KARACHI: The rupee continued its winning streak for the seventh session in a row gaining 24 paise against the US dollar in the interbank market on Wednesday.

However, the local currency’s performance remained unimpressive as it appreciated by just Rs1.50 in the last seven trading sessions.

Some senior bankers say the exchange rate stability is good for attracting foreign investments and supporting economic growth.

The SBP reported the dollar closing price at Rs284.14 compared to Rs284.38 a day before.

Bankers said influencing rupee-dollar parity through verbal instructions by the State Bank is a settled practice in the interbank market, which has resulted in a kind of stability with slow imports and better inflows of export proceeds.

Dubai, UAE:– The 6th edition of the annual ROC Middle East Commercial Strategy Conference commenced with a day of insightful dialogues and expert discussions, setting the tone for a transformative event in the realm of hospitality and tourism. The opening addresses by Mona Faraj, Managing Director of HSMAI Middle East, and Bob Gilbert, President & CEO of HSMAI, welcomed a diverse assembly of industry professionals, setting the stage for a day packed with knowledge-sharing and innovation.

The plenary sessions began with a captivating talk by Steven van Belleghem, a Customer Experience Enthusiast, who outlined the journey from customer service aspiration to actualization, likening companies to 'Diamonds in the Rough' striving for CX excellence.

Following was a spirited panel discussion on Destination Marketing, moderated by Iva Skrlec, Hilton's Director of Destination Marketing for MEA & Turkey. Panelists, including Liam Findlay of Miral Destinations, Nicholas Hall of the Digital Tourism Think Tank, and Alka Winter from Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, explored the critical role tourism boards play in molding destination narratives and driving demand.

Marie-Louise Ek, Hilton's VP of Human Resources MEA, shed light on the 'Crafting Essential Leadership for Modern Work Realities,' addressing the megatrends influencing hospitality leadership. The conference then delved into the interconnectedness of commercial decisions and asset value, with a discussion led by Omar Eltahry, a seasoned Hospitality Advisor, and panelists from Accor, United Hospitality Management, and Mashreq, who shared real-world insights on revenue enhancement and asset management.

Mona Faraj, Managing Director of the Middle East chapter of HSMAI said, "As we celebrate the opening of 6th annual ROC Middle East Commercial Strategy Conference, we use this opportunity to chart the future of our industry together with hospitality pioneers from this region.This is a gathering of commercial thought leaders from sales, marketing, revenue management, distribution, hotel brands, and owner groups gathered to share current and future trends. We look forward to covering a wide range of topics, discussions, and best practices, led by world-class regional and international experts in our industry and use this event as a platform to share common goals and achieve greater results as tourism gathers momentum over the coming months."

Hoor Al Khaja, Senior Vice President, International Operations Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), commented: "Events like the annual ROC Middle East Commercial Strategy Conference further highlights Dubai's status as one of the top three global cities for business and leisure in line with the goals of the visionary Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. It also showcases the collaborative efforts between the government and private sectors to bolster the city’s tourism industry, as well as drawing attention to the multifaceted destination proposition that forms the cornerstone of Dubai’s ambition to become the best city in the world to visit, live and work in. The insights we gather here from industry experts reflect the broader strategy of Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism to shape the future of the hospitality industry and further accelerate momentum across the tourism sector.”

The day's sessions continued with a range of roundtables, leadership hubs, and partner insights, covering topics from F&B revenue optimization, the influence of technology in hospitality, the transformative impact of Generative AI, to the significance of a robust commercial strategy in today’s dynamic environment. The day concluded with thought-provoking sessions on sustainability in the hospitality industry, emphasizing its impact on profitability and hotel rates.

As the conference progresses, ROC Middle East continues to spark conversations and collaborations that are set to redefine commercial strategies in the hospitality sector. Tomorrow, the ROC Star Awards Ceremony will be recognizing top talent who’ve made a difference in the hotel industry.

HSMAI strongly advocates the importance of sharing best practices as a means to enhance performance in the industry and region and ROC Stars represent the exceptional individuals within the hospitality industry who have made a significant impact. The conference serves as the prestigious platform for presenting winners who have the chance to showcase their hotel’s creativity, exchange ideas, and proudly highlight their talents.

