Global Stage Set in Riyadh as Ministry of Sports Leads World Stadiums and Arenas Summit

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – With the support of the Ministry of Sport, the World Stadiums and Arenas Summit will be held at the Mandarin Al Faisaliah on April 29-30, 2025, the only dedicated summit hosted by the Government of KSA focusing on the development of stadiums and arenas in the Kingdom. This landmark summit will catalyze the Kingdom’s ambitious initiative to construct eco friendly world-class sports facilities, affirming Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a global sports hub with sustainability goals taking center stage in all aspects of the country’s sports development.

The summit is poised to serve as a crucial platform for global industry leaders in sports facility development, world-renowned architects, sustainability experts, and technological innovators. The agenda is meticulously designed to foster rich discussions about the future of stadium design and construction with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, smart technologies, and enhancing fan experiences.

In a statement, HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Saud, Minister of Sport, expressed great enthusiasm and said, “The sports sector is witnessing changes and the latest steps taken by the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 are visible. We are currently studying the governance of sports economy and the government seeks to facilitate those entering the Saudi sports sector, whether it is for investment reasons, for building academies or for developing athletes.”

As Saudi Arabia strides towards a transformative future in sports, the World Stadiums and Arenas Summit represents a pivotal platform for global experts to collaborate and contribute to the country’s vision of developing sustainable and technologically advanced sports venues. The event underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge design and sustainable practices into sports infrastructure in readiness to host major global sports events.”

The summit will delve into essential topics including the use of eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs in stadium construction, the latest trends in modular and multi-functional venues, the integration of AI, IoT, and data-driven solutions to enhance stadium operations, and innovative strategies to boost fan engagement and experience. Additionally, the discussions will extend to investment and legacy planning to ensure the long-term utility and profitability of sports facilities post-major events.

Saudi Arabia’s rise as a prime destination for global sports is backed by significant investments in infrastructure capable of hosting major events like the AFC Asian Cup 2027, the Asian Winter Games 2029, and the FIFA World Cup 2034. These investments are crucial to the Kingdom’s economic diversification goals under Saudi Vision 2030 and position the nation at the forefront of the global sports venue market.

Anticipated to attract over1000 delegates, the summit will feature 45+ expert speakers and 120+ sponsors and exhibitors from over 50 countries. It will offer interactive project showcases, presentations, and case studies that highlight the latest innovations and strategies in sports facility development and in shaping the future of the sports infrastructure industry in Saudi Arabia.

Century Financial and Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club Celebrate Grand Finale of UAE Polo Federation Cup 2025

The UAE Polo Federation Cup, presented by Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club in partnership with Century Financial concluded with a spectacular final at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club. The event, which was the biggest in its history, featured nine elite teams vying for the coveted championship title in an exhibition of world-class polo.

The final day tournament kicked off with four teams in action with El Basha Polo playing Bin Drai Polo in the 1st match. The second match was between AM Polo and Abu Dhabi Polo showing remarkable skillsfrom both sides. The final match saw an exciting clash between AM Polo emerging victorious with a score of 8/7 and Abu Dhabi Polo as Runners-up. The match showcased exceptional skills of the players, culminating in a thrilling display that captivated the audience. Polo lovers and guests also enjoyed a range of experiences, including exclusive VIP viewing areas, exclusive dining options, and social interactions with friends and family during the match.

Nayef Bou Hamdan, General Manager of Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club said, “This year’s UAE Polo Federation Cup exceeded expectations, delivering not only top-tier polo action but also a comprehensive experience that catered to all attendees. Our club has continuously been at the forefront of combining premier equestrian facilities with luxury lifestyle offerings, and this event was a testament to our commitment to excellence.”

Shaheen Akbari, Executive Director at Century Financial, expressed his satisfaction with the partnership: “It has been a privilege to partner with the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club for this prestigious event. The energy and elegance displayed during the finals were remarkable, and we are thrilled to have been part of an initiative that brings together the community through a shared passion for polo.”

