Central Agency for Information Technology (CAIT) supports the Kuwait Digital Transformation Conference on driving the nation towards digitization in line with Kuwait’s Vision 2035

·      Conference to host an exhibition of the latest technologies and solutions

·      Investment in Kuwait’s ICT market is expected to reach 10B USD by 2024

Kuwait – October 2022: Under the sponsorship of the Central Agency for Information Technology (CAIT); the Kuwait Digital Transformation Conference takes place from the 2nd to the 3rd of November 2022, which aims to provide a national platform for Kuwait’s digitalization stakeholders and ICT experts, game changers, and leading international solution providers and consultants to discuss the latest plans and innovations in the country’s digital transformation journey, global best practices, and innovative solutions to overcome challenges faced in achieving a successful and secure digitalization.

With the participation of more than 250 IT executives and specialists, the two-day high-level international conference is set to address key advances and pressing challenges in Kuwait’s digital transformation journey through a series of insightful presentations and panel discussions from some of the Kuwait’s industry leaders.

Working to consolidate public and private sector efforts to achieve the “Kuwait Vision 2035”, there is a rise in investment in Kuwait’s ICT market which is expected to reach 10B USD by 2024 (Global Data). With access to accurate data, easier and timely communication, efficient services, informed decision making, digitalization can transform how governments and companies run their operations and services.

Haya Alwadani, Director General, Kuwait’s Central Agency for Information Technology (CAIT) said, “Kuwait’s Central Agency for Information Technology assumes many responsibilities; most notably, overseeing all IT projects and the mechanisms for pushing forward their development within the government sector, in addition to implementing and activating the e-government project across all government agencies, as well as managing the official electronic portal for the state of Kuwait. With a view to formulating a strategic framework for Kuwait’s digital transformation that keeps pace with the progress of digital transformation globally.”

“Conferences like Digital Transformation Kuwait gives great insights into realities and challenges, which positively reflects on improving the delivery of digital government services and contributes to upgrading of their levels, in order to enhance the efficiency of government performance. CAIT also plays a key role in enabling government entities to migrate to the cloud, powering the country’s digital transformation through training IT talent within the public sector, noting that the training component is one of the main tasks that CAIT undertakes through developing Integrated training programs, which enhances the skills of national competencies and supports building a balanced digital culture associated with sustainability in its mechanisms.” She added.

Ooredoo business, the trusted technology partner for business solutions will participate in the “Digital Transformation Kuwait Conference” as a headline sponsor. On this occasion Essa Al-Moosa, Executive Director of Business and Consumer Sales at Ooredoo Kuwait in a statement said “This sponsorship comes with Ooredoo’s strategy of being a leader in digital transformation. At Ooredoo, we aspire to continuously create products and services to enrich the digital transformation journey of our customers. Our efforts go in line with Kuwait’s 2035 vision “New Kuwait” that aims at strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure and achieving digital transformation.

Al- Moosa added, “We continuously aim to enrich people’s digital lives and keep them connected in this Digital era through the latest connectivity and security innovative solutions that provides businesses with more opportunities to accelerate their digitalization process of their business with the highest levels of security and the latest technologies through cloud and cyber security services. Ooredoo business will continue to provide the best distinguished digital services for companies to enrich their digital lives and enable them to keep pace with the acceleration occurring in the digital transformation.

Badih Hakim, SAP Managing Director for Kuwait, said, “SAP’s role as Government Digital Transformation Partner for this conference is aligned with our commitment to support Kuwaiti organizations to become intelligent enterprises that consistently apply advanced technologies within agile, integrated business processes. The conference enables us to highlight SAP’s comprehensive range of digital solutions that address the main challenges businesses face today, namely, building resilient supply chains, creating sustainable enterprises, and transforming in the cloud. Cloud transformation is particularly important in Kuwait as, in line with Vision 2025, businesses are increasingly keen to embrace cloud solutions at speed. RISE with SAP enables them to accelerate their journey, regardless of size or starting point.”

