The directive came during a meeting His Highness held with heads of Dubai Government entities….reports Asian Lite News
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has directed heads of Dubai Government entities to develop a comprehensive proactive plan to further enhance Dubai’s preparedness for dealing with unexpected weather conditions.
The directive came during a meeting His Highness held with heads of Dubai Government entities.
The meeting was attended by H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance; and H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management.
During the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan reviewed the rapid progress achieved in restoring normalcy across Dubai following the severe weather conditions.
He stated that the challenges Dubai encountered in recent days provide an opportunity for the emirate to enhance its emergency response systems and create a new mechanism backed by proactive plans to manage various scenarios.
Sheikh Hamdan said he is closely monitoring the situation along with government entities to address the challenges that emergency response teams faced following the extreme weather.
He further said that Dubai, guided by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, seeks to continuously learn from past experiences and develop proactive plans to deal with all challenges. Adverse weather conditions have offered an opportunity for further improvement in the emirate’s crisis readiness plans, he added. The safety of every citizen, resident and visitor continues to be the Dubai Government’s highest priority.
The meeting was attended by Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, and Director-General of the Office of the Crown Prince of Dubai; Abdullah Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary-General of The Executive Council of Dubai; Major General Talal Humaid Belhoul, Director-General of Dubai State Security; Mattar Al Tayer, Commissioner-General for Infrastructure, Urban Planning and Well-Being Pillar, and Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA); Dawood Al Hajri, Director-General of Dubai Municipality; Lieutenant General Expert Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi, Director-General of Dubai Civil Defense; and Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Director-General of the Government of Dubai Media Office.
During the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan was also briefed about the efforts of government entities to ensure the seamless delivery of services to members of the community.
IBCCES awards the CAC™ designation to organisations that complete a training and review process to understand better and assist autistic and sensory-sensitive guests and other persons of determination…reports Asian Lite News
Following the successful certification of Atlantis Aquaventure in 2023, Atlantis Dubai announced that Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal have also earned the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This certification marks the first resort destination in the Eastern Hemisphere to achieve this status. It reflects the team’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional experiences to guests with diverse needs and ensuring an inclusive environment.
“We are incredibly proud to become the first resort destination in the Eastern Hemisphere to earn the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation,” said Kelly Timmins, Director of Marine Animal Operations and Sustainability at Atlantis Dubai. “Partnering with IBCCES is part of our long-term Corporate Social Responsibility strategy under the Atlantis Atlas Project, with initiatives focused on supporting people and the planet on our journey to becoming a sustainable tourism business. We look forward to welcoming all guests to Atlantis Dubai for an enjoyable and memorable experience.”
IBCCES awards the CAC™ designation to organisations that complete a training and review process to understand better and assist autistic and sensory-sensitive guests and other persons of determination. This designation ensures that at least 80 percent (an IBCCES minimum requirement) of colleagues are trained in autism and sensory awareness and are fully equipped to provide service to people on the autism spectrum. In collaboration with IBCCES, Atlantis Dubai staff underwent extensive training to understand the range of potential guest needs. More than 90 percent of guest-facing colleagues across both resorts took training in Autism & Sensory Awareness (ASA). In addition, the Learning & Development team developed a Weekly Briefing Topic on Autism and Sensory Awareness, which an additional 1,500 colleagues completed across Atlantis Dubai.
In addition to training, further achievements include:
The Atlantis Dubai website hosts an accessibility tab that provides guests with downloadable sensory guides. Outlined for rooms and restaurants at Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal, as well as experiences across Atlantis Aquaventure, these guides provide a sensory rating, allowing people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to pre-plan their visit to the destination.
Allocated quiet zones are available across both resorts in case people need a moment of respite from sensory stimulation. Locations include the concierge lounge, outdoor cabanas, Imperial Club lounge, and the Explorers Club underwater theatre at Atlantis, The Palm, and the Royal Club lounge, outdoor cabanas, Royal Majlis banquet lounge, and the Explorers Club lounge at Atlantis The Royal.
By completing the CAC™ programme, Atlantis Dubai is helping to lead the way as part of a broader Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) initiative for Dubai to become the first Certified Autism Destination™ (CAD) in the Eastern Hemisphere. In just one year, the city has already reached the halfway point, and this significant milestone, achieved under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, underscores Dubai’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility for all travellers.