Santiago Torreguitar, Director of Tournaments at Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, added, “The caliber of competition this year was truly exceptional. The tournament showcased a remarkable blend of seasoned veterans and promising new talent, each bringing their own unique strengths to the field. Witnessing such fierce matches and the diverse levels of skill displayed by all teams was not only a testament to the growth of polo in the region but also a promise of the sport’s bright future here. It was an honour to host such a vibrant celebration of polo at our club.”

The finals day was not just about the sport but also offered a variety of experiences for guests, including unparalleled networking opportunities, exclusive access to the VIP lounge, and the ‘Predict and Win’ contest, where spectators had a chance to win prizes by predicting the champion team.

As families, foodies, and sports enthusiasts came together, they enjoyed the Ultimate Polo Brunch, offering an array of exquisite food selections, alongside fun activities like pony rides and play stations, ensuring a grand family day out. The Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club continues to set the standard for exceptional equestrian events and remains dedicated to enhancing the polo community in Dubai and beyond.

Harnessing AI for Digital Transformation: How NetApp is Powering the Future of Data Management

George Kurian, CEO of NetApp

By Natasha Dury


In his first-ever visit to the UAE, George Kurian, President and CEO of NetApp, brings fresh perspectives on the company’s expansion and innovation strategies in the Middle East. With the increasing demand for cloud computing, data management, and digital transformation across industries, Kurian’s visit signifies the growing importance of the region to NetApp’s global operations. In this exclusive interview, Kurian shares his vision for the future of data management, the company’s role in cloud transformation, and how NetApp plans to support the UAE and the wider Middle East in their digital journeys.

What are your initial impressions during this first visit to the UAE, and how does it align with NetApp’s broader regional strategy?

The UAE has made a lasting impression on me as an exciting, rapidly evolving market committed to innovation, particularly in digital transformation and cloud computing. The country’s vision for smart cities, AI, and sustainability perfectly aligns with NetApp’s mission to unlock the potential of data for businesses. This visit reinforces the Middle East’s importance in our global strategy. NetApp is deeply involved in the region with strong teams and key partnerships across industries like the public sector, oil and gas, healthcare, and financial services. The region is a significant contributor to our global revenue, and we are committed to supporting its digital future.

What role does NetApp see itself playing in the region’s ongoing digital transformation?

Cloud adoption in the Middle East is accelerating, and NetApp is uniquely positioned to support this transformation. Our role is to help organizations manage data efficiently across hybrid and multi-cloud environments. Our advanced cloud solutions enable businesses to optimize operations, increase agility, and drive innovation. We offer seamless data management and storage solutions, allowing enterprises to harness the power of their data—whether on-premises, in the cloud, or across multiple clouds. As companies move toward digitized operations, NetApp will remain a key partner in building scalable, secure, and robust data infrastructures.

How is NetApp innovating to stay ahead in AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics?

The future relies on AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics, and NetApp is innovating by developing intelligent data solutions that simplify storing, managing, and analyzing vast amounts of data. Our intelligent data infrastructure allows businesses to access and use their data seamlessly, no matter where it’s stored. Our recent advancements in data services enable AI and machine learning workloads to operate at scale, empowering businesses to make faster data-driven decisions.

How does NetApp differentiate itself in a crowded cloud solutions market, particularly in the Middle East?

NetApp stands out by providing integrated data management solutions that work across multiple cloud environments. We offer flexibility, allowing businesses to manage data in public, private, and hybrid clouds without sacrificing performance or security. Our partnerships with leading cloud providers like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure enable us to deliver optimized solutions that transform data into a competitive advantage, solidifying our leadership in the cloud market.

Can you share any upcoming initiatives or partnerships that NetApp is planning for the UAE and the wider Middle East?

We are closely collaborating with public and private sector organizations to accelerate digital transformation across industries. For instance, we are partnering with the oil and gas sector to drive efficiencies through better data management. In healthcare, we focus on secure, scalable solutions that enable providers to manage sensitive patient data effectively. We are also exploring partnerships with educational institutions in the UAE to foster talent in AI, data science, and cloud technologies.

