Latest News from Gulf Business
Gulf Business
10 hours ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
UAE announces fuel prices for June 2025
Image: Getty Images The UAE fuel price committee has announced petrol and diesel prices for the month of June. The rates, effective from June 1, are as follows: Super 98 petrol will cost Dhs2.58 per litre, staying the same as Dhs2.58 in Special 95 petrol will be priced at Dhs2.47 per litre, compared to Dhs2.47 in May. E-Plus 91 petrol will cost Dhs2.39 per litre, the same as Dhs2.39 in May. Diesel will be charged at Dhs2.45 per litre, down from Dhs2.52 this month. The UAE adjusts
Gulf Business
13 hours ago
- Health
- Gulf Business
Human Garage's Garry Lineham on stress and the science of 'unwinding'
Image: Supplied In a world where stress often feels like a constant companion and true wellbeing seems elusive, meet Garry Lineham, co-founder and head of H Aaron Illathu — on behalf of Gulf Business — spoke to Lineham during his recent trip to Dubai, where he shared insights into Human Garage's philosophy, the science behind their signature 'unwinding' process, and how alignment isn't just physical — it's emotional, chemical, and spiritual too. Through Human Garage, Lineham said he and his team aim to restore humanity's natural flow, one body at a time. Here are some excerpts from the discussion. How did the Human Garage concept and 'fascial maneuvers' originate, particularly in response to your personal health journey? It started from a place of performance, particularly when my body got 'into trouble'. After 20 years of pain, I went into clinical practice and managed to get myself out of pain, but it required three to five treatments a week. When Covid-19 hit, my pain flared up again. I started doing these maneuvers, and at first, it was just about relieving my own pain and being able to do it myself. As I went through a process of unwinding and unraveling trauma and stress, I found the maneuvers consistently reduced my overall stress. I had more space, more desire to laugh, and even experienced emotional breakthroughs. I initially thought I was just fixing mechanical issues, but I soon realised the primary target was stress. This also sowed the seeds for the inception of Human Garage, which I co-founded with Cynthia Leavoy, Jason Van Blerk and Aisha Rodrique . You mentioned fascial manoeuvers significantly reduce biological stress. Can you elaborate on the impact and the scientific backing for this? Fascial maneuvers reduce 75 to 90 percent of biological stress in the body within the first 7-10 minutes. We've conducted a couple of hundred anecdotal tests, and doctors worldwide have tested it, though official peer review is still pending. The reality is, if you can remove 75 per cent of your stress twice a day, your baseline stress index drops. This increases your capacity to perform, combat issues like hormonal imbalances, improves sleep, and generally enhances measurements of lifestyle. Taking stress out became the core focus. Human Garage uses social media to engage people. How do you move people beyond seeking quick fixes for single problems towards sustained self-care? People often look for a quick fix for a single problem, like a knee or an elbow. While fixing a single problem won't work long-term, it provides immediate pain relief and builds belief in the system. As they experience relief from one pain, they try another maneuver for another. Eventually, they realize the benefit of doing a full 15-minute or 30-minute routine. Our goal is to draw people back to self-care, helping them believe that minor, consistent actions can have long-term, multi-faceted effects. You have a background in encryption and government data, where information is compartmentalised. How do you see this mirroring the structure of modern healthcare? In my background, information is compartmentalized so nobody knows the whole picture, allowing control. This is what we've done in healthcare. A hundred years ago, your doctor, psychiatrist, oncologist, OBGYN, and physiotherapist might have been the same person. Today, we have over 600 specialties, and more are emerging daily. This over-specialization leads to sending people from one specialist to another, with general practitioners, who navigate these specialists, being the lowest paid and least educated. The model is completely upside down, evidenced by the all-time high rates of dysfunction, disease, and illness. You stated that no measurement of human health is better today than it was 30 years ago. Can you expand on this? Indeed. The only thing that was claimed to be better was living longer, but health data was altered 15 years ago by removing infant mortality from the pool, making it appear we were dying younger. We are now officially dying younger. Stress, anxiety, and all kinds of allergies, especially food allergies, are up. Over half of children today are diagnosed or treated as if they are on a spectrum. If I ask an audience if they or someone in their immediate circle has a chronic illness, 95 per cent raise their hands, which wasn't true even five years ago. We're diagnosing symptoms instead of addressing underlying issues. With half the doctors worldwide having left their stations since 2020, and a massive increase in people seeking help, how does Human Garage address this crisis? We answer up to a million health questions a month through our social media channel. These aren't simple questions; they're about severe conditions like POTS or glioblastoma. People seek answers from us, Google, or ChatGPT (which has become a better diagnostic tool for them) because they can't