Supporting government digital transformation initiatives, the conference key themes will highlight updates on Kuwait 2035 Vision and national digital transformation plan, driving the country’s plan to transform into a digital society and economy, driving government performance through digital transformation, building a robust cyber security infrastructure to prevent attacks and protect digital assets.

Themes also include Digital transformation in the banking and financial sector, adopting advanced analytics to improve decision making, utilizing cloud computing to improve storage capacity and efficiency, improving healthcare through e-health and remote healthcare services and building Kuwait’s national digital capacity and ICT skills.

The event will be attended by experts working in areas of Information Technology, Digital and e-Transformation, Technology Innovation, Digital Research and Development, Smart and e-Services, Data Management and Analysis, Data Science, Cloud and Data Storage, New Technologies, HR & Shared Services, Operations, Customer Experience and Service Excellence and Quality.

The conference will have high profile attendees from different sectors including Ministries and Government Authorities, National Cyber Security Centers, Banking and Finance, Oil and Gas, Healthcare, Education, Retail, Telecom and Aviation and enhanced networking opportunities with stakeholders.

More than 25 experts from several ministries and industries will brainstorm on new ideas and discuss the roadmap for the future of digital transformation of the country to over 250 attendees at the conference.

This event is bringing experts together with digital solution providers to discuss the latest developments and best practices for digital transformation to improve operational efficiency. It will help industries involved to get access to key digital transformation stakeholders of ongoing and upcoming projects in Kuwait and get insights into their plans to invest in new technologies and spot opportunities.

Celebrate Diwali, the ‘Festival of Lights’ at Silicon Central

Mall to host activities and exciting experiences for a memorable Diwali

Silicon Central, Dubai’s new lifestyle destination will ignite the spirit of Diwali, the festival of lights with a host of activities, mall deco, festive retailers offers and live entertainment this year from the 20th to the 25th of October 2022

No celebration is complete without dance, music and food. There will be roaming entertainment for mall visitors to enjoy from the 21st to 23rd of October featuring 20-minute traditional performances by six artists of drummers and dancers between 5pm – 8pm

For those seeking Instagram worthy images to share, check out Diwali themed décor at the mall atrium, food court and in front of Lulu Hypermarket. Silicon Central followers can head to the mall and click a selfie with any of the Diwali setups in the mall and win Diwali Sweets from Lulu Hypermarket.

Mr. Salim MA, Director Lulu Group said, “Diwali, the festival of lights is a special celebration for the Indian community. To capture the joyful spirit of the festival, we have a lineup of fun activities, cheerful festive decor to capture memories with friends and family, live cultural entertainment and amazing festive deals to enjoy at Silicon Central.” Silicon Central is considered a new landmark in Dubai, strategically positioned 12 km from the city-centre and 15 km from Dubai Airport in Dubai Silicon Oasis, the first eco sustainable district in Dubai focused on low carbon footprint, AI, and technology. Silicon Central is conveniently located near the Dubai Al Ain Road where more than 350.000 cars pass by every day and it aims to offer a host of new retail outlets to the nearby community of 400.000 people as well as students attending the universities in Academic City. The mall will have a grand opening mid-November 2022

T3 Leadership Program launched for Young Leaders in the Middle East

Organized by UAE-IL tech zone, Taglit Birthright Israel Excel & Taglit Young Executive Forum, and partnered with the Aviram Foundation, the program aims to form strong personal and professional ties for future collaborations.

The UAE-IL tech zone, Taglit Birthright Israel Excel & the Taglit Young Executive Forum announced the launch of the T3 Leadership Program for Young Leaders in the Middle East aimed to merge various levels of knowledge and know-how between UAE, Israel, and Jewish communities abroad towards a common goal of creating the leaders of a new Middle East that see participants sharing their cultures and ecosystem knowledge to develop strong ties for future collaborations.

The program, partnered with the Aviram Foundation, will launch on November 20th, 2022, with four virtual meetings over one month, followed by a physical Summit in the UAE in January 2023.

The T3 program brings together a group of 40 young promising execs aged between 28 to 35 from the Global Birthright Excel alumni community & Young Executive communities Israel and the UAE, sharing their cultures and ecosystem knowledge to develop strong ties for future collaborations following the Abraham Accords, using tech as a vector.