With cybersecurity becoming increasingly critical as data grows in complexity and volume, what steps is NetApp taking to ensure data security and compliance for businesses in this region?

NetApp provides advanced encryption, multi-factor authentication, and stringent data governance frameworks to help businesses safeguard their data. Our cloud services come with built-in security features that ensure compliance with local regulations, including data sovereignty and privacy requirements. We also partner with cybersecurity experts to offer comprehensive protection against emerging threats.

What are the key trends shaping the future of data management and cloud solutions, and how is NetApp preparing to meet these future demands?

We are in the “Third Era” of data, where data is the key driver of innovation and growth. Key trends include the growing reliance on hybrid and multi-cloud environments, the increasing role of AI and machine learning in business decision-making, and the need for intelligent and automated data management solutions. NetApp is at the forefront of these trends, continuously innovating to make data more accessible, manageable, and secure.

#GTM #GlobalTrendMonitor #magazine #Interview #technology #NatashaDury #DigitalTransformation#AIInnovation #DataManagement #NetApp #CloudComputing #MiddleEastTech #UAEInnovation #SmartDataSolutions #GeorgeKurian #FutureOfData

7th META Cinema Forum Day 1 highlights key Insights, Trends and Industry Milestones

The 7th META Cinema Forum kicked off today at the Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, bringing together cinema leaders and innovators from across the META region. Opening with remarks from Lara Tan, Conference Director at Great Minds Group, and Paul Schwarz, Technical Director at Dubai Acoustic Research Laboratory, the forum set a strong tone for exploring the future of cinema in the Middle East and Africa.

The first day included a panel discussion that addressed the role of government and new strategies aimed at fostering a holistic film culture and supporting the movie industry alongside the creative economy. The discussion covered various aspects, including the establishment of new authorities and mandates, funding institutions, state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure, and educational platforms to nurture talent. Moderated by Rory McLoughlin, Founder of Like Minds, the panel featured industry leaders Sameer Al Jaberi, Nader Al Rawahy, Georges Khouri, and Nancy Paton.

Leila Masinaei, Managing Partner at GM Events, reflected on the forum’s significance: “This year’s META Cinema Forum has been all about innovation and collaboration. We’re creating a space where the region’s rich cultural narratives are celebrated alongside groundbreaking technologies. The positive response to the META Cinema Forum has been incredible, and it’s inspiring to see how much the event has grown over the years. Each edition brings together an increasingly diverse and passionate group of industry leaders, innovators, and creators, which reflects the region’s commitment to building a world-class cinema culture. This year’s forum showcases how far we’ve come in terms of technology, storytelling, and audience engagement. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact we can have as an industry when we unite to share knowledge, foster partnerships, and embrace new ideas.”

The day also saw exciting project updates, including a presentation from VOX Cinemas and panel discussions on immersive technologies, AI in filmmaking, and future cinema design. Day 1 ended on a high note with exclusive screenings and networking sessions, setting the stage for another impactful day ahead.

As the premier platform for cinema stakeholders in the META region, the 7th META Cinema Forum is ideal for anyone invested in the future of cinema. The forum is also featuring a trade show, networking opportunities, and exclusive screenings, including a highly anticipated 2025 blockbuster preview.

7th META Cinema Forum Set to Unite Global Cinema Industry Leaders in Dubai

The 7th edition of the META Cinema Forum, the largest cinema convention in the Middle East and Africa, will take place in Dubai on November 11-12, 2024, at Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, Dubai, U.A.E. Organized by GM Events, the event will bring together top leaders, innovators, and stakeholders from the cinema industry to explore the latest trends, technologies, and strategies that will shape the future of cinema across the region.

After groundbreaking successes of the previous editions, the premier cinema convention for the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa will feature in-depth sessions on the latest statistics in cinema construction and infrastructure, updates on major cinema projects across the META region, and exclusive insights into box office trends. The cinema industry in the META region has seen remarkable growth, with box office revenues increasing by 20% annually and over 50 new cinemas opening each year. 

