Latest news with #NorthernEmirates
Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Eid Al Adha: Some UAE hotels hit 100% occupancy amid Schengen, US visa delays
Hotels across the UAE are experiencing a surge in bookings ahead of the Eid Al Adha holidays, with many properties reporting full or near-full occupancy. This uptick is largely driven by residents opting for staycations due to ongoing difficulties securing US and Schengen visa appointments, as well as an influx of regional visitors. Several hotels have already reached full capacity for the four-day Eid break, while others expect to hit 100 per cent occupancy in the coming days as last-minute bookings increase. UAE residents will enjoy a four-day Eid Al Adha holiday from Thursday to Sunday this week. As previously reported by Khaleej Times, visa appointments for travel to Schengen countries remain unavailable until mid-August due to overwhelming demand during the summer season. Tarek Labib, Head of Commercial for IMEA at IHG Hotels & Resorts, noted that hotel occupancy rates are expected to peak over the Eid weekend, with strong performance extending into the surrounding days, especially in the Northern Emirates. 'This demand is being driven by residents and families from the GCC, as short-haul trips are becoming more attractive ahead of the summer school break. Looking ahead, UAE hotels are witnessing a 20 per cent year-on-year increase in bookings, buoyed by robust domestic travel and double-digit growth from key international markets, including the UK and neighboring Gulf countries,' said Labib. He added that occupancy during Eid remains consistent with last year's 80 per cent, at IHG Hotels and Resorts. Staycations surge amid visa hurdles Iftikhar Hamdani, area general manager of Bahi Ajman Palace and Coral Beach Resort Sharjah, confirmed full occupancy at his properties during Eid, reflecting strong demand. 'Compared to last year, we're seeing significantly higher occupancy. Many guests are booking longer stays, largely driven by expatriates unable to travel abroad due to delays in obtaining Schengen and US visas,' he said. Sherif Madkour, General Manager of Media Rotana, expects a 'remarkable performance this Eid,' with occupancy projected to exceed 95 per cent. 'There's a clear increase in both bookings and average daily rates compared to last year,' he noted. 'This is supported by attractive seasonal offers, family packages, and enhanced leisure facilities. A growing number of residents are choosing local getaways due to continued visa processing issues.' Abdulla Al Abdulla, CEO and General Manager of Central Hotels & Resorts, said properties under the group — including Palm Hotels and First Central — are performing strongly, with about 70 per cent of rooms already booked. 'We typically see a surge in bookings during the last three days before Eid, and we expect that trend to continue,' he said. 'The staycation market is showing modest year-on-year improvement.' GCC visitors drive tourism boost Mamdouh Ali, General Manager of Rose Rayhaan by Rotana, anticipates an 'exceptional tourist season' during Eid, with a projected 20 per cent increase in visitors from the Gulf region and a 10 per cent rise in domestic tourism. 'This growth is largely due to our special promotions and events coordinated by the Dubai government in collaboration with the Department of Economic Development,' he added. At Leva Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road, occupancy is expected to reach around 90 per cent during the Eid weekend. 'Much of the demand materialises close to the holiday dates, and we're seeing a similar last-minute booking trend this year,' said Thomas Kurian, Hotel Manager. 'Our guests are primarily from the GCC, with many families seeking cost-effective holiday packages and extended weekend stays. Northern Emirates resorts continue to be preferred over city hotels, a pattern that we expect to continue through Eid Al Adha 2025.' Elif Yazoglu, General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Jumeirah Beach, also reports exceptionally strong demand. 'We're expecting full occupancy throughout the Eid period, with reservations building steadily in advance,' she said. 'Compared to last year, we've seen a substantial increase in both pace and volume of bookings. Many residents are locking in their plans early, and with school holidays approaching, families appear to be delaying overseas travel, contributing to the current spike.'
