Saudia Cargo, the leading air cargo carrier in Saudi Arabia, has announced significant achievements in 2024.
Driven by a strategic focus on innovation, expansion, and sustainability, these milestones reinforce its commitment to the national economy and solidify its role as a key player in the global supply chain.
Commenting on the year’s success, Eng. Loay Mashabi, CEO and Managing Director of Saudia Cargo said: “Our 2024 results reflect our steadfast dedication to delivering innovative and agile cargo solutions that drive global trade and adapt to market dynamics. We remain focused on growth, strengthening partnerships, and providing advanced solutions that drive success for our customers. By prioritizing sustainability and operational excellence, we are steadily progressing toward our goal of ranking among the world’s top 10 air cargo carriers by 2030.”
In 2024, the company demonstrated significant operational growth, marked by an increase in cargo volume and flight activity. The company transported 577,870 tons of cargo in 2024, representing a 27% growth in transported weight and a 13% increase compared to 2023. It also conducted 193,599 flights, representing a 6% rise year-over-year. E-commerce shipments saw a remarkable 23% growth, totalling 64,107 tons, while high-value shipments accounted for 54% of total revenues, highlighting the company’s ability to meet priority sector needs with reliable services.
Saudia Cargo also maintained an impressive 92% on-time flight performance, underscoring its operational efficiency and reinforcing customer trust. Adding to its expanding network, the company introduced new permanent routes to key markets, including Shenzhen (China), and seasonal routes to Athens (Greece), and Nice (France), strengthening connectivity between the Kingdom and global markets.
Championing homegrown exports, Saudia Cargo transported 13,740 tons of locally produced goods, a 14% increase from 2023. This commitment was reinforced by strategic partnerships, including an MoU with Red Sea Global to connect the Kingdom to over 800 global destinations and a collaboration with the Royal Commission for AlUla to transport artifacts and boost tourism. Additionally, the company partnered with the Saudi Logistics Academy to upskill 300 employees, fostering a knowledge-driven workforce.
Advancing its sustainability practices, Saudia Cargo collaborated with the Ministry of Economy and Planning through the Sustainability Champions Program. It issued its inaugural Sustainability Report for 2024, detailing initiatives to reduce energy consumption and harmful emissions. A dedicated committee was also established to oversee carbon reduction plans aligned with IATA’s goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The company further enhanced its digital offerings by 10%, launched a specialized e-portal, and improved communication channels, raising customer satisfaction to 47 points and achieving a cybersecurity rating of 81.8% from the National Cybersecurity Authority.
Saudia Cargo received recognition for its leadership in innovative and reliable air freight solutions by winning the “Excellence in Air Cargo Operations in the Kingdom” award and the “Best E-Commerce Carrier in the Middle East” award.
Globally, it bolstered the Kingdom’s competitiveness by participating in the “Air Cargo China 2024” exhibition alongside its SkyTeam Cargo partners and the “Saudi Made” program, supporting national exports and accessing emerging global markets.
Saudia Cargo plans to expand its fleet, adopt sustainable methods, and invest in AI infrastructure for improved tracking and efficiency.
The company also plans to advance automated cargo handling systems, reduce costs, and implement eco-friendly logistics.
Saudia Cargo leverages Saudi Arabia’s location to drive economic growth and achieve Vision 2030, guided by its ‘Life Uninterrupted’ promise.
Beijing, China: Chapman Freeborn will mark this week its over 20 years of operating in China with the opening of its first offices in Beijing and Hong Kong in 2004.
Chapman Freeborn’s China operations have grown exponentially over the last 20 years, opening five offices, leveraging capacity across the Chapman Freeborn Group – including Magma Aviation’s direct charter flights – to seize opportunities in new markets like e-commerce, and earlier last year appointing Allen Liu to oversee operations across the new Greater China region.
“Over the last 20 years, Chapman Freeborn has cemented its place as a trusted partner across Greater China, strengthening resilience across supply chains,” said Allen Liu, President – Greater China, Chapman Freeborn.
“In an uncertain world, air cargo charter services offer a genuine alternative to scheduled flights, providing the flexibility needed to fulfil time critical deliveries and prevent spiralling costs.
