UAE Increases Entry Permit Fees for 10-Year Golden Visa Applicants

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UAE Increases Entry Permit Fees for 10-Year Golden Visa ApplicantsThe UAE ICP has revised the fees for foreigners applying for a 10-year Golden Visa, increasing the cost of the six-month entry permit to Dhs1,250. This includes several charges such as Dhs1,000 for issuance, Dhs100 for the application, Dhs100 for smart services, Dhs28 for e-services, and Dhs22 for Federal Authority fees. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai reported that 151,666 Golden Visas were issued between 2019 and 2022, cementing the UAE’s status as an attractive destination for living, working, and investing. The Golden Visa enables select groups to reside, work, and study in the country without sponsorship, including talents, investors, entrepreneurs, and graduates from accredited universities.

 The updated visa system aims to attract global talent and skilled workers from all over the world while enhancing the country’s competitiveness and flexibility in the job market. The One Touch Golden Visa service is a new comprehensive platform that simplifies the application and renewal process for a golden residency visa, unifying all visa services through integrated packages.

Elaf Group and Kinan International Real Estate Development Company signs Memorandum of Understanding

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Kinan International Real Estate Development Company and Elaf Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a management agreement in addition to supervising the preparation of designs for the construction of the hotel within the Aliat Mall project in Medina for 15 years. The mall also includes an area of modern retail stores, restaurants and a cinema, in addition to the hotel. 

The key goals of the MoU between Elaf Group and Kinan International Real Estate Development Company includes overseeing the implementation of 230 rooms and suites in line with the highest standards set out by the Ministry of Tourism, as well as demands of the visitors of Medina, with an investment of more than 220 million Saudi Riyals. The project is estimated to be completed in the first quarter of 2025. 

The MoU was signed by Eng. Nidal Abdulmajeed Jamjoom, Managing Director and CEO of Kinan International Real Estate Development Company and Dr. Adel Ezzat, CEO of Elaf Group.

Eng. Jamjoom, said: “We are delighted to partner with Elaf Group, a prominent company in the hospitality and tourism sector of Saudi Arabia. We anticipate the MoU with Elaf Group to significantly contribute to the national strategies of enhancing the standards of living by boosting the quality of hospitality services offered to pilgrims and Umrah performers, which will further give them the opportunity to enjoy the one-of-its-kind Saudi Arabian hospitality. The new project will feature unique and remarkable architecture in Medina. It is expected to be a vital addition to the tourism and hospitality sector of the Kingdom, as it expects to witness massive growth. Our MoU with Elaf Group will contribute to this growth, by providing exceptional services to pilgrims and visitors through this new hotel.”  

Dr. Ezzat, said: “We are happy to sign this MoU with Kinan International Real Estate Development Company. In line with the MoU, we seek to expand our bilateral collaboration to benefit both sides as well as the hotel industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In addition, we will improve our efforts to advance the hospitality sector’s growth, enhance pilgrims’ and visitors’ experiences, and increase the quality and efficacy of services provided in the Hajj and Umrah business. In order to support the country’s Vision 2030 and the goal of hosting 100 million visitors yearly by 2030, we will keep expanding our business.”

With six residential projects in Riyadh and Jeddah on an area of ​​over 6 million square meters, Kinan International Real Estate Development Company is one of the top Saudi-based companies in the field of developing and management residential communities and malls in Saudi Arabia. Kinan also operates 10 commercial centres across six different cities in Saudi Arabia.

Elaf Group, a pioneer in the hospitality and tourist sectors, runs a network of hotels that have received multiple awards and has more than 40 years of expertise in the field. The group has a prestigious reputation both locally and internationally. The Group has made a name for itself as a pioneer in the provision of first-rate hospitality services for travellers, pilgrims, and Umrah performers over the years.

