Interviews
Secretary General of NATO tells CNN: “The United States needs friends”
Dubai, UAE, April 07, 2019: Following on from his address at Congress in the United States of America, CNN’s Hala Gorani spoke to the Secretary General of North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Jens Stoltenberg.
During the interview on Hala Gorani Tonight the Secretary General of NATO confirmed that he had spoken to President Donald Trump recently and agreed with his suggestion that allies needed to pay more towards NATO.
Despite criticism NATO had received from President Trump, Stoltenberg tells CNN that the US is committed to the organisation and sends a message to the President saying ......
SAA CEO Vuyani Jarana tells CNN about the importance of connectivity between China and Africa
Dubai, UAE, March 11, 2019: This month’s episode of Business Traveller explores the trade and travel relationship between China and Africa. Three years ago, China surpassed the United States as the biggest business travel market on the globe and now more of China’s business is being done in Africa.
During the episode, CNN’s Eleni Giokos heads to Johannesburg to meet South African Airways (SAA) CEO Vuyani Jarana.
The national carrier, SAA, is one of two airlines with direct flights to and from Hong Kong. Jarana explains to the programme how seamless connectivity between China and ......
Christine Lagarde warns CNN of “big risks on the horizon”
Dubai, UAE, January 26, 2019: At the World Economic Forum in Davos, CNN’s Richard Quest spoke to the Managing Director and Chairwoman of the International Monetary Fund Christine Lagarde.
During the interview, Lagarde disputed claims that there was another international recession around the corner but forecast a “very modest slowdown” and commented “the sun is not shining as brightly as it did”.
On the future global economy, Lagarde calls the inability of global players to come to agreements on trade and tariffs a “big risk”.
Please clearly credit CNN Business with any use of this ......
Saudi energy minister on the country's Crown Prince: His ability to lead the kingdom is unshaken ...
For CNN Business, John Defterios spoke to Saudi Minister of Energy, Industry and Mineral Resources, Khalid A. Al-Falih.
During the interview, Al-Falih told CNN he doesn't "see a big economic recession" but that corrective actions are "easily within our control."
As the United States Secretary of States Mike Pompeo prepares to meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, Al-Falih suggests the two countries will continue to work well together due to “common interests, common values.” Al-Falih also speaks about the Crown Prince’s ability to lead stating “His ability to lead the kingdom ......
CNN speaks to the CEO of The Emirates Group as Dubai Intl Airport welcomes its one billionth ...
Dubai, UAE, December 22, 2018: As Dubai International (DXB) welcomes its one billionth international customer, CNN’s John Defterios spoke to H.H Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum –Chairman of Dubai Airports and CEO of The Emirates Group.
During the interview with Defterios, Al Maktoum discussed the crucial role customers have played in helping Dubai International reach their goal, saying “It’s always about the customers. The more you please your customers, they will come again and again.”
Al Maktoum also commented on the US Federal Reserve’s decision to raise inflation, ......
HRH Sheikha Latifa Al Maktoum's discusses her desire to make Dubai a global centre for creativity
Dubai, UAE, December 20, 2018: CNN Style Dubai meets Sheikha Latifa Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum for an exclusive look at her family’s private art collection and hears about her father’s desire to promote the talent of regional artists.
As Vice Chair of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, HRH Sheikha Latifa Al Maktoum hopes to take the industry to a global stage where it can be recognised internationally.
Key Quotes:
HRH Sheikha Latifa Al Maktoum on the artistic scene in Dubai:
“A thriving cultural scene is actually a sign of a very stable country, a thriving ......
Interview with Asil Attar, CEO of Al Yasra Fashion
December 12, 2018: Q&A WITH ASIL ATTAR
1. Tell us about the relationship between DKNY and Al Yasra Fashion. How has it evolved during the years?
The relationship between DKNY and Al Yasra is one of the best. DKNY has always had a strong presence in the region and a very strong and loyal customer base. GIII Apparel Group are the new owners of DKNY and bought the brand from the LVMH Group in 2016. They have a vision to re-focus their energy on the DNA of the brand as it used to be. We have a very strong relationship with GIII on multiple levels – we work closely together on ......
Dubai's quest to become the capital of the Islamic economy
Dubai, UAE, November 15, 2018: With 1.8 billion Muslims in the world and an Islamic economy - which complies with Islamic laws – growing, John Defterios reports that Dubai is positioning itself as the global capital of the Islamic economy.
