Collina Luxury Relais

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Where Alpine Serenity Meets Contemporary Italian Design

Shereen Shabnam

Set within the breathtaking landscape of Clusone in the high valley of Bergamo, Collina Luxury Relais is a striking example of how contemporary hospitality design can coexist harmoniously with nature, heritage, and sustainability. Conceived as a refined five-star retreat, the property blends architectural elegance, understated luxury, and immersive wellness experiences within an environment shaped by the textures and tones of the surrounding alpine landscape.

Originally a villa with a nightclub and outdoor swimming pool, the site has been completely reimagined through a low-impact redevelopment project led by architect Silverio Pezzoli of TecnoArreda Interior Design, with Concreta overseeing the execution of the interiors and common spaces. The result is not merely a hotel, but a carefully orchestrated sensory experience where materials, light, and craftsmanship work together to create a sense of calm sophistication.

The property takes its name from the hillside on which it sits, surrounded by generous green spaces that immediately establish a connection to nature. Guests arriving at the entrance are greeted by an almost seven-metre olive tree, an architectural gesture that introduces the project’s balance between grandeur and organic serenity.

The relais comprises six suites, five independent chalets, and an expansive penthouse featuring a private spa, panoramic terrace, direct lift access, and complete privacy. The chalets, crafted entirely from wood with corrugated aluminium roofs, mirror the earthy tones of the alpine environment while maintaining a contemporary architectural language.

What defines the interiors most profoundly is the material palette. Throughout the property, Concreta has created a dialogue between natural textures and precision craftsmanship. Locally sourced Gré stone from the Lake Iseo region appears extensively across the project, particularly within the spectacular 300-square-metre pool area where resin finishes create a fluid, reflective water effect. The seamless connection between indoor and outdoor pools reinforces the relationship between architecture and landscape, while Swedish fir wood treated in evaporated mocha tones introduces warmth and tactile richness across terraces, pergolas, and chalet exteriors.

Inside, the atmosphere shifts toward refined contemporary elegance. The Beides Restaurant forms the social heart of the property, where grey-stained timber, metal, and glass intersect in a dramatic yet restrained composition. Large glazed surfaces flood the interiors with natural light, while Canaletto walnut, moka-stained fir, aged oak flooring, and Fenix finishes introduce depth and softness to the space. The continuity between interior and exterior materials is particularly striking, with gré cobblestone surfaces extending the visual narrative throughout the property.

The private lounge, featuring a Canaletto walnut floor and visible wine cellar, reflects the project’s broader philosophy of understated exclusivity. Rather than relying on decorative excess, the design focuses on proportion, atmosphere, and the emotional quality of materials.

The wellness component of the property further elevates its luxury positioning. Located in the basement level, the Collina MyPurity SPA has been designed as a sanctuary inspired by the surrounding mountains. A relaxation lounge overlooking the valley creates an immediate sense of stillness, while saunas crafted from Swiss stone pine wood introduce both natural fragrance and wellness benefits associated with reducing heart rate and stress levels. Elsewhere, cave-inspired stone Turkish baths, sensory showers, Scottish showers, and treatment cabins create a multisensory spa journey rooted in elemental design.

Even the fitness centre embraces the property’s immersive approach to wellbeing, offering panoramic views of the iconic Clusone bell tower while integrating state-of-the-art equipment within a visually calming environment.

Sustainability remains central to the identity of Collina Luxury Relais. Beyond aesthetics, the property integrates eco-conscious infrastructure through photovoltaic systems, geothermal probes, and energy-efficient technologies that support both the building’s operational needs and heated wellness facilities year-round. The project demonstrates how luxury hospitality can evolve responsibly without compromising comfort, beauty, or technological sophistication.

For Concreta, whose expertise spans over three decades in bespoke hospitality interiors, the project represents a seamless fusion of craftsmanship, engineering, and contemporary Italian design culture. Together with architect Silverio Pezzoli, the collaboration has produced a destination that feels deeply connected to its environment while delivering the privacy, technology, and refinement expected from a modern luxury retreat.

