HITEC® Dubai 2018 Connects World’s Leading Hospitality Technology Providers with Hoteliers from the Middle East

The second edition of HITEC Dubai 2018, the Middle East’s largest hospitality technology exhibition and conference, recorded more than double the number of attendees along with debut of many new prominent exhibitors. Endorsed by Dubai Tourism and co-produced by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®) and Naseba, the show brought together top industry experts to present ground-breaking regional and international case studies, thought provoking panel discussions and game-changing technology demonstrations. The two-day expo and conference was held at the Madinat Jumeirah Dubai from 5-6 December with an aim to facilitate knowledge sharing, networking and deal flow amongst hoteliers and hospitality technology providers. Frank Wolfe CAE, CEO of HFTP, said, “The continued growth of HITEC Dubai is testament to the massive opportunity that exists for hospitality technology providers in the Middle East. Our core aim is to gather hospitality and technology leaders to share their success stories and tackle common challenges.” This year’s edition showcased the latest trends and innovations emerging at the local, regional and global level. For the first time in Dubai, HFTP’s expanding Entrepreneur20X (E20X) competition was introduced to give a unique opportunity for startups to present their breakthrough business concepts to the industry. Taking centre-stage at the show was Promobot, an intelligent humanoid robot. The show conference featured many extraordinary presentations such as Expo 2020 Hotel of the Future by Emaar and the World’s Largest IoT Deployment in Hospitality by Nytec. HITEC Dubai’s Advisory Council Chairperson Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India for Swiss-Belhotel International, said, “HITEC Dubai was a great success. The expo brought together hospitality and technology professionals to discuss the potential of emerging technologies in the Middle East geared at enhancing guest experiences and operational efficiency. It was very interesting to see and explore the latest innovations shaping our industry and opening new opportunities for growth.” For more information or to register for HITEC Dubai 2018 visit https://www.hitec-dubai.com/ Call Amir Abdin on +971 44 55 7920 or Rouf Hyder Beigh +971 44 55 79 32 ABOUT HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) is a global non-profit hospitality association, headquartered in Austin, Texas, USA, that uniquely understands the industry’s problems. HFTP has members and stakeholders across the globe. HFTP assists its members in finding solutions to industry problems more efficiently than any organization via its expert networks, research, conferences such as HITEC and certification programs. HFTP also owns the world’s only hospitality specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segment of the hospitality industry. ABOUT NASEBA Naseba offers global business facilitation services. The company creates growth opportunities by bringing together people, partners and ideas. It helps clients raise capital, enter new markets, secure partners, close sales and educate workforces. Naseba’s goal is to create opportunity and add economic value at every stage of its client’s journey. It does this through three key areas: investor services, commercial services and leadership services. Since inception in 2002, Naseba has facilitated deals totalling billions of dollars for its clients. The company has connected over 100,000 global executives through more than 1,000 proprietary business platforms and is an expert in growth markets. About Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) With the ultimate vision of positioning Dubai as the world’s leading tourism destination and commercial hub, Dubai Tourism’s mission is to increase the awareness of Dubai among global audiences and to attract tourists and inward investment into the emirate. Dubai Tourism is the principal authority for the planning, supervision, development and marketing of Dubai’s tourism sector. It markets and promotes the Emirate’s commerce sector, and is responsible for the licensing and classification of all tourism services, including hotels, tour operators and travel agents. Brands and departments within the Dubai Tourism portfolio include Dubai Business Events, Dubai Calendar, and Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment. For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com

Nytec Presents the World’s Largest Deployed IoT-based Guest Experience Platform at HITEC® Dubai 2018

