• Beyonce's last UAE show was in 2009 at Etihad Park on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Philip Cheung / The National
    Beyonce's last UAE show was in 2009 at Etihad Park on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Philip Cheung / The National
  • The singer came to the UAE on the back of big-selling 2008 album 'I Am ... Sasha Fierce'. Philip Cheung / The National
    The singer came to the UAE on the back of big-selling 2008 album 'I Am ... Sasha Fierce'. Philip Cheung / The National
  • The concert was part of the 2009 Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix. Philip Cheung / The National
    The concert was part of the 2009 Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix. Philip Cheung / The National
  • Beyonce's 2009 Abu Dhabi concert helped establish the city as a touring destination for major music acts. Philip Cheung / The National
    Beyonce's 2009 Abu Dhabi concert helped establish the city as a touring destination for major music acts. Philip Cheung / The National
  • Beyonce previously performed in Dubai with Destiny's Child in 2005. Getty Images
    Beyonce previously performed in Dubai with Destiny's Child in 2005. Getty Images
  • From left, Kelly Rowland, Beyonce Knowles and Michelle Williams of Destiny's Child during their 2005 world tour show at Dubai Media City. Getty Images
    From left, Kelly Rowland, Beyonce Knowles and Michelle Williams of Destiny's Child during their 2005 world tour show at Dubai Media City. Getty Images
  • Destiny's Child disbanded a year after the Dubai show in 2005. Getty Images
    Destiny's Child disbanded a year after the Dubai show in 2005. Getty Images
  • Destiny's Child has reportedly sold more than 60 million records worldwide. Getty Images
    Destiny's Child has reportedly sold more than 60 million records worldwide. Getty Images

Timeframe: Beyonce's past performances in the UAE


Saeed Saeed
  • English
  • Arabic

In one of the most anticipated shows in recent years, Beyonce will perform an invitation-only concert at new Dubai resort Atlantis The Royal on Saturday night.

The exclusive affair not only marks her return to the stage since 2018, but also a chance to debut songs from acclaimed new album Renaissance ahead of a planned world tour in summer.

The concert also continues an enduring relationship with the UAE.

Abu Dhabi and Dubai were where she performed her first shows in the Middle East as both a solo artist and part of former group Destiny’s Child.

In 2009 she launched one of the region’s biggest concert venues, Etihad Park, and was the first artist to play as part of the Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix.

The success of the show helped cement the pioneering after-race concert series in the city before being replicated at other F1 races in Singapore, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

John Lickrish, chief executive of Flash Entertainment, the company behind all the Abu Dhabi F1 concerts, says the show was attended by 40,000 people, putting Abu Dhabi on the touring map.

Beyonce's last UAE show was in 2009 at Etihad Park on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Philip Cheung / The National
Beyonce's last UAE show was in 2009 at Etihad Park on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Philip Cheung / The National

The Canadian recalls the gig being one of the biggest of her I Am ... World Tour.

"I remember a massive line outside the venue that began at about 2pm that afternoon,” he says. "It was a good test for us to put on a show of that size in the venue for the first time."

Beyonce was at the peak of her powers by the time she set foot in Abu Dhabi in October.

A remarkable eight singles were already released from her fourth album, 2008’s I Am ... Sasha Fierce, which went on to sell more than 10 million copies.

"It was a bit of a coup in getting the deal done," Lickrish says.

"I remember being on a call with Mrs Knowles (Beyonce's mother Tina Knowles) and we discussed her daughter's show, what a great performer she was and how she wanted us to take care of her in every way possible.

"It was an hour-and-a-half conversation which was more one-sided than back and forth and at the end of the day she ended up coming here.”

Judging by the rapturous reception and Beyonce’s reaction, Lickrish and his team knew they achieved more than a career milestone.

The concert resonated in the tight circles of the live music industry and helped pave the way for future big-name acts such as Madonna, The Rolling Stones and Paul McCartney to add Abu Dhabi in their respective tours.

"My best memory from that show is the crowd going absolutely crazy and the big smile on Beyonce's face at the end of the show because it was one of the biggest she played up until that point," Lickrish said.

"It was definitely one to remember for the books.”

From left, Kelly Rowland, Beyonce and Michelle Williams of Destiny's Child during their 2005 world tour concert at Dubai Media City. Getty Images
From left, Kelly Rowland, Beyonce and Michelle Williams of Destiny's Child during their 2005 world tour concert at Dubai Media City. Getty Images

Beyonce probably wasn't too surprised by the crowd's reaction in Abu Dhabi, since UAE fans had been following her career since her days in Destiny's Child.

