Compulsory face masks and daily temperature checks as well as strict social distancing policies at all beaches, pools and hotel common areas helped Jumeirah Al Naseem achieve its Safeguard label. Courtesy Jumeirah
Compulsory face masks and daily temperature checks as well as strict social distancing policies at all beaches, pools and hotel common areas helped Jumeirah Al Naseem achieve its Safeguard label. Courtesy Jumeirah
Compulsory face masks and daily temperature checks as well as strict social distancing policies at all beaches, pools and hotel common areas helped Jumeirah Al Naseem achieve its Safeguard label. Courtesy Jumeirah
Compulsory face masks and daily temperature checks as well as strict social distancing policies at all beaches, pools and hotel common areas helped Jumeirah Al Naseem achieve its Safeguard label. Cour

Safety assured as Dubai hotel becomes world's first safeguard-labelled resort


Hayley Skirka
  • English
  • Arabic

Dubai's Jumeirah Al Naseem is the first hotel in the world to be certified with a Safeguard label from Bureau Veritas.

The five-star resort received the certificate which guarantees cleanliness from one of the world's top specialists in testing, inspection and certification.

It's the first hotel to get the label which is only given after rigorous testing procedures are carried out.

To get the label, Jumeirah Al Naseem has implemented strict hygiene levels and social distancing protocols as part of the hotel group's Stay Safe campaign.

Measures include compulsory face masks and daily temperature checks, social distancing policies at all beaches, pools and hotel common areas, and increased sanitation fogging across the resort.

Hotel rooms vacant for 3 days

Strict hygiene standards are in place at Jumeirah Al Naseem, the first hotel in the world to be certified with Bureau Veritas Safeguard label. Courtesy Jumeirah
Strict hygiene standards are in place at Jumeirah Al Naseem, the first hotel in the world to be certified with Bureau Veritas Safeguard label. Courtesy Jumeirah

In all guest rooms, there's been an increase in housekeeping activities on a daily basis and all guests checking-in are given face masks, sanitiser gels and hand wipes. Pillows and duvets undergo a thermal hygiene process and all pillow and mattress protectors are changed for each guests. Hotel rooms are left empty for at least three days after guests checkout wherever possible and, when this is not an option, rooms instead undergo complete sanitisation fogging.

Jumeirah's other hotels and resorts are also undergoing the certification process in order to earn the safeguarding label.

“For almost 200 years, Bureau Veritas’ mission has been to shape a world of trust. Adapting to the current crisis, we have developed the Safeguard label to certify that appropriate safety standards, training and cleaning protocols are achieved to allow businesses in general and the hospitality sector in particular, to recommence operations with confidence," said Marcel Hochar from Bureau Veritas.

"We are very proud to be associated with Jumeriah Group in its proactive endeavour to make a difference for guests and demonstrate its readiness to receive them in a healthy and safe environment," added Hochar.

A safeguarded hotel stay

Jumeirah Al Nassem in Dubai is the first hotel in the world to be given Bureau Veritas's Safeguard label, which guarantees hygiene standards. Courtesy Jumeirah
Jumeirah Al Nassem in Dubai is the first hotel in the world to be given Bureau Veritas's Safeguard label, which guarantees hygiene standards. Courtesy Jumeirah

Bureau Veritas has worked with health, safety and hygiene specialists to create a checklist of procedures that all business should meet to be certified virus-free. These standards meet local and international regulations, as well as recognised best practices. It's all part of a campaign to help businesses restart after Covid-19 related closures. The new safeguard label is set to help travellers identify safe hotels where sanitation protocols are of a very high standard.

"Jumeirah Al Naseem is the first hotel in the world to receive the Safeguard Label, and we will be working closely with Bureau Veritas over the coming weeks to certify our wider portfolio." said José Silva, chief executive of Jumeirah Group.

The Bureau Veritas Safeguard label is awarded based on compliance with all requirements, following independent verification carried out by a qualified auditor.

