Tag Archives: Dubai

Madame Tussauds opens museum in Dubai on October 14

London’s renowned waxwork museum Madame Tussauds opened this week its first outpost in the Arab world in Dubai, which hopes to attract millions of tourists to Expo 2020.

The brand, which began life in London where it boasts 250 wax sculptures that draw millions of visitors annually, also has smaller branches in the United States, Europe and Asia.

“We have opened our doors on the 14th of October this year very close to Expo 2020,” said Sanaz Kollsrud, General Manager, Madame Tussauds, Dubai. He also said, “We expect many visitors locally and internationally to come in. We have chosen the talents that are relevant and popular in the region.”

The Dubai branch displayed 60 sculptures of “global stars”, including football sensation Lionel Messi, cricketer Virat Kohli, and pop singer Rihanna.  And about 15 were from the region including Lebanese pop stars Nancy Ajram and Maya Diab.

With only limited oil reserves, the emirate of Dubai has been focussing on the development of tourism and the entertainment sector.

Dubai is counting on the six-month Expo 2020 Dubai – which opened on October 1 after a one-year delay – to attract millions of visitors and boost its pandemic-hit economy. (Source HT)

Agoda reveals Dubai as Indians’ top international destination for 2021

Rolls out Go Expo 2020 deals for travellers headed to the UAE Expo 2020 this festive season

According to Agoda’s booking data Dubai ranks no 1 destination for Indians to date in 2021, after bumping last year’s top destinations Thailand (no 1) and China (formerly no 2) into second and seventh spot respectively. With so much to see and do, and a short-haul journey, make Dubai most preferred spot whether travelling for business or leisure, or a bit of both.

Scenery, food, and arts and culture are the top three reasons Indians travel, according to Agoda’s travel trends survey 2021, so with the holidays right around the corner and further easing of travel restrictions, Agoda shares three reasons why it’s a good idea to consider travelling to Dubai this festive season.

The opening of the UAE Expo 2020 this October (until March 2022) has travellers making up for lost time, by heading to the experiential exhibit located between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The UAE Expo is a symbiosis of sustainability, food, and culture, bringing together 192 countries under one roof, taking visitors on a world tour through an immersive exhibition. From educational theme weeks, covering climate to space and well-being, catch stage productions, music shows, street theatre, art & culture, and innovative architecture.

According to the release, one can grab a great value deal via Agoda’s Go Expo 2020 campaign, which brings travellers a range of hotel deals, bookable on desktop and app, when booking for travel dates from now until 31 March, 2022. Travellers can get an additional 12% discount on using a Visa credit card to make their travel bookings of even greater value.

“With international travel opening up globally, Dubai is an amazing hotspot of cosmopolitan delights. This year’s UAE Expo – a playground of innovation bringing together coveted companies, food, culture – provides an even greater excuse to visit and for Indian travellers to take some of their great maiden international trips post-pandemic border closures.” said Krishna Rathi, Country Director – India, Sri Lanka and Nepal, Agoda.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurates India Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai

At a time when the whole world is coming together to recover from the pandemic and bring growth back on track, a resurgent India is ready to take on the responsibility of being the frontrunner in this revival process, said Minister of Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution and Textiles, Government of India, Piyush Goyal.

The minister was inaugurating the India Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, which will showcase India’s vibrant culture, along with the diverse partnership opportunities that the country is capable of offering.

“The reforms unleashed in the last seven years by the government under the guidance of Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, and especially during the Corona period, are set to boost the country’s manufacturing and exports potential and make India a global economic hub, besides strengthening its capabilities in the technology space. India is already a leading player in the global markets in IT, Pharma and space technology, and with the development of research and innovation capabilities, the country’s prowess in these areas would help reap the benefits of new-age technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics,” said Goyal.

He added that the lessons learnt from the pandemic have also emboldened our confidence of surpassing any challenge in future with the help of our scientific and entrepreneurial research and development capabilities — whether it is development of pharma and healthcare products or running of the world’s biggest vaccination program banking on the two indigenously produced vaccines, India has set several examples.

“From here, productivity will play a big role in achieving a sustained high growth phase, that India has already embarked upon, leaving behind the impact of Corona — GDP growth in the first quarter of FY22 at a record 20.1% against the contraction of 24.4% in the same quarter of FY21 is not only signaling a strong revival but also the potential for economic rebound in a big way, and grow at a rapid pace. We have a huge advantage in our young populace, and with the help of the New Education Policy (NEP), and its focus on skill development, the productivity levels in the country are set to rise substantially to support the growth objectives,” Goyal said.

