Heinz, makers of the world’s favorite ketchup, have released a revolutionary solution tackling gamers’ irrational love for Heinz.  Research showed that 90% of gamers struggle with snacking whiles playing, in comes Heinz, launching the robotic snack dipper ‘Hum Hum’ at the world’s biggest gaming festival in Saudi, feeding into gamers’ irrational love for dipping their snacks in sauces. The game-changing device taps directly into that passion, built on the insight that 75% of gamers wish they could eat while playing – a near-impossible feat when their hands are busy looting, conquering, and surviving challenges.

The Hum Hum was designed using a state-of-the-art mechanical hand that dips and feeds gamers while they play, satisfying their irrational love for Heinz. It is triggered by pedals to ensure gamers neither never stay off their controls nor their snacks, with future versions holding promise to recognize voice commands and even face recognition. 

Commenting on the launch, Passant El Ghannam, Head of Marketing at Kraft Heinz MEA, said: “We know that 75% of Heinz lovers wish they can dip sauces while gaming. Hum Hum is our irrational act of love to our gamer consumers’ irrational love for Heinz. It is our gift to the gaming community because every gaming session deserves to be saucy, and of course, uninterrupted.”   

Visitors to the Esports World Cup can experience the future of snacking at the Heinz booth, where Hum Hum will be on full display. Gamers and fans can witness how this ingenious device works, proving once again that when it comes to snacking, “It Has To Be Heinz.”

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Surf Abu Dhabi, the groundbreaking wave facility owned and operated by Modon Holding, features the world-leading wave technology from the Kelly Slater Wave Company (KSWC), the innovative wave technology and surf experience company. Through this partnership, the team created a high-performance wave that will be an incredible canvas for the world’s best surfing. 

“We’re looking forward to seeing what the Surf Abu Dhabi facility can deliver for the world’s best surfers – and the broader surfing world – in the future,” said Ryan Crosby, WSL CEO. “Both the evolving wave technology and the region itself present interesting opportunities for the WSL, and we’re excited to see that come to life in the coming months.”

“The collaboration with Kelly Slater Wave Company and Surf Abu Dhabi allows us to build a destination ready to welcome surfers from all levels and communities and nurture a new generation of surfers in the region. Together, we’ve created a facility that provides perfect waves time and time again, new wave profiles suitable for every level, and the uniqueness of this being the first saltwater-based wave pool. We can’t wait to welcome the world’s best surfers and all the new fans this region is bringing to the sport,” said Bill O’Regan, Group CEO at Q Holding. 

“The collaboration with the Kelly Slater Wave Company and Surf Abu Dhabi showcases our creation of a world-class facility that will provide perfect waves to a region to help grow an entirely new Surf Community in Abu Dhabi,” said Jeff Fleeher, Kelly Slater Wave Company President. “The partnership with the WSL now amplifies this opportunity, creating a platform to showcase the world’s best surfers to both new and existing fans, seated in the heart of Hudayriat Island’s broader sports ecosystem.”

The WSL Championship Tour is the highest tier of competitive surfing that crowns the annual World Champions. Surf Abu Dhabi will be amongst the elite surfing venues to host the world’s best surfers in the 2025 season. The full schedule of competitions for the 2025 CT will be released following the Lexus WSL Finals, but so far, Surf Abu Dhabi will join world-renowned venues such as the Banzai Pipeline on the North Shore of Oahu, Snapper Rocks in Queensland, Australia, and Cloudbreak in Fiji. 

The WSL Longboard Tour features three international events leading into the one-day Championship in El Salvador. Surf Abu Dhabi will host the third stop of the Longboard Tour, the Abu Dhabi Longboard Classic Presented by Modon, from September 27 – 29, 2024. This competition will play a critical role in determining the qualifiers for the Surf City El Salvador Longboard Championships, which will crown the men’s and women’s Longboard World Champions in October. 

Watch LIVE

The Abu Dhabi Longboard Classic Presented by Modon will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com and the free WSL app. Check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners. 

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com. 

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United Arab Emirates, Dubai, 04 June 2024: Emaar Properties has announced a monumental expansion of Dubai Mall, which will include 240 new luxury stores and food and beverage outlets. This project represents an investment of 1.5 billion dirhams, and the contractor is already mobilising on-site.

Announcing the impressive enhancement, Mohamed Alabbar stated, “The new Dubai Mall expansion is a great addition to one of the most visited sites in the world. We extend our gratitude to our esteemed guests and loyal customers, as well as our partners, retailers, and government authorities for their unwavering support. This expansion reflects Dubai’s ambitious vision to remain at the forefront of global innovation and culture, further solidifying our city’s position as a top global destination.”

In 2023, Dubai Mall became the most visited place on Earth achieving a new attendance record with 105 million visitors, a 19% increase from the previous year, coupled with exceptionally strong sales.

