Month: August 2026

Dubai , August 22, 2026 : Dubai Airports has launched a new series of welcome experiences at Dubai International (DXB), offering Arabian hospitality and warm, thoughtful moments of care for residents returning home after the summer, visitors arriving in Dubai, and guests transferring through the world’s busiest international airport.

Across Terminal 3, the activations bring moments of connection to the airport journey, transforming spaces from Baggage Claim and Arrivals through to transit areas within DXB, into memorable experiences.

Mascots from Dubai Police and the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDIFA) welcome younger guests, while live music from a local musician in the Arrivals area adds to the warm atmosphere. As guests continue through the Arrivals Hall, small touches along the way are designed to welcome their arrival in Dubai.

In Arrivals, families and friends can create personalised welcome signs using stickers and Dubai-inspired embellishments at the Make Your Welcome Home Sign station, transforming the space into a vibrant celebration of reunions. Guests continuing their journey via Dubai Taxi are greeted with complimentary refreshments, cold towels and treats, courtesy of Mirzam, Emirati District, Emirates Flight Catering and oneDXB partners, extending the city’s renowned hospitality beyond the terminal.

For those transiting through DXB, Dubai Airports welcomes guests with a live performance inspired by the sounds of the region, offering a taste of Dubai’s vibrant music scene. At the transfer desks, guests can also enjoy complimentary refreshments and treats distributed by Project Chaiwala, Mirzam, Emirati District and Garrett Popcorn.

Michelle Lee, Vice President Brand and Communications at Dubai Airports, said: “DXB is the gateway to Dubai and, for many guests, their first point of connection with the city. From the moment people arrive or travel through the airport, we want those moments to reflect what makes Dubai distinctive: its energy, warmth, diversity and the people who bring the city to life. Whether a guest is returning home or simply spending only a few hours with us between flights, our focus is on turning everyday touchpoints into meaningful, memorable experiences.”

All travellers can also participate in Dubai Airports’ I Heart DXB interactive installation near Gate B28, which offers a creative way to connect with the city. By uploading a selfie, guests become part of a shared portrait of Dubai in the colours of the UAE flag. Alongside it, guests can add to the wall of handwritten notes by leaving a message of pride and gratitude, before collecting limited-edition stickers and pins.

The experiences run throughout August across Terminal 3, as part of Dubai Airports’ ongoing efforts to reinforce DXB as a place of familiarity, warmth and care.

Dubai , August 22, 2026 :Esha Oza will lead a 15-member UAE squad at the Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2026, starting August 28 at the Dubai International Stadium. The tournament, which will conclude on September 13, marks the first time UAE will host the continental event, with all matches played under lights.

The hosts have been placed in Group B alongside previous winners Bangladesh, Indonesia, and defending champions Sri Lanka. UAE will open their campaign against Sri Lanka on August 29, followed by clashes against Indonesia on September 4 and Bangladesh on September 8.

All matches in the tournament will be played under lights, starting at 6:30 pm local time. The two semi-finals are slated for September 10 and 11, with the summit clash scheduled for September 13.

It’s the first time UAE will host the continental tournament. Both UAE and Thailand qualified for the main event via the 2026 Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Premier Women’s Cup, held in Malaysia in June.

Dubai , August 22, 2026 : The Jumaa Al Majid Centre for Culture and Heritage in Dubai and the Arab Organisation for Administrative Development, affiliated with the League of Arab States, organised a virtual scientific session exploring the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation in preserving heritage, advancing digitisation methods, classifying Arabic manuscripts, and transforming heritage assets into sustainable sources of knowledge, innovation, and cultural and economic value.

Held yesterday under the theme “From Memory to the Future: AI and Digital Transformation in the Service of Heritage,” the session featured Dr. Mohammed Khalif, Consultant for Innovation, Digital Transformation and AI Integration, and Abdel Azim Saqr, a researcher at the Institute of Arabic Manuscripts.

