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  • Qasr Al Watan Welcomes Eid Al Fitr with Festive Celebrations and Activities

    Qasr Al Watan Welcomes Eid Al Fitr with Festive Celebrations and Activities

    Qasr Al Watan Welcomes Eid Al Fitr with Festive Celebrations and Activities

     Abu Dhabi(News Desk):: With the close of Ramadan around the corner, Qasr Al Watan is set to welcome visitors this Eid Al Fitr, with a blend of rich heritage with diverse entertainment, making it the perfect destination for joyful moments with family and friends.

    As night falls, witness Qasr Al Watan transform into a stunning canvas of light and sound with the mesmerizing Palace in Motion Show. Held daily at 7:15 PM, this immersive spectacle unfolds in three breathtaking acts, telling the story of the UAE’s rich legacy and its inspiring vision for the future. The palace’s magnificent façade comes to life as a living masterpiece, making this an unmissable Eid experience.

    Qasr Al Watan will be hosting the majestic Horse Marshal display, where guests can witness a symbolic figure leading equestrian performances with skill and pride. Taking place daily at 4:30 PM, this captivating experience honors the UAE’s deep-rooted horse-riding traditions, showcasing the beauty, discipline, and elegance of this cherished heritage.

    The presidential Palace will also feature the Military Music Show, where guests can feel the rhythmic beats and powerful melodies in a vibrant performance designed to unite communities through harmony. Held from Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 4:00 PM, this inspiring musical showcase spreads joy to visitors of all ages, creating a memorable atmosphere of celebration and unity.

    No celebration is complete without live performances, and Qasr Al Watan will come alive with captivating cultural displays. The traditional Al-Ayyala dance will take center stage, reflecting the unity and pride of Emirati identity, while the lively sea dance will transport visitors on a journey through the history of the UAE’s deep connection with the sea. Taking place during Eid between 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM.

    Visit Qasr Al Watan this Eid Al Fitr and immerse in a celebration rich in history, art and culture, where unforgettable moments await at every turn in this extraordinary landmark.

    To book your tickets and learn more, please visit https://www.qasralwatan.ae/.

    -ENDS-

  • Emirates Franchise Association Enhances Global Collaborations at Franchise Expo Paris

    Emirates Franchise Association Enhances Global Collaborations at Franchise Expo Paris

    Emirates Franchise Association Enhances Global Collaborations at Franchise Expo Paris

    H.E. Noor Altamimi: The expo is a strategic global platform for fostering connections and exploring the latest trends in the franchise sector

    AbuDhabi(News Desk)::As part of its commitment to enhancing international cooperation and advancing the franchise sector, H.E. Noor Altamimi, Board Member of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Chairmen of the Emirates Franchise Association, visited the Franchise Expo Paris from 15 to 17 March, 2025, accompanied by Hamda Al Suwaidi, the association’s Technical Director. The expo is one of the world’s leading franchise events, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts to explore new opportunities and innovative trends in the field.
    This visit aligns with the Emirates Franchise Association’s mission to support the growth of the franchise sector in the UAE, expand international cooperation, and exchange best practices with global franchise companies. It also aims to explore emerging trends that will enhance the local and international franchise landscape.
    H.E. Noor Altamimi said: “Our participation in the Franchise Expo Paris underscores the association’s commitment to developing the franchise sector in the UAE and embracing global best practices. The expo serves as a crucial platform for connecting with leading brands, investors, and experts, enabling knowledge exchange and identifying the latest industry trends that drive local and global sector growth.”
    She added: “At the Emirates Franchise Association, we are dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs by facilitating their access to franchise opportunities and creating a competitive business environment that enables their global expansion. Our efforts focus on strengthening partnerships with international entities, attracting global brands to the
    UAE market, and opening new investment avenues.”

