Filipino boyband SB19 are performing at Expo 2020 Dubai on March 16. The band, from left to right: Josh, Ken, Stell, Sejun and Justin. Photo: ShowBT
Filipino boyband SB19 are performing at Expo 2020 Dubai on March 16. The band, from left to right: Josh, Ken, Stell, Sejun and Justin. Photo: ShowBT
Iranian singer Googoosh, real name Faegheh Atashin, will perform at the Jubilee Stage on March 17.
Iranian singer Googoosh, real name Faegheh Atashin, will perform at the Jubilee Stage on March 17.
Saed Abu Tayeh will perform at the Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre on March 17.
Saed Abu Tayeh will perform at the Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre on March 17.
Parokya ni Edgar will perform at the Jubilee Stage on March 18.
Parokya ni Edgar will perform at the Jubilee Stage on March 18.
European artist Havasi, full name Balazs Havasi, will be at the Jubilee Stage on March 19.
European artist Havasi, full name Balazs Havasi, will be at the Jubilee Stage on March 19.
Estonian star Noep will perform at the Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre on March 19.
Estonian star Noep will perform at the Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre on March 19.
The duo Ameli Paul will be at the Auditorium in the German Pavilion on March 23.
The duo Ameli Paul will be at the Auditorium in the German Pavilion on March 23.
Isaac Hernandez Expressions will take to the Jubilee Stage on March 23.
Isaac Hernandez Expressions will take to the Jubilee Stage on March 23.
Hamza Hawsawi, 2015 winner of 'The X-Factor Arabia', will perform at the Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre on March 24.
Hamza Hawsawi, 2015 winner of 'The X-Factor Arabia', will perform at the Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre on March 24.
Voices of the Andalusian Gardens will be at the Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre on March 25.
Voices of the Andalusian Gardens will be at the Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre on March 25.
Noon & Friends will be at the Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre on March 25.
Noon & Friends will be at the Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre on March 25.
Giovanni Sollima: 100 Cellos Live in Dubai 2022 will take place at the Jubilee Stage on March 25.
Giovanni Sollima: 100 Cellos Live in Dubai 2022 will take place at the Jubilee Stage on March 25.
Sounds of Africa will play on the Sun Stage on March 26.
Sounds of Africa will play on the Sun Stage on March 26.
Apo & The Apostles will perform at the Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre on March 28.
Apo & The Apostles will perform at the Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre on March 28.

Culture

Music

20 concerts to attend at Expo 2020 Dubai before it ends: from SB19 to Googoosh

Iranian stars, jazz symphonies and Filipino rock are on the bill this month

Saeed Saeed
Saeed Saeed

March 16, 2022

  • English
  • Arabic

As we enter the final month of Expo 2020 Dubai, the world fair's performance programme continues to please crowds.

Music and dance fans still have a lot to forward to with another jam-packed four weeks that will feature everything from Arabic pop concerts to Syrian folk.

Access to each event comes free with an Expo 2020 Dubai pass, unless otherwise specified.

Here's the best of what the last few weeks have to offer:

1. SB19

What it is: Beloved OPM boy band SB19 are in Dubai ahead of a concert on Wednesday at DEC Arena in Expo 2020 Dubai. The band, which consists of members Josh, Pablo, Stell, Ken and Justin, made their debut in 2018 and are known for hits Bazinga and Mapa, and were the first Filipino and South-East Asian act to be nominated in the Billboard Music Awards. They were nominated in 2021 in the Top Social Artist category alongside Blackpink, Ariana Grande, Seventeen and K-pop megastars BTS, who won the award.

This is a paid-for event. Tickets are on sale for Dh50. The gold category has sold out, but silver tickets are still available from Platinum List.

Venue: DEC Arena

Time: 8.30pm

Date: Wednesday, March 16

2. Sher Oston and His Orchestra

What it is: This jazz symphonic orchestra, led by jazz artist Sher Oston, will perform a repertoire of covers from stars such as Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald, plus 19th and 20th-century composers.

