Author: Sam Allcock

As temperatures across the UAE begin their annual climb towards 50°C, LG Electronics has rolled out a new series of air conditioners specifically designed to withstand the country’s extreme summer conditions while cutting energy consumption. The company’s latest DualCool and ArtCool split air conditioning systems boast enhanced performance, reduced noise levels, and smart control features—offering a timely solution for residents preparing for months of relentless heat. At the heart of LG’s innovation is its Dual Inverter Compressor technology, engineered to handle temperatures as high as 50°C without compromising efficiency. The compressors automatically adjust speed to maintain the desired indoor climate…

Joby Aviation has completed its first series of piloted electric air taxi flights in Dubai, marking a major milestone in the race to launch commercial electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) services. The test flights are the first of their kind in the UAE and represent a crucial step in Joby’s plan to begin passenger operations by 2026. The California-based aerospace company has partnered with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), and the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to integrate air taxi services into the city’s transportation network. Construction has already begun on…

The death toll from a suspected case of methyl alcohol (methanol) poisoning in Jordan has risen to nine, with 17 total infections, according to a statement issued Monday by the Public Security Directorate. Authorities said that all patients are currently receiving treatment, and investigations into the source of the contaminated alcohol are ongoing. The incident has raised public health concerns across the country, particularly in the city of Zarqa, where several of the cases were first reported. The victims reportedly consumed alcohol laced with methanol, a highly toxic substance often used industrially and not fit for human consumption. Dr. Imad…

Jadwa Investment has announced a major $50 million investment in Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing digital fuel management platform, PetroApp, as part of a funding round that also included Bunat Ventures. The deal was led through Jadwa’s GCC Diversified Private Equity Fund, a blind-pool vehicle launched in late 2024 aimed at backing scalable, high-growth businesses in the region. The PetroApp transaction marks the fund’s fifth investment and follows its acquisition of Makhazen Alenaya, a leading beauty and personal care retailer in Saudi Arabia. Founded in 2018, PetroApp is Saudi Arabia’s first independent provider of cashless fuel payment and fleet management solutions. The…

The Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA, Germany, convened the 7th Edition of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Summit 2025 in Dubai, bringing together First Ladies from 14 African and Asian nations to collaborate on healthcare advancement and social transformation. The summit was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of the Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of MFFLI. Together, they welcomed an influential gathering of First Ladies, who joined as Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers. The attending dignitaries included: The summit served as…

Sportswear giant PUMA has officially extended its long-standing partnership with Borussia Dortmund (BVB), reinforcing a collaboration that has shaped both brand and club identities since the 2012/13 season. The renewed agreement ensures that PUMA will continue as official kit supplier for BVB’s men’s, women’s, and youth teams, and will produce a range of replica kits and fanwear for the club’s global fanbase. The extension comes amid a strong period for the Bundesliga club, which recently reached the UEFA Champions League final in the 2023/24 season and currently competes in the FIFA Club World Cup, where it has advanced to the…

Emirates Aviation University (EAU) celebrated a significant milestone this week as it held its 35th graduation ceremony, honouring 154 accomplished students poised to make their mark in the global aviation industry. Since its inception in 1991, EAU has graduated over 26,000 students, contributing substantially to both the UAE’s and the world’s aviation workforce. The event was attended by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group and Chancellor of EAU, who personally presented certificates to the graduates. Also present were senior Emirates Group executives, faculty members, and proud families and friends.…

The Bank of Jordan has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Amman Vision Transport, marking a significant step toward modernising Amman’s public transportation system and supporting Jordan’s national development goals. The agreement, signed by Saleh Rajab Hammad, CEO of Bank of Jordan, and Mohammad Attia Allimon, CEO of Amman Vision Transport, aims to enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and smart integration of urban transport in the Jordanian capital. This collaboration reflects the bank’s broader vision of contributing to infrastructure development and community well-being through targeted financial support. It also underscores the increasing role of the private sector in driving public service…

Epson, the global leader in visual and printing solutions, has officially named international music icon Shakira as its brand ambassador for the Middle East, Türkiye, Africa, Central and West Asia (META-CWA) region. The partnership is part of Epson’s new regional campaign, “Imagine New Possibilities,” launching July 1st. The collaboration aims to amplify Epson’s ongoing mission to make sustainable and accessible technology available to a wider audience while supporting creativity, innovation, and empowerment across diverse communities. Best known as a multi-Grammy award-winning artist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Shakira also serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, advocating for global education initiatives. Her deep…

Yas Waterworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi has officially unveiled its major new expansion — the Lost City, a sprawling 13,445sqm adventure zone that adds over 20 new rides, slides, and experiences to the region’s award-winning waterpark. The grand opening, held on June 30, was attended by HE Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General of Tourism at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and Dr. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, alongside media, VIPs, and influencers. The new zone marks a significant milestone in the park’s growth, bringing Yas Waterworld’s total offerings to over 60 world-class…