    H.E. Altamimi emphasized that this participation represents a strategic step toward positioning the UAE as a regional hub for franchising. The association aims to enhance the franchise ecosystem through consulting, training, and innovation support, helping UAE brands expand globally and contributing to sustainable economic development.
    During the visit, H.E. Noor Altamimi held a series of strategic meetings to bolster international cooperation in the franchise sector. She met with Olivier Mermuys, President of the French Franchise Federation, and Véronique Discours-Buhot, General Delegate of French Franchise Federation, to discuss ways to enhance collaboration in franchise development.
    She also met with Sylvie Gaudy, Director of Franchise Expo Paris, to discuss best practices in event organization. In addition, she met with Professor Ljiljana Kukec, President of Croatian Franchise Association and Board Member of European Franchise Federation, to review the latest developments in the franchise industry.
    The visit also included an on-site tour of the expo to explore event organization strategies and the role of consulting and legal firms in supporting the franchise industry. H.E. Noor Altamimi also attended the Master Franchise Summit as part of the expo’s key events.
    As part of strengthening bilateral relations, H.E. Noor Altamimi met with H.E. Fahad Saeed Al Raqbani, UAE Ambassador to France, who welcomed the association’s participation and expressed his support for its involvement in Expo Paris 2026.
    The visit concluded with a meeting with Gwenaëlle Bouvard, a representative from Business France, to discuss collaboration opportunities for supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and enhancing UAE investments in the French market.
    The Franchise Expo Paris 2025 attracted nearly 596 franchise brands, underscoring its status as a leading global platform in the franchise sector. With over 40 years of expertise, the expo is a key international catalyst for brand expansion and market growth.
    Founded by the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce in 2014, the Emirates Franchise Association is an independent entity that has achieved significant milestones since its inception. It has actively participated in local and international conferences and exhibitions, organized forums and workshops to raise awareness about the franchise
    sector and provided consulting services to startups and business owners. Additionally, it has strengthened collaborations with global franchise institutions, facilitating knowledge exchange and business expansion in the UAE.

     

  • Tourism Seychelles Sets Sights on the Saudi Market

    Tourism Seychelles Sets Sights on the Saudi Market

    Tourism Seychelles Sets Sights on the Saudi Market

    Tourism Seychelles has intensified its marketing efforts in Saudi Arabia by participating as an exhibitor at the TBO Riyadh Event, marking a significant step in expanding its presence in the Saudi market.
    The event, held recently, saw over 300 attendees, including leading travel companies from Riyadh, offering a valuable opportunity for tourism professionals to explore new travel opportunities and forge strategic partnerships.
    As its first market engagement of 2025 in Saudi Arabia, the event allowed Tourism Seychelles to connect with travel agents, discuss strategies for promoting Seychelles, and explore new collaborative opportunities.
    During the event, the Tourism Seychelles representative also took the opportunity to highlight the upcoming FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025, set to take place in Seychelles from 1st-11th May 2025. This historic sporting event, hosted in the Paradise Arena, Mahé, will see 16 teams from around the world competing in a spectacular beach soccer showdown, offering a unique blend of world-class sports with the stunning natural beauty of Seychelles. Travel agents were encouraged to leverage this event as an opportunity to promote Seychelles as an exciting destination for sports tourism, luxury travel, and adventure seekers.

    Speaking on the significance of these opportunities, Ahmed Fathallah, Representative of Tourism Seychelles in the Middle East, said: “Seychelles continues to position itself as more than just a leisure destination; we are evolving into a dynamic hub for cultural, luxury, and sports tourism. With the upcoming FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025, along with enhanced air connectivity through Air Seychelles’ new flights, we see great potential to attract more visitors from Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC region. Our collaboration with key industry players, including TBO, is instrumental in ensuring that travel agents have the right tools and information to showcase Seychelles as a must-visit destination for their clients.”
    Tourism Seychelles was pleased to collaborate with TBO, one of the region’s leading B2B travel platforms. The event reinforced the importance of working closely with prominent industry players to expand Seychelles’ presence in the market. As part of this growing alliance, Tourism Seychelles looks forward to taking this partnership a step further by showcasing its presence at the TBO Travel Business Show in Dubai and Qatar in 2025.

