Celestyal refines ‘Iconic Arabia’ sailings for 2025 following a successful first Arabian Gulf season
Soon to conclude its first Arabian Gulf season in March, Celestyal has announced an itinerary refresh for its new-for-2025, Arabian Gulf three-, and four-night ‘Iconic Arabia’ sailings onboard Celestyal Discovery. Based on feedback from the hugely popular first season, guests and their valued travel agent community and regional partners, the itineraries will now feature additional stops in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha, with the introduction of Ras Al Khaimah as a new port of call. The new itineraries have been renamed and are as follows: The prices above are part of the current ‘Live Your Vacation Dream’ promotion available on new bookings made until March 16, 2025, and include up to €100 of complimentary specialty drinks and dining per person pre-loaded on each guest’s CelestyalPay tab*. Lee Haslett, chief commercial officer at Celestyal, said: “We strive to deliver unmissable experiences, and in doing so constantly listen to our guests, and travel agent community. Following a hugely successful first season in the Arabian Gulf we learnt more about what our guests and partners would like to see and are excited to announce these changes based on their feedback. Since launching our winter season Arabian Gulf itineraries, we’ve been thrilled by the positive response and the growing interest from both repeat and new-to-cruise customers in exploring this spectacular region. “Our guests have told us they love iconic destinations like Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi, as well as discovering more off-the-beaten-track ports that are synonymous with a Celestyal voyage, such as Sir Bani Yas Island and the coastal resort of Khasab. We’re known for our destination immersive and port intensive cruises, so we have refined our 2025 itineraries to offer more time in our guests favourite ports, while adding an additional port in the stunning Ras Al Khaimah.” The 1360-guest Celestyal Discovery will commence her inaugural Arabian Gulf season in the region on December 12, 2025, joining her fleet mate, the 1260-guest Celestyal Journey, who returns to the Arabian Gulf on December 6, 2025. Celestyal Journey will operate the popular ‘Desert Days’ itinerary as planned, starting the season with an Abu Dhabi Grand Prix celebratory cruise. The cruise line will then offer a combination of 7-night, 3- and 4-night Gulf itineraries from December through to March on both ships, for the next three consecutive seasons. For more information, visit celestyal.com or call 0808 258 4170.
All-New Nissan KICKS Takes Center Stage with a Thrilling Regional Launch
Doha, Qatar, February 26, 2025–Nissan has recently introduced the 2025 Nissan KICKS to the region with a high impact launch at The Sevens Stadium, Dubai. Hosted under the theme “GO EPIC”, the venue was transformed into an urban-inspired stage, bringing together over 200 guests including Nissan’s regional partners, media, automotive experts and select customers. Designed for individuals who dare to stand out, the KICKS introduces a progressive design, advanced technology, and dynamic driving performance that sets a new benchmark in its segment. Nissan transformed the stadium’s grounds into a custom-built automotive arena, featuring a life-sized track encircling the central stage. The reveal unfolded with the “KICKS Drop,” a seamless fusion of digital illusion and reality, where the all-new Nissan KICKS appeared to plummet onto the stage before transitioning into a real-world spectacle, reinforcing the model’s urban, street-style identity. Additionally, two all-new KICKS vehicles drove onto the platform in synchronized motion, amplifying the sense of arrival, and then crossed the platform, giving attendees their first look at the region’s newest crossover. The experience continued with immersive touchpoints, including vibrant parkour performances that infused the night with the raw energy of street culture, tying into the KICKS’ bold, individualistic identity. Taking the stage on the