Latest news with #SheikhAhmed
Emirates 24/7
5 days ago
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
Ahmed bin Mohammed: Arab Media Summit a true embodiment of Dubai's vision
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, affirmed that the Arab Media Summit embodies Dubai's ambitious vision to solidify its position as a regional and international hub for media dialogue. He highlighted Dubai's ongoing commitment to empowering Arab media to effectively navigate global transformations and enhance its influence in narrating the Arab point of view with a professional and contemporary approach. "The Arab Media Summit has become a strategic platform that brings together prominent Arab thinkers, decision-makers, and media professionals," His Highness stated. "Aligned with Dubai's commitment to constructive dialogue and knowledge exchange, the Summit seeks to advance media tools and anticipate the sector's future amid rapid global shifts in technology, content creation, and consumption patterns." His Highness added, "Our continuous support for this sector reflects our commitment to providing an environment conducive to creativity, fostering young talent, and strengthening partnerships with regional and international institutions. Our goal is to build an integrated media ecosystem that aligns with the region's aspirations and enhances the Arab presence on the global media landscape." His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed commended the diverse agenda of the Arab world's largest media gathering, the breadth of its activities and themes, and the calibre of its participants. He noted that these factors make the Summit a new launching point for a more impactful Arab media, capable of conveying the true image of the region to the world. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Zawya
5 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
The Hotel Show 2025 opened yesterday as UAEs culinary and tech prowess take centre stage
Numerous new-to-market product launches unveiled on opening day, including AI-powered operational platform and sensory wellness lounger Dubai, UAE: The Hotel Show 2025, the leading event for the Middle East and North Africa's hospitality sector, opened its doors on Tuesday at Dubai World Trade Centre. Culinary experts, F&B innovators, industry decision-makers, and international experts gathered to discuss the various challenges and opportunities facing the hospitality and F&B sectors. Officially inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) and Chairman of Dubai Airports, the latest edition of the longest-running hospitality trade show in the Middle East – which is co-located alongside INDEX, WORKSPACE, and HITEC – featured a series of opening day F&B Leadership Summit panel sessions. The show will run until May 29. UAE's Transformative F&B Industry Takes the Spotlight Opening the Hospitality Leadership & F&B Forum, designed by KCA International and built by OK Middle East production, was an executive think tank panel discussion titled 'Culinary Crossroads: Leveraging Global Cuisine and Fusion Trends'. Looking at the evolution and diversity of the UAE's F&B sector over the past 25 years, the panel agreed that two of the biggest opportunities at the moment are the potential for exporting local concepts, and the importance of nurturing local talent. While the market is diverse, there is still room for unique, immersive experiences, and casual dining options, attendees heard. 'For a country that is only 50 years old, it is incredible to see how the UAE has built such a diverse F&B culture in that time where other mature markets around the world have taken generations to get there,' said Amit Arora, Chief Operating Officer at Arada. 'We have over 200 nationalities that live in this country, so it is truly a melting pot, and now it has become an incubation centre where you are able to mix and match. There's fusion, there's homegrown concepts, and because of this, there is a strong desire to export.' Also taking part in the panel was Miguel Silva, Corporate F&B Director at Azizi Developments, who emphasized that customers nowadays are looking for more than just a great view, but a culinary experience and something that is different; 'Luckily, we have time to see where the trends go, analyze, and think how we are going to make our offering different,' said Silva. 'Everyone would have heard of Burj Azizi, the second-tallest building in the world. Well, it is going to be another level of, yes, luxury. It's going to be a landmark for us. But when it comes to F&B, our chairman said something very interesting: Don't make the view your USP. People need to go in and say, 'wow, this is something truly unique'. We have some fundamental ideas, and when I say analyze, we need to keep an eye on what customers want so that in four years, when we're nearing opening, we can tweak those ideas to current market needs to make sure we are giving our customers what they want.' Hotel Show Platform for Latest Product Unveilings Among the many highlights at The Hotel Show, a number of new product launches drew attention for their innovation. Unveiled on the sidelines of HITEC was latest AI-powered service, which streamlines hospitality operations through a unified platform designed to enhance both the guest experience and team productivity. By simply uploading multiple PDFs, hotels can equip the AI tool to instantly answer guest inquiries, effectively offering round-the-clock virtual assistance without the need for additional staff or guest waiting times. To ensure accuracy, the AI is trained