Bahrain, December 20, 2025: – Louis Philippe, the iconic menswear brand celebrated for its timeless
elegance, sartorial finesse, and modern design sensibilities, has announced the launch of its first
exclusive store in Bahrain. The 1,586 sq. ft. store, located at City Centre Bahrain in the Seef District,
was inaugurated by H.E. Vinod K. Jacob, Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Jacob
John, President, Aditya Birla Lifestyle Brands Limited franchisee partner Prakash
Pattabhiraman, Managing Director, Kalyan Silks and Mahesh Pattabhiraman, Executive
Director, Kalyan Silks, Juzer T Rupawala, Director, Lulu Group International, Bahrain. The
opening marks a significant milestone in the brand’s international expansion, further strengthening its
presence across the GCC.
Following the brand’s successful global expansion with exclusive stores in Dubai, Qatar, Mauritius,
Nepal, etc., the debut in Bahrain brings Louis Philippe’s signature blend of style, craftsmanship, and
quiet sophistication to a discerning and fashion-forward audience. Designed in line with the brand’s
new retail identity, the store features a refined, teal-toned interior – a modern, minimalist space that
reflects Louis Philippe’s evolving aesthetic rooted in clean lines, contemporary classics, and a design
language shaped by confidence and global perspective.
Commenting on the launch, Jacob John, President, Aditya Birla Lifestyle Brands Limited, said,
“Bahrain marks an important milestone in Louis Philippe’s international growth. The market’s affinity
for premium fashion makes it a natural fit for our brand. This launch reflects our commitment to
delivering world-class menswear with modern design and exceptional craftsmanship. We are also
expanding our footprint in the region, with five new stores planned across the Middle East in the
coming year.”
Prakash Pattabhiraman, Managing Director, Kalyan Silks, added, “Our association with Aditya
Birla Lifestyle Brands Limited has played an integral role in bringing some of India’s most respected
fashion brands to the Middle East. Louis Philippe holds a unique place in premium menswear, and
with its debut in Bahrain, we are confident of creating a destination that resonates deeply with today’s
style-conscious consumer.”
The first store in Bahrain offers Louis Philippe’s complete lifestyle range — thoughtfully curated to
cater to the modern gentleman’s dynamic wardrobe needs. From sharp workwear and polished
ceremonial attire to relaxed off-duty essentials, the collection reflects the same global design direction
seen at the brand’s latest store in BurJuman Mall, Dubai. Signature offerings include elevated day-to-
evening looks, effortless casualwear, airy linen shirts, refined polos, structured separates, and elegant
evening layers — each crafted with the brand’s characteristic attention to detail and contemporary
refinement.
New arrivals will be introduced regularly to keep the assortment aligned with international style
sensibilities and seasonal trends, ensuring a refreshed and globally relevant wardrobe for customers
throughout the year.
With its Bahrain debut, Louis Philippe further accelerates its international momentum, strengthening
its presence across key fashion hubs in the GCC. The brand remains committed to delivering a
refined menswear experience built on legacy, modernity, and craftsmanship – setting the stage for
continued growth and deeper engagement with discerning consumers in the region.
Month: December 2025
V. Nandakumar Honoured as the Retail Professional of the Year at Retail Congress MENA 2025
Dubai, UAE – The Middle East Council of Shopping Centers & Retailers (MECSR) presented its Annual Top Retail Industry Awards at the Retail Congress MENA 2025 in Dubai, recognising outstanding leadership and excellence across the region’s retail sector.
One of the key honours of the evening’s awards, Retail Professional of the Year, was conferred on V. Nandakumar, Director – Global Marketing & Communications, LuLu Group International, in recognition of his long-standing contribution to the Middle East retail industry and his role in shaping contemporary retail marketing, communications, and brand leadership in the region.
The awards ceremony formed part of the MECSR Retail Congress, a flagship industry platform that convenes senior executives, retail groups, mall owners, developers, and solution providers to deliberate on sector trends, transformation, and sustainable growth. The Congress has established itself as one of the region’s most influential forums for recognising leadership and innovation in retail.
Commenting on the recognition, V. Nandakumar said “This recognition is particularly meaningful to me as it comes from the industry and its key stakeholders — peers whose work and leadership I deeply respect. It reflects the collective effort of the teams I have had the privilege to work with over the years. Retail is ultimately about people, and this award belongs to the wider LuLu family that continues to build trust through purpose-led growth.”
The Middle East Council of Shopping Centers & Retailers (MECSR) represents the collective interests of the region’s retail and shopping centre industry, bringing together leading retailers, developers, investors, and service providers. As the regional affiliate of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), MECSR connects the Middle East retail community with global insights, best practices, and international benchmarks, while driving research, advocacy, and knowledge-sharing across the sector.