Nytec presented a special case study at HITEC Dubai on the world’s largest deployed IoT-based guest experience platform created for Carnival Cruise Line. Speaking at the conference, Vincent Ball, the Vice President for Product Innovation at Nytec, stated, “We turned the cruise ship into a virtual ‘smart city’ at sea. It is the largest most extensive IOT deployment in the world and we are proud to be part of it.  At the heart of this experience, is the Ocean Medallion. A wearable that is waterproof, with no buttons and it does some amazing things.” The goal for Nytec was to enhance the overall Carnival cruise experience and profitability by developing a portfolio of attractive and desirable accessories that will hold the cruise Medallion, while serving as a form of personal expression for each passenger both on ship and post cruise. When looked at in numbers, it is absolutely remarkable. Vincent said, “It was an extensive platform where we touched every part of the customer journey and operations making it a frictionless experience for guests. We installed over 7000 sensors on the ship, designed and engineered the hotel room door access with Assa Abloy, and the Medallion a wearable that enables secure transitions and personalized experiences for each guest.  Added to that were 700,000 feet of cables, 1000 readers and 3000 touch displays.” Talking about basic improvements, Vincent said, “A great example of how we transformed not only the guest experience, but operations too are photos. Before we got involved, Carnival printed every picture on the ship. Now it’s tied to each guest, visible on 82” touch displays, and the guest can access and purchase these well beyond the vacation. This transformed not only how guest access their photos but the operations too.  There is no more printing required so there is no need to have paper or colour printers and ink on the ship which has reduced considerable weight.” Endorsed by Dubai Tourism and co-produced by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®) and Naseba, HITEC Dubai brought together top industry experts to present ground-breaking regional and international case studies, thought provoking panel discussions and game-changing technology demonstrations. The two-day expo was held at the Madinat Jumeirah Dubai from 5-6 December with an aim to facilitate knowledge sharing, networking and deal flow amongst hoteliers and hospitality technology providers. For more information or to register for HITEC Dubai 2018 visit https://www.hitec-dubai.com/ Call Amir Abdin on +971 44 55 7920 or Rouf Hyder Beigh +971 44 55 79 32 ABOUT HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) is a global non-profit hospitality association, headquartered in Austin, Texas, USA, that uniquely understands the industry’s problems. HFTP has members and stakeholders across the globe. HFTP assists its members in finding solutions to industry problems more efficiently than any organization via its expert networks, research, conferences such as HITEC and certification programs. HFTP also owns the world’s only hospitality specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segment of the hospitality industry.  ABOUT NASEBA Naseba offers global business facilitation services. The company creates growth opportunities by bringing together people, partners and ideas. It helps clients raise capital, enter new markets, secure partners, close sales and educate workforces. Naseba’s goal is to create opportunity and add economic value at every stage of its client’s journey. It does this through three key areas: investor services, commercial services and leadership services. Since inception in 2002, Naseba has facilitated deals totalling billions of dollars for its clients. The company has connected over 100,000 global executives through more than 1,000 proprietary business platforms and is an expert in growth markets. For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com  

Emaar Hospitality Group Presents Industry-First Projects Including ‘Expo 2020 Hotel of the Future’ at HITEC® Dubai 2018