___________________________

Seven safe staycations

  • Jumeirah Al Naseem in Dubai offers staycation packages from Dh750 per night, including complimentary breakfast and lunch or dinner.
    Jumeirah Al Naseem in Dubai offers staycation packages from Dh750 per night, including complimentary breakfast and lunch or dinner.
  • There's 30 per cent off villa rates at Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort, with stays from Dh1,995. Courtesy Anantara
    There's 30 per cent off villa rates at Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort, with stays from Dh1,995. Courtesy Anantara
  • Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai offers Eid staycations from Dh796 per room per night, with complimentary breakfast and 20 per cent off dining.
    Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai offers Eid staycations from Dh796 per room per night, with complimentary breakfast and 20 per cent off dining.
  • The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah has Eid staycations from Dh1,500 including all meals.
    The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah has Eid staycations from Dh1,500 including all meals.
  • Andaz Dubai The Palm has a Summer staycation offer from Dh550 per room, including breakfast.
    Andaz Dubai The Palm has a Summer staycation offer from Dh550 per room, including breakfast.
  • Kempinski Mall of the Emirates Dubai offers Eid staycation rates from Dh899 including breakfast for two adults and two children.
    Kempinski Mall of the Emirates Dubai offers Eid staycation rates from Dh899 including breakfast for two adults and two children.
  • Staycation offers at JA The Resort start from Dh396 with the same amount given back to guests as credit to spend at the Jebel Ali resort in Dubai.
    Staycation offers at JA The Resort start from Dh396 with the same amount given back to guests as credit to spend at the Jebel Ali resort in Dubai.

________________________________________

Jumeirah Al Naseem is currently open to guests and is also offering day-cation packages for UAE residents.

Several other Jumeirah properties have also reopened including Jumeirah Zabeel Saray and select room categories at Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
Ten tax points to be aware of in 2026

1. Domestic VAT refund amendments: request your refund within five years

If a business does not apply for the refund on time, they lose their credit.

2. E-invoicing in the UAE

Businesses should continue preparing for the implementation of e-invoicing in the UAE, with 2026 a preparation and transition period ahead of phased mandatory adoption. 

3. More tax audits

Tax authorities are increasingly using data already available across multiple filings to identify audit risks. 

4. More beneficial VAT and excise tax penalty regime

Tax disputes are expected to become more frequent and more structured, with clearer administrative objection and appeal processes. The UAE has adopted a new penalty regime for VAT and excise disputes, which now mirrors the penalty regime for corporate tax.

5. Greater emphasis on statutory audit

There is a greater need for the accuracy of financial statements. The International Financial Reporting Standards standards need to be strictly adhered to and, as a result, the quality of the audits will need to increase.

6. Further transfer pricing enforcement

Transfer pricing enforcement, which refers to the practice of establishing prices for internal transactions between related entities, is expected to broaden in scope. The UAE will shortly open the possibility to negotiate advance pricing agreements, or essentially rulings for transfer pricing purposes. 

7. Limited time periods for audits

Recent amendments also introduce a default five-year limitation period for tax audits and assessments, subject to specific statutory exceptions. While the standard audit and assessment period is five years, this may be extended to up to 15 years in cases involving fraud or tax evasion. 

8. Pillar 2 implementation 

Many multinational groups will begin to feel the practical effect of the Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax (DMTT), the UAE's implementation of the OECD’s global minimum tax under Pillar 2. While the rules apply for financial years starting on or after January 1, 2025, it is 2026 that marks the transition to an operational phase.

9. Reduced compliance obligations for imported goods and services

Businesses that apply the reverse-charge mechanism for VAT purposes in the UAE may benefit from reduced compliance obligations. 

10. Substance and CbC reporting focus

Tax authorities are expected to continue strengthening the enforcement of economic substance and Country-by-Country (CbC) reporting frameworks. In the UAE, these regimes are increasingly being used as risk-assessment tools, providing tax authorities with a comprehensive view of multinational groups’ global footprints and enabling them to assess whether profits are aligned with real economic activity. 

Contributed by Thomas Vanhee and Hend Rashwan, Aurifer

MATCH INFO

Euro 2020 qualifier

Ukraine 2 (Yaremchuk 06', Yarmolenko 27')

Portugal 1 (Ronaldo 72' pen)

Meydan race card

6pm Dubai Trophy – Conditions(TB) $100,000 (Turf) 1,200m 

6.35Dubai Trophy – Conditions(TB) $100,000 (Turf) 1,200m
1,800m 

7.10pm Jumeirah Derby Trial – Conditions (TB) $60,000 (T)
1,800m ,400m 

7.45pm Al Rashidiya – Group 2 (TB)  $180,000  (T) 1,800m 

8.20pm Al Fahidi Fort – Group 2 (TB) $180,000 (T) 1,400m 

8.55pm Dubawi Stakes – Group 3 (TB) $150,000 (D) 1,200m 

9.30pm Aliyah – Rated Conditions (TB) $80,000 (D) 2,000m  

The specs

Engine: 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbocharged and three electric motors

Power: Combined output 920hp

Torque: 730Nm at 4,000-7,000rpm

Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch automatic

Fuel consumption: 11.2L/100km

On sale: Now, deliveries expected later in 2025

Price: expected to start at Dh1,432,000

The years Ramadan fell in May

1987

1954

1921

1888

The burning issue

The internal combustion engine is facing a watershed moment – major manufacturer Volvo is to stop producing petroleum-powered vehicles by 2021 and countries in Europe, including the UK, have vowed to ban their sale before 2040. The National takes a look at the story of one of the most successful technologies of the last 100 years and how it has impacted life in the UAE.

