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Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi Engages with Students at the British University in Dubai

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Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi Engages with Students at the British University in Dubai

Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan’s Envoy to the UAE visited the British University in Dubai today, where he was warmly received by Vice Chancellor Professor Abdullah Alshamsi and faculty members. During his visit, Ambassador Tirmizi delivered an insightful lecture on the historical and strategic ties between Pakistan and the UAE.

He highlighted Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage, tracing its roots to ancient civilizations like the Indus Valley and Gandhara. The Ambassador also emphasized the country’s diverse geography, including the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush mountain ranges, which feature five of the world’s fourteen peaks above 8,000 meters.

Ambassador Tirmizi pointed out that 68% of Pakistan’s population is under the age of 30, representing significant potential for growth and innovation.

Discussing Pakistan-UAE relations, he noted the over 70-year-long friendship between the two nations, rooted in shared values, cultural ties, and mutual support on regional and global platforms. He paid tribute to the visionary leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, recalling his historic 1966 visit to Pakistan. The Ambassador also mentioned that Pakistan was the first country to recognize the UAE and contributed significantly to its development in sectors such as banking, aviation, and agriculture.

With bilateral trade exceeding USD 10 billion and a vibrant Pakistani diaspora of 1.8 million in the UAE, the economic and people-to-people ties continue to flourish. He referenced recent high-level engagements, including visits by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and senior UAE leadership, which have further deepened cooperation through multiple Memorandums of Understanding.

Concluding his address, Ambassador Tirmizi encouraged students to read widely and travel, inviting faculty members and students to visit Pakistan to experience its natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary diversity.

Dubai April 24, 2025.

Pakistan Business Council Sharjah Charts the Way Forward in April Strategy Session

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Pakistan Business Council Sharjah Charts the Way Forward in April Strategy Session

The Pakistan Business Council Sharjah (PBCS) convened a results‑driven directors’ meeting at Digital Vision to assess recent performance and set the agenda for the months ahead.

Chaired by Dr. S. M. Tahir, the directors unanimously agreed to institute in‑person strategy meetings during the first week of every month, ensuring faster decisions and stronger teamwork.

Key outcomes and acknowledgements

- Directors reaffirmed their commitment to expanding PBCS initiatives and streamlining operations.

- Thanks were extended to First Vice Chairman Syed Saleem Akhtar for hosting the session.

- Director Membership Committee Haji Mohammed Yaseen invited members to the next meeting at Al Nawab Restaurant, Sharjah.

- The meeting concluded with prayers for the late mother of Director Coordination Safdar Rashid.

Attending directors

  • Dr. S. M. Tahir – Chairman
  • Syed Saleem Akhtar – First Vice Chairman
  • Amir Hassan – Second Vice Chairman
  • Salman Wasil – Honorary Secretary
  • Khalid Chudhary – Director, Advisory Board
  • Haji Mohammed Yaseen – Director, Membership Committee
  • Mian Umar Ibrahim – Director, Executive Committee
  • Muhammad Farooq – Director, Finance Committee
  • Khawar Hussain – Director, Media Committee
  • Zaheer Ahmad – Director, Event Committee
  • Safdar Rashid – Director, Coordination
  • Suhail Khawar – Executive Member

PBCS closed the gathering on an optimistic note, anticipating continued collaboration and success in the coming months.

The Embassy organized a Community Awarness Event

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The Embassy organized a Community Awarness Event

The Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi organized a community awarness event, drawing a large gathering of Pakistani community members to support the renovation and expansion of the historic Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Arab Pakistan School. Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan’s Envoy to the UAE expressed deep appreciation for the community’s enthusiastic participation in this noble initiative, emphasizing the Embassy’s commitment to working alongside the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an Abu Dhabi to transform the school into a leading sustainable educational institution.

Ambassador Tirmizi highlighted that, in line with UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s declaration of 2025  as the ‘Year of the Community’, the Embassy seeks the collective spirit of the Pakistani diaspora to give back to society by supporting the school. “The Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Arab Pakistan School has been a cornerstone of education for generations, and with the unwavering support of our community, we can elevate it into a model institution that provides quality and inclusive education,” he said.

