Markets mea Q1 2026 Featuring: Kansai Plascon Uganda: Best Paints & Coatings Brand 2025 – East Africa Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre: Best Entertainment Venue & Facility 2025 – Bahrain
News Celebrating the brilliance across the Middle East and Africa, from 2025 and 2026 so far, this issue is dedicated to showcasing the accolade-worthy businesses and individuals, in addition to a selection of news updates from across the vibrant region. We’re delighted to unveil the Q1 issue as we admire the influential growth of the Middle East and Africa. Have an excellent quarter ahead and we look forward to seeing you again soon. Welcome to the Q1 2026 issue of MEA Markets magazine. As always, we are dedicated to providing our readers with all the latest news and features from across the Middle East and Africa. AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility.
News Contents 4. News - HelpMeSee Launches New Simulation-based Training Center in Ghana to Advance Cataract Surgery Education in West Africa - Gabon and South Africa deepen mining ties through new geoscience collaboration agreement 6. Rejected for Nine Months and Why Patience Built a Business That Lasted 7. Global Cybersecurity Skills Gap: Breaches, Costs and Talent Shortages 8. Kansai Plascon Uganda: Best Paints & Coatings Brand 2025 – East Africa 10. Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre: Best Entertainment Venue & Facility 2025 – Bahrain 12. AE Energy: Most Client Focused Energy Provider 2025 – Gauteng 13. Gamma Engineering FZ LLC: Best Media Equipment Rental House 2025 - Middle East 8. 12.
News HelpMeSee Launches New Simulation-based Training Center in Ghana to Advance Cataract Surgery Education in West Africa HelpMeSee, the global not-for-profit dedicated to ending cataract blindness and visual impairment, announces the opening of a new training center at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, Ghana. This milestone marks another critical expansion in the effort to eliminate preventable blindness from cataracts across Africa. Equipped with the high-fidelity HelpMeSee Eye Surgery Simulator, the Accra training center is designed to address urgent needs in ophthalmic surgical education by providing Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS) training to both residents and practicing surgeons within Ghana and neighboring West African nations. A fully trained MSICS cataract surgeon can perform up to 30,000 surgeries in their career. “This center represents more than a training facility, it’s a catalyst for transformation in surgical education,” said Dr. Nicoletta Fynn-Thompson, HelpMeSee Chief Medical Officer. “Our simulationbased training approach not only enhances surgical skills but also boosts patient safety and outcomes across the region.” The Ghana training center serves as: • A national training hub to improve the competency of Ghana’s ophthalmology workforce. • A regional center of excellence for West Africa, promoting cross-border training collaborations. • A model for the successful integration of simulation-based training into ophthalmic residency programs on the African continent. “Delivering high-quality eye care equipment to partners helps us fulfill our mission to cure avoidable blindness,” says K-T Overbey, CEO of Cure Blindness Project about the NGO’s role in the recent shipment of ophthalmic instruments to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Ghana. “These partnerships allow patients to receive life-changing, sight-restoring care.” The growing network of HelpMeSee Simulationbased Training Centers underscores its mission to combat the global cataract blindness crisis by empowering the next generation of skilled cataract surgeons. The Accra Center is the latest step toward a future where quality eye care is accessible to all— regardless of geography.