Part three: an affection for classic cars lives on

Read part two: how climate change drove the race for an alternative 

Read part one: how cars came to the UAE

FIGHT%20CARD
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The%C2%A0specs%20
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EEngine%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E2-litre%204-cylinder%20mild%20hybrid%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ETransmission%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E7-speed%20S%20tronic%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPower%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E265hp%20%2F%20195kW%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ETorque%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20370Nm%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPrice%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3Efrom%20Dh260%2C000%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EOn%20sale%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20now%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Jetour T1 specs

Engine: 2-litre turbocharged

Power: 254hp

Torque: 390Nm

Price: From Dh126,000

Available: Now

Favourite book: ‘The Art of Learning’ by Josh Waitzkin

Favourite film: Marvel movies

Favourite parkour spot in Dubai: Residence towers in Jumeirah Beach Residence

'Champions'

Director: Manuel Calvo
Stars: Yassir Al Saggaf and Fatima Al Banawi
Rating: 2/5
 

if you go

The flights
Emirates flies to Delhi with fares starting from around Dh760 return, while Etihad fares cost about Dh783 return. From Delhi, there are connecting flights to Lucknow. 
Where to stay
It is advisable to stay in Lucknow and make a day trip to Kannauj. A stay at the Lebua Lucknow hotel, a traditional Lucknowi mansion, is recommended. Prices start from Dh300 per night (excluding taxes). 

Francesco Totti's bio

Born September 27, 1976

Position Attacking midifelder

Clubs played for (1) - Roma

Total seasons 24

First season 1992/93

Last season 2016/17

Appearances 786

Goals 307

Titles (5) - Serie A 1; Italian Cup 2; Italian Supercup 2

Key facilities
  • Olympic-size swimming pool with a split bulkhead for multi-use configurations, including water polo and 50m/25m training lanes
  • Premier League-standard football pitch
  • 400m Olympic running track
  • NBA-spec basketball court with auditorium
  • 600-seat auditorium
  • Spaces for historical and cultural exploration
  • An elevated football field that doubles as a helipad
  • Specialist robotics and science laboratories
  • AR and VR-enabled learning centres
  • Disruption Lab and Research Centre for developing entrepreneurial skills
Joker: Folie a Deux

Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Lady Gaga, Brendan Gleeson

Director: Todd Phillips 

Rating: 2/5

The Penguin

Starring: Colin Farrell, Cristin Milioti, Rhenzy Feliz

Creator: Lauren LeFranc

Rating: 4/5

UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
The%20Killer
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EDirector%3A%C2%A0%3C%2Fstrong%3EDavid%20Fincher%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EStars%3A%C2%A0%3C%2Fstrong%3EMichael%20Fassbender%2C%20Tilda%20Swinton%2C%20Charles%20Parnell%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3ERating%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%204%2F5%C2%A0%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
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The specs

Engine: 5.0-litre supercharged V8

Transmission: Eight-speed auto

Power: 575bhp

Torque: 700Nm

Price: Dh554,000

On sale: now

Allardyce's management career

Clubs (10) - Limerick (1991-1992), Perston North End (1992), Blackpool (1994-1996), Notts County (1997-1999), Bolton Wanderers (1999-2007), Newcastle United (2007-2008), Blackburn Rovers (2008-2010), West Ham United (2011-2015), Sunderland (2016), Crystal Palace (2016-2017)

Countries (1) - England (2016)

COMPANY%20PROFILE
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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.

ABU DHABI ORDER OF PLAY

Starting at 10am:

Daria Kasatkina v Qiang Wang

Veronika Kudermetova v Annet Kontaveit (10)

Maria Sakkari (9) v Anastasia Potapova

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova v Ons Jabeur (15)

Donna Vekic (16) v Bernarda Pera 

Ekaterina Alexandrova v Zarina Diyas

Terminator: Dark Fate

Director: Tim Miller

Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Mackenzie Davis 

Rating: 3/5

The biog

Hobby: "It is not really a hobby but I am very curious person. I love reading and spend hours on research."

Favourite author: Malcom Gladwell 

Favourite travel destination: "Antigua in the Caribbean because I have emotional attachment to it. It is where I got married."