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For the first time in the Middle East: The Festival 'Moscow Seasons' arrives in Kuwait

For the first time in the Middle East: The Festival 'Moscow Seasons' arrives in Kuwait

Khaleej Timesa day ago
For the first time ever, Moscow will bring its flagship cultural event, the Festival 'Moscow Seasons', to the Middle East from September 25 to 27, with Kuwait hosting a spectacular celebration of Russian culture, art, and music. Supported by the Embassy of the Russian Federation in the State of Kuwait, the Festival 'Moscow Seasons in Kuwait' is designed to introduce audiences to the charm and diversity of the Russian capital. Two festival locations — Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre and The Avenues shopping mall — will immerse visitors in Moscow's traditions, modern attractions, and year-round cultural calendar.
The highlight of the program will be a grand concert by the Moscow State Symphony Orchestra on September 27, conducted by the renowned Maestro Ivan Rudin, at the prestigious Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre. This exceptional evening will feature two timeless treasures of Russian classical music: Rimsky-Korsakov's Scheherazade and Stravinsky's The Firebird — masterpieces that have shaped the history of world music. Scheherazade, with its mesmerizing violin solos and rich orchestration, transports listeners into the enchanting tales of One Thousand and One Nights. The Firebird, a groundbreaking ballet score that launched Stravinsky to international fame, blends Russian folklore with innovative orchestral colors, offering an unforgettable journey into a magical realm.
Before the concert, guests will enjoy a Moscow Tea Time ceremony, offering a taste of traditional Moscow sweets and tea. Visitors can also explore a unique photo zone featuring historical costumes from the celebrated Moscow Estates Festival, an annual event showcasing the city's historic mansions.
Evgeny Kozlov, chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, emphasised: "Kuwaiti visitors are increasingly discovering Moscow as a unique travel destination. In 2024, Moscow welcomed approximately 16,500 visitors from Kuwait — almost a tenfold increase compared to 2019, with 97% of them travelling for tourism. Their interest reflects Moscow's ability to combine heritage, modern leisure, and warm hospitality. The Festival 'Moscow Seasons in Kuwait' is more than an event — it is a cultural bridge between our nations and a warm invitation to experience Moscow in person."
Taking place from September 25 to 27 at The Avenues, one of the largest shopping malls in the Middle East, the Festival 'Moscow Seasons in Kuwait' will bring the spirit of the Russian capital to Kuwait through a vibrant program both on stage and in the country's most famous retail destination. Visitors can enjoy performances by artistic ensembles, a photo exhibition, and interactive presentations showcasing Moscow's landmarks. Inside the mall, guests can visit the dedicated Moscow Tourist Information Center and the special 'Moscow Tea Time' stand, offering tastings of traditional Moscow sweets and tea.
By bringing 'Moscow Seasons' to Kuwait, this event marks a new chapter in the cultural and tourism partnership between the two countries, offering audiences an evening of artistic excellence and a glimpse into the soul of Moscow.
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How to book a flight with crypto in the UAE: Step-by-step guide
How to book a flight with crypto in the UAE: Step-by-step guide

