music travel love abu dhabi

Guest Singers From The UAE Shine On Music Travel Love’s Latest Cover Of Stand By Me

Identical twins Bob and Clint Moffatt, known for their project Music Travel Love, have journeyed far in their musical career. Their musical journey began at a tender age, joining the Moffatt family band at just three years old in 1987. Alongside their older brother Scott and fraternal twin Dave, they made their first stage appearance on Timmy’s Springtime Telethon in 1988.

The Moffatt brothers’ transition to Music Travel Love (MTL) in 2018 marked a new chapter in their musical exploration. With MTL, Bob and Clint embarked on a mission to “travel the world making music, friends, videos, and memories.” Their videos often feature the duo performing, while others showcase collaborations with talented musicians.

One of their standout performances is their rendition of “Stand By Me,” initially released as a duo version in 2018, garnering 67 million views on YouTube. However, their recent rendition filmed at Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, has quickly gained traction, accumulating 5.3 million views in just two months. Viewers have been captivated by the seamless harmonies and soulful rendition, transforming an old favorite into a new cherished song.

The Abu Dhabi rendition of “Stand By Me” features guest singer Arqam Al Abri, along with emerging talents Suzan Sadek, Donia El Hendi, and Maya Mashour. While Arqam’s soulful voice takes the lead in the first verse, the accompanying vocalists add depth and richness to the performance. Notably, the musical arrangement also includes Yudhis Arianto on piano and strings, recorded in a hotel room before the outdoor shoot.

Arqam Al Abri, known for his luscious soulful vocals, has made a significant impact on the music scene in the UAE. His songs like “Heavy” and “Towards The Light” have garnered attention, showcasing his diverse musical influences ranging from Motown to Neo Soul. Arqam’s aspirations include exploring Arabic music and incorporating eclectic influences like Lenny Kravitz and Radiohead into his repertoire.

Maya Mashour, a talented musician, achieved recognition by winning the advanced RnP category at the Abu Dhabi Young Musician Award 2022. Susan Sadek, an Egyptian singer-songwriter, balances her music career with studying interactive design at New York University Abu Dhabi. Donia El Hendi, known as donía, has made her mark with covers and original songs on various platforms.

Music Travel Love’s collaboration with these talented UAE guest singers not only produced a remarkable cover of “Stand By Me” but also provided a global platform for their exceptional voices. Through their music, MTL continues to celebrate diversity and collaboration, creating memorable experiences for their audience worldwide.

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Latest May 29, 2023 at 12:01 pm

This Music Video Shot In Al Ain Is Going Viral And Here’s Why!

Music Travel Love filmed a music video right here in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi. The band and their friends covered the popular song “Stand By You” and the video is FANTASTIC!

From the visuals to the vocals, the entire music video is entrancing and that is why it went viral

Now that summer officially kicked off and the heat is setting in, people in Abu Dhabi are desperately missing the cool winter weather. Well, this music video is a way for everyone to relive their desert trips and enjoy winter once again.

From the stunning desert and palm tree visuals to the calming music and booming vocals, Music Travel Love went above and beyond with this fabulous production in Al Ain.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Music Travel Love (@musictravellove)

Bob and Clint from Music Travel Love filmed the music video in Al Ain with friends they made in the country

Music Travel Love performed “Stand By You” with @ Suzana.Sadekk , @ MayaMashhour_ , @ Donia.Wav , @ R.Qam , and @ ypjazz .

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Now this is a new perspective! Robin Yayla, an illustrator and artist, reimagined Abu Dhabi in a new light.

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Music Events in Abu Dhabi

The biggest names in music and iconic festivals land in Abu Dhabi every year at world-class venues! This year, major pop names will rock the Etihad Arena and hugely anticipated festivals will make their debut at Etihad Park. BlackPink, Imagine Dragons and Travis Scott are just some of the names headlining amazing music events in Abu Dhabi in 2023. Explore some of Abu Dhabi's most exciting events and book your tickets today!

Arijit Singh Live

You asked, we listened! The King of Bollywood is back by popular demand, giving fans the performance of a lifetime at Etihad Arena , Yas Island. Following his sold-out concert in Abu Dhabi just over two years ago, Singh is returning with what is expected to be one of his best shows yet. His highly anticipated act will feature his latest Bollywood songs in addition to fan-favourite classic hits. Purchase your tickets before they sell out, and don't miss the opportunity to watch India's award-winning star live on stage.