Venue: Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre

Time: 6pm

Date: Wednesday, March 16

3. Googoosh

Country Pavilion: Iran

What it is: With a career spanning 60 years, the singer and actress is one of Iran's biggest celebrities. Expect a set featuring her biggest hits such as Hejrat and Man-O Gonjeshk-Hayeh Khouneh.

Venue: Jubilee Stage

Time: 8.30pm

Date: Thursday, March 17

4. Saed Abu Tayeh

Country Pavilion: Jordan

What it is: For the official closing party of the Jordan Pavilion, the singer will lead a traditional band and perform classic tracks showcasing the breadth of Levant folk music.

Venue: Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre

Time: 9pm

Date: Thursday, March 17

5. Parokya ni Edgar

Country Pavilion: Philippines

What it is: Celebrating their 30th anniversary next year, Parokya ni Edgar is known for their brash novelty songs that poke fun at popular Pinoy pop culture. Expect to also hear some new tunes from their latest album Borbolen.

Venue: Jubilee Stage

Time: 8pm

Date: Friday, March 18

6. Havasi Symphonic Concert Show

Country Pavilion: Hungary

What it is: Popular European artist, Havasi — full name Balazs Havasi — is renowned for spectacular performances fusing classical music and rock with a blinding light show.

Such an approach has made him a global drawcard, with the pianist and composer performing sell-out shows in New York's Carnegie Hall, Barbican Centre in London and the Sydney Opera House.

Venue: Jubilee Stage

Time: 7.30pm

Date: Saturday, March 19

7. Noep

Country Pavilion: Estonia

What it is: One of Estonia's biggest acts, Noep — real name Andres Kopper — is a man of many talents. In addition to making waves at home with a stream of electropop singles such as last year's Head Out Of The Water and Differences, he also directed the 2012 Estonian comedy Bad Hair Friday.

Venue: Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre

Time: 10pm

Date: Saturday, March 19

8. This Bandang Magnus

What it is: Three Filipino bands will take to the streets to entertain the masses in an event as part of Expo Street Music. OPM stars Bandang Lapis, five-member alternative rock band Magnus Haven and the six-piece This Band will perform.

Venue: Sustainability Plaza

Time: 9pm

Date: Saturday, March 19

9. Davido

What it is: Nigerian-American Afrobeat star, singer-songwriter and record producer Davido will perform singles such as Fall, If and others during a one-off concert. He's known for blending traditional African beats with mainstream pop elements.

Venue: Jubilee Stage

Time: Saturday, March 19

Date: 9pm

10. Ali Yasini presents Young & Connecting Minds

What it is: Iranian music star Ali Yasini is performing a concert under the theme of youth and connecting minds. The young singer-songwriter will play several instruments, including the guitar and piano, and perform some of his most popular hits.

Venue: Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre

Time: 8pm

Date: March 20

11. The moments of love and peace by Reza Sadeghi

What it is: Popular Iranian singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Reza Sadeghi is bringing his silky vocals and songs of love and peace to the Expo stage.

Venue: Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre

Time: 8.30pm

Date: Tuesday, March 22

12. Isaac Hernandez Expressions

Country Pavilion: Mexico

What it is: This will be the UAE debut performance of one of Mexico's biggest dance stars. Hailed by the press as a "ballet rock star", Hernandez will show the skill and charisma that's helped him to become the lead principal dancer of the English National Ballet.

Venue: Jubilee Stage

Time: 5pm

Date: Wednesday, March 23

13. Ameli Paul

Country Pavilion: Germany

What it is: The German electronic music duo are known for their ethereal sets that combines relaxed vocals with synth, analogue effects and field recordings.

Venue: Auditorium, German Pavilion

Time: 8pm and 9.30pm

Date: Wednesday, March 23

14. Hamza Hawsawi

Country Pavilion: Portugal

What it is: The 2015 winner of The X-Factor Arabia has helped shine the spotlight on Saudi Arabia's music scene. Expect a multilingual combo of solo tracks and hit covers in what should be a crowd-pleasing set.

Venue: Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre

Time: 10pm

Date: Thursday, March 24

15. Noon & Friends

What it is: Describing their approach as "experimental Oriental," the trio’s sound is distinctly global with its shades of funk, African and Indian percussive rhythms and electronic effects.