With over 25 years at LuLu Group International, V. Nandakumar has been closely associated with the Group’s evolution into one of the Middle East’s most trusted and diversified retail organisations. In his current role, he oversees global marketing and communications across LuLu’s portfolio, spanning hypermarkets, shopping malls, hospitality, and allied businesses across the globe.
Over the years, Nandakumar has played a pivotal role in strengthening brand equity, leading large-scale retail and corporate campaigns, and advancing omnichannel and customer engagement strategies. He is widely recognised as one of the region’s leading marketing professionals, having been featured among the Top Marketing Leaders in the Middle East by Forbes Middle East and Khaleej Times, and is a regular speaker at prominent industry conferences and leadership forums.
The MECSR Retail Congress 2025 also recognised and honoured several organisations and leaders for excellence across key categories including Retailer of the Year, Shopping Centre of the Year, Sustainability Initiative of the Year, Retail Innovation, and Customer Experience Excellence, reflecting the depth and diversity of the region’s retail ecosystem.
Abudhabi, 18th December, 2025 (WAM) — The UAE Government has issued a Federal Decree-Law establishing and organising the National Media Authority, as a federal public entity affiliated to the UAE Cabinet.
The Authority aims to consolidate national media directions and messages, align media policies across federal and local entities through coordinating efforts, and unify the UAE’s media discourse on the national and international levels.
According to the new legislation, the National Media Authority will replace the UAE Media Council, the National Media Office, and the Emirates News Agency (WAM), in their functions, rights, obligations and relevant legislative texts, including those stipulated in any existing contracts, agreements or memoranda of understanding.
The Decree-Law outlines the competencies of the National Media Authority, which include proposing the UAE’s strategic media tones and messaging; coordinating with the UAE media entities to consolidate their efforts and align policies at the federal and local levels.
The Decree-Law tasks the Authority with organising and advancing the UAE’s national media sector. The Authority will also propose and develop policies, legislation, and strategies that will guide the sector’s advancement and enhance the global standing and reputation of the UAE.
The Authority is also responsible for proposing the tailored regulations and standards necessary to organise and licence all media outlets and their activities. This scope includes digital media and publishing, and entities operating within free zones.
Following the UAE Cabinet’s approval of these measures, the Authority will supervise their implementation.
Furthermore, the Authority’s functions will extend to establishing media content standards in coordination with relevant authorities. It will closely observe all media content printed, broadcast, posted, or aired within the UAE, including in free zones. Finally, it is tasked with developing, assessing, and overseeing the national media narrative to contribute to enhancing its positive image.
According to the Decree-Law, the Authority will develop and implement the necessary plans, mechanisms and measures to efficiently and swiftly respond to any potential media crises, as well as develop appropriate solutions to address or manage them in coordination with the relevant authorities.
It will focus on developing professional capabilities, mechanisms, and methods that support the national media ecosystem’s early detection of crises arising from digital media threats, negative or misleading media content, and or fake news.
The Decree-Law tasks the Authority with developing the Emirates News Agency (WAM) as the official channel to support the publication, distribution and translation of the official approved news. It also grants the Authority the power to establish a global network of correspondents and media offices.
The Authority is mandated to archive local and international news and press articles as well as produce news services and media content. It is also mandated to train and qualify national media talent, especially those working for the agency, collecting and distributing news in multiple languages around the world.
The Authority is assigned the task of registering, licensing, and accrediting foreign media representatives in the UAE, including in free zones; overseeing and presiding over UAE official media delegations during official visits abroad, and representing the UAE in media forums across all international and regional levels, in accordance with the directives issued to it by the UAE Cabinet, and in coordination with the relevant authorities.
The new legislation defined the powers of the head of the authority, stipulated the appointment of a deputy head, and authorised the authority to have a board of trustees, whose formation would be determined by a UAE Cabinet resolution.
The Decree-Law also stipulated the appointment of a secretary-general for the authority and defined his responsibilities, which include ensuring the implementation of the authority’s policies, strategies, legislation, and regulations.
Furthermore, the decree-law authorised the authority to own and establish limited liability companies or to own shares or stakes in such companies, subject to the Cabinet’s approval.
Dubai, 18th December, 2025 (WAM) — TECOM Group PJSC, the creator of specialised business districts and vibrant communities in Dubai, has launched Phase 4 of Innovation Hub in Dubai Internet City to address rising demand for Grade-A office spaces from global multinational companies in vital, future-focused economic sectors.
With a gross leasable area (GLA) of 263,000 sq.ft., the AED615 million development represents the fourth phase of Innovation Hub and strengthens Dubai Internet City’s position as the leading technology hub in the region.