The Rise of the Solo Journey

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Why personalised itineraries and independent travel are redefining modern exploration

Shereen Shabnam

As a travel and lifestyle journalist, I have come to realise that some of the most memorable journeys rarely happen according to plan. My work often takes me across continents, from reviewing luxury hotels and test driving performance cars across challenging terrains to discovering hidden culinary gems between business meetings. Yet it is often the moments in between the schedules, launches, and itineraries that leave the strongest impression.

A recommendation from a local restaurateur in Malaysia can lead to an unforgettable street food experience in Penang, while a spontaneous detour through the winding coastal roads of Spain can transform a simple road trip into something cinematic. In Switzerland, driving through alpine passes and remote mountain villages offers a rare connection to nature and adventure, while the serenity of the Maldives provides the perfect counterbalance, a place where wellness, stillness, and reflection become part of the journey itself.

Then there is Paris, a city that remains timeless not because of its landmarks alone, but because of its atmosphere, café culture, effortless elegance, and the simple joy of wandering without purpose. Increasingly, these experiences are shaping the rise of personalised and solo travel, where the freedom to move independently allows travellers to connect more deeply with destinations, cultures, and ultimately themselves.

There was a time when solo travel was often viewed as an unconventional choice, reserved for gap-year students, or those simply unable to find company for a trip. Today, it has evolved into one of the most significant shifts in modern tourism. Across luxury travel, wellness escapes, and even corporate journeys, personalised itineraries and independent exploration are becoming deeply desirable experiences for travellers seeking something more meaningful than traditional sightseeing.

What is driving this movement is not isolation, but freedom. Travellers increasingly want the ability to shape journeys around their own interests, pace, and emotional needs rather than compromise within a group dynamic. The modern traveller is no longer simply chasing destinations; they are pursuing experiences that feel personal, immersive, and transformative.

Business travel, interestingly, has become one of the strongest catalysts for this change. Corporate trips today often extend beyond conference rooms and hotel lobbies. Spending time with local clients, colleagues, and industry professionals introduces travellers to a more authentic side of a destination. A recommendation from a local often becomes more memorable than anything in a guidebook. These interactions create a richer cultural connection and encourage travellers to explore independently during downtime, transforming work trips into deeply personal experiences.

Solo leisure travel carries a different, yet equally powerful appeal. Travelling alone cultivates confidence in ways few experiences can. Navigating unfamiliar cities, embarking on long scenic drives, and making spontaneous decisions encourage self-reliance and adaptability. Many travellers describe returning from solo journeys feeling more capable, focused, and emotionally recharged. In a world increasingly dominated by digital noise and rigid schedules, solo travel offers something increasingly rare: uninterrupted personal space.

The travel industry has recognised this shift. Luxury operators, boutique agencies, and wellness brands are now curating highly personalised solo itineraries that combine independence with comfort and security, that includes gastronomy, wellness, adventure, art, sustainability, or culture.

My favourite road trip was in Spain, particularly great for driving enthusiasts who view driving as part of the experience. From the dramatic mountain routes of Andalusia to the coastal highways stretching along the Mediterranean, Spain offers the perfect balance of scenery, culture, and spontaneity. Malaysia continues to attract independent travellers for its extraordinary culinary diversity and accessibility. I lived there for 9 years and love the refined dining in Kuala Lumpur to hawker stalls in Penang.

For those seeking tranquility and restoration, Maldives has evolved far beyond the traditional honeymoon narrative. Many luxury resorts now cater to independent wellness travellers with private villas, spa immersions, meditation programmes, marine experiences, and personalised wellbeing journeys designed around mindfulness. Adventure seekers continue to gravitate toward Switzerland, where nature and precision coexist effortlessly. Scenic rail journeys, alpine hikes, mountain drives, and pristine lakes create a sense of calm while still satisfying the desire for exploration.

Meanwhile, Paris remains one of the world’s most rewarding cities to experience alone. Its beauty lies not only in its iconic landmarks, but in its rhythm, mornings spent at quiet cafés, afternoons wandering galleries, evenings discovering intimate bistros hidden within historic streets. It is a city that invites travellers to slow down and simply absorb its atmosphere. Then there is Singapore, as one of the safest and most seamless gateways into solo travel. Efficient transport, exceptional hospitality, world-class dining, and a cosmopolitan energy allow travellers to move confidently while still experiencing cultural depth and diversity.

