Category: Industry

SHARJAH: The Sharjah Shopping Promotions, organised by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) in collaboration with various government and private sector partners, is experiencing a significant increase in sales across participating stores and malls.

The notable growth in sales is attributed to the continued influx of shoppers drawn to the attractive discounts and offers available this season across the emirate’s cities and regions.

Since its launch on 15th December, Sharjah Shopping Promotions has captivated both local and visiting audiences with enticing deals and raffle opportunities on a broad array of international merchandise and brands.

Shopping malls throughout the emirate are set to continue this trend, offering a variety of live entertainment, promotional events, and significant discounts as part of their winter offers until 20th January.

Abdulaziz Shattaf, Assistant Director-General for Communication and Business Sector, SCCI, stressed that the Sharjah Shopping Promotions this seas
on is reaping rewarding returns and contributing significantly to the retail sector’s recovery.

‘This success is a testament to the effective collaboration between the Sharjah Chamber and its strategic partners from both the public and private sectors. Our goal is to stimulate economic momentum in the emirate and enhance the retail and tourism sectors. These offers not only present major discounts and entertainment events that delight families and visitors but also play a pivotal role in highlighting the landmarks and diverse opportunities in Sharjah’s tourism sector,’ Shattaf said.

He urged both residents and visitors of the emirate to seize this excellent opportunity and visit the participating malls to take advantage of the discounts and enjoy a variety of entertainment offerings.

The Sharjah Shopping Promotions has seen thousands of shops participate, offering a series of discounts, draws, prizes, and valuable gifts across a wide range of products and international brands.

Accompanying these are herit
age and folkloric events across various commercial centres in the emirate, including City Centre Al Zahia, Sahara Centre, and Oasis Mall. Additionally, major events are part of this season’s Sharjah shows, with notable activities at Al Majaz Theatre and ongoing attractions at Al Bataeh Park, all of which continue to welcome a steady stream of visitors.

Source: Emirates News Agency

DUBAI: Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) has announced that it is partnering with Swiss brands holding company Richemont in a competition to solve challenges in the luxury retail experience by deploying innovative technologies and solutions.

The Future of Luxury Retail Technologies programme, which includes two challenges, is open to UAE-based and global start-ups, scale-ups and SMEs. DFF and Richemont are inviting businesses to create innovative solutions to efficiently manage waiting time in boutiques while improving client experience and engagement and innovative solutions to recruit younger clientele through unique and engaging experiences.

The programme is overseen by the Dubai Future Accelerators (DFA), an initiative of Dubai Future Foundation, which facilitates dynamic partnerships between start-ups, private entities and the government. The submission deadline is 28th January, and it can be made via the DFF website.

Finalists will be selected for a five-week programme. The programme will include air tra
vel, visas and accommodation for two people per company, access to state-of-the-art creative facilities, regional investors, advice from Richemont senior personnel, and help setting up a company outpost in Dubai.

Abdulaziz AlJaziri, Deputy CEO of DFF, said, ‘The launch of the second edition of The Future of Luxury Retail Technologies challenge is a testament of our ongoing collaboration with Richemont. It aims to attract pioneering and futuristic ideas to help shape the future of key sectors in Dubai and the UAE, as well as benefit communities.

‘The new challenge supports the collaboration between government agencies, private companies and entrepreneurs to generate ideas aligned with the significance of the retail sector. The challenge addresses the importance of developing innovative solutions catering to customers’ demands.’

Pierre Fayard, CEO of Richemont MEIA, said, ‘We are pleased to announce the renewal of our partnership with the Dubai Future Foundation through this challenge, in line with our firm
commitment to enhancing the process of innovation and supporting promising talents that enable us to shape the future. We will continue to work together to develop innovative experiences and reimagine the future of luxury retail.’

Entries to the challenge will be evaluated by a special committee based on quality, practicality, economic feasibility, and potential future impact. Finalists will then be invited to take part in the five-week programme in Dubai.

Companies participating in the challenge will connect with government entities, institutions and investment companies in the UAE and beyond, and receive support in obtaining commercial licences if looking to operate in Dubai.