The launch of Innovation Hub Phase 4 supports TECOM Group’s strategic growth plan and raises its total investments in the Innovation Hub project in Dubai Internet City to reach AED 2 billion.The announcement follows the success of Innovation Hub’s third phase development, which was fully leased ahead of its scheduled completion in 2027. The second phase of Innovation Hub is also complete and fully leased to Fortune 500 companies and digital economy leaders, while Phase 1 serves as the cornerstone for launching the project, which remains a leading destination for global technology businesses such as Google and Gartner.
The fourth phase of Innovation Hub will enhance TECOM Group’s portfolio of Grade-A commercial assets, strengthening its ability to serve new and existing technology customers upon completion in 2028 and amid rising demand for premium office spaces driven by leading national strategies.
Abdulla Belhoul, Chief Executive Officer of TECOM Group, said, “The launch of Innovation Hub Phase 4 reflects TECOM Group’s ongoing commitment to supporting vital future-focused economic activity in the UAE and Dubai. The UAE’s and Dubai’s globally renowned pro-business framework, coupled with visionary strategies such as the UAE’s Digital Economy Strategy and Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’, continue to highlight our nation’s ability to attract future-focused innovators and investors. This strategic development further enhances Dubai Internet City’s empowering role in the technology sector, ensuring it is well-positioned to serve the evolving needs of the digital economy.
“Our healthy liquidity and strategic roadmap for sustainable growth ensure we are well-placed to capitalise on favourable market dynamics, and we will continue to expand TECOM Group’s portfolio in high-growth sectors that promote innovation to deliver long-term value for our shareholders.”
The Group will utilise its existing resources to finance the development while ensuring it maintains a healthy leverage and liquidity position. The development follows TECOM Group’s strong nine-month financial performance in 2025, led by increased occupancy, higher rental rates, improved efficiencies, and continued portfolio expansion.
The Group reported revenues of more than AED2.1 billion, representing 20 percent year-on-year (YoY) growth during the first nine months of the year, with net profit exceeding AED1.1 billion (+18 percent YoY) compared to the same period in 2024.
Abudhabi, 18th December, 2025 (WAM) — The United Arab Emirates’ tourism sector continued its strong upward trajectory in 2025, consolidating its position as one of the country’s most dynamic economic sectors and a major magnet for investment and visitors, supported by world-class infrastructure, flagship projects and strong competitiveness indicators.Tourism and travel sector contributed AED257.3 billion to gross domestic product, accounting for 13 percent of the national economy. Hotel establishments welcomed 23.27 million guests in the first nine months of the year, up 4.9% year on year, while hotel nights exceeded 79.3 million. Hotel revenues rose 7.2% to more than AED 35.9 billion.
Average hotel occupancy increased to 79.2%, while the number of occupied rooms rose 3.5% to 46.17 million. The average daily room rate climbed 4.2% to AED 557, supported by total capacity of 216,248 rooms across 1,246 hotel establishments. The aviation sector also maintained strong momentum, with Abu Dhabi Airports, Dubai International Airport and Sharjah International Airport handling a combined 108.59 million passengers by the end of September.
The year saw the launch and announcement of several major tourism projects, including the AED 2 billion “Therme Dubai” wellness and leisure destination; the opening of Abu Dhabi’s interactive Butterfly Sanctuary; the Wynn Al Marjan Island hotel and resort in Ras Al Khaimah; the Avani+ Fujairah Resort scheduled to open in 2028; the AED 3.5 billion Al Tay Hills project in Sharjah; the second phase of the Umm Al Qaiwain Creek Waterfront; and the announcement of a Disney theme park and resort on Yas Island, one of the largest global entertainment projects.
In February, the fifth edition of the “World’s Coolest Winter” campaign concluded under the theme “Green Tourism,” generating hotel revenues of nearly AED 1.9 billion, up 86.9%, and attracting more than 4.4 million guests, a 62% increase compared with the previous edition. The campaign reached 224.7 million people worldwide.
The UAE renewed its membership on the Executive Council of UN Tourism for the 2025–2029 term, underscoring its international role in shaping the future of global tourism.
In a historic milestone, Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais was elected Secretary-General of UN Tourism for the 2026–2029 term, becoming the first woman to hold the post since the organisation’s establishment.
Among other highlights in 2025, Masfout village was named “Best Tourism Village in the World 2025,” while the UAE ranked among the world’s top seven destinations for international tourism spending.
Abudhabi, 18th December, 2025 (WAM) — President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent a message of congratulations to H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, on the occasion of his country’s National Day.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai; and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, dispatched similar messages to the Emir of Qatar and to Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, on the occasion.
