Paytech Founder & Ex-MD Of Crypto.com, Stuart Isdted Joins Portl Board

With over three decades of experience in financial services and fintech, Stuart Isted is a proven Managing Director known for his exceptional leadership in driving business growth and strategic initiatives across the Middle East and Africa. Stuart has a deep understanding of regulatory compliance, risk management, and financial oversight, particularly in the crypto exchange and payments industries.

 

Stuart has held prominent leadership positions at global companies, including Crypto.com, Visa, First Data | Western Union, Network International, and Euronet Worldwide.

 

His extensive experience includes successfully developing innovative business strategies, managing portfolios with annual revenues exceeding $300 million, and consistently exceeding growth targets.

 

As the Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa at Crypto.com, Stuart was instrumental in securing the first Full Exchange License and Operating Permit from the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), ensuring regulatory compliance and operational excellence. His strategic insights and operational oversight have made a significant impact on the global expansion of the crypto exchange market.

 

Stuart’s career is marked by a relentless focus on technology innovation, particularly in the payment’s ecosystem. He has played a pivotal role in launching innovative fintech platforms, integrating cutting-edge payment technologies, and fostering strong partnerships with key industry stakeholders, including regulators, banks, and fintech companies.

Mandarin Oriental Residences: A New Benchmark for Luxury Living in Abu Dhabi’s Cultural Epicenter

Aldar Properties, the UAE’s premier real estate developer, has unveiled a groundbreaking addition to Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District: the Mandarin Oriental Residences. This exclusive development marks the debut of Mandarin Oriental’s legendary service in a residential setting in the capital. Sales for these ultra-luxurious homes, designed by the renowned Bjarke Ingels Group, are set to begin on November 21, 2024.

Luxury Redefined in Saadiyat Cultural District

Comprising 226 meticulously crafted residences, the project offers a rare blend of cultural richness and unparalleled elegance. With sweeping views of the iconic Zayed National Museum and its surrounding fountains, residents are immersed in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s premier cultural hub. Proximity to world-class attractions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, and the Natural History Museum makes this development a coveted address for discerning buyers.

Timeless Design and Thoughtful Craftsmanship

The interiors, designed by Lillian Wu Studio, epitomize understated luxury with a focus on natural materials and earthy tones. From grand chandeliers and natural marble to floor-to-ceiling windows, every detail is curated to create a warm, light-filled environment. Open-plan layouts seamlessly connect living spaces to designer kitchens, while master suites offer spa-like bathrooms and private terraces, serving as tranquil retreats within the bustling city.

The residences blend organic curves with contemporary materials, featuring wooden elements for warmth and metal accents for a sleek, modern edge. This harmonious design creates an ambiance of sophistication and serenity.

World-Class Amenities by Mandarin Oriental

Mandarin Oriental’s signature service elevates the living experience. Residents can enjoy holistic wellness treatments at The Spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a beauty bar. The development also includes a private dining room, a chic residents’ lounge, and recreational spaces like a game room and theatre.

For culinary indulgence, the Mandarin Oriental Cake Shop offers exquisite cakes, pralines, and gourmet pastries. A serene library provides the perfect setting for quiet reflection, while the proximity to Mamsha Beach ensures a balanced lifestyle of leisure and culture.

A Visionary Collaboration

Jonathan Emery, CEO of Aldar Development, emphasized the project’s unique appeal:
“Mandarin Oriental Residences, Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi combines the finest in luxury living with direct access to Abu Dhabi’s most iconic cultural landmarks. It’s an unparalleled offering for Aldar customers locally and internationally who seek both a prestigious address and proximity to the cultural heart of Abu Dhabi.”

Laurent Kleitman, Group CEO of Mandarin Oriental, added:
“This development harmonizes the refined elegance and legendary service of Mandarin Oriental with a vibrant cultural environment that is uniquely Abu Dhabi. Together with Aldar, we are creating a residence that offers not only a prestigious address but also a gateway to the cultural richness that defines this extraordinary district.”

Saadiyat Island: Where Culture and Elegance Converge

Saadiyat Island is celebrated for its seamless blend of culture, nature, and hospitality. The pristine beaches, vibrant dining scene, and prestigious cultural venues make it one of the UAE’s most sought-after destinations. Residents of Mandarin Oriental Residences will enjoy easy access to 60,000 square meters of luxury shopping, entertainment, and dining at Saadiyat Grove, along with 3,500 square meters of fine dining along the Zayed National Museum promenade.

A New Chapter in Luxury Living

Mandarin Oriental Residences in Saadiyat Cultural District promises to redefine the standards of elegance and exclusivity in Abu Dhabi. With its unmatched combination of luxury, culture, and world-class service, the development sets a new benchmark for sophisticated living in the UAE’s capital.

Sharjah Hits Record $1.2 Billion in Real Estate Transactions for October

The Sharjah real estate sector has witnessed unprecedented growth, with October 2024 marking the most active month of the year. A report by the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department revealed that transactions reached AED 4.4 billion ($1.2 billion), spanning 14 million square feet across 4,883 deals. This milestone underscores the emirate’s rising prominence in the UAE’s real estate landscape.

Diverse Transactions Highlight Market Strength

Sales transactions made up 29% of total activity, amounting to 1,415 deals, while mortgage transactions accounted for AED 1.3 billion, representing 9.1%. Other transactions dominated the figures, contributing 61.9% to the total, showcasing Sharjah’s diverse and dynamic property market.

Government Initiatives Drive Demand

Sharjah’s growth in real estate is underpinned by investor-friendly policies, including freehold laws that attract foreign investors and support a variety of residential, commercial, and industrial projects. The government’s commitment to creating an attractive investment environment continues to fuel interest from local and international buyers.

Land Deals Dominate Activity

Land transactions emerged as a key growth driver, with 693 deals for various types of plots, including residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural properties. Built-in land accounted for 272 transactions, while 450 units were sold in high-rise towers. Notably, the Al Mamzar area recorded the largest single land deal, valued at AED 62 million, while the highest mortgage deal was on vacant land, worth AED 386 million.

Top Performing Areas

The Muwailih Commercial area led sales activity, registering 257 transactions, followed by Al-Khan (106), Muzeirah (92), and Tilal (81). In the central region, Al Qasimia City recorded the most sales, with 193 transactions valued at AED 133.6 million. Khorfakkan and Kalba also saw steady activity, with Hay Al-Zubara and Al-Tarif leading transactions in these areas.

A Record-Breaking Year So Far

Sharjah’s real estate market has experienced a 47% surge in transaction volume in 2024 compared to the previous year. Over the first nine months, AED 28 billion in deals were completed, involving 69,078 transactions—a 16.5% increase. Investors from 114 nationalities contributed to this growth, highlighting the emirate’s appeal on a global scale.

Investment Diversity

UAE nationals remain the largest contributors, investing AED 13.7 billion across 22,908 properties. Non-Emirati GCC citizens, Arab nationals, and other foreign investors also played significant roles, with combined investments exceeding AED 14.3 billion.

Sharjah’s Bright Future

As Sharjah continues to balance tradition and modernity, its real estate sector remains a cornerstone of economic growth. With robust government support, a surge in foreign investments, and strategic development projects, the emirate is poised for sustained success in the years to come.

Sharjah’s real estate boom reflects not only the emirate’s appeal but also its strategic vision to create a thriving, inclusive economy for residents and investors alike.