The global Shoptalk event series is among the most important and innovative in the retail industry. Currently held in Las Vegas, Barcelona, and Chicago, these events unite leading experts and entrepreneurs from the vibrant retail and ecommerce sector to discuss the trends, technology, and influences shaping the industry.

Shoptalk Luxe represents an important addition to the Shoptalk event portfolio, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s status as a premier destination for luxury retail. Building on the emirate’s position as a culture, tourism, and investment hub, this event will showcase an exclusive segment of the global retail industry, focusing on a new era of exceptional, immersive customer experiences.

ADIO is collaborating with leading luxury retailers and technology firms to enhance the emirate’s retail landscape and capitalise on the expansive growth potential of its luxury retail market, harnessing advanced technologies to deliver innovative, curated consumer experiences.

Shoptalk Luxe is set to attract leading players from the $1.5 trillion global luxury market, which is projected to grow by more than 10% annually.

The Shoptalk team has already confirmed Chalhoub Group, the leading partner of luxury experiences in the Middle East, as a Launch Partner of the event, with more global partners to be announced soon. The three-day event will feature over 180 speakers from the leading brands in luxury retail, premium customer experience, and retail technology, attracting more than 2,500 attendees from around the world.

The event is set to attract a global retail and consumer brand sectors who are defining the future of premium retail. Attendees will hear from leading brands and retailers focused on delivering elevated, personalized consumer experiences, while showcasing the latest technology and trends shaping the premium retail sector. As consumer expectations for superior service, personalization, and seamless experiences continue to evolve, the event will provide retailers across industries with insights and strategies to stay ahead.

Noura Alfoulathi, Abu Dhabi Investment Office, said: “The retail sector is a key pillar of a resilient, diverse economy, both locally and globally. As consumer habits and expectations continue to evolve, this sector is witnessing a profound transformation in business models, product offerings, and consumer experiences, requiring retailers to adapt and innovate. By hosting this important event, Abu Dhabi stands at the forefront of these developments, poised to lead the dialogue among global industry leaders, innovators, and luxury brands.”

Mark Shashoua, CEO at Hyve said: “Abu Dhabi is the leading destination for global luxury retail in the Middle East and it was therefore a clear destination for the expansion of Shoptalk. Our partnership with ADIO will enable us to maximise the launch to create a truly unmissable event.”

Sophie Wawro, President of Shoptalk, said: “Today’s consumers expect an elevated, personalized experience across all touchpoints. As the bar for customer service, personalization, and seamless experiences continues to rise, Shoptalk Luxe is here to help retailers at all levels stay ahead. Shoptalk Luxe builds on Shoptalk’s reputation for bringing together the retail industry’s most innovative minds and influential voices. We are delighted to be partnering with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office as our Host City Partner to bring this exciting next chapter for Shoptalk to Abu Dhabi in 2026.”

Hosting the conference in Abu Dhabi is expected to foster dialogue among global sector leaders, innovators, and leading brands to support the growth of the global luxury retail sector. Adding Abu Dhabi as the fifth destination in the Shoptalk calendar further cements Shoptalk as the heart of the global retail and ecommerce community.

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The committee overseeing the Prince of Poets programme has successfully completed the evaluation process for this season, meticulously reviewing submissions from aspiring poets. Out of a large pool of entries, 150 poets have been shortlisted to perform before the jury at the Al Raha Beach Theatre in October 2024. This phase of the competition will involve a series of competitive assessments to determine which 20 poets will advance to the live episodes scheduled for December 2024.

This year’s application process saw an unprecedented number of poets participating, with over 1,000 entrants from 33 different countries. This marks the highest level of international representation in the competition’s history, underscoring its expanding global influence in promoting Arabic poetry. The diverse geographical representation highlights the programme’s significance in elevating Arabic literature on a worldwide stage.

In a notable trend, this season welcomed submissions from poets in 14 non-Arab countries, indicating a burgeoning international interest. Past editions have seen participants from nations such as India, the United States, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Mali, and Nigeria.