“Atlantis Dubai is at the forefront of revolutionizing accessibility standards within the hospitality industry. Their pioneering initiatives at Aquaventure Waterpark, coupled with securing this designation for Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal, demonstrate a profound dedication to inclusivity. And we wholeheartedly commend their tireless efforts,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman. “This collective commitment across the industry is propelling Dubai towards its goal of becoming a Certified Autism Destination™, reshaping the tourism landscape to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can fully embrace, savour, and craft cherished memories in this extraordinary city.”
During World Autism Month this April, Atlantis Dubai invites persons of determination to participate in the destination’s complimentary access programme for Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium. Two complimentary tickets to Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium are available for a person of determination and one caregiver by presenting a valid ID Card at the ticketing plaza. Two accompanying guests will also receive 50 per cent off admission tickets.
Guests can also inquire and make special requests through a form on the Atlantis Dubai website before their destination visit at www.atlantis.com/dubai/about/accessibility.
Dubai’s luxury home market sees a 19 percent increase in sales, with Palm Jumeirah leading in both sales volume and total value, while Dubai Hills Estate emerges as a rising hotspot for luxury home buyers…reports Asian Lite News
According to the latest analysis from global property consultant Knight Frank, one hundred and five homes priced in excess of US$10 million were sold in Dubai during the first three months of the year. This marks a 19 percent increase compared to Q1 2023.
Faisal Durrani, Partner – Head of Research, MENA, explained, “The level of deal activity in Dubai continues to strengthen, particularly at the top end of the market, where the near constant stream of international high-net-worth-individuals vying for the city’s most expensive homes persists.
“The laser-like focus of the global wealthy on Dubai is best reflected in the rapid deterioration in the volume of $10 million+ homes for sale, which has fallen by 59 percent across the city over the last 12 months to just 864 homes.”
The total value of luxury homes sold during Q1 stands at $1.73 billion, up six percent from Q1 2023. This builds on Dubai’s emergence as the world’s busiest $10 million+ homes market.
Knight Frank says that last year, Dubai recorded 431 home sales above $10 million, nearly 80 percent higher than the next nearest contender—London (240). New York (211) rounded off the world’s top three most active luxury home markets in 2023.
Palm Jumeirah registered deals worth $628 million, and dominated the luxury homes market during Q1, accounting for 36.3 percent of sales by total value. Jumeirah Bay Island (11.1 percent) and Dubai Hills Estate (seven percent) followed in second and third place, respectively.
While Palm Jumeirah (39) also led the pack in terms of the total number of luxury homes sold, Palm Jebel Ali (ten) and Business Bay (seven) registered more high-end home sales than Jumeirah Bay Island or Dubai Hills Estate.
According to Knight Frank, other markets, away from the headline-grabbing Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Bay Island, and Emirates Hills, are fast rising in prominence among luxury home buyers, with Dubai Hills Estate, for instance, standing out as a market to watch. Will McKintosh, Regional Partner and Head of Prime Residential, MENA, said, “Dubai Hills Estate has quietly for some time been rising up the ranks as not only one of Dubai’s most sought-after markets for domestic buyers, but now luxury home buyers are increasingly active here too.
“The relative proximity to both Downtown and New Dubai, combined with access to an international school, excellent neighbourhood facilities and amenities, and, of course, its abundance of green space, is quickly making Dubai Hills Estate one of Dubai’s most desirable neighbourhoods. Prices have unsurprisingly responded to the growing demand to live here and have risen by almost 11 percent in the last 12 months, while the number of homes available for sale has fallen by 75 percent to just over 1,000 units this past March.” Knight Frank has previously found in its Destination Dubai 2023 report that access to parks and green space ranks as the most important consideration amongst global HNWI when considering an investment in the emirate.
According to Knight Frank, Dubai’s prime residential market, which includes Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Bay Island, and Emirates Hills, has also experienced a surge in performance.
