Friday, 04 April 2025

Air India Expands Flights to UK, Europe, Asia as Part of 2025 Summer Plan

Published: Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Air India Expands Flights to UK, Europe, Asia as Part of 2025 Summer Plan
Top Stories

In a major boost to its international operations, Air India has announced a significant expansion of its global route network as part of its northern summer schedule. The move is aimed at providing passengers with more travel options and increased connectivity to key destinations around the world.

Effective immediately, Air India has introduced new flights and increased frequencies on several popular routes, strengthening its presence in key markets. The airline has also resumed services on select routes that were suspended due to the pandemic.

With this expansion, Air India is set to offer more convenient and seamless travel experiences to its customers, catering to the growing demand for international travel. The airline's enhanced network will provide better connectivity to business and leisure travelers alike, further solidifying its position as a leading global carrier.

The northern summer schedule, which runs from March to October, will see Air India operate a total of [insert number] flights per week, with a focus on increasing frequencies on high-demand routes. The airline has also optimized its schedule to reduce layovers and provide faster connections, making it an attractive option for travelers.

Air India's expanded network is expected to boost tourism and trade between India and its key international markets, while also providing a fillip to the country's economic growth. The airline's commitment to enhancing its global footprint is a testament to its dedication to providing world-class services to its customers.

With its strengthened international route network, Air India is poised to emerge as a major player in the global aviation industry, offering passengers an unparalleled travel experience.

Explore Qatar

Experience the Best of Qatar in April: A Month of Diverse Events

Family-Friendly Activities and Festivals
Published: Friday, March 28, 2025
Experience the Best of Qatar in April: A Month of Diverse Events
Top Stories

As the world continues to evolve and grow, Qatar stands out as a vibrant destination that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Qatar is set to become an even more exciting place to visit and live in April.

The month promises to be filled with a wide array of events that cater to diverse interests, from spectacular festivals and sporting competitions to cultural exhibitions and musical performances. Here's a glimpse into what April has in store for Qatar

As April unfolds, Qatar is poised to become a vibrant hub of diverse events, offering something for everyone. The month begins with the Eid Al-Fitr celebrations, which will be marked by spectacular festivities across the country. One of the highlights will be the Lusail Sky Festival, taking place at Al Saad Plaza in Lusail City from April 3 to 5.

This festival promises to dazzle audiences with breathtaking aerial displays, including acrobatic aircraft formations, drone parades, glider performances, laser displays, and fireworks. The event will create a festive atmosphere unlike any other, drawing in crowds from all over to witness the mesmerizing sky shows.

In addition to these celebrations, malls across Qatar will host a variety of activities designed to entertain both children and adults. Lagoona Mall will offer fun workshops for children from March 30 to April 4, providing a creative outlet for young minds. Meanwhile, Mall of Qatar will present A Wonderland of Soapy Bubbles from March 30 to April 5, featuring mesmerizing bubble performances that will captivate audiences of all ages.

Place Vendôme Mall will host "The Smurf-tastic Fair" from March 31 to April 15, bringing the beloved Smurfs characters to life in an interactive and immersive experience. Doha Quest will also offer festive attractions for all ages from April 1 to 5, ensuring that everyone has a memorable time during the Eid celebrations.

April will also be filled with exciting sporting events that will attract enthusiasts from around the world. The Lusail International Circuit will host the 2025 MotoGP Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar from April 11 to 13, drawing in the world's top motorcyclists for a thrilling competition. The Qatar Airways Premier Padel Tour 2025 will take place from April 15 to 19, highlighting the growing popularity of padel as a sport.

Additionally, the 17th Artistic Gymnastics World Cup – Taishan will run from April 16 to 19 at the Aspire Dome, featuring some of the world's best gymnasts competing in various disciplines. Other notable sporting events include the Al Maha Island Aquathlon and the Al Zubarah Race on April 19, followed by the Beach Sports Festival at Aspire Park from April 20 to 26, which will offer a range of beach activities for participants and spectators alike.

On the cultural and creative front, Qatar will host Qumra 2025 at the Museum of Islamic Art from April 4 to 9. This event brings together filmmakers and creatives from around the world to share ideas, learn from each other, and showcase their work. The BilAraby Summit will take place from April 19 to 20 at Multaqa – Education City Students Centre, focusing on developments in the Arab media industry and providing a platform for networking and collaboration.

