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 …

Emirates and Visa are making paying for your next holiday or trip to visit loved ones much more rewarding with tremendous savings potential for future travel plans. Customers booking their travel on emirates.com who use their Visa credit or Visa debit card from today until 18 September 2021* in any class of travel using the promotional code EKVISA1 to any destination from Dubai on the Emirates network, will have a chance to win an AED 1,000 discount to redeem on their next Emirates ticket. Emirates and Visa will randomly choose over 400 lucky winners from the eligible entries to benefit from the generous discount. Customers who don’t want to miss this offer should visit emirates.com to check the airline’s latest featured fares to their next destinations here Commenting on the partnership, Kalika Tripathi, Visa’s Head of Marketing for MENA, said: “With tourism slowly returning to normal, people are eagerly looking for deals and offers to make their long-awaited trip worth it. We are delighted to join our longstanding partner Emirates in this campaign to enhance our valued cardholders’ experience by making their travel journey more rewarding. The launch of this promotion is a great opportunity for us to give our Visa cardholders exclusive benefits and also help motivate repeat travel.” As always, Emirates customers can rest assured while travelling that their health and safety continued to be a top priority with the latest health and safety measures in place. If they change their mind at any time, they will always have peace of mind in knowing that Emirates’ priority is to make travel planning stress free with even more generous and flexible booking policies, multi-risk insurance cover, and helping loyal …

YouGov’s latest study among 1028 respondents in the UAE reveals half (51%) of the respondents are likely to hop on a suborbital flight if price wasn’t a constraint, the rest remain indecisive (25%) or are unlikely to buy a ticket even if they could afford it (24%). Once regarded as a topic reserved for science fiction, space tourism may very well soon be offered by private companies such as SpaceX, Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic. Interest in being a space tourist is higher (54%) among younger adults (18-44 years), whereas older adults (45 years & above) are comparatively less likely to be interested (41%). Similarly, men when compared to women are more likely to get themselves a ticket for a suborbital flight, provided money wasn’t a concern (55% vs 43%). Billionaires like Richard Branson and Jeff Bezos have marked a major milestone in space tourism, with their recent space tours and plans of flying passengers to space in suborbital flights by early next year. But it’s not an excursion that appeals to everyone. The survey also shows that residents from high-income groups (earning AED 25,000+) are more inclined towards space travel compared to the other income groups. Among those interested in traveling into space, the most common reason given to do so was to experience something unique (53%). Many claimed their reason to go to space would be to see the view of earth from space, view other planets or to experience weightlessness in zero gravity conditions (43% each). For some it seems to be a lifetime dream or goal (34%). Out of those who were undecided or unlikely to board a space flight even if money wasn’t a constraint, …