• Among the most popular attractions at the indoor theme park in The Dubai Mall

SPIN GEAR at SEGA Republic

Dubai, UAE; March 2, 2010: The popular SPIN GEAR roller-coaster ride at SEGA Republic, the first of its kind indoor theme park in the region located on Level 2 of The Dubai Mall, has completed an astounding 30,000 kilometres in just five months!

Among the most popular attractions at SEGA Republic, SPIN GEAR occupies nearly 20% of the total area of the theme park. With a total track length of 363 metres, SPIN GEAR travels up and down over 50 metres and twists and turns a minimum of 2,790 degrees, assuring an unmatched adventurous journey for guests.

Mr Joe Gibbons, General Manager, Emaar Retail, which manages SEGA Republic, said the sense of adventure and fun offered by SPIN GEAR is unparalleled in the region, making it one of the most popular attractions among visitors.

“The popularity of SPIN GEAR is reflected in the distance covered by the roller coaster ride in a short span of five months. Emaar Retail will introduce a series of gift ideas linked to SPIN GEAR to further encourage the adventurous,” he added.

Unlike the usual roller coasters, SPIN GEAR comes with a themed story that adds to the interest of participants. The themed ride is based on story of the evil plans of Dr. Eggman, who is Sonic the Hedgehog’s arch nemesis.

Dr. Eggman has taken over an old factory facility and has developed a prototype weapon, SPIN GEAR, for capturing Sonic the Hedgehog. Now all he needs are ‘test subjects’ and there is only way to escape his evil plans - on a rollercoaster ride that will have everyone’s head spinning.

The ride features spinning Sonic Gondolas and operates in both day and night environments. With a track width of 25 metres and depth of 56 metres, SPIN GEAR operates at two lift speeds – 2.5 metres per second and 2.3 metres per second – and has the fastest speed of 45 km per hour.

The 76,000 sq ft indoor family theme park at The Dubai Mall is designed by experts at SEGA® Corporation, the world leader in indoor entertainment. SEGA Republic features five zones – Speed, Sports, Adventure, Cyberpop and Redemption - offering an array of everything from action packed motion-simulators to simulated sports games, classic carnival games and one of the region’s largest selections of prize-winning redemption games. There are more than 200 amusement games that will appeal to all. In addition to SPIN GEAR, other adrenaline-pumping attractions include SONIC HOPPER, LET’S GO JUNGLE! SPECIAL, HALFPIPE CANYON, WILD JUNGLE, STORM-G, WILD JUNGLE, OUTRUN 2 SPECIAL TOURS SDX and INITIAL D4 LIMITED.

The theme park operates from 10am to 11pm Sunday to Wednesday and 10am to 1am Thursday to Saturday.

Other leisure attractions at The Dubai Mall include the recently opened KidZania®, an edutainment centre for children offering 70 role-play opportunities; the 22-screen Reel Cinemas; Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo; and the Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink.

Middle East’s leading bank underscores commitment to supporting culture and arts

Dubai, February 20, 2010: In line with its ongoing commitment to supporting culture and the arts, as well as a wide range of community activities, Emirates NBD, the largest banking group in the Middle East in terms of assets, announced today its sponsorship of a retrospective exhibition of leading photographs, which will be on display at The Dubai Mall from February 21-28, 2010.

The ITP Photography Exhibition, featuring a selection of the most insightful shots taken during the past five years, is being held during the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) 2010. As key sponsor of the high-profile event for 15 consecutive years, Emirates NBD has shown its ongoing support for DSF.

Following the conclusion of the ITP Photography Exhibition, the show will be held for a further two weeks at the bank’s two branches inside The Dubai Mall. In addition to hosting the exhibition, Emirates NBD will also invite visitors to submit their own best photographs at the bank’s two Dubai Mall branches, gaining an opportunity to win professional-quality cameras and publication of the winning photograph in an ITP media title.

“Emirates NBD is pleased to provide its support to the development of the fine arts here in the UAE and across the wider region,” said Saif Al Mansoori, Head – Group Business Marketing at Emirates NBD. “As a longtime supporter of a wide range of community activities, including sponsorship of the Dubai Shopping Festival, we will continue to extend our commitment to such local events and cultural activities.”

