Latest news with #Arsenale
Observer
11-08-2025
- Business
- Observer
How is work progressing on the Hafeet Rail project?
Muscat: Construction work on Oman's first railway line connecting the main port city of Suhar in North Al Batinah with the UAE capital Abu Dhabi is continuing at a brisk pace, as per periodical updates provided by Hafeet Rail. In June this year, the company reported that completed over 1 million manhours with the highest safety standards and zero injuries. Other updates included the construction of culverts that will allow water to flow safely beneath the railway, ensuring a strong and secure foundation. Construction works are progressing along the railway alignment between the Sultanate of Oman and the United Arab Emirates, across several areas in North Al Batinah and Al Buraimi governorates, and in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, the company said. In the latest update, Mashael al Bahri, civil design manager at Hafeet Rail, said, "The project sites in Suhar to observe a crucial stage of the excavation and backfilling works, specifically the crushing and sorting of the extracted materials, to ensure their compliance with previously approved designs. The crushing and sorting system is an integrated system for processing the extracted materials. This system works by crushing, sorting, and classifying them by size, preparing them for use in later construction work. The system relies on the use of large, adjustable industrial screens, which operators adjust according to project requirements. Materials that meet approved standards are transported to the construction sites, while non-compliant materials are disposed of safely and in compliance with environmental laws and regulations." Mashael Al Bahri, civil design manager at Hafeet Rail Mashael Al Bahri, civil design manager at Hafeet Rail What is Hafeet Rail The railway project, known as Hafeet Rail, is a joint venture with the UAE's Etihad Railway and is currently in various stages of implementation. Once completed, the project will reduce travel time between Suhar and Abu Dhabi to one hour and 40 minutes, and to Al Ain in just 47 minutes, with trains travelling at a speed of 200 km per hour. There are also plans to operate a luxury train service on the route in partnership with the Italian company Arsenale. The primary objective of the project is to enhance trade within the GCC by facilitating the transport of goods to and from the ports of Oman. The railway line is also capable of carrying 15,000 tonnes of freight in trains, and agreements have already been signed with major core sector companies for various facilities and operations related to the project. The GCC Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jasem Albudaiwi, recently said that the GCC member states, through their technical committees, are focused on completing the GCC Railway Project as planned to achieve further development and prosperity for their peoples. He said during a meeting to review progress on the GCC Railway Project, held at the General Secretariat's headquarters in Riyadh, with the participation of senior officials from the General Secretariat and the Director-General of the GCC Railways Authority and his team. Albudaiwi received a presentation highlighting the railway project, its current progress, and coordination among the member states.
Time Out Dubai
04-08-2025
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
Sheikh Mohammed rides Etihad Rail passenger train from Dubai to Fujairah
The highly anticipated Etihad Rail passenger service is set to launch next year – and we couldn't be more excited. The passenger service will connect every emirate and make travelling in and out of Dubai much easier. And it looks like plans are getting ever closer as His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has taken a journey on the passenger train from Dubai. Sheikh Mohammed's journey marks a significant historic milestone for the rail project as commercial operations are set to launch in 2026. While freight services have been up and running since 2023 on the nationwide railway network, a full passenger service isn't expected until next year. Sheikh Mohammed rides Etihad Rail between Dubai and Fujairah Sheikh Mohammed's journey gives us a sneak peek at a trip between the passenger stations in Dubai and Fujairah. The two emirates will serve as key hubs within the national railway network once operations are underway. Trains will operate at speeds of up to 200km/hr, and the first four passenger stations will be located in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah. Sheikh Mohammed said: 'Etihad Rail is a vital economic artery that supports the UAE's journey to the future. 