Ultimately, the rise of personalised solo travel reflects a broader evolution in how people define luxury and fulfilment. Modern travellers are placing greater value on authenticity, emotional wellbeing, flexibility, and meaningful experiences over rigid itineraries or crowded group tours and solo travel has become a powerful expression of curiosity and confidence.

Big, Bold and Built for Everywhere

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2026 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71

Shereen Shabnam

Some SUVs are designed for school runs, while others are designed to make every journey feel like an expedition. The 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 belongs firmly in the latter category. Massive in presence yet surprisingly refined behind the wheel, the latest Tahoe continues Chevrolet’s formula of blending full-size American muscle with modern technology and genuine off-road capability. Driving the Tahoe Z71 around Dubai immediately reminds you why large SUVs still command such loyalty in the region. From Sheikh Zayed Road to rougher desert-edge terrain outside the city, the Tahoe feels completely at home. It is commanding without feeling cumbersome, luxurious without losing its rugged edge, and powerful in a way that only a naturally aspirated V8 can deliver. The Z71 trim adds an extra layer of adventure-focused character to the Tahoe, giving it a tougher visual identity and enhanced off-road credentials.

Exterior

The Tahoe Z71 looks every bit the full-size American SUV. Its sheer scale alone gives it presence, but Chevrolet has added enough rugged detailing to ensure the Z71 stands apart from more urban-focused variants. The high-approach-angle front fascia, black tubular assist steps, red recovery hooks, and aluminium skid plate immediately signal its off-road intentions. Combined with the dark exterior detailing and large 20-inch machined wheels with technical grey accents, the Tahoe Z71 carries a muscular and purposeful stance that feels perfectly suited to the Middle East. The panoramic power sunroof adds a welcome sense of openness, as does the elevated driving position and extensive camera systems.

Interior

Inside, the Tahoe Z71 balances rugged practicality with genuine comfort remarkably well. The cabin feels spacious in every direction, with three rows capable of comfortably accommodating adults without compromise. The Gideon and Dark Atmosphere leather interior trim gives the cabin a premium feel, while heated front and second-row seats, tri-zone climate control, and extensive power seat adjustments make long-distance journeys effortlessly comfortable. We love that there are storage spaces everywhere and the large centre console with freezer mode feels especially useful in the UAE climate. The power-folding third-row seats also make cargo flexibility far easier when switching between passengers and luggage. Rear passengers are especially well catered for with the available Rear Seat Entertainment System, turning family road trips into genuinely relaxing experiences.

Technology

Chevrolet has significantly modernised the Tahoe’s technology experience, and the Z71 benefits from a comprehensive suite of connectivity and driver assistance systems. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work seamlessly, while 5G connectivity capability keeps the Tahoe feeling constantly connected. The premium branded surround audio system delivers impressive sound quality, particularly when paired with the quiet cruising refinement of the SUV. The HD Surround Vision camera system is arguably essential, dramatically improving confidence while parking and manoeuvring in tighter spaces. Adaptive Cruise Control, Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Braking, and Side Obstacle Detection all operate discreetly in the background to make daily driving feel less demanding.

Performance

The Tahoe Z71 is powered as standard by a 5.3-litre V8 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, but the available 6.2-litre EcoTec3 V8 transforms the experience entirely. It delivers effortless power with the kind of smooth, naturally aspirated response that has become increasingly rare in today’s turbocharged world. The dual exhaust system adds a subtle but satisfying V8 soundtrack without becoming overwhelming. What impresses most, however, is how the Air Ride Adaptive Suspension and Magnetic Ride Control dramatically improve ride comfort and body control. This allows it to glide over rough surfaces while still remaining stable at higher speeds. Off-road capability is equally strong. The two-speed Autotrac transfer case, electronic limited-slip differential, hill descent control, and off-road capability package give the Z71 genuine confidence away from paved roads.

