Business

KUWAIT: Global technology company SAP has announced the appointment of Eng Sundus Bushahri as Managing Director for its Kuwait operations. With more than 15 years of experience gained at large multinationals and Fortune 500 companies, Bushahri will lead her team in supporting Kuwait’s ambitious digitalization and workforce training agenda, helping companies to leverage the enormous potential of cloud computing and business AI. “Kuwait is a highly significant growth market for SAP –one that is rapidly embracing digital transformation and working towards the creation of a sustainable workforce equipped with the skills needed for a thriving digital economy.

Sundus Bushahri has a deep understanding of global operations and firsthand knowledge of Kuwaiti culture, making her the ideal person to lead SAP’s support of these national goals,” said Ahmed Al Faifi, Senior Vice President of SAP Middle East and Africa – North, to whom Bushahri will report directly. “With her technical expertise, extensive market knowledge and natural leadership abilities, Sundus will lead her team in supporting the public and private sector adoption of new technologies, while also promoting the training and development of the Kuwaiti workforce.”

Immediately prior to her promotion, Bushahri was Vice President of Business Development and Sales for SAP Kuwait. In this diverse role she created tailored solutions for enterprises in the public and private sectors, while also building strong strategic relationships with SAP clients and partners. Commenting on her new role, Bushahri said, “As a proud Kuwaiti, I am grateful for this opportunity to help support the country’s ambitious digital agenda. Our Kuwaiti public and private sectors have demonstrated a willingness to embrace digital transformation in a way that will ensure we remain at the forefront of new technological developments.

In addition to helping companies leverage emerging technologies such as Business AI, my team and I will also continue to support education initiatives to develop Kuwaitis’ diverse technology talents.” Bushahri studied in the US, and holds a BSc in Software Engineering from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Daytona Beach in Florida. Visit the SAP News Center. Follow SAP on Twitter at @SAPNews.

Dubai, UAE: ENOC Group, a leading integrated global energy player, has appointed the innovative technology loyalty partner, Loyyal, to integrate Access Point, their self-service platform to the Group’s rewards programme. This move will enable ‘YES’ rewards members to earn points by accessing numerous merchant offerings and redeem points throughout Loyyal’s extensive partner network.
 
This will improve productivity by increasing merchant and partner engagement, streamlining and considerably cutting the contracting process. 
 
His Excellency Saif Humaid Al Falasi, Group CEO, ENOC, said: “ENOC Group launched its ‘YES’ rewards programme to provide customers with added value and incentives on their purchases across our vast network. This relationship with Loyyal underpins our commitment to collaborating with like-minded partners to improve our offerings. We will continue to put our customers first as we seek to enhance the overall customer experience.” 

Loyyal CEO, Ashish Kumar Singh, said: “Loyyal is committed to disrupt loyalty industry with smart usage of new technologies such as Blockchain. Using Loyyal’s flagship product – Access Point, ENOC’s YES Program shall be empowered with organically expanding partner network and extensive ecosystem for users to cherish wide spectrum of loyalty benefits by earning and redeeming across new channels”.
 
The 'YES' rewards programme provides customers with fast rewards via the state-of-the-art mobile application. Customers may earn and redeem points instantly on every purchase by downloading the 'YES' app, which works across all ENOC locations, including ENOC service stations, ZOOM, AutoPro, Tasjeel, and more. 
 
The awards programme additionally enables customers to save money on dining, beauty, health and wellness, and getaways. The 'YES' app is available in the App Store for iOS and Google Play for Android devices, as well as the Huawei app gallery. 


About ENOC Group: 
ENOC Group is a leading integrated global energy player and a wholly owned entity of the Government of Dubai that is integral to the Emirate’s success. ENOC owns and operates assets in the fields of exploration & production, supply & operations, terminals, fuel retail, aviation fuel and petroleum products for commercial & industrial use. The Group’s general business operations include automotive services, non-fuel F&B retail and fabrication services. Servicing thousands of customers in over 60 markets, the Group employs a multi-national workforce of over 12,500 employees and is deploying its world-class customer service, latest innovations, and technologies as well as best practices to empower the UAE’s social and economic development. For further information, please visit: www.enoc.com.

DUBAI: This April, Cloud 22 launches Moonlight Sessions, offering revelers the unique chance to spend an evening at one of the world’s most iconic skypools. Launching on Thursday 25th April, and taking place every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening from 7:00pm to 11:00pm, guests can enjoy sweeping twilight views over the glittering Palm Island, starting from only AED 300 per person minimum spend.

