Bio
Saqib is COO and co-founder at A47 AI, where he runs operations and leads the prediction-markets initiative. He covers crypto, Web3, and the decentralization of the sport and entertainment economy.
Editorial Responsibility
As A47's prediction-markets and crypto editor, I am responsible for our coverage of these markets and Web3 — ensuring it is grounded in real product, data, and revenue rather than speculation.
Previous experience · 14+ years
- · WPP Media (GroupM PK, Wavemaker PH)
- · MYCO
- · ARY Digital Network
Education
MBA Marketing, SZABIST
Areas of expertise
Categories overseen
Stories from Saqib Pathan’s desk
8632 stories- Economy· World
Oil Prices Surge to Wartime High Amid U.S.-Iran Standoff
Oil prices reached a new wartime high of $123 per barrel on April 30, 2026, due to the ongoing U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports amid the 2026 Iran War. This escalation follows the collapse of ceasefire talks and is driven by President Trump's insistence on maintaining the blockade until Iran abandons its nuclear ambitions. The long-term implication is a potential for sustained high oil prices and increased economic strain globally as the conflict continues to disrupt oil supplies.
20 sourcesApr 30Low
- Business· UAE
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visits Al Barakah Dates Factory to promote UAE's food industry
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's recent visit to the Al Barakah Dates Factory marks a significant push for the UAE to enhance its food production capabilities. This initiative is driven by the UAE's strategic goal to leverage innovation and technology in agriculture at this moment. The long-term implication is a strengthened position for the UAE as a global leader in advanced food production and food security.
3 sourcesApr 30Low
- Business· UAE
Nakheel awards 3.5 billion dirhams in contracts for luxury villas at Palm Jebel Ali
Nakheel has awarded contracts totaling 3.5 billion dirhams for the construction of 544 villas at Palm Jebel Ali. This investment is driven by a resurgence in demand for high-end properties in Dubai's real estate market. The long-term implication is a potential increase in property values and further construction projects in the UAE's luxury sector.
3 sourcesApr 30Low
- Economy· UAE
UAE withdraws from OPEC and OPEC+ amid strategic shifts
The UAE has officially withdrawn from OPEC and OPEC+. This decision is driven by the UAE's long-term strategic and economic vision, compounded by the geopolitical implications of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The withdrawal may lead to increased oil production autonomy for the UAE and prompt other nations to reassess their positions within OPEC.
4 sourcesApr 30Very High
- Business· MENA
Saudi Arabia's Salk Acquires 80.01% Stake in Olam Agricultural Holdings
Salk has increased its ownership in Olam Agricultural Holdings to 80.01% through a $1.88 billion investment. This strategic move is part of Saudi Arabia's efforts to enhance food security and diversify its economy amid global agricultural market shifts. The long-term implication is a strengthened position for Saudi Arabia in the global food supply chain, potentially leading to further investments in agriculture.
4 sourcesApr 30Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Vision 2030 Enters Third Phase with Significant Achievements Reviewed
On April 27, 2026, the Council of Economic and Development Affairs in Makkah reviewed the progress of Saudi Vision 2030 as it transitions into its third phase. This review is prompted by the completion of 90% of initiatives and a strong performance in meeting annual targets, reflecting the program's resilience amid global challenges. The long-term implication is a continued push for economic diversification and enhanced private sector involvement, positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in sustainable development by 2030.
8 sourcesApr 30Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Real Estate Refinance Company secures 3 billion Riyal mortgage portfolio from Al Rajhi Bank
The Saudi Real Estate Refinance Company has signed a 3 billion Riyal agreement with Al Rajhi Bank to acquire a residential mortgage portfolio. This transaction is aimed at enhancing liquidity in the housing finance market and providing flexible financing solutions for Saudi families. The long-term implication is a potential increase in home ownership rates and a more robust housing finance environment in Saudi Arabia.
3 sourcesApr 30Low
- Business· UAE
DEWA Sets World Record for Lowest Electricity Customer Minutes Lost
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority has achieved a record low of 0.82 minutes of annual power disruption. This milestone is attributed to DEWA's significant investments in smart grid technologies totaling AED 7 billion, enhancing service reliability. The long-term implication is that this advancement positions Dubai as a leader in energy efficiency, supporting its urban and economic development goals.
3 sourcesApr 30Low
- Economy· UAE
Dubai Islamic Bank and Aldar Properties Report Strong Q1 2026 Financial Results
Dubai Islamic Bank and Aldar Properties announced significant profit increases for the first quarter of 2026, with DIB reporting a pre-tax profit of Dh2.1 billion and Aldar achieving a net profit of Dh2.3 billion. This positive financial performance is attributed to robust growth in the UAE's financial sector amidst a competitive market. The results indicate a continued upward trajectory for the UAE's economy, suggesting potential for further investment opportunities in the region.
