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Sharjah Airport welcomes over 19.4 million passengers in 2025, achieving 13.9% growth

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In 2025, Sharjah Airport achieved the following milestones:

Sharjah Airport

• Expanded its route network to strengthen connectivity to more than 100 global destinations
• Welcomed four new international airlines to its growing network
• Introduced new services to streamline procedures and enhance the passenger experience
• Renewed international accreditations, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and service excellence
• Maintained a strong global presence at leading international travel and aviation exhibitions

Sharjah, UAE, 22nd January 2026, The Sharjah Airport Authority (SAA) has announced record-breaking results for Sharjah International Airport in 2025, welcoming 19.48 million passengers, up from 17.1 million in 2024 and 15.36 million in 2023, marking a strong 13.9 per cent year-on-year increase.

Sharjah Airport continued its upward trajectory across passenger traffic, aircraft movements and air cargo volumes, driven by the expansion of its destination network, stronger partnerships and a growing portfolio of international accreditations. These milestones further reinforce the airport’s position as a leading hub for air transport and logistics.

Aircraft movements also reached a new high, with 116,657 flights recorded in 2025, compared to 107,760 in 2024 and 98,433 in 2023, representing an 8.3% increase. The growth underscores the airport’s expanding role in regional and international connectivity and reflects sustained momentum supported by network expansion, rising tourism demand and enhanced operational capacity.

Air Cargo Growth

Air cargo operations at Sharjah Airport also continue strong momentum, with total handled volumes reaching 204,323 tonnes in 2025, compared to 195,909 tonnes in 2024 and 141,358 tonnes in 2023, reflecting an upward trajectory in the performance of this vital sector.

Sea Freight

Sea freight services through Sharjah Airport recorded steady growth over the past three years, with handling volumes reaching 12,566 tonnes in 2023 and 14,035 tonnes in 2024, before rising to 16,770 tonnes in 2025. This upward trend reflects growing demand for this logistics corridor and its role in supporting trade flows and strengthening the integration of global supply chains.

The sustained growth highlights Sharjah Airport’s expanding capabilities as a logistics gateway linking Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Europe. The increase was supported by continued demand for integrated air freight solutions, sea-air cargo operations and partnerships with leading international cargo carriers, reinforcing Sharjah’s strategic position within global supply chains.

Long-Term Strategy

His Excellency Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority, said the 2025 results reflect the success of the airport’s long-term strategy and its strong commitment to operational excellence. He noted that the steady rise in passenger and cargo volumes aligns with Sharjah Airport’s goals to increase capacity, enhance service quality and support the emirate’s broader economic and tourism ambitions.

His Excellency Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority

H.E. Al Midfa added that continued investment in infrastructure, digital systems and sustainability initiatives remains central to the airport’s growth agenda, alongside strengthening partnerships with airlines and logistics operators.

 

Supporting Economic Growth

His Excellency Sheikh Faisal bin Saud Al Qasimi, Director of Sharjah Airport Authority, said the exceptional performance in 2025 reflects the growing role the airport continues to play in supporting travel and business activity, further strengthening Sharjah’s position as a key hub in regional and international markets.

His Excellency Sheikh Faisal bin Saud Al Qasimi, Director of Sharjah Airport Authority

H.E. Sheikh Faisal Al Qasimi noted that the airport’s growth is underpinned by advanced infrastructure, efficient governance and a supportive regulatory environment, enabling Sharjah Airport to meet rising demand efficiently while maintaining high operational and service standards.

 

New Destinations

In this context, Sharjah Airport continued to expand its flight network in 2025 by adding new direct routes to major global capitals and cities. Air Arabia launched direct flights from Sharjah Airport to Krabi in Thailand, Munich in Germany, Prague in the Czech Republic, Warsaw Modlin in Poland, Vienna in Austria, Addis Ababa in Ethiopia and Sochi in Russia.

In addition, Air Arabia recently announced the launch of direct flights from Sharjah Airport to London in the United Kingdom, scheduled to commence in March 2026. Sharjah Airport also expanded its network in 2025 with the addition of new destinations in Iran, including Ahvaz, Qeshm and Bandar Abbas, further strengthening regional connectivity.

 

Expanding Air Connectivity

In 2025, four new international airlines joined Sharjah Airport’s network, including Oman’s SalamAir, Iran’s Caspian Airlines, Syria’s Fly Cham and Ethiopian Airlines. This expansion connected passengers to more than 100 global destinations and further strengthened the airport’s air connectivity network.

