For those of you who are still not familiar with it, ChatGPT is a large language model developed by OpenAI. It is based on the GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) architecture and has been trained on a massive dataset of text from the internet. This allows ChatGPT to understand and generate human-like text in a wide variety of contexts.
One of the key features of ChatGPT is its ability to generate text that is highly coherent and contextually appropriate. This makes it well-suited for tasks such as language translation, summarization, question answering, and text completion. Additionally, ChatGPT can be fine-tuned for specific tasks and domains, allowing it to generate highly relevant and accurate text.
ChatGPT is accessible to developers through OpenAI’s API, which allows users to easily integrate the model into their applications. This opens a lot of possibilities for the applications in which ChatGPT can be used, such as chatbot, virtual assistant, text summarization, language translation, and many more.
A lot of speculation is going about if ChatGPT will replace Google. It is difficult to predict with certainty how ChatGPT will specifically impact Google, as it depends on how the technology is utilized and integrated into various products and services.
In the current state of things it is unlikely that ChatGPT or any single technology will completely replace Google, as the company offers a wide range of products and services, including search, email, cloud storage, and more.
However, ChatGPT and other advanced language processing technologies have the potential to significantly improve and enhance the capabilities of some of these products and services, such as search and voice assistants. Additionally, ChatGPT could be used to create new types of products and services, such as chatbots or language-based virtual assistants.
It’s important to note that Google is a company with a lot of resources and it’s always working on improving their products and services as well, so it’s unlikely that ChatGPT will replace Google, it could complement it and work together.
Grand Mercure Hotel Dubai, part of Accor – a world-leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,300 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues across 110 countries, has been awarded a five-star rating by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
The hotel celebrated the achievement with an experiential event showcasing its brand-new facilities. Making the evening extra special was a unique atmosphere. Guests were treated to an exciting line up of live entertainment featuring soulful melodies of a saxophonist, a breathtaking acrobat show, and an enchanting performance by a violinist.
“We are proud to welcome guests to experience Grand Mercure Hotel Dubai which is ‘locally exquisite and exquisitely local’, something that the brand is renowned for around the world,” said Tyrone Lodder, Cluster General Manager of Grand Mercure Hotel Dubai. “The hotel is centrally located only 10 minutes’ drive to Dubai’s key business hubs and leisure destinations such as Dubai Festival City, Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and Dubai World Trade Centre. Elevating the guest experience is an array of exquisite facilities and beautifully redesigned spaces enriched by traditional UAE rituals, customs, and culture.
“What sets Grand Mercure Hotel Dubai, apart from other upscale hotels is its holistic approach to design and hospitality which is infused with a deep cultural sensitivity of the rich heritage of the UAE,” added Tyrone. “From the moment guests enter the property, they are taken on a multi-sensory journey that immerses and awakens all five senses. From aesthetics to scents, every detail has been carefully crafted to provide an unparalleled 360-degree experience that is truly one-of-a-kind.”
Grand Mercure Hotel Dubai, boasts 257 premium guest rooms designed with Emirati touches in the layout and décor. The hotel’s luxurious accommodation is complemented by outstanding leisure and event facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool, Misk Wellness Spa, an executive lounge, a fully equipped gym, dining outlets, one café, and nine meeting rooms. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with locally produced dates and Arabic coffee.
The hotel also offers an array of enticing culinary experiences with its specialised and family-friendly restaurants and lounges. From breakfast at Walima Restaurant to mocktails at Huzza, specialty coffee at Qova, or al fresco dining at the pool deck, Grand Mercure Hotel Dubai takes diners on an odyssey of indulgence and discovery with the finest local and international flavours.
“At Grand Mercure Hotel Dubai, we invite guests to immerse themselves in the cultural treasures and rich heritage of the seven emirates,” added Tyrone. With a uniquely local spirit, we provide travellers and residents alike the opportunity to enjoy premium international service standards and exceptional facilities, where the community can feel at home while reconnecting to their roots and discovering the unexpected in design and dining.