Durrani concluded, “After growing by 16.3 percent in 2023, following an extraordinary 44.4 percent increase during 2022, Dubai’s prime residential market has grown by 26.3 percent over the last 12 months, easily making it one of, if not the fastest growing prime residential market globally. While these startling growth rates are phenomenal, it does not take away from the fact that Dubai’s luxury homes market still remains one of the most affordable in the world.
“Indeed, $1 million secures some 980 square feet of prime residential space in Dubai, compared to just 366 square feet in New York, 355 square feet in London, or 172 square feet in Monaco.”
DEWA provides many digital services and smart tools to help customers better understand and manage their electricity and water consumption…reports Asian Lite News
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is dedicated to enhancing the customer experience through the adoption of digital solutions and AI across its services and operations. With a focus on providing proactive, advanced, and seamlessly integrated digital services, DEWA aims to surpass customer expectations. Additionally, DEWA is deeply committed to sustainability, actively working to reduce its carbon footprint. To ensure service excellence, DEWA implements the ‘Services 360’ policy, which involves analyzing and measuring service maturity levels over a three-year plan (2023-2025), aligning with the master plan of the General Secretariat of the Executive Council of Dubai Government.
Implementing the ‘Services 360’ approach has led to tangible results: service automation reached 100%, self-services that do not require physical presence reached 100%, digital adoption of DEWA’s services reached 99.2%, customer happiness reached 98.3%, and service quality reached 95%. In 2023, DEWA’s digital services achieved savings of AED 470 million for customers and AED 35 million for DEWA, in addition to avoiding 41,470 tonnes of carbon emissions.
“In line with our ongoing efforts to serve customers and make them happier, we are keen to provide innovative digital services that allow customers to conduct their transactions anytime, anywhere. This saves their time and efforts and supports DEWA’s strategy for sustainability and environmental protection by reducing the consumption of natural resources. DEWA has achieved notable success in implementing the ‘Services 360’ approach. In the first phase of the implementation, 15 out of 22 services met all standards, exceeding 300% of the targets of the first phase for 2023. The ‘Services 360’ policy provides a roadmap and work plan for government departments in Dubai to provide seamless, proactive, and integrated services that focus on the customers, meet their needs, and enhance their experience in receiving the services, supporting the ‘one government’ concept,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.
Digital services and smart tools
DEWA provides many digital services and smart tools to help customers better understand and manage their electricity and water consumption. DEWA’s ‘Smart Living’ dashboard enables customers to monitor their daily, monthly, and yearly consumption; ‘My Sustainable Living Programme’ allows them to compare their consumption with similar highly efficient homes and provides customised tips to manage their consumption efficiently; ‘Away Mode’ allows customers to receive consumption reports when they are not at home; and the ‘Consumption Assessment Tool’ provides a detailed report after filling out the consumption assessment. In addition, DEWA provides a wide range of special offers and discounts to its customers through the DEWA Store, in collaboration with many public and private sector companies. The offers encourage customers to adopt a smart and sustainable lifestyle and help transform their houses into smart homes.
‘Services 360’ policy
The ‘Services 360’ policy focuses on eight main principles that unify work streams in providing services across government entities. The principles include a digital-first experience based on the provision of digital and real-time services, as well as adopting a digital identity (UAE Pass) as a unified entry system, while providing full support to the customer. They also include proactive services that enhance communication with customers to anticipate their needs for the services and respond accordingly, ultimately reducing the efforts made by the customers. Additionally, the policy entails an integrated data and services system that minimises data requirements from the customer and facilitates services by connecting databases among government entities, as well as unified and customised channels built based on the customer’s preference and made available 24/7.
Their Highnesses, joined by sheikhs, guests and the crowd of well-wishers, performed the Maghrib prayer. Following the prayer, they attended the Iftar banquet hosted by H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan…reports Asian Lite News
H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has received H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, today at Al Bateen Palace, where they engaged in warm discussions about the importance of promoting community ties and Emirati values of compassion and generosity during Ramadan.
