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- Shahid x Disney+ x OSN+; Citadel in Dubai; Oman+India=Trade Pact
Shahid x Disney+ x OSN+; Citadel in Dubai; Oman+India=Trade Pact
Saturday, December 20, 2025
Happy Saturday everyone!
The Middle East is cementing its position as a global business hub across multiple fronts. Ken Griffin's $72 billion Citadel is opening a Dubai office next year, validating the emirate's emergence as a hedge fund destination alongside rivals like Brevan Howard and Millennium. India and Oman signed a landmark trade agreement eliminating tariffs on 98% of goods, strengthening New Delhi's regional economic ties amid US tariff pressures. Meanwhile, Shahid, Disney+ and OSN+ launched the GCC's first unified streaming bundle, combining three platforms under one subscription.
But before that: For quick daily updates, follow us on Instagram, and you can watch our Smashi Business Show live every weekday from 10AM onwards (UAE time). Also, you can join our Whatsapp channel to receive updates from the business world.
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Shahid, Disney+ And OSN+ Launch Region's First Unified Streaming Bundle
What’s it About?
Shahid, Disney+ and OSN+ launched the GCC's first unified streaming bundle, combining all three platforms under one subscription exclusively through Shahid. Available from December 18, subscribers access Disney's global catalogue, OSN+'s HBO content, and Shahid's Arabic originals through three apps with unified billing.
Why it Matters?
The bundle offers three services for the price of two, addressing consumer demand for seamless access and value in the region's competitive streaming market. It merges Hollywood blockbusters, premium HBO programming and Arabic content into one package, simplifying entertainment choices for the GCC's young, fast-growing digital audience.
What’s Next?
This partnership sets a new benchmark for Middle East streaming, potentially pressuring competitors to create similar bundled offerings. The collaboration signals streaming platforms are prioritizing regional partnerships over standalone competition, with focus shifting toward delivering comprehensive entertainment ecosystems rather than fragmented services.
India, Oman Ink Trade Pact As New Delhi Expands Mideast Presence
What’s it About?
India and Oman signed a free trade agreement eliminating tariffs on over 98% of goods, including gems, textiles, pharmaceuticals and automobiles. Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the signing, with the deal easing market access and allowing 100% foreign investment for Indian firms in Oman's services sectors.
Why it Matters?
Facing Washington's 50% tariffs, India is aggressively diversifying trade partners beyond the US. The Oman pact strengthens India's Middle East footprint alongside existing UAE ties, while securing energy supplies through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, Asia's crucial oil transit route.
What’s Next?
India is accelerating FTA negotiations with the EU, Gulf Cooperation Council nations, New Zealand, Chile and Peru. While two-way India-Oman trade totals just $10.6 billion, the deal positions Oman as India's strategic gateway to Gulf, African and West Asian markets.
Ken Griffin's $72 billion Citadel Plans Dubai Office In Boost For City's Hedge Fund Hopes
What’s it About?
Ken Griffin's $72 billion Citadel is opening a Dubai office in 2025, joining the UAE's expanding hedge fund ecosystem. The firm's Fixed Income and Macro team will lead the establishment, extending Citadel's global footprint to 18 cities and enhancing round-the-clock trading capabilities.
Why it Matters?
Citadel's arrival validates Dubai's emergence as a legitimate hedge fund hub, joining Brevan Howard and Millennium Management. The UAE's zero personal income tax, strategic timezone, and growing talent pool have attracted over 100 hedge funds to Dubai, fundamentally reshaping the global investment landscape.
What’s Next?
With Citadel now committed, D.E. Shaw remains the major holdout after withdrawing in 2009. The influx of talent and capital suggests both Dubai and Abu Dhabi will continue aggressively competing to attract more firms, potentially establishing the Gulf as finance's next major center.
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