Established in 1974 under the patronage of the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the school is serving over 2,000 students annually, offering affordable quality education. Originally built through the collaborative efforts of the Pakistani community and the Embassy, the school now requires significant upgrades to meet contemporary educational standards. The event  aimed to address critical needs, including the construction of a new building block, reconstruction of boundary walls, flooring and the provision of furniture. Additionally, plans are underway for a future project to build a residential block for teachers, ensuring better retention and enhanced welfare for staff.

During the event, the school’s Principal, Mr. Abdur Rashid, reflected on the institution’s 50-year legacy of academic excellence and appealed for continued community support. “To sustain and elevate our educational standards, we rely on the generosity of our community. Every contribution will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our students,” he remarked. The Pakistan Embassy calls upon all community members and well-wishers to contribute generously to this transformative initiative through coordination with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an Abu Dhabi and the Embassy

Swiss-Belhotel International Reinforces Regional Commitment with Strategic Visit to Oman and Bahrain

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Reinforcing Swiss-Belhotel International’s operational excellence and regional growth strategy, Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President, Swiss-Belhotel International, and Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President – Operations & Development, EMEA & India; Senior Vice President – Group Human Resources & Talent Development, Swiss-Belhotel International, recently concluded a successful leadership visit to the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The tour, which covered several of the group’s flagship hotels in both countries, aimed to further strengthen relationships with property owners, engage with hotel teams, and explore future opportunities in line with Swiss-Belhotel International’s expansion and performance vision for the region.

Commenting on the visit, Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President of Swiss-Belhotel International, expressed his gratitude for the recognitions, stated: “Bahrain and Oman are among our most valued markets in the Middle East, offering both depth and dynamism. It was incredibly rewarding to connect with our dedicated teams on the ground and to witness firsthand the passion with which they bring our brand values to life. At Swiss-Belhotel International, we believe in building from within, and these visits are a testament to our ongoing investment in people, performance, and partnerships.”

Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President – Operations & Development, EMEA & India; Senior Vice President – Group Human Resources & Talent Development, Swiss-Belhotel International’s, stressed: “Our time with our hotel teams and owners in Oman and Bahrain has been extremely rewarding and energising. We listened, exchanged ideas, and identified tangible ways to enhance guest satisfaction, strengthen brand standards, and unlock new growth. As we continue to expand in the region, our goal is to complement this growth with operational excellence at every touchpoint.”

Among the key properties visited were Grand Swiss-Belhotel Waterfront Seef, Swiss-Belhotel Seef Bahrain, Swiss-Belsuites Admiral Juffair, and Swiss-Belinn Airport Muscat, Oman. These visits reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to operational excellence, team engagement, and delivering exceptional guest experiences across its existing portfolio.

In addition, the leadership also explored opportunities to introduce new brands under the Swiss-Belhotel International umbrella in both markets, catering to evolving traveller preferences across segments. With 18 brands and a strong presence across 20 countries, Swiss-Belhotel International is recognised for its world-class management models, multi-brand strategy, and owner-centric approach, ensuring that each property thrives in its respective market.

The visit comes at a time of surging tourism momentum for both countries. According to official reports, Oman received approximately 3.9 million international visitors in 2024, while Bahrain witnessed nearly a 20% increase in visitor numbers, driven by renewed regional connectivity, infrastructure development, and government-backed tourism initiatives.

Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is pursuing ambitious goals. It aims to attract 6 million tourists annually by 2030 and ultimately reach 11 million annual visitors by 2040as part of Oman’s Vision 2040 strategy. Bahrain’s national Tourism Strategy 2022–2026too has set bold goals. The kingdom is aiming to attract 14.1 million tourists annually by 2026and to increase tourism’s contribution to GDP from around 7% (in 2022) to 11% by 2026.

Ajman Bank Achieves AED 145 Million Profit Before Tax in Q1 2025, Reflecting 24% Growth

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Ajman Bank Achieves AED 145 Million Profit Before Tax in Q1 2025, Reflecting 24% Growth

His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman and Chairman of Board of Ajman Bank, chaired the bank’s board meeting, also attended by Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Municipality and Planning Department of Ajman and Vice Chairman of the Bank’s Board.

During the meeting held at Ajman Ruler’s Court, the board discussed several financial and administrative matters, reviewed routine business activities, and issued its decisions accordingly.