Their Highnesses and accompanying guests offered prayers for the enduring health and wellness of our leadership on this occasion, and to uphold the blessings of security, stability, and ongoing prosperity of our nation, under the guidance of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Their Highnesses, joined by sheikhs, guests and the crowd of well-wishers, performed the Maghrib prayer. Following the prayer, they attended the Iftar banquet hosted by H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Together, they prayed for the continuance of these blessed days for the United Arab Emirates, and for the prosperity and welfare of both its leadership and its people. Their Highnesses also exchanged heartfelt wishes for the long-lasting prosperity and blessings of Arab and Islamic nations worldwide.
The objective was to gather the participants’ perspectives and recommendations on how to create an incubating and stimulating environment to support companies’ growth…reports Asian Lite News
Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, one of the three chambers operating under Dubai Chambers, recently organised a networking event with representatives of companies within the digital sector.
The session discussed strategies to empower companies to support Dubai’s digital transformation and maximise the contribution of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, to the emirate’s economic growth.
During the event, which was attended by Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, and Chairman of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, along with Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, a survey was conducted.
The objective was to gather the participants’ perspectives and recommendations on how to create an incubating and stimulating environment to support companies’ growth.
Survey participants affirmed that Dubai offers an advanced work infrastructure for companies across different digital economy sectors. They highlighted the emirate’s ongoing efforts in bolstering international competitiveness and positioning Dubai as an ideal hub for skilled professionals in cutting-edge technologies.
Additionally, they emphasised the importance of initiatives and programmes offered by the Chamber to support companies operating in this sector, particularly in fostering meaningful dialogue between the public and private sectors to address the challenges of advancing the digital economy.
Survey participants also emphasised the necessity of expanding digital knowledge exchange platforms for the private sector. They highlighted the significance of providing support and tailored services to startups, and small and medium-sized companies to enable them to keep up with modern technological advancements, thereby boosting growth, innovative capabilities, and competitive potential.
Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy said, “We are keen to regularly engage with the private sector to enhance its contribution towards strengthening Dubai’s status as a global hub for digital economy and a key player in the global digital ecosystem, in line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). Transparent conversations are essential to amplifying the success of Dubai’s digital ecosystem and positioning the emirate as one of the most diversified and agile technology-enabled digital hubs in the world.”
Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy is committed to driving the success of Dubai’s digital ecosystem and accelerating the emirate’s transformation into one of the world’s leading digital economies in line with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).
The Municipality received recognition for its ‘Sustainability Projects System’ initiative…reports Asian Lite News
Dubai Municipality has been awarded the Golden category for Environment Management Industry at the Global Environment Award, which is organized by the Global Energy & Environment Foundation (GEEF). The esteemed award honours exceptional individuals, teams, projects, and organizations for their significant contributions to environmental sustainability and the preservation of natural resources. It serves as a catalyst for fostering excellence in effective environmental management on a global level.
The Municipality received recognition for its ‘Sustainability Projects System’ initiative. This initiative aims to showcase the Municipality’s accomplishments and sustainable projects, further emphasizing its commitment to integrated management of environmental, sanitation and waste systems. Moreover, it seeks to encourage environmental sustainability practices, enhance natural resource management, and introduce innovative strategies to reduce the effects of climate change. Furthermore, the initiative aims to raise awareness on emerging environmental challenges.
This system has been instrumental in fostering a positive environmental impact within the Emirate. Through effective measures such as carbon emission reduction, promotion of a green circular economy and sustainable renewable energy sources, it strengthens the Municipality’s core principles, advancing Dubai’s sustainability goals and improving overall quality of life.
Dubai Municipality has established a comprehensive system of sustainability projects. Among these are the Al Warsan Waste-to-Energy Plant project, the Biogas-to-energy project, and the trading of carbon credits on the Dubai Financial Market. Furthermore, the Municipality has attained ISO 14001 certification for its Integrated Environmental Management System and ISO 5000 certification for its integrated energy management system. The Municipality also played a key role in 10 global competitiveness indicators for smart cities.
Additionally, the Municipality has launched the ‘More Sustainable Dubai’ initiative alongside its significant role as a key partner in the United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP 28). This initiative reinforces the Municipality’s commitment to implementing sustainable practices and standards in Dubai that are aimed at preserving its natural resources. These efforts have the potential to enhance the overall quality of life and sustainability within the emirate.
