logo
Eid Al Adha 2025 holiday confirmed for private sector

Eid Al Adha 2025 holiday confirmed for private sector

The National5 days ago

Private-sector workers in the UAE will enjoy a long weekend in celebration of Eid Al Adha next week, authorities said on Thursday.
Staff will be granted leave from Thursday, June 5 until Sunday June 8, with work resuming on Monday, June 9.
The public holiday announced by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation corresponds with the break afforded to public sector employees.
Public and private sector staff in the Emirates are typically allocated the same number of public holidays each year.
The UAE on Tuesday confirmed that Eid Al Adha would begin on Friday, June 6, after the crescent moon heralding the start of a new Islamic month was observed.
What is Eid Al Adha?
Eid Al Adha – which means 'festival of the sacrifice' – is the latter of the two Eid holidays celebrated across the Arab world, coming after Eid Al Fitr.
Eid Al Adha commemorates how the Prophet Ibrahim was asked by God in a dream to sacrifice his son, Ismail, as a test of his faith.
As with other religious holidays in the Emirates, it is a time for friends and family to gather, often over meals, and reflect on their lives and faith.
It is customary for families who have the means to slaughter a goat or sheep and share the meat with relatives and the less privileged.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Ohana Development's Husein Salem on the future of branded residences in the UAE
Ohana Development's Husein Salem on the future of branded residences in the UAE

Gulf Business

time17 minutes ago

  • Gulf Business

Ohana Development's Husein Salem on the future of branded residences in the UAE

Image: Supplied Merging haute horology with high-end real estate, Ohana Development recently partnered with Jacob & Co. to launch the Dhs4.7bn Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana. This project introduces the world's first Jacob & Co. Beach Club and Seafront Cigar Lounge. In this interview with Gulf Business , the company's CEO Husein Salem shares insights into the genesis of this unique collaboration, the meticulous planning behind its world-first amenities, and the evolving landscape of branded residences in the Middle East. Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana is positioned as a Dhs4.7bn development. How did the partnership with Jacob & Co. come about, and what does this collaboration bring to the UAE luxury real estate market that hasn't been seen before? The partnership with Jacob & Co. came from a shared goal to create a development that goes beyond typical branded residences. We wanted to introduce something new to the UAE market — a project that redefines what it means to live luxuriously in the UAE, where a brand is involved in more than just name. Jacob & Co. has been part of the creative process from the start, contributing to the design and detailing, including features like the 10-metre-wide ceiling timepiece in the grand lobby and brand interiors inspired by their most celebrated watches and jewellery. This level of involvement sets the project apart. It's the first time a residential development in the region blends high-end coastal living with the design language of fine watchmaking and jewellery. Image: Supplied From Sky Mansions with 360-degree views to a 10-metre-wide ceiling timepiece and the world's first Jacob & Co. Beach Club and branded Seafront Lounge. How does Ohana plan to operate and maintain these world-first amenities to meet global ultra-luxury standards long-term? We recognise that design is only half the equation — true luxury is defined by how it endures and functions over time. At Ohana, operations and maintenance are treated with the same level of precision as the architecture. We've developed the entire service model in-house to reflect the Jacob & Co. standard, covering everything from lifestyle programming to amenity management. A dedicated operations team will oversee all aspects of the resident experience – from concierge and hospitality services to security – ensuring a seamless, high-touch environment tailored for ultra-high-net-worth individuals. The goal is to keep the experience seamless and high-quality from day one, with systems in place to adapt to residents' needs over time. Image: Supplied With the project slated for completion by Q2 2028, what steps are you taking to ensure timely delivery and what milestones should potential buyers and investors expect in the next year or two? Timely delivery is a core part of our promise at Over the next 12 to 24 months, buyers and investors can expect to see steady progress on the project, including foundational works, structural milestones and development updates. Our internal delivery team is fully focused on bringing this vision to life with precision. Regular communication with our community will be a priority, ensuring that every stakeholder remains engaged throughout the journey. What makes branded residences appealing to today's high-net-worth buyers, and how do they differ from traditional luxury real estate offerings? Branded residences appeal to today's high-net-worth buyers because they offer more than just luxury finishes or prime locations — they offer a lifestyle tied to a brand they already trust. These buyers are more selective and value a sense of identity and consistency in their investments. What sets branded residences apart from traditional luxury real estate is the added layer of design, service, and brand alignment. In the case of Jacob & Co., it's not just about putting a logo on a building — it's about reflecting the brand's values throughout the project, from architecture to amenities. This makes the experience more distinctive, which is exactly what today's buyers are looking for. From a developer's perspective, what are the key factors that determine the success of a branded residence project in today's competitive market? From a developer's perspective, the success of a branded residence depends on three core elements – authenticity, quality execution, and long-term value. The brand should be fully integrated into the project, not just used for marketing. When there's a true alignment between the brand's identity and the development's purpose, you create something far more compelling than just a luxury address. Every part of the development, from the design to the service model, should reflect the brand's identity. But that is only part of it. The quality of execution must meet expectations with strong design, reliable construction, and consistent delivery standards. The real test comes over time. A successful branded residence should grow in cultural and commercial value, becoming more desirable as the years go by, not fade. We treat each project as a long-term investment, for both us and our buyers. We focus on building something that lasts, and that mindset is what sets us apart. With the rise of branded residences globally, how is the Middle East market evolving in this segment, and what kind of demand trends are you seeing from regional and international buyers? The Middle East is no longer reacting to global real estate trends — it's actively shaping them. Branded residences are a clear reflection of this shift. In this region, and particularly in the UAE, such collaborations bring an added layer of quality, storytelling, and exclusivity that aligns with the expectations of today's These partnerships go beyond simple brand recognition; they're about creating a lifestyle anchored in authenticity, heritage, and design integrity. Abu Dhabi is emerging as a key player in this segment. Its growing emphasis on cultural capital, sustainability, and long-term economic planning has positioned it as a destination of choice for investors seeking more than just real estate. There's a genuine interest in properties that offer meaning — where people feel part of a vision and a place. We see these dynamics evolving in real time. Buyers today are more selective, design-aware, and globally connected. They're not just investing in a home; they're investing in a brand experience that reflects their values and aspirations. This is especially evident among younger regional buyers, who prioritise personalisation, wellness, privacy, and meaningful design. Branded residences, when done right, deliver on all of that — and that's fundamentally reshaping how we approach architecture, digital integration, and community engagement in the region.

