Trending Business Insights Jan-Mar 2022 by GTM and TBI Magazine

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AN OASIS OF SERENITY Atmosphere Kanifushi

CODIVIR - The COVID-19 Cure Is In Sight

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Is Wi-Fi 6E the Future of Connected Business?

Traditional culinary experiences

Redesigned for Ultimate Comfort

Excellence in Service Innovation

EDITOR’S LETTER

EDITOR'S NOTE GLOBAL REPRESENTATIVES

A NEW ERA OF CONTENT CREATION As we get back to the new normal of hybrid offices and working where our feet land on the ground, our goal for the magazine remains consistent in hoping to obtain as much content as possible during the Dubai Expo and all the opportunities it presents.

ASIA PACIFIC:

Fozia Fareen Melbourne, Austalia editor@trendingbusinessinsights.com MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA:

Eric Dury Dubai, UAE editor@trendingbusinessinsights.com EUROPE:

Leila A. Paris, France editor@trendingbusinessinsights.com USA:

S. Danish San Francisco, USA trendingbusinessinsights@outlook.com CANADA:

Siew Lin Vancouver, Canada trendingbusinessinsights@outlook.com

Thankfully, we are one of the cities in the world where residents have followed the Covid rules to help us stay safe and look at alternative ways to build our immunity along the way without compromising on our day-to-day life and businesses. Our oxygen is to always do things that make us happy, so we have brought you content in this issue that has given us good insights and made us smile. From our holiday in the Maldives to sampling dishes in the city's best restaurants, driving the latest cars and exploring new technology trends, we hope our stories bring you joy. The media world is much more fast-paced than the world of education and theatre that I am from, and yet my industry media peers have been most helpful in sharing ideas and have joined me in breaking bread at most events. This new journey brings me, as an actor, face to face with other artists, and I am enjoying their craft as much as, if not more than performing in theatre myself. Let us keep on creating, exploring, building, restarting and working hard towards our goals as we journey further into 2022.

MANAGING DIRECTOR Nishrat Nazeen EDITOR IN CHIEF Eric Dury FEATURES EDITOR Fozia Fareen Shereen Shabnam ART DIRECTOR Verna Muerong

BUSINESS AND LIFESTYLE UPDATES (Publishing House) Registered No. RCBS2018I11862 P.O Box 9179 Nadi Fiji Islands

(e) editor@trendingbusinessinsights.com (w) www.trendingbusinessinsights.com |2|

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CONTENTS 06

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Merging Online and Offline retail experiences

Premium Private Aviation: Royaljet

Courtney & Co. to promote exclusive natural water source and Executive Property with Equestrian facilities in New Zealand

Escape to Tranquil retreat with Zanzibar Beauty Salon

TOKTAM brings its Rose Collection to light

Superb Seakeeping: Azimut Grande Trideck

Contemporary Design & Performance: Gulf Craft Majesty 100

Radiating Elegance and Sportiness: Riva 76’ Perseo

Is Wi-Fi 6E the Future of Connected Business?

Beating Cybercriminals at Their Own Game with AI Technology

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An Oasis of Serenity: Atmosphere Kanifushi

A technological migration to the Metaverse era is well underway

The Digital Reality of Reputation Leadership

Network Identity in a Cloud-native World

Excellence in Service Innovation

Data Privacy is a Culture, not a Challenge

Healing Hands

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Journey of Discovery: Barcelona

Breathtaking Island Retreat: Langkawi Malaysia

The City of Music: Nashville

Memorable Desert Experiences

Exceptional Hospitality : Hoi An at Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai

L'Occitane Cafe Visual: L’occitane Café

Incandescent Sensuality: L’interdit

Technology Trends

Johanna Ortiz’s Sophisticated and Nature-Inspired Accessories

Statement gifts from THAT Concept Store

Horology Updates

Ready for Adventure: The new Peugeot 5008 SUV

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Redesigned for Ultimate Comfort :The new Volkswagen Teramont

Comfortable and Innovative: Audi A3

Line Investments and Properties LLC bags four awards at the MECS+R Retail Congress MENA Awards 2021

With every problem comes an opportunity

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COVER STORY

AN OASIS OF SERENITY Atmosphere Kanifushi By Eric Dury

rom the white powdery beaches and fabulous food to the lush island greenery, Maldives is a fantastic choice for a break. In this issue, we explore the luxury retreat at Atmosphere Kanifushi, situated amidst the azure Indian Ocean waters with stand-alone beach and water villas, world class restaurants and a spa. After an exhilarating 35-minute seaplane ride from Malé, we arrived at the pristine Kanifushi resort and were welcomed by musicians. From the moment we set foot on the island, we enjoyed impeccable service in elegant living spaces while enjoying the picture-perfect surrounding ocean, serene sunsets, walking along the island flanked by dense tropical vegetation and enjoying the boat rides which gave us glimpses of the vibrant, natural coral reefs. This five-star resort in the Lhaviyani Atol offers an all-inclusive luxury package, an extensive range of restaurants and bars, a choice of excursions, sunset fishing, snorkelling and discounts on spa treatments and diving. At Atmosphere Kanifushi, we enjoyed days with clear blue skies, evenings with dreamy sunsets and fiery orange skies in between a wonderful choice of meals in different types of restaurants and |6|

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indulgent treatments in the spa. Atmosphere Kanifushi has some of the best diving in the Maldives, far from the crowds with only a few other resorts in the area. The resort is five-star luxury all the way with a range of stylish villas, some designed for families with children. There is a fully equipped gym with flood-lit tennis and a children's centre. Dining at the Atmosphere Kanifushi was a culinary adventure with Maldives' first top-quality vegetarian restaurant and a great all-day restaurant offering a sumptuous ‘all-you-can-eat’ buffet-style selection of Asian, European, and Maldivian favourites, with live cooking stations, theme nights, and grills. We also enjoyed a selection of snacks during the day and numerous a la carte fine dining experiences. The resort offered activities that included sunset fishing, boat excursions, non-motorised water sports, diving and sailing, complimentary snorkelling equipment for every guest during the stay with excursions and much more. The staff at Atmosphere Kanifushi indulged us with impeccable service and smiles all through our stay. We loved the water villas that came with endless ocean views, the beach villas with space, exclusivity, a private garden with lush tropical shrubs, a private pool and being able to enjoy soft sand beneath our feet right at our doorstep.

We took a tour of the one-bedroom pool villas, the family villas with sweeping oceanfront views and two-bedroom family beach bungalows with expansive living spaces for fun family time plus easy access to the kid’s club, sports complex, and the main restaurant. The highlight was wandering through the Kanifushi Residence, a dream family hideaway, complete with a living-cum-dining room with a pantry, an entertainment room, and two bedrooms, a master bedroom, a kid’s bedroom with twin beds and an attached nanny’s bedroom. This sprawling residence with extra privacy is ideal for large families, groups who want to share a common space, and multigenerational travellers.

Our stay at Kanifushi Maldives was full of memories created by the team who took care of every little detail, organised memorable experiences for our personal celebrations and attended to our every need as we lounged and lazed around the island, soaked in the sun and enjoyed the excursions. Atmosphere Kanifushi offered blissful relaxation at every step of our holiday with white, sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, lush tropical gardens, exhilarating adventures, sumptuous dining experiences and, overall, a fun-filled and hassle-free tropical beach holiday experience.

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MAIN INTERVIEW

HEALING HANDS

CODIVIR - The COVID-19 Cure Is In Sight

Interview with Zyon Ayni, Founder and CEO of Code Pharma

s researchers, scientists and antivirus specialists work around the clock to identify ways to help protect individuals and communities across the globe against the pandemic, Netherlands based Code Pharma, led by Zyon Ayni, is one step ahead of the game with Codivir, a potential game changer medication that gets COVID-19 affected patients up and about within 48 hours with no side effects. Code Pharma is now initiating a phase 2 controlled study to be conducted in several countries with a larger cohort and has already submitted emergency approval requests to several affected countries. An entrepreneur and a businessman, Zyon founded Code Pharma to develop groundbreaking medical solutions such as Codivir, an antiviral drug that has had great success in clinical trials and has received emergency permits in different regions of the world for it to be used in treating coronavirus patients. We meet with Zyon in Dubai to talk about his many years of experience in the pharma industry, about spearheading Code Pharma into a leading global pharmaceutical entity, his role as a dad, his time with family and his upcoming fights as a professional Muay Thai fighter.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS VENTURES?

I got involved in several businesses at a young age. At 32, I had already |8|

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founded one of the largest restaurant and leisure business empires in Amsterdam. By pure coincidence, I got involved in the fascinating world of pharmaceutical industry and now I am focused on perfecting an antivirus drug for COVID-19 with my team.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO HEALTHCARE AND THE SPECIALISATION FOR ANTIVIRAL TREATMENTS?

During a routine visit to the dentist, I was waiting for my appointment and came across an article in a medical journal that talked about the Hebrew University of Israel doing studies for HIV cure and being close to a solution to beat the virus. The scientists had found a mechanism to destroy cells infected with HIV and were looking for investors who could help them turn their scientific discovery into actual medicine and my entrepreneurship nature saw this as an opportunity. I found it fascinating to be able to do something different that is positive to the world and decided to connect with the University.

GIVE US AN OVERVIEW ON CODE PHARMA AND WHEN IT WAS ESTABLISHED?

I founded Code Pharma in 2014 in the Netherlands, financed the project on my own and launched the project in collaboration with Professor

Abraham Loyter of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Today it is a global pharmaceutical company, headquartered in the Netherlands, with R&D activities centered in Israel, led by Dr. Eynat Finkelshtein and Dr. Esmira Naftali. We are focused on developing cost-effective treatments for infectious and oncological diseases by using novel peptides and bringing together outstanding professionals with multidisciplinary expertise in peptides, cell cultures, clinical development, and chemistry manufacturing.

AS A SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH COMPANY IN THE FIELD OF VIRAL INFECTIONS, HIV AND CANCER RESEARCH, WHAT MILESTONES HAVE YOU ACHIEVED?

We have already found an effective way to combat HIV infected cells and started studies where we are targeting cancer cells with the same mechanism that kills HIV affected cells. The drug has been given to stage 4 cancer patients and we saw the elimination of many cancer cells. We are looking to stabilize the medication so it can reach more cancer cells. For COVID-19, our team has concluded phase one with Codivir in Brazil. With that, the medication is proven to be safe, and we were able also to demonstrate a reduction in viral load of the patients, during the course of the treatment.

WHAT IS CODIVIR AND HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE NAME FOR THE ANTIVIRAL DRUG CODIVIR?

Codivir is a short synthetic 16 amino-acid peptide, derived from the HIV-1 integrase. It was originally found in preclinical and clinical examinations to combat the HIV virus. The first two letters Co comes from Covid, Cod is the Code from our company name and Vir is code name for virus. We are breaking the code of virus.

AS YOU AIM TO BRING TO THE MARKET COSTEFFECTIVE TREATMENTS, CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR PROGRESS FOR CURE FOR COVID-19 PHASE 2 AFTER THE SUCCESS OF PHASE 1?

During the phase 1 study, we checked the efficacy of our medication and saw patients showing clear results after the first injection. Phase 1 clinical trial of Codivir in patients with COVID-19 was approved in Brazil by the National Research Ethics Commission (CONEP). The trial was conducted at Casa de Saúde, Vera Cruz Hospital in São Paulo, Brazil, with Dr Florentino Cardoso and results showed that Codivir has a high safety profile while significantly suppressing viral patients with an antiviral effect noted as early as three days. We are now initiating a phase 2 controlled study to be conducted in Spain, Brazil, South Africa, and Israel, with a larger cohort. Code Pharma has also submitted emergency approval requests to several affected countries and to meet the expected demand, the company is preparing for mass production of Codivir in different sites worldwide. This will be initiated end of October with larger clinical studies of a minimum of 150 people.

HOW DOES CODIVIR SHOW A PROMISING EFFECT AGAINST COVID-19?

Code Pharma discovered that the peptide had a direct antiviral effect against SARS-CoV-2, the novel Coronavirus causing COVID-19. Subsequent In-vitro studies conducted at the British virology research laboratory Virology Research Services in London then confirmed a potent antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 and other RNA viruses.

Even the HIV-infected cells go into self-induced death (apoptosis), and Lentivirus manipulation in the case of cancer therapy. Our patients have shown recovery between 6 to 48 hours. Normally COVID patients have side effects like losing taste and smell, muscle pain or weakness but none of our patients have any side effects. A Manuscript describing these results has also been submitted to a peerreviewed journal as well.

TELL US ABOUT THE EXPERTS WORKING ON THE PROJECT AND WHAT DO THEY SAY ABOUT CODIVIR AND ITS RESULTS?