News Gabon and South Africa deepen mining ties through new geoscience collaboration agreement Gabon has taken a significant step toward strengthening its mining sector by signing a new collaboration agreement between the Ministry of Mines and Geological Resources of Gabon (www.Mines.Gouv.ga) and South Africa’s Council for Geoscience. The partnership is designed to enhance geological research, build technical capacity, and accelerate the sustainable development of Gabon’s mineral resources. The agreement reflects Gabon’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and unlock the full commercial potential of its mining industry. While the country is widely known for its oil production, it also possesses significant untapped deposits of iron ore, manganese, gold, and other strategic minerals. By collaborating with one of Africa’s leading geoscience institutions, Gabon aims to modernize its geological knowledge base and strengthen the institutional foundations of its mining sector. At the core of the agreement is a commitment to conduct comprehensive geological assessments across Gabon to identify new potential. The Council for Geoscience will work alongside Gabonese experts to review existing geological data, carry out new surveys where necessary, and develop updated resource maps. These efforts are expected to provide a clearer picture of Gabon’s mineral endowment and help the government design more effective strategies for resource commercialization. The agreement was signed in Cape Town by Mr Alain Manzanza, Director General of Geology in the Ministry of Mines of Gabon and Mr Mosa Mabuza, CEO of the Council of geoscience South Africa under the watchful eyes of HE Sosthene Nguema Nguema, minister of Mines and Geological Resources of Gabon and HE Rod Rembendambya Gabon’s ambassador to South Africa. Another key pillar of the partnership is capacity building. The agreement includes provisions for training programs, technical exchanges, and joint research initiatives aimed at developing the skills of Gabonese mining professionals. Through workshops, internships, and collaborative projects, Gabonese geologists and engineers will gain exposure to advanced exploration techniques and international best practices in mineral resource management. Minister Nguema Nguema emphasized that the partnership is not limited to technical cooperation. It is also intended to strengthen economic ties between Gabon and South Africa by encouraging South African mining companies to explore investment opportunities in Gabon. By improving geological transparency and regulatory capacity, the agreement is expected to make Gabon a more attractive destination for foreign investment in the mining sector. Environmental and technological standards form another important dimension of the collaboration. Both parties have committed to sharing knowledge on modern mining technologies and evolving environmental regulations. This includes promoting responsible mining practices, improving environmental monitoring, and integrating sustainability considerations into project planning. Such measures are increasingly important as global investors place greater emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. The agreement also aligns with regional efforts to promote intra-African cooperation in the extractive industries. By leveraging South Africa’s long-standing experience in mining and geoscience, Gabon is positioning itself to benefit from African expertise while contributing to the continent’s collective development. The partnership demonstrates how African countries can collaborate to build stronger institutions and more competitive resource sectors. According to Minister Nguema Nguema, “this is as a timely initiative in line with the directives of our head of State, President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema who has pledged to increase the contribution of the mining sector to the national economy. Ultimately, we will have to work in collaboration with advanced mining economies like south Africa to achieve this.” Global demand for minerals is rising, driven in part by the energy transition and the growing need for materials used in renewable technologies and infrastructure. With improved geological data and stronger technical capacity, Gabon is better placed to participate in these emerging markets and capture greater value from its natural resources. In the coming months, joint working groups from both institutions are expected to outline a detailed implementation roadmap. Early priorities will likely include data integration, training schedules, and the identification of priority regions for geological surveys. As the partnership moves from agreement to action, it has the potential to play a transformative role in shaping the future of Gabon’s mining industry. By combining expertise, technology, and institutional support, the Gabon - South Africa collaboration marks an important milestone in Gabon’s efforts to build a modern, transparent, and sustainable mining sector.
