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- Thaura Rejects Israeli Investment; €4.4bn Global Media Powerhouse; UAE's Food Security amid Iran War
Thaura Rejects Israeli Investment; €4.4bn Global Media Powerhouse; UAE's Food Security amid Iran War
Thursday, March 5, 2026
Happy and Safe Thursday everyone!
Ethical AI startup Thaura publicly rejected an unsolicited approach from an Israeli-based firm, reinforcing its mission-driven stance. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi-backed RedBird IMI is joining forces with Banijay Group to create one of the world’s largest TV production and content libraries in a €4.4bn deal. And as geopolitical tensions persist, UAE officials continue to stress strong food security reserves and diversified supply chains to safeguard market stability.
In the wake of developments in the region, we hope everyone stays safe. At this critical moment, it is essential to remain united and follow guidance issued by official authorities from your country.
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Ethical AI Startup by Syrian Brother, Thaura, Publicly Rejects Acquisition Offer From Israeli-Based Rounds
What Is It About?
Privacy-focused AI startup Thaura has publicly rejected an unsolicited acquisition offer from Rounds, sharing screenshots of outreach emails and raising concerns over link-masking and phishing indicators. The founders said the offer fundamentally conflicts with their mission and values.
Why it Matters?
Founded by Syrian refugee brothers Hani and Said Chihabi, Thaura positions itself as an ethical alternative to Big Tech and operates within the Tech4Palestine incubator. The public refusal underscores how geopolitics, cybersecurity concerns, and corporate ethics are increasingly shaping AI sector dealmaking.
What’s Next?
Thaura remains bootstrapped and says it will continue scaling independently, avoiding equity investment to protect its mission. Rounds has not publicly responded, and it remains unclear whether further contact between the companies will take place.
Abu Dhabi-backed RedBird IMI And Banijay To Create Global TV Powerhouse In €4.4bn Deal
What Is It About?
Abu Dhabi-backed RedBird IMI and Banijay Group will combine All3Media and Banijay Entertainment in a 50-50 joint venture operating under the Banijay name. The merged group would generate over €4.4bn in annual revenue and control one of the world’s largest TV content libraries.
Why It Matters?
The deal significantly expands Abu Dhabi’s global media footprint, strengthening its push into premium intellectual property and entertainment. The combined company will own major franchises such as Big Brother and Black Mirror, enhancing scale and bargaining power with global streaming platforms.
What’s Next?
The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to close by autumn 2026. The group targets €50m in annual cost synergies within 12 months, with Marco Bassetti as CEO and Jeff Zucker as chairman of the combined entity.
UAE Affirms Strategic Food Reserves And Market Stability Amid Global Uncertainty
What Is It About?
UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri said food security is a “red line,” confirming the country holds four to six months of strategic reserves of basic goods and maintains strict price monitoring to ensure stable market supply.
Why It Matters?
The reassurance comes amid regional and global uncertainty, signaling that the UAE has contingency plans, diversified import partners, and distributed storage facilities to prevent shortages, stabilize prices, and protect consumer rights during crises or supply chain disruptions.
What’s Next?
Authorities will continue importing goods according to pre-set schedules, monitor markets for fluctuations, and activate alternative sourcing strategies if needed, reinforcing readiness and ensuring uninterrupted availability of essential commodities nationwide.
👨💻From Smashi Business’ Desk
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🦄 World of Startups
Stake Raises $31M Series B Led by Emirates NBD, Total Funding Hits $58M
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Singapore's Ascentium continues its aggressive expansion, acquiring UAE legaltech pioneer Clara in a strategic Middle East play
Abu Dhabi is quietly becoming one of the most influential financiers of the global AI race, with its latest participation in Anthropic’s massive $30B funding round
Safqah Capital has just closed one of Saudi Arabia’s largest-ever seed rounds, raising $15.2 million in a deal that was four times oversubscribed
🔍In other news…
Gas prices soar as QatarEnergy halts LNG production after Iran attacks
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Abu Dhabi confirms drone debris fall in industrial area and Mussafah
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🗓️ Plan Your Events (March-April 2026)
UAE
31 March - 2 April (Tuesday-Thursday): Arab Media Summit, Dubai.
26-28 March (Thursday-Saturday): Social Capital Conference, Dubai.
7-9 April (Tuesday-Thursday): Future Health Summit, Adnec Center Abu Dhabi.
13-15 April (Monday-Wednesday): AIM Congress, Dubai World Trade Center.
14-16 April: (Tuesday-Thursday): the International Property Show, Dubai World Trade Center.
Saudi Arabia
13-16 April (Monday-Thursday): Leap Tech Conference, Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Center - Malham.
20-22 April (Monday-Wednesday): Sports Investment Forum (SIF), Riyadh
Egypt
30 March – 1 April (Monday-Wednesday): Egypt International Energy Conference and Exhibition (EGYPES).