“As we look to the future, I am determined to build on the double-digit growth in the volume of chartered flights last year, implement our long-term strategy to continue increasing cargo capacity, and strengthen our freight forwarding business as we deepen our commitment to the Chinese market.”
Liu joined Chapman Freeborn in 2012 and has held several roles, including Senior Cargo Manager for China and Vice President of Cargo for North Asia, during which he established new regional offices in Shenzhen and Chengdu.
Chapman Freeborn will celebrate their twenty-year anniversary with a reception for senior leaders across the air freight industry later this year, and again at Air Cargo Southeast Asia, Singapore, in October.
Dubai, UAE: Dubai Customs celebrated World Customs Day on 26 January reaffirming its commitment to fostering a more efficient, secure and prosperous future for global trade and unveiling its latest innovative solution, the “Shahin” digital platform which is designed to track trucks and shipments.
The Shahin initiative, in collaboration with the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Border Security, and the Security Industries Regulatory Authority, aims to enhance the security framework and facilitate trade within the UAE.
Under the theme, “Committed to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity,” Customs agencies worldwide celebrated the World Customs Day, echoing the call of the World Customs Organization’s (WCO) to prioritize innovation and collaboration.
“On January 26th every year, World Customs Organization and its member customs authorities celebrate World Customs Day. This day is an opportunity to honor the dedication and commitment of customs teams, support informed decisions to ensure sufficient resources to address challenges effectively, and to highlight the importance of elevating customs standards in line with the ambitions of our member administrations. This year’s theme emphasizes the need for practical steps to facilitate trade while ensuring security and sustainable growth, embodying the commitment of customs authorities to efficiency, security, and prosperity,” said WCO Secretary General, Mr. Kunio Mikuriya, in a recorded message.
On this occasion, His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman & CEO of DP World, Chairman of the Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation, expressed that the UAE has excelled in foreseeing the future of the economic sector, thanks to the visionary leadership that has implemented proactive strategies. These strategies have helped elevate the UAE’s position as a global trade and economic hub.
He emphasized that this foresight has fostered comprehensive trade and economic partnerships, enabling the UAE to meet global challenges, ensuring sustainable growth, and continuous innovation across various sectors.
Since the launch of the UAE’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) in September 2021, the country has signed 24 CEPA agreements with strategically important nations and regional blocs, collectively representing approximately 2.5 billion people. This has had a positive impact on the UAE’s non-oil foreign trade, which reached an unprecedented AED 2.8 trillion in 2024.
Furthermore, foreign direct investments are projected to reach AED 130 billion and industrial exports are expected to hit AED 190 billion for the first time.
“In line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai Customs continues its unwavering commitment to developing digital services and programs that enhance efficiency, security, and prosperity in customs operations and Dubai’s external trade,” said Bin Sulayem.
Dubai Customs recently unveiled its unique “Seamless Inspections” project, which moves the customs inspection process directly to company warehouses. This shift has directly reduced customs processing times by more than 50%, while also enhancing operational efficiency and boosting Dubai’s commercial and logistical competitiveness by increasing supply chain flexibility and fluidity.
In the area of collaborative efforts to combat the smuggling of prohibited goods and ensure community safety, Dubai Customs has strengthened its cooperation with the World Customs Organization (WCO), the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and other relevant international organizations. This partnership facilitates the exchange of information and expertise to support global customs work.
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: Saudia Cargo, one of the major players in the global cargo industry, had record-breaking performance in 2024 with 577,870 tons of cargo volume hauled during the period, up by 27% compared to 2023.
The leading cargo carrier in Saudi Arabia said this milestone reinforces its commitment to national economy, solidifying its role as a key player in the global supply chain with strategic focus on innovation, expansion, and sustainability.
“Our 2024 results reflect our steadfast dedication to delivering innovative and agile cargo solutions that drive global trade and adapt to market dynamics. We remain focused on growth, strengthening partnerships, and providing advanced solutions that drive success for our customers. By prioritizing sustainability and operational excellence, we are steadily progressing toward our goal of ranking among the world’s top 10 air cargo carriers by 2030,” said Eng. Loay Mashabi, CEO and Managing Director of Saudia Cargo.