Emirates has successfully completed the ground engine testing for one of its GE90 engines on a Boeing 777-300ER using 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The objective of the ground testing and analysis is to demonstrate the capability of the GE90 engine to run on the specially blended 100% SAF without affecting its performance, requiring no modifications to the aircraft systems, or special maintenance procedures on the Boeing 777-300ER or GE90 engine to operate. SAF reduces carbon emissions over the fuel’s life cycle by up to 80%.
The ground test results will now pave the way for the airline’s first experimental test flight using 100% SAF in one engine, which is due for take-off this week. The testing activities involved running one engine on 100% SAF and the other on conventional jet fuel to better analyse the fuel system´s behaviour and performance under each fuel type, compare specific outputs of each engine, and ensure seamless operation of the aircraft’s engine and airframe fuel systems during the planned test flight.
During the ground testing at the state-of-the-art Emirates Engineering Centre in Dubai, the aircraft first went through its standard pre-inspection activities. After that, the stationary operating testing began by first running the Honeywell 331-500 auxiliary power unit (APU) on 100% SAF. The APU was then put under full load with SAF to start the engines. The left engine was exercised through its full power range, utilising the same settings that will be used for the experimental flight. This included idle, ‘take-off’ and ‘climb settings’ at full flight profile durations, running at maximum speed and intensity. Engines were then run at ‘cruise’ settings for 15 minutes. After the simulation ended, the engines were cooled down. Fuels were isolated in separate fuel tanks to maintain segregation of test fuels. Upon completion of the ground test, engine data was downloaded for review, comparison, and analysis.
Emirates has been working with its partners GE Aerospace, Boeing, Honeywell, Neste and Virent Inc., a subsidiary of Marathon Petroleum Corp throughout 2022 on SAF fuel blend testing. The partners have developed a blend with the same qualities and performance characteristics of conventional jet fuel and have collaborated on the technical analysis and operational requirements surrounding ground testing and experimental flight activities. The results of this initiative will provide additional data and research around synthetic fuel blend components and biofuels, supporting standardization and future approval of 100% drop-in SAF. Following the successful trial on one engine, Emirates will then continue to develop these initiatives with the engine airframe manufacturers as well as SAF providers with the goal of certifying these blends for commercial use. Currently, SAF is approved for use in blends of up to 50% with conventional jet fuel.
Emirates has long been a supporter of industry and government efforts to encourage the development of the SAF industry, and regularly participates in initiatives to contribute to SAF deployment. Its first flight powered by SAF blended with jet fuel was in 2017, operating from Chicago O’Hare airport on a Boeing 777. Emirates received its first A380 powered by SAF in December 2020, and uplifted 32 tonnes of SAF for its flights from Stockholm earlier that year, with the support of Swedavia’s Biofuel Incentive Programme. Flights from Oslo have also begun operating on SAF.
Emirates is on the Steering Committee of the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Clean Skies for Tomorrow initiative, which seeks to promote SAF deployment worldwide. The airline has also contributed to the UAE government’s work on a SAF roadmap and the WEF-supported Power-to-Liquids Roadmap for the UAE.
MCLEAN, Va and RHODES, Greece –Today, Hilton (NYSE: HLT) has announced the signing of a franchise agreement with Zetland Capital to open Lindian Village Beach Resort Rhodes, Curio Collection by Hilton. Anticipated to open by Summer 2023, the 196 room resort will be managed by SWOT Hospitality and is the latest in a series of spectacular resort properties under the brand in Greek island destinations.
Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Hilton said: “Joining more than 60 Curio Collection by Hilton hotels trading or under development in Europe, Middle East and Africa, we are delighted to announce the signing of Lindian Village Beach Resort Rhodes, in partnership with Zetland Capital and management company SWOT Hospitality. An increasingly popular destination, welcoming more than 5 million international travellers so far last year1, Rhodes is an ideal location for Curio’s unique upscale offering. This fantastic resort marks Curio’s continued growth in popular island holiday destinations, following recent openings in Santorini, Crete and Sardinia.”