Dr Yotam Kolben from the Department of Medicine at Hadassah Medical Center one of the lead authors of the paper said that the preclinical data and the results of the clinical trial support the safety of Codivir administration in humans and suggest its significant antiCOVID-19 effect. He has indicated that using a direct anti-viral drug carries the potential for improving the current therapies available for COVID-19. These results show that the drug can be used to treat COVID-19 patients suffering at different levels of severity. Due to its direct anti-viral effect, Codivir may have a similar beneficial effect on other RNA viruses, such as influenza. In the UK labs, we have done similar tests on the influenza virus and had the same effect. This now suggests that it has an anti-viral effect on RNA viruses such as influenza, dengue, yellow fever. While an antibiotic is for bacteria, Codivir can be a treatment for virus infections. Prof Shlomo L. Maayan, Director Infectious Disease division at the Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon has also said that Codivir has a very good safety profile and a very impressive antiviral effect, both in laboratory conditions and in phase 1 clinical trial in humans. He eagerly awaits the results of the double-blind studies using Codivir and has said that it may be a breakthrough in the field of antiviral therapy for COVID-19 patients.

HOW HAS THE RESPONSE BEEN FROM THE GOVERNMENTS?

We are in contact with governments all over the world and expecting to get emergency approvals from a substantial number of them by the end of a successful phase II study. We are currently in Dubai and looking for local partners in the UAE and other countries to do local production and distribution.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR CSR INITIATIVES?

My philanthropic activities are mainly in Africa where I finance the expenses of orphaned children by covering their tuition and accommodation. In the future we hope to extend this initiative to other parts of the world.

WITH SO MANY GROUNDBREAKING STUDIES AND INTERNATIONAL INTEREST, DO YOU GET TIME FOR RECREATION? I love spending time with my family and have two kids. I also have a huge passion for martial arts. I am a trained Muay Thai fighter and in this year, I have eight upcoming fights scheduled in Thailand which should keep me busy in between my work for Code Pharma. Like Codivir is a miracle that beats the opponent in its fight to eliminate the virus, I need one more miracle and a lot of hard training in my Muay Thai journey to beat my opponents to victory in the professional competitions.

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INTERVIEW

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A TECHNOLOGICAL MIGRATION TO THE METAVERSE ERA IS WELL UNDERWAY

s data becomes the fifth factor of production after land, labor, capital and technology, our world is also hitting a brand-new milestone, a parallel world comprising ones and zeros known as the metaverse. The biggest difference between the metaverse and previous virtual products built on digital technology is that the purpose of the metaverse is to create a systematic and complex digital world based on multiple digital technologies, in which data validation, pricing, trading, and empowerment are all fully realized.

Roger Wu points out that existing network technology does not solve the problem of the production relationship between data producers (individuals or legal entities) and users. For example, customers need to provide their consumption data generated on the Taobao platform to the Tencent platform. At this time, users find that the current form and technology of Internet products fall short of requirements, and there is no cross-platform data flow between producers and users. The immediate needs of users are the protection of their private data as well as the free flow and convenient use of their own data.

Assessing the development of the Internet at this present moment, we have brought together digital technologies such as VR, AR, 5G, cloud computing, Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, etc. These technological innovations have created a sense of the immersion, participation, interaction, openness and other experiences that characterize the metaverse. The advent of the metaverse will drive the Internet of Information and the Internet of Value towards a new evolutionary direction. In the metaverse, people will discover a new way of living, one that distinguishes them from the physical world and offers an opportunity to reinvent their lives.

The contradiction between the pursuit of commercial interests of large platforms and the personal needs of users has shackled the development of the Internet industry, but infrastructure for the flow of data elements is being built as part of the development of Web3.0 technology powered by the metaverse – a more efficient way to allocate resources that will open up a new market.

THE VITALITY OF THE DIGITAL ECOLOGY THAT POURS FROM UNCERTAINTY

While many people will bear witness to the metaverse’s arrival, Roger Wu, who has 25 years of IT industry experience and has been deeply involved in the digital industry for the past six years, is one of the few participants promoting the future of digital construction. He has long been at the forefront of the wave of technological change leading to the metaverse, focusing on the construction of infrastructure for the coming era. In his view, a massive technological migration is underway. For the creation of the digital world, Roger Wu argues that the industrial logic of the metaverse, or Web3.0, is distinct from the linear development of the current Internet era, exhibiting emergent features that imply an unclear process but a definitive ultimate goal. Amid this uncertainty, new digital technology has a high level of tolerance and can be seamlessly integrated with all links of the industrial chain, thereby unleashing new vitality. The ultimate goal is to optimize resource allocation, reduce excessive resource waste in the physical world, and meet the needs of the spiritual world with minimal energy consumption in the virtual world. From a specific analysis perspective, distributed networks can firstly in terms of economics optimize the allocation of resources, allowing resources that were originally centralized on a large scale to be provided in a more decentralized form. Decentralizing resources also makes redeployment more flexible, as idle resources can be allocated to different demand scenarios, achieving refined management of ondemand allocation. The achievement of such a paradigm relies less on human factors and more on technical governance. Within technological evolution, data governance is an indispensable part of the development of the metaverse. In terms of data security, the decentralized organizational model of data will continue to strip away the problems caused by platformization and centralization, and architecturally gives everyone the right to realize the value of data and achieve freer data flow.

TAKE ESG AS THE CRITERION TO GAIN A FOOTHOLD OF THE KEY ECOLOGICAL JUNCTURE

In this new market, Roger Wu believes it is critical to first deploy at the core nodes of the ecosystem. Taking mobile Internet as an example, most people think moving the Internet to mobile phones marked the start of this era, but in fact, the reason why Apple succeeded in creating its ecosystem was that it deployed smartphone hardware, application stores, and applications in tandem. The same is true for the ecological establishment of the metaverse. Firstly it is necessary to identify the core position in the metaverse and then deploy rapidly. At present, Roger Wu is following this ecology structure and investing in different industrial chain links in the hope that the establishment of the underlying system ecology will promote the ecological market of the entire metaverse, laying the most core foundation for achieving the goal of the metaverse. In 2019, Roger Wu founded Anmai Cloud, which emerged with the expectation of opening up a new blue ocean market, creating digital infrastructure with ESG standards under the ecology of the metaverse, establishing a green digital and intelligent industrial supply chain, and conducting environmental assessments at all stages from the selection of raw materials, technology development, product design, energy consumption methods, and cooperation partners, so as to achieve a sustainable industrial ecology. With the resource optimization brought about by distributed architecture, lower usage costs can be achieved. By altering the resource invocation mechanism, the new infrastructure will drastically cut deployment costs. According to Roger Wu, ESG is the cornerstone for ensuring the industry’s continued health, and the only responsible construction is the one that actually produces value. From his founding of Anmai Cloud to the investment in the broader industrial ecosystem, Roger Wu has persistently sought to advance industrial growth and innovation. In his view, researching the nature of innovation is more intriguing than the return on investment. As the “1” in “1+N”, Anmai Cloud is promoting construction of the entire metaverse’s ecology. It is providing technical support for more industries and empowering the higher-level supply chain, building the core technical infrastructure surrounding Web3.0 in preparation for welcoming the metaverse. Trending Business Insights | 11 |

self-development

THE DIGITAL REALITY OF REPUTATION LEADERSHIP

In an interview with Anu Bhatnagar, Alternative Strategist Susan Furness suggests the fine line of Reputation just got finer.

he COVID-19 pandemic has sent people, societies, and corporates back to basics on the cusp of a massive shift, from here to questioning - where do we want to go, what kind of world do we want to build and what truly matters. Trust is crucial in all of this. An economic definition suggests Trust is a person’s confidence in the honesty and integrity of someone they don’t personally know. Post-Covid Trust has emerged as a high-value currency, almost a beacon of hope for people who want something to rely on as they seek certainty in this uncertain world. REPUTATION IS OMNI-DRIVEN For businesses, trust and reputation are increasingly critical challenges as well as vital assets. Weber Shandwick’s Corporate Reputation Report 2020 cites primary research suggesting that reputation is now omni-driven. And, of course this makes sense as most communication and connects are, right – omni-channels, omni-devices across omnitimes zones and even omni-generations. That is, a company’s legacy portfolio of reputation drivers are no longer dependent on solely a few, often select ‘PR’ factors. Everything matters in reputation today, from attitude of employees, to product quality, to financial performance, to corporate culture, and to communications, and of course to show ‘we’

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show up, especially in times of crisis. Businesses and leaders must learn fast that behaviours, actions, policies and promises are watched and even scrutinized by omni-communities, 24/7. The acceptance or rejection of the leaders and their policies depends on how well they are trusted to deliver on promise. SO… WHAT DOES THIS ALL MEAN FOR A BRAND? We asked Susan Furness, a brand communications legend of the UAE, known for her ability to sense ‘future trends’ to answer vital questions on Reputation Leadership. We also tapped in her fortune-telling skills to unravel the future of reputation, now. Q: PLEASE DEFINE REPUTATION LEADERSHIP FOR US. HOW DIFFERENT IS THIS FROM THE OFT REPEATED TERM REPUTATION MANAGEMENT Reputation Management, morphing into the more grown-up definition Reputation Leadership have each had their moments of fame over the last two decades, really taking off circa 2005. My considered thought then was there is no point in just managing reputation; you need to lead in it.

But is this the case today? Is it my place to lead or manage my reputation? And how does this influence brand image, if at all? Let’s unpick this. Let’s look ‘inside’ the words – Reputation and Leadership. Let’s feel into the core of their meaning. Let’s release relevance for today’s reality. Reputation is what others think of you. And no matter what you do, what one person thinks may not be what another thinks. This is because of perception. Perception is specific to the individual. What lands as say ‘interesting’ for one person, may land as ‘darn right confusing’ for the other. Another notion of perception is opinion. The presence of opinion means that reputation is not actually mine. Reputation is the opinion of me held by another. Look at it this way: my reputation held in opinion by another is either a positive gift or a positive lesson. Notice, I have suggested that they are both positive (the gift and the lesson) – which they are, if I am open to receive. Let’s look at the word leadership. Here’s my favourite definition of a leader and/or leadership. I have also included a definition for management, remembering that Reputation Management preceded Reputation Leadership as the pre-#trend in the early 2000s. The purpose of Leadership is to create more leaders. The purpose of Management is to get the job done (the process of getting the team to deploy). So, back to the main question. Here is my definition of Reputation Leadership today. First up, Reputation Leadership is an oxymoron. You cannot lead something that belongs to another, as in their perception of me is my reputation through the eyes of another. You may need to sit and think about this! You can only accept your reputation when it is given to you – as a gift (praise) or a lesson (criticism). Thus, if we consider the definition of brand image as the impression or perception or opinion or the image that another has of ‘the brand’ be it a personal brand or a corporate brand, perhaps it is Reputation Management that is the critical strategic support needed in enhancing brand equity today – in this DC to AC world (during covid to after covid). I could go on (and on) deconstructing and re-constructing brand image today, but I as I have more Qs to get through, please come back to me if you need more. WHAT IMPACT DOES SOCIAL MEDIA HAVE ON BRAND REPUTATION? In today’s digital era, reputation – or perception – is as good as a Snapchat Second. Years ago we PR pros would moot ‘it’s as long as a ‘New York Mile’. That reduced greatly to a Facebook Minute, before the second given by Snapchat or indeed Stories reduced the reputation window. Having said that, on social channels the lifespan of content too reduces the reputation-impacting content. In some cases content is uploaded and then gone before you can call the Crisis team, right? But it still may have caused a stir, or a meme, or a GIF, or even beamed up into the shared media space, which is often difficult to track.

WHO LEADS THE QUEST FOR REPUTATION LEADERSHIP AND HOW? Taking the other part of the phrase ‘Reputation Leadership’ - the leadership bit, I am going to make a statement around Leadership. And, as a strategist in business and in life, I rarely make statements these days. This is because experience has led me to find truth in observation, not opinion - a stance that I find especially critical as I deliver highimpact strategic advisory during these omni-channel, omni-view, omnigenerational, omni-timezone times. Here's the statement: Leadership is the critical responsibility in managing reputation, be it brand image, brand value, brand promise, brand delivery, brand experience and more. So yes, from the entrepreneur to the stalwart to the president to the team captain, and every leader in between, showing up is paramount to reputation management, even on the days you may want to crawl under the duvet. I call this one of the attributes of a fearless leader. And here’s more good news. Fearless leaders excel at passing the baton, empowering to create oneness of brand. It’s the fearful leaders that are perhaps seeding another oxymoron around leadership - until they let go of ego, to speak in, before speaking out. WHAT DO WE NEED TO TELL IN OUR REPUTATION LEADERSHIP STORY? Words matter. Words have energy. All words can create a ‘felt shift’ in the receiver or audience. The felt shift will ignite an action. This can be a positive, conducive action or it can be a negative, disruptive action, or it can land in no man’s land. Whatever, words spark a ‘cause and effect’. Thus, the best thing entrepreneurial leaders can do, or any organisation leader for that matter, is to spend dedicated time to co-create brand voice and capture this as a Master Message Manual. My experience shows me this is best achieved in consultancy with a non-biased strategic wordsmith with the ability to listen to the words not spoken, as well as hear the words that are alive and kicking. The next step is to allow this vocabulary and glossary to wash through the (brand, company, organization) to align every touch point, meanwhile allowing each team member the ‘trust’ to show up with individuality in customer, client, consumer, and media engagement. It’s also crucial to remember, it’s not about what you want to say, but what those you are committed to serve (your audience) want to hear or need to hear. Indeed, I offer this same steer when an entrepreneurial start-up is looking to name the company, product or service. This can be quite emotional for an entrepreneur – more about what he/she likes, visions and dreams around brand identity name, colour, logo and typeface. May I suggest that the business is NOT a/your baby. Rather it’s true ‘ownership’ lies with your customers (all stakeholders). I will explore this more in my next blog perhaps. What three things make a business leader a great champion of brand reputation leadership? 1. Talk in before you talk out 2. Listen to the heart, before you ask your head, and then engage your hands and plans. 3. Acts of love and kindness provoke acts of love and kindness in others. By Anu Bhatnagar

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SELF-DEVELOPMENT

EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE INNOVATION Hakan Ozel General Manager - Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai

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ervice innovation is a continuous improvement effort that is donated to the exchange of relationships. It is just as important as the product itself, and certainly its beauty. This relationship, if actively conducted and participated, helps to strengthen the brand experience that is naturally the most required following its promise. Uncompromising focus on exciting and delighting the customers in an innovative service manner is the way to win the game in an ever-changing environment, as we experience today.

CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

Considering tomorrow, it is a risk for organizations to remain the same as today. Strategies must be reviewed and plans should be revisited consistently while bearing in mind that what is served today might be common tomorrow for the customers. To achieve this, fresh ideas need to be brought from outside to inside to remain relevant. It is the primary responsibility of the executives since there are plenty of those innovative ideas out to inspire. The constant work on improvement must be considered and motivated by the leadership. Particularly in luxury organizations, passion and emotion drive the innovation in service.

CULTURE: CENTRAL FOCUS

It is very challenging to establish the innovative way of service and achieve the set of business goals in a consistent manner without the strong elements of an organization’s culture. The most successful companies, which are recognized with their service quality and reputation, have decades of impressive and established organizational culture. Innovative service should be an integrated part of the organization’s culture, which should be embraced as the living element in daily business life.

ATTITUDE IS LUXURY

Innovative service requires passionate talent.

Attitude is everything – it is the luxury for whichever business is conducted! Employees must own the business. They share the responsibility of keeping the customers’ dreams alive and making them happen. They should be kept motivated and engaged continuously. In this way, they can pour their energy in the company, serve the customers in an engaged manner, support and embrace the innovative service culture, and eventually improve the customer loyalty.

EFFECTS OF MARKETING

Today’s customers constantly seek something new, fresh and healthy with an exceptional level of service, particularly in luxury organizations. Constant update on products and services will keep customers excited and stop them looking for alternatives. Once this has been achieved, marketing should kick in. Segmentation, marketing and selling become crucial. Great products don’t guarantee the results! Many die because of a failure in promotion, bragging about what the organizations acquire to offer, but keeping them as the most luxurious hidden treasure. Companies spend too much time developing the products, but relatively little time in marketing and selling them.

VALUE AS A PROPOSITION

Value proposition is an important part of innovative service. The emotional and loyal manner that the customers have with the brand is a very critical key to success. Customers may question the value that the organization is giving and that they might like to know the benefits when they buy the products and services of the organization instead of the competitors’. Innovative service in an experienced manner will help to add value. This is what companies should focus on all the time.

CONCLUSION

Service innovation is a key driver in business excellence today and should be considered by all organizations. Trending Business Insights | 15 |

MANAGEMENT

MERGING ONLINE AND OFFLINE RETAIL EXPERIENCES Salim M A - Director Lulu Group | 16 | Trending Business Insights

efore the pandemic, most in store retailers were traditionally wary of spending time and effort into eCommerce but the pandemic challenges presented them with a scenario where online retail became a lifeline to reach out to consumers who did not want to be in public areas like busy shopping malls and markets. The unexpected circumstances presented retailers with a significant opportunity to do business differently and embrace eCommerce to cater to the needs of consumers and simultaneously, use the online medium to understand their ongoing requirements better, which also helped in detecting current trends on what is being bought most. As retailers, having to adapt and face this challenging economic environment resulted in new solutions and ways of doing business and in the case of the pandemic, technology played an integral role for information dissemination, booking options for goods and data management which became crucial amidst uncertainty on exports and imports. The trends spotted online of products most in demand also gave us valuable insights and influenced us on what is required for ordering for instore products. In this instance, the use of technology and data management became central to the future evolution of retail. As retailers, we have invested in a platform online to cater to this new demand and surge for online retail. We also notice a lot more interaction with our customers and through online enquiries, we get an indication of what they want, which in turn influences us on what products to order. The value exchange we have with our consumers also helps us address their concerns. Looking forward, we are inclined to keep a healthy balance between physical and online retail options in order to cater to both the customers who enjoy the in-store shopping experience and those who prefer the convenience of the online retail option.

AVIATION

PREMIUM PRIVATE AVIATION

ROYALJET

oyalJet, the Abu Dhabi-owned and operated, award-winning premium private aviation company is known for impeccable service and have recently launched a customer experience transformation project that reveals its entirely redesigned VIP lounge and its newly refurbished and upgraded BBJ aircraft. RoyalJet has been undergoing a deep internal transformation in order to consistently deliver exceptional experiences to guests according to Rob DiCastri, CEO of RoyalJet. To accomplish this, every little detail has been designed and created with the objective to reflect the rich heritage of the emirate, including featuring various pieces from local artists in the VIP lounge, utilizing locally made products throughout the experience, and serving meals on the ground and on board which are made from locally sourced ingredients. The new VIP lounge provides an immersive experience within a restful and refined environment. The colours, the sounds and even the scents have been carefully chosen in order to provide a clean and calm environment for passengers from the

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By Shereen Shabnam International Writer/PR Specialist

moment they set foot in the lounge to when they board the aircraft. In line with the company’s commitment to delivering personalised delight to its guests, passengers will soon be able to configure their entire journey; starting from the moment they decide to travel, through their experiences in the lounge and on board the aircraft and even at their destination. They will be able to choose the perfect aircraft from the diverse and growing RoyalJet fleet, define well ahead of time their meal, entertainment and service preferences in the lounge and on board and ensure that the journey is tailored to each of their family members or colleagues who are travelling with them. The newly refurbished and upgraded BBJ on display today boasts a modern and refined interior design which is purposefully consistent with the look and feel of the lounge. The environment is again intended to be calm, with clean lines and a streamlined set up in keeping with the company’s new set of guiding principles. In addition, the lighting, cabin control systems and inflight entertainment on this aircraft have been fully modernized and it has also been outfitted with Ka band high-speed internet connectivity. This is now the sixth aircraft in the RoyalJet fleet to be equipped with the highest internet speed available on the market, which allows customers to stream their favorite programs straight from the internet either on their own devices or over the cabin WIFI system. This is only the beginning of the journey into a new era for RoyalJet, with these reveals being just a taste of the changes the company will be implementing over the coming weeks and months as it continues to transform its customer experience.

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SPOTLIGHT

Courtney & Co. to promote exclusive natural water source and Executive Property with Equestrian facilities in New Zealand | 20 | Trending Business Insights

Complementing this fabulous property is a four-bedroom executive family home, including a pool, games room, garaging and spa. Together with a large barn, out buildings, stable, there are two massive equestrian arenas, training track, horse walker, and grazing paddocks , which are kept in park-like condition. According to Courtney Wood, CEO of Courtney & CO., this unique offering comes with a large annual volume take, of 100% Natural High Alkaline Mineral Water pH9, that comes from a deep underground sustainable Aquifer providing this incredibly healthy and pure drinking water. This water source is one of only ten natural sources with a bottling consent in the Auckland region. The naturally energized water sourced at the Riverhead property is super hydrating and offers revitalizing cellular health for humans and animals alike. The property has Auckland Council resource consent to construct in a factory, extract the water, and bottle at source, creating a lucrative export opportunity.

ourtney & Co., a well-respected Real Estate Company based in Auckland, New Zealand, appoints Coral Coast PR as their official PR agency for the GCC market to promote a very exclusive offering for overseas investors looking to purchase a unique equine property, with a massive natural underground pH9 Mineral Water source in Auckland. The property is 15 acres set up for horses, both for Equestrian activities and Racing. There is a current income from a tenanted dwelling that accommodates a hair salon, beauty spa, nail spa, Chinese massage and a quality three-bedroom apartment penthouse.

Located three minutes to the North West Motorway, 35 minutes to Auckland CBD and International Airport (Emirates 3 weekly direct flights). The property is perfectly positioned for a large volume water business to be established with possible future land subdivision potential. An 18-hole golf course is on the properties back boundary, with exclusive membership. Coral Coast PR is proud to be the publicity partner to bring this offering to you. The chance to purchase your own exclusive Natural Water source in New Zealand, with considerable export potential, with all additional attributes, is now. More information for the property and water business opportunities can be discussed further with the PR team at info@coralcoastpr.com.

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SPOTLIGHT

ESCAPE TO TRANQUIL RETREAT WITH ZANZIBAR BEAUTY SALON A serene experience for your face, hair, body and soul | 22 | Trending Business Insights

A treatment not to be missed alone in comfort or with your close friend.

Inaya Zanzibar, the salon’s exclusive line of Zanzibarian products, boasts a variety of enriching products for the face including Neem and Macadamia Cleansing Oil, Papaya and Starfruit Body Butter and Vanilla and Coconut Lip Balm. Perfect for a personal treat, try the manicure and pedicure services with the trendiest colour selections. More than beauty, Zanzibar is a serene wellness escape that promises the head-to-toe feeling of pampering. Service at Zanzibar Beauty Salon was impeccable and we left the salon fully pampered.

e recently enjoyed an islandic touch and captivating scents of crystal blue waters at Zanzibar Beauty Salon, a tranquil retreat on Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim Dubai.

Dedicated to revitalizing your mind, body and soul, Zanzibar Beauty Salon is a sanctuary of serenity and holistic rituals exclusively curated to create a blissful journey of rejuvenating and reinvigorating all five senses for the ultimate wellbeing. With a harmonious Zanzibar-inspired ambience and interiors that reflect Bohemic, earthy tones, the salon aims to provide a refreshing experience with their exclusive range of renowned products and services. Beauty, wellness and revival, Zanzibar Beauty Salon brings the true meaning of rejuvenation to life with ancient practices and renowned beauty traditions that were prevalent in Tanzania. Singo – a prewedding pampering ritual for brides, Hamamni baths – impressive Persian bath-houses, are a few of the traditional practices in the region that connected people together. At Zanzibar Beauty Salon, the team of qualified estheticians and therapists navigate the sensory experience for a reviving journey. Whether it’s a relaxing getaway with a friend or a pampering treat, guests can indulge in tailor-made facials, spa treatments, manicure & pedicure, hair styling, body care and hammam baths, all that promise a true immersive experience. With a choice of reinvigorating hammams, enliven your senses with a traditional Moroccan bathing ritual including steam in a spacious room and connected to a separate private relaxation room. An oasis of calm awaits with an intimate candle-lit ambience where guests can unwind and feel at home, complete with an authentic selection of teas. Trending Business Insights | 23 |

JEWELERY

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TOKTAM BRINGS ITS ROSE COLLECTION TO LIGHT

OKTAM conceptual art jewelry brings the Rose collection to life with a unique twist. Dubai-based jewellery designer Toktam Shekarriz designs the rose collection inspired by the spring rose blossoms in Qasmar, a suburb in Tehran. The beautiful pink roses are generally known for their alluring scent to be used in perfumes, however, Toktam shows the traditionally used roses in a different perspective to create the Rose collection. The collection features delicate ad lightweight pieces to represent the unique delicacy of the roses, with different sizes made up of diamonds on a rose gold base. The Rose collection bring importance to the traditions of Tehran and of the ways that the rose blossoms are used in different ways. A new year brings new memories, step into new memories with the perfect gift to yourself or your loved ones to start off the new year in the best way you possibly can. Toktam is a jewellery brand founded by Toktam Shekarriz, and the luxurious jewelry brand customizes and categorizes masterpieces from all around the world and produces different collections, and her embellished pieces of jewelry, all handmade by a group of skilled artisans at her workshop in Dubai, are akin to wearable works of art.