Source: Emirates News Agency

GENEVA: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for November 2023 global air cargo markets indicating the strongest year-on-year growth in roughly two years.

This is partly due to weakness in November 2022, but also reflects a fourth consecutive month of strengthening demand for air cargo.

Global demand for air cargo, measured in cargo tonne-kilometres (CTKs), increased by 8.3 percent compared to November 2022. For international operations, demand growth was 8.1 percent.

Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometres (ACTKs), was up 13.7 percent compared to November 2022 (+11.6 percent for international operations). Most of the capacity growth continues to be attributable to the increase in belly capacity as international passenger markets continue their post-COVID recovery.

Compared to November 2019 (pre-COVID-19), demand is down 2.5 percent while capacity is up 4.1 percent.

‘November air cargo demand was up 8.3 percent on 2022-the strongest year-on-year growth in almost
two years. That is a doubling of October’s 3.8 percent increase and a fourth month of positive market development. It is shaping up to be an encouraging year-end for air cargo despite the significant economic concerns that were present throughout 2023 and continue on the horizon,’ said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director-General.

Source: Emirates News Agency

DUBAI: The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), the regulatory arm of Dubai Land Department (DLD), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ‘Zand Digital Bank’ identifying Zand as an approved bank authorised by DLD to oversee real estate development escrow accounts and offer associated services.

Real estate escrow accounts are specialised bank accounts designated for real estate projects, serving as repositories for funds collected from off-plan investors or project financiers. The primary objective of the escrow account is to streamline the construction process for off-plan units, ultimately safeguarding the interests of investors and bolstering their trust in the real estate sector.

Marwan bin Ghalita, CEO of the Real Estate Regulatory Agency at DLD, emphasised that this agreement with Zand Bank Digital aligns with Dubai Land Department’s ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation and effective partnerships with the private sector. The purpose is to regulate the emirate’s real estate sector by providi
ng a leading digital infrastructure and an innovation incubator for real estate per the latest standards, as well as by enhancing a secure and reliable environment among investors through escrow accounts, in line with the emirate’s objectives to enable digital transformation and adopt the latest technologies.’

Michael Chan, CEO of Zand, said, ‘Zand is proud to have been entrusted with this responsibility, and we are committed to maintaining the highest level of integrity in managing the Real Estate Development Escrow Account. Moreover, our collaboration with RERA to incorporate blockchain technology and AI reflects our dedication to innovation and our continual pursuit of superior customer service.’

As per the agreement, the account custodian is responsible for establishing an independent escrow account for each project. These accounts are specifically designated to develop the real estate project. Additionally, separate accounts are allocated for each unit within the project to receive payments from buyers
for those units. The Real Estate Regulatory Authority is responsible for providing the necessary data to the account custodian, which registered developers require to open and manage an escrow account.

To initiate the process of opening an escrow account, developers must submit the required documentation. Once the project is approved by the Real Estate Regulatory Authority, as represented by the Real Estate Development Escrow Accounts Department, the escrow account is opened by the account custodian based on the project approval certificate. Presently, this procedure is streamlined through an automated process. Developers are granted access to the system after they are approved as real estate developers registered in the developers’ registry. The submitted applications undergo a review process to ensure all registration requirements are met, and the project is approved. Following approval, developers are automatically authorised to open an escrow account and select the surveying company responsible for loadi
ng data related to the real estate units within the specific project.

Source: Emirates News Agency

DUBAI: Dubai has secured the top spot as the No. 1 global destination in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best 2024 awards for the third consecutive year, making it the first city to achieve this remarkable milestone in succession.

The recognition comes as the city marks the first anniversary of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, underscoring the success of the visionary strategy launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. The ambitious agenda aims to further consolidate Dubai’s position as one of the top three global cities for business and leisure, and the best city to visit, live and work in.

