Sakhalin Dubai: A Fusion of Culinary Excellence by Chef Vladimir Mukhin

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Natasha Dury

Nestled in the bustling heart of J1, Dubai’s dynamic dining scene, Sakhalin emerges as a testament to Chef Vladimir Mukhin’s renowned culinary prowess. Celebrated for his innovative approach and distinguished by prestigious accolades including a ranking in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Sakhalin is a concept that marries the rich flavors of Mediterranean, Asian, and Russian cuisines.

Nestled by the sea, Sakhalin Dubai offers more than just a meal; it provides an experience while offering diners a stunning array of dishes where each bite is a discovery. The restaurant’s ambiance is perfectly poised for evening sunsets, making it an ideal spot for a drink before indulging in a sumptuous dinner.

During my visit, I particularly liked the tranquil yet sophisticated ambiance. Positioned directly on the beach, diners can enjoy a venue that is designed to enhance the natural beauty surrounding it. The venue is celebrated not only for its location but for its commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients, showcased vividly in their live seafood tanks.

I went to Sakhalin Dubai in Ramadan, and the offerings were impeccable, aligning well with the season’s spirit while providing a gastronomic delight. The highlight of Sakhalin’s menu is undoubtedly its fresh seafood. The transparency with which they display their crabs and other marine delights in tanks for guests to view before selection speaks volumes about their commitment to freshness and quality.

From the vibrant starters to the sumptuous desserts, each dish is crafted from the finest ingredients. Sakhalin also enriches its dining experience with options for beachfront relaxation. Visitors can book a sunbed and spend the day soaking up the sun and sea, making it more than just a meal, but a day-long retreat.

This venue is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary journey that celebrates the diversity and richness of its influences, making every visit a unique exploration of flavors from around the world while offering diners the best of the sun, sea and sand option that Dubai is known for.

Line Investments & Property Celebrates Grand Finale of the Winter Shopping Festival with Spectacular Prizes 

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Line Investments & Property SP LLC, the retail division of Lulu International Holdings, has concluded the Winter Shopping Festival with a spectacular finale, awarding over AED 1 million in prizes including luxury cars, holiday packages, iPhones, and more. The month-long festival attracted unprecedented crowds across 11 malls in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra regions.

The grand finale celebrated five winners of brand new Forthing luxury cars: Emosi Rakai, Nariman Abukhadra, Gordon, Maha Taha Mohamed Ahmed, and Edward Braza. Throughout the festival, more than 16,000 participants won prizes, from holiday packages to the latest iPhone 16s, adding to the campaign’s success.

“We are thrilled at the overwhelming success of the Winter Shopping Festival,” said Wajeb Al Khoury, Director of Line Investments & Property. “The festival has successfully brought communities together across our malls, creating a landmark retail event. The unprecedented participation and enthusiasm demonstrate how the festival has delivered both joy and value to our shoppers.“

Biju George, General Manager of Line Investments, commented on the campaign’s success: “The overwhelming response to the Winter Shopping Festival reaffirms our position as a leading retail destination in the region. The campaign has successfully elevated the shopping experience across our malls, setting new benchmarks for customer engagement and retail excellence.”

The festival transformed the shopping experience at Al Wahda Mall, Mushrif Mall, Khalidiyah Mall, Forsan Central Mall, Madinat Zayed Shopping Center and Gold Center, Mazyad Mall, Al Raha Mall, Al Foah Mall, Al Falah Central Mall, Barari Outlet Mall, and Al Dhafra Mall. Each venue featured festive decorations and hosted numerous activities throughout the campaign.

The success of the festival was strengthened by partnerships with leading brands, powered by Forthing and sponsored by QANTAS International Services, alongside valued co-sponsors SWA Diamonds, LAKA, Happy Journey Travel & Tours, DNP – Dr. Nutrition, Maharaja Golds & Diamonds, and Akbar Group.

Looking ahead, Line Investments & Property will continue to build on this success, offering innovative and rewarding shopping experiences that set new standards in the UAE’s retail sector.

Noon Polo Team Triumphs at Emaar Polo Cup 2025

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Winners received AED 120,000.00 in prize money with gifts

The prestigious Emaar Polo Cup 2025, held at the renowned Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, concluded with a thrilling victory for the Noon Polo Team against Bin Drai Polo team. The much-anticipated event, sponsored by Emaar and renowned for its competitive spirit and high level of play, saw the Noon Polo Team emerge as champions, claiming the impressive AED 80,000 winner’s prize and AED 40,000 runner-up’s prize from the total purse of AED 120,000.

