Latest news with #JosefKleindienst
Irish Times
27-05-2025
- Business
- Irish Times
James Bond franchise owners seek more time to defend control of 007 spy name
The owners of the multibillion-pound James Bond franchise have requested more time to mount their defence to keep control of the super spy's name in Europe, after a legal challenge to their trademark rights across a range of goods and services. In February, the Guardian reported that a Dubai-based property developer had filed claims in the UK and EU arguing that lack of use meant various protections had lapsed around James Bond's intellectual property, including his name, his 007 assignation and the catchphrase 'Bond, James Bond'. Nearly all the actions relate to the merchandising of goods and services under the Bond name, which can be challenged after five years of 'non-use'. Josef Kleindienst, an Austrian who is building a $5bn luxury resort complex called the Heart of Europe on six artificial islands off Dubai, has argued the trademarks have been commercially under-exploited. READ MORE [ Pierce Brosnan: 'I had no qualifications. I was really behind the eight ball – without a mother, without a father' Opens in new window ] Daniel Craig's last outing as 007, No Time to Die , was released in 2021 and with no announcement yet of his replacement or timeline for production of the next film, the franchise is on track to beat the previous longest gap between instalments of six years and four months. The Bond trademarks are registered to the US-based company Danjaq, which controls the rights to worldwide James Bond merchandising in conjunction with the UK-based production company Eon. A Playmobil 007 Aston Martin Danjaq had an initial 60 days to file its defence of the trademarks after the challenge. It has done so with the UK Intellectual Property Office, but has requested more time to file in the EU. 'As a general rule, any initial unilateral request for an extension that is received in time will be considered appropriate and will be granted,' said the EU Intellectual Property Office in a filing extending the deadline. However, it added that it was highly unlikely to grant a further extension beyond mid-June 'unless there are exceptional circumstances'. Danjaq also co-owns the copyright to the existing James Bond films, along with MGM Studios, which was acquired by Amazon for $8.5bn in 2021. Days after the report of Mr Kleindienst's legal challenges, it emerged that Amazon had paid more than $1bn to gain full 'creative control' of the James Bond franchise from Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson, the long-time stewards of the Bond films. [ An Irish Diary: How James Bond maligned Shannon Airport duty free Opens in new window ] With creative control , Amazon now has the power to move forward with new films and potentially TV spin-offs too, without approval from the two British-American heirs to the film producer Albert 'Cubby' Broccoli, who had overseen the integrity of the character originally created in 1953 by the author Ian Fleming. In March, Amazon confirmed that Amy Pascal and David Heyman would steer the next Bond film, although no release date or lead actor has yet been named. Ms Pascal has experience with the Bond series in her previous position as Sony's chair of film, overseeing Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace and Skyfall. She also had producer credits on the latest Spider-Man series. Mr Heyman is best known as the producer of all Harry Potter films as well as the Fantastic Beasts franchise and is now in pre-production on the much-anticipated HBO TV series adaptation of the stories. He is the second most commercially successful film producer of all time, with credits including Gravity, Paddington, Barbie, Wonka and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. – The Guardian
The Guardian
27-05-2025
- Business
- The Guardian
James Bond franchise owners request more time to defend control of 007 spy name
The owners of the multibillion-pound James Bond franchise have requested more time to mount their defence to keep control of the super spy's name in Europe, after a legal challenge to their trademark rights across a range of goods and services. In February, the Guardian revealed that a Dubai-based property developer had filed claims in the UK and EU arguing that lack of use meant various protections had lapsed around James Bond's intellectual property, including his name, his 007 assignation and the catchphrase 'Bond, James Bond'. Nearly all the actions relate to the merchandising of goods and services under the Bond name, which can be challenged after five years of 'non-use'. Josef Kleindienst, an Austrian who is building a $5bn luxury resort complex called the Heart of Europe on six artificial islands off Dubai, has argued the trademarks have been commercially under-exploited . Daniel Craig's last outing as 007, No Time to Die, was released in 2021 and with no announcement yet of his replacement or timeline for production of the next film, the franchise is on track to beat the previous longest gap between instalments of six years and four months. The Bond trademarks are registered to the US-based company Danjaq, which controls the rights to worldwide James Bond merchandising in conjunction with the UK-based production company Eon. Danjaq had an initial 60 days to file its defence of the trademarks after the challenge. It has done so with the UK Intellectual Property Office, but has requested more time to file in the EU. 'As a general rule, any initial unilateral request for an extension that is received in time will be considered appropriate and will be granted,' said the EU Intellectual Property Office in a filing extending the deadline. However, it added that it was highly unlikely to grant a further extension beyond mid-June 'unless there are exceptional circumstances'. Danjaq also co-owns the copyright to the existing James Bond films, along with MGM Studios, which was acquired by Amazon for $8.5bn in 2021. Days after the report of Kleindienst's legal challenges, it emerged that Amazon had paid more than $1bn to gain full 'creative control' of the James Bond franchise from Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson, the longtime stewards of the Bond films. With creative control, Amazon now has the power to move forward with new films and potentially TV spin-offs too, without approval from the two British-American heirs to the film producer Albert 'Cubby' Broccoli, who had overseen the integrity of the character originally created in 1953 by the author Ian Fleming. In March, Amazon confirmed that Amy Pascal and David Heyman would steer the next Bond film, although no release date or lead actor has yet been named. Pascal has experience with the Bond series in her previous position as Sony's chair of film, overseeing Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace and Skyfall. She also had producer credits on the latest Spider-Man series. Heyman is best known as the producer of all Harry Potter films as well as the Fantastic Beasts franchise and is now in pre-production on the much-anticipated HBO TV series adaptation of the stories. He is the second most commercially successful film producer of all time, with credits including Gravity, Paddington, Barbie, Wonka and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