'It is a key pillar in our vision to build an integrated transport network that strengthens the UAE's position as a leading logistics hub, while facilitating the movement of people and goods.' Etihad Rail was honoured to host His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, aboard the passenger train journey between the emirates of Dubai and Fujairah, with passenger services set to commence operations… — Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) August 2, 2025 Sheikh Mohammed took a journey between Dubai and Fujairah (Credit: Etihad Rail) Earlier this year, one lucky passenger shared a more in-depth look at what journeys are going to look like on board. Sarah Adel Luqman, a participant in the UAE's National Experts Program, described it as 'seamless comfort, world-class service, and breathtaking views,' calling it one of the top highlights of 2025. You might also like: A guide to Etihad Rail: High-speed rail, passenger service, dates and more She shared a video of what it would be like to travel from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah via Dubai by train. She praised the professionalism of the Etihad Rail team and thanked the UAE leadership for their visionary infrastructure goals. Not to mention, the trip offered a front-row seat to the country's next big leap in sustainable travel – let's be honest, we're ready to pack our bags. You can expect plush seats, charging ports, entertainment systems, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and Orient Express-style luxury thanks to a partnership with Italian firm Arsenale. The full network will connect 11 cities from Al Sila in the west to Fujairah in the east, linking major stops like Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Ruwais, and Sharjah. Tickets have not yet been priced but you can expect RTA's nol card to be among the payment options. More news in Dubai Dubai's 4-day work week is ending soon — here's what's changing There are only a few weeks left The next UAE public holiday is in one month Here's what you need to know Dubai is going cashless: This is what it means for you Say goodbye to coins and notes
India Today
03-07-2025
- India Today
Luxury on rails: Five top trains to see the world
(NOTE: This article was originally published in the India Today Spice issue dated June 2025)Discover legendary routes along which traders once traversed in the east, landscapes that vary from the lush green countryside to the stark vastness of the Saudi desert and pristine rainforests of Malaysia, from the comfort of your gilded luxe cabins aboard new luxury trains that revive the golden days of slow travel with a new layer of opulence. While some are already on track, others will launch in the coming months. Get set to turn back the OF THE DESERT, SAUDI ARABIA Dream of the Desert is Saudi Arabia's first luxury train with 34 luxury suites on board advertisementIf crisscrossing lush green countryside is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a train journey, then board the Middle East's first five star luxury train to uncover a dramatically different landscape – the mystique of endless stretches of brown and red sand. The Dream of the Desert will depart from Saudi Arabia's capital Riyadh and go through some gorgeous terrain and natural sites which are expected to include Hail region, a UNESCO world heritage site. The itineraries are being finalised as it debuts towards the end of next year. Taking inspiration from what lies beyond its windows, the train, which has 34 suites will reflect the aesthetic of the desert while paying homage to Saudi culture and craftsmanship. It will all come with a touch of glamour -- think sandy and beige tones offset by shades of gold; intricate wood carvings, woven textiles and wood panelled walls. The reception lounge is designed like a traditional majlis, a communal sitting room in a Saudi home. Art pieces and photographs of Saudi cultural sites will adorn the corridors. When it comes to dining, the chefs will curate local and international cuisines. The train, a collaboration between Saudi Arabia Railways and Italy's Arsenale group, is being launched as the country steps up its game to woo by the end of 2026https:// The itineraries are being worked onLA DOLCE VITA ORIENT EXPRESS, ITALY Chug along with the gentle rhythm of the Italian countryside or the country's stunning southern coastline ensconced in a luxury cabin that evokes memories of the world's most famous train that once traversed Europe. The La Dolce Vita Orient Express, Italy, made its debut in April with a run from Rome to the medieval hilltop town of Montalcino