We are excited to bring this initiative to life and offer our Birthright Israel Excel alumni global community and the Taglit Young Executive Forum members a platform to deepen personal relationships with other alumni as well as young business leaders from the United Arab Emirates, learn about their culture, and explore opportunities to collaborate. We feel grateful to have the Aviram Foundation’s support and partnership allowing this program to happen.” Said Gidi Mark, CEO of Birthright Israel.

The aim of the program is to create and maintain a layer of strong young leaders unified to nurture long-lasting and sustainable relationships in the region through education, cultural exchange, and diplomacy and turning it into a true success story for generations to come by addressing regional challenges using technology, business, and cultural collaborations,” said Noa Gastfreund, co-founder of UAE-IL tech zone who is producing the event alongside Israeli entrepreneur, Yarden Shalmor. Shalmor has spent the last two years in the UAE, connecting a generation of new leaders and technologies across both markets.

An ongoing follow-up will be ensured with the groups, while the second cohort of participants will be selected for the year after. Ultimately, the T3 alumni network will gather year after year in both countries to share their work and garner cutting-edge ideas and ties to keep building the strong Middle East.

The program is allowed through the support of the Aviram Foundation, whose founder Ziv Aviram represents Israel’s biggest IPO to date, selling the company he co-founded, Mobileye, for $15.3B. Co-founder and Co-chairman of one of Israel’s health tech unicorns, OrCam, since 2021, Aviram set up the Aviram Foundation with his four children. The foundation reflects the family’s worldview and values – a combination of innovation, social involvement, and providing opportunities to improve the daily reality of the citizens of Israel and the Middle East; these days and in the future.

We founded our family foundation with a sense of duty and commitment to leverage people ventures and solutions that have the power to change our day-to-day reality by providing professional, educational, and financial resources. We see the T3 Leadership program as a great opportunity to form a strong community of young managers that will deliver the change and create a bridge of peace in the MENA region through the business world”. Said Ziv Aviram, Founder & President of the Aviram Foundation.

Usually based on a bilateral format, Birthright Excel, the Taglit Young Executive Forum and UAE-IL tech zone decided to partner on what is now becoming a true vector of peace: a triangular exchange allying the Global Excel and Young Executive Forum communities, the UAE and Israel.

“We are bringing some of the most successful founders and entrepreneurs to address our cohorts as their contribution in the world of tech and diplomacy is the inspiration our region longs for and needs. We are eager to see what will come out of these group collaborations, not only in the program’s context but mostly over the next few decades, as this is truly what we are aiming to achieve here, to create a group of leaders tearing down the usual barriers we were used to in our region” added Noa Gastfreund.

With the historical moment the Middle East is going through, “the door is now open” to merge various levels of knowledge and know-how towards a common goal: creating the leaders of a new Middle East in the making. The one and half hour sessions will see top-tier business leaders from the region addressing participants and sharing valuable experiences and insights.

Applicants can register here until October 24th.

https://forms.gle/p7mrsySSdjJw5EmD7

Sumo Sushi & Bento Listings October 2022

This October, Sumo Sushi & Bento, the originator of family friendly sushi dining in the UAE and throughout the region has curated special offers featuring the finest Japanese cuisine and fun activities

Drink up for Free

Where: Sumo Sushi & Bento Branches

What: Diners at Sumo Sushi & Bento Tempura Supreme Bento can have one drink for free when they order a dish of Tempura Supreme Bento, Chili Prawn Supreme Bento, Salmon Lovers Bento, Samurai Roll, Shinobi, Sumo Sashimi Salad or Samurai Poke. Drinks valid for the promotion includes Ginger Cooler, Burj 7, Pinks, Watermelon Juice or Iced Tea.

When: All of October 2022

Time:  11am to 11pm

Katana Roll Promotion

Where: Sumo Sushi & Bento Branches

What: This month, diners can enjoy the Ultimate crab roll, stuffed with a sumptuous crabstick salad, red apple, avocado and furikake, sitting on spicy mayo and tare sauce, topped with cream cheese and crispy crab for only AED 42 at Sumo Sushi & Bento.