A destination where the night comes alive and blends sophistication, a mesmerising ambiance, and lively entertainment, Moonlight Sessions invites guests to enjoy an after-dark dip under the starlit sky, in Cloud 22’s 90 meters sky pool, before relaxing on a floating bed, or in a luxury cabana. Guests can also enjoy sky-high sundowners at the Lotus Bar, located 96 meters above the Palm Island and Arabian Ocean as well as an array of live entertainment, including a DJ, violinist, saxophone, and cello.

Highly regarded as one of the world’s most iconic sky pool experiences, Cloud 22 features an endless infinity pool, floating beds, 11 luxury cabanas with private plunge pools as well as a two-storey VVIP cabana complete with its own floating infinity pool. Designed by the international, multi-award-winning GA Group, Cloud 22 features playful designs including the six acrylic Trumpets that adorn the sky pool, each surrounded by its own vapor cloud, which swirls around the flowers from day to night. Cloud 22 is also home to a Lotus Bar, inspired by the shape of a lotus leaf. Featuring a white steel structure 16 meters high and 26 meters wide from point to point, it boasts a swim-up bar perfect for sundowners.

In addition, guests can enjoy a selection of new packages available at Cloud 22 including a morning experience from 10am – 2pm starting at AED 275 per person, a sunset experience from 2pm – 6pm starting at AED 350 per person and a full day experience from 10am - 6pm starting at AED 450 per person. 

Moonlight Sessions by Cloud 22 starts at AED 300 minimum spend per person for a spot at the Lotus Bar including pool access. For those looking to add a splash of luxury to their night swim experience, the Lotus Floating Bed for two is AED 1,500 while the Infinity Floating Bed is AED 2,250 for two, including a choice of either a bottle of bubbles or spirits with mixers. For larger groups, luxury cabanas start from AED 3,500 for six guests including a selection of bites and a bottle of bubbles or spirits and mixers. Swimwear and beach attire are highly encouraged. 21+.  To find out more or to make a reservation log onto www.atlantis.com/dubai/dining/cloud22 or call +04 462700. Stay tuned @cloud22dubai for more details.


MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Hannah Cole
F&B Manager, Public Relations
Mobile: (+971) 585192067
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

For further information about Atlantis please call +971 4 426 1000, or visit www.atlantis.com/dubai . Both low and high resolution colour photography of Atlantis is available at www.kerznercommunications.com/atlantis/media-library. 

About Cloud 22
Located on the 22nd floor, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, Palm Island and Dubai’s magnificent skyline, Cloud 22 is the ultimate sky pool experience. Soaring 96 meters above The Palm and spanning 90 meters in length, the Cloud 22 features an endless infinity pool with a swim up bar and floating beds, 11 cabanas with a private plunge pool as well as a two-storey VVIP cabana – which comes with a private pool and floating infinity pool on the second storey. With lively music and a sophisticated ambiance, guests can enjoy a menu of delicious bites and sharing dishes, paired with an extensive selection of cocktails and beverages.

Visit Qatar has announced it will host one of Italy’s most celebrated tenors, Andrea Bocelli, live in Doha as part of his 30th anniversary tour in the music industry. The concert is scheduled to take place on May 13, 2024, at the Lusail Multipurpose Arena. 
Concert goers from GCC can anticipate an enchanting evening filled with captivating classical and pop music, featuring Bocelli’s timeless hits. GCC visitors can secure their tickets now via https://tickets.virginmegastore.me/qa/music/23990/andrea-bocelli
The ticket categories start at Emerald (1,200 QAR), Gold (900 QAR), and Silver (300 QAR). Platinum and Diamond tickets are also offered (3,000 QAR and 1,800 QAR). 
Andrea Bocelli, acclaimed as one of Italy’s most illustrious pop and classical musicians, boasts a global record of over 90 million records sold. His illustrious career includes numerous accolades, such as a Hollywood Walk of Fame star (2010), 6 Grammy Award nominations, and 6 Latin Grammy Award nominations. Bocelli has graced audiences worldwide, performing for four Presidents of the United States of America, three Popes, the British Royal Family, and various world leaders, as well as at prestigious events including the Olympics, Universal Expos, and Expo Dubai.

For further details, please visit www.visitqatar.com.