    Tourism Seychelles remains committed to strengthening relationships with trade partners across the region, ensuring that Seychelles continues to be a top travel choice for visitors from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

  • Celestyal marks 10-year anniversary with exclusive two-for-one offer

    Celestyal marks 10-year anniversary with exclusive two-for-one offer

    Celestyal marks 10-year anniversary with exclusive two-for-one offer

     Celestyal marked 10-year anniversary on March 13, 2025
     Two-for-one offer available on 88 sailings departing between April 2025 to March 2027
     Additional ‘kids go free of fare’ promotional combinable on select seven-night sailings

    Dubai(News Desk):: Celestyal is celebrating a decade of sailing with a special two-for-one offer across 88 sailings departing from April 2025 through to early 2027.
    The two-for-one promotion* applies to 29 of Celestyal’s new-for-2025, three- and four-night ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises. Sailing roundtrip from Abu Dhabi onboard Celestyal Discovery, the itinerary includes calls at Dubai, Sir Bani Yas Island, Doha, Khasab and maiden visits to Ras al Khaimah. Prices start from $718 for two people on a three-night voyage, and $918 for two people on a four-night cruise, with all meals, soft drinks and WiFi included.

    Also included are sailings onboard Celestyal Journey, comprising:

     36 departures of the seven-night ‘Desert Days’ sailing roundtrip from either Dubai or Doha,and 24 departures of the new seven-night ‘Iconic Arabia’ sailing roundtrip from either Abu Dhabi or Dubai, prices starting from $1478 for two people, inclusive of all meals, soft drinks, WiFi, port fees and gratuities

     12 departures of the seven-night ‘Heavenly Greece, Italy, and Croatia’, including calls at Montenegro, and 11 departures of the seven-night ‘Idyllic Greece’, sailing roundtrip from Athens, with prices starting from $1538 for two people, inclusive of all meals, soft drinks, WiFi, port fees and gratuities

    Celestyal has further enhanced this offer by introducing a combinable ‘kids go free of fare’ and a ‘two-for-one shore excursion’ promotion, available across all 59 of the seven-night departures**.

    All offers are available to book from March 17 to May 31, 2025.

    Lee Haslett, chief commercial officer at Celestyal, said: While we maintain the fresh mentality of a challenger brand, we are incredibly proud of Celestyal’s heritage, built over 10 years on a foundation of warm hospitality and expertly curated itineraries that combine iconic destinations with hidden gems. To mark this milestone, we wanted to bring a host of unmissable offers to the market.
    “Whether it’s a family getaway in the Arabian Gulf or a chance to reconnect with friends and loved ones in the Adriatic, this promotion makes cruising more accessible to both returning and new-to-cruise guests.

    We pride ourselves on offering exceptional value and inclusive cruise deals, and our anniversary celebrations reflect this with a range of outstanding offers.
    Celestyals inaugural sailing took place on March 13, 2015, with a three-day Iconic Aegean; cruise roundtrip from Athens, calling at Mykonos, Kusadasi, Patmos, Heraklion and Santorini.

    In November 2021, the cruise line operated with two ships across the Greek Islands and Eastern Mediterranean,with Celestyal Crystal and Celestyal Olympia remaining part of the fleet until September 2023 and March 2024, respectively. These vessels were later succeeded by the current fleet, featuring the 1,260-guest Celestyal Journey and the 1,360-guest Celestyal Discovery. Retaining the warm hospitality of small to mid-sized ships, both vessels offer significantly upgraded accommodation and enhanced social spaces, tailored to Celestyal’s current audience.

    Operating year-round, Celestyal now sails across two key regions: Greece and the Mediterranean from March to November, and the Arabian Gulf from December to March. Both ships have undergone multi-million-euro refurbishments, with Celestyal Journey returning to service on April 12, 2025, and Celestyal Discovery on March 21, 2025, following further extensive enhancements.
    For more information, visit celestyal.com or call 0808 258 4170.