Lindian Village Beach Resort Rhodes, Curio Collection by Hilton – Restaurant
Ahmed Hamdani, Founder & Chief Investment Officer of Zetland Capital, said, “Following significant refurbishment, we are excited to announce Curio Collection by Hilton’s first hotel in Rhodes. Located ten-minutes drive from the high-end picturesque town of Lindos, with numerous restaurants and a private beach, Lindian Village Beach Resort Rhodes is sure to be a hit with travellers. Our second property in partnership with Hilton, we look forward to welcoming guests to this unique and impressive resort next summer. This acquisition underpins our investment strategy to invest in well located hotels in prime Mediterranean destinations and work with strong local partners, like SWOT Hospitality to capitalise on the POST COVID-19 demand for hospitality services.”
Stelios Koutsivitis, President and one of the main shareholders of SWOT Hospitality, said: “As a team, we are excited to enter into this agreement with Hilton. We believe that the new Lindian Village will redefine the hospitality scene in Rhodes with the distinctive savoir-faire of the Curio Collection by Hilton brand. Our vision is to continue elevating the hospitality scene of Greece with top-class facilities and services echoing authenticity and local warmth.”
Lindian Village Beach Resort Rhodes will be the first Curio Collection hotel in Rhodes, one of the most visited Greek islands that boasts great natural beauty and rich historic heritage. Situated in the south-eastern part of the island near the picturesque town of Lindos, its Acropolis and a number of historic sites dated from the Archaic period to the post-Byzantine times, the 196-room resort will offer stunning sea views and garden views with access to a private, sandy beach.
Lindian Village Beach Resort Rhodes, Curio Collection by Hilton – Restaurant
Aside from its prime location, all guest rooms of Lindian Village Beach Resort Rhodes will be fitted with a private outdoor area and 85 rooms will also include a private pool or hot tub. To amplify the Curio Collection flair for authentic, curated hospitality, the resort will feature five restaurants serving a range of local and international cuisines, two bars & one gelateria, all with concept designed by Trastelis Group, owner of two Michelin star restaurants. In addition, the hotel will feature an extensive calendar of kids & family activities centered around culture, nature & wellness. Amenities will include two outdoor pools, a fitness centre, a spa, water sports, a tennis court and two meeting rooms that will be able to accommodate up to 150 people.
Guests of all Hilton properties will be able to benefit from the award-winning Hilton Honors guest loyalty programme, allowing nearly 146 million members who book directly with Hilton to earn Points for hotel stays and experiences. Hilton Honor members can also unlock access to instant rewards and benefits, such as contactless check-in with room selection and exclusive member discounts.
For more on Hilton’s development news and its growing Curio Collection by Hilton portfolio, visit stories.hilton.com.
Accor, a world leading hospitality group, today announced an exciting new addition to the Group’s unparalleled network of brands: Handwritten Collection, a global portfolio of charming bespoke hotels that offer an intimate and stylish hospitality experience. Accor already has over 110 Handwritten leads globally totaling more than 11,500 rooms, including 12 secured signings, with five properties expected to debut throughout the first trimester of 2023.
Handwritten Collection properties opening over the next several months include Hotel Shanghai Sheshan Oriental, Handwritten Collection in Shanghai, China; Le Saint Gervais Hotel & Spa, Handwritten Collection in Saint Gervais, France; Wonil Hotel Perth, Handwritten Collection in Perth, Australia; Hotel Morris, Handwritten Collection in Sydney, Australia; and Le Splendid Hotel Lac d’Annecy, Handwritten Collection in Annecy, France. Additional properties will open throughout the remainder of the year and beyond, including Hotel Les Capitouls Toulouse Centre, France; Oru Hub Hotel, Handwritten Collection in Tallinn, Estonia; Square Lodge Hotel La Roche sur Yon, Handwritten Collection in La Roche-sur-Yon, France; Sunrise Premium Resort, Handwritten Collection in Hoi An, Vietnam; Paris Montmartre Sacré Coeur*, Handwritten Collection in Paris, France as well as properties in Bucharest, Romania and Madrid, Spain. The Handwritten Collection portfolio is expected to reach more than 250 hotels by 2030.
