Category Archives: Govt

URB, a Net Zero developer of sustainable cities, has unveiled a gigantic and diverse ocean restoration project along the coast of Dubai, spanning over 200 square kilometres. A huge step towards creating a green economy, Dubai Reefs will be home to around one billion corals and 100 million mangroves. Dubai Reefs will provide various services and amenities for visitors, local residents as well as a new workforce living on the ocean. It will create green jobs & empower a greener economy from the oceans to the city. It will be the first floating sustainable city of its kind offering a mix-use facility of educational, research, residential, retail, hospitality, entertainment & community facilities. As a floating self-sufficient hub, Dubai Reefs also aims to reconnect the ocean with the city. It will provide a healthy blue infrastructure that promotes social, environmental and economic benefits. Local residents will benefit from a reward scheme for the use of services or products connected to Dubai Reef. The project will also offer a carbon offsetting scheme called ‘blue carbon’, whereby organizations are able to offset their carbon by planting mangrove trees along the coast. Dubai Reefs aims to reinvent the way we plan our cities to consider the opportunities of living in harmony with the ocean and how to nurture a sustainable relationship between land & water. This sustainable floating city is said to house residential, hospitality, retail, educational and research facilities, and create over 30,000 job opportunities. Given that floating cities could be the future of urban living as sea levels continue to rise rapidly in the next few decades; Dubai Reefs will become more than a model for blue urbanism; it will become an eco-destination for human & …

Dubai Reefs consists of a sustainable floating community for marine research, regeneration & ecotourism. The project includes residential, hospitality, retail, educational & research facilities. The project aims to generate more than 30,000 jobs in a green economy. Dubai Reefs is a floating living lab for marine restoration & ecotourism.  The marine institute will be the heart of the project, working towards greater protection of the marine and coastal environment of Dubai. It aims to accelerate the marine science and conservation capacity of Dubai, whilst building the most diverse artificial reef, covering 200 square kilometres. It also aims to create a home to more than 1 billion corals & to more than 100 million mangrove trees. The project will also offer unique experiences in marine ecotourism with various floating eco lodges, all of which are powered by 100% renewable energy with various types of solar & hydropower. These include wave farms that will also produce additional clean energy for Dubai’s growing population Regenerative Ocean Farming is another key feature of the project, which is a climate friendly food production technique. CEO of URB, Baharash Bagherian, highlights the significance of the project for Dubai as well as coastal cities at risk of sea level rise. “The health of our cities is intrinsically tied to the health of our oceans. The ocean is the source of life controlling everything. Given that everything on our planet is connected, a healthy ocean is a healthy city. Our ocean will be entirely different by the end of the century if we don’t take action today. We need an entrepreneurial spirit in the planning of coastal cities & the types of infrastructure as well as developments that are linked …

Visit Qatar and Qatar Airways have announced the launch of Doha stopover packages as part of their efforts to promote Qatar as a leading tourist destination to be added to final passenger journeys, at a press conference held by His Excellency Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, President of Qatar Tourism, and Eng. Badr Mohammed Al Meer, Group Chief Executive Officer, Qatar Airways, in the presence of a group of international media representatives on an extensive familiarization trip to Doha, at Msheireb, Downtown Doha. Visit Qatar plays a key role in strengthening partnerships with government entities and encouraging investments, as well as supporting private sector engagement to ensure the growth of the hospitality and tourism sectors. It works to strengthen Qatar’s position as a leading tourism destination while preserving its rich cultural heritage. Visit Qatar’s efforts are focused on strengthening the country’s tourism infrastructure, promoting sustainable development and promoting cultural exchange, in line with Qatar ‘s vision.National 2030 Commenting on the press conference, His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, President of Qatar Tourism, said: “The launch of the Qatar Stopover packages is a testament to the continued fruitful cooperation between Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways, which gives passengers a great opportunity to expand their travel experience by visiting Qatar. Recognising the richness and diversity of Qatar’s tourism experiences, we believe that Qatar’s ‘Stopover’ packages will resonate with visitors.” “It is essential that 2023 saw more than double the number of passengers and hotel nights associated with stopovers in Qatar compared to 2022, thanks to Qatar Airways’ growing network of more than 177 international destinations. January 2024 also saw another remarkable achievement, with the number of incoming visitors exceeding 700,000. …

