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  • Li Auto Launches Li L9 in UAE Starting at $87,100

    Li Auto Launches Li L9 in UAE Starting at $87,100

    Li Auto introduced its flagship L9 sport utility vehicle in the United Arab Emirates on Thursday, pricing the extended-range model from AED 319,900 ($87,100).

    The rollout gives the Chinese electric vehicle maker its first commercial sales operation in the Gulf, where it sells the SUV at a 28 percent premium over domestic retail prices.

    Local buyers can choose between two trims: the base Ultra and the AED 359,900 Livis edition. Both variants use a third-generation extended-range powertrain pairing a battery pack with a petrol generator, delivering 420 kilometres of battery-only range and 1,650 kilometres combined under China Light-Duty Test Cycle standards. The vehicles feature Qualcomm Snapdragon 8797 cockpit processors, steer-by-wire systems, and rear-wheel steering. On the higher-spec Livis, Li Auto includes an 800-volt active suspension alongside electromechanical brake-by-wire hardware.

    Dealership network and regional adaptation

    Engineers modified cabin thermal management and dust sealing to handle Gulf summer temperatures and desert driving. Digital interfaces include Arabic text support and localized navigation, with Arabic voice control scheduled for release by December. English voice interaction functions from launch.

    Sales run exclusively through Abu Dhabi-based conglomerate Al Fahim Group under an agreement signed in April. The partnership plans more than two showrooms and service centers across the country, starting with a downtown Dubai retail location opening in September. Buyers receive factory warranty coverage, certified servicing, and over-the-air software updates.

    Middle East expansion and production targets

    Chinese electric carmakers are pushing into the Middle East to broaden export revenue outside domestic price wars. Li Auto previously entered Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, securing a local assembly contract with Kazakh group Allur. The company also signed a distribution agreement with Mohamed Yousuf Naghi Motors in Saudi Arabia in April, though sales dates for that market remain unannounced.

    Deliveries in China recovered in August to 37,679 units, up 32.07 percent year-on-year, but total volume for the first eight months fell 0.6 percent to 261,619 vehicles. The Beijing-based carmaker posted a second-quarter net loss of 1.7 billion yuan ($250.8 million) as revenue declined 15.1 percent to 25.7 billion yuan.

    Next on the company’s overseas calendar is an appearance at the 2026 Paris Motor Show, where it plans to display vehicles to European buyers for the first time.

  • First 24/7 Gold ATM Sparkles in Dubai: Emirates Gold Revolutionizes Bullion Trade

    First 24/7 Gold ATM Sparkles in Dubai: Emirates Gold Revolutionizes Bullion Trade

    Emirates Gold, a leading bullion retailer, has made history by unveiling the first-ever gold Automated Teller Machine (ATM) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This pioneering system gives customers the ability to withdraw and trade physical gold around the clock.

    Gold Trading at Your Fingertips

    Located within the towering architecture of Almas Tower in Dubai, this gold ATM is the inaugural installation of what is projected to be a network of up to 40 such machines, due to be set up within the current and coming year.

    The ATM gives users access to more than 70 diverse designs of gold and silver bars in smaller denominations, presenting them with a wide variety of options for collection, investment, or gifting purposes. The process is simple and efficient – users scan to make the payment, select their desired products at live spot prices and are able to receive their physical bullion in an instant.

    Future Prospects and Features

    In addition to the current offering, there are plans to incorporate additional features in the near future. These include options for online order collection as well as the conversion of cryptocurrency.

    Surge in UAE Gold Demand

    In recent years, the UAE has seen a significant influx in gold demand. In 2024 alone, gold demand reached an impressive 66 tonnes. This substantial demand is largely driven by tourist purchases, accounting for a substantial 30% of the total, and local residents seeking to diversify their portfolios beyond traditional real estate and equities.

    The sale of smaller bars, ranging from 1g to 100g in weight, has also seen a significant surge, constituting 40% of the retail market, a marked increase from the 25% in 2020.

