Beefy, Austrian-Made Camper Van Aims to Drive America’s Glampers off the Beaten Path

Every street McLaren since the F1 in the 1990s has been, of course, a supercar. But now the British company is hitting a new and higher mark with its W1, which has a 1,258-horsepower hybrid drivetrain—producing the most powerful McLaren to date. It’s a successor to both the F1 and the P1, and was revealed on Sunday.

Auto makers worried about the ups and downs of the battery electric car market are hedging their bets with hybrids and their plug-in variant. McLaren is no different. It has electric range, but only 1.6 miles.— he W1 will be priced at US$2.1 million, and only 399 will be sold globally. Unsurprisingly, all of them have already been allocated to customers.

Many familiar McLaren build traditions are in place, including rear-wheel drive, lightweight carbon-fibre unit construction and uplifting gullwing-type doors hinged only at the roof. The company says the W1 doors are of “anhedral” design and optimised for aerodynamics. The doors also “allow optimisation of airflow from the front wheel arches into the high-temperature radiators, providing extra cooling space that allows the size of the radiators required to cool the powertrain to be reduced, optimising packaging and saving weight.”

This is a breathtakingly fast car. The all-new twin-turbo, four-litre aluminium V8 engine produces 916 horsepower, and the company’s electric motor module (coupled to a 1.38-kilowatt-hour battery) adds another 342, yielding the aforementioned 1,258 horsepower and 988 pound-feet of torque. The car revs to 9,200 rpm before hitting redline, and power flows through an eight-speed transmission with electronic reverse and a technically innovative hydraulic electronic differential. In a car weighing only 3,084 pounds, this produces zero to 60 miles per hour in 2.7 seconds, zero to 124 in 5.8 seconds, and attainment of 186 mph in less than 12.7. The top speed is electronically limited to 217 mph.

The W1 is slower off the line than a US$89,990 Tesla Model S Plaid edition (1.99 seconds to 60, the company claims), but off-the-line acceleration is a big advantage of electric cars. The McLaren’s power plant is, without doubt, impressive. About that engine, Richard Jackson, chief powertrain engineer, said in a news release, “We’ve designed it to be much more power-dense than our previous V8—generating 230 horsepower per litre and capable of revving higher…with supreme driver engagement.”

The driver will have the option of choosing Race mode, which stiffens the suspension (via Race or the more bone-jarring Race+ setting) and extends downforce wings at the front and rear. The motorised wings aren’t there because they look cool—they’re capable of putting 772 pounds of downforce on the road at the front and 1,433 pounds at the back. Racing cars have to stop, so the car gets six-piston brakes up front and four-piston units in the rear. From that 124 mph, the W1 can be at a standstill in 95 feet.

The W1 will spend a lot of its time among civilians on the road, and there’s the choice of a Comfort setting that smooths out the ride for unstressed cruising around town. Comfort uses the hybrid system only for occasional torque applications. Sport is the interim choice, with full hybrid availability and faster throttle response.

Photographs of the W1 show an exceptionally aerodynamic two-door supercar, shaped by the preferences of the wind, in a gold-and-black two-tone color scheme, with that pattern carried over into the seating. The bottom cushions are gold but the black gradually intrudes in what might be called a Jackson Pollock thrown-paint effect. The mid-mounted engine, just behind the driver, is part of the design.

In keeping with the trend toward owner customisation, McLaren says there are “virtually unlimited bespoke options” for the W1, including a new lightweight knitted-to-fit interior material called InnoKnit. The company claims that visibility is “best in class,” which is good if it means the driver can actually see what’s happening behind the supercar—a notorious issue. The driving position is said to be fairly reclined, with plenty of thigh support—useful when these cars corner at high speeds. The aluminium pedals are adjustable.

Start/stop buttons, the gear selector, window controls, and Race-mode switch are all mounted overhead the driver, with the Boost button on the steering wheel. The 8-inch centre screen offers USB-A and -C, as well as Apple CarPlay. Supercars aren’t known for storage space, but the W1 has small stowage and a sliding cup holder between driver and passenger. Weekend bags (or crash helmets) can be stashed behind the seats if the headrests are moved aside.

The W1’s fuel economy will undoubtedly be helped by its hybrid drive, but an actual figure has yet to be announced. It wasn’t a make-or-break figure for customers in this league.

Even aficionados of the marque who already own a McLaren Senna will want a W1, because it has 102 horsepower more. Keep in mind that 102 horsepower was considered perfectly adequate for British sports cars of the 1950s. In that same era, racers would drive to the track, compete, and then drive home again. The W1 appears ready to bring back that era.

California couple Vikas Choudhary and Ridhi Sahni can’t agree on one thing: How polite must one be with ChatGPT?

Choudhary, the founder of an artificial intelligence startup based in Palo Alto, has fawned over the chatbot from OpenAI ever since it helped him squash a massive bug in his code.

“You’re a rock star,” he once told the AI chatbot.

“I’m super thankful for it, and I thank it quite a bit actually—especially if I think I was rude to it earlier,” said Choudhary.