get reasonable answers from the traditional system. We don't claim cures. Our approach is founded on the basic principle that the body heals itself. We help the body heal by giving it a better environment, reducing stress, improving movement, and breathing better. You mentioned the body is becoming more dehydrated. How does this impact health, and how do fascial maneuvers, along with other practices, address it? The average person is 60-65 per cent water today, down from 70 per cent 30 years ago, and 80 per cent before that. Our primary construct is water, which is the conduit for electricity and signaling through the fascia, connecting the nervous system, nerves, glands, and organs. When water and minerals are deficient, the signal cannot be carried properly. Our solutions are simple: mineralis e the body (addressing dehydration), clean up the environment, and move the body. Fascial maneuvers are simple, non-invasive, and work with the fascia to allow the body to make decisions and move better. How do emotional and physical trauma become stored in the body, and what does it take to truly release it? Trauma is the body's inability to resolve a triangle: an event (physical, emotional, or perceptual insult), an attached emotion (anger, grief, fear), and a story you tell yourself about it. When the body is taken out of stress, I found personally that I could look at the event from a new angle, tell a new story, which affected my emotions, and allowed the trauma to release. While talk therapy works on the story and emotional regulation on the emotion, the memory of trauma is stored in the fascia. When that connection is broken by factors like heavy metals or dehydration, the memory can't be resolved. You have a unique perspective on memory, suggesting it resides in the body rather than just the brain. Can you explain this? I believe the body is the computer, and the brain is the processor running programs. If the brain just runs the same program over and over, it's not truly intelligent. The body's real processing capacity is immense. Consider the detail with which a 112-year-old woman can recall an emotion or smell. The body is the greatest computer. If you forget a phone number, your fingers might remember it on a keyboard. The subconscious and memories are in the body; the brain is just the recall mechanism. The brain is very 'trickable', as seen in magic or advertising, but the body is not. Can you elaborate on your belief that 'we are fascia'? From conception, a baby begins as a ball of plasma (fascia). All nerves, tendons, glands, organs, and bones grow within and are connected by fascia. It's the intelligent casing that holds everything together, moves it, and facilitates communication. You can remove every bone, nerve, gland, tendon, or organ, but you cannot remove fascia. Therefore, I propose that we are fascia. Our organs and systems make no sense without this 'house.' Furthermore, I suggest fascia extends into the energy field around us, enabling rapid responses like ducking before the brain is consciously aware of a threat. We need to look at the body in a new way because the current perspective isn't working. Have you seen a shift in how mainstream medicine is viewing somatic and fascia-based healing? Absolutely, they're flocking to it. Five years ago, few Western medicine doctors followed us; three years ago, a few world-renowned orthopedic surgeons reached out. Today, many more are adopting our methods. Younger doctors, especially, are realising the old ways aren't working and are using technology to seek better answers, engaging in research as a scientist should. While Eastern medicine has historically been more inclusive, both Eastern and Western models are failing, prompting practitioners to look for new solutions. We estimate about a million practitioners globally are now prescribing fascial maneuvers daily, with a growing number being medical-related. Our recent tour across 11 countries and 40 events confirms this shift in engagement. Can you share a transformative story that particularly sticks in your mind? I was just working with actress Eva Longoria recently, and ex-footballer David Beckham also called us to work with him. I publish these transformations on social media to give people belief that it can happen, but I'm careful not to imply that I'm the only one who can do it. This whole thing is not about me. I want to do less and less of it. I love when people take care of themselves. Even if a practitioner can only do 80 per cent of what I do, it's better to have millions doing 80 per cent than just me doing 100 per cent. I've even had people offer me hundreds of thousands of dollars to fly and see them, but I typically decline unless they are committed to helping others and sharing the information. That's worth more to me than the money. What is the biggest challenge in getting people to believe in your approach, given that it sounds intellectually difficult to grasp? If I explain it intellectually, it sounds hard to believe. That's why I don't do that. Instead, I get people to do it. When you feel the change in your body instantaneously – like feeling taller or straighter after a maneuver – it's hard to deny. You can argue logic, but feeling is undeniable. I want people to develop their own belief because if it's my belief system, they'll never contribute back to the whole. The days of gurus are gone. I'm on my own journey, inspiring others, and sharing information openly. Fascial maneuvers intellectual property is free and open-source because we want to reach people fast. Read:
Gulf Business
a day ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