Dr. Khalif presented a strategic vision for moving beyond the digitisation and preservation of heritage towards building a smart digital ecosystem that enhances its vitality, accessibility and sustainability. He highlighted the potential of AI, digital platforms and immersive technologies to develop new experiences for learning and exploration.

He stressed the importance of partnerships among cultural institutions, universities, technology companies, startups and the creative industries, alongside adopting the concept of “heritage as a platform” to develop innovative services and solutions.

Saqr, for his part, presented an experience in using AI to classify and digitise Arabic manuscripts. He discussed the “Al-Shanti System”, a cognitive agent for manuscript classification that uses computer vision technologies and cognitive indicators to analyse manuscript characteristics.

He emphasised that the future of manuscript digitisation is moving towards intelligent systems that go beyond text extraction to understanding, classifying and analysing manuscripts.

The session brought together researchers, specialists and professionals interested in the field, with discussions focusing on the future use of AI and digital transformation technologies to preserve heritage and make it accessible to future generations.

Brand becomes the region’s second-largest smartphone maker as overall market shipments decline 13%

Dubai, August 21, 2026 : HONOR has emerged as the only leading smartphone brand in the Middle East to record shipment growth during the first half of 2026, despite a significant slowdown in the regional smartphone market.

According to the latest data from Omdia, total smartphone shipments across the Middle East declined 13% year on year in H1 2026. In contrast, HONOR’s shipments increased by 35%, significantly outperforming the wider market and other leading brands.

The performance builds on the company’s strong start to the year. In the first quarter of 2026, HONOR recorded a 73% year-on-year increase in shipments across the Middle East, reflecting strong consumer demand and continued momentum in key markets.

Second-largest smartphone brand

HONOR maintained its position as the second-largest smartphone brand in the Middle East during Q2 2026, further strengthening its presence in the region.

The company said its performance reflects continued investment in its product portfolio, retail network and strategic partnerships, alongside efforts to bring its latest technologies to Middle Eastern consumers.

The region has become an increasingly important market for HONOR, with the company expanding its presence across multiple consumer segments and strengthening its distribution and retail footprint.

Portfolio spans multiple segments

HONOR’s growth is supported by a diverse portfolio covering smartphones, tablets, wearables, audio products and PCs.

Its smartphone range includes the mid-premium HONOR Number Series, the durable HONOR X Series and the premium HONOR Magic Series, allowing the brand to target consumers across different price points and requirements.

The company is also focusing on connectivity across devices and operating systems. Enhanced compatibility with iOS and Apple devices is designed to enable smoother file sharing, collaboration and productivity between different platforms.

Strengthening its regional position

HONOR’s growth comes at a time when the wider Middle East smartphone market is facing considerable pressure.

The company said its continued investment in products, partnerships, retail presence and consumer-focused experiences is helping it strengthen its position in the region.

With shipment growth significantly exceeding the overall market performance, HONOR’s H1 2026 results underline the brand’s rising relevance among Middle Eastern consumers and its growing role in shaping the region’s competitive smartphone landscape.

Initiative recognises riders’ contribution to Dubai’s economy and supports summer heat-protection efforts

Dubai,August 21,2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has distributed meals to delivery riders at temporary rest areas located at bus and metro stations across key areas of the emirate.

The meals were provided by the UAE Food Bank in collaboration with Deliveroo, as part of an initiative recognising the daily efforts of delivery riders and their vital role in serving the community and supporting Dubai’s growing delivery sector.

Meals were distributed daily across 23 locations designated as temporary rest areas for delivery riders at bus and metro stations.

The selected locations included Gold Souq Bus Station, Al Satwa Bus Station, Al Jafiliya Bus Station, Al Qusais Bus Station, Al Karama Bus Station, Al Rashidiya Metro Station, Al Furjan Metro Station, DMCC Metro Station, BurJuman Metro Station, Ibn Battuta Metro Station and e& Metro Station.

