Author: Sam Allcock

A minor Japanese political party has named an artificial intelligence (AI) system as its new leader, following the resignation of its human founder after poor election results, AFP reported on Tuesday. The “Path to Rebirth” party, launched in January by Shinji Ishimaru, a former mayor, said the unconventional step marks the start of a new chapter for the group. Ishimaru quit after failing to secure a breakthrough in recent polls. Party member Koki Okumura, a doctoral researcher in artificial intelligence, told reporters: “The new leader will be AI.” He described himself as an assistant to the system, which is expected…

Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Emirates Airline & Group, Dubai Quality Group (DQG) has announced the second cycle of the Global Medical Excellence Award, opening for applications from 10 September 2025. Organised in collaboration with the Balsam Academy for Medical Education and Research, the award seeks to promote innovation, patient safety, and international best practices across the global healthcare sector. It will recognise institutions and individuals in both public and private healthcare, with winners classified into platinum, gold, silver, and bronze levels. Ms. Samira…

Saudi travellers are being offered an exclusive discount at Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi as the UAE resort celebrates Saudi Arabia’s 95th National Day later this month. Between 20 and 30 September, Saudi nationals can enjoy 20% off stays of two nights or more, with proof of Saudi identification required at check-in. The offer gives guests the chance to combine the holiday spirit with a luxury break by the Arabian Gulf. Located at the edge of Abu Dhabi’s Corniche, the five-star resort blends city energy with seaside relaxation. Accommodation ranges from deluxe one-bedroom suites for couples to the four-bedroom Royal Suite,…

Dubai’s automotive scene witnessed a landmark moment this week as Jetour, in partnership with Elite Group Holding, unveiled its flagship G700 premium off-road SUV during an exclusive media night at the Armani Hotel Dubai. The launch, held on 10 September, drew government officials, industry leaders, and motoring enthusiasts. The event reached its peak with a dramatic Burj Khalifa light show, announcing the G700’s arrival in one of the region’s most competitive SUV markets. Jetour, a fast-growing SUV brand built on its “Travel+” philosophy, has gained international traction with vehicles that blend safety, comfort, technology, and wellness. The G700 represents the…

McDonald’s UAE is extending its role beyond the fast-food counter and onto the sports field, launching its all-new Junior Sports Academy this September. The initiative, aimed at children aged 8 to 12, will offer professional training in padel, basketball, football, and cricket across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah. The Academy builds on the success of the company’s Junior Padel Academy, which since 2023 has trained more than 1,000 children across the UAE. With an expanded scope, the new programme reflects McDonald’s UAE’s push to promote healthier lifestyles and create “feel-good moments” for families in the Emirates. “Last year, a parent…

His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Saud Al-Faisal has visited Sahm Capital, the Kingdom’s leading fintech-driven financial company, for a ceremony that combined national priorities of health, education, and financial literacy. The event, hosted at Sahm Capital’s Riyadh headquarters, featured the signing of a landmark agreement with Walking Challenge Entertainment Company and the launch of new initiatives developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Education. The initiatives align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of creating a healthier, financially literate society. Senior figures from government and the private sector attended, reflecting the growing emphasis on cross-sector cooperation in driving transformation…

Palma Development, a leading force in the UAE’s real estate sector, has achieved a significant milestone at the Arabian Property Awards 2025, securing honours in all three categories it entered. The recognition underscores the developer’s reputation for architectural excellence, refined interiors, and lifestyle-focused communities. Two flagship projects were awarded in the development categories. Serenia Living, located on Palm Jumeirah, won in the Apartment/Condominium Development Dubai category, while West Residence, part of the Serenia District at Jumeirah Islands, took home the award for Residential High-Rise Development Dubai. In the field of interior design, the West Presidential Penthouse at Serenia Residences The…

Global Village, the UAE’s premier multicultural family destination, has announced the launch of its highly anticipated Season 30 VIP Packs, offering guests exclusive benefits and premium access. The coveted packs, which have become a hallmark of Global Village, will be available for pre-booking from 20–26 September before opening to the general public on 27 September through the Coca-Cola Arena website. This season, the packs come with an added twist: one lucky holder will find a hidden cheque worth AED 30,000, making the milestone 30th season even more memorable. Premium tiers and prices The standard VIP Packs return with four categories:…

Leading fintech company Sahm Capital has unveiled a gamified campaign to celebrate Saudi Arabia’s 95th National Day, offering participants the chance to win major prizes including a Lucid Air Pure electric car worth SAR 299,000. The two-week initiative, branded under the slogan “Own the Top”, reflects Sahm’s alignment with Vision 2030 goals of youth empowerment, digital innovation, and financial inclusion. Gamified participation Running from 9–23 September 2025, the “Complete the Sahm Logo” contest invites participants to collect five unique digital fragments of the company’s logo. The fragments are accessible via QR codes placed on Sahm Capital’s official social media platforms…

Epson has announced major progress in its sustainability campaign, highlighting a global shift to 100% renewable electricity and new initiatives to cut emissions across its logistics operations. The actions are part of the second phase of the company’s “Our Actions” campaign, which spotlights practical applications of Epson’s environmental vision and its pursuit of efficient, compact, and precise technologies. Global transition to renewable power In 2023, Epson became the first company in Japan’s manufacturing sector to run all global Group sites entirely on renewable electricity. This transition covers not only production facilities but also offices and research centres worldwide. The milestone…