Emkan named ‘fastest growing digital microfinance company’ in KSA

The GBO Awards recognize and reward excellence in businesses around the world.
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Updated 31 May 2021
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Emkan named ‘fastest growing digital microfinance company’ in KSA

Emkan, an omnichannel fintech brand delivering digital financing solutions to Saudi nationals seeking microfinancing assistance through personal and consumer loans, has been named the “fastest growing digital microfinance company” in Saudi Arabia at the Global Business Outlook (GBO) Awards 2021. 

The GBO Awards extend to the private and public sector, recognizing the work of businesses across performance, innovation and drive to create industry value.

Saud bin Ghonem, CEO and board member at Emkan, said: “We are honored to be the recipient of this prestigious award and to be recognized for our operations that have remained strong and steadfast throughout the pandemic. We have also strengthened our processes by building trust and long-term relationships with customers. Our transparency and security in every step of the customers’ journey and connecting with trustworthy institutions has also been a vital part of our growth and development as a company.

“With critical themes such as personal instant finance services and end-to-end digital experience driving the financial industry forward in the upcoming period, we will continue sharing innovative ideas and practices. We plan to further expand and enhance our service portfolio in the coming period. Some offerings that will be added include installment finance, auto finance, SMEs finance and credit card issuance.” 

GBO Awards seeks to recognize and reward excellence in businesses around the world. The awards are designed to facilitate the outstanding work of businesses and business leaders across industries including banking, finance, real estate, telecom and aviation among others.

Launched in 2020, the Saudi-based Emkan provides innovative financial solutions that fit the needs of all segments of society working in the government or private sectors. The company operates under the authority and supervision of Saudi Central Bank and provides financial solutions compatible with the Islamic law, through easy and seamless mechanisms.


Dubai Shopping Festival’s sporting events turn city into hub for outdoor action

Updated 31 December 2025
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Dubai Shopping Festival’s sporting events turn city into hub for outdoor action

The Dubai Shopping Festival is raising the bar this winter with a high-impact sporting calendar that runs throughout December and January, transforming the city into a hub for elite competition, community fitness and outdoor action. 

From professional basketball to baseball games, polo tournaments, half marathons, and horse racing, the festival brings together athletes, families and spectators for a dynamic winter season of sport. The diverse lineup of events strengthens DSF’s role in supporting Dubai’s active lifestyle, showcasing world-class sporting venues and encouraging community engagement during the city’s peak outdoor season. 

Key sporting events taking place during DSF: 

Dubai Racing Carnival 

  • Race days: Jan. 2, Jan. 9 and ongoing dates until March 13. 
  • Location: Meydan Racecourse 

The flagship winter racing season features international horses and top jockeys. 

More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnivaland https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnival-festive-friday 

Silver Cup 

  • Date: Jan. 10-Jan.24 
  • Location: Al-Habtoor Polo Resort and Club 

Silver Cup, part of Dubai’s prestigious polo calendar, sees six of the world’s best teams go head-to-head in a 20-goal handicap. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/silver-cup 

Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge — Build-Up Ride 4 

  • Date: Jan. 4 
  • Location: Al-Qudra Cycle Track 

The last of the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge Build-Up Rides is designed to help cyclists build their stamina ahead of the ultimate challenge. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/spinneys-dubai-92-cycle-challenge-build-up-ride-4 

Hood to Coast Dubai 2026 

  • Date: Jan. 10 
  • Location: Al-Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve 

Hood to Coast Dubai challenges teams to conquer a series of relay segments through expansive desert trails, with each runner taking on their leg before passing the baton. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/hood-to-coast 

Skechers Performance Run — Race 4 (16k/10k/5k/3k) 

  • Date: Jan. 10 
  • Location: Meydan 

Enjoy a fun day out for the whole family at this popular community race offering various distances, where participants can run along the traffic-free roads of Meydan. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/skechers-performance-run 

Marina Home Dubai Creek Striders Half Marathon 2026 

  • Date: Jan. 11 
  • Location: Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club 

One of the largest races of its kind in the UAE and the Middle East, this half marathon will mark its 23rd edition in 2026. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-creek-striders-half-marathon 

A citywide sporting season 

With events spanning elite international fixtures, community runs, polo tournaments, multi-distance races, trail challenges and recurring racing nights at Meydan, DSF strengthens Dubai’s winter season for sport, well-being and outdoor experiences.