When: 3rd to the 16th of October 2022

Time:  11am to 11pm

Monthly Specials – Buy One Get One at 50% OFF

Where: Sumo Sushi & Bento Branches

What: Diners at Sumo Sushi & Bento have an option of buying a dish and getting the next dish at 50% OFF from the selection. Dishes valid for this promotion include Yaki Udon, Sumo Fried Rice, Japanese Curry Katsu, Rock’n’roll shrimp, Chicken Karai, Dynamite Roll, Sweet Potato Crunch and Cucumber Crabstick Salad.

When: All of October 2022

Time:  11am to 11pm

Loyalty Offers

Sumo Mobile App is the most simple and convenient way to earn your loyalty points. You can collect the 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!

For Booking: Visit https://sumosushibento.com or call 800-7866(SUMO)

Sumo Sushi & Bento conducts beach cleanup with Dubai Municipality

Caption: Sumo Sushi & Bento staff with Dubai Municipality at the beach cleanup campaign at Palm Deira Beach.

Beach Cleanup Campaign saw 130 team members from Sumo Sushi & Bento taking part at Palm Deira Beach

USumo Sushi & Bento, the originator of family friendly sushi dining in the region partnered with Dubai Municipality today in a beach cleanup campaign at Palm Deira Beach.

The Beach Cleanup Campaign saw 130 team members from Sumo Sushi & Bento taking part in the initiative to foster awareness, reflecting the team’s commitment to environmental conservation and protection of Dubai’s coastline.

Ms. Julianne Holt-Kailihiwa, CEO, Sumo International Inc. LLC,said,The beach cleanup campaign brought over 130 of our staff together, reflecting the remarkable level of environmental commitment our team has towards the environment. As a company we hope to continue supporting our recycling programs and help raise awareness of improved waste management practices. We are proud to participate in such campaigns and contribute to improving the biodiversity of the UAE.”

Sumo Sushi & Bento looks forward to cooperating with the local government authorities and the community in corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities to spread awareness and encourage more people to care about protecting and preserving the future environment.

Sumo Sushi & Bento reveal special deals and discounts

Offers for September 2022 set to entice Japanese food connoisseurs of all ages

Sumo Sushi & Bento, the originator of family friendly sushi dining in the region has curated special offers featuring the finest Japanese cuisine and fun activities this month that caters to all age groups and suits different taste buds. Japanese food connoisseurs this month can indulge in customized sushi sandwiches, poke bowls, Bento boxes and other Japanese specialty rolls.

Ms. Julianne Holt-Kailihiwa, CEO, Sumo International Inc. LLC,said, We revisit our offers every month to suit the market trends and demand and staying relevant in tandem with maintaining quality and notable customer experience levels. We still note a trend of take-out orders and hence keep some of our offers dedicated to patrons who opt for home deliveries instead of dine in. For all our outlets, our core strength of being a friendly, value positioned brand is key when curating our offers of the month.”

The Back-to-School offers has an offer to get a free sushi dish on spending AED 55/- for all students with their new academic school year. Show your ID to avail offer. Free Sushi options include Crunchy Crazy, Sweet Potato Crunch, California.

Kids Eat Free Sunday offer allows children below 12 years old to get a free meal. They can get a free kids bento for every purchase of any adult menu entrée.

For monthly Specials,Sumo Sushi & Bento also has offers on Kushiyaki Chicken (Marinated chicken wings, with Sumo’s special BBQ sauce is grilled to perfection and served on a bed of fresh greens) priced at AED 29/-. There are also offers on Kunoichi Roll, a captivating sushi roll dressed in Hamachi and salmon, stuffed with unagi, avocado, Asparagus with an added twist of Scallions, tabikko and sauce. This is priced at AED 65/-.

Food lovers can also enjoy 30% off with the purchase of two rolls at Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. Offer is valid on Sweet Potato Crunch, Crunchy Philly, Crunchy Crazy, Chicken Katsu Roll, Dynamite Roll, Crispy Cream, Veggie Shamrock and Veggie Vietnam.