Feature By Eddy Massaad, Founder of Swiss Butter For the first nine months of building Swiss Butter, progress was slow in a way that is rarely spoken about. Conversations happened, interest was expressed, and then momentum faded. Support did not arrive when it was expected, and certainty was in short supply. In a region known for ambition and scale, it would have been easy to interpret that silence as a signal to move faster, change direction, or compromise the idea to make it more immediately appealing. Instead, those months became the most formative period of the business. Swiss Butter was never designed to be a fast story. It was built around restraint, consistency, and a belief that simplicity, when executed properly, travels better than complexity. In the early stages, that philosophy did not resonate with everyone. A tight menu, a singular experience, and a refusal to constantly reinvent felt counterintuitive in an industry that often celebrates excess as innovation. Rejection forced clarity. Without external pressure to expand prematurely, there was space to focus on what truly mattered. The quality of the experience. The way teams were trained. The standards that needed to be protected if the brand was going to move across borders without losing its identity. In many ways, not being rushed allowed the business to mature before it grew. In the Middle East, many of the most successful businesses are built with long-term ownership and reputation in mind. Patience is not seen as hesitation, but as strategy. Leaders focus on durability, consistency, and trust, thinking in decades rather than quarters. That way of building aligned naturally with how Swiss Butter was being shaped, even before expansion across the region became a reality. One of the most important lessons from that early period was understanding the difference between momentum and sustainability. Momentum can be created quickly, often through attention or novelty. Sustainability is slower. It requires systems, trust, and consistency. Customers may forgive experimentation, but they rarely forgive inconsistency. Teams may accept ambition, but they struggle under instability. Those months of limited progress allowed us to build systems before they were urgently needed. Training was approached as culture building rather than instruction. Leadership was distributed rather than concentrated. The goal was not to create a business that depended on one person being present at all times, but one that could operate with the same standards Rejected for Nine Months and Why Patience Built a Business That Lasted regardless of location or leadership layer. In the Middle East, where businesses often operate across multiple markets, cultures, and expectations, this kind of structure is not optional. Growth without clarity creates fragmentation. Brands that scale without shared values struggle to maintain trust. What travels well is not just a product, but a way of working. Being rejected repeatedly also forces a founder to confront uncertainty honestly. There is a fine line between being early and being wrong, and during that phase, the distinction is not clear. What helped was focusing less on external approval and more on internal signals. Customers returned consistently. Teams stayed engaged. The experience remained stable even as conditions changed. These were quiet confirmations that the foundation was sound. As the business began to expand across the Middle East, those early decisions became increasingly important. Regional growth brings complexity, but it also rewards discipline. By prioritising ownership, control, and long term alignment, we were able to expand without diluting what made the brand work in the first place. Growth was deliberate, not reactive. Opportunities were evaluated based on strategic fit rather than speed or scale alone. Sustainability, in this context, is not a slogan. It is the ability to operate consistently across time, markets, and economic cycles. It is about building something that can endure leadership transitions, market fluctuations, and shifts in consumer behaviour. That kind of resilience cannot be added later. It has to be designed into the business from the beginning. Today, Swiss Butter operates across multiple markets in the region and beyond, and is valued in the millions. That outcome is often framed as success arriving after struggle, but the reality is more subtle. The period of rejection did not delay the business. It shaped it. It created the discipline that later allowed growth to happen without chaos. For founders and business leaders in the Middle East who are navigating early resistance or slower than expected progress, rejection should not automatically be seen as failure. Often, it is an opportunity to strengthen foundations while the stakes are still manageable. Businesses built for longevity rarely look impressive in their earliest stages. They look careful. They look patient. They look focused. The valuation came later. The visibility followed. What mattered most was the willingness to build quietly, with restraint, and with a long term view. In regions where legacy matters as much as success, that approach is not only relevant. It is essential.
Feature Fortinet, the global cybersecurity leader driving the convergence of networking and security, released its 2025 Global Cybersecurity Skills Gap Report, shedding light on the new and persistent challenges organizations face due to the cybersecurity skills gap. The global survey’s key findings include: • As organizations are turning increasingly to AI to strengthen their security postures and fill gaps, they also acknowledge that AI may be used against them as an engine of new or improved cyberattacks, especially given the lack of AI skillsets across teams. • Lack of cybersecurity awareness and training remains the top cause of breaches. • Boards lack cyber knowledge, despite it being a priority. • Organizations want cybersecurity personnel with certifications. In Saudi Arabia, digital transformation under Vision 2030 has accelerated cloud adoption, e-government services, and smart city development, making AI-driven cybersecurity capabilities critical. The Kingdom’s National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) emphasizes local talent development. However, demand still far outpaces supply. “This year’s survey further underscores the urgent need to invest in cybersecurity talent,” said Carl Windsor, CISO at Fortinet. “Without closing the skills gap, organizations will continue to face rising breach rates and escalating costs. The findings highlight an inflection point for both public and private sectors: without bold action to build and retain cybersecurity expertise, the risks and costs will only continue to grow for our society.” “As Saudi Arabia accelerates its digital transformation under Vision 2030, cybersecurity has become a foundational pillar for national resilience and economic growth. The Fortinet Skills Gap Report confirms the on the ground observation that while AI is essential to enhancing cyber defense, the Kingdom must prioritize upskilling the cybersecurity workforce to fully realise its benefits. Strategic initiatives, such as the Saudi Cybersecurity Workforce Development Program and increased access to industry recognised certifications, are vital to building local capabilities. Public-private partnerships will be key to equipping local talent with the AI expertise needed to protect critical infrastructure, government services, and the broader digital economy.” said Sami Alshwairakh, Senior Regional Director Sales at Fortinet Report Links Cyber Skills Gap to Escalating Security and Financial Risks As cyberthreats continue to escalate, organizations face the reality that security attacks are not just a possibility but a certainty. At the same time, an estimated global shortfall of more than 4.7 million skilled professionals leads to critical security roles being unfilled at a time when they are needed most. Key findings about the impact of the skills gap on organizations globally include: • The volume of breaches organizations experience is increasing year over year. According to the 2025 Fortinet Global Skills Gap Report, 86% of organizations experienced at least one cyber breach in 2024, with nearly one-third (28%) reporting five or more. These figures mark a significant increase from 2021, when the inaugural Fortinet Global Skills Gap Report was released, in which 80% of organizations reported breaches, and only 19% faced five or more. • The cybersecurity skills shortage is a key contributor to increased breaches. More than 50% of those surveyed (54%) indicated a lack of IT security skills and training as one of the leading causes of breaches in their organizations. • Financial ramifications of breaches remain significant. More than half (52%) of surveyed organizations say cyber incidents cost them over $1 million in 2024, consistent with the prior year’s findings and sharply up from 38% in 2021. In the Kingdom, government and financial services sectors are high-value targets. Saudi organizations report a growing number of incidents, especially around identity fraud, phishing, and AI-driven attacks. Regulatory frameworks like the Essential Cybersecurity Controls (ECC) mandate stronger cyber resilience, but local talent development still struggles to keep pace. AI Could Ease Strain on Security Teams, but Lack of Expertise Is a Growing Risk While AI offers critical relief amid ongoing cyber skills shortages, organizations may not yet be fully prepared to harness its potential securely. This year’s survey found: • Security technology with AI capabilities has been widely adopted. An overwhelming 97% of organizations surveyed are either already using or plan to implement AI-enabled cybersecurity solutions, with threat detection and prevention cited as the top areas of interest for applying AI in cybersecurity. • AI can help alleviate the burden on short-staffed security teams. 87% of cybersecurity professionals expect AI to enhance their roles, rather than replace them, offering efficiency and relief amid skills shortages. • While AI can help security teams, teams lack AI skillsets to unlock the technology’s full potential. A majority of those surveyed (80%) say AI is helping their IT and security teams become more effective, but nearly half (48%) of IT decision makers point to a lack of staff with sufficient AI expertise as the biggest challenge to successful implementation. Seventy-six percent of organizations that suffered nine or more cyberattacks in 2024 had AI tools in place, suggesting that adoption alone isn’t enough without the right expertise. Saudi enterprises are early adopters of AI in cybersecurity, especially in government, oil & gas, and banking sectors. Yet, access to AI-specialized cybersecurity professionals remains limited, prompting initiatives like the Saudi Cybersecurity Workforce Development Program to address this gap. Global Cybersecurity Skills Gap: Breaches, Costs and Talent Shortages
MEA | Q1 2026 Best Paints & Coatings Brand 2025 – East Africa Inviting its customers to add a splash of colour to their worlds, Kansai Plascon Uganda offers a range of quality solutions to Africa’s coatings market, specifically decorative, professional, and automative products for use across retail and industrial settings alike. With more than 130 years of experience to its name, the brand is today the largest and most trusted paint manufacturing company in Uganda, serving tens of thousands of customers every year. Below, we take a closer look at a brand that now has its sights set on becoming the number one coatings company in Africa. A subsidiary of Kansai Plascon Proprietary Ltd., which is based in South Africa and is today Africa’s largest coatings company, as well as being a part of the Japanese giant Kansai Paint, itself one of the top coatings companies worldwide, Kansai Plascon Uganda has an esteemed heritage behind it. Officially launched in East Africa in 2016, the company consolidated its market presence by strategically acquiring local paint businesses, including Sadolin in August 2017. Today, the brand operates across Southern, East, and West Africa. In Uganda, it boasts a world-class manufacturing facility in Namanve, which has the capacity to make 200,000 litres of paint a day and encompasses a waste treatment plant and a team of around 600 permanent and contracted employees. It is from this location that it delivers its high-quality paint certified to international quality standards. A second and more specialist production plant on 2nd Street Industrial area that produces textured paint products and special colours which are equally pivotal across its full-service range. Taking a closer look at the products available from East Africa’s premier paints and coatings brand, its comprehensive range is designed to suit the requirements of any customer, whether they are decorating the interior of their home or want to paint their vehicle. Some of the best-selling items across the Plascon range include its Vinyl Silk and Anti-Mosquito paint for interior walls, Weather Guard for exterior walls, Super Gloss for everything from trims and windowsills to gutters, and nitrocellulose paint for vehicles. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to defining a range with more than 40 different product classes and a range of colours, with Kansai Plascon Uganda offering both budget and premium lines, as well as products for wood protection, paints for the roof and the floor, industrial paints, paints for road markings, aluminium paints, and even thinners and architectural finishes. Such expanse is one of the reasons why the company sold a staggering six million litres of its products last December alone, breaking a record. “From project work and home decoration to preservation of infrastructure and painting of vehicles, Plascon’s superior ranges of paint have become a mainstay in homes, showrooms, roads, and cityscapes all over the region.” Beyond its stellar product line-up, setting the company apart is Plascon’s 360 Partnership Pledge. This encompassing, fully tailored solution sees coatings specifications, application monitoring, and maintenance service coordination provided for property investment portfolios across the region. By being involved at every stage of a project, the team make sure the right coating system is chosen based on environment and condition. Final colour selection is also made easier through the provision of samples and renderings. More than simply being a valuable service in its own right, this provision reflects Kansai Plascon’s drive to solidify itself as the leading paint and coatings company in Africa, and with it already operating in 22 countries across the continent, it is clear the brand is steadfast in achieving this goal, one can of paint at a time. Of course, this is far from an easy task and with the company facing competitors from across the continent, it recognises the importance of empowering its staff, refining its products, and bolstering its reputation. Supporting Kansai Plascon Uganda as it cements this market position is the strong commitment it has to research and development, ensuring that its reputation for innovation – something Plascon has been building for well over a century – continues to be the driving factor behind its success. Its R&D capabilities are strengthened by the company working with its group partners in both Japan and South Africa, where new products and product formulations are developed, tested, and improved in a process indicative of Kansai Plascon’s rigour. The scale of this operation is considerable, with Kansai Paint’s R&D headquarters in Japan spanning five different research institutes and one research testing centre. This impressive scope means that approximately a third of all of its Japan-based employees are involved in research and development activities in some capacity across basic research, colour design, and application or coating development. Other influences from its network aiding this process only serve to strengthen its capabilities in fulfilling the needs of customers. As expected, this R&D is underpinned by the rigorous quality control that follows, with these being monitoring according to the universal standards of ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018. An equal emphasis is placed on ensuring that all of these products also exceed the local health and safety standards in Uganda, and all of the other countries where Kansai Plascon has specific divisions. The aim here is to continue leading the charge across the areas of environmental sustainability and industry leadership. An extension of this aim is the brand’s set of core values, with this comprising integrity, customer focus, accountability, respect, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Besides being the foundation of the trust it nurtures for its stakeholders, these values also highlight a commitment to its customers, staff, and local communities. Regarding this final area in particular, Kansai Plascon Uganda carries out a range of community projects, including partnering with Uganda Cup where it sponsors both the tournament and Vipers FC, Badminton Uganda, Uganda Tennis Association, Mongers Rugby Club, and more local clubs. However, this pales in comparison to some of its more recent drives, the highlight of which has seen it support life-saving heart surgeries for 100 children in India. Alongside this, the nature of the brand means that it donates a lot of paint to worthy causes across the country, and these past few months have seen the team donate to causes such as Noah’s Ark Home, a children’s home that cares for more than 100 children with disabilities, Jinja Police Station which was in need of a refresh, Cancer Palliative Care Centre,