Venue: Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre

Time: 7pm

Date: Friday, March 25

16. Voices of the Andalusian Gardens

Country Pavilion: Morocco

What it is: A concert celebrates traditional Andalusian and Gharnati Arabic music and showcases how its influences have seeped into other genres from the Middle East and North Africa. The evening will feature the Orchestra of Fez and the singer Nabyla Maan performing separate and joint sets.

Venue: Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre

Time: 9pm

Date: Friday, March 25

17. Giovanni Sollima: 100 Cellos Live in Dubai 2022

Country Pavilion: Italy

What it is: Talk about a massive string section: 100 performs will take part in a performance of classical music standards and pop hits. Led by conductor and cellist Giovanni Sollima, 100 Cellos have performed to sell-out crowds across Italy.

Venue: Jubilee Stage

Time: 9pm

Date: Friday, March 25

18. Sounds of Africa

What it is: The event will feature a series of performances using authentic instruments from the continent such as the balafon, a gourd-resonated xylophone, and the kora, a stringed instrument widely used in West African folk and pop music.

Venue: Sun Stage

Time: 6.30pm and 7.30pm

Date: Saturday, March 26

19. Apo & The Apostles

What it is: The group is made up of members living in Jerusalem and the Palestinian West Bank. Apo and the Apostles boasts an eclectic and multilingual sound that fuses, pop, rock, soul and a dash of dabka.

Venue: Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre

Time: 9pm

Date: Wednesday, March 28

20. Takkat

What it is: This folk band is heading to Expo 2020 to entertain visitors with a medley of Syrian folk songs, celebrating Levantine traditions.

Venue: Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre

Time: 9pm

Date: Tuesday, March 29

50 things to do at Expo 2020 Dubai before it ends — in pictures:

Expo 2020 Dubai will finish on March 31, 2022. Here are 50 things to do at the world fair between now and then. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai.
Expo 2020 Dubai will finish on March 31, 2022. Here are 50 things to do at the world fair between now and then. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai.
The Singapore Pavilion at Expo is a must-visit. Reuters
The Singapore Pavilion at Expo is a must-visit. Reuters
From the inside and outside, Switzerland Pavilion is worth exploring. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
From the inside and outside, Switzerland Pavilion is worth exploring. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
The spectacle of the Saudi Arabia Pavilion is clearly visible from the outside. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
The spectacle of the Saudi Arabia Pavilion is clearly visible from the outside. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
The Spain Pavilion's striking architecture serves as a metaphor for the cultural links between Spain and the Arab world. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
The Spain Pavilion's striking architecture serves as a metaphor for the cultural links between Spain and the Arab world. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
The fascinating past of ancient Egypt is the central focus of the country’s Expo 2020 Dubai pavilion. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
The fascinating past of ancient Egypt is the central focus of the country’s Expo 2020 Dubai pavilion. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
It's more than just about Thai food at Long Chim restaurant in Expo 2020 Dubai. Photo: Long Chim
It's more than just about Thai food at Long Chim restaurant in Expo 2020 Dubai. Photo: Long Chim
Alkebulan African Dining Hall at Expo 2020 Dubai is putting the focus on an as-yet untapped cuisine. Photo: Alkebulan African Dining Hall
Alkebulan African Dining Hall at Expo 2020 Dubai is putting the focus on an as-yet untapped cuisine. Photo: Alkebulan African Dining Hall
Sushiro is in the Japan Pavilion restaurant at Expo 2020 Dubai. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Sushiro is in the Japan Pavilion restaurant at Expo 2020 Dubai. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Bread Ahead, a British concept that specialises in doughnuts and gluten-free sourdough breads, is a must-try at Expo. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Bread Ahead, a British concept that specialises in doughnuts and gluten-free sourdough breads, is a must-try at Expo. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Burgers, such as this DM Burger, are among the popular offerings at Adrift Burger Bar in Expo 2020 Dubai. Photo: Josh Telles
Burgers, such as this DM Burger, are among the popular offerings at Adrift Burger Bar in Expo 2020 Dubai. Photo: Josh Telles
Children and grown-ups alike love the Expo 2020 Dubai Water Feature. Reuters
Children and grown-ups alike love the Expo 2020 Dubai Water Feature. Reuters
There's an impressive light show every evening at Al Wasl Dome, the world's largest 360-degree projection dome. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
There's an impressive light show every evening at Al Wasl Dome, the world's largest 360-degree projection dome. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
Jubilee Park is where all the best performances take place. Victor Besa / The National
Jubilee Park is where all the best performances take place. Victor Besa / The National
The Expo 2020 entry portals were designed by British architect Asif Khan.
The Expo 2020 entry portals were designed by British architect Asif Khan.
Al Wasl Dome is visible from almost every room in Rove Expo 2020, the only hotel at the site.
Al Wasl Dome is visible from almost every room in Rove Expo 2020, the only hotel at the site.
Take a look inside Expo 2020's Sports, Fitness and Wellbeing Hub and its various facilities. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Take a look inside Expo 2020's Sports, Fitness and Wellbeing Hub and its various facilities. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
A bike tour around Expo 2020 Dubai is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Victor Besa / The National
A bike tour around Expo 2020 Dubai is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Victor Besa / The National
At Emirates Airlines’ futuristic pavilion, visitors get the chance to design their own aircraft. Wam
At Emirates Airlines’ futuristic pavilion, visitors get the chance to design their own aircraft. Wam
Go up 55 metres on this 360-degree observation tower and enjoy sweeping views of Expo 2020 on Garden in the Sky. Pawan Singh / The National
Go up 55 metres on this 360-degree observation tower and enjoy sweeping views of Expo 2020 on Garden in the Sky. Pawan Singh / The National
The Expo 2020 passport is a must-have for visitors. Go around the pavilions and collect those passport stamps before it's too late. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
The Expo 2020 passport is a must-have for visitors. Go around the pavilions and collect those passport stamps before it's too late. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Kaleidoscope presents Dodecalis Luminarium by Architects of Air: a dazzling immersive art installation at Expo 2020 Dubai. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Kaleidoscope presents Dodecalis Luminarium by Architects of Air: a dazzling immersive art installation at Expo 2020 Dubai. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Created by British artist Mat Collishaw and curated by the cultural agency Futurecity, the work 'Equinox' has been commissioned by Expo 2020 Dubai specifically to be shown in Terra. Photo: Mahmoud Khaled / Expo 2020
Created by British artist Mat Collishaw and curated by the cultural agency Futurecity, the work 'Equinox' has been commissioned by Expo 2020 Dubai specifically to be shown in Terra. Photo: Mahmoud Khaled / Expo 2020
'A point in time' by Khalil Rabah enlarged 11th-century implements used for determining location. Look closely: a small black circule below the gold-coloured spindle shows Dubai on the map the objects create. Photo: Thorsten Arendt
'A point in time' by Khalil Rabah enlarged 11th-century implements used for determining location. Look closely: a small black circule below the gold-coloured spindle shows Dubai on the map the objects create. Photo: Thorsten Arendt
'Garden' by Hamra Abbas, the artist's marble recreation of a garden, used five tonnes of lapis lazuli. Photo: Roman Mensing
'Garden' by Hamra Abbas, the artist's marble recreation of a garden, used five tonnes of lapis lazuli. Photo: Roman Mensing
Faissal El Malak and Alia bin Omair's 'Nahel' fountain features motifs of humankind, nature and technology connecting in harmony. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Faissal El Malak and Alia bin Omair's 'Nahel' fountain features motifs of humankind, nature and technology connecting in harmony. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
With popular restaurants in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the Lebanese spot Iris Lounge has become a firm favourite at Expo 2020. Antonie Robertson / The National
With popular restaurants in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the Lebanese spot Iris Lounge has become a firm favourite at Expo 2020. Antonie Robertson / The National
