Ayesha Naseem, Anchor High Point Education meets up with Bilal Hafeez, Brendyn Monsorate & Christopher Swaminathan. People of determination from Al Noor training center as the trio from the first batch of special needs correspondents in the UAE.
TIPS TO MAKE FRESHMEN YEAR EASIER
Economist Dubai presents HIGH POINT EDUCATION – a series dedicated to the education industry in UAE to talk about compelling new developments. Ayesha Naseem, Anchor, in conversation with experts Kessington Gabriel & Sara Nigash discussing points on how to make your freshmen year easier in the very first episode.
Dress Up Your Rooms with Luxe Carpets from 2XL Furniture & Home Decor
Carpets are the heart of a design scheme and choosing one is never easy. The latest collection of carpets at 2XL Furniture & Home Décor includes a superb selection of graphic, abstract and geometric designs suitable for all rooms. Available in a variety of textures and materials in a muted colour palette, they exude soulful elegance and luxury.
Amit Yadav, Head of Marketing, 2XL Furniture & Home Décor, said, “A carpet is nothing less than a piece of art. It sets the vibe for a space and is often the focal point for interior design. Finding the right size and material for a space requires careful consideration. With the latest range of high quality carpets at 2XL Furniture & Home Décor the possibilities are endless. Neutral carpet colours and designs allow statement pieces to stand out while creating a dialogue between the elements.”
Here’s what is on offer at 2XL Furniture & Home Décor:
Product Description: Heather Carpet
Dimensions: 200×285 cm
Colour: Grey / Ivory
Material: Heather
Price: AED 1,017
Product Description: Prato Carpet
Dimensions: 230×340 cm
Colour: Multicoloured
Material: Fabric
Price: AED 1,102
Product Description: Regina Carpet
Dimensions: 160×235 cm
Material: Regina Gobelin
Price: AED 638
Product Description: Lana Carpet
Dimensions: 160×230 cm
Material: Viscose
Price: AED 854
Product Description: Lana Carpet
Dimension: 200×290 cm
Material: Viscose
Price: AED 1,349
Product Description: Florence Carpet
Dimension: 160×230 cm
Material: Viscose Polyester
Price: AED 366
Product Description: Florence Carpet
Dimension: 160×230 cm
Material: Viscose Polyester
Price: AED 366
For media contact:
Hina Bakht
Managing Director
EVOPS Marketing & PR
Mob: 00971 50 6975146
Tel: 00971 4 566 7355
Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com
www.evops-pr.com
About 2XL Furniture & Home Décor
UAE based 2XL Furniture & Home Décor is a retailer of luxury home furnishings since 2000.
The retailer currently has 9 showrooms across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah and Al Ain. The 2XL product range includes exclusive bedroom, living and dining room furniture as well as exquisitely crafted décor items, unique gifting ideas, plush rugs and gorgeous wall art, divine bed and bath linen, eye-catching tableware, and a fun, functional kitchenware range.
The 2XL range is very classic and French-inspired. Each retail item has been carefully chosen exclusively for 2XL and denotes a lifestyle that is regal, sophisticated and of a finer taste. We have something to suit every home setting – from ornate gold-plated bedroom settings to the more subdued Parisian hues of shabby chic, quirky contemporary inspirations to more ethnic Eastern-inspired décor ideas.
For more information or to shop online please visit www.2xlme.com
Connect and tag us on @2xlfurniture
#2XLfurniture
Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai Launches Platinum Privilege Programme for Diners
The Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai unveiled a Platinum Privilege Card offering a host of exclusive benefits to members across its food and beverage outlets. With two annual membership options priced at AED 999 and AED 250, the scheme is designed to offer fabulous discounts for diners at the hotel’s award-winning restaurants and bars.
Mr. Simon Moore, General Manager of Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, said, “We are delighted to launch the Platinum Privilege Card for diners that offers members an endless array of benefits, privileges and added value at our food and beverage outlets. Most loyalty schemes are too complicated. Our programme is all about simplicity and ease of use, which is why we give instant discounts and not points.”