The growing number of SMEs setting up in Dubai from countries around the world underlines the emirate’s importance as a key global hub for trade and investments….reports Asian Lite News
Dubai International Chamber, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has revealed that 32 percent of the total number of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) attracted to Dubai during 2023 were from the Middle East and Eurasia, with Asia and Australia following close behind at 29 percent.
The growing number of SMEs setting up in Dubai from countries around the world underlines the emirate’s importance as a key global hub for trade and investments.
The figures highlight the diverse range of SMEs from various nationalities and markets that the chamber has attracted to Dubai through its network of international representative offices around the world. Latin America and Europe accounted for 26 percent of the total number of SMEs attracted during 2023, while African markets represented 13 percent of the total.
The chamber also revealed that 17 percent of these SMEs operate within the trade and logistics sector. Additionally, 13 percent operate in the IT sector, specialising in areas such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, robotics, and software.
The food and agricultural sector ranked third, accounting for 10 percent of the total number of SMEs attracted. Healthcare and pharmaceuticals followed with nine percent of the total, while the public services sector came fifth, representing seven percent of the SMEs attracted. The financial services sector, which includes banking, asset and wealth management, fintech, insurance, and consulting firms, ranked sixth at six percent.
Real estate companies ranked seventh in terms of SMEs attracted, representing four percent of the total. The retail, fashion, travel, hospitality, and tourism sectors also accounted for four percent of the SMEs attracted.
Commenting on the figures, Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, emphasised Dubai’s reputation on the global stage as a destination for high-value investments. He stated that Dubai’s competitiveness stems from the wise and forward-thinking vision of its leadership, the emirate’s business-friendly environment, the ongoing development of services, favorable legislation, and the diverse range of investment opportunities available.
Lootah added, “Our network of international representative offices in key global markets has effectively promoted Dubai’s business community and highlighted the emirate’s value for companies seeking global expansion. We remain dedicated to contributing to the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), with a primary focus on attracting foreign direct investments in both traditional and emerging sectors.”
Dubai International Chamber successfully attracted 104 SMEs to the emirate during 2023, achieving a remarkable year-over-year (Y-o-Y) growth rate of 550 percent. This impressive increase reflects the chamber’s ongoing contribution to achieving the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double the size of the emirate’s economy over the coming decade and consolidate Dubai’s position among the top three global cities.
The Dubai International Chamber operates 31 international representative offices, with 16 new offices launched in 2023. This growing network is part of the Dubai Global initiative, which seeks to establish 50 representative offices worldwide by 2030 to support efforts to attract international investments and companies to Dubai.
‘Ramadan In Dubai’ campaign offers residents, visitors opportunities to indulge in Dubai’s diverse culinary offerings….reports Asian Lite News
During the Holy Month of Ramadan, Dubai’s diverse gastronomic scene truly comes to life, offering a range of Iftar and Suhoor options and creative culinary experiences. As part of the ‘Ramadan In Dubai’ campaign, the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) is inviting the community to connect and create lasting memories together amidst the city’s enchanting Ramadan ambience. From specially curated menus featuring international and authentic Emirati flavours to festive dining settings, there’s a delightful array of opportunities for everyone to celebrate the spirit of this month together.
Ramadan tents
The ‘Ramadan In Dubai’ campaign brings the city together amid twinkling lights and a sense of togetherness. Nowhere epitomises this festive community feel more than the city’s Ramadan tents, where families and friends gather to share laughter and stories, as they break their fast.
At the Zabeel Iftar tent at the Marriott Hotel Al Jaddaf, guests can savour dishes from a carefully curated à la carte menu. Arabic cuisine takes centre stage, complemented by live qanun players, creating an ambience that promises a memorable evening of delectable food and delightful entertainment.
An Arabesque set-up amidst the clouds, SLS Dubai is serving panoramic vistas of the city with its Iftar served at an opulent Ramadan tent on the 75th floor. Adorned with plush seating, colourful lanterns and traditional carpets, this is one of the most luxurious tents in the city.
The Al Majlis tent has made its annual return to Madinat Jumeirah, delighting residents and tourists alike. Renowned as one of the city’s most popular destinations, it offers a delectable array of flavours suitable for the whole family. Set against one of Dubai’s most iconic backdrops, it promises an unforgettable dining experience.
