Author: Sam Allcock

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the global travel industry, offering personalised, efficient, and tech-savvy solutions that are transforming how people plan, book, and experience their journeys. A recent report by Tourism Economics for the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) reveals that 60% of travellers in the UAE already trust AI to manage every aspect of their trips, significantly ahead of the global average of 48%. This adoption is only expected to grow as AI tools become more ingrained in consumer behaviour. The study highlights a surge in the use of AI for travel planning across the Middle East, with six in…

As part of its commitment to youth empowerment, the National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) has launched a series of interactive financial literacy sessions during the 14th edition of Youth City 2030, a flagship summer programme aimed at nurturing the next generation of Bahraini leaders. Held in collaboration with various public and private sector partners, the initiative is designed to equip young people with the practical knowledge and life skills needed for future success. NBB’s sessions focused on smart money management through a multi-format approach blending education with engagement. Participants took part in hands-on workshops, gamified learning challenges, and roleplay-style exercises…

Toyota Motor Corporation has launched the first-ever hybrid electric model in its iconic Land Cruiser series, introducing the new Land Cruiser HEV to the Middle East market. This historic debut highlights Toyota’s vision for sustainable mobility while honouring seven decades of engineering legacy and off-road excellence. The new Land Cruiser HEV will be made available in Jordan through Markazia Toyota, marking the first regional rollout of this electrified model. It blends advanced hybrid technology with the rugged reliability and all-terrain performance that has defined the Land Cruiser since its inception in 1951. Toyota’s decision to launch the hybrid Land Cruiser…

In an era where the nature of work is becoming increasingly mobile, HUAWEI has unveiled its latest flagship tablet, the MatePad Pro 12.2”, a device that aims to merge the power of a PC with the flexibility of a tablet. As traditional laptops reach a design plateau, HUAWEI is betting that the future of productivity lies in devices that can adapt to new, on-the-go workstyles. At the heart of the new tablet is its Tandem OLED display, boasting a 92% screen-to-body ratio and peak brightness of 2,000 nits, thanks to nano-level pixel stacking. The ultra-narrow 4.6 mm bezels allow for…

Ott Tänak and Martin Järveoja have clinched their first win of the 2025 FIA World Rally Championship season at the gruelling Acropolis Rally, leading Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team to a well-earned double podium finish. Team-mates Adrien Fourmaux and Alexandre Coria secured third place, marking Hyundai’s second double podium of the year and a vital boost in the Constructors’ Championship. The final day of the rally put crews through a punishing loop of stages, including the brand-new Smokovo and the unforgiving Tarzan test. Tänak entered Sunday with a commanding 43.6-second lead and held firm despite a tense finish caused…

Dubai Investments, a leading diversified investment firm listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM), reported a profit before tax of AED 546.28 million for the first half of 2025, marking a 26% year-on-year increase from AED 431.68 million during the same period in 2024. The robust growth reflects strong contributions from the Group’s core real estate and manufacturing segments. For the second quarter alone, profit before tax reached AED 361.39 million — up from AED 309.34 million in Q2 2024 — demonstrating continued momentum across business units. Despite a slight dip in total income to AED 1.89 billion, compared to…

LG Electronics has officially launched the LG PuriCare™ AeroHit in the United Arab Emirates, introducing an advanced air purification solution designed to suit the environmental and lifestyle needs of UAE households. With a compact, ultra-slim form factor and 360-degree filtration, the AeroHit promises clean, fresh air in a sleek, space-saving design. The AeroHit joins LG’s growing range of smart home solutions, offering a blend of performance and aesthetics tailored for the region. At its core is the Aero Series H Filter — a multi-layer filtration system that removes dust particles, odors, allergens, and harmful airborne substances including viruses. Its ability…

Saudi Arabia’s ACWA Power, the world’s largest private water desalination company and a global leader in energy transition, has announced a 62% year-on-year increase in adjusted net profit for the first half of 2025, reaching SAR 1.17 billion. The significant rise is attributed to robust operational performance, project expansion, and growth in development and construction management services. Despite this strong result, the company’s reported net profit saw a marginal decline of 1.9%, primarily due to an impairment charge linked to one of its affiliated entities. Operating income before impairments and other expenses rose by SAR 818 million to SAR 2.2…

Vnukovo International Airport has officially welcomed the inaugural direct flight between Moscow and Riyadh, operated by Flynas, a leading Saudi low-cost carrier. The new route marks a significant milestone in strengthening air connectivity between Russia and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with far-reaching implications for tourism, business, and cultural relations. The launch ceremony, held at Vnukovo, was attended by aviation officials, diplomats, and representatives from both countries. The event celebrated not only the expansion of Flynas’ international network but also a deepening of bilateral cooperation. “This is more than just a new flight — it’s a new gateway for opportunity,”…

As temperatures rise across the Gulf, Grand Millennium Muscat is inviting families to experience a refreshing take on summer travel, rolling out its Hala Summer campaign with generous offers and enriching experiences that cater to all ages. Positioned in the heart of Oman’s capital, the hotel’s latest initiative promises not just a stay, but a memorable seasonal escape where luxury meets learning. The campaign includes up to 20% off on stays, an extra 15% discount for MyMillennium members, and a host of family-friendly perks. Children under 12 stay and dine free with a paying adult, receive a summer welcome treat,…