Khaleej Times
5 days ago
- Health
- Khaleej Times
Redefining surgical excellence in the Northern Emirates – Thumbay University Hospital Ajman
Thumbay University Hospital in Ajman has rapidly established itself as the foremost destination for advanced surgical care in the Northern Emirates. As one of the region's largest academic hospitals, it combines cutting-edge medical technology, internationally trained surgeons, and a patient-first approach—making it the most trusted hub for a wide range of surgical specialties. What sets Thumbay University Hospital apart is not only the breadth of services offered, but also its commitment to minimally invasive techniques, faster recovery, and better patient outcomes. The hospital has become synonymous with innovation and surgical precision, offering a level of care that rivals global centers of excellence. One of the recent cases highlighting the hospital's capabilities involved a 60-year-old woman suffering from postmenopausal bleeding and significant pelvic discomfort. She was diagnosed with a large fibroid uterus—equivalent in size to a five-month pregnancy. Multiple medical institutions advised her to undergo an open hysterectomy, a more invasive procedure. However, due to her high BMI, the patient and her family were apprehensive about the risks involved. At Thumbay University Hospital, Dr Amal Hassan Abddelaziz, consultant and her team successfully performed a total laparoscopic hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, enabling the patient to be discharged the very next day and return to her daily routine shortly after—a testament to the hospital's minimally invasive expertise. In yet another milestone achievement, Thumbay University Hospital became the first in the Northern Emirates to successfully complete a body contouring procedure using advanced VASER ultrasonic liposuction combined with J-Plasma skin tightening technology. This groundbreaking surgery, performed by renowned plastic surgeon Dr Faisal Ameer, consultant at the hospital's Thumbay Institute of Aesthetics (TIA), showcases the hospital's leadership in blending aesthetic precision with medical innovation. It represents a new era of cosmetic surgery in the region, marrying technology and patient care to achieve exceptional results. Reflecting on these advancements, Akbar Moideen Thumbay, vice-president and board member of Thumbay Group, stated: "Thumbay University Hospital is committed to being the region's benchmark in surgical care—bringing together the best of technology, talent, and compassion. These pioneering cases are a testament to our promise of safe, innovative, and patient-friendly surgeries in the UAE." With every successful surgery, Thumbay University Hospital reinforces its position as a center of excellence—not just in the Northern Emirates but across the UAE. Patients seeking high-quality, expert-led surgical care are increasingly turning to this world-class facility that continues to deliver medical breakthroughs with a human touch.
The National
27-05-2025
- Business
- The National
UAE official meets Afghanistan's new consul general to Dubai
A senior UAE official underlined the importance of bilateral ties with Afghanistan after holding talks with Abdul Rahman Fida, the country's new consul general to Dubai and the Northern Emirates. Sheikh Maktoum bin Butti Al Maktoum, director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Office in Dubai, on Tuesday received the consular credentials of the envoy at an official meeting. Sheikh Maktoum welcomed the consul general and congratulated him on his appointment during discussions held at the ministry's Dubai office, state news agency Wam reported. He wished Mr Fida success in his duties and commended the strong political, economic, commercial and investment ties between the nations. The meeting underscored the UAE's commitment to bolstering links with Afghanistan and supporting its future development. In January, President Sheikh Mohamed received Sirajuddin Haqqani, Afghanistan's Minister of the Interior, at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi. They reviewed efforts to support Afghanistan's reconstruction and stability, seeking to foster development and prosperity for the Afghan people. Mr Haqqani also commended the UAE's humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people.
Zawya
21-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
ADNOC signs $1.63bln framework agreements to manufacture critical industrial equipment in UAE
ADNOC announced today that it has signed framework agreements valued at AED6 billion ($1.64 billion) with 12 UAE-based companies for manufacturing of critical industrial equipment in the UAE, supporting the 'Make it in the Emirates' initiative. The long-term agreements are for the manufacturing of cables and pressure vessels. They will potentially create up to 1,300 skilled private-sector jobs, ensure availability of these equipment across ADNOC's value chain, reduce delivery times and mitigate global supply chain risks. The framework agreements will accelerate investment across industrial zones in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and the Northern Emirates, deepening the impact of ADNOC's In-Country Value (ICV) programme in boosting UAE manufacturing capacity, building a more resilient industrial base and enhancing business continuity. The signing of the agreements was witnessed by Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and ADNOC Managing Director and Group CEO at the 'Make it in the Emirates' forum currently taking place in Abu Dhabi. Yaser Saeed Almazrouei, ADNOC Executive Director, People, Commercial and Corporate Support, said, 'These frameworks agreements to manufacture pressure vessels and cables in the UAE highlight ADNOC's success in strengthening the resilience of our supply chain, expanding the UAE's manufacturing base and creating jobs in the private sector through our In-Country Value program. We are providing greater visibility into the products we intend to purchase locally and we encourage businesses to capitalise on ADNOC's huge pipeline of local manufacturing opportunities through the Make it with ADNOC app to enhance business continuity and create long-term sustainable value.' The companies within the framework agreements are located across key industrial zones, including Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD), Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD), Dubai Industrial Park, Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), and industrial areas in Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain. This highlights ADNOC's commitment to enabling balanced industrial growth across the UAE and ensuring that the benefits of localisation are shared nationwide. The manufacturers include nine companies for 10 types of pressure vessels, and three companies for four types of cables. The pressure vessel manufacturers are: ADOS Engineering Industries, Arabian Industries LLC, Berg Industries LLC, Euro Mechanical & Electrical Contracting Company LLC, METALFAB Middle East FZ L.L.C, Micoda Process Systems International Company, NASH Engineering FZCO, Polar Specialized Industries (PSI), and United Metal Works Est. Factory Abu Dhabi. The cable manufacturers are: Dubai Cable Co. (PVT) Ltd, Mark Cables and National Cable Industry. ADNOC plans to purchase AED90 billion ($24.5 billion) worth of locally manufactured products in its procurement pipeline by 2030. The company's ICV programme has driven AED242 billion ($65.9 billion) back into the UAE economy and enabled 17,000 Emiratis to be employed in the private sector since 2018. As part of ADNOC's ICV programme, the company aims to drive AED200 billion ($54.5 billion) into the UAE economy over the next five years.