along the 'Tastes of Tuscan Vineyards' route. It is the first of six trains that will wind along towns like Venice, Siena, Matera and the shores of Sicily for one or two nights offering eight itineraries. This luxury train fleet is not just reviving a legacy, it is redefining the world of slow travel from the moment you step into the plush La Dolce Vita lounge at Roma Ostiense its design inspired by 'the sweet life' (la dolce vita), the train's 12 deluxe cabins come with double beds, carpeted floors and wooden beamed ceilings. In its 18 suites, lounge on a sofa or armchairs as you watch Italy disappear in a blur from your window. For a more opulent experience, check into the signature La Dolce Vita suite. Sip the best wine from the region you are traversing as singers belt out Italian numbers and dine on crisp linen laid out with the finest porcelain on a menu curated by three-Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck with local culinary traditions in in April 2025Https:// train runs along eight different itineraries varying from 1 to 2 nightsBRITANNIC EXPLORER, UNITED KINGDOM There are two gorgeous dining cars at Britannic Explorer Come July and explore a slice of the English countryside, whether it is the rolling hills of Wales, the shimmering coast of Cornwall or the peaks and serene water bodies of the Lake District in the country's first luxury sleeper train by the Belmond Group. Starting from London, it will glide along these three regions offering either three or six night journeys. Besides 15 plush, oak panelled suites, it has three grand suites that come with double beds, marble bathrooms and personal butler service. Meals are curated by award-winning British Chef Simon Rogan The experience will be quintessentially English all the way—from a typical afternoon tea to meals crafted by award-winning British Chef Simon Rogan. They will be served in two dining cars where soothing cream and green interiors reflect an English country garden. When you want a tipple, head to the Observation car—the train's social hub— stocked with artisan gins and craft beers or choose a cocktail mixed with botanicals inspired by Victorian apothecaries. Depending on the route you are traversing, stroll in a lavender meadow, hike, swim, party at a Cotswolds pub, or attend a gala dinner in a 15th century mansion in Oxfordshire when the train halts. And while on board, take time out to indulge in relaxing therapies and massages in the Wellness will run from July train offers seven itineraries varying from 3 to 6 nightsEASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS,MALAYSIA There are two dining cars on board offering cuisine from East Asia; One of the train itineraries goes through a national park You wouldn't have experienced South East Asia like this before. Winding its way from Singapore to Malaysia's tropical jungles, islands and small towns, the luxury Eastern and Oriental Express was relaunched last year after the pandemic. While its trademark green and gold exterior is unchanged, the interiors have been given a facelift and it has added two new seasonal routes to the six itineraries it offers. On 'Wild Malaysia,' the hero stop is the Teman Negara National park, one of the world's oldest rainforests which one explores in open jeeps, hoping of course to sight the endangered Malayan tiger. The other new route - Essence of Malaysia - goes through Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and Penang allowing time for activities like the three nights on the train, spend time in revamped cabins, suites and two Presidential Suites that come with cherrywood panelling, silk fabrics and patterned carpets. Dine on sumptuous East Asian cuisine prepared by chef Andre Chiang in the two beautiful dining cars. The train's social heart is the gorgeous Piano Bar where performers entertain passengers as they sip wine or a signature cocktail in crystal glasses. The pampering does not end here – when there is time to spare, head to Southeast Asia's first Dior spa on a train. Done up with the brand's iconic Toile de Jouy motif, it offers five treatments in two rooms. But the journey's best moments may well be just sitting back in the Observation Car to enjoy the train's gentle rhythm as picturesque rice fields and small towns roll in February 2024Https:// train offers six itineraries – five are for 3 nights and one is for 6 nightsGOLDEN EAGLE SILK ROAD EXPRESS, ASIA The train goes through various terrains including a desert The bathroom of the Han Dynasty Suites comes with a bathtub For centuries, merchants plied the ancient Silk route in horse and camel driven caravans. Starting next year, explore some of those