted teasers, creating an information gap that consumers desperately want to fill. This strategic use of the Zeigarnik Effect builds anticipation and ensures their target audience remains engaged throughout the entire launch cycle.

    2. Content Marketing and Storytelling
    The most effective content strategies don’t just deliver information – they create narrative loops that keep audiences coming back for more. Consider how:

    – Newsletter sequences tease upcoming content
    – Blog series build upon previous installations
    – Social media stories develop over multiple posts
    – Podcast episodes end with previews of next week’s content

    3. E-commerce and User Experience
    Leading e-commerce platforms leverage this effect through:

    – Progress bars in checkout processes
    – Wishlists and saved items
    – Abandoned cart reminders
    – Loyalty programs with visible milestones

    4. Social Media Marketing
    Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have built their entire ecosystems around the Zeigarnik Effect. Stories that connect across multiple posts, carousel posts that require swiping, and series-based content all capitalize on our need for completion.

    Implementation Best Practices

    1. Create Strategic Gaps
    The key is to create intentional information gaps that your audience wants to fill. However, these gaps should be:
    – Meaningful enough to create interest
    – Not so large that they create frustration
    – Clearly leading to an eventual resolution

    2. Maintain Balance
    While the Zeigarnik Effect is powerful, it’s crucial to strike the right balance:
    – Too many open loops can overwhelm customers
    – Too few might fail to maintain engagement
    – Each incomplete sequence should have a clear path to resolution

    3. Provide Value at Every Step
    Even in incomplete sequences, each interaction should:
    – Deliver standalone value
    – Build anticipation for what’s next
    – Maintain quality and relevance

    Real-World Success Stories

    Netflix’s Autoplay Feature
    Netflix’s automatic episode progression isn’t just convenient – it’s psychologically strategic. By starting the next episode before viewers have fully processed the end of the current one, they create an open loop that viewers feel compelled to close.

    LinkedIn’s Profile Completion Bar
    LinkedIn masterfully uses the Zeigarnik Effect through their profile completion percentage indicator. Users naturally want to achieve 100% completion, driving them to add more information and engage more deeply with the platform.

    Common Pitfalls to Avoid

    1. Don’t create artificial suspense without substance
    2. Avoid leaving too many loops open simultaneously
    3. Never sacrifice user experience for psychological manipulation
    4. Ensure each “incomplete” stage provides value

    The Future of Zeigarnik in Digital Marketing

    As marketing continues to evolve, we’re seeing new applications of the Zeigarnik Effect in:

    • Virtual and augmented reality experiences
    • AI-driven personalized content sequences
    • Interactive advertising campaigns
    • Cross-platform narrative marketing

    Over to You

    How are you using psychological principles in your marketing strategy? Have you noticed the Zeigarnik Effect at work in your campaigns? Share your experiences in the comments below or tag us in your social posts about creative marketing psychology applications.

  • Google’s E-E-A-T Principle Explained for SEO Success

    Google’s E-E-A-T Principle Explained for SEO Success

    In the ever-evolving world of digital marketing, staying ahead of the curve is paramount. One essential factor that often flies under the radar is Google’s E-A-T principle, which stands for Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness. This principle, now upgraded to E-E-A-T to include Experience, plays a pivotal role in enhancing website credibility and user experience.

    In this article, we’ll delve into how understanding and implementing E-E-A-T can significantly influence your search engine rankings.

    Unearthing the Essence of Google’s E-E-A-T Principle

    E-E-A-T is an acronym that encapsulates the qualities Google values when assessing the quality of online content. While it might not be explicitly mentioned in Google’s 200 known ranking factors, it holds undeniable significance in the eyes of quality raters and SEO professionals alike.