Ascott Grows The Crest Collection in East Asia and the Middle East, Extending the Brand's Heritage-Inspired Luxury Beyond Europe and Southeast Asia
Ascott Grows The Crest Collection in East Asia and the Middle East, Extending the Brand's Heritage-Inspired Luxury Beyond Europe and Southeast Asia

Zawya

time19 minutes ago

  • Zawya

Ascott Grows The Crest Collection in East Asia and the Middle East, Extending the Brand's Heritage-Inspired Luxury Beyond Europe and Southeast Asia

Added new locations in Japan, China, the UAE and Saudi Arabia, including the brand's first resort La Clef Bangkok by The Crest Collection is set to open soon, bringing the brand's number of operating properties in Southeast Asia to four Launches The Crest Chronicles, the inaugural brand programme celebrating the unique heritage stories that define each property and enrich guest experiences SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 3 June 2025 - The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the wholly owned lodging business unit of CapitaLand Investment (CLI), is accelerating the global expansion of its European-born luxury brand, The Crest Collection, in response to growing demand from luxury travellers for distinctive, heritage-rich stays. Over the past six months, the brand has gained strong momentum across East Asia and the Middle East, adding over 1,200 units from four new signings and one opening. The portfolio now comprises 16 properties with over 2,700 units, both operational and in the pipeline, across 11 countries and 13 cities. As a key brand within the Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) programme, The Crest Collection enhances the diversity of the ASR portfolio, offering members a broader range of luxury options and more opportunities to experience heritage-inspired stays around the world. Among the newest additions in East Asia is SEN/KA TOKYO by The Crest Collection, set to open in the second half of 2029, marking the brand's debut in Japan. Also contributing to growth in the region are two developments in China: Hong Yuan Hotel by The Crest Collection, which opened in Haikou, Hainan Province, at the end of last year, and a property slated to open by mid-2026 in Wuhan's Donghu New Technology Development Zone, commonly known as Optics Valley. In the Middle East, Al Mahra Resort by The Crest Collection – the brand's first resort and its debut in the United Arab Emirates – will open in early 2027, to be followed by the brand's first property in Saudi Arabia, opening in Riyadh in 2028. This expansion into East Asia and the Middle East builds on the brand's growing traction in Southeast Asia. La Clef Bangkok by The Crest Collection, set to open in mid-2025, will become the brand's fourth property in the region, following the 2023 debut of The Grand Mansion Menteng by The Crest Collection in Indonesia, The George Penang by The Crest Collection in Malaysia and The Robertson House by The Crest Collection in Singapore. Meanwhile, the brand's seven other operational and pipeline properties are located across Europe, where The Crest Collection was first established in 2016. Ms Serena Lim, Chief Growth Officer, Ascott, said: "Interest in luxury stays continues to rise in Asia and the Middle East, driven by travellers seeking meaningful connections to the region's rich culture and heritage. The Crest Collection meets this aspiration with its 'A Story Behind Every Door' brand promise, delivering culturally immersive experiences enriched by each property's distinctive identity, while enabling owners to tap into the strength of Ascott's global commercial ecosystem. Supported by our flex-hybrid model and multi-typology brand strategy, The Crest Collection is highly conversion-friendly, adapting seamlessly across serviced residences, hotels, resorts and other accommodation types. While recent signings highlight new builds such as the brand's first resort, its adaptability also makes it ideal for property conversions that enable swift time-to-market. By tailoring solutions to the unique demands of each location, our market-driven approach empowers us to respond to evolving traveller expectations with agility and deliver sustained value for owners." The luxury travel sector is projected to grow from US$1.4 trillion in 2024 to US$2.2 trillion by 2030, driven not just by affluence among the wealthy but also by younger travellers who are willing to pay top dollar for meaningful experiences[1]. With luxury travellers drawn to destinations that excite, along with surprising environments and experiences that speak to their individuality[2], it is clear that the true essence of luxury lies in celebrating unique stories rather than uniformity. Ms Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott said: "Curating experiences