Zawya
21-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
EDB and RAKBANK unveil landmark AED1bln mSME Fund to Supercharge UAE's Industrial Growth
Abu Dhabi, UAE – In a major boost for UAE-based micro, small and medium enterprises (mSMEs), Emirates Development Bank (EDB) and RAKBANK have announced the launch of a co-financing partnership totalling AED 1 billion to catalyse growth in national priority sectors. The landmark initiative was unveiled at the Make it in the Emirates Forum, held under the patronage of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) until 22 May at the ADNEC Centre, Abu Dhabi. This strategic collaboration marks one of the largest mSME-dedicated co-lending programmes of its kind in the region, designed to improve access to capital for businesses operating in manufacturing, advanced technology, food security, renewables, and healthcare — the UAE's most critical growth sectors. Backed by a 50/50 contribution – AED 500 million from EDB and AED 500 million from RAKBANK – the fund will be channelled through RAKBANK to deliver tailored financing solutions for mSMEs across the UAE, with a strong focus on supporting businesses in the Northern Emirates and greenfield ventures. H.E. Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi, CEO of Emirates Development Bank, said: "This partnership with RAKBANK is a powerful example of what Make it in the Emirates was designed to achieve — coordinated national action that turns industrial ambition into reality. At EDB, we've committed more than AED 18.8 billion in financing since 2021 to accelerate economic transformation, and we know from experience that unlocking mSME growth is one of the most effective ways to strengthen our industrial base. This AED 1 billion co-financing platform is a signal that we are serious about empowering the entrepreneurs and manufacturers who will lead our economy into its next chapter." Raheel Ahmed, Group CEO of RAKBANK, added:"At RAKBANK, we have always believed that mSMEs are the backbone of the UAE economy. This AED 1 billion partnership fund is a bold step forward in our commitment to serve them better. By joining forces with Emirates Development Bank, we're not just unlocking capital — we're creating real opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow, scale, and contribute to a more dynamic and sustainable national economy." The co-financing structure gives mSMEs access to liquidity at competitive rates and also sets clear impact benchmarks, including percentage allocation for businesses based in the Northern Emirates (RAK, UAQ, Fujairah) national owned business and prioritisation for manufacturing and greenfield ventures. The agreement reflects a broader effort by both institutions to deepen mSME support, foster economic diversification, and align with the UAE's industrial strategy and national development goals. The fund will be deployed within 12 months of the agreement, with RAKBANK overseeing risk underwriting and portfolio management, while providing monthly performance reports to EDB. Both institutions will collaborate on outreach, awareness, and stakeholder engagement to maximise visibility and impact. Through this initiative, EDB and RAKBANK are setting a new benchmark for public-private sector partnership, partnering to fuel innovation, job creation, and long-term value across the SME landscape. About Emirates Development Bank Emirates Development Bank (EDB), the UAE's development bank, is a key financial engine for the UAE's economic development and industrial advancement. EDB provides financial and non-financial support to businesses of all sizes—from start-ups and SMEs to corporates—driving economic competitiveness across five strategic priority sectors: advanced technology, food security, healthcare, renewables, and manufacturing. As the first local bank in the UAE to be Great Place to Work-certified, EDB nurtures a high-trust, high-performance culture that drives both business growth and social impact. EDB was established under Federal Law by Decree No. 07 of 2011 issued by the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and became operational in June 2015. About RAKBANK RAKBANK, also known as the National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah (P.S.C), is one of the UAE's oldest yet most dynamic banks. Since 1976, RAKBANK has been a market leader, offering a wide range of banking services across the UAE. We're a public joint stock company based in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, with our head office located in the RAKBANK Building on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. The Government of Ras Al Khaimah holds the majority of our shares, which are publicly traded on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX). RAKBANK stands out for its innovation and unwavering commitment to delivering awesome customer experiences. Our transformative digital journey aims to be a 'digital bank with a human touch,' accompanying you during key moments. With 21 branches and advanced Digital Banking solutions, we offer a wide range of Personal, Wholesale, and Business Banking services. Through our Islamic Banking unit, RAKislamic, we provide Sharia-compliant services to make your banking experience seamless, whether you visit us in person or online.