Dubai’s top international ranking was announced by Tripadvisor, the world’s largest travel guidance platform, in its Travellers’ Choice Awards for 2024: Best of the Best Destinations. These back-to-back accolades for Dubai assume even more significance because the winners are exclusively chosen based on the reviews of millions of globa
l travellers as part of Tripadvisor’s community. The awards look at the quality and quantity of Tripadvisor reviews and ratings for hotels, restaurants and experiences in each destination over a period of 12 months between 1st October, 2022 through 30th September 2023.

Commenting on the occasion, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, Dubai’s consistent global accomplishments, especially in the economic sector, stand as a clear testament to the emirate’s progress in translating the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum into tangible successes and realising the ambitious goals outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position Dubai among the top three global economic cities within the next decade.

‘Dubai has earned the prestigious title of the No.1 global destination in the 2024 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards for the third consecutive time, establishing the emirate as the first city wo
rldwide to achieve such recognition. This accomplishment underscores our success and reflects the outcomes of our developmental efforts in this crucial economic sector. Our strategic goal is to prioritise visitor happiness and satisfaction, and we pledge to continue our efforts in ongoing development, supported by a strong partnership with the private sector. Committed to maintaining and surpassing these achievements, we look forward to even greater successes in the future,’ Sheikh Hamdan said.

Sheikh Hamdan also commended Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism for its efforts in promoting Dubai’s tourism potential and introducing a range of options to meet visitors’ aspirations. He acknowledged the city’s commitment to providing excellent services, tourism facilities, and world-class infrastructure.

His Highness also expressed appreciation for all the sectors and government entities that played a crucial role in Dubai achieving this milestone.

The repeated acknowledgement of Dubai as the world’s favour
ite destination is a testament to the city’s vibrant and diverse offerings, supported by world-class infrastructure, exceptional service at all touchpoints, and continuous collaboration between the government and private sectors. Combining homegrown talent, entrepreneurship and concepts with international investment and partnerships, Dubai’s unique proposition has seen tourism become a vital contributor to overall economic growth, accounting for over 10 percent of the city’s GDP.

Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director-General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), commented, ‘Dubai’s unprecedented achievement of being named the No. 1 top global destination in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations Awards 2024 for the third successive year has only been possible thanks to the outstanding efforts of stakeholders and partners across the tourism sector, and their strong response to the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. One year into the D
ubai Economic Agenda D33, and with the city striving to consolidate its status as a top global destination for business and tourism, the award acknowledges the efficacy of our efforts so far, while also further raising the bar for what we can collectively achieve.

‘In an increasingly competitive international tourism ecosystem, Dubai’s consistent leadership in global metrics has been built on robust, ever-evolving infrastructure, a commitment to providing best-in-class services, and effective marketing and outreach that has seen the city identify, reach and satisfy a diverse range of travellers from around the world. Supported by our stakeholders, we will continue to take an agile approach to further elevate Dubai as a destination and meet our ambitious targets.’

The top Tripadvisor award is the latest addition to a series of global accolades bestowed on Dubai, further validating the city’s appeal as a multifaceted destination. In 2023, Dubai was ranked the No.1 city in the world to relocate to, in a report
by financial services provider Remitly, and was ranked the best city in the world for remote workers by property consultancy Savills in their top 20 list of the 2023 Executive Nomad Index.

Additionally, Dubai was named the world’s No. 2 city destination in Euromonitor International’s Top 100 City Destinations Index 2023 and also ranked one of the top 10 cities in the Global Power City Index, in a report issued by the Mori Memorial Foundation’s Institute for Urban Strategies in Japan. The UAE was also named the second-safest country in the world in 2023, according to findings revealed by Numbeo, the world’s largest database of user-contributed data about cities and countries worldwide. This recognition has further strengthened Dubai’s attractiveness as a top global liveability hub that provides a unique lifestyle, underpinned by high safety and security standards that allow travellers to visit the city with peace of mind.

Issam Kazim, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Mark
eting, said, ‘This landmark achievement embodies the incredible spirit of collaboration between Dubai’s public and private stakeholders that has led to countless memorable experiences for our guests. Global travellers in search of a safe, secure, and easily accessible destination have embraced Dubai’s diverse attractions catering to various segments, including families, thrill-seekers, business visitors, and cultural explorers. They acknowledge the city for its distinctive experiences that are exclusive to Dubai.