    The Rise of Gold Recycle ATMs

    On a global scale, the popularity of gold recycling ATMs has also been on the rise. For instance, in May, a gold recycling ATM in China’s Shanghai attracted large crowds, particularly among older residents eager to cash in their long-held jewelry as global gold prices continue to climb.

    Questions & Answers

    What is a gold ATM?
    A gold ATM is an automated machine that allows customers to withdraw and trade physical gold around the clock.

    What future features are expected to be added to the gold ATMs?
    In the near future, the gold ATMs will incorporate features for online order collection and the conversion of cryptocurrency.

    What factors have led to the surge in UAE gold demand?
    The surge in UAE gold demand is largely attributable to tourist purchases and the growing interest of local residents to diversify their portfolios beyond traditional real estate and equities.

  • Lindt Expands Dubai-styled Chocolate Collection With Two New Middle Eastern-inspired Offerings

    Lindt Expands Dubai-styled Chocolate Collection With Two New Middle Eastern-inspired Offerings

    Lindt, the renowned chocolate maker, has announced its latest additions to the Dubai-styled chocolate collection, introducing two new formats to the market. These new offerings, a nine-piece praline box and a stand-alone chocolate bar, promise to extend the allure of Lindt’s signature blend of Middle Eastern flavors.

    The Middle Eastern Inspired Collection

    Drawing inspiration from aromas and tastes of the Middle East, the Dubai-styled collection includes a combination of crunchy Kadayif and rich pistachio cream. The unique blend has been well-received by consumers since its initial introduction, signifying a positive response and preference for these flavorful Middle Eastern infusions.

    The company explained that the intention behind these new additions is to provide chocolate enthusiasts with more opportunities to enjoy this trending taste. The aim is not only to diversify Lindt’s range but also to offer consumers more ways to experience and appreciate the unique blend.

    Product Availability and Pricing

    The newly launched products are available at retail prices of $26 for the nine-piece praline box and $8 for the 100g chocolate bar. Chocolate lovers can purchase these treats at Lindt chocolate stores across the country as well as online.

    Questions & Answers

    What flavors are incorporated in Lindt’s Dubai-styled chocolate collection?
    The Dubai-styled chocolate collection is inspired by Middle Eastern flavors. It includes a unique blend of crunchy Kadayif and rich pistachio cream.

    What are the new additions to the Lindt’s Dubai-styled chocolate collection?
    The latest additions to the Lindt’s Dubai-styled chocolate collection include a nine-piece praline box and a stand-alone chocolate bar.

    Where can these new Lindt products be purchased?
    The newly introduced Lindt products can be purchased at Lindt chocolate stores nationwide and are also available for purchase online.

  • Emirates Unveils Exclusive Luxury Lounge Experience for Discerning Travelers

    Emirates Unveils Exclusive Luxury Lounge Experience for Discerning Travelers

    Dubai’s state-owned Emirates Airline has rolled out a new gem for its affluent travelers with the launch of the Emirates First Lounge in Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport (DXB). Since mid-July, this luxurious haven has been welcoming well-heeled passengers, showcasing Emirates’ determination to maintain its edge amid rising competition in the Gulf region.

    The whispers of First Class’ demise during the pandemic seem to have been greatly exaggerated. Contrary to predictions, this lucrative segment is experiencing a resurgence—especially in the prosperous Gulf area, where Emirates stands at the forefront of this revival. The Emirates First Lounge promises its top-tier fliers, as well as Platinum members of its Skywards frequent flyer program, an exceptional airport experience that begins well before takeoff.

    A Luxurious Departure Experience

    With an upgraded check-in area featuring elegant private seating and an exclusive check-in process, the Emirates First Lounge sets a new standard for luxury travel. This is complemented by the airline’s 43 exclusive lounges worldwide, designed for those traveling on premium tickets. Rolex clocks adorn the walls, ensuring that affluent passengers can keep time—though, given that DXB operates as a “silent airport,” they may find themselves enjoying the lull rather than rushing for their gates.