Emaar Hospitality Group presented a special case study at HITEC Dubai today highlighting its latest innovations in digitalization that will set a new benchmark for the hospitality sector. What will the hotel of the future be like in Dubai? Speaking at the HITEC conference, Olivier Harnisch, CEO of Emaar Hospitality Group, said, “Emaar Hospitality Group has paved the way for creating an innovative hospitality landscape in Dubai, offering a range of experiences, from luxury to contemporary midscale. We aim to be the most innovative hospitality company and are excited to meld the best of technology with the warmth of human touch. The future of our industry is being defined by the all-encompassing digital transformation. Over the past year we have introduced a series of digital innovations that cover all the touch points focused on enhancing the guest experience. Continuing our journey, we look forward to showing the best that technology and human ingenuity has to offer at Expo 2020.” Frank Wolfe CAE, CEO of HFTP, said, “Expo 2020 is driving growth in Dubai as the emirate aims to complete 160,000 hotel rooms in time to welcome an additional five million visitors during the event. In preparation of the expected 25 million visitors the city has made unprecedented investments in its infrastructure and hospitality sector to cater for the influx of travellers. The hotel industry is going through a period of unparalleled changes. As in other parts of the world, technology is playing a crucial role in the future of hospitality industry while propelling Dubai’s transition to a knowledge-based economy by 2021. It is exciting to see at HITEC Dubai how Emaar Hospitality Group’s is leading the way with industry-first digital transformation initiatives aimed at enhancing the guest experience and operational excellence.” HITEC Dubai 2018, the Middle East’s largest hospitality technology exhibition and conference, is endorsed by Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM). Co-produced by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®) and Naseba, this year’s expo, which is taking place at the Madinat Jumeirah Dubai from 5-6 December, is showcasing innovative solutions from the world’s leading hospitality technology providers. For more information or to register for HITEC Dubai 2018 visit https://www.hitec-dubai.com/ Call Amir Abdin on +971 44 55 7920 or Rouf Hyder Beigh +971 44 55 79 32 ABOUT HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) is a global non-profit hospitality association, headquartered in Austin, Texas, USA, that uniquely understands the industry’s problems. HFTP has members and stakeholders across the globe. HFTP assists its members in finding solutions to industry problems more efficiently than any organization via its expert networks, research, conferences such as HITEC and certification programs. HFTP also owns the world’s only hospitality specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segment of the hospitality industry.  ABOUT NASEBA Naseba offers global business facilitation services. The company creates growth opportunities by bringing together people, partners and ideas. It helps clients raise capital, enter new markets, secure partners, close sales and educate workforces. Naseba’s goal is to create opportunity and add economic value at every stage of its client’s journey. It does this through three key areas: investor services, commercial services and leadership services. Since inception in 2002, Naseba has facilitated deals totalling billions of dollars for its clients. The company has connected over 100,000 global executives through more than 1,000 proprietary business platforms and is an expert in growth markets. ABOUT EMAAR HOSPITALITY GROUP Emaar Hospitality Group LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Emaar Properties PJSC, the Dubai-based global property developer, and manages Emaar’s hospitality and leisure projects globally. Defining its competency in managing mixed-use property developments, Emaar Hospitality Group owns and manages a diversified portfolio of assets including hotels, serviced residences, golf clubs, polo club, marina and lifestyle dining restaurants. Emaar Hospitality Group has defined its credentials in the hotel industry with its distinctive hotel brands – Address Hotels + Resorts and Vida Hotels and Resorts. Address Hotels + Resorts has brought a fresh identity to the global hospitality and service sector by setting new benchmarks with its gracious hospitality and exceptional service standards. Address offers a more personal and engaging experience to guests in a premium lifestyle environment, enriching the lives of its guests with luxury, style and elegance. Address Hotels + Resorts is set to operate hotels and serviced residences in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey, Bahrain, Maldives and other key markets in the region as well as in the UAE. An upscale lifestyle hotel and residences brand, Vida Hotels and Resorts is for the new generation of business executives, entrepreneurs and leisure travellers. Positioned as a lively and vibrant hub where inspiring minds can create, connect and come alive, Vida hotels are a stimulating environment where style meets convenience and interactivity. Vida Hotels and Resorts has two properties in Dubai and is set to operate hotels and serviced residences in Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Egypt, and other key markets in the region as well as in the UAE. Underlining its strength and contribution to shaping the hospitality sector of the nation, Emaar Hospitality Group has been awarded as the Official Partner of Expo 2020 Dubai and will provide authentic experiences with a strong local flavour at various locations across the Expo 2020 site, including VIP clubs and lounges, as well as in its hotels and restaurants in Dubai. www.emaarhospitality.com For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com  

Hospitality Experts Come Together to Discuss the Future of the Industry Driven by Technology at HITEC® Dubai 2018