‘We are honoured by the continued appreciation and encouragement of our international visitors, with their reviews and ratings providing ample testimony for their cherished memories that inspire others to explore the exceptional offerings of our destination. As consumer demands and trends further evolve, and aided by the feedback we receive through Tripadvisor and other digital platforms, as well as directly from tourists within the city itself, we will continue to work with our stakeholders to main
tain the highest standards across city’s offerings and services, and ensure visitors have an unrivalled experience in Dubai.’

Dubai’s exceptional quality of life, initiatives facilitating easy entry, robust air connectivity, and globally acclaimed culinary scene collectively establish it as the preferred destination for visitors. Dubai’s efforts to stay at the forefront of global tourism involve constant regulatory, infrastructure, and travel initiatives that play a pivotal role in further accelerating tourism momentum. In October 2023, Dubai and Real Madrid announced a landmark global partnership in October to further elevate awareness of the city internationally in line with the D33 Agenda to position Dubai as one of the top three global cities.

According to the latest data published by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai welcomed 15.37 million international overnight visitors between January and November 2023, a 20 percent increase over the same period in 2022.

Source: Emirates News Agen
cy

DUBAI: Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has unveiled an exceptional calendar for H1 2023 featuring an impressive line-up of over 70 exhibitions, conventions and conferences to be held across the two venues, DWTC and Dubai Exhibitions Centre (DEC) located at Expo City Dubai.

The events spanning sectors like healthcare, food, energy, tourism, transport and technology are set to further boost DWTC’s contribution to Dubai’s economy and reinforce its status as a global hub for the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry.

Mahir Abdulkarim Julfar, Executive Vice President at DWTC, said, “As a global MICE industry leader, DWTC stands as a testament to Dubai’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. In 2024, our focus is on growth and expansion – with both our venues, the DWTC and DEC, gearing up to host a series of high-profile and transformative events. We look forward to the introduction of new exhibitions such as FESPA Middle East, as well as welcoming back prestigious legacy
events including Arab Health, Gulfood, Arabian Travel Market and many more. These major exhibitions and ground-breaking conferences and conventions are poised to propel Dubai’s reputation as a leading global business and tourism destination.’

In addition to showcasing an impressive roster of business events, DWTC continues to serve as a versatile world-class venue, hosting corporate meetings, sports and entertainment events. These diverse events contribute significantly to Dubai’s vibrant citywide calendar.

DWTC’s content-rich calendar will feature some of the world’s leading events such as: Dubai International Pharmaceuticals and Technologies Conference and Exhibition (DUPHAT) (9 – 11 January), Intersec (16 – 18 January), World of Coffee Dubai (21 – 23 January), Arab Health Exhibition and Congress (21 January – 1 February), UAE International Dental Conference Arab Dental Exhibition (AEEDC Dubai) (6 – 8 February), Gulfood (19 – 23 February), World Police Summit (WPS) (4-6 March), Dubai Derma (5 -7 March), M
iddle East Energy (16 – 18 April), Gulf Information Security Expo Conference, (GISEC) (23 – 25 April), World Art Dubai (2 – 5 May), Arabian Travel Market (6 – 9 May), CABSAT Middle East (21 – 23 May), The Hotel Show (4 – 6 June).

FESPA, a global federation championing the wide format printing community since 1962, is gearing up for its inaugural venture into the Middle East with the FESPA Middle East event scheduled from 29 January to 1 February at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai. This marks a momentous expansion for FESPA, renowned for its pivotal role in providing essential printing information and organising impactful events that fuel innovation and collaboration within the industry.

Making a robust return, Gulf Pack Gulf Print, the pre-eminent print technology sourcing show in the MENA region for printers and Print Service Providers (PSPs), is set to take place from 9 – 11 January. The event explores the latest industry technology and solutions while addressing the evolving needs of the pri
nting industry in the region. Exhibitors will be unveiling their latest machinery, materials, and software launches to buyers.