Crypto Insight

time2 hours ago

  • Crypto Insight

How to book a flight with crypto in the UAE: Step-by-step guide

Airlines and travel agencies, including Emirates, Air Arabia, Travala and Alternative Airlines, now support cryptocurrency payments for bookings, targeting tech-savvy travelers and digital nomads. Travelers can pay with Bitcoin, Ether, stablecoins and other digital assets via checkout or gift cards, depending on the platform. The UAE's initiatives, such as Dubai's Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), could help expand crypto-powered services like flight tickets and loyalty programs. Travelers should monitor exchange rates, choose regulated platforms and maintain transaction records for a smooth booking experience. The United Arab Emirates has emerged as a torchbearer in cryptocurrency adoption, with travel being the latest sector to embrace this trend. In July 2025, Emirates signed an agreement with to allow passengers to pay for flights and in-flight purchases using cryptocurrencies. The move reflects the UAE's efforts to attract tech-savvy tourists, digital nomads and residents who value secure and flexible payment options. As more travelers choose to pay with digital currencies, integration of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ether, Tether, USDt and more. This article briefs you about platforms enabling you to purchase crypto flight bookings. It explains the step-by-step process to make these bookings and provides tips for making an optimum deal. Platforms in the UAE that accept flight bookings The UAE has set up an advanced financial ecosystem with regulations supporting crypto. The aviation and travel industries are also part of this trend, and you can book flights with cryptocurrency with several airlines and travel agencies. Here is a review of key platforms and agencies accepting cryptocurrencies with flight bookings, comparing their fees, supported digital currencies and overall user experience. Emirates Airlines Overview: Emirates, the UAE's flagship airline, has collaborated with to enable cryptocurrency payments through Pay, scheduled to launch in 2026. Emirates, the UAE's flagship airline, has collaborated with to enable cryptocurrency payments through Pay, scheduled to launch in 2026. Supported cryptocurrencies: BTC, ETH, Cronos and stablecoins like USDT and USDC, with plans to support over 30 currencies. BTC, ETH, Cronos and stablecoins like USDT and USDC, with plans to support over 30 currencies. Availability: Payments will cover flights and extra services across Emirates' routes, such as upgrades and duty-free items. Air Arabia Overview: Air Arabia, a Dubai-listed budget airline, accepts AE Coin, a dirham-backed stablecoin, for bookings. Using one stablecoin simplifies payments for local users familiar with digital AED. Air Arabia, a Dubai-listed budget airline, accepts AE Coin, a dirham-backed stablecoin, for bookings. Using one stablecoin simplifies payments for local users familiar with digital AED. Supported cryptocurrencies: AE Coin only; AE Coin is a stablecoin issued by AED Stablecoin. AE Coin only; AE Coin is a stablecoin issued by AED Stablecoin. Availability: Bookings are available across Air Arabia's Middle East, North Africa and Asia networks. Did you know? In 2014, Latvian airline airBaltic became the world's first airline to accept Bitcoin for flight bookings. This move paved the way for global carriers like Emirates and platforms such as Travala to integrate cryptocurrency payments. Travala Overview: A blockchain-based booking platform covering flights, hotels and experiences, popular in the UAE for its extensive crypto support. A blockchain-based booking platform covering flights, hotels and experiences, popular in the UAE for its extensive crypto support. Supported cryptocurrencies: BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC, BNB and AVA (Travala's token). BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC, BNB and AVA (Travala's token). Availability: Global travel services. Alternative Airlines Overview: This online travel agency allows bookings with over 650 airlines, including Emirates and Etihad, and is a favorite among crypto users. This online travel agency allows bookings with over 650 airlines, including Emirates and Etihad, and is a favorite among crypto users. Supported cryptocurrencies: BTC, ETH, XRP, Litecoin, Cardano, Dogecoin, USDT and more. BTC, ETH, XRP, Litecoin, Cardano, Dogecoin, USDT and more. Availability: Offers global bookings, including those of UAE-based airlines. Destinia Overview: A worldwide travel agency supporting crypto for flights, hotels and car rentals, offering flexible payment options for UAE travelers. A worldwide travel agency supporting crypto for flights, hotels and car rentals, offering flexible payment options for UAE travelers. Supported cryptocurrencies: BTC, ETH, USDT and other major cryptocurrencies. BTC, ETH, USDT and other major cryptocurrencies. Availability: Global bookings, including UAE-based airlines. How to make a crypto payment for booking a flight Airlines in the UAE don't take direct crypto payments; instead, they collaborate with a crypto service provider to facilitate crypto payments for them. You can make a crypto payment via the checkout or a gift card. Via checkout: To use cryptocurrency at checkout, choose the crypto payment option on the booking platform. This method is simple, secure and supported by many travel agencies and airlines. To use cryptocurrency at checkout, choose the crypto payment option on the booking platform. This method is simple, secure and supported by many travel agencies and airlines. Via gift card: Some platforms allow indirect crypto payments through digital gift cards. Purchase a travel gift card and apply the gift card balance to your booking as a payment code or credit. Did you know? Travala reported a 46% increase in crypto bookings from January 2023 to January 2024. This surge reflects a growing demand among travelers seeking flexible, borderless payment options while bypassing hefty credit card fees and traditional banking hurdles. Step-by-step guide for booking a flight via checkout with crypto payment Here is a guide on how to book a flight via checkout with crypto payment. The guide uses Travala for illustrative purposes. Step 1) Choose a crypto-friendly travel platform: Select a platform that supports cryptocurrencies for booking flights in the UAE. Select a platform that supports cryptocurrencies for booking flights in the UAE. Step 2) Select flight details: Enter your destination, travel dates and preferences on the platform. Filter options to find the best flight for your needs. Step 3) Proceed to payment and select the cryptocurrency option: At checkout, choose the cryptocurrency payment option from the available methods. Travala, for instance, offers options like cryptocurrency transfer, and Binance Pay. Step 4) Connect crypto wallet: Select the appropriate crypto payment tab and tap 'Complete reservation.' In the case of Travala, you could tap Cryptocurrency Transfer, or Binance Pay and initiate the payment process. Step 5) Authorize payment: Log in to your crypto wallet, verify the amount and authorize the transaction securely to confirm payment. To authorize, you could use the notification sent to your wallet or scan a QR code shared by the agency or airlines using your wallet. Log in to your crypto wallet, verify the amount and authorize the transaction securely to confirm payment. To authorize, you could use the notification sent to your wallet or scan a QR code shared by the agency or airlines using your wallet. Step 6) Receive e-ticket: Receive your e-ticket via email or on the platform. 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From dishwasher to dealmaker: Haitham Mattar's bold IHG expansion plan
From dishwasher to dealmaker: Haitham Mattar's bold IHG expansion plan