In 2024, the company demonstrated significant operational growth, marked by an increase in cargo volume and flight activity. The company transported 577,870 tons of cargo in 2024, representing a 27% growth in transported weight and a 13% increase compared to 2023.
It also operated 193,599 flights, representing a 6% rise year-over-year. E-commerce shipments saw a remarkable 23% growth, totalling 64,107 tons, while high-value shipments accounted for 54% of total revenues, highlighting the company’s ability to meet priority sector needs with reliable services.
Saudia Cargo also maintained an impressive 92% on-time flight performance, underscoring its operational efficiency and reinforcing customer trust. Adding to its expanding network, the company introduced new permanent routes to key markets, including Shenzhen (China), and seasonal routes to Athens (Greece), and Nice (France), strengthening connectivity between the Kingdom and global markets.
Championing homegrown exports, Saudia Cargo transported 13,740 tons of locally produced goods, a 14% increase from 2023. This commitment was reinforced by strategic partnerships, including an MoU with Red Sea Global to connect the Kingdom to over 800 global destinations and a collaboration with the Royal Commission for AlUla to transport artifacts and boost tourism.
Additionally, the company partnered with the Saudi Logistics Academy to upskill 300 employees, fostering a knowledge-driven workforce.
Advancing its sustainability practices, Saudia Cargo collaborated with the Ministry of Economy and Planning through the Sustainability Champions Program. It issued its inaugural Sustainability Report for 2024, detailing initiatives to reduce energy consumption and harmful emissions. A dedicated committee was also established to oversee carbon reduction plans aligned with IATA’s goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The company further enhanced its digital offerings by 10%, launched a specialized e-portal, and improved communication channels, raising customer satisfaction to 47 points and achieving a cybersecurity rating of 81.8% from the National Cybersecurity Authority.
Saudia Cargo’s leadership in innovative and reliable air freight solutions was recognized with the “Excellence in Air Cargo Operations in the Kingdom” award and the “Best E-Commerce Carrier in the Middle East”.
Globally, it bolstered the Kingdom’s competitiveness by participating in the “Air Cargo China 2024” exhibition alongside its SkyTeam Cargo partners and the “Saudi Made” program, supporting national exports and accessing emerging global markets.
Looking ahead, Saudia Cargo says it will expand its fleet with next-generation aircraft, adopt sustainable transportation methods, and invest in AI-driven digital infrastructure to enhance tracking and efficiency.
The company also plans to advance automated cargo handling systems, reduce costs, and implement eco-friendly logistics. Leveraging Saudi Arabia’s strategic location, Saudia Cargo remains committed to driving economic growth and achieving Saudi Vision 2030, guided by its promise, ‘Life Uninterrupted.’
Khalifa Port has reached a major milestone with the inauguration of CMA Terminals Khalifa Port, a state-of-the-art, eco-friendly facility that boosts container capacity by 23% to nearly 10 million TEUs annually. Combining advanced technology and sustainability, the new terminal enhances Abu Dhabi’s position as a global trade hub and supports the UAE’s green economy goals.
This AED 3.1 billion (USD 845 million) container terminal is managed through a joint venture, with CMA CGM Group’s subsidiary CMA Terminals holding a 70% stake and Abu Dhabi Ports owning the remaining 30%.
His Highness was also present for the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Rodolphe Saadé and Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi. This agreement focuses on advancing maritime training and education across the UAE and the GCC region. As part of the partnership, the CMA CGM Group will help train students from the Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy and assist with placing cadets on its flagship vessels.
The inauguration of CMA Terminals is a significant milestone for Khalifa Port, the flagship port of AD Ports Group. Since its opening in December 2012, this world-class container, roll-on/roll-off, and multipurpose facility has grown rapidly, transforming into one of the fastest-growing and most efficient commercial ports in the world.