The EcoGreen Expo and the 2nd Edition of the Earthna Summit for a Sustainable Future will be held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre from April 22 to 25. These events will highlight innovations in sustainability and clean energy, attracting experts and enthusiasts interested in environmental solutions.

Music enthusiasts will have plenty to look forward to as well. Concerts featuring Abdulaziz Al-Duwaihi and Hisham Mahrous will take place at U Venue on April 4, offering a unique blend of music styles. The TUL8TE Concert will be held at Doha Golf Club on the same day, providing another exciting musical experience.

The Disney Musical Show: The Magic Box will run from April 3 to 12 at the Qatar National Convention Centre, offering a Disney-inspired musical experience for all ages. Other musical highlights include Candlelight: Mozart & Chopin Classics, which will bring classical music lovers together to enjoy timeless compositions, and Anirudh’s Hukum World Tour concert on April 11, featuring the renowned Indian composer and singer.

Additionally, Ed Sheeran's concert on April 30 at Lusail Multipurpose Hall promises to be a major draw, attracting fans from across the region.

Lastly, comedy fans can enjoy the 3a Ka3ba improve comedy show on April 26, which will offer a hilarious evening of improvisational comedy. Classical music lovers can experience the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra’s performance of Mahler’s Fifth Symphony on the same evening, providing a sophisticated and enriching musical experience. With such a diverse range of events, April promises to be an exciting month in Qatar, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

Eid in Dubai 2025

Discover an Unforgettable Eid Celebration in Dubai

Immerse Yourself in a Week of Joyful Events, Spectacular Performances
Published: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Discover an Unforgettable Eid Celebration in Dubai
Top Stories

Join the vibrant festivities of Eid Al Fitr in Dubai, a city known for its spectacular celebrations. From March 30 to April 6, indulge in a luxurious staycation filled with family-friendly activities, amazing discounts at local malls, and an array of unforgettable live performances. Ensure you’re in Dubai to partake in this grand celebration!

Live Shows & Concerts

A Thousand Tales Ballet

Experience "A Thousand Tales," a spellbinding ballet that brings to life the enchanting music of contemporary composer Alexey Shor. This performance features a talented ensemble of dancers from some of Europe’s most prestigious theatres. 

The choreography, crafted by Francesco Ventriglia, is designed to captivate audiences, while stage designer Roberta Guidi di Bagno creates a stunning visual backdrop that transforms the stage into a magical realm populated by beloved fairy tale characters such as Aladdin, Cinderella, and Snow White. This performance is perfect for audiences of all ages, ensuring a memorable experience for families and ballet enthusiasts alike.

  • Dates: April 3-4, 2025
  • Time: 20:00
  • Location: Dubai Opera
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Silver: AED 450
    • Gold: AED 590
    • Platinum: AED 690
    • VIP: AED 850

Max Amini Live

Get ready for an evening filled with laughter as acclaimed comedian Max Amini returns to Dubai after his previous successful performance. Amini is known for his sharp humor and engaging storytelling, delivering a mix of never-before-heard jokes and fan favorites. 

With a background that includes performances at the LA Improv and appearances on shows such as NBC's "Heroes" and Netflix’s "Real Rob," Amini has established himself as a top comedic talent. This show promises to be a night of joy and entertainment that you won’t want to miss.

  • Date: April 1, 2025
  • Time: 17:30
  • Location: Dubai Opera
  • Doors Open: 5 PM
  • Ticket Prices:
    • General Admission: AED 250

Marwan Pablo Live

Experience the electrifying performance of Marwan Pablo, the Egyptian rap sensation often referred to as the 'Godfather of Egyptian Trap.' Known for his innovative fusion of traditional Arabic sounds with contemporary hip-hop, Pablo will perform at Ain Dubai Plaza, Bluewaters Island. 

