Dubai Holds Strong Potential to Boost Cultural Tourism During Ramadan Highlights Alpha Destination Management

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Dubai Holds Strong Potential to Boost Cultural Tourism During Ramadan Highlights Alpha Destination Management
Ramadan presents Dubai a unique opportunity to attract greater number of international and regional travellers seeking to experience the Emirati heritage and culture. Highlighting the enormous potential Dubai holds to grow cultural tourism during the Holy month, Mr. Samir Hamadeh, General Manager of Alpha Destination Management, said, “Over the years, we have seen some remarkable progress in this direction. Flexible approach to food and beverage outlets is part of this strategy. Steps such as these are being welcomed by tourists as is evident from the reaction of some of our well-travelled customers such as Mr. Lee Haslett, Vice President Product & Distribution at Virgin Holidays, whose comment after his family holiday in Dubai during Ramadan is: ‘This holiday is one of the best, if not the best ever holiday I’ve ever had with my family’.” However, Mr. Hamadeh, stressed, “More needs to be done in this aspect especially in terms of developing an all-round cultural experience in the city whereby Ramadan could become a must-visit period for discovering the unique Arabic traditions and heritage along with the Emirate’s other attractions.” In the coming years Ramadan would fall in the prime tourist season. Mr. Hamadeh said, “Majority of visitors from Central and Western Europe tend to believe that Ramadan is not the ideal time to visit Dubai as they may face some restrictions in terms of dos and don’ts. But we all know it is not the case and this perception needs to change with the right product and marketing messages. Developing local attractions and packages such as more affordable and authentic Ramadan tents, dining with local families in local homes for Iftar, creating traditional entertainment programmes while maintaining cultural sensitivity are some of the options to consider. The global campaigns should communicate that Ramadan in Dubai is absolutely magical and unique.” Mr. Hamadeh added, “Dubai is a year-round destination offering a diverse mix of experiences and Ramadan should be among the key attractions. Therefore, Dubai needs to position as the best place to be to celebrate Ramadan and soak up the local culture. A city that comes alive with the spirit of the Holy month.” About Alpha Destination Management Founded in 1996, by Mr. Ghassan Aridi and his partners, Alpha Destination Management is the leading destination management company and a pioneer in the tourism sector in the Arabian Gulf. Over the last two decades, the company has established itself as one of the most credible and reputed brands not only in the Gulf region but also in the international tourism industry. Controlling a significant market share of the lucrative tourism sector in the GCC, Alpha Destination Management is a market leader in the region with the largest annual turnover and wide network of international partners offering the highest levels of service and innovative and exciting experiences. Our extensive global and local knowledge and network, outstanding expertise and sound reputation is the key to success for us and all our partners. For more information about Alpha Destination Management visit http://www.alphatoursdubai.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

Local leaders champion a ‘region of inclusion’ heading into July Special Olympics USA Games

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Local leaders champion a ‘region of inclusion’ heading into July Special Olympics USA Games

On Wednesday at a forum hosted by Microsoft Corp. focused on inclusive hiring and economic opportunity in Puget Sound, 2018 Special Olympics USA Games is announcing more than $9 million in cash and in-kind donations from regional businesses in support of the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games, to be held in Seattle July 1–6, 2018. Earlier this year state and local lawmakers contributed an additional $3.4 million in support, further demonstrating our region’s commitment to showcasing the power of inclusion.

The “Creating a Region of Inclusion” forum speakers include Gov. Jay Inslee, Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan, retired U.S. Sen. Tom Harkin, Challenge Seattle CEO and former Washington Gov. Christine Gregoire, University of Washington President Ana Mari Cauce, Microsoft President Brad Smith, and 2018 Special Olympics USA Games President and CEO Beth Knox. The focus of the discussion centers on ways to make significant new progress in developing job and career opportunities to create a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. The 2018 Special Olympics USA Games will feature more than 4,000 athletes and coaches who will compete in 14 Olympic-type team and individual sports, cheered on by tens of thousands of volunteers and spectators. Microsoft is the Premier Partner of the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games. Since 2014 Microsoft has partnered with Special Olympics, using cloud-based data management to empower the organization and its athletes through technology on and off the field, while supporting the organization’s efforts to build a more inclusive global community. The Greater Seattle business community collectively contributed over $7 million in cash support, plus an additional $2 million in value of in-kind product and services to help run the USA Games. In addition to financial contributions, USA Games partners have engaged their employees to take on more than 10,000 shifts, including Microsoft which has filled nearly 2,000 volunteer shifts. Volunteers are still welcome in support positions or as Fans in the Stands to cheer on athletes at competitions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate for people with disabilities is more than double that of people without disabilities. To address the employment gap locally, Microsoft will host an Inclusive Hiring Job Fair with 16 local employers on May 31, 1:45–4 p.m. PDT. The job fair is open to the public, and candidates can meet with recruiters, get help creating resumes, and gain insight into employment opportunities in technology, retail, transportation, consulting, telecommunications and customer service. In addition, LinkedIn staff will be onsite to help attendees create and enhance LinkedIn profiles, provide tips for successful job searches and offer free professional headshot photos. Employers participating in the summit include Accenture, Alaska Airlines, Amazon, AT&T, Department of Services for the Blind, EY, Facebook, The Lighthouse for the Blind Inc., LinkedIn, Microsoft, Starbucks, T-Mobile, VR-Net and the Washington State Department of Corrections. More information about the Inclusive Job Fair, hosted at the Microsoft Conference Center, can be found here. Special Olympics USA Games CEO Beth Knox also announced a job fair for Special Olympics athletes and their families, to be held in July during the Games. The Special Olympics hiring fair will provide a venue for athletes and their families to discuss career opportunities and options with businesses including Bank of America, Microsoft and Starbucks. Tickets are available for the opening ceremonies July 1 at Husky Stadium in Seattle, where spectators and volunteers from local businesses will cheer on the athletes in a citywide celebration of inclusion. Quotes Jay Inslee, Governor, Washington “The state of Washington has a proud history of inclusivity, tolerance and compassion for all residents. Our diversity of people and cultures is a critical part of who we are, both as a state and as a nation. The pride, joy and determination of Special Olympics athletes embody that spirit,” said Washington Gov. Inslee. “I am proud to welcome athletes, their coaches and families to the 2018 Games.” Brad Smith, President, Microsoft “For more than five decades, the Special Olympics USA Games has made a huge difference in the lives of people with intellectual disabilities,” said Microsoft President Brad Smith. “As employers, one important issue that we can help address, in the spirit of these Games, is to create and encourage inclusive hiring practices that will help reduce the unemployment rate in this community.” Beth Knox, CEO, Special Olympics USA Games “There are still opportunities for more businesses to show their support through contributions, Opening Ceremony ticket sales or providing in-kind support,” said Beth Knox, Special Olympics USA Games CEO. “Our athletes and families are thrilled to be a part of it.” Tom Harkin, U.S. Senator (Retired), Iowa “I commend Microsoft for its leadership in creating a ‘region of inclusion’ for the Special Olympics USA Games this summer in Seattle,” said Sen. Tom Harkin. “This sets the stage for a ‘global inclusion,’ especially in employment. Lead On!” Christine Gregoire, Challenge Seattle CEO and Former Governor, Washington “We’re thrilled to support the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games and welcome athletes from around the nation to the Seattle region,” said Challenge Seattle CEO and former Washington Gov. Christine Gregoire. “Here, we embrace diversity, innovation and creativity — fueling dreams and changing the world.” Ana Mari Cauce, President, University of Washington “It’s truly exciting to see our region have real conversations about empowerment,” said Ana Mari Cauce, president, University of Washington. “From groundbreaking research to internships for people on the autism spectrum, the UW is committed to inclusive education and career pathways for people with disabilities, and we are honored to host the Special Olympics hiring fair in July.” Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @microsoft) enables digital transformation for the era of an intelligent cloud and an intelligent edge. Its mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. For more information, press only: Microsoft Media Relations, WE Communications, (425) 638-7777, rrt@we-worldwide.com  Note to editors: For more information, news and perspectives from Microsoft, please visit the Microsoft News Center at http://news.microsoft.com. Web links, telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of publication, but may have changed. For additional assistance, journalists and analysts may contact Microsoft’s Rapid Response Team or other appropriate contacts listed at http://news.microsoft.com/microsoft-public-relations-contacts.