With the finest leading industry leaders under one roof, this year’s conference aims to take the Middle East hospitality sector to the next level where attendees can expand their network by connecting with trailblazers and peers, gain insights from seasoned professionals and learn about the latest trends and strategies.

The event is being organized in partnership with key organizations including Atomize, Fornova, AlMosafer, IDeaS, FLYR for Hospitality, and 20+ other sponsors. As the hospitality sector in the Middle East region expands rapidly and evolves constantly, the conference will provide timely insights to hotel professionals.

Dubai, UAE: The International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) announced that Al-Futtaim Malls has achieved the WELL Health-Safety Rating for three major malls in Dubai, becoming the first and largest indoor malls in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to achieve this designation. The WELL Health-Safety Rating is an evidence-based, third-party verified rating that supports organisations to advance health-focused strategies for building operations and prepares businesses for long-term resilience.

“Al-Futtaim Malls is demonstrating tremendous leadership in advancing health and well-being by achieving the WELL Health-Safety Rating across these three malls,” said Prateek Khanna, Chief Operating Officer, IWBI. “I’m thrilled to offer our congratulations to Al-Futtaim Malls for its unwavering commitment to prioritising human health, safety and well-being.”

The enrollment includes signature properties Dubai Festival City Mall, Festival Plaza, and Arabian Center Mall – which combined represent 10 million square feet of space and nearly 1,000 retail stores with brands like Zara, Nike, IKEA, Massimo Dutti, Adidas, and more.

Hayssam Hajjar, Director Asset Management UAE, Al-Futtaim Real Estate said, “We are proud that Al-Futtaim Malls has achieved this prestigious recognition for three of our major malls in Dubai. This accomplishment underscores our commitment to prioritizing the health, safety, and well-being of our patrons and staff. The WELL Health-Safety Rating, an evidence-based certification by the International WELL Building Institute, exemplifies our dedication to fostering a secure and resilient environment within our retail centers. We extend our sincere gratitude to the IWBI for recognizing our efforts, and we remain steadfast in our mission to set the standard for health-focused strategies in building operations.”

Derived from the WELL Building Standard (WELL), the world’s leading framework for healthy buildings, organisations and communities, the WELL Health-Safety Rating has experienced rising demand across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the wider region.

The importance of prioritizing human health and wellness in the public spaces where we gather cannot be understated,” said Paul Scialla, founder of IWBI. “We congratulate Al-Futtaim Malls for their leadership and achievement of the WELL Health-Safety Rating across three mall properties in Dubai.

With over 60 evidence-based strategies spanning operational policies, maintenance protocols and emergency plans, the rating is a proven roadmap for organisations that are committed to operational excellence by addressing air and water quality, cleaning procedures, emergency preparedness, health resources and stakeholder engagement.

“Congratulations to the Al-Futtaim Malls for achieving the WELL Health-Safety Rating of these three iconic malls,” said Tekha Selim, Vice President and Head of MENA Region, IWBI. “By adopting WELL, Al-Futtaim Malls is deploying evidence-based health and safety best practices that will benefit workers and visitors alike and also helping ensure these properties are more health resilient.”

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – November 22, 2023 - This festive season, Dubai Opera and Broadway Entertainment Group invite you to experience the enchantment of “Le Petit Prince,” a mesmerising dance adaptation of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's timeless masterpiece. Set to grace the stage from January 25-28, 2024, this production promises to be a captivating journey that transcends generations.

Inspired by the enchanting Parisian rendition, “Le Petit Prince” invites audiences into a transformative experience, where the Little Prince encounters diverse characters and traverses celestial realms. This dance adaptation weaves together narrative, emotion, and movement, exploring profound themes of love, friendship, and the essence of the human experience.

The iconic scenes from the beloved novella come to life in a symphony of dance, music, and storytelling—the delicate nature of the rose, the wisdom of the fox, and the introspective dialogues of the Little Prince with the aviator. This mesmerising fusion appeals to both youthful spirits and wise souls, creating an unforgettable spectacle for all.