Mid East Info
20-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
e& UAE and Kleindienst Group partner to power tech-driven luxury at 'The Heart of Europe' - Middle East Business News and Information
e& UAE has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Kleindienst Group, the developer behind the iconic The Heart of Europe project located on six islands in 'The World', an artificial archipelago off the coast of Dubai, to pioneer a new era of digitally powered luxury hospitality in the UAE. The MoU underscores both organisations' commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability in the region's hospitality sector. The collaboration supports the UAE leadership's vision of integrating smart infrastructure and sustainable practices in world-class developments, setting new standards of luxury living and high-end tourism in the country. Esam Mahmoud, Sr. Vice President, SMB Sales & Marketing, e& UAE, said: 'Our partnership with Kleindienst Group marks a significant milestone in our efforts to redefine smart hospitality. By integrating our advanced digital infrastructure with one of the UAE's most ambitious hospitality developments, we are setting new standards for luxury, connectivity, and sustainability in the tourism sector. We are proud to support visionary projects like The Heart of Europe , where European heritage meets UAE innovation. Through this partnership, we are embedding future-ready technologies that will elevate every aspect of the guest journey, from arrival to check-out, bringing the project's bold vision to life.' Josef Kleindienst, Founder & Chairman of Kleindienst Group, said: 'Innovation is at the core of everything we do at Kleindienst Group. It is not just a principle; it is how we build. Our collaboration with e& UAE is an exciting step forward in our mission to position The Heart of Europe as the global benchmark for tech-driven, sustainable luxury. We are creating more than a destination. We are building an experience that is immersive, intelligent, and environmentally conscious at every level. This partnership strengthens our goal to redefine how people connect, relax, and enjoy life, right here in Dubai.' Through this strategic partnership, e& UAE will deliver a suite of cutting-edge digital solutions to enrich the guest experience, including high-speed internet, IPTV, Guest Room Management Systems (GRMS), connected guest experiences, and sustainability-focused technologies across The Heart of Europe properties located on the World Islands. These solutions will dramatically enhance guest experiences and operational agility across the development. The collaboration will see the deployment of innovations such as a Command Control Centre for streamlined property operations, Drone-as-a-Service for enhanced guest services, and Vessels Internet Connectivity to ensure seamless maritime coverage. Sustainability initiatives under 'Sustainability as a Service' will also be introduced to reduce environmental impact and support eco-conscious tourism. Other key features of the partnership include connected worker solutions for enhanced staff productivity and safety, as well as smart marketing synergies that will allow both brands to co-promote their offerings to a broader global audience. The partnership will deliver a range of transformative capabilities across The Heart of Europe , beginning with advanced connectivity through the deployment of robust wireless networks across the island. Sustainability remains a core focus, with eco-friendly infrastructure designed to minimise environmental impact. Guests will benefit from a significantly enhanced experience, with smart room controls, AI-driven services, and immersive virtual reality features tailored for modern luxury travel. Behind the scenes, operational excellence will be achieved through centralised control systems, dynamic digital signage, and AI-powered automation that streamlines property management. Additionally, e& UAE will provide its CarePlus service as a dedicated, streamlined support system tailored to the needs of The Heart of Europe . This initiative ensures that guest and operational issues are resolved swiftly and seamlessly, guaranteeing that Kleindienst Group maintains the highest standards of reliability and responsiveness. This strategic agreement strengthens e& UAE's position as a partner of choice for digitally transforming large-scale developments, while empowering The Heart of Europe to become one of the most technologically advanced and sustainable hospitality destinations in the region. About The Heart of Europe: The Heart of Europe is a luxury island destination and a flagship project being developed by Kleindienst Group on the World Islands Dubai, just six kilometres off the shores of Dubai. Comprising six unique islands, each designed with a theme inspired by a European country, The Heart of Europe will offer more than 4,000 keys, 20 hotels and resorts, including beachfront villas and palaces, deluxe hotels and an underwater living experience. It offers world-class amenities, such as a climate-controlled raining street and the region's first Coral institute dedicated to protecting and restoring the marine ecosystem and seeks to promote sustainable living using renewable energy sources and innovative technologies. Committed to breaking barriers, the Heart of Europe opened its French Riviera-inspired first adults-only five-star party hotel on an island in Dubai – voco™ Monaco Dubai. With 198 keys, including eight suites, five party suites and four suites with private pools, the hotel pledges an unrivalled night-time atmosphere.