Full details: Inside the world's largest visa application centre in Dubai
Image credit: Supplied VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services that enable secure global mobility for governments and citizens, has announced the launch of its flagship visa application centre in Dubai's Wafi City. This marks the opening of the largest visa application facility in the world. The centre was inaugurated by Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism; Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai; and Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the VFS Global Group. 'This milestone is more than just an infrastructure achievement — it reflects the strategic direction Dubai is taking to enhance global mobility, unlock opportunities, and accelerate growth across our visitor and business economy. As we advance the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, seamless access to and from Dubai remains a priority. Visa facilitation is a key enabler of talent attraction, tourism development, and international partnerships — all critical components of our strategy to position Dubai as the world's most connected and future-ready city,' said Helal Saeed Almarri. Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri commented, 'Today, we witnessed the inauguration of a new milestone in the UAE's journey of excellence, particularly for Dubai, with the opening of the world's largest Visa Application Centre. Located in the heart of a city that constantly redefines innovation, this achievement reflects our wise leadership's directives to reinforce the UAE's position as a global hub for smart services and to set a benchmark in efficient, high-quality government services. Continuous development is not optional — it is a commitment to a more prosperous future.' Zubin Karkaria added, 'Operating in the UAE since 2004, our journey has been shaped by an unwavering commitment and a strong connection with this dynamic nation and its visionary leadership. Over the past two decades, we have witnessed the UAE's spectacular growth into a global hub for business, innovation, and technology. Today, we are proud to launch the world's largest visa application centre, serving over 200 nationalities in this Year of Community. By collaborating with Emirati entrepreneurs and artists, the centre embodies the multicultural fabric of a country we are proud to call our Global Headquarters.' A next-gen experience for tomorrow's travellers Built to address rising outbound travel and growing expectations around security, accessibility, and convenience, the state-of-the-art centre in Dubai sets a new global standard. Spanning nearly 150,000 square feet, it can handle up to 10,000 visa applications daily — the highest capacity at any single location. The facility is supported by a team of over 400 trained professionals from more than 25 nationalities. Key features of the centre include: Tech-enabled self-service kiosks, secure lockers, photo booths, and photocopy stations for last-minute needs Touchscreen info kiosks, QR code-based check-ins, and automated feedback at each visa desk Over 400 on-site staff equipped with tablets, along with trained volunteers to assist with forms and kiosks Airport-style navigation with clear signage, spacious waiting areas, and a buggy service for easy movement Dedicated prayer rooms, kids' play areas, and multiple convenience zones to enhance the customer experience ESG-compliant design, with energy-efficient systems and fast-track lanes for seniors, families, and persons with disabilities With rising outbound travel from the UAE, personalised services like the Premium Lounge have become increasingly popular. Of the over 200 submission counters, 79 are exclusively designated as Premium Lounges. The centre is also one of the few worldwide — and one of only two in the UAE — to offer the Platinum Lounge, featuring a chauffeur service, end-to-end application support, and a calm, modern environment. At the core: AI and innovation From real-time document validation to advanced biometrics, the on-site AI Innovation Hub enables faster, more secure processing. Supporting this are a Digitisation Centre that transforms paper documents into secure digital records and a Global Resilience Center (GRC) that ensures 24/7 operational uptime, data security, and continuity for partner governments. VFS Global has embedded technology throughout the applicant journey to revolutionise the visa submission process. Visitors use QR code-based e-tokens for check-in, guided by a smart queue management system that includes electronic displays and mobile updates to reduce wait times and manage applicant flow — even during peak hours. By integrating cutting-edge innovation with human expertise, the centre delivers a visa application experience that is seamless, transparent, and efficient. A vision aligned with the UAE's future The launch of the world's largest Visa Application Centre in Dubai reinforces VFS Global's commitment to the UAE Government's 'We the UAE 2031' vision. Aligned with the Year of Community 2025, the centre not only sets a new global benchmark in service excellence but also celebrates Dubai's vibrant communities through Emirati cultural installations. This flagship facility represents a new model — one that blends breakthrough technology with local values to ensure a future of secure, connected, and community-driven travel. VFS Global has been associated with the UAE since 2002 as the official visa service provider for Emirates Airlines passengers and has maintained its global headquarters in Dubai since 2013.
