Latest news with #Dubai
Zawya
17 minutes ago
- Business
- Zawya
Dubai Business Events drives continued growth with bid wins and strong global participation in H1 2025
Dubai ranks #1 with ICCA and Cvent, highlighting the city's position as a premier destination for international business events DBE participated in six global sales missions and trade shows in H1 2025 Dubai, UAE – Dubai Business Events (DBE), the city's official convention bureau, has continued to accelerate the growth of Dubai's business events ecosystem and support the city's tourism growth in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, securing 249 successful bids in the first six months of 2025 to host events through 2025 till 2029, including major congresses and high-profile incentive programmes. This achievement marks a 29% increase in bid submissions compared to the same period last year, with a total of 391 bids submitted year-to-date and a conversion rate of 64%, up from 58% in H1 2024. These confirmed wins are expected to bring 127,087 delegates, a 35% year-on-year increase in delegate numbers, further enhancing Dubai's global standing as a hub for international business events and the emirate's knowledge economy. This performance underlines the overwhelmingly strong response to Dubai's destination proposition and global MICE positioning. The successful bids will enable Dubai to host distinguished international conferences, congresses, and incentive meetings, with a pipeline extending into 2029. This growth reinforces the importance of business events to the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which is focused on doubling the size of the city's economy by 2033 and cementing its status among the world's top three cities to visit, live, and work in. Through strategic collaboration, DBE, part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, worked closely with stakeholders, partners, and local associations, including the Al Safeer Congress Ambassadors, a network of UAE-based key opinion leaders, industry professionals, and government representatives working to bring international business events within their sectors to Dubai and secure high-profile events. The Al Safeer Ambassador Programme, in partnership with the Dubai Association Centre, plays a vital role in strengthening the city's global reputation as a premier destination for meetings, incentives, and conferences, contributing significantly to bid development and success. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said: ' Guided by the country's wise leadership, Dubai's achievement during the first half of 2025 is a testament to the city's commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaboration in business events. In collaboration with our stakeholders and partners, we continue to drive the D33 vision and make Dubai a knowledge and business global hub. The diversity and extent of events booked this year confirm Dubai's infrastructure of international standards, accessibility, and market insight. In future years, we remain committed to delivering exceptional value to event organisers and delegates, and to establishing Dubai's leadership position on the international stage.' DBE's active engagement in the international market contributed to its strong performance, with teams conducting five sales missions across Asia (China, Japan and South Korea, India) as well as Europe (France and Belgium) and North America, engaging over 50 stakeholders and partners as well as representing Dubai in key strategic industry trade shows such as IMEX Frankfurt during H1 2025. These persistent activities have kept Dubai at the top of the minds of global event organisers and garnered the interests of decision-makers and delegates worldwide across core sectors. Dubai's global stature as a preferred business events destination was further underlined by new accolades in 2025. The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) ranked Dubai number one globally for highest attendee number per association meeting and the city retained its number one spot in the Middle East and Africa for total number of association meetings hosted. Meanwhile, Cvent confirmed Dubai's leading position among the Top 25 Meeting Destinations in the region. These recognitions affirm the city's ability to successfully and seamlessly accommodate the needs of international organisers across all event types. Dubai's growing appeal is also reflected in its success across corporate, incentive, and association segments. Notable wins during the first half of the year include the 2029 edition of Sibos, which is expected to attract 12,000 delegates, the 2027 1st Conjoint Meeting of the Cervical Spine Research Society - Asia Pacific and Europe with 800 delegates, and the 2026 edition of the World Congress on Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (ISUOG), which will bring 2,000 delegates. Other association events include the 2026 Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat International Conference with 1,500 delegates and the 2026 International Symposium on Electronic Art (ISEA) with 1,000 delegates. In the corporate and incentive space, Dubai secured the 2026 Africa Energy Forum with 2,000 delegates, the Herbalife Multiple Market Incentive with 2,400 delegates, and the Planisware Incentive with 1,300 delegates. Returning events include Token2049 