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YACHT

SUPERB SEAKEEPING Azimut Grande Trideck By Shereen Shabnam International Writer

very week I select one eye candy image that inspires me and this week it was Azimut Yachts second unit of the 38-meter Azimut Grande Trideck. This revolutionary model offers an extra deck in addition to the three traditional ones, completing a visual effect of cascading terraces from the top of the Sundeck down to the sea. After writing about yachts for 17 years, very little impresses me but this unit ticked all the boxes as I studied the specs and the detailed imagery that we received in our mail recently. The dynamic exterior lines are designed by Alberto Mancini while Achille Salvagni took care of the interiors. We came across the first unit of the new flagship of the Grande Collection at the Monaco Grand Prix. The Azimut Grande | 26 | Trending Business Insights

Trideck are the first triple-deckers ever built by Azimut Yachts and is a new symbol of the brand’s innovative DNA, from the Viareggio shipyard. In a volume of less than 300 GT, the Trideck proposes a revolutionary layout, a less formal lifestyle, and an unusually close relationship with the sea for a superyacht. The Azimut Trideck is composed of three decks + One, because the shipyard, together with Exterior Designer Alberto Mancini, added an extra aft deck to the three traditional ones, which completes the stern social area while creating a stunning visual effect of cascading terraces from the Sundeck down to the sea. This all-new feature brings with it a full height beach area and transforms the cockpit into a private patio, which invites the environment in through cut-outs in the fashion plates. The design allows for numerous relaxation areas that would be perfect for our evenings sailing across the coastline of Dubai as well. The extensive interior spaces owe their elegant design to Achille Salvagni, who brought his world-famous air of wellbeing onboard the Trideck – with a less formal twist. The designer fully embraces the cause of the shipyard: to offer the market a redefinition of the role of space, giving new

functionality to the onboard environments that are now more integrated with the external areas, to become extensions of one another, a harmonious continuum. Beyond eye catching design and comfortable living areas, the Azimut Grande Trideck is built on a state-of-the-art naval architecture, the new second generation of the D2P (Displacement to Planing) hull, which was developed for smooth sailing and class-leading fuel economy by Pierluigi Ausonio of Studio Plana in collaboration with the Azimut|Benetti R&D Department. Other factors which contribute to her superb seakeeping include the extensive use of carbon fiber to laminate the upper parts of the yacht, as well as stabilizer fins from CMC Marine, which are integrated efficiently thanks to their proprietary Argo software. Grande Trideck has a dual-motor option, with a pair of MTUs of 2400 or 2600 hp each. The first model under test, with an engine of 2600 hp, recorded a maximum speed of 24 knots, a range of 700 miles at 19 knots and, at a cruising speed of 12 knots, an autonomy of over 1700 miles.

Trending Business Insights | 27 |

YACHT

CONTEMPORARY DESIGN & PERFORMANCE Gulf Craft Majesty 100 By Shereen Shabnam International Writer

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t is always a delight to see our home grown brand, Gulf Craft, reveal one of its most popular yachts - the Majesty 100. Over the last two decades, we have seen the friendly team reveal one model better than the last and spend quality time with us each year exploring the yachts and showing us their new innovations. We are hence proud to witness them becoming one of the world’s leading shipbuilders. The brand has now delivered another Majesty 100, one of the bestselling models of its flagship superyacht brand that has gained acclaim globally for its innovative design, powerful performance, and massive interior volume. Manufactured at the in-house design and production facility of Gulf Craft, the Majesty 100 will set off for the Turquoise Coast in Turkey and will cruise further on to the Mediterranean Sea. Designed to the specifications of the owner, it stands out for her exquisite exterior and interior design offering ample onboard space as well as a sky lounge on the upper deck which provides spectacular views of the sea. Made of fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP), making her lightweight at 199 Gross Tons, the 31.7 metre (104 ft) Majesty 100 is powered

by twin MAN 1,900 horsepower engines reaching a top speed of 20 knots. With a displacement of about 132 tonnes, the draft of just 1.65 metres (5 ft 5 in), enables easy cruising in shallow waters and giving effortless access to the pristine beaches along her journey. With folding balconies on both sides of the cockpit, the Majesty 100’s interior features include floor-to-ceiling glazing in the main deck saloon and five spacious staterooms that can accommodate 10 guests and five crew members. Her raised wheelhouse has 270-degree vertical glass panels, a design-first by Gulf Craft, which offers the captain unobstructed views of the seascapes. The Majesty 100 is compliant with the Maritime Coastguard Agency’s (MCA) LY3, the large commercial yacht code, which outlines specifications for structural strength, weathertight integrity, machinery and installation, safety management, and clean sea requirements, among others. She has an environmentally friendly water treatment solution supporting extended trips out to sea. Majesty is one of the five brands of boats and yachts manufactured by Gulf Craft and includes its flagship Majesty 175, the world’s largest composite production superyacht, which marked its international premiere recently in Dubai.

Trending Business Insights | 29 |

YACHT

RADIATING ELEGANCE AND SPORTINESS Riva 76’ Perseo

eir to and evolution of the multiple award-winning 76’ Perseo, the best-loved Riva sport-fly of recent years proposes new aesthetic solutions combined with unprecedented functional design features, achieving excellence in terms of onboard liveability and performance.

With an overall length of 23.25 metres (73 ft 3 in) and a maximum beam of 5.75 metres (18 ft10 in), Riva 76’ Perseo Super is the result of an aesthetic and technological development effort that achieves a perfect balance of past, present and future, the product of collaboration between the Product Strategy Committee led by Mr. Piero Ferrari, designer Mauro Micheli, the founder of Officina Italiana Design with Sergio Beretta, and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department. Exterior styling featuring over 40 square metres of glazed surfaces on the hull and in the superstructure is enhanced by new stylistic features. In the

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streamlined profile, glossy black details intersect the ice white dominating the hull and main deck, in a contrast that accents both the sporty verve and classical elegance of this extraordinary sport-fly. One of the stand-out functional design elements in the evolution of the 76’ Perseo is the roof with an opening forward section positioned over the lounge, with the dual function of illuminating the space below and allowing fresh air to enter. The authentic Riva tradition echoes throughout the yacht in the form of mahogany and polished stainless steel detailing, a technical and design feature that forms part of the Sarnico-based shipyard’s legacy. The entire stern area is designed to offer maximum comfort for guests and be practical for the crew. Almost the entire swim platform can be lowered into the water, where it acts as an underwater surface to relax on and an aid to leaving the water safely.

The cockpit offers an area for socialising, with a sofa in the aft section and a teak dining table seating eight featuring the Riva logo and a stainless steel base. On request, the entire area can be converted into a big sun pad with a mechanism that lowers the table so that it can be covered with cushions. The area is enhanced with solutions that increase the level of comfort, like the option of a drawer refrigerator under the sofa or a pouffe with a low table.

Further forward is the dining area seating eight, featuring an L-shaped sofa elegantly coordinated with the oak table and black leather chairs by Arper. Forward on the starboard side and furnished with two Riva pilot seats is the helm station. The layout has three cabins for six guests, all with ensuite bathrooms, but the owner can also request a fourth cabin, configured as always to ensure optimum comfort and liveability.

On the left, under the stairs leading to the sun deck, is the entrance to the crew cabin on the lower deck. The spacious sun deck is integrated into the yacht’s aerodynamic lines, offering somewhere to relax in total privacy, plus a helm station to pilot the yacht from a privileged vantage point.

The master stateroom dominates the midship section of the yacht. Here the stand-out features for their refinement and minimalist design are the bed with leather headboard and sides, and the ergonomic and functional furnishings. The en-suite bathroom is behind a smoked glass mirror door.

The bow area, on the other hand, is fitted out as a big lounge with a frontfacing sofa that can be sheltered by a hood. A big sun pad at the tip of the bow rounds out the fittings in this private relaxation area.

On the starboard side is a guest cabin furnished with single beds and a separate bathroom, while the VIP cabin is in the bow, with a twin wardrobe and an en-suite bathroom with separate shower.

The dominant wood in the main lounge for the standard version is sand-coloured oak, juxtaposed in classic Riva style against mirror surfaces or light and dark lacquer, with polished stainless steel detailing. The lounge is a large and inviting open space. Past the glass entry door, the living area on the starboard side is furnished with a sofa, an armchair and a pouffe and a leather-topped coffee table.

The new Riva 76’ Perseo Super excites owners with excellent performance in line with the other great success stories in the sport range and is fitted with a pair of MAN V12 V-drive engines rated 1,550 mhp each. With this configuration, the yacht has a top speed of 32 knots and a cruising speed of 28 knots. The owner can also opt for a more powerful propulsion system featuring two MAN V12 engines rated 1,800 MHP each, in which case the top speed rises to 37 knots and the cruising speed to 32 knots. Trending Business Insights | 31 |

IS WI-FI 6E THE FUTURE OF CONNECTED BUSINESS? By: Dobias van Ingen EMEA SE Director and CTO, HPE Aruba

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Dobias van Ingen EMEA SE Director and CTO, HPE Aruba

espite the pandemic, the race towards Wi-Fi 6E continues at pace, and with good reason. As organizations increase their use of bandwidth-hungry video, speed up their transition to the cloud, and battle rocketing numbers of devices, the demand for Wi-Fi connectivity continues to rise. In fact, according to the Wi-Fi alliance, there are as many as 16.4B client and IoT devices now in use. The pandemic has undoubtedly been a catalyst for faster, more agile connectivity. However, wireless networks were already strained before the events of the past 14 months; for years, WLAN has been under increased pressure due to the growing number of purely wireless devices demanding higher volumes of data. The emergence of latencycritical applications such as virtual/augmented reality (VR/AR) only add to this, meaning wireless networks are fast finding themselves vastly oversubscribed, throttling application performance, and negatively impacting user experience, productivity, and the pace of digital innovation as a result. Wi-Fi 6E is widely regarded as the solve for this, promising to make Wi-Fi technology faster and more powerful than ever before. Subsequently, the Wi-Fi Alliance expects it to generate an estimated revenue of $183 billion in the US alone by 2025, which is a region that’s already committed to embracing full 6 GHz capabilities.

WI-FI 6 VS. WI-FI 6E

It’s worth remembering that Wi-Fi 6E is an extension of Wi-Fi 6 which means businesses don’t have to dive straight into this new networking advancement. There are a number of considerations and, like most things, it’s not a ‘one fits all’ approach; the needs and requirements of the business will determine the best route forwards. First and foremost, it’s vital that organizations ensure their country has adopted 6 GHz. Some countries, such as Oman, Turkey, Qatar and Jordon are still in the consultation process and so businesses based in these locations would be wise to hold back on 6E investments until a decision has been made. Assuming country adoption is in place (like in the case of UAE and Saudi for example), organizations should then consider areas such as what the new spectrum will be used for, where it’s needed, and what’s already in place. Companies most suited to 6E will be those looking to expand into high-definition video VR/AR technologies, as well as those planning a refresh of their 802.11n standard. In addition, organizations wanting to future-proof their business by protecting technology investments will

also be viable candidates for 6E adoption. The new band can extend product refresh cycles from 5-6 years to 8-10, meaning upgrades last for up to 50% longer. It’s also important to note that 6 GHz is only currently viable indoors, so companies that require outdoor connectivity won’t benefit from it at this stage. These companies, alongside organizations based in locations that have already announced they won’t be adopting the new 6 GHz band, such as those in China, should stick to Wi-Fi 6 for the time being.

WHAT ABOUT 5G?

The old argument about whether Wi-Fi is still necessary in a 5G world continues to rumble, but with little foundation. The truth is that 5G and Wi-Fi are very different, but complementary, technologies. The same applies to 5G and Wi-Fi 6E; together, they provide increased speeds, higher capacity and lower latency. Businesses don’t need to (and shouldn’t) take a ‘one or the other’ approach. Wi-Fi is a critical part of the cellular equation since approximately 60% of cellular traffic is offloaded to Wi-Fi and that number is only increasing. Wi-Fi is also cheaper to deploy, maintain, and scale; without the ability to offload traffic to Wi-Fi, 4G and 5G networks would become considerably more expensive. In addition, mobile operators would need to invest more into network densification in order to increase network capacity. It makes sense, therefore, for the two technologies to work in tandem to ensure a robust user experience.

CONCLUSION

The benefits of Wi-Fi 6E are clear and, alongside other important networking advancements, it is set to enable businesses to become more connected than ever before. It’s time for businesses to wave goodbye to sluggish connections and poor user experiences and replace them with powerful, high-speed networks. However, it’s critical that they make the right choice for them. As outlined in this article, not every company is immediately suited to Wi-Fi 6E and an incorrect investment could be a costly mistake at a time when every pound counts. Instead, businesses should spend time assessing their business needs both now, and in the future, to ensure they embark along the right path for their own digital transformation. For those utilizing AR/VR and wishing to take advantage of next generation devices, Wi-Fi 6E will be an obvious choice.

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BEATING CYBERCRIMINALS AT THEIR OWN GAME WITH AI TECHNOLOGY By Derek Manky, Chief, Security Insights & Global Threat Alliances, FortiGuard Labs

Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is a powerful technology, and because of this, it holds great potential for exploitation by cybercriminals. Considering this, the only way that security leaders can stay ahead of bad actors is by gaining a true understanding of how this technology can be weaponized. Then, they can begin to develop effective strategies for confronting AI threats head-on. | 34 | Trending Business Insights

MALICIOUS USES OF AI TECHNOLOGY As AI grows in adoption and sophistication, cybercriminals are looking for ways to seize upon its potential. The Electronic Frontier Foundation was already warning about potential malicious uses of AI back in 2018, including threats to digital, physical, and political security. And now, AI precursors combined with swarm technology can be used to infiltrate a network and steal data. Hacking into a network used to take months. But with AI and machine learning (ML) technologies on their side, cybercriminals can see this time span reduced to a matter of days. As more AIenhanced attacks are orchestrated, the techniques used in these events become increasingly available and inexpensive for more and more cybercriminals. Automated and scripted techniques can also exponentially increase the speed and scale of a cyberattack. The ability to automate the

Derek Manky Chief of Security Insights and Global Threat Alliances at FortiGuard Labs.

teams are left struggling to detect attacks at the same speed. In fact, the 2020 Ponemon Cost of a Data Breach Report notes that the average breach detection gap (BDG), which is the time between the initial breach of a network and its discovery, is 280 days. The report also found that the average cost of a data breach in the United States is $8.64M, 124% higher than the global average ($3.86M). Considering this, it is more crucial than ever that organizations adopt new strategies to make sure their networks can function as cohesively as possible.

