Author: Sam Allcock

In a landmark moment for global luxury living, Shapoorji Pallonji, India’s 158-year-old construction and real estate conglomerate, has completed its first international residential project — Imperial Avenue — in Downtown Dubai. The development has officially received the Building Completion Certificate from Dubai’s Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), marking a major milestone in the group’s global expansion strategy. Soaring 45 storeys, Imperial Avenue offers sweeping views of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Canal. It features a striking 10,000 sq ft grand lobby and an array of ultra-luxury amenities including infinity pools, private cinema lounges, a fitness centre, and family recreation…

In a bid to reshape the way UAE residents access personal vehicles, Dollar Car Rental UAE has launched a new Rent-to-Own (RTO) scheme, offering a flexible alternative to traditional car ownership with zero down payment, free insurance, and maintenance services included. As the rising cost of living and rigid financing systems continue to challenge car buyers, Dollar’s new model is designed to give drivers a simpler, more cost-effective way to own a car. The program allows customers to rent a vehicle for a set period with the option to purchase it at the end of the term or return it…

SBC Medical Group Holdings, a global aesthetic clinic operator, has acquired Japan-based MB career lounge Co., Ltd., bringing the renowned JUN CLINIC network under its umbrella in a move set to reshape the personalized beauty and wellness sector in Japan. The transaction, announced on 17 July, was completed through a cash share purchase, marking a strategic expansion for SBC Medical in the fast-growing field of aesthetic dermatology and plastic surgery. The acquisition includes JUN CLINIC, which operates in major Japanese locations including Shirokane, Ginza, Yokohama, and Nagano. Known for its customised laser treatments and non-invasive aesthetic procedures, the clinic has…

Amazfit, a global smart wearables brand owned by Zepp Health, has announced the addition of NFL running back Derrick Henry to its growing team of athlete ambassadors. The partnership aims to highlight Amazfit’s role in performance tracking, recovery, and overall wellness, as Henry enters his 10th season in the National Football League. Henry, known for his exceptional blend of power and speed, will use Amazfit devices—including the rugged T-Rex 3 smartwatch—to monitor health metrics throughout his rigorous training and recovery routines. The collaboration is expected to give fans and athletes a closer look at how wearable technology can contribute to…

In a significant step towards empowering Emiratis and enhancing their role in the private sector, the Dubai Land Department (DLD), through its Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), held a ceremony to recognise the top real estate brokerage firms contributing to the Dubai Real Estate Broker Programme. The event reflects Dubai’s broader strategy to increase national workforce participation in key economic sectors. Held at the DLD headquarters on Thursday, the ceremony was attended by His Excellency Omar Hamad BuShehab, Director General of DLD, along with senior executives and representatives from Dubai’s dynamic real estate industry. Ten brokerage firms were honoured for…

In a major step toward rebuilding Lebanon’s deteriorating public sector, the Ministry of State for Administrative Reform (OMSAR) and the American University of Beirut (AUB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening evidence-based policymaking, driving innovation in public service delivery, and fostering academic-government collaboration. The agreement, signed on July 17, 2025, by Minister of State Dr. Fadi Makki and AUB President Dr. Fadlo R. Khuri, establishes a broad framework for cooperation at a time when Lebanon’s public institutions face unprecedented challenges. The ceremony was held at AUB and attended by senior government officials, university leadership, and academics.…

Abu Dhabi University (ADU) recently celebrated the creative achievements of its graduating Interior Design students with a high-profile jury review and design exhibition held at its main campus. The event brought together industry experts, accomplished alumni, and academic leaders to evaluate 26 capstone design projects, marking a pivotal milestone in the students’ academic journey. The jury panel featured eight senior professionals from leading regional firms, including Minotti, Bloomingdale’s Dubai, Aati, INSITE Contracting and Interiors, AECOM, Canadian University Dubai, and Amalya Decoration. Notably, several jury members were also ADU alumni, now established designers returning to mentor the next generation. Dr. Ahmed…

Al Tayer Motors, the official importer-distributor of Ford Trucks in the United Arab Emirates, has been awarded the prestigious Champions Award 2024 for its excellence across sales, after-sales service, and marketing. This marks the seventh time the dealership has earned the accolade—making it the only distributor in the Middle East to do so. The recognition comes amid a strong year for Al Tayer Motors’ commercial vehicles division, which reported a 40% growth in the construction sector and a 24% increase in logistics sector sales for 2024. “Winning the Champions Award from Ford Trucks for the seventh time is incredible,” said…

Emirates has officially launched Emirates First — a redesigned and exclusive check-in area at Terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport (DXB) — offering its First Class passengers and Skywards Platinum members an elevated, seamless start to their journey. Described as a luxurious and private space, Emirates First has been created to enhance the ground experience for the airline’s premium clientele. Located just steps inside the dedicated Emirates departures area, the grand golden entryway sets the tone for what follows: a quiet, refined environment offering hospitality, comfort, and privacy from the moment customers arrive. Adel Al Redha, Deputy President and Chief…

Gulf Air has announced a major expansion of its long-haul fleet with a new agreement to purchase 12 Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, along with options for six more. The move is part of the airline’s broader strategy to strengthen its international network and improve passenger experience. The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Bahrain’s Minister of Finance and National Economy, Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, and U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Joining them were Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, and Khalid Taqi, Chairman of Gulf Air Group. “This agreement marks a transformative step…