Dubai is already ranked number one in the world for halal food; halal travel; modest fashion; halal recreation; and shariah compliant pharmaceuticals and cosmetics but, now, it is looking to further diversify its economy.
The launch of global initiatives to create a certified halal accreditation system is one way in which it is doing so. This initiative has the potential to be ......
Mikaela Shiffrin tells CNN: “For little girls out there growing up… you're enough.”
Dubai, UAE, October 31, 2018: Two-time Olympic champion Mikaela Shiffrin kicked off her bid for a third straight World Cup overall crown in Soelden, Austria, last weekend and will be chasing a fourth straight slalom world title at the World Championships in Are, Sweden, in February.
Alongside her summer preparation, Shiffrin earned a spot in Maxim magazine’s Hot 100, traditionally a feature which celebrates physical beauty with the strapline “World’s Sexiest Women”. However, instead of posing in a bikini or an evening gown, Shiffrin chose to wear a white ski jacket with her 2018 Olympic medals ......
The vintage cars with a high-tech secret
Dubai, UAE, September 23, 2018: While most vintage car enthusiasts seek to return vehicles to their former glory, Jonathan Ward prizes and preserves the beauty in their decay, while hiding some high tech secrets under the hood.
Ward is the founder of ICON, a California-based company that reimagines classic SUVs like Toyota FJs and Ford Broncos with modern tech and materials.
While that remains the bulk of the business, Ward has another, more unusual passion project: take vintage cars and, instead of restoring it to the way that it would have looked and driven when it was created, preserve the decay that has occurred ......
“He was young and starting his rocket ship career. I don't imagine I fit into that well”
Lisa Brennan-Jobs on the complicated relationship she shared with her father, Steve Jobs
Dubai, UAE, September 16, 2018: On the latest episode of ‘Amanpour’, Christiane Amanpour talks to Lisa Brennan-Jobs, daughter of the late co-founder of Apple, Steve Jobs.
Brennan-Jobs spoke of the complicated relationship she shared with her father, who had denied paternity for several years. After watching from the sidelines as her story was told by authors and film directors, Brennan-Jobs has decided to share her own stories of one of tech’s greatest visionaries through her new memoir “Small ......
Cheyenne Woods: Stepping out of Tiger's shadow
CNN Sport spoke to Cheyenne Woods about diversity in golf, female athletes, and stepping out of the shadow of her famous uncle, Tiger Woods.
Currently ranked No.245, Woods is now in her third year on the LPGA Tour and hoping to inspire other black women through representation.
Only eight African-American women have been members of the LPGA Tour in its 70 year history and none have won the women’s circuit, something Woods aims to change.
Key excerpts and quotes from the article:
Whilst playing at an event at Wilshire Country in Los Angeles, Woods was introduced to a family who came to watch her. ......
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Latest Postings
SalamAir Celebrates its Inaugural Flight to Port Sudan…
SalamAir, Oman’s Low-Cost Carrier, operated its inaugural flight today from Muscat to Port Sudan, marking the first operations of an Omani airline between the two cities. The new service, which will operate three flights per week, and further expands SalamAir’s network across the Middle East and Africa. With this service, SalamAir becomes the first GCC airline to offer direct air links to Sudan, strengthening connectivity between the Sultanate of Oman and Northeast Africa through affordable and convenient travel options.
The inauguration event was held at the Embassy of the Republic of Sudan in the Sultanate of Oman under the patronage of H.E. Mr. Issam Awad Ahmed ......read more
The majlis at dwtc returns this ramadan with a newly reimagined iftar experience…
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 27 January 2026: Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has announced the return of The Majlis, welcoming guests once again to one of Dubai’s most cherished Ramadan destinations. Opening on the first day of the Holy Month, The Majlis will remain open daily until Eid Al Fitr, offering a premium Iftar experience that brings people together through exceptional hospitality, elegant interiors, and thoughtfully curated cuisine.
A Reimagined Venue and Elevated Experience
This Ramadan, The Majlis returns in a newly designed setting, thoughtfully reimagined to reflect the spirit of the season. The venue blends contemporary elegance with the warmth of traditional Arabian hospitality, creating an immersive and inviting atmosphere. Exclusively ......read more
RTA Launches Campaign to Boost Passenger Safety and Comfort Culture on Dubai Metro and Tram…
An awareness campaign to enhance passenger experience and reduce risks
Multi-channel guidance messaging to ensure a safe environment and optimise passenger flow
Dubai. Roads and Transport Authority. 26th January 2026:
As part of its ongoing commitment to delivering a seamless, safe, and comfortable public transport experience, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in collaboration with Keolis-MHI (Dubai Metro and Tram Operator), has launched an new Safety and Public Transport Etiquette Campaign across Metro and Tram networks, in line with the highest global standards of safety and service quality.