legendary trails in the lap of luxury on board the new Golden Eagle Silk Road Express via three different itineraries. Take a 22 day journey from Beijing to Tashkent in Uzbekistan that will cross historic cities like Samarkand and Bukhara, a 13 day journey from Urumqi to Lhasa in Tibet. Whatever you choose, ancient cultures will unravel. In its two restaurant cars—Western-style and Chinese-style—the smallest details scream sophistication. The luxury quotient will go up many notches for those checking into the Han Dynasty Suite that comes with a bottle of Dom Perignon champagne, a separate living room and dining table. The Observation Car is the perfect place to watch the landscape rolling by and when you want to unwind with a cocktail or wine, head to the Bar Car where tunes from a grand piano fill the room each train will launch in train will have three itineraries varying from 12 to 22 daysSubscribe to India Today Magazine- Ends
Forbes
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Bezos Wedding: Pajama Party, Media Scrum, And A Grand Total In Venice
The Media Scrum, Day 2: Police officers control photographers and television crews as they film in front of San Giorgio island ahead of the anticipated wedding celebrations with Lauren Sanchez, in Venice, Italy, Friday, June 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Luigi Costantini) Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved The marathon Sanchez/Bezos ring exchange celebrations in Venice didn't precisely follow Mozart's Le Nozze di Figaro (The Marriage of Figaro) narrative arc, although the party gauntlet itself did share a number of tropes with Mozart's and Lorenzo da Ponte's brilliant 1786 comedy. For one thing, the weekend featured the trials and tribulations of a set of 200-plus figures more than slightly financially and socially elevated in stature than the lowly Figaro as they more or less stumbled (or were shepherded) from luxury abode to rager and back, only to shower, change, eat, shop, and then strike out to the boat queue for the next rager. Like Figaro, they had a lot of work set in front of them. The edgy dress throughout the gauntlet was only amplified by the code for the 'final' Arsenale party on Saturday, 28 June, as guests began to break out their gear for the strikingly retro-themed 'pajama party.' Surprising numbers of them actually managed to adhere to the code. Pictured below, U.S. larger-than-life Über-producer Brian Grazer, clearly in touch with his inner apex-predator leopard, fearlessly boards his launch at the Gritti Palace in his perfectly spotted silk sleep-set, bound for the Hef-like bacchanal. The leopard does not change his spots. Massive kudos to Mr. Grazer for upping the male ante. The Gritti's dock-manager to Grazer's left, foreground right in the shot, is suspicious that his sturdy right elbow, offered for support during that parlous little leap from land to sea, is being roundly ignored. But what sort of mimsy leopard would take a dock manager's elbow, for Christ's sake? Time for the predator to strike. Nothing like a little entertainment for the paparazzi to keep things rolling out in front of the Gritti. Mr. Grazer brings a bracing dose of team spirit to the Bezos megaparty. US film producer Brian Grazer leaves the Gritti Palace Hotel for a party on the third day of the wedding of US Amazon founder Jeff Bezos with Lauren Sanchez, in Venice on June 28, 2025. (Photo by Stefano Rellandini / AFP) (Photo by STEFANO RELLANDINI/AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images Party after party, all weekend long — and that's saying something — Italian/American and summer-on-the-Med regular Leo DiCaprio had been oddly ducking and diving each time he exited the Gritti, putting his hands up in front of his face when it was time to board his launch, thereby ruining hundreds upon hundreds of photo editors' days. In police stakeout parlance, it took about two seconds on the first day to make his steady girlfriend, Vittoria Ceretti, then, trotting a few yards behind, DiCaprio. Why so shy? It's not as if the photographers are, in any sort of ancient Native American context, 'stealing his soul through his eyes.' He's one of the more regularly photographed men in the United States. It's part of his job. US actor Leonardo Dicaprio leaves the Gritti Palace Hotel for a party on the third day of the wedding of US Amazon founder Jeff Bezos with Lauren Sanchez, in Venice on June 28, 2025. (Photo by Stefano Rellandini / AFP) (Photo by STEFANO RELLANDINI/AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images Then came the Arsenale pajama party on Saturday. Simultaneously proving that he is a man's man, and