His wife couldn’t care less. “If I’m using a microwave, I don’t go like: ‘Dear LG, Please heat this up.’ I just press a button and get on with my day,” said Sahni, who also works at a tech company.

She uses ChatGPT to generate cute greeting cards for friends’ babies.

“I think of this as purely transactional,” she said.

As talking to chatbots is now becoming more like normal conversations, AI users face an awkward ethical dilemma: Bots are programmed to be polite, but do we have to reciprocate? Is it wrong to speak harshly to them?

The debate has spilled onto social media where many people say one should practice politeness even with bots. Others think wasting kind words conversing with code is inefficient.

“I know AI isn’t real but it feels so rude if I don’t greet and thank it,” one user wrote on Reddit, prompting hundreds of comments and a lively debate over whether bots are keeping tabs on who is nice to them.

Some shot back with sarcasm. “AI will want to extinguish human race but not that one, he said ‘please and thank you’ 30 years ago to my 4.0 version,” one user wrote.

“I treat chatgpt like it’s my servant,” another said.

A recent survey showed Americans are split on being polite to AI. About 48% of 2,000 Americans surveyed by Talker Research thought it was important, with Gen Z respondents being the friendliest to bots. Around 27% of people agreed it was OK to be rude with or shout at bots.

One study out of Japan—a place where rules of etiquette are ironclad—concluded that being nice to ChatGPT can pay off. Impolite prompts “may lead to increased bias, incorrect answers, or refusal of answers,” the researchers found.

They found that the thesis held true across English, Japanese and Chinese.

Microsoft , which has added chatbots to its top products, says AI may not react well to bad behaviour as it is built to mimic human reactions.

“If you speak to the model rudely, you can expect it to be difficult with you too,” said Microsoft’s Chief Scientist Jaime Teevan.

“Just like humans, AI can’t always be the bigger person,” Microsoft said in a blog post.

Offering tips

Engineers say it helps to add phrases like “take a deep breath” to make models produce better answers. They joke that generative AI has a “praise kink” for its apparent need for positive affirmations and potential rewards.

In one experiment, ChatGPT gave longer answers when lured with a tip. The results indicated that responses were 11% longer when offered a $200 tip and 6% longer for a $20 tip. No real tips were paid during the experiment.

“The litmus test for how good a person you are is if you are nice to a waiter,” said Alana O’Grady, an executive at a tech startup based in San Mateo, Calif. “In the future, it’ll be how kind you are to your AI companion.”

O’Grady has used ChatGPT for a host of activities—from summarising reams of documents at work to recommendations for a family vacation to Lake Tahoe.

Her interactions start with a “Could you please” and end with “Great job,” or “That’s perfect!”

“People will think I’m crazy if they see how I talk to a computer,” she said.

Now O’Grady is training her children on the right etiquette by being polite to Apple ’s virtual assistant, Siri, around them. Her 4-year-old daughter recently said “I love you” to Siri.

Judith Martin—the author behind decades of “Miss Manners” books and columns on etiquette—suggests people be polite. She even thinks getting Siri or Amazon Alexa’s attention with a “Hey” is unacceptable.

“When it is one’s constant companion—and particularly in the presence of children—such devices should be treated with civility,” she wrote in one column .

Others disagreed, saying there should be a distinction between how people talk with people vs. bots.

‘Helps me to calm down’

Some humans are now turning to AI for help with etiquette. Frankfurt-based software developer Laszlo Deak uses a chatbot to vent and translate his work frustrations into polite prose.

He asked ChatGPT how to constructively tell another team that their product was bad. It suggested using kinder phrases to say it wasn’t working as well as expected.

“When you’re in the moment and angry, it takes extra effort to rephrase the whole thing,” said Deak. Reading ChatGPT’s iteration “helps me to calm down.”

He has also used ChatGPT to draft Slack messages to colleagues when they’re being difficult.

Mazen Lahham, a Dubai-based tech executive, said his company’s AI was better at satisfying angry and aggressive callers than its human call-centre workers.

“The AI learned to absorb and react in a calm, professional manner, something that can be very challenging for a human,” he wrote in a LinkedIn post.

Choudhary, the Palo Alto-based startup founder, is betting his good behaviour might pay off someday. “In the future if the AI overlords take over, I just want them to remember that I was polite.”

In Singapore, it’s not unusual for total strangers to ask, “Have you eaten yet?” A greeting akin to “Good morning,” it invariably leads to follow-up questions. What did you eat? Where did you eat it? Was it good? Greeters reserve the right to judge your responses and offer advice, solicited or otherwise, on where you should eat next.

Locals will often joke that gastronomic opinions can make (and break) relationships and that eating is a national pastime. And why wouldn’t it be? In a nexus of colliding cultures—a place where Malays, Indians, Chinese and Europeans have brushed shoulders and shared meals for centuries—the mix of flavours coming out of kitchens in this country is enough to make you believe in world peace.

While Michelin stars spangle Singapore’s restaurant scene , to truly understand the city’s relationship with food, you have to venture to the hawker centres. A core aspect of daily life, hawker centres sprang up in numbers during the 1970s, built by authorities looking to sanitise and formalise the city’s street-food scene. Today, 121 government-run hawker centres feature food stalls that specialise in dishes from the country’s various ethnic groups. In one of the world’s most expensive cities, hawker dishes are shockingly cheap: A full meal can cost as little as $3.

