Latest from Arabian Business
Arabian Business
5 hours ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
UAE National Day 2025: Will there be a five-day weekend? Expected dates revealed
UAE residents may be able to look forward to another long weekend in December 2025 as National Day approaches. UAE National Day is officially marked on December 2 and 3 each year. In 2025, these dates fall on a Tuesday and Wednesday. While the UAE government has not yet confirmed any extended break, residents could expect Monday, December 1 to be an additional day off, making it a five-day weekend. If declared, the potential break could start from Friday, November 28, and extend through Wednesday, December 3, for both public and private sector employees working a Monday-to-Friday schedule. This remains unconfirmed, and the final public holiday schedule will depend on a formal announcement by the UAE Cabinet. The government typically releases official public holiday updates closer to the time. What is UAE National Day? National Day or Eid Al Etihad commemorates the founding of the United Arab Emirates in 1971, when the rulers of six emirates–Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah–agreed to unite and form a single nation. Ras Al Khaimah joined the federation shortly after, in early 1972. Held under the thematic banner of 'Spirit of the Union', UAE National Day is celebrated to honour the vision and leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founder President of the UAE. The theme is complemented with a logo that has silhouette of the iconic image of the first congregation of the Founding Fathers of the UAE. Observed every year on December 2, National Day marks the formal unification and the establishment of the UAE as an independent, sovereign state. This year, the UAE will mark its 54 th National Day. It is one of the most important holidays in the country, recognised nationwide with official events, flag displays, and commemorative activities that reflect the country's history, development, and national identity. What do UAE National Day celebrations include? Nationwide flag displays and decorations: Buildings, malls, palm trees, cars, and streets are often adorned with the UAE flag's red, green, black, and white colours to reflect national pride. Flag raising and national anthem: Official events typically begin with the singing of the national anthem accompanied by a flag-raising ceremony. Parades and procession: Public parades showcase floats, marching bands, UAE military and police units, cultural performances, and traditional processions in cities and heritage villages. Traditional dance and music: You'll commonly see performances of Al‑Ayyala (Yowlah) — a UNESCO‑recognised men's and women's group dance featuring rhythmic movements, poetic chanting, and hair-flipping displays. Cultural exhibitions and street fairs: Heritage villages and street festivals offer traditional crafts, exhibitions, Emirati food stalls, poetry recitals, children's activities, and folk music. Firework displays and light shows: Major landmarks such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain, Abu Dhabi Corniche, and Sharjah Al Majaz Waterfront host fireworks shows (often choreographed to music) and light projections of the UAE flag. Air shows and military demonstrations: Aerobatic displays by the UAE Air Force (e.g., Al Fursan team) and military processions often take place at venues like ADNEC in Abu Dhabi. Concerts and performances: Live concerts feature Emirati and international artists, showcased at public venues, malls, and specially organised National Day events. Shopping deals and staycations: Malls run National Day promotions and themed cultural shows, while hotels and resorts often offer staycation packages .
Arabian Business
7 hours ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Oman GDP grows 2.5% in Q1 2025 reaching $24.5bn
Oman 's economy expanded by 2.5 per cent in the first quarter of 2025, with real GDP reaching RO 9.43 billion at market prices, according to data from the National Centre for Statistics and Information. The figure represents an increase from RO 9.2 billion recorded during the same period in 2024, marking growth across multiple sectors of the sultanate's economy, WAM reported. Oman non-oil sectors drive 4.4% growth in first quarter of 2025 Non-oil sectors led the expansion, posting a 4.4 per cent increase in added value to reach RO 6.92 billion in Q1 2025, compared to RO 6.63 billion in the corresponding quarter of 2024. Oil activities experienced a decline of 0.4 per cent, contributing RO 2.92 billion to the economy in Q1 2025, down from RO 2.94 billion in the previous year's first quarter. Crude oil production fell by 2.2% to RO 2.45 billion during the period under review. However, natural gas production provided a counterbalance, increasing by 9.5 per cent to RO 475.3 million. The National Centre for Statistics and Information released the data as part of its quarterly economic assessment, highlighting the diversification efforts within Oman's economy. The growth figures demonstrate the increasing contribution of non-oil sectors to the country's economic output, whilst traditional energy sectors showed mixed performance. Natural gas production emerged as a growth driver within the energy sector, offsetting some of the decline seen in crude oil output during the three-month period.
