Latest news with #Dh160
Al Etihad
20-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
UAE: MoIAT, Airbus partner to boost local aerospace capabilities
20 May 2025 16:49 ABU DHABI (WAM) The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus Africa and Middle East to advance the development of a domestic aerospace capability enhancement Suwaina Al Suwaidi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, and Gabriel Semelas, President of Airbus Africa and the Middle East, signed the agreement on the sidelines of Make it in the Emirates 2025, the UAE's flagship industrial MoU establishes a framework for long-term collaboration to support the UAE's national industrial objectives, including supplier development, skills transfer, and integrating local companies into Airbus's global value initiative aligns with the UAE's National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology, which seeks to position the country as a global hub for future under the theme 'Advanced Industries. Accelerated', Make it in the Emirates 2025 is set to be the largest edition yet, featuring more than 700 exhibitors and showcasing over 3,800 locally manufactured products across over 68,000 square meters of exhibition space. The event builds on more than Dh160 billion in offtake opportunities linked to over 4,800 products identified for local manufacture. Make it in the Emirates Continue full coverage
Khaleej Times
30-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
ALEC partners with Emirates Red Crescent, SmartLife, Charity Association in Riyadh for Ramadan campaign
As part of its community outreach during the holy month, ALEC donated dry food and hygiene care packages worth Dh160,000 to labourers and low-income families in UAE and Saudi Arabia. These items were distributed among beneficiaries through ALEC partners Emirates Red Cresent, SmartLife (NPO/NGO) and Charity Association in Riyadh. Over 1,800 ALEC employees, including some of ALEC's subcontractor and other partners across nine projects across UAE and Saudi Arabia as well as the company's head offices and factories donated these items. Furthermore, 64 ALEC employees volunteered to package the dry food and hygiene products into care hampers and then, alongside SmartLife volunteers, actively participated in distributing these at a labour camp in Dubai. ALEC matched this employee in-kind donation and donated Dh95,000 towards Emirates Red Crescent's Tarahum — for Gaza (UAE Relief Campaign to People Affected by War in Gaza) and King Salman Humanitarian Aid & Relief Center's The Public Relief Campaign for Palestine People in Gaza projects. Another Dh65,000 was donated to SmartLife (NPO/NGO)'s Smart Medic programme, focussed on providing critical treatments and surgeries, setting up tele medicine kiosks, and providing medicines, not covered by existing medical insurance, for labourers in the UAE. In addition to this employee donation matching initiative, ALEC also distributed 3,563 care packages to subcontracted labourers across 15 ALEC, ALEMCO, ALEC FITOUT, ALEC Energy, LINQ, ALEC DIC sites in UAE. 'At ALEC, we believe true success goes beyond financial performance — it's about the meaningful impact we make in the communities we serve. Our commitment to positive change is embedded in everything we do, from our operations to our values. This spirit is reflected across our entire team, and we're incredibly proud to match the generous contributions our employees have made to support these vital humanitarian efforts,' said Barry Lewis, CEO of ALEC. Drawing attention to the need for such corporate-led action, Abhijeet Oak, Vice President, at SmartLife (NPO/NGO) said, 'We are thankful to ALEC for its continued support and contributions as it enables SmartLife to implement some key year-round projects for the blue-collar community. This engagement serves as a role model for sustainable community work championed by the team at ALEC.' The gold bar and coin sector sees greater demand in China than anywhere else. This strong investment demand naturally propels the popularity of gold bars and coins, reaching 280 tonnes. China surpassed India in 2023 to become the world's top consumer of gold jewellery, with a demand of 630 tonnes, a 10 per cent year-on-year increase. India follows with jewellery demand totaling 562 tonnes in 2023. India also ranks among the top ten nations with the highest gold reserves, holding approximately 804 tonnes worth $50 billion. Mohammed Suhaib, Managing Director of Unique World Group, says, the new Gold Destination will help jewellery sales to accelerate further. 'As the population of Dubai and UAE increases rapidly – to cross 3.8 million in Dubai and 10.8 million in the UAE – we see the creation of a new Gold and Lifestyle Hub an important step in facilitating this industry to grow further,' Suhaib said. 'In addition to the population growth, a jump in annual tourist inflow – many of whom have gold and diamond in their shopping list – will require a new Gold and Lifestyle Hub that will help shoppers to hunt for new and trendy collection.' Unique World Group is a Dubai-based diversified business conglomerate with interests in Business Centre, Education and Real Estate sectors, and is currently embarking on a new more diversified growth trajectory. Unique World Group, established by Sulaiman TM, a non-resident Indian serial entrepreneur from Kerala state, has demonstrated leadership in all the areas that he had ventured in – in the UAE. Over the last 27 years, the group has grown from strength to strength with a vision to continuously grow and expand, leveraging the power of digitalisation and innovation. In more than a quarter of a century, the group helped thousands of new businesses with business advisory services, trade licenses, office facilities and a bouquet of business enabling services to help them establish in the UAE. The company actively seeks new opportunities and partnerships, aiming to improve, evolve, and establish itself as an industry leader in the Business Centre, Education, and Real Estate sectors. He and Muhammed Suhaib, the scion of the family, are now getting ready to embark on a new journey that will add greater value to Dubai's economy. Established in 1998, Unique World Group currently manages a portfolio of five business centres, educational institutions and a number of real estate assets in the UAE with a team of more than 100 professionals working day and night to expand the group's business into new economic sectors. Over the last 27 years, the Group has evolved from a small business into a formidable corporate entity, mirroring Dubai's remarkable economic success. Through its business, the group has impacted more than 500,000 businesses with a substantial number of satisfied clients.
