Category: Press releases

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

Leave a comment

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 Commission, and 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.

Sumo Sushi & Bento Unveils Irresistible Offers for a Flavorful Summer

Leave a comment

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!

Leave a comment

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) 

Amadeus, in association with Vistara, conclude successful promotion with travel partners in Oman

Leave a comment

Muscat, Oman: Amadeus, a global leader in travel technology, in association with Vistara, India’s finest full-service carrier and a joint venture of the Tata group and Singapore Airlines, successfully collaborated for a joint promotion to support the travel industry during the typically slow period last Ramadan which boosted travel bookings, saw an overwhelming positive response from travel partners and resulted in healthy flight loads and increased incremental segments.

As part of the promotion, six top-performing travel partners were rewarded with attractive prizes including Apple Watches, Lenovo Tablets, Premium Economy and Economy tickets on Vistara, and shopping vouchers. The incentive was designed to motivate and appreciate the hard work of the travel agencies during this period.

Amadeus, along with Vistara, expressed deep gratitude to their travel partners for their unwavering support. This gesture was met with enthusiasm and appreciation from the travel partners, who reaffirmed their commitment to a long-term partnership with both companies. The collaboration with travel partners has not only bolstered travel bookings has also strengthened relationships with key industry players.

The positive feedback from travel partners underscores the success of the promotion. Among the top-performing travel agencies were Akbar Travels Middle East, Alhashar Travels, Bahwan Tourism LLC, Khimji’s House of Travel, Satguru Travel and Tourism Services and Zahara Travel & Service Bureau LLC.

These agencies demonstrated exceptional sales performance, contributing significantly to the promotion’s success.

Malaysia Showcases Agricultural Prowess in Dubai with MAHA 2024 Business Networking Event

Leave a comment

Centennial Celebration of MAHA promotes Innovation, Sustainability, and Global Networking Opportunities in Agriculture and Agro-tourism.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Malaysia is intensifying its promotional efforts across the Middle Eastern region. In a bid to highlight Malaysia’s agricultural and food industries, the Malaysian Agriculture Counselor Office in Dubai organised a high-profile business networking event at the prestigious Raffles Hotel Dubai. 

This event aimed to showcase the nation’s agricultural prowess and promote the Ministry’s flagship event, Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture and Agro-tourism (MAHA) 2024, scheduled from 11 to 23 September 2024. Established in 1923, MAHA has evolved into Southeast Asia’s premier agricultural exhibition, a testament to Malaysia’s rich farming heritage. Celebrating a century of innovation and resilience, MAHA promotes sustainable practices and bridges urban-rural gaps. 

Vice Consul for Agriculture in the Consulate General of Malaysia in Dubai, Mr. Muhd Arif Jauhari, stated, “This year marks the centennial anniversary of MAHA EXPO. For a century, MAHA has been a beacon of agricultural innovation, education, and community engagement. This monumental achievement underscores the profound legacy and impact MAHA has had over the past hundred years, from spearheading agricultural advancements to nurturing community spirit. This year’s theme, ‘Harvesting Tomorrow Where Dreams Blossom,’ underscores our dedication to sustainable agriculture, human capital, technology, agro-tourism, and investment. MAHA 2024 will feature a three-day trade show followed by a nine-day public exhibition, offering educational activities and interactive exhibits.”

“Through its diverse exhibitions and activities, MAHA educates and inspires visitors on the pivotal role of agriculture. As we commemorate its centenary, we reflect on MAHA’s enduring legacy and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to advancing Malaysia’s agricultural sector for future generations.”

MAHA offers businesses and companies an excellent platform to market and promote the latest products and services for trades and engagement with potential buyers and customers. The 2024 edition of the biennial MAHA event aims at promoting agriculture and agro-based industries. This premier agro fair showcases all the different components and the various efforts undertaken by government agencies as well as presenting numerous business opportunities offered by this fast-growing industry. 

Among the many highlights of MAHA 2024 are the ecosystem of agriculture which consists of input suppliers, farming companies, traders, processors, distributors, logistics and consumers, other industry adjacent business, data device and analytics, automation and machinery plus software and technologies that interrelated.

The 2024 edition introduces MAHA Go Global platform which will act as a catalyst for business growth within the agriculture and horticulture sectors, boost exports, and promote innovation. It is also a valuable platform for professionals in the industry to build the network, learn, and explore new business opportunities. During this program, it can offer a wide variety of products and services which can connect with more than 150 exhibitors from all over the world. 

Stakeholders have the chance to be part of MAHA Go Global 2024 and take their business to new heights on this revamped platform, meticulously designed to enhance your agro-food ventures.