“Handwritten Collection enriches Accor’s offering in the ‘collection brands’ segment with a curated selection of hotels that exhibit charming and one-of-a-kind concepts. Our aim, beyond delivering a truly authentic guest experience, is to support the growing number of independent and boutique hotel owners looking to boost their global profile, connect with more audiences and grow their revenue without losing their identity,” said Alex Schellenberger, Chief Marketing Officer, Premium, Midscale, Economy Brands, Accor. “The hotels we will feature in Handwritten Collection are those sought out by travelers who appreciate heartwarming travel experiences and a twist on traditional hospitality, as well as by hoteliers who cherish the unique personality of their properties while desiring the benefits that come with a leading global partner.”
With the creation of Handwritten Collection, Accor is broadening its unrivalled brand portfolio and midscale hotel offerings and will look to replicate the success it has achieved with the Group’s other collection brands across other segments. This includes the MGallery Hotel Collection, a storied portfolio in the upper upscale brand segment that now counts more than 100 boutique hotels worldwide and Emblems Collection, Accor’s first luxury collection brand, a carefully curated selection of distinctive hotels that are emblematic of their destination, designer or place in history. With a similar bespoke approach, Handwritten Collection will bring together hotels with individual personalities, intimately reflecting the character and warmth of the people who love and look after them. Like a handwritten note, each host’s individual touches will be subtly encountered at select moments throughout the guest journey. From a warm welcome that cascades into conversation, to freshly baked treats that have guests sneaking seconds into their pockets, no two hotels or stays will be the same.
A Host with Passion
Handwritten Collection offers a variety of hotels that are so distinct, it’s as if each local hotelier were inviting guests into their charming and stylish homes. The guest experience at Handwritten Collection brings to life the spirit of the host: their tastes, their passions and the little quirks of their personality. Each local hotelier provides a charming presence that weaves their character and personality into the fabric of their hotel, engaging guests with local wisdom and delightful conversation, bringing a personalized energy to the guest experience.
“The manner in which each host interacts with their guests is thoughtfully considered and brings to life their own personal passions,” added Caroline Bénard, Global SVP Economy & Midscale Brands, Accor. “Whether in a social setting or the privacy of a guest’s room, there will be moments of storytelling and engagement that create a genuine connection. This rapport between host and guest contributes to a more meaningful and memorable stay experience.’
Designed for Independent Hoteliers
The Handwritten Collection is also designed with the needs of independent hotel owners in mind. With a current conversion rate of 80%, the bulk of properties joining Handwritten Collection will be conversion projects rather than new builds, requiring a simpler transition and ramp up process and a more sustainable growth and development model. The brand’s standards are designed to be flexible, light, and easy to attain. Moreover, Handwritten Collection provides direct ROI and the opportunity for owners to maximize revenue with immediate access to the power and reach of Accor’s sales, distribution and loyalty platforms, while also benefiting from the Group’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) capabilities.
“In 2022, Accor signed on average globally more than one hotel per day and opened nearly one hotel per day. We aim to continue this growth by anticipating the needs of our guests and aligning with the investment criteria of our partners and owners. Independent hotels are increasingly seeking the strength of Accor’s powerful sales, distribution and loyalty platform to increase their revenue and assist them in optimizing their costs, whilst retaining their own distinctive personality and offering a highly qualitative product, service and experience. Handwritten Collection offers them an ideal solution, providing the option for a franchise contract and a flexible and cost-effective level of investment. We look forward to working collaboratively with owners and partners and welcoming additional hotels from around the world into this outstanding collection. With over 110 properties and 11,500 rooms in negotiation to become part of Handwritten Collection, including 12 hotels committed already, we aim to have over 250 properties by 2030.” said Camil Yazbeck, Global Chief Development Officer, Premium, Midscale, Economy, Accor.