    Charting a Unique Course

    While other airlines may be trending away from First Class, Emirates is carving its own path. Aviation analysts at Cirium report a dramatic reduction in global First-Class seats, dropping to 12.6 million in 2024—a staggering 40% decrease from 21.05 million in 2019. Despite this, overall airline capacity across all classes has risen slightly from 5.7 billion to 5.9 billion seats.

    “Our customers can now enjoy a comfortable ride to the airport with our chauffeur service, check in quickly in the exclusive Emirates First area, relax in a premium lounge before their flight, and then experience our award-winning in-flight service,” shared Adel Al Redha, Deputy President & Chief Operating Officer of Emirates. He also announced a new daily flight to Zurich starting February 1, 2026, employing the Airbus A380 superjumbo to replace the Boeing 777 currently in use.

    Facing New Competition

    Marking a timely investment in luxury, Emirates is now bracing for competition from the upstart Riyadh Air, set to launch in 2025 as Saudi Arabia’s new state airline. Equipped with petrodollars and a mission to cater to an upscale clientele, Riyadh Air has already placed substantial orders for Boeing 787 Dreamliners, transforming the air travel landscape. Its CEO, Tony Douglas, formerly of Etihad Airways, is clearly signaling that Riyadh aims to compete aggressively in the premium sector.

    Alongside these developments, the Maldivian airline BeOnd has also taken flight in 2023, enhancing travel connections between Zurich and the Gulf through charming stopovers, ensuring that competition in the Middle Eastern skies remains vibrant and relentless. A game of high stakes is unfolding, and it’s clear that the first-class cabin remains a coveted and competitive space.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of the Emirates First Lounge at Dubai International Airport?
    The Emirates First Lounge enhances the travel experience for premium customers, offering exclusive check-in, luxurious amenities, and a tranquil atmosphere, reflecting Emirates’ commitment to maintaining its excellence amid growing competition.

    How does the current landscape of First Class travel compare to pre-pandemic levels?
    The global number of First-Class seats has significantly decreased by 40% since 2019, yet Emirates is bucking this trend, bolstering its services and further investing in luxury travel as others scale back.

    What competition is Emirates facing in the luxury travel market?
    Emirates is now competing with the newly announced Riyadh Air, which plans to launch in 2025 and aims to attract high-end travelers with upscale offerings, as well as the Maldivian airline BeOnd, which facilitates luxury connections in the region.

  • Indian leggings brand Go Colors has international debut in Dubai

    Indian leggings brand Go Colors has international debut in Dubai

    Go Colors, a leading Indian retailer specializing in women’s pants and leggings, is set to launch its first overseas store in Dubai’s Silicon Central Mall.

    Partnership with Apparel Group

    Go Fashion India, the parent company of Go Colors, is collaborating with the UAE-based retail giant, Apparel Group, to bring its extensive collection of leggings, jeans, pants, joggers, and other women’s basic clothing items to the international market. The collaboration marks the brand’s first expansion outside of India.

    Gautam Saraogi, CEO of Go Fashion, expressed his excitement over the expansion, acknowledging the significant role of Apparel Group in this endeavor. “Collaborating with Apparel Group, with their extensive retail experience and strong presence in the region, makes them the ideal partner for this exciting milestone,” Saraogi stated.

    Store Design and Features

    The store’s design will incorporate vibrant, attention-grabbing displays with clear product categorization, which will enable customers to effortlessly navigate through seasonal collections, casual apparel, and accessories.

    Moreover, the store will leverage technology to enhance the shopping experience. Customers will have the ability to scan QR codes for easy access to product details and promotions, thereby bridging the gap between physical and digital retail experiences.

    Onwards and Upwards for Go Colors

    Back home in India, Go Colors boasts a robust network of over 750 exclusive brand outlets. This extensive presence not only testifies to the brand’s popularity but also lays a strong foundation for its international expansion.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Go Colors?
    Go Colors is a leading Indian retail brand specializing in women’s pants and leggings. It is owned by the parent company, Go Fashion India.

    Where is Go Colors opening its first international store?
    Go Colors is opening its first international store in Dubai’s Silicon Central Mall.