Since its inception, the Prince of Poets title has been awarded to poets from seven Arab nations: Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, Yemen, Syria, Mauritania, and Oman. Saudi Arabian poets have excelled in this competition, securing the title four times in a row from the sixth to the ninth season, which represents 40 percent of the total titles awarded.

Additionally, poets from the UAE, Mauritania, Syria, Yemen, Egypt, and Oman have each claimed the title once. The tenth season of the competition was particularly historic, as it witnessed the crowning of the first female poet to earn the title, marking a significant moment in the annals of this prestigious programme.

Throughout its ten seasons, a total of 245 poets have showcased their talents, representing 25 different countries. Notably, women have made significant strides in this competition, with 60 female poets among the participants, constituting about 24 percent of total entries.

The winner of this year’s competition will receive the coveted title of Prince of Poets, alongside the traditional Poetry Burda cloak, a ring symbolising the title of Emir (Prince), and a cash award of AED 1 million. The second-place winner will earn AED 500,000, while the third-place recipient will receive AED 300,000, the fourth-place winner will get AED 200,000, and the fifth-place winner will be awarded AED 100,000.

Since the competition’s inception, the Poetry Academy, which operates under the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, has been committed to publishing the works of top-ranking poets. In its second edition, the Prince of Poets received the shield and certificate of the Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Award for Arabic Poetry, further solidifying its status as a cornerstone initiative of the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority.

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The collaboration was announced during a ceremony that highlighted the importance of Arabic as a scientific language. Aimed at enhancing the accessibility of scientific knowledge for Arabic speakers, the initiative underscores the significance of nurturing a robust Arabic lexicon within scientific contexts. This is particularly crucial as the Arab world seeks to position itself as a leader in innovation and scientific research.

Officials from both organizations expressed their commitment to this transformative endeavor. The ALC emphasized that Arabic is not only a vehicle for cultural expression but also a vital language in academia and research. By strengthening its presence in scientific literature, the initiative aspires to inspire a new generation of scholars and researchers who are fluent in both Arabic and their respective fields of study.

The MBRSC, renowned for its groundbreaking work in space exploration and technology, echoed this sentiment.

They stressed that the collaboration would create valuable resources that highlight the contributions of Arab scientists and scholars throughout history. This not only serves to preserve the Arabic language but also fosters a sense of pride in the region’s scientific heritage.

As part of this partnership, both organizations plan to develop a series of programs and resources aimed at enhancing the teaching and learning of science in Arabic. This includes creating Arabic-language scientific publications, workshops, and training sessions for educators and students. By equipping the educational system with Arabic resources, the initiative aims to cultivate a culture of scientific inquiry and research among Arabic-speaking populations.

The collaboration also aligns with broader national goals to promote the Arabic language as a language of science and technology. By prioritizing Arabic in scientific discourse, Abu Dhabi seeks to ensure that future generations are well-equipped to engage with global scientific developments while preserving their linguistic heritage.

In conclusion, the partnership between the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre marks a significant step forward in the integration of Arabic into the scientific realm. This initiative not only aims to enrich the Arabic language but also aspires to empower Arab youth to engage meaningfully in scientific exploration and innovation, thus contributing to the global body of knowledge. Through this collaboration, Abu Dhabi is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of science and language in the Arab world.

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The initiative seeks to draw more productions from Hollywood, Bollywood, and the Arab world, thereby stimulating the local economy through increased activity in transport, logistics, and accommodation. The initiative will also serve to promote Abu Dhabi as a prime filming destination, supporting sectors like tourism.

Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General of CMA, remarked, “The importance of the film and production industry continues to grow under the vision and guidance of our wise leadership. We are proud to have been the first destination to offer a rebate scheme and are a regional pioneer with a proven track record. The updated financial rebate support will ensure we continue attracting international producers and directors from all over the world and become known as a leading destination for film and TV production both globally and regionally. This new rebate system is based off global best practice and will ensure we bring more of Abu Dhabi to the world through individual content consumption.”