With chart-topping hits like "Ghaba," "El Gemeza," and "Sindbad," his music captivates audiences with deep lyricism and powerful beats. This concert is a must-see for fans of modern music and culture, showcasing the vibrant energy of the Egyptian music scene

  • Date: April 2, 2025
  • Time: 21:00
  • Location: Ain Dubai Plaza, Bluewaters Island
  • Doors Open: 7:30 PM
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Silver: AED 125
    • VIP: AED 195

Black Coffee Live

Prepare for an unforgettable night of Afropolitan house music with Grammy-winning DJ Black Coffee at FIVE LUXE, JBR. Known for his incredible performances at major music festivals like Coachella and Tomorrowland, Black Coffee will deliver a set filled with entrancing rhythms and melodic tracks from his acclaimed albums such as Home Brewed and Subconsciously.

He will be joined by Dutch sibling duo Parallelle and DJ Fabrice, creating a dynamic atmosphere that will keep the crowd dancing all night long.

  • Date: April 2, 2025
  • Time: 20:00
  • Location: FIVE LUXE, JBR
  • Doors Open: 8 PM
  • Ticket Prices:
    • General Admission: AED 300

Aria Live

Rock music fans will be thrilled as the legendary heavy metal band Aria takes the stage at Zabeel Theatre to celebrate their 40th anniversary. Known for their high-octane concerts and a rich discography, Aria will perform iconic tracks such as Coliseum, Battlefield, and Street of Roses.

Their sound is heavily influenced by the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, drawing inspiration from legendary bands like Iron Maiden and Judas Priest. With a history of captivating performances, this concert promises a thrilling experience for rock enthusiasts of all ages.

  • Date: April 3, 2025
  • Time: 20:00
  • Location: Zabeel Theatre
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Grey: AED 200
    • Regular: AED 250
    • Bronze: AED 300
    • Silver: AED 350
    • Gold: AED 450
    • Platinum: AED 800
    • Diamond: AED 1,000

AfroLOUD Festival

Join the excitement at the AfroLOUD festival, which promises to be bigger and more energetic than ever. Taking place at Ain Dubai, this festival will feature an all-star lineup of Afrobeats and Amapiano artists, along with top DJs spinning AfroHouse and AfroDesi sounds. 

Dance under the world's highest observation wheel and enjoy a curated day-to-night experience filled with pulsating beats, vibrant performances, and a variety of culinary delights from numerous food vendors. The festival also includes the Loud Brunch Club, where attendees can enjoy delicious brunch options while discovering unique offerings at Fashion Avenue’s pop-up brands.

  • Date: April 5, 2025
  • Time: 14:00
  • Location: Ain Dubai, Bluewaters Island
  • Ticket Prices:
    • General Admission: AED 150

Don’t miss the chance to be part of these extraordinary events and create cherished memories this Eid in Dubai!

Eid in Dubai 2025

Celebrate Eid in Dubai: A Guide to Fireworks, Shopping, and Family Fun

Cultural and Traditional Events
Published: Monday, March 24, 2025
Celebrate Eid in Dubai: A Guide to Fireworks, Shopping, and Family Fun
Top Stories

Dubai's Eid al-Fitr celebrations in 2025 promise an unforgettable blend of tradition, modernity, and entertainment, offering residents and visitors a remarkable experience. Here's a detailed overview of what to expect:

Dates and Public Holidays

Eid al-Fitr is expected to begin on the evening of Sunday, March 30, 2025, with public holidays lasting from Monday, March 31 to Wednesday, April 2 (subject to moon sighting). Work will resume on Thursday, April 3. The holiday marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal, celebrated with prayers, gatherings, and festivities.

Fireworks Extravaganza

Dubai's skies will light up with grand fireworks displays across multiple locations:

  • Nessnass Beach: First day of Eid at 8 pm.

  • Hatta: First day of Eid at 8 pm near the iconic Hatta Sign.

  • The Beach opposite JBR and Bluewaters: Second day of Eid at 9 pm.

  • Dubai Parks and Resorts: Fireworks on the first two days at 9:30 pm.

  • Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain: Synchronized displays combining water, light, and fireworks.

These events are free to attend, offering scenic views and dining options nearby.