The newly unveiled CMA Terminals showcases cutting-edge infrastructure designed with sustainability and efficiency in mind. It features automated gates, integrated systems, and shore-power capabilities that reduce vessel emissions. Solar panels power several areas, and the terminal is home to the region’s first net-zero carbon administration building, running entirely on renewable energy. This building earned the prestigious “Net Zero Building Project of the Year Award” at the 2022 MENA Green Building Awards.
The addition of the CMA CGM terminal boosts port’s container capacity by 23%, bringing the total to nearly 10 million TEUs annually. Ready for rail connectivity, this new terminal further solidifies port’s position as a major regional gateway. Designed with sustainability at its core, it supports the UAE’s circular economy goals by promoting construction recycling and reducing operational waste.
CMA Terminals serves as a modern, sustainably designed hub for CMA CGM to facilitate growing trade between Asia, Africa, Europe, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent. CMA CGM, a global leader in decarbonizing the shipping industry, aims to achieve Net Zero Carbon by 2050, and this terminal aligns perfectly with their mission.
The facility combines advanced technology with sustainability. It is equipped with eight state-of-the-art Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes and 20 Electric Rubber Tyred Gantry (e-RTG) cranes, further enhancing port’s status as one of the world’s most advanced commercial ports and a key driver of sustainable trade.
At the inauguration, His Excellency Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Chairman of AD Ports Group, expressed pride in welcoming His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, noting the terminal’s role in cementing the UAE’s reputation as a top investment destination and a key partner for global trade.
Also Read: SCZONE and Suez Steel Strike $120M Deal to Boost Adabiya Port
Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of CMA CGM Group, highlighted the terminal’s strategic significance, calling it a step forward for Khalifa Port and a boost to regional shipping and logistics. Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, emphasized the port’s enhanced global connectivity and contribution to local economic diversification.
The inauguration also marks the completion of Phase 1 of the CMA CGM terminal project, featuring an 800-meter quay wall, 18.5 meters of depth, and a capacity of 1.8 million TEUs. With these advancements, Khalifa Port now spans 6.3 square kilometers, with 41 quay cranes, 159 yard cranes, an 11.7-kilometer quay wall, and a 3.8-kilometer breakwater.
This new chapter firmly establishes Khalifa Port as a regional leader in trade, innovation, and sustainability, driving forward the UAE’s vision for economic growth and global connectivity.
Doha, Qatar: The Animal Transportation Association (ATA) will hold its annual conference in Doha, Qatar, from 16-19 February, 2025 with Qatar Airways Cargo, the world’s leading air cargo carrier, as host airline.
This prestigious event will bring together industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders from around the globe to discuss the latest advancements and best practices in the field of animal transport. Known for its commitment to animal transport welfare, excellence and innovation, Qatar Airways Cargo will play a pivotal role in facilitating the event and ensuring a seamless experience for all attendees.
The ATA Conference 2025 will feature a comprehensive program, including keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops. Topics will cover a wide range of issues, from animal welfare and regulatory compliance to technological innovations and sustainability in animal transport.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to network with peers and participate in exclusive tours and social events showcasing the rich culture and hospitality of Qatar.
“The globalization of markets has significantly increased the demand for animal transportation services. The ATA Conference 2025 allows members from across the globe to come together to be educated on the complex issues our industry faces,” said Sean Harding, ATA president.
“We are thrilled to host the ATA Conference 2025 in Doha,” said Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo. “This event underscores our dedication to advancing the standards of animal transport and providing a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration within the industry.”
Registration for the ATA Conference 2025 is now open. For more information, visit the ATA website or contact Kyle Wieskus at kyle@animaltransportationassociation.org
Dubai, UAE: The International animal welfare charity, The Donkey Sanctuary, has joined forces with Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, to highlight the risks posed by the transportation of donkey skins in air cargo. Emirates has already implemented a ban on the carriage of donkey hides.
Working together they have co-created the Aviation Risk and Threat Assessment operational guide to highlight the risks posed by the donkey skin trade and its association with serious and organized criminal activity.
According to The Donkey Sanctuary’s latest figures, six million donkeys are killed for their skins each year, the majority in Africa. These skins are then exported across the world, by ship and by air, before being used to make traditional medicine and remedies.
