Author: 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.
Students from Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) recently returned from a two-week service learning trip to Tanzania, where they gained hands-on experience in cross-cultural communication and delivering healthcare in resource-limited settings. The group of eleven students worked alongside local doctors and nurses in the Kilimanjaro region, setting up field clinics, conducting free health checks, and assisting with home visits. They also visited Kibosho Hospital—a 225-bed facility near Moshi—and the Amani Centre orphanage. Beyond medical service, the students immersed themselves in Tanzanian culture, meeting members of the Maasai and Hadza communities, attending a traditional batik class, shopping at local markets, and exploring…
HSBC has opened the region’s first wealth centre in Dubai, marking a significant step in its strategy to strengthen its international wealth and premier banking (IWPB) services. The new facility, located within the bank’s flagship Jumeirah branch, is tailored to meet the needs of affluent and high-net-worth clients, offering them a private and exclusive environment for wealth management. Clients will be able to hold consultations with specialist HSBC relationship managers and access customised solutions designed to help them grow, manage and protect their assets. In addition to client services, the wealth centre includes a dedicated event space, which will host…
Maserati has taken centre stage at the second edition of the TUTTO BENE Hillclimb, a celebration of automotive culture held last week against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Maggiore in northern Italy. The event, which combines design, lifestyle and motoring passion, attracted an audience of enthusiasts eager to see the brand’s latest showcase: the GT2 Stradale, presented in a striking Giallo Genio body colour with black and grey interior finishes. Unlike traditional hill climbs, there were no speed trials or timed competitions. Instead, the experience embraced the philosophy encapsulated in the slogan “slow down to go fast”. The emphasis was…
Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, the capital’s first low-cost carrier, has announced the launch of direct flights connecting Abu Dhabi and Assiut, Egypt, starting November 4, 2025. The new route will operate twice weekly, on Tuesdays and Fridays, providing passengers with convenient and affordable travel between Zayed International Airport and Assiut International Airport. The schedule is as follows (all times local): FlightDepartureTimeArrivalTimeFrequency3L 394Abu Dhabi03:10Assiut05:35Tuesday/Friday3L 395Assiut06:15Abu Dhabi11:30Tuesday/Friday With Assiut added to its network, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi now connects the UAE capital with three Egyptian cities, alongside Cairo and Alexandria. Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, said: “We…
Disney+ has unveiled the first still from its upcoming Turkish drama Bize Bi’şey Olmaz, starring Mert Ramazan Demir and Miray Daner. The series, one of the platform’s most anticipated releases, promises a gripping love story filled with passion, conflict, and high-stakes drama. Written by Pınar Bulut and directed by Neslihan Yeşilyurt, both celebrated for their work on Turkish television hits, the show is produced by MF Yapım under Asena Bülbüloğlu. Early buzz suggests it could become a major success for Disney+ in the Turkish market and beyond. The narrative unfolds in the world first introduced in the series Aramda (Among…
Chinese researchers say they have developed a new medical bone glue capable of fixing fractures in just three minutes — a breakthrough that could transform orthopaedic treatment. The adhesive, called “Bone-02”, was inspired by the way clams cling to surfaces underwater, scientists from Zhejiang Province said. According to Chinese media reports, the glue has already been successfully tested in 150 patient trials. Attempts to create bone adhesives date back to the 1940s, but early versions made from gelatin, epoxy resins, and acrylates failed due to poor biocompatibility. Current bone cements and fillers are widely used but do not achieve true…
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…