The minister congratulated the UAE leadership for being able to deliver this massive enterprise, EXPO 2020, despite the difficult times. Stressing on the significance of India’s participation in EXPO 2020, Goyal said, “It is happening at a time when India is celebrating 75 years of its independence, and UAE is celebrating 50th year of its foundation. UAE is one of India’s most valued partners and a close friend. EXPO 2020 will prove to be a landmark in strengthening the relationship between the two countries further”.

“The ongoing celebrations of Amrit Mahotsav, 75 years of India’s Independence, will also encapsulate Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s clarion call of redefining India in the next 25 years (Amrit Kaal) with his renewed motto of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas,” he emphasized.

“The entire world is looking towards India as a trusted partner. We have intensified the reform process during the pandemic instead of being defensive and have laid a solid foundation for a sustainable and sustained high growth phase in the coming years. India, with its democratic values, extremely capable talent pool, technological prowess and growing appetite for learning and leadership, is all set to play an increasingly central role in the global affairs, trade and business,” Goyal said.

The minister added that those visiting the India Pavilion during the six months of EXPO 2020, till March 31, 2022, will get a glimpse of the country’s ancient treasures, business achievements, innovations and leading opportunities with cutting-edge technologies.

“We are on the way to reaching and surpassing USD 400 billion exports per year target and a GDP growth that will take us to becoming a USD 5 trillion economy, and beyond. The next 25 years are set to symbolise India’s golden growth phase,” Goyal said, and invited the global community to be part of this resurgent ‘New India’ journey.

“The India Pavilion will showcase a modern, robust India — high on technology, while simultaneously exhibiting the beauty of Indian art, culture and cuisine during the 183 days that the event will run,” he said.

While India-UAE trade has also been impacted by the pandemic, it was valued close to USD 60 billion in 2019-20 with UAE being India’s third-largest trading partner, and UAE being India’s second-largest export destination after the US, with an export value of approximately USD 29 billion in 2019-20.

UAE is also the 8th largest investor in India, having invested USD 11 billion between April 2000 and March 2021. India aspires to make significant progress in catalyzing the investments from UAE to India across the focus sectors, including Gems & Jewellery, Textiles, Pharma and IT.

“Over the years, UAE and India have built a strong relationship that goes beyond economic, cultural and political spheres. UAE has given opportunity to thousands of Indians to build their lives in the country, and Indians on their part have exhibited their expertise and contributed to the collective growth of the nation through several areas, including education, technology and entrepreneurship. Expo 2020 Dubai is set to galvanise this further,” Goyal said.

Madame Tussauds Dubai to open its door on October 14

Madame Tussauds Dubai will officially open its doors to the public for the first time on October 14.
The Dubai edition of the world-famous wax attraction is the first of its kind in the GCC and the 25th edition of the attraction globally. The UAE’s latest hotspot will welcome guests seven days a week and boasts a stunning location within the vibrant island destination Bluewaters, adjacent to the world’s largest observation wheel, Ain Dubai.

To celebrate the launch, Madame Tussauds Dubai has a special preview ticket offer where guests can book and visit the attraction to get a sneak peek inside on the 8th and 9th October. Those keen to secure themselves a slice of the star-filled action can book preview tickets online now Adults (11+) AED 135, Children (3-11) AED 110, Under 3s free of charge) by heading to the official website: https://www.madametussauds.com/dubai/.

According to the release, there are seven specially-designed themed rooms (including a party area with an interactive dance floor) and a wax figure library that reads like a who’s who of international superstars. The line-up of figures includes sports heroes such as Connor McGregor, historical figures including the Queen of England, models such as Cara Delevingne, actors like Shah Rukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor, singers and many more. The attraction will be home to 60 celebrities from around the world, including 16 brand-new figures from the Middle East including the recently revealed Balqees Fathi and Mohammed Assaf.

It is set to be an attraction that truly represents the fascinating world of glamour, sport, music, entertainment all under one roof.

Cordelia Cruises all set to sail in September

Cordelia Cruises has announced that it will sail its maiden voyage on 2nd September 2021, from Dubai to Mumbai via Oman. Their maiden cruise was cancelled due to deadly second wave, however, the team is upbeat and cautiously optimistic that they can travel freely again. “The second wave led to the cancellation of our initial sailing plans but we were equipped to handle such exigencies. Our team is in touch with guests who have booked with us, and we are regularly checking on the status of their health and vaccination. Safety is the most crucial word in travel today” said Jurgen Bailom, CEO & President for Waterways Leisure Tourism Private Limited. He also added that the response from the guests to the new itineraries has been overwhelming and extremely encouraging.

According to the press release, the timeline is also in sync with that of the international cruise industry which is making a comeback in a phased manner. Most cruise liners are commencing sailings with a few ships on certain routes as per the permissions received. It is expected that most of them will start operations between July and August 2021 on specific routes and gradually become fully functional by the end of 2021.