Microsoft to acquire GitHub for $7.5 billion

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Microsoft to acquire GitHub for $7.5 billion

Microsoft Corp. on Monday announced it has reached an agreement to acquire GitHub, the world’s leading software development platform where more than 28 million developers learn, share and collaborate to create the future. Together, the two companies will empower developers to achieve more at every stage of the development lifecycle, accelerate enterprise use of GitHub, and bring Microsoft’s developer tools and services to new audiences.

“Microsoft is a developer-first company, and by joining forces with GitHub we strengthen our commitment to developer freedom, openness and innovation,” said Satya Nadella, CEO, Microsoft. “We recognize the community responsibility we take on with this agreement and will do our best work to empower every developer to build, innovate and solve the world’s most pressing challenges.” Under the terms of the agreement, Microsoft will acquire GitHub for $7.5 billion in Microsoft stock. Subject to customary closing conditions and completion of regulatory review, the acquisition is expected to close by the end of the calendar year. GitHub will retain its developer-first ethos and will operate independently to provide an open platform for all developers in all industries. Developers will continue to be able to use the programming languages, tools and operating systems of their choice for their projects — and will still be able to deploy their code to any operating system, any cloud and any device. Microsoft Corporate Vice President Nat Friedman, founder of Xamarin and an open source veteran, will assume the role of GitHub CEO. GitHub’s current CEO, Chris Wanstrath, will become a Microsoft technical fellow, reporting to Executive Vice President Scott Guthrie, to work on strategic software initiatives. “I’m extremely proud of what GitHub and our community have accomplished over the past decade, and I can’t wait to see what lies ahead. The future of software development is bright, and I’m thrilled to be joining forces with Microsoft to help make it a reality,” Wanstrath said. “Their focus on developers lines up perfectly with our own, and their scale, tools and global cloud will play a huge role in making GitHub even more valuable for developers everywhere.” Today, every company is becoming a software company and developers are at the center of digital transformation; they drive business processes and functions across organizations from customer service and HR to marketing and IT. And the choices these developers make will increasingly determine value creation and growth across every industry. GitHub is home for modern developers and the world’s most popular destination for open source projects and software innovation. The platform hosts a growing network of developers in nearly every country representing more than 1.5 million companies across healthcare, manufacturing, technology, financial services, retail and more. Upon closing, Microsoft expects GitHub’s financials to be reported as part of the Intelligent Cloud segment. Microsoft expects the acquisition will be accretive to operating income in fiscal year 2020 on a non-GAAP basis, and to have minimal dilution of less than 1 percent to earnings per share in fiscal years 2019 and 2020 on a non-GAAP basis, based on the expected close time frame. Non-GAAP excludes expected impact of purchase accounting adjustments, as well as integration and transaction-related expenses. An incremental share buyback, beyond Microsoft’s recent historical quarterly pace, is expected to offset stock consideration paid within six months after closing. Microsoft will use a portion of the remaining ~$30 billion of its current share repurchase authorization for the purchase. Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP is acting as legal advisor to Microsoft. Morgan Stanley is acting as exclusive financial advisor to GitHub, while Fenwick & West LLP is acting as its legal advisor. Media & Analyst Conference Call Nadella, Friedman, Wanstrath and Microsoft Chief Financial Officer Amy Hood will host a joint conference call for media today, June 4, 2018, at 7 a.m. Pacific/10 a.m. Eastern to discuss this transaction. The call will be available to international callers at +1 (201) 689-8023 (no password required), to U.S. callers at (877) 407-0666 (no password required), or via webcast at https://edge.media-server.com/m6/p/eudfciq3 at that time. More information is available on http://news.microsoft.com. Additional details will be available when the acquisition closes. About GitHub GitHub is the developer company. We make it easier for developers to be developers: to work together, to solve challenging problems, to create the world’s most important technologies. We foster a collaborative community that can come together — as individuals and in teams — to create the future of software and make a difference in the world. About Microsoft Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @microsoft) enables digital transformation for the era of an intelligent cloud and an intelligent edge. Its mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. For more information, press only: Microsoft Media Relations, WE Communications, (425) 638-7777, rrt@we-worldwide.com  Forward looking statements This press release contains forward-looking statements, which are any predictions, projections or other statements about future events based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties. The potential risks and uncertainties include, among others, that the expected financial and other benefits from the GitHub transaction may not be realized, including because of: the risk that the transaction may not be completed in a timely manner or at all; any restrictions or limitations imposed by regulatory authorities; the impact of the acquisition on GitHub’s developer community and enterprise customers; the extent to which we achieve anticipated financial and buyback targets; the impact of management and organizational changes on GitHub’s business; the impact on GitHub employees and our ability to retain key personnel; our effectiveness in integrating the GitHub platform and operations with Microsoft’s business; and our ability to realize our broader strategic and operating objectives. Actual results may differ materially from the forward-looking statements because of these and other risks and uncertainties of our business, which are described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including our Forms 10-K and 10-Q. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and Microsoft undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statement to conform the statement to actual results or changes in the company’s expectations. Note to editors: For more information, news and perspectives from Microsoft, please visit the Microsoft News Center at http://news.microsoft.com. Web links, telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of publication, but may have changed. For additional assistance, journalists and analysts may contact Microsoft’s Rapid Response Team or other appropriate contacts listed at http://news.microsoft.com/microsoft-public-relations-contacts.

Microsoft brings intelligent cloud, intelligent edge vision to life at Computex Taipei

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Microsoft brings intelligent cloud, intelligent edge vision to life at Computex Taipei

Wednesday at Computex Taipei, Microsoft Corp. underscored its commitment to the partner ecosystem and announced new programs and a new category of intelligent devices, designed to take advantage of a digitally connected world and drive new growth and opportunity for the industry. At the event, Microsoft shared how the era of the intelligent cloud and intelligent edge will usher in the next phase of innovation and create a broad portfolio of devices that will blend more naturally into people’s lives.