The momentum continues in 2024, as Dubai Mall remains a global retail and leisure icon, offering innovative experiences while maintaining high customer satisfaction ratings.

The post AED 1.5 billion Dubai Mall Expansion appeared first on The Source Family Magazine.

The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) of the Department of Municipalities and Transport in Abu Dhabi has announced the integration of city and suburban transport services into the “Standard Service,” which will be launched on Wednesday, 28th February 2024.

The “Standard Service” fare will be set at AED2 (Boarding Fee) plus an additional 5 fils for every kilometer crossed. 

This reflects the ITC’s relentless efforts in encouraging the use of public transport services, striving to realise the increased demand on public transport services, and reinforcing integration between its journeys to provide efficient services across the emirate, which would positively influence environmental sustainability and enhance the quality of life in the Emirate.

Expanding Geographic Range of Public Transport Passes:

The Integrated Transport Centre has expanded the geographical range of public transport passes so that the “Standard Service” will include city and suburb areas in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra (excluding intercity services). Public Transport Passes are now at the following prices, and is effective as of the date of purchase:

7-day pass is worth AED35

30-day pass is worth AED95

Updated pasess will be sold as of February 28th, 2024.

Passes operating under the previous system will stop being sold as of February 27th, 2024.

All passes issued before this 28th of February will remain valid until their expiration; it will be active within the city only in Abu Dhabi, Al ain Ain and Al Dhafra; and does not cover the suburbs areas- “Standard Service” are not inclusive.

Free transfer when Switching between Public Transport Services The ITC explained that users of public transport buses can switch between services without paying an additional AED2.00 (boarding fee).

Conditions:

Tap- in to the other service within 60 minutes of the last tap-out.

Not to transfer in the opposite direction of the journey.

Maximum 2 transfers using 3 buses.

Transfer conditions apply between Abu Dhabi Link service and public transportation bus Standard Services.

Calculating the Cost of a Single journey when Switching Buses:

Fare is calculated based on distance traveled between point of boarding and alighting; it is mandatory to tap Hafilat card on the reader when boarding and alighting from each bus. 

This ensures that the journey is regarded as a single trip; failure to tap the “Hafilat” smart card when boarding and alighting using all public transport services may result in penalties of public transport, as well as deducting the cost of the entire bus route when using the card again in the event of missing to tap-out of the bus when transferring between services or using the bus again, as it is assumed that the passenger continued riding the bus until the end of the route (the maximum possible distance). 

Therefore, passengers are kindly advised to remember to tap card on the reader when boarding and alighting from each bus.

Annual Passes for Personalised Hafilat Card Holders:

No changes will be made to the following categories: 

• free annual passes for seniors and people of determination+ 1 companion, 

• along with the annual passes for students worth AED 500. 

These passes will cover the “Standard Service” in all areas across the Emirate (excluding intercity services). 

Transport remains free for those age of 10 years and below.

It is worth mentioning that the number of passenger journeys on public buses in 2023 exceeded 83 million passenger trips. By the end of the last year, the total fleet of public buses in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi reached 825 buses, all equipped with modern and advanced specifications, operating with improved fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Public buses are witnessing increasing popularity among the public due to the quality of services, route integration, and the diversification of travel options, allowing users to reach their destinations with convenience, speed, comfort, and safety.

For more information please visit: https://itc.gov.ae/en/pb-bus-service

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Four Points by Sheraton, part of Marriott International’s portfolio of hotel brands, announces the opening of Four Points by Sheraton Al Ain. Previously developed by Rotana under thier Rayhaan brand, the conversion property provides business, government, leisure and sports visitors with a classic Four Points by Sheraton warm and welcoming experience.

The opening marks the fifth Four Points by Sheraton in the UAE and has been rebranded, refreshed, and operationally upgraded to blend comfort with style. The hotel will showcase the following features:

An updated spacious lobby and lounge area for guests to relax and unwind 

218 refreshed, modern, comfortable rooms 

33 suites with kitchenettes, lounge areas and balconies 

Enhanced meeting room facilities for business guests including a large, welcoming pre-conference hall

An expanded function hall and ballroom for weddings and larger events

An improved Sundeck Pool Café for cool refreshments and healthy snacks, and a micro-brews café concept for coffee lovers

24,000 square meters of built-up area including a tennis court and Olympic-size swimming pool

A modern fitness centre featuring a gym, sauna, and steam room 

A male salon and spa

In a statement released today, Khaled Saab, Area General Manager for Residence Inn by Marriott Sheikh Zayed Road and Four Points by Sheraton Al Ain expressed his enthusiasm for the official unveiling of the rebranded property to the public. He remarked, “Al Ain is set to become the future sustainable and cultural destination in the UAE for environmental leisure and entertainment. As such, we are thrilled to announce our grand opening, inviting guests to experience our enhanced amenities, refreshed facilities and beautiful location. We’re ready to provide an unforgettable stay for all visitors to Al Ain.”