Yasalam F1 After-Race Concert: AVA MAX

Prepare to be blown away by the sensational pop queen herself, Ava Max, as she takes the stage following Abu Dhabi's highly anticipated Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023 . With her ground-breaking debut single 'Sweet But Psycho', Ava Max skyrocketed to global fame, marking her status as a fearless force in the modern pop scene. As a Forbes '30 Under 30' recognised talent, Ava Max's undeniable influence and impact will come alive in an electrifying performance that will leave you breathless. From her mesmerising vocals to infectious beats, this night will be one to remember.

Yasalam F1 After-Race Concert: Foo Fighters

Get ready to rock your world as the legendary Foo Fighters hit the stage for the first time ever in Abu Dhabi! With their chart-topping hits like "Everlong" and "Best of You", these rock icons have won over millions of fans worldwide. Their electric live shows are the stuff of legends, and now they're bringing their incredible energy to Yas Island  for the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023. So, mark your calendars and prepare to embrace the sheer power and passion of the Foo Fighters.

Yasalam F1 After-Race Concert: TIESTO

The secret's out! Brace yourself for an incredible night as the unrivalled 'Greatest DJ of All Time' and global music icon, Tiësto, returns to Abu Dhabi for the Yasalam After-Race Concert. Feel the rhythm in your soul as Tiësto drops his chart-topping hits like "Don't Be Shy" and "The Motto". Immerse yourself in a party atmosphere like no other, as the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023 season finale kicks off in style on Yas Island . Let the music take control and indulge in what will be a night of pure euphoria!

Yasalam F1 After-Race Concert: Shania Twain

Calling all '90s kids, this one’s for you! Relive the nostalgia as the legendary Shania Twain graces Abu Dhabi with her enchanting presence and timeless vocals. Let out your post-race energy by singing along to all your favourite Shania hits, and immerse yourself in an atmosphere dripping with passion and emotion. Gather your friends and make your way to what promises to be a concert of a lifetime.

Yasalam F1 After-Race Concert: Chris Brown

Get ready to paint the town red as the one and only Chris Brown takes the stage in Abu Dhabi! Join the heartbreak king for a night of music, nostalgia and magic. Dance to the rhythm of his most popular hits like ‘Forever' and ‘Run It’ in a stunning performance that will have you vibing all night long. Let the music be your guide as Chris Brown fills the night with hues of pure euphoria. Hurry, book your tickets before they sell out. This one’s going to be big!

Charlie Puth Presents the ‘Charlie’ Live Experience

Lyrical genius and melodious voice of Charlie Puth will illuminate the Etihad Arena – Yas Island, Abu Dhabi this October. Puth's music has struck a chord around the world, with four Grammy nominations under his belt. As he arrives to celebrate the success of his acclaimed 2022 album 'Charlie', fans are in for a treat. Indulge in the opportunity to enjoy your favourite tracks in a stimulating musical encounter, promising a fresh perspective on Charlie’s music.

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Families take the plunge in annual Swim for Clean Seas in Abu Dhabi

Founded in 2018, the initiative aims to raise awareness about ocean pollution.

The annual Swim for Clean Seas at Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi took place on Sunday morning. All photos: Victor Besa / The National

Dozens took to a beach on Saadiyat Island on Sunday morning to participate in the annual Swim for Clean Seas .

From seasoned swimmers to casual beachgoers, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort was inundated with ocean-loving folks for the charity event raising awareness about the harmful effects of ocean pollution.

The event was open to swimmers aged eight and above, with several swim laps for different levels. The shorter one was a 200-meter splash and dash, while the longest distance covered 3,200 metres for the more advanced swimmers.

Retired swimmer and Olympian Sarra Lajnef , who has represented Tunisia and the UAE in international competitions, joined the crowd as the ambassador of the charity organisation.

“We are all responsible for the state of our seas and oceans and we can all make a difference from our humble positions,” she said before the event.

“No action is small and understanding the current situation is very important for the future generations to take on the torch and continue the work.”

Founded in 2018 by siblings Felicia and Almer Agmyren, the initiative was born from their own love of swimming. The duo love going on long-distance swims and have witnessed first-hand the extent of pollution in open seas.

