Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Web3 technology firm Open World to explore blockchain-powered travel rewards, making the UAE emirate the first destination to adopt a tokenised tourism loyalty programme.

Announced during Arabian Travel Market 2025, the partnership aims to integrate Web3 technologies into the tourism sector through curated digital experiences, personalised offers, and blockchain-based reward tokens for tourism spending.

The agreement signals Ras Al Khaimah’s commitment to targeting tech-savvy global travellers with innovative, digital-first experiences.

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism’s bold leap into the future

“This is a bold leap into the future of travel,” said Raki Phillips, CEO of RAKTDA. “As the first destination to develop a tokenised rewards programme of this kind, we are not only drawing a new mega-audience to Ras Al Khaimah but also reinforcing our position as a destination of the future — one that embraces innovation, inclusivity, and immersive travel.”

The rewards initiative will also offer secure digital transactions across the Ras Al Khaimah tourism ecosystem and access to exclusive events.

By leveraging blockchain, RAKTDA hopes to enhance visitor engagement and drive loyalty, particularly among younger demographics in key source markets including North America, the UK, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Known for its natural diversity — from beaches and mangroves to deserts and the Hajar mountains — Ras Al Khaimah aims to become a digital playground for travellers, complementing physical attractions with next-generation loyalty and rewards.

Matt Shaw, CEO of Open World, said: “We are thrilled to bring our Web3 expertise and global network to this game-changing partnership with RAKTDA. By tokenising travel, we can create more rewarding and interactive experiences that will resonate with millions worldwide. Ras Al Khaimah is setting a new benchmark for what tourism can be in the digital age.”

The project will also engage stakeholders across the tourism supply chain — hotels, airlines, and attractions — in flexible partnerships designed to drive off-peak visitation, increase spending, and generate new revenue opportunities.

RAKTDA’s move into blockchain aligns with its broader strategy to establish the emirate as a leading global destination by embracing digital innovation and agile, public-private collaboration.

Gulf Warehousing Company (GWC) has announced the launch of one of the GCC’s largest private solar energy initiatives, in a move that reinforces its commitment to sustainability and green logistics across the region.

The landmark project is being executed in partnership with Yellow Door Energy, a leading sustainable energy provider for businesses in the Middle East and Africa.

The initiative will see the development of solar power plants across three of GWC’s strategic logistics hubs: Logistics Village Qatar, Bu Sulba Warehousing Park, and Al Wukair Logistics Park.

New GWC solar project to deliver real impact

“This announcement marks a major milestone in integrating sustainable practices across all our operations,” said Matthew Kearns, acting group CEO of GWC. “Warehouses are key to this, and we are excited to partner with Yellow Door Energy to introduce this innovative solution that will deliver real impact at these three sites.”

Kearns added that the project would tap into the region’s abundant solar resource to power operations, reduce GWC’s carbon footprint, and support a more sustainable future for the Gulf.

The solar energy development aligns with GWC’s broader environmental commitments. As a member of the UN Global Compact, the company has pledged to reduce Scope 1 carbon emissions by 3 per cent, Scope 2 emissions by 6 per cent, and waste generation by 20 per cent by 2030.

Aligns with Qatari Vision

The new initiative also supports Qatar’s National Vision 2030, which aims to install 4 gigawatts of large-scale renewable energy capacity, with solar energy playing a pivotal role. The project is also aligned with Qatar’s Net Zero by 2050 targets.

“We are honored to embark on this partnership with GWC to accelerate its sustainability stewardship, reduce its energy costs, and contribute to Qatar’s Net Zero target,” said Jeremy Crane, group CEO of Yellow Door Energy. “As the largest and most trusted distributed solar developer in the region, we are ready to deploy capital, lead design and construction, and manage operations to maximise system performance.”

Yellow Door Energy currently oversees over 400 MWp of awarded solar assets across 150 sites and plans to apply the highest QHSSE standards to the new installations for GWC.

GWC has received recognition for its sustainability efforts in recent years. Al Wukair Logistics Park — part of the new solar rollout — has received many accolades.

Additional environmental projects include GWC’s Biobin recycling programme, which converted food waste into 40 tonnes of premium compost donated to community garden projects in the past year. The Bu Sulba Warehousing Park also recycles up to 120,000 cubic metres of sewage water annually for irrigation, earning the Best Water Recycling Initiative Award at the 2024 Tarsheed Energy Efficiency Forum.