Ajman Bank achieved a “Profit Before Tax” of AED 145 million in Q1 2025, reflecting a 24% increase. The Bank reported the Net Operating Income of AED 199 million, up by 2% for Q1 2025, reflecting continued strength in core business performance with continued focus on strong recoveries, cost rationalization, increasing efficiencies through digitization and automation of IT infrastructures. These strong results are underpinned by a robust balance sheet growth, with Total Assets reaching AED 25 billion (up by 7%), Customer Deposits rising to AED 21 billion (up by 8%), and Total Shareholder Equity standing at AED 3.1 billion (as compared to 2024 year end).

The Bank’s capital position and asset quality continue to demonstrate solid improvement year-on-year as well as on a sequential quarterly basis. The Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) stood at 18.2% with Tier 1 Capital at 17.0%.Return on Shareholder Equity (ROE) was reported at 17.4% (up by 161 bps), while Return on Assets (ROA) stood at 2.3% (up by 49 bps). The Non-Performing Loan (NPL) Ratio improved to 9.7% (from 9.9% as of 2024 year end).

His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman, Chairman of Ajman Bank, said, “The progress of Ajman Bank reflects the strength of our vision for Ajman’s future and the pivotal role financial institutions play in shaping resilient and inclusive economies. As the banking sector continues to evolve, Ajman Bank stands at the forefront—guided by sound governance, national values, and a commitment to responsible growth. This achievement is not only a reflection of performance, but of purpose. I commend the Board, management, and every member of our team whose dedication and professionalism continue to drive our journey forward and contribute to the broader success of the United Arab Emirates.”

Mr. Mustafa Al Khalfawi, CEO of Ajman Bank, stated, “Ajman Bank’s Q1 2025 results reflect the strength of our ongoing transformation and our ability to deliver consistent, value-driven performance. We remain focused on creating long-term value for our shareholders while continuing to invest in innovation, human capital, and customer-centric solutions. Our commitment to speed, service, and specialization continues to shape a bank where customer experience, innovation, and impact are at the core of everything we do. I am deeply grateful to our Board of Directors, our exceptional team, and our valued customers for their continued trust and loyalty. We are also proud to contribute to the growth of the resilient and dynamic UAE economy, which continues to offer a strong foundation for sustainable progress. Together, we are shaping an institution that is agile, responsible, and fully aligned with the future of Islamic finance.”

With a solid and strengthening financial foundation, continued momentum in its transformation journey, and the support of a resilient UAE economy, Ajman Bank is well-equipped to maintain its growth momentum and deliver sustainable profitability throughout 2025 and the years ahead.

Shaza Hotels Prepares for ATM 2025, Bringing Cultural Authenticity and Tailored Hospitality to the Forefront

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Shaza Hotels Prepares for ATM 2025, Bringing Cultural Authenticity and Tailored Hospitality to the Forefront

Shaza Hotels is preparing for showcasing its brands at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, taking place from 28 April to 1 May 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The annual travel event will bring together the group’s senior executives, led by Mr Simon Coombs, President & CEO of Shaza Hotels, to showcase its unique selling propositions.

Shaza Hotels will highlight its latest strategic developments, digital transformation initiatives, and brand growth plans, reinforcing its commitment to pioneering a more agile, responsive, and connected hospitality experience.

Shaji Abu Salih, vice president – business development and growth, Shaza Hotels and Mysk by Shaza, stated: “The Arabian Travel Market is a pivotal platform to showcase how Shaza is redefining hospitality through cultural authenticity and bespoke experiences. Our goal from ATM 2025 is to strengthen strategic partnerships with potential partners, explore emerging trends and markets shaping the hospitality industry, and position our brand among the growing tourism landscape in the region. With the Middle East’s growing prominence as a global tourism hub, we aim to leverage ATM to drive impactful collaborations, enhance partnerships, and contribute to the region’s vision for a more sustainable and authentic future in hospitality.

As the Middle East cements its position as a global tourism hub, driven by geopolitical shifts, evolving air routes, and sustainability goals, the hospitality sector must align with next-generation infrastructure, smart integrations, and dynamic engagement strategies.

Shaji stressed, “Connectivity is no longer just an added advantage but a basic necessity for today’s travellers. Time is the key. Modern travellers demand seamless, personalised experiences powered by real-time conversions – where they do not wait for confirmations. They want to evaluate multiple factors simultaneously, from guest reviews and rate competitiveness to product versus experience comparisons before making a decision. For business providers, success lies in offering all these under one roof, in real time. The better reach and data you provide a guest, the more conversions you achieve. The future of travel lies in enhanced connectivity across aviation, infrastructure, and digital ecosystems, where those who invest in smarter, more integrated travel experiences today will lead the industry tomorrow.”