“We believe bringing the community together has a far greater impact and reach than we could ever imagine in helping keep our seas clean and to make them even cleaner,” said Felicia.

“What better way to pay tribute to what clean seas feel like than to actually get in there and swim – regardless of distance and ability. Showing up to learn and do more is already half the battle won.”

Sea swimming aside, activities taking place along the shores of Saadiyat Beach included an exhibit of educations works related to plastic waste by the group's newly appointed student ambassadors.

The organisation also teamed up with The Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue Centre for the first time. They organised educational games themed around marine life conservation.

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Microsoft Makes High-Stakes Play in Tech Cold War With Emirati A.I. Deal

Microsoft said it would invest $1.5 billion in G42, an Emirati company with ties to China, as Washington and Beijing maneuver to secure tech influence in the Persian Gulf.

By Paul Mozur and David E. Sanger

Paul Mozur reports on global technology and David E. Sanger reports on the White House.

Microsoft said on Tuesday that it would make a $1.5 billion investment in G42 , an artificial intelligence giant in the United Arab Emirates, in a deal largely orchestrated by the Biden administration to box out China as Washington and Beijing battle over who will exercise technological influence in the Persian Gulf region and beyond.

Under the partnership, Microsoft will give G42 permission to sell Microsoft services that use powerful A.I. chips, which are used to train and fine-tune generative A.I. models. In return, G42, which has been under scrutiny by Washington for its ties to China, will use Microsoft’s cloud services and accede to a security arrangement negotiated in detailed conversations with the U.S. government. It places a series of protections on the A.I. products shared with G42 and includes an agreement to strip Chinese gear out of G42’s operations, among other steps.

“When it comes to emerging technology, you cannot be both in China’s camp and our camp,” said Gina Raimondo, the commerce secretary, who traveled twice to the Emirates to talk about security arrangements for this and other partnerships.

The accord is highly unusual, Brad Smith, Microsoft’s president, said in an interview, reflecting the U.S. government’s extraordinary concern about protecting the intellectual property behind A.I. programs.

“The U.S. is quite naturally concerned that the most important technology is guarded by a trusted U.S. company,” said Mr. Smith, who will take a seat on G42’s board.

The investment could help the United States push back against China’s rising influence in the gulf region. If the moves succeed, G42 will be brought into the U.S. fold and pare back its ties with China. The deal could also become a model for how U.S. firms leverage their technological leadership in A.I. to lure countries away from Chinese tech, while reaping huge financial awards.

But the matter is sensitive, as U.S. officials have raised questions about G42. This year, a congressional committee wrote a letter urging the Commerce Department to look into whether G42 should be put under trade restrictions for its ties to China, which include partnerships with Chinese firms and employees who came from government-connected companies.

In an interview, Ms. Raimondo, who has been at the center of an effort to prevent China from obtaining the most advanced semiconductors and the equipment to make them, said the agreement “does not authorize the transfer of artificial intelligence, or A.I. models, or GPUs” — the processors needed to develop A.I. applications — and “assures those technologies can be safely developed, protected and deployed.”

While the Emirates and United States did not sign a separate accord, Ms. Raimondo said, “We have been extensively briefed and we are comfortable that this agreement is consistent with our values.”

In a statement, Peng Xiao, the group chief executive of G42, said that “through Microsoft’s strategic investment, we are advancing our mission to deliver cutting-edge A.I. technologies at scale.”

The United States and China have been racing to exert technological influence in the Persian Gulf, where hundreds of billions of dollars are up for grabs and major investors, including Saudi Arabia , are expected to spend billions on the technology. In the rush to diversify away from oil, many leaders in the region have set their sights on A.I. — and have been happy to play the United States and China off each other.

Although the United Arab Emirates is an important U.S. diplomatic and intelligence partner, and one of the largest buyers of American weapons, it has increasingly expanded its military and economic ties with China. A portion of its domestic surveillance system is built on Chinese technology and its telecommunications work on hardware from Huawei, a Chinese supplier. That has fed the worries of U.S. officials, who often visit the Persian Gulf nation to discuss security issues.