Khaleej Times
04-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Tilal Al Ghaf's crown jewel: WOW Properties hits sales milestone at Serenity Mansions
WOW Properties has made a significant impact on Dubai's luxury real estate scene again, closing an impressive Dh160 million in sales at Tilal Al Ghaf's Serenity Mansions within a single quarter. This record-breaking performance is a testament to the company's innovative marketing strategies, personalized client engagement, and deep market insights under the visionary leadership of Founder & CEO Atif Jangda. This remarkable milestone comes at a time when international investor interest in Dubai's ultra-luxury properties is surging, reinforcing the emirate's status as a global hub for premium real estate. Tilal Al Ghaf, known for its blend of modern architecture and first-class amenities, continues to attract discerning buyers seeking exclusivity and quality. At the heart of this success is a strategic approach that combines creative marketing with an intimate understanding of Dubai's dynamic property market. Atif Jangda explains, "Our achievement at Tilal Al Ghaf is not just about the numbers. It reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional lifestyle experience to our clients. We pride ourselves on tailoring our services to meet the sophisticated demands of both local and international investors." Looking ahead, WOW Properties is poised to build on this momentum. The company is set to expand its portfolio across the region, invest in cutting-edge technology to enhance the customer experience, and forge strategic partnerships that will drive future growth. This forward-thinking vision promises to further shape the evolution of Dubai's luxury market, ensuring that WOW Properties remains at the forefront of the industry.
The National
28-02-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Frou Frou review: Parisian vibes at The Lana Promenade in Business Bay
Nestled alongside the waters of Marasi Bay Marina, a new little pocket of France can be found in the shape of Parisian restaurant Frou Frou. Taking its name from the silk found in the skirts made famous by the popular can-can dance, the restaurant – part of Alexander Orlov's Bulldozer Group – opened in January and is the latest venue to open on The Lana Promenade in Business Bay. Gallic influence in Dubai is nothing new, with restaurants such as LPM, Bagatelle, Couqley, Josette and more quickly making names for themselves in the emirate. Frou Frou is attempting to join elite company and it's with this backdrop that my dining partner and I arrive to try it out. Frou Frou's decor is entirely in keeping with the restaurant's namesake, with colourful artwork that encapsulates the distinctive vibes of Paris. That said, the views out over Marasi Bay and the looming presence of Burj Khalifa are inescapable, so there's a wonderful sense of old meets new – the tradition and elegance of French gastronomy blended with the modernity that's made Dubai famous. There are three main areas within the restaurant itself – an intimate lounge for light bites and arrival drinks, a large dining room with an open-plan kitchen and an outdoor terrace offering spectacular views across Business Bay. My dining partner and I are lucky to visit on a beautiful, clear evening with a still breeze so we take the opportunity to sit outside and take in the scene around us as we dine. Saying that, the difference in vibe at Frou Frou changes quite dramatically depending on where you choose to sit. The outdoor terrace is very quiet and private, which suits us perfectly, but if you're more inclined to soaking up a lively atmosphere, then the interior seating would be my suggestion for you. It's noisy, fun and full of life, with the open kitchen making you feel part of everything, while the terrace is more serene and intimate. Frou Frou's menu is archetypally French in every sense. Among the starters are classics such as salade nicoise (Dh120) and French onion soup (Dh75), there's a truffle chicken sharing platter (Dh300) among the mains and, of course, you can find creme brulee (Dh55) in the dessert selection. My dining partner and I opt to share a selection of starters before diving into our main courses on the recommendation of our server, Shikhar. We try the beef tartare (Dh160), the tuna tartare with avocado and shiso dressing (Dh160), and the king crab salad (Dh180). Each brings their own distinctive taste, but it's the tuna that stands out as the real crowd pleaser. Admittedly it's a bit of a go-to starter in Dubai, but this dish stands out with the freshness of the avocado and shiso giving it a light and healthy feel that makes it, in many ways, the perfect starter. For the main courses, my