     

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    iACCEL GBI welcomes Dhruv Verma as Strategic Growth Advisor to Empower Startups Across MENA

    Dubai(News Desk):: iACCEL Gulf Business Incubator (iACCEL GBI), a leading go-to-market accelerator launched under the patronage of Dubai SME, is pleased to onboard Dhruv Verma, Founder and CEO of Thriwe, as Strategic Growth Advisor. This appointment reinforces iACCEL GBI’s commitment to fostering a thriving startup ecosystem across the UAE and MENA region, by bringing in successful entrepreneurs, established thought leaders and Intellectual Capital.
    A visionary entrepreneur and a Tedx speaker, Dhruv Verma brings extensive expertise in consumer engagement and scaling businesses across global markets. Dhruv is widely recognized for his success with GolfLan and his innovative, customer-centric approach to business. His proactive and growth-driven mindset has been instrumental in transforming his golf-focused venture into Thriwe, a leading loyalty and benefits platform catering to a diverse audience. Under his leadership, Thriwe has expanded its reach beyond golf and sports, offering tailored solutions across lifestyle, wellness, travel, dining, and retail. Thriwe evolved into a dynamic benefits marketplace in UAE and India, demonstrating Dhruv Verma’s keen adaptability and strategic vision. Today, Thriwe stands as a leading platform for loyalty programs and benefits, expanding from a single-market operation in India to a multinational enterprise spanning the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and the UK. This first-hand experience in navigating global expansion will serve as a catalyst for startups under iACCEL GBI, equipping them with the insights and strategies needed for accelerated growth in the region. Dhruv has been felicitated with accolades: -The Economic Times Most Promising Business Leader of Asia 2020 – 21 -Asia One Most Influential Young Leader of 2021-22
    Being a passionate start-up enthusiast, Dhruv Verma aims to add great value and vision to iACCEL GBI; the focus will be on guiding startups on growing business efficiently, providing guidance and unlocking new market opportunities in the region. Beyond this, contributions will also extend to iACCEL GBI’s Masterclass Series, designed to equip emerging businesses with the knowledge base required for success, and participation in the incubator’s think tank, helping shape the future initiatives to drive industry-wide impact.
    Commenting on the appointment, Deepak Ahuja, Founder and CEO of iACCEL GBI, stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Dhruv Verma to our growing network of visionary leaders. His remarkable journey in entrepreneurship and market expansion is a testament to what is possible with the right strategy and mindset. We are confident that Dhruv’s expertise will be vital in empowering startups under iACCEL GBI – equipping them with the guidance and resources needed to prepare for the future and scale successfully.”
    Anishkaa Gehani, Co-founder of iACCEL GBI, added, “We are extremely delighted to have Dhruv on board as a Strategic Growth Advisor. Scaling a business can be one of the toughest challenges for any founder and with someone like Dhruv as a part of our Leadership team gives impetus to our vision of enabling cross-border expansion for promising startups, helping them overcome challenges and unlock new market opportunities. His expertise will be pivotal in our mission to foster the vibrant start-up ecosystem of the region and not only guide our startups but also strengthen the regional ecosystem”
    On joining iACCEL GBI, Dhruv Verma, Strategic Growth Advisor, said: “Entrepreneurship is a relentless pursuit of innovation and adaptability. I strongly align with iACCEL GBI’s mission to empower startups and accelerate their success. In today’s fast-evolving UAE market, founders need more than just ideas—they need strategic direction, resilience, and a growth-driven mindset. I am excited to collaborate with this dynamic team to help young businesses navigate challenges, scale effectively, and contribute to building a globally connected, thriving startup ecosystem in the UAE and beyond.”
    Founded in the UAE in 2023 under the Hamdan Incubation Program, iACCEL GBI remains dedicated to helping growth-stage startups expand into the UAE and GCC markets, leveraging Dubai as a global launchpad.
  • Zeekr UAE and AW Rostamani Group Celebrate Landmark First Anniversary in the UAE

    Zeekr UAE and AW Rostamani Group Celebrate Landmark First Anniversary in the UAE

    Zeekr UAE and AW Rostamani Group Celebrate Landmark First Anniversary in the UAE, Highlighted
    by Exclusive Ramadan Collaboration at Armani Pavilion

     Zeekr achieves over 200% growth in January 2025, with ambitious 400% annual
    growth targets.
     The 2025 Zeekr 001 featured at an exclusive Armani Pavilion Ramadan event,
    highlighting advanced EV technology.