Gulf Business

time4 hours ago

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From dishwasher to dealmaker: Haitham Mattar's bold IHG expansion plan

Haitham Mattar is the MD for IHG Hotels & Resorts Middle East, Africa and Southwest Asia. (Supplied) Haitham Mattar has seen the hospitality industry from every angle. He started as a dishwasher in Atlanta, rose through the ranks of global hotel giants, and today leads IHG Hotels & Resorts across the Middle East, Africa and Southwest Asia as its managing director. But beyond the impressive career journey, Mattar is on a mission to reshape regional tourism and inspire the next generation. 'I've been in hospitality for over 30 years,' he tells Gulf Business. 'I actually stepped away for a while to head up tourism for Ras Al Khaimah, then advised Saudi Arabia, before coming back to IHG. I started right at the bottom, in the kitchen, scrubbing pots and pans, and I learned very quickly that no job is too small in hospitality. That's why I wrote my book Pots and Pans and Five-Year Plans: it's intended to inspire the younger generation to dream big.' The book, published earlier this year, dives into resilience, navigating adversity, and building a fulfilling career, whether in hospitality or another industry. It charts Mattar's story from his childhood in Lebanon during the civil war, to immigrating to the US at age five, and launching his career at the Courtyard by Marriott in Georgia. 'I started as a dishwasher,' he recalls. 'I was 17 and just wanted a weekend job like my friends. I didn't want to rely on my family for pocket money, so I took what I could get. But I was curious — how did the chef make breakfast? How could I master whatever role I had? That mindset stayed with me.' From Marriott, Mattar eventually joined IHG, beginning with a role at the InterContinental Dubai on the Creek. 'I started in rooms division, then became Director of Sales and Marketing. I stayed about five years before moving into a regional role covering East Africa. 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Bahrain sees modest volumes, primarily from weekend travellers coming from Saudi's Eastern Province. As for Qatar, the post-World Cup environment has created new challenges. 'There's a lot of supply in the market, but not yet a consistent 12-month events calendar to drive sustained demand,' Mattar explains. 'Events tend to be last-minute, which causes spikes and dips in occupancy. We'd like to see more engagement between the tourism board and the private sector. There's an opportunity for Qatar and the UAE to collaborate more on tourism. It's just a short hop between the two.' He also supports the upcoming unified GCC tourism visa. 'It would be a game changer. Like the Schengen visa in Europe, a regional visa would allow travellers to explore multiple countries in one trip. Fly into Dubai, visit Doha, drive to Muscat — it's all possible.' The conscious traveller Across all markets, Mattar is seeing a growing demand for sustainable travel. 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'Whether it's sustainable travel, regional integration, or just offering great experiences, we all have a role to play,' he says. 'Our job is to help people dream big — whether they're checking in as a guest or starting out in their career like I did.' Haitham Mattar (left), managing director for IHG Hotels & Resorts in India, Middle East & Africa, and Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, following the signing of an MoU in December 2024 to strengthen collaboration between Dubai Economy and Tourism and IHG.