He further explained that this enhancement is the first step in a comprehensive review aimed at making the creative industry more appealing, highlighting the sector’s vital contribution to the regional economy.

Sameer Al Jaberi, Head of ADFC, noted the success of the rebate scheme since its inception in 2013, stating, “Since launching our rebate scheme in 2013, more than 150 major productions have benefited from the offering. This generates a huge impact on our economy as independently verified research shows that for every dirham paid through the scheme, more than three dirhams flow back into the economy through hosting large scale productions in the emirate. Alongside the financial stimulus into the economy, visiting productions provide a tremendous learning and training opportunity for young creatives who are the nation’s storytellers of the future, this focus ensures a strong self-sustaining industry. As we near the release of the rebate on 1 January 2025, further information will be shared in the lead-up with our existing production industry database.”

The initiative aims to enhance an already robust ecosystem that comprises over 800 media companies and a talent pool of 1,000 freelancers, as well as young individuals seeking training and internship opportunities.

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SZA

SZA, once an underground sensation, has skyrocketed to global fame with her genre-defying style. The Grammy-winning R&B star has produced chart-topping hits such as “Kill Bill” and “Good Days.” Fans in the Middle East are eagerly awaiting her regional debut at the festival.

21 Savage

The British-born rapper, 21 Savage, has gone from a challenging upbringing to becoming a two-time Grammy nominee. His music often reflects his past, with his latest album, American Dream, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 in 2024. Wireless Middle East will mark his highly anticipated first performance in the region.

Yeat

Yeat, another breakout star who gained fame through viral tracks like “Sorry Bout That” and “Gët Busy,” is set to perform his inaugural Middle East show at the festival. His unique sound has captivated fans worldwide, with his 2022 project reaching No. 4 on the Billboard 200.

Karan Aujla

Indian singer and rapper Karan Aujla, known for hits like “52 Bars” and “Take It Easy,” has made waves globally. In 2024, he became the first Canadian Punjabi artist to win the TikTok JUNO Fan Choice Award. He’s sure to bring an energetic performance to Abu Dhabi.

Fridayy

R&B artist Fridayy, a three-time Grammy-nominated singer and producer, has worked with top artists like Lil Baby and Rod Wave. With a record deal at Def Jam, his soulful performances are not to be missed.

These artists, alongside other top performers, will light up the stage at Wireless Middle East 2024. For more information and ticket details, visit the official Wireless Festival website.

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The 2024-2025 season, announced by Abu Dhabi Calendar, includes highlights such as the highly anticipated return of Coldplay, the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2024, and the NBA Abu Dhabi Games presented by ADQ. Notable cultural celebrations like the Al Hosn Festival and the debut of the anime-themed Animenia are also set to captivate audiences.

Music & Entertainment: From Bollywood to Global Icons

The season kicks off in September with the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards, headlined by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan. The event returns to Abu Dhabi for a third time, promising a glittering celebration of Indian cinema.

October heats up with the iconic Backstreet Boys, who will bring their DNA Tour to the city. Fans of anime culture can look forward to the debut of Animenia, a Japanese pop culture festival featuring cosplay, gaming, and exclusive experiences. That same month, Take That is set to perform, and comedian Matt Rife will also be taking the stage.

November brings a diverse lineup of global stars. SZA headlines Wireless Festival Middle East, and music legend A.R. Rahman will perform at Etihad Arena. Punjabi sensation Diljit Dosanjh makes his Abu Dhabi debut with his Dil-Luminati Tour.

In December, the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix promises a thrilling weekend, not just on the track but with evening performances by Maroon 5, Eminem, and Muse. The month also sees appearances by Bryan Adams, Akon, and Anastacia, ensuring a diverse musical experience for concertgoers.

To close out the year, Andrea Bocelli will deliver a special New Year’s Eve performance at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, enchanting audiences with his timeless voice.