    Dubai(News Desk): Zeekr, the premium electric vehicle (EV) brand, celebrated its first anniversary in the UAE, reflecting on a year of remarkable growth with an exclusive Ramadan collaboration with Armani Pavilion.
    Presented by AW Rostamani Group in the UAE, Zeekr has quickly established itself as a leader in the luxury EV market, driving innovation and building a community of forward-thinking drivers, and championing a greener future.
    In just one year, Zeekr has launched two flagship showrooms and dedicated service centers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, introducing the acclaimed Zeekr 001 and Zeekr X models. This rapid expansion, supported by AW Rostamani Group, has positioned Zeekr as a key player in the UAEs evolving automotive landscape, redefining the
    boundaries of what an EV brand can achieve.
    Roberto Colucci, Director of Electric Vehicles at AW Rostamani Group, expressed his pride in the journey so far: “In just one year, Zeekr has made an incredible impact in the UAE, and we at AW Rostamani Group are proud to be part of this groundbreaking journey. The brand achieved over 200% growth in January 2025 compared to December 2024, with a target of 400% growth for the year.”
    “We are not just selling cars; we are shaping the future of sustainable luxury mobility.With the upcoming Zeekr 7X launch, we are setting the stage for even greater success, redefining the electric driving experience in the region.” He added Echoing this sentiment, Sky Shan, Managing Director of ZEEKR Group International UAE, added:

    The UAE has proven to be a dynamic market for Zeekr, and our success is a testament to our strong collaboration with AW Rostamani Group. Over the past year, we have witnessed an increasing demand for premium electric mobility, and we remain committed to delivering world-class products, innovative technology, and an unparalleled customer experience. Looking ahead, we are excited to introduce more groundbreaking models and elevate the EV landscape in the region.
    To commemorate this milestone and align with the spirit of Ramadan, Zeekr partnered with Armani Pavilion to host an exclusive showcase. Guests were invited to experience Zeekr’s innovative technology and craftsmanship, with a special focus on the highly anticipated 2025 Zeekr 001. This collaboration seamlessly blended Zeekr’s advanced
    EV technology with Armani’s renowned elegance, reflecting a shared commitment to excellence and sophistication.
    As Zeekr and AW Rostamani Group embark on the next chapter, one thing is clear, this is just the beginning. The future of luxury electric mobility in the UAE has arrived, and it is electrifying.

     

  • Abu Dhabi Modest Fashion Week 2025 Unveils Designers & Industry Icons

    Abu Dhabi Modest Fashion Week 2025 Unveils Designers & Industry Icons

    Abu Dhabi Modest Fashion Week 2025 Unveils Star-Studded Lineup of Designers and Industry Icons at Saadiyat Island

    Abu Dhabi(News Desk):: The highly anticipated Abu Dhabi Modest Fashion Week 2025 is set to take centre stage from April 14 to 16 at the prestigious The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi, as the 10th edition of the global Modest Fashion Weeks. Organized by Think Fashion and Red Events, in partnership with Miral Destinations, a subsidiary of Miral and the trusted one-stop trade and promotional partner for Saadiyat Island, the event will bring together some of the most celebrated designers and influential figures shaping the global modest fashion movement.

    As the 10th edition of Modest Fashion Week, the event will feature an impressive lineup of over 30 designers from more than 15 countries, showcasing a diverse range of styles from luxurious eveningwear to contemporary modest essentials. Highlights include Marina (Turkey), presenting an exclusive eco-conscious swimwear capsule with internationally renowned model Halima Aden; UAE’s Rabail Riaz, known for intricate craftsmanship and handmade accessories; and Leem (Saudi Arabia), debuting a sophisticated collection blending cultural heritage with modernaesthetics.

