Latest news with #Expo2020Dubai
Time Out Dubai
a day ago
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
Expo Valley nature reserve to be built in Dubai: Proscape to bring project to life
A huge new nature reserve is being built in Dubai, and it's going to be home to more than 1,000 trees. The 10-hectare Expo Valley nature reserve is an upcoming project which is scheduled to be completed in the first half of 2026. It is part of the wider masterplan for Expo City Dubai and will be a gated community with homes nestled into natural surroundings. A diverse selection of trees, including both native and adaptive species such as acacia and ghaf, has been carefully chosen for their hardiness and ability to survive and thrive in the UAE's climate. The trees will be grown and nurtured at an on-site nursery and will be part of a landscape designed to be enjoyed for generations. Expo City Dubai appoints Proscape, a leading landscape and exterior design company, to carry out the development of the Expo Valley Nature Reserve. The reserve will span over 10 hectares and is scheduled for completion in the first half of 2026. — Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) July 29, 2025 Work has already begun on the project, and landscaping contract company Proscape has been put in charge of bringing the project to life. Ahmed Al Khatib, chief development and delivery officer at Expo City Dubai, said that the nature reserve will be an important recreational and social space. He said: 'The Expo Valley nature reserve – a key milestone in the development of our master plan – exemplifies our dedication to creating a resilient and biodiverse landscape that reflects Expo City's enduring environmental vision and preserves the legacy of Expo 2020 Dubai. 'Our city has demonstrated its commitment to creating a community that is both beautiful and sustainable, and the nature reserve – an integral element and important recreational and social space – will further enhance residents' quality of life. 'Leveraging Proscape's expertise, we are confident that the reserve will be a flourishing, resilient landscape that can be enjoyed for generations to come as part of a people-centric city that thrives in harmony with nature.' Proscape will deliver a comprehensive scope of work including precision land grading, specialist lake construction, advanced irrigation and robust infrastructure. Naser M Ahmed, Group CEO, Proscape, said: 'We are honoured to work with Expo City Dubai on such a meaningful and future-focused initiative, and our decades of experience and commitment to urban ecological development will ensure excellence and attention to detail at every phase.' Making plans? Dubai's best outdoor restaurants, bars and clubs Visit these spots to cool off Dubai's newest restaurants to try The latest openings to tempt your taste buds 12 underrated Dubai restaurants and cafés (that are not tourist traps) Some of our favourite eateries that aren't always in the limelight
Khaleej Times
a day ago
- Politics
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Sheikha Fatima to Lana Nusseibeh, powerful women who dominate Emirati politics
On August 28, the UAE will celebrate its women's successes and accomplishments, which stretch back decades. Entitled 'Hand in Hand, Celebrating the 50th', this year's Emirati Women's Day will be extra special, as it celebrates 50 years since the establishment of the General Women's Union. Women in the UAE have long since been making strides in the political sphere, engaging in policymaking and advocating for women's rights. Today, Emirati women hold nine ministerial positions, nine are ambassadors, and 50 per cent of the Federal National Council's members are women. Khaleej Times looks at the powerful women who dominate Emirati politics, both domestically and abroad. The Mother of the Nation The wife of the late Sheikh Zayed, founder of the nation, Sheikha Fatima is known as the mother of the nation. Her efforts to support gender equality and champion women's rights go back to four years after the UAE was founded, when she established the General Women's Union in 1975. Ever since, Sheikha Fatima has been tirelessly working to represent women in different facets of society. The General Women's Union plays a large role in reviewing public policies, legislation, and other draft laws relating women, and proposes necessary amendments to empower them. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak has spent four decades to try and elevate women's positions to be represented at the social, economic, and political levels. In 2004, she launched a programme to strengthen the role of women parliamentarians and women's political participations. Emirati women owe it to Sheikha Fatima for her support and leadership. First parliamentarian Sheikha Fatima's programmes proved to be effective, because two years later, the UAE made history. In 2006, Amal Al Qubaisi was the first female member of the Federal National Council. Almost a decade later, in 2015, she was elected Speaker of the FNC, becoming the first woman to chair a parliamentary institution in the Arab world. The Emirati politician paved the way for other women to join the FNC. Slowly but surely, more women started occupying more seats at the FNC, and today, 50 per cent of the seats, all thanks to a directive by