Taking due cognisance of Covid situation, Cordelia has implemented all the standard protocols for its crew members and guests. This includes fully vaccinated crew members and daily health checks, hourly sanitization of the facilities, air-filtration and social distancing norms etc.

As far as luxury and convenience are concerned, it promises all its guests an experience par excellence while sailing to some of the best Indian and international destinations like Goa, Diu, Lakshadweep, Kochi, and Sri Lanka. “The enhanced experience we provide differentiates us from any other holiday. Right from embarkation to disembarkation, our unparalleled services will be the highlight for our guests. We will deliver international experiences with the warmth of Indian hospitality. Be it accommodation, dining, or entertainment, every experience will be unique and ‘wow’ driven, with our guests experiencing a new destination every day,” adds Jurgen Bailom.

Given that food is arguably one of the most important aspects of hospitality, Cordelia has partnered with the Apollo Group for its food and drink offerings. With immense variety, the food aboard Cordelia includes a plethora of cuisines and flavours catering to wide ranging palates and tastes.

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‘Expo 2020 will focus on innovation, collaboration & inspiration’

After a delay of a year, Dubai is set to host the much-hyped Expo 2020 from October. Disha Shah Ghosh spoke to Sumathi Ramanathan, Vice President, Market Strategy & Sales, Expo 2020 Dubai to get a sense of the preparations for the Expo in the changed global scenario and global diversity on display at the platform.

Q. At a time when there is a flight ban in force between UAE and India, how will you promote Expo 2020 in the Indian market in the run up to the event?
While the situation remains complex for visitors from India with COVID-19, India is a key partner of the UAE, and we continue to work closely with the India Pavilion on its plans for Expo 2020 ahead of our opening on October 1, 2021.

One of the significant initiatives undertaken to promote Expo 2020 in the Indian market is the collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) to enable Indian involvement in the event. As the official industry partner of the Government of India, its primary objective is to create international awareness of ‘brand India’ and Indian businesses at this global mega-event, so Expo 2020 shares goals with the organisation.
The organisation helps to facilitate the dissemination of information on Indian products, businesses and services, investments into India and showcase the country’s capabilities to the world – and Expo is working closely with them.
We acknowledge the fluidity of the COVID-19 situation, and assure everyone that the health, safety and well-being of all those visiting and working at Expo 2020 Dubai remains our number one priority. We remain optimistic that global efforts to produce and distribute vaccines will be successful, and look forward to welcoming people from all over the world.

Q. In the changed global scenario, what are some of the critical amendments being brought about in organising the Expo?
We will be following the safety standards and guidelines in terms of capacity and visitor flow and robust steps have been implemented in line with the latest guidance from the world’s leading medical, science and health experts.
These include the installation of sanitisation stations across the site, mandatory face-mask wearing and strict social-distancing regulations. During the event, Expo 2020’s intelligent Smart Queue system will also reduce waiting times, giving visitors more time to explore more of Expo’s incredible array of attractions. Building on the UAE’s successful vaccination programme, all Expo 2020 staff has been vaccinated and the Expo 2020 Dubai Steering Committee has encouraged all of Expo’s international participants to join its free vaccination drive. We will continue to monitor and adjust these measures as necessary and urge all staff, participants, and visitors to continue to follow the guidance of medical professionals and the relevant authorities in the UAE.

There is a chance for humanity to again convene in a spirit of optimism, hope, and a shared purpose towards solving some of the world’s greatest challenges. There are expected to be major advances unveiled which will position Expo and the UAE as a global incubator for new ideas.

For a long time, Dubai has built an open economy and society for a global community, based on a remarkable model of governance and partnership, while seeking to value tolerance and inclusion for all. Expo will see the nation bring the world together in its commitment to pushing limits and achieving things that others felt were impossible.
Through Expo, we are committed towards providing a unique platform for large scale businesses, SMEs, start-ups, entrepreneurs, governments, and civil society organisations to come together and collaborate to build true and deep partnerships that will enable meaningful, long-term growth.

As of June 2021, Expo Live, Expo 2020 Dubai’s global innovation and partnership programme, has backed 140 grantees from 76 countries in key areas such as healthcare, agriculture, education, fintech and employment. As part of its response to the ongoing impact of COVID-19, Expo 2020 Dubai launched a USD 1 million Emergency Relief Fund to support Expo Live innovators facing immediate financial hardship during these uncertain times.

Q. For over a decade, India has been the top source market for Dubai. Can you enumerate on the planned participation of the Indian delegation at the Expo, and how it’s going to be executed?
The India Pavilion represents its vision for the future under the theme ‘Future is in India’. The programme will build on its culture, heritage and technologies. The pavilion is located in the Opportunity District and will reflect the ‘New India’, showcasing the strengths of its human resources and the aspirations of its youth.