As we celebrate the season of giving, “Le Petit Prince” emerges as the perfect gift of wonder and imagination. Give your loved ones an experience that transcends the ordinary—a journey through the enchanting universe of the Little Prince. Tickets for this magical production are now on sale, starting at AED 250, allowing you to share the magic of this timeless tale with family and friends.
Pricing and Booking Information:
Show Timings:
• Thursday, January 25 at 7:00 pm
• Friday, January 26 at 8:00 pm
• Saturday, January 27 at 3:00 pm & 8:00 pm
• Sunday, January 28 at 3:00 pm & 7:00 pm
Ticket prices start at AED 250.
Don't miss the opportunity to gift the enchantment of "Le Petit Prince" this festive season. Secure your seats now for an experience that promises to be a cherished memory for years to come.
For ticket information and bookings, visit Dubai Opera's official website.

About Dubai Opera:
Dubai Opera is the main performing arts center of the United Arab Emirates.
A truly unique venue inaugurated in 2016, Dubai Opera is the city's only purpose-built multi-format theatre with an Auditorium of 2000 seats and a Studio that accommodate up to 250 patrons, situated in the heart of Downtown Dubai, developed by Emaar.
Its mission is to serve, unify, and inspire the community of Dubai and beyond by celebrating the cultures of the world.
Through excellence in the arts, Dubai Opera aims to build a more vibrant and inclusive society, placing Dubai Opera, Dubai, and the UAE at the forefront.
For more information about Dubai Opera and our upcoming shows, visit www.dubaiopera.com
About Broadway Entertainment Group
Broadway Entertainment Group is the world’s first theatrical distribution company to consolidate an international circuit and bring top quality entertainment into the markets of Europe, United Kingdom, Middle East, North America, South and Central Asia. Chief Executive Officer, Liz Koops, has produced shows internationally for over 20 years, and toured productions in 40 countries.
Current and forthcoming international presentations include Broken Wings, Le Petit Prince, Formidable! Aznavour, The Greatest Love of All Starring Belinda Davids, The Kite Runner, and Piaf! Le Spectacle. Broadway Entertainment Group recently presented The Phantom of the Opera at Dubai Opera, toured Dein Perry’s Tap Dogs 2018-19 international tour of South Africa, United Kingdom, China, Middle East and in the USA, as well as The Wizard of Oz in China, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. Broadway Entertainment Group has also toured Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS and Evita, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Kinky Boots, Thriller Live, DreamWorks’ SHREK the Musical, Annie, and Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake.
Previous productions produced by Liz Koops include: The Phantom of the Opera, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake, Fosse, Chicago – The Musical, Miss Saigon, Gumboots, Slava’s Snow Show, Bounce, Lady Salsa, Circus Oz, Lano and Woodley, Mum’s the Word, Rudy Coby, Shaolin Kung Fu Warriors, Sister Act, and Jerry Seinfeld World Tour.
Broadway Entertainment Group FZ LLC operates from Dubai, London, Shanghai, and Australia.
For more information about Broadway Entertainment Group FZ LLC, visit, broadwayentertainmentgroup.com

Dubai, UAE: Global Aerospace Logistics L.L.C., (GAL) and Advanced Military Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul Center (AMMROC), collectively known as GAL AMMROC, has announced a landmark Teaming Agreement with Pannesma Company Limited, a distinguished subsidiary of Atheeb Holding Group.

This paramount agreement is designed to strengthen collaboration between the two entities, with a focus on innovation across a range of advanced aircraft maintenance, upgrade and overhaul services.

The two industry leaders, Pannesma and GAL AMMROC, have joined forces to develop a range of customized programs for both rotary and fixed wing aircraft that includes integrated solutions, upgrades and MRO services. Such programs will offer operators within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) access to world-class MRO facility and tailored aircraft solutions that will help to optimize both cost and operation readiness.

Additionally, such alliance not only enhances the military and commercial aviation landscape between the two countries but also aligned with the vision shared by the President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman. Their recent collaboration at the GCC-ASEAN Summit on 20 October 2023 in Riyadh emphasized the irreplaceable value of international integration and relationships. This pioneering initiative highlights the transformative partnerships emerging between multiple enterprises of the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and is a testament to the strong relationship between the two nations.

The partnership between Pannesma and GAL AMMROC melds their unique capabilities, extensive resources, elite proficiencies and cutting-edge technologies to help develop customized solutions aimed at addressing challenges in the aviation sector.