Arabian Business
a day ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Saudi Arabia's Red Sea Global ‘on track' to open AMAALA, 11 resorts fuelled by ‘surging' investor demand
Red Sea Global (RSG) is preparing to open 11 resorts across The Red Sea destination and welcome first guests to AMAALA between now and early next year, due to 'surging' investor interest. This would bring the total number to 25 resorts, Ahmad Darwish, Group Chief Administrative Officer for Red Sea Global told Arabian Business in an exclusive interview. 'Investor interest is not just strong, it's surging. The international investor community is keenly aware of the unique opportunities Red Sea Global offers across tourism, infrastructure, healthcare, and real estate,' Darwish said. Saudi Red Sea Global to undergo 'continued evolution' The kingdom's tourism developer has opened five resorts at The Red Sea destination over the past 12 months, including Desert Rock and Shebara in Q4 2024. These join Thuwal Private Retreat, described as 'a secluded Red Sea island getaway off the coast of Jeddah', representing the first resorts entirely owned and operated by Red Sea Global. 'We are demonstrably open for business, and the response has been remarkable, with investors actively seeking opportunities to participate. We have a robust pipeline of major deals underway, reflecting the confidence in our vision and execution.' The next 6 to 12 months will see 'continued evolution' of Red Sea Global's offerings, Darwish said, adding that the company is preparing to open more resorts at The Red Sea, including the opening of resorts on Shura Island, the naturally dolphin-shaped hub of The Red Sea destination. 'We're on the cusp of opening even more spectacular resorts at The Red Sea, further solidifying its position as a premier global destination.' Shura Island will feature 11 world-class resorts set to open this year, with sustainable designs such as 'Coral Bloom' inspired by thriving coral reefs. The island is accessible via Saudi Arabia's longest overwater bridge, less than one hour's drive from Red Sea International Airport. 'The much awaited launch of Phase One of AMAALA is also on the horizon, promising to redefine wellness and luxury travel on a global scale,' Darwish said, adding that the island will feature a series of lagoons, beaches, and dunes, with an 18-hole championship golf course and a yacht marina on one side. The period will also see the grand opening of Shura Links, the Kingdom's first-ever island golf course, further solidifying The Red Sea's position as a world-class destination. 'Beyond these milestones, we'll be significantly expanding our regenerative initiatives, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to regenerative tourism and redefining the future of travel – with people and planet at the forefront,' Darwish said. 'Expect to see exciting new partnerships and collaborations announced, further amplifying our network and expertise. And finally, we'll be unveiling even more opportunities to own a piece of paradise with further announcements regarding our exclusive residential offerings,' he added. Red Sea Global opens five resorts, AMAALA wellness destination 'on track' The current operational resorts are Nujuma, The St. Regis, Six Senses Southern Dunes, Shebara, Desert Rock, and Thuwal Private Retreat. 'These resorts are not just luxurious; they are a testament to our commitment to sustainability and authentic Saudi hospitality,' Darwish explained. 'The Red Sea destination offers a diverse range of experiences, from luxurious beachfront stays to immersive desert adventures, all while adhering to our regenerative standards, and meticulously integrated environmental sensitivities.' AMAALA, the company's wellness destination, remains firmly on track to open by year-end, with key infrastructure and hotels ready. The destination is backed by hospitality brands including Jayasom, Rosewood, Six Senses, Equinox, Four Seasons, The Ritz-Carlton, Clinique La Prairie, and Nammos. Red Sea Global development phase: 16 hotels planned for 2025 Red Sea International Airport has been operational since September 2023, providing seamless travel connections. 'The Red Sea, having welcomed its first guests in 2023, is continuously enhancing its unique desert and island experiences,' he added. The company is on track to complete all 16 hotels for Phase One of The Red Sea in 2025. AMAALA is progressing rapidly towards its late-2025 opening, focusing on cutting-edge infrastructure for transformative wellness. Key developments include Corallium, a marine research hub, and the AMAALA Yacht Club, both promoting oceanic preservation. 'In simple terms, our developments are setting new global benchmarks,' Darwish said. Saudi Arabia's Red Sea Global targets 1.5 million visitors annually In addition, Red Sea Global is also expecting that The Red Sea and AMAALA will collectively host over a million visitors annually once fully operational. These numbers have been purposefully capped to avoid over-tourism, ensuring preservation of natural beauty and ecological integrity while delivering guest experiences. 'We anticipate that The Red Sea and AMAALA will collectively host 1.5 million visitors annually, contributing significantly to the Kingdom's tourism sector,' Darwish said adding, that the company projects it will contribute $5.3 billion annually to the Kingdom's economy from 2030 onwards and create 120,000 jobs directly and indirectly across both destinations. Aside from this, Red Sea Global also serves as a key driver of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, contributing to economic diversification and creating opportunities for young Saudis. 'We are making Vision 2030's ambitions for national transformation and economic diversification operational realities for the people of Saudi Arabia,' he explained. In 2024, the Kingdom recorded 30 million international arrivals, a new record compared to just over 17.5 million in 2019. Saudi Arabia's target has also been increased from hosting 100 million visitors annually by 2030 to 150 million. 