NOTABLE HANDWRITTEN COLLECTION PROPERTIES
Hotel Shanghai Sheshan Oriental, Handwritten Collection, Shanghai, China Opening 19 January 2023
Close to Sheshan National Park, Hotel Shanghai Sheshan Oriental has over 124,000 square meters of landscaped gardens, including an outdoor beach pool for an unforgettable urban resort experience. Opening as the first Handwritten Collection hotel, the property offers a dedicated service team to set up and manage tea breaks and create bespoke dining experiences for guests.
Le Saint Gervais Hotel & Spa, Handwritten Collection, Saint Gervais, France
Opening 19 January 2023
Designed as a chic and arty holiday home, Le Saint Gervais Hotel & Spa combines the spirit of the art nouveau movement with contemporary tastes, bringing to life the beauty of a historic home. Ottoman culture will also come to life throughout the guest experience in elements such as a library corner, Turkish coffee and herbal tea infusions available in the spa.
Wonil Hotel Perth, Handwritten Collection, Perth, Australia
Early February 2023
Located on the bank of Swan River next to Kings Park and just minutes from Perth’s central business district, Wonil Hotel offers a chic modern setting. Guests will enjoy this stylish home base from which to explore a vibrant city known for its endless sunshine and pristine beaches.
Hotel Morris, Handwritten Collection, Sydney, Australia
Opening February 2023
Housed within a striking Italian Renaissance styled building, the 82-bed Hotel Morris reopens as part of the Handwritten Collection after a major restoration, intertwining European elegance with Australian character, honoring the hotel’s historic roots.
Le Splendid Hotel Lac d’Annecy, Handwritten Collection, Annecy, France
Opening April 2023
Close to the city center and Lake Annecy, Splendid Hotel offers unique Art Deco characteristics with a touch of 1950s modernity within its architecture. The hotel’s decor from renowned Designer Thierry D’Istria is complemented by a selection of eclectic artwork, sculptures and vintage pieces.
Hotel Les Capitouls Toulouse Centre, Handwritten Collection, Toulouse, France
Opening May 2023
In the heart of the city’s historic center, on the most beautiful avenue, the Hotel Les Capitouls Toulouse Center invites guests to discover its charming and warm-hearted atmosphere. Originally built as a historic private mansion, this hotel elegantly combines the charm of the Toulouse brick vaults with modern comforts and new sustainable design elements.
Oru Hub Hotel, Handwritten Collection, Tallinn, Estonia
Opening May 2023
Located in the center of Tallinn in the historic old town and a short drive to the coast, Oru Hub Hotel boasts Yoga facilities and a Tea Room. After 2 years of major renovations, the hotel will launch a new guest experience concept combining leisure, work and food in a unique way.
Paris Montmartre Sacré Coeur*, Handwritten Collection, Paris, France
Opening Spring 2024
With a typical Parisian facade and boasting intimate and cozy rooms, the Paris Montmarte Sacré Coeur is located a few minutes walk from Sacré-Coeur basilica and the cobbled streets of the beautiful Montmartre neighborhood. The hotel will serve as an ideal base to explore France’s capital and all it has to offer.
With a plan to grow the collection to 250 properties by 2030, Accor is actively seeking new properties to be part of Handwritten Collection in popular travel destinations across the globe.
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, is ramping up flights between Abu Dhabi and Jakarta from daily to double-daily.
From 1 October 2023, business and leisure travellers can look forward to 14 weekly non-stop flights between Abu Dhabi and the Indonesian capital, providing more choice, flexibility and convenience.
The flights will be operated using Etihad’s fleet of modern Boeing B787 and B777 aircraft, offering guests comfortable seats, personal inflight entertainment systems, and an award-winning and attentive service.
“Etihad Airways is delighted to boost air connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Indonesia, one of the fastest-growing economies in the world,” said Arik De, Chief Revenue Officer at Etihad Airways.
“Our new flight has been optimised to arrive in Abu Dhabi in the morning, giving travellers from Indonesia a head-start to explore the attractions of our vibrant capital city.