Dubai Municipality has launched a new VIP ticket package for guests visiting Frame Dubai, one of the Emirate’s most popular architectural attractions. Holders of the new AED 300 ticket are entitled to several benefits, which include the opportunity to experience a unique tour of Frame Dubai. Ahmed Al Zarouni, Director of the Department of Public Parks and Recreational Facilities, pointed out that the new VIP ticket package comes in line with the Municipality’s efforts to offer attractive and fully integrated amenities and services, allowing residents and tourists to enjoy a holistic recreational experience. This aligns with the Municipality’s mission to drive pioneering services that improve quality of life for residents and tourists alike, as well as continue to improve the Emirate’s appeal as a recreational hub. Al Zarouni said: “The ticket grants visitors access to a variety of amenities and benefits, including reserved parking quick entry through a private gate. Another important feature that we are certain guests would appreciate is a guided tour that covers the most important details and facts about the frame and the area it overlooks.” Frame Dubai, which opened in January 2018, attracted more than 5.5 million visitors and is in the Za ‘abeel area and stands as a cultural landmark that connects the Emirate’s present with its rich history. Inspired by the ‘golden ratio’ of 1.618, the dimensions of the Frame Dubai measure up to 150 metres high and 93 metres wide. More than 9,900 cubic metres of reinforced cement, roughly 2,000 tons of steel, and 2,900 square metres of laminated glass panels were used in the construction of the structure. Additionally, it has circuits modelled after the Expo 2020 logo spread across more …

As the AFC Asian Cup 2023 enters the semi-finals stage, Msheireb Downtown Doha, Qatar has welcomed around 2.5 million football fans and visitors from around the world, with more than 41,000 visitors using the tram, and an average of 14,000 visitors making their way to Msheireb Galleria daily. Dr Hafiz Ali Abdullah, Senior Director of Corporate Communications said: “We are excited to be the go-to destination for visitors and residents during the AFC Asian Cup 2023. Msheireb Downtown Doha continues to proudly showcase Qatari culture with thrilling activations and unique design features.” Throughout the first half of the tournament, Msheireb Downtown Doha was filled with exhilarating activities like the Asian Sikka featuring booths from all 24 participating countries, Football Bowling, Football Golf Target, and Subsoccer games, match screenings at Baraha Msheireb, and finally the open-air ‘Baraha Musical Concert’ in collaboration with the renowned Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition, Msheireb Downtown Doha housed the Media Centre for the entire tournament with over 2,000 media representatives. Msheireb Downtown Doha, located in close proximity to the buzzing Souq Waqif, also offers visitors a unique cultural experience through the city’s interactive Msheireb Museums, various choices of fine dining and international cuisines, as well as stores and children’s edutainment at the four-story Msheireb Galleria.

The Board of Directors of NEOM announced Xaynor, a beachfront private members club, nestled among the rocky landscapes along the pristine coastline of the Gulf of Aqaba. Xaynor is the latest addition to the evolving regional development in northwest Saudi Arabia.  Xaynor’s secluded seafront location offers a discreet destination where club members can unwind on the Gulf of Aqaba’s beautiful unspoiled coastline. With its striking architectural design and thoughtfully curated interior, Xaynor elevates comfort and sophistication, creating an environment primed for leisure, relaxation, entertainment, and conversation. Arriving in Xaynor, guests will be greeted by its breathtaking canopy entrance, blending with the natural landscape and providing a captivating pathway down to the beach. This distinct architectural style effortlessly integrates concealed retreats and expansive open spaces. Guests can choose to indulge in private seclusion or mingle with other members. Capturing the essence of coastal luxury, Xaynor will provide a selection of the best that contemporary luxury has to offer, including private pools, beachside lounges, gourmet dining, a signature entertainment venue, and a world-class spa and wellness center. Complementing these offerings, Xaynor boasts boutique shopping and leisure options, accompanied by members-only experiences personalized in collaboration with internationally renowned brand partners in fashion, art and lifestyle. Positioned as the epitome of ultra-chic beach resort luxury, Xaynor is dedicated to crafting unforgettable moments that redefine exclusivity in a natural setting. Sensitively merging indoor and outdoor spaces, it will stand as an icon of delicate elegance along the Gulf of Aqaba’s shores. Aligned with NEOM’s commitment to conservation and innovation, Xaynor complements its coastal location. This new development follows recent announcements of Leyja, Epicon, Siranna, Utamo, Norlana, Aquellum, and Zardun, which are part of NEOM’s sustainable …