According to RTA, the facilities were selected based on the number of delivery riders benefiting from the initiative.

Ahmed Mahboub, CEO of the Licensing Agency at RTA, said the initiative reflects the authority’s role in supporting national initiatives aimed at enhancing the safety and wellbeing of delivery riders.

The initiative also supports the UAE’s Midday Break programme, which protects workers from heat stress during the summer months.

Under the programme, which runs from June 15 to September 15, work under direct sunlight and in open areas is prohibited between 12:30pm and 3pm, in accordance with directives from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.

RTA said the initiative also supports wider quality-of-life objectives and efforts to strengthen Dubai’s position as a leading city to live and work.

UAE Food Bank supports initiative

Manal Obaid bin Yaroof, Head of the Executive Team at the UAE Food Bank, highlighted the importance of supporting workers who play an essential role in the UAE’s economic and social fabric.

She said the initiative reflects the Food Bank’s humanitarian mission of supporting people in need, promoting food preservation and reducing food waste.

The initiative also delivers a message of humanitarian and national responsibility, while highlighting the values of generosity and giving within Emirati society.

“At the UAE Food Bank, we are committed to supporting all humanitarian initiatives that embody noble objectives and reflect the values of Emirati society,” Bin Yaroof said.

The meal distribution initiative adds another layer of support for delivery riders working across Dubai, particularly during the challenging summer months, while recognising their contribution to the city’s fast-growing delivery economy.

Nakheel’s limited Frond F release brings together 44 Beach and Coral Collection homes across 10 architectural designs at Dubai’s next iconic waterfront destination

Dubai, August 21, 2026: On Frond F at Palm Jebel Ali, the horizon is more than a view. It shapes how rooms face the water, how interiors open to terraces and courtyards and how natural light moves through each home over the course of the day.

Nakheel, a member of Dubai Holding Real Estate, has unveiled its latest Beach & Coral Collection release: 44 beachfront villas across 10 architectural designs by NAGA Architects, SAOTA, LW Design Group and LOCI Architecture. The five-, six- and seven-bedroom homes each offer direct beach access and uninterrupted views across the Arabian Gulf.

Palm Jebel Ali is taking shape as Dubai’s next iconic waterfront destination. Spanning seven islands and 16 fronds, with 120 kilometres of coastline and more than 90 kilometres of beachfront, it is designed to establish a new global benchmark for island living. Frond F is the latest expression of this vision.

Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate, said: “Palm Jebel Ali is being created at the scale of a destination, but its character will be defined by the experience of each home. On Frond F, four leading international architecture and design studios have interpreted the shoreline through 10 distinctive designs, each shaped by light, landscape and water. Limited to 44 beachfront villas, the collection reflects our ambition to establish a new benchmark for beachfront living in Dubai.”

Two contrasting architectural moods define the release. The Beach Collection is quieter and more elemental. Its five- and six-bedroom villas range from 7,500 to 8,500 sq ft, using clean horizontal forms, natural materials and generous indoor-outdoor spaces to create a sense of calm. Its four distinct designs are Cyan Sky by NAGA Architects, Wave Crest by LW Design Group, and Ocean Whisper and Blue Jay by SAOTA.

Reflecting on Wave Crest, Colin Doyle, Founding Partner at LW Design Group, said: “Wave Crest takes its cues from the horizon and the changing light across the Arabian Gulf. Natural stone, warm timber, textured plaster and expansive glazing create a calm, timeless palette, while framed views and layered spaces allow the landscape to become part of the living experience.”

The Coral Collection offers a more sculptural and expressive interpretation of waterfront living. Its six- and seven-bedroom villas range from 11,500 to 12,500 sq ft. Dramatic volumes, distinctive silhouettes and carefully composed spaces give the homes a bolder presence.