opening night, Thierry Sabbagh, Divisional Vice President & President – Middle East, KSA, CIS – Nissan & INFINITI, set the tone for the evening, sharing Nissan’s vision for the next-generation KICKS. He said, “The all-new KICKS embodies our bold vision to ‘Defy Ordinary,’ offering a blend of style, innovation, and versatility that is truly unmatched. Since its debut in the Middle East, the KICKS has empowered drivers to express their individuality, and this new generation takes it even further. With a daring new design, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional performance and fuel efficiency, the all-new KICKS is built for those who live vibrantly and go epic every day.” Nassim Mourani, General Manager of the Automotive Group at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., said, “The all-new 2025 Nissan KICKS embodies the spirit of innovation and modernity that Qatar’s vibrant urban landscape demands. With its bold design, advanced technology, and exceptional performance, the KICKS is set to redefine the compact crossover segment in the Qatari market. It offers unparalleled value for those seeking a bold entry into this category.” Following the reveal, Charl Grobler, General Manager, Product Marketing at Nissan Middle East, took the stage to present an in-depth breakdown of the KICKS’ latest advancements, highlighting the vehicle’s refined design and innovative technologies, showcasing how the new powertrain enhances performance while maintaining fuel efficiency. He emphasized how the vehicle continues to reflect Nissan’s commitment to delivering a bold, dynamic driving experience while offering a high level of personalization for those looking to express their individuality. The next morning, the excitement shifted from spectacle to experience as media and automotive enthusiasts took the wheel of the all-new Nissan KICKS for an exclusive ride-and-drive journey from The Sevens Stadium to Dubai Design District (D3). More than just a test drive, the route was carefully designed to showcase every aspect of the KICKS—its agility through urban streets, its power and stability on open roads, and its intuitive technology in real-world conditions. Settling into the Zero Gravity™ seats, drivers immediately noticed the comfort designed for long drives, while the panoramic sunroof framed the Dubai skyline. As they navigated the city, ProPILOT came into action, assisting with smooth acceleration and braking, reinforcing a sense of confidence and ease. The immersive dual 12.3-inch digital display provided clear navigation and connectivity, while wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ kept drivers seamlessly linked to their playlists and calls. A highlight of the drive was the Reverse Challenge at The Sevens Stadium, where drivers tested the KICKS’ suite of cameras and sensors, effortlessly maneuvering tight spaces using advanced 360-degree visibility and intelligent safety features. Whether accelerating down a straight or while executing driving maneuvers, the KICKS demonstrated its balance of power and precision, with the 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder engine delivering 142 horsepower and 190 Nm of torque, seamlessly paired with Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVT transmission for smooth responsiveness. The all-new 2025 Nissan KICKS expands the brand’s diverse SUV lineup. Offering a dynamic new choice in the compact crossover segment, the KICKS is available in four distinct grades (S, SV, SV+, and SL) each designed to cater to different lifestyles. For those looking to make an even bolder statement, the model comes in 15 striking exterior hues, including six two-tone options, allowing for greater personalization. Customers can visit and experience the all-new 2025 Nissan KICKS at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co. showrooms – the exclusive agent of Nissan in Qatar – conveniently located across Qatar. For more information or to book your test drive, visit showrooms on Salwa Road, The Pearl, Al Sadd, Bin Omran, Barwa, and Al Khor or call 8000505.
