Author: Sam Allcock
Sam Allcock
Sam Allcock is a seasoned media professional and content strategist with a passion for storytelling across digital platforms. As a contributor to Abu Dhabi Week, Sam brings a sharp editorial eye and a deep appreciation for the culture, innovation, and lifestyle that define the UAE capital. With over a decade of experience in journalism and public relations, he covers everything from local events and business trends to travel, dining, and community highlights. When he's not writing, Sam is exploring the hidden gems of Abu Dhabi, always on the lookout for the next story worth sharing.
KSA, November 4, 2025 – The Saudi Film Commission (SFC), one of the 11 cultural sector commissions overseen by the Saudi Ministry of Culture, has introduced a next-generation virtual production soundstage at JAX Film Studios in Riyadh. The film-ready virtual production volume has been custom-designed by Pixomondo and utilises Sony’s latest VERONA Crystal LED panel technology, marking a major step forward in the Kingdom’s production infrastructure. The stage features: The wider JAX Film Studios complex provides a fully integrated filming environment, including two 1,500-square-metre soundstages, executive lounge facilities, a professional-grade screening theatre, and comprehensive office and preparation spaces for film…
Microsoft and G42 are set to enhance the UAE’s digital infrastructure with a 200-megawatt (MW) boost in datacenter capacity. Building on Microsoft’s $15.2 billion UAE investment commitment, the company is expanding its strategic collaboration with G42 to accelerate the UAE’s digital transformation. Both organisations confirmed a 200MW datacenter expansion to be delivered via Khazna Data Centers, a subsidiary of G42. The first stages of this expanded capacity are expected to come online by the end of 2026, representing a notable step in strengthening the nation’s technology landscape. The initiative is driven by a mutual focus on secure and responsible innovation.…
Hitit and Pegasus Airlines have reached a significant milestone in the advancement of airline retailing. Using Hitit Oxygen—acknowledged as the world’s leading live Modern Airline Retailing platform—Pegasus can now offer a diverse range of travel products both through its direct digital channels and across international third-party distribution networks. This represents a major enhancement for customer experience and reinforces both companies’ leadership in aviation’s digital transformation. Hitit, recognised among the top three global technology suppliers for the airline and travel industries, has partnered with Pegasus Airlines, one of Türkiye’s most progressive carriers in adopting new technologies. Together, they are presenting a…
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has revealed plans for the inaugural Digital Heritage Forum, a global gathering designed to advance cultural preservation through innovative digital technologies. Scheduled to take place from 3 to 5 November at the Cultural Foundation, the closed event will assemble 250 regional and international participants, featuring 132 expert speakers and representatives from 128 leading institutions worldwide. The Forum will welcome cultural authorities, technology pioneers and key voices in the field of heritage documentation. By providing a shared platform for practitioners across areas such as digital humanities, heritage conservation and…
Ten years after winning consecutive jiu-jitsu world titles in the UAE capital, the Brazilian-American returned on October 25 to secure her first UFC championship and make history in the region. For Mackenzie Dern, Abu Dhabi has always been more than just another competition venue. It is where her name first began to resonate across the global jiu-jitsu community. Now, a decade later, it has also become the place where she reached the pinnacle of her MMA career. Competing in the co-main event of UFC 321, Dern faced fellow Brazilian Virna Jandiroba for the vacant strawweight title. After five hard-fought rounds,…
Portfolio Growth Extends into Ras Al Khaimah and Europe The First Group Hospitality has confirmed multiple new hotel management deals signed during the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) World, highlighting its ongoing advancement as a major player in the regional hotel management landscape. A signing ceremony on the summit’s first day included the unveiling of rebranding plans for three major Dubai properties, now joining Marriott International’s Tribute Portfolio and Autograph Collection. The hotels are The First Collection Marina, Dubai, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel; The First Collection Waterfront, Dubai, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel; and Hotel Local Dubai, Jumeirah Village Triangle, Autograph Collection.…
The second edition of Manar Abu Dhabi, part of the Public Art Abu Dhabi initiative led by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), has launched in Al Ain for the first time, opening to the public on 1 November 2025. Centred on the theme “The Light Compass” and curated by Khai Hori (Artistic Director), Alia Zaal Lootah (Curator), Munira Al Sayegh (Curator), and Mariam Alshehhi (Assistant Curator), this edition showcases light-based artworks by six Emirati and international artists. The installations illuminate Al Jimi and Al Qattara oases, which are part of Al Ain’s cultural…
This academic year marks the 10th anniversary of Swiss International Scientific School Dubai (SISD), the UAE’s first bilingual International Baccalaureate (IB) Continuum school, commemorating a decade of educational advancement, innovative practice and community impact. A Journey of Expansion and International Excellence SISD opened its doors in 2015 under the vision of Swiss entrepreneur Omar Danial, beginning with just 235 students. Today, it has grown into a thriving school community of over 2,900 students from more than 100 nationalities and is widely regarded as a leading international school in the Middle East. In 2023, the school became part of Nord Anglia…
A celebration of seasonal dining, warm gatherings and delightful takeaways to elevate your holiday moments ‘Tis the season to sparkle and voco Bonnington Dubai is set to mark the festive period with an array of dining experiences and celebrations designed to create lasting memories. Whether indulging in a sumptuous brunch, attending an elegant gala dinner or choosing gourmet takeaway options to enjoy at home, guests can look forward to a holiday season at voco Bonnington that is merry, bright and full of flavour. Festive Takeaways – A Feast to Remember (with a 20% Early Bird Offer!) Why cook when you…
Manar Abu Dhabi, a programme within Public Art Abu Dhabi and supported by The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), has revealed a special culinary collaboration. In partnership with WE ARE ONA and Luca Pronzato, a limited-run dining experience hosted by Michelin-starred chef Solemann Haddad of Moonrise will take place between 16 and 22 November 2025 at Jubail Island. This marks WE ARE ONA’s first appearance in the Middle East. The concept, shaped around the primal connection between fire and the stars, invites diners to engage with the heritage of outdoor cooking. The experience will…