    Who is Go Colors partnering with for its international expansion?
    Go Colors has partnered with the UAE-based retail conglomerate, Apparel Group, for its international expansion.

  • Eric Trump Accuses Banks of Sabotaging Retail Growth Strategies

    Eric Trump Accuses Banks of Sabotaging Retail Growth Strategies

    Eric Trump Advocates for Crypto Revolution at Token2049 in Dubai

    In a compelling presentation at the cryptocurrency forum Token2049, held in Dubai, Eric Trump, Executive Vice President of The Trump Organization, delivered a fervent endorsement of cryptocurrencies, highlighting significant flaws in traditional banking systems.

    Traditional Banking Under Fire

    Trump’s critique focused on the outdated financial transaction system known as SWIFT, which he argued operates at a sluggish pace compared to the rapid capabilities of cryptocurrency. He emphasized how blockchain technology allows for instantaneous cashless payments via smartphones, proclaiming that virtual currencies like Bitcoin render traditional banking “obsolete.”

    A Personal Struggle with Banking

    Sharing insights from his entrepreneurial experiences, Trump detailed the frustrations he encounters with conventional banking practices. “Every Friday, I trace wire transfers, and I know I’m not alone in this struggle,” he stated. He further condemned mainstream financial institutions, like JP Morgan Chase, for their rigid policies, expressing concerns about their power to freeze accounts and impact lives with minimal notice.

    Trump posited that such inefficiencies could lead to the extinction of major banks within the next decade if they fail to adapt. He claimed that the so-called “cancel culture,” which seeks to silence conservative voices, finds an ally in the traditional finance sector.

    Emphasizing Crypto Freedom

    Trump’s dynamic address resonated with the audience at Dubai’s Madinat Jumeirah, where he rallied support for the decentralized finance platform World Liberty Financial. “Crypto means freedom,” he asserted, as he encouraged attendees to embrace the potential of digital currencies. Despite a moment of silence when he acknowledged the U.S. dollar’s dominance, attendees applauded his vision for the future of financial freedom.

    Dubai’s Forward-Thinking Approach

    Acknowledging the efforts of Dubai and the Gulf Emirates in promoting digital currencies, Trump praised the region’s proactive stance on making cryptocurrency socially acceptable. His closing remarks underscored a mission intertwined with ideals of financial liberation.

    The next Token2049 summit is set to take place on October 1-2 in Singapore, marking a continuation of the global dialogue surrounding the future of digital finance.

    This passionate endorsement by Eric Trump highlights the ongoing shift in consumer trends toward cryptocurrencies, exemplifying a potential inflection point within the retail and financial sectors. As consumer demand for faster, more efficient methods of transaction continues to surge, the implications for traditional banking could be profound, shaping a new landscape for how transactions are handled in the future.

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  • Vietnamese export containers worth $517,000 go missing at Dubai port

    Vietnamese export containers worth $517,000 go missing at Dubai port

    Four Vietnamese companies could lose five containers of spices and cashew worth US$517,000 they shipped to Dubai under what seem mysterious circumstances.

    According to the Vietnam Pepper Association, they had sold pepper, cashew, cinnamon, and anise to Bab Al Rehab Foodstuff Trading Llc.

    But four of the containers have been claimed by unidentified parties at Jebel Ali Dubai Port without paying the Vietnamese companies.

    The export was done under the documents against payment method, which requires the buyer to show proof of payment before collecting the goods.

    The documents had been sent by banks in Vietnam to UAE’s Ajman Bank, which confirmed receipt.

    But apparently it no longer has them, and has yet to explain why, the exporters said.

    They are concerned the remaining container, set to land on July 26, will also be misappropriated.

    They have repeatedly asked the buyer to make payments, but the company has yet to respond.

    The Vietnam Pepper Association, representing the four companies, has reported to Vietnamese authorities and the UAE embassy in Vietnam.

    The Vietnam Trade Office is working with Ajman Bank, Jebel Ali Dubai port and the Dubai police to investigate possible fraud.