Dubai, UAE — 18 December 2025 – Amirah Developments has officially unveiled Crown Palace, a distinguished new residential development in Dubai South, positioned at the heart of the city’s next major growth corridor. The project combines classical European architectural design with a prime location, offering residents both elegance and strategic connectivity in Dubai’s rapidly expanding southern district.
Spanning a region designed as a self-sustained ecosystem, Dubai South covers 145 square kilometres of residential, commercial, and aviation zones, alongside green spaces, schools, and retail hubs. Crown Palace is situated to provide seamless access to Al Maktoum International Airport, the city’s future global aviation hub, as well as Expo City, major roadways, and expanding commercial districts.
Muhammad Yousuf Jafrani, Founder and Chairman of Amirah Developments, said:
“Dubai South represents the next chapter in Dubai’s growth story. Crown Palace has been designed as a timeless architectural landmark in a district that is rapidly evolving into one of the city’s most desirable residential and lifestyle hubs.”
Crown Palace stands out architecturally, drawing inspiration from classical European palaces. The development features ornamental balconies, elegant arches, symmetrical façades, and handcrafted details, offering a unique contrast to Dubai South’s contemporary urban landscape. Interiors emphasize light, space, and balance, with high ceilings, expansive balconies, and warm neutral palettes that reflect the exterior’s elegance while accommodating modern lifestyle needs.
The project is designed to cater to families and professionals seeking spacious master-planned communities with access to green spaces, schools, and lifestyle amenities. Its prime location ensures connectivity to the district’s evolving infrastructure, including the airport expansion, new road networks, and future metro connectivity.
Crown Palace represents more than a residential offering; it is positioned as an architectural and cultural anchor in Dubai South, adding depth, heritage, and elegance to the district’s fast-growing skyline. As Dubai South continues to develop, the project is set to become one of the area’s most iconic and desirable addresses
The Luxe Developers Break Ground on AED 2.3 Billion La Mazzoni on Al Marjan Island
The Luxe Developers have officially launched La Mazzoni, a AED 2.3 billion luxury wellness development on Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah. Scheduled for completion in Q3 2028, the project will feature 562 fully furnished residences including apartments, duplexes, chalets, and penthouses.
La Mazzoni integrates nature-inspired architecture, five-star amenities, wellness facilities, co-working lounges, and smart home systems, offering residents a lifestyle focused on health, comfort, and community. Designed by Dewan Architects + Engineers, interiors by Hirsch Bedner Associates, and landscaping by Cracknell, the development spans over 1.5 million sq. ft. with extensive landscaped gardens, fitness areas, and a rooftop infinity pool.
Residences are available with a 60/40 payment plan, starting from AED 2 million for one-bedroom units. La Mazzoni is strategically located near Marjan World and the upcoming Wynn Al Marjan Island resort, positioning it as one of the emirate’s most sought-after addresses.
December 18, 2025 – IndiGo has successfully stabilized its operations across its network since 9 December 2025, initially resuming with over 1,800 flights. The airline has been gradually adding capacity and, as of today, operates more than 2,200 flights, fully aligned with its revised schedule.
IndiGo now serves all 138 operational destinations while maintaining its standard on-time performance. The airline emphasized that it continues to uphold the full integrity of its revised schedule, ensuring consistently reliable service for over 3.5 lakh customers daily.
“Having completely stabilized operations since 9 December, we have been carefully increasing our flight capacity while maintaining normal on-time performance, as per IndiGo standards,” said an IndiGo spokesperson. “We remain committed to delivering consistently reliable service to our customers across all destinations.”
18 th December 2025:
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is offering 90 distinctive 2,
3, 4 and 5-digit vehicle plate numbers from the codes (AA, BB, CC, K, N,
O, R, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z). Among the highlights are the super numbers
AA 25, BB 12 and BB 30 in this 120 th Open Auction.
The auction will be held on Saturday, 27 th December, with registration
opening on Monday, 22 nd December. The event will take place in the Al
Joud Ballroom at Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, starting at 4:30 pm.
Interested bidders may register through RTA’s website (www.rta.ae), the
RTA Dubai App, or at Customer Happiness Centres in Umm Ramool,
Deira and Al Barsha. Seating will be limited, with priority given to auction
participants; therefore, early registration is advised. Registration will also
be available at the auction hall from 2:00 pm onwards.
The sale of plate numbers is subject to a 5% value-added tax (VAT). To
participate, bidders must hold a traffic file in the Emirate of Dubai and
provide a security deposit cheque made payable to RTA in the amount of
AED 25,000, along with a non-refundable registration fee of AED 120.
Payments may be made at the Customer Happiness Centres or by credit
card through RTA’s website or the RTA App.