She also entertained a 16,000-strong audience at the group's sold-out show in Dubai Media City in 2005.

Putting that concert together was Thomas Ovesen, founder of Top Entertainment.

At that time, the Dane was no stranger to bringing big acts to the UAE, having secured Mariah Carey for the same venue the previous year.

Ovesen knew Beyonce was cut from a different cloth as soon as she arrived in the emirate.

“Beyonce came to Dubai the night before the concert while the rest of the band came two days before,” he previously told The National.

“I kid you not, she went from the airport, dumped her stuff in the hotel, and went straight to the venue for three hours of rehearsals. She wore out the group and the backing dancers. She was the bandleader and choreographer.

“You could just tell that she was going to be huge.”

As Beyonce prepares to launch the next phase of her successful career in Dubai tonight, UAE fans will once again be front row in experiencing a star in her prime.

40 facts about Beyonce — in pictures

  • Members of Destiny's Child, from left, LeToya, LaTavia, Kelly and Beyonce, pose with the three Lady of Soul Awards they won at the 1998 Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards which was telecast live September 3 in Santa Monica. Reuters
    Members of Destiny's Child, from left, LeToya, LaTavia, Kelly and Beyonce, pose with the three Lady of Soul Awards they won at the 1998 Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards which was telecast live September 3 in Santa Monica. Reuters
  • Beyonce at a studio in Sylmar, California recording the video for Destiny's Child's song, 'Bills, Bills, Bills' in 1999. Reuters
    Beyonce at a studio in Sylmar, California recording the video for Destiny's Child's song, 'Bills, Bills, Bills' in 1999. Reuters
  • Destiny's Child, from left, Kelly Rowland, Beyonce Knowles and Michelle Williams sing as they accept the Artist of the Year Award at the 2000 Billboard Music Awards December 5, 2000 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Reuters
    Destiny's Child, from left, Kelly Rowland, Beyonce Knowles and Michelle Williams sing as they accept the Artist of the Year Award at the 2000 Billboard Music Awards December 5, 2000 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Reuters
  • Destiny's Child, Kelly, Beyonce and Michelle Williams, perform with two dancers during halftime between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 4 of NBA finals in Philadelphia, June 13, 2001. Reuters
    Destiny's Child, Kelly, Beyonce and Michelle Williams, perform with two dancers during halftime between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 4 of NBA finals in Philadelphia, June 13, 2001. Reuters
  • Mike Myers and Beyonce who co-starred in the film 'Austin Powers in Goldmember' pose at the post-premiere party at the Universal Amphitheatre in Los Angeles, July 22, 2002. Reuters
    Mike Myers and Beyonce who co-starred in the film 'Austin Powers in Goldmember' pose at the post-premiere party at the Universal Amphitheatre in Los Angeles, July 22, 2002. Reuters
  • Guitarist Carlos Santana and singer Beyonce perform at the Super Bowl pre-game show at San Diego's Qualcomm Stadium, January 26, 2003. Reuters
    Guitarist Carlos Santana and singer Beyonce perform at the Super Bowl pre-game show at San Diego's Qualcomm Stadium, January 26, 2003. Reuters
  • Beyonce signs autographs after performing at an outdoor concert in New York, June 27, 2003. The former singer in the band Destiny's Child released her first solo album 'Dangerously in Love' on June 24. Reuters
    Beyonce signs autographs after performing at an outdoor concert in New York, June 27, 2003. The former singer in the band Destiny's Child released her first solo album 'Dangerously in Love' on June 24. Reuters
  • Beyonce hangs upside down at the 2003 MTV Video Music Awards at the Radio City Music Hall in New York, August 28, 2003. Reuters
    Beyonce hangs upside down at the 2003 MTV Video Music Awards at the Radio City Music Hall in New York, August 28, 2003. Reuters
  • Beyonce and Jay-Z watch the women's semifinal match between Kim Clijsters of Belgium and Lindsay Davenport of the United States at the 2003 US Open in Flushing Meadows, New York, September 5, 2003. Reuters
    Beyonce and Jay-Z watch the women's semifinal match between Kim Clijsters of Belgium and Lindsay Davenport of the United States at the 2003 US Open in Flushing Meadows, New York, September 5, 2003. Reuters
  • Beyonce talks with Britain's Prince of Wales during the reception at the Fashion Rocks concert and fashion show in aid of the Prince's Trust at the Royal Albert Hall in London, October 15, 2003. Reuters