Hassan Al Mutawa, Director of Rail Operations at RTA’s Rail Agency, said: “The campaign aims to reinforce a culture of courteous and responsible ......read more
Zayed Award for Human Fraternity Announces Third Honoree for 2026 Edition: Palestinian organization ...…
Zayed Award for Human Fraternity Announces Third Honoree for 2026 Edition: Palestinian organization Taawon
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates / January 26, 2026— The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity today announced Palestinian non-profit organization Taawon as the third honoree of its seventh edition. The organization will be honored alongside the historic peace agreement between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia and Afghan girls' education advocate Zarqa Yaftali during the annual award ceremony at the Founder's Memorial in Abu Dhabi on February 4, 2026.
Palestinian organization Taawon was selected in recognition of its exceptional humanitarian and developmental work, which touches the lives of over one million people ......read more
Ghassan Aboud Holding Participates in Gulfood 2026, Highlighting UAE Growth and Food Sector Vision…
Monday 26th January 2026, Dubai – Ghassan Aboud Holding is participating in Gulfood 2026, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the UAE’s vision to enhance food security, strengthen supply chain resilience, and reinforce the country’s position as a global hub for food trade and innovation.
At Gulfood 2026, the Group is showcasing a selection of its food and catering brands, including Grandiose, Olive Country, Flour Country, and Grandiose Catering. Together, these brands represent Ghassan Aboud Holding’s integrated capabilities across food retail, sourcing, production, distribution, and catering, aligned with the UAE’s strategic priorities of sustainability, diversification, and long-term economic growth.
The Group’s participation ......read more
Hotpack wins ‘Sustainable Business of the Year 2025 – FMCG Sector' at Sustainability 2040 Awards in ...…
Dubai, UAE – January 26, 2025: Hotpack, the UAE-based global leader in sustainable packaging solutions, has been awarded ‘Sustainable Business of the Year 2025 – FMCG Sector’ at the ‘Sustainability 2040 Awards in the Middle East’, a platform that recognises governments, corporates, and sustainability leaders from across the region to spotlight businesses that are not only setting ambitious ESG goals but are actively delivering against them through data-backed action, governance, and innovation.
The accolade recognises Hotpack’s proactive actions to reduce its environmental footprint and align with the region’s net-zero and sustainability ambitions, reinforcing Hotpack’s position as one of the region’s most ......read more
The first phase witnessed strong competition with the participation of 156 teams in 322 matches ...…
H.E. Sheikh Suhail bin Butti Al Maktoum: The momentum of matches and the high competitive standards in the University Games reflect the development of the university sports experience and reinforce its role in discovering national talent.
The second season of the championship sees the participation of 47 universities and more than 2700 male and female students, with a growth rate exceeding 68% compared to the first season.
The current season extends for more than seven months and includes two qualification phases, followed by quarterfinals and semifinals, leading up to the finals in May 2026.
The season includes six championships for men and women across three sports football, basketball, and volleyball in addition to the introduction of Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) for the ......read more
Kareena Kapoor Khan Inaugurates Malabar Gold & Diamonds' New Flagship Showroom in Abu Dhabi at ...…
Photo caption:
Malabar Gold & Diamonds' new flagship concept showroom & 17th outlet in Abu Dhabi at Hamdan Street, was inaugurated by brand ambassador of Malabar Gold & Diamonds and Bollywood icon, Kareena Kapoor Khan. Mr. Abdul Salam K.P, Vice Chairman of Malabar Group; Mr. Shamlal Ahamed, MD-International Operations, Malabar Gold & Diamonds; Mr. Nishad AK, Malabar Group Executive Director; Mr. Abdul Majeed, Director of Malabar Group; Mr. Faisal AK, Head of Manufacturing at Malabar Gold & Diamonds; Mr. Ameer CMC, Director of Finance & Admin at Malabar Gold & Diamonds; Mr. Sakkeer P, Head of Merchandising & SCM (Gold) at Malabar Gold & Diamonds; Mr. Shaji Kakkodi, Malabar Group Chief Digital Officer; Mr. Ranjith KV, Regional Head-UAE; ......read more
Minister of Culture: UAE's National Plan for the Registration of Cultural Heritage Elements on ...…
Abu Dhabi, January 26, 2026: His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, affirmed that the ‘National Plan for Registration of Cultural Heritage Elements on UNESCO Lists (2026-2036) reflects the wise vision of the UAE’s leadership to safeguard and promote the nation’s rich cultural heritage. The plan positions national heritage as a key driver of cultural and economic development, reinforcing the UAE’s global presence and soft power.