Fairmont The Palm has welcomed back its much-loved majlis. The outdoor garden tent features open buffet stations offering a delectable selection of Middle Eastern and international dishes, accompanied by live Arabian entertainers and musicians, creating an immersive dining experience.
Meanwhile, at the Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah, guests are treated to the epitome of luxury at The Majlis by Mandarin Oriental. Warm interiors adorned with gold decorative detailing create an inviting atmosphere, complementing the lavish spread of traditional specialities and bestsellers from the hotel’s esteemed restaurants, including Netsu by Ross Shonhan and the Michelin-starred Tasca by José Avillez.
Authentic Iftar and Suhoor
Dubai’s restaurants are also offering an extraordinary array of Iftar and Suhoor options, with appetising selections and price ranges to suit everyone. Beyond simply dining, Iftar represents a moment of unity and festivity, providing families and friends with daily opportunities to explore new culinary experiences together.
Arabian Tea House invites residents and visitors to indulge in a special Emirati Iftar experience, titled ‘From the farm to your plate’, featuring 100 percent sustainable dishes crafted from ingredients sourced directly from their own farm.
For those craving authentic Middle Eastern flavours, Al Mashowa in Riverland™ Dubai offers a captivating dining experience under the stars, where live cooking brings Arabian dishes to life. Each evening, guests can enjoy a specially curated Iftar menu featuring heritage-inspired delicacies that perfectly capture the essence of the season. Adding to the enchanting ambience, the melodious tunes of an oud player and the mesmerising performance of a tanoura dancer will take place every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Ramadan Street Food Festival
Amidst the city’s festive atmosphere and diverse experiences, the ‘Ramadan In Dubai’ campaign introduces a multitude of markets and festivals, providing everyone with the chance to enjoy delectable cuisine, bask in the pleasant weather, and create cherished memories with loved ones long into the night.
The highly anticipated second edition of the Ramadan Street Food Festival is set to take place from 22nd March to 7th April at the Sheikh Hamdan Colony in Karama. The event promises a vibrant community atmosphere where attendees can delve into local flavours, enjoy entertainment, and admire festive decorations.
Markets and festivals
Global Village is recognised as Dubai’s renowned multicultural hub. Throughout the Holy Month, it warmly welcomes visitors to embark on an enchanting global journey through its Ramadan Iftar and Suhoor offerings. Set amidst a vibrant outdoor ambience, this nightly feast showcases a diverse array of cuisines, promising to satisfy every taste bud.
Ramadaniyat at The Hub at Majlis Al Khawaneej offers families and friends the chance to explore a diverse array of food offerings from various vendors. This delightful event provides a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time together, extending well into the evening.
Careem’s Dine-Out Deals
During Ramadan, Careem’s ‘Everything App’ has introduced a new feature enabling Dubai residents and tourists to explore, book, and pre-pay for Iftar packages at over 200 venues. Notable establishments include Jun’s Downtown Dubai, Terrace Between the Towers at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, and Al Sultan Majlis at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray. Customers can enjoy instant savings ranging from 15 percent to 50 percent on their dining bills across all venues, along with an additional 30 percent off their Hala Taxi rides to and from the venues.
‘Ramadan In Dubai’ campaign
Launched by the Dubai Media Council under the directives of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council (DMC), the ‘Ramadan In Dubai’ campaign brings the public and private sectors together for the first time for a unified celebration of the Holy Month.
The Dubai Media Council has tasked Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO), with overseeing the campaign’s execution. The campaign has been designed to bring to the community the unique spirit, beauty and warmth of Ramadan and share the rich cultural heritage and traditions that are an integral part of celebrations during the Holy Month. The initiative also aims to create a unique ambience across the city that captures the true essence of Ramadan, reflecting the authentic Emirati customs and traditions that make the occasion truly special.
The vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of the markets adds to the joyous evenings and the spirit of togetherness during the Holy Month…reports Asian Lite News
This year, pleasant evening temperatures provide a splendid opportunity for residents and visitors to savour their evenings post-Iftar and explore an array of vibrant Ramadan markets across Dubai as part of the city-wide #RamadanInDubai campaign launched by the Dubai Media Council under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council (DMC).