 

Enhancing Services

Sharjah Airport Authority continues to enhance the passenger experience, boost cargo efficiency and improve its environmental performance, supporting Sharjah’s economic diversification and strengthening the UAE’s aviation sector. These ongoing efforts reflect Sharjah Airport Authority’s commitment to continuous improvement, supporting Sharjah’s economic diversification and reinforcing the UAE’s position as a leading global aviation centre.

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Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.

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Press Release

Wall Street Veteran Peter Larsen Unveils ‘Quantum Scalp’ to Bridge Institutional-Retail Divide

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Retail Divide

 

Peter Larsen, a veteran quantitative trader with over three decades of experience on Wall Street, has emerged from retirement to launch Quantum Scalp, a new financial technology firm aimed at democratizing access to institutional-grade algorithmic trading. 

The company announced today that it has secured $100 million in private capital to build a systematic trading platform designed to provide retail investors with tools previously exclusive to investment banks and hedge funds. The funding round included participation from family offices, former industry colleagues, and a sovereign wealth fund.

 

A Career Built on Market Microstructure 

Larsen’s career parallels the evolution of modern electronic trading. He began at Bear Stearns in 1993 as a junior market analyst, joining during the early shift from floor trading to screen-based execution. Throughout the 1990s, Larsen developed statistical models for fixed-income desks, working within the cohort of quantitative analysts who fundamentally rewired the industry’s approach to risk and execution.

In 2001, Larsen moved to Lehman Brothers as a consultant within the firm’s Quantitative Proprietary Trading division. During his tenure, he served as a lead analyst on the Penn-Lehman Automated Trading Project (PLAT). The initiative, a collaboration between Lehman Brothers and the University of Pennsylvania, developed one of the earliest realistic simulators for testing automated trading strategies. PLAT remains a cited reference in academic and industry circles regarding market microstructure and algorithmic execution. 

Larsen retired in 2006, prior to the financial crisis of 2008. For the next fifteen years, he remained active in an advisory capacity, monitoring the widening disparity between institutional and retail trading capabilities. 

Addressing the Intelligence Gap

 

According to Larsen, the post-2010 retail trading revolution reduced costs through commission-free trading and fractional shares but failed to close the “intelligence gap.” 

“Cheap access without an edge isn’t democratization,” Larsen said in an interview at Wyoming. “It often results in capital flowing more efficiently toward institutions that possess superior data and execution tools. Our objective is parity.” 

The catalyst for Larsen’s return to the market was the advancement of artificial intelligence and optimization technologies between 2022 and 2024. Larsen posits that modern transformer-based forecasting and hybrid systems now allow for the compression of capabilities that previously required large quantitative teams. 

Technology and Compliance

 Despite the company name, Quantum Scalp does not utilize quantum computing hardware. Larsen was explicit in clarifying the technology stack to avoid investor confusion. 

“The system is quantum-inspired,” Larsen stated. “We utilize optimization algorithms derived from quantum mechanics, such as simulated annealing variants and tensor-network methods, running on classical GPU infrastructure. Combined with AI-driven signal processing, this allows for portfolio construction and signal weighting at a latency and scale that was not feasible five years ago.”

 The platform operates on three distinct layers:

1.  Signal Layer: Ingests market data, alternative data, and macroeconomic indicators to generate short-horizon forecasts.

2.  Optimization Layer: Applies quantum-inspired algorithms to weight signals and construct positions under risk constraints.

3.  Execution Layer: Manages order routing and slippage, leveraging methodologies originally developed during the PLAT project. 

Industry Skepticism and Regulatory Landscape The launch comes amidst heightened scrutiny of AI-driven retail trading platforms. Regulators in the United States and Europe have increased oversight regarding algorithmic advice given to non-institutional investors. Critics note that previous attempts to democratize quantitative tools, such as early robo-advisors and AI trading startups, have often struggled to match backtested performance in live markets.

Larsen acknowledges the risks inherent in the sector. “We are not selling a guaranteed return,” he said. “Anyone claiming to sell a ‘money printer’ is misrepresenting the product. We are providing the same class of tools, analysis quality, and execution discipline utilized by major desks. How that utility is employed remains the responsibility of the investor.”

 

A Second Act 

At 75, Larsen represents a rare profile in the fintech sector, which is typically dominated by younger founders. Colleagues describe the venture as consistent with his long-standing focus on market structure integrity.

 The firm plans to begin rolling out access to the platform later this year, subject to regulatory compliance and final testing phases. For Larsen, the venture is a corrective measure to a career spent building advantages for the institutional side of the market.

 “I worked for the house for thirty years,” Larsen said. “I intend to provide the players with a system that levels the field.” 

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Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.