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  • Travel Tips And Checklist For First-Timers In Dubai

    Travel Tips And Checklist For First-Timers In Dubai

    Dubai is an authentic place with interesting culture, traditions, attractions, and heritage. According to the annual Best Cities report, Dubai was ranked in sixth place, behind London, NY, Paris, Moscow, and Tokyo and ahead of Los Angeles and Barcelona.

    There is a wide range of activities to do in Dubai – from sandboarding to hot air ballooning to visiting shopping malls.

    However, before traveling to Dubai, it’s worth exploring all essential information – from basic customs to hotels, restaurants, public transports, and hotels – so that your trip will be more exciting and budget-friendly.

    In this post, I will walk through all the things you need to know before visiting Dubai….especially if you are a first-timer in the Middle East. For a better trip experience, rent Suzuki cars to enjoy your trip in your way.

    • When to visit Dubai

    The best time to go to Dubai is the winter months, from November to April. While much of the Northern Hemisphere is covered in snow, the city continues to offer bright skies and balmy temperatures. Temperatures rise from May to August, so hotel prices fall and tourists disperse.

    • What to wear in Dubai

    There is a dress code in Dubai that it’s worth following. Otherwise, you might have trouble with the police. The rules require modesty and derive from Muslim cultural traditions. Women should cover their cleavage and shoulders and avoid short shorts at all costs. Men are expected to wear long trousers, shirts, and T-shirts.

    • Where to stay in Dubai

     It depends on what you want to do as a tourist and, of course, your budget. There is a wide range of offers, including everything from five-star hotels to budget-friendly hostels. For best recommendations, you can visit many online travel agencies such as Booking.com or Expedia to select a hotel within your budget and the facilities you need.

    • How to get around in Dubai

    Taxi is the most convenient and simplest mode of transport in Dubai. Although high prices are common throughout Dubai, a taxi won’t break the bank.

    However, when you are using a public transportation system, the presence of strangers in the vehicle can make the trip uncomfortable for you. That’s where you may think about renting a car. It gives you the freedom to move at your own pace and allows you to travel long distances.

    • What to do in Dubai

    When we think of Dubai, the first pictures that come to mind are modern architecture and glossy beaches. But before it, Dubai was only sand.

    So, no journey to Dubai is complete without a trip into the desert. A desert trip is one of the greatest ways to better understand what culture was like before the city flourished.

    Besides that, don’t forget to visit top-rated tourist attractions like Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai mountain, Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah beach and resorts, and much more.

    • Where to eat in Dubai

    Dubai has a variety of locations where foodie dreams come true. The best restaurants in Dubai prepare almost all national dishes around the world, including many specializing in Dubai’s own Arabic delights.

    Along with restaurants, you can enjoy a variety of street foods on your way towards any attraction in Dubai.

    • Which Dubai event are a must-visit

     Dubai celebrates various festivals and events throughout the year.

    Ramadan, the ninth month of the lunar-based Islamic calendar, is when all people, whether Muslim or not, experience the essence of the UAE’s core values of geniality, generosity and unity. During Ramadan, Muslims reflect on the purpose of life and grow closer to God. They fast and abstain from food, drink, smoking and sexual affairs.

    Eid Al Fitr (also known as ‘Feast of Breaking the Fast’)  lasts for 3 days and commemorates the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.

    The celebration marks the experience faced by Prophet Abraham when was commanded by God to sacrifice his son, Ismael. The holiday lasts for 4 days and a sacrifice is made of a cow, camel, and ram.

    5 Thing To Know Before Going To Dubai

    Here is 5 tips for safe travel and good times in Dubai:

    1. Visit From October to April.
    2. Plan and book in advance.
    3. Dress modestly.
    4. Show respect during Ramadan.
    5. Ask permission before taking pictures.

    Just keep these Dubai tips for travelers in mind and enjoy your trip to Dubai.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

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  • Cebu Pacific to operate special flight from Dubai to Manila on July 30

    Cebu Pacific to operate special flight from Dubai to Manila on July 30

    Philippine budget carrier Cebu Pacific (CEB) will have a special commercial flight on Friday, July 30, “in response to the government’s call for assistance to repatriate Filipino workers in Dubai”, the airline confirmed to Gulf News on Monday.

