Author: Sam Allcock

Former Miss Algeria Chanez Belaid has responded to intense online speculation and controversy following the emergence of photos and videos showing her wedding ceremony held in a Christian church in Lebanon. The images, which quickly spread across various social media platforms, sparked debate and criticism over the nature of the ceremony. Belaid, who is a practicing Muslim, was seen in a traditional white gown participating in what appeared to be a Christian religious service. Her husband is reported to be a Lebanese Christian businessman, further fuelling speculation about a possible conversion. Many users questioned whether Belaid had converted from Islam…

Jordan has officially announced the fifth international edition of the Marathon des Sables (MDS), to be held in the striking desert terrain of Wadi Rum from November 1 to 8, 2025. The announcement was made during a press conference in Amman by Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Lina Annab and Cyrilie Gauthier, CEO of the Global MDS. Organised by the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) and Experience Jordan Adventures, the ultramarathon is regarded as one of the world’s most demanding endurance races. This year’s event is expected to draw over 650 runners from across the European Union and beyond, marking it…

Dubai-based real estate developer Ellington Properties has announced its expansion into Dubai South with the launch of Windsor House, its first residential project in the emerging district. The move signals Ellington’s commitment to supporting Dubai’s next phase of urban growth through its distinctive design-led development approach. Located near the future site of what will be the world’s largest airport, Al Maktoum International, and adjacent to the evolving Expo City Dubai, Dubai South is fast becoming a key destination for infrastructure, innovation, and sustainable living. “Dubai South aligns with Ellington’s vision to develop within communities that are not only growing but…

In a significant year for Lebanese entrepreneurship, the Talal and Madiha Zein AUB Innovation Park (Zein AUB iPark), the American University of Beirut’s flagship startup accelerator, has seen its startups achieve a wave of international recognition and expansion during the first half of 2025. From the Gulf to Europe, Zein AUB iPark’s portfolio of early-stage ventures made notable appearances at leading innovation events, unlocking new markets, investments, and strategic collaborations. The accelerator’s global journey began in February, when 14 of its startups were showcased at Web Summit Qatar—one of the largest tech gatherings in the Middle East. The event proved…

Samsung Electronics MENA has announced a new collaboration with FACES Beauty Middle East to launch a vibrant summer campaign that merges travel, technology, and beauty. The initiative, titled “The Beauty Trip”, highlights the synergy between Samsung’s latest Galaxy S25 Series and FACES’ curated beauty essentials, aiming to capture the spirit of self-expression for young, modern explorers. FACES Beauty, widely known as the region’s go-to omni-retailer for premium beauty products, is joining forces with the tech giant to celebrate confidence, style, and adventure. With the Galaxy S25 Ultra and S25 Edge at the forefront, the campaign leverages cutting-edge AI camera features…

As the UAE endures peak summer temperatures, Al Masaood Automobiles, the authorised distributor of Nissan in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra, has introduced a seasonal campaign to help customers stay cool and safe on the road. The new Summer AC Service Campaign offers Nissan drivers a complimentary air conditioning system inspection performed by Nissan-certified technicians. In addition, customers can benefit from up to 35% off on genuine Nissan AC parts and up to 20% off labour charges for AC-related repairs. The limited-time campaign is now available across all Al Masaood Automobiles Nissan service centres. It is designed to…

The Dubai Sports Council has officially kicked off the 2025 edition of its annual Summer Football Tournament for youth academies, running from 1 to 13 August. Now in its fifteenth year, the event is a key fixture in the city’s youth sporting calendar and a central part of Dubai’s long-term strategy to identify and develop local football talent. Organised by the Dubai Sports Council, the tournament serves as a preparatory platform for youth and junior teams ahead of the 2025–2026 football season. It offers players an opportunity to gain match experience in a structured environment, while helping clubs assess physical…

Kempinski Hotels, a founding member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), has announced a limited-time Double DISCOVERY Dollar Promotion for members of its loyalty programme, KEMPINSKI DISCOVERY. The offer, valid from 1 August to 30 September 2025, allows both existing and new members to earn double the usual rewards on all eligible direct bookings across its global portfolio. The promotion is part of the broader GHA DISCOVERY programme, which spans more than 850 hotels in over 100 countries and includes 45 prestigious brands. It offers travellers the opportunity to enhance their stays with additional rewards for indulgent experiences such as…

Emirates has officially inaugurated a new daily flight service to Hangzhou, expanding its footprint in mainland China to five cities. The new route, operated by a Boeing 777-300ER, marks the second Chinese destination added by the airline within a month, following the launch of services to Shenzhen. Flight EK310 touched down at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport on 30 July to a warm welcome, including a water cannon salute and a reception by local dignitaries and airport officials. Passengers on the inaugural flight from Dubai received commemorative gifts such as Chinese tea tasting sets, certificates, and keychains. The new service represents…

Telness Tech, the fast-growing cloud-native telecom platform reinventing mobile operations, has appointed seasoned executive John Browett to its Board of Directors. The strategic move is expected to accelerate the company’s global momentum as it continues to reshape telecom for the digital era. Browett brings an extensive track record of boardroom and operational leadership, having served at the helm of globally recognized brands including Apple, Tesco, and currently, as Chairman of Octopus Group — the creators of Kraken Technologies, a company widely credited with transforming the energy sector through cutting-edge digital platforms. In his new role at Telness Tech, Browett will…