In research by The Donkey Sanctuary and the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School and Wildlife Conservation Research Unit (WildCRU), significant evidence exposed the link between the movement of donkey skins with other illegal wildlife trafficking and organized crime. The unregulated and unhygienic skin trade also poses a serious threat to global biosecurity.
In February this year, African Heads of State endorsed a continent-wide moratorium on the slaughter of donkeys for their skins at the 37th African Union (AU) Summit. Within days of the AU decision, Emirates extended its zero-tolerance policy on the carriage of banned species, hunting trophies and other associated products, to include donkey hides and parts.
Already a leader in efforts to combat the illegal wildlife trade, the airline has established stringent protocols including screening, spot checks during transit, in depth document verification, and confirming the authenticity of permits; in addition to providing education and training for its employees across cargo and passenger operations to identify and report smuggled wildlife.
The co-created factsheet will provide the wider aviation industry with critical knowledge in the fight against the donkey skin trade. The operational guidelines explain the biosecurity risk of smuggling inadequately processed donkey skins alongside legitimate cargo such as leather or textiles, for example. It also highlights concealment methods and crime convergence, where networks involved in the donkey skin trade may also be linked to organized crime such as wildlife and drug trafficking.
Marianne Steele, CEO of The Donkey Sanctuary, said: “This is another welcome step in the battle against the illegal trade in donkey skins within the transportation sector. All measures that shine a light on the inhumane trade in donkey skins are to be applauded, especially given its links to illegal wildlife trafficking and organised crime as well as the threat to human health for everyone involved at every stage in the process.”
Robert Fordree, Senior Vice President of Cargo Operations Worldwide, Emirates SkyCargo, said: “We are proud to bring our expertise in both air logistics and the fight against illegal wildlife trafficking to the preparation of these guidelines. In close collaboration with The Donkey Sanctuary, we have highlighted some of the ways bad actors can exploit the logistics network to transport illicit goods, while also suggesting operational initiatives that can be implemented across the aviation ecosystem to stop trafficking in its tracks. Our hope is that by working with likeminded partners, we can protect the world’s biodiversity for generations to come.”
Abu Dhabi, UAE: Etihad Engineering, the largest commercial aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services provider in the Middle East, has successfully completed its first 12-year check on a Boeing 787 Dreamliner for LOT Polish Airlines, the flag carrier of Poland.
This significant milestone further cements Etihad Engineering’s reputation in delivering industry-leading heavy maintenance solutions for major commercial Airbus and Boeing aircraft.
A 12-year check is the one of the most thorough heavy-maintenance checks an aircraft undergoes. More than 300 personnel worked on the check completing around 1600 routine and non-routine tasks in less than 60 days, using more than 500 tools and over 1100-part numbers.
Spanning several weeks, the check involved complete landing gear replacement, disassembly and reassembly of critical components, in-depth structural inspections and system overhauls, including avionics, hydraulics, and engines.
Daniel Hoffmann, CEO of Etihad Engineering, said: “A 12-year check on the Boeing 787 requires extraordinary precision, planning, and execution. The successful delivery of our first B787 12-year check underscores the expertise and diligence of the Etihad Engineering team in carrying out extensive and complex aircraft maintenance projects. We are honoured by the trust that LOT Polish Airlines has placed in us and remain committed to delivering the highest standards of quality and safety to all our customers
from around the world.”
Wiktor Radoń, Engineering Director of LOT Polish Airlines, commented: “At LOT Polish Airlines, safety and reliability are at the core of our operations. We have a long-standing relationship with Etihad Engineering, and their performance on this first 12-year check on our B787 has exceeded our expectations. Their technical expertise and commitment to excellence assure us that our fleet is in the best hands.”
The aircraft was the first in a series of LOT Polish B787s scheduled for 12-year checks. The next input of the program is now undergoing heavy maintenance at Etihad Engineering’s state-of-the-art MRO facility in Abu Dhabi.
Big developments are underway at Adabiya Port! Mr. Waleid Gamal El-Dien, Chairman of the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE), and Mr. Rafik Boulos Doss, Vice President and Managing Director of Suez Steel Company S.A.E., have signed a landmark agreement that’s set to transform the port’s capabilities.
