UAE Leads the Global Ranking in Air Transport Quality
The UAE has achieved a remarkable milestone by being ranked number one worldwide for the quality of its air transport infrastructure.
2 min
According to the recently launched World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024, the UAE emerged as a leader in various global competitiveness indicators within the civil aviation sector.
In this index, the UAE ranked first globally in the “Quality of Air Transport Infrastructure” indicator. Additionally, it secured the third position worldwide in both the “Efficiency of Air Transport Services” and “Available Airline Seat Kilometres – millions/week” indicators.
Regionally, the UAE excels in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) by leading in the “Number of Operating Airlines” and “Air Transport Agreements” indicators.
Further cementing its global standing, the UAE achieved the top rank in the “Quality of Air Transport” category in the “Global Competitiveness Report 2023” released by the International Institute for Management Development.
Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), said: “The outstanding performance of the civil aviation sector in global competitiveness indicators showcases the forward-thinking vision and strategic directives of our wise leadership.
“This progress underlines our commitment to fostering growth and enhancing the competitiveness of this crucial sector both regionally and globally. As a fundamental pillar of our national economy, the civil aviation sector’s success affirms the quality and effectiveness of our government plans, which focus on continuous investment and reinforcing our leadership across various key development areas.”
Minister Al Marri emphasized the collective effort of every stakeholder in the UAE’s civil aviation community, inspiring further advancements in air transport infrastructure and services. He noted that these achievements align with national goals to innovate and connect the world through a comprehensive, integrated, and sustainable aviation system, leveraging the UAE’s strategic location.
Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of GCAA, expressed his pride in this achievement, highlighting the strength and competitiveness of the UAE’s civil aviation sector. He attributed this success to the collaborative efforts of the GCAA with its strategic partners in federal and local government entities, national carriers, and all companies and institutions operating in the sector. Their combined efforts have expanded international partnerships and enhanced the air transport network, positioning the UAE as a major hub for travel and tourism both regionally and internationally.
Al Suwaidi reaffirmed the GCAA’s commitment to continuously improving the aviation sector, keeping pace with technological advancements and strategic developmental goals. This ensures the UAE maintains and enhances its distinguished position in the future, setting new benchmarks for the global aviation industry.
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To empower local talents in the fashion industry
3 min
The Chalhoub Group has unveiled the second edition of the Fashion Lab, an innovative initiative designed to support and nurture local fashion talent in Saudi Arabia. Powered by The Greenhouse, Chalhoub Group’s hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, and in collaboration with the Saudi100 program, the Fashion Lab opens its doors to a new cohort of Saudi Arabian fashion brands specializing in ready-to-wear, accessories, handbags, and jewelry.
Fashion entrepreneurs across the Kingdom are now invited to apply for this intensive six-month program. The Fashion Lab is crafted to provide participants with an intensive curriculum that covers essential aspects of fashion business fundamentals, commercialization strategies, and entrepreneurial skills.
This initiative is a testament to Chalhoub Group’s dedication to contributing to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, fostering local talent, and driving innovation within the Saudi fashion industry.
Joaquin Mencia, Chief Innovation Officer at Chalhoub Group, commented: “The Fashion Lab is yet another testament to Chalhoub Group’s unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in the Saudi fashion scene. After the great success of the first cohort of the Fashion Lab, we are launching Cohort 2 with double the efforts and expanding our perks for the next batch of Saudi fashion brands. With the exciting addition of The Greenhouse’s newly opened location in Riyadh, we are well-prepared to host Cohort 2 in a dynamic environment designed to nurture creativity and innovation. We are committed to providing an unparalleled experience that will empower the next generation of Saudi fashion brands to thrive and reach new heights.”
The first cohort of The Fashion Lab produced remarkable success stories that highlight the program’s impact. Brands like KAFBYKAF have gone on to receive significant acclaim. “The Fashion Lab gave KAFBYKAF the unique experience of selling on a Chalhoub Group platform and receiving guidance and exclusive access to senior leaders and retail experts from the Group, which was incredibly valuable to my brand,” said Kawthar Alhoraish, Founder of KAFBYKAF. “I recommend this program for any brand ready for acceleration.”
“Having worked closely with the brands in the first cohort of The Fashion Lab, I have witnessed firsthand the incredible talent and potential within the Saudi fashion industry,” said Joseph Chalhoub, General Manager of Fashion KSA at Chalhoub Group. “This program is a transformative journey that provides real support, knowledge sharing from retail experts, and commercial opportunities for local brands to thrive.”
This year’s cohort will offer ten Saudi brands a unique chance to gain mentorship and guidance from prestigious partners such as Boltable Studios, Instagram and Snap Inc. The program will be hybrid, based out of Riyadh, and will feature approximately 30 exclusive mentorship and workshop sessions. Successful applicants will have the rare opportunity to bring their collections to life on one of Chalhoub Group’s sales channels.
For more information and to apply, visit The Fashion Lab’s official webpage from June 27 until July 18, 2024, on the following link:
https://www.chalhoubgreenhouse.com/thefashionlab
Chris Dixon, a partner who led the charge, says he has a ‘very long-term horizon’
Americans now think they need at least $1.25 million for retirement, a 20% increase from a year ago, according to a survey by Northwestern Mutual