Ramadan in Sharjah.. A Tourists’ Haven of Exceptional Lantern-Decorated Experiences

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Journeying through the streets of Sharjah during the sacred month of Ramadan is a cultural and spiritual experience that will leave a lasting impression on travellers. Through the vibrant tapestry of sights, sounds and flavours, Sharjah’s Ramadan celebration unveils a profoundly serene ambiance where spirituality prevails and harmony reigns.

While Sharjah is a popular tourist destination throughout the year, Ramadan offers a special opportunity to connect with the emirate’s heritage features and authentic architecture, particularly in its mosques and buildings influenced by islamic architecture. This enchanting city and its tourist destinations will ignite a new appreciation for the customs and traditions of the UAE with its Ramadan activities. You’ll find the streets alive with decorations and the markets brimming with activity during this time, providing a vibrant atmosphere that is not to be missed.

Exploring Sharjah during Ramadan allows visitors to forge genuine connections with the emirate’s distinctive destinations, offering a chance to delve into the relationship between spirituality and place. You’ll be captivated by the unique energy that echoes the atmosphere of Ramadan, providing a truly unforgettable experience for children and adults alike.

3,000 mosques celebrate Islamic architecture 

Sharjah, with its central location between emirates,  is home to a stunning array of 3,005 mosques and praying places, each renowned for its breathtaking designs that exemplify the aesthetics of Islamic architecture and exquisite decorations and inscriptions inspired by flora and nature. As visitors explore the emirate during Ramadan, they can’t help but feel embraced by the warm welcome of the holy month and the celebratory atmosphere that pervades the air. The call to prayer beckons worshipers to come together for Tarawih prayers and other acts of worship, providing a unique sense of spirituality that touches every aspect of life during this special month.

A Culinary Journey Across the Globe

Sharjah is a foodie’s paradise, with a restaurant scene that blends the flavours of different cuisines from around the world, including Asian, Arab, Western, and African. During Ramadan, visitors can partake in the community celebrations of Iftar and Suhoor meals in a family-friendly atmosphere, creating cherished memories for all.

In addition to the diverse dining options available throughout the year, Sharjah is also hosting the “Al Qasba Food Festival” from March 30 to April 8. This festival, held at one of the most famous destinations in Sharjah, combines food flavours from different cultures under the slogan “A World of Flavors.” Tourists can enjoy the festival while also exploring the beauty of Al Qasba, making for an unforgettable culinary and cultural experience. 

Impactful activities, exhibitions and more

Sharjah is also a one-of-a-kind destination during Ramadan, thanks to its diverse range of activities, events, and exhibitions that offer the perfect opportunity to soak up the spirit of the holy month. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy the vibrant Ramadan atmosphere through a variety of arts and culture exhibitions, in addition to entertaining and educational events and community initiative. 

The “Khorfakkan Amphitheatre” organises “Dakakeen” shopping festival that runs until April 23, while Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre is organising Azyan Ramadan fashion and clothing exhibition, taking place from March 30 to April 16. 

Furthermore, the Sharjah Ramadan Festival 2023, now in its 33rd edition, has commenced with various activities across cities and regions in the Emirate of Sharjah. This festival will continue until April 25, under the theme “Ramadan with you is better”.

Authentic Markets for Memorable Experience

During Ramadan, Sharjah comes alive with markets and commercial complexes decorated to welcome visitors and offer an exceptional flavour of the holy month. Souq Saqr, Souq Al Shanasiyah, Gold Market, Souq Al Arsah, Textile Souq, Date Souq, and Souq Al Jubail are some of the famous markets in Sharjah where visitors can enjoy a pleasant shopping experience. The eastern region of the emirate has no shortage of locations such as “Sharq Market” in Khorfakkan and the popular market in Kalba. It is also recommended to visit the market located behind the Al Dhaid Fort in the central region, distinguished by the traditional architecture, as well as other markets that vary in their offerings, sections, and even architectural designs throughout the emirate.

These markets offer a variety of exhibits and sections that showcase traditional and modern products, each reflecting the Emirate’s rich cultural heritage.