The bank recently announced the opening of its newest branch at The Residences, the fourth Emirates NBD branch to open in the Burj Khalifa area, complementing two existing branches inside The Dubai Mall and another located at the Manzil residences. Emirates NBD operates a total of 16 ATMs spread conveniently throughout this bustling business, residential and leisure community.

• Emaar Retail hosts Chairman of SEGA Corporation

Dubai, UAE; February 20, 2010: SEGA Republic, the Middle East’s first and largest of its kind indoor theme park, managed by Emaar Retail at The Dubai Mall, is setting new benchmarks in indoor entertainment with a never-before array of amusement games and thrilling rides.

SEGA Republic recently celebrated the overwhelming public response since its opening in August 2009 by hosting SEGA Corporation Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Mr Hajime Satomi. He was accompanied by President and Chief Operating Officer Mr Okitane Usui; Location Based Entertainment Division Senior Executive Producer Mr Yasuo Tazoe, Department General Manager Mr Yasutaka Sato and Project Leader Mr Shoji Mori.

Mr Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman, Emaar Properties, and Mr Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer, Emaar Retail, welcomed the delegation and highlighted the impressive success of SEGA Republic.

Mr Alabbar said: “Emaar works with strategic partners who have proven competencies in driving forward our projects. SEGA Corporation is the undisputed leader in indoor theme parks, and brings in unprecedented innovation and design excellence to SEGA Republic. This is the first of its kind project in the region and is in line with our development credo of bringing in world-first and world-class experiences.”

Mr Satomi said: “SEGA Corporation has pioneered a new dimension in indoor entertainment, which is perfectly embodied in SEGA Republic. In every aspect, this indoor park at The Dubai Mall is trend-setting – from the ambience, décor, service and variety of games and rides offered.”

Mr Amiri added: “The Middle East region has a strong youthful population, and offering them differential experiences is crucial for the success of malls and shopping destinations. SEGA Republic is a spectacular value-addition to The Dubai Mall and has attracted several thousand visitors over the past five months – both young and old. The entertainment showcase at SEGA Republic is unparalleled, making it the most-preferred destination for game and ride enthusiasts.”

A 76,000 sq ft indoor theme park, SEGA Republic has nine adrenaline-pumping attractions including Spin Gear, Sonic Hopper, Halfpipe Canyon, Storm-G and Initial D4 Limited. The various attractions are spread over five themed zones - Speed, Adventure, Sports, Cyberpop and Redemption - featuring a huge array of everything from action packed motion-simulators to simulated sports games, classic carnival games and one of the region’s largest selections of prize-winning redemption games.

SEGA Republic is one of key leisure concepts in The Dubai Mall. Other leisure components in Emaar Retail’s portfolio are Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, featuring the world’s largest acrylic viewing panel and over 33,000 aquatic animals; Dubai’s largest megaplex, the 22-screen Reel Cinemas; the Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink are magnets for visitors; and a dedicated children’s edutainment centre, KidZania®.

• Direct access from The Dubai Mall and Bloomingdales
• Trendy design elements in a warm ambiance

Dubai, UAE; February 10, 2010: The Address Dubai Mall, the five star premium hotel directly linked to The Dubai Mall, opens Ember, its chic signature restaurant, on Wednesday February 10, 2010. The restaurant offers a creative menu of international grill cuisine, ranging from a variety of Japanese robatas, Australian ribs, vintage beefs and prime cuts as well as a selection of delicacies from the rotisserie.

The trendy venue which can seat up to 120 guests comfortably is sophisticated down to the last  detail and offers a hip lounge where guests can socialize and enjoy pre-dinner beverages. Showcasing a classy décor which is further enhanced by soothing colours and carefully selected designs, the restaurant is set to regale visitors keen to meet with friends and family in the vibrant setting.
 
Mr. Domenico Iannone, Director of Food and Beverage, The Address Dubai Mall said: “Ember is the perfect place to indulge in delicious food amidst a chic ambience. During February, we are offering the first 10 guests who book a table at Ember complimentary transportation from their residence in our exclusive Bentley.  

“The standards of service at Ember are par excellence and in line with our key differentials of offering superior amenities and lively dining options,” he further added.