Our Verdict

The 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 remains one of the most complete full-size SUVs on the market. It delivers exactly what buyers in this segment want: commanding presence, immense practicality, genuine V8 performance, serious off-road capability, and the ability to carry an entire family in complete comfort. The Z71 trim adds just the right amount of adventure-focused attitude to the formula. It looks tougher, feels more capable, and still manages to deliver the comfort expected from a premium family vehicle.

Discovering the Soul of Old Spain

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Chinchilla – The Hilltop Village of Kindness and History

Natasha Dury

There are places that quietly stay with you long after you leave. Chinchilla de Monte-Aragón, a historic hilltop village in the province of Albacete is just that kind of place. We often explore small towns when we visit our home in Spain but this one touched our heart. Perched high above the plains of Castilla–La Mancha, this charming medieval town feels untouched by the hurried pace of modern tourism, offering instead something increasingly rare in travel today – authenticity.

Arriving in Chinchilla feels like stepping into another era. Narrow stone streets wind gently through the village, opening onto hidden squares, rustic homes, and panoramic viewpoints that stretch endlessly across the Spanish landscape. Above it all rises the magnificent Castle of Chinchilla, its imposing stone walls watching over the town like a guardian from centuries past.

The castle itself is breathtaking. Built between the 15th and 16th centuries on the remains of earlier Moorish fortifications, it carries the layered history of Spain within its walls. Standing near the fortress, with the wind moving across the hilltops and golden light washing over the old stone, there is a stillness that feels deeply cinematic.

Unlike many heavily commercialised landmarks across Europe, the atmosphere here remains wonderfully understated. The experience is less about crowds and queues and more about quietly absorbing history.Yet what truly defines Chinchilla is not only its architecture or scenery, but its people.

During our visit, after spending hours exploring the steep streets and climbing around the castle grounds, exhaustion eventually caught up with me. Our car was parked further uphill, taxis were nowhere to be found, and the climb back felt far more daunting under the afternoon sun. In many destinations, this would simply become one of those inconvenient travel moments quickly forgotten. In Chinchilla, it became something unforgettable.

The local Mercado shopkeeper, noticing our situation, did something extraordinary in its simplicity. Without hesitation, he closed his shop, offered to drive us back up the hill. There was no expectation, no transaction, no performance for tourists but simply genuine kindness. That small act captured the spirit of the village more powerfully than any guidebook ever could.

So much travel revolves around luxury resorts, curated experiences, and perfectly filtered itineraries, but Chinchilla offers a reminder that the most meaningful journeys are often shaped by human connection. The village does not try to impress loudly. Instead, it reveals itself slowly through warm conversations, old-world hospitality, and moments that feel deeply personal.

The beauty of Chinchilla also lies in its rhythm. Life moves differently here. Locals gather casually in cafés, conversations linger in quiet squares, and evenings arrive with golden sunsets spilling across ancient rooftops. It is the kind of place that encourages travellers to slow down, wander aimlessly, and appreciate the details in the weathered doors, church bells echoing through narrow streets, and the scent of Spanish coffee drifting from family-run cafés.

For travellers seeking a different side of Spain, one rooted in heritage, simplicity, and heartfelt hospitality, Chinchilla is a hidden treasure. It may not appear on every luxury travel itinerary, but perhaps that is precisely its charm.

Royal Bahrain Concours Returns for 2026

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A Celebration of Automotive Elegance, Luxury Lifestyle and Global Collecting Culture

Natasha Dury

Few automotive events in the region capture the spirit of elegance, exclusivity, and collector culture quite like the Royal Bahrain Concours. Following the success of its inaugural edition, the prestigious event will return to the spectacular Royal Golf Club in November 2026, once again transforming Bahrain into a gathering point for some of the world’s rarest and most exceptional automobiles.

Held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Royal Bahrain Concours has rapidly established itself as the GCC’s premier Concours d’Elegance. More than simply an automotive showcase, the event blends collector culture, luxury hospitality, design, and lifestyle within an atmosphere of refined sophistication.