For media-related inquiries, please contact Visit Qatar’s Press Office on: 
+974 3392 4466 | This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.   

About Visit Qatar 
Visit Qatar’s mission is to establish Qatar as a place where cultural authenticity meets modernity, and where people of the world come together to experience unique offerings in culture, sports, business and family entertainment, rooted in Service Excellence. Visit Qatar will regulate and develop the tourism industry, encouraging investment from the private sector. It will set the national strategy for the tourism sector, reviewing it periodically and overseeing its implementation, with the aim of diversifying tourism offerings in the country and increasing visitor spend. Through our network of international offices in priority markets, and cutting-edge digital platforms, Visit Qatar is expanding Qatar’s presence globally and enhancing the tourism sector. 
 

 

KUWAIT: KIPCO – Kuwait Projects Company (Holding) – said that it would continue to take steps to deliver on its mission to preserve and grow the holding company by creating long-term value and sustainable growth.

This came in a presentation following the company’s Annual General Meeting. The AGM, chaired by KIPCO’s Vice Chairman, Sheikh Abdullah Naser Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, saw the approval of all items on the agenda. This was followed by an Extraordinary General Meeting in which the articles of the company’s Memorandum of Association were amended to allow for the distribution of dividends on a quarterly and semi-annual basis.

KIPCO’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Sheikha Dana Naser Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, gave a presentation following the AGM in which she highlighted the achievements of 2023 and an outlook for 2024.

Mission & Vision

Sheikha Dana Naser Al Sabah underscored KIPCO’s mission, to preserve and grow stakeholders’ value, together with the company’s vision, to be an agile investment holding in our core markets, delivering sustainable returns in sectors that matter to our society in the present and future.

Sheikha Dana Naser Al Sabah said:

“With KIPCO’s mission and vision in mind, our areas of thrust are to unlock value by enhancing synergies across Group companies, and to achieve a balance in the sector allocation of the investment portfolio to enhance shareholder’s return and reduce concentration.”

Strategic Priorities

Highlighting KIPCO’s strategic priorities, Sheikha Dana Naser Al Sabah said:

“Since 2022, our efforts have been aligned with our strategic priorities, which are to strengthen the performance of key portfolio investments and identify growth and investment opportunities in focused sectors; strengthen governance and synergies across the Group companies; strengthen the company’s capital structure; and foster innovation and sustainability. Our results and those of our Group companies reflect this.”

The Journey to Preserve & Grow

KIPCO’s Group CEO spoke about the holding company’s journey to preserve and grow stakeholders’ value through high impact transactions. These include the merger with Qurain Petrochemical Industries in late 2022, which resulted in an increase in net assets of KD 603 million and an increase in shareholders’ equity increasing to KD 566 million. Other transactions include NAPESCO’s acquisition of United Oil Projects, as part of efforts to create efficiencies in the oil services portfolio; the acquisition of a 52% stake in Burgan Bank Turkey from Burgan Bank, releasing 200 bps of regulatory CAR at Burgan Bank; in addition to the sale of Gulf Insurance Group and the recent merger of OSN+ with Anghami.

Sheikha Dana Naser Al Sabah noted that KIPCO’s journey also involved efforts to proactively manage liabilities to strengthen the company’s capital structure. The aim is to raise long-term financing, extend the tenor of existing liabilities, reduce interest expenses, and tap into new capital pools, as was the case with the issuance of KIPCO’s debut Sukuk. KIPCO’s Sukuk, valued at KD 103.1 million, was the first Sukuk to be issued by a Kuwaiti corporate, and the first Sukuk to be issued in Kuwaiti Dinars.

High Impact Transactions

Sheikha Dana Naser Al Sabah highlighted the sale of KIPCO Group’s 46.32% stake in Gulf Insurance Group to Fairfax Financial Holdings. The sale successfully closed in December 2023 at 2.4 times book value. The transaction resulted in proceeds of KD 256.5 million, with a realized net profit of KD 73 million.


The Group CEO spoke of developments at OSN, emphasizing the merger of OSN’s streaming business, OSN+, with Anghami. The transaction was successfully completed in April 2024 and resulted in 120 million registered users, 2.5 million paying subscribers and a combined revenue of US$ 100 million.

Sheikha Dana Naser Al Sabah said:

“By merging of OSN+ with Anghami, we have created not only one of the largest steaming platforms in the region, but a media tech company with the potential to unlock synergies for the creation of better products and more innovative offerings.”