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 offers are available of all of September 2022 from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets.

For Booking: Visit https://sumosushibento.com or call 800-7866(SUMO)

Eight simple hacks to stop travel sickness

Worried passengers are being advised on how to ease the symptoms of travel sickness when commuting this summer.

The holiday car rental experts at StressFreeCarRental.com have researched eight easy solutions to prevent holidaymakers from experiencing travel sickness.

Travel sickness is caused by consistent movements during travelling and is found to be most common among children and pregnant women. 

Simple tips such as sitting at the front of the car and rolling down the windows can make a big difference to anyone who develops symptoms of headaches and dizziness.

A spokesperson from StressFreeCarRental.com said: “One of the biggest fears for travellers is getting travel sickness which could lead to a trip being ruined.

“Using simple methods such as chewing gum and staying away from scrolling on your phone can relax symptoms such as nausea.

“Following this essential advice can make all the difference for passengers and allow them to get to their destination with a peace of mind.”

Here are eight helpful tips from StressFreeCarRental.com to prevent travel sickness:

Roll down the windowsTaking in the fresh air is vital when a passenger is experiencing sickness. Breathing in the fresh air can ease nausea symptoms. When travelling by plane, turn on the air conditioning to relax the sickness feeling.

Stay hydrated 

Water is key to reducing the severity of a headache caused by travel sickness. Drink plenty and avoid the temptation of a glass of prosecco or fizzy drinks.

Pack the gum 

Having chewing gum can relax your stomach, as the coolness can relax stomach muscles and takes your mind off the pain. Bring both peppermint and ginger flavoured gum to help the sickness.

Snack lightly Avoid heavy and greasy foods on the journey. Choose some lightly salted snacks such as seaweed bites or dry crackers which won’t disturb the stomach pains.

Play some good tunesDistraction is one of the best ways to help your mind forget about the burden of travel sickness. Play your favourite songs on the radio at a low volume to focus your mind on something else other than feeling sick.

Bring a sick bag A last resort option may be needed if you can’t do anything to stop sickness. Having a sick bag on board can make you feel calmer, as you know there is another option available.

Get in the front seat Whether it’s in a family car-hire or a road-trip with friends, sitting at the front lets you focus on the road and minimise the likelihood of travel sickness. 

Stay off the screenAs tempting as it can be, scrolling on social media can worsen headaches by straining your eyes from looking at bright screens. It’s best to put the phone away until the end of journey.

StressFreeCarRental.com

Old World Luxury with Modern Comforts: Kempinski Engelberg

Shereen Shabnam

When it comes to nature, the best place to enjoy mountain scenery, hiking, skiing is in Engelberg, in the heart of Central Switzerland. A few days at the Kempinski Palace Engelberg saw us enjoying a host of activities that included long walks, taking a cable car ride up to the mountains, experiencing a heart stopping suspension bridge walk, sliding down a mountain to trying local cuisine and more.

We arrived in Engelberg using the luxurious Swiss Trains to the attractive village is known for its famous monastery and unforgettable alpine experience surrounding the Engelberg-Titlis area.

We arrived at the Kempinski in time to enjoy their 1st anniversary since opening as well as celebrating the brand which was founded 125 years ago and currently has 79 five start hotels in 34 countries across the globe.

The Kempinski Palace Engelberg is an exceptional tourist destination at any time of year and exudes new charm after being extensively renovated, restored and extended with the addition of a new building. For the design, local materials such as wood and stone is used and influenced by local craftsmanship and traditional techniques, which are given a modern twist and inspired by Alpine motifs.

The charm and the unique history of the historic hotel complex was retained using modern construction methods and resulted in a luxurious retreat, with spectacular views of the nearby mountains.

The hotel regained its status as a luxurious, elegant and comfortable year-round destination for both Swiss and international travellers for rest and relaxation end of day after the thrill of sports such as skiing, bobsleigh and skeleton in winter and hiking in the spectacular nearby mountains.

As we entered the impressive lobby, we were greeted with refreshing drinks in a relaxed area with an informal vibe and a view of the inviting landscape of the adjoining gardens.