One of the liveliest late-night spots at Expo 2020 is, unsurprisingly, The Irish Village at Jubilee Park. Antonie Robertson / The National
One of the liveliest late-night spots at Expo 2020 is, unsurprisingly, The Irish Village at Jubilee Park. Antonie Robertson / The National
Expo 2020’s resident sports lounge Garden on 1, found at the Mobility District, offers regular themed nights such as curry night and quiz night, regular drinks deals, and shows the biggest sporting events. Antonie Robertson / The National
Expo 2020’s resident sports lounge Garden on 1, found at the Mobility District, offers regular themed nights such as curry night and quiz night, regular drinks deals, and shows the biggest sporting events. Antonie Robertson / The National
Jubilee Mixology bar overlooks Al Wasl Dome, which features the world’s largest 360-degree projection surface. Pawan Singh / The National
Jubilee Mixology bar overlooks Al Wasl Dome, which features the world’s largest 360-degree projection surface. Pawan Singh / The National
Everyone’s a local at this Australian corner, which has proved a firm favourite with Expo 2020 visitors. Antonie Robertson / The National
Everyone’s a local at this Australian corner, which has proved a firm favourite with Expo 2020 visitors. Antonie Robertson / The National
Once a month, experience a Khaleeji-led jam session at Jubilee Stage in the form of Jalsat Nights. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Once a month, experience a Khaleeji-led jam session at Jubilee Stage in the form of Jalsat Nights. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Specially created for Expo 2020 Dubai by Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman, the all-female Firdaus Orchestra features musicians from 23 nationalities across the Arab world, with some as young as 15. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Specially created for Expo 2020 Dubai by Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman, the all-female Firdaus Orchestra features musicians from 23 nationalities across the Arab world, with some as young as 15. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
The monthly Infinite Nights concert series takes place at Al Wasl Plaza and is streamed to a global audience. Past acts that have performed so far include Kadim Al Sahir, Nancy Ajram and Ragheb Alama, Alicia Keys and the Black Eyed Peas, with two more to come.
The monthly Infinite Nights concert series takes place at Al Wasl Plaza and is streamed to a global audience. Past acts that have performed so far include Kadim Al Sahir, Nancy Ajram and Ragheb Alama, Alicia Keys and the Black Eyed Peas, with two more to come.
Emirati composer Mohammed Fairouz has composed music for the Al Wasl Opera. Every week or two, a student choir takes to the Jubilee Stage for a series of 30-minute concerts where they perform extracts from Al Wasl Opera. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Emirati composer Mohammed Fairouz has composed music for the Al Wasl Opera. Every week or two, a student choir takes to the Jubilee Stage for a series of 30-minute concerts where they perform extracts from Al Wasl Opera. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
A 10-minute light show takes place daily at the China Pavilion. It's a must-see. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
A 10-minute light show takes place daily at the China Pavilion. It's a must-see. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Hammour House is a community art project that is popular among children. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Hammour House is a community art project that is popular among children. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
A child plays at Latifa's Adventures playground, a great spot for families during a visit to Expo 2020 Dubai. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
A child plays at Latifa's Adventures playground, a great spot for families during a visit to Expo 2020 Dubai. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
The indoor slide at the Luxembourg Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai is very popular among children and families.
The indoor slide at the Luxembourg Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai is very popular among children and families.
No visit to Expo 2020 Dubai is complete without interacting with a robot. Victor Besa / The National
No visit to Expo 2020 Dubai is complete without interacting with a robot. Victor Besa / The National
The carousel in the Mobility District at Expo 2020 Dubai is a great stop for children. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
The carousel in the Mobility District at Expo 2020 Dubai is a great stop for children. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
An exhibition focusing on the work of French fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier will open at Expo on February 28. AFP
An exhibition focusing on the work of French fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier will open at Expo on February 28. AFP
The know-how of the Piemonte region will be highlighted in a showcase at the Italian pavilion. Photo: Andrea Rapuzzi
The know-how of the Piemonte region will be highlighted in a showcase at the Italian pavilion. Photo: Andrea Rapuzzi
The Colombia Pavilion will host a multimedia installation called The Infinitos. Antonie Robertson / The National
The Colombia Pavilion will host a multimedia installation called The Infinitos. Antonie Robertson / The National
Noura Al Kaabi, Minister for Culture and Youth, at the Kosovo Pavilion, home to a permanent collection of artworks that traces the country’s culture and history. Photo: Ministry of Culture and Youth
Noura Al Kaabi, Minister for Culture and Youth, at the Kosovo Pavilion, home to a permanent collection of artworks that traces the country’s culture and history. Photo: Ministry of Culture and Youth
The New Zealand Pavilion features a digital Art Wall curated by the country’s national museum. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
The New Zealand Pavilion features a digital Art Wall curated by the country’s national museum. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
At the Swiss pavilion, you’re instantly transported to the Alps thanks to an indoor mountainscape. AP Photo
At the Swiss pavilion, you’re instantly transported to the Alps thanks to an indoor mountainscape. AP Photo
Experience indoor rain at the Netherlands Pavilion. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
Experience indoor rain at the Netherlands Pavilion. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
Don't miss the Sky Market at the Singapore Pavilion, an open, multipurpose deck. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
Don't miss the Sky Market at the Singapore Pavilion, an open, multipurpose deck. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
There's a ball pit and swings at the Germany Pavilion. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
There's a ball pit and swings at the Germany Pavilion. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai
Robot bartender Yanu makes mocktails at the Estonia Pavilion. Photo: Estonia Pavilion
Robot bartender Yanu makes mocktails at the Estonia Pavilion. Photo: Estonia Pavilion
Zidane's managerial achievements