Charitable and Volunteer Initiatives 

One cannot miss the sense of solidarity and collaboration among the Sharjah community during Ramadan, which is evident through numerous charitable and volunteer initiatives by various institutions and associations. 

Organisations, including the Sharjah Charity House, The Big Heart Foundation, Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP), and Sharjah Charity International, work towards supporting the most vulnerable and needy members of the community, reflecting the values that are integral to the spirit of Ramadan. Visitors to Sharjah are invited to witness and participate in these activities, which inspire a culture of giving and doing good.

Additionally, the Social Services Department, under the umbrella of the Sharjah Volunteer Centre, provides volunteering opportunities throughout the holy month and until the end of the year.

In the spirit of the holy month, Sharjah is also hosting nearly 300 Ramadan tents and sites for people to break fast, serving different segments of society around the emirate. This humanitarian initiative reflects solidarity and contributes to spreading the culture of giving back, charity and volunteer work.

IHG to open new voco Hotel and Suites in Riyadh North in 2026, targeting premium market segment

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IHG’s newest addition in Saudi Arabia is the voco Hotel and Suites Riyadh North, scheduled to open in 2026 and targeted towards the premium market segment. Haitham Mattar, MD for India, Middle East & Africa at IHG, expressed enthusiasm for the voco brand and the opportunity to partner with Jurmaz Hotels Company in bringing this property to the bustling hub of Riyadh. The hotel will feature 246 rooms, four dining outlets, and a pool. Abdulaziz Al-Akeel, chairman of Jurmaz Hotels Company, expressed excitement at the prospect of working with IHG to offer guests unique and memorable experiences in Riyadh. 

IHG already has 38 hotels in operation in Saudi Arabia under various brands such as InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Staybridge Suites, and voco, with 33 more in the development pipeline. Last month, IHG also signed a management agreement with Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City for a Hotel Indigo to be opened in 2025 near the Irqah area along Wadi Hanifa in Riyadh.

Xiaomi Unveils Redmi Note 12 Series in the GCC with Five New Devices and Impressive Upgrades

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Xiaomi has launched its highly anticipated Redmi Note 12 Series in the GCC region, including five new devices: Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G, Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G, Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G, Redmi Note 12S, and Redmi Note 12. The event was held on April 6 at the W Hotel in Dubai, featuring a large experience zone where attendees could try the smartphones and other AIoT products. The Redmi Note 12 Series aims to “Live vivid” and offers enhancements in the camera system, battery life, charging speed, and user-friendly design, all at an exceptional value.

 Xiaomi also unveiled the Redmi Watch 3, a stylish new smartwatch with various sports and health functions and accurate multi-system GPS connectivity. Ronnie Wang, Xiaomi’s general manager of the Middle East Region, announced that Xiaomi secured second position in the Middle East’s mobile market for 2022, and it has advanced 72 positions in the Fortune Global 500 rankings to become the fastest-growing Chinese technology company.

UAE and Vietnam to Launch Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement Talks to Boost Trade and Investment

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The UAE and Vietnam have agreed to commence negotiations for a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) to enhance collaboration in trade, investment, economy, industry, energy, logistics, agriculture, and infrastructure. The state-run news agency WAM announced that the shared aspiration of both countries is to elevate their existing economic and trade ties to new heights. Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade, revealed that the UAE accounts for 39% of Vietnam’s total trade with Arab countries, making it Vietnam’s number one Arab trade partner. The non-oil trade volume between the two countries reached $8bn (Dhs29.4bn) in 2022, with a 46% increase in goods trade other than mobile phones and accessories from 2019. In 2022, the trade and investment exchanges between the UAE and Vietnam totalled Dhs13.5bn, increasing 9% from 2021 and with 34% and 26% growth from 2020 and 2019, respectively. UAE’s investments in Vietnam amounted to Dhs260m in 2022, with companies such as DP World, Emirates Investment Authority, Mubadala, and Borouge having investments in the Southeast Asian country. Al Zeyoudi asserted that the bilateral trade agreement between the two nations would enhance economic and trade cooperation while creating new investment opportunities and resulting in a higher volume of trade exchanges. Vietnam’s Minister of Trade Nguyen Hong Dien agreed with Al Zeyoudi, emphasising the agreement’s potential for both countries. The development of the UAE’s economic legislation, which enabled full foreign ownership of companies and significantly enhanced the ease of doing business, reinforces the country’s position as a global hub for trade and investment. 

