THE HOT STORY

AI threatens ‘jobs with dignity', Nobel-winning economist says

Simon Johnson, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor who shared the 2024 Nobel Prize in economics, has warned that AI could erode middle-class jobs and widen inequality unless policymakers start tackling the issue now. Johnson tells Bloomberg that while technical transformations create jobs, the current trajectory suggests a net loss of "jobs with dignity", and while alternative paths are possible, they are not guaranteed. He believes that governments need to be prepared and that institutions should be created to manage the impact of the technology.

Blooomberg

Luxembourg Times

EBOOK

Fix onboarding bottlenecks with automation and AI

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REMOTE WORKING

Dubai launches 'Work from Park' initiative

Dubai has launched the "Work from Park" initiative in a bid to transform public parks into tech-enabled workspaces. The first location will open in May 2026 at Al Barsha Pond Park, and will feature modular workspaces designed for sustainability. The initiative aims to support entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small businesses while enhancing community engagement. Bader Anwahi, chief executive of the Public Facilities Agency, said: "This initiative reflects our commitment to transforming public parks into future-ready urban spaces."

Zawya EN

Gulfnews.com

LEGAL

New Saudization targets for marketing and sales roles

Saudi Arabia has implemented new Saudization measures, raising localization rates in marketing and sales professions to 60%. The change follows the end of a grace period for private sector companies employing three or more workers in these roles. A minimum monthly salary of SR5,500 ($1,466) is now required for Saudi employees to count towards these rates. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has provided guidelines for compliance and implementation.

Arab News

DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION

Push to double jobs quota for disabled people in Bahrain

Bahrain's Shura Council is set to debate a proposal to double the mandatory employment quota for people with disabilities from 2% to 4% in large establishments. A National Audit Office report has revealed that 1,407 eligible establishments were not complying with the existing requirement.

Gdn Online

INTERNATIONAL

Kenya risks loss of $40mn monthly Gulf remittances

The World Bank's latest Economic Update Report on Africa warns that Kenya could lose up to $40m monthly in remittances due to the ongoing Middle East crisis. The conflict threatens vital income sources for many African nations, particularly in East Africa, where remittances account for nearly 20% of GDP in some countries. The report highlights that rising fuel prices and declining migrant earnings are straining households. "Many households remain vulnerable to shocks," the bank said, noting that poverty rates could rise significantly if the crisis continues.

Zawya EN

Orders surge for India's instant home-help services

Reuters reports on how Indian start-ups Pronto and Snabbit and listed rival Urban Company are training thousands of domestic helpers. They are seeking to lure busy professionals in cities such as New Delhi and Mumbai with under 99 rupee ($1) offerings. The potential annual earnings from working eight hours a day can be as high as $5,000. India's per capita income is around $3,000. Soumya Chauhan of Dutch e-commerce investor Prosus, which has a stake in Urban Company, says worker safety is key. "The platforms that successfully crack the safety protocols will earn the deepest consumer loyalty and the most sustainable market returns," she said.

Emirates24

Reuters

Novo Nordisk partners with OpenAI to expedite drug development

Novo Nordisk is partnering with OpenAI to deploy artificial intelligence across its business. The partnership will aid the identification of promising drug candidates and improve efficiency in ⁠manufacturing, supply chains, distribution and corporate operations. The Danish firm, the maker of Wegovy and Ozempic, said OpenAI will also help train its global workforce, increase AI literacy and boost productivity across departments. "The aim here is not replacing our scientists. It's about supercharging them," Novo Nordisk chief executive Mike Doustdar said.

Reuters

IRS proposes excise tax on remittances

The IRS has proposed new regulations for a 1% excise tax on remittance transfers from the US to foreign countries, set to take effect for transactions initiated after January 1, 2025. This tax could impact US citizens, green card holders, visa holders, and non-resident aliens sending money abroad. The White House Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs is actively involved in the rule-making process, indicating heightened regulatory scrutiny on international money transfers.

Bloomberg Tax

OTHER

Qatar's retail sector unites for resilience

Qatar's retail sector is focusing on resilience through collaboration and consumer trust amid regional uncertainty. Mohamed El-Sharkawy, associate director of malls leasing at Doha Festival City, emphasised the importance of open dialogue among businesses to navigate challenges. He said: "Resilience comes from adaptability, collaboration and a strong customer-centric approach." Malls are evolving into community hubs, fostering social interaction and a sense of normality. El-Sharkawy noted that confidence in the market relies on trust and alignment among stakeholders, highlighting the need for collective efforts to maintain stability and continuity in the community.

Gulf Times

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