This year, attendees will delve into advancements in cinema technology, explore the evolution of cinema architecture and mixed-use spaces, and participate in interactive industry insights sessions. Highlights include studio product presentations, special movie premieres, and the prestigious META Cinema Awards. 

Leila Masinaei, Managing Partner at GM Events, expressed her enthusiasm for this year’s META Cinema Forum, saying, “This year the event is about more than the latest technology and trends, it’s a platform for telling our own stories, rooted in the rich culture and diversity of our region. Bringing together creative minds and industry leaders, the forum enables us to share these narratives with the world. As we embrace new trending tools, we also carry the responsibility to tell impactful stories that resonate and endure. This is our moment to bring our region’s voice to the global stage.”

The event promises two days of insightful discussions, panel sessions, and presentations on key industry topics, ranging from box office performance to the latest in cinema technology and audience engagement strategies. With a stellar lineup of experts, the forum will feature high-profile speakers from global cinema giants, regional authorities, and leading industry stakeholders in panel discussions on government support, immersive technologies, cinema design and networking opportunities with industry leaders plus product presentations.

The forum will kick off with an insightful presentation by Maria Rua Aguete, Senior Research Director, Media and Entertainment at Omdia, who will delve into the latest cinema industry facts and statistics, providing a comprehensive analysis of global and regional box office performances. A series of panel discussions and presentations will explore the evolving role of government in fostering a holistic film culture, with esteemed speakers including Sameer Al Jaberi of Abu Dhabi Film Commissionand Georges Khouri of Tecom Group.

Highlights include the latest project updates from leading cinema chains like VOX Cinemas and Star Cinemas, engaging participants in discussions on enhancing cinema experiences through advanced technologies and innovative design. The day will culminate in exclusive screenings, offering delegates a first look at upcoming blockbusters.

Day 2 of the forum will focus on expanding the cinema industry through content diversity and strategic partnerships. Highlights include a panel on the demand for varied content, featuring discussions on the growth of Arab cinema and the importance of regional and international collaborations, followed by a fireside chat with Warner Bros.’ Toby Tennant on Hollywood’s role in shaping the META region’s cinema landscape and fostering future alliances.

As the premier platform for cinema stakeholders in the META region, the 7th META Cinema Forum is idealfor anyone invested in the future of cinema. The forum will also feature a trade show, networking opportunities, and exclusive screenings, including a highly anticipated 2025 blockbuster preview.

Gear up for adventure in Hatta 

From spear throwing to yoga retreats, Hatta offers exciting new activities.

By Natasha Dury

Nestled in the heart of the Hajar mountains, Hatta is Dubai’s premier destination for those seeking an adventure-filled retreat away from the urban hustle. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, nature lover, or wellness enthusiast, Hatta offers a wide range of activities and experiences that cater to every kind of traveler.

As the cooler months approach, Hatta Resorts and its famed Wadi Hub are gearing up to launch their seventh season in October, unveiling exciting new activities that promise to elevate the adventure experience. This season introduces three exhilarating additions: spear throwing, a dedicated kids’ zone, and a shooting range. Perfect for visitors of all ages and abilities, these attractions offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or a heart-pumping adrenaline rush.

For those who prefer to take in Hatta’s natural beauty at a more leisurely pace, the Wadi Hub offers plenty of other adventures. Hiking and biking through world-class trails that wind through the mountains are a must for outdoor enthusiasts, while kayaking on the serene Hatta Dam offers a peaceful escape into nature.

A key feature of the Hatta experience is its unique glamping accommodations. This season brings exciting updates, with the introduction of a fleet of Vintage Campers in November, each designed to reflect the distinct charm of Hatta. For those looking for something a little more luxurious, the popular glamping Domes have been upgraded—now each unit comes with its own private pool, adding a touch of exclusivity to your stay.

Hatta isn’t just for adventurers. Wellness enthusiasts can also indulge in tranquil activities like outdoor yoga in dedicated wellness spaces. Practicing yoga against the backdrop of the majestic Hajar mountains, particularly near the Domes at Hatta Resorts, offers an unparalleled way to reconnect with nature and unwind.