    Expertise: Mastering Your Domain

    Expertise is the cornerstone of E-E-A-T. It revolves around showcasing your in-depth knowledge and proficiency in your niche. To demonstrate your expertise effectively, consider these strategies:

    1. Comprehensive Subject Mastery: Your content should reflect a deep understanding of your subject matter, leaving no room for ambiguity.
    2. Credentials and Qualifications: Display relevant qualifications and credentials to bolster your credibility.
    3. Proven Track Record: Highlight your past accomplishments and successes, as they can instill trust in your audience.
    4. Research and Data: Stay updated with the latest research and trends in your field and back your content with accurate data.
    5. Niche Specialization: Focus on a specific niche to establish yourself as an expert in that area.
    6. Active Contribution: Contribute to your field by publishing content, and research papers, speaking at relevant events, or joining professional organizations.

    Experience: Real-World Application Matters

    Experience complements expertise by emphasizing practical, real-world application. To convey your experience effectively, consider these tactics:

    1. Practical Application: Apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios and showcase your problem-solving skills.
    2. Case Studies: Present real-world examples and results to illustrate your expertise in action.
    3. Success Stories: Share stories of achievements or satisfied clients to instill confidence in your abilities.
    4. Portfolio Display: For creative fields, such as design, art, or writing, showcase your previous work to demonstrate your experience.
    5. Knowledge Demonstration: Stay updated with industry best practices, trends, and new developments, and share your insights through blog posts, articles, or speaking engagements.
    6. Customer Testimonials: Positive testimonials from satisfied customers provide social proof of your expertise.

    Authoritativeness: Building a Trustworthy Reputation

    Authoritativeness centers on establishing your website as a reliable source of information within your niche. To enhance your authoritativeness, consider the following strategies:

    1. Backlinks and Citations: Earn backlinks from authoritative websites in your industry, a strong signal of your website’s trustworthiness.
    2. Awards and Recognition: Credible recognition, such as awards and certifications, contributes to your reputation.
    3. Thought Leadership: Demonstrate authority through original research or innovative ideas, and engage in industry discussions.
    4. Collaboration with Experts: Collaborate with recognized experts in your field through co-authored articles or speaking engagements.
    5. Strong Social Media Presence: Engage with your audience on social media platforms to establish yourself as an authoritative figure.
    6. Consistent, Relevant Content: Create high-quality content consistently to build credibility with users and search engines.

    Trustworthiness: The Bedrock of Credibility

    Trustworthiness is the final piece of the E-E-A-T puzzle, focusing on the credibility of your website’s information. To foster trustworthiness, adhere to these guidelines:

    1. Transparency: Be transparent about your brand, contact details, business operations, and the purpose of your content.
    2. Provide Accurate Information: Ensure your content is factually correct and up-to-date, and avoid misleading practices.
    3. Ethical Practices: Follow ethical guidelines, respect user privacy, handle sensitive data responsibly, and comply with relevant laws.
    4. User Experience and Security: Create a positive user experience and prioritize website security with HTTPS connections.
    5. Customer Testimonials and Reviews: Genuine testimonials from satisfied customers bolster your website’s trustworthiness.
    6. Customer Support: Offer prompt and helpful customer support to engage with your audience effectively.
    7. Disclosure of Affiliations: Clearly disclose any affiliations or sponsorships that might impact your content.

    While Google’s Quality Rater Guidelines may not explicitly mention E-E-A-T, adhering to these principles can significantly improve your website’s credibility and user experience. Remember, achieving higher SERP rankings requires a holistic approach, and understanding and implementing E-E-A-T is a valuable piece of the puzzle.

    If you need expert guidance, consider enlisting the support of professional SEO services to help you navigate this ever-changing landscape.

  • Top 7 Fintech Startups Revolutionizing Saudi Arabia’s Financial Landscape

    Top 7 Fintech Startups Revolutionizing Saudi Arabia’s Financial Landscape

    The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has rapidly emerged as a hub for fintech innovation in recent years, fueled by the country’s ambitious Vision 2030 plan and a supportive regulatory environment. As a result, numerous startups have burst onto the scene, leveraging cutting-edge technology to disrupt the financial services sector. In this article, we explore the top 7 fintech startups in Saudi Arabia that are reshaping the industry.

    Note: The order in which the fintech startups were listed doesn’t necessarily indicate a ranking from best to worst. Rather, the list aims to provide an overview of some of the most innovative and impactful fintech startups operating in Saudi Arabia, covering a diverse range of financial services and technologies. Each startup has its own unique strengths and focuses, catering to different segments of the market and offering various solutions. The order should be seen as a way to organize and present the information rather than a definitive ranking.

