Latest from Biz Bahrain
Biz Bahrain
9 hours ago
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
Gulf Air resumes scheduled flights to the Jordanian Capital Amman and to Baghdad and Najaf in the Republic of Iraq
Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, announced the resumption of its scheduled flights to and from the cities of Amman in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and Baghdad and Najaf in the Republic of Iraq, starting from Saturday 28 June 2025. The airline added that the rest of its flights to destinations across its network are operating according to schedule. Gulf Air extends its sincere gratitude to its valued customers for their patience and understanding, as the exceptional recent regional developments affected some of its flights. The airline reaffirmed that the safety and well-being of passengers and crew is a top priority for Gulf Air. Passengers can stay updated on flight schedules by downloading the Gulf Air mobile application or visiting Gulf Air's website
Biz Bahrain
9 hours ago
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
Kaspersky: ChatGPT-Mimicking Cyberthreats Surge 115% in Early 2025, SMBs Increasingly Targeted
In 2025, nearly 8,500 users from small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) faced cyberattacks where malicious or unwanted software was disguised as popular online productivity tools, Kaspersky reports. Based on the unique malicious and unwanted files observed, the most common lures included Zoom and Microsoft Office, with newer AI-based services like ChatGPT and DeepSeek being increasingly exploited by attackers. Kaspersky has released threat analysis and mitigation strategies to help SMBs respond. Kaspersky analysts explored how frequently malicious and unwanted software are disguised as legitimate applications commonly used by SMBs, using a sample of 12 online productivity apps. In total, Kaspersky observed more than 4,000 unique malicious and unwanted files disguised as popular apps in 2025. With the growing popularity of AI services, cybercriminals are increasingly disguising malware as AI tools. The number of cyberthreats mimicking ChatGPT increased by 115% in the first four months of 2025 compared to the same period last year, reaching 177 unique malicious and unwanted files. Another popular AI tool, DeepSeek, accounted for 83 files. This large language model launched in 2025 immediately appeared on the list of impersonated tools. 'Interestingly, threat actors are rather picky in choosing an AI tool as bait. For example, no malicious files mimicking Perplexity were observed. The likelihood that an attacker will use a tool as a disguise for malware or other types of unwanted software directly depends on the service's popularity and hype around it. The more publicity and conversation there is around a tool, the more likely a user will come across a fake package on the internet. To be on the safe side, SMB employees – as well as regular users – should exercise caution when looking for software on the internet or coming across too-good-to-be-true subscription deals. Always check the correct spelling of the website and links in suspicious emails. In many cases these links may turn out to be phishing or a link that downloads malicious or potentially unwanted software', says Vasily Kolesnikov, security expert at Kaspersky. Another cybercriminal tactic to look for in 2025 is the growing use of collaboration platform brands to trick users into downloading or launching malware. The number of malicious and unwanted software files disguised as Zoom increased by nearly 13% in 2025, reaching 1,652, while such names as 'Microsoft Teams' and 'Google Drive' saw increases of 100% and 12%, respectively, with 206 and 132 cases. This pattern likely reflects the normalization of remote work and geographically distributed teams, which has made these platforms integral to business operations across industries. Among the analyzed sample, the highest number of files mimicked Zoom, accounting for nearly 41% of all unique files detected. Microsoft Office applications remained frequent targets for impersonation: Outlook and PowerPoint each accounted for 16%, Excel for nearly 12%, while Word and Teams made up 9% and 5%, respectively. Share of unique files with names mimicking the popular legitimate applications in 2024 and 2025 The top threats targeting small and medium businesses in 2025 included downloaders, trojans and adware. Phishing and Spam Apart from malware threats, Kaspersky continues to observe a wide range of phishing and scam schemes targeting SMBs. Attackers aim to steal login credentials for various services — from delivery platforms to banking systems — or manipulate victims into sending them money through deceptive tactics. One example is a phishing attempt targeting Google Accounts. Attackers promise potential victims to increase sales by advertising their company on X, with the ultimate goal to steal their credentials. Beyond phishing, SMBs are flooded with spam emails. Not surprisingly, AI has also made its way into the spam folder — for example, with offers for automating various business processes. In general, Kaspersky observes phishing and spam offers crafted to reflect the typical needs of small businesses, promising attractive deals on email marketing or loans, offering services such as reputation management, content creation, or lead generation, and more. Learn more about the cyber threat landscape for SMBs on Securelist. To mitigate threats targeting businesses, their owners and employees are advised to implement the following measures: ● Use specialized cybersecurity solutions that provide visibility and control over cloud services (e.g., Kaspersky Next). ● Define access rules for corporate resources such as email accounts, shared folders, and online documents. ● Regularly backup important data. ● Establish clear guidelines for using external services. Create well-defined procedures for implementing new software with the involvement of IT and other responsible managers.