The announcement comes as GWC continues to expand across the GCC through regional growth strategies and strategic partnerships aimed at scaling its capabilities to meet growing demand for innovative, sustainable logistics solutions.

Read: EMSTEEL, Yellow Door Energy to develop mega industrial solar PV project

In the evolving landscape of home design, the kitchen has become more than a place of utility — it’s an extended living area. In the UAE, this transformation is especially evident as homeowners seek bespoke, design-led solutions that merge aesthetic expression with functional excellence.

“Our clients are not just investing in a kitchen — they’re shaping an experience. A space that reflects who they are and how they live,” says Samir Ranavaya, CEO of Häcker Kitchens UAE. “At Häcker, we bring together German craftsmanship, contemporary design and a deep sensitivity to regional living to create kitchens that are both distinctive and enduring.”

Sustainability as a Design Principle

Elevated design today is inseparable from environmental responsibility. At Häcker, our commitment to sustainable practices is embedded in every detail — from precision manufacturing to conscious material selection. We incorporate practically formaldehyde-free boards, water-based lacquers, and energy-efficient technologies, working toward the creation of kitchens that are not only aesthetically refined but also environmentally sound.

In fact, Häcker is one of the few global kitchen manufacturers offering certified carbon-neutral kitchens — setting a new standard in responsible design.

“As a brand, we believe true value lies in creating spaces that are refined yet responsible,” says Samir Ranavaya. “Sustainability is not an option — it’s a responsibility we embrace with every kitchen we craft.”

Refinement in every detail

Whether within urban residences or expansive private estates, Häcker kitchens are recognised for their seamless integration into interiors that speak of subtle sophistication and understated confidence. Each project is approached with the understanding that no two homes – or homeowners – are the same.

From minimalist, handle-less cabinetry to bold textural contrasts in stone and wood, Häcker kitchens adapt not to trends, but to personal vision and context.

The bespoke philosophy

At the core of Häcker’s design ethos is a commitment to personalisation. Every kitchen is meticulously crafted – from layout and materials to colours, finishes, and curated aesthetics that reflect individual style.

“Excellence today is defined by how well a product adapts to the individual,” says Samir. “Our kitchens are not predefined—they are discovered, collaboratively, through a process of careful listening and expert guidance.”

Designing with cultural awareness

Design in the UAE is rich with cultural nuance. From layout preferences to lifestyle needs, each emirate brings its own distinct perspective. Häcker works closely with clients to ensure that its German craftsmanship respects and reflects these regional differences without compromising on its core principles of form, function, and integrity.

“Our approach is to blend global quality with local insight,” Samir shares. “This is where real design intelligence comes into play creating spaces that feel both contextually relevant and timelessly crafted.”

Looking Ahead: The future of kitchen design in the UAE

The kitchen is rapidly becoming one of the most innovative spaces in the home. From smart integrations and sustainable surfaces to refined, minimalist aesthetics, Häcker is leading the shift toward kitchens that are both intelligent and intuitive.

“The kitchen today is no longer just a place to prepare meals — it’s where families and friends gather, ideas are shared, and quiet moments unfold,” says Samir. “We design not only for how people cook, but for how they connect, unwind, and truly live within their space.”

Echoing this forward-thinking vision, Häcker is totally committed to deliver excellent experience, as Samir quotes “excellence is our standard, it extends beyond our products, beyond our seamless, five-star experience. Our goal is to get it right, the first time, everytime.”

It’s a philosophy that resonates deeply with Häcker’s own commitment to crafting aesthetics that perform.

Craftsmanship that lasts

What defines Häcker’s appeal isn’t just surface beauty — it’s what lies beneath. Precision craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and rigorous German manufacturing standards ensure every kitchen stands the test of time, both in form and in function.

“In a fast-changing world, we remain rooted in the value of craftsmanship,” Samir affirms. “It’s this attention to detail, this insistence on getting it perfect, that makes all the difference.”

Empowering the individual homeowner

At Häcker, design begins with the client. Through collaborative design consultations, curated material selections, and immersive planning tools, we empower homeowners to create kitchens that reflect not just their tastes, but their lifestyle ambitions.

Because ultimately, a kitchen is not just a part of the home — it’s an extension of the self. And at Häcker, every kitchen tells a story — crafted with precision, expressed through design, and made for those who appreciate the art of living well.

Chelsea Football Club (Chelsea FC) has entered into a new long-term global partnership with Dubai-based DAMAC Properties, appointing the luxury real estate developer as the club’s official ‘Property Development Partner’.