Some of the MAHD Platinum card benefits include 25% discount on total bill for up to 12 guests at Da Vinci’s, Loumi, Biggles, Cactus Jack’s and Oasis Pool & Bar including the member; 50% discount for up to 4 people on pool access and special 25% discount extended during Friday Brunch and Themed Dinner Buffets. In addition, for AED 999 membership you will also get AED 1,000 food and beverage voucher to be availed at any food and beverage outlets of the hotel. Members must simply present their Platinum Card to avail the benefits. General terms and conditions apply.
For inquiries or reservations, please call: 04 702 8888 or email: dining.mahd@millenniumhotels.com
For hotel marketing contact:
Sheryl Aquiatan
Marketing & Communications Manager
Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai
Mob: 00971 56 506 0983
Tel: 00971 4 702 8888
sheryl.aquiatan@millenniumhotels.com
For media contact:
Hina Bakht
Managing Director
EVOPS Marketing & PR
Mob: 00971 50 6975146
Tel: 00971 4 566 7355
Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com
www.evops-pr.com
Millennium Hotels and Resorts, Middle East and Africa
Millennium Hotels and Resorts is a dynamic, global hotel company, which owns, asset manages and operates over 130 hotels worldwide. With almost 40,000 rooms and a portfolio of brands; including Biltmore, Grand Millennium, Millennium, Millennium Place, M Hotel, Copthorne, Kingsgate, Millennium Executive Apartments and Studio M, that serve different market segments, representing quality and value in every class.
Currently operating 35 hotels in the Middle East and Africa, the Group has an extensive expansion strategy in place, with 40 hotels in the pipeline. Each property in the region is unique, catering to the varying tastes and needs of the international business and leisure traveller but with a consistent promise to provide a first-class service and a rewarding experience for guests. Millennium Hotels and Resorts is committed to differentiating itself by embracing the true spirit of diverse traditions, with a sincere respect to historical heritage and local culture.
With the motto “More than Meets the Eye”, Millennium & Copthorne is committed to a customer-centric philosophy and complete guest satisfaction. For more information, please visit www.millenniumhotels.com
Ajman Bank Wins Sharjah Gulf Nationalization Award
Ajman Bank, one of the leading Islamic financial institutions in the UAE, was named the winner of Sharjah Gulf Nationalization Award at the Sharjah Economic Excellence Awards. The coveted accolade was presented by H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Deputy Chairman of Sharjah Executive Council to Mr. Mohamed Amiri, the Chief Executive Officer of Ajman Bank.
Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Mohamed Amiri, the Chief Executive Officer of Ajman Bank, said “We are highly honoured to be recognised for our Emiratisation efforts at such a prestigious platform. Nationalization is central to our strategy and part of our commitment towards building a strong workforce while empowering local talent. We are proud to support the remarkable vision of the UAE and contribute to the development of knowledge-based economy through a series of successful training and leadership programmes for UAE nationals.”
Ajman Bank is among the pioneers of Emiratisation in the UAE. In line with its objectives, the bank has ensured the implementation of Emiratisation policies at all levels of the operation through the establishment of well-defined guidelines, quota and incentives.
Mr. Amiri stressed, “Developing a thriving culture which engages and promotes talent remains a key priority for us at Ajman Bank. As we grow, we will continue to introduce new employee engagement programmes.”
About Ajman Bank
Ajman Bank is an Islamic bank with an ambitious vision based on values of integrity, trust and transparency seeks to provide a wide range of Sharia-compliant and high quality banking services to customers from individuals, companies and government institutions across the UAE. It is also keen to be updated with the latest technology that will ensure customers a distinctive experimental banking with the revival of human touch that is lost in the modern era of banking application.