Ember is open every evening for a lively dining experience and is located on the lobby level of the hotel, directly connected to The Dubai Mall with immediate access from Bloomingdales; ideal for shopaholics looking for a venue to have their post-shopping dinner. The restaurant is also a perfect destination for those looking to hold celebratory events. 

The chef’s menu is seasonal offering guests authentic grill cuisine, ranging from fish, seafood to the traditional steak. The restaurant is open for reservations in the evenings from 6.30pm until 11.30 pm.

In addition to Ember, The Address Dubai Mall has four restaurants and lounges offering an international selection of cuisine.

NA3NA3 offers an authentic experience of unsurpassed Middle Eastern hospitality. The poolside restaurant and lounge Cabana features international comfort food and refreshing beverages. The premier lounge, Amatista, with its dramatic foyer entrance, offers a range of trademark beverages, and Karat, the hotel’s sophisticated Lobby Lounge, is ideal for a post shopping afternoon tea.

With 244 rooms and suites featuring contemporary and rich interiors, and located only 15 minutes away from Dubai International Airport, The Address Dubai Mall is a premium haven for business travellers and leisure guests. With the hotel directly linked to The Dubai Mall visitors have the advantage of shopping from the world’s largest premier shopping, lifestyle and entertainment destination 

The Address Dubai Mall, redefines hospitality standards by offering a convenient 24-hour stay benefit for guests reserving suites, innovative shopping services and thoughtful business amenities.

An exclusive personal fashion advisor ensures a personalized stay. For little guests, the Qix Kids’ Club provides an entertaining ambiance and fun activities.
      

UAE national is first intern
• Internship open for students of all nationalities

Dubai, UAE; February 1, 2010: Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo at The Dubai Mall, is now offering much-sought after Internship programmes to students from around the world.

The Internship is designed to provide students with practical working experience on all aspects of managing an aquarium. The programme can also cater to a student’s particular area of interest within the aquarium industry.

Kaltham Abdulla, 23 year-old UAE National, is the first intern at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. Currently in her final year at the College of Education at Zayed University, Kaltham has undertaken a 12-week internship programme, which focuses on the aquarium’s Ocean School.

During her internship, Kaltham’s main project has been to research and contribute to the development of new programmes which will focus on teaching children about conservation and the environment. 

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo has also accepted another placement for an Australian student of Veterinary Science who will complete a two-week curatorial internship in January 2010.

Mr Damian Prendergast, General Manager, said the Internship is specially envisaged to share Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo’s wide breadth of expertise and experience in aquarium management with the student community, and thus share its extensive knowledge base.

He added: “Aquarium science is a specialised field, and as one of the world’s largest aquariums with over 33,000 aquatic animals, we have unmatched practical knowledge in managing them. With the Internship programme, we are offering a unique opportunity for students to gain hands-on knowledge about the various aspects of aquarium management and the diverse aquatic species.”

On her experience as intern, Kaltham, who has previous teaching experience, said: “I chose to intern at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo because of the new experience it provides, especially in teaching school children. The edutainment classroom at the Aquarium is a new experience and will greatly benefit students.”

Secondary or university students from around the world can apply for this Internship. Students must be 16 years of age and above, and preference will be given to those currently studying Marine Science, Teaching or Tourism subjects.

The programmes require a high level of commitment from students who will be requested to commit a minimum of two weeks, with a total of 40 hours per week. Participation is totally voluntary. 

Interns must be prepared to participate in ‘hands on’ learning, which may involve animal food preparation, cleaning or even getting wet. Due to the health and safety of the animals, they will not have any direct contact with any animal during their internship.

On completion, students will walk away from the programme with practical working experience and a better understanding of what is involved in working in an Aquarium. Students can also request to continue working at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo on a voluntary basis, subject to management approval.

“We hope that Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo can contribute to the education of the next generation of teachers, aquarists and business professionals,” Mr Prendergast added.

Applications can be made at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo or via email to enquiries@thedubaiaquarium.com. Short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is one of several leisure attractions at The Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping and entertainment destination. Featuring over 33,000 aquatic animals, the aquarium offers visitors the chance to interact with these animals in numerous ways, including Glass Bottom Boat Rides, Cage Snorkeling Experiences and Shark Dives.

