Author: Sam Allcock

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.…

Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), one of the region’s leading Islamic financial institutions, has announced the mobilisation of over AED 17 billion in sustainable finance by the end of 2024. This milestone marks meaningful progress towards the bank’s broader goal of directing AED 60 billion into sustainable finance by 2030. The announcement comes as part of ADIB’s 2024 Sustainability Report, which outlines the bank’s ongoing contributions to climate action, inclusive growth, and responsible banking practices. These efforts align with national frameworks such as the UAE Net Zero 2050 strategy and the UAE 2031 vision. First Financed Emissions Targets for an…

In a significant leap towards smarter manufacturing, the BMW Group has introduced Factory Genius, a new AI-powered assistant designed to support maintenance teams in diagnosing and resolving equipment faults swiftly on the production line. With every minute of downtime costing precious output, BMW is leveraging generative AI to minimize delays in its vehicle manufacturing process. Launched in its initial development phase, Factory Genius allows staff to ask specific system-related questions and receive tailored solutions within seconds. “AI applications have become an integral part of modern production systems and are a key element of the BMW Group’s digital transformation,” said Michael…

Signia by Hilton Amman has unveiled its latest culinary destination: Kyra Pool & Grill, a refined poolside restaurant offering a contemporary Mediterranean dining experience in the heart of the capital. Open to hotel guests and the public, Kyra invites visitors to enjoy an open-air atmosphere inspired by coastal Mediterranean elegance. The restaurant combines fresh seasonal ingredients, bold regional flavors, and an elevated service experience — all set beside the tranquil poolside backdrop. “Kyra embodies the essence of Mediterranean elegance, offering not only exceptional cuisine but also an atmosphere that brings people together for memorable moments by the pool,” said Luca…