dining partner opts for the whole red mullet (Dh150) while I go for the black angus ribeye (Dh250). With these, we share sides of ratatouille (Dh40) and mashed potato (Dh35). The beauty of these dishes is their simplicity, in terms of both taste and presentation. The red mullet, in particular, is served whole and filleted at the table by our server meaning we're treated to the vibrant colours of the fish before my dining partner tucks into it. The steak, meanwhile, is expertly cooked and blends beautifully with the stewed vegetables in the ratatouille. For dessert, we replicate our mains and go for the simplistic beauty of two French classics; creme brulee (Dh55) and Parisian chocolate tart (Dh100). The tart is the showstopper here, presented in a pot featuring bubbling chocolate sauce. It's the perfect end to a meal for anyone with a sweet tooth. While for those who favour a more savoury end to their dinner, there is a wide selection of cheeses to choose from on Frou Frou's fromage menu. One key issue with Frou Frou is its price range. The food is admittedly excellent but, for what you're paying, there are other Dubai venues that offer comparable quality for far less money. As for what I'd avoid, the king crab salad is a little underwhelming considering it costs Dh180. Chef Leonid Ivanov is the main man at Frou Frou. He describes himself as a connoisseur in Mediterranean and French cuisine, having spent almost a decade working and learning his craft in the gallic nation. His plan at Frou Frou is to 'reimagine French cuisine in a modern way, presenting a rich melange of flavours that's both sophisticated and unexpected, designed for local tastes'. Frou Frou is located at The Lana Promenade, Dorchester Collection, Business Bay, Dubai. It is open daily from noon to 1am. Reservations can be made by calling on 04 834 8397. This review was conducted at the invitation of the restaurant
The National
07-02-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Merak review: An authentic Balkan experience for meat lovers in Dubai
Merak, which opened in September in JBR's DoubleTree by Hilton hotel, offers a touch of the unusual to Dubai's thriving gastronomy scene. The emirate is synonymous with modernity, something that's reflected within its dining culture. Throw a bit of experimentation in there and you're well on your way to summarising a city now established as one of the food capitals of the world. From daal dishes lined with real 24k gold to chocolate cake infused with mushrooms, diners here are accustomed to expecting the unexpected … and seeing these combinations work, too. But Merak is different. Merak is old school, and in the best possible way, for its culture, for the Balkans. Merak, which translates to a term used to describe the feeling of delight one feels when trying or experiencing something new, is a venue that lives up to its name. The concept is a simple one: a family restaurant featuring recipes passed down by generations for all to enjoy in a sociable setting. With a custom-built butchery and smoke room, the venue presents a homely, European vibe that combines eloquently with the Dubai surroundings it finds itself in. There's live music, with a traditional violinist playing during our visit and ample space to sit either inside or out. Opting to sit outside and take in the JBR views, my dining partner and I are welcomed by our knowledgeable server, Freeman, whose sense of pride and knowledge is as infectious as it is hunger-inducing. It's with this backdrop that we choose to let Freeman recommend his favourite dishes, and we can't wait to get stuck in. Merak's menu is reflective of the rich history of the Balkans, drawing on an eclectic range of flavours from the various nationalities that make up this unique region. First up, my dining partner and I are treated to a serving of Ottoman history with a bowl of Begova soup (Dh50). This, Freeman explains, is a dish found throughout the Balkan region and, while there's an element of rivalry between nations over who can claim ownership of it, it is thought to have originated in what is now Istanbul – at the heart of the Ottoman Empire. The soup is made up of chicken and okra with the addition of root vegetables and herbs, served alongside a basket of home-made breads. It is a beautiful opener, one that's steeped in history and based on a recipe that's been passed down from generation to generation. It sets a wonderful tone for the evening ahead of us, one that celebrates Balkan cuisine and culture. Next up, we have the mixed deli platter (Dh160) which showcases a selection of cold cut meats served alongside ajvar (a traditional pepper spread), kajmak butter, Shopska salad (a Balkan variation of a Greek salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta), and Olivye salad (a Russian salad of boiled potatoes, carrot, and eggs mixed with pickles, ham, and peas). Not only is this an authentic and traditional starter, packed with flavours from across the Balkans, but it's also incredibly sociable. The large, colourful platter dominates the table and allows my dining partner and I to pick at whatever tickles our fancy. Now thoroughly buying in to the setting we find ourselves in, it's time for our main course, which is a serving of sharska pljeskavica (a Macedonian beef burger stuffed with cheese for Dh78) for me and grilled chicken breast served with iceberg lettuce (Dh95) for my dining partner. A nice touch to this is that Freeman leaves what's left of the plates from the mixed deli platter on the table, meaning we can tuck into our mains and complement the selection of salads with the meat. For dessert, it's an easy choice for both of us: baklava (Dh45), a stalwart of Ottoman cuisine to round off an evening that pays homage to this unique culture. The filo pastry is beautifully delicate while the walnut and syrup leaves that perfect sweet taste to end the evening with a brilliantly satisfying finale. Merak's concept is admittedly a simple one but its simplicity is precisely the point. Southern European flavours that provide a comforting, earthly feel that makes this restaurant stand out from some of its more flamboyant Dubai competitors. Its one downside is perhaps an obvious one: this isn't a venue for vegans or vegetarians. Yes, it's not a meat-only menu and there are options available, but the core concept of Merak is meat-focused and to visit without buying into this would be to visit and not get the best out of it. The standout dish at Merak is undoubtedly the mixed deli platter. It's on the more expensive end of the starter list but it's worth the money as nothing encapsulates the Balkan concept of the restaurant better. The selection of cured meats, the salads that pay homage to the region, and the sociable nature of a large sharing platter make it a must. It's also got the aesthetic appeal, for those after Instagram-worthy pictures. As for what I'd avoid, it would be the penne Arrabiata (Dh62) or the Mediterranean risotto (Dh179). Not that these two dishes aren't delicious. It just seems like a waste to visit a restaurant with such a niche cultural ethos behind it only to order dishes that are not only Italian but also readily available the world over. A three-course meal at Merak can cost between Dh111 and Dh470. On the high end of the price spectrum lie the mixed deli platter (Dh160) as a sharing starter; the Merak mix grill roll (Dh260) as a sharing main course; and the Merak cheesecake (Dh50) for dessert. The three most reasonable dishes across starters, mains and desserts are fried cauliflower with tahini sauce and pomegranate molasses (Dh36), home-made pastry served with spinach and cheese (Dh40) and baked apple served with cinnamon, walnuts and cream (Dh35). Joe Matta is Merak's executive chef. From Lebanon, he says beef brisket is his favourite ingredient to cook with. 'Its versatility is unmatched and I've incorporated it into menus using a variety of techniques,' he says. 'I've prepared dishes with brisket that are smoked, cured, slow-cooked, grilled, roasted, confit and sous-vide, showcasing its incredible adaptability and depth of flavour.' Asked about his cooking style, chef Matta describes it as 'fresh and innovative' as he focuses on 'combining traditional tastes with modern gastronomy'. 'We believe in simplicity, quality, and respect for the ingredients we use,' he explains. 'Every dish tells a story, blending heritage with modern culinary techniques. For vegetarians, he suggests a selection of light bites such as Shopska salad, tzatziki, spicy hummus, green bell peppers, cheese and spinach bureks, and oven-baked feta. For vegans, his nod goes to the spicy hummus and green bell peppers. Like my dining partner and I, chef Matta's go-to starter suggestion is the mixed deli platter while his tip for a healthy choice is the Fattoush salad. For meat-lovers, he suggests this is your go-to restaurant, with cold cuts, steaks, home-made sausages, short ribs, roasted lamb and many more such dishes available. His suggestion for seafood-enthusiasts is the Mediterranean risotto, prepared paella-style with prawns, salmon and sea bass. For desserts, his top tip is the baklava. Merak is located in the Double Tree by Hilton, JBR – The Walk, in Dubai. It is open from noon to 1am on Mondays, noon to midnight Tuesday to Thursday, noon to 3am Friday to Saturday, and noon to midnight on Sundays. Tables can be booked by calling 04 325 1660. This review was conducted at the invitation of the restaurant