2025 Kicks Off with Major Acts

The excitement continues in 2025, with Coldplay making their much-anticipated return to Abu Dhabi. February brings a fusion of art and music at the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s Masquerave, while April will see the region’s neo-culture festival, BRED Abu Dhabi, offering a blend of global performances, street food, and fashion.

Cultural & Art Events: A Rich Program Ahead

Art and culture enthusiasts will have plenty to explore throughout the season. The Traditional Handicrafts Festival in October celebrates Emirati craftsmanship, while November hosts the inaugural Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial, featuring works by more than 70 local and international artists.

The Abu Dhabi Art Fair also returns in November, showcasing works from renowned and emerging artists worldwide. For classical music lovers, Abu Dhabi Classics will present performances like Swan Lake on Ice and Lang Lang Plays Disney.

In January, the Al Hosn Festival offers a deep dive into Emirati heritage, and later in the year, Abu Dhabi will be the global host of International Jazz Day 2025, in collaboration with UNESCO and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz.

Sports in Abu Dhabi: Thrills Await

October brings the NBA Abu Dhabi Games, featuring two preseason matches and a special NBA Fan Appreciation Day. UFC 308: Topuria vs. Holloway promises high-octane action as part of Abu Dhabi Showdown Week, alongside the UAE Warriors and Abu Dhabi Extreme Championship.

The excitement continues with the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship and the fast-paced AD T10 2024 cricket tournament. The year wraps up with the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Grand Prix, an unmissable motorsport event.

As 2025 rolls in, February will see the return of The President’s Cup, one of the most prestigious horse racing events in the region, attracting over 100 participants.

With such an extraordinary array of performances, festivals, and sporting events, Abu Dhabi’s 2024-2025 season is poised to be one of the most memorable yet, further enhancing the city’s status as a global entertainment hub.

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The investment deal, valued at approximately $1 billion, will see Patrick Drahi, who acquired Sotheby’s in 2019, co-investing alongside ADQ. Drahi will continue as Sotheby’s majority owner, reinforcing his long-term commitment to the auction house. This capital influx will support Sotheby’s ambitious growth agenda by enabling the company to expand into new markets and strengthen its presence, particularly in the Middle East. The investment aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and enhance its cultural and artistic offerings.

He also affirmed ADQ’s commitment to exploring compelling investment opportunities that drive value for Abu Dhabi. Our investment underscores our firm belief in the enduring value of Sotheby’s brand, market-leading platform, and the ability of its management to execute on their growth agenda. We look forward to creating new collaboration opportunities with Sotheby’s and being a part of its journey.”

Charles F. Stewart, CEO of Sotheby’s, also welcomed the new partnership and noted, “We are delighted to welcome ADQ as a shareholder in Sotheby’s.”

We embrace their long-term vision for our business, and this investment reflects both our achievements and significant potential for future growth. The additional capital and investment expertise will enable us to accelerate our strategic initiatives, expand our commitment to excellence in the art and luxury markets, and continue to innovate to better serve our clients worldwide.”

The acquisition by ADQ represents a significant boost to Sotheby’s capabilities and aligns with the ongoing efforts to position Abu Dhabi as a leading cultural and economic hub. This investment will enhance Sotheby’s ability to innovate and deliver exceptional services to its global clientele, while also contributing to Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification.

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The new openings feature renowned brands including Etoile La Boutique, Aquazzura, Tod’s, Etro, and Chanel. Key highlights of this expansion include the relocation and reopening of Etoile La Boutique at Abu Dhabi’s The Galleria Mall in March, and new Aquazzura stores in Dubai and Bahrain.

The move aligns with Etoile Group’s vision for 2024, which emphasizes not only an increased physical footprint but also a commitment to enhancing the luxury shopping experience. “Our goal extends beyond opening new stores,” said Ingie Chalhoub, founder and president of Etoile Group. “We aim to elevate every aspect of the shopping experience by creating cultural hubs where art, fashion, and sophistication converge.”