    The event will also welcome Imannoor’s heritage-inspired prints, Ashaalia’s timeless generational wear from Australia, and distinctive designs from Les Atelier (Netherlands), Arta Kallaba (New York), and Amina the Brand (Nigeria). Additionally, the event will showcase remarkable designs from leading Emirati designers Wafa Balaswad,Bespoke and House of Hamda, further emphasizing the region’s rich fashion heritage.

    Further elevating Abu Dhabi Modest Fashion Week 2025’s global stature, a stellar lineup of industry icons, including Halima Aden (USA), Zena Louay (UAE), Fatima de Tetuan (Spain),Sara Coelho Ansari (France), Niki Shah (UAE), and Rabia Sena Sever (Turkey), will headline the event. These leading figures will not only grace the runway but also take part in exclusive discussions and networking sessions, offering invaluable insights into the evolving modest fashion landscape.

    “Abu Dhabi Modest Fashion Week is more than just fashion—it’s about identity, inclusivity, and creativity. We aim to amplify modest fashion worldwide while empowering women to express their style with confidence,” said Ozlem Sahin Ertas, CEO of the Global Modest Fashion Weeks by Think Fashion.

    Miral Destinations’ CEO, Liam Findlay, emphasized the significance of the event: “Abu Dhabi Modest Fashion Week 2025 is a testament to the growing influence of modest fashion on the global stage, and we are happy to support its debut on Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi. As a destination that embodies culture, luxury, and innovation, Saadiyat Island offers the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates creativity and inclusivity. We look forward to welcoming designers, guests, and industry leaders to experience the unique blend of heritage and contemporary style that defines both Saadiyat Island and Abu Dhabi Modest Fashion Week.”

    With 1,500 attendees and over 100 high-profile industry icons, Abu Dhabi Modest Fashion Week 2025 solidifies its place as the leading global platform for modest fashion. Beyond the runway,the event will serve as a hub for industry networking, business growth, and thought-provoking discussions on sustainability, empowerment, and the future of modest fashion. “Red Events has proudly partnered with Think Fashion and Modest Fashion Weeks for several years. Abu Dhabi holds a unique significance in celebrating the regions modesty and culture,and Abu Dhabi Modest Fashion Week seamlessly integrates with the city’s rich cultural fabric,” commented Sonal Lohia Bhatia, CEO of Red Events.
    Abu Dhabi Modest Fashion Week 2025 will conclude on April 16th with a series of keynote speeches featuring distinguished industry leaders.
    Abu Dhabi Modest Fashion Week 2025 is an exclusive, invitation-only event catering to designers, retailers, influencers, and fashion enthusiasts. To get your free online invitation, visit modestfashionweeks.co.-ENDS-

     

  • Secure your spot at the F1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

    Secure your spot at the F1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

    Secure your spot at the F1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix with Yas Island’s exclusive Grand Prix Package

    Abu Dhabi(News DEsk):: Yas Island Abu Dhabi is bringing the thrill of Formula 1® closer than ever with the launch of the Yas Island Grand Prix Package 2025, granting fans access to the most sought-after tickets before Ethara’s official F1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2025 sale. This highly anticipated package combines a three-day Grand Prix experience along with a stay at Yas Plaza Hotels and participating Yas Neighbour Hotels, ensuring an electrifying race weekend both on and off the track.
    General bookings have officially opened, providing fans with a head start before general sales go live. With a limited number of tickets available, fans can secure prime seating across Abu Dhabi Hills, Grandstand, and Premium Grandstand categories, all offering unbeatable views of the high-speed action.