    CEB earlier announced that it had cancelled all its commercial flights to and from Dubai until August 1, following the decision by the Philippine government to “extend the ban on travellers from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Oman and the UAE” until July 30. New passengers and those affected by previous flight cancellations who would like to take the 5J27 Dubai-Manila special flight on July 30, dubbed as Bayanihan flight, may book their tickets on Cebu Pacific website, though seats are subject to availability.

    CEB noted: “Pursuant to current Philippine health protocols, a passenger who would like to take the Bayanihan flight must present a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR result, taken within 48 hours before departure.” Face masks and face shields should always be worn (except during meals) while onboard the aircraft, as an added precaution against the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

    “Pursuant to government’s health protocols, all passengers will be subjected to a 14-day, facility-based quarantine upon arrival in the Philippines. For this purpose, passengers are advised to have pre-booked quarantine hotels for 15 days/14 nights,” CEB added.

    The cost of quarantine hotels for OFWs (overseas Filipino workers) will be paid for by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA); while tourist and returning overseas Filipinos will have to shoulder the cost of hotel quarantine. All the passengers of Bayanihan flights will undergo COVID-19 RT-PCR test after seven days of quarantine. The cost of the test for land-based OFWs will be shouldered by OWWA; while the Philippine Port Authority will cover the cost for sea-based OFWs. Non-OFWs will have to pay for their own RT-PCR test.

    The Philippine government had first imposed restrictions on inbound travel from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Oman and the UAE from May 15 until May 31, in view of the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic and to prevent the spread of the highly transmissible Delta coronavirus variant that first emerged in India. The travel ban was first extended until June 15, then stretched until June 30 before prolonging it further until July 30.

    Thousands of stranded Filipinos in the UAE have signed an online petition seeking to immediately lift the travel restrictions imposed by the Philippine government. The online petition titled ‘Lift the UAE ban! It’s our right to go home’, has garnered over 4,000 virtual signatures.

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  • Dh200 airfare to fly Dubai-Manila with Cebu Pacific in September offer

    Dh200 airfare to fly Dubai-Manila with Cebu Pacific in September offer

    At a base fare of Dh200 from Dubai to Manila, the Philippines’ no-frills carrier Cebu Pacific has unveiled a week-long airfare discount blitz on Tuesday (September 1, 2020).

    The move is aimed to boost demand and post-COVID-19 confidence among flyers, especially overseas Filipino workers and their families in the UAE.

    The quoted discounted fare is valid for one-way travel only, inclusive of base fare. It also does not include taxes and fees, “web administration fee”, and fuel surcharge.

    The carrier is known for its “Piso” fare (1-peso, $0.021) offers. But, with the lingering threat from COVID-19, it remains to be seen whether such price-drops would indeed translate to a post-recovery spike in travel demand.

    The airline has also stated that promo fares offered are limited and are non-refundable — but rebookable subject to fees and charges.

    Flight changes, availing of prepaid baggage allowance for check-in baggage and web check-in service can also be done up to 4 hours before scheduled flight. International fare is on a book and buy basis, according to the airline.

    The Philippine economy, like the rest of the world, is reeling from the coronavirus pandemic. Up to 3,000 companies reportedly went bust in the last seven months.

    Quarantine measures remain in place for travelers as the Philippines reported 224,000 COVID-19 infections, with 158,000 recoveries and 3,597 deaths as of September 1, 2020.

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  • Giordano opens new-generation store in Dubai

    Giordano opens new-generation store in Dubai

    Hong Kong-listed apparel brand Giordano has revealed a new generation store design in its fully renovated store in Mirdif City Centre in Dubai.

    The 2000sqft store has a fresh new look embracing a more refined concept with the space maximized for product displays and customer interaction, including wider entrances and larger, more comfortable fitting rooms.

    Energy-efficient LED lights are used to enhance the customer experience while minimizing the store’s carbon footprint.