    Beyonce talks with Britain's Prince of Wales during the reception at the Fashion Rocks concert and fashion show in aid of the Prince's Trust at the Royal Albert Hall in London, October 15, 2003. Reuters
  • Nelson Mandela poses for photographers with Beyonce and other performers during a visit to Robben Island Prison near Cape Town, November 28, 2003. Reuters
    Nelson Mandela poses for photographers with Beyonce and other performers during a visit to Robben Island Prison near Cape Town, November 28, 2003. Reuters
  • Beyonce sings the national anthem before the start of Super Bowl XXXVIII in Houston February 1, 2004. Reuters
    Beyonce sings the national anthem before the start of Super Bowl XXXVIII in Houston February 1, 2004. Reuters
  • Prince and Beyonce perform during the 46th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, February 8, 2004. Reuters
    Prince and Beyonce perform during the 46th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, February 8, 2004. Reuters
  • Solange Knowles, star of the new comedy film 'Johnson Family Vacation', poses with her sister, Beyonce and Kelly Rowland at the film's premiere in Hollywood March 31, 2004. Reuters
    Solange Knowles, star of the new comedy film 'Johnson Family Vacation', poses with her sister, Beyonce and Kelly Rowland at the film's premiere in Hollywood March 31, 2004. Reuters
  • Beyonce performs 'Learn to be Lonely' from the Phantom of the Opera at the 77th annual Academy Awards in Hollywood, February 27, 2005. Reuters
    Beyonce performs 'Learn to be Lonely' from the Phantom of the Opera at the 77th annual Academy Awards in Hollywood, February 27, 2005. Reuters
  • Destiny's Child accepts a star on the Walk of Fame under heavy rain in Hollywood March 28, 2006. Reuters
    Destiny's Child accepts a star on the Walk of Fame under heavy rain in Hollywood March 28, 2006. Reuters
  • Beyonce arrives to attend the amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, gala benefit in New York January 31, 2007. Reuters
    Beyonce arrives to attend the amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, gala benefit in New York January 31, 2007. Reuters
  • Beyonce arrives at the 79th Annual Academy Awards in Hollywood, California, February 25, 2007. Reuters
    Beyonce arrives at the 79th Annual Academy Awards in Hollywood, California, February 25, 2007. Reuters
  • Beyonce greets fans after performing during the 2008 Fashion Rocks concert to begin the 2009 Spring/Summer Fashion Week in New York September 5, 2008. Reuters
    Beyonce greets fans after performing during the 2008 Fashion Rocks concert to begin the 2009 Spring/Summer Fashion Week in New York September 5, 2008. Reuters
  • Beyonce speaks with reporters at the premiere of 'Cadillac Records' in New York December 1, 2008. Reuters
    Beyonce speaks with reporters at the premiere of 'Cadillac Records' in New York December 1, 2008. Reuters
  • Beyonce sings 'America the Beautiful' during the We Are One: Opening Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, January 18, 2009. Reuters
    Beyonce sings 'America the Beautiful' during the We Are One: Opening Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, January 18, 2009. Reuters
  • Beyonce sings to President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle during their first dance of the evening at the Neighborhood Inaugural Ball in Washington, January 20, 2009. Reuters
    Beyonce sings to President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle during their first dance of the evening at the Neighborhood Inaugural Ball in Washington, January 20, 2009. Reuters
  • Beyonce performs at the BET Awards '09 in Los Angeles June 28, 2009. Reuters
    Beyonce performs at the BET Awards '09 in Los Angeles June 28, 2009. Reuters
  • Taylor Swift greets Beyonce after being invited by Beyonce to finish her previously interrupted acceptance speech for best female video at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards in New York, September 13, 2009. Reuters
    Taylor Swift greets Beyonce after being invited by Beyonce to finish her previously interrupted acceptance speech for best female video at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards in New York, September 13, 2009. Reuters
  • Beyonce smiles as she makes an appearance at the Macy's department store to promote her new fragrance Heat in New York February 3, 2010. Reuters
    Beyonce smiles as she makes an appearance at the Macy's department store to promote her new fragrance Heat in New York February 3, 2010. Reuters
  • Beyonce performs on the Pyramid stage on the last day of the Glastonbury Festival, Somerset June 26, 2011. Reuters
    Beyonce performs on the Pyramid stage on the last day of the Glastonbury Festival, Somerset June 26, 2011. Reuters