Its six designs comprise Coral Dune and Sunset Mirage by NAGA Architects, Amber Reef and Red Aurora by SAOTA, Redwood by LW Design Group and Porcelain Roses by LOCI Architecture.

Dr. Shams Eldien Naga, Founder of NAGA Architects, said: “the Coral Collection villas were conceived as a series of carefully framed experiences, where terraces, courtyards and panoramic views create a continuous dialogue between architecture, landscape and the shoreline.”

Across all 10 designs, light, sea breezes and panoramic views become part of daily life. Each home reveals the water differently, balancing openness with retreat and creating its own relationship with the horizon. Limited to 44 homes, the Frond F release brings architectural choice to an inherently finite setting: the beachfront of Palm Jebel Ali’s fronds.

Contemporary steakhouse at Al Faya Retreat blends Arab heritage, desert history and premium cuisine

Sharjah, August 21, 2026 : A remarkable chapter of Arab history has found a contemporary expression at MAVIA Restaurant, a destination steakhouse located at Al Faya Retreat, part of Sharjah Collection.

Named after Queen Mavia, the fourth-century Arab warrior queen, MAVIA draws inspiration from her story of leadership, resilience and independence while connecting it with the rich heritage of the Al Faya desert.

Queen Mavia rose to prominence around 375 AD as the leader of the Tanukhid Arab tribal confederation. Known for her courage and strategic intelligence, she led a successful revolt against the Eastern Roman Empire, eventually compelling the Romans to negotiate peace.

Her legacy has continued to attract contemporary cultural interest. During a visit to MAVIA, Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi became intrigued by Queen Mavia’s story and explored her history further. The historical figure was later featured in Her Highness’s book, Let Them Know She Is Here: Searching for the Queen of Mleiha.

A destination shaped by history

MAVIA’s location adds another layer to the restaurant’s identity.

Long before Al Faya Retreat became part of Sharjah Collection, the area was located along an important desert route connecting Sharjah and Oman.

The site’s original stone buildings date back to the 1960s, when they served as a medical clinic and grocery store for travellers crossing the desert. The buildings were also located close to one of the UAE’s early petroleum pumps, which remains at the site today.

In 2019, the historic structures were carefully reimagined as Al Faya Retreat, preserving key elements of their original architecture while transforming them into a contemporary hospitality destination.

Premium steakhouse experience

At MAVIA, the story continues at the dining table.

The restaurant’s culinary concept, developed by Chef Akmal Anwar, focuses on premium ingredients and precise preparation, allowing the natural flavours of the produce to take centre stage.

The menu features premium cuts including a 400g Black Angus Rib Eye, 400g Wagyu Striploin and 600g T-Bone, alongside Wagyu skewers, lamb chops and a Wagyu burger.

But the experience begins long before the food arrives.

The journey to Al Faya, the gradual transition from the city to the open desert, the historic architecture and the surrounding landscape all form part of the destination dining experience.

MAVIA brings these elements together in a setting where food, history and landscape are closely connected.

The restaurant reflects Sharjah Collection’s wider philosophy of creating experiences rooted in the emirate’s culture, heritage and natural landscapes.

At MAVIA, the desert is more than a backdrop, while the name is more than a reference to history. Together, they form the foundation of a dining experience that connects an extraordinary Arab legacy with contemporary culinary craftsmanship.

Rare discovery marks a major milestone for marine biodiversity and confirms the third nesting turtle species in the emirate

Abudhabi , August 21, 2026 : ​ The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has recorded the first-ever nesting of an Olive Ridley turtle in the emirate, marking a significant milestone for marine biodiversity conservation.

The rare nest was discovered on Saadiyat Island and represents the third marine turtle species confirmed to nest in Abu Dhabi waters.

The discovery was confirmed through DNA barcoding in partnership with Khalifa University, which found a 99 per cent genetic match to Lepidochelys olivacea, the scientific name for the Olive Ridley turtle.