“At the same time, our new service leverages our recently-expanded relationship with Garuda Indonesia to make it even more convenient for UAE residents to visit Jakarta, or one of 20 other destinations throughout Indonesia.”
The strengthened air links will support the growth of trade and tourism on both sides and reaffirm Etihad’s commitment to supporting inbound tourism.
Abu Dhabi offers visitors an abundance of things to do, from family days out at modern museums and theme parks such as Louvre Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi to beautiful golden beaches and unforgettable desert experiences.
Home to over 10 million people and the largest city in Southeast Asia, Jakarta is a bustling metropolis that provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy Indonesia’s rich history, culture and nature.
Emirates Skywards has hit a new record with more than 30 million members enrolled worldwide. The award-winning loyalty programme of Emirates and flydubai is celebrating big with incredible offers including a chance to win one million Skywards Miles.
Over the past two decades, the loyalty programme has evolved and grown to become one of the most recognized and valued loyalty programmes in the world. With industry leading initiatives, innovative product offerings, and more than 150 brand partners – Emirates Skywards continues to redefine the loyalty experience for customers, in the air and on-ground.
Dr Nejib Ben Khedher, Divisional Senior Vice President Emirates Skywards, said: “Thank you to each of our 30 million members who have made Emirates Skywards the successful loyalty programme it is today. This is a major milestone for us and we are very happy to be giving back to our loyal members who have played an invaluable role in our success. Stay tuned for some of the most amazing offers this month – from a chance to win 1 million Miles, upgrades to Business Class, and complimentary Tier upgrades – we have something in store for everyone!
We always strive to provide our members the best value, choice and exceptional rewards a loyalty programme can offer – when you fly, dine, shop, or drive. We’re very proud of this milestone and look forward to the road ahead of us.”
Gift that keeps giving
From 30 January to 1 February 2023, Emirates will be offering passengers travelling on select flights special branded cupcakes on board. To celebrate the milestone, the loyalty programme will also be rolling out fantastic surprises from 23 January until 4 February 2023. This includes:
1 million Miles: Win the Skywards Miles jackpot! Join the competition from 23 January until 4 February 2023 for a chance to a grand one million Miles – enough to redeem more than 10 one-way Emirates Business Class tickets from Dubai to London. Emirates Skywards co-branded credit card holders who join the competition can also double their chances of winning.*
Emirates Skywards members travelling to and through Dubai between 30 January and 1February 2023 will also have a chance to win even more rewards. Look out for a red “30 million” sticker on your luggage upon arrival into Dubai Airports to see if you’re one of the many lucky winners!*
30,000 bonus Miles: The loyalty programme is giving away even more Miles with 300,000 Miles up for grabs. Over the next 3 days, 10 members will have a chance to win 30,000 Miles each.
10 Skywards+ packages: Enjoy complimentary access to some of the best offers available on Skywards+ including bonus Miles, flight rewards, lounge access and more.
30 Silver Tier upgrades: Become an Emirates Skywards Silver Tier member this month with a complimentary Tier upgrade and unlock fantastic benefits and rewards.
30 flight upgrades: Fly even better on your next flight and enjoy a surprise upgrade to Business Class.
30 complimentary Chauffer Drive Service vouchers: Discover the vibrant city of Dubai this month and enjoy a free premium ride to and from Dubai Airports.
Customers travelling with flydubai on 7 February 2023 can also look forward to some surprising giveaways, including:
Four Silver Tier upgrades.
75,000 Bonus Skywards Miles.
One Skywards+ package.
Two complimentary upgrades to Business Class.
Seven access passes to the flydubai Business Lounge at Terminal 2.
More than 180 countries across six continents
Emirates Skywards members come from more than 180 countries, including: 3.7 million members in the United Kingdom, 3 million in the United States, 2.2 million in the United Arab Emirates, 2.1 million in Australia and 2.1 million in India.
On average, the loyalty programme attracts more than 120,000 members per month. In the last year alone, Emirates Skywards welcomed more than 1.4 million members between April 2021 and March 2022.