HITEC Dubai 2018, the Middle East’s largest hospitality technology exhibition and conference, endorsed by Dubai Tourism and co-produced by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®) and Naseba, brought together industry experts to present ground-breaking regional and international case studies, thought provoking panel discussions and game-changing technology demonstrations. The two-day expo is being held at the Madinat Jumeirah Dubai from 5-6 December with an aim to facilitate knowledge sharing, networking and deal flow amongst hoteliers and hospitality technology providers. Kicking off the proceedings today at the HITEC Dubai’s global stage was a session on Futuristic Talk moderated by Nicholas Watson, CDO of Naseba. Participating on the panel was HITEC Dubai’s Advisory Council Chairperson Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India for Swiss-Belhotel International; Mahmoud Kamal, CIO, Habtoor Hospitality; Ajay Rathi, Group Sr. Director IT, MERAAS; and Lyle Worthington, Group CIO The Student Hotel. Nicholas stated, “The future of the hospitality industry in the Middle East, like the rest of the world, is being shaped by unparalleled advances in technology. Hotels are compelled to rethink the hotel design, guest services, experiences and concepts in keeping with the travellers’ expectations. Emerging technologies like virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, blockchain, are all taking the first steps and it is interesting to hear from the experts in the industry on how they are embracing these innovations.” Commenting on the future of hospitality, Laurent stressed, “Innovations in hotel technologies are, no doubt, opening up new opportunities for optimizing guest experiences and enhancing operational excellence. However, the future of hospitality lies in having the right mix of technology and human touch. It is important to understand the existing ecosystem and adapt the best practices to boost efficiency and competitiveness as well as guest satisfaction. What is required is a structured approach to tap the great potential of technology. Like everything else, it is a two-way process and needs to have a conversation engaging customers to offer a personalized experience that makes travellers’ lives easier, simpler & more convenient.” Speaking about automation, Mahmoud Kamal, CIO, Habtoor Hospitality, said, “Technology continues to transform the hospitality industry revolutionizing every aspect of the business. Having an integrated network of systems will enable hotels to build and foster the necessary connections for guests in order to cater to their requests and predict their needs. Currently, there is a great deal of work under way related to in-room automation to help bring the smart home concept of integrated and connected solutions into the hotel room.” For more information or to register for HITEC Dubai 2018 visit https://www.hitec-dubai.com/ Call Amir Abdin on +971 44 55 7920 or Rouf Hyder Beigh +971 44 55 79 32 ABOUT HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) is a global non-profit hospitality association, headquartered in Austin, Texas, USA, that uniquely understands the industry’s problems. HFTP has members and stakeholders across the globe. HFTP assists its members in finding solutions to industry problems more efficiently than any organization via its expert networks, research, conferences such as HITEC and certification programs. HFTP also owns the world’s only hospitality specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segment of the hospitality industry.  ABOUT NASEBA Naseba offers global business facilitation services. The company creates growth opportunities by bringing together people, partners and ideas. It helps clients raise capital, enter new markets, secure partners, close sales and educate workforces. Naseba’s goal is to create opportunity and add economic value at every stage of its client’s journey. It does this through three key areas: investor services, commercial services and leadership services. Since inception in 2002, Naseba has facilitated deals totalling billions of dollars for its clients. The company has connected over 100,000 global executives through more than 1,000 proprietary business platforms and is an expert in growth markets. About Swiss-Belhotel International Swiss-Belhotel International currently manages a portfolio of more than 150* hotels, resorts and projects located in Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Australia, New Zealand, Bulgaria, Georgia, Italy and Tanzania.  Awarded Indonesia’s Leading Global Hotel Chain for six consecutive years, Swiss-Belhotel International is one of the world’s fastest-growing international hotel and hospitality management groups. The Group provides comprehensive and highly professional development and management services in all aspects of hotel, resort and serviced residences. Offices are located in Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia, China, Europe, Indonesia, United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam. www.swiss-belhotel.com *Numbers may fluctuate For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com  

Up Your Style with the Coolest Coffee Tables from 2XL Furniture & Home Décor

A coffee table is the focal point of any living room. Add some flair to your décor with a statement piece from 2XL Furniture & Home Décor. You will find at the 2XL stores almost any shape or size in a range of materials to anchor your design scheme. Mix rustic with refined or choose a traditional design for a relaxed, more lived-in look. Amit Yadav, Head of Marketing at 2XL, said, “A coffee table can instantly lift a living room. What is important is finding the right style and size matching your décor and space. Go minimalist when furniture is heavy or add an exotic accent to elevate a simple setting. Our latest range of center tables are both stylish and functional making them a great choice for anyone looking for something unique.”

A coffee table is not only the center of attention but also the most versatile piece of furniture. Here’s what is no offer at 2XL Furniture & Home Décor: A must-have if you want to inject a dose of drama and loads of character into your design scheme. Round Coffee Table in White and Gold, dimensions, 90x45cm Leg stand: Brass & Iron, Top: Marble Price: AED 1,484