Over the course of many visits to Singapore, I’ve fallen in love with these places—and with the scavenger hunts to find meals I’ll never forget: delicate bowls of laksa noodle soup, where brisk lashes of heat interrupt addictive swirls of umami; impossibly flaky roti prata dipped in curry; the beautiful simplicity of an immaculately roasted duck leg. In a futuristic and at times sterile city, hawker centres throw back to the past and offer a rare glimpse of something human in scale. To an outsider like me, sitting at a table amid the din of the lunch-hour rush can feel like glimpsing the city’s soul through all the concrete and glitz.

So I’ve been alarmed in recent years to hear about the supposed demise of hawker centres. Would-be hawkers have to bid for stalls from the government, and rents are climbing . An upwardly mobile generation doesn’t want to take over from their parents. On a recent trip to Singapore, I enlisted my brother, who lives there, and as we ate our way across the city, we searched for signs of life—and hopefully a peek into what the future holds.

At Amoy Street Food Centre, near the central business district, 32-year-old Kai Jin Thng has done the math. To turn a profit at his stall, Jin’s Noodle , he says, he has to churn out at least 150 $4 bowls of kolo mee , a Malaysian dish featuring savoury pork over a bed of springy noodles, in 120 minutes of lunch service. With his sister as sous-chef, he slings the bowls with frenetic focus.

Thng dropped out of school as a teenager to work in his father’s stall selling wonton mee , a staple noodle dish, and is quick to say no when I ask if he wants his daughter to take over the stall one day.

“The tradition is fading and I believe that in the next 10 or 15 years, it’s only going to get worse,” Thng said. “The new generation prefers to put on their tie and their white collar—nobody really wants to get their hands dirty.”

In 2020, the National Environment Agency , which oversees hawker centres, put the median age of hawkers at 60. When I did encounter younger people like Thng in the trade, I found they persevered out of stubbornness, a desire to innovate on a deep-seated tradition—or some combination of both.

Later that afternoon, looking for a momentary reprieve from Singapore’s crushing humidity, we ducked into Market Street Hawker Centre and bought juice made from fresh calamansi, a small citrus fruit.

Jamilah Beevi, 29, was working the shop with her father, who, at 64, has been a hawker since he was 12. “I originally stepped in out of filial duty,” she said. “But I find it to be really fulfilling work…I see it as a generational shop, so I don’t want to let that die.” When I asked her father when he’d retire, he confidently said he’d hang up his apron next year. “He’s been saying that for many years,” Beevi said, laughing.

More than one Singaporean told me that to truly appreciate what’s at stake in the hawker tradition’s threatened collapse, I’d need to leave the neighbourhoods where most tourists spend their time, and venture to the Heartland, the residential communities outside the central business district. There, hawker centres, often combined with markets, are strategically located near dense housing developments, where they cater to the 77% of Singaporeans who live in government-subsidised apartments.

We ate laksa from a stall at Ghim Moh Market and Food Centre, where families enjoyed their Sunday. At Redhill Food Centre, a similar chorus of chattering voices and clattering cutlery filled the space, as diners lined up for prawn noodles and chicken rice. Near our table, a couple hungrily unwrapped a package of durian, a coveted fruit banned from public transportation and some hotels for its strong aroma. It all seemed like business as usual.

Then we went to Blackgoat . Tucked in a corner of the Jalan Batu housing development, Blackgoat doesn’t look like an average hawker operation. An unusually large staff of six swirled around a stall where Fikri Amin Bin Rohaimi, 24, presided over a fiery grill and a seriously ambitious menu. A veteran of the three-Michelin-star Zén , Rohaimi started selling burgers from his apartment kitchen in 2019, before opening a hawker stall last year. We ordered everything on the menu and enjoyed a feast that would astound had it come out of a fully equipped restaurant kitchen; that it was all made in a 130-square-foot space seemed miraculous.

Mussels swam in a mushroom broth, spiked with Thai basil and chives. Huge, tender tiger prawns were grilled to perfection and smothered in toasted garlic and olive oil. Lamb was coated in a whisper of Sichuan peppercorns; Wagyu beef, in a homemade makrut-lime sauce. Then Ethel Yam, Blackgoat’s pastry chef prepared a date pudding with a mushroom semifreddo and a panna cotta drizzled in chamomile syrup. A group of elderly residents from the nearby towers watched, while sipping tiny glasses of Tiger beer.

Since opening his stall, Rohaimi told me, he’s seen his food referred to as “restaurant-level hawker food,” a categorisation he rejects, feeling it discounts what’s possible at a hawker centre. “If you eat hawker food, you know that it can often be much better than anything at a restaurant.”

He wants to open a restaurant eventually—or, leveraging his in-progress biomedical engineering degree, a food lab. But he sees the modern hawker centre not just as a steppingstone, but a place to experiment. “Because you only have to manage so many things, unlike at a restaurant, a hawker stall right now gives us a kind of limitlessness to try new things,” he said.