From flight rewards to global sporting events
Since its inception in 2000, Emirates Skywards has expanded and diversified its brand partnerships to offer its members more innovative ways to earn and redeem Miles. The loyalty programme currently has more than 150 partners including: 16 airline partners; more than 100 hotel partners; 33 financial partners, 22 retail and lifestyle partners, 7 car rental partners.
From 2018 to 2022, members redeemed more than 140 billion Miles on flight rewards; more than 1.8 billion Miles on hotel stays; more than 10 billion on retail outlets; and more than 150 million Miles on money-can’t-buy experiences at world-renowned sporting events including US Open, Roland Garros, Grand Prix Miami, and more.
Five years of strategic partnership with flydubai
Dubai-based airlines, Emirates and flydubai, recently celebrated five years of strategic partnership. Since 2017, more than 11 million passengers have enjoyed seamless connectivity across the joint network to more than 211 destinations across 100 countries. Over the past five years, more than 8.5 million Emirates Skywards members have earned 150 billion Skywards Miles through the Emirates and flydubai partnership.
The world’s largest international airline has also recently activated a codeshare agreement with Air Canada, and expanded the partnership to offer frequent flyer members joint loyalty programme benefits. Skywards members are now able to earn and redeem Miles across Air Canada’s network. Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members travelling in Economy Class with Air Canada or Emirates can also enjoy airport lounge access in Toronto.
Award-winning streak
Emirates Skywards has won more than 50 industry awards for its innovative and world-class offerings. More recently, the loyalty programme was crowned as: “Program of the Year in Europe, Middle East and Africa” and “Best Customer Service” at the Frequent Traveller Awards 2021; “World’s Leading Airline Rewards Programme” at the World Travel Awards 2022; and ranked top 10 Best Frequent Flyer Program by USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice 2022.
Emirates Skywards membership is complimentary. Customers can join via emirates.com, flydubai.com, Emirates app, or the flydubai app. Join today using invite code “FLYBETTER” and enjoy 2,500 bonus Miles after your first flight on Emirates or flydubai.
ABU DHABI, 26th January, 2023 (WAM) — Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Executive Director of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA), stressed that the naming 2023 as the Year of Sustainability will serve as a springboard for global climate action, and aligns with the UAE’s hosting of the United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP28).
In her statement to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Sheikha Shamma said that the UAE has a long history in the fields of climate action and sustainable development, a path which the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan paved. These efforts, she added, were continued by the country’s leadership, headed by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, enabling the UAE to become an inspiring global model in dealing with climate change, through launching pioneering projects and initiatives and seeking active collaborations.
The UAE’s leadership is prioritising the issue of climate change and has taken proactive steps to accelerate the pace of its climate action efforts, Sheikha Shamma added, affirming that the country continues to attach great importance to sustainability.
She also highlighted the UAE’s pioneering efforts in the area of climate action and environmental preservation, which underscore its commitment to achieving sustainable development and limiting the impact of climate change.
Sheikha Shamma explained that containing the fallout of climate change, addressing related damage and losses, and meeting the relevant needs of developing countries are among the major global challenges related to climate action, which will be addressed at COP28.
Speaking about the role of UICCA, she pointed out that it is the product of many studies and plays a key role in achieving convergence and strengthening the communication between relevant authorities concerned with implementing related development plans. She highlighted the UICCA’s role as a research centre comprising experts who monitor all developments in the area of sustainability to develop relevant solutions that help pick up the pace of climate action and achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
On the UICCA’s international partnerships, she noted that it has signed four Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with leading international entities to exchange consultations and provide the necessary financing for sustainability projects. It has also cooperated with the US to attract American innovation projects and green technologies to the region, she added.
The UICCA also cooperates with the Atlantic Council and Canada’s Convergence network to enhance its international participation and help draft policies that respond to environmental challenges, Sheikha Shamma said. The climate crisis is the world’s most critical challenge, and carbon-emission levels are more alarming than ever, she stressed.
