Author: Sam Allcock

Oman Air has reported a remarkable near threefold increase in point-to-point passengers, soaring from 75,000 in June 2024 to 200,000 in June 2025. This leap marks a significant shift in the airline’s strategy, with 58% of all passengers now flying directly into Oman rather than transiting onward – the highest share among any airline in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. This achievement comes as part of a deliberate push by the national carrier to reposition itself as a gateway for inbound tourism, aligning with Oman’s broader economic and tourism ambitions. Mike Rutter, Chief Commercial Officer at Oman Air, highlighted…

In a move that blends travel, creativity, and learning, Accor Waterfront Properties has partnered with Nikon to launch Createcation: Dubai Deira Gold Summer Edition — a hosted summer staycation curated exclusively for budding content creators. Running from August 2–3, 2025, the experience spans six properties in Old Dubai, offering participants the chance to craft compelling lifestyle and travel content while enjoying a full-board, two-day escape in the heart of the city’s historic district. Set against the backdrop of Deira’s vibrant streets and cultural charm, Createcation is more than a social media moment — it’s a carefully designed immersive workshop-meets-holiday. Participants…

Kuwait International Bank (KIB) has announced a robust 23% increase in net profit for the first half of 2025, with profits reaching KD 14.8 million, up from KD 12 million in the same period last year. The financial results reflect KIB’s growing momentum under its new five-year strategy focused on innovation, expansion, and customer-centric solutions. Chairman Sheikh Mohammed Jarrah Al-Sabah described the results as a “launchpad” for KIB’s ambitious goals. Earnings per share rose to 7.11 fils from 5.70 fils in H1 2024. Total operating income hit nearly KD 46.3 million, a 10% year-on-year increase. Al-Sabah emphasized that the strong…

The British University in Dubai (BUiD) has unveiled five new specialisations in its Master of Education (MEd) programme, a move designed to equip educators with skills that match the UAE’s fast-evolving educational landscape. The expanded curriculum is aimed at professionals seeking advanced, research-informed expertise in key areas shaping modern learning environments. As global education systems pivot to meet emerging challenges—ranging from inclusion to technology integration—BUiD’s initiative offers timely support for the UAE’s national education priorities. The newly introduced concentrations include: These areas have been selected to reflect critical needs in today’s classrooms and education systems, particularly as the UAE continues…

The Dubai Land Department (DLD) has entered into a strategic partnership with Emirates NBD to modernise and streamline real estate transaction processes, particularly those involving international property deals. The move is expected to strengthen investor confidence and support Dubai’s ambitions to become a global hub for real estate investment. The agreement, formalised through a memorandum of cooperation, aims to build a joint framework for regulatory and technical studies. Central to the partnership are two forward-looking studies: one to enhance the registration process for real estate transactions carried out outside the United Arab Emirates, and another to develop innovative financial services…

At least 11 Thai civilians, including an 8-year-old child, were killed in renewed border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia on Thursday, Thai military officials told Reuters. An additional 14 people were injured in a shelling incident near the disputed frontier. In retaliation, the Thai army launched airstrikes using F-16 fighter jets against what it described as Cambodian military targets. The Thai Embassy in Phnom Penh issued a notice urging all Thai nationals to leave Cambodia immediately amid escalating violence. Photographs from the Preah Vihear province on July 24 show Cambodian soldiers reloading BM-21 multiple rocket launchers, indicating intensified military activity…

A disturbing rumour has gone viral across Chinese social media, claiming that a woman took her own life after failing to purchase a Labubu doll at a shopping mall. However, as of now, no credible media outlets or verified sources in China have confirmed the incident. The alleged event reportedly took place at a Labubu vending machine inside a shopping centre, where a fight broke out due to overwhelming demand. Videos circulating online show chaotic scenes near the machine, with individuals seen hoarding dolls, further fueling the frenzy. The claim that a woman committed suicide shortly after being unable to…

Terry Gene Bollea, better known to millions of fans around the world as Hulk Hogan, has died at the age of 71, his family confirmed. The wrestling legend passed away early Thursday morning at his home in Clearwater, Florida, following a cardiac arrest. Hogan was a towering figure in professional wrestling and a global pop culture icon, whose influence reshaped the entertainment landscape during the 1980s and 1990s. With his signature handlebar mustache, red-and-yellow ring gear, and booming catchphrases like “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?”, he transcended the squared circle to become a household name. He…

Moving into a new residence in Abu Dhabi’s discerning luxury landscape is a significant milestone – a moment to not only settle in but also to unveil a new chapter of one’s lifestyle. The traditional housewarming party has, for many, evolved into a meticulously curated event: a grand debut that celebrates the new address while simultaneously showcasing the unique character of the home and its discerning residents. To truly make an indelible first impression and set the perfect tone for years of sophisticated entertaining, a strategic approach is essential. Beyond simply celebrating, the ultimate luxury housewarming is an art form.…

Turkish actor Burak Özçivit has stunned fans by debuting a dramatically different appearance, appearing without his signature beard for the first time in years. The move comes shortly after his official departure from the hit historical drama Kuruluş Osman, in which he played the lead role of Osman Bey for six seasons. Özçivit’s transformation was unveiled on social media through his Instagram stories, where he shared images of his new clean-shaven look. The post quickly went viral, prompting an avalanche of reactions from fans who had grown used to his bearded, battle-worn portrayal of the iconic Ottoman founder. The 39-year-old…