AI TECHNOLOGY TO ADDRESS THE CYBERSECURITY SKILLS GAPS A skills gap exists in the cybersecurity sector, with security leaders often struggling to bring qualified staff on board. AI-driven security experts, in particular, are even harder to come by. This is especially dangerous when considering the fact that as AI continues to evolve, so too will the malicious uses of this technology. Organizations are now facing attacks that leverage self-learning technologies that can quickly find vulnerabilities, select or adapt malware, and actively fight off the security efforts that have been put in place to stop them. And when using AI alongside emerging attack methods (i.e., swarmbots), bad actors will gain the ability to break down an attack into its functional elements. These elements can then be assigned to various members of a swarm to enable interactive communications to accelerate the speed of an attack. entire process of mapping networks, discovering targets, finding vulnerabilities, and launching a custom attack significantly increases the volume of attacks even a single bad actor can pull off.

COMPLEX NETWORKS OFTEN LACK A COHESIVE SECURITY STRATEGY Often, network security architectures are not designed to stand up to these types of attacks. For example, it’s not uncommon for an organization to use 30 or more security-related point products within their environments. With such a setup, getting a big picture view of the organization’s security architecture requires manual consolidation of data across the different applications. This also leaves such organizations unable to quickly launch an effective coordinated response to a network-wide attack. And as cybercriminals continue to minimize their exploit times, IT security

When working to defend against these AI-enhanced attack strategies, security teams must embrace a “fighting fire with fire” approach. By understanding how cybercriminals find their success and taking a few pages from their playbooks, security leaders can redesign their strategies in order to level the playing field.

IMPORTANCE OF AI-DRIVEN TECHNOLOGY IN CYBERSECURITY While AI technology can do amazing things, it can have both positive and negative implications. Cybersecurity professionals must confidently employ that same advanced technology in counter-measures to protect networks from bad actors exploiting increasingly-advanced technology. A security strategy that uses AIenhanced technologies is vital in defending against cybercriminals, especially as networks and the attacks against them grow more complex and sophisticated. Trending Business Insights | 35 |

NETWORK IDENTITY IN A CLOUD-NATIVE WORLD By: PG Menon, Director of Marketing at Infoblox

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CLOUD-NATIVE TECHNOLOGIES TRANSFORM BUSINESSES AT A GLOBAL SCALE

Companies like Amazon and Netflix leveraged cloud technologies to go from being mail order companies to some of the world’s largest consumer on-demand businesses. Cloud-native technologies empowered them to make this transition by providing increased agility and productivity, improved scalability and reliability, and lower costs.

" Identity lies in the core of security. "

IN A BORDERLESS ENTERPRISE IDENTITY IS THE NEW PERIMETER

DNS, DHCP and IP address management collectively automates network connectivity and provides visibility into network connected devices. They enable a foundational layer of visibility and security for your network. Network identity has long been used as a means for authentication and authorization because it ensures you are who you say you are, and, only allows you to do what you are permitted to do no matter where you are located and or your access method.

IDENTITY NOW INCLUDES HUMAN USERS, DEVICES AND APPLICATIONS

In transitioning to cloud, the different types of cloud-native applications developed and deployed by organizations such as microservices, web applications or bots are inherently different than human identities and require additional oversight. For example, in operation, Kubernetes requires access to registries on the internet to download various containerized micro-services. There may be hundreds or even thousands of identities accessing resources across an enterprise network on a regular basis, each with its own unique set of circumstances.

VOLUME AND VARIETY OF CORPORATE IDENTITIES ARE PLAGUING ENTERPRISE IT

Per IDC, it is not uncommon for applications to use their own LDAP directories. Managing those directories and controlling risk is a problem. Enterprise IT simply doesn’t have the level of visibility required to truly understand which identities are performing what actions on their critical resources across multiple and vastly different cloud operating models. Moreover, the identity teams don’t have the time or expertise to keep up with the proliferation of privileges, roles, resources and services across multiple cloud platforms.

ML AND AI HAS TRANSFORMED IDENTITY MANAGEMENT

PG Menon Director of Marketing at Infoblox

Identity lies in the core of security. Traditional identity mechanisms don’t apply to modern and often hybrid workloads. Runtime authorization decisions are now made within, applications. One integrated platform instead of several discrete Identity and Access Management solutions consumed in a SaaS-delivered manner is the answer. In addition, an ML/AI-driven approach that automates the identity management processes can improve operational efficiencies. AI and ML technologies continuously monitor access relationships and patterns for every cloud resource and aligns with zero trust network access (ZTNA) model for the enterprise.

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TECHNOLOGY

DATA PRIVACY IS A CULTURE, NOT A CHALLENGE

By: Daniel Fried, GM & SVP EMEA and Worldwide Channel at Veeam Software igital technologies are used all over the world with no continent on Earth untouched. While it is incredibly difficult to quantify, various estimates put the value of the digital economy at around 4-15% of the world’s GDP, according to the UN.

Technologies such as connectivity and the cloud have generally served to promote globalization and play a unifying role for people and businesses in different parts of the world. However, in recent years we have seen cultural differences begin to come to the fore. Notably in EMEA – spearheaded by the European Court of Justice – there has been a strong challenge to the idea that data should be

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allowed to flow seamlessly from one place to another. Privacy is a human right in this part of the world, one which is rather at odds with the concept of free-flowing data and the so-called “sharing economy”. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) passed in May 2018 was the first example of a truly robust and punitive regulatory framework based on shared principles of data privacy. Over three years on, GDPR continues to bare teeth and companies failing to comply have faced heavy financial penalties. Too often regulations like GDPR and the EU’s more recent invalidation of Privacy Shield in 2020 are seen as barriers. This is possibly because data is the currency of the digital economy and restrictions on its use

To truly succeed in EMEA, technology and cloud providers must understand that privacy and trust is a cultural cornerstone of European society. Both global and regional providers must be aware of the intricacies of European privacy and sovereignty in order to appropriately meet customer expectations. For example, the GAIA-X project initiated by representatives from business, science and politics aim to create a proposal for a nextgeneration European data infrastructure. The vision is to create a digital ecosystem where data and services can be made available, collated and shared in an environment of trust for Europe and beyond.

are viewed as attacks on capitalist freedoms and innovations.This is a narrow view of what the digital economy truly is though. Data has often been referred to as currency of highly monetizable assets like oil and gold. It is however very different to these entities. It ranges from the highly confidential and deeply personally to the indecipherable and completely useless.

The implications of this for cloud providers doing business in EMEA could be damaging if it is perceived that their own methods of collecting, sharing and protecting data do not align with European privacy values. This is just another example of my belief that technology and business is all about people. The cultural attitudes towards privacy across the world are a challenge big tech companies are still getting to grips with.

Where data, particularly personal data, is similar to more impersonal entities such as oil and money, is that it’s commercial use must be regulated.

It has an immense and complex history based on the social, political and economic experiences of every individual nation.

The same as it is for banks to look after their customers’ money, businesses using data to gather valuable, monetisable insights are duty bound to protect that data. It’s a social contract, which regulations like GDPR make enforceable by law.

The fact remains that privacy is a human right, and this is not something big tech can expect to trample on. The cloud industry in particular must embrace this rather than battle against it to continue the rapid growth it has seen in the past decade.

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TRAVEL

JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY

BARCELONA

By Shereen Shabnam International Writer

very time we go to our Spanish home, we try and explore a different city, and Barcelona, the second-largest city in Spain has been a delight for all senses from visiting cultural sites, city attractions, art venues, trying out Catalan dishes and evening tapas experiences as well as taking a cruise ship that saw us visiting a number of nearby countries. It is a city steeped in history with so much to see, especially in the Gothic Quarter which is the oldest neighborhood of Barcelona. Here you will find medieval structures, Gaudi’s architecture from the 19th and 20th centuries, winding alleys, the Cathedral of Barcelona, plazas and Roman ruins. After a week on a cruise ship, we spent a lot of time in Las Ramblas, a pedestrian only street lined with cafes with the best tapas and drinks, shops and a bustling vibe. We also

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went to the La Boqueria nearby which had some beautiful Spanish gift items and then stopped at Placa Reial, a beautiful square perfect for people watching. One late afternoon we drove to El Born, which is the most trendy and artistic part of the city and explored a few avant-garde galleries, indulged in vintage shops and took a stroll with our daughter who loved the idea of sampling little plates of dishes at tapas outlets. Our favourite dishes were laced with olive oil and included seafood dishes, fried potatoes and Spanish omelettes stuffed in baguettes. Spain is famous for its tapas that are meant to be snacked on but we ordered a wide range of dishes and made a meal out of it. Seafood paella in Barcelona is an absolute must try dish and so is seafood done in different styles. I always enjoyed the cold sweet Spanish coffees that seem to inject life and energy into me in between the tours. After fuelling up on food and drinks, head to L’Eixample for some famous architectural highlights such as the La Sagrada Familia and to El Raval which has some interesting boutiques and restaurants. We were on a trail to see as much of Gaudi's work as possible so we explored the area of Gràcia which has great views of the city and is home to Gaudí’s famous hilltop park, Parc Güell. Gaudi is Barcelona’s most famous architect whose Gothic and Art Nouveau styles made him legendary around the world. We also loved Casa Batlló and Casa Milà. If you are into art, head to the Picasso museum to learn about the life of one of the most influential artists in the 20th century. There are

over 3,000 pieces of art and one of the biggest Picasso museums in the world. If you have a lot of time, head to Barcelona History Museum. There are 4,000 square meters of Roman ruins located beneath the city that you can walk through and learn more with an audio guide explaining the mosaics, wall frescoes and ancient documents. Barcelona is one of those cities where you can easily spend weeks exploring. We rented a car and drove up to Cadaques to see Salvador Dali's House - this remains one of the best experiences ever even though it took a full day to get there with multiple coffee stops, tapas breaks and winding roads but it was well worth the journey. It is best to stay the night there, get rested and explore the many attractions on the way back at. It is a beautiful city with impressive architecture, charming medieval streets, amazing beaches and has something for everyone.

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TRAVEL

BREATHTAKING ISLAND RETREAT LANGKAWI MALAYSIA By Shereen Shabnam International Writer

uring University, one of my favourite weekend adventures was to explore the different states in Malaysia and Langkawi by far was my favourite due to the laid-back vibe that reminded me a lot of Fiji. There are breathtaking views or delectable dishes at every corner to keep tourists, food lovers, water sports enthusiasts and spa aficionados smiling all day. Langkawi’s unique selling point is that it offers everything one looks for in a holiday in one setting or combine this with the hospitable service from the friendly people of Langkawi and you have a winner in a destination.

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Beach side holidays are always relaxing and selecting accommodation in Langkawi is a breeze with so much choice available in a setting that reiterates the sheer beauty of Langkawi. There are luxury hotels and resorts in the Northwestern tip of Langkawi and affordable chalets along Chenang beach which for me was just the perfect therapy after exams. Langkawi is truly an island paradise, boasting pristine beaches, secluded islands, tall mountains and running waterfalls. It has a nature sanctuary known for exotic wildlife, tropical plants and rock formations as old as the Earth. These nature attributes position Langkawi as Naturally Langkawi.

After an array of outdoor activities, my personal favourite activity is retail therapy in the night markets - the sights and smells are nostalgic of my time in KL. Tourists can also enjoy shopping experiences in malls, from the Kompleks Kraftangan to the duty-free shopping in Kuah town. The island also has authentic attractions that will definitely tempt visitors to extend their stay with a tinge of its culture such as the museums at Laman Padi, Beras Terbakar and Makam Mahsuri.

Located on the West coast of Peninsular Malaysia on the Andaman Sea, Langkawi is the perfect choice for an island getaway any time of the year due to its climate and its focus on tourism. Tourists can enjoy a multitude of attractions that can expose them to the breadth of Langkawi’s natural bounty. Popular nature attractions include touring Kilim’s mangrove forest, bird watching on Gunung Raya or hiking on Gunung Machinchang. Personally, I preferred strolling along the long sandy beach and recently enjoyed a ride on the Panorama Langkawi Sky Cab which gives visitors an eagle’s eye view of the island’s jungle, waterfalls and the turquoise sea.