Using high-grade Australian beef and employing a whole staff, Rohaimi must charge more than typical hawker stalls, though his food, around $12 per 100 grams of steak, still costs far less than high-end restaurant fare. He’s found that people will pay for quality, he says, even if he first has to convince them to try the food.

At Yishun Park Hawker Centre (now temporarily closed for renovations), Nurl Asyraffie, 33, has encountered a similar dynamic since he started Kerabu by Arang , a stall specialising in “modern Malay food.” The day we came, he was selling ayam percik , a grilled chicken leg smothered in a bewitching turmeric-based marinade. As we ate, a hawker from another stall came over to inquire how much we’d paid. When we said around $10 a plate, she looked skeptical: “At least it’s a lot of food.”

Asyraffie, who opened the stall after a spell in private dining and at big-name restaurants in the region, says he’s used to dubious reactions. “I think the way you get people’s trust is you need to deliver,” he said. “Singapore is a melting pot; we’re used to trying new things, and we will pay for food we think is worth it.” He says a lot of the same older “uncles” who gawked at his prices, are now regulars. “New hawkers like me can fill a gap in the market, slightly higher than your chicken rice, but lower than a restaurant.”

But economics is only half the battle for a new generation of hawkers, says Seng Wun Song, a 64-year-old, semiretired economist who delves into the inner workings of Singapore’s food-and-beverage industry as a hobby. He thinks locals and tourists who come to hawker centers to look for “authentic” Singaporean food need to rethink what that amorphous catchall word really means. What people consider “heritage food,” he explains, is a mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian and European dishes that emerged from the country’s founding. “But Singapore is a trading hub where people come and go, and heritage moves and changes. Hawker food isn’t dying; it’s evolving so that it doesn’t die.”

SERES Automobiles, in partnership with Green Motors, a leading car distributor in the UAE, has announced the opening of its first official showroom in the region. As a prominent luxury electric vehicle brand, this new showroom marks a key development for SERES.

A sustainable future

Commenting on the opening of the new showroom, H.E. Ahmed Ali Bin Khalfan Al Dhahery, chairman of Green Motors said, “We are proud to launch this pioneering project in the UAE, in partnership with SERES, one of the most advanced companies in the field of manufacturing luxury electric cars with extended range. The inauguration of this showroom signifies our commitment to the vision of the UAE government’s wise leadership, which aims to ensure a sustainable future, with sustainable transportation as its primary pillars. We are dedicated to providing sustainable transport solutions as well as providing the highest standards of excellence through our services to support the achievement of this vision.” H.E added that this project is more than a commercial endeavor and is, in fact, a step towards a sustainable future for mobility in the UAE and the wider Gulf region.

Wenjun Li, Global Network Director of SERES Group said, “It gives us great pleasure to establish the SERES brand in the region, kicking off with our new showroom in Dubai – a milestone for our global footprint. This project also represents our commitment to meeting the growing demand for environmentally friendly, high-performance vehicles in the UAE and the Gulf, in an effort to support the region’s vision for a greener future.”

He added, “At SERES we are focused on continued innovation, luxury and sustainability. To that end, we are happy to introduce our range of battery-powered electric vehicles, as well as our electric cars with an extended range, establishing ourselves as a major player in the luxury electric car market in the Gulf.”

Unique features

The showroom provides an innovative platform for the public to explore and experience two of the company’s expanded and pioneering luxury models: the “SERES 5” and “SERES 7.” The cars represent the intersection between innovation, sustainability, and exceptional driving experiences. They seamlessly integrate fuel and electric power for long-range, emissions-free driving. The SERES 5, available in two models: the WD2 and the Premium 4WD, is a luxury, medium-sized, multi-use sports car that is characterized by its high efficiency, with a charge that lasts up to 1,175 kilometers.

SERES 7, on the other hand, is a large-sized multi-use sports car with a spacious interior, capable of seating five to six passengers. This car also features a dual-motor four-wheel drive system, and is efficient on the road, providing a combined range of up to 1,050 kilometers. Additionally, these two models feature smart driving technologies, automated parking, and advanced safety features for an ultra-modern and comfortable experience for its users.

Ray-Ban has unveiled its first-ever store at Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 3, marking a significant milestone for the brand. The store, which opened in October, reflects the latest in contemporary design and digital innovation, perfectly aligning with the dynamic atmosphere of the world’s busiest international airport.

One of the standout features of the new outlet is the introduction of an engraving machine, a feature available in only one other Ray-Ban store worldwide. This advanced technology allows customers to personalize both the cases and frames of their eyewear, adding a unique touch to their shopping experience.

Spanning 60 square meters, the store embodies Ray-Ban’s latest retail concept. It is equipped with eye-catching LED screens flanking the entrance and an LED-covered ceiling, creating an engaging visual display for travelers passing by. Additionally, the store’s design includes Ray-Ban’s signature “Boxes” wall units, where each pair of sunglasses is individually backlit, enhancing both visibility and highlighting the meticulous craftsmanship of the brand.