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Press Release

Galatea by Inkitt Celebrates 100+ Five-Star Reviews Amid Rising Popularity

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California, USA, 3rd May 2026, ZEX PR WIRE  Galatea, the rapidly growing digital reading platform developed by Inkitt, has surpassed 100 five-star reviews, marking a significant milestone in its continued rise among global readers. The achievement highlights strong user satisfaction and reinforces Galatea’s position as more than just a reading app. As part of Inkitt’s broader story-to-screen ecosystem, Galatea plays a central role in transforming reader-driven content into multi-format entertainment, extending all the way to television through CandyJar.

This milestone arrives at a time when audiences are actively seeking more flexible and engaging ways to consume stories. Galatea has responded by offering a format that aligns with modern habits while still preserving the emotional depth that readers expect from strong storytelling.

A Milestone That Reflects Real Reader Loyalty

Reaching over 100 five-star reviews signals more than short-term success. It reflects consistent reader satisfaction and an ability to maintain engagement over time. Users frequently highlight how seamlessly the platform fits into their daily routines, whether they are reading during short breaks, while commuting, or winding down at night.

This accessibility has helped Galatea build a loyal user base. Readers are not simply downloading the app and leaving. They return regularly to continue stories, explore new releases, and stay connected to ongoing narratives. The growing number of five-star reviews demonstrates that users are finding lasting value in the experience.

In an environment where attention is divided across multiple platforms, this level of retention is notable. Galatea has managed to create a product that readers continue to engage with long after their first interaction.

A Reading Experience Designed for Modern Habits

Galatea has built its platform around the idea that reading should adapt to the reader. Instead of presenting long chapters that require uninterrupted time, the platform delivers stories in episodic segments that are easy to consume. This structure makes reading more approachable and encourages consistent engagement.

The platform also offers multiple formats within a single story. Readers can move seamlessly between ebook and audiobook modes, allowing them to switch based on their situation. In addition, Galatea includes chat-style storytelling, where narratives unfold through text-message-like conversations. This format introduces variety and reflects how people naturally communicate today.

Audio is another defining feature of the platform. Full narration and carefully designed sound elements support the storytelling experience and add depth to each scene. Rather than acting as a background feature, audio plays an active role in shaping how stories are experienced.

Together, these features create a reading environment that feels flexible, engaging, and suited to modern lifestyles.

A Story-to-Screen Pipeline That Sets It Apart

Galatea’s growth is closely tied to Inkitt’s larger story-to-screen model, which differentiates it from traditional reading platforms. The process begins on Inkitt, where writers share their work and reader engagement determines which stories gain traction. The most promising titles are then published on Galatea, where they reach a wider audience in enhanced formats.

From there, the most successful stories move into television development on CandyJar. This structured pipeline allows content to evolve naturally, moving from written storytelling to screen adaptation based on proven audience demand.

This model offers a clear pathway for writers. Instead of navigating uncertain publishing routes, authors can see their work progress step by step, guided by reader response. It also ensures that the stories adapted for television already have a built-in audience, reducing risk and increasing the likelihood of success.

For readers, the pipeline adds another layer of engagement. Stories they discover on Galatea have the potential to expand into visual formats, creating a deeper connection to the content. This continuity strengthens the overall experience and sets the platform apart in a crowded market.

Content That Reflects What Readers Actually Want

Galatea’s content strategy is built on real user behavior. By leveraging data from Inkitt, the platform identifies stories that already resonate with readers. This ensures that the content available on Galatea aligns closely with audience preferences.

Genres such as romance, fantasy, thriller, drama, and Young Adult continue to perform strongly, reflecting consistent demand across a wide range of readers. At the same time, the platform introduces new voices and perspectives, maintaining a balance between familiar themes and fresh ideas.

This approach reduces the uncertainty often associated with content selection. Instead of relying on predictions, Galatea uses measurable engagement to guide its decisions. The result is a library that feels both curated and relevant.

For writers, this system creates meaningful opportunities. Success is determined by reader response, allowing emerging authors to gain visibility and build an audience based on the strength of their work.

Listening to Feedback and Improving the Experience

The increase in five-star reviews also reflects Galatea’s responsiveness to its users. Feedback plays a direct role in shaping the platform’s development. Readers frequently mention features such as customizable settings, smooth navigation, and the ability to switch between formats without interruption.

These elements contribute to a user-friendly experience that appeals to a broad audience. Small improvements, driven by real feedback, continue to enhance the platform’s usability.

Galatea’s ability to adapt has become a key strength. As user expectations evolve, the platform remains focused on refining its features while maintaining the core aspects that readers value.

Meeting the Demand for Flexible Storytelling

Modern readers are looking for flexibility, and Galatea has positioned itself to meet that demand. The platform allows users to engage with stories in different ways, depending on their preferences and schedules.