Dubai International Pharmaceuticals and Technologies Conference and Exhibition (DUPHAT), one of the Middle East and Africa region’s biggest scientific and medical events is back from 9 – 12 January. Last year’s event welcomed 1,147 companies from 82 countries and saw business deals signed totalling AED 6.12 billion. The 29th edition provides a platform for the entire pharma value chain and highlights the latest technologies and solutions in the pharmaceutical sector.

Intersec, the leading global emergency services, security and safety event, takes place from 16-18 January, marking a milestone 25 years of Intersec in the region. At this silver, jubilee edition, delegates can expect an incredible event, with over 1,300 exhibitors, and 12 packed halls across three action-packed days of trading, networking and learning.

Brewing excitement for its third edition from 21-23 January is the
World of Coffee Dubai, the region’s premier coffee trade show. Organised by DXB LIVE in partnership with The Specialty Coffee Association, the show first opened its doors in Dubai in 2022 impressing visitors with the Roaster Village, Cupping Room, the UAE National Championships, Brew Bar and SCA Community Lounge. The 2024 edition blends these favourites alongside lectures, presentations and more than 20 workshops. The trade show floor of 300+ exhibitors provides a place for buyers and sellers to meet, network and form new business relationships.

Concluding the month, from 29 January to 1 February, is the Arab Health Exhibition and Congress. This legacy event is the largest gathering of healthcare and trade professionals in the MENA region. The event last year contributed to US$1.81bn of business on its show floor. Now in its 49th year, the event is set to welcome over 3,450 exhibitors from 70+ countries, including influential leaders from healthcare and government, managers of hospitals and clinics, clinicia
ns, dealers and distributors, technologists, and investors.

In swift succession, DWTC hosts the UAE International Dental Conference Arab Dental Exhibition (AEEDC Dubai) from 6-8 February. The world’s largest annual scientific dental conference and exhibition is now in its 24th edition. The conference theme focuses on Education and Innovation Transfer and promises to leave a lasting impression on dentists, dental specialists, hygienists, technicians, radiologists, students, dental association members, ministry representatives, manufacturers and suppliers from around the world.

Offering a taste of the latest trends in the world of FB is DWTC’s flagship event Gulfood. The industry’s largest and most influential annual trade show in the world is back from 19-23 February. This superb five-day event covers the entire food and beverage industry, offering over 1 million sq. ft. of products and innovations on display. This renowned trading platform offers numerous opportunities to network, form new business relation
ships, sign deals, announce new products and developments.

The March calendar unfolds with the International Congress of Endocrinology (ICE) 2024 on 1-3 March. The three-day congress is a unique opportunity to explore the ‘Future of Endocrinology’ through an extensive and comprehensive programme featuring a variety of session formats and presentations from leading experts from the region and the world.

This will be followed by the World Police Summit (WPS) on 4-6 March. Organised by Dubai Police, WPS is an important platform for the world’s law enforcement authorities to converge. The 2024 event, themed ‘Uniting Global Forces for a Safer Tomorrow,’ draws prestigious forces from the FBI, NYPD, Interpol to the Australian Federal Police and Korean National Police Agency. The event welcomes metropolitan police forces from 138 countries. Furthermore, the leading gathering ground for the cybersecurity community worldwide, the Gulf Information Security Expo Conference (GISEC) will be taking centre stage from 23 to
25 April.

The well-renowned global event for the inbound and outbound travel industry in the Middle East, Arabian Travel Market will be making its much-anticipated return from 6-9 May.

Meanwhile, CABSAT Middle East, serving as a platform for the global media, content broadcast, satellite and entertainment will be making its mark once again from 21-23 May.

Adding to vibrant roster of upcoming events, the Middle East’s flagship event for the burgeoning hospitality industry, The Hotel Show, is confirmed to take place from 4-6 June.

‘Dubai’s upcoming events season is shaping up to be one of the busiest not only in the region but also on a global scale. As international business communities converge to conduct trade, network and foster collaboration, we are on track for substantial growth in business tourism, solidifying DWTC’s pivotal role as a catalyst for Dubai’s economic success,” Julfar added.

Source: Emirates News Agency