La Liga: 2016/17
Spanish Super Cup: 2017
Uefa Champions League: 2015/16, 2016/17, 2017/18
Uefa Super Cup: 2016, 2017
Fifa Club World Cup: 2016, 2017

Company%C2%A0profile
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What the law says

Micro-retirement is not a recognised concept or employment status under Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations (as amended) (UAE Labour Law). As such, it reflects a voluntary work-life balance practice, rather than a recognised legal employment category, according to Dilini Loku, senior associate for law firm Gateley Middle East.

“Some companies may offer formal sabbatical policies or career break programmes; however, beyond such arrangements, there is no automatic right or statutory entitlement to extended breaks,” she explains.

“Any leave taken beyond statutory entitlements, such as annual leave, is typically regarded as unpaid leave in accordance with Article 33 of the UAE Labour Law. While employees may legally take unpaid leave, such requests are subject to the employer’s discretion and require approval.”

If an employee resigns to pursue micro-retirement, the employment contract is terminated, and the employer is under no legal obligation to rehire the employee in the future unless specific contractual agreements are in place (such as return-to-work arrangements), which are generally uncommon, Ms Loku adds.

Company%20profile
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UAE currency
Real estate tokenisation project

Dubai launched the pilot phase of its real estate tokenisation project last month.

The initiative focuses on converting real estate assets into digital tokens recorded on blockchain technology and helps in streamlining the process of buying, selling and investing, the Dubai Land Department said.

Dubai’s real estate tokenisation market is projected to reach Dh60 billion ($16.33 billion) by 2033, representing 7 per cent of the emirate’s total property transactions, according to the DLD.

Company%20Profile
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3ECompany%20name%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3ENamara%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EStarted%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EJune%202022%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EFounder%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EMohammed%20Alnamara%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EBased%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EDubai%20%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ESector%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EMicrofinance%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ECurrent%20number%20of%20staff%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E16%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EInvestment%20stage%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3ESeries%20A%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EInvestors%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EFamily%20offices%0D%3Cbr%3E%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
ENGLAND SQUAD

Team: 15 Mike Brown, 14 Anthony Watson, 13 Ben Te'o, 12 Owen Farrell, 11 Jonny May, 10 George Ford, 9 Ben Youngs, 1 Mako Vunipola, 2 Dylan Hartley, 3 Dan Cole, 4 Joe Launchbury, 5 Maro Itoje, 6 Courtney Lawes, 7 Chris Robshaw, 8 Sam Simmonds

Replacements 16 Jamie George, 17 Alec Hepburn, 18 Harry Williams, 19 George Kruis, 20 Sam Underhill, 21 Danny Care, 22 Jonathan Joseph, 23 Jack Nowell

THE SPECS

      