Set against the manicured landscapes of the Royal Golf Club in Riffa, the 2026 edition will expand into a richer two-day experience following overwhelming demand from collectors, partners, enthusiasts, and international guests. The concours will once again bring together an extraordinary selection of collector cars alongside leading regional car clubs, global automotive personalities, luxury brands, and curated hospitality experiences.

Organised by Thorough Events W.L.L. in partnership with the Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), the event reflects Bahrain’s growing prominence as a destination for premium lifestyle experiences and world-class motoring events. Under the leadership of BTEA Chief Executive Officer Sara Ahmed Buhiji, the Kingdom continues to strengthen its position as a regional hub for luxury tourism, culture, and international events.

James Brooks-Ward, Chairman of the Royal Bahrain Concours, described the response to the inaugural edition as exceptional, noting that enthusiasm from collectors and visitors across the GCC and beyond exceeded expectations. With tickets now officially live for the 2026 edition, anticipation is already building around what promises to be one of the region’s standout luxury lifestyle events of the year.

Beyond the concours lawn itself, the event celebrates the wider culture surrounding exceptional automobiles, craftsmanship, heritage, design, engineering, and the emotional connection that defines collector motoring. Combined with Bahrain’s renowned hospitality and elegant setting, the Royal Bahrain Concours offers an experience that feels both international and distinctly Gulf in character.

Sara Ahmed Buhiji, CEO of BTEA, noted that the event now forms an important part of Bahrain’s premium events calendar, contributing not only to tourism but also to the wider hospitality, retail, and entertainment sectors while reinforcing Bahrain’s reputation as a preferred destination for high-value experiential travel. The Royal Bahrain Concours is fast becoming one of the Middle East’s most desirable gatherings for collectors, enthusiasts, and lovers of automotive artistry.

The One Atelier Unveils The One Capital as Tokenisation Reshapes Luxury Real Estate

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Natasha Dury

Real estate continues to evolve beyond architecture and location into the realms of branding, technology and experiential value, and The One Atelier is positioning itself at the forefront of the sector’s next transformation. The company has officially launched The One Capital, a blockchain-driven platform focused on tokenisation within branded residential development, marking a significant step in the convergence of luxury property and digital asset infrastructure.

The initiative builds upon The One Atelier’s growing portfolio of internationally recognised branded residential projects associated with some of the world’s most influential luxury names, including Karl Lagerfeld, Fendi Casa, ETRO, Armani Casa, ELLE and Dolce & Gabbana. Many of these developments have demonstrated notable value appreciation between early launch phases and market maturity, reinforcing the increasing demand for branded living experiences among global luxury buyers.

Branded residences have become one of the fastest-expanding sectors within international real estate, driven by buyers seeking not only exclusivity and design pedigree, but also lifestyle identity and long-term value. According to Savills’ Branded Residences Report, such properties can command premiums of up to 33 percent compared to non-branded counterparts, with the sector expected to surpass 1,000 schemes globally by the end of 2026.

Against this backdrop, The One Capital introduces a new approach to early-stage development financing through tokenised real-world asset structures. Rather than focusing solely on completed assets, the platform targets value creation at the earliest stages of branded residential projects, supporting development during pre-launch and early construction phases through blockchain-enabled infrastructure.

The concept reflects the growing maturity of tokenisation within the broader financial and property landscape. By digitally representing selected assets through secure blockchain frameworks, The One Capital aims to create more transparent and structured approaches to capital deployment while maintaining the governance and quality standards expected within ultra-luxury development.

For developers, the platform presents an alternative financing route capable of strengthening early cash flow structures and supporting project alignment from inception. The emphasis remains firmly on structure, transparency and long-term value creation rather than speculative technology narratives that have often overshadowed blockchain discussions in the past.

The launch also signals a wider transformation underway within branded real estate itself. Once viewed primarily as hospitality-adjacent luxury developments, branded residences are increasingly becoming sophisticated investment ecosystems where design, technology, lifestyle and finance intersect. In this context, The One Capital shows how luxury property development is adapting to a more digitally connected and globally fluid financial landscape.

