Tag Archives: entertainment

Dubai Holding Entertainment has entered a strategic partnership with Trip.com Group. This collaboration aims to enhance the accessibility and distribution of Dubai Holding Entertainment’s attractions to the Chinese market, ensuring travellers have seamless access to the best of Dubai’s entertainment experiences. Under the partnership, Trip.com Group becomes the General Agency and Preferred Partner for Dubai Holding Entertainment’s attractions in China. By integrating Dubai Holding Entertainment’s offerings into its platforms, Trip.com Group will provide users with easy access to renowned destinations such as Dubai Parks™ and Resorts—the Middle East’s largest theme park destination featuring MOTIONGATE™ Dubai, Real Madrid World, the first-ever football-themed park ,LEGOLAND® Dubai Theme Park and LEGOLAND® Water Park. Other highlights include, The Green Planet Dubai, Wild Wadi Waterpark™, Inside Burj Al Arab Tour, Global Village, The View Palm Jumeirah and more. Through this partnership, Trip.com Group’s users will enjoy access to exclusive deals and packages for DHE’s attractions, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience when visiting Dubai. This collaboration is expected to provide Chinese travelers with enhanced convenience and valuable options for exploring the best entertainment and leisure experiences Dubai has to offer. This partnership is part of a broader effort to expand Dubai Holding Entertainment’s reach and attract travellers from key international markets, with a particular focus on the growing demand for travel experiences in Dubai. By offering Dubai Holding Entertainment’s diverse portfolio of attractions to Trip.com Group’s vast global user base, both organizations aim to drive increased tourism to the UAE, contributing to the region’s continued growth as a leading global destination.

With the holiday season approaching, 97% of UAE Consumers plan to travel during the upcoming winter and spring holidays and plan to spend an average of AED 7,7641. Key motivations for travelling include for leisure (61%), exploring new destinations (56%), and visiting family and friends (48%). While on their trip, travelers are willing to spend more for personalized experiences (78%), private transportation (74%), and first-class/luxury accommodations (66%). American Express Middle East has unveiled the results of its Trendex Survey*, painting a vivid picture of the travel, shopping and entertainment trends for the upcoming winter and spring holidays in the UAE. The survey reveals that there is a strong demand for luxury and personalized travel experiences amongst majority of UAE consumers, with experiential gifting also highly popular. Saud Swar, American Express Middle East’s Chief Business Officer, shared his insights on the findings, “Our Trendex Survey reveals a strong interest among UAE Consumers for high-end travel during the upcoming winter and spring holidays, with respondents willing to spend more on leisure, premium services, exploring new destinations, and visiting family and friends. Physical gifts are popular, but we are also seeing a strong interest in experiential gifts, particularly in entertainment and travel. American Express Middle East is following these trends to offer benefits and services that align with our customers’ expectations and aspirations. Whether it’s everyday purchases or a luxury holiday, our Card Members can rely on American Express for world-class benefits and customer service.” Key Findings: • Holiday Travel: Luxury and Personalized Experiences prioritized With the holiday season approaching, 97% of UAE Consumers plan to travel during the upcoming winter and spring holidays and plan to spend an average of AED 7,7641. …

SAUDIA Group has signed a partnership agreement with Saudi Projects in a strategic initiative to enhance local media content and to enrich its in-flight entertainment experience. This collaboration brings episodes of the acclaimed media programs of Saudi Projects to SAUDIA’s BEYOND entertainment system, significantly enhancing the guests’ travel experience. The agreement was signed by Khaled Tash, Group Chief Marketing Officer at SAUDIA, and Eng. Mishal Al-Qassim, Founder and CEO of Saudi Projects. Saudi Projects’ media programs will be highlighted in the “Discover Saudi” library of SAUDIA’s BEYOND entertainment system, providing guests with unique insights into the Kingdom’s ambitious development projects. This is aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, focusing on tourism, economic growth, and enhancing the “Quality of Life” Program. Khaled Tash, Group Chief Marketing Officer of SAUDIA, said: “This partnership brings numerous advantages, particularly in strengthening local content, which is a central focus of SAUDIA’s new strategic direction. Our BEYOND entertainment system now offers 243 hours of diverse local content, available in both visual and audio formats. This initiative not only broadens the entertainment choices for our guests but also enhances a key aspect of their travel experience.” BEYOND, SAUDIA’s innovative in-flight entertainment system, offers an immersive and interactive experience, featuring over 5,000 hours of HD content tailored to a wide range of guest preferences and age groups, available in 16 languages. Eng. Mishal Al-Qassim highlighted that this agreement will support Saudi Projects platform in expanding its publishing channels and reaching various audience segments, aiming to achieve the highest levels of engagement with all its programs and media products. These efforts focus on showcasing the Kingdom’s projects, future, and diverse economic opportunities, while also aiming to enhance …