If you travel with children, attractions such as the Underwater World and exciting water activities would certainly be worth a visit as well. Food is a definite must when in Langkawi so be adventurous when trying out the local cuisine, be it local, Western, Italian, Indian, Japanese or even Russian cuisine. Tourists can explore the sights of Chenang Beach and Perdana Quay for their desired meal option. The island paradise of Langkawi offers countless restaurants and cafes to suit every traveller. Langkawi is one destination I want to keep going back to again and again and for good reason. It is a place that gives you culture, food, retail therapy, water sports, adventure and spa indulgence that are perfect ingredients for a memorable holiday.

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TRAVEL

THE CITY OF MUSIC NASHVILLE By Shereen Shabnam International Writer

he first thing I fell in love with in Nashville, the music city was Nashville's premier hotel, the Gaylord Opryland Resort & convention center and the beautiful guitar exhibits. I went there to attend an IT conference with Epicor and expected a simple resort but the ambience, excitement and energy of the place made me feel I could live there for years and not get bored. The beautiful gardens beneath climate-controlled signature glass atriums, the meandering Cumberland River plus an extraordinary selection of dining, shopping and recreation options made me feel like this was more of a getaway and I thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere in between the conference. I walked through various indoor gardens, cascading waterfalls and took a boat ride on the indoor river and still had time for the spa and fitness center. Most times, the lush greenery reminding me of my own country Fiji Islands and made me feel right at home. Inspired by elements of music everywhere in the resort, I set out to see more of what the rest of Nashvile had to offer. Music is in the DNA of people from Nashville and the award-winning Station Inn is considered to be one of

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Nashville’s premier venues for bluegrass music. Notable artists have performed at this venue, which is perfect for concerts and jam sessions by up-and-coming artists. Then there is the Tennessee State Museum that tells the story of the state’s rich history over three floors of the building. Creative visitors will love the Frist Center that hosts Visual Arts displays by local, state and regional artists along with national and international exhibitions.

Music lovers will find the ‘Two Old Hippies’ a haven as a retail store offering a large selection of guitars, music, clothing and other novelty merchandise. The shop has a stage with an organ, several guitars and a drum set as well as lighting and a mixing board in a deco where walls are full of music artefacts and memorabilia. Alternatively, head to Curb Records, an independent music label founded by Mike Curb. The label’s top recordings include hits by legendary artists. A philanthropist, Curb has been instrumental in restoring historic buildings, including Columbia’s Historic Quonset Hut, a recording studio originally established by Owen Bradley, and the Johnny Cash Museum. Then there is the music Row, home to several businesses and attractions related to the city’s musical heritage. Considered the heart of Nashville’s entertainment industry, the area has the historic RCA Studio B, Columbia’s Historic Quonset Hut, Owen Bradley Park and numerous shops and restaurants. “Musica,” a large bronze statue designed by Alan LeQuire, is the centerpiece of the Music Row Roundabout. It is all about Music in Nashville. The Musicians Hall of Fame at Historic Nashville Auditorium honors the artists and session musicians who have accompanied legendary performers in a broad range of musical genres, including country, rock, jazz and soul. I naturally stopped at the Marathon Motors Factory in the heart of downtown Nashville. This area has an array of music recording studios, numerous shops, studios etc. If you like walking, head to ‘The Gulch’, a historic walkable neighborhood with hip restaurants, eclectic boutiques and vibrant nightlife venues. In Nashville's Centennial Park, the Parthenon stands as an exact replica of the Parthenon in Athens, Greece. You can see the 42-foot gilded sculpture of Athena, and temporary shows and exhibitions. There is so much to see and do in Nashville but Music is really what makes this city stand apart. I enjoyed Nashville and look forward to going back again.

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HOTEL

MEMORABLE DESERT EXPERIENCES

Al Wathba, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa By Shereen Shabnam International Writer

eading to Abu Dhabi always meant going there using the same route E11 route but recently I took a detour in the Ferrari F8 Tributo to spend a night at Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa, located deep within the expansive landscape of Abu Dhabi.

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With a design reminiscent of a historic desert village, it is an intimate retreat suffused with natural beauty, unique tranquillity, and rare experiences. Inspired by local architecture and the destination’s rich history, the resort’s guest rooms and villas feature traditional Arabesque flourishes, mashrabiya detailing, and Bedouin accessories. We liked the understated interiors and neutral tones selected to be in harmony with the desert landscape that wraps around this extraordinary hideaway. The villas come with spacious indulgence, private plunge pools and a patio that boasts unlimited views of the surrounding Arabian Desert.

The resort has several dining venues with a range of unique epicurean experiences, and we loved Al Mabeet and its authentic Emirati cuisine as well as Hayaakom, a Bedouin inspired lounge that serves afternoon tea and sandwiches. You can never go wrong with Italian cuisine and Terra Secca is a trattoria-style, classic Italian restaurant that offers guests a theatrical view of the kitchen and chefs. Within a picturesque garden, the hotel’s spa is seen as the pinnacle of the entire hotel experience. Guests at Al Wathba can enjoy a range of health and wellness rituals in a contemporary setting, whilst harnessing age-old techniques. I normally spend my mornings at Shangri La Dubai so having a similar relaxation area with a sauna, steam room and plunge pools made me feel totally at home. Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa offers cultural immersion opportunities to discover the rich heritage and history of the region with fossil Dunes nearby and the option to explore the surrounding desert on horseback for an understanding of the Emirati passion for all things equine. Other attractions close by include the camel racetrack and skilled falconers offering private shows of the UAE’s national bird. Al Wathba is also home to diverse flora and fauna, including 4,000 greater

flamingos that call the Al Wathba Wetlands home. Guests can take a guided tour of the sabkhas, or sand flats, and dunes, for an insight into their inhabitants and bird migration patterns as well as discover the medicinal uses of local plants by Bedouin tribes. Thanks to the awesome team at Cosmopole Consultancy, we are kept updated on the new experiences and offers at the Resort and look forward to more wonderful adventures out in the desert surrounding the Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa.

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F&B

EXCEPTIONAL HOSPITALITY

Hoi An at Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai By Shereen Shabnam International Writer

et within a tranquil haven in the heart of Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai, Hoi An tempts every Asian cuisine enthusiast with the best delectable Vietnamese dishes served in traditional style on bamboo platters and lotus leaves within an intimate and stylish ambience.

The extensive menu at Hoi An offers a wide variety of authentic Vietnamese dishes, complemented with an entirely Vietnamese team, both in the kitchen and for the service team. Hence guests can enjoy a mesmerising blend of flavours and traditional hospitality.

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Recently, four of us went to try some of the traditional and exciting dishes and the Chef impressed us with a creative and awe-inspiring meal while the very knowledgeable service team offered us insights into each of the dishes and were professionally perfect by understanding our dietary preferences first and then suggesting some of the popular dishes requested by regular diners at Hoi An. We started our meal with a refreshing green papaya and shrimp salad, crispy Vietnamese spring rolls and steamed seafood and spices stuffed in banana leaves. Every bite was a delight to the senses. For main course we opted for stir fried Kai Lan, prawn curry in coconut milk, grilled salmon fillet and wok fried chicken which again happened to be so good, not a spec was left on the plates afterwards. When we normally dine at an Asian restaurant, the highlight of the meal has always been the starters and the main course. At Hoi An, the menu for the desserts happened to be just as good and we ended our evening on a sweet note sampling the chilled mango soup, mixed fruits with water chestnuts and ice cream, a pandan based dessert and a coconut lemon dessert. Hoi An once again proved to be among Dubai’s most desired venues for authentic and delicious Vietnamese cuisine. Quaint and modest, we enjoyed true Vietnamese hospitality while admiring the colourful lamps in the ceiling and the exceptional service of the hospitality team. This month on Fridays and Saturdays, the restaurant is also offering the Khai Vi brunch where you can savour small exquisite dishes of Vietnamese street food prepared using culinary traditions passed on from one generation to another starting at 12pm to 4pm at AED 175 per person.

We were so impressed with the cuisine that we will be signing our daughter up for the Hoi An Masterclass where one can learn traditional cooking techniques with the expertise of the Vietnamese chefs who take you to a unique after-lunch experience. The class is held between 12 noon to 3pm and costs AED 175/- per person. Hoi An is open daily for dinner from 7pm to 11pm at Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai which is located only 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport and five minutes from the World Trade Centre, Dubai International Financial Centre, Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa.

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F&B

L'OCCITANE CAFE VISUAL L’occitane Café

By Shereen Shabnam International Writer

iving across Citywalk means I get to sample meals in the best dining venues in the city and one of my favourite places is L’Occitane Cafe which transports you to the South of France, the land that has always inspired L’Occitane's ingredients.

The interior space is quintessentially L’Occitane with the brand's signature immortelle flower, a staple ingredient in the brand's iconic formulas, brightening up the tables as well as the ceiling at its Citywalk restaurant. Now, as the indoor restaurant remains open, the casual and chic extended terrace is the place to be for those who want to enjoy the vibes of an urban sunset, soak up the sun with friends and family or escape after a busy day. The sunshine yellow shades are showcased outdoors as well.

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We recently went to sample a three-course meal and absolutely loved every dish that came to our table. It is the perfect place to indulge in your favorite French dishes in a casual setting ideal for long morning coffees to intimate dinner dates. We highly recommend the soups, the new salad dishes (poke style), Burrata salad, salmon and avocado salad, French toast, grilled steak, grilled salmon and the sandwiches and wraps. For dessert we recommend the chocolate fondant, the crepes and of course the macaroons. The best part is being able to sample the best of L'Occitane products and getting in a bit of retail therapy for skincare, fragrance and other beauty products. With sunshine yellow chairs, L'Occitane takes your senses on a journey to the sundrenched Provence. It’s the perfect occasion to sample their food menu inspired by the colors and the authentic ingredients of this beautiful region.

TRADITIONAL CULINARY EXPERIENCES

Turkish Village Restaurant

By Shereen Shabnam International Writer

ecently we ventured to the Award-winning Turkish Village Restaurant to sample their diverse range of unique authentic culinary experiences that included especially curated dishes blending authentic Turkish ingredients and flavors, complete with the much-loved art of Turkish hospitality. We discovered that the restaurant offers so much more than just good food as we entered the Jumeirah branch of the restaurant. Starting from a retail experience to a selection of delectable food with seasonal flavours and impeccable presentation, we tried different inspiring food concepts, and each was a fun and social culinary experience best enjoyed in a group. The Turkish Village Restaurant has a capacity for large events that can accommodate over 500 guests over three levels and can curate menus that can be custom made to suit any corporate or family event. When I visited with family, we opted for the a la carte menu as we wanted to try different dishes and each one was better than the last. My favourite was a metre long 'pide' or pastry which came with interesting fillings of meat and cheese fresh from the oven. More recently we ventured there with a group of friends and tried the Turkish mangal or barbecue that includes staple starters with meat marinated with spices overnight. We selected tender marinated chicken, succulent lamb, beef, kebabs and sausages and prepared the meal together at grill tables that come equipped with a private charcoal barbeque and a custom-made extractor. The mangal meal was served with salads, fresh bread out of the oven, sauces, cold starters and water or ayran. The Mangal experience can be enjoyed for lunch and dinner at AED 50/- per person that includes charcoal, water, ayran, salad and cold starters on the table while the chicken and meat can be availed from the in-house butcher starting at AED 110/- per kg to share.

We then ended the meal on a sweet note with traditional Turkish sweets that include kunafa, baklava stuffed with cream and pistachios and the creamiest rice pudding in the city. This was the best Turkish culinary experience we have had in Dubai as it offers an authentic dining experience at par with what we normally find in Istanbul or other parts of Turkey. Before leaving the restaurant, we stopped at the gourmet grocer named Bakkal (Meaning Grocery store in Turkish) on the ground floor for retail therapy. Bakkal features a diverse range of fresh, dried and frozen goods imported from Turkey every week and is a dream store for party lovers looking to get ready snacks that can be prepared easily for large families and intimate parties. The three level Turkish Village Restaurant is located strategically in Jumeirah 1 (across La Mer, next to Spinneys and the Jumeirah Grand Mosque). It offers a laid-back memorable and interactive dining experience, within a warm and welcoming ambience and is also a one-stop shop for artisanal Turkish products. We left with bags full of Turkish delights and naturally, I got some extra desserts to enjoy at home later. Trending Business Insights | 51 |

art

& design

DUBAI ART EXPO BY ARTISSIMA ART AGENCY LAUNCHED 500 ARTISTS FROM 170 COUNTRIES WITH H E SHEIKH NAHAYAN MABARAK AL NAHAYAN The historic three-day Event brought art and culture of different countries together and highlighted achievements of the nation's Art initiatives for Jubilee celebrations

rtissima Art Agency introduced the Dubai Art Expo with a record of over 500 artists from over 170 countries with a grand opening at the Meydan Hotel with visual artists, followed by performances from five continents including Art Talks and Shows. The event was attended by H. E Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Cabinet Member and Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and curated by Aurela Cuku, Founder of Artissima Art Agency. The historic event was an initiative from the UAE for the world artists to celebrate the golden jubilee of the UAE and showcased exquisite art while fostering mutual cooperation that built bridges between nations.