  • Beyonce poses at the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles August 28, 2011. Reuters
    Beyonce poses at the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles August 28, 2011. Reuters
  • Beyonce sings the national anthem as US President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden look on during the swearing-in ceremonies on the West Front of the US Capitol in Washington, January 21, 2013. Reuters
    Beyonce sings the national anthem as US President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden look on during the swearing-in ceremonies on the West Front of the US Capitol in Washington, January 21, 2013. Reuters
  • Beyonce performs during the half time show in the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game in New Orleans, Louisiana, February 3, 2013. Reuters
    Beyonce performs during the half time show in the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game in New Orleans, Louisiana, February 3, 2013. Reuters
  • Beyonce and her husband Jay-Z perform at the 56th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, California January 26, 2014. Reuters
    Beyonce and her husband Jay-Z perform at the 56th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, California January 26, 2014. Reuters
  • Beyonce smiles with Jay-Z and daughter Blue Ivy after accepting the Video Vanguard Award on stage during the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards in Inglewood, California August 24, 2014. Reuters
    Beyonce smiles with Jay-Z and daughter Blue Ivy after accepting the Video Vanguard Award on stage during the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards in Inglewood, California August 24, 2014. Reuters
  • Beyonce and Ed Sheeran perform a medley during the taping of 'Stevie Wonder: Songs In The Key Of Life - An All-Star GRAMMY Salute' concert at Nokia theatre in Los Angeles, California February 10, 2015. Reuters
    Beyonce and Ed Sheeran perform a medley during the taping of 'Stevie Wonder: Songs In The Key Of Life - An All-Star GRAMMY Salute' concert at Nokia theatre in Los Angeles, California February 10, 2015. Reuters
  • Beyonce, Chris Martin and Bruno Mars perform during the half-time show at the NFL's Super Bowl 50 between the Carolina Panthers and the Denver Broncos in Santa Clara, California February 7, 2016. Reuters
    Beyonce, Chris Martin and Bruno Mars perform during the half-time show at the NFL's Super Bowl 50 between the Carolina Panthers and the Denver Broncos in Santa Clara, California February 7, 2016. Reuters
  • Beyonce performs 'Take My Hand' at the 57th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, California on February 8, 2015. Reuters
    Beyonce performs 'Take My Hand' at the 57th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, California on February 8, 2015. Reuters
  • Beyonce performs 'Freedom' with Kendrick Lamar at the 2016 BET Awards in Los Angeles, California, June 26, 2016. Reuters
    Beyonce performs 'Freedom' with Kendrick Lamar at the 2016 BET Awards in Los Angeles, California, June 26, 2016. Reuters
  • Beyonce arrives at the 2016 MTV Video Music Awards in New York, August 28, 2016. Reuters
    Beyonce arrives at the 2016 MTV Video Music Awards in New York, August 28, 2016. Reuters
  • Beyonce performs at the 59th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, California, February 12, 2017. Reuters
    Beyonce performs at the 59th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, California, February 12, 2017. Reuters
  • Beyonce holds the awards she won for Best Urban Contemporary Album for 'Lemonade' and Best Music Video for 'Formation' at the 59th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, California, February 12, 2017. Reuters
    Beyonce holds the awards she won for Best Urban Contemporary Album for 'Lemonade' and Best Music Video for 'Formation' at the 59th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, California, February 12, 2017. Reuters
  • Beyonce performs onstage during 2018 Coachella Valley Music And Arts Festival Weekend 1 at the Empire Polo Field on April 14, 2018 in Indio, California. AFP
    Beyonce performs onstage during 2018 Coachella Valley Music And Arts Festival Weekend 1 at the Empire Polo Field on April 14, 2018 in Indio, California. AFP
  • Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, meet cast and crew, including Beyonce and her husband, Jay-Z, as they attend the European premiere of the film The Lion King in London, Britain July 14, 2019. Reuters
    Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, meet cast and crew, including Beyonce and her husband, Jay-Z, as they attend the European premiere of the film The Lion King in London, Britain July 14, 2019. Reuters
UAE v Gibraltar