Arabian Business
20-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Dubai World Islands: e& to power high-speed internet, drone services and AI to Heart of Europe hotels
Hotels in the Dubai World Islands project will have high-speed internet, AI-powered luxury and drone services, following a landmark deal between developer and e&. e& UAE has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Kleindienst Group, the developer behind the iconic The Heart of Europe project located on six islands in 'The World', an artificial archipelago off the coast of Dubai, to pioneer a new era of digitally powered luxury hospitality in the UAE. The MoU underscores both organisations' commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability in the region's hospitality sector. Digital luxury on Dubai World Islands The collaboration supports the UAE leadership's vision of integrating smart infrastructure and sustainable practices in world-class developments, setting new standards of luxury living and high-end tourism in the country. Esam Mahmoud, Sr. Vice President, SMB Sales & Marketing, e& UAE, said: 'Our partnership with Kleindienst Group marks a significant milestone in our efforts to redefine smart hospitality. By integrating our advanced digital infrastructure with one of the UAE's most ambitious hospitality developments, we are setting new standards for luxury, connectivity, and sustainability in the tourism sector. 'We are proud to support visionary projects like The Heart of Europe, where European heritage meets UAE innovation. Through this partnership, we are embedding future-ready technologies that will elevate every aspect of the guest journey, from arrival to check-out, bringing the project's bold vision to life.' Josef Kleindienst, Founder and Chairman of Kleindienst Group, said: 'Innovation is at the core of everything we do at Kleindienst Group. It is not just a principle; it is how we build. Our collaboration with e& UAE is an exciting step forward in our mission to position The Heart of Europe as the global benchmark for tech-driven, sustainable luxury. 'We are creating more than a destination. We are building an experience that is immersive, intelligent, and environmentally conscious at every level. This partnership strengthens our goal to redefine how people connect, relax, and enjoy life, right here in Dubai.' Through this strategic partnership, e& UAE will deliver a suite of cutting-edge digital solutions to enrich the guest experience, including: High-speed internet IPTV Guest Room Management Systems (GRMS) Connected guest experiences Sustainability-focused technologies These solutions will dramatically enhance guest experiences and operational agility across the development. The collaboration will see the deployment of innovations such as a Command Control Centre for streamlined property operations, Drone-as-a-Service for enhanced guest services, and Vessels Internet Connectivity to ensure seamless maritime coverage. Sustainability initiatives under 'Sustainability as a Service' will also be introduced to reduce environmental impact and support eco-conscious tourism. Other key features of the partnership include connected worker solutions for enhanced staff productivity and safety, as well as smart marketing synergies that will allow both brands to co-promote their offerings to a broader global audience. The partnership will deliver a range of transformative capabilities across The Heart of Europe, beginning with advanced connectivity through the deployment of robust wireless networks across the island. Sustainability remains a core focus, with eco-friendly infrastructure designed to minimise environmental impact. Guests will benefit from a significantly enhanced experience, with smart room controls, AI-driven services, and immersive virtual reality features tailored for modern luxury travel. Behind the scenes, operational excellence will be achieved through centralised control systems, dynamic digital signage, and AI-powered automation that streamlines property management. Additionally, e& UAE will provide its CarePlus service as a dedicated, streamlined support system tailored to the needs of The Heart of Europe. This initiative ensures that guest and operational issues are resolved swiftly and seamlessly, guaranteeing that Kleindienst Group maintains the highest standards of reliability and responsiveness. This strategic agreement strengthens e& UAE's position as a partner of choice for digitally transforming large-scale developments, while empowering The Heart of Europe to become one of the most technologically advanced and sustainable hospitality destinations in the region.