the late Sheikh Khalifa. Pioneering Emirati woman The UAE's first woman to assume a ministerial post, Sheikha Lubna made history in 2004 and has since led four major ministries. From economy to tolerance, her leadership reflected the nation's evolving priorities and rising global stature. She was appointed President of Zayed University in 2014, promoting educational excellence and innovation. Sheikha Lubna remains one of the most iconic symbols of Emirati women's empowerment and continues to receive global recognition for her contributions. The woman behind Expo 2020 Dubai Minister of State for International Cooperation, Reem Al Hashimy has become one of the most visible and effective figures in the UAE Cabinet. She was instrumental in delivering Expo 2020 Dubai, the first World Expo held in the region, and currently oversees the long-term legacy of the project through Expo City Dubai. Her leadership extends across global development and philanthropy. She chairs the UAE's committee on sustainable development goals and leads Dubai Cares, aligning humanitarian work with national priorities. Al Hashimi is also a key figure in advancing the UAE's global influence in international cooperation. Taking the UAE to new heights Lana Nusseibeh has been a strong diplomatic force for the UAE on the global stage. Appointed as Permanent Representative to the United Nations in 2013, she has served in key roles such as President of the UN Women Executive Board and co-facilitator of critical UN initiatives. Her deep involvement in international policymaking, revitalization of the UN, and digital development has helped cement the UAE's presence within multilateral institutions. At home, she helped establish the Policy Planning Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Youngest minister in the world At just 22, Shamma Al Mazrui became the youngest minister in the world when she was appointed Minister of State for Youth Affairs in 2016. Her appointment marked a shift in the UAE's vision for youth inclusion in policymaking and national development. She now serves as Minister of Community Development and COP28 Youth Climate Champion. Her leadership journey is rooted in listening, learning and serving — values she says define her role. Al Mazrui also chairs the UAE Special Olympics and plays a pivotal role in shaping youth policy and education reform. Climate change champion As Minister of State for Food and Water Security, Mariam Almheiri has overseen critical strategies to safeguard the UAE's future in a changing climate. Her leadership spans from advancing food technology to representing the UAE at global food security forums. She previously served as Minister of Food Security, laying the foundation for robust infrastructure aimed at achieving national goals. Today, Almheiri's work continues to impact agriculture, sustainability and innovation at the highest policy levels. Strategy and policy affairs The Deputy Minister for Cabinet Affairs for Strategic Affairs, Huda Al Hashimi, has been instrumental in developing the UAE government's agenda and maintaining its high reputation on the world stage. When you think of Huda Al Hashimi, the words 'strategy', 'innovation', and 'policy making' should come to mind. She leads the process to make sure the UAE is on track to achieve its ever-ambitious vision, as well as the National Agenda. Al Hashimi also serves as board member of the Dubai Women Establishment, which was established in 2006 by Sheikha Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
ME Construction
22-07-2025
- Business
- ME Construction
Acciona Living & Culture appoints Yannic Leveque as VP for the Middle East
Industry News Acciona Living & Culture appoints Yannic Leveque as VP for the Middle East By Yannic will spearhead efforts to expand ACCIONA Living and Culture's presence in the cultural, experiential, and luxury tourism sectors ACCIONA Living & Culture has announced the appointment of Yannic Leveque as Vice President for the Middle East. The appointment marks a significant milestone in the company's strategic expansion across the region, particularly in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the firm said. With over 20 years of international experience in architecture, construction, and cultural destination development, and 10 years in the GCC, Yannic brings a wealth of expertise to the role. Her portfolio includes projects in the Middle East, such as the Guggenheim Museum Abu Dhabi, Uptown Tower and Atlantis The Royal in Dubai, Clinique La Prairie and Jayasom hotels in Amaala, and Laheq Island under The Red Sea Global Projects. Additionally, she has worked on projects in Europe, including the Building Vacláv Havel for the European Parliament. Yannic's appointment comes at a pivotal moment as ACCIONA Living & Culture continues to support the realisation of ambitious cultural and hospitality initiatives across Saudi Arabia and the GCC. Her leadership will further solidify the company's position as a trusted partner for projects that prioritise culture as the cornerstone of entertainment and economic growth, aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, said a statement from the firm. 