No trip to Hatta is complete without indulging in the local flavors. Whether you’re after a quick snack at the Wild Cafe or a hearty meal from food trucks like Sedr BitesTaste of Hatta, or Damani Bites, the options are varied and delicious. This dining experience allows visitors to directly support Hatta’s community of local entrepreneurs while enjoying freshly made meals in the great outdoors.

For those curious about Hatta’s rich cultural heritage, the area is full of opportunities to explore its historical significance. A visit to the Hatta Heritage Village offers insight into traditional Emirati life, providing a perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion.

Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-fueled activities, a serene wellness retreat, or a deep dive into local culture, Hatta is the ultimate destination for a rejuvenating getaway in Dubai.

#GTM #GlobalTrendMonitor #Magazine #ExploreHatta #AdventureInHatta #MountainRetreat #OutdoorYoga #HattaWadiHub #HikingDubai #GlampingInHatta #WellnessRetreat #ThrillSeekersParadise #ReconnectWithNature

Sumo Sushi & Bento reveals exciting new flavours and exclusive offers this September

Sumo Sushi & Bento continues to delight its loyal customers with a fresh array of innovative dishes this September, bringing unique flavours and exciting offers to its diners across the UAE. From delectable sushi rolls to indulgent donburi and refreshing beverages, September promises to be a feast for the senses.

This month’s highlights include the Salmon Shamrock and the Wagyu Beef Donburi, two new offerings that showcase Sumo’s commitment to combining fresh ingredients with bold flavours. The Salmon Shamrock is a sushi lover’s dream, with layers of seared salmon, creamy cheese, green tobiko, and spicy mayo, all wrapped in sushi rice and nori, creating a delightful balance of textures and flavours. 

For those looking for something heartier, the Wagyu Beef Donburi is a standout choice featuring tender Wagyu beef, mushrooms, asparagus, and scallions, all drizzled with rich steak sauce over a bed of rice.

For a refreshing finish, diners can cool off with the Pineapple Breeze, a tropical blend of pineapple, mint, lime, and soda, served chilled with ice—perfect for combating the lingering summer heat.

In celebration of its 24th anniversary, Sumo Sushi & Bento is also offering a special limited-edition Daimyo Box. Available from August 16 to September 30, this curated box showcases a selection of the brand’s best-selling rolls. The Daimyo Box features four signature options—Samurai, Gozen Samurai, Afuro Samurai, and Shimin Samurai, each carefully crafted to reflect Sumo’s rich history and dedication to quality. It’s a culinary tribute to 24 years of excellence, and a must-try for any fan of Japanese cuisine.

For those looking for even more value, Sumo Sushi & Bento’s Happy Hours Combooffers three of the restaurant’s best-selling meals for just AED 99. Available daily from 11 AM to 6 PM, this combo includes appetizers, rolls, and bento or noodle options, ensuring a satisfying meal for any craving. Diners can choose from favorites like Chicken Gyoza, Prawn Tempura, Dynamite Roll, and Chicken Katsu Bento Classic, among many others.

For regular patrons, Sumo Mobile App is a most simple and convenient way to earn loyalty points. Collect Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

The special offers are available from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. For Booking, visit https://sumosushibento.com, download the Sumo Sushi App or call 800-7866(SUMO) 

Sumo Sushi & Bento Unveils Irresistible Offers for a Flavorful Summer

Sumo Sushi & Bento is delighted to announce a series of exciting offers that will elevate your dining experience throughout the month of August. Embrace the flavours of summer with our specially curated menu, featuring a selection of delectable dishes and refreshing drinks designed to tantalize your taste buds.

Monthly Special: Taste a Soulful Journey

Sumo Sushi & Bento highlights the Shimin Samurai, an elite, SAMURAI-inspired deep-fried roll featuring a medley of shrimp tempura, sweet pepper, and kani, topped with creamy avocado, succulent salmon, and the signature teriyaki sauce. Priced at 65 AED, this roll offers a perfect fusion of flavours, textures, and aromas.