New Murabba Development Company unveiled the design of New Murabba Stadium, an architectural marvel with a capacity of over 45,000. The stadium will be a central pillar of “New Murabba” the transformative downtown destination in Riyadh City. The stadium will feature cutting-edge sporting technology, creating an immersive and personalized fan experience. The stadium will be a vibrant community hub featuring illuminated entry points and shaded spaces for gathering and socializing. Inspired by the layered overlapping planes and peeling planar texture of the native Acacia tree, the New Murabba Stadium’s design is a testament to the fusion of tradition and innovation that defines New Murabba.  “The New Murabba Stadium embodies our commitment to transforming Riyadh into a global destination for sports and entertainment,” said Michael Dyke, CEO of New Murabba Development Company. “The stadium will not only be a world-class venue for sporting events but also a vibrant community hub that enhances the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.” The New Murabba Stadium is strategically positioned to enhance community engagement. Its design maximizes long-term usability, allowing it to be adapted to host a wide range of events beyond sports, gaming competitions, and exhibitions. “The New Murabba Stadium is a symbol of Riyadh’s dynamic future. It demonstrates our commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure and experiences that will captivate both local communities and global audiences,” said Dyke. With completion anticipated by the end of 2032. This venue promises to become a symbol of Riyadh’s transformation, attracting tourists, fostering community spirit, and solidifying Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in sports and entertainment.

Qiddiya sports, entertainment and culture stadium in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is estimated to attract 7.6 million annual visits to the stadium, playing a key role in Vision 2030’s targets for a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation – driving tourism and creating jobs. The Board of Directors of the Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC) announced  the launch of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium, an iconic multi-use venue set to further enhance Qiddiya’s philosophy of the Power of Play. Upon opening, it is anticipated to host some of Saudi Arabia’s biggest sports, entertainment, and cultural events. Located in Qiddiya City atop the breathtaking 200m-high Tuwaiq cliff and just 40 minutes from Riyadh, this futuristic venue is anticipated to become a must-visit destination. It aims to draw visitors from across the globe and revolutionize the traditional stadium experience with its immersive design and unique technological features, putting spectators at the center of the show. Commenting on the launch, Abdullah bin Nasser Aldawood, Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company said: “Our ambition is for Qiddiya City to become a global destination for entertainment, sports and culture and this iconic new stadium will be at its very heart. The futuristic venue aims to reinvent the traditional stadium concept and embody the true spirit of Qiddiya’s Power of Play philosophy. It uses state-of-the-art technology and innovative, world-leading design to put the spectator at the centre of the experience”. He added “It will become a bucket-list destination for fans and enthusiasts across the world, hosting major events from across the world of sport and entertainment.” Designed by leading global architectural firm Populous, the stadium is set to be the world’s first fully …

Riyadh Season and Saudi Airlines to create new entertainment zone to provide a unique experience with specialized aircraft that perform commercial tasks other than transporting passengers in the air. This brings delight to travelers who enjoy the travel rituals without going too far. These planes are equipped to offer an entertaining experience and serve delicious meals. More information will be available and announced later. H.E. Advisor Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GeA) has announced the start of construction of the new BLVD Runway, as one of the Riyadh Season zones, in cooperation with Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia). The zone offers fresh adventures on five planes. The new zone allows visitors to enjoy a variety of cuisines from renowned restaurants. Additionally, the zone features thrilling activities such as a horror themed experience on an airplane. The announcement came after GEA CEO Eng. Faisal Bafarat and Saudia Group Chief Marketing Officer Khaled Tash in the presence of H.E. Eng. Ibrahim bin Abdul Rahman Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, signed an MOU. This agreement is a joint effort between Riyadh Season and Saudi Airlines to create the zone.  

The Board of Directors of NEOM unveiled Utamo, its immersive destination for art and entertainment. An innovative event space to host global artists, Utamo is the latest destination to be announced by the sustainable regional development evolving in northwest Saudi Arabia. Cocooned in a mountain located along the Gulf of Aqaba coastline, Utamo creates a unique backdrop for music events, exhibitions, and art activations that will transform traditional entertainment experiences. Combining natural beauty and technology, the venue has been designed to be a place where art and architecture blend harmoniously, providing visitors with a truly unique experience. Guests will arrive at Utamo via an extended pathway of a garden promenade, featuring more than 50 species of shrubs, herbs and flowers, before reaching the grand hall. The 64-meter-high entrance, which pays homage to art and design, sets the scene for the awe-inspiring experiences awaiting guests inside. A theatre of the future where reality and the digital realm converge, Utamo will host events that redefine the benchmark of entertainment. Its multipurpose performance space, VIP lounges, and signature restaurants will make it one of the world’s most exclusive event spaces, as it plays host to performances from the globe’s greatest artists. The space will be carefully crafted to facilitate immersive artistic installations and performances. Advanced audio-visual systems will captivate guests with sensory experiences, enveloping them in audio-visual wonder as they become part of the performance itself. Guided by NEOM’s unwavering commitment to conservation and its efforts to create spaces in nature that support sustainable development, cutting-edge techniques will be used in the design and construction of Utamo to ensure minimal intervention with the surrounding environment. News of the development follows the recent announcements …

Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN), the PIF-owned entertainment and recreation company, has announced its construction work on its new attraction-filled destination in Almadinah at an investment of SAR 1.3 billion. The project aligns with the Saudi region’s aims to build vibrant communities and improve everyone’s quality of life. Construction at Almadinah has started with BUJV, a joint venture by Al Bawani Co. Ltd. and UrbaCon Trading & Contracting, appointed to carry out the construction works.   Abdullah AlDawood, Chairman, SEVEN, said: “Our entertainment destination in Almadinah will transform the entertainment landscape of the region and bring new, unique, and exciting experiences to the people of Almadinah supporting SEVEN’s aims to enrich the quality of life for millions of Saudis.” Fakher AlShawaf, Group CEO, Albawani Holding, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to collaborate once again with SEVEN on this groundbreaking project, which aims to establish an exceptional entertainment destination in the holy city of Almadinah.” Ramez Al Khayat, Group Managing Director, UCC Holding, said: “This is an exciting project to add to our portfolio. As a leading international construction and contracting company with a wealth of expertise, we will deliver SEVEN’s entertainment destination with our signature superior quality.” Visitors can expect immersive experiences from exceptional rides set within a 4,000-square-meter family entertainment center. There will also be an e-karting track, with 330+ meters of track covering two levels; a Discovery Adventures center offering treks, treehouse trails, and other jungle-themed challenges and educational missions; and a Play-Doh entertainment center will spark children’s imaginations with three different sensorial zones.   SEVEN supports PIF’s mandate to create a sustainable entertainment, leisure and sports sector, alongside Saudi Arabia’s aim to welcome 100 million visitors …

Dhows were ditched and abras abandoned this morning as the Dubai Creek skyline was dominated by an enigmatic, eye-catching, emoji. Visitors to the heart of Old Dubai today found themselves gaping in curiosity as a 15-metre floating emoji with winking eye could be spotted sailing down the emirate’s historic waterway, sparking mystery and leaving sightseers’ tongues wagging. Emblazoned with a bold message to #UnleashTheExtraInYou, the ball was launched from 8 June at 6am, watched on by wondering wanderers. But only now can we reveal what the supersized sphere signifies: The winking emoji with protruding tongue is the signature trademark of GLITCH, the Emirates’ newest family entertainment centre. GLITCH will open its doors on June 19, promising non-stop excitement and endless fun for the whole family. Spanning 40,000 square-metres, it is situated on Level Two of Deira’s Al Ghurair Centre and features more than 30 attractions, all carefully curated to cater to ages 3 and up. From engaging in friendly competition at a state-of-the-art 10-pin bowling alley to conquering a Ninja warrior assault course, diving into a variety of mind-bending virtual reality experiences to zipping around the ceiling on an indoor roller glider, GLITCH is set to become the ultimate destination for seekers of adrenaline-fuelled fun. GLITCH will be open Sunday to Thursday from 10am-10pm and Friday and Saturday from 10am-midnight. For ticket prices and further information, follow GLITCH on social media @glitcharabia or visit www.glitcharabia.com. Get ready to dive into the GLITCH universe at Al Ghurair Centre and #UnleashTheExtraInYou.

Miral Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with Microsoft, announced the launch of its generative AI customer-facing service leveraging ChatGPT through Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Service to provide personalized guidance and information to customers visiting Yas Island’s theme parks and experiences. With over 1,700 operations completed successfully within a week, ChatGPT is being used to augment the capabilities of chatbots for customer services for the first time, not only across various industries in the UAE, but also within the wider region’s tourism and entertainment sector. Commenting on the collaboration, Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, said: “We are proud to be pioneering the introduction of ChatGPT through Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Service within the tourism and entertainment sector.  We champion innovation at every step and believe that digital transformation is key to creating more compelling and personalized visitor propositions. Our collaboration with Microsoft is a testament to our relentless pursuit of delivering unique and memorable experiences to guests of all ages and nationalities, further positioning Yas Island as a top global destination for entertainment and leisure.” Miral has long been working with Microsoft, having used the company’s intelligent cloud and data services for its existing guest experience platform and operations. As part of its ambition to be a customer-centric, progressive and efficient organisation, Miral plans to use Azure OpenAI Service and ChatGPT to enable customers to plan their day at any of the theme parks, providing a more seamless customer experience. “We are delighted to collaborate with Miral to enhance its customer experience through the use of Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service.” Said Naim Yazbeck, General Manager, Microsoft UAE. “With the help of Azure OpenAI Service and ChatGPT, Miral can better engage with …