Abu Dhabi’s mainland coastline and offshore islands are primarily known as nesting grounds for Hawksbill turtles. The first confirmed Green turtle nest was recorded in the emirate in 2023. The Olive Ridley discovery adds another rare nesting species to Abu Dhabi’s marine ecosystem.

According to EAD, the turtle nested on March 29, 2026, laying 109 eggs. Hatchlings emerged on May 25, with 40 successfully reaching the sea, representing a hatching success rate of approximately 37 per cent.

The nest was discovered during a routine monitoring patrol by volunteers from the Saadiyat Turtle Patrol. It was monitored throughout the incubation period using a solar-powered camera and with support from EAD marine specialists.

As the expected hatching date approached, volunteers intensified patrols, returning every morning and throughout the night to monitor the emergence of the hatchlings.

Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, described the discovery as a landmark moment for Abu Dhabi’s marine biodiversity.

She said the nesting record reflects the health and resilience of the emirate’s marine ecosystems and the long-term impact of sustained conservation efforts.

The successful emergence of the hatchlings confirms that local environmental conditions were sufficient to support the Olive Ridley’s complete reproductive cycle. EAD said the finding will provide an important baseline for future monitoring and conservation planning.

Scientific confirmation

Because Olive Ridley turtles had never previously been recorded nesting in Abu Dhabi, EAD partnered with Khalifa University to scientifically confirm the species.

DNA barcoding compares standardised genetic sequences with international reference databases, allowing researchers to distinguish species with a high degree of confidence.

Maitha Al Hameli, Acting Executive Director of the Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Sector at EAD, said DNA analysis was essential to ensure that the discovery was supported by robust scientific evidence.

She added that the finding would contribute to a better understanding of marine turtle distribution across the region and highlight the value of long-term scientific monitoring in detecting ecological changes.

Why the discovery matters

Olive Ridley turtles are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and nest at relatively few locations around the world.

The species is also considered an indicator of marine ecosystem health. Olive Ridley turtles feed on marine invertebrates including jellyfish, crabs, shrimp and molluscs, helping maintain balance within marine food webs.

Their nesting activity also transfers nutrients from the ocean to coastal ecosystems, supporting beach vegetation and contributing to natural shoreline stability.

The discovery builds on more than 25 years of marine turtle research by EAD.

Four of the world’s seven marine turtle species have now been recorded in Abu Dhabi: Hawksbill, Green, Loggerhead and Olive Ridley.

Hawksbill turtles remain the emirate’s predominant nesting species, while Green and Olive Ridley nesting are considered rare but significant occurrences. Loggerhead turtles are occasional visitors.

EAD’s latest aerial survey, conducted in 2024, estimated that Abu Dhabi’s waters support a marine turtle population of around 8,000 individuals. Nesting surveys have also identified at least 17 nesting locations on offshore islands.

The agency continues to support turtle conservation through rescue and rehabilitation programmes, satellite tracking and long-term scientific research.

The first Olive Ridley nest, together with the Green turtle nesting record established in 2023, further expands scientific understanding of Abu Dhabi’s marine ecosystems and underscores the importance of sustained monitoring and conservation efforts.

Dubai Historic Doors” presents a visual journey through Dubai’s architectural heritage in partnership with Dubai Municipality, Dubai Airports and the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai.

• Collaborative initiative transforms airport spaces into an interactive cultural platform reflecting the message “Dubai Welcomes the World”.

Dubai, August 21, 2026 : Dubai Municipality has launched “Dubai Historic Doors” at Dubai International Airport in partnership with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai and Dubai Airports. The initiative provides travellers with an immersive visual, historical and cultural experience inspired by the historic doors that form a distinctive part of Dubai’s architectural heritage.

The experience brings together the richness of Dubai’s past and its future-facing identity, welcoming visitors through an interpretation of the traditional doors that characterised the emirate’s historic homes, markets and neighbourhoods and reflecting Dubai’s message of welcoming the world.

