Farnek has developed its hospitality division into an all-embracing hotel management company under the leadership of renowned UAE-based international hotelier Walter Knight.  Knight was originally responsible for structuring and developing Farnek’s fledgling hospitality division earlier this year. Farnek started by providing a comprehensive range of outsourced and third-party services, including concierge services, housekeeping, property operations, maintenance, energy consultancy (POMEC). Farnek’s endeavours met with early success, securing numerous contracts which included the new Expo Village, situated on the Expo 2020 site. Farnek is currently responsible for managing the reservation services, concierge, front office services and housekeeping, for the 2,273 apartments. Furthermore, under the trade name of Farnek Hotel Management, the company can now expand its services to cover all aspects of hotel and resort management from initial consultation to day-to-day operations.  Knight, director of hospitality commented: “Originally we were aiming for a service offering, which not only embraced traditionally outsourced FM and manpower services, but also managing revenue driven services, such as central reservation offices and associated sales services. “Now with our hotel management licence, we can approach hotel developers, investors, owners and management companies direct with a full suite of services including consultancy, management, outsourcing and manpower services proposition.” Farnek is no stranger to the hospitality sector in the Middle East and has been supporting the UAE’s hospitality sector for over 40 years, in which time it has amassed an extensive portfolio of hotel contracts, which include five-star brands such as Marriott, Sheraton, Sofitel and Rotana. Its consultancy division has been helping hotels and resorts become more sustainable over the past 15 years. Indeed, Farnek’s Hotel Optimizer software, can record, analyse and benchmark a property’s energy and water consumption, as …

Air Lakson Group and Air Arabia Group announced their decision to form of a joint venture to launch “Fly Jinnah”, Pakistan’s new airline. The proposed JV will see the establishment of a low-cost passenger airline serving domestic and international routes from Pakistan. “Fly Jinnah” will serve the strategic vision of Pakistan’s travel and tourism sector and contribute to the country’s economic growth and job creation, while providing Pakistanis with reliable and value for money air travel. Iqbal Ali Lakhani, Chairman of Lakson Group, said: “We are excited to partner with Air Arabia in launching Pakistan’s new low-cost carrier. “Fly Jinnah” will serve Pakistan’s travel and tourism sector and will play a constructive role in contributing to the nation’s economic growth.” He added: “This partnership also reflects our commitment to support the development of Pakistan’s air transport sector while providing the citizens and visitors of the country with a new option of value for money air travel.  Air Arabia enjoys a track-record of reliable and efficient operations, and we look forward to working closely towards launching and developing the new airline.” Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammed Al Thani, Chairman of Air Arabia, said: “We are delighted at Air Arabia Group to partner with Lakson Group on this joint venture to launch Pakistan’s new low-cost carrier. We are confident that “Fly Jinnah” will add value to the air transport sector of Pakistan and directly contribute to the local economy through job creation and the development of travel and tourism sector. We thank Lakson Group and the Government of Pakistan for their trust and we look forward to working hand in hand to develop the new airline, which will serve as a new value-for-money …

Majid Al Futtaim has opened the doors of the eagerly awaited Mall of Oman in Muscat. The opening of the mall marks an important milestone for Majid Al Futtaim as it continues to play a significant role in supporting local communities by enhancing the Sultanate’s retail and entertainment offerings for both residents and tourists. A recipient of the LEED Platinum certificate for its commitment to sustainability, resource efficiency, health and wellbeing, the new super-regional mall combines a selection of curated stores that bring the very best in retail, leisure, entertainment, and dining, as well as experiential offerings for all ages. Those visiting the mall can now experience Oman’s largest VOX Cinemas — complete with 15 screens — as well as the only IMAX experience in Oman, the first GOLD experience in Oman, and the largest Magic Planet in the country, which features award-winning rides, games and attractions. Plus, those looking for dining options can indulge at Kitchen 35, the VIP Lounge (GOLD) and Nutella. Alongside this offering, customers can also enjoy a host of brands including a 9,000 square meter Carrefour Hypermarket as part of Majid Al Futtaim and several brands from the Landmark and Apparel groups. In addition, Mall of Oman offers famous outlets such as DKNY, Nespresso, G-SHOCK, Homes R Us, Tavola and Al Khalili Buildex, ensuring there is something for everyone. Husam Al Mandhari, Director of Shopping malls in Oman at Majid Al Futtaim Properties said: “We are pleased to welcome residents and tourists to the brand-new Mall of Oman – Sultanate’s flagship destination for retail, leisure and entertainment. This is another achievement for us as we continue to position ourselves as a retail pioneer that offers …