The Ocean School education programme, also offered at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, is dedicated to school groups and provides a spectrum of interactive programmes that are safe, unique and engaging. Since its launch in January 2009, over 19,000 students have participated in The Ocean School.

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is managed by Emaar Retail, the leisure and retail arm of Emaar Properties. Other leisure components in Emaar Retail’s portfolio are the Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink; the UAE largest megaplex with 22-screens, Reel Cinemas; the region’s largest SEGA indoor theme park, SEGA Republic; and the award-winning children’s edutainment centre, KidZania®.

• Guests to benefit from the hotel’s unique location next to The Dubai Mall and its array of high-fashion stores
• Personal fashion advisor to offer haute couture & trendy tips for casual wear in time for Dubai Shopping Festiva

The Address Dubai Mall

Dubai, UAE; January 23, 2010: The Address Dubai Mall’s latest addition to their gamut of exclusive services is a personal fashion advisor for all in-house guests. The hotel is the first in the region to offer this unique service. This service is being launched just in time for the Dubai Shopping Festival for guests to benefit from this service. Avid shoppers can stay at the hotel and enjoy retail therapy at The Dubai Mall.

 Adjoining The Dubai Mall, which features 1,200 stores including some of the world’s leading haute couture brands, guests can tune in to the latest fashion trends effortlessly with the assistance of the personal fashion advisor.

 A tailor-made menu of services is exclusively designed for ladies and gentlemen staying at The Address Dubai Mall. Guests can book an appointment with the fashion advisor through the hotel’s 24 hour Guest-Engagement service.

 The fashion advisor first meets with guests at the hotel to understand their preferences, identify gaps in their wardrobes and choose styles that suit their personality. This information is used while the advisor shops with the guests in choosing the latest trends, colours and styles. Accessorizing tips to give the outfit that extra finesse is also a part of the service provided.

 Mr Olivier Heuchenne, General Manager, The Address Dubai Mall said: “With the hotel’s close proximity to the large number of fashion outlets at The Dubai Mall, the personal fashion advisor for our guests will be a great value addition and fits with our philosophy of offering tangible guest benefits. This is part of our strategy to leverage the location advantage of the hotel, directly connected to the world’s largest shopping and entertainment destination.”

 A customized menu has been created to suit the personal requirements of guests. Available for ladies and gents, the ‘Style Me and Shopping’ package identifies individual styles that will complement the guest’s personality. The session includes a consultation prior to shopping, where the advisor provides advice on colours and fashion trends based on guest preferences.  A shopping list will be prepared, keeping in mind the stores that match with the guest’s profile. The “Style Me and Shopping” session takes approximately 2 to 3 hours and if necessary extra hours can also be booked.

 The ‘Fashion Dilemma’ session is ideal for women who need help in finding the proper outfit for a certain occasion. This includes meeting the fashion advisor to understand their needs and creating a style ‘wish list’. Based on this, a shopping plan at key stores is then put in place and the hotel’s fashion advisor will brief guests on how to combine events with the “look” they choose.

 The Address Dubai Mall also offers a special package for those looking for a fashion vacation or a shopping weekend. ’Fashion Fix’ at The Address Dubai Mall includes accommodation in a room or suite, breakfast at Na3Na3 restaurant that can be combined with either ‘Fashion Dilemma’ or ’Style Me and Shopping’ sessions.

 Guests opting for the fashion advisor service can also benefit from the Concierge service, whereby the hotel’s concierge will assist with transporting the guest’s shopping bags back to their room.

 The Address Dubai Mall is the third hotel newly opened under The Address Hotels + Resorts brand. Located within Downtown Dubai described as the new heart of the city, the hotel has 244 rooms including 53 suites, and is defined by the tangible guest benefits and superior service it offers in line with the brand ethos of The Address Hotels + Resorts.

 The Address Hotels + Resorts already owns and manages two other hotels in Downtown Dubai – The Address Downtown Dubai and The Palace – The Old Town. The Address Dubai Marina is the most recent addition to Dubai under The Address portfolio.

• Middle East and Subcontinent’s first children’s edutainment centre

• 80,000 sq ft facility celebrates role playing by emulating 70 real-life professions

• Activities tailored to promote physical and intellectual development of children

• Emaar Retail joins hands with leading establishments Read the full story