3 sourcesApr 30Low
- Business· MENA
STC Group reports 12% net profit increase in Q1 2026 driven by revenue growth and infrastructure investments
STC Group announced a 12% increase in net profit for Q1 2026, reflecting strong operational performance with revenues rising to nearly $5.3 billion. This growth is attributed to the company's strategic initiatives, particularly the Silklink project aimed at enhancing digital infrastructure in Syria. Long-term, STC's investments position it to capitalize on growth opportunities in the telecommunications sector, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030.
4 sourcesApr 30Low
- Economy· World
Gold prices decline to three-week low amid rising oil prices and inflation concerns
Gold prices have fallen to $4,614.71 per ounce, marking a significant drop linked to rising oil prices and inflation fears. This decline is triggered by stalled U.S.–Iran negotiations and expectations of tighter monetary policy from central banks. In the long term, ongoing geopolitical tensions and economic indicators are likely to keep gold prices volatile as market participants react to central bank decisions and oil market dynamics.
5 sourcesApr 30Low
- Business· MENA
Saudi Arabia to Host 24th ERRA Conference in 2027
Saudi Arabia has been selected to host the 24th annual conference of the Energy Regulators Regional Association in Riyadh from February 1 to 3, 2027. This decision was announced during the 23rd ERRA conference in Slovakia and aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals to enhance its global conference hosting capabilities. The event is expected to strengthen Saudi Arabia's leadership in the global electricity sector and promote innovative regulatory practices.
3 sourcesApr 30Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 Enters Final Phase Focused on Economic Diversification
Saudi Arabia has officially launched the third phase of its Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to accelerate the implementation of national programs and enhance economic growth. This shift is driven by the Kingdom's commitment to increasing private sector participation and diversifying its economy beyond oil dependency. The long-term implication is a strengthened economic foundation that could lead to sustained growth and improved quality of life for citizens beyond 2030.
3 sourcesApr 30Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi stock market index rises to 11,238 points amid positive investor sentiment
The Saudi stock market index increased by 58.12 points to reach 11,238.07 points. This surge is driven by robust trading activity, with a trading volume of approximately 5.8 billion Riyals and positive performance from key companies. The long-term implication suggests that investor confidence may continue to strengthen, prompting further market engagement and monitoring of upcoming economic indicators.
3 sourcesApr 30Low
- Business· MENA
Start Smart Investment Forum 2026 in Riyadh connects over 100 startups with investors
The Start Smart Investment Forum 2026 was held in Riyadh, successfully linking 107 startups with more than 100 investors to promote deep-tech innovation. This event was triggered by Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to enhance its innovation ecosystem and align with its vision for a knowledge-based economy. The long-term implication is a potential boost in investment and economic growth through increased collaboration in the startup sector.
3 sourcesApr 30Low
- Economy· MENA
Brent Crude Oil Futures Surpass 120 USD per Barrel Amid Middle East Tensions
Brent crude oil futures exceeded 120 USD per barrel on April 29, 2026, marking the highest price since June 2022. This surge is driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, including the U.S. rejection of an Iranian proposal regarding the Strait of Hormuz and the UAE's impending exit from OPEC. The long-term implication suggests potential further price increases and market volatility if supply disruptions continue in the region.
8 sourcesApr 30High
- Business· UAE
UAE Withdraws from OPEC with Support from Trump
The UAE has announced its withdrawal from OPEC, a significant shift in its energy policy. This decision has been endorsed by President Trump, who believes it will help stabilize energy prices and potentially lower fuel costs. The long-term implication may lead to increased competition in the energy sector and influence future oil pricing strategies globally.
3 sourcesApr 30Very High
- Economy· MENA
Gulf Central Banks Maintain Interest Rates Following US Federal Reserve Decision
Gulf central banks, including those in Bahrain, the UAE, and Qatar, have decided to keep their interest rates unchanged in response to the US Federal Reserve's recent decision. This coordinated action aims to ensure financial stability amid ongoing global market developments. In the long term, Gulf central banks are likely to continue aligning their monetary policies with the US to balance economic growth and stability.
4 sourcesApr 30Low
- Economy· World
Gold investment declines amid Iran conflict and U.S. negotiations
Gold investment has significantly decreased in the first quarter of the year due to the ongoing conflict in Iran. Investors are liquidating their gold holdings as they react to geopolitical instability and await developments in U.S.-Iran negotiations. This trend is likely to continue, with the gold market remaining sensitive to future geopolitical developments and potential price volatility.
3 sourcesApr 30Low
- Economy· UAE
Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia launches over 2 billion Riyals in development projects
The Eastern Province has inaugurated several municipal and housing projects valued at over 2 billion Riyals. This significant investment is part of ongoing efforts to enhance urban development and infrastructure in the region. The initiative is expected to improve living conditions and stimulate economic growth in the Eastern Province over the long term.
4 sourcesApr 30Low