Expressing the hope that all parties would cooperate and engage in addressing climate change, which threatens everyone, she stated, “We are all responsible, and it is time for action, cooperation and solidarity if we are to preserve and protect our planet for future generations.”
Emirates Global Aluminium, the largest industrial company in the United Arab Emirates outside oil and gas, today announced that the UAE Ministry of Economy is to support EGA Ramp-Up, the company’s programme to foster the entrepreneurship ecosystem in the UAE and help grow the national economy in line with the Entrepreneurial Nation strategy.
Abdulla Al Saleh, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Economy said, “The Ministry of Economy is committed to supporting the UAE’s entrepreneurship, innovation and creativity ecosystem by strengthening collaboration with like-minded private and public sector partners.
“In line with the ‘Projects of the 50’ to drive the country’s economic agenda and diversification programme, We are delighted to be partnering with EGA and look forward to supporting the EGA Ramp-Up programme to champion innovators and creative thinkers.”
Khalid Essa Buhumaid, Senior Vice President, Government Relations at EGA said, “Through EGA Ramp-Up, we aim to support entrepreneurs whose businesses will contribute to economic diversification and growth. We are honoured to partner with the Ministry of Economy on this programme, and together will work to support and boost even more entrepreneurs whose success will benefit both themselves and our nation.”
The EGA Ramp-Up programme is attracting aspiring and recently-established entrepreneurs to a series of informative online courses on effective entrepreneurship. The programme will work even more closely with the most promising start-ups, providing mentoring support from a global network of experts. Start-ups aligned with EGA’s strategic objectives will be assessed for their eligibility to receive cash rewards and opportunities for collaboration with EGA.
The Ministry’s Entrepreneurial Nation platform will provide EGA Ramp-Up with greater access to budding entrepreneurs and support the programme’s outreach campaign. A member of the Entrepreneurial Nation team will join the EGA Ramp-Up evaluation panel which assesses entrepreneurs’ eligibility for support.
Applications for the EGA Ramp-Up programme are now open and more than 300 entrepreneurs have already registered for the first round. Applications will close on 27th January. To learn more about the programme and submit your application, please visit: www.ega.ae/en/ramp-up.
Entrepreneurship is one of the top priorities of the UAE and an important pillar of the 2071 Centennial plan. The National Agenda for Entrepreneurship and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises aims to make the country a destination of choice for global entrepreneurship by 2031. EGA has partnered with C3 to deliver the programme. C3 is a UAE-based social enterprise that supports entrepreneurs across the region to unlock their growth potential and maximise their positive impact on the community and the environment.
Emirates NBD, a leading bank in the region, announced that its profits rose 40% to AED 13 billion in 2022, driven by strong regional economic growth and the success of its diversified business model. The bank’s Q4 profit was particularly strong, at AED 3.9 billion, up 94% year-on-year, reflecting improving margins and a lower cost of risk.
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman, Emirates NBD, said, that Emirates NBD played a lead role in delivering over AED 31 billion of IPOs in 2022, which contributed to the growth of the Dubai economy and the development of the equity capital markets.
The bank also proposed a 20% increase in the cash dividend to 60 fils per share. Additionally, the bank reported growth in new corporate lending and deposit mix, as well as healthy credit quality and an expansion of its international footprint and digital capabilities.
“We have opened new branches in Saudi Arabia, Egypt and India, accelerating investment in our international footprint and digital capabilities to support further growth,” he added.
For his part, Hesham Abdulla Al Qassim, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Emirates NBD, said, “Emirates NBD delivered record income and operating profit in 2022 as total income grew 36 percent to AED 32.5 billion on increased transaction volumes and improved margins from an efficient funding base and higher interest rates. International operations provide diversification and growth opportunities, contributing 39 percent of total income. New lending increased substantially with record growth in retail financing and AED 50 billion of new corporate lending, helped by a buoyant regional economy and our digital transformation. Additionally, earlier this month we became the first bank to issue a public Dirham-bond following the UAE Federal Government’s establishment of a dirham yield curve, which further reinforces our national identity.”