Ajman Bank is headquartered in Ajman and enjoys the strong support of the Government of Ajman and is a key pillar in the emirate’s economic development strategy. The bank continues its tireless efforts to establish a prominent position in the banking sector as a sustainable Islamic banking institution, with an emphasis on the need to achieve an optimal balance in the community and caring staff, in order to provide real value for shareholders and customers alike. For more information visit http://www.ajmanbank.ae
For media contact:
Hina Bakht
Managing Director
EVOPS Marketing & PR
Mob: 00971 50 6975146
Tel: 00971 4 566 7355
Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com
www.evops-pr.com
Amit Yadav, Head of Marketing, 2XL Furniture & Home Décor, Highlights Latest Tech Trends Transforming Retail at MRF 2019
Amit Yadav, Head of Marketing, 2XL Furniture & Home Décor, participated today in an insightful tech talk roundtable discussion joining top executives from some of the leading local and international companies at the Middle East Retail Forum (MRF) in Dubai.
Speaking about ‘Reinventing retail in the blended consumption era’ from the perspective of a successful Emirati brand, Amit said, “At 2XL we are doing our best to take advantage of the latest technology advancements for operational efficiency, better business conversion, gaining new customers and ensuring seamless, immersive brand experience for shoppers. We believe technology is a two-way process and needs to have a conversation engaging customers to offer a personalized experience that makes their lives easier, simpler and more convenient.”
With rapid advancements in consumer technology and multi-channel shopping experiences, data is becoming increasingly crucial. Amit stated, “Shopper insights are critical for our performance as are other statistics. By focusing on understanding in greater detail about the changing needs and desires of our consumers and delivering what they really value, we have significantly boosted customer loyalty and customer retention rates at 2XL.”
Digital transformation continues to reshape shopping and customer experiences. Elaborating on how 2XL Furniture & Home Décor is preparing for the advancements in technology, Amit stressed, “The only constant in retail technology is change. Omnichannel experiences offering seamless and consistent experiences across all channels from e-commerce to social media continue to be big. Consumers are heavily influenced by what they see on social media. We are also eager to take advantage of developments in Augmented Reality (AR), machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) as they are here to stay.”
For 2XL the human touch is as important as technology. Amit said, “Whether on the front lines or behind the scenes, it takes specialized staff operating with technology — to delight customers with the right products and services. At 2XL we differentiate ourselves from our competitors through customer service optimization at every touch point. The human element is central to customer interactions. Our ultimate goal is to build a strong and lasting ‘relationship’ with our customers through continuous improvement in service and quality excellence.”
The Middle East Retail Forum is an independent retail knowledge platform in the region. It is a unique gathering of leading retailers discussing key issues facing the retail fraternity and exchanging best practices.
For media contact:
Hina Bakht
Managing Director
EVOPS Marketing & PR
Mob: 00971 50 6975146
Tel: 00971 4 566 7355
Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com
www.evops-pr.com
About 2XL Furniture & Home Décor
UAE based 2XL Furniture & Home Décor is a retailer of luxury home furnishings since 2000.
The retailer currently has 9 showrooms across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah and Al Ain. The 2XL product range includes exclusive bedroom, living and dining room furniture as well as exquisitely crafted décor items, unique gifting ideas, plush rugs and gorgeous wall art, divine bed and bath linen, eye-catching tableware, and a fun, functional kitchenware range.
The 2XL range is very classic and French-inspired. Each retail item has been carefully chosen exclusively for 2XL and denotes a lifestyle that is regal, sophisticated and of a finer taste. We have something to suit every home setting – from ornate gold-plated bedroom settings to the more subdued Parisian hues of shabby chic, quirky contemporary inspirations to more ethnic Eastern-inspired décor ideas.
For more information or to shop online please visit www.2xlme.com
Connect and tag us on @2xlfurniture
#2XLfurniture
SWISS-BELHOTEL INTERNATIONAL AT TRAVEL TECH SHOW MEASA 2019
Priyanka Kapoor, Regional Director of Sales and Marketing for the Middle East and Africa at Swiss-Belhotel International joined a panel discussion today on ‘how sharing economy is disrupting the norm’ at the Travel Tech Show MEASA 2019.