exclusively on the information provided by the hotel, eliminating the risk of delivering false or unrelated responses. Elsewhere, Gharieni Middle East launched its RLX Satori Wellness Lounger, with complete natural vibrational and binaural sound therapy designed to synchronize body and mind. Choosing the Right Tech For the Right Moment is Key, HITEC Conference Hears At the HITEC Conference, which is in partnership with HFTP, a panel of industry experts examined the importance of strategically implementing technology and innovation in organizations. When adopting new technologies, it is essential to take a holistic approach that includes people, timing, and available resources. William Costley, Chief Operating Officer at TIME Hotels, said: "It's crucial to bring in technology that is scalable and flexible. Longevity is key, and many investors focus on flashy solutions; however, it's essential to choose technology that can withstand the test of time. In the hotel industry, for instance, technology is often regarded as a tangible asset. And when partnering with a startup, it is essential to ensure they can maintain momentum and follow through. Costley also highlighted the importance of often-overlooked factors such as Return on Entertainment and Return on Loyalty, noting that these metrics deserve greater attention alongside traditional financial indicators. 'For me, digital transformation is a 360-degree approach', he added. With this in mind, The Hotel Show features a dedicated section on hospitality technology, highlighting key factors that are often overlooked in the industry. This section offers valuable insights into how innovative tech solutions can enhance guest experiences, streamline operations, and drive long-term growth for hospitality businesses. In another forward-thinking session, Viju Varma, Head of IT at Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts, discussed how the smart integration of technology is key to keeping the 'human touch' guests expect from luxury hotels. 'At Jumeirah, we use technology to enhance – not replace – the human touch. Our online check-in enables guests to complete formalities from the comfort of their own homes, while still offering personal interaction upon arrival. With mobile key access and streamlined on-site check-ins, we strike a balance between convenience and connection, creating a seamless yet meaningful guest experience,' said Varma. About dmg events dmg events is a leading organizer of face-to-face events and publisher of trade magazines and information services. Our aim is to create dynamic marketplaces to connect businesses with the right communities to accelerate their growth in today's rapidly evolving landscape. With a presence in over 25 countries and organizing more than 80 events each year, dmg events is a global leader in the industry. Attracting over 425,000 attendees and delegates annually, we organize events in the construction, hospitality, interiors & design, energy, coatings, entertainment, and transportation sectors. To better serve our customers, dmg events has offices in 10 countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, South Africa, the UK, Canada, and Singapore. By being on the ground, we can better understand market needs and nurture relationships to create unforgettable experiences for our attendees. Our flagship events including the Big 5 Global, The Hotel Show, INDEX, ADIPEC and Gastech. For more information visit Founded in 1989, dmg events is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Daily Mail and General Trust plc (DMGT, About INDEX Since its inaugural over 30 years ago, the three-day INDEX trade show has developed into a major gathering for the interior design and fit-out industry. Combining the traditional elements of a trade show with a variety of expert-led conferences and exciting showcases of innovative products, INDEX attracts more than 18,000 visitors each year. With 500+ exhibitors and 100+ expert speakers taking part every year, attendees benefit from the networking opportunities, the chance to discover new products and trends, and ability to maximise their industry knowledge by attending insightful conferences featuring leaders of the global interior design industry who are transforming spaces with product, design, and technology. For more information, please visit our website. About The Hotel Show The Hotel Show is the region's largest trade event for the hospitality sector, establishing itself as the longest-standing event of its type in the Middle East and Africa. The Hotel Show is a platform that provides international suppliers the opportunity to showcase their innovations and products to the most comprehensive community of serious buyers in various categories, including hotel technology, operating equipment and supplies, food services, and HORECA. With 300+ exhibitors and 100+ expert speakers taking part every year, attendees benefit from the networking opportunities, the chance to discover new products and trends, and ability to maximise their industry knowledge by attending insightful conferences. For more information, please visit our website. About WORKSPACE Workspace is the region's premier event for workplace solutions, technology and interiors. Workspace provides international suppliers the opportunity to showcase their innovations and products to a targeted group of buyers from across the MENA region. Alongside the exhibition, The Workspace Summit, brings together key stakeholders in workplace design, interior solutions, and corporate real estate to discuss the latest trends and insights.