in 2026 with 15,000 delegates. Google will also call Dubai its home for two of its flagship conferences in 2026 and 2028, with 4,000 delegates each year. These achievements were further supported by DBE's Al Safeer Programme, which contributed to 51 ambassador-led bids during the period, winning 32 to date. Through year-round engagement and close collaboration with hotels, venues, Professional Congress Organisers (PCOs), Destination Management Companies (DMCs), and other service providers, DBE continues to attract prestigious business events to Dubai. The bureau also hosted study missions and participated in international events such as IMEX Frankfurt, providing meeting planners and industry stakeholders the opportunity to experience Dubai's dynamic business events infrastructure first-hand. Through the rest of the year, DBE will continue to participate in key strategic trade shows and events including Epex, IMEX Las Vegas, IBTM Barcelona, the ICCA Middle East Summit in Bahrain and ICCA global congress in Porto, joined by partners and stakeholders to grow collaborative efforts and drive Dubai's business events positioning further. -Ends- About Dubai Business Events Dubai Business Events (DBE) – the Official Convention Bureau, aims to further develop and increase Dubai's share of the international business events market in order to grow economic development, jobs and knowledge creation in the emirate. DBE's main goal, as a division of DET, is to establish the Emirate as a premier business event destination by helping organizers of international meetings, incentives, congresses and exhibitions plan and manage every aspect of their event. As a member of BestCities Global Alliance, DBE aims to deliver the world's best service experience for the meeting industry. For further information, please contact: Mahmood Al Waleed Strategic Communications Manager mediarelations@
Khaleej Times
17 minutes ago
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
This man travelled from Kerala to Dubai to meet Argentina coach Scaloni
After being mobbed by fans for selfies during Argentina Football Association and LuLu Exchange's partnership-signing event at a Dubai hotel on Tuesday, Lionel Scaloni was introduced to Yadil M Iqbal. The teary-eyed Argentina fan from Kerala, India, shook hands with Scaloni, and thanked him profusely before getting his Argentina shirt signed by the 2022 World Cup-winning coach. Yadil, who hails from Kodungallur in the Thrissur district of Kerala, came to Dubai only to meet Scaloni. 'He is the coach who won us the World Cup. Meeting him today is a dream come true for me,' Yadil told the Khaleej Times, his voice still trembling with emotion. Yadil's love for the Argentina football team also saw him board a flight to Qatar in 2022. 'It was the first time in my life that I travelled out of India. I had saved money for many years to watch Argentina at the Qatar World Cup in 2022,' said the 29-year-old. Yadil, who owns three restaurants in his hometown, struck gold in Qatar, getting hold of all Argentina match tickets. 'I watched all seven matches. The first one was a heartbreak when we lost to Saudi Arabia. There was a lot of pressure on the team. But the team fought back and reached the final,' he recalled. The nerve-racking final against France almost stopped Yadil's heart from beating at the giant Lusail Stadium. 'I thought I would die when France fought back every time after Argentina scored a goal and took the match to penalties. It was unbearable,' he said. Yadil was 'dying' out there. But when Argentina finally won the greatest World Cup final in history, it gave Yadil the most incredible sense of joy. 'I could not believe that Argentina won the World Cup after all the drama, all the ups and downs in that final. Argentina finally became world champions and I was there to watch it live!' Yadil also made headlines in Kerala with his creative talent by painting murals of Lionel Messi and building statues of the football icon in Kodungallur. And in 2022, he prayed to God and 'promised' that he would go for 'Umrah' if Argentina won the World Cup in Qatar. 'So I went to Saudi for 'Umrah' after Argentina won. God has been very kind to me,' said Yadil, who, quite remarkably, had also named his son after Lionel Messi. 'I still have the dream of meeting Messi. His bodyguard sent me a couple of (Messi) shirts after he saw my Insta page,' he said. Yadil has 1.5 million Instagram followers and last month, even Messi commented on a post he collaborated with a fan page to celebrate the Argentine legend's 38th birthday. ''Muchas Gracias' (thank you so much)', the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner wrote on the special birthday post. 'That comment has got more than 450,000 likes,' Yadil smiled. There was also a warm smile on Scaloni's face when Yadil had hugged him on Tuesday in Dubai. 'With the man who made us cry with happiness,' Yadil wrote on Instagram after posting that picture of him with Scaloni. Reportedly, Scaloni has never been allowed to pay for his family dinners at restaurants across Argentina as owners of eateries refuse to accept money from a man who helped the football-obsessed country end its 36-year wait for the World Cup trophy. Now it's not too hard to imagine Yadil doing the same if Scaloni and Messi ever pay a visit to one of his restaurants in Kerala.