    Packages start at AED 3,715 for a three-night stay at a Yas Neighbour Hotel, including breakfast and a three-day Grand Prix ticket in the Abu Dhabi Hills category, and access to one of Yas Island’s four award-winning theme parks. Packages are also available for AED 10,805 for a four-night stay at Yas Plaza Hotels, including breakfast, a three-day Grand Prix ticket for the Main Grandstand and South Grandstand, as well as access to one of Yas Island’s four award-winning theme parks.
    Guests must stay during the F1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix dates from December 5-7, 2025.
    Upon booking, guests will receive all the necessary details to access their digital F1® tickets and prepare for an unforgettable motorsport spectacle. Given the high demand, fans are encouraged to act fast to secure their place at one of the biggest motorsport events of the year.
    With Yas Island’s world-class entertainment, dining, and leisure offerings just moments away from the track, this package promises a truly memorable race weekend. Whether a racing enthusiast or someone looking for a thrilling getaway, Yas Island offers an unparalleled Formula 1® experience that guests will not want to miss.
    For more information, please visit: https://www.yasisland.com/. -ENDS-

  • ATS Travel to accept Crypto Currency as a Form of Payment

    ATS Travel to accept Crypto Currency as a Form of Payment

    ATS Travel to accept Crypto Currency as a Form of Payment

    The deal agreed with Payhound will see ATS Travel accepting Crypto currency as a form of payment – a first in the Middle East region

    Payhound Partners with ATS Travel to Revolutionize Payment Options with Cryptocurrency

    Dubai(News Desk):: ATS Travel, a premier travel management company, and Payhound, a leading provider of fully regulated crypto payment solutions, are pleased to announce a groundbreaking understanding to enable ATS Travel to accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment for all its services. This new development marks a significant milestone in the Middle East’s travel industry, making ATS Travel the first large-scale travel management company in the region to adopt cryptocurrency for both corporate and leisure travel transactions, informed Saleem Sharif, Deputy Managing Director of ATS travel on the sidelines of the travel industry leading event Private Luxury Barcelona, from Private Luxury Events.

    Under this historic arrangement, ATS Travel’s clients – many of whom are high-net-worth individuals from across the Middle East – will now have the flexibility to pay for a wide range of travel services, including airline tickets, luxury travel, holiday packages, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Exhibitions, and Events) services, and more, using leading cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others, informed Sharif. This initiative is poised to be a game changer in the travel industry and reflects the region’s growing interest in digital currencies and blockchain technology, added Sharif.

    A First in the Middle East

    This collaboration is the first of its kind for a company of ATS Travel’s scale and prestige in the Middle East, setting a new benchmark for the industry. With a focus on innovation and forward-thinking business solutions, the understanding with Payhound enables ATS Travel to meet the demands of a tech-savvy, digital-first clientele, particularly those accustomed to high-end services. The implementation of crypto payments is expected to significantly enhance the customer experience by providing seamless, instant, and secure payment options while eliminating the delays and costs typically associated with traditional banking methods, informed Sharif.

    Payhound: Pioneering the Future of Payments

    Payhound, headquartered in Malta, is a fully regulated crypto payment provider with a proven track record of supporting businesses across multiple industries, including iGaming, financial institutions, e-commerce, affiliate marketing, and more. The company specializes in crypto payment processing, settlements, and large volume trading, offering businesses a secure and efficient way to accept digital currencies for their products and services. And we are excited about the prospect of collaborating with ATS Travel to facilitate acceptance of Crypto Currency as a Form of Payment for them, informed Melissa Lamb, Director of Sales, Luxury at Payhound.

    With a Virtual Financial Assets Service Provider (VFAS) license granted by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) in 2021, Payhound is one of the first regulated entities in the space to provide these services. Payhound’s platform ensures businesses can receive payments in seconds, eliminating the delays that are often associated with traditional banking processes, informed Lamb.

    A Strategic Move for ATS Travel

    The strategic collaboration with Payhound aligns with ATS Travel’s ongoing commitment to providing innovative solutions to its corporate and leisure customers. Khaled Ghubash, Managing Director of ATS Travel, expressed excitement over the proposed partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to be the first travel management company in the Middle East to integrate cryptocurrency payments into our services, once done. This arrangement with Payhound reflects our commitment to offering cutting-edge services that meet the evolving needs of our clients, particularly in a region where cryptocurrency adoption is on the rise.”