New Space for Movement, Reset and Reconnection

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A female founder-led wellness destination, Villa BOOST invites a return to movement as a source of grounding in uncertain moments.

Natasha Dury

For those seeking moments of grounding, connection, and calm, Villa BOOST opens its doors in Al Safa, Jumeirah as a community-driven wellness destination designed to help people slow down, reconnect with their bodies, and return to mindful movement.

Founded by entrepreneur and wellness advocate Rania Zorkot alongside partner and brand ambassador Christelle Fourzali, Villa BOOST blends reformer and Lagree-inspired training with recovery-focused experiences and lifestyle-led wellness within an intimate villa setting designed to feel more like a home than a traditional studio.

More than simply a movement and recovery space, Villa BOOST positions itself as a modern “third space”, somewhere guests can train, recover, connect, and spend time throughout the day.

The concept builds on Rania’s long-standing philosophy around movement as both physical and mental grounding. More than a decade ago, she introduced Reformer Pilates to Abidjan through her first concept, FORM, cultivating a loyal community through results-driven training and a deeply personal approach to wellness.

That journey later evolved into the BOOST method, a balanced fusion of Pilates, Lagree, strength, and recovery designed around intelligent movement and sustainable wellbeing. Following the success of BOOST City Walk, which opened in Dubai in 2022, Villa BOOST expands the concept through a more immersive lifestyle experience shaped equally by community and mindful living.

The villa offers a curated mix of Reformer Pilates, Megaformer and Microformer sessions, infrared heated workouts, Cadillac Pilates, sculpt and conditioning classes, mobility training, assisted stretching, red light therapy, and Brazilian lymphatic massage in partnership with Lymph & Flow.

Beyond movement, guests can also experience TEASE, the villa’s wellness café serving functional smoothies and nutrient-rich drinks, alongside The Sweatshop, a retail concept featuring carefully selected international activewear and athleisure brands.

House of Samra Opens Its Doors to Emirati Jewellery Talent

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A New Retail Initiative Bringing Local Design into Dubai’s Luxury Shopping Landscape

Natasha Dury

We live in an ecosystem that is celebrated for its luxury retail experiences and global fashion presence and House of Samra is turning the spotlight toward homegrown creativity with the launch of House of Samra: Emirati Talent Showcase, a new initiative created in collaboration with Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development.

Designed to support emerging Emirati jewellery designers, the programme reflects a growing movement within the UAE’s retail landscape, one that increasingly values local craftsmanship, cultural identity, and entrepreneurial innovation alongside international luxury.

At the heart of the initiative is a simple yet powerful concept: giving Emirati designers direct access to premium retail environments and luxury consumers. Through the programme, selected jewellery designers will showcase their collections inside House of Samra boutiques located across some of Dubai’s most prestigious shopping destinations, including Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Hills Mall, and Dubai Festival City Mall.

The initiative arrives at a time when luxury retail is evolving beyond transactional shopping into something more experiential and community-driven. Consumers are increasingly seeking authenticity, storytelling, and individuality, qualities often found within independent and locally rooted brands. By integrating Emirati jewellery designers into its flagship retail spaces, House of Samra creates an environment where regional creativity can exist alongside established luxury retail experiences.

The collaboration also highlights the wider ambitions of Dubai’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Supported by Dubai SME, part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, the initiative aligns with the emirate’s broader vision of nurturing Emirati businesses and positioning Dubai as a global hub for innovation, creativity, and luxury commerce under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

For House of Samra, the programme reinforces its identity not only as a fine jewellery maison, but as a platform invested in the future of regional design. Established in the UAE, the brand has built its reputation around refined craftsmanship and timeless elegance, and this latest initiative extends that philosophy into mentorship, visibility, and retail opportunity for the next generation of Emirati creatives.

Within Dubai’s highly competitive luxury retail market, the move feels both commercially intelligent and culturally significant. It recognises that the future of luxury retail lies not only in international names, but also in elevating local voices capable of bringing fresh perspectives and meaningful storytelling into the shopping experience.