Zawya
17 minutes ago
- Business
- Zawya
Global Trade & Supply Chain Summit to discuss innovating in an era of shocks and shifts
The global trading system has shattered, as long-held certainties over rules, alliances and norms are jettisoned. New trade relations and commercial routes are being established. What might the future look like, who wins and loses—and what can companies do to prepare? Join leading experts in supply-chain operations, procurement, technology and trade policy to explore the changes. With the support of the New Economy Academy of Dubai, this summit is a major meeting point to consider the fallout of tariffs, the reordering of supply-chain networks and insights into how companies can harness AI to improve procurement, resilience and performance. Confirmed speakers include Sanjeev Majoo, chief procurement officer at AbbVie; Kristyn Harkins, head of global supply chain services at Johnson & Johnson; and H.E. Raja Al Mazrouei, chief executive of Etihad Credit Insurance. They will be joined by supply and procurement leaders, trade policymakers and AI experts from across the globe. Unlike other forums focused only on trade policy, this summit will provide actionable insight from within the business community. Discussions will go beyond theory, with case studies from organisations navigating the new era of protectionism, climate disruption and critical mineral monopolies. Delegates will explore the fallout of extreme tariffs, the reordering of supply-chain networks and how companies can harness AI to improve business performance, procurement, security and resilience. Dr. Laila Faridoon, chief executive of New Economy Academy, said: 'The New Economy Academy is thrilled to sponsor Economist Impact's Global Trade and Supply Chain Summit, which directly addresses the new realities of a rapidly changing global economy—the very landscape our programs at the Academy are designed to navigate. We empower UAE citizens with the skills to succeed in areas like finance, investment, and entrepreneurship, mirroring the summit's focus on equipping decision-makers with actionable insights. By fostering financial awareness and future-oriented thinking, we prepare the next generation of leaders to thrive in the complex world of global trade and contribute to a resilient future economy. Our support for the event underscores our commitment to providing cutting-edge knowledge and fostering collaboration to address the critical issues facing global trade today.' Across two days, attendees will: Discover evidence-based case studies as opposed to hypotheticals and predictions. More than 60 expert case-study speakers will spark vital discussions and deliver practical takeaways. Network with 80 supply chain and procurement executive speakers from leading organisations. Analyse the transition from just-in-time models to more complex, resilient supply chains. Executives will leave with practical strategies to de-risk supply chains, improve procurement and navigate a fragmented world. This summit features voices from leading organisations including Mercedes-Benz, Swarovski, Grupo Bimbo, Essity, Americana Foods and the World Economic Forum. Additionally, the agenda features extensive networking opportunities and cross-industry sessions to leverage synergies and encourage cross-sector engagement. Why attend? Executives will leave with practical strategies to de-risk supply chains, improve procurement, and navigate a fragmented world. Trade policymakers will uncover insight to help design resilient, forward-looking frameworks. Tech and finance providers will gain direct access to senior decision-makers under pressure to act. Tackle tariffs, tech and trade policy with the leading players shaping global commerce. Stay ahead of disruption—because in trade, standing still isn't an option. About Economist Impact partnerships and events The Economist was founded in 1843 to campaign for free trade. Events from Economist Impact, a separate division of The Economist Group, which publishes The Economist newspaper, provide a forum for a substantive conversation between policymakers and business leaders to continue that tradition. Economist Impact combines the rigour of a think-tank with the creativity of a media brand to engage a globally influential audience. We believe that evidence-based insights can open debate, broaden perspectives and catalyse progress. The services offered by Economist Impact previously existed within The Economist Group as separate entities, including EIU Thought Leadership, EIU Public Policy, EIU Health Policy, Economist Events and SignalNoise. We are building on a 75-year track record of analysis across 205 countries. Along with framework design, benchmarking, economic and social impact analysis, forecasting, and scenario modelling, we provide creative storytelling, events expertise, design-thinking solutions and market-leading media products, making Economist Impact uniquely positioned to deliver measurable outcomes to our clients.