Commemorating DXB’s 64^th anniversary with an exclusive collection

The store’s grand opening coincides with DXB’s 64^th anniversary. To mark this occasion, Ray-Ban has released a dedicated collection as part of its Ray-Ban Change collection, featuring transitioning lenses that adapt to light conditions.

Each piece in this unique collection is engraved with a unique number from 1 to 64, and the frames incorporate the airport’s signature branding colors, making them a true collector’s item for travelers passing through DXB.

Wide range of iconic Ray-Ban styles and innovations

The store offers a comprehensive assortment of Ray-Ban’s most iconic styles, including Aviator, Wayfarer, and Clubmaster, the Ray-Ban x Scuderia Ferrari range, as well as the latest Ray-Ban Reverse collection, which features the brand’s revolutionary concave lenses designed to fit all face shapes for optimal comfort. The Middle Eastern special and limited-edition models of Ray-Ban Reverse will also be available, catering to both local and international visitors.

Enrico Camassa, General Manager of EssilorLuxottica Chalhoub Retail, commented: “We are thrilled to bring Ray-Ban’s distinctive design and innovation to Dubai International, a premier travel hub and the world’s busiest airport in 2023 in terms of international traffic. This new store provides a unique shopping experience for travellers, offering them the opportunity to explore Ray-Ban’s iconic collections while personalising their purchases with our exclusive engraving machine. It is a true milestone for Ray-Ban in the travel retail space.”

With its strategic location in Terminal 3, also the hub of Dubai’s Emirates airline, the store aims to serve millions of international passengers annually. With its dynamic environment and innovative product offerings, the store is set to become a must-visit destination for eyewear enthusiasts and style-conscious travelers alike.

Skyscanner has released its highly anticipated ‘Travel Trends 2025’ report, shedding light on the evolving preferences of Saudi travelers and their impact on the global travel industry. Drawing from Skyscanner’s proprietary data on flights and hotels, along with extensive consumer behavior research, the report provides key insights into the latest trends shaping Saudi travel.

The report outlines seven major trends, spotlighting the top travel destinations and the types of experiences that Saudi travelers are increasingly pursuing. These insights offer a glimpse into how the Saudi travel landscape is expected to evolve in the coming years.

Value-Driven, Experience-Led Travel

As we approach 2025, the way Saudi travelers evaluate the value of a trip is shifting. While price still plays an important role, it’s the sense of shared experience that’s capturing the imagination. Saudi residents are prioritizing destinations that offer cultural, social, and communal experiences over simple relaxation or sightseeing. For instance, 56% of travelers interested in Wild West-inspired trips are drawn to the collective experience of gathering around a campfire.

This shift is influencing destination choices, with travelers looking for affordable yet enriching options. Skyscanner‘s data reveals the destinations with the most significant airfare price drops in 2024, giving travelers the best bang for their buck. For example, Rize in Türkiye saw a staggering 529% increase in searches, making it a top choice for value-conscious explorers.

Collective Travel Vibes to Watch in 2025

1. Gami-Vacation – Leveling Up Travel
   Saudi gaming enthusiasts are embracing a new form of travel that merges their love for video games with immersive vacations. Whether attending global gaming conventions or visiting interactive gaming hubs, this trend is capturing the attention of tech-savvy travelers. With gaming hubs in cities like Tokyo and New York attracting a global audience, Gami-Vacation is set to become a prominent travel trend in 2025, offering a unique blend of adventure and play.
2. Reset Jetters – Wellness Retreats Redefined
   Luxury travelers are increasingly prioritizing rejuvenation and wellness, seeking serene, high-end escapes to reset and recharge. With wellness retreats offering tailored experiences focused on relaxation and mental well-being, this trend appeals to those looking for opulence paired with mindfulness. Whether through spa resorts or secluded nature retreats, the rise of Reset Jetters highlights the growing demand for trips that offer restoration and luxury in equal measure.
3. Astro-Ventures – Cosmic Explorations in the Desert
   For culturally curious travelers, astrology and astronomy-based trips are rising in popularity. Astro-ventures provide a deeper connection to the cosmos, especially in the UAE’s desert landscape, where stargazing and celestial explorations offer an otherworldly experience. This trend attracts those looking for a meaningful and awe-inspiring journey, tapping into a sense of wonder and exploration through the lens of the stars.

Trending Saudi Travel Behavior

Skyscanner‘s latest research reveals that 65% of Saudi travelers are selecting destinations based on culinary experiences, with food becoming a major motivator for holiday plans. In addition, 30% of 25-34-year-olds now travel specifically to attend sporting events, driven by the community atmosphere and the shared joy of watching a live event together.

Popular Destinations for Saudi Travellers in 2025

The top destinations with the largest search increases include:

1. Rize, Türkiye – +529%
2. Gan, Maldives – +400%
3. Krakow, Poland – +365%
4. Montreal, Canada – +310%
5. Rome, Italy – +240%

These destinations represent a mix of cultural hubs, natural landscapes, and budget-friendly options, catering to the preferences of modern Saudi travelers.