The winter garden is a perfect place for a morning cup of coffee or afternoon cup of tea, with a focus on relaxation and enjoying the unique views. The décor convinces with its cool texture and its shape against the background of the original terracotta floor tiles.

Before our wholesome dinner, we headed to the “Palace Bar” for mocktails and immersed ourselves in an ambient area complete with a fireplace lounge and a horseshoe-shaped bar. This warm atmosphere richly decorated ceiling is a popular meeting place for guests.

Breakfast was served in the “Cattani Restaurant” connected to the Winter Garden and we had impressive views of the mountain landscape while sipping steaming coffees and hot chocolate.

The hotel has an impressive spa complete with a sauna and steam room, but it is the relaxation lounge that impresses us the most. The Spa focuses on the forces of nature, restoring clients inner balance using the restorative effects of plants, flowers, and herbs in all treatments. The Spa is equipped with a fitness room with state-of-the-art equipment such as bikes, treadmills, cross trainers and more.

The pool area uses differences in depth to create stepped seating areas made of dark stone, which radiate both feelings of intimacy and a unique appeal. The pool speaks for itself with its glazed frontage, providing panoramic views of the mountains.

The rooms and suites stand out with their warm atmosphere thanks to the use of materials such as brushed oak and luxurious light-brown leather. The bathroom was large and designed like a private oasis of wellness and relaxation. We found more hidden treasures during our hotel tour as we noted expressive mosaic and marble elements, historic floor tiles and antique serving trolleys.

While staying at the hotel, we took a trip to the top of Mt. Titlis using the Titlis Xpress and the TITLIS ROTAIR, the world’s first revolving cable car.  On Mount Titlis, we experienced the Titlis Cliff Walk, Ice Flyer Chairlift, Titlis Glacier Park and had a wonderful lunch with scenic views of the alps.

Kempinski Palace Engelberg is easily accessible thanks to its central location by the spa gardens and proximity to the Engelberg train station. Getting to the hotel is a few minutes’ walk from the train station.

We flew SWISS to Zurich from Dubai and used the SWISS Travel System trains to get Engelberg. Exploring Switzerland using the Swiss Travel Pass by train, bus and boat is always a wonderful experience with panoramic views on trains or relaxed boat cruises.

#Kempinski #Engelberg #Switzerland #SwissTravel #Travel #Destination #Swiss #Holiday #Hotel #Zurich #mydubai #GlobalTrendMonitor #GTM

Turkish Hospitality: Rixos Bab Al Bahr

Shereen Shabnam

Located on the pristine beach of Al Marjan Island, Rixos Bab Al Bahr has an all-inclusive concept that has proven to be a success with both local and international visitors. The ‘All inclusive – All Exclusive’ stay at Rixos Bab al Bahr is a signature offering from Rixos Hotels, who are experts in luxury all-inclusive concept.

We stayed at the Rixos Bab Al Bahr and experienced the essence of traditional Turkish hospitality, as is the trademark of the hotel chain. The concept very aptly accommodates the Turkish hospitality philosophy of extending attention and services beyond imagination, making every guest’s experience an exclusive one.

Rixos Bab Al Bahr’s iconic pyramid-shaped buildings are home to 715 luxurious rooms and suites, with stunning views of the ocean. Housed along the white sandy beach of Marjan Island, and the resort’s eight swimming pools, basketball and tennis courts offers something for everyone at the hotel, regardless of their age or lifestyle.

There are also eight swimming pools, motorised water sports and the Teen’s Club offers a busy activity schedule with DJ classes, billiards and PS4 tournaments.

The five-star hotel offers an all-inclusive package that gives visitors access to dine free at any of its seven restaurants. Rixos Bab Al Bahr proudly presents an assortment of Restaurants and Bars of true gastronomical experiences from all around the world. Guests looking for something more relaxed can head to the Lobby Lounge that offers a wide selection of freshly brewed coffee and teas. The Pool Bar and the Sea & See beach bar are also great places to enjoy the sun and sand.