But U.S. officials are also concerned that the spread of powerful A.I. technology critical to national security could eventually be used by China or by Chinese government-linked engineers, if not sufficiently guarded. Last month, a U.S. cybersecurity review board sharply criticized Microsoft over a hack in which Chinese attackers gained access to data from top officials. Any major leak — for instance, by G42’s selling Microsoft A.I. solutions to companies set up in the region by China — would go against Biden administration policies that have sought to limit China’s access to the cutting-edge technology.

“This is among the most advanced technology that the U.S. possesses,” said Gregory Allen, a researcher at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and a former U.S. defense official who worked on A.I. “There should be a very strategic rationale for offshoring it anywhere.”

For Microsoft, a deal with G42 offers potential access to huge Emirati wealth. The company, whose chairman is Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed, the Emirates’ national security adviser and the younger brother of the country’s ruler, is a core part of the Emirates’ efforts to become a major A.I. player.

Despite a name whimsically drawn from “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy,” in which the answer to the “ultimate question of life” is 42, G42 is deeply embedded in the Emirati security state. It specializes in A.I. and recently worked to build an Arabic chatbot, called Jais.

G42 is also focused on biotechnology and surveillance. Several of its executives, including Mr. Xiao, were associated with a company called DarkMatter, an Emirati cyber-intelligence and hacking firm that employs former spies.

In its letter this year, the bipartisan House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party said Mr. Xiao was connected to an expansive network of companies that “materially support” the Chinese military’s technological advancement.

The origins of Tuesday’s accord go back to White House meetings last year, when top national security aides raised the question with tech executives of how to encourage business arrangements that would deepen U.S. ties to firms around the world, especially those China is also interested in.

Under the agreement, G42 will cease using Huawei telecom equipment, which the United States fears could provide a back door for the Chinese intelligence agencies. The accord further commits G42 to seeking permission before it shares its technologies with other governments or militaries and prohibits it from using the technology for surveillance. Microsoft will also have the power to audit G42’s use of its technology.

G42 would get use of A.I. computing power in Microsoft’s data center in the Emirates, sensitive technology that cannot be sold in the country without an export license. Access to the computing power would likely give G42 a competitive edge in the region. A second phase of the deal, which could prove even more controversial and has not yet been negotiated, could transfer some of Microsoft’s A.I. technology to G42.

American intelligence officials have raised concerns about G42’s relationship to China in a series of classified assessments, The New York Times previously reported. Biden administration officials have also pushed their Emirati counterparts to cut the company’s ties to China. Some officials believe the U.S. pressure campaign has yielded some results, but remain concerned about less overt ties between G42 and China.

One G42 executive previously worked at the Chinese A.I. surveillance company Yitu, which has extensive ties to China’s security services and runs facial-recognition-powered monitoring across the country. The company has also had ties to a Chinese genetics giant, BGI, whose subsidiaries were placed on a blacklist by the Biden administration last year. Mr. Xiao also led a firm that was involved in 2019 in starting and operating a social media app , ToTok, that U.S. intelligence agencies said was an Emirati spy tool used to harvest user data.

In recent months, G42 has agreed to walk back some of its China ties, including divesting a stake it took in TikTok’s owner, ByteDance, and pulling out Huawei technology from its operations, according to U.S. officials.

Edward Wong contributed reporting.

Paul Mozur is the global technology correspondent for The Times, based in Taipei. Previously he wrote about technology and politics in Asia from Hong Kong, Shanghai and Seoul. More about Paul Mozur

David E. Sanger covers the Biden administration and national security. He has been a Times journalist for more than four decades and has written several books on challenges to American national security. More about David E. Sanger

PRESSR: InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi opens its doors with a spectacular grand launch event

• The event also celebrated the recently opened Jones Social, a modern restaurant concept offering a fusion of global flavours and urban chic where diners can connect, socialise, and embark on new culinary adventures 

Abu Dhabi, UAE: InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury & lifestyle portfolio, has officially opened its doors in the affluent neighbourhood of Al Bateen in an event held on April 18th.  The grand opening unfolded with a meticulously planned sequence of events, including a magnificent projection mapping show, live performances, a stunning firework show, and more, creating an unforgettable experience for all attendees. The list of invitees included a host of diplomats and senior executives, in addition to prominent figures from IHG Hotels & Resorts and the National Corporation for Tourism & Hotels (NCT&H), the owner of the property. 