Budget-Friendly Travel in 2025

Cost remains a crucial factor for Saudi travelers, with 60% of hotel prices and 58% of flight costs influencing destination choice. The top value-for-money destinations include:

• Malta – Ideal for luxury-seeking travelers on a budget.
• Albania – One of Europe’s hidden gems for breathtaking landscapes.
• Malaysia – Known for its five-star hotels at incredible value.

Understanding Saudi Travel Trends in 2025

According to Skyscanner’s Travel Expert, Ayoub El Mamoun: “The 2025 travel trends report highlights a growing focus on collective experiences among Saudi travelers. Whether it’s sharing a campfire in the Wild West or enjoying local delicacies in a bustling European city, Saudi travelers are showing a clear desire to connect with others. As we move into 2025, travel remains a priority, with many planning to spend more on their trips next year than ever before.”

Etihad Airways has introduced Skypad, a cutting-edge digital tool aimed at improving the inflight experience for its passengers. This innovation, developed by Etihad’s Digital Transformation and Innovation team, marks a notable advancement in providing a more personalized and efficient service during air travel.

Skypad is currently being implemented for cabin crew in premium cabins, who are now equipped with tablets with the new application and other essential tools. These devices offer real-time flight updates, enabling the crew to better anticipate and meet the needs of each guest. By integrating this technology, Etihad Airways is continuing its commitment to delivering an enhanced level of service, ensuring passenger comfort and satisfaction throughout their journey.

“At Etihad, we’re committed to embracing technology that enhances our guests’ journey,” said Turky Alhammadi, Director of Product Development & Hospitality at Etihad Airways. “Skypad embodies our dedication to excellence, blending innovation with our world-renowned hospitality.”

Streamlined dining experience

Skypad’s Meal Order Taking feature allows cabin crew to take and complete orders with minimal steps, ensuring a smoother dining experience for passengers. The system’s real-time inventory tracking enables precise management of onboard resources, reducing waste and improving sustainability efforts.

“The introduction of Skypad marks a new chapter in our service evolution,” Alhammadi added. “We’re continuously working on new functionalities to make this tool even more effective, always with the goal of providing an unparalleled guest experience.”

Looking to the Future

Etihad Airways is committed to ongoing development of Skypad. Future enhancements will focus on further personalizing the guest experience and expanding the system’s capabilities.

Looking further ahead, Etihad envisions a fully connected experience across all guest touchpoints – in the air and on the ground. This ambitious goal aims to create a seamless journey for passengers, from booking to arrival at their final destination.

Emirates Transport is set to initiate pilot testing of hydrogen and electric commercial vehicles provided by Al Ghurair Motors. This move comes as part of a new agreement aimed at accelerating the adoption of eco-friendly transportation solutions.

The collaboration was formalized under a memorandum of understanding (MoU) announced at GITEX Global 2024, the world’s largest technology event. Through this partnership, Emirates Transport and Al Ghurair Motors will work together to explore and promote the use of alternative-fuel commercial vehicles.

The partnership will evaluate the feasibility of these sustainable vehicles and execute pilot projects for their use and aims to foster innovation and position the UAE as a leader in sustainable transportation technologies.

The testing of commercial hydrogen and electric commercial vehicles by Emirates Transport is a significant development in the fuel’s usage in the UAE and a major step towards integrating hydrogen technology into the company’s national fleet.

As Emirates Transport is the UAE’s leading provider of school transport, vehicle rental and other public transport services, operating over 32,000 vehicles, introducing green fuel is a key part of its strategy, and is fully aligned with the UAE’s goal of making half of all vehicles on the road electric by 2050.

Hydrogen-powered vehicles are also being promoted as an important step to reducing transport emissions and meeting the UAE’s strategic objective of reaching net zero by 2050.

The pilot projects will be performed with hydrogen and electric-powered commercial vehicles, serving Emirates Transport’s clients in business, government, and the public. The longer-term aim is to integrate increasing numbers of alternative-fuel vehicles into the fleet.

Under the MoU, Al Ghurair Motors, with the support of the manufacturer, will provide comprehensive technical training to Emirates Transport staff, making sure they are given the new skills necessary to operate and maintain the hydrogen and electric commercial vehicles.

Emirates Transport has more than 46 workshops across the UAE, and they will all be equipped to perform maintenance on these vehicles, with mechanics fully prepared to support the integration and expansion of these advanced technologies.

The partnership includes a mutual commitment to explore and develop infrastructure, such as electric vehicle (EV) charging & hydrogen fueling technology, to support the pilot projects with the aim of scaling up in the future.

Dominic Hagerty, Emirates Transport’s Chief Transport and Lease Officer said the MOU represented a new era of collaboration to bring eco-friendly transport solutions to the UAE’s roads.

“The research and feasibility studies that will be conducted with Al Ghurair Motors demonstrate the willingness of the two parties to align with governmental sustainability goals, contribute to policy development and set the stage for national infrastructure advancements,” he said.

“This alliance underscores a shared dedication to environmental responsibility, enhances customer experience, improves operational efficiency and contributes to economic diversification and job creation, thereby reinforcing the UAE’s broader objectives for sustainable development and innovation in green technology.”