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There were a series of talks on art by renowned artists and performing arts personalities. Attending the event on the first day was the Minister of Culture from Albania, Elva Margariti, Fiji Ambassador, H. E Naipote Katonitabua, President of Peace Run Italy, Alfredo de Joanan, Bernard Dika from national Park for Peace with a strong representation from the Colors of Peace. On the second day, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhoods with Akaas Visual Arts played host to the Association of Colours of Peace exhibition, a non-profit association that promotes children’s art internationally to reduce cultural, social and economic distances between rich and poor countries with messages of peace, tolerance and unity. Children from the UAE will be drawing for peace.

The President of 'Colors for Peace', Antonio Giannelli, Bernard Dika, Councillor at National Park for Peace Sant’Anna di Stazzema and Councillor for Innovation and Youth Policies of the Tuscan Region, Italy together with the President of Peace Run, Alfredo De Joannon endorsed the Peace torch to Angelo Baldini, the President at Cycling team MG K VIS. The cyclists rode from the Meydan Hotel to Al Fahidi area for the awareness of the Colors for Peace initiative. This was followed by the show 'Symbols of Peace and Love' by the well-known Syrian artist Badie Jahjah, a spiritual artist. On the last day, there were Art Talks with the Secretary General of the Foundation Centro Conservazione e Restauro “La Venaria Reale” Sara Abram in presence of Dr Platon Alexiou, Dr Najat Al Saeed and Dr. Nasser Palangi. This was followed by the show “Caravaggio” by the well-known

Italian artist Mimmo Centonze. There will also be additional insights from Dr. Carla Barbara Coppi in her new book. Aurela Cuku, Curator of the exhibition and Founder of Artissima Art Agency was a catalyst in bringing art from all over the world to encourage a culture of art and heritage appreciation. Artissima Art Agency has helped evolve the art community consistently over the last decade, launching the region's best artists and art shows under one roof. The event was sponsored by San Marino Welcome, Morals General Contracting LLC, Anker, Studio Emme and Creative Artestic.

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FRAGRANCES

INCANDESCENT SENSUALITY L’INTERDIT

Eau de parfum rouge

efying convention, breaking free, vibrating since its creation, L’Interdit has always been a strong catalyst of liberating powers. With the Eau de Parfum Rouge, L’Interdit arouses and burns with incandescent sensuality. It is not about resisting it but giving in to it. Created by Master Perfumers Dominique Ropion, Anne Flipo and Fanny Bal, the Eau de Parfum Rouge sets ablaze the underground signature of L’Interdit. A burning rouge accord with heightened sensuality infuses the fragrance. The original floral bouquet is taken over by the heat of a tangy blood orange. The latter’s explosive notes galvanise the aphrodisiac accents of ginger with a burst of freshness. The vibrant composition is set alight in an ultimate fusion with the pimento leaf and releases a sensual, utterly seductive, spicy accord. The subversive woody base notes, with smoky, underground accents from vetiver and patchouli, blend with the captivating, languorous sweetness of sandalwood from New Caledonia creating a burning, sensuous signature. The Eau de Parfum Rouge beats with new sensuality and its alluring fragrance overwhelms you with an all-consuming attraction.

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HERE'S WHY WE CAN'T WAIT TO GET ORIANA ON OUR WRISTS There is something about the captivating luxury of Oriana's gleaming deep pink attire that makes us look at it and think "This is so going to be our go-to scent for Fall!" Oriana is a new, addictive world of indulgence, the story of a heroine with character and a hypnotic sillage. Delicate and airy like a muslin dress, Oriana surprises with a sparkling fruity and floral gourmet, designed entirely as a variation on texture, a ‘mille-feuille’ of flaky sweetness, softness, sensuality, energy and light, which is anchored with euphoric and seductive notes of orange blossom.

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GADGETS

TECHNOLOGY TRENDS Start your month with a selection of gadgets curated by Natasha Dury, Founder of NJD Concepts and @new_technology_trends.

ANKER NANO CHARGER The Anker Nano is a super-small 20W Charger and designed with powerful output to match the max input required on an iPhone, so you can provide exactly as much power as your iPhone needs at the fastest possible time. With the latest PowerIQ 3.0 Technology, the Anker Nano provides lightning-fast charge and can power up an iPhone 12 / 12 Pro to 50% in just 25 minutes, that’s up to three times faster than with an original 5W charger. Measuring just over 1 inch on each side and weighing about the same as a AA battery, this is a high-speed charger with unrivaled power and portability. The Anker Nano Charger is optimized to work flawlessly with a wide range of smartphones, tablets, airpods, Android phones and more, so now you can charge all of your mobile devices via a single ultra-portable charger at the fastest possible time.

ANKER POWERLINE III FLOW USB-C - L CABLE The new Anker PowerLine III Flow charging cable is designed with silicone finish and is one of the softest yet strongest cables you will feel in the market. PowerLine III Flow has a 25,000bend lifespan, more than enough to handle the stresses and strain of charging on the go and remains tangle-free even when stuffed into bag or pocket or wrapped around a portable charger. PowerLine III Flow supports PD charging thus facilitates fast charging using fast charger. The new cable comes available in four amazing colours and can work flawlessly with all your lightning devices, including iPhone 12 and iPad.

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TOSHIBA RZE-BT1200H NOISE CANCELLING BLUETOOTH HEADPHONES Toshiba wireless headphones have a strong 33 FT working range with crystal clear audio technology and 20 hours of Noise Cancelling Music Playback Time continuously on a full charge. It also means the built-In Microphone can offer 20 hours of Talk Time with the advanced battery life. The Integrated microphone lets you quickly answer phone calls without having to take your phone out. The Toshiba Bluetooth headset also has deep bass high power and unmatched sound accuracy.

CANVIO FLEX Canvio FlexTM is the new USB-C® portable storage designed for cross platform compatibility. Combining compatibility and portability, the Canvio Flex is built for your digital lifestyle. To try out new gadgets, we need freedom of choice. Canvio Flex is designed to work interchangeably with most major device platforms and operating systems. This drive allows you to seamlessly access data and share between devices. The Canvio Flex offers storage in its most compatible form, enabling you to seamlessly store and access your data on Mac, Windows PC and tablet devices* interchangeably with a simple one-stop solution. It meets the evolving needs for storage solutions suited for a broad range of users, including multi-platform users, gamers, business professionals, outdoor photographers, and students.

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ACCESSORIES

JOHANNA ORTIZ’S SOPHISTICATED AND NATUREINSPIRED ACCESSORIES Johanna Ortiz’s Resort 2022 collection Celia is filled with sophisticated accessories inspired by nature. Dressed up or dressed down, these accessories create an effortless elegance to any outfit this coming season. Celia brings back the spirit of Cuban stars and the elegance of women – an extra feminine sense of style that radiates joy and happiness. The accessories are all about crafts with an edge. Necklaces are reminiscent of traditional jewelry, combining seeds with wood and natural stones that create a relaxing, meditative sound when they move.

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GIFTING

STATEMENT GIFTS FROM THAT CONCEPT STORE By Natasha Dury

Inspired by the joy of the season, THAT Concept Store has released its festive gift guide, making it easier than ever to treat loved ones.

FOR HER

To put a smile on her face with jewellery, shop the exclusive label, Azza Fahmy at THAT Concept Store, whilst glittery cycling shorts from Paco Rabanne are sure to keep the season bright and cheerful. Parisian brand, Olympia Le-Tan is also at the top of every fashionista’s wish list, adapting literary classics into unique handbags.

FOR HIM

Even if he already has it all, THAT Concept Store’s curated collection of menswear, shoes, accessories, and grooming products provide numerous options to explore. Rolex, Thom Browne and GCDS are some of the luxury brands available – with exciting options such as Frescobol Carioca’s beach bat set.

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FOR FAMILY

To show them how much you love and appreciate them, meaningful momentos and one-of-a-kind exclusives can be found at THAT Concept Store including skincare, hats, sunglasses, and stylish note

pads. And for those looking to gift something bespoke, products can also be customised at Make THAT Yours by Ingrave It in Mall of the Emirates for an extra special touch.

FOR THE HOST

Gifts including luxury homeware, scented candles and wall art will ensure an invite awaits for every holiday party. Art and design enthusiasts will appreciate Assouline’s beautiful coffee table books, whilst fans of technology will love the fun retro speakers from Lexon.

Exclusively available at THAT Concept Store, Leblon Delienne iconic Mickey sculpture in collaboration with Dutch designer, Marcel Wanders has also been launched in a new colourway inspired by the colour of dates.

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WATCHES

HOROLOGY UPDATES Collecting watches is a fashion that can also be an investment. Select your watch based on craftmanship, the tradition it represents and for its perfect combination of style and functionality. Eric Dury brings you a selection of his favourite time pieces to start the month.

AUDEMARS PIGUET The Royal Oak

Audemars Piguet unveils several new Royal Oak models enriched with green dials. The new offerings include a 950 platinum Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin with a smoked green dial embellished with a sunburst pattern, as well as a limitededition Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph with an 18-carat yellow gold case and a green “Grande Tapisserie” dial. Lastly, the Manufacture also presents three new Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon variants in pink gold or titanium, all of which incorporate green hues. All models are equipped with the selfwinding Manufacture Calibre 2950, the latest generation of the Audemars Piguet flying tourbillon. Unlike a conventional tourbillon, a flying tourbillon eschews the upper bridge, affording views of the escapement, regulating organ and cage in motion.

BELL & ROSS

BR 03-92 Diver Red Bronze Bell & Ross diving watches offer the perfect solutions when exploring an environment that is as fascinating, as dangerous. The maritime expertise of the brand is born from the convergence of the knowledge and skills of designers, master watchmakers and underwater experts. Bell & Ross has developed DIVER BRONZE timepieces that are perfectly inkeeping with the marine depth. Its case and bezel are made of satin-polished CuSn8 Bronze, an alloy combining 92% Copper and 8% Tin, that is deeply linked to diving history as it was used in the past for deep-sea helmets and naval construction. Adorning hints of pink, the bronze will age well. The patina will emphasize the authentic and unique character of this DIVER watch, much-loved by collectors. Anodised red for the bezel, red lacquer for the dial and a reddish-brown strap. The 3 shades work in perfect harmony and feature a high-quality finish.

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BREITLING

South Sea Capsule Collection Available in three distinctive versions, the Chronomat Automatic 36 South Sea Capsule Collection is the spirited sister of Breitling’s latest Chronomat for Women. This elegantly modern, retro- inspired watch is for ladies looking to stand out from the crowd. It symbolizes competence and effortless style with a breezy twist. The timepieces in the new Chronomat Automatic 36 South Sea Capsule Collection feature special lacquered dials in beige, midnight blue, and mint green, as well as matching alligator straps with folding clasps. Especially striking are the golden indexes and hands, not to mention the diamond-set hour markers and cocktail-hued gem-set bezels. On the technical side, these Swiss-made beauties are powered by the Breitling Caliber 10, a COSC-certified chronometer that offers a power reserve of approximately 42 hours.

PARMIGIANI FLEURIER

Tonda

To reflect the fact that every woman is unique, Parmigiani Fleurier presents a sumptuous new Tonda line, available in different versions to fulfil every desire. The manufacture's watchmakers have struck a delicate balance between technical accomplishment and the finest jeweller's art. Refined yet understated, the new Tonda Métropolitaine rose gold rainbow Opal embodies every aspiration of the modern woman, making each moment of the day unique. Reflecting today's multicultural and multifaceted society, this new line of timepieces, with its variety of dials, functions and diameters, is an ode to diversity and features luxury codes which are undeniably feminine and utterly universal.

PARMIGIANI Toric Fleur The new Toric Fleur from Parmigiani is presented in a rose gold case made entirely within the Parmigiani Fleurier watchmaking center, and features a delicate lace design of marguerites on its dial. Featuring a rose gold case in 33.7 mm, it is fitted with the subtly knurled bezel typical of the Toric collection. Arabic figures indexes are applied on the white mother of pearl dial, while the delicate gold lace design evokes a carpet of marguerites adorning the Swiss valleys in Spring. Driven by the automatic in-house calibre PF310, the leaf-shaped hands with luminescent material, another tribute to nature, indicate the hours and minutes. The small seconds hand appears at six o’clock. The case back offers a captivating spectacle, the Côtes de Genève bridges are shaped like a hand fan while the gold rotor is delicately engraved with a barley grain motif. A white opal cabochon graces the crown of this watch, which comes together with a calf oakum Hermès leather strap. The Toric Fleur masters the art of simplicity while combining poetry, high horology, the most sophisticated materials and true elegance.

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MOTORING

Ready for Adventure The new Peugeot 5008 SUV By Shereen Shabnam International Writer

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ur new year began with outstation road adventures driving the new facelifted 5008 SUV. The latest 5008 features a bold new modern style on the front end, new Full LED rear lights and new eye-catching body colours.

For 210 years, PEUGEOT has unfailingly upheld a French manufacturing tradition of quality and inventiveness and is more focused today on designing sleekly styled vehicles that go beyond driving by heightening all the senses and for a more intuitive driving experience. This is evident in the new PEUGEOT 5008. The spacious SUV has enough room for the entire family and offers signature cutting-edge technology, and exciting new features for those looking for space, comfort, power and efficiency.

features: radio, air conditioning, navigation, vehicle settings, telephone, phone mirroring, ambient-lighting in addition to multipoint seat-massage.