Biz Bahrain
9 hours ago
- Automotive
- Biz Bahrain
Formula 1 and Allwyn to launch community award programme
Formula 1, together with leading multi-national lottery-led entertainment company and Official Partner Allwyn, will celebrate and spotlight community-focused initiatives around the world with the new F1® Allwyn Global Community Award. The brand-new programme, created as part of the two organisations' multi-year partnership and as part of their shared commitment to driving positive change, will celebrate local initiatives that leave a positive impact on society. The winners, who will receive a €100,000 donation along with a bespoke trophy and the chance to visit a Formula 1 Grand Prix, must address one or more of the following focus areas: empowerment and inclusion; education and opportunity; health and wellbeing, and sustainability and innovation. Ahead of each selected Grand Prix, the local promoter will identify community-focused initiatives supported by the F1 ecosystem that have had a meaningful impact, and a panel of judges from Formula 1, Allwyn, and a representative from the local race community will select a winner. This year, the first award will be presented at the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN DUTCH GRAND PRIX 2025, taking place between 29 – 31 August, with subsequent winners awarded at the United States, Mexico, and Las Vegas Grands Prix. Stefano Domenicali, President & CEO of Formula 1, said: 'It is a pillar of our sport to leave a positive legacy where we race and for many years we've worked with the promoters and regional organisations to do just that, from inviting children from local schools to the track to encourage them to consider a role in motorsport, through to funding education initiatives and welcoming local community outlets and charities to be part of the event. Every year 24 incredible venues open their doors to host us, and we are met with fantastic passion and love at the track and throughout the entire city, so I am very proud to launch the F1 Allwyn Global Community Award as part of our mission. We will give the local initiatives that go the extra mile for making their communities and make the world a better place the recognition and global platform they deserve.' Robert Chvátal, Group CEO of Allwyn, said: 'Championing positive impact is at the heart of what we do at Allwyn. Our partnership with Formula 1 is the perfect chance to demonstrate our commitment to communities through the creation of this inspiring F1 Allwyn Global Community Award, supporting the very best community initiatives around the world and bringing them to a huge global audience.'
Biz Bahrain
a day ago
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
Middle East emerges as luxury retail's next powerhouse, says Savills
According to the newly released Savills Global Luxury Retail Outlook 2025, the Middle East is fast emerging as a key market for international luxury brands seeking expansion, driven by surging demand, wealth inflows, and increasing accessibility across the region. The report highlights the UAE and Saudi Arabia as stand-out performers, forecasting a net increase in consumer spending for 2025. Dubai and Abu Dhabi top the Savills Dynamic Wealth Index, with the UAE recording the world's highest net inflow of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) in 2024, estimated at 6,700. This influx is reinforcing the region's appeal for luxury brands and underlining its long-term growth potential. 'Set between East and West, the Middle East has become increasingly attractive to brands from across the globe. With a growing base of affluent residents and strong international visitor reach, it offers a unique opportunity for luxury retail expansion,' said Thea Rowe, Cross-Border Retail Lead, Middle East at Savills Middle East. The report also flags exponential growth in the region's food and beverage (F&B) sector, expected to more than double in size over the next four years. This complementary sectoral boom is supporting broader luxury ecosystem development and enhancing the appeal of mixed-use destinations. However, Savills notes that navigating the Middle East's fast-moving retail landscape calls for agility, local insight, and timely execution. In key markets such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia, developers are increasingly working to accelerated timelines, with full financial and conceptual proposals often expected within just a few weeks. As such, international brands are encouraged to invest in thorough due diligence and explore strong local partnerships to ensure a smooth and strategic market entry. 'With limited availability and strong demand, flexibility is critical,' added Rowe. 'While protecting brand integrity remains essential, those willing to adapt operationally will be best positioned to secure prime locations.' In line with these trends, retail developers are doubling down on experiential and lifestyle-focused retail formats. Luxury store formats are becoming larger and more immersive, with brands seeking to deepen engagement through curated, multi-sensory shopping experiences. Looking ahead, Savills anticipates sustained momentum in luxury retail expansion across the region over the next 12 months. Building on resilient consumer demand, brand appetite, and a continued inflow of high-net-worth individuals, the Middle East is well positioned to attract further flagship and high-end boutique developments. Dubai, alongside cities such as Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, is identified as one of the markets best placed to deliver the most dynamic expansion opportunities in the near term, driven by rapid wealth creation, visitor appeal, and the ongoing development of high-quality luxury real estate. As global retailers cement their presence, the region is set to play an increasingly strategic role in luxury brand portfolios through 2025 and beyond. For further insights and detailed analysis, download the full Global Luxury Retail 2025 report from here.