MAHA 2024, an outstanding event that has been built on the successes of previous events presents myriad of opportunities for industry players throughout the 11-day event. Participants will not only establish new networking and learn the latest agricultural methods and innovations but also take part in a movement that will propel Malaysia into leading the agricultural revolution taking place around the world. 

Further interest to join in MAHA 2024, prospecting companies and businesses can get in touch with Malaysian Agriculture Counselor Office, Consulate General of Malaysia in Dubai or log on to www.mahaofficial.my.

Tropical Fun Feast and More at Sumo Sushi & Bento

Leave a comment

This July, Sumo Sushi & Bento is set to delight food enthusiasts with its Monthly Special Offer: the Tropical Fun Feast. Available at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets, these special menu items are perfect for the summer season, promising to tantalize taste buds with refreshing and flavourful dishes.

First on the menu is the Tofu Teriyaki, featuring crispy tofu tossed in a wholesome sticky teriyaki sauce, topped with sesame seeds and furikake vegetables. This dish is available for just AED 26.

Next, indulge in the Gyoiko Roll, a delectable combination of fresh salmon, cream cheese, and spring onion, topped with seared avocado, mayo, and tobiko. Priced at AED 58, this roll promises an exquisite dining experience.

To complement these dishes, Sumo Sushi & Bento offers the Watermelon Mint drink, a refreshing blend of watermelon and mint, zesty lemon juice, a hint of lime, sweetened with sugar syrup, and fizzed up with soda over ice cubes. This perfect summer drink is available for AED 22. These specials are valid for dine-in, takeaway, and delivery from July 1st to 31st at all Sumo branches.

In addition to the Tropical Fun Feast, Sumo Sushi & Bento is also introducing a Happy Hours Flat 20% OFF promotion. From 5 pm to 11 pm, customers can enjoy a selection of delicious Japanese delights at a 20% discount, available exclusively for delivery via the SUMO Mobile App. 

Selected items include Teriyaki Chicken Bento, Sake Nigiri, Ika Nigiri, Neptune, Twister, Yaki Udon-Mix, Yakisoba, Rock N Roll Shrimp, Karai Chicken, Tempura Supreme Bento, and BBQ Beef Bento. This offer is valid from July 1st to 31st and cannot be combined with any other offers.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to savour your favourite Japanese dishes at a discounted price! Join Sumo Sushi & Bento this July for an unforgettable culinary experience with the Tropical Fun Feast and exclusive Happy Hours offer.

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) 

Amadeus and Vistara conclude successful promotion with travel partners in Oman.

Leave a comment

Muscat, Oman: Amadeus, a global leader in travel technology and Vistara Airlines successfully collaborated on a joint promotion to support the travel industry during the typically slow period last Ramadan which boosted travel bookings, saw an overwhelming positive response from travel partners and resulted in healthy flight loads and increased incremental segments.

As part of the highest seller incentive, six top-performing travel partners were rewarded with attractive prizes including Apple Watches, Lenovo Tablets, Vistara Premium Economy and Economy tickets, and shopping vouchers. The incentive was designed to motivate and appreciate the hard work of the travel agencies during this period.

Both Vistara and Amadeus expressed their deep gratitude to their travel partners for their unwavering support. This gesture was met with enthusiasm and appreciation from the travel partners, who reaffirmed their commitment to a long-term partnership with both companies. The collaboration with travel partners has not only bolstered travel bookings has also strengthened relationships with key industry players.

The positive feedback from travel partners underscores the success of the promotion. Among the top-performing travel agencies were Akbar Travels Middle East, Alhashar Travels, Bahwan Tourism LLC, Khimji’s House of Travel, Satguru Travel and Tourism Services and Zahara Travel & Service Bureau LLC.

These agencies demonstrated exceptional sales performance, contributing significantly to the promotion’s success.

The Women Worldwide Car of The Year presents the KIA EV9 With The Award for Best Car in the World

Leave a comment

WWCOTY delegation travels to Korea to present KIA with the World’s Best Car award

July. Three jury members of Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year were invited to Korea to present the trophy to Kia for the Kia EV9 winning the 2024 supreme award.

The judges – Shereen Shabnam from UAE, Nicole Wakelin from the USA and Sandy Myhre from New Zealand, presented the trophy to Mr Teckkoun Kim, Head of Kia Design Next Group at the Busan International Mobility Show.

It was clear that winning the award was significant to Kia and Mr Kim commented that the win will help the recognition of the EV9. “It gives another twist to customers when juries like yours recognize the EV9 because you are the experts and you know which EV or vehicle works for the consumer experience,” he said.

WWCOTY delegation was also interviewed for Kia’s official social media channels including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.  Excerpts from the interview will likely be used in a promotional video collaboration with Bloomberg Media and will be featured on their websites.