Gulf Business
a day ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
Dubai traffic solution: New project to increase road capacity by 5,000 cars per hour
Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is set to open a new entry and exit point to Al Warqa directly from Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road early next week (early June), aiming to facilitate smoother access to and from the neighbourhood. Read: Once complete, the project will increase road capacity by 5,000 vehicles per hour, reduce travel time by 80 per cent—from 20 minutes to just 3.5 minutes—and shorten trip distances from 5.7 kilometres to 1.5 kilometres, Traffic improvement works RTA has also completed traffic improvement works on Street 13 in Al Warqa 1 to serve residents and school goers. These enhancements are part of a broader internal road development project spanning approximately 8 kilometres, designed to improve traffic flow and enhance the efficiency of the local road network, ultimately boosting daily mobility and residents' quality of life. RTA reaffirms its commitment to developing an integrated infrastructure network—encompassing roads, lighting, and stormwater drainage systems—within residential areas. This initiative aligns with Dubai's urban and population growth goals and reflects RTA's dedication to creating a modern urban environment that supports sustainable mobility, enhances quality of life, and ensures residents' comfort and well-being. These efforts are in line with Dubai's vision of becoming a smart, prosperous city that meets residents' evolving needs. Internal road networks Development projects in Al Warqa also include upgrades to internal road networks in Al Warqa 3 and 4. These works involve road paving, construction of pedestrian walkways, pavements, and parking spaces, along with the implementation of cycling tracks exceeding 23 kilometres in total. The goal is to enhance connectivity with neighbouring cycle tracks and promote sustainable, alternative modes of transport. The next phase will include capacity upgrades in Al Warqa 1, converting existing roundabouts into signalised junctions with smart traffic lights. These enhancements are expected to improve traffic flow by up to 30 per cent and are scheduled for completion by the end of this year. RTA has also carried out a series of internal road development works in Al Warqa, including traffic enhancements near the School of Research Science in Al Warqa 4 and GEMS Royal Dubai School. This included building 150 additional parking spaces and providing secure entry and exit points for the new parking areas. These measures have helped reduce congestion and cut delays in the school zone by approximately 35 per cent to 50 per cent. RTA also completed internal roads supporting the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment project in Al Warqa 4, which comprises 136 residential villas. The works included pedestrian walkways, pavements, vehicle access points, and a fully integrated lighting system, all aimed at improving road safety and mobility. A 7.4-kilometre cycling track was also constructed to encourage recreational cycling and support first-and-last-mile transport. Interactive session with residents Earlier, RTA held an interactive session with residents and frequent visitors to Al Warqa to highlight key initiatives and development projects in the district. The session also served as a platform for the public to share feedback and observations on infrastructure and the road network. This approach underscores RTA's commitment to listening to the community, addressing their suggestions, and implementing practical solutions. The engagement session was a key milestone, helping shape a series of development initiatives that translated into tangible improvements—directly enhancing traffic flow and addressing both current and future community needs.
Gulf Business
a day ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
Spotify's Mark Abou Jaoude on shaping culture and championing regional talent
Image: Gulf Business In a region pulsing with cultural energy and creative momentum, Mark Abou Jaoude is one of the most influential forces shaping the future of music. By day, he leads Spotify's music strategy as Head of Music for MENAP and it's his deep love for the culture that fuels everything he does. With over a decade in the industry, Abou Jaoude's approach is grounded in cultural insight, strategic intuition, and a constant push to break boundaries. 'Being exceptional means creating innovative, authentic, and impactful moves that resonate deeply with artists, fans, and communities,' he shares. His career has been shaped by bold decisions and a deep ear for sounds bubbling just beneath the mainstream a reflection of his ability to spot cultural shifts before they emerge. Abou Jaoude's process blends instinct with experience. He immerses himself in the region's grassroots music scenes, stays connected to youth culture, and has a keen understanding of evolving tastes. Yet his vision extends beyond trends. His mission is to help contribute to a more connected, sustainable music ecosystem across the region. 'Music across the region is evolving and growing quickly, with more people discovering and sharing sounds than ever before,' he says. 'But with that momentum comes a responsibility to build stronger support systems, invest in education, and create pathways that help artists grow long-term.' Abou Jaoude's passion for music remains the driving force behind his creativity, and leadership style. My curiosity about music has really inspired my leadership style,' he shares. It's that curiosity that pushes him to keep learning, seek out working with passionate people, and stay grounded in a mindset of growth and discovery. 'I don't mind getting messy or making mistakes. That's where growth happens,' he says. It's no surprise, that a vehicle like the But the QX80 offers more than just exceptional audio. From its refined interior and intuitive technology to its spacious design, the entire experience aligns with how Abou Jaoude moves through the world. 'It's built with attention to detail, comfortable, thoughtful, and powerful. Whether I'm heading to a strategy session or simply taking a moment to reset, it gives me the space to think and the sound to feel.' As a creative leader at the intersection of culture, innovation, and technology, Abou Jaoude sees a strong alignment between INFINITI's values—human, daring, and forward and the qualities today's creatives need to thrive. 'Staying true to yourself, being brave enough to try something new, and always looking ahead that's what defines both creative impact and strong leadership.' His advice to future industry leaders is direct and empowering: 'Know what you want to achieve. All you need is clarity, consistency, and the courage to take risks.' For Abou Jaoude, success is as much about mindset as it is about talent. He champions a balance between vision and execution, always staying grounded in purpose and committed to work that's both creatively and culturally meaningful. Abou Jaoude continues to drive the region's music industry forward, not by following formulas, but by listening deeply, acting boldly, and always staying in tune with what's possible.