Commenting on adopting alternative travel, accommodation and activity products into the customer facing shelf, Priyanka said, “We are in an era of sharing economy which has created a healthy ecosystem with alternative accommodation innovations. In the last two decades we have seen many disruptions in our industry by a number of non-traditional hotel players such as Airbnb and HomeAway. The rise in the popularity of private accommodation platforms presents opportunities as well as challenges for hotels.”
According to Priyanka non traditional accommodation options and hotels complement each other and help to grow and diversify tourism in a destination giving more choice to tavellers. She stressed, “We all need each other. A lot of boutique hotels are using Airbnb just the way they use OTA platforms. Typically OTAs charge hotels 15 to 25% fee per reservation while Airbnb charges 10 to 15% commission from hosts on every booking. So any hotel that needs to fill up rooms can benefit from Airbnb as one of their marketing arms.”
Commenting on other facets of sharing economy, she added the need to look at the wider aspect of being a part of the digital marketplace, where the offering has to be diversified to meet the changing demographics of the travelers. Travel platforms need to come together with other industries in order to give a one-stop solution to the traveler that is seeking an overall experience.
Elaborating on how Swiss-Belhotel International is leveraging existing data to capitalise on the new norm of sharing, Priyanka continued “At Swiss-Belhotel International we are well placed to take advantage of the evolving digital marketplace by listing our properties on alternative travel sites. We have integrated the CRM with real-time data in order to provide information to our guests about the ongoing events and activities across our hotels. In addition, to communicate better with our partners we are making use of the growing share of XML-API connectivity and much more.”
For media contact:
Hina Bakht
Managing Director
EVOPS Marketing & PR
Mob: 00971 50 6975146
Tel: 00971 4 566 7355
Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com
www.evops-pr.com
About Swiss-Belhotel International
Swiss-Belhotel International currently manages a portfolio of more than 145* hotels, resorts and projects located in Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Bahrain, Egypt, Georgia, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Australia, New Zealand, Bulgaria, Germany, Italy, Switzerland and Tanzania. Awarded Indonesia’s Leading Global Hotel Chain for eight years, Swiss-Belhotel International is one of the world’s fastest-growing international hotel and hospitality management groups. The Group provides comprehensive and highly professional development and management services in all aspects of hotel, resort and serviced residences. Offices are located in Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia, China, Europe, Indonesia, United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam.
*Numbers may fluctuate
For further information visit https://www.swiss-belhotel.com
DATES ANNOUNCED FOR HITEC Dubai 2019
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®) and Naseba announced the dates for HITEC Dubai 2019, the Middle East’s largest hospitality technology show for hotels, at the first advisory council meeting that took place at the V Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton. Endorsed by Dubai Tourism, HITEC Dubai will be held this year on November 12 and 13 at the Festival Arena by Intercontinental at Dubai Festival City and will bring together over 2000+ hospitality professionals 100+ exhibitors and 30+ leading thought leaders from across the region.
HITEC Dubai’s Advisory Council Chairperson Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India for Swiss-Belhotel International, said, “Advancements in technology have led to drastic disruption and transformation in the hospitality sector globally as well as regionally which has boosted competitiveness and efficiency while creating new opportunities. HITEC offers the perfect platform to know about the latest technology developments and innovations transforming our industry in a rapidly changing digital world. Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, VR (Virtual Reality), 3D printing, Blockchain and other innovations are all continuously giving greater choice and convenience in every aspect of travel.”
Awaiting guests this season at LEVA Mazaya Centre Hotel Dubai are an array of memorable experiences. As one steps into the hotel the vibrant energy and glamour of Dubai shines through each space and provides travellers a relaxing oasis in the heart of the city.
Mr. JS Anand, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of LEVA Hotels & Resorts, said, “Our objective with LEVA has been to offer guests fun, fresh and inspired spaces and experiences that go beyond a typical hotel stay. Whether you want to enjoy the great weather by our beautiful pool, relax in your room or explore Dubai, LEVA is ideally equipped and located to fulfil your requirements while moving from mundane to memorable.”