In 2024, the combined entity will see the launch of 4K Full HD, OSN+ with ads, combined subscription offering, advanced recommendations using AI and a unified entertainment experience.

KIPCO’s 2023 Results

KIPCO is on a growth trajectory, driven by high impact transactions and successful efforts to enhance the performance of portfolio companies. In 2023, total revenue increased 23% to KD 1.3 billion, net profit was up 19% to KD 30 million, total assets went up 8% to KD 12.3 billion, shareholders’ equity rose 4% to KD 611.2 million and book value increased 4% to 134 fils per share. Portfolio companies reflected growth across different indices, reflecting the efforts to enhance their performance throughout 2023.

Asset Allocation and Sector Focus

Sheikha Dana Naser Al Sabah noted that the company has focused its efforts on six key sectors: financial services where there are opportunities for optimization; petrochemicals in alignment with Kuwait’s focus to grow the downstream industry; the high potential sectors of foodstuff, healthcare and education, and industrial services; as well as real estate where there is a potential to unlock value. KIPCO is actively seeking investment opportunities across all of these sectors, in addition to the digitization of services and enhanced technical infrastructure.

In terms of geographic presence, Sheikha Dana Naser Al Sabah said:

“Kuwait is our home market, and we also see strategic alignment of interest with the development plans in the region.”

Closing

In closing, Sheikha Dana Naser Al Sabah said:

“We continue to take steps to deliver on our mission to preserve and grow KIPCO by creating long-term value and sustainable growth that meet present needs, while supporting future ones.”

Dubai, UAE: Divine One Group has partnered with Devmark, the UAE’s leading real estate project sales and marketing consultancy, to launch Hammock Park, a resort-inspired residence in Wasl Gate, just minutes away from Sheikh Zayed Road. Devmark has been appointed as the master agent for the sales and marketing of the project Hammock Park, which presents contemporary, luxuriously furnished homes imbued with the vibrant spirit of Miami Beach. These modern resort-inspired residences promise to add a unique energy to one of Dubai's most sought-after emerging residential areas.

Hammock Park is being developed by Divine One Group and is designed as an exclusive all-in community for modern families. It offers a blend of style, innovative amenities, and a serene living experience across two acres, featuring over 70,000 square feet of resort-inspired facilities crafted to present an unparalleled lifestyle that's both indulgent and harmonious with nature. 

The community features an Olympic-size swimming pool, a children’s pool, a jacuzzi, and a unique sandy lagoon —a serene beachside experience. The outdoor beach cinema and diverse sports facilities, including padel, tennis and basketball courts, offer recreation for all ages. The community's lounge area, kids’ playground, football pitch, and mini golf provide endless entertainment, while the outdoor gym area and zen yoga garden cater to wellness pursuits. Located on the top floor, the Elevate Hub is a multipurpose space that serves as a co-working space, a gaming zone, and a state-of-the-art gym with sauna and steam rooms, providing a peaceful haven for everyone.

The residences, ranging from stylish studios to spacious 1-2 bedroom homes, are fully furnished and marry luxury with practicality. Residents will enjoy expansive, light-filled rooms that serve as tranquil retreats, designer kitchens ideal for the culinary enthusiast, and bathrooms that are akin to personal spas. The integration of sleek, modern interiors with eco-conscious elements and smart home technology underscores a commitment to contemporary living standards.

Dinesh Sajwani, Co-founder of Divine One Group, said, “At Divine One Group, we strive to create spaces that transform the concept of a home from merely a shelter to a place where a life well-lived is realised. Our partnership with Devmark is strategic and pivotal; it empowers us to take Hammock Park's vision of refined, resort-inspired living and ensure these intricately curated homes reach those who appreciate our dedication to detail. With Devmark's proven track record in sales and marketing, we are confident that together, we will introduce a new standard of living in Dubai, setting Hammock Park apart as a haven for modern living.”

“We are excited to be appointed as the sales and marketing agency for Hammock Park, affirming our leadership position in integrated real estate services,” says Sean McCauley, CEO of Devmark. “Hammock Park stands out as a prime example of Dubai's rapidly expanding real estate market, featuring a unique combination of lifestyle and convenience. From the overall concept to the finest details, every element has been carefully designed to exceed every homeowner’s expectations. At Devmark, we are committed to guiding this project to success, enhancing the locality with its unique Miami Beach and a resort-style living experience.”