with a wink at the 1960s heyday of the Playboy empire, DiCaprio went straight for the jugular in the Hef-iest of the several Hugh Hefner sets on parade, in Hef's trademark early-era crimson silk, no less. DiCaprio's striking LA Dodgers topper, in all black, adds geographical authenticity to the provenance: For all we know, these crimson silk jammies could have been a set of Hef's, snatched up by an eagle-eyed DiCaprio as they closed the Playboy mansion down. It's the strikingly broad leg of the pant, cut to be comfortable for a frictionless exit, that scream Hef-in-his-1963-heyday. The Gritti Palace associate greeter just to DiCaprio's left seems pleased with the joke. Did he duck again? Sadly, yes, but not before the paparazzi caught the kit, crimson top, crimson bottoms, and the silver neck chain underneath. Hef would have been proud. Easily half the wedding weekend's Figaro -esque comedy was brought by the great chase given by the guests and the attendant Sanchez/Bezos party-planning and security apparatus to the coursing hounds of the international press. Although in architecture it was a game of thrust and parry, it was no less hard fought. Pictured top, a textbook example of the box-and-block tactics that the police on Venice's new hybrid jet-skis used to corral the photographers aboard their private launches outside the sole dock on the private island of San Giorgio Maggiore, site of the Sanchez/Bezos ring ceremony and dinner, on June 27. Jet skis are a splendid invention, for mega-yachtsmen, surfers and surf competitions, and security forces alike. The Venetian police's hybrids, recently aquired, are by Huracan Marine, designed to run on diesel when the cops need bursts of power and speed, electricity when all that's required is slow cruising. With pleasantly surprising discretion, in April, as they selected Venice to be their wedding celebration location, Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez set a 3-million-euro ($3.5-million) gift in motion to three Venetian charities, while also requesting that their guests eschew personal gifts.
Pink Villa
29-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
PICS: Jeff Bezos-Lauren Sanchez Step Out for Lavish Reception, Kiss Publicly for First Time Since Wedding
With pomp and pleasure, Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez got married on June 27 in an extravagant lineup of events in Venice, Italy. The attendance of industry mates like Bill Gates and Sam Altman upped the status quo of the event, while the guest list included names like Sydney Sweeney, Kim Kardashian, Khloé Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, and Kylie Jenner brought the glam. Just a day later, the loved-up couple stepped out, waving from the balcony of their hotel and then taking off in a water taxi to what is said to be the last event of their 3-day festivities. Jeff Bezos-Lauren Sanchez Wedding Closes off with Reception The newly married couple waved at the cameras and exchanged a kiss atop Venetian waters. The former journalist kept her accessories to a minimum, letting her presence do the talking. Only a pair of dangly, sparkling earrings and her massive wedding ring adorned her finger. The bride went for a figure-hugging, neck-plunging pink Atelier Versace fit, carrying a black clutch that boasted her new last name on it. Meanwhile, the groom kept it classy with an all-black appearance, going for a tailored suit and black sunglasses, as he looked more happy than ever following his wedding. Jeff Bezos-Lauren Sanchez Marriage Schedule It is said that the couple spent a whopping close to USD 50 million on the nuptials and invited the who's who of the entertainment, sports, business, and political worlds. Starting off with a welcome dinner that saw a washout due to thunderstorms, the spirits of the wedding party were nowhere near dampened as they reportedly continued to party into the wee hours of the next day. It followed the main wedding ceremony amid a forest, where the bride had her two sons walking her down the aisle and her daughter as the maid of honor. The last day will include a party at the Arsenale, marking another private event for the wedding-goers. It is known that Andrea Bocelli's son, Matteo Bocelli, sang at the wedding, while British star Ellie Goulding also held up her end of the deal with a performance. Celebrities like actor Orlando Bloom, who went solo following his split from Katy Perry, Leonardo DiCaprio with girlfriend Vittoria Ceretti, Usher and wife Jennifer Goicoechea, Karlie Kloss, Tommy Hilfiger, Oprah Winfrey, Brooks Nader, Ivanka Trump with husband Jared Kushner, and more were also among the witnesses at the ceremony.