The perfect coffee table for those who love the look of marble. Round Coffee Table in Black and Gold, dimensions:  80x38cm Leg stand: Brass & Iron, Top: Marble Price: AED 1,225 You can top this Ottoman with a tray creating the perfect place to display your favourite accessories or serve refreshments. Cudham Coffee Table, dimensions: 150x150x45, Colour:  Light Grey Filling: Foam and Fiber, Inside Frame: Pine wood Price: AED 3,071 Whether you are working with a monochromatic palette or a mix of colours, this table could blend in with any setting with ease. Rosa Dark Green Coffee Table, dimensions: 81×45, Colour: Dark Green in Black & Gold stand Metal & Marble Price: AED 1,083 If you are looking for gold accents than these round coffee tables must get a spot in your living room. Mimosa Set of 2 Side Tables, dimensions: 40x40x42, Colour: White Gold Aluminum & Marble Stone Price: AED 971 For those who tend to be a bit more adventurous with their décor. Hive Coffee Table, dimensions: 50×43.3×25, Color:  Light Beige Oak Mahogany Wood Price: AED 1,008 When you want to make the room look spacious, a coffee table with a glass top is the best option. Fay Coffee Table, Dimensions:  140x50x45, Colour: Gold Metal & Glass Price: AED 1,458 For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com About 2XL Furniture & Home Décor UAE based 2XL Furniture & Home Décor is a retailer of luxury home furnishings since 2000. The retailer currently has 9 showrooms across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah and Al Ain. The 2XL product range includes exclusive bedroom, living and dining room furniture as well as exquisitely crafted décor items, unique gifting ideas, plush rugs and gorgeous wall art, divine bed and bath linen, eye-catching tableware, and a fun, functional kitchenware range. The 2XL range is very classic and French-inspired. Each retail item has been carefully chosen exclusively for 2XL and denotes a lifestyle that is regal, sophisticated and of a finer taste. We have something to suit every home setting – from ornate gold-plated bedroom settings to the more subdued Parisian hues of shabby chic, quirky contemporary inspirations to more ethnic Eastern-inspired décor ideas. For more information or to shop online please visit www.2xlme.com Connect and tag us on @2xlfurniture #2XLfurniture

Dubai Tourism Inaugurates HITEC® Dubai 2018

HITEC Dubai 2018, the Middle East’s largest hospitality technology exhibition and conference, was officially inaugurated today by Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM). Co-produced by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®) and Naseba, this year’s expo, which is taking place at the Madinat Jumeirah Dubai from 5-6 December, is showcasing a wide range of innovative solutions from the world’s leading hospitality technology providers. Travel technology has grown rapidly over the last decade leading to drastic transformation and disruption in all aspects of the industry. HITEC Dubai demonstrates this success with a window to the latest trends shaping the hospitality industry. Frank Wolfe CAE, CEO of HFTP, said, “The growth and scale of HITEC Dubai is testament to the buoyant hospitality industry in the Middle East. Our core aim is to gather hospitality and technology leaders to share their success stories and tackle common challenges. For the first time we will debut in Dubai, HFTP’s expanding Entrepreneur20X (E20X) competition that is a unique opportunity for startups to present their breakthrough business concepts to the industry. Taking centre-stage at the show will be a Promobot, an intelligent humanoid robot. We will also feature ground-breaking regional and international case studies, thought provoking panel discussions and technology demonstrations from the world’s top service providers and revolutionary thinkers.” HITEC Dubai’s Advisory Council Chairperson Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India for Swiss-Belhotel International, said, “HITEC Dubai promises to be stellar show. Technology is in our everyday life with smart homes and hotels need to keep pace with the latest developments in order to meet the expectations of modern travellers. As our industry expands in an increasingly competitive market it is essential to integrate technology to enhance the guest experience with greater efficiency. Internet of Things, Cloud Technology, Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Blockchain, etc are all paving the way for the future of technology in the hospitality sector and HITEC Dubai will be a great platform to see what lies ahead.” For more information or to register for HITEC Dubai 2018 visit https://www.hitec-dubai.com/ Call Amir Abdin on +971 44 55 7920 or Rouf Hyder Beigh +971 44 55 79 32 ABOUT HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) is a global non-profit hospitality association, headquartered in Austin, Texas, USA, that uniquely understands the industry’s problems. HFTP has members and stakeholders across the globe. HFTP assists its members in finding solutions to industry problems more efficiently than any organization via its expert networks, research, conferences such as HITEC and certification programs. HFTP also owns the world’s only hospitality specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segment of the hospitality industry. ABOUT NASEBA Naseba offers global business facilitation services. The company creates growth opportunities by bringing together people, partners and ideas. It helps clients raise capital, enter new markets, secure partners, close sales and educate workforces. Naseba’s goal is to create opportunity and add economic value at every stage of its client’s journey. It does this through three key areas: investor services, commercial services and leadership services. Since inception in 2002, Naseba has facilitated deals totalling billions of dollars for its clients. The company has connected over 100,000 global executives through more than 1,000 proprietary business platforms and is an expert in growth markets. About Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) With the ultimate vision of positioning Dubai as the world’s leading tourism destination and commercial hub, Dubai Tourism’s mission is to increase the awareness of Dubai among global audiences and to attract tourists and inward investment into the emirate. Dubai Tourism is the principal authority for the planning, supervision, development and marketing of Dubai’s tourism sector. It markets and promotes the Emirate’s commerce sector, and is responsible for the licensing and classification of all tourism services, including hotels, tour operators and travel agents. Brands and departments within the Dubai Tourism portfolio include Dubai Business Events, Dubai Calendar, and Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment. For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com  

Swiss-Belhotel International Participates at the Global Solar Leaders’ Summit

Dubai – Devinder K. Sharma, Regional Director of Technical Services, Swiss-Belhotel International, participated in a panel of experts on BIPV at the Big 5 Global Solar Leaders’ Summit. The topic discussion was ‘Innovation in Solar Building Skins and Energy Efficiency towards Sustainable Cities’.