Cultural Experiences

Eid al-Fitr in Dubai highlights Emirati heritage through traditional performances:

  • Eid Prayers: Held at dawn (expected around 6:10 AM), large congregations will gather at major mosques like Jumeirah Mosque, Al Salam Mosque (Barsha), and open prayer grounds across Dubai.

  • Ayala Dance Performances: Traditional Emirati dance featuring bamboo canes performed in malls such as Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, Dubai Festival City Mall, and Ibn Battuta Mall. Additional performances will take place at Al Seef, Nakheel Mall, and Hatta Wadi Hub on subsequent days.

  • Cultural Exhibitions: Explore Emirati art and history at venues like Etihad Museum, Al Shindagha Museum, and Alserkal Avenue.

Shopping Deals

Eid al-Fitr is a prime time for shopping with incredible promotions:

  • Grand Prize Draws: AED 200,000 in prizes for shoppers at participating malls from March 15 through the third day of Eid.

  • Jewelry Offers: Participating outlets offer 50% cashback on select diamond and pearl jewelry along with free gifts.

  • SHARE Cashback: City Centre malls provide 10% cashback on purchases scanned into the SHARE app from April 1–6.

  • Festival City Mall Gift Cards: Shoppers spending AED 300 or more can win a gift card worth AED 10,000.

Dining Highlights

Dubai offers a variety of culinary experiences during Eid:

  • e& Beach Canteen: A food pop-up at Nessnass Beach featuring diverse dining concepts, live entertainment, and Chef’s Table experiences with renowned chefs like Kelvin Cheung (Jun’s) and Soleman Haddad (Moonrise). Events run from March 27 to April 13.

  • Eid Brunches: Top locations for festive meals include Suq at Four Seasons Resort Dubai (Hyderabadi Biryani), Zenon at Kempinski (Australian Lamb Cutlets), Gaia DIFC (Seafood Pasta), Ce La Vi Dubai (Miso Black Cod), and Arabian Tea House (traditional Emirati dishes). Prices range from AED 150 to AED 850 depending on venue.

Family-Friendly Activities

Dubai caters to families with engaging activities:

  • Dubai Parks & Resorts: Special packages for theme parks during Eid.

  • IMG Worlds of Adventure: Indoor theme park offering extended hours.

  • IMAGINE Show at Festival City Mall: Laser, light, and water projection show celebrating Eid nightly from 9 PM.

  • Kids' Play Areas: Dedicated zones for children’s entertainment at Festival Bay’s outdoor market.

Desert Safari Experience

Celebrate Eid under the stars with an evening desert safari:

  • Activities include dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, camel rides, henna painting, traditional dances, and a starlit barbecue dinner. The serene desert setting offers unforgettable moments for families or travelers seeking adventure.

Key Locations to Visit

During Eid celebrations in Dubai:

  1. Downtown Dubai: Witness the Burj Khalifa light show or enjoy the Dubai Fountain spectacle.

  2. Atlantis The Palm: Indulge in water rides or beach sports starting at AED 300.

  3. The Green Planet: Explore wildlife exhibits for AED 140 per person.

  4. Dubai Opera: Relax with live music performances priced around AED 350.

Dubai's Eid al-Fitr celebrations are a vibrant mix of spirituality, culture, entertainment, shopping deals, and family-friendly fun. Whether you're enjoying fireworks by the beach or savoring gourmet meals in luxury hotels, this festive season offers something for everyone. Make sure to plan ahead to fully immerse yourself in this extraordinary celebration!

Eid in Qatar 2025

Celebrate Eid in Qatar: Vibrant Skies, Magical Nights

A Celebration of Lights, Music, and Family: Eid in Qatar 2025
Published: Saturday, March 22, 2025
Celebrate Eid in Qatar: Vibrant Skies, Magical Nights
Top Stories

Prepare for a truly unforgettable Eid celebration in Qatar, where family and friends gather to enjoy a spectacular array of festivities. This joyous occasion, set for April 3 to April 5, 2025, promises a vibrant atmosphere filled with dazzling lights, enchanting live performances, and thrilling events that cater to all ages. Immerse yourself in the spirit of Eid as you partake in lively celebrations, where each moment is enriched by stage shows and breathtaking festivals, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone.

