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.

Dubai-based real estate development and investment group Sweid & Sweid has completed the sale of River Park 10, a Class A industrial development in Atlanta, Georgia, to Georgia Power, the state’s largest public utility company. The transaction, valued at AED 350 million, marks another milestone in the company’s growing U.S. investment portfolio. River Park 10 covers 825,000 square feet and was sold to Georgia Power for its own use. The project’s scale, quality and strategic connectivity were cited as key factors behind the swift transaction. “This sale is another successful exit for our group,” said Maher Sweid, Managing Partner of…

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Cognite, the Norwegian-based leader in industrial artificial intelligence (AI), has announced a significant update to its flagship product, Cognite Atlas AI™, with the aim of accelerating global adoption of AI-powered solutions in the industrial sector. The company describes Atlas AI as the world’s first low-code industrial AI agent workbench, designed to integrate operational technology (OT), information technology (IT), and engineering data in real time. The latest release, revealed ahead of the Atlas AI Summit in Tokyo on 10 September, promises to simplify and scale the deployment of production-ready AI agents across industries. Cognite says momentum around the platform is growing…

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Japanese developer AGNI-FLARE CO., LTD. has announced the worldwide release of its new online competitive puzzle game SHIKA-Q, due in Fall 2025 for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation®4 and PlayStation®5. The company, based in Yokohama, described SHIKA-Q as a “fusion of strategy, music, and competitive speed,” aiming to redefine puzzle gaming with real-time online battles, dynamic visuals, and a unique music-driven experience. Real-time puzzle combat At its core, SHIKA-Q places players on a 10×10 board, where linking blocks unleashes rapid-fire attacks and defensive manoeuvres against opponents. Unlike traditional puzzle games, developers say SHIKA-Q emphasises split-second decision-making and fast-paced tactics, likening it to…

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Telecoms provider Ooredoo has launched the latest wave of its Springboard programme, reaffirming its commitment to empowering women in Oman and strengthening inclusive growth across society. The initiative, recognised as one of the country’s most impactful corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes, has already supported more than 5,000 women in previous editions. Developed by women, for women, the course provides participants with tools to unlock their potential, grow in confidence, and advance in both professional and personal life. Skills and self-discovery The curriculum focuses on self-discovery, confidence building, and communication skills, while also enhancing teamwork, time management and resilience. Participants are…

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Burgan Bank has introduced Click to Pay, a new biometrics-powered digital payment service developed in partnership with Visa, marking a first for Kuwait’s financial sector. The launch aligns with the country’s wider New Kuwait Vision 2035 to create a digital economy and reduce reliance on cash transactions. The service, unveiled this week, allows customers to make online purchases through a single tap, without entering long account details or one-time passwords (OTPs). By registering once with unique identifiers such as a phone number or email, users can authenticate payments securely through fingerprint or facial recognition. Officials said the technology is designed…

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LG Electronics has introduced its latest artificial intelligence platform, LG ThinQ AI, in Europe, signalling what it describes as a new era in smart home appliances. The launch took place at IFA 2025 in Berlin, where the company showcased how its AI-driven features aim to make everyday living more efficient, sustainable, and tailored to individual needs. The new platform integrates LG’s existing ThinQ UP and ThinQ Care services, offering continuous upgrades, proactive maintenance, and performance optimization based on user behaviour. LG says the technology allows appliances to remain “ever-evolving” and better suited to customers’ lifestyles over time. AI-driven home solutions…

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Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, has arrived in Doha on a friendly visit, marking the first visit by a head of state to Qatar since the Israeli strike on the country earlier this week. The Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported that Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, personally welcomed Sheikh Mohammed and his delegation at Doha International Airport. The two leaders are expected to hold talks on regional security, solidarity, and ways to respond to the escalating tensions. According to Reuters, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is also expected…

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Digital applications are rapidly becoming the preferred way for residents in the United Arab Emirates to send money abroad, according to a new report from Visa. The Money Travels: 2025 Digital Remittances Adoption Report, released by the global payments company, shows that nearly two in three people surveyed in the UAE now favour using digital platforms over physical outlets when transferring funds internationally. The findings highlight that ease of use (50%), along with safety, privacy and speed (46%), are the leading reasons behind the growing shift toward digital channels. The role of remittances Remittances remain vital for many in the…

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Canon has announced the EOS C50, a compact yet powerful addition to its Cinema EOS line, designed for professional videographers and production crews. The EOS C50 is the smallest camera in the Cinema EOS range to date, but despite its size, Canon says it delivers uncompromising image quality and flexibility. At its core is a new 7K full-frame CMOS sensor paired with a DIGIC DV 7 processor. The combination allows the camera to record internal RAW video at up to 7K 60P, alongside high frame rate options of 4K 120P and 2K 180P. The sensor also enables the capture of…

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As the UAE shifts from the summer holiday season into the school year, families are beginning to plan short winter breaks. Hospitality group Accor is targeting this demand with a series of family-focused staycation offers across its Dubai Gold District and Dubai Deira hotels. The cluster of hotels is promoting affordability, convenience and entertainment through discounts and family packages designed to encourage weekend and short-term stays. Focus on family savings At the centre of the campaign is a simple proposition: book a room and receive 50% off on the children’s room, subject to availability. Dining is also structured with families…

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