Emirates 24/7
5 days ago
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
Ahmed bin Mohammed officially opens Arab Media Summit 2025
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, officially opened the Arab Media Summit 2025 in the presence of prominent regional and global leaders. Attended by approximately 8,000 professionals, the Summit continues to serve as the region's foremost platform for media thought leadership, policy dialogue, and the shaping of future narratives. Joining H.H. Sheikh Ahmed at the opening were His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and President of the Muslim Council of Elders; Dr. Nawaf Salam, Prime Minister of Lebanon; H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Olympic Committee; H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority; and senior media leaders, ministers, policymakers, and content creators from across the Arab region and the world. H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed toured the Arab Media Summit venue during which he praised the meticulous organisation of the three-day Summit and its various events. During the official opening of the Summit, His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, delivered a keynote address in which he expressed his admiration for the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, which has guided this pivotal summit that serves as a vital platform for intellectual and media discourse across the Arab and Islamic world. His Eminence praised the Summit's emphasis on the crucial role of Arab media in addressing the ethical challenges of a rapidly evolving and interconnected world. He expressed the hope that the gathering would result in a practical, collaborative Arab media strategy, one that reflects the realities of the Arab world and protects its youth from the complex risks accompanying rapid technological advancement. The Grand Imam warned of the harmful influence of certain digital platforms that promote messages distorting public taste and innate morality, which blur the lines between right and wrong, good and bad. 'We, Arabs and Muslims, have suffered from media reports and narratives that distort our image in the West by linking Islam with violence, extremism, and the oppression of women,' he stated. 'These narratives falsely portray Islam as a social movement or political ideology that promotes violence, fanaticism, hatred, and rebellion against the global order.' His Eminence expressed regret that many of these misleading portrayals have made their way into the region, negatively impacting Arab media discourse. He noted that some have resorted to promoting a spurious culture that criticises anything of Arab origin or Islamic thought and orientation. "This has exacerbated existing challenges, significantly undermined pride in our identity, and widened the gap between our contemporary consciousness and our heritage.' He addressed the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, now in its 19th month, emphasising the historical responsibility of Arab media to present the facts, highlight the resilience of the Palestinian people, and keep the Palestinian cause alive in the hearts and minds of audiences around the world. "We need extensive media efforts to confront Islamophobia and address its repercussions in Western societies," he added. "This phenomenon is nothing more than an illusion or a fabrication designed to tarnish the image of Islam and undermine its principles of peace and coexistence, despite the well-established rights of humans, animals, plants, and even inanimate objects within the tolerant framework of Islamic Sharia." The Grand Imam also highlighted attempts to undermine the foundations of Eastern civilisation, its ethical and social principles, and its human and familial values. He warned against attempts to erase these morals, upon which Eastern civilisations have been and continue to be built. 'All of this places a responsibility upon us all, especially media professionals, to seriously consider how to confront these toxic winds and save our youth and our homelands from the forces of alienation, annihilation, and dissolution.' Regarding current technological advancements, His Eminence stressed that 'this technological progress, particularly in artificial intelligence, must be governed by ethical responsibility and professional guidelines to prevent it from becoming a destructive force threatening all of humanity.' He noted that 'the responsibility lies solely with experts and legislators to safeguard these technologies from deviating from their noble purposes, based on human principles far removed from any goals of hegemony, control, and cultural invasion.' He also mentioned the joint project he initiated with the late Pope Francis to develop a comprehensive document on the ethics of artificial intelligence. 