What: International friendly

When: 7pm kick off

Where: Rugby Park, Dubai Sports City

Admission: Free

Online: The match will be broadcast live on Dubai Exiles’ Facebook page

UAE squad: Lucas Waddington (Dubai Exiles), Gio Fourie (Exiles), Craig Nutt (Abu Dhabi Harlequins), Phil Brady (Harlequins), Daniel Perry (Dubai Hurricanes), Esekaia Dranibota (Harlequins), Matt Mills (Exiles), Jaen Botes (Exiles), Kristian Stinson (Exiles), Murray Reason (Abu Dhabi Saracens), Dave Knight (Hurricanes), Ross Samson (Jebel Ali Dragons), DuRandt Gerber (Exiles), Saki Naisau (Dragons), Andrew Powell (Hurricanes), Emosi Vacanau (Harlequins), Niko Volavola (Dragons), Matt Richards (Dragons), Luke Stevenson (Harlequins), Josh Ives (Dubai Sports City Eagles), Sean Stevens (Saracens), Thinus Steyn (Exiles)

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.

The National's picks

4.35pm: Tilal Al Khalediah
5.10pm: Continous
5.45pm: Raging Torrent
6.20pm: West Acre
7pm: Flood Zone
7.40pm: Straight No Chaser
8.15pm: Romantic Warrior
8.50pm: Calandogan
9.30pm: Forever Young

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FIXTURES

All kick-off times 10.45pm UAE ( 4 GMT) unless stated

Tuesday
Sevilla v Maribor
Spartak Moscow v Liverpool
Manchester City v Shakhtar Donetsk
Napoli v Feyenoord
Besiktas v RB Leipzig
Monaco v Porto
Apoel Nicosia v Tottenham Hotspur
Borussia Dortmund v Real Madrid

Wednesday
Basel v Benfica
CSKA Moscow Manchester United
Paris Saint-Germain v Bayern Munich
Anderlecht v Celtic
Qarabag v Roma (8pm)
Atletico Madrid v Chelsea
Juventus v Olympiakos
Sporting Lisbon v Barcelona

How to apply for a drone permit
  • Individuals must register on UAE Drone app or website using their UAE Pass
  • Add all their personal details, including name, nationality, passport number, Emiratis ID, email and phone number
  • Upload the training certificate from a centre accredited by the GCAA
  • Submit their request
What are the regulations?
  • Fly it within visual line of sight
  • Never over populated areas
  • Ensure maximum flying height of 400 feet (122 metres) above ground level is not crossed
  • Users must avoid flying over restricted areas listed on the UAE Drone app
  • Only fly the drone during the day, and never at night
  • Should have a live feed of the drone flight
  • Drones must weigh 5 kg or less
How to protect yourself when air quality drops

Install an air filter in your home.

Close your windows and turn on the AC.

Shower or bath after being outside.

Wear a face mask.

Stay indoors when conditions are particularly poor.

If driving, turn your engine off when stationary.