Nick Parker, corporate vice president, Consumer and Device Sales, showcased how Microsoft is bringing the industry together to build the intelligent cloud and intelligent edge, delivering new experiences and solutions not previously possible. “For Microsoft, it’s more than just screens and devices; it’s about creating services and experiences with technology that support ambitions and aspirations,” Parker said. Imagine the devices and experiences we can create with ubiquitous computing, infused with AI and connected to the cloud. This is such an incredible time for the industry.” Parker was joined on stage by Roanne Sones, corporate vice president, Platforms, who announced a new partner community for the intelligent edge, a new category of Windows 10 devices called Windows Collaboration Displays and a new offering with Windows 10 IoT Core Services. New programs to help build the intelligent edge The intelligent cloud and intelligent edge will offer a new world of possibilities for the industry to deliver more flexible and custom experiences for everyone, whether a thermostat in a smart home or an interactive display in a smart office. In addition to modern devices from leading partners, Sones shared news and momentum in areas including these:
  • New intelligent edge partner community: To accelerate innovation in this new era we invite all our partners to join our intelligent edge partner community. The community will help partners connect with one another to identify opportunities to collaborate on technology innovation and achieve shared business goals. In addition, community members will be able to participate in trainings and community events, and can participate in early adopter programs that provide access to documentation, specs, OS builds and certification details. Those wanting to sign up should visit http://microsoft.com/intelligentedge.
  • Windows IoT core services: Microsoft revealed a new service offering that will enable partners to commercialize a secure IoT device, backed by industry-leading support. The service offering helps make it easier to manage updates for the OS, apps, settings and OEM-specific files; includes Device Health Attestation (DHA); and is backed with 10 years of support. More about the service offering can be found on the Windows blog.
A new category of devices: Windows Collaboration Displays Microsoft 365 brings together Office 365, Windows 10 and Enterprise Mobility + Security that delivers a complete, intelligent and secure solution to empower employees. It’s a global productivity platform that enables multisense, multidevice experiences that put people at the center for both work and life. People around the world already use the power of Microsoft 365 across PCs, tablets, phones and other devices from our partners to work how, when and where they want. Along with its partner ecosystem, Microsoft announced new opportunities to bring Microsoft 365 experiences to life through a new category of devices called Windows Collaboration Displays. These new devices allow users to experience Microsoft 365 collaboration tools, Office, Teams and Whiteboard, at room scale. A variety of Collaboration Displays from Sharp and Avocor will be available later this year. Microsoft at Computex Visitors to Computex Taipei can view the new Windows 10 devices and IoT solutions at the Microsoft Booth, on the 4th floor of the NanGang Exhibition Hall, L Area #0110. The show is open June 5–9. Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @microsoft) enables digital transformation for the era of an intelligent cloud and an intelligent edge. Its mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. For more information, press only: Rapid Response Team, WE Communications, (425) 638-7777, rrt@we-worldwide.com Note to editors: For more information, news and perspectives from Microsoft, please visit the Microsoft News Center at http://news.microsoft.com. Web links, telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of publication, but may have changed. For additional assistance, journalists and analysts may contact Microsoft’s Rapid Response Team or other appropriate contacts listed at http://news.microsoft.com/microsoft-public-relations-contacts.

Microsoft announces 2018 Partner of the Year winners and finalists

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Microsoft announces 2018 Partner of the Year winners and finalists
 Microsoft Corp. on Thursday announced the winners and finalists of the Microsoft 2018 Partner of the Year Awards. The annual awards recognize top Microsoft partners demonstrating excellence in innovation and implementation of customer solutions based on Microsoft technology. Award winners and finalists from around the world will be recognized at Microsoft Inspire taking place July 15–19, 2018, in Las Vegas, Nevada. This year, Microsoft acknowledged partners in 39 categories celebrating each of the solution areas, industries and many more. The award finalists and winners were selected from more than 2,600 nominations collected from 115 different countries worldwide based on their commitment to customers, their solution’s impact on the market and exemplary use of Microsoft technologies. “It’s an honor to recognize the 2018 Partner of the Year Award winners and finalists, which represent the best and most forward-thinking innovators coming out of our partner community,” said Gavriella Schuster, corporate vice president, One Commercial Partner, Microsoft. “These companies are bringing cutting-edge solutions to complex business challenges and providing digital transformation opportunities for their customers. Congratulations to each winner and finalist.” Schuster has also congratulated the winners and finalists in a blog post on the Microsoft Partner Network website. Categories, winners and finalists appear below. A complete list, including the Microsoft Country Partner of the Year Award winners for 2018, is available at https://partner.microsoft.com/en-us/inspire/awards. See the highlights video. Alliance Global Commercial ISV Partner of the Year
  • Winner: AT&T
Alliance SI Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Accenture/Avanade
Application Innovation Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Larsen & Toubro Infotech
  • Finalist: Datacom
  • Finalist: Neal Analytics
Artificial Intelligence Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Insight
  • Finalist: KPMG Consulting Co. Ltd.
  • Finalist: eSmart Systems
  • Finalist: RedPoint Global Inc.
 Azure Compete Partner of the Year
  • Winner: GTPLUS
  • Finalist: Wragby Business Solutions and Technologies Ltd.
  • Finalist: Convergent Computing (CCO)
  • Finalist: Infront Consulting Group
 Big Data Analytics Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Cognizant Technology Solutions
  • Finalist: WIPRO
  • Finalist: BlueGranite Inc.
  • Finalist: Neudesic
Customer Experience Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Content and Code
  • Finalist: Quadrasystems.net India Private Ltd.
  • Finalist: Insight
  • Finalist: Qorus Software
Data Estate Modernization Partner of the Year
  • Winner: pmOne AG
  • Finalist: Northdoor plc
  • Finalist: Cognizant Technology Solutions
  • Finalist: Datometry
Datacenter Transformation Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Ensono
  • Finalist: 10th Magnitude
  • Finalist: Hanu Software Inc.
  • Finalist: Rackspace 
DevOps Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Xpirit Netherlands
  • Finalist: Canarys Automations Private Ltd.
  • Finalist: InCycle Software
  • Finalist: Nebbia Technology
Dynamics 365 for Field Service Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Velrada
  • Finalist: eCraft Oy Ab
  • Finalist: Hitachi Solutions Ltd.
  • Finalist: DXC Eclipse
Dynamics 365 for Talent Partner of the Year
  • Winner: SAGlobal
  • Finalist: eBECS
Dynamics Customer Service Partner of the Year
  • Winner: eBECS
  • Finalist: Fusion5
  • Finalist: Accenture/Avanade
  • Finalist: PowerObjects, an HCL Technologies company
Dynamics for Finance and Operations Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Accenture/Avanade
  • Finalist: Infosys Ltd.
  • Finalist: AKA Enterprise Solutions (Formerly InterDyn AKA)
  • Finalist: Hitachi Solutions
Dynamics Sales Partner of the Year
  • Winner: NuSoft
  • Finalist: Cognizant Technologies
  • Finalist: KORUS Consulting
  • Finalist: Ecuity Edge
Education Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Campus Management
  • Finalist: ITWORX Education
  • Finalist: BrightBytes
Financial Services Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Vector Risk
  • Finalist: V.R.P. Veri Raporlama Programlama Bilisim Yazilim ve Danismanlik Hizmetleri Ticaret A.S.
  • Finalist: Finastra
  • Finalist: Insight
Government Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Axon Enterprises Inc.
  • Finalist: Black Marble
  • Finalist: Pythagoras Communications Ltd.
  • Finalist: EY
 Health Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Solidsoft Reply
  • Finalist: KPMG LLP
  • Finalist: DXC Eclipse
  • Finalist: KenSci
Indirect Provider Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Tech Data
  • Finalist: Westcoast Ltd.
  • Finalist: Ingram Micro
Intelligent Communications Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Sada Systems
  • Finalist: Communicativ
  • Finalist: bluesource
  • Finalist: Modality Systems Ltd.
Internet of Things Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Crestron Electronics
  • Finalist: Energisme
  • Finalist: Fathym Inc.
  • Finalist: Marquam
Learning Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Digicomp Academy AG
  • Finalist: Institute for Information Industry
Manufacturing Partner of the Year
  • Winner: ICONICS
  • Finalist: ABB Group
  • Finalist: Icertis Inc.
  • Finalist: PROS Inc.
Media & Communications Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Advvy
  • Finalist: NV Interactive
  • Finalist: Avid
  • Finalist: Hewlett-Packard Enterprise LLC
Microsoft CityNext Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Bentley Systems
  • Finalist: Meemim Inc.
  • Finalist: Black Marble
  • Finalist: Cubic Transportation Systems
Modern Desktop (formerly Powered Device) of the Year
  • Winner: Insight
  • Finalist: AMTRA Solutions
  • Finalist: Dell
  • Finalist: DXC
Modern Workplace Transformation Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Dimension Data
  • Finalist: Logicalis
  • Finalist: Sulava Oy
  • Finalist: Otsuka Corp.
Open Source Applications & Infrastructure on Azure Partner of the Year
  • Winner: 10th Magnitude
  • Finalist: Nordcloud
  • Finalist: 4ward
  • Finalist: SNP Technologies Inc.
Open Source Data & AI Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Cloudera
  • Finalist: PT Mitra Integrasi Informatika
  • Finalist: KORUS Consulting
  • Finalist: Application Consulting Training Solutions
Partner for Social Impact Partner of the Year
  • Winner: ProServeIT Corp.
  • Finalist: Alianza Corp.
  • Finalist: New Signature
Partner Seller Excellence in Technology, Sales and/or Licensing Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Erik Moll, COMPAREX Canada
  • Finalist: Michael Jonsson, Avanade
  • Finalist: Andrew Mackay, Teambase
  • Finalist: Mark Pierce, New Signature
Platform Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Provance
  • Finalist: Anywhere.24 GmbH
  • Finalist: Joint Submission: PROS Inc., Icertis and VeriPark
  • Finalist: SAGlobal
Power BI Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Slalom
  • Finalist: Truenorth Corp.
  • Finalist: IT-Logix AG
  • Finalist: Teambase
Project and Portfolio Management Partner of the Year
  • Winner: CPS
  • Finalist: Prosperi
  • Finalist: Projectum
  • Finalist: Sensei Project Solutions
Retail Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Teambase
  • Finalist: Blue Yonder GmbH
  • Finalist: Synerise S.A.
  • Finalist: Tallan Inc.
SAP on Azure Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Accenture/Avanade
  • Finalist: Infosys Ltd.
  • Finalist: CoreToEdge
  • Finalist: Brillio
Security and Compliance Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Oxford Computer Group – UK
  • Finalist: NELITE
  • Finalist: Joint Submission: Mavim B.V. & Motion10
  • Finalist: Planet Technologies 
Teamwork Partner of the Year
  • Winner: Adopt & Embrace
  • Finalist: Quadrasystems.net India Private Ltd.
  • Finalist: Rapid Circle
  • Finalist: Content and Code
About Microsoft Inspire Microsoft Inspire provides Microsoft’s partner community with access to key marketing and business strategies, leadership, and information regarding specific customer solutions designed to help partners succeed in the marketplace. Along with informative learning opportunities covering sales, marketing, services and technology, Microsoft Inspire is an ideal setting for partners to garner valuable knowledge from their peers and from Microsoft. More information can be found at https://partner.microsoft.com/en-us/inspire. About Microsoft Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @microsoft) enables digital transformation for the era of an intelligent cloud and an intelligent edge. Its mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. For more information, press only: Microsoft Media Relations, WE Communications, (425) 638-7777, rrt@we-worldwide.com Note to editors: For more information, news and perspectives from Microsoft, please visit the Microsoft News Center at http://news.microsoft.com. Web links, telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of publication, but may have changed. For additional assistance, journalists and analysts may contact Microsoft’s Rapid Response Team or other appropriate contacts listed at http://news.microsoft.com/microsoft-public-relations-contacts.