Renewable energy is a global phenomenon and the adoption of solar PV systems in the Middle East is starting to accelerate which will soon lead to a more diversified national energy supply portfolio. Devinder said, “We are seeing massive investments in renewable energy projects in the region with a wave of projects underway and the UAE is leading the way.”

Talking about the hotel industry, Devinder highlighted the need for development of innovative design concepts for achieving energy efficiency in hotel buildings. He stressed, “Key issue is the collaboration among the various stakeholders of the building design and construction process, such as building owners, developers, architects, building material suppliers, regulatory authorities and specialized PV/BIPV industry experts. Increasing awareness among all people involved can lead to significant benefits for our sector. Therefore, it is important to start a dialogue, so we can all collaborate for a better future.”

There are multiple factors that are driving solar energy solutions in the urban sector. Industry experts agreed that in order to prepare for an urban influx of 2.5 billion people by 2050, it is critical to create cities that are low-carbon, resilient and affordable. Solar energy solutions are greener and cheaper than the alternatives.

According to recent reports, the UAE is among the world’s top investors in clean energy and is set to invest AED 600 billion by 2050 in the sector with a target to have 75 per cent of the total power output from it. Mohammed Bin Rashid Solar Park has announced plans to build one of the world’s largest solar energy plants, which will be able to generate 5GW of power by 2030.

For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com

About Swiss-Belhotel International Swiss-Belhotel International currently manages a portfolio of more than 150* hotels, resorts and projects located in Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Australia, New Zealand, Bulgaria, Georgia, Italy and Tanzania.  Awarded Indonesia’s Leading Global Hotel Chain for six consecutive years, Swiss-Belhotel International is one of the world’s fastest-growing international hotel and hospitality management groups. The Group provides comprehensive and highly professional development and management services in all aspects of hotel, resort and serviced residences. Offices are located in Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia, China, Europe, Indonesia, United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam.

 *Numbers may fluctuate

For further information visit http://www.swiss-belhotel.com

Japan’s Most Famous Restaurant ‘Fujiya’ is Now Open at Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai

The Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai has announced the opening of one of Japan’s most acclaimed restaurants ‘Fujiya’. The outlet will provide an authentic Japanese izakaya-style dining experience from Japan. Available on the menu are a range of iconic traditional and modern dishes from the country ranging from Japanese tapas to Wagyu shabu shabu (hotpot) buffet, Yakitori (Japanese style chicken skewers) and much more. The dishes are complemented by an array of beverages including rare sake, yuzu and shiso.

Akio Hayakawa, Director of Fujiya Restaurant Dubai, said, “We are delighted to open our first restaurant in Dubai at the Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai. We welcome everyone to check out our latest offers and experience the most authentic Japanese izakaya style dining in town.”

Mr. Simon Moore, General Manager of Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, said, “We are very proud to add another speciality restaurant to our superb portfolio of dining venues. We are confident Fujiya Restaurant will provide a unique experience to our guests reflecting Japan’s diverse and rich cuisine while giving them greater choice.

Fujiya Restaurant is open daily from 12noon to 2am.

For bookings please call 04 702 8846 or Email: fujiya@fujiyadubai.com

Millennium Hotels and Resorts, Middle East and Africa Millennium Hotels and Resorts is a dynamic, global hotel company, which owns, asset manages and operates over 130 hotels worldwide. With almost 40,000 rooms and a portfolio of brands; including Biltmore, Grand Millennium, Millennium, Millennium Place, M Hotel, Copthorne, Kingsgate, Millennium Executive Apartments and Studio M, that serve different market segments, representing quality and value in every class.

Currently operating 35 hotels in the Middle East and Africa, the Group has an extensive expansion strategy in place, with 40 hotels in the pipeline. Each property in the region is unique, catering to the varying tastes and needs of the international business and leisure traveller but with a consistent promise to provide a first class service and a rewarding experience for guests. Millennium Hotels and Resorts is committed to differentiating itself by embracing the true spirit of diverse traditions, with a sincere respect to historical heritage and local culture.