9 Best Paints & Coatings Brand 2025 – East Africa Makerere University Department of Architecture, Buddo Junior School, and more institutions. Kansai Plascon also believes in cultural heritage and preservation. It has demonstrated this by supporting Buganda and Tooro Kingdoms through paint donations to refurbish and revitalize kingdom buildings, as well as supporting other key activities such as The Masaza and Amasaza football tournaments. This allows Plascon to have impact at grassroot level. Individually, these elements demonstrate a solid paint brand that cares about the communities in which it operates. Combined, they make up Kansai Plascon Uganda, the country’s leading paints and coatings provider and a company more than deserving of the title of Best Paints & Coatings Brand 2025 – East Africa. On the back of this win, its second consecutive one in this programme, the brand pledges to embody similar excellence in 2026, nurturing its fastgrowing operation by leaning on the strength of its products and its staff. More on the full range of paints and coatings on offer from Kansai Plascon Uganda can be found by visiting its website, the link to which is down below. For further details on any of the initiatives above, or about the brand more generally, follow its LinkedIn. Contact: Daniel Adrian Company: Kansai Plascon Uganda Web Address: https://plascon.africa/ uganda/
MEA | Q1 2026 Bahrain is known for its beauty, vibrant surroundings, and its positioning as a standout tourist spot for entertainment and exploration. Here we dive deeper into the Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre’s offerings as its concerts, architecture, community, and events have helped it to win its prestigious award in our MEA Business Awards 2025. eaning ‘two seas’, Bahrain is an incredible location surrounded by sparkling waters and, as a top spot of adventure, it is a vision to behold. With so much to do and experience, its environment is the perfect place for the visit of a lifetime. For incredible memory-making, Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre is the best place to enjoy entertainment events both indoors and outdoors in the hot climate of the Sakhir desert. Carved from rock, the Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre is a sight to behold. Its natural beauty combined with architectural brilliance draws people to it, and its events are truly the cherry on top of this marvellous experience. The Kingdom of Bahrain benefits from Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre’s offerings as it supports the location’s economic growth. The beautifully crafted entertainment hub continues to be a leading and essential destination for a variety of indoor and outdoor, international events supported by its event spaces which form magical experiences amongst both artists and guests alike. Approximately 15 metres into the ground of the Sakhir desert, Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre is an expertly crafted amphitheatre of impressive and thoughtful design which draws many to its presence. People gravitate to its inspiring design and outstanding events which house 10,000 guests at a time. Created in just under two years, the amphitheatre’s architects started their monumental project in December of 2018 and finished in June of 2020. Utilising 140,000m3 of concrete after the 250,000m3 excavation of naturally formed rock, these 3.02 million hours of work resulted in the exciting beginning of Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre’s life. The architectural and design team behind this creation have supported artists, guests, and the local economy with their work, and 2020 was just the beginning of Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre’s longstanding partnerships with its visitors. With sustainability at its heart, Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre was designed and constructed to consume the lowest amount of energy Best Entertainment Venue & Facility 2025 – Bahrain M possible, with recycled materials used throughout its formation. The amphitheatre prioritises raw materials such as concrete and recycled rubber flooring; recycled corporate boxes from shipping containers; rock quarried from the site into its key features from design to construction; recycled and re-appropriated materials used in bathrooms and the Quarry Lounge; and LED lighting throughout the destination. The amphitheatre uses materials and technologies that were specifically chosen to complement the landscape-focused design theme. Furthermore, the rock’s acoustic qualities allow sound to disperse cleanly and predictably from the stage, giving a distinct, highly-quality sound which is perfect for both the audience and the performing artists for every concert and event. Building more than a venue, its creators have formed a community with a long-term vision to support and promote home-grown, local talent in addition to hosting extravagant international concerts featuring charttopping artists and private events of Bahrain that shouldn’t be missed. “Built on a long-standing cultural tradition of music appreciation, we believe entertainment has the power to bring people together, help us connect with one another and bring joy and vibrancy to a community. Look out for exciting and upcoming community events, as well as fun volunteering opportunities.” Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre’s mission in centred around being a premier destination for live entertainment in its region, and MEA Markets is pleased to recognise its dedication to its vision. The team behind Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre’s success share the same goals of creating an iconic venue that is home to world-class performances, fosters cultural exchange, and enhances Bahrain’s status as a hot spot for entertainment and unmissable experiences. Key features of Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre include The Plaza, The Theatre, The Walkway, The Desert Garden, The Rooftop View, and The Quarry. The Plaza is a dazzling outdoor space located at the venue’s entrance. It has been expertly designed to enhance our experience of the venue and offers pre-show entertainment, food and beverage vendors, brand activations, and social engagement amongst the community that Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre nurtures. From DJs to instrumentalists, to themed mobs and a general atmosphere of sophisticated and exciting live entertainment, The Plaza offers the perfect opportunity for creating memorable experiences through captivating energy and adventurous anticipation. The Theatre itself is a distinctive and unique open-air setting where every visitor can enjoy panoramic views of the current event. With a 10,000 person capacity, this theatre houses many while staying comfortable. The venue unites natural surroundings with incredible contemporary architectural qualities to ensure only the best experience is had throughout each visit. The Walkway is open all year round to provide the community with a scenic 10-minute path from Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) General Parking to the Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre. Visitors from around the world can enjoy a stroll with the view of the gorgeous surroundings, and they can also stop within The Walkway Garden to enjoy food and drink vendors, merchandise, restrooms, and a relaxation area with a warm and comforting atmosphere. Perfect for general fitness, casual walks, and refreshing visits to calm the body and mind, The Walkway is more than a path, it is an all-year-round hotspot for Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre’s guests and the local community to enjoy. The Desert Garden is a sophisticated and customisable outdoor area for a serene escape for gatherings, events, networking, celebrations of special occasions, and music under the glittering stars. The garden has a capacity of 1,750 and is a hub for those in search of beauty and glamour. The Rooftop View is situated atop the main office building of the venue and it presents the chance to experience breathtaking views A Destination to Move You
11 Best Entertainment Venue & Facility 2025 – Bahrain of the BIC and its desert landscape. The Rooftop View was originally introduced for the F1 2024 race weekend but the exclusive vantage point not only provided an unrivalled experience of high-speed F1 action but it is now a leading venue set to host many private events, corporate gatherings, and celebrations that will leave everyone in awe. No matter what guests are looking for in an event, The Rooftop View is a key offering for a community of people looking for pure luxury across their events and occasions. The Quarry is an upscale lounge and restaurant for extended, lavish experiences of entertainment after a show or during a corporate event. This lounge is a nightly event which transforms into an exclusive, private balcony for top experiences during performances. From the hospitality balcony on the left to the Quarry Lounge on the right, the exclusive spaces on offer are perfect for anyone to enjoy the view. With accessible ramps, staircases, and elevators, anyone can experience the intricate and unmissable performances within the amphitheatre. The balconies can accommodate up to 95 standing guests with a total capacity of 190 as it spans 269.5 square metres for top-quality viewing. Also offering the chance to host corporate events, Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre is a delightful and superior venue for events that are perfectly suitable for meetings, conferences, and network gatherings. It boasts features such as the best quality AV systems, high-speed WiFi, and customisable seating for any corporate gathering. Atop all of this, the venue can provide premium catering, professional hospitality services, and the utmost privacy for productivity and engagement for our teams. From small to large scale corporate events, Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre is a supreme choice for functions both big and intimately small, and the venue is ready to offer this at any time. The highly dedicated team of executives have been part of the venue’s success all along, and we celebrate their commitment to delivering only the best experiences for their community of visitors, including performers and their local people who visit for a peaceful or exciting time – depending on what they’re searching for. There are so many artists and performers who have and will take the stage at Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre. From André Rieu to Bruno Mars; Metallica; Eminem; Ed Sheeran; Calvin Harris; Guns N’ Roses; Maroon 5; OneRepublic; Post Malone; 50 Cent; acclaimed comedians such as Michael McIntyre, Kevin Hart, and Bill Burr, and an incredible selection more, Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre delivers something for everyone to enjoy. It is no wonder the amphitheatre has become an award-winning entity in the entertainment sphere. Fostering an environment of vibrant entertainment culture and delivering best-in-class productions for engaged audiences, flocking from around the world, Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre is the very beating heart of the entertainment industry in Bahrain, and will be for generations to come. Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre is proud to bring dreams to life for guests and artists visiting its homeland, and we’re delighted to recognise the amphitheatre, and its dedicated team, with a title of Best Entertainment Venue & Facility 2025 – Bahrain in our MEA Business Awards this year. Long may its events light up people’s lives and uphold a community of people who enjoy coming together to be part of something truly incredible. You can get in touch and learn more via the amphitheatre’s website any time, so you don’t miss out on the experience of a lifetime – whether you’re looking for corporate events or entertainment that can’t be forgotten. Company: Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre Email: [email protected] Telephone: +97317454444 Website: https://www.beyonaldana.com.bh/