Khaleej Times
17 minutes ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
How the UAE Is Powering a Greener Tomorrow With Bold Climate Action
'A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus,' expressed Martin Luther King Jr, American civil rights activist and political philosopher. The statement is apt for the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which has emerged as a global leader in sustainable urban development, taking significant steps in creating environmentally friendly and economically vibrant cities. It is meeting the present needs of citizens without compromising the ability of future generations to live a wholesome life. The agenda is to implement the efficient use of land, incorporate green spaces, promote public transport, emphasize energy-efficient architecture and preserve biodiversity. By organizing awareness campaigns and educational programs, it encourages individuals and communities to adopt responsible measures. As community input can identify local needs and preferences that planners and policymakers sometimes overlook, the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan emphasizes collaboration efforts with citizens in the planning process. Empowering people to voice their opinions on urban issues inspires them to adopt sustainable lifestyles and align their personal choices with community goals. Dubai's Sustainable City is exemplary, as it involves residents in decision-making processes, fostering a sense of ownership and collective responsibility towards sustainable living. Multi-purpose fundamentals Long before the nations realized it, the UAE acknowledged that the core principle guiding sustainable urban planning necessitated mixed-use development. The approach integrates residential, commercial and recreational areas in the vicinity, thereby reducing dependency on vehicular transport and creating pedestrian-friendly spaces to encourage walking and cycling. Herein, technology played a pivotal role. The integration of smart city inventions revolutionized the design and management of urban landscapes, and innovations such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have become indispensable. The Smart Dubai initiative has transformed the city while focusing on reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. The creative architectural designs ensure optimal natural lighting and ventilation, efficient use of renewable resources, recycled materials, sustainable wood and green roofs. Setting benchmarks, Masdar City in Abu Dhabi has become the world's first carbon-neutral metropolis. Designed to encourage foot traffic, it has reduced the need for vehicles, resulting in lower carbon emissions. The city showcases innovative technologies, including water recycling systems, waste management and renewable energy sources. Power-packed The region has embraced ambitious solar and wind power projects. The UAE Wind Program involves wind farms at three locations in Abu Dhabi - Sir Bani Yas Island, Delma Island and Al Sila, and one in Al Halah, Fujairah. Similarly, Dubai's Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is one of the world's largest renewable energy projects, aiming to generate 5,000 MW of clean energy by 2030. For the first time, the Emirates has developed utility-scale wind power, which was not possible earlier due to low wind speeds. While reducing reliance on fossil fuels, it contributes to a sustainable energy mix. Sensible investments The UAE reinforced the need for electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) and dependence on conventional fuels. Dubai's EV Green Charger initiative has established a network of charging stations across the city to assist the transition to clean transportation options. For people to rely less on automobiles, it has invested in metro and tram networks. The move noticeably reduced traffic congestion and air pollution. Implementing recycling programs and composting initiatives, Dubai's My City, My Environment raises awareness on such issues, whereas Abu Dhabi's Tadweer Recycling Program encourages citizens to segregate and recycle waste materials. Likewise, the state-of-the-art Waste-to-Energy Plant in Sharjah uses advanced technologies to minimize landfill waste and generate electricity. Water: The key to survival Since the country in the Middle East possesses limited freshwater resources, over-extraction of groundwater has led to a decline in water quality and an alarming rate of aquifer depletion, making conservation a critical issue. Desertification poses another significant environmental challenge. As the region's climate and landscape are inherently dreary, the water demand is rising sharply due to population growth and increased agricultural needs. It has contributed to soil degradation and loss of vegetation cover. This phenomenon impacts biodiversity and increases the likelihood of sand encroachment on fertile lands. Thus, to meet its water needs, the country has invested in advanced desalination technologies. The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority's Jebel Ali Desalination Plant utilizes reverse osmosis technology, which