'We had made significant progress in its preparation, and it was on the verge of publication, had fate not decreed otherwise with the passing of the Pope. We remain in contact with the Vatican under its new leadership to complete this project, and we hope it will be realised soon, God willing!' Addressing the challenging circumstances faced by media professionals, the Grand Imam said, 'It is our duty to remember the tragedy of our Palestinian journalist colleagues and others who have paid with their lives for the honour of the word, the sanctity of truth, and the portrayal of reality. More than 200 journalists have been martyred in Gaza, and others have suffered severe injuries, lost limbs, had their homes destroyed, lost their families, or seen their families displaced.' He concluded his address by saying, 'I call upon everyone affiliated with the noble profession of media to participate in developing an Arab media strategy that serves as a shield to protect the truth, preserve the values of our nation, and safeguard its identity. Al-Azhar is pleased to stand with you and support you in fulfilling this sacred duty.' The official opening of the Arab Media Summit also featured a keynote address by Nawaf Salam, Prime Minister of Lebanon in which he expressed his appreciation to the UAE and Dubai for hosting the Summit, commending their efforts to foster joint Arab action. The Lebanese Prime Minister extended his sincere gratitude to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and to the leadership and people of the UAE. He expressed deep appreciation for the UAE's noble stance towards Lebanon and its supportive decisions, acknowledging the UAE's hosting of approximately 190,000 Lebanese citizens who live and work in their second home, enjoying security, safety, and quality of life. Speaking on the impact of the Arab Media Summit, Nawaf Salam said, "We meet today in extraordinary times, where media is no longer merely a conveyor of reality but a force that shapes it, building public opinion, fostering peace, and unfortunately, sometimes fuelling discord as well." He stressed the need for responsible media that prioritises truth above all else. "I speak to you from the background of a lawyer, trained to understand that truth is not built on assumptions, and that the path to justice begins with impartiality, devoid of personal interests, and with reverence for facts and evidence," he stated. "This is the noble mission shared by legal professionals and media alike: the pursuit of truth in an era rife with chaos and misinformation. "The pursuit of truth, whether in the judiciary or in the media, is fraught with immense challenges, for it demands complete detachment from all forms of bias." He pointed out that technological advancements have revolutionised communication, transforming the world into a single, interconnected electronic village. Citing statistics, he noted that over 75% of the global population owns one or more mobile devices, and more than 67 percent are connected to the internet. He highlighted the fact that 58% of people receive news through social media, much of which has unverifiable sources. The Lebanese Prime Minister spoke about Lebanon's continued efforts in reconstruction, development, and reform. He affirmed that Lebanon's true and enduring project is to build a state founded on the rule of law, strong institutions, sovereignty, and independent decision-making—a nation firmly rooted in its Arab identity, open to the world, and positioned to serve as a bridge between East and West. "The battle we are fighting in Lebanon today is not just economic or political; it is a battle of consciousness, a battle of words," he stated. "Media is not a luxury in our journey towards reform and recovery; it is a fundamental prerequisite. We want it to be a partner in restoring trust and shaping a new future for our country. We ask the media to be professional, impartial, and committed to the truth." He added, "We are at a historical crossroads in the region, a critical juncture that calls for a new media discourse that confronts attempts at marginalisation and fragmentation and reignites hope. We want a modern, vibrant, and diverse Arab media that shapes the future and does not dwell on the past. A media that opens windows, protects freedom, and does not misuse it." Nawaf Salam concluded his address with a call to action from Dubai, the city of vision and ambition as envisioned by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai: "I issue a call to every free media professional: Be guardians of the truth, be creators of awareness, be allies of progress." At the official opening of the Summit's second day, as part of the 24th edition of the Arab Media Forum, Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, President of the Dubai Press Club, and Chairperson of the Organising Committee of the Arab Media Summit, welcomed the Summit's guests. "Thanks to your dedication and commitment, this event has become the region's most important platform for shaping the future of Arab media," she said. "Much has changed since we last met. Tools have evolved, roles have shifted, and the questions we face have grown more complex. We have witnessed a major acceleration in artificial intelligence technologies, and we have seen news channels, newspapers, and websites adopting these tools. However, at the same time, we have seen how algorithms can produce misleading content and fabricate narratives." She posed urgent questions prompted by technological disruption and the fast-moving changes in the region and the world: "Who protects the truth? Who rebuilds trust between the public and the media?. Today, more than ever, we are called upon to preserve the truth, our values, and our identity. We are called upon to protect Arab awareness from being hijacked, and the Arab voice from being distorted." She emphasised that the media's responsibility is not merely to keep up with events, but to contribute to building common ground and placing developments in their appropriate context. She concluded by underscoring the need for balanced media that fosters informed and respectful discourse in an era where facts and narratives are increasingly entangled, and platforms compete at the expense of reason, reaffirming that the institution of media is driven by trust, and doesn't just represent a profession. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Emirates 24/7