Ramzy A. Faris, General Manager of Four Points by Sheraton Al Ain added, “As we embark on this exciting journey with Four Points by Sheraton Al Ain, we are thrilled to welcome guests to our newly transformed property. With our commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality, we are poised to become the preferred choice for business, government, leisure, and sports travellers in Al Ain. We look forward to providing an unparalleled guest experience and creating lasting memories for all who visit.”

For leisure and tourism travellers, the hotel boasts a prime location, minutes from Al Ain’s top attractions. From the iconic Sheikh Khalifa Mosque to the thrilling Al Ain Zoo, the adventurous Wadi Adventure, and the majestic Jebel Hafeet, guests are spoiled for choice. 

Sports enthusiasts can catch the action at Hazaa bin Zayed Stadium, while families can enjoy the excitement of Hili Fun City. Additionally, cultural explorers can delve into the city’s rich history at Hili Archaeological Park, Al Jahili Fort, and the bustling Al Ain Camel Market. 

Nature lovers will marvel at the breathtaking views from Jebel Hafeet, the UAE’s tallest peak, and unwind in the soothing hot springs scattered across Al Ain. Nestled amidst the scenic Hajar Mountains on the UAE-Oman border and renowned as the ‘Garden City’ for its lush greenery, Al Ain offers an unforgettable experience for sustainable adventurers.

Four Points by Sheraton Al Ain will also host suhoor and iftar for guests during the holy month of Ramadan.

The post Four Points by Sheraton Al Ain Opens its Doors  appeared first on The Source Family Magazine.

Executive Power List 2022: The 50 most influential hoteliers in the Middle East

for the 9th year in a row. Holding his place against international chains and other major industry players, Mr Soussan certainly stands out in the crowd, and of course, has put the Ayla hotel group and the city of Al Ain into the hospitality spotlight.

Celebrating a double win, in 2022, Mr Soussan also took top honours in the hospitality.com most popular general managers for UAE award.

Competing against more than 100 other entries with over 37 000 votes, the award is a testament to his dedication to the industry and his unwavering commitment to his staff.

About 

Mr Mohammed Soussan

Mohamed Soussan is an influential professional whose motivational and effective operational speeches make him a highly sought-after event speaker. His insight into every aspect of the industry and long-standing regional experience has led to the expansion of the Ayla chain both regionally and internationally.

Most recently, he successfully opened the brand’s fourth property, Ayla Ibri Hotel in Oman, as well as the Wanasa Restaurant and Café in Ayla Grand Hotel, (a 5-Star property in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates).

The coming months will see the start of the Ayla group’s international portfolio, where he will launch the brand’s first property in Djibouti.

All of the Ayla properties in Al Ain boast top-notch health club facilities, swimming pools and multiple F&B options.

The Ayla Grand (opposite Al Ain Mall) is also home to one of the top Moroccan Hammam’s in the region at the Al Naeem Spa.

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• Huge boost for students as ADEK announces mass return to in-school learning for all grades and removal of mandatory physical distancing in classrooms 

• Unvaccinated students aged 16+ to test every seven days
• Close contacts to test on days 1 and 7
• 14 days PCR test validity for vaccinated students above 16 years old, teachers and staff, and 30 days for students below 16 years old
• Sweeping changes reduce school closures to three days when 15% of total student body test positive  
• Students must present a 96-hours negative COVID-19 test result on the first day of their return to school

Teachers, students and parents throughout Abu Dhabi are eyeing a major step to education normalcy after Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) relaxed a slew of school-related Covid-19 prevention protocols.

ADEK announced in a circular sent to all private and Charter Schools that all students must return to in-classroom learning. Only weeks after ADEK removed physical distancing requirements in outdoor open areas for the current term, physical distancing requirements will be lifted inside classrooms in time for the new term.  

Complementing ADEK’s unwavering efforts to ensure the ongoing health and safety of the education sector and wider Abu Dhabi community, the updated protocols follow widespread compliance with precautionary measures across the emirate’s school community – with the proactive collective response enabling the safe return to education ecosystem normalcy.

In-classroom learning for all – minus physical distancing – for new term

All students must return to in-classroom learning for the new term, although students can be exempted if they present an attested ‘high risk’ medical report that confirms their inability to attend school in-person. Schools will also be given the option to lift physical distancing requirements in classrooms, with students in grades 1-12 required to wear face masks. This new step will enable schools to return to full capacity and empower all Abu Dhabi students to resume in-classroom education.