Abu Dhabi Art announces the formation of Friends of Abu Dhabi Art – an initiative created to facilitate new models of public cultural philanthropy and help support the dynamic art eco-system in the UAE through Abu Dhabi Art. Launching with an inaugural group of more than 40 dedicated art enthusiasts, Friends of Abu Dhabi Art will this year support Abu Dhabi Art’s Beyond: Emerging Artists, curated by guest curators Sam Bardaouil and Till Fellrath, Founders of Art Reoriented, a multidisciplinary curatorial platform   Dyala Nusseibeh, Director, Abu Dhabi Art, said: “We are hugely grateful to our Friends of Abu Dhabi Art members, who will play an integral role in supporting emerging artists from the UAE this year and engaging the wider public with their work. As a group of cultural philanthropists brought together by a shared desire to support art in the Emirates, Friends of Abu Dhabi Art will strengthen and enhance our existing Beyond: Emerging Artists programme this year in exciting new ways.” Anyone looking to actively support artists and the art ecosystem in the UAE can apply to join the initiative via the webpage as well. All members are required to pay an annual fee for membership, with funds raised enabling the commissioning of new art works through Abu Dhabi Art. Keystone members will act as an advisory group for Friends of Abu Dhabi Art, overseen by co-heads, Nadine Maalouf, Co-Founder of 81 Designs and Nadia Sehweil, CEO of Bodytree Wellness. Commenting on the newly formed initiative, Nadine Maalouf, Co-Head of Friends of Abu Dhabi Art and Co-Founder of 81 Designs, said: “Friends of Abu Dhabi Art members are ready to support the UAE art ecosystem through this …

Marriott International announced that the Four Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai, in one of Dubai’s historical districts, will reopen on 1st September 2021. Located in the historical center of Dubai, the hotel is a convenient starting point to discover local shopping areas including the jewelry, spice and textile markets and the cultural sites of the historical Bastakiya and Dubai Museum. The hotel is well connected with 2 metro stations within walking distance and a short 15 minute drive from Dubai International Airport. Bringing together authenticity with modern design guests can enjoy bright and spacious rooms, award-winning restaurants and attentive service. The hotel’s casual yet upbeat atmosphere sets the tone for a journey of exploring the city with ease and adventure. Four Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai offers a collection of 125 thoughtfully designed spacious, modern and bright guest rooms. Each furnished with plush Four Points by Sheraton Four Comfort Bed and other modern amenities, the rooms are ideal for business travelers and holiday-seekers. Guests opting for a Classic room can enjoy spacious bathrooms, coffee and tea making facilities, high-speed Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and other hospitality services. Executive travellers will appreciate the Executive Rooms with a total space of 33 sqm. Our Grand Rooms offer a space of 42 sqm, more room to feel completely at home and the perfect ambience to lounge and work. For discerning travellers, the Suite Room, with a total space of 63 sqm, offers upgraded facilities and higher views of the city area. After a hard day’s work or city tour, guests can relax at a local favorite, The Viceroy Pub and enjoy a great selection of imported brews or indulge in authentic cuisine at …

flydubai announced that passengers booking a flydubai flight to Dubai will enjoy a complimentary one day Ticket to visit Expo 2020 Dubai, taking place from 01 October 2021 to 31 March 2022. The initiative is valid for all bookings made from 01 September for travel during the event dates. The initiative is offered to every passenger travelling on a flydubai inbound booking itinerary, a one-way ticket to Dubai or any connecting flydubai flight via Dubai. The complimentary 1-Day Ticket is offered to all passengers who are eligible for the promotion whether they are travelling in Business Class or Economy Class. Commenting on the launch of the initiative, Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer of flydubai, said: “we are excited to welcome the world to Dubai as Expo 2020 opens its doors to visitors. flydubai will play an important role in supporting the UAE’s efforts to make this a truly remarkable event by connecting underserved markets to Dubai. We share everyone’s excitement as we come together to witness Expo 2020 connecting minds and creating the future.’’ For 182 days, Expo 2020 Dubai will welcome the whole world in one place for a global gathering that will bring together 191 participating nations and millions of people for a unique and unmissable experience. Each of the participating countries will bring its own unique flavour, and with a programming calendar featuring up to 60 events per day and hundreds of varied experiences from food, art and music to business and sport, there will be something for every age and interest. Sumathi Ramanathan, Vice President – Market Strategy & Sales, Expo 2020 Dubai, said: “Hosting the first World Expo in the region is a moment …

Etihad Airways is prepared for a boost in travel to and from Abu Dhabi following the government’s announcement to remove the quarantine requirement for all vaccinated travellers arriving from abroad. Fully vaccinated travellers (with vaccines approved by the World Health Organization) can arrive from all international destinations without the need to quarantine. All travellers will require a PCR test within 48 hours of departure, a test on arrival and retesting on select days depending on the country they have travelled from. Unvaccinated travellers, however, should follow the rules according to the destination they are arriving from. Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad, commented: “The news is perfectly timed to begin welcoming the world back to Abu Dhabi. We expect a huge surge in demand from tourists and visiting friends and relatives from around the world. This will also give UAE residents greater flexibility and peace of mind when travelling globally. “The emirate has delivered one of the world’s best public health programmes to protect the population with an extremely high vaccination rate, and smart technologically-driven solutions such as the Al Hosn app to ensure the safety of residents and visitors.   “This is a huge step forward as the UAE prepares to host the EXPO 2020, the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and many more global events over the coming months. “Etihad is currently operating to 65 passenger destinations with one of the world’s youngest and most sustainable fleets. We look forward to welcoming our guests to Abu Dhabi with Etihad to enjoy this world-class destination – an emirate and capital city we’re so proud to call our home.” Flying with Etihad is supported by the …