Offering something for everyone, the city’s Ramadan markets allow families, friends, couples, and individuals to discover unique traditions and shop for distinctive gifts from local artisans and vendors. The vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of the markets adds to the joyous evenings and the spirit of togetherness during the Holy Month.
Lively vibe
Set in the heart of the city, with the stunning Museum of the Future providing the backdrop, the Ramadan District at Jumeirah Emirates Towers is just the place to experience Dubai’s lively vibe on a Ramadan night. There is the promise of wholesome family fun on moonlit nights, with the chance to discover more about the allure of Emirati and regional culture in the process. Featuring stalls set up by local designers, creative food offerings, daily events and activities, and a designated children’s play area, families can enjoy hours of togetherness and come away with memories to last a lifetime. Delicious Iftar and Suhoor meals will also be served each evening.
The ever-popular Ramadan Souq organised by Dubai Municipality, as always, has plenty in store by way of household essentials and food specialities to help residents make their Ramadan truly special. The Old Municipality Street in Bur Deira is another place that offers a unique shopping experience, with an abundance of items to be found at great prices. There is also a mini marketplace showcasing items traditionally associated with Ramadan. Vibrant live entertainment shows draw visitors of all ages, and there are also fun activities youngsters can participate in.
Close by, City Walk, the open-air lifestyle destination that is home to hundreds of exclusive retailers and must-visit restaurants is hosting an unmissable Night Market. Located next to The Green Planet, it allows visitors to scour the shops for a variety of unique gifts that are perfect for the gifting season.
Then there is Ramadaniyat, at The Hub at Majlis Al Khawaneej, where families and friends can explore an array of food offerings from artisanal vendors. The whole experience is based upon trying out new flavours, soaking up the community atmosphere, and sharing time together long into the evening.
Across town, the Bay by Social Night Market at Dubai Festival City Mall is the place for visitors of all ages to immerse themselves in cultural workshops and activities, besides exploring a range of wares displayed by local vendors. A lavish Iftar is also served here as the famous Ramadan cannon signals sunset. With so much to see and explore, visitors have the liberty to stay back until Suhoor.
Range of activities
Over at Dubai Expo City, Hai Ramadan, one of Dubai’s biggest and most beloved events of the Holy Month, is back once more. Designed to depict a traditional Emirati community, more than 20 outlets and food carts showcase handicrafts, traditional garments and local delicacies. A truly authentic experience, a ‘grandmother’s supermarket’, known as a ‘Dukan Yadoo’, invites children to buy candy using tokens from a traditional ‘Floos bank’ – a popular payment system. Visitors can soak up the vibrant atmosphere and be part of celebrations all evening, with a diverse range of activities and options awaiting them, including Iftars and Suhoors across the destination’s outlets.
For those preferring an alternative daytime experience, the family-favourite Ripe Market heads to the Dubai Police Academy Park every Saturday and Sunday, allowing visitors to shop for Ramadan gifts from artisanal stalls. Local farms sell fresh organic produce, and guests can join craft workshops and wellness sessions, which are open to all ages, in a beautiful al fresco setting.
From 23 – 31 March, Al Serkal Avenue welcomes residents and visitors for a special Ramadan programme named ‘Stay a Little Longer.’ The event showcases transnational accounts of histories of diverse communities in the UAE. Visitors can explore a lively market featuring a rich variety of products, besides attending special talks, live music performances, an outdoor photographic exhibition, art tours, and workshops. Welcoming guests of all cultures and nationalities, the events and activities will unfold in a host of languages including Arabic, Hindi/Urdu, Malayalam, Tagalog, and English among others.
The #RamadanInDubai campaign brings the public and private sectors together for the first time for a unified celebration of the Holy Month. The Dubai Media Council has tasked Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO), with overseeing the campaign’s execution. The campaign has been designed to bring to the community the unique spirit, beauty and warmth of Ramadan and share the rich cultural heritage and traditions that are an integral part of celebrations during the Holy Month. The initiative also aims to create a unique ambience across the city that captures the true essence of Ramadan, reflecting the authentic Emirati customs and traditions that make the occasion truly special.