Shaza Hotels invites industry professionals to visit its stand HC3445 at Arabian Travel Market 2025 to explore how the brand is redefining hospitality excellence for the modern traveller.

Swiss-Belhotel International Wins Leading Industry Awards

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Swiss-Belhotel International Wins Leading Industry Awards

Swiss-Belhotel International, a global hospitality management group with a diverse portfolio of over 150+ hotels in key international markets, has been recognised with multiple prestigious industry awards in 2024 and the first quarter of 2025. These accolades highlight the group’s unwavering commitment to Passion and Professionalism™, ensuring that every aspect of its operations – from guest experiences to hotel management – reflects both Swiss efficiency and structure combined with Asian hospitality and warmth.

Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President of Swiss-Belhotel International, expressed his gratitude for the recognitions, stating: “Receiving these distinguished awards is nothing short of extraordinary. We are incredibly proud of these achievements, which are a testament to the dedication, passion, and perseverance of our entire team. At Swiss-Belhotel International, we are deeply committed to delivering value to our owners while continuously investing in our most precious asset – our people. Our success is built on a foundation of operational excellence and exceptional guest experiences. These accolades reaffirm our strategy of sustainable growth and our ability to adapt to evolving market demands while maintaining the highest standards of hospitality. As we look ahead to 2025, we will continue to set new milestones – seizing new opportunities, enhancing our offerings, streamlining our operations, and further empowering our exceptional team.”

Among the awards received by the group are the Legacy Family Business Award Asia Pacific at the Family Business Association Excellence Awards 2024 (May 2024) and the EY Entrepreneur of The Year 2024 New Zealand Family Business Award (November 2024), both recognising the contributions of Gavin M. Faull and the Faull Family in shaping a legacy of excellence in hospitality. Additionally, Swiss-Belhotel International was awarded Hotel & Resort Management of the Year at the Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2025 by Travel Daily Media (February 2025), further reinforcing its strong market position. The group’s dedication to long-term partnerships and sustainability was acknowledged with The Most Excellence in Sustained Partnership Award at the GarudaMiles Loyalty Summit 2025 (February 2025) and the Excellence Award in the Sustainable Hospitality category from ESG Business Awards 2024 in Hong Kong (September 2024).

With 18 brands and a strong presence across 20 countries, Swiss-Belhotel International is recognised for its world-class management models, multi-brand strategy, and owner-centric approach, ensuring that each property thrives in its respective market.

Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel Unveils Eid Staycation

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Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel Unveils Eid Staycation

Celebrate Eid Al Fitr with a memorable staycation at the iconic Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel. From 30 March to 3 April, 2025, guests can experience an unforgettable getaway filled with an array of benefits.

The Eid Staycation at QE2 offers the perfect opportunity to unwind and create lasting memories with loved ones during the Eid break. Guests can take advantage of a complimentary upgrade to a sea-view room.

The package also includes a delectable buffet breakfast at the historic Lido restaurant, ensuring a delightful start to each day. In the evening, guests can savor a sumptuous dinner buffet at the Lido, featuring a wide array of international cuisines and Eid-themed specialties.

To enhance the overall experience, the Eid Staycation offers late check-out at 2:00 pm, subject to availability, allowing guests to maximize their time on board as well as 20% discount on food and beverages.

Package includes:

§  Complimentary upgrade to a sea-view room of the same category booked

§  Buffet breakfast in Lido restaurant for 2 persons

§  Buffet dinner in Lido restaurant for 2 persons

§  Late check-out at 2:00 pm (subject to availability)

§  20% on Food and Beverages

Terms & Conditions:

Terms & Conditions Apply:

Valid: 30 March – 3 April 2025

For reservations & Inquiries

Call +971 4 526 8888 or email Reservations.qe2@accor.com

Or visit https://www.qe2.com

Shaza Hotels’ Q1 Promotion Attracts Exceptional Response – Limited Time Left to Experience ‘New Journeys, New Beginnings’

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Shaza Hotels’ Q1 Promotion Attracts Exceptional Response – Limited Time Left to Experience ‘New Journeys, New Beginnings’

Shaza Hotels’ exclusive Q1 promotion, ‘New Journeys, New Beginnings,’ captivated travellers from across destinations, setting the stage for a remarkable start to 2025. Launched at the beginning of the year, the offer had drawn an impressive number of guests seeking meaningful experiences and refined hospitality, reaffirming Shaza Hotels’ commitment to delivering unparalleled stays.