The hotel offers a mix of deluxe and premium rooms as well as family, junior, senior and king suites, the property is ready to cater to all family sizes. The ‘All inclusive – All exclusive’ stay at Rixos Bab Al Bahr includes unique dining experiences in several restaurants and bars, a night club, spectacular evening entertainment programs, Rixy Club and Teen’s Republic, Rixos Royal Spa with a marvelous Turkish Hammam, on-site souk for local artifacts, accessories and souvenirs. Active guests can enjoy water activities and excursions at an additional charge.

The ultra ‘All Inclusive – All Exclusive’ offer at Rixos Bab Al Bahr goes beyond comfortable stay and limitless dining. A daily dose of live entertainment designed by resort’s dedicated, professional and extremely talented entertainment team caters to the preferences of guests of all ages.

The Resotrt’s live shows and performances features a live band performance of different genre of music as well as instrumental and acoustic to set the mood with dance shows, and performances by artists of international eminence.

The water sports facilities at the resort under the supervision of a well-trained team. Guests can go sailing or kayaking at leisure, surrender to the winds as they go windsurfing, opt for banana or jet skiing if they enjoy riding the waves or go fishing for a pastime.

For families traveling with kids, staying at the Rixos Bab Al Bahr, will benefit from the exclusive Rixy Club that offers an exceedingly proficient and multi-lingual team, dedicated to turning children’s experiences to memorable moments through age-tailored entertainment programs.

My daughter toured Teen’s Republic, the club for the teenagers offering a gamut of activities. Guests can also indulge in the exclusive shopping haven at the resort that sells local artifacts, souvenirs and accessories and take back home tangible memories of our weekend away.

For down time, enjoy the Rixos Royal Spa, which has a myriad of treatments and rituals as well as contemporary practices specific to Rixos’ Turkish heritage like the Turkish Hammam, which is one of the spa’s signature areas, delivered with great authenticity.

Ras Al Khaimah is only a short drive from Dubai and the Emirate features endless sandy beaches, untouched deserts and favorable weather all year round, which facilitate an array of tourist attractions.  And Rixos Bab Al Bahr is a must stop to get an all-inclusive worry free few days to relax and unwind.

#Rixos #RixosBabAlBahr #RAK #RasAlKhaimah #Staycation #Holiday #Hotel #Resort #AlMarjanIsland #UAE

A Feast for the Eyes

Madame Butterfly at Westin Mina Seyahi

Natasha Dury

On returning to Dubai, my first big outing involved experiencing an entertaining and multisensory dining experience complete with a series of contemporary cabaret performances at Papillon, Westin Mina Seyahi.

Papillon proved to be a restaurant with a difference, as the exhilarating Madame Butterfly dinner show returned for its second season with brand-new creative performances brought to life by the vision of local talent Layla Kardan and her creative team.

The cast were vibrant, dynamic and brought electric energy to the stage that is not often seen in Dubai. Every Wednesday, diners can enjoy the Madame Butterfly experience with a dinner package starting from an incredible AED 395 per person.

The cabaret performances in between meal courses allow guests to immerse themselves into an entertainment mode as professional dancers, contortionists and vibrant dancers rock the stage at Papillon. The music is just right for each skit that is performed.


The lush Madame Butterfly menu is created and overseen by Chef Vinod Mani with a mix of sharing and a la carte courses from 8pm to 11pm with unlimited drinks. We shared the starters of burrata and cherry tomato salad done to perfection and crispy calamari dish.

There is a choice of four main courses that suits different diets and as we were five on the table, we were able to try all the dishes and each one was a delight to taste and savour. The dishes same with sides on the table to share. The desserts were equally perfect and will please those who love chocolates and sorbets.

Papillon is an intimate venue that seats 80 guests and transforms the room into a perfect venue for date nights, girls’ nights out, boys get together outings and it is suitable for special celebrations and occasions.

The Madame Butterfly dinner and show takes place from 8pm to 11pm every Wednesday. It is a perfect venue for both date nights and to enjoy as a group with friends.

#MadamButterfly #Papillon #Restaurant #Entertainment #mydubai #GlobaTrendMonitor #GTM #magazine #Lifestyle