    “As we upgrade our stores’ design, we are confident of attracting more customers to come and shop at our shops,” said Giordano Middle East MD Ishwar Chugani.

    Following more than 25 years of brand growth, Giordano has opened eight new stores this year and plans to roll out the new design concept across the Middle East region. Giordano is also expanding to new markets with the opening of stores in South Africa, Mongolia, France and Mauritius.

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  • Sumo Sushi & Bento launches in India

    Sumo Sushi & Bento launches in India

    Dubai Japanese restaurant chain Sumo Sushi & Bento is entering the Indian market.

    The firm has partnered with local operator FranGlobal to open up to 25 outlets within five years, with the first location launching in either Delhi or Mumbai within six months.

    “India is a vibrant and exciting country and people are demanding new cuisines and we will hit the mark on it,” said Sumo Sushi & Bento CEO Julianne Holt Kailihiwa. “There’s already awareness, interest and curiosity among Indians around Japanese cuisine, especially fusion oriented food. Sumo has been successfully running its chain of restaurants for 20 years catering to Middle East customers who have a very cosmopolitan taste. There’s also a big Indian customer base in Dubai hence we feel that India reasonably should be a scalable market for the brand.”

    The firm has been operating in the Middle East for almost 20 years, catering to a cosmopolitan customer base with a strong vegetarian menu segment. It will be targeting a similar clientele in India’s major urban hubs.

    “Our biggest challenge is to provide good quality product at a competitive price because the raw material used in Japanese cuisine is expensive,” said Franglobal CEO Venus Barak. “Our quality matches the ones offered in a five-star hotel. We also plan to introduce beer and wine in the menu.”

  • Tiger Street Den opens at Dubai Airport

    Tiger Street Den opens at Dubai Airport

    Tiger Beer has opened its second Tiger Street Den concept store, at Dubai International Airport.

    The first store outside of Singapore, it is located within the Asian Street Kitchen, which offers a variety of Asian-inspired food and drink options.

    Tiger Street Den will bring the flavours of Singapore from its classic Tiger Beer lager, to a menu created by Chef Peter Reffell.

    In addition to food and brews, the store has been designed as a venue for live music, art and photography, created by talent recruited from the Tiger Roar Collective platform. The first live art will be performed by Singaporean artist group, Tell Your Children.

    “Following our launch at Jewel Changi Airport in Singapore earlier this year, this new addition in Dubai International Airport will be our second global lighthouse and will be a great space for us to stretch our boundaries and uncage creativity,” said Venus Teoh, director of International brands for Tiger at Heineken Asia Pacific.

    Tiger’s first experiential concept Tiger Street Lab opened at Jewel Changi airport.

    The first store outside of Singapore, it is located within the Asian Street Kitchen, which offers a variety of Asian-inspired food and drink options.

    Tiger Street Den will bring the flavours of Singapore from its classic Tiger Beer lager, to a menu created by Chef Peter Reffell.

    In addition to food and brews, the store has been designed as a venue for live music, art and photography, created by talent recruited from the Tiger Roar Collective platform. The first live art will be performed by Singaporean artist group, Tell Your Children.

    “Following our launch at Jewel Changi Airport in Singapore earlier this year, this new addition in Dubai International Airport will be our second global lighthouse and will be a great space for us to stretch our boundaries and uncage creativity,” said Venus Teoh, director of International brands for Tiger at Heineken Asia Pacific.

    Tiger’s first experiential concept Tiger Street Lab opened at Jewel Changi airport.

  • Lululab unveils the first AI Beauty Store at Dubai Mall

    Lululab unveils the first AI Beauty Store at Dubai Mall

    Beauty AI startup Lululab has unveiled its unmanned virtual retail space “AI Beauty Store” in the giant Dubai Mall.

    Lululab is the developer of Lumini, an AI-based skincare assistant that provides individually tailored skin-care solutions. It offers a smart-shopping experience through the store, which combines AI and big-data technology, on the ground floor of the popular French department store Galeries Lafayette.

    The service is made up of three steps: self-skin analysis by the customer; recommendation of products that best satisfy the customer’s skincare needs; and provision of an outcome report via mobile.