As part of the collaboration, the two entities will launch Chelsea Residences by DAMAC, a football-themed branded real estate development in Dubai.

The project, located in Dubai Maritime City, is set to feature over 1,400 residential units with seafront views and Chelsea-branded amenities centred on health, fitness and wellbeing.

Key features of Chelsea Residences by DAMAC

The development is described as the first of its kind, with Chelsea FC’s identity incorporated throughout — from concierge services to high-performance facilities.

DAMAC will also feature on the front of Chelsea FC’s men’s and women’s shirts for the remainder of the 2024/25 season, making its debut during the UEFA Conference League semi-final fixture against Djurgården on May 1.

“This launch marks the first of an elite collection that celebrates not just the passion of Chelsea FC but its enduring legacy, innovative spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence,” said Amira Sajwani, MD of Sales and Development at DAMAC Properties. “This initiative goes beyond celebrating the beautiful game; it sets a new benchmark for those who expect nothing less than the exceptional.”

Chelsea FC’s president and COO Jason Gannon added: “DAMAC are world-renowned in building luxury properties, and we are thrilled to be working with the industry leader to bring to market a first of its kind branded Chelsea FC residence in Dubai. With the club located in the heart of London, the collaboration will bring Chelsea to life in Dubai, supporting our continued growth on the global stage.”

The partnership aims to expand Chelsea FC’s presence in the Middle East and reflects a growing trend of crossover collaborations between elite football brands and the luxury property sector.

Power packed collaborations

DAMAC Properties is known for high-profile branded projects with global fashion and lifestyle labels such as Versace, Roberto Cavalli and de GRISOGONO.

Chelsea FC, founded in 1905, is one of the most successful football clubs in England and Europe. Its men’s team won the FIFA Club World Cup in 2021 and the UEFA Champions League for the second time the same year. The Chelsea Women’s team recently secured their fifth consecutive FA Women’s Super League title.

The development timeline and full specifications of Chelsea Residences by DAMAC are expected to be revealed later this year.

Read Hussain Sajwani: Gulf investments in US to soar under Trump

Three of the UAE’s leading institutions – International Holding Company (IHC), ADQ, and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) – have announced the launch of a new stablecoin backed by the UAE dirham, in a move that positions the country at the forefront of global blockchain innovation.

The stablecoin, subject to regulatory approval, will be issued by FAB and fully regulated by the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE).

The digital currency is expected to transform everyday payments and business transactions across both domestic and international markets.

Advancing UAE’s digital economy with the new stablecoin

The launch is seen as a strategic step in advancing the UAE’s digital infrastructure and fintech ecosystem, with the stablecoin operating on the ADI blockchain – a homegrown platform developed by the ADI Foundation.

The blockchain aims to provide a compliant network for secure and scalable blockchain-based payments.

Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, MD and group CEO of ADQ, said the stablecoin represents a key milestone in the UAE’s digital development. “As we move forward towards an increasingly digital and connected economy, the stablecoin will provide a solution that is secure, efficient and scalable, while creating new opportunities for growth and value creation,” he said.

The stablecoin is intended for use across a wide range of applications, from individual consumer payments to advanced digital use cases such as AI and machine-to-machine transactions.

Key step towards the development of digital currencies

Syed Basar Shueb, CEO of IHC, called the project “a major breakthrough in the development of digital currencies”. He added, “By bringing IHC’s expertise in blockchain and fintech, we look forward to working with our partners to explore its vast potential and drive innovation in the UAE.”

Hana Al Rostamani, group CEO of FAB, said: “As a founding partner of this leading technology, FAB is proud to be at the forefront of global innovation, driving continued growth within the UAE’s dynamic fintech sector.

“This new stablecoin represents a transformative step forward and will revolutionise the way both consumers and businesses engage with trusted blockchain payments in the UAE.”

The ADI Foundation, which has strategic partnerships in over 20 countries, said its blockchain technology connects traditional financial systems with next-generation digital platforms. Guillaume de La Tour, CEO of the foundation, said: “This stablecoin marks a pivotal milestone in the UAE’s journey toward a more inclusive and digitally empowered economy.”

The initiative is expected to have wide-ranging implications across finance, commerce, and trade, supporting the UAE’s long-term goal of becoming a global hub for innovation, financial technology, and digital transformation.

Read: IHC reports net profit of Dhs25.7bn in 2024