Heba Hashem

Dubai

Independent Journalist, Dubai Media City at CSP Today

Freelance Journalist at Freelance

Freelance journalist in Niagara Falls/Dubai

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Articles

From scroll to sale: the UAE’s formula for social shopping success

1 month ago | fastcompanyme.com | Heba Hashem

Once designed for connection and content sharing, apps like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat have evolved into thriving digital marketplaces. This transformation has created fertile ground for a new era of e-commerce—one that blurs the lines between scrolling and shopping. “Historically, social media was a space to connect and check in with friends.
Corporate learning in the MENA region is transforming. What’s driving this?

1 month ago | fastcompanyme.com | Heba Hashem

For years, employee development across the MENA region relied heavily on traditional methods—classroom lectures, fixed-schedule workshops, and standardized training programs. These approaches, while foundational, are increasingly being left behind as workplaces evolve and digital technologies reshape the way people learn. Today, corporate training in the region is undergoing a sweeping transformation. What was once a series of ad-hoc, in-person sessions has matured into a strategic function.
How AI is powering the future of the Islamic economy

1 month ago | salaamgateway.com | Heba Hashem

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly emerging as a transformative force within the Islamic economy, driving innovation across sectors from finance and food to tourism and education. By enhancing Shariah compliance, improving accessibility, and enabling personalized services, the technology is reshaping how the Islamic economy operates, while preserving its ethical foundations.
What will reconstructing besieged Gaza entail?

1 month ago | salaamgateway.com | Heba Hashem

It may be stating the obvious but rebuilding war-torn Gaza, after 15 months of relentless bombardment by Israeli forces, will be a massive and complex undertaking, which will entail conflating several elements such as financial aid, diplomatic engagement, humanitarian relief, and long-term political efforts. The true ask: How can Muslim-majority countries play a critical part in this intense and long-term endeavour?
Why the world’s biggest denim brands are turning to Egypt

2 months ago | fastcompanyme.com | Heba Hashem

Few may realize it, but some of the world’s most popular denim brands are being manufactured in Egypt. With its strategic location, skilled workforce, and rich textile heritage, north Africa is rapidly becoming a major force in global denim production. Egypt’s rise in denim manufacturing is setting new industry standards, attracting significant foreign investment, and reinforcing its position as an export-driven textile powerhouse.
From waste to fuel: How date palms could power the UAE’s biofuel future

2 months ago | fastcompanyme.com | Heba Hashem

The date palm—a symbol of Middle Eastern heritage—could now play a crucial role in the global transition to renewable energy. It is one of the most significant crops cultivated in arid regions; however, about 10% to 15% of total production—mainly low-grade dates and date seeds—go unused or discarded. Researchers say that date palm residues should be viewed as a resource rather than waste, especially as clean energy alternatives.
Reimaging Zakat management for greater impact | Salaam Gateway - Global Islamic Economy Gateway

Mar 10, 2025 | salaamgateway.com | Heba Hashem

Each year, Muslims around the world donate tens of billions of dollars in Zakat, the obligatory almsgiving that is one of the five pillars of Islam. While the generosity of these donations remains undisputed, the challenge lies in how to effectively organize and manage a massive flow of funds to ensure they reach those in need. A particularly significant spike in donations occurs during the month of Ramadan.
Can green offices in the Middle East gain a competitive edge?

Feb 19, 2025 | fastcompanyme.com | Heba Hashem

The Middle East’s commercial real estate sector is transforming toward sustainability. Green-certified offices have become prime investment opportunities, attracting top talent and customers and reducing operational costs. According to Muhammad Ahmed Asfand, a LEED green associate and project coordinator at Riyadh-based consultancy Sustainable Design Solutions, “Sustainably designed office spaces offer long-term cost savings, enhance occupants’ well-being, and foster a sense of belonging.
How AI-infused edtech is transforming learning for Muslims

Feb 14, 2025 | salaamgateway.com | Heba Hashem

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries and their operational efficiencies. The education space is no different, with frontier technologies such as AI restructuring how people assimilate and consume knowledge. The Muslim world is no exception - AI has potential to reinvent education in the Muslim world, extending beyond the classroom to optimize resource allocation and enhance cultural preservation.
Is China poised to dominate the global halal food market?

Jan 8, 2025 | salaamgateway.com | Heba Hashem

China has the potential to become a major player in the halal food industry. But is the world’s second-largest economy ready to take on this role? China’s halal food market is expanding rapidly, driven by its sizeable Muslim population and rising global demand for halal-certified products. The country’s Muslim population, currently estimated between 21 to 23 million - exceeding that of many Middle Eastern nations - is projected to reach 30 million by 2030.