The talks between the two countries come on the heels of the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) Global Trade Outlook and Statistics Report 2022, which ranked the UAE 11th in terms of exports of commodities and the 18th importer of global merchandise goods trade worldwide. The UAE’s trade in goods with the rest of the world hit $1.024tn in 2022, with imports accounting for 22% of that amount and exports growing by 41%. The UAE has signed four agreements with India, Israel, Indonesia, and Turkiye and is currently in talks with South Korea and Ukraine as it remodels itself as a global hub for business and finance beyond the Middle East. The country aims to double its national economy from Dhs1.49tn to Dhs3tn, increase national non-oil exports to Dhs800bn, and raise the value of the UAE’s foreign trade to Dhs4tn by 2031, aligning with the ‘We the UAE Vision 2031.’

Emirates to increase frequency of Dubai-Toronto flights with two additional weekly services

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Starting April 20, Emirates, a UAE-based airline, will increase the frequency of its services to Canada by adding two more flights per week between Dubai and Toronto. This move comes after an expanded air transport agreement between the UAE and Canada. As a result, Emirates will now operate a daily flight on this route using its flagship A380 aircraft, which has a total capacity of 491 passengers across its economy, business class, and first class cabins. This additional capacity will offer almost 2,000 more seats on the Dubai-Toronto route, resulting in a 40% increase in capacity between the two cities.

According to Emirates, the Dubai-Toronto route is already popular among customers from India, UAE, Bangladesh, Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Sri Lanka. These same countries also represent top destinations for travelers from Toronto.

Emirates’ Chief Commercial Officer, Adnan Kazim, stated that the airline has been serving customers between Toronto and Dubai since 2007. However, the demand from leisure and corporate travelers, diaspora, and students has consistently exceeded the allocated capacity, even though the double-decker A380 aircraft has been operating on the route since 2009. Emirates is also looking forward to playing a role in facilitating more tourism and trade opportunities between the two nations, in partnership with the relevant authorities, and Air Canada, their codeshare and loyalty program partner.

Emirates and Air Canada recently expanded their partnership to offer joint loyalty program benefits to frequent flyer members. Emirates Skywards members can now earn and redeem miles on all flights operated by Air Canada, while Air Canada’s Aeroplan members can earn and redeem points on all flights operated by Emirates. In addition, Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members traveling in economy class with Air Canada or Emirates will also enjoy complimentary access to Air Canada’s Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Café in Toronto Pearson along with one guest.

Cyprus Airways expands route network with new service to Dubai International’s Terminal 1

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In 2022, Cyprus Airways saw significant growth in its annual traffic, with over double the number of scheduled services operated (2,552) compared to the previous year (1,032). Furthermore, the airline carried 94,289 passengers on its charter services. This summer, the airline plans to commence operations to destinations such as Milan, Zurich, Prague, Basel, and Cairo. Cyprus Airways previously announced its intention to operate daily services to Beirut and increase its frequency to Tel Aviv by up to 10 flights per week.

By 2026, Cyprus Airways aims to expand its route network to 30 destinations. Additionally, it will reportedly double its 2022 fleet of two aircraft to four A320-200s this year, with plans to increase to six aircraft in 2024, nine in 2025, and up to 11 by 2026.

Cyprus Airways’ decision to connect Larnaca to Dubai comes as other airlines also announce new services to DXB. Sri Lankan carrier FitsAir recently upgraded its four-times weekly operation to DXB to a daily service, while US carrier United Airlines launched a new nonstop daily service between its New York/Newark hub and DXB.