'I am thrilled to join ACCIONA Living & Culture at such a pivotal moment for the region. With over 50 projects delivered at Expo 2020 Dubai and landmark cultural works like the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, the Shindagha Museums, and major hospitality developments across Saudi Arabia, ACCIONA Living & Culture has demonstrated an unparalleled ability to deliver high-impact cultural and experiential experiences. The Middle East is redefining the global cultural landscape, and I look forward to building on this impressive legacy by leading innovative projects that connect communities and contribute meaningfully to the region's transformation,' said Leveque. As Middle East Vice President, Yannic will spearhead efforts to expand ACCIONA Living and Culture's presence in the cultural, experiential, and luxury tourism sectors. Her background in designing and executing large-scale, high-profile developments makes her an ideal candidate for this role. Yannic's passion for collaborating with diverse and talented teams, coupled with her record of delivering results in challenging environments, makes her a valuable asset to ACCIONA Living & Culture's growth strategy in the region, the firm concluded.
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Scotsman
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Europe's hottest event music platform expands across the Middle East
Their bands have also featured at Expo 2020 Dubai and the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix | No Credit A UK-based startup that's revolutionised live music bookings across Europe and beyond is now setting its sights on the Middle East's booming events industry. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... FixTheMusic, a free-to-use online platform that connects event planners with top-tier bands, DJs, and musicians, has officially launched a regional hub in Dubai - marking a major expansion into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and neighbouring destinations like Jordan and Egypt. And with the region's appetite for luxury weddings, high-end corporate galas, and unforgettable private parties at an all-time high, the timing couldn't be better. Adam Southall, Co-Founder of FixTheMusic, said: 'Since 2015 we've helped thousands of couples and corporate planners book outstanding live music in more than 60 countries. 'The GCC's vibrant events scene is a natural next step for us. 'By formalising our Middle East operations, we can get outstanding artists on stage at the region's most spectacular venues with less friction and more creative choice.' FixTheMusic's artists already have a proven track record across the Gulf and wider Middle East. Most notably, performing at five‑star hotels, beach resorts and landmark venues throughout the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman and Saudi Arabia. Their bands have also featured at Expo 2020 Dubai, the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Dubai International Boat Show and other marquee GCC events. From luxury ballrooms and desert palaces to private‑island resorts and city‑skyline rooftops, the platform is trusted by the region's leading properties. This includes Four Seasons, Ritz‑Carlton, Jumeirah, Kempinski and more, to perform at weddings, corporate galas and private celebrations of every scale. The expansion comes as governments across the Gulf are using mega‑events, venue investments and streamlined licensing to diversify their economies and meet the region's huge appetite for live performance. Dubai alone supported more than 460 exhibitions, concerts and festivals in 2024. While Abu Dhabi is co‑funding a 20,000‑capacity Sphere venue to complement its Formula 1 and Yas Island concert calendar. Qatar is still riding the wave of The FIFA World Cup 2022 which drew over 1 million visitors and 1.8 million fan‑zone attendees - and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 reforms saw the General Entertainment Authority issue 1,673 live‑entertainment licences, illustrating explosive audience growth. Together these initiatives create a region‑wide ecosystem of new venues, supportive regulation and international audiences; ideal conditions for FixTheMusic's curated artists to thrive. With a dedicated operations base in Dubai, the brand can now coordinate artist logistics across borders, smoothing the process for planners handling multi-destination celebrations or corporate roadshows. Whether it's a solo violinist for an engagement at the Burj Al Arab, or a 10-piece showband for a mega wedding in Doha, the platform promises seamless booking, secure payment, and a carefully vetted pool of global and local talent. And unlike traditional talent agencies, FixTheMusic puts planners in direct contact with performers - cutting out hidden fees and delays. The company is already working with a who's who of tech giants, global brands, and event agencies, many of whom have longstanding relationships with FixTheMusic in Europe and the U.S. Now, those relationships are expanding across the Middle East. About FixTheMusic Founded in 2015 by musician brothers Ed and Adam Southall, FixTheMusic makes it fast, transparent and secure to discover, compare and book world-class live entertainment for weddings, private parties, corporate events and charity galas worldwide. Today, the platform is one of Europe's largest and most trusted live-music marketplaces, with a rapidly expanding footprint across the Middle East, the Americas and Asia.