 

Engine: 1.5-litre

 

Transmission: 6-speed automatic

 

Power: 110 horsepower 

 

Torque: 147Nm 

 

Price: From Dh59,700 

 

On sale: now  

 
COMPANY%20PROFILE
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How to avoid crypto fraud
  • Use unique usernames and passwords while enabling multi-factor authentication.
  • Use an offline private key, a physical device that requires manual activation, whenever you access your wallet.
  • Avoid suspicious social media ads promoting fraudulent schemes.
  • Only invest in crypto projects that you fully understand.
  • Critically assess whether a project’s promises or returns seem too good to be true.
  • Only use reputable platforms that have a track record of strong regulatory compliance.
  • Store funds in hardware wallets as opposed to online exchanges.
Company Profile

Name: Thndr
Started: 2019
Co-founders: Ahmad Hammouda and Seif Amr
Sector: FinTech
Headquarters: Egypt
UAE base: Hub71, Abu Dhabi
Current number of staff: More than 150
Funds raised: $22 million

%20Ramez%20Gab%20Min%20El%20Akher
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Volvo ES90 Specs

Engine: Electric single motor (96kW), twin motor (106kW) and twin motor performance (106kW)

Power: 333hp, 449hp, 680hp

Torque: 480Nm, 670Nm, 870Nm

On sale: Later in 2025 or early 2026, depending on region

Price: Exact regional pricing TBA

Springtime in a Broken Mirror,
Mario Benedetti, Penguin Modern Classics

 

On Women's Day
Why it pays to compare

A comparison of sending Dh20,000 from the UAE using two different routes at the same time - the first direct from a UAE bank to a bank in Germany, and the second from the same UAE bank via an online platform to Germany - found key differences in cost and speed. The transfers were both initiated on January 30.

Route 1: bank transfer

The UAE bank charged Dh152.25 for the Dh20,000 transfer. On top of that, their exchange rate margin added a difference of around Dh415, compared with the mid-market rate.

Total cost: Dh567.25 - around 2.9 per cent of the total amount

Total received: €4,670.30 

Route 2: online platform

The UAE bank’s charge for sending Dh20,000 to a UK dirham-denominated account was Dh2.10. The exchange rate margin cost was Dh60, plus a Dh12 fee.

Total cost: Dh74.10, around 0.4 per cent of the transaction

Total received: €4,756

The UAE bank transfer was far quicker – around two to three working days, while the online platform took around four to five days, but was considerably cheaper. In the online platform transfer, the funds were also exposed to currency risk during the period it took for them to arrive.

Jeff Buckley: From Hallelujah To The Last Goodbye
By Dave Lory with Jim Irvin

The specs

Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo

Power: 261hp at 5,500rpm

Torque: 405Nm at 1,750-3,500rpm

Transmission: 9-speed auto

Fuel consumption: 6.9L/100km

On sale: Now

Price: From Dh117,059

Dr Afridi's warning signs of digital addiction

Spending an excessive amount of time on the phone.

Neglecting personal, social, or academic responsibilities.

Losing interest in other activities or hobbies that were once enjoyed.

Having withdrawal symptoms like feeling anxious, restless, or upset when the technology is not available.

Experiencing sleep disturbances or changes in sleep patterns.

What are the guidelines?

Under 18 months: Avoid screen time altogether, except for video chatting with family.

Aged 18-24 months: If screens are introduced, it should be high-quality content watched with a caregiver to help the child understand what they are seeing.

Aged 2-5 years: Limit to one-hour per day of high-quality programming, with co-viewing whenever possible.

Aged 6-12 years: Set consistent limits on screen time to ensure it does not interfere with sleep, physical activity, or social interactions.

Teenagers: Encourage a balanced approach – screens should not replace sleep, exercise, or face-to-face socialisation.

Source: American Paediatric Association
Specs

Engine: 51.5kW electric motor

Range: 400km

Power: 134bhp

Torque: 175Nm

Price: From Dh98,800

Available: Now

Will the pound fall to parity with the dollar?

The idea of pound parity now seems less far-fetched as the risk grows that Britain may split away from the European Union without a deal.