Microsoft doubles its game development studios

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Microsoft doubles its game development studios

New titles revealed during the Xbox briefing include exclusive games ‘Gears 5,’ ‘Halo Infinite’ and ‘Forza Horizon 4,’ all enhanced for Xbox One X

Sunday’s Xbox E3 Briefing was the largest in Microsoft Corp.’s history with more than 6,000 people, including more than 1,000 fans, invited to attend in the Microsoft Theater. Microsoft announced it is doubling its game development studios and showcased a record 52 games on stage including 18 console launch exclusives and 15 world premieres. The diverse lineup included games for every type of player, from exclusives like “Forza Horizon 4,” “Halo Infinite” and “Gears 5,” and independent titles like “Session,” “Below,” “Ashen” and “Tunic” to some of the biggest blockbuster games coming in the next year like “Fallout 76,” “Tom Clancy’s The Division 2,” “Kingdom Hearts 3,” “Devil May Cry 5,” “Battlefield V,” “Metro Exodus” and “Shadow of the Tomb Raider,” many enhanced to take advantage of the power of Xbox One X.

“There has never been a more exciting time to be part of the gaming industry, with creators large and small showcasing incredible new games for the more than two billion players around the world,” said Phil Spencer, head of Gaming at Microsoft. “At Microsoft, we are committed to empowering gamers to play the games they want, with the people they want, where they want.” INVESTING IN DEVELOPMENT OF ORIGINAL CONTENT Microsoft announced it is doubling its game development studios by adding five new creative teams to the Microsoft Studios family. New investments include the formation of a brand-new studio, The Initiative, the acquisition of Playground Games, and letters of intent to acquire Ninja Theory, Undead Labs and Compulsion Games.
  • The Initiative. Based in Santa Monica, Calif., The Initiative is a brand-new Microsoft game development studio headed by industry veteran Darrell Gallagher that is working to create groundbreaking new worlds, characters and game experiences.
  • Playground Games. Microsoft has acquired U.K.-based Playground Games, a development partner since 2010 that has helped grow the “Forza” franchise to new heights. In addition to its work on this year’s “Forza Horizon 4,” Playground Games will have a team dedicated to bringing their open-world expertise to an entirely new project.
  • Ninja Theory. The relationship between Ninja Theory and Microsoft started in 2000 when “Kung Fu Chaos” was in development for the original Xbox and culminated in the release of “Hellblade” on Xbox One earlier this year. Microsoft’s intent to acquire Ninja Theory will help ensure the creative team has the resources and freedom to bring more ambitious games like “Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice” to fans.
  • Undead Labs. Seattle-based Undead Labs is the creator of the popular “State of Decay” franchise, enjoyed by millions of fans worldwide. In the first two weeks since “State of Decay 2” launched, more than two million fans joined the fight to survive and took down more than two billion zombies. By entering into a letter of intent to acquire Undead Labs, Microsoft is signaling its commitment to growing the franchise and taking the zombie survival-fantasy genre to new heights.
  • Compulsion Games. As “We Happy Few” nears its full, multiplatform release on Aug. 10, Microsoft has entered into a letter of intent to acquire Montreal-based Compulsion Games. By joining the team at Microsoft Studios, Compulsion will have the resources, platform and freedom to take even bigger creative risks and create even more ambitious worlds with its future projects.
“The original games we create at Microsoft Studios are some of our biggest assets,” said Matt Booty, corporate vice president of Microsoft Studios. “Our growth strategy is to continue to expand the worlds that players love, while developing all-new exclusive games that deepen their engagement with our platform. We are thrilled to welcome five new studios into the Microsoft family. We believe these teams have the collective creative power and operational excellence to deliver the next industry game changers.”
Phil Spencer, Head of Gaming at Microsoft, onstage at Xbox E3 2018 Briefing where Microsoft showcased more than 50 games, including 18 exclusives and 15 world premieres at Microsoft Theater on Sunday, June 10, 2018 in Los Angeles. (Photo by Casey Rodgers/Invision for Microsoft/AP Images)
The addition of these creative teams reinforces Microsoft’s vision for gaming, which starts with a deep commitment to original content. The company is developing a portfolio of games on every device, including newly announced Microsoft Studios games. Revealed on stage today were three new Gears of War titles — “Gears 5,” “Gears Tactics,” “Gears Pop!” — along with “Battletoads,” “Forza Horizon 4” and “Halo Infinite,” a Master Chief story and the next major release in the franchise built from the ground up on the new Slipspace engine. ACCESS TO YOUR FAVORITE GAMES FASTER AND BETTER THAN EVER Microsoft announced several new titles joining the Xbox Game Pass catalog this year including “Forza Horizon 4,” “Fallout 4,” “Tom Clancy’s The Division” and “The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited,” as well as several new ID@Xbox games being added on their release date. Microsoft also introduced new innovations to push digital gaming forward, including FastStart, an innovation from Microsoft’s Machine Learning Team, and plans from Microsoft’s Gaming Cloud Team to develop a game streaming service to unlock console-quality gaming on any device. “We’ve been thrilled to see the positive impact Xbox Game Pass is having on the gaming ecosystem, including increasing the number of titles gamers play nearly 40 percent and increasing gameplay hours by almost 20 percent,” said Mike Nichols, chief marketing officer for Gaming at Microsoft. “With the ultimate freedom to explore and play over 100 great games, Xbox Game Pass delivers our members an incredible value in gaming.”
  • Xbox Game Pass. The Xbox Game Pass catalog continues to expand, with exciting new blockbuster titles available to members starting today, including “Fallout 4,” “The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited” and “Tom Clancy’s The Division.” Microsoft also announced several notable titles launching through the ID@Xbox program that will be coming to Xbox Game Pass this year to coincide with their debut on Xbox One. These include “Warhammer: Vermintide 2,” “Ashen,” “Afterparty” and “Phoenix Point,” as well as blockbusters from some of our biggest first-party franchises such as “Forza Horizon 4,” “Crackdown 3,” “Gears 5” and “Halo: The Master Chief Collection,” which will release later in 2018 and beyond.
  • FastStart (Xbox One). With FastStart, you can now jump into your game[i] twice as fast and play after downloading just a fraction of your title. FastStart identifies which files are needed to begin playing and prioritizes the download of those files first, enabling you to quickly jump into full-fidelity gameplay while the remainder of your title downloads in the background. Simply find the FastStart-enabled title you want to play, hit Download and your console will take care of the rest. It’s that simple.
  • Xbox Adaptive Controller (Xbox One, Windows 10). Beginning at 9 a.m. PT on June 11, preorders will begin in select markets for the first-of-its-kind Xbox Adaptive Controller, designed for gamers with limited mobility. Available exclusively through Microsoft Store for $99.99 USD, the newest addition to the Xbox family of controllers and devices is designed to be as adaptable as possible, so gamers can create a setup that works for them in a way that is plug-and-play, extensible and affordable.
  • Mixer. Mixer, Microsoft’s live streaming service, is seeing continued growth with viewership doubling in just six months to more than 20 million. The majority of this is growth from viewers on mobile
 BEST PLACE TO PLAY ORIGINAL, BLOCKBUSTER AND INDEPENDENT GAMES Xbox One continues to be the best place to play the biggest blockbuster games with over 220 titles enhanced for Xbox One X, the world’s most powerful console, with new games leveraging the power of the platform from some of the world’s most talented creators like “Fallout 76” from Bethesda Game Studios, “Cyberpunk 2077” from CD Projekt Red, “Tom Clancy’s The Division 2” from Ubisoft Massive and dozens more. Independent game creators also continue to innovate on Xbox One with games like “Session,” “Below,” “Ashen” and “Tunic” coming to Xbox One as console launch exclusives.
