Author: Sam Allcock

December dining, family celebrations and prepared feasts for the holiday period voco Bonnington Dubai presents a structured programme of festive dining throughout December, offering options for guests who wish to celebrate at the hotel or host at home. From Christmas Day to New Year’s Eve, the focus remains on good food, shared tables and simple planning. Festive takeaway options Guests who prefer to host at home can order festive takeaway meals prepared by the hotel’s culinary team. Each option is designed for ease and traditional presentation. The roast turkey with classic accompaniments is available for AED 849, while the roast…

MBME Group and ZENDATA have announced a new joint venture to establish ZENDATA Cyber Defense, a cybersecurity firm created to deliver advanced protection services across the Middle East and selected international markets. The new company will draw on MBME Group’s digital services infrastructure and strong regional presence, alongside ZENDATA’s experience in cyber operations, threat intelligence and incident response. MBME Group supports millions of users through its large digital payments and services network, while ZENDATA operates accredited Security Operations Centres across Europe, Singapore and the Middle East, delivering continuous monitoring and managed security services. ZENDATA Cyber Defense will be based in…

BEYOND Developments has announced SIORA, a new beachfront masterplan on Dubai Islands and the company’s second major community within twelve months. The launch signals BEYOND’s rapid expansion and its role in supporting Dubai’s future urban vision. The 2 million square foot development is planned as a calm coastal environment shaped by Japanese garden concepts. Central to the design is Ikigai, a philosophy focused on purpose and fulfilment. SIORA applies this thinking through architecture and landscape that aim to support wellbeing and restore balance between people and their surroundings. Adil Taqi, CEO of BEYOND Developments, said: “Since its inception in 2024,…

An extraordinary artistic encounter awaits concert-goers this December, as Dubai Opera prepares to welcome some of the greatest figures in classical performance. José Carreras and Plácido Domingo, two legends of the operatic stage, will reunite for the “Stars of the Century” gala — a night set to secure its place in musical history. Scheduled for 22 December 2025 at 8:00 PM, the performance stands as a centrepiece of Dubai Opera’s tenth anniversary year. Audiences will also be treated to the spellbinding presence of soprano Hibla Gerzmava, admired internationally for her commanding stage presence and luminous voice. Anchoring the event will…

Gulf Medical University (GMU) has completed its first CCAT Aeromedical Transport – Foundation Level Course, delivered from 4 to 9 December 2025 at its Ajman campus. High demand and limited seats have led to the next batch being scheduled for June. The course ran for six days and followed recognised aeromedical standards. It was open to doctors, nurses, paramedics, and allied health professionals involved in air ambulance services, patient movement, medical evacuation, and international repatriation. The course strengthens the region’s capacity in aeromedical and retrieval medicine, a sector expanding at a steady pace. The programme was created with CCAT experts…

The Strategic Development Fund (SDF), owned by EDGE Group, has entered an initial partnership and investment agreement with Machina Labs, a US firm known for AI-led manufacturing and robotics. The agreement follows discussions completed at the Dubai Airshow 2025 and sets the basis for a joint venture focused on producing advanced metal structures in the region through Machina Labs’ software-driven factory systems. The agreement includes an initial investment and allows for further SDF funding of up to AED 125 million. Both organisations will study how Machina Labs’ manufacturing tools can be used in the UAE and the wider region. They…

Dubai will host a women-only professional T100 race from 12–15 November 2026, following confirmation from the Professional Triathletes Organisation (PTO) and World Triathlon. The event marks a clear step for women’s sport in the Middle East. The Dubai T100 will bring the world’s leading female triathletes to the city for a 100km race made up of a 2km swim, 80km bike leg and 18km run. The field will race without a men’s event on the same programme, giving full focus to the women’s competition. The updated 2026 tour format aims to give athletes a schedule with fewer clashes, higher prize…

Presight, a global AI and data analytics company, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with HSBC UAE to cooperate on the design and rollout of advanced artificial intelligence solutions for the financial services sector. The partnership represents a shared commitment to responsible innovation and the practical use of AI in areas where it can add value to customers and financial institutions. Signed during Abu Dhabi Finance Week (ADFW), the agreement aims to support the introduction of next-generation AI tools across risk, operations and customer insight. The priority is to use AI to strengthen decision-making, improve efficiency and support long-term…

Jeddah has announced the winners of the third Global Prize for Innovation in Water during the opening of the fourth Innovation Driven Water Sustainability Conference (IDWS2025). The announcement marked the conclusion of a competitive process that captured the attention of water experts and institutions worldwide. A total of 14 winners were revealed. Their work met the standards set by the international judging committee. With prize funding totalling 10 million dollars, the award aims to recognise research and solutions that can be applied in real-world water systems. This year’s two Grand Prize winners are HanQing Yu from China, who received the…

Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai has marked the festive period by visiting the Al Noor Training Centre for People of Determination, continuing a yearly tradition focused on support and community involvement. Heads of Department from the hotel attended the centre for a structured volunteer session with students. The visit included a welcome from the Al Noor team and a guided tour, giving attendees insight into the centre’s programmes and approach. The schedule included several inclusive sports activities such as bowling, table tennis, tennis and target throwing. The morning concluded with a shared Zumba session bringing both groups together. Commenting…