Author: Sam Allcock

stc group, a leading digital enabler in the Middle East, has released its 2024 Sustainability Report, revealing significant progress across its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) priorities. The report outlines how the group is embedding sustainability into its operations through targeted initiatives under three pillars: Environmental Performance & Climate, Human Capital Development through Digital Innovation, and Governance & Ethical Excellence. Environmental Impact: Reducing Emissions and E-Waste In 2024, stc group implemented AI-driven energy management, energy-efficient technologies, and circular economy practices that led to a 3.6% drop in Scope 1 emissions, a 14.6% reduction in Scope 3 emissions, and a 9.8%…

Sharjah Airport has announced the resumption of direct flights to Damascus, operated by Air Arabia, restoring a key air link between the UAE and Syria after years of suspension. The route will now operate twice daily between Sharjah Airport and Damascus International Airport, catering to the rising demand for travel between the two nations. The first flight was marked by a welcoming ceremony attended by senior officials, including H.E. Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority (SAA), Dr. Ziad Yahya Zahreddine, Consul General of Syria in the UAE, and H.E. Adel Al Ali, CEO of Air Arabia. Representatives…

In a move to empower the next generation of Emirati professionals, du, the UAE’s leading telecom and digital services provider, has launched Experience X — a new internship initiative tailored to bridge the gap between academic education and the professional world. Aimed at nurturing undergraduate Emirati talent, Experience X reflects du’s commitment to Emiratization and to creating meaningful career pathways for young nationals. The 12-week immersive program provides students with hands-on industry experience while cultivating technical, professional, and soft skills in real-world business environments. “We believe in the power of the youth as the driving force for our nation’s future,”…

Food lovers in Makkah are invited to savour the timeless charm of Ottoman-inspired cuisine as Address Jabal Omar Makkah launches its Turkish Soul Food July Special at The Restaurant. Running daily throughout July, the culinary showcase offers an immersive dining experience that blends the rich legacy of Turkish cooking with a modern twist. Drawing inspiration from the eclectic Ottoman kitchen, the Turkish Soul Food concept brings together flavours from Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Balkan traditions, curated to celebrate Turkey’s culinary heritage. Guests can expect bold spices, refined textures, and traditional presentation—all served in a luxurious, welcoming setting. Set across the…

Google has rolled out two powerful AI features—photo-to-video transformation and a new AI filmmaking tool called Flow—for Gemini Ultra and Pro users across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Starting today, creators and artists in MENA can access the new photo-to-video capability, which allows users to animate any still image into an eight-second video clip with audio, powered by Google’s advanced generative AI models. To use the tool, users can select “Videos” from Gemini’s prompt menu, upload a photo, and enter a brief description along with audio cues. The AI then generates a dynamic video version of the…

Turkish Airlines has been named the Best Airline in Europe at the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards, securing the prestigious honour for the tenth time and reaffirming its place among the world’s aviation elite. The announcement was made at a high-profile ceremony held at the historic Air and Space Museum in Paris on 17 June. The airline, known for operating flights to more countries than any other carrier, also clinched eight awards in total, including recognitions for both its business and economy class services. Alongside the European title, Turkish Airlines was awarded: The accolades are based on direct feedback from…

The Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab Middle East and North Africa (J-PAL MENA), based at The American University in Cairo (AUC), this week celebrated its fifth anniversary with a high-profile event that highlighted the organisation’s transformative role in advancing evidence-based policymaking across the region. Held at AUC’s Malak Gabr Theater, the event brought together leading researchers, government officials, development partners, and donors. A keynote address by Nobel Laureate and J-PAL co-founder Professor Abhijit Banerjee underscored the importance of data-driven interventions to solve poverty and social challenges. Egypt’s Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, Rania Al Mashat, also…

As temperatures rise across the Middle East, Shaza Hotels is welcoming travellers with a new seasonal campaign that blends luxury with cultural charm. The “Summer Smiles” offer, launched this week, is designed to encourage families to embrace slow, meaningful travel through immersive experiences inspired by heritage, nature, and connection. Available across all Shaza and Mysk by Shaza properties, the Summer Smiles offer includes 25% off Best Available Rates (BAR), 50% off additional rooms for children, complimentary stay and dining for kids under 12, and an additional 10% discount for members of the DISCOVERY loyalty programme. “This isn’t just about rates—it’s…

Cristiano Ronaldo has signed a contract extension with Saudi club Al Nassr that will see him remain with the team until 2027—and earn a staggering €400 million per year, cementing his place as the highest-paid athlete in history. The new deal breaks down to €33.34 million per month, €7.6 million per week, and over €1.1 million per day. That’s roughly €772 per minute and €13 per second. Ronaldo’s latest contract, widely reported to exceed €500 million in total value once bonuses and ownership stakes are accounted for, includes not only salary but also significant performance incentives and part-ownership in the…

James Gunn’s highly anticipated reboot of Superman is drawing enthusiastic early reactions, with many fans and critics already hailing it as one of the best superhero films in recent years—even before its official cinema debut. The film, which introduces David Corenswet as Clark Kent/Superman and serves as the foundation for the newly revamped DC Universe, has left early viewers both impressed and emotional. On social media, early screening attendees praised the movie’s tone, visuals, and heartfelt storytelling. Bryan Sudfield, a film journalist, took to X (formerly Twitter) to write: “Superman soars with heart, humor, and style — a bold yet…