MEA | Q1 2026 12 Most Client Focused Energy Provider 2025 – Gauteng The energy landscape in Africa for 2026 is shifting towards natural gasses and renewable energy sources. This is absolutely crucial for the region’s advancements in the sector, as energy storage and reliable energy are some of the core pillars to success for a better future ahead. Here we explore AE Energy’s contribution to this incredible growth across the innovative continent. “Powering Africa to a Greener Future” Customising its services to the needs of its individual and unique clients, AE Energy prioritises its strategies to ensure every part of its clients’ requirements and operations are uninterrupted and successful every time. Since its establishment in 2017, AE Energy has been improving the lives of the majority of South Africans through providing services which were known as luxury services. However, AE Energy makes excellent energy services available for everyone who wishes to turn their energy problems into opportunities. Co-Owned by husband and wife duo, MJ Hlanze and HN Hlanze, AE Energy is a seasoned, deeply experienced energy company that is truly committed to its mission. Mr Hlanze is the operations offices, project manager, and mechanical technician who worked with the SANDF for over 13 years, working in diverse positions. Mrs Hlanze is an experienced electrical engineer who leads as a solar project engineer for DPA, and she’s also a former Lieutenant of the South Africa Navy. Together, they take their mission to a higher level than most. “We are committed to reducing your electricity bill by switching to greener and sustainable energy sources.” Providing services for liquid petroleum gas: stoves/hobs, geysers, space heating, and fireplaces, in addition to solar geysers: conversion, new installations, repairs, and heat pumps, AE Energy covers a lot of ground. Furthermore, as Eskom falls short of energy demands, this award-worthy company is making waves for its clients who are stressed and anxious about energy. As AE Energy alters the sphere, reduces stress and energy bills, and helps people to contribute to a greener future, the company is set to have a monumental impact on its surroundings. “Let us help you to live free with a secured and green energy supply.” Incredible strides, excellent customer service and, most importantly, the support of the environment for us and the generations to come. This summarises AE Energy’s offerings perfectly, and we were proud to name the company in our recent MEA Business Awards. We’re sure that the company will continue to positively impact the industry, its clients, and the planet all at one time, through its unwavering dedication and care. You can reach out to AE Energy here. Contact: Manqoba Hlanze Company: AE Energy Website: https://aeenergy.co.za/
MEA | Q1 2026 13 Gamma Engineering is the Middle East’s largest equipment rental house – with four main branches: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia, and Lebanon. No matter how large or small the film project may be, Gamma Engineering has you completely covered with its expert crew, 24/7 support, and a wide range of high-quality and professional equipment. We learn more about Gamma Engineering below. Gamma Engineering is always prepared and ready to take on any film project with its team of highly skilled team, groundbreaking equipment, and experienced attitude towards every step of its clients’ production journey. Bolstered by its core values of integrity, respect, honesty, experience, and accountability, Gamma Engineering has built a fine reputation for outstanding service as it stays true to its clients’ values in addition to its own. Powered by its team’s specialism in the world of film production, the film equipment rental house continues to respect each project at hand while offering a hands-off experience when needed. Its equipment is provided by a structure of dedicated team members who each know exactly how to instruct and follow up for support in all the right ways, and they continue to set the standards incredibly high for the industry around them. With a network of deep connections with its clients, Gamma Engineering is able to learn from each opportunity while delivering everything needed to loyal, returning customers as well as new customers in need of the most expert equipment and sturdy support for a team of individuals that think like a community within the world of film production. Having worked with production houses, production servicing companies, TV, Government, and content creators of all kinds, Gamma Engineering is truly thriving in such a sought-after and competitive area. Previously awarded with Best Film Equipment Rental Company – Middle East in 2022 and Best Media Equipment Rental Company 2024, Gamma Engineering has swiftly become a multi-award-winning business – especially as it was also named Best Film Equipment Rental House 2025 in our UAE Business Awards and Best Media Equipment Rental House 2025 – Middle East in our MEA Business Awards. Throughout even the most tumultuous times for the industry, and our communities, Gamma Engineering has put its best foot forward to achieve high quality results for its clients. Its valued services, equipment, and support has always been a guiding light for its team as they prioritise creating the most comprehensive, full-service solutions for crafting films of many kinds. We’re delighted to present Gamma Engineering with its esteemed accolades in our awards programmes and we continue to wish the company all the best as it continues to contribute to the film industry, one happy client at a time. Contact: Andrew Al Kadamani Company: Gamma Engineering FZ LLC Website: https://gamma-engineering.com/ Best Media Equipment Rental House 2025 - Middle East
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