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Emirates 24/7
Ahmed bin Mohammed meets with Grand Imam of Al-Azhar
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, today met with His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, on the sidelines of the Arab Media Summit. His Highness welcomed Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, wishing him continued health and well-being, and expressed deep appreciation for his efforts and Al-Azhar's vital role in promoting tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and mutual respect. He praised Al-Azhar's efforts to convey the true essence of Islam, grounded in the values of goodness, coexistence, and harmony. The meeting, attended by His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Olympic Committee, and Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, highlighted the UAE's commitment to advancing shared human values and fostering a culture of coexistence and intercultural dialogue. Discussions also underscored the country's efforts to promote peace, understanding, and rapprochement on a global scale. The meeting also highlighted the vital role of media in promoting authentic Islamic and Arab values and in countering harmful narratives that target young people. Participants stressed the importance of equipping media professionals to confront such challenges, underscoring the media's influence in shaping societies and safeguarding cultural and ethical foundations. The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar praised the UAE's prominent role in this regard, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on both Arab and international levels. He also commended the UAE's efforts in advancing the values of Islam, and its contributions to promoting peace and development through an approach rooted in human dignity, compassion, and the pursuit of collective well-being. His Eminence also expressed appreciation for the UAE's continued attention to issues facing the Islamic world, noting that its support reflects a longstanding commitment to solidarity with its brethren, foremost among them, the Palestinian cause and the rights of the Palestinian people at all levels. The meeting was also attended by His Excellency Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office, and Chairman of the UAE Media Council, and Her Excellency Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, President of the Dubai Press Club, and Chairperson of the Organising Committee of the Arab Media Summit. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Emirates 24/7
5 days ago
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
Ahmed bin Mohammed underscores importance of joint Arab efforts to enhance region's message to the world
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, emphasised the importance of enhancing joint efforts to unify the Arab voice and articulate the region's message to the world. This message, he affirmed, is rooted in a commitment to peace and in empowering people to build a future grounded in stability, progress, and prosperity. His Highness's remarks were made during a meeting with Arab information ministers participating in the Arab Media Summit, which is being held in Dubai under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. During the meeting, attended by Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, His Highness exchanged views with the ministers on the Arab media in the coming phase, particularly the need for intensified cooperation and coordination on critical issues concerning the region and its people. He underscored the pivotal role of the media in shaping narratives and steering outcomes that advance the wellbeing of the Arab region and its people. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed affirmed the UAE's support, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for media and media professionals. This commitment reflects a firm belief in the media's role as a key partner in sustainable development, with the power to drive positive social change, unlock potential, and accelerate progress. The Arab information ministers expressed their deep appreciation for the UAE's efforts and leading role in supporting Arab causes regionally and internationally. They commended the UAE's impactful contributions to advancing human progress through its various projects and initiatives aimed at serving the broader Arab interest. Among these initiatives, they highlighted the Arab Media Summit, organised in Dubai, which seeks to foster dialogue among Arab media leaders and key industry figures. The Summit aims to develop a clear vision for the future of the media sector, affirm its positive impact on creating an Arab renaissance, and mobilising efforts to shape a future of progress and prosperity for the region. The meeting was also attended by His Excellency Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office, and Chairman of the UAE Media Council; Dr. Ramzan bin Abdulla Al Noaimi, Minister of Information of Bahrain; His Excellency Paul Morcos, Minister of Information of Lebanon; and Her Excellency Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, President of the Dubai Press Club, and Chairperson of the Organising Committee of the Arab Media Summit. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