THE BIO

Favourite author - Paulo Coelho 

Favourite holiday destination - Cuba 

New York Times or Jordan Times? NYT is a school and JT was my practice field

Role model - My Grandfather 

Dream interviewee - Che Guevara

RESULTS
%3Cp%3E3.30pm%3A%20Al%20Maktoum%20Challenge%20Round%203%20%E2%80%93%20Group%201%20(PA)%20%2475%2C000%20(Dirt)%202%2C000m%3Cbr%3EWinner%3A%20Jugurtha%20De%20Monlau%2C%20Pat%20Dobbs%20(jockey)%2C%20Jean-Claude%20Pecout%20(trainer)%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E4.05pm%3A%20Dubai%20City%20Of%20Gold%20%E2%80%93%20Group%202%20(TB)%20%24250%2C000%20(Turf)%202%2C410m%3Cbr%3EWinner%3A%20Global%20Storm%2C%20William%20Buick%2C%20Charlie%20Appleby%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E4.40pm%3A%20Burj%20Nahaar%20%E2%80%93%20Group%203%20(TB)%20%24250%2C000%20(D)%201%2C600m%3Cbr%3EWinner%3A%20Discovery%20Island%2C%20James%20Doyle%2C%20Bhupat%20Seemar%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E5.15pm%3A%20Nad%20Al%20Sheba%20Turf%20Sprint%20%E2%80%93%20Group%203%20(TB)%20%24250%2C000%20(T)%201%2C200m%3Cbr%3EWinner%3A%20Al%20Dasim%2C%20Mickael%20Barzalona%2C%20George%20Boughey%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E5.50pm%3A%20Al%20Bastakiya%20%E2%80%93%20Listed%20(TB)%20%24170%2C000%20(D)%201%2C900m%3Cbr%3EWinner%3A%20Go%20Soldier%20Go%2C%20Adrie%20de%20Vries%2C%20Fawzi%20Nass%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E6.25pm%3A%20Al%20Maktoum%20Challenge%20Round%203%20%E2%80%93%20Group%201%20(TB)%20%24450%2C000%20(D)%202%2C000m%3Cbr%3EWinner%3A%20Salute%20The%20Soldier%2C%20Adrie%20de%20Vries%2C%20Fawzi%20Nass%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E7.10pm%3A%20Ras%20Al%20Khor%20%E2%80%93%20Conditions%20(TB)%20%24300%2C000%20(T)%201%2C400m%3Cbr%3EWinner%3A%20Al%20Suhail%2C%20William%20Buick%2C%20Charlie%20Appleby%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E7.45pm%3A%20Jebel%20Hatta%20%E2%80%93%20Group%201%20(TB)%20%24350%2C000%20(T)%201%2C800m%3Cbr%3EWinner%3A%20Alfareeq%2C%20Dane%20O%E2%80%99Neill%2C%20Charlie%20Appleby%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E8.20pm%3A%20Mahab%20Al%20Shimaal%20%E2%80%93%20Group%203%20(TB)%20%24250%2C000%20(D)%201%2C200m%3Cbr%3EWinner%3A%20Sound%20Money%2C%20Mickael%20Barzalona%2C%20Bhupat%20Seemar%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
AT%20A%20GLANCE
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EWindfall%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EAn%20%E2%80%9Cenergy%20profits%20levy%E2%80%9D%20to%20raise%20around%20%C2%A35bn%20in%20a%20year.%20The%20temporary%20one-off%20tax%20will%20hit%20oil%20and%20gas%20firms%20by%2025%20per%20cent%20on%20extraordinary%20profits.%20An%2080%20per%20cent%20investment%20allowance%20should%20calm%20Conservative%20nerves%20that%20the%20move%20will%20dent%20North%20Sea%20firms%E2%80%99%20investment%20to%20save%20them%2091p%20for%20every%20%C2%A31%20they%20spend.%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EA%20universal%20grant%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EEnergy%20bills%20discount%2C%20which%20was%20effectively%20a%20%C2%A3200%20loan%2C%20has%20doubled%20to%20a%20%C2%A3400%20discount%20on%20bills%20for%20all%20households%20from%20October%20that%20will%20not%20need%20to%20be%20paid%20back.%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ETargeted%20measures%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EMore%20than%20eight%20million%20of%20the%20lowest%20income%20households%20will%20receive%20a%20%C2%A3650%20one-off%20payment.%20It%20will%20apply%20to%20households%20on%20Universal%20Credit%2C%20Tax%20Credits%2C%20Pension%20Credit%20and%20legacy%20benefits.%0D%3Cbr%3ESeparate%20one-off%20payments%20of%20%C2%A3300%20will%20go%20to%20pensioners%20and%20%C2%A3150%20for%20those%20receiving%20disability%20benefits.%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
MATCH INFO

Newcastle United 2 (Willems 25', Shelvey 88')

Manchester City 2 (Sterling 22', De Bruyne 82')

BEACH SOCCER WORLD CUP

Group A

Paraguay
Japan
Switzerland
USA

Group B

Uruguay
Mexico
Italy
Tahiti

Group C

Belarus
UAE
Senegal
Russia

Group D

Brazil
Oman
Portugal
Nigeria

Women’s World T20, Asia Qualifier

UAE results
Beat China by 16 runs
Lost to Thailand by 10 wickets
Beat Nepal by five runs
Beat Hong Kong by eight wickets
Beat Malaysia by 34 runs

Standings (P, W, l, NR, points)

1. Thailand 5 4 0 1 9
2. UAE 5 4 1 0 8
3. Nepal 5 2 1 2 6
4. Hong Kong 5 2 2 1 5
5. Malaysia 5 1 4 0 2
6. China 5 0 5 0 0

Final
Thailand v UAE, Monday, 7am

The finalists

Player of the Century, 2001-2020: Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus), Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Mohamed Salah (Liverpool), Ronaldinho

Coach of the Century, 2001-2020: Pep Guardiola (Manchester City), Jose Mourinho (Tottenham Hotspur), Zinedine Zidane (Real Madrid), Sir Alex Ferguson

Club of the Century, 2001-2020: Al Ahly (Egypt), Bayern Munich (Germany), Barcelona (Spain), Real Madrid (Spain)

Player of the Year: Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Robert Lewandowski (Bayern Munich)

Club of the Year: Bayern Munich, Liverpool, Real Madrid

Coach of the Year: Gian Piero Gasperini (Atalanta), Hans-Dieter Flick (Bayern Munich), Jurgen Klopp (Liverpool)

Agent of the Century, 2001-2020: Giovanni Branchini, Jorge Mendes, Mino Raiola

UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
RESULT

Norway 1 Spain 1
Norway: King (90 4')
Spain: Niguez (47')