  • “BATTLEFIELD V” (ELECTRONIC ARTS). Available worldwide Oct. 19, 2018, enter mankind’s greatest conflict with “Battlefield™ V” as the series goes back to its roots in a never-before-seen portrayal of World War 2. Take on all-out multiplayer across the world or witness human drama set against global combat in single player War Stories, including Nordlys — a first look shown in the Xbox E3 briefing — the story of a young Norwegian resistance fighter during the German occupation, you must pay an unthinkable price to save not only yourself, but also your family.
  • “BLACK DESERT” (PEARL ABYSS). “Black Desert” is a revolutionary MMORPG that delivers intense, fast-paced combat, profitable life skills and an expansive open world. Slay monsters, abominations and gods, or engage in relaxing life skills like crafting, fishing and cooking. Become your true self in this truly open world MMORPG
  • “CRACKDOWN 3” (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 EXCLUSIVE). “Crackdown 3” brings the boom next February, where players will stop crime as a super-powered Agent in a sandbox of mayhem and destruction. Developed by Microsoft Studios in collaboration with Sumo Digital and Elbow Rocket, “Crackdown 3” delivers cooperative mayhem, signature antics, explosive gameplay and an all-new multiplayer mode,[ii] Wrecking Zone, where destruction is your ultimate weapon powered by Microsoft Cloud. Available worldwide in February 2019.
  • “CUPHEAD: THE DELICIOUS LAST COURSE” (STUDIO MDHR).In “Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course,” Cuphead and Mugman are joined by Ms. Chalice for a DLC add-on adventure on a brand-new island! With new weapons, new charms and Ms. Chalice’s brand new abilities, take on a new cast of multifaceted, screen-filling bosses to assist Chef Saltbaker in Cuphead’s final challenging quest.
  • “CYBERPUNK 2077” (CD PROJEKT RED). “Cyberpunk 2077” is a narrative-driven, open world RPG set in the most vibrant and dangerous metropolis of the future — Night City. You play as V, a hired gun on the rise, who just got their first serious contract. In a world of cyber-enhanced street warriors, tech-savvy netrunners and corporate lifehackers, today is your first step to becoming an urban legend.
  • “DEVIL MAY CRY 5” (CAPCOM). A brand-new entry in the legendary over-the-top action series comes to Xbox One in spring 2019, complete with its signature blend of high-octane stylized action and otherworldly and original characters the series is known for. Years have passed since the legions of hell have set foot in this world, but now a new demonic invasion has begun, and humanity’s last hope will rest in the hands of three lone demon hunters, each offering a radically different play style. United by fate and a thirst for vengeance, these demon hunters will have to face their demons if they hope to survive. The devil you know returns in the most over the top, technically advanced, utterly insane action experience of this generation.
  • “DYING LIGHT 2” (TECHLAND). The bold sequel to the open-world phenomenon, “Dying Light 2” brings to life a unique post-apocalyptic vision of the Modern Dark Ages, where your parkour abilities and brutal combat skills are the only things that let you dive into darkness and emerge alive. Make morally grey decisions, shape the transformation of the City and ultimately decide its fate.
  • “FALLOUT 76” (BETHESDA GAME STUDIOS). The award-winning creators of “Skyrim” and “Fallout 4” welcome you to “Fallout 76” — a stunning prequel and the largest world ever created in the legendary Fallout universe. Set in the hills of West Virginia, you are one of the first to emerge, into a new and untamed wasteland.
  • “FORZA HORIZON 4” (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 EXCLUSIVE – WORLD PREMIERE). In “Forza Horizon 4,” seasons change everything. This highly anticipated follow-up to 2016’s breakout hit “Forza Horizon 3” brings players dynamic seasons in a shared open world that change every week. Experience beautiful, historic Britain in spectacular native 4K and HDR, collect over 450 cars, and become a Horizon Superstar. “Forza Horizon 4” will launch worldwide on Xbox One, Windows 10 and Xbox Game Pass on Oct. 2, 2018, as an Xbox Play Anywhere title.
  • “GEARS 5” (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 EXCLUSIVE – WORLD PREMIERE). As Kait, journey across the biggest, most beautiful Gears world ever created. Play solo or with a friend in local split-screen co-op, or online co-op[iii] and experience every mode in 4K Ultra HD resolution with stunning HDR at a smooth 60 frames per second. “Gears 5” will be released in 2019 on Xbox One and Windows 10 and will come to Xbox Game Pass on the same date as its global release.
  • “GEARS POP!” (IOS AND ANDROID EXCLUSIVE – WORLD PREMIERE). “Gears Pop!” brings together iconic Gears characters in a cute Funko Pop! style. The game is being developed in partnership with Funko (Nasdaq “FNKO”) and inspired by the “Gears of War” vinyl collectible figures. It’s the perfect slice of mobile mayhem, available on iOS and Android in 2019.
  • “GEARS TACTICS” (WINDOWS 10 EXCLUSIVE – WORLD PREMIERE). “Gears Tactics” evolves turn-based tactics games combining signature fast-paced brutal action and character-driven storytelling with customizable squads, upgradable weapons, and, of course, massive boss battles. “Gears Tactics” is also the first Gears game to be specifically designed for PC gamers.
  • “HALO INFINITE” (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 EXCLUSIVE – WORLD PREMIERE). The Master Chief returns in the next chapter of the legendary franchise in “Halo Infinite.” Developed by 343 Industries and created with the studio’s new Slipspace Engine, “Halo Infinite” debuted at the Xbox E3 2018 Briefing with a thrilling engine demo that provides a glimpse into the future of Halo, leading the franchise into new and unexpected directions.
  • “JUMP FORCE” (BANDAI NAMCO ENTERTAINMENT AMERICA INC). The greatest heroes and villains from the 50-year history of Shueisha’s influential Japanese Weekly Jump manga will battle against each other across iconic locations across Earth in this anime fan’s dream come true! Featuring the world’s most popular and classic manga and anime franchises including DRAGON BALL Z, ONE PIECE, NARUTO, and many others, players will be able to compete in hyper-stylish arena brawls set against familiar backdrops of famous landmarks around the world, including New York City’s Times Square and the Matterhorn.
  • “JUST CAUSE 4” (SQUARE ENIX). Rogue agent Rico Rodriguez journeys to Solis, a huge South American world home of conflict, oppression and extreme weather conditions. Strap into your wingsuit, equip your fully customizable grappling hook, and get ready to bring the thunder!
  • “KINGDOM HEARTS III” (SQUARE ENIX). “KINGDOM HEARTS III” tells the story of the power of friendship as Sora and his friends embark on a perilous adventure and support each other through difficult times. Set in a vast array of Disney worlds, “KINGDOM HEARTS” follows the journey of Sora, a young boy and unknowing heir to a spectacular power. Sora is joined by Donald and Goofy to stop an evil force known as the Heartless from invading and overtaking the universe. Through the power of positivity and friendship, Sora, Donald and Goofy unite with iconic Disney-Pixar characters old and new to overcome tremendous challenges and persevere against the darkness threatening their worlds.
  • “METRO EXODUS” (DEEP SILVER). “Metro Exodus” is an epic, story-driven first person shooter from 4A Games that blends deadly combat and stealth with exploration and survival horror in one of the most immersive game worlds ever created. Explore the Russian wilderness across vast, nonlinear levels and follow a thrilling storyline that spans an entire year through spring, summer and autumn to the depths of nuclear winter. Inspired by the novels of Dmitry Glukhovsky, “Metro Exodus” continues Artyom’s story in the greatest Metro adventure yet.
  • “NIER: AUTOMATA” BECOME AS GODS EDITION (SQUARE ENIX). “NieR: Automata” is a revolutionary action RPG set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by machine lifeforms and abandoned by mankind. As part of an android army created by humans to reclaim the planet, players will fight their way through the mechanical horde using a collective of close-combat weapons and ranged attacks.