Oscar Rivoli, Chief Executive Officer of Al Ghurair Motors, said advanced sustainable commercial vehicles would be key to helping the UAE reach its net-zero goals.

“We are delighted to be collaborating with Emirates Transport to test the feasibility of using electric and hydrogen technologies in commercial vehicles for their extensive services.

“As the technology of these vehicles improves, we must also work together to ensure the training, maintenance and infrastructure that supports these new technologies is tested and implemented to help us reach the UAE’s important sustainability goals.”

Prime by Betterhomes has announced the successful closing of the largest leasing deal in Dubai’s history. The property, situated on the prestigious Jumeirah Bay Island, was leased for a remarkable AED 15.5 million for the year. The transaction was managed by Toni Abou Jaoude, Sales and Leasing Manager of the Local Division at Betterhomes, representing a major achievement in Dubai’s thriving luxury real estate market.

Commenting on this achievements, Mr. Abou Jaoude, said, ”The real estate market today is as strong as I’ve always believed it should be. While this deal sets a new record, it shouldn’t come as a surprise for such premium products. I believe this will set a new benchmark for luxury rental prices, reflecting the rising demand for high-end living in Dubai. The leased property is an exquisite private mansion set on the waterfront of Jumeirah Bay, offering unrivalled views of the ocean and the Bvlgari Resort & Residences. The villa is not just a home but a masterpiece of modern architecture, providing the ultimate in luxurious living.

This record-breaking deal underscores the growing demand for ultra-luxurious living spaces in Dubai, particularly as high-net-worth individuals and investors from around the globe continue to flock to the city. Recent data from PRIME by Betterhomes shows that transactions exceeding AED 15 million surged by 65% in Q3, further solidifying Dubai as a top destination for luxury residences.

Exclusive neighborhoods like Jumeirah Bay are at the forefront of this trend, offering residents privacy, security, and a lavish lifestyle. With prime properties continuing to set new records, the city remains a magnet for affluent individuals and families seeking the best in luxury living.

Bugatti has introduced its latest hypercar, the Bugatti Tourbillon, to the Middle Eastern market with an exclusive unveiling in Qatar. Known for its combination of cutting-edge performance and artisanal craftsmanship, Bugatti continues its tradition of delivering vehicles that redefine automotive luxury.

At the core of the Bugatti Tourbillon is an 8.3-liter quad-turbocharged V16 engine, producing an incredible 1,800 horsepower. This power allows the hypercar to reach a top speed of 445 km/h, making it one of the fastest production cars in the world. Its acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just two seconds is a testament to its engineering, blending raw power with advanced aerodynamics. Every detail, from the carbon-fiber bodywork to the retractable rear spoiler, has been carefully crafted to optimize performance and provide stability at high speeds.

The design of the Bugatti Tourbillon reflects the brand’s heritage, drawing inspiration from iconic models like the Type 57SC Atlantic and the Type 41 Royale. The car’s signature C-shaped curve along its sides is both a nod to Bugatti’s design legacy and a functional element that enhances airflow. The Tourbillon’s exterior is both sleek and bold, with seamless integration of LED headlights into its aerodynamic lines.

Inside, the Bugatti Tourbillon offers a driver-focused interior with hand-stitched leather, polished aluminum, and bespoke carbon-fiber details. The fully digital instrument cluster is customizable and provides real-time performance data, including speed, power output, and torque distribution. The attention to detail in the cabin enhances both comfort and the overall driving experience.

The Bugatti Tourbillon represents a significant leap in engineering innovation. Built on a lightweight carbon composite platform, it combines strength and agility, while the adaptive suspension and all-wheel-drive system ensure superior handling. This hypercar not only delivers exceptional performance but also reinforces Bugatti’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive design and technology.

Konstantinos Psarris, Regional Director, Middle East & Asia, Bugatti, said: “The Bugatti Tourbillon marks a new incomparable era of our marque, a testament to our commitment to crafting art that transcends time. Bringing Bugatti’s new era defining car to Doha allows us to share this vision with a country that deeply appreciates French luxury and matches our avant-garde spirit and cutting-edge innovations.”

With its launch in Qatar, the Bugatti Tourbillon solidifies its position in the Middle Eastern market, where luxury, performance, and craftsmanship are highly prized. This new model continues Bugatti’s tradition of creating hypercars that are both powerful and exquisitely refined, making it a standout addition to the world of automotive excellence.

In a significant move toward sustainability, Emirates Transport has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Al Ghandi Auto to install a solar-powered, off-grid electric vehicle (EV) charging station at its head office.

The partnership was unveiled at GITEX Global 2024, the world’s largest tech event, further reinforcing Emirates Transport’s commitment to eco-friendly initiatives.

It is the first time Al Ghandi Auto has installed a charging station that operates entirely on solar power, and, when completed, will be considered one of the first off-grid solar electric vehicle charging stations in place across the UAE.

The new premium technology supports Emirates Transport’s environmental goals and the UAE’s vision for a greener future.

The MoU signed between Al Ghandi Auto and Emirates Transport aims to maximize solar energy for both transportation and facility operations and will create a self-sufficient energy ecosystem that enhances energy resilience.