The tournament witnessed a congregation of top-tier polo teams, with confirmed participants including Abu Dhabi Polo Team, El Basha Polo Team, AM Polo Team, Bin Drai Polo Team, Noon Polo Team, Equiti Polo Team, and Lamar Polo Team. The Final match was held between Noon Polo and Bin Drai Polo teams.

Nayef Bou Hamdan, General Manager of Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, said: “The Emaar Polo Cup has once again underscored its reputation as a showcase of exceptional skill and sportsmanship. We take immense pride in supporting this distinguished tournament. It was a privilege to host such skilled teams and witness the superb level of competition they brought to the field. Heartfelt congratulations to the Noon Polo Team on their remarkable performance and well-deserved victory. We are also immensely grateful to our partners, the entire polo community, and the enthusiastic spectators who joined us.”

Mr. Ahmad Al Matrooshi, Executive Director of Emaar, added: “Today’s victory of Noon Polo Team at the Emaar Polo Cup 2025 not only celebrates the remarkable skill of the players but also highlights the vibrant spirit of competition that defines this reputable event. The event shows our dedication to fostering an environment where talent can thrive and spectators can enjoy the very best of what the sport has to offer. We are immensely proud of everyone who made this event a highlight in Dubai’s sporting calendar. Congratulations to the champions for their well-deserved win and to all the teams for their sportsmanship and prowess.”

Apart from the high-octane polo action, spectators enjoyed a range of dining experiences, from the Brunch at the Terrace to the Family Picnic in the lawn area, enhancing the overall ambiance of the tournament. The Emaar Polo Cup continues to be a highlight in the region’s sporting calendar, promoting the legacy of polo and providing a platform for both established and emerging talents in the sport.

As a cornerstone of Emaar’s leisure and entertainment portfolio, the Emaar Polo Cup continues to attract and captivate polo enthusiasts and newcomers alike, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading destination for premier sporting events.

CAPTION: Winners of the Emaar Polo Cup were presented with their trophies by Mr. Ahmad Al Matrooshi, Executive Director of Emaar, Nicolas Bellaton, Head of Hospitality, Emaar Hospitality Group, and Nayef Bou Hamdan, General Manager of Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club.

NARUTO THE GALLERY Opens in Dubai with a Spectacular Showcase of Anime Heritage

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Anime enthusiasts and cultural aficionados gathered in excitement as NARUTO THE GALLERY made its grand Middle East debut in Dubai. The exhibition, which celebrates over two decades of the beloved NARUTO series, was inaugurated at The Concourse Convention Center at Dubai Outlet Mall, marking a significant moment for regional fans and the broader anime community.

The arrival of NARUTO THE GALLERY to Dubai is a landmark event that not only celebrates the rich legacy of this iconic anime but also highlights Dubai’s role as a bridge between Eastern and Western cultures.

The prestigious and globally recognized exhibition is a commitment to enriching the cultural landscape of Dubai and providing unique experiences that attract visitors from around the world and celebrating Naruto’s 20-year legacy, allowing fans to connect with the series in unprecedented ways.

Starting January 31 to April 6, 2025, the exhibition offers fans a journey through the Naruto Uzumaki universe, featuring life-size installations, original artwork, and interactive displays that bring the anime’s vibrant world to life. Attendees can explore everything from the scenic landscapes of Konoha to thrilling battle scenes and intimate character sketches, all while engaging with never-before-seen concept art directly from Tokyo.

NARUTO THE GALLERY is not just an exhibition but a celebration of anime’s cultural crossover appeal, perfectly fitting for Dubai’s diverse and dynamic vibe. With tickets available online and at the venue, anime lovers have a unique opportunity to relive the nostalgia and excitement of one of Japan’s most storied anime franchises right in the heart of the UAE.

Sumo Sushi & Bento Revolutionizes Dining with a Tailored Experience this February

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Sumo Sushi & Bento is thrilled to announce an array of exciting promotions for February 2025, designed to enhance the dining experience for patrons across all locations. From innovative ordering solutions to special limited-time offers and the much-awaited seasonal menu, there is something for everyone this season.