  • “ORI AND THE WILL OF THE WISPS” (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 EXCLUSIVE). The highly anticipated sequel “Ori and the Will of the Wisps” made its worldwide gameplay debut, showcasing Ori’s immersive world, dynamic combat mechanics, gripping enemy encounters and challenging puzzles in this story-driven adventure. “Ori and the Will of the Wisps” releases on Xbox One and Windows 10 in 2019.
  • “PLAYERUNKNOWN’S BATTLEGROUNDS” (CONSOLE LAUNCH EXCLUSIVE). PLAYERUNKNOWN’S BATTLEGROUNDS (PUBG), the tactical, high-octane battle royale phenomenon, debuted footage from two new maps: Sanhok, a smaller-scale, action-packed map inspired by the islands that dot the Southeast Pacific Ocean, and a snow-covered map currently in development. New footage also debuted of War Mode, a deathmatch-style battle royale gaming experience and the world premiere debut of the Ballistic Shield, a new tool for setting up quick cover for explosive and close-distance attacks. Sanhok and War Mode will debut on Xbox in late summer 2018.
  • “SEA OF THIEVES” (XBOX ONE[iv] AND WINDOWS 10 EXCLUSIVE). “Sea of Thieves,” the shared-world multiplayer game that provides the quintessential pirate experience, returns with additional content that continues to grow and evolve the game. Releasing in July, Cursed Sails will bring a new threat to the seas in the form of terrifying skeleton ships. In September, Forsaken Shores will reveal a perilous new part of the world, filled with dangers that will test the skill and nerve of even the most hardened crews. Each update will be accompanied by a time-limited campaign that introduces content in a fun, engaging and memorable way. “Sea of Thieves” is now available on Xbox One, Windows 10 and Xbox Game Pass as an Xbox Play Anywhere title.
  • “SEKIRO™: SHADOWS DIE TWICE” (ACTIVISION). A fantastical, dark and twisted new gameplay experience developed by the renowned team at FromSoftware and published by Activision. Directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, “Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice” is a third-person, action-adventure game with RPG elements. The single-player game puts gamers in the protagonist role of a hard-hearted warrior whose mission is to rescue his master, a young lord, and exact revenge on his arch nemesis. “Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice” is scheduled for release in early 2019 for the family of Xbox One devices from Microsoft, including the Xbox One X. Preorders are available now at select retailers for the suggested retail price of $59.99.
  • “SESSION” (CREA-TURE STUDIOS). Inspired by the golden era of skateboarding, the early 90s and early 2000, “Session’s” primary goal is to make you experience what skateboarding really is: an incredible sport where there are no other goals other than expressing your creativity and achieving success through hard work, perseverance and bits of madness for no one else other than yourself.
  • “SHADOW OF THE TOMB RAIDER” (SQUARE ENIX). Experience Lara Croft’s defining moment as she becomes the Tomb Raider. In “Shadow of the Tomb Raider,” Lara must master a deadly jungle, overcome terrifying tombs, and persevere through her darkest hour. As she races to save the world from a Maya apocalypse, Lara will ultimately be forged into the Tomb Raider she is destined to be.
  • “TALES OF VESPERIA: DEFINITIVE EDITION” (BANDAI NAMCO ENTERTAINMENT AMERICA INC). Available this winter, “Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition” celebrates the 10th anniversary of this cherished RPG with new fully playable characters, events and other additional content never released outside of Japan. Follow Yuri Lowell, a former Imperial Knight, as he befriends a colorful cast of characters throughout the world of Terca Lumireis and finds himself in the middle of a nefarious plot that threatens the destruction of the entire planet.
  • “THE AWESOME ADVENTURES OF CAPTAIN SPIRIT” (SQUARE ENIX).Have you ever dreamt of being a superhero? Meet Chris, a creative and imaginative 10-year-old boy who escapes reality with fantastical adventures as his alter ego, the Awesome Captain Spirit! Return to your childhood and play a touching and heart-warming one-of-a-kind narrative experience from the directors and development team behind the BAFTA award-winning game “Life is Strange.” “The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit” is an original story set in the Life is Strange Universe that contains links to the brand new story an characters of “Life is Strange 2.”
  • “TOM CLANCY’S THE DIVISION 2” (UBISOFT). Developed by Ubisoft Massive and the same teams that brought you “Tom Clancy’s The Division®,” “Tom Clancy’s The Division® 2” is an online open-world, action-shooter RPG experience set in a collapsing and fractured Washington, D.C. This rich new setting combines a wide variety of beautiful, iconic and realistic environments where the player will experience the series’ trademark for authenticity in world- building, rich RPG systems, and fast-paced action like never before. Play solo or co-op with a team of up to four players to complete a wide range of activities, from the main campaign and adversarial PvP matches to the Dark Zone — where anything can happen.
  • “TUNIC” (FINJI). “TUNIC” is an isometric action adventure about a tiny fox in a big world. Embark on an adventuresome questabout set in that place just beyond the farthest you’ve ever been! Explore ancient ruins, fight monsters and uncover mysterious secrets. The world is big and scary — so be brave, little one!
  • “WE HAPPY FEW” (COMPULSION GAMES, GEARBOX PUBLISHING). After debuting as an Xbox Game Preview title at the 2016 Xbox E3 Briefing, “We Happy Few” 1.0, which includes an all-new narrative and community-driven improvements, will launch on Xbox One and Xbox One X (with 4K and HDR support) on Aug. 10, 2018. “We Happy Few” is a narrative-driven action adventure game set in a drug-fueled, retrofuturistic 1960s England. Uncover the mystery of Wellington Wells as you play through the interwoven narratives of three moderately terrible citizens trying to escape from a lifetime of cheerful denial.
BIGGEST XBOX SALE OF THE YEAR HAPPENING NOW Microsoft also announced its Biggest Xbox Sale of the Year where gamers can find discounts on hundreds of games, accessories, Xbox Game Pass and Live Gold subscriptions, plus $50 off ANY Xbox One. For more information, visit Xbox Wire. Be sure to preorder now at your Microsoft Store or local retailer. With retail locations across the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and Australia, and through Microsoft.com, fans can begin preordering their favorite games and select accessories and hardware from this year’s Xbox E3 2018 Briefing right now. For a list of Microsoft Store locations, visit https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/store/locations/find-a-store. WATCH E3 LIVE STREAMING ON MIXER For additional news, highlights, exclusive reveals and a behind-the-scenes look at some of your favorite games throughout the week of E3, watch Inside Xbox: Live @ E3 on Monday, June 11 at 3 p.m. PDT and tune in to live streaming on Mixer Tuesday, June 12 and Wednesday, June 13. Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @microsoft) enables digital transformation for the era of an intelligent cloud and an intelligent edge. Its mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. For more information, press only: xboxpress@assemblyinc.com More details about Xbox One, Xbox One games and the latest Xbox news at Xbox E3 2018 Briefing can be found at https://news.xbox.com. Press releases and media assets can be found at https://news.xbox.com/media (and relevant content can be found by clicking on Select Category). Note to editors: For more information, news and perspectives from Microsoft, please visit the Microsoft News Center at https://news.microsoft.com. Web links, telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of publication, but may have changed. For additional assistance, journalists and analysts may contact Microsoft’s Rapid Response Team or other appropriate contacts listed at https://news.microsoft.com/microsoft-public-relations-contacts. [i] Select titles only. Requires 20Mbps download speed. Average improvement across FastStart-enabled titles; performance varies by title and internet connection (aka.ms/FastStartGames). [ii] Xbox Live Gold required to play online multiplayer on Xbox One (sold separately). [iii] Xbox Live Gold required to play online multiplayer on Xbox One (sold separately). [iv] Xbox Live Gold required to play game on Xbox One (sold separately).