The expansion also includes the debut of Etro’s new boutique concept at Dubai Mall, featuring an art gallery with international artwork. New Chanel boutiques have been introduced in Bahrain and Kuwait, further solidifying Etoile’s footprint in the region.

Looking ahead, Etoile Group plans to double its revenue and workforce over the next five years, alongside forging new partnerships to further enhance its luxury offerings. “This expansion is a significant step in our mission to redefine luxury retail in the region,” noted Samer Khouri, managing director of Etoile Group.

This latest growth initiative underscores Etoile Group’s ongoing commitment to setting new standards in luxury retail, combining high-end fashion with immersive shopping experiences across the Gulf.

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The Zayed National Museum Research Fund, with an annual allocation of AED1 million, is one of the most significant funding opportunities in the region. The funding scheme is designed to support new research on a range of aspects of UAE culture, heritage, history, and archaeology – including the enduring impact of Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed and the country’s intangible heritage such as oral traditions, stories, and songs.

With large and small grants available, the funding scheme aims to support both established and early career researchers and bolster a new generation of scholars specialising in the history of the UAE. Applications for the second round of funding are now open, inviting researchers from around the globe to contribute to the preservation, advancement of knowledge and understanding of the UAE’s heritage. Researchers can submit their applications before 20 July 2024, and grants will be announced in November.

Applications will be reviewed by a panel comprising representatives from Zayed National Museum and DCT Abu Dhabi, as well as external subject matter experts. The research projects will be assessed against criteria such as research methodology, experience, outcomes, and alignment with the museum’s mandate.

The success of the inaugural grant scheme is reflected in the diverse pool of recipients, with 10 researchers selected from 77 applicants, representing 19 countries. Their projects shed light on various facets of UAE culture and history, contributing to a rich tapestry of scholarly works. Projects chosen in the inaugural year covered a broad spectrum, including Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed’s societal and cultural influence, historical ties between India and the Arabian Peninsula, and the role of women in Arabian Peninsula trade, among others.

His Excellency Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “After the resounding success of last year’s funding round, we are delighted to launch the second year of the Zayed National Museum Research Fund. Zayed National Museum is committed to building on the extensive body of scholarship on the rich history of the UAE and supporting both established researchers and those beginning their academic careers. It is an exciting time for research in the UAE, with a new wave of archaeological discovery and academic thinking. We hope this funding opportunity will help researchers follow their curiosity and unlock new understandings about the land and lives of the UAE.”

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Musical Legends Unite for a Historic Concert Experience

“Both artists have landed in the region and final preparations are well underway.  We are heading to a sold-out show! The event promises to be more than just a concert; it’s an experience, a historic moment in the world of music merging two icons that both resonate across generations. This fusion of genres is sure to create a symphony like no other,” shares MD and CEO of Blu Blood, Osman Osman and Shaaista Khan Osman.

Known for his ability to infuse emotion into every note, Atif’s songs have become anthems of love, longing and life. From chart-topping Bollywood hits to soulful ballads, his music is the voice of a generation.  Abida Parveen is an embodiment of spiritual musicality. Her deep, resonant voice carries the weight of centuries of Sufi tradition. Her renditions have a transformative power taking you on a journey through the landscapes of love and devotion. 

A Celebration of Musical Diversity and Unity

This event is a celebration of diversity and unity. It is where the modern meets the traditional, where pop melodies intertwine with Sufi rhythms, resonating with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.  ‘Symphony of Stars’ is proudly brought to you by leaders in entertainment, Blu Blood, Eva Live and Midas Events Middle East in association with Shikhar and with the support of Experience Abu Dhabi.

“Their music, though rooted in different genres, speaks a universal language of love, peace and humanity. As they share the stage this weekend, they are not just sharing their art; they are sharing a message of harmony and togetherness.”

The event will also include performances by rising star, Bismil ki Mehfil. 

Limited tickets available for this musical extravaganza. Book now at etihadarena.ae or Platinumlist. 

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