Running from 20 August to 7 September 2026, “Dubai Historic Doors” creates a heritage gateway through the airport arrival journey. From the moment travellers arrive, the experience introduces them to elements of Dubai’s history, culture and architectural identity, beginning with the heritage doors and continuing towards the passport control area.

The experience recreates traditional doors that once formed an important part of the architectural and social character of Dubai’s historic neighbourhoods, including Al Shindagha, Al Fahidi and Deira. Among the featured pieces is a recreation of the door of Sheikh Saeed House, displayed in Arrivals Terminal 3.

By bringing these architectural elements into the airport environment, the initiative creates a cultural passage connecting Dubai’s position as a global economic and tourism hub with its historical roots. It also uses one of the city’s principal gateways to introduce visitors to Emirati identity and the culture of hospitality from the beginning of their journey in Dubai.

His Excellency Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai, said that the traveller’s experience of Dubai begins from the moment of arrival, making entry points an important extension of the emirate’s identity and an opportunity to combine efficient procedures and high-quality services with cultural and human dimensions.

He said: “This initiative reflects the integration between government entities in delivering an exceptional experience that represents Dubai’s character and values. It transforms the arrival journey into an opportunity for visitors to discover the emirate’s history and authenticity alongside the operational efficiency they experience across the travel ecosystem.

“Strengthening national identity begins with the details visitors experience, and our entry points are among the first places through which Dubai communicates its message to the world as a city that brings together a rich heritage and an ambitious vision for the future.”

His Excellency Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, said that Dubai’s architectural heritage represents a living and enduring identity that continues to contribute to the emirate’s future and reinforces its appeal as a global destination combining authenticity and modernity.

He said: “In Emirati heritage, doors are more than architectural elements. They are enduring symbols of welcome and hospitality. Today, Dubai International Airport, as one of the city’s principal gateways to the world, embraces Dubai’s historic doors and carries forward our message of welcoming people and cultures from around the globe.

“Through this initiative, we are advancing our efforts to preserve and celebrate Dubai’s architectural heritage while presenting it in innovative ways within contemporary public spaces. It provides travellers with a cultural experience from the moment they arrive, highlighting the depth of our national identity, the richness of our architectural heritage and the Emirati tradition of hospitality and welcome.”

Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Airports, said: “We want every part of the guest journey to be seamless while also creating opportunities for travellers to experience the culture and character of Dubai. Dubai Municipality’s ‘Dubai Historic Doors’ initiative is a strong example of how we can use spaces across the airport to bring that ambition to life.

“By showcasing an important part of the emirate’s architectural heritage, the experience gives millions of guests the opportunity to discover another chapter of Dubai’s story as they travel through the airport. Initiatives such as this demonstrate how our role extends beyond operational efficiency. DXB is a global gateway to Dubai, and from the moment guests arrive, we have an opportunity to introduce them to a city that continues to look to the future while remaining deeply proud of its heritage and identity.”

The initiative forms part of Dubai Municipality’s efforts to preserve and showcase Dubai’s national identity and historic architectural character while transforming public spaces into interactive platforms that tell the story of the city.

It also contributes to enhancing Dubai’s urban and aesthetic environment, strengthening its position as a global cultural tourism destination and encouraging visitors to explore the emirate’s historic districts and cultural landmarks during their stay.

Onam campaign brings festive value and cultural experiences to UAE families, and a special two-day savings promotion at Mark & Save Al Tallah, Ajman

​Dubai ,August 21, 2026 ​: Mark & Save, one of the fastest-growing value retail chains in the GCC, is bringing the spirit of Onam closer to families and communities across the UAE through a month-long festive campaign combining traditional celebrations, attractive value offers, and engaging family experiences.

With Onam deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Kerala and celebrated by communities across the UAE, Mark & Save’s campaign is designed to go beyond festive shopping by creating a platform where customers can reconnect with traditions while enjoying quality products and meaningful savings.