Dubai Accelerates E-Commerce Growth Through Business-Friendly Regulation

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Natasha Dury

Dubai continues to strengthen its position as a leading global business hub, underpinned by a regulatory framework designed to enable growth, innovation and operational agility. A key enabler of this environment is the emirate’s streamlined approach to licensing, which allows retail, trading and F&B businesses to expand into digital channels without the need for additional approvals, provided activities remain within their existing scope.

This flexibility reflects Dubai’s broader economic philosophy, reducing friction for businesses while creating clear, scalable pathways for expansion. As a result, companies across sectors are increasingly integrating e-commerce and delivery platforms into their operations, unlocking new revenue streams and reaching wider customer bases while maintaining full regulatory compliance.

Under the current framework, licensed businesses can seamlessly adopt digital sales channels, from launching proprietary online stores to leveraging established marketplaces and digital payment systems. This accessibility significantly lowers barriers to entry, particularly for SMEs and emerging entrepreneurs, enabling faster market participation in an increasingly digital economy.

The F&B sector has similarly benefited from this progressive approach. Licensed establishments are able to partner with approved delivery platforms, extending their reach beyond physical locations without compromising compliance standards. This has allowed operators to diversify income streams and enhance customer engagement in a highly competitive market.

Commenting recently on the evolving landscape, Ahmad Khalifa AlQaizi AlFalasi, CEO of Dubai Business Registration and Licensing Corporation (DBLC), emphasised the emirate’s commitment to fostering a supportive ecosystem for businesses of all sizes. He highlighted that Dubai’s regulatory framework is designed to minimise barriers while enabling companies to scale efficiently, leveraging digital channels to sustain growth and strengthen resilience.

Further reinforcing this ecosystem is the Dubai Traders programme, introduced under the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. The initiative provides a structured pathway for businesses to enter and expand within the e-commerce space, offering preferential onboarding, competitive rates and dedicated support across key digital platforms. By facilitating smoother integration into online marketplaces, the programme accelerates digital adoption and enhances competitiveness at both local and regional levels.

Together, these measures position Dubai as a forward-looking economy where regulatory clarity and practical enablement converge. By empowering businesses to adapt quickly, embrace digital transformation and scale with confidence, the emirate continues to build a resilient and future-ready commercial landscape.

A Night of Ribs, Rhythm and Indulgence at FRANK Meat & Taps

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Shereen Shabnam

There are restaurants you visit for a quick bite and then there are places like FRANK Meat & Taps, where the energy pulls you in before the first plate even lands on the table. Tucked away on Bluewaters Island just steps from Ain Dubai, this hip-hop-infused gastropub blends bold American comfort food with an atmosphere that feels instantly electric yet warmly welcoming.

The vibe is effortlessly cool with industrial-chic interiors, upbeat music, buzzing conversations and a crowd that reflects Dubai’s multicultural spirit. Despite the lively setting, the service remains impressively attentive. The staff are friendly without being intrusive, knowledgeable about the menu, and genuinely enthusiastic about guiding you through the experience.

We began with meat cubes that were tender, flavour-packed  and set the tone for what was to come. The corn dog delivered playful nostalgia with a crisp golden coating, popcorn and a juicy centre, while the smashed burger was everything you want from comfort food: juicy, perfectly caramelised edges, layered with just the right balance of pickles and sauce. We dined with a pescatarian who told us the prawn tempura and the salmon steak was done perfectly and a must try.

Then came the ribs and they truly are the heart of FRANK. Slow-cooked, generous, and beautifully glazed, they fall apart at the touch while still holding that satisfying bite. They are indulgent without feeling overly heavy, and it’s easy to see why they’re considered the signature order. Alongside them, the beef quesadilla offered a creamy, rich contrast, being hearty, well-seasoned and ideal for sharing.

Dessert deserves its own applause. The homemade Napoleon layered with cherry jam was delicate yet comforting, the pistachio Kunafa Fondant cleverly fused Middle Eastern texture with molten decadence, and the chocolate lava cheesecake was unapologetically indulgent. t

FRANK is not just about food; it is about mood. It is where big flavours meet big beats, where friends and family linger longer than planned, and where every dish feels generous, not just in portion, but in personality.