H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi stated: “Inscribing cultural heritage elements on UNESCO lists is fundamental to enhancing the nation’s competitiveness in international cultural and tourism indices. It also strengthens the integration of national efforts to safeguard ......read more
AED 646 million in tax refunds issued to 7,200 UAE citizens for construction of new homes in 2025…
Khalid Al Bustani: Continuously enhancing services related to Emirati families remains among the Authority’s top priorities
Abu Dhabi, 26 January 2026: The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) announced that the number of approved applications submitted by Emirati citizens to recover the Value Added Tax (VAT) paid on the construction of their newly built homes exceeded 7.2 thousand applications during the past year, with a total value of AED 646 million.
His Excellency Khalid Ali Al Bustani, Director General of the FTA, stated: “We are keen to ensure that continued attention to – and ongoing enhancement of – Emirati family-related services remain among the Authority’s top priorities, in particular the Tax Refund for UAE Nationals Building New ......read more
Air China launches direct Beijing Capital - Abu Dhabi service, strengthening air connectivity ...…
New four-times-weekly service connects Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) with Zayed International Airport (AUH), operated using Air China's Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
Brings together one of the world's largest airlines with EMEA's fastest-growing airport in its size category, following a record year in which AUH welcomed 32.5 million passengers
Anchors Abu Dhabi's role as a strategic westbound gateway for Chinese airlines and expands access across both of Beijing's primary international gateways (PEK and PKX)
Abu Dhabi, UAE – 26 January 2026: Abu Dhabi Airports has welcomed the inaugural Air China flight to Zayed International Airport (AUH), marking the launch of a new direct service between Beijing Capital International Airport ......read more
Gargash Motors Unveils New GAC Motor Showroom in Deira's Automotive District…
Dubai, UAE – January 27, 2026
Gargash Motors, one of the leading car distributors in the UAE, has inaugurated a landmark showroom for GAC Motor in Deira, Dubai. The ceremony was attended by senior management from Gargash Group, members of the GAC Motor International - Middle East team, valued partners, media, and distinguished guests. This new facility is the largest GAC Motor showroom in the United Arab Emirates, marking a pivotal milestone in the brand’s strategic expansion across the country.
Strategically located in one of Dubai’s most iconic and historically significant automotive hubs, the Deira showroom underscores GAC Motor’s commitment to accessibility, cultural heritage, and serving a diverse and growing customer base. Deira’s enduring status ......read more
RTA Completes 65% of Bridge Development Project Leading to Dubai Harbour Access Points in ...…
Al Tayer:
Project includes construction of a 1,500-metre bridge with two lanes and a capacity of 6,000 vehicles per hour
Project contributes to reducing journey time from 12 minutes to 3 minutes
Binhabtoor:
Dubai Harbour Bridge represents a transformative leap in infrastructure, connecting the city to its waterfront
The bridge eases daily commutes to and from Dubai Harbour, enhancing the quality of life for both residents and visitors
Dubai. Roads and Transport Authority. 25th January 2026:
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed 65% of the construction works on a 1,500-metre bridge project featuring two lanes in each direction, providing direct access to and from Sheikh Zayed Road to Dubai Harbour. Dubai Harbour is a landmark ......read more
Basant Panchami - Festival of Spring…
In the month of maagh, January/February, the auspicious day of Panchmi (the fifth day of the lunar fortnight in the Hindu Calendar), which is popularly known as Basant Panchmi, is considered as a blessed and sacred day and is welcomed as a harbinger of joy and exuberance. With the passing of the winter season, as soon as the season of Basant commences, there is an infusion of new energy in animals as well as birds, human beings and vegetation.
The Basant season is of special significance for Dayalbagh, the headquarters of the Ra Dha Sva Aa Mi Faith situated in the city of Agra, India. For the devotees of the Ra Dha Sva Aa Mi Faith, the auspicious day of Basant is one of extreme happiness and Bliss.