Offering a new take on upscale living in the heart of Abu Dhabi, InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi is equipped with everything a guest could need. The residence’s 130 fully furnished units boast gorgeous textures and unique contemporary décor, complemented by a range of premium amenities along with spectacular views of the marina and glittering cityscape. Residents and guests can enjoy a wide range of recreational spaces, including a fitness centre, a private beach and pool, alongside a host of award dining destinations, such as Byblos Sur Mer, Cho Gao, Chamas Churrascaria & Bar, and Belgian Beer Café, all within walking distance. 

On April 18th at 7 pm, the event commenced with a magnificent projection mapping show covering the entire front side of the property, showcasing a sequence of striking visuals. Guests relished the welcoming atmosphere at the Sea Lounge, which not only featured carefully curated décor and a delightful ambience but also offered sweeping marina views from the terrace. A series of enchanting performances from a DJ, violinist, and saxophonist added to the evening’s charm, captivating guests with their musical talents. 

A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at 8 pm, followed by breathtaking fireworks show to mark the grand launch. The event’s extensive list of attendees included various property stakeholders and a host of industry leaders, including His Excellency Tarek Abdulraheem Al Hosani, Chairman at NCTH, Mr. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director Middle East, Africa and South West Asia at IHG Hotels & Resorts, Dani Demerjian, Cluster General Manager at InterContinental Hotel and Residences Abu Dhabi, along with esteemed ambassadors, diplomats and corporate head honchos, socialites and more. 

The celebration continued as guests were invited to Jones Social, where Yunib Siddiqui, CEO of Jones the Grocer – the company behind this new restaurant – gave a speech and shared insights about Jones Social’s concept and offerings. Opening for the first time in Abu Dhabi, Jones Social is a vibrant destination that brings a delicious new culinary and social dining experience to the heart of the capital. Guests had the chance to enjoy the restaurant’s ambience and offerings, with a special menu thoughtfully curated to showcase its impeccable cuisine, along with live music and energetic performances by Latino dancers, adding a dynamic and engaging element to the evening.  

The grand launch of InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi not only celebrated the opening of the property but also highlighted NCT&H’s and IHG Hotels & Resorts’ efforts to create exceptional experiences for visitors and residents alike. Set to elevate the hospitality scene of the capital, the launch of InterContinental Residences Abu  

Dhabi aligns with Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, which aims to enhance tourism and create a world-class hospitality experience in the capital. 

About InterContinental Hotels & Resorts  

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts is the world’s first and largest luxury hotel brand with over 215 hotels spanning 70 countries and representing over 70,000 bedrooms around the world. Founded by Pan American Airways Founder, Juan Trippe in 1946, InterContinental is guided by the belief in the power of travel to expand the mind and connect cultures.   

Opening doors to a ‘world of fascination’, InterContinental is reimagining the luxury travel experience with the modern luxury traveller at its heart. Striking a harmonious balance between freedom and familiarity, InterContinental focuses on satisfying a guests’ yearning for knowledge and culturally rich experiences, building on its heritage as a beacon of approachable luxury travel.   

About IHG Hotels and Resorts  

IHG Hotels & Resorts [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] is a global hospitality company, with a purpose to provide True Hospitality for Good. 

With a family of 19 hotel brands and IHG One Rewards, one of the world's largest hotel loyalty programmes, IHG has over 6,200 open hotels in over 100 countries, and nearly 2,000 in the development pipeline.  

• Luxury & Lifestyle: Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, Regent Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Vignette Collection, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Hotel Indigo 
• Premium: voco hotels, HUALUXE Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, EVEN Hotels 
• Essentials: Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn Express, Garner hotels, avid hotels 
• Suites: Atwell Suites, Staybridge Suites, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, Candlewood Suites  
• Exclusive Partners: Iberostar Beachfront Resorts 

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group's holding company and is incorporated and registered in England and Wales. Approximately 345,000 people work across IHG's hotels and corporate offices globally. 

Visit us online for more about our hotels and reservations and IHG One Rewards. To download the new IHG One Rewards app, visit the Apple App or Google Play stores.  