Following the updated international entry guidelines recently announced by the Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) announces Abu Dhabi is set to welcome all fully vaccinated tourists and residents travelling from all countries around the world, as well as unvaccinated visitors from ‘Green List’ countries, with no quarantine measures. Vaccines must be approved by the World Health organisation (WHO). This will take effect starting 5 September 2021. Registering International vaccinations or exemption documents In order to support seamless entry for international travellers and enable visitors to safely enjoy the the UAE capital’s diverse experiences through the Abu Dhabi Green Pass, DCT Abu Dhabi has outlined a simple process to enable tourists to register their international vaccination certificate or vaccination exemption document for verification 5 days before their travel date, via the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) Smart app or via ica.gov.ae website. Applicants will receive an SMS confirmation that will include a link to the Alhosn app, which must be downloaded prior to travel. The Alhosn app displays users’ vaccination status and PCR test results, which are required to activate the Abu Dhabi Green Pass. Upon arrival, travellers will receive a Unified ID number, from airport immigration, or via the ICA Smart app or website; this will complete the registration on the Alhosn app. Following a PCR test at the airport, visitors can activate the Green Pass, allowing them entry to all public spaces in the emirate. Children under 12 and People of Determination (POD) with moderate and severe disabilities are exempt from COVID-19 PCR testing. Entry for vaccinated travellers from Green List countries Under …

VOX Cinemas, the dedicated cinema arm of Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East and Africa, is proud to announce a partnership with Akira Back, world-renowned Michelin star chef. The highly-anticipated culinary collaboration, which launches in the United Arab Emirates in September, will see the global restauranteur curate a special menu for THEATRE, VOX Cinemas’ luxury cinema concept, so moviegoers can enjoy an unparalleled dining experience. Guests at THEATRE can expect a modern Japanese menu which features a dynamic combination of Akira Back’s signature dishes as well as culinary creations exclusive to VOX Cinemas. Famed for his sense of adventure and creativity, Akira Back has enjoyed an illustrious career bringing his culinary expertise and artistry across the globe, with a portfolio of critically acclaimed restaurants and lounges in destinations like Beverly Hills, San Diego, Seychelles North Island, Toronto, Singapore, Seoul, Dubai and more. VOX Cinemas’ THEATRE combines film with fine food and provides guests with the option of dining in an exclusive private lounge area or having their food delivered straight to their seat through the in-theatre waiter service. Redefining the luxury cinema experience, THEATRE boasts reclining leather seats, plush blankets and pillows and cutting-edge audiovisual technology in a stylish and intimate setting. Ignace Lahoud, Chief Executive Officer of Majid Al Futtaim Leisure, Entertainment & Cinemas said, “Cinemagoers in the region are becoming increasingly discerning and we are extremely excited about collaborating with Chef Akira Back to introduce a new era in fine dining and film in response to rising expectations. At VOX Cinemas, we offer more than just movies and, are continuously diversifying our offering so guests can enjoy an …

Dubai Holding, a diversified global investment company with operations in 13 countries confirmed the appointment of Ronald Drake as General Manager of Ain Dubai as the Emirate’s newest landmark and world’s largest and tallest observation wheel gears up for a highly anticipated public opening in Q4 this year. A specialist in commercial entertainment project revitalisation, Drake brings over 35 years of extensive experience developing global tourist attractions, retail, and live entertainment projects. He is responsible for creating and delivering the strategic vision of Ain Dubai through its launch and operations, as well as developing and nurturing growth for Ain Dubai, establishing it as one of Dubai’s iconic landmarks on the global stage. Set to become the ‘must-visit’ venue for views, sunsets, entertainment and celebrations, Ain Dubai re-imagines the traditional observation wheel experience, translating it into a world-class entertainment hot spot that delivers bespoke experiences suited to all types of celebratory occasions for people of all ages to enjoy. Mohamed Sharaf, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Holding Entertainment said: “The highly anticipated Ain Dubai is ready to open to the world in the next few months as the newest skyline-defining landmark and the latest offering by Dubai Holding to elevate the Emirate’s rich and vibrant leisure and entertainment landscape. Ain Dubai holds ever so true to fortifying Dubai’s leading position as a key international tourism destination and serves as testament to the grand vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.” “We are extremely proud of Ain Dubai as we endeavor tirelessly to ensure innovative concepts are brought to life in Dubai, building on our track record …