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.
Colombian superstar Shakira has delighted fans by posting a clip of rising artist Saint Levant performing a remix of her 2005 global hit Hips Don’t Lie. The short video, shared on her Instagram story, captured the rapper-singer delivering his own version of the track with infectious energy. Shakira’s playful caption — “I want to be in that party” — quickly caught attention across social media platforms. The moment has sparked widespread excitement among followers of both artists, with many speculating about a possible collaboration. Fans described the post as a recognition of Saint Levant’s growing influence in the international music…
A new social media campaign urging the boycott of prominent Arab influencers in Dubai has triggered fierce debate across online platforms. Under the slogans “Boycott the influencers” and “Unfollow Dubai Squad,” users on the Arab side of social media are calling on followers to cut ties with popular figures who have long dominated TikTok, YouTube and Instagram. Campaigners accuse these influencers of promoting “useless” and “superficial” content that glamorises extravagant lifestyles while offering little educational or social value. Some critics argue that such portrayals create unrealistic expectations among younger audiences and contribute to “making people dumber.” Among the influencers named…
Air Arabia, the Emirati budget airline, has announced that it will begin accepting cryptocurrency payments for ticket bookings, marking a significant step towards integrating digital assets into mainstream travel. The airline revealed the move on Wednesday, stating that the new payment option is the result of a partnership with Maryah Community Bank (Mbank), the UAE’s first digital bank. The collaboration will introduce a stablecoin-based system and enable payments via AE Coin through the bank’s dedicated application, the AEC Wallet. When purchasing tickets online, passengers will now be able to select AEC Wallet as a payment option at checkout. The company…
Google is working on a new language learning app designed to compete with Duolingo, one of the most widely used platforms for language education, according to technology outlet Android Authority. The upcoming application will reportedly focus on teaching users through everyday scenarios and allow for more personalized learning experiences. Features under testing include interactive lessons in which learners can practice real-life situations such as ordering food, greeting others, or asking for directions. Unlike Duolingo’s free-to-use model, the new service is not expected to be free. While Google has not officially confirmed the project or provided details about its launch, sources…
Russia and Jordan have signed an agreement in Moscow to mutually waive visa requirements, a move both countries say will strengthen tourism, cultural exchange, and trade. The deal was signed on Wednesday by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Jordanian counterpart Ayman Safadi. According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, the meeting was aimed at “further developing the traditionally friendly Russian-Jordanian relations,” with particular attention given to economic, cultural, and humanitarian cooperation. Under the terms of the new agreement, Russians travelling to Jordan will be able to obtain a visa on arrival at airports for a fee of 40 Jordanian…
Apple will manufacture all four models of its upcoming iPhone 17 series in India, marking a significant shift in its global production strategy. According to a Bloomberg report, the American technology giant will begin assembling the devices in India a month before the official unveiling of the new iPhones, expected in September 2025. It will be the first time in Apple’s history that the entire iPhone lineup is produced outside China before launch. The iPhone 17 range is likely to include the standard iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max, with industry sources suggesting the addition of…
Frank Caprio, the American judge affectionately known worldwide as the “nicest judge in the world,” has died aged 88 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Caprio, who served as a municipal court judge in Providence, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully, his family confirmed in a statement shared on Facebook. The post described him as a man whose “warmth, humour, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him.” Born Francesco Caprio in 1936 to Italian immigrant parents, he grew up in Providence and went on to dedicate much of his life to public service. After completing his…
Huawei has unveiled the MatePad 11.5, a mid-range tablet designed to bring advanced screen technology and productivity tools to a wider audience. The device, which features the company’s PaperMatte Display, is now available for pre-order in Kuwait starting at KWD 109.9 through Huawei’s online store. The PaperMatte Display, once limited to Huawei’s premium devices, uses nano-level etching and magnetron nano optical coating to deliver a screen experience that feels closer to paper. The technology reduces glare and reflection, allowing for clear viewing in bright light and offering what Huawei calls a “pen-on-paper” sensation when used with its M-Pencil (3rd generation)…
Burgan Bank has launched its first-ever “Bring Your Kids to Work Day”, opening its corporate doors to the children of employees for a day of discovery, creativity, and learning. Held at the bank’s headquarters, the initiative welcomed children aged between five and fifteen to experience the world of banking in an interactive and family-focused setting. The event was designed to go beyond simple entertainment, reflecting Burgan Bank’s wider commitment to employee wellbeing, family engagement, and sustainability. It forms part of the bank’s “Teach Them Young” campaign, an initiative aimed at broadening the professional and practical horizons of young people, while…
The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) has launched its Graduate Plant Operator (GPO) Program, an initiative designed to equip Emirati graduates with the expertise needed to lead the future of nuclear energy operations in the UAE. The program reflects ENEC’s long-term strategy to develop national talent and ensure a sustainable pipeline of professionals capable of running the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant for decades to come. Open to high-achieving Emirati graduates in engineering disciplines such as Electrical, Mechanical and Nuclear, the scheme offers participants structured training combining theory with extensive hands-on experience. Candidates will begin their journey as Local Operators at…