About Jones Social:  

Created by the renowned Jones the Grocer, Jones Social is a casual dining concept celebrated for its welcoming vibe and delightful food. A cultural and social hotspot with branches across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha, Jones Social creates an environment where families, friends, and nomads can unwind, grab a quick bite, or catch up over a sharing-style meal. Welcoming guests all day long, Jones Social celebrates global flavours by presenting dishes cooked on an open fire with drinks on the side to complement every meal and chat. 

Website: www.jones-social.com  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonessocialabudhabi/ 

© Press Release 2024

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Abu Dhabi state oil company reportedly looked at buying BP

Adnoc decided move was not right fit but it is latest sign of foreign buyers circling UK firms

Abu Dhabi’s state-owned oil company reportedly recently explored a multibillion-pound bid for BP , in a sign that depressed share values in London are making even the biggest British businesses takeover targets.

Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) considered options including buying BP or acquiring a large stake before deciding it was not the right fit and abandoning preliminary discussions, according to Reuters.

Adnoc and BP spoke directly in recent months and the United Arab Emirates firm also sought advice from investment banks on a potential deal, although discussions did not progress far, the report added.

Shares in BP rose by more than 2% in early trading to 530.5p, valuing the company at £89.4bn.

The reported takeover talks have come to light just months after BP’s chief executive, Murray Auchincloss, was forced to downplay speculation that the oil company could become a target after reporting weaker than expected quarterly profits last October.

The future of BP was cast in doubt following a wave of mega-mergers in the US oil industry and after the shock exit of the company’s chief executive , Bernard Looney, in early September.

At the time Auchincloss said he was not concerned about the takeover speculation because BP was trading at multiples to earnings that were similar to the European oil companies Shell and Total. He said BP had also started to close the valuation gap between the company and its US competitors.

BP has underperformed against its competitors in recent years, which investors and analysts have blamed on the company’s high-profile green pledges including a commitment to produce 40% less oil and gas by the end of the decade. The company watered down the target last year to a 25% reduction after revealing bumper oil and gas profits following the war in Ukraine.

BP and Adnoc already have a number of joint ventures, including a link-up to develop gas assets in Egypt announced in February and a separate partnership last year to acquire a 50% stake in the Israeli natural gas group NewMed, although this investment is on hold.

BP’s ties to the UAE predate the founding of Adnoc more than 50 years ago. The company was part of a consortium of western oil majors that spearheaded the exploration of oil and gas across the Middle East and helped to discover oil in the emirate in 1958. In recent years BP has acquired shareholdings of 10% in Adnoc’s onshore, liquified natural gas and gas shipping subsidiaries.

Adnoc and BP declined to comment.

UK companies have recently attracted takeover interest because of relatively lower share values in London’s stock market, which have prompted companies including CRH and Flutter to move their listings to New York.

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Shell’s chief executive, Wael Sawan, and its former boss Ben van Beurden have recently made comments suggesting the oil company may choose to list on the New York Stock Exchange because US investors are “more positive” about fossil fuels.

BP confirmed Auchincloss as chief executive earlier this year, succeeding Looney, who resigned last year for failing to disclose past relationships with colleagues. The company has committed to a huge share buyback programme and has said it wants to purchase $3.5bn (£2.8bn) of its shares in the first half of 2024 and at least $14bn in stock in 2024 and 2025.

Reuters said political considerations had also surfaced as a factor in Adnoc’s decision not to proceed with a takeover. The UK government has the power to intervene in acquisitions in industries including energy under the National Security and Investment Act, which came into force in 2022.

The government also recently introduced legislation to prevent UK newspapers being bought by foreign state-owned companies after RedBird IMI, a partnership backed by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed al-Nahyan, the UAE’s vice-president, and the US investment firm RedBird Capital Partners, tried to buy the Daily Telegraph newspaper. However, this legislation is intended just to apply to newspaper groups.

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Tory MP failed to declare wife’s BP shares during oil and gas debates, standards commissioner finds

BP CEO calls for pragmatism on green aims as profits halve

Minister consulted BP over incentives to maximise oil production, FoI reveals

BP’s green agenda all at sea as sinking profits forecast renews fossil fuel call

BP under pressure from hedge fund to ditch clean energy strategy

Are UK employers going too far with strict rules on workplace relationships?

BP names interim boss Murray Auchincloss as permanent chief executive

BP to deny Bernard Looney £32m in pay and shares after finding ‘serious misconduct’

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