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Scotsman
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Europe's hottest event music platform expands across the Middle East
Their bands have also featured at Expo 2020 Dubai and the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix | No Credit A UK-based startup that's revolutionised live music bookings across Europe and beyond is now setting its sights on the Middle East's booming events industry. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... FixTheMusic, a free-to-use online platform that connects event planners with top-tier bands, DJs, and musicians, has officially launched a regional hub in Dubai - marking a major expansion into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and neighbouring destinations like Jordan and Egypt. And with the region's appetite for luxury weddings, high-end corporate galas, and unforgettable private parties at an all-time high, the timing couldn't be better. Adam Southall, Co-Founder of FixTheMusic, said: 'Since 2015 we've helped thousands of couples and corporate planners book outstanding live music in more than 60 countries. 'The GCC's vibrant events scene is a natural next step for us. 'By formalising our Middle East operations, we can get outstanding artists on stage at the region's most spectacular venues with less friction and more creative choice.' FixTheMusic's artists already have a proven track record across the Gulf and wider Middle East. Most notably, performing at five‑star hotels, beach resorts and landmark venues throughout the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman and Saudi Arabia. Their bands have also featured at Expo 2020 Dubai, the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Dubai International Boat Show and other marquee GCC events. From luxury ballrooms and desert palaces to private‑island resorts and city‑skyline rooftops, the platform is trusted by the region's leading properties. This includes Four Seasons, Ritz‑Carlton, Jumeirah, Kempinski and more, to perform at weddings, corporate galas and private celebrations of every scale. The expansion comes as governments across the Gulf are using mega‑events, venue investments and streamlined licensing to diversify their economies and meet the region's huge appetite for live performance. Dubai alone supported more than 460 exhibitions, concerts and festivals in 2024. While Abu Dhabi is co‑funding a 20,000‑capacity Sphere venue to complement its Formula 1 and Yas Island concert calendar. Qatar is still riding the wave of The FIFA World Cup 2022 which drew over 1 million visitors and 1.8 million fan‑zone attendees - and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 reforms saw the General Entertainment Authority issue 1,673 live‑entertainment licences, illustrating explosive audience growth. Together these initiatives create a region‑wide ecosystem of new venues, supportive regulation and international audiences; ideal conditions for FixTheMusic's curated artists to thrive. With a dedicated operations base in Dubai, the brand can now coordinate artist logistics across borders, smoothing the process for planners handling multi-destination celebrations or corporate roadshows. Whether it's a solo violinist for an engagement at the Burj Al Arab, or a 10-piece showband for a mega wedding in Doha, the platform promises seamless booking, secure payment, and a carefully vetted pool of global and local talent. And unlike traditional talent agencies, FixTheMusic puts planners in direct contact with performers - cutting out hidden fees and delays. The company is already working with a who's who of tech giants, global brands, and event agencies, many of whom have longstanding relationships with FixTheMusic in Europe and the U.S. Now, those relationships are expanding across the Middle East. About FixTheMusic Founded in 2015 by musician brothers Ed and Adam Southall, FixTheMusic makes it fast, transparent and secure to discover, compare and book world-class live entertainment for weddings, private parties, corporate events and charity galas worldwide.
