Author: Sam Allcock
Sam Allcock is a seasoned media professional and content strategist with a passion for storytelling across digital platforms. As a contributor to Abu Dhabi Week, Sam brings a sharp editorial eye and a deep appreciation for the culture, innovation, and lifestyle that define the UAE capital. With over a decade of experience in journalism and public relations, he covers everything from local events and business trends to travel, dining, and community highlights. When he's not writing, Sam is exploring the hidden gems of Abu Dhabi, always on the lookout for the next story worth sharing.
The Ferrero Group has released its 16th annual Sustainability Report, marking another milestone in the company’s commitment to responsible growth and environmental stewardship. The 2023/2024 fiscal year saw substantial advances in key areas such as supply chain traceability, greenhouse gas reduction, sustainable packaging, and human rights protection. Executive Chairman Giovanni Ferrero reaffirmed the company’s long-term sustainability strategy, saying, “Sustainability is deeply embedded in Ferrero’s long-term strategy… to source responsibly, innovate boldly, and safeguard the natural world for future generations.” Supply Chain Transparency Strengthened Ferrero reported strong progress in traceability across its supply chains, mapping over 90% of key ingredients back…
Samsung Electronics has launched a global campaign titled “SmartThings Meets AI Home”, showcasing its vision for the future of smart living powered by artificial intelligence. The announcement comes just ahead of IFA 2025, one of the world’s leading consumer electronics and home appliances trade shows, held annually in Berlin. The campaign centres around a newly released promotional video that brings to life Samsung’s AI-driven SmartThings ecosystem. Designed to demonstrate how the AI Home simplifies and enhances everyday life, the video highlights a range of intuitive and personalised scenarios that use AI to connect, automate, and adapt to users’ lifestyles. Everyday…
Emirates has added two prestigious awards to its collection, following global recognition at the 2026 APEX/IFSA Global EXPO held in Long Beach, California. The Dubai-based carrier received the 2026 APEX Best™ Global Entertainment Award for its inflight entertainment system ‘ice’, and the 2026 APEX WORLD CLASS™ award, recognising the airline’s excellence across all areas of customer experience. The APEX (Airline Passenger Experience Association) awards are based on verified passenger feedback and professional audits, making them one of the industry’s most trusted benchmarks for airline performance. ‘Ice’ Named Best Global Inflight Entertainment System From a field of over 600 airlines worldwide,…
Canadian rapper Drake has set Arab social media alight after sampling Fairuz’s iconic song Wahdon in a teaser for his forthcoming ninth studio album, ICEMAN. The move, unveiled during a livestream preview, has been hailed by some as a bold cross-cultural nod to one of the Arab world’s most cherished voices, but criticised by others who feel a treasured classic has been altered beyond recognition. Fairuz: the voice of Lebanon Known as the “Voice of Lebanon,” Fairuz is one of the most revered figures in Arabic music. Her work has transcended borders for decades, her voice filling homes, cafés and…
Jordan has announced the construction of its first international car racing track, a landmark development that will place the kingdom firmly on the motorsport map. The project, known as the Aqaba International Circuit, is being developed by Engicon in partnership with the Aqaba Development Corporation. Covering more than one million square metres, it is set to become the largest facility of its kind in Jordan and one of the most significant in the region. World-class design The circuit will feature a 3.6-kilometre racing track built to FIA Grade 3 standards, allowing it to host a wide range of international and…
Aldar has announced the launch of Rise by Athlon, a wellness-focused apartment community in Dubai that forms the latest addition to its Athlon masterplan. The project comprises eight themed buildings, offering more than 1,200 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments designed to promote health, fitness and wellbeing. Overlooking Athlon’s expansive central park, the development builds on the successful launch of villas and townhouses in 2024. It is being developed in partnership with Dubai Holding, with the aim of meeting growing demand for residences that combine active living with modern functionality. A lifestyle centred on wellbeing The community’s contemporary architecture reflects a…
Hyundai Motor has unveiled the all-new PALISADE SUV in the Middle East and Africa, positioning the three-row vehicle as a premium flagship designed for families, adventurers, and luxury car buyers across the region. The launch marks what Hyundai executives describe as a “significant milestone” for the company in a market where demand for large, technologically advanced SUVs continues to rise. A bold new design The PALISADE’s design sets out to create a commanding presence. A wider stance, upright A-pillar, and elevated hood combine with a bold grille flanked by vertical LED daytime running lights. Large alloy wheels of up to…
NetForChoice, a global IT hosting, web hosting, and cybersecurity provider, has announced the launch of its latest state-of-the-art data center in Dubai, underscoring its ambition to strengthen its foothold in the Middle East. The facility, which has been engineered to deliver 99.95% uptime, integrates advanced Security Operations Center (SOC) services and enterprise-grade Network Operations Center (NOC) monitoring. It is designed to support the needs of regional enterprises across finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and other regulated industries. Expanding footprint in the Middle East The opening of the UAE Data Center is being described as a strategic milestone in NetForChoice’s global expansion. From…
Emirates has announced it will operate its new Airbus A350 aircraft on the daily service between Dubai and Hangzhou, China, from 26 October 2025, just three months after the airline launched flights to the eastern Chinese city. The move marks a significant investment in Emirates’ operations in mainland China, underscoring the airline’s strategy to expand connectivity and enhance the passenger experience. Flight EK310 will depart Dubai at 04:15 and land in Hangzhou at 16:00. The return flight, EK311, will leave Hangzhou at 00:10 and arrive in Dubai at 06:10, offering travellers seamless connectivity via Dubai International Airport to the airline’s…
Mouser Electronics, Inc., the global distributor of electronic components and industrial automation products, has released the latest installment of its Empowering Innovation Together (EIT) technology series, titled That’s 3D Printed?. The series examines how additive manufacturing is reshaping engineering and production through novel materials, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced design techniques. 3D printing, once a niche method for rapid prototyping, has evolved into a transformative industrial technology. Its strength lies in producing complex geometries and intricate internal structures that are difficult or impossible to achieve through traditional subtractive methods. The integration of AI and new materials has further accelerated its…