Diners can embrace the convenience of technology with the Sumo Sushi & Bento mobile app. Dubbed ‘Appsolutely Yours,’ the app offers a seamless ordering process along with personalized offers and loyalty perks such as Kenji Coins, which diners can earn with every purchase. This program is designed to make every visit rewarding, transforming regular meals into special dining experiences with exclusive rewards and tailored offers.

Sumo Sushi & Bento also invites patrons to indulge in the Ultimate Wagyu Experience, exclusively available through the Sumo Sushi & Bento Mobile App. Featuring premium A5 Wagyu beef, the menu includes delicacies like A5 Wagyu Steak Roll, A5 Wagyu Donburi, A5 Wagyu Nigiri, and A5 Wagyu Gyoza, all designed to offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience that showcases the rich Flavours of this esteemed beef.

The Ultimate Wagyu Experience joins a lineup of February’s special offers which include generous app and website discounts. Enjoy the Happy Hour on weekdays with a flat 30% off on the mobile app from 11 am to 5 pm on all items except platters, an offer designed to enhance midday meals. 

For website users, new customers receive a flat 30% off their first three orders, while all customers can enjoy up to 50% off, capped at AED 30, on orders meeting a minimum spend. 

For regular patrons, Sumo Mobile App is a 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) 

NARUTO THE GALLERY Experience Makes Its Middle East Debut in Dubai

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Celebrating over 20 years of the global anime sensation NARUTO, fans in the Middle East will have a rare opportunity to experience the iconic world of their favorite ninja, as NARUTO THE GALLERY experience makes its debut outside of Japan, for the first time in Dubai. This unique experience, direct from Tokyo, will run from January 31  to April 6, 2025, at The Concourse Convention Center, near the Dubai Outlet Mall, marking the first time outside East Asia that the beloved anime’s legacy will be celebrated on this scale.

Created to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the NARUTO anime’s debut in Japan, this immersive experience takes fans on a journey through the series’ iconic moments, themes, and characters. Featuring vivid life-size installations and exclusive artwork from the animation, NARUTO THE GALLERY offers an opportunity to step into Naruto Uzumaki’s world, including rare behind-the-scenes content from the series’ origins. From the vibrant landscapes of Konoha (Hidden Leaf Village) to unforgettable battles and intimate character portrayals, visitors can relive every pivotal moment of the beloved anime.

Experience Includes:

●      Authentic Artifacts and Original Artwork: View never-before-seen concept art and materials used in creating the series, transported directly from Japan

●      Interactive Displays: Fans can engage with iconic scenes and immerse themselves into the universe of NARUTO through dynamic video presentations on large screens and multiple monitors.

●      Fans can engage with iconic scenes and participate in interactive exhibits that immerse them into the universe of NARUTO

●      Exclusive Merchandise: Limited-edition NARUTO memorabilia and exclusive merchandise, making it a must-visit for any anime fan

As a landmark event for regional anime fans, NARUTO THE GALLERY reflects the global influence of Japanese anime and its cultural crossover appeal. With Dubai known as a bridge between East and West, this event reinforces the city’s position as a hub for innovative and world-class entertainment experiences.

Ticketing & Venue Information: This is a ticketed event, with tickets starting at AED 60 per person. Tickets can be purchased online through Platinumlist or at the venue itself. The exhibition will be held in The Concourse Convention Center, which is seamlessly connected to the Dubai Outlet Mall.

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with NARUTO THE GALLERY Executive Committee to bring such an authentic and original experience to Dubai,” said Ahmad Khalifa, CEO, Akiba. “Al Ahli Group and Akiba are committed to growing the pop-culture scene in the region, spanning from West Asia to Africa, and introducing year long, themed experiences and events, celebrating various iconic properties. And kicking off our series of events with NARUTO THE GALLERY, is extra special, as we celebrate NARUTO’s 20-year legacy by creating an incredible experience for anime fans in the region to connect with the series on a personal level.”

“We are truly honored to bring NARUTO THE GALLERY to Dubai as its next destination. Through this exhibition, we hope to provide as many fans as possible with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history and legacy of NARUTO,” said the NARUTO THE GALLERY Executive Committee.

Event Details:

●      Event Name: NARUTO THE GALLERY

●      Dates: January 31, 2025 – April 6, 2025

●      Venue: The Concourse Convention Center, First floor Dubai Outlet Mall

●      Tickets: Starting at AED 60, available at Platinumlist and at the venue

●      Operating Hours: 12pm – 10pm (weekdays); 12pm – 11pm (weekends, Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr)

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

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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

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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

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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.

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