DXB is currently connected to 230 destinations across more than 95 countries by over 85 international airlines. It also maintained its position as the world’s busiest international airport for the ninth year in a row, with 66,069,981 passengers using the airport in 2022, representing a year-on-year growth of 127%.

Neo Noor Launches in the Middle East

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Neo Noor, a next-level executive coaching company that provides bespoke one-to-one group, and corporate sessions for high-flyers has launched its range of services in the UAE. Founded by life coach and Master NLP certified trainer, Noona Nafousi, the company’s mission is to help busy executives reignite their passion, reconnect with themselves and reclaim who they are meant to be. 

Neo Noor’s aim is to revolutionise corporate training to help employees step into their power by using a unique ‘POWER Framework’ that Noona has personally developed after 22 years spent working as a headhunter, studying human behaviour alongside her life coaching and Master NLP training. Designed to help companies to allow their employees to build themselves up in a way that a teaching strategy will not, the POWER Framework offers proven results that Noona has witnessed first-hand time and time again with the numerous clients she works with. By allowing her clients to tap into their Personal Power, they can overcome any fear of failure, increase their self-worth, work on their ego and energy – as well as take radical responsibility for their actions, growth and communication. By implementing this POWER Framework, leaders are also taught how to lead themselves when times are tough and are taught to be inspirational so that they can inspire themselves.  

The sessions available with Neo Noor are designed to help executives achieve their full potential by providing them with the tools, resources and support they need to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. The team of experienced coaches work closely with each client to understand their unique needs and tailor coaching sessions to suit their personal requirements. 

Whether it’s one-to-one coaching, group workshops or corporate training programmes, Neo Noor’s tried and tested sessions are designed to help executives develop new skills, build resilience and become more confident and empowered in their personal and professional lives. By enhancing their leadership skills, clients are also able to develop effective communication techniques, build stronger relationships with their colleagues and clients, as well as manage stress, improve work-life balance and increase their overall sense of wellbeing. 

Neo Noor’s Executive Coaching is designed for Director level and C-Suite professionals who have already achieved great things professionally but are at a crossroads and don’t know which path to take. The Corporate Workshops on offer are the perfect options for businesses who want to transform their team’s efficiency, motivation and happiness and the one-to-one coaching sessions are designed for those who are ready to take radical responsibility for their emotions and behaviours to achieve the life they deserve. 

Speaking on the launch, Noona Nafousi says, “I am incredibly proud and excited to launch Neo Noor in the region and be able to help high achievers to advance their career without losing themselves along the way. After working as a headhunter for twenty-two years, alongside over 12,000 hours of one-to-one interviews, I have an innate understanding of human behaviour. I’m truly obsessed with how we can all become the best versions of ourselves. Working closely with those who want to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals brings myself and the team huge joy and we look forward to bringing our results-driven method to the GCC region”. 

For more information about Neo Noor and its coaching services, please visit https://neonoor.com/. In addition, stay updated via Noona’s social media channel @noonanafousi.

Cruise Saudi and Aman Resorts to Launch Ultra-Luxury Superyacht by 2027 for High Net Worth Individuals

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Cruise Saudi, a Public Investment Fund (PIF) owned business based in Jeddah, is set to launch a new, ultra-luxury yacht for high net worth individuals by 2027, in collaboration with Aman Resorts. The 183-meter superyacht, named “Aman at Sea,” will boast 47 suites, including an Aman-style spa with a Japanese garden and various dining options. Additionally, the vessel will feature an onboard beach club, two helipads, and a spacious Aman Spa. Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design, one of the world’s top yacht design firms, has partnered with Aman to create a timeless yet contemporary vessel that balances the exterior and interior spaces seamlessly. The vessel will have a 2:1 crew ratio to guests, prioritizing guest space ratio while offering the largest suites in the industry. 

Fawaz Farooqui, Cruise Saudi’s MD, unveiled the vessel at the Seatrade Cruise Global event in Florida. He commented that Aman is known for providing a peerless home away from home service and Saudi Arabia is a premium destination with its warm hospitality, authenticity, culture, and nature.