The Public Investment Fund (PIF) and Oman Investment Authority (OIA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU). The MoU aims to support the expansion of investment and cooperation between PIF and its portfolio companies, with OIA. The MoU aligns with PIF’s strategy to create long-term strategic partnerships in the MENA region, achieve sustainable returns, and diversify the Saudi economy. The MoU builds on the recently established Saudi Omani Investment Company (SOIC) which is expected to invest up to $5 billion in promising sectors in Oman. OIA plays a leading role in Oman’s efforts to diversify its economy and foster sustainable development.

Deep Dive Dubai celebrated International Chess Day, underwater. The world’s deepest pool collaborated with the UAE Chess Federation to honour the day, dedicated to the game. Deep Dive Dubai provided the magical setting, and the UAE Chess Federation nominated four of its players to battle it out for the top prize. Emiratis Mohammed Saeed, Khalifa Alhafti, Mana Saeed, and Omran Alhosani, who have represented the UAE were set a new challenge. The quartet was trained by Deep Dive Dubai’s expert instructors before being kitted with wetsuits and shallow dive gear.

Princess Cruises recently announced several valuable new updates to its popular Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages. The Princess Plus package can be availed at $60 per person per day and the Princess Premier package can be availed at $80 per person per day. Each package offers new additional perks, in addition to the regular perks.

General Hotel Management Ltd (GHM), has announced the grand opening of its latest addition, Bait Khalid Bin Ibrahim at The Serai Wing of The Chedi Al Bait in Sharjah, UAE. This meticulously designed wing, reflecting timeless Arabian charm, presents an exclusive retreat featuring only 12 luxurious rooms for discerning travellers, families, social gatherings, yoga retreats, and private events, promising refined grandeur and unparalleled seclusion. 

JA Manafaru Maldives has been awarded the Distinguished Independent seal of Excellence for safe and professional childcare by Worldwide Kids. The Worldwide Kids Accreditation is granted to luxury resorts that meet international childcare training and health and safety standards while consistently demonstrating their commitment to enhancing the experience of families and their young guests. Tucked away within the interior of the island, kids’ facilities include the CoolZone play space with separate family pool, Recreation Pavilion and the ChillZone indoor games room, allowing young guests and their families to enjoy their Maldivian experience, alongside honeymooners, couples and friends.

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai’s luxurious Ottoman inspired beachside resort, announced its inaugural Artist in Residency programme, inviting guests and visitors to embark on an artistic journey curated by renowned International Artist and Gallery Owner, Seth Benzel. Benzel’s work was showcased throughout July and August. The first exhibition took place at the Creative Studio and showcased an inspiring collection of his works. As part of this exceptional programme, guests had the opportunity to take lessons from him. 

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai’s luxurious Ottoman inspired beachside resort, announced its inaugural Artist in Residency programme, inviting guests and visitors to embark on an artistic journey curated by renowned International Artist and Gallery Owner, Seth Benzel. Benzel’s work was showcased throughout July and August. The first exhibition took place at the Creative Studio and showcased an inspiring collection of his works. As part of this exceptional programme, guests had the opportunity to take lessons from him. 

RAK Leisure and Safarak Travel & Tourism, subsidiaries of RAK Hospitality Holding, announced their achievement of ResponsibleRAK Bronze Benchmarked status, powered by EarthCheck. The ResponsibleRAK Certification Programme, powered by EarthCheck, sets a new benchmark for environmental management and sustainability in Ras Al-Khaimah’s tourism sector, as the Emirate strives to be recognised for its sustainably efforts. By participating in this rigorous evaluation and ongoing monitoring process, both RAK Leisure and Safarak Travel & Tourism demonstrate exceptional dedication to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and the preservation of the region’s natural and cultural assets.

Sharjah’s Mleiha Archaeological Centre hosted the much-anticipated Perseids meteor shower watching event. The event was held on August 12, and was an unforgettable night of stargazing, educational activities, and traditional hospitality. The Perseids, renowned as one of the year’s most awe-inspiring meteor showers did not disappoint. Spectators saw swift and bright meteors which left breath taking trails of light across the Earth’s atmosphere. About 50 to 100 meteors were seen per hour.