In-demand jobs and monthly salaries
  • Technology expert in robotics and automation: Dh20,000 to Dh40,000 
  • Energy engineer: Dh25,000 to Dh30,000 
  • Production engineer: Dh30,000 to Dh40,000 
  • Data-driven supply chain management professional: Dh30,000 to Dh50,000 
  • HR leader: Dh40,000 to Dh60,000 
  • Engineering leader: Dh30,000 to Dh55,000 
  • Project manager: Dh55,000 to Dh65,000 
  • Senior reservoir engineer: Dh40,000 to Dh55,000 
  • Senior drilling engineer: Dh38,000 to Dh46,000 
  • Senior process engineer: Dh28,000 to Dh38,000 
  • Senior maintenance engineer: Dh22,000 to Dh34,000 
  • Field engineer: Dh6,500 to Dh7,500
  • Field supervisor: Dh9,000 to Dh12,000
  • Field operator: Dh5,000 to Dh7,000
Our legal columnist

Name: Yousef Al Bahar

Advocate at Al Bahar & Associate Advocates and Legal Consultants, established in 1994

Education: Mr Al Bahar was born in 1979 and graduated in 2008 from the Judicial Institute. He took after his father, who was one of the first Emirati lawyers

GAC GS8 Specs

Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo

Power: 248hp at 5,200rpm

Torque: 400Nm at 1,750-4,000rpm

Transmission: 8-speed auto

Fuel consumption: 9.1L/100km

On sale: Now

Price: From Dh149,900

Know your cyber adversaries

Cryptojacking: Compromises a device or network to mine cryptocurrencies without an organisation's knowledge.

Distributed denial-of-service: Floods systems, servers or networks with information, effectively blocking them.

Man-in-the-middle attack: Intercepts two-way communication to obtain information, spy on participants or alter the outcome.

Malware: Installs itself in a network when a user clicks on a compromised link or email attachment.

Phishing: Aims to secure personal information, such as passwords and credit card numbers.

Ransomware: Encrypts user data, denying access and demands a payment to decrypt it.

Spyware: Collects information without the user's knowledge, which is then passed on to bad actors.

Trojans: Create a backdoor into systems, which becomes a point of entry for an attack.

Viruses: Infect applications in a system and replicate themselves as they go, just like their biological counterparts.

Worms: Send copies of themselves to other users or contacts. They don't attack the system, but they overload it.

Zero-day exploit: Exploits a vulnerability in software before a fix is found.

French business

France has organised a delegation of leading businesses to travel to Syria. The group was led by French shipping giant CMA CGM, which struck a 30-year contract in May with the Syrian government to develop and run Latakia port. Also present were water and waste management company Suez, defence multinational Thales, and Ellipse Group, which is currently looking into rehabilitating Syrian hospitals.

PROFILE OF HALAN

Started: November 2017

Founders: Mounir Nakhla, Ahmed Mohsen and Mohamed Aboulnaga

Based: Cairo, Egypt

Sector: transport and logistics

Size: 150 employees

Investment: approximately $8 million

Investors include: Singapore’s Battery Road Digital Holdings, Egypt’s Algebra Ventures, Uber co-founder and former CTO Oscar Salazar

World record transfers

1. Kylian Mbappe - to Real Madrid in 2017/18 - €180 million (Dh770.4m - if a deal goes through)
2. Paul Pogba - to Manchester United in 2016/17 - €105m
3. Gareth Bale - to Real Madrid in 2013/14 - €101m
4. Cristiano Ronaldo - to Real Madrid in 2009/10 - €94m
5. Gonzalo Higuain - to Juventus in 2016/17 - €90m
6. Neymar - to Barcelona in 2013/14 - €88.2m
7. Romelu Lukaku - to Manchester United in 2017/18 - €84.7m
8. Luis Suarez - to Barcelona in 2014/15 - €81.72m
9. Angel di Maria - to Manchester United in 2014/15 - €75m
10. James Rodriguez - to Real Madrid in 2014/15 - €75m

Ten10 Cricket League

Venue and schedule Sharjah Cricket Stadium, December 14 to 17

Teams

Maratha Arabians Leading player: Virender Sehwag; Top picks: Mohammed Amir, Imad Wasim; UAE players: Shaiman Anwar, Zahoor Khan

Bengal Lions Leading player: Sarfraz Ahmed; Top picks: Sunil Narine, Mustafizur Rahman; UAE players: Mohammed Naveed, Rameez Shahzad

Kerala Kings Leading player: Eoin Morgan; Top picks: Kieron Pollard, Sohail Tanvir; UAE players: Rohan Mustafa, Imran Haider

Pakhtoons Leading player: Shahid Afridi; Top picks: Fakhar Zaman, Tamim Iqbal; UAE players: Amjad Javed, Saqlain Haider

