Author: Sam Allcock

Telecoms provider Ooredoo has launched the latest wave of its Springboard programme, reaffirming its commitment to empowering women in Oman and strengthening inclusive growth across society. The initiative, recognised as one of the country’s most impactful corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes, has already supported more than 5,000 women in previous editions. Developed by women, for women, the course provides participants with tools to unlock their potential, grow in confidence, and advance in both professional and personal life. Skills and self-discovery The curriculum focuses on self-discovery, confidence building, and communication skills, while also enhancing teamwork, time management and resilience. Participants are…

Burgan Bank has introduced Click to Pay, a new biometrics-powered digital payment service developed in partnership with Visa, marking a first for Kuwait’s financial sector. The launch aligns with the country’s wider New Kuwait Vision 2035 to create a digital economy and reduce reliance on cash transactions. The service, unveiled this week, allows customers to make online purchases through a single tap, without entering long account details or one-time passwords (OTPs). By registering once with unique identifiers such as a phone number or email, users can authenticate payments securely through fingerprint or facial recognition. Officials said the technology is designed…

LG Electronics has introduced its latest artificial intelligence platform, LG ThinQ AI, in Europe, signalling what it describes as a new era in smart home appliances. The launch took place at IFA 2025 in Berlin, where the company showcased how its AI-driven features aim to make everyday living more efficient, sustainable, and tailored to individual needs. The new platform integrates LG’s existing ThinQ UP and ThinQ Care services, offering continuous upgrades, proactive maintenance, and performance optimization based on user behaviour. LG says the technology allows appliances to remain “ever-evolving” and better suited to customers’ lifestyles over time. AI-driven home solutions…

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, has arrived in Doha on a friendly visit, marking the first visit by a head of state to Qatar since the Israeli strike on the country earlier this week. The Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported that Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, personally welcomed Sheikh Mohammed and his delegation at Doha International Airport. The two leaders are expected to hold talks on regional security, solidarity, and ways to respond to the escalating tensions. According to Reuters, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is also expected…

Digital applications are rapidly becoming the preferred way for residents in the United Arab Emirates to send money abroad, according to a new report from Visa. The Money Travels: 2025 Digital Remittances Adoption Report, released by the global payments company, shows that nearly two in three people surveyed in the UAE now favour using digital platforms over physical outlets when transferring funds internationally. The findings highlight that ease of use (50%), along with safety, privacy and speed (46%), are the leading reasons behind the growing shift toward digital channels. The role of remittances Remittances remain vital for many in the…

Canon has announced the EOS C50, a compact yet powerful addition to its Cinema EOS line, designed for professional videographers and production crews. The EOS C50 is the smallest camera in the Cinema EOS range to date, but despite its size, Canon says it delivers uncompromising image quality and flexibility. At its core is a new 7K full-frame CMOS sensor paired with a DIGIC DV 7 processor. The combination allows the camera to record internal RAW video at up to 7K 60P, alongside high frame rate options of 4K 120P and 2K 180P. The sensor also enables the capture of…

As the UAE shifts from the summer holiday season into the school year, families are beginning to plan short winter breaks. Hospitality group Accor is targeting this demand with a series of family-focused staycation offers across its Dubai Gold District and Dubai Deira hotels. The cluster of hotels is promoting affordability, convenience and entertainment through discounts and family packages designed to encourage weekend and short-term stays. Focus on family savings At the centre of the campaign is a simple proposition: book a room and receive 50% off on the children’s room, subject to availability. Dining is also structured with families…

Greenstone, the Middle East’s largest fund placement firm, has secured a Category 4 licence from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), enabling it to operate within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). The move marks a significant step for the 15-year-old firm, which is headquartered in Dubai and has built a reputation for providing streamlined access to international private equity and alternative investment opportunities. Strengthening investor links The new licence allows Greenstone to directly serve DIFC-based institutional investors and family offices under the DFSA’s regulatory framework. It positions the company as a gateway for global fund managers seeking capital from…

Ferrari has launched the 849 Testarossa, a hybrid super sports car delivering 1,050 cv and promising to set a new benchmark in performance and sustainability. The new berlinetta replaces the SF90 Stradale as Ferrari’s most powerful production car, combining a re-engineered twin-turbo V8 engine with three electric motors. The hybrid system allows the Testarossa to achieve unprecedented acceleration while improving efficiency and reducing emissions. A powertrain built for the future At the heart of the 849 Testarossa is an 830 cv V8 engine, the most potent iteration of Ferrari’s award-winning power unit. Paired with three electric motors, the system produces…

Dubai-based airline flydubai has signed a new interline agreement with TAROM, Romania’s national carrier, giving passengers access to 15 additional destinations through Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP). The deal allows flydubai customers to connect to cities on TAROM’s domestic and international network, including Athens, Amsterdam, Brussels, Cluj-Napoca, Frankfurt, Madrid and Paris. Ramesh Anantharaman, Divisional Senior Vice President of Revenue Management and Business Effectiveness at flydubai, said the agreement would expand travel opportunities for customers while strengthening commercial links.“We are excited to add TAROM to our growing list of interline partners. This newest agreement will enable flydubai customers to benefit…