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Flydubai introduces new Home Check-in service in Dubai

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Flydubai introduces new Home Check-in service in Dubai
  • flydubai launches new product called ‘Home Check-in’ in partnership with DUBZ and dnata
  • Service available up to six hours ahead of departure with standard prices from AED 110
  • Passengers can save 30% on standard prices until 30 June
Dubai-based flydubai launches its new Home Check-in service in partnership with DUBZ and dnata and is now available for booking through flydubai.com on new and existing itineraries. Up to six hours ahead of departure, the new doorstep check-in and baggage collection service allows flydubai passengers to check in for their flight and hand over their baggage to dedicated DUBZ staff from the comfort of their home or office.  A team from DUBZ will pick up the baggage up to 24 hours in advance of the flight, print boarding passes and baggage tags on the spot and deliver the bags directly to the airport.  Passengers who travel with hand baggage only can benefit from the service too.  A representative of DUBZ will collect their bag from home or the office and hand the bag to the passenger before boarding the aircraft. flydubai passengers arriving in Dubai have the option to have their baggage collected from the luggage belt and directly delivered to their hotel, residence or office. Jeyhun Efendi, Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations at flydubai, commented on the launch: “Our partnership with DUBZ and dnata sees another convenient travel benefit for flydubai’s passengers.  Home Check-in is the latest addition to the flydubai offering and it demonstrates our team’s dedication to deliver a customised travel experience available to all our passengers.” Home Check-in is available at Terminal 2 at Dubai International for all flydubai passengers departing from and arriving in Dubai.  Home baggage collection and check-in starts at a standard price of AED 110 for one bag, while the belt pick-up starts at AED 99 and passengers can enjoy a 30% discount on standard prices until 30 June. From more information about the service, please visit https://www.flydubai.com/en/flying-with-us/partners/home-check-in or call DUBZ on +971 52 3829 090.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Effective 28 October 2018, Etihad Airways

