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The UAE Ushers in the New Year with Emaar’s ‘Light Up 2018’ Downtown Dubai Spectacle

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The UAE once again captivated the world this New Year’s Eve with a dazzling spectacle to usher in 2018. Emaar’s ‘Light Up 2018’ Downtown Dubai celebration hosted more than a million visitors from across the world and reached an estimated 2.5 billion people worldwide through live television broadcast and social media livestreams.


The mesmerising laser, light and musical fountain show not only had a spellbinding effect on spectators, but Emaar’s ‘Light Up 2018’ also clinched the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the ‘largest light and sound show on a single building,’ staged on Burj Khalifa, the global icon. The record beats that set in Hong Kong in 2013 on the ICC Building which was over an area of 46,641.52 sq metres. ‘Light Up 2018’ on Burj Khalifa, by contrast, spanned an impressive surface area of 109,252 sq metres (about 27 acres, the size of about 20 football fields) – more than double that of the earlier record set.

New Year’s Eve in Downtown Dubai was about much more than the record-breaking event that was one component of the show, as brilliant laser beams in multiple hues enveloped the night sky over Downtown Dubai, complementing the new LED panel displays of Burj Khalifa with over 1.1 million pixels, and the musical water performance of The Dubai Fountain.

Taking five months of constant preparation, ‘Light Up 2018’ put Dubai and the UAE in the global spotlight through its futuristic approach to New Year’s Eve gala celebrations. Environmentally-friendly, safe and spectacular, it served as a testament to the ‘can do’ ability of the nation with an international team collaborating to create a never-attempted-before feat.

A highlight of the show was the visual tribute to the founding father of the UAE, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, to coincide with the nation commemorating 2018 as the ‘Year of Zayed’ to mark the 100th anniversary of his birth.

Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman of Emaar Properties, said: “The UAE celebrates positivity and hope. The nation and its leadership inspire the world through breakthrough achievements while creating opportunities for people and businesses to thrive. The ‘Light Up 2018’ spectacle is our tribute to the nation, celebrating its accomplishments, and putting the UAE on the global map as a true hub where inspiring minds meet and connect.”

“His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President & Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, urges us to push our boundaries and to be innovative and creative. With ‘Light Up 2018,’ we have set a new template for New Year’s Eve galas, where the focus is on leveraging the newest technologies to present a spectacle that is novel and breathtaking,” said Alabbar.

On the spectacular event, Talal Omar, Country Manager, GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS, said: “As the global authority on record-breaking we have seen fascinating things from all over the world. However, we are always keen to find out what records Emaar plan to attempt each year, and to support them as they continue to push the boundaries of technology and innovation in these attempts.”

Breaking the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title with ‘Light Up 2018’ required a total installation of lights, beams and accessories weighing over 118.44 tonnes, and more than 28.7 km of cables – including 7.7 km of power cabling and 21 km of network and signal cabling.

The show transformed Downtown Dubai into one of the world’s brightest spots, measuring 76.3 million lumens of brightness. Carefully choreographed lasers certified as completely safe to human eyes and energy-efficient LED bulbs were rigged using 25.3 km of ropes and supported by 20 tonnes of special customised-steel mounting equipment.

In all, more than 40 specially modified outdoor lasers as well as 230 high power Xenon searchlights and 280 outdoor beam moving lights were deployed, underpinned by the highest searchlight installation and highest laser installations in the world at 828 metres – the height of Burj Khalifa. More than 300 professionals worked on-site including 100 rope-access experts; collectively they travelled over one million kilometres to join the project.

Emaar’s ‘Light Up 2018’ kicked off with on-ground celebrations from 5pm with performances of The Dubai Fountain every 15 minutes and a live DJ keeping audiences entertained in the run up to midnight. At two minutes to the New Year, ‘Light Up 2018’ began. Following a glittering display on Burj Khalifa – with powerful laser beams and LED lights creating inspiring motifs and patterns in myriad hues flickering up and down the entire height of the tower – it was time for the countdown. In the darkness, Burj Khalifa was the hero, coming alive to the colours of the UAE flag – red, green, white and black – with the seconds remaining in 2017 ticking down on the tower’s façade.

Ushering in the New Year, the celebration continued with a tribute to the UAE and Dubai, a mark of solidarity to the friendly GCC nations, a spectacular display to mark the ‘Year of Zayed’ as well as an abstract depiction of the elements of nature. The display also featured the free-flight of a falcon and a rendering of the upcoming icon by Emaar, the Dubai Creek Tower in Dubai Creek Harbour.

Special viewing platforms were set up across Burj Park, the primary venue of the event, as well as across Downtown Dubai. For the first time, a dedicated space was curated for People with Determination in South Ridge, overlooking Burj Park, that accommodated more than 100 people, offering them direct views of the celebration.