    By taking a single selfie with the multispectral camera at the Lumini kiosk, customers can receive an accurate analysis of their skin’s top layer condition and a list of recommended skin care products based on the result, making it unnecessary for them to wander around the shopping mall searching for random skin care products. They can also receive discounts for the recommended products.

    “AI Beauty Store offers many tourists from all over the world who visit Dubai Mall the opportunity to enjoy a revolutionary shopping experience,” said Lululab CEO Yongjoon Choe. “By establishing skincare-related big data, we will be providing sophisticated and individualised services.”

    Based on its collaboration with Galleries Lafayette, Lululab plans to accelerate its entry into the Middle Eastern and global beauty markets.

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  • Lifestyle deploys new retail technologies

    Lifestyle deploys new retail technologies

    A part of Dubai-based retail and hospitality conglomerate Landmark Group, Lifestyle has been enhancing its Omnichannel experience for its customers at a very fast pace in the recent years. With 75 stores at present, Lifestyle is now also available online through www.lifestylestores.com where customers can shop from the convenience of their home.

    Offering men’s, women’s and kids’ apparel, footwear, handbags, fashion accessories, beauty products and much more, all under the same roof, the fashion retailer has added features such as ‘Self-Checkout Kiosk’, ‘Mobile POS’, Fitting Room Assistance’, etc., to augment its in-store experience.

    “Lifestyle has always endeavored to provide its customers the best-in-class shopping experience. With technological advancements, the shopping experience has evolved and we, as a progressive retailer, have embraced many of these technological advancements to further enhance the shopping experience we off er our customers,” says Vasanth Kumar, Managing Director, Lifestyle International.

    New Tech-Advancements

    Lifestyle has introduced ‘Self- Checkout Kiosk’ in a few key stores, a facility that allows customers to bill their merchandise and complete the payment transaction in a few simple steps on their own with no or very little intervention from the staff thereby greatly solving the long queue by enabling quicker checkouts. Another initiative to further ease checkouts is the ‘Mobile POS’, which was introduced for billing products such as watches, fragrances or cosmetics.

    Using insights from customer shopping behavior, the retailer has also launched ‘Fitting Room Assistance’ program that allows for size retrieval with the help of technology where the store assistants are alerted on the size and style required in the fitting room. “This initiative has helped in enhancing our conversions and is now being scaled up across key stores,” Kumar says.

    “Several of our initiatives are technological solutions to real customer problems which we discovered through our interaction with customers as well as staff . Using this feedback, we have created simple yet impactful solutions leveraging technology. These have led to positive impact on our overall customer experience and helped increase engagement with the brand,” he further adds.

    At the same time, with features like ‘Click & Collect’ and ‘In-store Endless Aisle’, Lifestyle is offering a true Omnichannel experience to its customers. An Omnichannel initiative, ‘Click & Collect’ allows customers to order online and collect merchandise from a Lifestyle store of their choice. ‘In-store Endless Aisle’ helps customers find missing in-store sizes on the e-commerce channel. Also, the retailer has introduced visual search and enabled voice-based search for its mobile applications which has helped in creating a more personalised and convenient shopping experience. Lifestyle has also implemented the ‘Put-to-Light’ system for effective storing and distribution at its warehouses. It has enabled single view of inventory for its e-commerce portal, www.lifestylestores.com, making the entire inventory across all warehouses accessible to the online customers thereby enhancing the merchandise availability and online conversion.

    “We are continuously evolving our stores with new technologies. To fully enable our customers to enjoy these new introductions, it is important for our sales personnel to understand, communicate and comfortably operate all new innovations. Before implementing any new technology or introducing product innovation, our entire store team goes through an extensive knowledge session, which enables them to understand the product/technology being introduced,” says Kumar.

    Lifestyle regularly tracks consumer satisfaction through NPS (Net Promoter Score) in store, by the virtue of offering, staff interactions, store ambience and consistently deliver an overall delightful shopping experience thereby winning customer trust and loyalty.