'It's incredibly rewarding to see our destinations making a tangible and positive impact on these targets,' Darwish explained, adding that the company is 'deeply committed to supporting Vision 2030 and look forward to expanding our efforts to contribute even further to its success.' The company is also pioneering a new model of regenerative tourism, actively regenerating the Red Sea ecosystem while benefiting local communities and the Saudi economy under Vision 2030. 'As guardians of this precious environment, we are proving that luxury travel and environmental stewardship can not only coexist but thrive together. With our vertically integrated business model, we ensure both value creation and high-quality delivery,' he added. 120,000 employment opportunities and training programs As Group Chief Administrative Officer, Darwish explained how he also prioritises building a skilled workforce aligned with regenerative tourism. The company offers 16 programs including educational, vocational, and on-the-job training providing career pathways. To date, 1,995 students have benefited from these programs. In February 2024, Red Sea Global launched The Red Sea National Academy, aiming to train 10,000 individuals by 2030 in partnership with TVTC and Colleges of Excellence. The company's Vocational Training Program celebrated the graduation of its third batch in June, comprising 466 students, with 52.4 per cent being female graduates. Red Sea International Airport has also already employed 122 young Saudis, many from programs like the Vocational Training Program, Elite Graduate Training Program, and Red Sea Scholarship. 'Overall, we are set to create 120,000 jobs, contributing SAR33 billion annually to the economy. Beyond our sustainable and responsible developments, our commitment extends deeply to empowering people and communities,' Darwish said. 'We are actively investing in vocational training programs, such as our recent agreement with Oracle to train 5,000 Saudi citizens,' he added. The Social Development team also engages local communities through initiatives like the Red Sea Classic Sailing Race, preserving maritime heritage and transferring traditional boat-building skills to Saudi youth, alongside specialised craft workshops. The company has strengthened ties through meetings with Governors of surrounding cities. 'We actively seek partnerships with like-minded organizations,' Darwish said. 'In May, we partnered with SEK Education Group to open schools at The Red Sea and AMAALA by 2025-2026, offering the International Baccalaureate program. This supports Vision 2030 by raising education standards and fostering economic diversification,' he explained. Moreover, the company recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Saudi Olympic & Paralympic Committee (SOPC), represented by its commercial and team brand, Team Saudi. 'This partnership outlines a shared commitment to welcoming Saudi Paralympic athletes to RSG's destinations, using their participation and feedback to shape future sporting and entertainment experiences that cater to all communities, regardless of ability or background.' Red Sea Global's commitment to environmental sustainability is demonstrated through multiple initiatives. The company launched Botanica, which has already supplied over 7 million plants for landscaping destinations, with a target of 30 million by 2030. 'Our leadership in sustainable development is underscored by achieving Saudi Arabia's first LEED Platinum hotel certification. Our destinations are powered by 100 per cent renewable energy, generated by 760,500 solar panels and stored in one of the world's largest off-grid battery facilities with a 1,200 MWh capacity,' Darwish added. 'We've also implemented advanced clean mobility solutions, including EVs, e-bikes, and hydrogen-powered ferries,' he said. The Coral Gardening Project has achieved success by nurturing and replanting 98,000 corals in new underwater habitats from 2021 to 2023, achieving a high survival rate. The company has also installed 30 artificial nesting sites to assist in protecting vulnerable Sooty falcons. However, operating a giga-project of this scale presents unique administrative challenges, Darwish said. 'Managing vast complexity and scale across numerous teams like construction, hospitality, and environment, which can be viewed as a major hurdle.' The company addresses these challenges by leveraging technology including advanced project management software, digital workflows, and real-time data analytics for seamless communication. 'Another challenge is embedding sustainability as a core principle, which requires meticulous planning from responsible sourcing to waste management, constantly exploring new best practices,' Darwish said. 'Finally, deep community engagement is crucial; we build strong relationships and create opportunities for employment and development, recognising that our success is linked to local well-being.' Laheq Island development and property sales On the real estate front, the company successfully launched Red Sea Residences, featuring properties on Shura Island and the recently unveiled Laheq Island, with nearly 20 per cent of the homes having been sold. Scheduled to open in 2028, Laheq Island will redefine luxury living with exclusive residential offerings, according to Darwish. 'The successful launch of our residential portfolio, Red Sea Residences, featuring properties on Shura Island and the recently unveiled Laheq Island, has generated significant interest from local, regional, and international buyers,' Darwish said. 'This solidifies Red Sea Global's position as a leader in innovative and responsible development. We are constantly exploring new opportunities to expand our portfolio and elevate our offerings,' Darwish concluded.