that resonate with the expectations of the most discerning travellers has become the currency of modern luxury. Our most affluent guests are seeking emotional connection, personal transformation and cultural resonance. By integrating heritage narratives with thoughtfully curated hospitality, The Crest Collection offers our guests a luxurious and storied experience rooted in the unique identity of each property and its locale. Defined not only by what is provided, but by what is remembered, every stay at a Crest Collection property reflects Ascott's boutique lens on luxury – one that nurtures individuality and crafts hyper-localised, distinctive experiences that engage all the senses. This approach allows us to offer timeless sophistication, elevated by bespoke touches that reflect the spirit of each destination. As The Crest Collection expands from Europe to Asia and the Middle East, we remain dedicated to redefining modern luxury through evocative, story-driven experiences that deliver meaningful moments with purpose and creativity." Distinctive Heritage Stories Shape The Crest Collection's Luxury Expansion With every addition, The Crest Collection reinforces its vision of heritage-inspired hospitality. Each property brings local culture to life through design, storytelling and immersive guest experiences. La Clef Bangkok by The Crest Collection, opening in mid-2025, is situated near Thong Lo BTS station on the historically significant Sukhumvit Soi 38. The 115-unit luxury serviced residence artfully blends French Art de Vivre with cherished Thai heritage, offering a range of premium amenities including a luxurious swimming pool, rejuvenating onsen, inviting residents' lounge and state-of-the-art fitness centre. Beyond easy access to upscale shopping destinations, vibrant entertainment venues and top-tier medical facilities, guests can look forward to a refined selection of studios and one- to two-bedroom apartments, each thoughtfully designed to embody the timeless elegance and rich legacy of its distinguished location. The upcoming SEN/KA TOKYO by The Crest Collection is part of the landmark Yaesu 1-Chome North District Type 1 Urban Redevelopment Project, located near Tokyo Station in the Yaesu district. The property's name pays tribute to its location, historically known as Gofuku-cho (Kimono Fabric Town) during the Edo period, once home to prestigious kimono fabric shops patronised by the shogunate and the Imperial Household. The district's rich heritage of delicate artistry and craftsmanship will be brought to life through the design and storytelling of this luxury hotel-in-residence, which features 92 guestrooms designed for both short and extended stays. Hong Yuan Hotel by The Crest Collection, which opened late last year in Haikou, China, draws inspiration from the city's historic role as a key gateway on the ancient Maritime Silk Road. Located in the Jiangdong New District of the Hainan Free Trade Port, the 261-key hotel blends Song Dynasty aesthetics with modern luxury. Guests are immersed in a richly storied environment – from copper screen partitions in the lobby and architecture echoing Song-era design, to Chinese paintings depicting maritime trade scenes in the restaurant, all reflecting Haikou's historic role as a hub of global cultural and commercial exchange. The upcoming property in Wuhan's Optics Valley will further grow The Crest Collection's presence in China, offering a narrative rooted in the city's academic and innovation heritage at the heart of a national high-tech development zone. Al Mahra Resort by The Crest Collection located on Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah, takes its name from the Arabic word 'mahra', referring to a young female horse – a symbol of youthful grace, strength and noble spirit in Bedouin heritage. Reflecting these qualities, the 539-key beachfront resort will blend Arabian heritage with contemporary design, offering guests an experience rooted in the UAE's rich equestrian and cultural legacy. The Crest Collection will also make its debut in Saudi Arabia when it opens in Riyadh, offering bespoke hospitality in the Kingdom's capital with a stay experience inspired by local culture. Strategically located on King Fahd Road and surrounded by key commercial and lifestyle hubs, the property will house a selection of accommodation options spanning elegant hotel rooms, serviced apartments, and suites, catering to both leisure and business travellers. Guests can expect access to an array of premium amenities, including specialty dining restaurants, a signature 'Reading Room' lounge and café, and comprehensive wellness facilities featuring a pool, gym, and treatment rooms. The property will also offer state-of-the-art meeting and multi-functional spaces. The Crest Chronicles: Showcasing Heritage and Hospitality at The Crest Collection Through a carefully curated series of activations spanning gastronomy, literature, architecture, art and performance, The Crest Chronicles brand programme brings heritage stories to life at each property within The Crest Collection. From culinary events that evoke the flavours of the past to literary legacies that immerse guests in historic narratives, this programme reveals the stories behind every door. In Paris, France, La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris by The Crest Collection, the flagship property that launched the brand, has hosted Cognac Heritage Tastings featuring three exceptional eaux-de-vie – Hennessy, A.E. Dor and Koya – offering guests a unique journey through fine cognacs and brandies inspired by the heritage of the former Hennessy family mansion, now home to the hotel. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts can explore the 1889 Exposition Universelle through a Literary Display opening mid-June in the lobby of La Clef Tour Eiffel Paris by The Crest Collection. At Hong Yuan Hotel by The Crest Collection in Haikou, China, guests can immerse themselves in the cultural richness of the Song Dynasty, the hotel's key design inspiration. Titled "The Four Refinements of the Song Dynasty", year-round activities include tea tastings, floral arrangement workshops, incense crafting, art appreciation and guqin performances. Complementing these experiences, a thoughtfully curated culinary menu inspired by the 24 solar terms of Chinese culture promotes health, relaxation and seasonal nourishment. Starting early June in Singapore, cocktail aficionados can toast to the rich history of The Robertson House by The Crest Collection through a series of cocktail workshops that tell the story of the locale with expertly crafted spirits. Discover more about The Crest Chronicles at Hashtag: #TheAscottLimited #Growth The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About The Ascott Limited The Ascott Limited (Ascott) is driven by a vision to be the preferred hospitality company, enriching global living with heartfelt experiences. With a portfolio of over 990 properties across 230 cities in over 40 countries, Ascott's presence spans Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the USA. Its diverse collection of award-winning brands includes Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection, The Unlimited Collection, Fox, Harris, POP!, Preference, Quest, Vertu and Yello. Ascott specialises in managing and franchising a wide range of lodging options, including serviced residences, hotels, resorts, social living properties and branded residences, catering to the varying needs and preferences of global travellers. Through the Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) loyalty programme, members enjoy exclusive privileges and curated experiences, enhancing every aspect of their travel journey. As a wholly owned business unit of CapitaLand Investment Limited, Ascott generates fee-related earnings by leveraging its expertise in both lodging management and investment management. It also drives the expansion of funds under management by growing its sponsored CapitaLand Ascott Trust and private funds. For more information on Ascott and its sustainability programme, please visit Alternatively, connect with Ascott on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn. About CapitaLand Investment Limited Headquartered and listed in Singapore in 2021, CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) is a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold. As at 31 March 2025, CLI had S$117 billion of funds under management held via stakes in seven listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts and a suite of private real asset vehicles that invest in demographics, disruption and digitalisation-themed strategies. Its diversified real asset classes include retail, office, lodging, industrial, logistics, business parks, wellness, self-storage, data centres, private credit and special opportunities. CLI aims to scale its fund management, lodging management and commercial management businesses globally and maintain effective capital management. As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand Group's development arm. In 2025, CapitaLand Group celebrates 25 years of excellence in real estate and continues to innovate and shape the industry. As a responsible company, CLI places sustainability at the core of what it does and has committed to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions for Scope 1 and 2 by 2050. CLI contributes to the environmental and social well-being of the communities where it operates, as it delivers long-term economic value to its stakeholders. The Ascott Limited