The full return to in-classroom education excludes students exempted on medical grounds, students showing COVID-19 symptoms, or when the school shifts to distance learning due to closure requirements.

Unvaccinated Students Return to School with Routine PCR Test

Unvaccinated students aged 16 and above can now return to school upon providing a negative PCR test result every seven days. 

However, all students must present a 96-hours negative COVID-19 test result on the first day of their return to school. Free tests are available at SEHA Drive Through Centers and private medical centers, and parents have been advised to contact the centers to confirm the availability of a free test for students. Students aged below 12 may opt for a free Saliva test at dedicated centers detailed on ADEK website.

Following their return, routine PCR test requirements mandate all vaccinated students aged 16+, teachers and staff to undergo PCR tests every 14 days, and show their green status on Al Hosn App to enter schools; same testing routine and requirements apply for the same categories with medical exemption validated on Al Hosn App. PCR test validity remain 30 days for students under the age of 16. Al Hosn Green Pass requirements will apply to all school visitors, while unvaccinated visitors will be required to present a negative PCR test result recorded within the last 48 hours.

Updated Testing Schedule for Close Contact Cases

Following the latest announcement made by relevant government entities, students, teachers and staff who come in close contact with a confirmed positive case, will be required to test on day 1 and day 7 or when they start showing symptoms. Earlier in March quarantine requirements were removed for the same categories.

Reduced School Closure Requirements 

The updated protocols also remove classroom and bubble closure requirements, with a three-day school-level closure only taking place if 15% of its student body test positive at the same time. Following the completion of closure period, close contact students must adhere to the testing schedule, while students who tested positive continue their distance learning till the completion of their isolation procedures.

Inspection visits continue

ADEK confirmed its inspection and compliance teams will continue regular visits to private and Charter Schools across the emirate to ensure the health and safety of all students. In coordination with all relevant authorities, ADEK also confirmed its commitment to continue monitoring all schools’ adherence to health and safety precautions. 

Another step towards full normalcy

The new updated protocols complement the latest relaxation of precautionary measures that came into effect earlier in March 2022. Those measures allowed for mask removal in outdoor areas, and removal of quarantine for contacts of positive cases. The updated protocols also allowed the return of all sport activities for students aged 16 and above on school premises. School trips were permitted for students in all age groups, while adhering to precautionary measures in place at the venue of the school trip.

The post AD STUDENTS RETURN TO IN-CLASSROOM EDUCATION appeared first on The Source Family Magazine.

The two-day hybrid event, which welcomed delegates both in person and virtually, showcased the clinical research undertaken at Mediclinic Middle East, and this year for the first time also welcomed external participation with 20 selected podium speakers from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Ireland and Switzerland. With over 500 delegates from 10 different countries, the conference featured podium and poster presentations with a keynote speech from Dr Alexandre Malouvier, Director of Global Data Strategy, Commercial & Strategic Healthcare & Technology Partnership at PRA Health Sciences, Paris, France, as well as a panel discussion on present and future research in the UAE.

David Hadley, CEO of Mediclinic Middle East, said, “Our annual research conference has really gone from strength to strength. Although in its fourth year, this was also a year of many firsts:  its first time as a two-day event, the first time we welcomed external podium speakers, its first time as a hybrid model and the first time that more than 500 delegates from across the globe attended.  This just goes to demonstrate the value that people place on research within healthcare, which now, more than ever, is showing its true worth as we seek to combat the Covid-19 pandemic.  

In her keynote speech during the conference, Dr. Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei Executive Director Research & Innovation, Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, said: “Here in Abu Dhabi, we have always believed that our ability to provide exceptional healthcare services is limitless, inspired by our wise leadership, who have proven to us that nothing is impossible and that we must continuously strive for excellence.”

“We have also created a central approval committee that is able to approve complex clinical trials within a maximum timeframe of four weeks.” Al Mannaei added. 

The conference culminated in the presentation of the Dr Edwin Hertzog Award, in the name of the founding Chair of Mediclinic International, for the best researcher of the year. The winner was Dr. Muzibunnisa Begam Abdul Hathi, Consultant Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fetal Medicine at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital.   

The winner of the poster presentations was Mariam Elsaban a student at MBRU. The first runner up was Dr. Rimpi Datta, Specialist Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Mediclinic Al Noor Hospital and the second runner up was Dr. Mazhar Dalvi, Specialist Endocrinologist at Mediclinic Al Noor Hospital. 

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Traffic coming from Nad Al Sheba 2 towards Nad Al Sheba 1 or the Dubai-Al Ain Road will be redirected to the new Nad Al Sheba Bridge.

The Roads and Transport Authority said the detour means traffic coming off the bridge will be redirected towards Nad Al Hamar road.

Motorists are advised to plan their journeys ahead and seek out alternative routes to reach their destination.

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