As the first quarter nears its conclusion, there is still time to take advantage of this limited-time offer, valid until 31 March 2025.

Shaji Abu Salih, Vice President of Business Development at Shaza Hotels, stated:
“At Shaza Hotels, we believe in delivering experiences that go beyond hospitality. Our ‘New Journeys, New Beginnings’ promotion has not only driven strong business results but has also provided our guests with meaningful and enriching stays. This initiative has allowed us to further enhance guest engagement, strengthen brand loyalty, and reinforce our commitment to curating personalised and authentic experiences. Looking ahead our focus remains on creating exceptional moments that resonate with today’s discerning travellers.”

With a great response from travellers, the ‘New Journeys, New Beginnings’ offer continues to be a preferred choice, providing:

  • 20% off on room rates and suites
  • Children below 10 years eat free
  • 15% off on dining and spa treatments

Guests can unlock these exceptional benefits by using the promo code JOURNEYS when booking their stays.

For GHA DISCOVERY members, the rewards go even further, with an extra 10% discount on stays, unmatched recognition, and exclusive access to immersive local experiences. Not a member yet? Join now to enjoy these privileges: https://bit.ly/3kDCYN6.

With just a few weeks left to make the most of this successful promotion, now is the time to book a rejuvenating retreat, a culinary escape, or a memorable family getaway at Shaza Hotels. Don’t miss your chance to embark on a new journey before this exclusive offer ends!

Visit https://www.shazahotels.com/en/ and choose your preferred destination.

Celebrate Ramadan with Shaza Hotels and Mysk by Shaza

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Celebrate Ramadan with Shaza Hotels and Mysk by Shaza

Dubai, UAE (24 February 2025) – As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, Shaza Hotels and Mysk by Shaza invite guests to immerse themselves in a season of reflection, connection, and timeless hospitality. Inspired by the rich cultures of the Silk Route, Shaza Hotels offer a sanctuary of tranquility and tradition, while Mysk by Shaza presents a vibrant modern Arabian lifestyle experience – both embracing the values of generosity (karam) and respect (ehtiram).

Shaji Abu Salih, Vice President Business Development at Shaza Hotels, said, “Ramadan embodies the essence of hospitality – welcoming, sharing, and embracing the beauty of tradition. At Shaza Hotels and Mysk by Shaza, we take pride in curating experiences that honor these values. From soulful gatherings to exquisite Iftar feasts, we are committed to crafting experiences across our various properties that resonate with the spirit of the month and the hearts of our guests.

Ramadan at Shaza Hotels – A Sanctuary of Elegance & Tradition

For those looking to celebrate Ramadan in a setting of refined sophistication, Shaza Hotels provide a harmonious escape where the essence of Arabian hospitality is elevated through meticulous craftsmanship and heartfelt service. Inspired by the Silk Route’s rich history, guests can indulge in lavish Iftars, soothing wellness experiences, and an atmosphere of spiritual serenity, making every moment meaningful.

Ramadan at Mysk by Shaza – A Celebration of Life

Mysk by Shaza, a dynamic and convivial theatre of life, redefines the Ramadan experience with vibrant social gatherings, contemporary design, and an engaging atmosphere. Ideal for those who seek a modern take on tradition, Mysk brings people together to share stories, flavors, and the joy of the season in an energetic and welcoming setting.

An Invitation to Experience True Hospitality

At the heart of both brands lies a deep commitment to crafting handcrafted guest experiences that embody the spirit of the Silk Route while embracing the evolving Arabian lifestyle. Whether guests are looking for a peaceful retreat or an immersive cultural experience, Shaza Hotels and Mysk by Shaza promise an unparalleled journey through tradition, elegance, and warmth.

Book your Ramadan experience now and celebrate the month of togetherness with the finest Arabian hospitality.

Visit https://www.shazahotels.com/en/ and choose your preferred destination.

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