reduces energy consumption and minimizes the environmental impact of water production. The Abu Dhabi Sustainability Group's Estidama program includes drip irrigation to lessen water wastage and support agriculture. Certified edifices With emphasis on green building practices, the UAE's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification is widely pursued for constructing sustainable buildings. Concerted efforts are made to apply green technologies for mitigating the drawbacks of air pollution caused by industrial emissions and vehicular traffic. Cities are creating green spaces, urban forests and wildlife corridors to support plant and animal species. To create a balance between urban development and nature, Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 has urged the addition of native plants and local biodiversity to support the environment and contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage. The Al Wathba Wetland Reserve in the city exemplifies the commitment to preserving natural habitats and promoting eco-tourism. Dubai's Al Barari development features vast green landscapes and botanical gardens, providing a serene and sustainable living environment. Global Partnerships The UAE recognizes the global nature of sustainability challenges and engages in international collaborations and partnerships. The Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence teams with international organizations, universities, and research institutions to exchange knowledge and practices for lasting growth, demonstrating its commitment to shared environmental responsibility. The world can learn from the UAE's forward-thinking approach, which is an inspiration for nations seeking to build sustainable cities. As it is said, 'Whatever the world can do, the UAE can do better.'
Zawya
17 minutes ago
- Business
- Zawya
TownX launches AED 662mln Ashley Hills project on one of Arjan's largest plots
Dubai, UAE – TownX, one of Dubai's fastest-growing real estate developers with an AED 4 billion project portfolio, has announced the launch of its new residential project, Ashley Hills. Located on one of Arjan's largest land plots, the AED 662 million development covers over 400,000 square feet of sellable area and is set to be a key addition to the Dubai real estate market. The project will feature 616 residential units designed to cater to families and investors looking for high-quality living spaces. Ashley Hills will offer a variety of apartment types, each designed with spacious interiors and modern amenities, making it an attractive option for a wide range of buyers. Situated in one of Dubai's rapidly developing districts, Arjan offers strong connectivity to major roads, including Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and Al Khail Road. The area's growing infrastructure, which includes schools, retail centres, parks, and recreational facilities, makes it an ideal location for residents seeking convenience and lifestyle. Haider Abduljabbar, Executive Director of TownX, said, 'The launch of Ashley Hills represents our ongoing commitment to developing high-quality, accessible communities in emerging neighbourhoods like Arjan. With its strategic location and focus on modern design and sustainable building practices, this project will offer a solid investment opportunity while meeting the growing demand for residential options in this area.' The project will offer two flexible payment plans to make purchasing more accessible: a 40/60 payment plan, with 40% due during construction and 60% upon handover; and a 70/30 payment plan, with 70% due during construction and 30% at handover. Since its inception in 2017, TownX has focused on delivering projects ahead of schedule and with attention to detail. With over 1,774 units delivered and 2,125 apartments currently in development, the company continues to expand its footprint in Dubai's real estate market. Ashley Hills is another milestone in TownX's efforts to create residential communities that meet the needs of modern families while delivering long-term value. Other key developments delivered by TownX include Easy18, Easy19, Luma21 and Luma22 in JVC. Ongoing projects include 11 Hills Park at Dubai Science Park and Luma Park Views in JVC. About TownX Founded in 2017, TownX is a Dubai-based real estate developer with a project portfolio valued at AED 4 billion. Driven by a team of 350 employees, the company has delivered over 1,774 units to date. TownX is currently developing 2,125 apartments and has completed 1,036,000 square feet of premium living space. With a focus on family-oriented communities, the company designs spaces that cater to all generations. TownX prioritises premium quality by incorporating high-end finishes, energy-efficient designs, and spacious interiors. Above all, the company is committed to an exceptional user experience, ensuring that each project enhances the daily lives of its residents. Key developments delivered include Easy18, Easy19, Luma21 and Luma22 in JVC. Ongoing projects include 11 Hills Park at Dubai Science Park and Luma Park Views in JVC. For media enquiries, please contact: Keel Comms support@
