Author: Sam Allcock

Shell and the Nissan Formula E Team have officially extended their long-standing technical collaboration, marking another chapter in their partnership within the FIA Formula E World Championship. The renewed agreement aims to drive further innovation in electric vehicle (EV) performance, with a strong focus on sustainable mobility and advanced lubricant technologies. As the sport enters Seasons 11 and 12, the two companies will continue their co-development of Shell EV-Plus fluids, which include bespoke E-Transmission and E-Thermal fluids engineered specifically for the intense demands of Formula E racing. These fluids are designed to enhance thermal management and efficiency—critical factors in the…

Kia Corporation has strengthened its reputation for vehicle safety, with three of its 2025 models earning the coveted Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) — the organisation’s highest safety honour. The 2025 Kia K4 (built after January 2025), Kia EV9, and Kia Telluride were each awarded the TSP+ designation, placing them among the safest vehicles available in the U.S. market under the IIHS’s updated and more demanding crash test criteria. These awards affirm Kia’s growing leadership in automotive safety innovation, particularly in structural design and the use of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).…

LG Electronics is turning up the volume on its audio line-up with the help of an unlikely but high-profile collaborator — six-time Grammy winner and tech innovator will.i.am. The partnership marks a new chapter in the company’s XBOOM series, as the Black Eyed Peas frontman worked directly with LG’s audio engineers to improve the sound quality and identity across the entire range. The first product to emerge from this partnership is the XBOOM Stage301, a rugged, portable speaker set to launch next month. Featuring a 120-watt output powered by a 6.5-inch woofer and dual 2.5-inch midrange drivers, the Stage301 aims…

In a notable step toward regional reconciliation, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan hosted his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, for official talks in Mecca on Tuesday. The high-level meeting signals continued momentum in normalizing relations between the two regional powers after years of political tension. This marks Araghchi’s first official visit to Saudi Arabia since attending the BRICS summit in Brazil, highlighting a renewed willingness on both sides to engage in diplomatic dialogue. The visit is widely viewed as an effort to strengthen bilateral ties and enhance regional peace and security across the Middle East. Focus on Regional Stability…

Integrated resorts are reshaping the future of tourism in the Middle East and Asia Pacific (APAC) by combining luxury, entertainment, and cultural immersion into holistic destination experiences. Experts at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 highlighted how these developments are not only transforming guest expectations but also unlocking new revenue streams and regional tourism potential. The eagerly awaited Wynn Al Marjan Island, slated to open in Ras Al Khaimah in 2027, represents a pivotal shift in the UAE’s approach to tourism. Similarly, Cinnamon Life’s City of Dreams in Sri Lanka, with a regulated casino component, marks the region’s growing embrace of…

Samsung has unveiled a range of new health-focused features in its upcoming Galaxy Watch, aimed at helping users build healthier habits in sleep, heart health, fitness, and nutrition. Part of the One UI 8 Watch update, these tools are designed to offer meaningful, real-time insights for lasting lifestyle improvements. Starting this month, select users will gain beta access to the new features before their full rollout on the next Galaxy Watch series. Empowering Small Changes with Big Impact Samsung emphasizes that the path to better health is paved with incremental behavior shifts, and the new watch features aim to motivate…

Four Seasons Hotel Amman has officially received the Green Key certification, a prestigious international eco-label that recognises excellence in sustainable operations and environmental responsibility in the hospitality industry. The certification marks a significant milestone in the hotel’s ongoing efforts to reduce its environmental footprint and contribute positively to the community. Green Key is awarded only to establishments that meet rigorous criteria across 13 key areas, including energy use, waste management, water conservation, sustainable food and beverage practices, and guest and staff engagement. A Comprehensive Sustainability Standard The Green Key programme is recognised globally, with over 7,000 certified establishments in 70…

Popular UAE retailer Union Coop has reaffirmed its full readiness for the busy summer season by expanding its product range to meet the diverse needs of travelers and vacationers. The initiative is part of the cooperative’s broader strategy to enhance customer experience and cater to a growing base of seasonal shoppers. To support travel preparations, Union Coop has introduced dedicated displays across its branches featuring in-demand travel essentials. These include luggage bags, chocolates, souvenirs, toys, food products, and a variety of beauty items—all designed to make travel more convenient and enjoyable. Shoppers planning to stay within the UAE can also…

Schneider Electric has earned a SmartScore Platinum certification for its Dubai headquarters, The NEST, making it the first rollout of the company’s Impact Buildings Program and a benchmark for digitally enabled, sustainable office spaces in the region. Awarded by WiredScore, the global certification body for digital connectivity and smart technology in buildings, the accolade recognizes The NEST’s perfect score of 100 across key areas including design, infrastructure, user functionality, and innovation. The building now stands among the most technologically advanced and environmentally conscious workplaces in the world. Flagship of the Impact Buildings Program Located in Dubai Silicon Oasis, The NEST…

Microsoft has announced the promotion of Naim Yazbeck to President for the Middle East and Africa (MEA), effective July 1, 2025. Yazbeck, a veteran of the information and communication technology (ICT) sector, has been with Microsoft since 2009 and most recently served as General Manager for Microsoft UAE. In his new role, Yazbeck will oversee Microsoft’s operations across a region marked by rapid technological change and growing digital economies. He will lead initiatives aimed at expanding cloud infrastructure, advancing AI skilling at scale, and building strategic partnerships that align with national visions and economic development goals across the MEA region.…