The campaign is built around Mark & Save’s “Affordable Luxury” proposition, offering customers access to a broad selection of products at value-driven prices. The Onam range covers essential categories for festive preparations and everyday family shopping, including rice and grocery staples, fresh fruits and vegetables, cooking ingredients, dairy products, meat and poultry, snacks and beverages, household essentials, and selected general merchandise.

A key highlight of the campaign is the Free Sadhya promotion, available in select Mark & Save stores. From August 18 to August 23, customers who spend Dh250 or more, excluding electronics, will receive one Free Sadhya. The initiative is aimed at adding an authentic festive experience to the shopping journey while making it easier for families to celebrate one of Kerala’s most important festivals.

At Mark & Save Al Tallah in Ajman, the celebrations will receive an additional boost with a special weekend promotion titled “Great 2 Days of Savings.” The two-day initiative will bring customers a selection of special prices, value deals, combo offers, and multi-buy promotions across a wide range of products, creating additional opportunities for families to prepare for Onam while maximising their savings.

Mohammed Fasil, Head of Operations at Mark & Save, said, “Onam is much more than a festival; it is a celebration of togetherness, heritage, and the bonds that bring families and communities together. Our aim is to reflect those values through an experience that combines tradition with affordability and convenience. By bringing festive products, cultural activities, and value-led offers together, we want every customer to feel closer to the spirit of Onam.”

The festive programme will also feature a series of cultural and family-oriented activities designed to encourage community participation. These include Kids’ Fancy Dress, Thiruvathira, Cinematic Dance, Payasam, Tug of War, Pookkalam, Mr. Malayali, Malayali Manka, and a dedicated Digital Engagement Campaign.

The activities are intended to create an inclusive environment where families can participate, celebrate Kerala’s cultural traditions, and experience the festive atmosphere beyond the shopping aisles.

“Retail today is about more than simply providing products. It is about understanding customers, recognising the occasions that matter to them and creating experiences that add value to their lives. Our Onam initiative is a reflection of that approach. We are pleased to bring together attractive offers and meaningful cultural engagement while ensuring that customers can access their festive requirements conveniently under one roof,” Mr. Fasil added.

Mark & Save’s growing retail network provides a broad platform for the campaign. The brand, which was launched as a value retail concept in 2022, has expanded its presence across the GCC and has established a growing footprint in the UAE. Its stores offer an extensive assortment spanning groceries, fresh food, household essentials, electronics, fashion, bakery, hot food, and other general merchandise.

The company’s scale is also reflected in its workforce and product assortment. Mark & Save employs more than 5,000 people and offers more than 200,000 varieties of products across its retail network, according to company figures shared earlier this year.

The retailer is part of Western International Group, which operates a significant retail network across the GCC. Mark & Save currently has a presence across the UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with the company continuing to pursue further expansion in regional and international markets.

“Our commitment has always been to make quality and choice accessible without placing unnecessary pressure on household budgets. During a culturally significant occasion such as Onam, that commitment becomes even more meaningful. We want families to have the freedom to celebrate their traditions, prepare their favourite festive dishes,and enjoy time together while benefiting from the value and convenience that Mark & Save provides,” Mr. Fasil further said.

The Onam campaign is already underway and will continue through the end of August, giving customers across the UAE multiple opportunities to participate in the festivities and benefit from the seasonal promotions.

For the Kerala and wider Malayali community, the campaign represents Mark & Save’s effort to celebrate the cultural diversity of the UAE while creating a shopping experience that combines tradition, value, convenience, and community.

From the ingredients needed for a traditional Sadhya to everyday household essentials, festive promotions, and family activities, Mark & Save aims to position its stores as convenient one-stop destinations for customers preparing to celebrate Onam.

As families come together to welcome the festive season, Mark & Save’s message is simple: celebrate the richness of tradition, enjoy the happiness of togetherness, and make every festive purchase count.