With the motto “More than Meets the Eye”, Millennium & Copthorne is committed to a customer-centric philosophy and complete guest satisfaction.

For more information, please visit www.millenniumhotels.com

SAY HELLO TO YOUR NEW NEIGHBOUR: ZABEEL HOUSE BY JUMEIRAH IS MOVING TO THE GREENS

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Moving into The Greens with a bang, Zabeel House by Jumeirah, The Greens is the third hotel to open as part of Jumeirah Group’s upscale casual brand launched earlier this year. Opening in Tower 3 of the Onyx Towers, the hotel is high on design synonymous with other hotels within the Zabeel House by Jumeirah collection; but inspired by New York loft living, with contemporary and yet quirky art and design throughout the hotel, representing the spirit of the Zabeel House by Jumeirah brand perfectly. The Onyx is a stylish integrated community with three towers of residential, commercial and hospitality buildings, as well as a podium of 32 retail and F&B outlets located in the heart of Dubai.  A hotel to appeal to the intrepid traveler, it is perfect for those looking to stay in a social destination in the heart of new-Dubai, but also able to enjoy the conveniences of a Jumeirah-endorsed hotel, all at a great price.
  • 200 rooms and 10 Apartments split across 10 floors, with each room complete with Zabeel House by Jumeirah brand rituals constant across all hotels: SMEG mini bar fridges, Espresso machines, Osme bathroom amenities, SuitePads.
  • Bikes, skateboards and rollerblades to explore The Greens neighbourhood yourself (available to rent for free)
  • An exploratory map of The Greens, with a knowledgeable team of locals to guide you
  • Picnic baskets and menus to enjoy picnics around the surrounding lakes and parks in the neighbourhood
More than just hotel rooms. Designed by LW Design, Zabeel House by Jumeirah, The Greens will also be a community hub for local residents in the catchment area of The Greens: the ideal place for freelancers and entrepreneurs to set up work in the day or for friends to catch up for post-work drinks, dog-lovers to bring their pets to the outdoor areas. Watch out for:
  • Two restaurants: LAH LAH a Pan-Asian eatery and Social Company – a ground floor restaurant with a difference
  • Native Club, a new multipurpose sports and leisure club concept open for both membership and hotel guests
  • Outdoor pool perfect for a swim, or for sun-worshipping on the quirky pop-art and retro inspired furniture and cabanas
  • Two outdoor cinema screens ideal for a chilled movie night close to home for UAE residents, or guests looking to stay in one night during their stay
  • Doggie friendly areas ideal for The Greens residents and those wanting some pawsome fun, as well as a kids area, Play House.
  • A herb garden growing local herbs as well as classic favourites used in both restaurants
  • Co-working spaces throughout the hotel, where local businesses are welcome to spend time working every day of the week
  • Lockers to allow freelancers to keep their items safe when out and about for meetings – as well as a business centre with four meeting rooms and its own open plan kitchen for you to make yourself at home (quite literally!)
Inspired by its birthplace, art and design set the hotel apart. With art curated by 17a Art consultants, furniture designed and created locally in Dubai by Tashkeel and a whole host of partnerships with local brands such as Chuk Palu to add to the local flair of the hotel, it is a hotel completely indigenous to its surroundings Watch out for:
  • Art curated by local businesses such as Imad Bechara, with Instagrammable moments at every turn
  • Fun, unusual yet sophisticated, the artwork takes inspiration from the Middle East. Unconventionally displayed, there is interactive art, 3D sculptures and locally commissioned pieces, as well as contemporary furniture designed with a Middle Eastern flair in the rooms and public areas
  • Eclectic and quirky lighting and accessories, and neutral colour palette of oaks, black metal and white metro tiles accented with playful pops of colour
Explore the neighbourhood: The Greens is located deep in the heart of ‘social Dubai’ – the ideal mid-way stop between popular areas such as Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Lake Towers, right on the cusp of Sheikh Zayed Road. Just across the road from Dubai Media City, Barsha Heights and other neighbourhoods such as Emirates Hills and The Springs, as well as Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah and Jumeirah Beach Residence, the area is both family and dog friendly and is the perfect green escape from the surrounding metropolis. A few steps away from parks, lakes and the Emirates Golf Club, it’s the place to unwind with a book, take a run with your music, or simply catch up with friends who live or close to the neighbourhood. One of the few Freehold projects on Sheikh Zayed Road, The Onyx is a stylish integrated community in the heart of Dubai with accent on lifestyle, premium interiors, and unobstructed stunning views. For more information, visit www.zabeelhouse.com   -Ends- For more information, please contact: Sharifa Almaawali sharifa.almaawali@jumeirah.com About Zabeel House by Jumeirah: Born in Dubai, Zabeel House by Jumeirah™ is an eclectic collection of hotels located in the heart of vibrant neighbourhoods in key cities around the world. High on design, low on complexity, the hotels offer brilliant basics and unexpected extras. Set in upscale, casual environments, guests can also expect a touch of the instinctive hospitality that has become second-nature from the creators of the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. About the Onyx: The Onyx project was developed by Ishraqah for Development, a leading UAE developer which has been established as a result of a strategic alliance between Al Zahran Group and Bin Mahfouz Group, two prominent business groups in the Gulf region. Ishraqah and its sister companies have a portfolio of real estate developments and investments worth over AED 5 billion spread across the UAE, KSA and other international markets. About LW Design: LW has established a worldwide presence in recent years, with a large number of impressive, award-winning projects coming out of our offices in Dubai, Hong Kong and São Paulo.