Mr. Anand further added, “We believe it is often the simple things that enrich life and at LEVA that is how we define hospitality. The entire place has been made in such a fashion that’s approachable, user friendly and communal. We want every guest who passes our doors to be a happy customer, who would want to come back to LEVA as well as recommend our brand to others. Each member of our team is dedicated and committed to help us achieve this goal that revolves around building memories.”
Superbly located between Al Wasl Road and Sheikh Zayed Road, LEVA Mazaya Centre is a deluxe 4-star hotel, situated only 20 minutes-drive away from Dubai International Airport. Part of a mixed-use development that includes Al Mazaya Shopping Centre and residential spaces, LEVA makes for an ideal address for both business and leisure travellers in Dubai. Blending fresh and purposeful spaces with comfort, the beautiful property is a statement in style and enjoys close proximity to some of Dubai’s biggest leisure attractions and business landmarks.
For bookings call: +9714 52 66 000 or email: info@stayleva.com
Or visit www.stayleva.com
Connect with LEVA Hotels & Resorts on @LEVAHotels #LEVAHotels #LEVAHotelsAndResorts #LEVAMazayaCentre
About LEVA Hotels & Resorts
LEVA Hotels & Resorts is a dynamic lifestyle hotel brand uniquely positioned in the upscale and midscale segments offering a fresh perspective on hospitality. It attracts travellers who want to be immersed in vibrant spaces while enjoying world-class comfort and engaging service at affordable price points. Derived from the Latin word ‘Levatio’ meaning ‘comfort’, LEVA Hotels & Resorts boasts a unique portfolio of 4 complementary and well differentiated hospitality brands aimed at delivering greater value to guests with a balanced lifestyle and solid return on investment for owners. At every level, LEVA is focused on the essentials that turn the mundane into memorable. For more information visit www.stayleva.com
For Media Contact:
Hina Bakht
Managing Director
EVOPS Marketing & PR
M: +971 50 6975146 | T: +971 4 566 7355
Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com
www.evops-pr.com
Saif bin Zayed unveils first floating Smart Police Station
Dubai Police has partnered with the group behind the innovative Floating Seahorse Villa, Kleindienst, to reveal the world’s first floating Smart Police Station. The announcement was made during GITEX Technology Week in Dubai, which takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from October 6 – 10.
The floating seahorse Smart Police Station (SPS), which will be located at Kleindienst Group’s HEART OF EUROPE project, and is expected to open in Q1 2020, will offer unmanned innovative, high performance e-police services to the residents of the development as well as the Dubai community at large.
The partnership also further underscores Dubai’s innovative 360-degree plan to promote happiness, sustainability and public safety by using smart technology as well as educating the community on protecting marine life.
Major General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police said: “This extraordinary, unique and pioneering project has grabbed the attention of police and security institutions around the world, as they seek to replicate the experience in their countries.”
In addition to providing safety and security services the SPS will also play a crucial role in promoting sustainability and marine life protection in the Heart of Europe development and in the rest of the UAE. A series of visits to the SPS are planned for UAE residents, schools and tourists to see firsthand the positive impact Kleindienst is having on the marine ecosystem.
Josef Kleindienst, Chairman of Kleindienst Group said: “Our partnership with Dubai Police is built on innovation, engineering ingenuity and imagination. We were the first in the world to develop a luxury floating above and underwater living experience through the Floating Seahorse Villa and I’m pleased our design capabilities have been recognised by Dubai Police with the first floating Smart Police Station. As a Developer, we are committed to supporting Dubai’s vision on sustainability, innovation and safety.
“The Heart of Europe project is gaining momentum and the SPS is a good example of the infrastructure and amenities which will in place and available to the waterfront community. Our vision for protecting underwater life is also being realised through the vital role the stations will play in promoting sustainability,” added Kleindienst.