The three Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year jury members were also the subject of an extensive television interview by Michael Choo of Kia Brand Communications. The theme of the interview was ‘How Kia EV9 became the supreme winner of the WWCOTY award’.

Sandy Myhre (NZ) gave a short history of the awards and discussed how many jury members there are today.  She emphasised the rigorous process adopted by the voting system and said, in the end, the EV9 was a clear winner for 2024.

Shereen Shabnam (UAE) discussed the various unique design aspects of the EV9 from the lowered hipline which creates better vision from inside the car to the ‘star’ cluster headlights which are another unique feature of the SUV.

Nicole Wakelin (USA) talked about the wheel design which, again, is unique and how the sporty spoke image produces an interesting geometric graphic on the surface of the wheel.

All three judges spoke of the significance of the WWCOTY Award and what it will mean to Kia customers around the world. 

Sumo Sushi & Bento Invites You to Indulge in a Rolling Culinary Sensation this May

Leave a comment

This May, embark on an extraordinary culinary journey with Sumo Sushi & Bento’s Monthly Special Offer, featuring an exquisite selection of flavors designed to tantalize your taste buds. From the rich and savory Cho Roll to the refreshing fizz of Cream Soda, there’s something to delight every palate.

Immerse yourself in sushi perfection with our Cho Roll, a delectable masterpiece boasting fresh salmon, creamy avocado, mayo, red radish, unagi, tamago, and tender kani crabsticks, all delicately wrapped in sushi nori and topped with tobiko and savory sauces for AED 59.

Diners can also experience the perfect blend of textures and flavors with the Isobe-Yaki, featuring golden brown potato mochi crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, paired with cheese and the subtle notes of sushi nori, all infused with our signature sumo sauce for AED 19.

Quench your thirst with our refreshing Cream Soda, a delightful melon drink complemented by a fizzy soda fizz and topped with velvety vanilla ice cream for AED 22. The above offers are valid for Dine-in, Takeaway, and Delivery from May 1st-31st at all Sumo branches.

Additionally, don’t miss out on celebrating Sakura Season in style with Sumo Sushi & Bento’s Sakura Season Box, featuring a selection of four rolls for just AED 99. Choose from Bangkok Roll, Tiger Roll, Ninja Roll, Sakura Roll, Crunchy Crazy, or Tsunami Crispy Salmon, available until June 30th for Dine-in, Pickup, and Delivery.

And for those looking to savor even more flavors, indulge in the Buy One Get One at 50% OFF offer, available exclusively for Delivery through the Sumo mobile app. Choose from a tantalizing selection of items, including Yaki Udon, Yakisoba, Sumo Fried Rice, Japanese Curry Katsu, and more. Terms and conditions apply.

To claim your free Rock N Roll Shrimp, simply download the Sumo Sushi & Bento mobile app, make a first purchase, and redeem your free roll. Don’t miss out on the excitement this May at Sumo Sushi & Bento. 

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) 

Blossom Up Your Taste at Sumo Sushi & Bento

Leave a comment

This April, Sumo Sushi & Bento is excited to introduce “Blossom Up Your Taste,” a culinary celebration that brings a bouquet of new flavors to your table. From the Hanabira Roll to Korean Chicken and the refreshing Murasaki drink, our special menu is designed to delight your senses and offer a unique dining experience.

Enjoy the Hanabira Roll at AED 59 as you experience the meticulous flavor of sushi with our Beetroot Rice, beautifully wrapped in gold salmon fillet shaped like a flower petal. This roll is a sensational combination of Nori, Unagi Kabayaki, asparagus, tamago, Takuan taro, and beetroot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Sumo Sushi & Bento diners can also try the crispy fried Korean chicken wings at AED 38, smothered in a savory Korean-inspired sauce. Each wing is sprinkled with sesame seeds and spring onions, garnished with parsley to add that extra touch of flavor.

This month, quench your thirst with Murasaki, a thrilling blend of soda fizz, yuzu juice, and lime, infused with the vibrant hue of butterfly pea flower. This drink is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Diners at Sumo Sushi & Bento can indulge in the Triple Delights offer: Buy any three rolls and get an iced tea for just AED 99. This offer is exclusive to Sumo Mobile App customers and includes a tempting selection of rolls such as California, Sweet Potato Crunch, Crunchy Crazy, and more.

These offers are available for dine-in, takeaway, and delivery from April 1st through April 30th at all Sumo Sushi & Bento branches. Please note that the Triple Delights offer is exclusively available through the Sumo Mobile App and cannot be combined with any other promotions.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to blossom up your taste this April with Sumo Sushi & Bento. Grab your chopsticks and prepare for a feast of flavors that promises to bring a smile to your face and satisfaction to your palate.

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)