UN calls for investigation into Palestinian deaths near Gaza aid site as Israel pushes back
UN calls for investigation into Palestinian deaths near Gaza aid site as Israel pushes back

The National

time32 minutes ago

  • The National

UN calls for investigation into Palestinian deaths near Gaza aid site as Israel pushes back

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Monday called for an independent investigation into the killing and wounding of Palestinians near an aid distribution point run by the US and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). Gaza's civil defence agency said at least 31 Palestinians died and more than 170 were injured after Israeli troops opened fire at the distribution site in the southern city of Rafah, with medics and witnesses corroborating the reports. Israel's army first said it was unaware of casualties, then said its troops did not fire at civilians "near or within" the food bank in the south of Gaza, and that "reports to this effect are false". Mr Guterres did not assign blame for the deaths. "I am appalled by the reports of Palestinians killed and injured while seeking aid in Gaza yesterday. It is unacceptable that Palestinians are risking their lives for food," the UN chief said. "I call for an immediate and independent investigation into these events and for perpetrators to be held accountable." Another three Palestinians were killed early on Monday near an aid centre west of Rafah in the south, medical sources told The National. The UN has criticised the aid distribution plan, which also cuts usual aid providers such as Palestinian relief agency UNRWA out of the loop. Little is known about the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, and aid groups say it endangers rather than helps civilians by delivering food through narrow, militarised corridors. "Israel has clear obligations under international humanitarian law to agree to and facilitate humanitarian aid," Mr Guterres added. Israel's foreign ministry called the statement by the UN chief a "disgrace" and criticised him for not mentioning Hamas. Gazans have accused Israel of engineering a humanitarian catastrophe with its new aid operations, saying supplies are being restricted to the south of the enclave in an effort to displace people from the north through starvation. Israel has faced mounting international criticism over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where the UN has warned the entire population faces famine. It imposed an aid blockade on the besieged strip in March and has only relaxed it in recent days. Aid is now trickling in after Israel partially lifted its blockade, but the UN has reported looting of its lorries and warehouses. The wrangling over aid comes as US President Donald Trump' s special envoy Steve Witkoff on Saturday said Hamas had submitted a 'totally unacceptable' response to a US-backed ceasefire plan signed off by Israel. The 60-day truce proposal was presented to Hamas on Thursday and now appears to be in the balance. Hamas had given a conditional agreement to the plan, sources told The National, with the group's reservations focused on assurances it seeks on Israel's withdrawal from the Palestinian territory and the distribution of aid.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store