Embracing the "have it all" philosophy, Hammock Park is a gateway to elevated living in Dubai. The residences are strategically located near JBR, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah, and is just minutes from the closest metro station. With project completion slated for 2027, Devmark is now accepting bookings for Hammock Park, providing residents with the opportunity to experience all-in resort-inspired living.


About Divine One Group: 

Divine One Group is a pioneering collective boasting over 15 years of unparalleled expertise in Dubai's entrepreneurial landscape. Established by visionary partners, the Group exemplifies a commitment to redefining excellence within the business arena through a dynamic synergy that integrates progressive strategies and sustainable practices. The Group's ethos drives its success to reinforce Divine One Group's position as a leading force in shaping the region's economic and architectural future.

About Devmark:

Devmark is the UAE’s leading real estate project sales and marketing consultancy, known for providing value through a developer-centric, results-driven approach. Devmark delivers an integrated consultancy across the entire developer value chain from project conceptualisation to the final sales process. With a proven track record of working with established global real estate brands, Devmark has become a trusted partner for developers in the market, with a market-leading and diverse senior leadership team. With a leadership team that has over 100 years of combined real estate experience and a sell-out volume of AED15.2 billion, Devmark is one of the most experienced real estate project sales and marketing consultancies in the UAE.

·     Chef Izu Ani becomes Audi Middle East’s inaugural regional ambassador.

·     This strategic alliance exemplifies a shared dedication to excellence, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of pushing boundaries.

·     Partnership aims to celebrate cultural resonance, storytelling.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates (22 April 2024) – Audi Middle East has unveiled its collaboration with Chef Izu Ani, the visionary restaurateur, entrepreneur, and sustainability advocate known for his global culinary expertise. This partnership marks Audi's first regional brand ambassador, signalling a significant milestone in the brand's commitment to innovation, progress, and cultural resonance within the Middle East.

Chef Izu Ani's culinary journey began in the world’s leading kitchens, where he honed his skills and garnered international acclaim for his distinctive approach to gastronomy. His culinary empire, renowned for its emphasis on quality ingredients and memorable dining experiences, has solidified his status as a regional culinary icon.

A long time Audi fan, customer and brand afficionado, this association is as natural as it is fitting.

"We are thrilled to welcome Chef Izu Ani back to the Audi family as our official regional brand ambassador," said Rene Koneberg, Managing Director of Audi Middle East. "Chef Izu's innovative culinary vision and his overall commitment to progress perfectly align with Audi's ethos of pushing boundaries and inspiring others. This partnership represents a fusion of passion, creativity, and a shared dedication to excellence."

Chef Izu's ability to craft gastronomic masterpieces has not only captivated diners worldwide but has also attracted fans from royal families to his establishments across the UAE and Qatar, where he currently has presence. His influence extends beyond the kitchen, as he shares his passion for adrenaline-fueled activities, including driving his Audi RS Q8 and pushing the limits on his road bike, inspiring followers with his words of motivation.

"The collaboration between Audi and Chef Izu is a natural fit," remarked Elmir Arnautovic, Marketing and Communications Director at Audi Middle East. "Chef Izu's regional footprint and storytelling prowess make him an ideal partner to connect with Audi's progressive target audience. This partnership is not just about culinary excellence; it's a celebration of progress, inspiration, and the limitless possibilities that emerge when passion meets innovation."

Audi x Chef Izu represents a dynamic convergence of two realms: the artistry of culinary craftsmanship and the engineering prowess of Audi's automotive innovation. It embodies a story of progress inspired by possibilities and resonates with Audi's mission to push boundaries and redefine expectations.

"When passion and progress collide, at the intersection of inspiration and passionate creativity, magic happens, stated Chef Izu Ani. "Audi and Chef Izu is more than a partnership; it's a shared journey of innovation, storytelling, and a commitment to excellence. Having admired Audi for many years and being a proud owner of the Audi R8 performance, amongst others, I am honoured to join forces with Audi to inspire audiences across the Middle East. I look forward to creating unforgettable experiences together.”

The announcement of the partnership between Audi Middle East and Chef Izu Ani marks a new chapter in the region's culinary and automotive landscape. It promises exciting collaborations, innovative experiences, and a celebration of progress and creativity.

For more info visit www.audi-me.com/izu.

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