The Crispy Prawns are a also must-try for seafood enthusiasts. Lightly coated with salt, pepper, and cornstarch, these golden-fried shrimp are served with honey wasabi mayo sauce and topped with Sakura mix, all for just 42 AED.

Refreshing Summer Drinks: Stay Cool, Stay Fresh

Beat the summer heat with refreshing signature drinks. Enjoy a wide selection, including Nyuto, Radiant Bliss, Sunshine Bliss, Murasaki, andMixed Tropical Berry, among others. For a limited time, purchase five drinks in a single transaction and receive a complimentary item which includes Tempura Combo, Calamari, or Karai Chicken.

This month, guests can also indulge in a Pinacolada, a tropical delight blending blue curacao, pineapple, and vanilla ice cream with ice and sugar syrup, available for only 22 AED. This refreshing treat is the perfect way to cool off this summer.

Triple Delight August Offer: A Feast for the Senses

Get ready for a taste sensation with our Triple Delight offer. Exclusively for Sumo Mobile App customers, buy any three rolls and get one Iced Tea for just 99 AED. Choose from a tempting array of rolls such as California, Sweet Potato Crunch, Crunchy Crazy, and many more.

This exclusive offer is valid for dine-in, pick-up, and delivery from August 1st to 31st and cannot be combined with any other promotions. All promotions are valid while stocks last and cannot be combined with other offers.

Savour these extraordinary deals and immerse yourself in a feast of flavours this August at Sumo Sushi & Bento invites. Grab your chopsticks and join us for a culinary experience you won’t want to miss.

For regular patrons, Sumo Mobile App is a most simple and convenient way to earn loyalty points. Collect Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

The special offers are available from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. For Booking, visit https://sumosushibento.com, download the Sumo Sushi App or call 800-7866(SUMO) 

Stay Cool with Sumo Sushi & Bento’s Summer Refreshment Campaign!

As the summer heat in Dubai reaches its peak, Sumo Sushi & Bento is excited to launch its Summer Refreshment Campaign, offering an array of delicious and trendy beverages to keep you cool.Until August 31st, 2024, diners can indulge in refreshing summer drinks and take advantage of special offers designed to quench their thirst and lift their spirits.

The campaign features five highlight drinks: Nyuto, a creamy blend with a hint of sweetness perfect for a refreshing break; Radiant Bliss, a vibrant, fruity drink that promises to delight your taste buds; Sunshine Bliss, capturing the essence of summer with its bright, citrus-infused flavor; Murasaki, a unique drink combining exotic flavors for a refreshing experience; and Mixed Tropical Berry, offering the taste of summer with a berry-packed refreshment. 

While these limited-time offerings are the stars of the campaign, all menu drinks are included, ensuring there’s something for everyone. To enhance customer engagement and provide added value, Sumo Sushi & Bento is launching two exclusive campaigns on its mobile app. The Bulk Purchase Campaign offers any five drinks for AED 100, with the added bonus of receiving a free item. This offer is perfect for groups or individuals looking to stock up on their favorite refreshments.

The Bounce Back Coupon Campaign rewards customers who purchase five summer drinks during the campaign period with a free item on their next purchase. Upon completing the purchase of five drinks, customers will automatically receive a free item credited to their account, redeemable with their next app purchase. Terms and conditions apply: the offer cannot be combined with any other offer and is available for dine-in and pickup only. To qualify, customers must complete the purchase of five drinks in one transaction.

The free items available for the Bounce Back Coupon Campaign include the Tempura Combo, Calamari, and Karai Chicken, providing delightful options to complement the refreshing summer drinks.

Known for its fresh, innovative, and delectable offerings, Sumo Sushi & Bento continues to delight customers with its diverse menu and exceptional service. This summer, join Sumo Sushi & Bento in celebrating the season with refreshing drinks and special offers, designed to make your dining experience even more enjoyable.

For regular patrons, Sumo Mobile App is a most simple and convenient way to earn loyalty points. Collect Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

The special offers are available from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. For Booking, visit https://sumosushibento.com, download the Sumo Sushi App or call 800-7866(SUMO)