Biz Bahrain
a day ago
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
Juthoor Summit achieves milestone success, strengthens Bahraini-Emirati AI partnership
Juthoor (Roots) Summit, the New Gen AI Summit, concluded Exhibition World Bahrain in the presence of Dr. Ramzan bin Abdulla Al Noaimi, Minister of Information, along with distinguished figures from the Kingdom of Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and other GCC countries. The summit was widely praised by participants and observers alike for its exceptional success in terms of organisation, content, and impact. The summit marked a significant milestone in advancing Gulf cooperation in the fields of technology and innovation. It underscored the spirit of partnership between Bahrain and the UAE in artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, education, media, and future-oriented professions, further establishing Bahrain as a leading regional platform for shaping the future and embracing technological advancement. Specialised Sessions and Key Themes The summit featured a series of specialised sessions and in-depth discussions covering a range of topics, including artificial intelligence in decision-making, digital media, smart education, tech entrepreneurship, cyber fraud, and career transformation. University students and researchers presented innovative research projects, highlighting practical applications of artificial intelligence in health, technology, and education, thereby opening new horizons for the next generation of innovators. Notable Institutional Participation The summit attracted broad institutional participation from local, regional, and international official, academic, and technological entities, including the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Finance, Royal Police Academy, Gulf University, Arab Open University, the Shaikh Nasser Centre for AI Research and Development, and AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation. There was also active engagement from Emirati, regional, and international organisations, such as the Emirates Scholar Research Center, One Podcast, Al Ayam newspaper, EuroTimes, Daily Euro Times – Washington, Crestnux (specialists in tech solutions), Trivox Digital Media, as well as data analytics and information companies including Brieflex, Infoflix, and Africalix. An Interactive Knowledge Platform and Practical Recommendations Participants expressed highly positive impressions of the summit, commending the scientific depth and professionalism of the discussions, which reflected the region's readiness to enter the digital era with confidence and competence. They emphasised the importance of sustaining 'Juthoor' as an interactive knowledge platform that contributes to shaping a renewed Arab technological awareness, fosters a culture of innovation among future generations, and bridges the gap between people and technology, as well as between traditional values and rapid progress. Attendees stressed that the summit serves as a cultural bridge, enhancing Gulf integration and providing a dynamic space for open scientific dialogue and collaboration among thought leaders and decision-makers, all in pursuit of a sustainable, knowledge-driven future. From Bahrain to Washington: Juthoor Goes Global Reflecting the summit's growing international dimension, it was announced that the next edition of 'Juthoor' will be held in Washington, D.C., elevating the summit to a new level of global influence and extending its roots from Bahrain to the heart of the world, carrying a message of knowledge, integration, and empowerment of the Arab individual in the digital age. Towards Youth and Research Initiatives in Artificial Intelligence At the conclusion of the summit, a number of key recommendations were issued, foremost among them the launch of specialised training and research initiatives in artificial intelligence and future professions, targeting youth and entrepreneurs in the region. These initiatives will be developed in collaboration with regional and international partners, supporting the Arab digital transformation agenda and empowering Arab individuals to play an active role in shaping the future of technology, rather than merely adapting to it. BNA(R)