HP Introduces the World’s First Chromebook Detachable

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HP, Inc. today unveiled the world’s first Chromebook detachable1 packing all the productivity benefits of Chrome OS and popularity of Android into a sleek, versatile, powerful, and secure device. Chromebooks are one of the fastest-growing segments of the PC category, growing more than 50% over the past two years2. HP is focused on delivering and evolving its Chromebook portfolio to meet this growing demand to have access to the Google ecosystem on exciting, flexible form factors. “The HP Chromebook x2 hits a trifecta for customers, combining the productivity of the Chrome OS and power of the world’s most-used app platform into a versatile form factor ideal for experiencing all the Google ecosystem has to offer,” said Kevin Frost, vice president and general manager, consumer personal systems, HP Inc. “As the world’s first Chromebook detachable, it will unlock new ways for people to create, collaborate and consume within Chrome and the Google Play Store3.”
HP Chromebook x2 The stunningly thin and light HP Chromebook x2 is the world’s first Chromebook detachable1 offering long battery life with great performance and exceptional features for productivity, sharing, and entertainment. Specific features include: Powerful and sleek: Users can power through their day and play with their favorite Android apps with up to 10 hours of battery life4 in a tablet only 8.2 mm thin and weighing 1.62 pounds5. With the included keyboard the device is 15.3 mm thin and weighs 3.14 pounds5. This thin, powerful Chromebook detachable features 7th Gen Intel® CoreTM processors6 and up to 8GB LPDDR3 of memory to browse and run Android apps. Designed for the way you work: Go from productivity to creativity seamlessly with the HP Chromebook x2 with the versatility to use the device in a variety of modes. The magnetic hinge allows for easy detaching of the tablet and provides the strength and rigidity to keep it attached and upright when used as a laptop. The hinge design allows for the tablet to be placed in multiple modes for users to enjoy an amazing touch and pen7 experience for work, school, and entertainment. Durable and striking elegance: The HP Chromebook x2 is nothing less than premium with a ceramic white anodized aluminum finish and a leather-like surface in Oxford Blue on the detachable full-sized keyboard. The Quad HD8 12.3-inch diagonal Corning® Gorilla® Glass 4 touch display for increased durability and scratch resistance when on the go. Built to entertain: Experience apps from Google Play store3 as a tablet or notebook with a touch screen and active pen7. The Chromebook x2 offers plenty of space to store treasured content with up to 32 GB of built in storage with Micro SD expansion up to 256 GB9 along with 100 GB of free Google Cloud storage for two years10. Dual speakers with audio custom tuned by B&O Play and front 5 MP and rear 13 MP cameras to deliver a rich entertainment experience. Ample ports: The HP Chromebook x2 offers a broad array of ports to meet connectivity needs including two USB TypeC™ for data transfer, charging and display, a Micro SD port, and Audio jacks. Pricing and Availability11 HP Chromebook x2 starting pricing is $599.99 and expected to be available via HP.com and Best Buy on June 10.

ABOUT HP

HP Inc. creates technology that makes life better for everyone, everywhere. Through our portfolio of printers, PCs, mobile devices, solutions, and services, we engineer experiences that amaze. More information about HP Inc. is available at http://www.hp.com.