Gulf News
04-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf News
New Buddha-Bar Hotel on Dubai World Islands targets European travellers, UAE, GCC staycationers
Dubai: A new Dh3 billion luxury offering has arrived on Dubai's World Islands. Located within the Heart of Europe project, the recently unveiled development features the region's first Buddha-Bar Hotel, along with Floating Villas and a dedicated Buddha-Bar Beach Honeymoon Island. This significant investment aims to capture the attention of European luxury travellers and the thriving UAE and GCC staycation demographic, Josef Kleindienst, Founder and Chairman of Kleindienst Group, told Gulf News. The Heart of Europe is a heart-shaped archipelago that features six themed islands – St Petersburg, Sweden, Switzerland, the Floating Venice, Germany and main Europe. Kleindienst highlighted the strategic timing of the launch. Given that European travellers are becoming less inclined to travel to the United States amidst rising tensions and trade wars, he believes this creates a significant opportunity for destinations in the UAE and the wider GCC to attract luxury travellers from this market. The resilience provided by the local market adds more confidence. Even if international traffic slows due to global economic concerns, Kleindienst believes the Heart of Europe can rely on the UAE and regional staycation demand, describing the strong local interest as a vital buffer against potential dips in international inbound tourism. "Right now, our focus is Europeans and UAE staycation guests. And when our network grows and is built up in this area, then we will extend to new areas," said Kleindienst. Project status, upcoming development The $14 billion development, originally consisting of 300 man-made islands, was launched by Nakheel more than 20 years ago. Following the 2008-09 market crash, interest in the development waned until recently. In July last year, Kleindienst Group sold out the first phase of its Dh1 billion Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection by IHG Hotels. Developed in collaboration with George V Eatertainment/Buddha-Bar International, the Buddha Bar project includes a 162-key overwater hotel, a collection of floating villas, and a dedicated Buddha-Bar Beach Honeymoon Island. Adjacent to the hotel, the Buddha-Bar Beach Honeymoon Island is planned as an all-day and all-night venue. Nabil Souhail, VP of Buddha-Bar International, said the launch aims to 'raise the bar,' aspiring to bring 'the world's finest experiences to one place' and become a premier social escape in Dubai. The Heart of Europe project is designed to include more than 4,000 keys across 20 distinct hotels and resorts. The project is aiming for completion by the end of 2027, with 52 per cent of construction progress achieved so far, said Kleindienst. The development is planned to have a total capacity of 5,000 keys, equating to approximately 11,000 guests at full occupancy, plus up to 5,000-day visitors, for a maximum of 16,000 people on the islands simultaneously. The group's primary target demographics are lifestyle and experiential luxury travellers, including honeymooners, eco-conscious visitors, wellness seekers, and families, with a strong initial focus on Europeans and UAE staycationers. While focusing heavily on the Heart of Europe project, Kleindienst said that the group has two other 'mega projects' designed, with the first expected to be announced within the next year. One of these is located within the UAE, with the other's location remaining undisclosed for now. The region is thriving Kleindienst's insights extend beyond the specific development, offering a bullish outlook on the wider Middle East hospitality sector. He views the growth in neighbouring countries positively, stating: 'What is going on in the Middle East makes everything more attractive. Saudi Arabia's opening makes the Middle East and every, every city in the Middle East more attractive.' While acknowledging that 'Many people see this as a competition,' he countered, 'We don't see this as a competition. It will simply bring more people here.' He elaborated on the evolving nature of tourism, particularly among European travellers, a key market for Dubai. 'We know how Europeans travel,' he said, contrasting past behaviour with present trends. 'When I was young, our typical travel time was three weeks in one place... 'Dolce far niente' – the sweetness of doing nothing.' This, he explained, has drastically changed. 'Today, the travel behaviour is different... the most important in any destination is the internet so that you are connected,' he explained. Summer appeal Beyond trend adaptation, external factors also attract visitors, particularly in the summer months. Kleindienst pointed to the changing climate's impact on traditional summer destinations. 'The typical European summer destination was the Mediterranean countries... But now the temperatures in Spain in summer are also reaching 50 degrees, like here, but without AC.' This discomfort, he believes, leads travellers to reconsider their options. 'Now they say when it's already hot, I prefer to go to Dubai.' Getting to World Islands Located 15 minutes away from the mainland, a key pain point for offshore development like the Heart of Europe is accessibility. Kleindienst said that getting to The World Islands has presented logistical challenges, which the developer has worked to address. 'We faced quite a challenging time until recently when Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) stepped in and started to support us,' Kleindienst said. This support includes using RTA Marina locations, access points within the water channel, and RTA ferries. Additionally, agreements have been secured with three private marinas on Jumeirah Beach, further enhancing connectivity options. Kleindienst described the current transportation situation as 'very good' due to these collaborations. While most transportation will continue to be by boat, future plans aim to diversify access with floating helicopter landings planned for each of the six islands in the Heart of Europe. The group is also exploring technologies, observing the initial phases of drone transportation and air taxis to apply for integration later.