    Ghubash added, “By offering cryptocurrency payment options, we are not only meeting the demands of high-net-worth individuals and businesses but also positioning ourselves as leaders in an industry that is moving rapidly toward digitalization. We expect this to open new avenues for business and strengthen our relationships with our clients.”

    A Bright Future for Digital Payments in Travel

    This association signifies a shift towards more modern, flexible payment solutions in the travel industry, particularly in the Middle East, where the cryptocurrency market is seeing increasing growth. ATS Travel’s ability to accept digital currencies will provide corporate clients, leisure travelers, and MICE customers with a more streamlined, faster, and secure way to manage their travel expenses, informed Sharif.

    The association between Payhound and ATS Travel is expected to set the stage for further innovations in payment solutions for the global travel industry. The two companies are excited about the potential to further expand this offering and introduce even more groundbreaking services in the future, informed Lamb.

  • ADFD launches AED 440 million “Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza” project

    ADFD launches AED 440 million “Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza” project

    ADFD launches AED 440 million “Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza” project to boost Egypt’s tourism sector

    Abu Dhabi(News Desk)– As part of its efforts to support and revitalize Egypt’s tourism sector and enhance strategic investments, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has announced the launch of the “Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza” project. This luxury five-star hotel will be a landmark addition to the hospitality and tourism sector in Egypt and the broader Middle East, reinforcing .the UAE’s commitment to advancing global economic partnerships and supporting sustainable development.

    Valued at AED 440 million (US$ 120 million), the project will feature 302 rooms equipped with state-of-the-art amenities. The hotel will also house a selection of international restaurants and entertainment facilities, positioning it as a premier destination for luxury hospitality.
    The project is financed through a strategic partnership between the private sectors of the UAE and Egypt. ADFD is contributing 84.28% of the project’s capital through Abu Dhabi Tourism Investment Company (ADTIC). Additionally, Abu Dhabi National Hotels owns 10.22%, Overseas Tourism Investment Company holds 0.4%, Misr Hotels Company owns 2.73%, and the Egyptian General Company for Tourism & Hotels owns 2.37%.

    The foundation was jointly laid by H.E Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, Engineer Adel Al-Najjar, the Governor of Giza, from the Egyptian government, and the presence of officials from both sides.
    Blending rich history with modern luxury, the project promises an exceptional hospitality experience that meets the highest international standards. Abu Dhabi Tourism Investment Company is partnering with Accor Group, a globally
    renowned hospitality brand, to manage the hotel and ensure excellence in service and guest experience.

    H.E Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, said: “Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza” project is a significant step in strengthening Egypt’s tourism sector, offering a world-class hotel experience that underscores our commitment to sustainable investments in promising markets. Through our partnership with Accor Group, we aim to elevate the tourism industry while supporting economic and social development in Egypt.”
    He called this investment a reflection of ADFD’s commitment to advancing sustainable development projects and driving investment partnerships that fuel economic growth in partner countries.” Engineer Adel Al-Najjar, expressed gratitude to ADFD for its continued support. “We appreciate Abu Dhabi Fund for Development’s commitment to supporting Egypt’s development projects, particularly in key economic sectors like tourism.
    The Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza project represents a transformative step in strengthening our tourism infrastructure, enabling us to attract visitors from around the world thanks to its strategic location near Egypt’s most iconic archaeological sites.”
    He noted that this project is a model for successful investment collaboration between Egypt and the UAE. “We look forward to expanding such partnerships to further our sustainable development goals,” he said. By blending luxury hospitality with Egypt’s rich cultural heritage, the Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza project will strengthen the country’s position as a premier global tourist destination. Its strategic location near iconic landmarks will attract
    visitors from around the world, creating new investment opportunities and driving the sustainable growth of Egypt’s tourism sector.
    Through investments in transformative infrastructure projects like this, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to supporting Egypt’s national development agenda while advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).