Arabian Business
a day ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Air Arabia launches daily flights from Sharjah to Warsaw
Air Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa's first and largest low-cost carrier operator, has announced the launch of daily non-stop flights from Sharjah International Airport to Warsaw Modlin Mazovia Airport, starting December 20, 2025. The addition of this airport complements the airline's service to Warsaw Chopin International Airport, offering passengers flexibility and convenience when travelling to the Polish capital. 'We are glad to introduce a new service to a second airport in Warsaw, offering daily non-stop connectivity between the UAE and Poland. This new service reinforces our commitment to providing customers with more travel choices and underscores the growing demand for affordable air travel between the two countries. The additional service at Modlin Airports alongside our existing service at Chopin Airport, enables us to further expand our reach across the Polish capital and its surrounding regions, providing even greater convenience to our passengers,' Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia said in a statement. Air Arabia adds second Warsaw Airport service with new Sharjah-Modlin route The service marks Air Arabia's growth in Poland, complementing its service to Warsaw Chopin International Airport and its direct flights to Kraków from Sharjah. Air Arabia now offers travellers flexibility and choice. The airline's network provides direct connectivity between the UAE and cities in Poland, making it easier for business or leisure travellers. Air Arabia operates a fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, the most modern and best-selling single aisle aircraft in the world. The cabin configuration across the fleet provides comfort with one of the most seat-pitch compared to any economy cabin. The aircraft is equipped with 'SkyTime', a free in-flight streaming service that allows passengers to stream a selection of entertainment directly to their devices. Customers can enjoy a variety of delicacies between snacks, meals, and sandwiches from the on-board 'SkyCafe' menu at prices. Customers can book their direct flights from Sharjah to Warsaw Modlin Mazovia Airport by visiting Air Arabia's website, by calling the call centre, or through travel agencies.
Arabian Business
a day ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 launches with record value offerings
Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) has launched with its largest ever commercial offering, featuring thousands of deals across hospitality, retail, and entertainment sectors as the emirate seeks to drive summer tourism. The 66-day festival, running until 31 August and organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), spans hotels, attractions, dining, and retail with participating venues offering significant discounts to stimulate consumer spending. The DSS ENTERTAINER has returned with over 7,500 Buy One Get One Free offers across dining, attractions, hotels, spas, and fitness venues. The three-month unlimited access product, valid seven days a week, targets both residents and tourists with participating venues including Wild Wadi, MOTIONGATE Dubai, IMG Worlds of Adventure, Shake Shack, STK, Asia Asia, Real Madrid World, Le Pain Quotidien, and Café Bateel. UAE and GCC residents can access discounted staycation packages offering up to 30% off room rates, complimentary breakfast, dining deals, and resort credit across Dubai's hotel sector. Participating properties include The First Collection Business Bay, Anantara Downtown Dubai Hotel, Paramount Hotel Dubai, DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai – Business Bay, Park Hyatt Dubai, Swissotel Al Ghurair, Banyan Tree Dubai, Grand Cosmopolitan Hotel, ME Dubai by Melia, NH Collection Dubai The Palm, Studio M Arabian Plaza, Gulf Court Hotel Business Bay, Dukes The Palm, Millennium Place Marina, Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Media City, Radisson RED Hotel Dubai Silicon Oasis, Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina, Pullman JLT, and Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown. New hotel participants include Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery, Terra Solis Dubai, Address Sky View, Vida Emirates Hills, and Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, while The Dubai Balloon at Atlantis has introduced aerial experiences targeting the resident market. Major attractions including AYA Universe, The Green Planet, Madame Tussauds, Legoland Dubai, Legoland Water Park, Motiongate Dubai, Neon Galaxy, and Dubai Crocodile Park are offering summer-specific pricing and Kids Go Free promotions to drive family visitation. Resort hotels JA Hatta Fort Hotel and Lapita at Dubai Parks and Resorts are bundling accommodation with family-friendly perks including complimentary children's dining and entertainment. The festival introduces a three-phase retail strategy: Summer Holiday Offers (27 June to 17 July), Great Dubai Summer Sale (18 July to 10 August), and Back to School (11 to 31 August). Each phase features distinct retail promotions, mall activations, and prize draws designed to maximise consumer spending across different shopping categories. Commercial Bank of Dubai serves as key sponsor, while strategic partners include Al Futtaim Malls (Dubai Festival City Mall & Festival Plaza), Al Zarooni Group (Mercato Shopping Mall), AW Rostamani Group, DHAM (Al Seef, Bluewaters, Ibn Battuta Mall, Nakheel Mall, and The Outlet Village), Emirates Airline, ENOC, e&, Majid Al Futtaim (City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, Mall of the Emirates), Merex Investment (City Walk and The Beach, JBR), and talabat. The festival represents the 28th edition of Dubai's summer tourism and retail stimulus programme.