The new 5008 comes with a 1.6 litre turbo engine coupled to a 6-speed automatic transmission producing 165 hp and 240 Nm of torque with manual and sports mode available for those who prefer a dynamic driving experience.

We were impressed with the driving aids in the PEUGEOT 5008 such as the Adaptive Cruise Control, Active Safety Brake, Lane Keeping Assist, Driver Attention Alert, High Beam Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring system and Visiopark 2 (360° vision).

The interior design of the 5008 is bold, with style based on PEUGEOT’s new design language. The PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® features cuttingedge technology including a compact steering wheel, an 8-inch HD touchscreen found in the Active line, a 10-inch HD touchscreen found in the Allure and GT models and a Head-up display unit with a highresolution 12.3-inch digital screen.

The 5008 SUV also features three identical, separate, and entirely adjustable seats, with a third row of two fold away, retractable seats available as an option to provide more space where needed. The design shows a dominant yet elegant presence, intertwined with the cosy luxurious interior. It also features a panoramic sunroof.

The central touchscreen is perfectly positioned and accompanied by seven ‘piano key’ toggle switches which operate the main i-Cockpit®

We took the new PEUGEOT 5008 to three different Emirates and found it easy to handle as it offered comfort, performance and an agile driving experience.

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MOTORING

REDESIGNED FOR ULTIMATE COMFORT The new Volkswagen Teramont By Shereen Shabnam International Writer

he Volkswagen Teramont never compromises on space, quality, safety, and connectivity and that is the first thing we love about this popular seven-seater SUV which now features an updated interior and exterior.

The 2021 Volkswagen Teramont is Volkswagen Middle East's boldest and most robust vehicle and it has received a facelift for an all-new look. The Teramont is popular in the region for its functionality, safety, and connectivity. We often see families struggling to fit in kids, maids, strollers and in this region, generally families tend to be large. The Teramont is perfect for families' standard requirements and the space and comfort element has made it one of the best family SUVs in the region and internationally. The facelifted Teramont also has a newly modified exterior. The new exterior includes a completely facelifted front grille fitted with the | 66 | Trending Business Insights

new Volkswagen logo. The headlight and taillight design has been revamped and upgraded to full-LED lights, in addition to an updated front and rear bumper. The Teramont also has a new lower design front and diffusor with a chrome silver lip. Inside the seven-seater SUV interior, we liked the new next-gen multifunction steering wheel which includes silver brushed metal décor or Methatis wood inserts, in addition to the eight-inch touch adaptable Infotainment system and rear-view cameras. The cabin allows everyone to enjoy the view with a panoramic sunroof that spans the length of almost all three rows. Other features include a 10’ digital cockpit, 12 speaker Fender sound system and wireless phone charging is also available. For the Highline trim, the digital instrument cluster is standard. The Teramont comes with up to four USB ports, including two charging points in the rear. And it has a wireless charger for extra convenience. The Teramont comes in seven colours, three of them being new; Pyrite Silver Metallic, Nephrite Green Metallic, and Aurora Red Chroma. The redesigned vehicle comes in three trims for this region –

Trendline (2.0L or 3.6L), Comfortline 3.6L, and the Highline 3.6L. It also includes optional 'R-Line' Packages available for the Comfortline and Highline. Our drive experience of this family-friendly SUV was an absolute delight as the renowned Volkswagen DNA ensured we turned heads with the outstanding design. We also enjoyed the latest technology, connectivity and were impressed with the safety features. We found the overhead camera, parking sensors, Blind Spot Monitor and the Rear Traffic Alert useful. Overall, a sensible buy for big families who prefer a car that meets all their needs but looks good on the road.

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MOTORING

COMFORTABLE AND INNOVATIVE

AUDI A3

By Shereen Shabnam International Writer

e recently turned heads with the latest Turbo Blue Audi A3 that impressed us with its dynamic design, increased power, innovative technology and the premium interior.

The driver-centric design features a virtual cockpit display that keeps the driver, top-of-mind with premium materials and finishes that makes the cabin a pleasure to be in.

EXTERIOR

The new A3 Sedan comes in compact proportions but with an attractive | 68 | Trending Business Insights

sporty design. The wide Singleframe and large air inlets at the front end accentuate their dynamic character and put a stronger emphasis on the wheel arches. The shoulder of the body extends in a smooth line from the headlights to the rear lights. The digital daytime running lights of the Matrix LED headlights are a further innovation and are available as an option. They consist of a pixel array made up of LED segments in a three by five arrangement. This creates special light signatures and makes the new A3 immediately recognizable.

INTERIOR

The highlight in the interior of the Audi A3 Sedan is the Audi virtual cockpit to keep all relevant information in view while driving. The instrument cluster with high-resolution 12.3-inch display offers you an even better overview. A wide range of intelligent technologies is also available as an option. The spacious interior of the sporty four-door is light and clear. The cockpit of the new A3 Sedan is wholly focused on the driver and

provides additional functions such as the large display of the navigation map.

TECHNOLOGY

With an extensive range of driver assistance systems, Audi A3 is even safer now with trendsetting systems, such as an optional traffic jam assistant that works together with the Audi adaptive cruise control and other available supporting systems. This includes the parking aid and camera-based traffic sign recognition. Equipped with the optional Audi pre sense front, the collision avoidance assist, and the lane departure warning, the new A3 sedan helps prevent accidents with other road users and offers a high level of safety. The MMI operating concept is powered by the new third-generation modular infotainment platform. Its computing power is ten times higher than that of its predecessor. Individual settings can be stored in up to six user profiles, from climate control and the seat position to frequently selected navigation destinations as well as frequently used media.

VERDICT The all-new Audi A3 Sedan ticks all the boxes for you and your loved ones with a sporty, stylish exterior and the high-quality, driver-focused interior. The four-cylinder S-LIne 35 TFSI that we drove was a delight on the road as it was both nippy during the busy traffic hours and offered an easy drive both in the city and out on the highways.

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NEWS

Line Investments and Properties LLC bags four awards at the MECS+R Retail Congress MENA Awards 2021 Line Investments & Property LLC bagged four awards at the recent MECS+R Retail Congress MENA Awards. The team walked away with a Gold Award for the futuristic Architectural Design for its new development, Silicon Central, Dubai. Silicon Central also received a Silver Award for Operational Efficiencies & Cost saving Efforts. Silicon Central is considered a new landmark in Dubai, strategically positioned 12 km from the city-centre and 15 km from Dubai Airport in Dubai Silicon Oasis, the first eco sustainable district in Dubai focused on low carbon footprint, AI, and technology. Another Gold Award was received by Khalidiyah Mall, Abu Dhabi for Design & Development of Gymnation under New Developments category while Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi received a Silver Award for enhancing its customer experience with the latest addition of IKEA to the Mall under NOI Enhancement- Leasing category. The Retail Congress MENA is organized by The Middle East Council of Shopping Centres and Retailers (MECS+R) in partnership with

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the Dubai Association Centre (DAC) and the Dubai Chamber of Commerce,l bringing together retail professionals globally for a conference, exhibition, dealmaking, networking and awards celebration. Mr. Salim MA, Director Lulu Group said, "Retail Congress MENA Awards recognises Industry Excellence and uplifts the spirit of retail community positively. Being part of the event this year as a sponsor and winning four awards stamps our commitment to enhance the customer experience through design, sustainability initiatives and impactful campaigns. We applaud MECS+R for putting up a successful congress this year." Line Investments & Property LLC was shortlisted for all the entries submitted which also included Functional use of open roof space by opening Gymnation at Khalidiyah Mal, the 'Be Our Guest' by the Line Investments & Property Northern Emirates Malls and the COVID Test and Vaccination Drive by Lulu Mall Fujairah.

Usher in 2022 at Turkish Village Restaurant that includes mezzes, salads, hot starters, mixed grills, lamb Tondour, desserts and selected beverages. Dinner packages for New Year’s Eve are set at AED 350 at the Jumeirah branch. At Dubai festival City, guests pay 400 for dining hall area, AED 450 for indoor terrace seating and AED 550 for premium outdoor terrace seating to enjoy fireworks at Dubai Festival City. Guests can also enjoy uninterrupted views of the fireworks on the Burj Khalifa and La Mer from the Beach Road outlet.

Ring in the new year at Award winning Turkish Village Restaurant sampling a diverse range of unique authentic culinary experiences with specially curated dishes that blend authentic Turkish ingredients and flavors complete with the much-loved art of Turkish hospitality to create an unforgettable end of year experience. The festival City outlet guests can end the year enjoying entertainment by Guy Manoukian, Yara, Faudel and many more music DJs from 6pm to 1am. With a capacity for large events that can accommodate over 500 guests over three levels, Turkish Village Restaurant has curated a festive menu

Usher in the New year with meter-long mezze boards that include staple starters with tender chicken, succulent lamb and different beef dishes marinated with spices overnight. End your meal on a sweet note with traditional Turkish sweets that include kunafa, baklava stuffed with cream and pistachios and the creamiest rice pudding in the city. The three level Turkish Village Restaurant is located strategically in Jumeirah 1 (across La Mer, next to Spinneys and the Jumeirah Grand Mosque), and in Dubai Festival City Mall promenade overlooking the fountains. It offers a laid-back memorable and interactive dining experience, within a warm and welcoming ambience. For bookings please call +97143449955 or send to reservations@ turkishvillagedubai.com

Salties at Expo Dubai reveals Festive Menu tradition while relishing the seasonal setting with a delectable festive set meal starting at AED 135 per person including soft beverages. Xmas eve dinner dec 24th 135 +++ pp including soft drink 185 +++pp including 2 glasses of wine or bubbles CHRISTMAS LUNCH – December 25 Forget about the hustle and bustle and allow our culinary experts create the ideal home-style feast for you, and your guests this yuletide season. Xmas lunch 25th December 155 +++ pp including soft drink 205 +++pp including 2 glasses of wine or bubbles

Salties is going festive end of year and have a host of interesting dining options for residents and visitors.

DELIVER IN YOUR PAVILION IN ALL EXPO – Xmas day only You can also place your orders 48 hours ahead to get your hands on these scrumptious offerings for your home or pavilion. AED 600 +++ for 6-7KG Turkey with 1KG Condiments and Sides AED 450 +++ for a 3KG Roast Leg of Lamb with 1KG Christmas Condiments and Sides

PALM TREE LIGHTING - December 15 Welcome the season with a spectacular and traditional tree lighting ceremony. Bring the kiddies along to witness the dazzling lights illuminate the palm Tree while the melodic voices of carol singers fill your heart with delight. 15 December 6 PM – 7 PM 20% off drinks on bubbles

NEW YEAR’S EVE– December 31 End the year 2021 with a spread of delectable set menu at Kitchen complete with a DJ and live music Guests get to choose from the three packages: Premium Beverage Package, House Package or Soft Beverage Package. New Years Eve – first service from 7:00- 9:30 175 +++ Kids 7-12 350 +++ includes soft drinks

CHRISTMAS EVE FESTIVE MENU December 24 Gather up your family and friends to rediscover the flavour of Christmas

450 +++ includes 1 bottle of house wine or sparkling

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FINAL WORD

WITH EVERY PROBLEM COMES AN OPPORTUNITY By Shereen Shabnam International Writer

fter dealing with the global pandemic for over a year, starting 2022 is the ideal time to reconcile ourselves for a better and more progressive new year. Instead of making unrealistic resolutions like I have done in the past, this year I vowed to go along with life dealing with events as they come and make smaller and more achievable goals along the way. Marking and crossing off atomic changes can include introducing a new skill every month, identifing a bad habit, having more me time with a self-care routine on a weekly basis and generally doing things that makes you smile. For me, my weekly meal with my best friend in a different place gives me something to look forward to and it allows me to have a conversation with a kindred soul. It is important to enjoy every moment of your life and attract good vibes in your life by having positive people in your life to help create a positive mindset. A new year gives us the opportunity to do what brings joy with priority to mental and physical health. I always believe life is not worth living if you don't set milestones and challenges for yourself with goals to overcome a vulnerability and using every new day as an | 72 | Trending Business Insights

opportunity to improve, challenge and celebrate existing capabilities and harnessing ideas that have a potential to succeed. Last year I was fortunate to meet life coach Maggie Williams who asked me to map my day and I found that starting the day with the morning prayer was the best success trigger for me and how being thankful and mindful helps appreciate what we have in life. If I did do resolutions this year, it would be more about being the best version of myself through self-discovery and by being kind, tolerant and forgiving. It would also be about not procrastinating. Often enough we do not value every minute we have and being mindful of how it is spent. I would love to learn practical tips on how to stop finding the right moment to do things and do what is needed instead of leaving it and then forgetting about it. A new year also gives us the opportunity to share knowledge, experience and profits with the community, or with a charity. Giving time to a cause that resonates with you can be fulfilling. Here's to a healthier, more mindful, more impactful 2022 that leaves the pandemic behind and new opportunities for the UAE as we make the most of having the expo in our city.

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