Author: Sam Allcock

At the 2025 BIO International Convention in Boston, the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) and global healthcare leader Abbott signed a landmark partnership aimed at advancing pharmaceutical manufacturing and digital health innovation in the UAE capital. The agreement marks a major step toward localising healthcare production and reducing dependency on imports. It builds on Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a regional hub for life sciences, with a focus on self-sufficiency, resilience, and innovation in the healthcare sector. Announced during a strategic visit by a high-level Abu Dhabi delegation to the United States, the partnership is centred around four…

In a notable stride for environmental science and innovation, Dr. Rahaf Ajaj, Chair of the Department of Environmental and Public Health at Abu Dhabi University (ADU), has been awarded a German utility model patent for her work on biodegradable polymeric films. The patent, granted by the German Patent and Trade Mark Office (DPMA), signals a key advancement in sustainable materials research and strengthens the UAE’s growing profile in global scientific innovation. The registered innovation—titled “Composition of polymer films based on pectin containing a boswellic acid derivative for improved functionality”—was developed in collaboration with international researchers. The film leverages pectin, a…

Nissan is set to unveil two high-performance models from its NISMO lineup at a globally livestreamed event in Dubai on 24 June 2025, marking a significant moment for the brand’s presence in the Middle East. The event, scheduled for 7:30 PM GST (GMT +4), will feature the world premiere of the all-new Patrol NISMO, alongside the regional debut of the Nissan Z NISMO, offering enthusiasts an early glimpse into Nissan’s latest performance innovations. Open to customers, media, influencers, and automotive enthusiasts, the event highlights Nissan’s growing emphasis on motorsport-inspired design and performance in the region. The livestream will be broadcast…

Aldar, one of the UAE’s leading real estate developers, has announced that it generated over AED 3.5 billion in sales during the launch week of Fahid Island, Abu Dhabi’s first coastal wellness destination and the world’s first Fitwel certified island. The milestone figure was driven by strong demand for the first two residential developments on the island — Fahid Beach Residences and The Beach House — both of which blend luxury waterfront living with a wellness-focused lifestyle. Positioned as a global benchmark in integrated wellness and sustainable living, Fahid Island is rapidly emerging as a high-profile investment and residential destination.…

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the UAE’s largest bank, has become a Direct Participant in China’s Cross-border Interbank Payment System (CIPS), strengthening its role as a key player in facilitating Renminbi (RMB) transactions across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. CIPS is the official payment infrastructure for cross-border RMB settlements, providing faster and more secure transactions for international trade and finance. FAB’s inclusion as a Direct Participant marks a significant milestone in regional financial integration, positioning the bank at the forefront of the China–UAE/GCC economic corridor. In a statement, FAB said the move will enhance its ability to…

Visa Inc. has appointed Tareq Muhmood as Regional President for Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa (CEMEA), the company announced today. In his new role, Muhmood will oversee operations across more than 86 markets, representing one of Visa’s most dynamic and rapidly expanding regions. With over three decades of experience in banking and payments, Muhmood steps into the position after serving as head of Value-Added Services for Visa Europe. He joined Visa in 2019 as Group Country Manager for Southeast Asia and has previously held senior roles at Ahli United Bank, ANZ, and HSBC. Muhmood will be based…

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort is celebrating International Yoga Day with a five-day immersive retreat from June 20th to 24th, offering guests a chance to realign body and mind amid the tranquil beauty of the Indian Ocean. Set against the pristine backdrop of Raa Atoll, the retreat is led by Dubai-based yoga instructor Emilia Métaireau, a seasoned teacher with over a decade of experience and more than 2,500 hours of global practice. Métaireau brings a blend of ancient yogic tradition and modern mindfulness techniques to create what the resort calls a “soul-stirring” experience. Timed to coincide with the June 21st observance…

A rare Labubu doll sold for 1.08 million yuan (approximately $150,000) at an auction in Beijing on Tuesday, as demand for the quirky, monster-like toys designed by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung continues to soar worldwide. The turquoise figure, standing at 131 centimeters tall with a furry head and body, is reportedly the only one of its kind in existence. It was sold through Yongle Auction House, which noted the doll’s uniqueness contributed significantly to its final price. The auction also featured another large Labubu piece — a 160-centimeter-tall version with brown hair — that fetched 820,000 yuan (around $114,000).…

Kim Kardashian is no stranger to viral moments, but her latest post involving artificial intelligence has left the internet more baffled than impressed. On Wednesday, Kardashian shared a screenshot of a conversation with ChatGPT, the popular AI chatbot app, on her Instagram Story. The post included part of their exchange in which Kim appeared to speak to the AI in a heartfelt, human-like manner — a tone that many online found confusing or even unsettling. In the shared snippet, Kardashian’s message to the AI reads: “Thanks for taking accountability. It’s huge in my opinion.” The chatbot responded with: “Thank you…

Pop star Katy Perry’s expected absence from the upcoming wedding of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez in Venice has stirred speculation about the status of her long-term relationship with actor Orlando Bloom. While Bloom is reported to be attending the lavish three-day event alone, Perry’s absence is drawing particular attention due to her previously close relationship with Sánchez. The two couples have vacationed together multiple times in Europe, and Perry has even been involved in Sánchez’s women-led space initiatives through Blue Origin. Despite the long-standing friendship between the two women, sources close to the singer say Perry will…