Key Events for Eid Celebrations

Lusail Sky Festival

Prepare for an extraordinary sky extravaganza this Eid! The Lusail Sky Festival will feature breathtaking aerial performances, including sky text planes, paramotors, laser shows, and fireworks. Families can enjoy a spectacular display as the sky transforms into a vibrant canvas of acrobatics and colorful fireworks, ensuring excitement for all ages. This event is designed to be a family-friendly experience, making it a perfect outing for those looking to celebrate together.

  • Dates: 3-5 April 2025
  • Location: Al Saad Plaza, Lusail
  • Time: 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
  • Admission: Free for all visitors

Disney The Magic Box

Experience the magic of Disney like never before! This theatrical production brings beloved Disney stories to life, following the journey of Mara as she explores The Magic Box, a gateway to iconic Disney songs and characters. With over 75 classic songs and state-of-the-art puppetry, this event promises to enchant audiences of all ages. The Al Mayassa Theatre, with a capacity of 2,300 guests, provides a stunning backdrop for this magical experience, ensuring that every seat offers a great view of the performance.

  • Dates: 3-12 April 2025
  • Location: Al Mayassa Theatre, QNCC Qatar
  • Age Requirement: Suitable for ages 3 and above

Soul of Gold Exhibition

The "Soul of Gold" Exhibition showcases the work of Turkish artist Hatice Yetiş and her students, offering a unique cultural experience during the Eid festivities. This exhibition is a wonderful opportunity to appreciate art and creativity, making it a perfect addition to your Eid itinerary.

  • Dates: 4 March - 6 April 2025
  • Location: Building 18, Hall 2, Katara Cultural Village
  • Time: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

TUL8TE Live in Qatar

Join the rising star Tul8te for an unforgettable musical journey! Known for his hit "Habeeby Leh," Tul8te blends modern pop with Egyptian musical heritage, promising a high-energy performance that you won’t want to miss. This concert is expected to attract a large audience, so securing your tickets in advance is highly recommended.

  • Date: 4 April 2025
  • Location: Doha Golf Club
  • Doors Open: 19:00
  • Show Starts: 20:00
  • Ticket Price: Starting from 195 QAR

Getting There
By Car: Follow Al Corniche St, turn left onto Al Markhiya St, then right onto Al Istiqlal St, and proceed onto Lusail Expy to reach the Doha Golf Club.
By Public Transportation: Take the red metro line to the Qatar University stop and walk from there.
By Taxi: Easily accessible via taxi or ride-hailing apps.

Make the most of your Eid celebrations in Qatar by participating in these exciting events and creating cherished memories with family and friends!

Air Canada and CAE Honor 2025 Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship Winners on International Women's Day

Published: Sunday, March 09, 2025
Air Canada and CAE Honor 2025 Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship Winners on International Women's Day
Top Stories

In celebration of International Women's Day, Air Canada and CAE have proudly announced the recipients of the 2025 Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship. This prestigious award, named after Canada's first female commercial airline pilot, aims to empower and support the next generation of women pursuing careers in aviation.

This year's scholarship recipients are an impressive group of young women who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements, a passion for aviation, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.

The scholarship will provide them with the financial resources and mentorship opportunities to pursue their dreams of becoming pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers, or other aviation professionals.

"We are thrilled to honor the legacy of Captain Judy Cameron and invest in the bright futures of these remarkable young women," said Calin Rovinescu, President and CEO of Air Canada.

"By supporting their education and training, we hope to inspire more women to explore the exciting and rewarding career paths available in the aviation industry."

The scholarship recipients will receive full tuition coverage for their aviation-related studies, as well as access to specialized training programs and networking opportunities with industry leaders.

This investment in the next generation of aviation professionals is a testament to Air Canada and CAE's commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field.

"These scholarship recipients embody the spirit of innovation, resilience, and leadership that Judy Cameron exemplified throughout her trailblazing career," said Marc Parent, President and CEO of CAE.

"We are proud to stand alongside Air Canada in empowering these young women to soar to new heights and inspire others to follow in their footsteps."

As the aviation industry continues to evolve, the 2025 Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship recipients represent the promising future of this dynamic field. Their achievements serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that can be made when we invest in the dreams and aspirations of women in aviation.