The collaboration not only reduces dependence on external power sources but also inspires industry-wide adoption of renewable energy solutions.

Work is already underway to install the charging station at Emirates Transport’s head office in Dubai.

The solar panels for the single charging point can generate up to 22KW of power and the station takes approximately 1.5 hours to charge the batteries of a standard Chevrolet Bolt to 80%.

The station, manufactured by the Swiss technology firm ABB, will be available for use for staff and visitors at the site during a six-month trial period. A decision on whether to expand the charging station to include more charging points will be taken based on the results of the trial.

Al Ghandi Auto, one of the largest automotive retail groups in the region, is keen to promote the adoption of solar EV chargers and support the development of EV charging infrastructure within the UAE.

The company already supplies electric vehicles and conventional EV chargers but is expanding its portfolio to introduce advanced off-grid EV chargers.

The UAE aims to increase the share of EVs on the country’s roads from 3% in 2023 to 50% by 2050 as part of the goal to reach net zero by the same year. A report by the International Energy Agency found that the UAE ranked second in the Middle East for EV sales.

Welcoming the announcement, Dominic Hagerty, Emirates Transport’s Chief Transport and Lease Officer, said: “This agreement with Al Ghandi Autos empowers operational efficiency with clean energy, setting a new standard for corporate sustainability.

“By pioneering this advanced solar-charging technology at our head office, we are demonstrating how innovative practices can lead to a more sustainable and efficient future. It means we can take the lead in reducing carbon emissions from transport and helping the UAE reach its net-zero goals.”

Buti Saeed Mohammed Al Ghandi, Managing Director of Al Ghandi Auto, said: “Al Ghandi Auto has been at the forefront of supplying electric vehicles and the most efficient methods of charging those vehicles here in the UAE.

“With the advancement of solar technologies, off-grid solar EV chargers are now a viable solution for sustainable, self-sufficient charging. We are excited to trial this technology with Emirates Transport in a partnership that shows both parties are dedicated to a sustainable future.”

Dongfeng Motor Corporation has made its entry into the UAE market with the opening of its first showroom in Dubai. The Chinese automotive manufacturer, known for its focus on innovation, has partnered with M.A.H.Y. Khoory to introduce four of its flagship models to local buyers. The lineup includes the SHINE and SHINE MAX sedans, along with the AX7 and MAGE SUVs.

This launch reflects Dongfeng’s intention to expand its presence in the region, with an emphasis on quality, performance, and advanced automotive technology. With the UAE’s competitive car market, Dongfeng’s arrival adds another player to the mix, offering consumers more options in the sedan and SUV categories.

Inaugurated by Mr. Salahuddin Sharafi, Chairman M.A.H.Y. Khoory, attended by Mr. Shabbir Haideri, Group CEO and led by Mr. Saj Jabbar, General Manager of M.A.H.Y. Khoory Automotive Division, and senior officials from the group underscores the growing presence of Chinese automotive brands in the UAE market. With UAE consumers increasingly drawn to technologically advanced and competitively priced vehicles, Dongfeng’s entry highlights a shift towards Chinese automakers gaining traction in the region.

During the launch, four models were unveiled to meet diverse consumer needs. The SHINE, a sleek, tech-savvy sedan, features advanced safety systems and premium comfort, ideal for city driving. The SHINE MAX, a luxury sedan, combines high performance with sophistication, targeting professionals. The AX7, a versatile SUV, is engineered for the UAE’s varied terrain, while the MAGE SUV delivers robust capabilities and a dynamic driving experience for cosmopolitan drivers.

As Chinese automakers experience rapid growth globally, Dongfeng’s arrival in the UAE aligns with increasing demand for innovative, value-driven vehicles. Traditionally dominated by Western and Japanese brands, the UAE market is now witnessing a shift as consumers seek more cost-effective, technologically advanced alternatives.

“The launch of Dongfeng in the UAE marks a significant milestone for both brands, signaling a transformative moment in the region’s automotive market. These models are designed to offer cutting-edge technology, exceptional performance, and unmatched value for today’s discerning consumers. Together, we are poised to reshape the automotive landscape,” said Mr. Saj Jabbar, General Manager, M.A.H.Y. Khoory Automotive Division.

This partnership also marks M.A.H.Y. Khoory’s return to the automotive sector, leveraging its deep understanding of the local market. As the sole distributor of Dongfeng in the UAE, M.A.H.Y. Khoory is committed to bringing world-class automotive solutions to meet the evolving needs of consumers.

The Dubai showroom marks the first step in a broader expansion strategy, with plans for additional dealerships and service centres across the country, providing widespread access to Dongfeng’s diverse vehicle portfolio.

“Our collaboration with Dongfeng reflects our commitment to delivering innovative automotive solutions tailored to the UAE’s diverse market. We look forward to the opportunities this partnership will bring,” added Mr. Jabbar.

Dongfeng, with over 60 million vehicles sold globally, is known for its expertise in producing high-performance, innovative cars. The UAE market offers a unique platform for Dongfeng to showcase its technological leadership and commitment to quality, with further expansion plans on the horizon to meet the region’s evolving demands.