On the auspicious day of Basant Panchmi, on January 20, 1915, the fifth Revered ......read more
Rodeo drive ibn battuta gate presents a hearty all-american iftar experience this ramadan…
Dubai, UAE, January 26, 2026 - This Ramadan, Rodeo Drive Ibn Battuta Gate invites guests to gather at sunset for a soulful Iftar that blends the spirit of the Holy Month with the restaurant’s signature all-American flair. Set within the immersive spaces of Oaks Hotel, the experience offers a comforting yet vibrant way to break fast, bringing families and friends together over generous sharing plates, smoky grills and classic favourites, served in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Priced at AED 95 per person and available from 6 pm onwards throughout Ramadan, the curated Iftar menu follows a satisfying four-course journey, allowing guests to choose one starter, one main, one sides and one dessert, accompanied by a selection of refreshing mocktails, coffee, tea or ......read more
Construction milestone at EGA's UAE aluminium recycling plant as melting furnace charged for first ...…
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, 26 January 2026: Emirates Global Aluminium, the largest industrial company in the United Arab Emirates outside oil and gas, today announced that the giant melting furnace at the company's under-construction aluminium recycling plant at Al Taweelah has been charged with scrap metal for the first time, in a major construction milestone.
Completion of construction is expected by the end of the first quarter of 2026.
EGA's Al Taweelah recycling plant will have a production capacity of 185 thousand tonnes per year, making it the UAE's largest. The new plant will process post-consumer aluminium scrap, and pre-consumer aluminium scrap, which will be blended with primary aluminium into low-carbon, high-quality billets and T Bars. EGA ......read more
Emirates and Air Peace activate bilateral interline agreement, enhancing seamless global ...…
Dubai, UAE, 26 January 2026 – Building on their existing partnership, Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, and Air Peace, West Africa’s largest airline, have activated a bilateral interline agreement, expanding air connectivity between Africa, the UAE, and London.
The agreement offers passengers of both airlines frictionless, single-ticket travel and with through-checked baggage, on select routes, resulting in greater travel comfort and convenience for customers.
Beyond the 13 cities in Nigeria* already available for Emirates passengers on Air Peace’s network, the enhanced interline agreement now enables travellers to connect with Banjul in Gambia and Dakar in Senegal, both via Abidjan; and with Freetown in Sierra Leone and Monrovia in ......read more
Dubai Customs marks World Customs Day, launches Accredited Center for Training Customs Inspection ...…
Dubai, UAE – 26 January 2026: Dubai Customs is joining the world in celebrating World Customs Day, celebrated annually on 26 January, an occasion that reflects international efforts to enhance community safety and support secure trade. The World Customs Organization’s 2026 theme, “Customs protecting society through vigilance and commitment,” highlights the importance of vigilance and commitment in safeguarding communities and ensuring their stability, while highlighting the pivotal role of customs authorities within the global security system and their firm stance against prohibited and smuggled materials.
Launch of a new flagship training project
In this context, Dubai Customs unveiled its new flagship project, the “Accredited Center for Training ......read more
Savills Middle East releases Oman Property Market Report Q4 2025, highlighting stable residential ...…
Savills Middle East has released its latest Oman Property Market Report Q4 2025, providing an overview of macroeconomic conditions and key trends across Muscat’s residential and office markets.
The report highlights Oman’s GDP reaching OMR 26.6 billion by Q3 2025, reflecting 2% year on year growth, supported by performance across both oil and non oil sectors. Total property transaction values reached OMR 2.8 billion as of end November 2025, with contract volumes rising 17.9% year on year, signalling continued buyer activity.
Across Muscat, rental performance has remained broadly stable in both the residential and office sectors. Prime lifestyle locations, including Al Mouj, continue to command a premium, particularly within the villa segment. While modest rental ......read more
DAE Announces Long Term Lease of 2 Boeing 737-8 to Somon Air…
Dubai, U.A.E., 26 January 2026 – Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd today announced that it has reached an agreement with Somon Air for the lease of 2 new Boeing 737-8 aircraft. The aircraft are scheduled to deliver in 2026.
Commenting on the agreement, Firoz Tarapore, Chief Executive Officer of DAE, said, “We are delighted to announce the signing of the aircraft lease agreements with Somon Air, a new customer for DAE. As the national air carrier of Tajikistan, we are excited to support Somon Air’s growth, and look forward to deepening this relationship into the future.”
Abdulkosim Valiev, Chief Executive Officer of Somon Air, added: “We are pleased to have signed the lease agreements with DAE Capital for the new Boeing 737-8 aircraft. This ......read more
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