Punjabi Legends Leading player: Shoaib Malik; Top picks: Hasan Ali, Chris Jordan; UAE players: Ghulam Shabber, Shareef Asadullah

Team Sri Lanka Cricket Will be made up of Colombo players who won island’s domestic limited-overs competition

Skoda Superb Specs

Engine: 2-litre TSI petrol

Power: 190hp

Torque: 320Nm

Price: From Dh147,000

Available: Now

Jetour T1 specs

Engine: 2-litre turbocharged

Power: 254hp

Torque: 390Nm

Price: From Dh126,000

Available: Now

AUSTRALIA SQUADS

ODI squad: Aaron Finch (captain), Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa

Twenty20 squad: Aaron Finch (captain), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa

Coffee: black death or elixir of life?

It is among the greatest health debates of our time; splashed across newspapers with contradicting headlines - is coffee good for you or not?

Depending on what you read, it is either a cancer-causing, sleep-depriving, stomach ulcer-inducing black death or the secret to long life, cutting the chance of stroke, diabetes and cancer.

The latest research - a study of 8,412 people across the UK who each underwent an MRI heart scan - is intended to put to bed (caffeine allowing) conflicting reports of the pros and cons of consumption.

The study, funded by the British Heart Foundation, contradicted previous findings that it stiffens arteries, putting pressure on the heart and increasing the likelihood of a heart attack or stroke, leading to warnings to cut down.

Numerous studies have recognised the benefits of coffee in cutting oral and esophageal cancer, the risk of a stroke and cirrhosis of the liver. 

The benefits are often linked to biologically active compounds including caffeine, flavonoids, lignans, and other polyphenols, which benefit the body. These and othetr coffee compounds regulate genes involved in DNA repair, have anti-inflammatory properties and are associated with lower risk of insulin resistance, which is linked to type-2 diabetes.

But as doctors warn, too much of anything is inadvisable. The British Heart Foundation found the heaviest coffee drinkers in the study were most likely to be men who smoked and drank alcohol regularly.

Excessive amounts of coffee also unsettle the stomach causing or contributing to stomach ulcers. It also stains the teeth over time, hampers absorption of minerals and vitamins like zinc and iron.

It also raises blood pressure, which is largely problematic for people with existing conditions.

So the heaviest drinkers of the black stuff - some in the study had up to 25 cups per day - may want to rein it in.

Rory Reynolds

Company%20Profile
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5 of the most-popular Airbnb locations in Dubai

Bobby Grudziecki, chief operating officer of Frank Porter, identifies the five most popular areas in Dubai for those looking to make the most out of their properties and the rates owners can secure:

• Dubai Marina

The Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence are popular locations, says Mr Grudziecki, due to their closeness to the beach, restaurants and hotels.

Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh482 to Dh739 
Two bedroom: Dh627 to Dh960 
Three bedroom: Dh721 to Dh1,104

• Downtown

Within walking distance of the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and the famous fountains, this location combines business and leisure.  “Sure it’s for tourists,” says Mr Grudziecki. “Though Downtown [still caters to business people] because it’s close to Dubai International Financial Centre."

Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh497 to Dh772
Two bedroom: Dh646 to Dh1,003
Three bedroom: Dh743 to Dh1,154

• City Walk

The rising star of the Dubai property market, this area is lined with pristine sidewalks, boutiques and cafes and close to the new entertainment venue Coca Cola Arena.  “Downtown and Marina are pretty much the same prices,” Mr Grudziecki says, “but City Walk is higher.”

Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh524 to Dh809 
Two bedroom: Dh682 to Dh1,052 
Three bedroom: Dh784 to Dh1,210 

• Jumeirah Lake Towers

Dubai Marina’s little brother JLT resides on the other side of Sheikh Zayed road but is still close enough to beachside outlets and attractions. The big selling point for Airbnb renters, however, is that “it’s cheaper than Dubai Marina”, Mr Grudziecki says.

Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh422 to Dh629 
Two bedroom: Dh549 to Dh818 
Three bedroom: Dh631 to Dh941

• Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah's proximity to luxury resorts is attractive, especially for big families, says Mr Grudziecki, as Airbnb renters can secure competitive rates on one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations.

Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh503 to Dh770 
Two bedroom: Dh654 to Dh1,002 
Three bedroom: Dh752 to Dh1,152 

The biog

Favourite films: Casablanca and Lawrence of Arabia

Favourite books: Start with Why by Simon Sinek and Good to be Great by Jim Collins

Favourite dish: Grilled fish

Inspiration: Sheikh Zayed's visionary leadership taught me to embrace new challenges.

Updated: January 20, 2023, 6:01 PM