    1. Tamara

    Pioneering the buy now, pay later (BNPL) model in the Kingdom, Tamara enables customers to spread their purchases over interest-free installments. This innovative payment solution is helping to boost e-commerce and improve affordability for consumers.

    2. Geidea

    A leading payment technology provider, Geidea offers point-of-sale (POS) solutions, mobile payments, and e-commerce gateways. Their advanced infrastructure is accelerating the adoption of cashless payments throughout the country.

    3. Lendo

    Lendo is an innovative platform that connects borrowers with lenders, offering a digital alternative to traditional bank loans. By leveraging advanced algorithms and data-driven decision-making, Lendo is able to assess creditworthiness quickly and accurately, allowing users to access loans with competitive interest rates. The platform is also committed to promoting financial literacy, enabling borrowers to make informed decisions about their financial future.

    4. PayTabs

    PayTabs enables businesses to accept online payments through a suite of payment processing solutions. Their focus on security and fraud prevention has made them a trusted partner for merchants in the Kingdom.

    5. OneCard

    OneCard offers a unified digital card for various payment methods, including credit, debit, and prepaid cards. Their platform simplifies online transactions and allows users to manage their finances with ease.

    6. Raqamyah

    As one of the first peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platforms in the Kingdom, Raqamyah connects investors with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking financing. Their digital lending marketplace is fostering economic growth and empowering entrepreneurs.

    7. Manafa Capital

    MANAFA is an investment marketplace for businesses regulated by the Saudi Capital Market Authority.

  • 10 Sensational FIFA World Cup Songs of All Time

    10 Sensational FIFA World Cup Songs of All Time

    FIFA has tried to develop the spirit over the last 60 years, aiming to spread more fun and happiness around every four years tournament, to take down the negative stress and turn it into excitement and enjoyable time. Here comes the idea of songs to spread excitement, fun, love, and high spirit.

    In France 1998, FIFA has been able to achieve that objective; who can forget The Cup of Life song by Ricky Martin? It’s one of the most popular songs in World Cup history. All ages remember Ricky Martin’s song and the energetic voice singing Go, Go, Go, Aller, Aller, Aller.

    “We Are the Champions” by Queen – 1994

    The Cup of Life by Ricky Martin – 1998

    After the stunning Maria song in 1997, FIFA found potential in Ricky Marine because of his energetic voice, strong body language, high spirit, and charisma on stage; also, being from Porto Rico gives the impression of a Latin football fan. Ricky was lucky to perform his kick-start song LIVE in the World Cup group’s draw party night in front of billions worldwide. I remember that night when Ricky Martin’s song was playing. It was the most exciting night ever. We were jumping in front of the TV, dancing on fire, full of excitement and enjoyment. Thanks, Ricky Martin.

    After the amazing success of The Cup of Life by Ricky Martin in 1998, the challenge was doubled for the next tournament in 2002; who could come up with something better than Ricky Martin? Unfortunately, FIFA picked Anastasia, she wasn’t lucky with her BOOM song in South Korea & Japan’s final in 2002. “Sorry, we won’t embed it because it’s so boring :).”

    Bamboo by Shakira – 2006

    At last, someone stole to glory title from Ricky Martin. The amazing Shakira performed in the final one of her songs Bamboo with her fabulous billy dancing to rock the Stadium and the world in one of the best final ceremonies in the history of the FIFA World Cup.

    Waka Waka by Shakira – 2010

    That year, and after her tremendous success in 2006, Shakira decided to come up with a dedicated song to Africa’s first world cup. It was the most booming and popular song in World Cup history, even more than Ricky Martin’s The Cup of Life in 1998.

    Wavin’ Flag by K’naan – 2010

    Vida by Ricky Martin – 2014

    After 16 years, Ricky Martin is BACK! To perform another world cup song.