The entire show was displayed on big screens in Downtown Dubai.  Live feeds of the event were telecast around the world in addition to a live Twitter feed and an online real-time feed. Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing, Roads & Transport Authority, Dubai Police, Dubai Civil Defence and Dubai Health Authority, among other governmental entities, supported the event.

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LEGO and Formula 1 Team Up to Deliver Motorsport Thrills to Fans

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The LEGO Group has partnered with Formula 1 to bring the excitement of motorsport to LEGO fans worldwide. As part of the partnership, LEGO Certified Stores has launched these must-have sets for every Formula 1 and LEGO fan in the region. From exciting at-race activities, digital content and experiences in retail, the 2025 Formula 1 Season will build the thrill for families and fans across an action-packed season.

At-Race Experiences
Fun experiences are coming to fans and families at 13 key Formula 1 races across 2025 including Bahrain, Qatar and Abu Dubai in the Middle East. At the new LEGO Fan Zones in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, fans can enjoy:

  1. Exclusive Make and Take builds
  2. Photo opportunities
  3. A chance to see the entire LEGO Group and F1 product range featuring all 10 F1 teams for the first time

Pop-Up LEGO Stores
At Bahrain, Qatar and Abu Dhabi races, the LEGO Pit Shops will give fans an opportunity to purchase the full product line featuring all ten F1 teams across LEGO Speed Champions, LEGO City, LEGO DUPLO and LEGO Collectibles.

In-store Experiences
Select LEGO Certified Stores in Bahrain, Qatar and UAE will offer racing-themed experiences, including:

  • A Racing Ramp play experience
  • A cool LEGO sticker giveaway

Online Experiences
There will be plenty of chances to celebrate the 2025 FORMULA 1 season on www.LEGO.me too, with a range of cool experiences and content, such as a LEGO F1 game on https://www.lego.me/about-f1, which will put kids through their paces in a fun LEGO world, to test their racing skills.

Whether you’re a die-hard supporter of a legendary F1 team or a LEGO enthusiast seeking high-speed thrills, now there is a brick set built just for you. As fans in the region head to the upcoming FORMULA 1 BAHRAIN GRAND PRIX 2025 SAKHIR race, LEGO Certified Stores has launched an exciting range that pays tribute to motorsport.

Do not miss the two Icons display sets featuring Ayrton Senna’s MP4/4 and Nigel Mansell’s Williams FW14B – a true collectible for fans. From iconic cars to pit stop adventures, here’s your turbocharged LEGO lineup for fans of every team.

Racing Royalty McLaren
McLaren fans know the thrill of bold innovation and racing heritage. Celebrate this iconic team with sets that capture both their rich past and dynamic present.

LEGO Icons: McLaren MP4/4 & Ayrton Senna
A premium LEGO building project. Craft a meticulously detailed model of the iconic McLaren MP4/4 driven by Ayrton Senna.
Price: BHD 41.0 / AED 369 / QAR 379 / KWD 31.0

LEGO Technic: McLaren Formula 1 Race Car
This model features a V6 cylinder engine with moving pistons, suspension, steering, and differential for precision cornering.
Price: BHD 86.9 / AED 799 / QAR 829 / KWD 67.0

The passion and power of Ferrari
Ferrari’s rich legacy of speed and style comes to life in these exciting LEGO sets. Channel your inner Tifosi and bring the Italian stallion’s spirit home.

LEGO Technic: Ferrari SF-24 F1 Car
Emblazoned with the legendary Scuderia Ferrari livery, this detailed model is a love letter to Ferrari’s SF-24.
Price: BHD 129.0 / AED 1099 / QAR 1099 / KWD 99.0

LEGO City: F1 Pit Stop & Pit Crew with Ferrari Car
Complete with a toy Formula 1 Ferrari race car, this set is ideal for racing enthusiasts and perfect for high-speed pit lane action.
Price: BHD 13.0 / AED 129 / QAR 129 / KWD 10.5

Williams Racing brings grit and glory in blue
Williams Racing fans know that true champions rise from adversity. Pay tribute to this storied team with intricate builds showcasing their fearless pursuit of victory.

LEGO Icons: Williams Racing FW14B & Nigel Mansell
Shift your creativity up a gear! Craft a replica of the Williams Racing FW14B car, complete with details inspired by Nigel Mansell’s racing history.
Price: BHD 41.5 / AED 359 / QAR 349 / KWD 30.5

LEGO Speed Champions: Williams Racing FW46 F1 Race Car
Capture the modern power of Williams Racing with this sleek, race-ready FW46 model — a must-have for loyal supporters.
Price: BHD 12.0 / AED 109 / QAR 109 / KWD 9.0

Precision Engineering of Mercedes
The Silver Arrows are all about speed and perfection. These Mercedes LEGO sets offer masterful engineering and turbocharged excitement.