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Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Effective 28 October 2018, Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways will operate four daily services, the most frequent number of flights operated by any UAE airline to the Egyptian capital, offering greater choice and optimised timings to benefit business and leisure customers travelling point-to-point between the two cities. The convenient schedules also provide seamless East-bound connections through Abu Dhabi onto the airline’s network to the Gulf, Indian Subcontinent, North and Southeast Asia and Australia. Mohammad Al Bulooki, Etihad Airways Executive Vice President Commercial, said: “Etihad Airways has been serving Cairo since 2004 and today it is one of the largest point-to-point markets on our global network, bolstered by the hugely important historic, economic, and cultural ties existing between the UAE and Egypt, and by the large Egyptian community in the emirates, which numbers over 750,000. “In 2017 Etihad carried almost half a million guests on our multiple daily flights to and from Cairo. The introduction of the state-of-the-art 787 Dreamliner on the popular morning service from Abu Dhabi will provide guests with the latest innovation and technology, award-winning cabins, genuine hospitality and greater choice.” In April 2018, Etihad Airways and EGYPTAIR expanded their codeshare partnership from Abu Dhabi and Cairo to include several African destinations served by the Egyptian flag-carrier from its Cairo hub, including Ndjamena in Chad, Khartoum in Sudan, Entebbe in Uganda, and Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, and subject to government approvals, Abuja and Kano in Nigeria, and Asmara in Eritrea EGYPTAIR places its ‘MS’ code on Etihad Airways flights from Abu Dhabi to Seoul, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney, and subject to government approvals, on flights to China. Etihad Airways’ two-class Boeing 787-9 features 28 Business Studios offering direct aisle access, a fully-flat bed of up to 80.5 inches in length, and an increase of 20 per cent in personal space. Upholstered in fine Poltrona Frau Leather, the Business Studio is equipped with an in-seat massage and pneumatic cushion control system. Each Business Studio has an 18-inch personal touch-screen TV with noise-cancelling headsets. Guests can also enjoy mobile connectivity, onboard Wi-Fi and seven satellite channels of live TV. 271 Economy Smart Seats provide enhanced comfort with a unique ‘fixed wing’ headrest, adjustable lumbar support, a seat width of approximately 19 inches and an 11.1” personal TV monitor on each seat. The airline’s 787 Dreamliner fleet is equipped with the latest inflight entertainment system featuring over 750 hours of movies and programmes, as well as hundreds of music choices and a selection of games for both adults and children. Flight schedule: Abu Dhabi – Cairo, effective 28 October 2018 (all times local):
Flight No. Origin Departs Destination Arrives Freq Aircraft
EY651 Abu Dhabi 03:10 Cairo 05:20 Daily Airbus A321
EY650 Cairo 06:25 Abu Dhabi 11:45 Daily Airbus A321
EY653 Abu Dhabi 09:35 Cairo 11:45 Daily Boeing 787-9
EY654 Cairo 13:35 Abu Dhabi 18:50 Daily Boeing 787-9
EY655 Abu Dhabi 14:35 Cairo 16:45 Daily Airbus A320
EY656 Cairo 17:50 Abu Dhabi 23:15 Daily Airbus A320
EY657 Abu Dhabi 21:45 Cairo 23:50 Daily Airbus A320
EY658 Cairo 00:50 Abu Dhabi 06:15 Daily Airbus A320

Marriott International Enhances Online Customer Journey of Arab Travelers

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Marriott International Enhances Online Customer Journey of Arab Travelers
arriott International, the world’s leading hotel company, has today announced the relaunch of its Arabic website to enhance the online customer journey of the Arab traveler. With nearly 400 million Arabic speakers in 22 countries, the company is now providing an end-to-end solution for a seamless Arabic booking experience. The relaunch follows the recent announcement detailing the company’s ambitious growth plans for the Middle East and Africa region where it will expand its current portfolio by 50%, and as a result add 30,000 jobs. With such an emphasis placed on the region, the relaunch of its Arabic website is the next step in an exciting growth story. To mark the occasion this Ramadan, Marriott International hosted a Majlis panel joined by Aida Al Busaidy, Director, C2C Marketing & Campaigns at DTCM, Talal Al Rashed, Co-founder Contourage and Hospitality Consultant and Vladimir Dabbah, Vice President, Global Sales MEA at Marriott International. The esteemed panel discussed the importance of catering to the Arab Traveler, who often have a fierce sense of pride and remaining true to their identity.

Marriott International now provides and end-to-end solution for a seamless Arabic booking experience

Arab travelers generate more than double (+162%) room revenue per stay compared to other travelers, and annual revenue per Arab customer is 38% higher than other travelers. In order to cater to the traditional customs of the Arab travelers, symbols of Arab culture should be demonstrated in both communication and on hotel properties. “To date, we have over 110 million loyalty members around the world across Marriott Rewards, The Ritz-Carlton Rewards & SPG. As the world’s largest hotel operator, we aim to cater to every traveler on the planet, and with the majority of the world booking travel online we continue to enhance our end-to-end customer booking experience,” said Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director at Marriott International Middle East and Africa. The revamped website has launched today as a phased approach where over 5,000 Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards properties globally will be available and bookable in Arabic. Marriott International will continue to add localized in-language content and will further improve site’s functionality for the Arab online traveler.  SPG properties will be progressively be added to the new site between August and year end (until then, they remain available for bookings in Arabic at www.spg.com/arabic). To visit the website, please click here: www.Arabic.marriott.com -ENDS- Note on Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of federal securities laws, including the number of lodging properties the company may add in future years and similar statements concerning possible future events or expectations that are not historical facts.  We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including changes in market conditions; changes in global and regional economies; supply and demand changes for hotel rooms; competitive conditions in the lodging industry; relationships with clients and property owners; the availability of capital to finance hotel growth and refurbishment; and other risk factors that the company identifies in its most recent quarterly report on Form 10-Q or annual report on Form 10-K; any of which could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations we express or imply here.  We make these statements as of the date of this press release, and we assume no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. About Marriott International, Inc. Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 6,500 properties in 30 leading hotel brands spanning 127 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company also operates award-winning loyalty programs: Marriott Rewards®, which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®, and Starwood Preferred Guest®. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitterand Instagram. ### Media Contact: Bassel Barakat +971525347568 Bassel.barakat@fourcommunications.com

Emirates to launch third daily service to Moscow’s Domodedovo Airport

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Emirates to launch third daily service to Moscow’s Domodedovo Airport

Emirates, the largest international airline in the world, today announced it will start a third daily service between Moscow’s Domodedovo (DME) Airport and Dubai, commencing on 25th October 2018.

Emirates has been serving the Russian market since 1st July 2003 and already flies twice daily to Domodedovo on Airbus A380 and Boeing 777-300ER and daily to St Petersburg (LED). Demand for travel has grown significantly over recent years, leading to the airline’s launch of this third flight to Moscow. The new service will be operated by an Emirates Boeing 777-300ER in a three class cabin configuration, with eight private suites in First Class, 42 lie flat seats in Business Class and 310 spacious seats in Economy. This service will cater for leisure and business passengers, providing daily links for international tourism and trade opportunities both inbound and outbound. From 25th October, flight EK174 will depart Domodedovo at 1040hrs and arrive in Dubai at 1655hrs, while the return flight EK173 will depart Dubai at 0330hrs and arrive in Moscow at 0750hrs*. The departure time from Moscow and arrival time into Dubai is convenient for Russian travellers visiting Dubai. The new flight allows for seamless connectivity to Moscow from several popular destinations in Emirates’ and flydubai’s combined route network, including Bali, Bangkok, Colombo, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, Kathmandu, Kuala Lumpur, Maldives, Mauritius and Singapore. The new Emirates flight from Domodedovo airport is also timed to connect conveniently with a wide network of domestic flights operated by Emirates codeshare partner in Russia – S7 Airlines. Emirates SkyCargo will offer up to 20 tonnes of cargo capacity on the new flight. Cargo carried on the route includes perishables (food products, flowers), pharma, car spare parts for import and food products, aircraft and helicopter spare parts for export. First Class and Business Class customers can take advantage of the complimentary chauffeur drive as well as lounge facilities at Domodedovo. All customers can look forward to award-winning levels of care and comfort when travelling with Emirates, from the warm hospitality of its multinational cabin crew, to being entertained by ice, which offers up to 3,500 channels of on demand audio and visual entertainment from the latest movies to music and games. Customers also enjoy chef-prepared meals and complimentary beverages, while families are well catered for with dedicated products and services for children. Emirates’ commitment to Moscow Domodedovo airport is backed by airport’s investment in improving the infrastructure for the passengers. The new segment of the passenger terminal for international flights is opening in June 2018; multi-level car parking in front of the terminal has just been put in operation adding 1,500 parking spaces and the new runway construction is due to be completed within a few months. On 1st July this year Emirates will mark 15 years of operations to Moscow Domodedovo airport. * There will be a 30 minute advancement of EK173 timing during winter schedule, which begins on 28th October 2018.
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