    We Are One by Pitbull feat. Jennifer Lopez & Claudia Leitte – 2014

    The Coca-Cola Song – International Version – 2018

    Arabic Version by Cheb Khaled & Nancy Ajram – 2018

    Live it up – Nicky Jam feat. Will Smith – 2018

    Hayya Hayya (Better Together) | FIFA World Cup 2022™

    Hope we’ve been able to draw a smile on your face and remind you of those glory days. Enjoy the World Cup in Qatar 2022.

  • OZZ Launches World’s First Smart, Secure Digital Contact Wallet

    OZZ Launches World’s First Smart, Secure Digital Contact Wallet

    No more business cards! Use OZZ!

    OZZ Technologies has launched the world’s first ultra-secure digital contact wallet – OZZ. A contactless digital wallet to save, curate, and share a comprehensive and password-protected repository of contact and identification information,

    “OZZ revolutionizes the way we, as a digitally-first society, connect amidst the coronavirus pandemic,”​ said Ahmed Wasfie, founder and CEO of OZZ Technologies.

    “Contactless interactions are an integral part of the new normal, together with mounting consumer expectations with regards to speed, security, and privacy,” he explained. “OZZ is a simple, secure, and seamless way to share information during an interaction.”

    OZZ inspired by Dubai Paperless Strategy

    “We were inspired by the Dubai Paperless Strategy championed by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum; it motivated us to create a contactless solution with a global appeal from right here in Dubai.” Said Ahmed Wasfie, founder and CEO of OZZ.

    Conceived as a B2B product last year, Wasfie sought to expand the OZZ value proposition’s convenience and security to individual users.

    “OZZ is your new business card, and ID stash rolled into one,” explains Wasfie. Besides saving essential contact information, OZZ allows users to store profiles from more than 50 different channels spanning social media platforms – such as Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok, and Twitter – to communication applications – such as FaceTime, Skype, WeChat, and Whatsapp – to music applications, online professional portfolio links and much more. User information is encrypted using Amazon Web Services (AWS).

    OZZ generates significant savings of up to 70% on the ubiquitous annual business card spend for enterprise clients, benefiting both the bottom line and the environment.

    As a white-label offering, OZZ offers enterprise clients custom-design options enabling increased brand awareness. Moreover, B2B customers can also avail of enterprise-level dashboards that allow designated personnel to track the volume and type of contact exchanges conducted by employees in essential revenue-generating functions, such as sales and business development.

    Manufactured in line with global best-in-class production standards, OZZ is scratch proof,​ waterproof and shockproof. Some of its innovative features include:

    State-of-the-art OZZSure ​Security Factor – Users can save contact and identification information and documents, each with many layers of password-protection and the option to hide selected files before sharing.

    Authentication and Verification – OZZ users can save essential identification documents (driver’s license, passport, Emirates ID) in a single and navigable location on their smartphones, and in a verified format.

    “O​ ZZ uses machine learning and artificial intelligence ​to ensure that any personal ID uploaded is an original and user-linked document,” said Wasfie.

    Emergency Contact Sharing – OZZ allows users to input detailed information for an emergency contact – including name, phone number, and location – which can be retrieved by a simple tap on the user’s phone in an emergency.

    OZZ is headquartered in Dubai, UAE. The startup is on a mission to revolutionize contactless sharing by building advanced contactless digital wallets for consumers and enterprises that enable the simple, seamless, and secure storage, management, and exchange of contact and identification information.

    A mechanical engineer by education, Wasfie is a serial entrepreneur; he previously founded the BackPack app in 2009 and the creative digital agency and software house – AWStreams – in 2010. OZZ Technologies is his third venture.

    “Until now, we lacked a convenient and completely secure way to share information with approved parties in a manner that eliminates all forms of paperwork. We see the headwinds of a contactless era, and this is the behavioral shift that will make OZZ a valuable, everyday tool for people all over the world,” said Wasfie.

    You can download the OZZ app for free with selected features, full functionality only available to purchasers of the OZZ tag.

    Users can choose between six different language settings, including Arabic, Chinese, English, Dutch, Russian, and Spanish, more language options offered in the coming weeks.

    OZZ tags product is sold in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.​