GAL AMMROC, a regional leader in aircraft integrated solutions and MRO services has long term strategic partnerships with global OEMs including Lockheed Martin, Dassault Aviation, General Electric, Honeywell, BAE Systems and Thales, underscoring their commitment to delivering excellence. Pannesma Company, with its unparalleled expertise has established productive and long-lasting business relationships with several of the world’s leading Defense Contractors, including Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Cubic and EuroCopter (Airbus) Helicopters.

Pannesma Company Ltd is a subsidiary of Atheeb Group, which was established in 1981 to meet the growing needs of the Saudi Arabian market for Technical, Management and Operation and Maintenance (O&M) services. A well-established award-winning Saudi company with 40+ years of experience working as a trusted local partner for the Kingdom’s Ministry of Defense and other Government sectors, which assists in reinforcing the consortium's promise to reshape industry paradigms.
Mahmood Alhay Alhameli, CEO of GAL AMMROC, commented on the Teaming Agreement: “We are delighted to be partnering with Pannesma, KSA’s leading provider of O&M services on this landmark agreement. Working closely with our trusted strategic partners enhances both our homegrown defence expertise and national security capabilities while further boosting the region’s well-deserved reputation for aerospace excellence and technical innovation on the global stage.”
This alliance is reinforced by a shared code of continuous improvement, technological capability, and innovation. As the organizations align their strategies, they stand on the transition of setting pioneering aviation industry standards, leading technological evolutions and carving a niche as unmatched leaders.
This collaboration is also in alignment with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, a transformative blueprint aimed at diversifying the Kingdom's economy and enhancing its global stature. An integral component of Vision 2030 is the emphasis on localization and this alliance cements that commitment.
With an unwavering focus on the horizon, both enterprises radiate confidence in the monumental impact this strategic alliance promises.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
GAL AMMROC
Zayed Mohamed Rashed Al-Absi

+971 50 739-2702
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
www.gal.ae
Pannesma Company Limited
Muath Alsunaya
+966-58-372-6366
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
www.pannesma.com

Dubai, UAE: In a life-changing triumph, Athul Monika, a computer engineer from Kerala - India, residing in the UAE, wins the latest AED1 million raffle draw by Idealz.

This was made possible with a simple purchase of a AED30 'idealzbasics' shopping card from the Idealz mobile app. The campaign that attracted a diverse range of participants ended on November 5th and Athul’s name was drawn by a government official from Dubai Economy and Tourism during a live draw aired on the Idealz app and YouTube channel.

Speaking of the win, Athul said: "When I first received the call, my wife and I thought it was not real. I'm still in disbelief that I've won this amount. With my baby girl born just last month, this news is beyond incredible, and I believe that her birth has brought immense luck to my family. This amount is truly life-changing, and though I haven't planned what I’m going to do with it, it presents incredible opportunities."

Athul further added, “I've been participating with Idealz for a year now, and to finally emerge as a winner is truly gratifying. I plan to continue being a part of Idealz’s upcoming campaigns and strongly encourage everyone to join in as you never know when you might strike it big."

The AED1 million campaign is a mainstay on the Idealz platform, designed to offer its global customer base a continuous chance to become a millionaire with a single affordable purchase. As the platform evolves and pioneers new ideas however, participants can look forward to a host of thrilling opportunities and surprises in the days ahead such as the chance to drive home a luxury sports car or move into their very own apartment.

Visit www.idealz.com or download the Idealz mobile app to stay up to date on the life-changing and exciting campaigns offered by the ‘first-of-its-kind’ platform.

About Idealz
Founded in 2016, Idealz is a first-of-its-kind online shopping platform that has revolutionized the online shopping experience. The unique shop-and-win platform combines shopping, winning and social impact together, giving customers an opportunity to win amazing prizes while also changing the lives of those less fortunate around the world. Through Idealz, customers stand a chance to win from a wide range of luxury prizes across various campaigns, within which products are limited in quantity, as are the draw tickets. With every ‘idealzbasics’ shopping card purchased; customers are awarded complimentary tickets to prize draws. The prizes up for grabs are of select categories including cars, watches, cash, electronics, and lifestyle. Once the limited quantity of products in a campaign has sold out, a live draw is conducted, and a winner is announced.