Real Madrid big winners at Globe Soccer Dubai Awards as Vinicius Jr, Ancelotti and Perez are all recognised; Ronaldo bags two accolades
Vinicius Jr wins Best Men’s Player and Best Forward after year to remember on glittering evening at Atlantis, The Palm Ronaldo, winner of two awards, including Top Goalscorer of All Time, joined Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois on stage as part of 19th Dubai International Sports Conference Juventus legend Alessandro del Piero and Real Madrid president Florentino Perez receive Special Career Awards, while Neymar, Ferdinand and Courtois all took to the stage to receive Player Career Awards Dubai, UAE – December 27, 2024: Dubai: Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr added to his stellar personal trophy collection in Dubai on Friday night, with Jude Bellingham and Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo the other big winners at the 2024 Beyond Globe Soccer Dubai Awards, held in conjunction with the 19th Dubai International Sports Conference, in partnership with Dubai Sports Council, inside the five-star Atlantis, The Palm. Vinicius Jr went home with the Best Men’s Player and Best Forward awards after enjoying the best goalscoring season of his career in 2023/2024, finishing with 24 goals and contributing nine assists in 39 matches for Real Madrid. At 23 years and 325 days, the Brazilian also broke Lionel Messi’s record as the youngest player to score in multiple Champions League finals, leading the Spaniards to their 15th European title. “It was such a faraway dream that it seemed impossible for me,” said Vinicius Jr. “I was just a little kid who used to play barefoot in the streets of São Gonçalo. I grew up in a poor place, surrounded by crime, so to be here is something very important to me because I’m not only representing Brazil but all the kids out there with the same dream.” Bellingham, meanwhile, took home the Best Midfielder and Maradona Award following an outstanding calendar year, which saw the 21-year-old lift the LaLiga title and maiden Champions League in his first season at Los Blancos, as well as the Supercopa de Espana and UEFA Super Cup. The Birmingham City prodigy also helped England reach the final of the European Championship, contributing with some key goals along the way. “Thank you to Globe Soccer for inviting me to this awards ceremony,” added Bellingham. “It’s amazing to see so many great players and legends, and it’s a real privilege to win a trophy here tonight as well. It wouldn’t be possible without my teammates, my staff, and most importantly, my family. My mum, who is here tonight, is the biggest motivation in my life.” Al-Nassr forward Ronaldo clinched the Best Middle East Player for a second successive year, as well as being awarded the prestigious Top Goalscorer of All Time accolade, with the legendary forward currently standing on 917 career goals following his most recent strike against Al-Ittihad. “I am always happy to be here because I think you do it as a fantastic gala. You can see all the champions here. I think it’s fantastic. Congratulations to all,” said Ronaldo. “In terms of the trophy, I have to say thank you to my teammates, my team. In terms of individual, I did very well, but for me, it’s not enough. My main goal is to win a trophy for Al Nassr.” One of the world’s leading celebrations of international football excellence, the 15th edition of the star-studded awards took place on Palm Jumeirah, one of the world’s largest man-made islands, in association with Beyond Developments, Dubai’s latest premium real estate brand. As well as several Real Madrid representatives and Ronaldo, this year’s event attracted a full catalogue of football luminaries of past and present, including Brazil star Neymar, Barcelona and Spain winger Lamine Yamal, former England manager Fabio Capello, and Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand. The Beyond Globe Soccer Dubai Awards captured global attention, with more than 100 million votes cast by fans from more than 200 countries and territories, eclipsing the previous record of 70 million. Meanwhile, Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancellotti won Best Coach for the second time in three years, as FC Barcelona and Spain midfielder Aitana Bonmati retained the Best Women’s Player award. Yamal, meanwhile, was duly recognised as Emerging Player. Earlier in the evening, Real Madrid goalkeeper Courtois joined Ronaldo on stage to discuss “Talented Football” as part of the Dubai International Sports Conference. “In the beginning, when I arrived at Manchester United, I was a very skillful player, dribbling a lot, and I realized that it was good for the show, but football is more than that,” Ronaldo commented. “When you have a dream to achieve big things, you need to be more effective, and this is what I planned to do. I started to see examples there in the club, like Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes. And I took some good ideas. “And as I say all the time, of course, you’re never going to be a football player if you only have talent. Talent is the main word to achieve success. But the other things, which I consider more important, are the ethics of work. I dedicated all my life to that because I know I can improve year by year.” Courtois, meanwhile, said his early career setbacks were the catalyst to him reaching the top level. “For me as a goalkeeper, sometimes it’s harder because a striker can maybe miss two chances and then score a hat-trick, and it’s amazing,” he said. “I can miss two goals that are my fault, and you can mentally drop. I think from an early age, by setbacks I had when I was 14 or 15, when people were doubting me, I created a strong mentality, a strong belief in myself, and knowing that I want to be the best.” Other winners on the night included Al Hilal’s Jorge Jesus, who was awarded Best Middle East Coach; while Al Ain received Best Middle East Club and FC Barcelona were crowned Best Women’s Club once more. “The 19th Dubai International Sports Conference and 15th Globe Soccer Dubai Awards will go down as one of the most