NEOM opened its first U.S. office in New York City which will serve as a base for NEOM’s business across the United States. NEOM’s latest international office at 50 Hudson Yards in Manhattan follows the launch of its London office in November 2023. Honored guest, HRH Ambassador Reema Bandar Al Saud, Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to the United States, attended the official opening at the invitation of Nadhmi Al-Nasr, CEO of NEOM, who hosted the occasion, and addressed the distinguished guests and strategic partners in attendance. The New York City office will further strengthen existing relationships between NEOM and U.S. entities and present an opportunity to explore new partnerships and sources of investment from the United States. Close collaboration with innovative and world-leading U.S. industries, corporations, and investors, will accelerate NEOM’s efforts to address global challenges by redefining livability, business, and conservation. HRH Ambassador Reema Bandar Al Saud, said: “We are delighted for NEOM to open an office in New York. The potential impact of NEOM extends far beyond Saudi borders. By serving as a catalyst for innovation, sustainable development, and economic diversification, NEOM has the power to inspire similar initiatives around the world – driving positive change and serving as a blueprint for the cities of tomorrow.” Nadhmi Al-Nasr, CEO of NEOM, said: “In order to continue to achieve the vision of NEOM, it is imperative that we work alongside global partners that can accelerate our efforts. We chose New York City as our second international NEOM office due to its position as a global capital for business and finance. NEOM has already established many investments and partnerships with U.S. entities, and through this office, we intend to build our relationships …

VFS Global  has entered an agreement with the Ministry of Commerce, Saudi Arabia, to provide visa application services through a centre operated within the premises of the Ministry of Commerce headquarters in Riyadh. Through this partnership, VFS Global will cater to about 8000 employees and delegates, as well as personnel of subsidiary government institutions under the Ministry. In keeping with its commitment to making people’s cross border mobility simple and convenient through highly secure, reliable, efficient, and innovative technology solutions, applicants can also opt for the Visa At Your Doorstep* service to have trained professionals visit a location of choice to complete the visa application process. The agreement was signed in the presence of Eng. Mohammed A. Al. Alwaily, Deputy Minister for Shared Services, Ministry of Commerce.  Mr. Zubin Karkaria, Founder and CEO, VFS Global said, “It is an honour to have entered this strategic partnership with the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Commerce. We are very pleased to offer this dedicated Visa Application Centre service to the employees and associates of the Ministry, to further enhance their visa application experience in a seamless, convenient and secure manner. This partnership further strengthens our commitment to this great nation.” This partnership adds to VFS Global’s expansive network of collaborations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which includes agreements with Aramco, Neom, and Chambers of Commerce across the country, cementing its position as the trusted partner to client governments, with an extensive global net-work and reach.  

In January 2024, Qatar recorded the reception of 702,800 visitors, marking the highest monthly level of visitor entries ever. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries took the lead in terms of the total number of visitors, accounting for 53% of the overall visitor count. These numbers coincide with the significant event at the beginning of the year, the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™️. Qatar presents a diverse tourism scene that blends cultural heritage with modernity and development. The country offers visitors various experiences catering to all tastes, from cultural exploration to sports and adventure, as well as artistic exhibitions and educational conferences.

His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), announced today the launch of “Alat”: a PIF company, to create a national champion that will contribute to the aim of making Saudi Arabia a global hub for sustainable technology manufacturing that focuses on advanced technologies and electronics. Alat will focus on manufacturing products that serve local and international markets within seven key strategic business units: advanced industries and semiconductors, as well as smart appliances, smart health, smart devices and smart buildings, in addition to next generation infrastructure. The company, chaired by HRH Crown Prince, aims to enhance the capabilities of the Saudi technology sector, increase its contribution to local content – benefiting from the rapid development of this sector – increasing the nation’s attractiveness and its ability to create investment opportunities. Alat will also enable the private sector through its strategic partnerships with leading international players in manufacturing and technology, which will enhance the economic ecosystem locally and regionally. The company will build partnerships to enable the transformation of the industrial sector globally, by providing sustainable industrial solutions based on clean energy sources. These partnerships will help meet commercial demand, keep pace with the needs of the next generation of manufacturing, enhance the strength of local supply chains and contribute to making Saudi Arabia a global center for advanced technological manufacturing. Alat will manufacture more than 30 product categories that will serve vital sectors. These include robotic systems, communication systems, advanced computers and digital entertainment products, as well as advanced heavy machinery used in construction, building and mining. The company aims …