How UAE's 1,000km desert challenge is solving youth heritage disconnect
How UAE's 1,000km desert challenge is solving youth heritage disconnect

Khaleej Times

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How UAE's 1,000km desert challenge is solving youth heritage disconnect

With over 40 per cent of Emirati youth feeling disconnected from their cultural heritage, a UAE initiative is using 1,000-kilometer desert expeditions to rebuild these vital bonds. Misrah, meaning 'going in the morning', invites youth aged 18-25 from all segments of society to 'walk the path to your heritage' through an intensive physical and cultural journey that mirrors ancient Emirati traditions. The ambitious two-phase programme begins with training 500 participants in traditional skills including camel riding, folk arts, and heritage crafts at Police Camel Camp in Abu Dhabi. Each participant undergoes 12 hours of training over one week, attending four-hour sessions four days weekly, before 100 are selected for the ultimate challenge: a 1,000-kilometer desert trek across the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. 'This journey is not just a physical challenge but a path to rediscover the deep connection between our people and the desert,' Khalifa Al Mazrouei, an Emirati social media influencer and adventurer who participated in the program, told Khaleej Times. 'Walking through the desert, experiencing the same terrain our ancestors did, I felt patience and strength growing inside me — qualities that define our heritage.' The initiative addresses a critical gap where less than 30 per cent of Emirati youth regularly engage in desert-based heritage activities, with over 35 per cent of youth aged 15-24 leading sedentary lifestyles that disconnect them from natural environments. Training modules immerse participants in authentic Emirati culture through three core stations: The Coffee House for traditional preparation and storytelling, Folk Arts Workshops covering performances like Al Ayala and Al Harbiya, and Camel Pastures for hands-on animal care and traditional tool mastery. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Active Abu Dhabi (@active_abudhabi) Al Mazrouei emphasized the programme's transformative impact: 'I want young Emiratis to see that our culture is alive — it's not just stories, but something you can feel in every step, every moment under the desert sun.' Comprehensive training covers camel anatomy, saddle assembly using traditional tools, campfire gathering techniques, and preservation of oral traditions. The curriculum wants participants to master the essential desert survival skills while also deepening their connection to Emirati values of endurance, patience, and community cooperation. Mansour Al Dhaheri, Chairman of Active Abu Dhabi, said in a statement: 'Misrah marks an inspiring milestone in our continued efforts to empower youth and reinforce their connection to national identity. We encourage young citizens and residents to take part in this exceptional experience, which will help shape their character and deepen their appreciation for Emirati heritage.' The initiative aims to create cultural ambassadors who can preserve and transmit heritage knowledge to future generations, addressing the UAE's broader challenge of maintaining cultural identity amid rapid modernization. UAE citizens and residents aged 18-25 can register through with training running from August 21 to October 19, 2025. More information is available at Active Abu Dhabi's website.

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