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.
PayPal, the global digital payments giant, has announced the establishment of its regional headquarters in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking a significant step in the country’s drive to strengthen its role as a global hub for commerce and technology. The move adds PayPal to the growing list of multinational firms choosing the Emirates as their base for operations across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. Other recent entrants include telecom operator Veon and private equity group Fortress, underlining the UAE’s increasing appeal to international business. Strategic hub The UAE’s strategic location, world-class financial infrastructure, and business-friendly policies are…
TotalEnergies Corbion, a global leader in bioplastics innovation, has signed a strategic distribution agreement with Multi Trade Group, appointing the company as its main partner for Luminy® PLA across the Middle East. The deal covers key markets including the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, and is aimed at expanding access to sustainable bioplastics for industries ranging from packaging to textiles. Luminy® PLA (polylactic acid) is a renewable plastic that offers strength and durability for reusable products, while also providing sustainable end-of-life options. Unlike traditional plastics that linger in the environment, Luminy® PLA can be recycled, composted, or chemically broken…
Al Habtoor Palace has announced a new cross-continental luxury travel package, The Palace Journey, offering guests the chance to experience two iconic destinations: Dubai and Budapest. The initiative connects Arabian grandeur with European elegance, with stays at Al Habtoor Palace Dubai and Al Habtoor Palace Budapest, part of the Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection. The package is aimed at travellers seeking exclusive experiences and seamless service across both cities. Arabian elegance meets European heritage Guests starting in Dubai will stay in opulent suites reflecting Middle Eastern heritage with modern touches. The hotel’s offerings include fine dining, a luxury spa and…
Big-ticket events are becoming a central driver of international tourism and economic diversification across the Middle East, according to experts at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 in Dubai. The GCC’s event and exhibition market is projected to reach US$827 million by 2029, growing at nearly 4% annually, with governments and private sector leaders increasingly viewing mega-events as a cornerstone of global positioning strategies. From World Cup to global stage Following the success of Expo 2020 Dubai and the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, momentum is building as the region prepares for future headline events, including Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the…
Swiss International Scientific School in Dubai (SISD) is set to become one of the first schools worldwide to integrate a formal Esports qualification into its curriculum, in a move that reflects the city’s ambitions to prepare young people for the jobs of the future. From August 2025, students in Grades 6 and 7 will be able to take the BTEC Level 2 in Esports, delivered in partnership with EStars. The qualification, accredited by Pearson Education, is designed to give students industry-relevant skills in one of the fastest-growing global sectors. More than gaming School leaders stressed that the new course is…
Dubai will host the 11th World Green Economy Summit (WGES) this October, bringing together global leaders, investors and experts to accelerate the transition to sustainable economies. The two-day event, scheduled for 1–2 October at the Dubai World Trade Centre, will run under the theme “Innovating for Impact: Accelerating the Future of the Green Economy.” Organised by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and the World Green Economy Organization (WGEO), the summit will convene policymakers, private sector leaders, financiers and academics to explore solutions to urgent environmental challenges. Focus on finance and innovation WGES 2025…
The LYCRA Company, a global leader in fiber and technology solutions for the apparel industry, has unveiled a new denim innovation at Intertextile Shanghai, one of the world’s largest textile trade fairs. The showcase, running from 2 to 4 September, marks the global debut of the company’s latest technologies while highlighting its renewed focus on collaboration and sustainability. For the first time, LYCRA introduced an open-concept booth designed as a co-creation space to encourage greater partnership with industry peers. Located in Hall 4.1 (Booth E56), the booth forms part of a larger 788-square-metre pavilion that also houses 18 co-exhibitors. Four…
IFF, a global leader in flavors, fragrances and food ingredients, is preparing to showcase a suite of science-led solutions aimed at helping industrial bakers tackle some of their biggest challenges. The company will unveil its innovations at the International Baking Industry Exposition (IBIE) 2025, taking place in Las Vegas from 14 to 17 September. From soaring cocoa and egg prices to tightening food regulations and rising consumer demand for healthier products, the baking industry is facing unprecedented pressures. Suzanne Pera, vice president and regional general manager for North America at IFF Food Ingredients, said the company’s message to bakers was…
LG Electronics (LG) has launched a series of back-to-school promotions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), offering discounts across its range of televisions, monitors, and home appliances to support students and families preparing for the new academic year. The campaign, available while stocks last, is designed to ease the financial burden on households by combining cutting-edge technology for study and entertainment with practical home solutions. Discounts on televisions and monitors Among the headline offers are savings on LG’s premium television lines, including the QNED, OLED, and NanoCell series. These models are positioned as versatile tools, providing both educational research opportunities…
Liverpool have completed the signing of Swedish international Alexander Isak from Newcastle United for a British record fee of £125 million, which could rise to £130m with add-ons. The 25-year-old striker is expected to undergo a medical on Monday before signing a six-year deal at Anfield, sources close to the talks told BBC Sport. Long-running saga ends The move ends one of the most closely followed transfer sagas of the summer. Liverpool’s initial £110m bid was rejected in August, but the club remained determined to land their main target. Tensions between Isak and Newcastle intensified after he was left out…