Author: News Desk
Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah’s Istana Nurul Iman, the Sultan’s primary residence, holds the title of the largest residential palace globally. Covering an immense 200,000 square metres, the palace is a marvel of luxury and scale. The palace boasts 1,788 rooms and 257 bathrooms, catering to both grand events and private needs. Its five swimming pools, grand banquet hall, and 110-car garages reflect a lifestyle of unparalleled opulence. The Istana Nurul Iman also includes a private zoo with Bengal tigers and various bird species, highlighting the Sultan’s affinity for lavish and unique features. The palace even houses an air-conditioned stable for 200…
Dubai’s beloved Global Village will reopen on October 16 for its 29th season, running until May 11. The park will be open daily from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Tuesdays are designated for women, families, and couples. Ticket Information While official ticket details for this season are yet to be announced, expect similar options to last year: weekday value tickets for Dhs25 and any-day tickets for Dhs30. Free admission is provided for children under three, senior citizens, and people of determination. Discounts are available through the app, with weekday tickets at Dhs22.50 and any-day tickets at Dhs27. What’s Included Tickets…
The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) has officially partnered with Samsung to introduce Samsung Pay in Saudi Arabia by the fourth quarter of 2024. This agreement was finalised during the inaugural 24 Fintech conference held in Riyadh, marking a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s digital payments landscape. Advancing Digital Payments in Saudi Arabia This collaboration underscores SAMA’s dedication to enhancing digital payment systems in line with the Financial Sector Development Program, a pivotal component of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The initiative aligns with the broader goal of transitioning towards a less cash-reliant society by leveraging advanced digital payment solutions. Enhancing Digital…
India’s government is setting ambitious goals for its alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, targeting $1 billion in exports in the coming years. Currently ranked 40th globally in alcoholic beverage exports, India sees significant potential for growth. Major markets of interest include the UAE, Singapore, the Netherlands, Tanzania, Angola, Kenya, and Rwanda. Expanding Export Horizons The Commerce Ministry’s APEDA (Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) is spearheading efforts to boost Indian beverage exports as part of the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The aim is to elevate India’s position in the global market, leveraging the growing international demand for Indian spirits.…
Quick commerce platforms are renowned for their constant experimentation and adaptability, which keeps them relevant in a fast-evolving market. As these platforms solidify their presence in metropolitan areas, they are now setting their sights on Tier 2 cities to capture a broader consumer base. Blinkit Leads the Way Blinkit, led by Zomato, has recently expanded its footprint into Kochi. As announced by Albinder Dhindsa on LinkedIn, the first store in Kochi, located in Kaloor, will cater to areas including Kaloor Stadium, Palarivattom, and Jawahar Nagar. This launch, just before the Onam festival, marks a significant step in Blinkit’s strategy to…
Abu Dhabi (EAD) has introduced its inaugural sea cages aquaculture project, incorporating an advanced monitoring and data collection system powered by artificial intelligence. This groundbreaking approach, the first of its kind in the Middle East, will use environmental sensors to monitor marine water quality parameters, temperature, pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, and ammonia levels. Underwater and surface cameras will track fish behaviour and feeding efficiency, while a smart gateway, powered by solar panels, will facilitate data transmission. Project Overview The project features six floating sea cages designed to yield 100 tonnes of fish annually. It focuses on cultivating local high-value…
The world’s largest cargo ship, Anemos, has embarked on its inaugural voyage across the Atlantic, marking a significant milestone in sustainable shipping. Departing from France in early August, Anemos is set to deliver 1,000 tonnes of cognac and champagne to New York by tomorrow. This modern vessel boasts a carbon footprint that is only 10% of that produced by standard container ships. Cutting-Edge Technology and Environmental Benefits Anemos, measuring 81 metres in length, utilises advanced wind-assisted propulsion technologies (WAPS). Unlike traditional cargo ships, it operates with minimal human intervention, relying on automated systems and a rigging design crafted through computer…
Mawarid, a subsidiary of Alpha Dhabi Holding, has joined forces with California-based Plenty to develop a pioneering 7,500-square-metre indoor vertical strawberry farm in Abu Dhabi. With an investment of Dh500 million, this collaboration aims to advance food security in the UAE and GCC through cutting-edge agricultural technology. Project Details and Production Goals Construction of the farm is set to begin this winter. The facility will initially focus on growing strawberries, with an annual production goal of over 2 million kilograms. Future phases may expand to other crops based on market demand. Advanced Technologies The farm will incorporate advanced technologies such…
Air Kerala has announced the appointment of Harish Kutty as its Chief Executive Officer. With over 35 years of experience in the aviation industry, Kutty brings a wealth of expertise to the newly established airline. Prior to this role, he served as the Director of Revenue and Network Planning at SalamAir, a regional carrier based in Oman. A Distinguished Career Path Harish Kutty’s aviation journey began with British Airways in 1993. Over the years, he has held key management roles with prominent airlines across India and the GCC. His experience includes working with Air Arabia, Wataniya Airways, and SpiceJet, where…
The UAE has unveiled the locations for its inaugural passenger railway stations, marking a significant step in the development of the Etihad Rail network. This announcement follows the commencement of construction by various contractors. Main Station Locations The Etihad Rail project has confirmed the locations of its primary passenger stations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Fujairah. The specific sites are: These elevated stations are being constructed by China Railway International Group, with design input from China Southwest Architectural Design & Research Institute (CSWADI) and Jouzy Consulting Engineers. Passenger Hubs and Spur Lines The stations, along with the Sharjah University Station,…