The deal, which involves a $120 million investment, grants Suez Steel a 30,000-square-meter concession area within Adabiya Port. As part of the agreement, Suez Steel will operate and maintain Berths 4 and 5, which span 650 meters in length and have a depth of 17 meters. Additionally, the company will manage a specialized yard for the storage and handling of dry bulk goods and key materials for the iron and steel industries.
According to the press release, this partnership marks a significant step forward in leveraging Adabiya Port’s strategic location at the southern entrance of the Suez Canal. Positioned as a vital link between Asia and Africa, the port is set to become an even bigger player in global trade and supply chains.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, SCZONE Chairman Eng. Waleid Gamal El-Dien highlighted the economic zone’s ongoing efforts to enhance its ports and industrial zones. “Our goal is to fully capitalize on SCZONE’s unique location on the Red and Mediterranean Seas,” he said. “By integrating ports, industrial areas, and logistics zones, we aim to support global supply chains and foster economic growth across multiple sectors. Partnerships like this are crucial to realizing Egypt’s Vision 2030, which positions our ports as global trade hubs.”
Mr. Rafik Boulos Doss of Suez Steel shared his enthusiasm for the collaboration, pointing out the benefits it brings to both the company and the region. “This agreement will allow us to handle up to 5 million tons of dry bulk cargo annually in the first phase, with plans to double that capacity to 10 million tons within five years,” he explained. “This growth will not only enhance our operations but also elevate Adabiya Port as a leading hub for the steel industry and other key sectors.”
Adabiya Port is already one of the Red Sea’s most significant ports for handling dry and liquid bulk cargo, managing around 7 million tons annually. However, ongoing upgrades are set to make it even more capable. The port is expanding its berthing facilities, with plans to accommodate vessels up to 300 meters long and with drafts of 17 meters. New infrastructure will also make it possible to handle oversized and heavy cargo, enhancing its role in Egypt’s trade and logistics landscape.
With this strategic partnership between SCZONE and Suez Steel, Adabiya Port is poised for a bright future, solidifying its status as a key player in regional and international trade.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Dubai Airports, operator of Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC), marked the UAE’s 53rd Eid Al Etihad with celebrations honoring the nation’s Founding Fathers, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.
Guided by the national theme ‘Zayed and Rashid’, an initiative by Brand Dubai, this year’s events paid tribute to the visionary leaders whose enduring legacy continues to inspire progress.
DXB guests experienced the essence of Eid Al Etihad through the performances of traditional Al Ayala and Al Harbia bands. Modhesh and Dana, beloved symbols of Dubai’s dynamic spirit brought joyful moments for families and children during their travels. Arriving guests are welcomed with a unique commemorative stamp in their passports—a symbolic keepsake to honor the occasion and their journey through the world’s busiest international airport.
His Excellency Jamal Al Hai, Deputy CEO of Dubai Airports, said: “This year’s Eid Al Etihad programme honors the visionary leadership of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, whose legacy continues to guide the UAE’s ambition. Dubai Airports is privileged to connect the world to the UAE’s cultural essence, where traditions inspire innovation, and heritage bridges the past and the future.”
The commemoration extended to Dubai Airports’ employees and stakeholders, offering an opportunity to connect with the UAE’s cultural heritage.
In the presence of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, the airport community participated in a series of interactive activities as a live national band created a festive atmosphere and traditional Emirati food offered a true taste of local culture. Highlights included a hands-on pearl-harvesting activity, henna art, cultural quizzes, and craft-making sessions curated in collaboration with the Dubai Airports Youth Council and the Irthi Council, providing a creative and meaningful exploration of the nation’s rich history.
Aligned with Dubai’s vision of inclusivity, the celebrations featured a local coffee pop-up managed by people of determination, sharing an important aspect of Arabian hospitality. Additionally, an exclusive retail showcase highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit of young Emiratis and provided a platform for innovation and creativity that mirrors the UAE’s forward-thinking vision.
Technology has made the world smaller and faster.Real time communication with people from all over the world at different time zones through phones and gadgets