It will be a platform that will define the country’s potential to become a global power through the ‘Five Ts’ – talent, trade, tradition, tourism and technology. It will highlight the nation’s strength in innovation and start-ups in tech industries, such as artificial intelligence and fintech, as well as tourism and hospitality, space, pharma, IT, renewable energy and telecoms.

On the entertainment front, India will have an exciting line-up of personalities representing the nation, including world-renowned composer AR Rahman, who is mentoring the all-women Firdaus Orchestra, who will make their debut at Expo 2020. Additionally, Indian-British film director, actor and producer Shekhar Kapur is an advisor to Expo 2020.

Q. Will there be spotlight on Vaccine Tourism at Expo 2020?
Vaccine tourism will not be a focus for Expo 2020, but Dubai has successfully reopened to visitors from around the world and the UAE is making excellent progress with more than more than 14.3 million vaccine doses administered to the population. (As of June 20, 2021).

The event is being pro-active and Expo welcomed the decision of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, to offer free vaccinations to all official Expo participants and their staff.

The event is leading the way in terms of ensuring its workforce is protected, and robust measures have been implemented to safeguard all participants, workforce members, suppliers, contractors and visitors. They also reflect the UAE’s wider efforts against the ongoing global pandemic.

Q. A lot of hype had been created earlier about Expo 2020 Dubai, which has been delayed by a year due to pandemic-related restrictions. How are you looking at regenerating the sentiment globally at a time when the world is gradually opening up to physical events?
Expo 2020 Dubai is focussed on delivering an exceptional World Expo from October 1 this year. While we have had to make some difficult decisions as a result of postponement and the impact of the pandemic, our commitment remains strong. A total of 191 nations remain committed to Expo 2020 Dubai, making it the most inclusive and international World Expo in history.

In March 2021, Expo 2020 also signed a one-year deal as Principal Sponsor of Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket players, the Rajasthan Royals. With shared beliefs of innovation, collaboration and optimism for the future, the partnership reflects Rajasthan Royals’ commitment to act as a catalyst for change, as well as to a range of social development programmes, with the ambition of impacting society through cricket.

Q. In terms of preparations for the Expo, enlighten us on the kind of safety & security measures being put in place to host global designations?
Ensuring the security and safety of those participating in and visiting our World Expo is paramount. Dubai and the UAE have a proven track record in ensuring the security and safety of the millions of people who live here, and who visit the country annually. Expo 2020 will be no exception.

Working alongside government entities, Expo 2020’s specialist teams have considerable experience in ensuring the health, safety and security of people and facilities during events of this scale and size, supported by international best practice procedures in place to deal with incidents of this nature.

Expo 2020 continues to act responsibly to meet the challenges of COVID-19. The health, safety and well-being of everyone working at Expo 2020 remains our number one priority, and we have introduced a number of precautionary measures in line with guidance from the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and the latest information and advice from the World Health Organization (WHO).
Those visiting both events experienced first-hand the far-reaching programme of precautionary measures that we have adopted to ensure the safety of all visitors, participants and staff. These included the installation of sanitisation stations across the site, mandatory face-mask wearing and the implementation of social-distancing regulations.

Q. What are some of the highlights of Expo 2020 at a time when trade shows are restarting with added focus on technology?
Expo 2020 Dubai will represent the world in one place – a global experience dedicated to bringing together people, communities and nations to build bridges, inspire action and deliver real-life solutions to real-world challenges. A launch pad for broadening horizons and exchanging ideas, Expo 2020 will focus on innovation, collaboration and inspiration.

There will be up to 60 live events each day, all day, for 182 days. The event will be for explorers and adventurers; for foodies and culture enthusiasts; for children and grandparents; for entrepreneurs, thought-leaders, businesses and governments; for the casual tourist, and for the curious who want to experience the future – now.

It will present the journey of a lifetime. Visitors will be able to visit their favourite countries and discover new destinations, tuck in to 50-plus global cuisines from 200 F&B outlets, enjoy delicious culinary tours and explore innovative culinary tech, while enjoying a spectacular world of entertainment that includes from world-class music, dance and art to insightful talks and colourful National Day celebrations.

Our incredible range of programmes and initiatives will include Theme Weeks that will explore solutions to fundamental global challenges such as climate change and biodiversity, equal access to education and healthcare, and bridging the digital divide.

Each and every participant, partner, stakeholder and visitor will be fundamental to the success of Expo 2020, and we’re inviting everyone join the making of a new world – exploring new frontiers, embracing the opportunities of tomorrow and discovering life-changing innovations that can have meaningful, positive impacts on our planet and its people.