Whether through short reading sessions, audiobook listening, or interactive chat-based formats, users can choose how they want to experience each story. This adaptability makes it easier to stay engaged without disrupting daily routines.

The ability to move between formats also adds to the overall experience. A reader can begin a story in text form, continue it as an audiobook, and explore chat-style interactions within the same narrative. This level of flexibility keeps the platform dynamic and appealing.

Building a Community Around Stories

As Galatea continues to grow, it is also building a strong and engaged community. The increasing number of five-star reviews reflects not only individual satisfaction but also a shared enthusiasm among users.

Readers actively recommend the platform, share feedback, and contribute to its visibility. This organic growth has played an important role in expanding Galatea’s reach.

For writers, this community creates valuable opportunities for connection and recognition. Authors can engage with readers directly and see how their work resonates in real time. This interaction strengthens the relationship between creators and their audience.

Each positive review adds to the platform’s credibility and encourages new users to explore what it has to offer.

Looking Ahead

Surpassing 100 five-star reviews marks an important milestone, but it also signals continued growth. Galatea remains focused on expanding its content library, improving its features, and strengthening its role within Inkitt’s story-to-screen ecosystem.

The integration with CandyJar creates new possibilities for content development, allowing stories to move beyond the app and reach wider audiences. This connection positions Galatea as a key part of a larger entertainment strategy rather than a standalone platform.

As more readers discover the app, the platform is expected to continue building momentum and attracting new users. The steady increase in positive feedback suggests that it is meeting the expectations of its audience and adapting effectively to changing preferences.

Conclusion

Galatea’s achievement of over 100 five-star reviews reflects its ability to deliver a reading experience that aligns with modern expectations. By combining flexible formats, data-driven content, and a clear path from story to screen through CandyJar, the platform offers something distinct in the digital reading space.

As part of Inkitt’s broader vision, Galatea represents more than a reading app. It is a central piece of a storytelling ecosystem where ideas begin with readers and have the potential to grow into larger forms of entertainment. With strong user engagement and a clear direction for growth, Galatea continues to establish itself as a platform that understands both storytelling and the people who enjoy it.

For more information, please feel free to visit https://galatea.com/ 

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Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.

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Press Release

Milestone Launches Project : Tsavkisi, The First Design-Code Community Near Tbilisi

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Milestone has launched Project : Tsavkisi, a residential land-plot development situated on a hillside in the Tsavkisi area, just an 18-minute drive from Tbilisi, Georgia. The project comprises 63 individual land plots, each offering panoramic views of the surrounding forest and the city.

Tbilisi, Georgia, 2nd May 2026 – Milestone has launched Project : Tsavkisi, a residential land-plot development situated on a hillside in the Tsavkisi area, just an 18-minute drive from Tbilisi, Georgia. The project comprises 63 individual land plots, each offering panoramic views of the surrounding forest and the city.

Project : Tsavkisi is a thoughtfully planned community with a unified architectural identity, seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape. It is designed for those who wish to build a residence in a scenic setting while remaining just minutes away from central Tbilisi.

The presale is now open.

The development spans 10 hectares, with 24,000 m² dedicated to curated shared public spaces, including children’s playgrounds, sports courts, and forest walking paths. The project includes professionally maintained shared areas and green zones, along with 24/7 secured territory. 

The architectural vision of Project : Tsavkisi is rooted in a landscape-oriented approach. To create a unique living environment, the project has developed a set of architectural guidelines – a Design Code, where every element is thoughtfully connected to the next. The Code extends from façade materials and roofing guidelines to color selection. A recommended palette of muted, earth-derived tones is designed to maintain visual harmony with the natural landscape. The project adopts a low-density development strategy that maintains visual openness and integrates seamlessly with the natural terrain, avoiding high retaining walls and other intrusive structural elements. 

Homeowners are offered the flexibility to develop individual designs in accordance with the Design Code or to select from a catalogue of nine pre-designed residential houses. They have been created in collaboration with established architectural studios, recognized for their experience in residential design and landscape-driven planning.

The project is designed for residents who lead active urban lives but seek a home in a quiet, natural setting, without sacrificing their connection to the city. Project : Tsavkisi sets a benchmark for holistic suburban development, where each residence contributes to a unified architectural identity.

About Milestone

Milestone is a Georgian real estate development and management company based on innovative vision and ideas, defining environments for quality life. Expanding its portfolio, the company is currently developing a new residential project in the heart of Tbilisi, set to be introduced soon. 

Media Contact

Organization: Milestone

Contact Person: Lasha Eliadze

Website: https://www.projecttsavkisi.ge/

Email:
info@milestone.ge

Contact Number: +995598399899

City: Tbilisi

Country:Georgia

Release id:44575

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