Author: Sam Allcock

Sam Allcock is a seasoned journalist and digital marketing expert known for his insightful reporting across business, real estate, travel and lifestyle sectors. His recent work includes high-profile Dubai coverage, such as record-breaking events by AYS Developers. With a career spanning multiple outlets. Sam delivers sharp, engaging content that bridges UK and UAE markets. His writing reflects a deep understanding of emerging trends, making him a trusted voice in regional and international business journalism. Should you need any edits please contact editor@dubaiweek.ae

AI

Los Angeles-based Aristara has made its Arabian Gulf debut with the introduction of a multilingual WhatsApp assistant at the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) World, designed to provide delegates with real-time event information in over 50 languages. Aristara AI has unveiled its multilingual digital assistant at FHS World, offering attendees instant access to key event details and live updates throughout the summit. The WhatsApp-based assistant allows delegates to interact seamlessly by asking questions about sessions, speakers, venues, and schedules in their preferred language. In addition, The Bench — the organisers of FHS World — will use the platform to deliver timely…

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If you work in the UAE and receive your salary on a Ratibi Card, you probably want a simple, fast, and safe way to check your salary balance online.As a Dubai resident who has used the FAB Ratibi Card for several years, I’ll share everything you need to know — how to check your salary, see your balance, use the mobile app, and even fix errors when your salary doesn’t show. This step-by-step 2025 guide explains every method — online, mobile app, ATM, and SMS — for both FAB Ratibi Card and NBAD Ratibi Card holders. 🏦 1. What Is…

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As someone who’s been living in Dubai for nearly a decade, I’ve seen global brands come and go — but when Uniqlo finally opened here, it felt like a big moment. I remember the first time I walked into the Uniqlo Dubai Mall store; the atmosphere, the organization, and the comfort-focused clothing instantly reminded me why this Japanese brand has such a loyal following worldwide.If you’ve been searching “Is there a Uniqlo in Dubai?” or wondering where to find it, let me share my full experience across all Uniqlo stores in the city. 🏬 1. Yes, There Is a Uniqlo…

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A landmark partnership set to transform hospitality operations and position Bahrain as a key regional centre for premium housekeeping solutions Gulf Hotels Group (GHG), one of Bahrain’s most established hospitality companies, has announced a strategic joint venture with MFive Services, the UAE-based provider of housekeeping and cleaning solutions jointly owned by Abu Dhabi National Hotels (ADNH) and Metro Global. The collaboration will bring MFive Services to Bahrain, creating a new entity dedicated to setting global standards of excellence in outsourced housekeeping services. This milestone partnership marks a defining moment for the professional housekeeping industry in Bahrain, introducing a new era…

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There’s a new reason to fire up your appetite at Nando’s UAE. The restaurant has launched its brand-new Saucy Wings in two irresistible flavours — Honey & Soy and Spicy Brown Sugar — bringing a bold and playful edge to the chain’s much-loved flame-grilled favourites. Joining the line-up is Bottomless Wing Tuesdays, a midweek celebration of endless wings and endless flavour. The new Saucy Wings give a classic a daring upgrade. Honey & Soy wraps each wing in smooth, savoury sweetness, while Spicy Brown Sugar introduces rich caramelised spice with a subtle kick. Both are flame-grilled to perfection, generously coated,…

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Samana Developers, the renowned Dubai-based and award-winning property developer, has announced the launch of its newest residential venture, SAMANA Hills South 3. Located in the thriving Dubai South district, the project will comprise 147 premium units tailored for discerning international investors seeking a secure and high-performing asset close to one of the city’s most strategically important economic hubs. The introduction of SAMANA Hills South 3 follows the complete sell-out of SAMANA Hills South 1 and 2, reaffirming the company’s strong reputation and market dominance among Dubai’s leading off-plan developers. Spanning 95,195.92 square feet of residential space, the project will feature…

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Piper Sandler Companies (NYSE: PIPR), a leading international investment bank, has announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire MENA Growth Partners, a merchant bank headquartered in Abu Dhabi. The acquisition will establish Piper Sandler’s strategic investment banking hub for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. As part of the agreement, Eric Wilson, founder of MENA Growth Partners, and his team will serve as consultants to Piper Sandler. The firm will leverage their four decades of experience and extensive regional relationships to enhance its advisory and transaction capabilities across the Middle East. MENA Growth Partners’ deep local…

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London-born Modern Coffee brand WatchHouse is expanding its international footprint with the launch of its first UAE location this October. Recognised for its architecturally designed Houses and elevated approach to hospitality, WatchHouse now operates over 20 sites across the UK and two in the United States. This new opening represents the brand’s first international franchise and a milestone in its global growth journey. The expansion comes through a master franchise partnership with Big Belly Hospitality, a leading UAE-based food and beverage operator. The collaboration will begin with a six-month espresso-led residency at Marsa Boulevard — a seasonal waterfront development on…

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The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has opened nominations for the fifth edition of its annual Urban Treasures awards, inviting the public to celebrate the long-standing establishments that have become part of the emirate’s cultural and social identity. Open until 30 November, the nomination process allows residents and visitors to put forward local businesses that have served the community for more than two decades. Eligible establishments include cafés, restaurants, bakeries, sweet shops, tailors, perfumeries, jewellers, pharmacies, photography studios, and textile stores. Following a six-month evaluation period, 15 of these enduring institutions will be recognised…

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Presight, a global leader in AI and big data analytics, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ALPHA X, a Dubai-based innovation and consultancy firm specialising in application-layer digital transformation and data infrastructure. The signing ceremony was attended by Dr. Adel Al Sharji, Chief Operating Officer of Presight, and Waleed Al Aryan, Managing Director of ALPHA X. The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation aimed at accelerating international digital transformation projects. By combining resources, expertise, and advanced technologies, both organisations will collaborate on developing a high-performance AI data centre and innovation hub. The partnership will also enhance the implementation…

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