Rupert Harrison, a fund manager at BlackRock, sees the risk of it falling to trade level with the dollar on a no-deal Brexit. The view echoes Morgan Stanley’s recent forecast that the currency can plunge toward $1 (Dh3.67) on such an outcome. That isn’t the majority view yet – a Bloomberg survey this month estimated the pound will slide to $1.10 should the UK exit the bloc without an agreement.

New Prime Minister Boris Johnson has repeatedly said that Britain will leave the EU on the October 31 deadline with or without an agreement, fuelling concern the nation is headed for a disorderly departure and fanning pessimism toward the pound. Sterling has fallen more than 7 per cent in the past three months, the worst performance among major developed-market currencies.

“The pound is at a much lower level now but I still think a no-deal exit would lead to significant volatility and we could be testing parity on a really bad outcome,” said Mr Harrison, who manages more than $10 billion in assets at BlackRock. “We will see this game of chicken continue through August and that’s likely negative for sterling,” he said about the deadlocked Brexit talks.

The pound fell 0.8 per cent to $1.2033 on Friday, its weakest closing level since the 1980s, after a report on the second quarter showed the UK economy shrank for the first time in six years. The data means it is likely the Bank of England will cut interest rates, according to Mizuho Bank.

The BOE said in November that the currency could fall even below $1 in an analysis on possible worst-case Brexit scenarios. Options-based calculations showed around a 6.4 per cent chance of pound-dollar parity in the next one year, markedly higher than 0.2 per cent in early March when prospects of a no-deal outcome were seemingly off the table.

Bloomberg

While you're here:
CREW
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While you're here
Who has lived at The Bishops Avenue?
  • George Sainsbury of the supermarket dynasty, sugar magnate William Park Lyle and actress Dame Gracie Fields were residents in the 1930s when the street was only known as ‘Millionaires’ Row’.
  • Then came the international super rich, including the last king of Greece, Constantine II, the Sultan of Brunei and Indian steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal who was at one point ranked the third richest person in the world.
  • Turkish tycoon Halis Torprak sold his mansion for £50m in 2008 after spending just two days there. The House of Saud sold 10 properties on the road in 2013 for almost £80m.
  • Other residents have included Iraqi businessman Nemir Kirdar, singer Ariana Grande, holiday camp impresario Sir Billy Butlin, businessman Asil Nadir, Paul McCartney’s former wife Heather Mills. 
Hunting park to luxury living
  • Land was originally the Bishop of London's hunting park, hence the name
  • The road was laid out in the mid 19th Century, meandering through woodland and farmland
  • Its earliest houses at the turn of the 20th Century were substantial detached properties with extensive grounds

 

Banned items
Dubai Police has also issued a list of banned items at the ground on Sunday. These include:
  • Drones
  • Animals
  • Fireworks/ flares
  • Radios or power banks
  • Laser pointers
  • Glass
  • Selfie sticks/ umbrellas
  • Sharp objects
  • Political flags or banners
  • Bikes, skateboards or scooters
Timeline

2012-2015

The company offers payments/bribes to win key contracts in the Middle East

May 2017

The UK SFO officially opens investigation into Petrofac’s use of agents, corruption, and potential bribery to secure contracts

September 2021

Petrofac pleads guilty to seven counts of failing to prevent bribery under the UK Bribery Act

October 2021

Court fines Petrofac £77 million for bribery. Former executive receives a two-year suspended sentence 

December 2024

Petrofac enters into comprehensive restructuring to strengthen the financial position of the group

May 2025

The High Court of England and Wales approves the company’s restructuring plan

July 2025

The Court of Appeal issues a judgment challenging parts of the restructuring plan

August 2025

Petrofac issues a business update to execute the restructuring and confirms it will appeal the Court of Appeal decision

October 2025

Petrofac loses a major TenneT offshore wind contract worth €13 billion. Holding company files for administration in the UK. Petrofac delisted from the London Stock Exchange

November 2025

180 Petrofac employees laid off in the UAE

Updated: March 16, 2022, 8:06 AM
Expo 2020 DubaiMusic