Author: Sam Allcock

The upcoming ATV drama Abi has ignited controversy before cameras have even started rolling, after the casting of Kenan İmirzalioğlu, 50, and Afra Saraçoğlu, 26, in leading roles revealed a 24-year age difference between the stars. While Turkish television is no stranger to bold casting choices, the significant age gap has sparked a heated debate among fans and critics, with many questioning whether the pairing will be convincing on screen. A story of family and disruption In the series, İmirzalioğlu takes on the role of Cerrah Doğan Hancıoğlu, a man who distanced himself from his family years ago to build…

Turkey’s internet-famous chef Burak Özdemir, better known as CZN Burak, has drawn renewed attention on social media after purchasing a luxury Mercedes-Benz once owned by popular actor and model Burak Özçivit. The deal, reported by Turkish daily Hürriyet, was closed for around 14 million Turkish lira — approximately $400,000 — a price described by local media as a “fantastic sum.” The purchase has sparked debate about the chef’s high-profile lifestyle and growing portfolio of investments beyond the restaurant industry. From kitchen star to social media icon CZN Burak rose to fame through viral cooking videos showcasing enormous portions, warm hospitality,…

A full-length artificial intelligence (AI) movie called Critterz, backed by Sam Altman’s OpenAI, has entered production — a move that has ignited heated debate over ethics, creativity and the future of artists in the film industry. According to the Wall Street Journal, the film will incorporate OpenAI’s video-generation tool Sora into its production pipeline. The project is expected to premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in France, with OpenAI reportedly aiming to show that its technology can create films at a fraction of Hollywood’s costs. AI versus artistry Critics argue that lower budgets do not necessarily translate into better films.…

Sudan’s civil war has displaced more than 13 million people, crippled institutions, and created one of the world’s gravest humanitarian crises. Yet the conflict remains underreported on the global stage. Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) is now seeking to shift that narrative through “Seeing Sudan: Politics Through Art,” a three-day conference highlighting the power of culture in times of conflict. The event, running from 18 to 20 September at the Four Seasons Hotel in Doha, brings together more than 50 leading scholars, artists and activists. According to GU-Q Dean Safwan M. Masri, the gathering aims to amplify Sudanese voices and…

Hyundai Motor Company is set to make its first appearance at gamescom 2025, becoming the first carmaker to host a solo presence in the event’s Retro & Family Area with a self-developed arcade-style video game. The world’s largest gaming convention will take place from 20 to 24 August at Koelnmesse in Cologne, Germany, where Hyundai will showcase its INSTEROID Retro Arcade game alongside the INSTEROID concept car, a design study based on its INSTER sub-compact electric vehicle. Gaming meets mobility The INSTEROID Retro Arcade is a maze-style game featuring the concept car as its lead character. Players must collect electricity-shaped…

Zaatar w Zeit, one of the UAE’s most popular food chains, has launched a new catering menu designed to bring its signature fresh flavors to a wide range of occasions. The launch marks a step forward for the brand, expanding beyond its dine-in and delivery offerings to provide catering solutions for both personal gatherings and corporate events across the Emirates. Sharing made simple The catering menu focuses on variety and convenience, with generous sharing boxes tailored for office meetings, family celebrations, and social events. Customers can mix and match from a wide selection of wraps, manakeesh, pizzas, salads and more,…

Messe Frankfurt has announced the launch of a new subsidiary in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant step in the German trade fair giant’s regional expansion strategy. The new entity will oversee Messe Frankfurt’s business operations in the Kingdom, providing industry-specific platforms designed for the local market while strengthening ties with government bodies, associations, and private stakeholders. By localising its approach, the company aims to support Saudi Arabia’s efforts to diversify its economy under Vision 2030, while also positioning the Kingdom as a leading hub for global trade fairs and events. Leadership appointment To lead the new venture, Messe Frankfurt has…

OMODA&JAECOO is preparing to launch its JAECOO J7 SHS (Super Hybrid System) in the UAE in mid-September, promising motorists a new blend of comfort, efficiency, and long-range capability. The SUV is designed for drivers who want the quiet, clean experience of electric driving without concerns about running out of charge. Capable of an ultra-long driving range exceeding 1,200km on a full tank and charge, the J7 allows commuters to travel across the Emirates with minimal refuelling or recharging stops. For daily urban journeys, the vehicle provides up to 90km of pure electric range, making it well-suited for emission-free school runs,…

Azizi Developments, one of the UAE’s leading private developers, has announced the launch of Azizi Tower 1, a premium commercial development strategically located in Al Jaddaf. The unveiling is scheduled for Wednesday, 10 September, at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, where the developer will also showcase new residential buildings in Milan Heights, part of the fashion-inspired Azizi Milan community on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road. Commercial hub in Al Jaddaf Azizi Tower 1 has been designed as a dedicated commercial hub, offering layouts ranging from 500 to 2,000 square metres for offices, clinics, and retail spaces. The project comprises three basement levels,…

Dubai South, the region’s largest single-urban master development, has announced the launch of the Dubai South Business Hub (DSBH), a new digital-first free zone platform designed to simplify and accelerate business setup. Located within the Dubai South Business Park, the hub combines same-day licensing with end-to-end digital applications, giving entrepreneurs, SMEs and global enterprises the ability to establish companies fully online. Digital-first company formation Through the DSBH portal, founders can complete their applications, upload documents, and access one-click services covering licensing, visas, renewals and compliance. The streamlined model is aimed at reducing traditional paperwork and creating a faster, founder-focused process.…