LEGO Technic: Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance
A Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance model car with precise detailing that reflects the team’s engineering brilliance.
Price: BHD 115.0 / AED 1029 / QAR 1039 / KWD 94.0

LEGO City: F1 Garage & Mercedes-AMG & Alpine Car
Step into the pit lane and take charge with this dynamic garage set featuring both Mercedes and Alpine race cars, because teamwork drives success!
Price: BHD 37.0 / AED 349 / QAR 349 / KWD 29.0

Oracle Red Bull Racing Redefines Speed
Power, precision, and record-breaking performances dominate when Red Bull Racing is on the track. Fuel your fandom with these epic builds.

LEGO Technic: Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20 F1 Car
Channel the power of Max Verstappen’s winning machine with this intricate Red Bull RB20 build — designed for champions.
Price: BHD 129.0 / AED 1099 / QAR 1099 / KWD 99.0

LEGO Speed Champions: Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20 F1 Race Car
Perfect for younger fans, this compact yet detailed model brings the RB20’s speed to your shelves.
Price: BHD 12.0 / AED 109 / QAR 109 / KWD 9.0

The sophistication of Aston Martin
Where sleek design meets racing grit, Aston Martin delivers power with poise. Celebrate the British powerhouse with this detailed LEGO tribute.

LEGO Speed Champions: Aston Martin Aramco F1 AMR24 Race Car
Aston Martin’s AMR24 model combines elegance with aerodynamic excellence. Build it, race it, and let British engineering shine.
Price: BHD 12.0 / AED 109 / QAR 109 / KWD 9.0

For the all-out F1 Fan
Can’t pick a favourite team? These LEGO sets combine various F1 teams and are perfect for those who love the sport in its entirety.

LEGO Speed Champions: BWT Alpine F1 Team A524 Race Car
Add some Alpine magic to your LEGO lineup with this vibrant, high-speed racer — built for the track and your display shelf.
Price: BHD 12.0 / AED 109 / QAR 109 / KWD 9.0

LEGO Speed Champions: MoneyGram Haas F1 Team VF-24 Race Car
Celebrate Haas’ relentless spirit with this sleek VF-24 set, perfect for collectors who admire underdog energy.
Price: BHD 12.0 / AED 109 / QAR 109 / KWD 9.0

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NARUTO THE GALLERY Experience Makes its Middle East Debut in Dubai

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Celebrating over 20 years of the global anime sensation NARUTO, fans in the Middle East will have a rare opportunity to experience the iconic world of their favourite ninja, as NARUTO THE GALLERY experience makes its debut outside of Japan, for the first time in Dubai. This unique experience, direct from Tokyo, will run from January 31 to April 6, 2025, at The Concourse Convention Center, near the Dubai Outlet Mall, marking the first time outside East Asia that the beloved anime’s legacy will be celebrated on this scale.

Created to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the NARUTO anime’s debut in Japan, this immersive experience takes fans on a journey through the series’ iconic moments, themes, and characters. Featuring vivid life-size installations and exclusive artwork from the animation, NARUTO THE GALLERY offers an opportunity to step into Naruto Uzumaki’s world, including rare behind-the-scenes content from the series’ origins. From the vibrant landscapes of Konoha (Hidden Leaf Village) to unforgettable battles and intimate character portrayals, visitors can relive every pivotal moment of the beloved anime.

Experience Includes:

  1. Authentic Artifacts and Original Artwork: View never-before-seen concept art and materials used in creating the series, transported directly from Japan
  2. Interactive Displays: Fans can engage with iconic scenes and immerse themselves into the universe of NARUTO through dynamic video presentations on large screens and multiple monitors.
  3. Fans can engage with iconic scenes and participate in interactive exhibits that immerse them in the universe of NARUTO
  4. Exclusive Merchandise: Limited-edition NARUTO memorabilia and exclusive merchandise, making it a must-visit for any anime fan

As a landmark event for regional anime fans, NARUTO THE GALLERY reflects the global influence of Japanese anime and its cultural crossover appeal. With Dubai known as a bridge between East and West, this event reinforces the city’s position as a hub for innovative and world-class entertainment experiences.

This is a ticketed event, with tickets starting at AED 60 per person. Tickets can be purchased online through Platinumlist or at the venue itself. The exhibition will be held in The Concourse Convention Center, which is seamlessly connected to the Dubai Outlet Mall.

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with NARUTO THE GALLERY Executive Committee to bring such an authentic and original experience to Dubai,” said Ahmad Khalifa, CEO, Akiba. “Al Ahli Group and Akiba are committed to growing the pop-culture scene in the region, spanning from West Asia to Africa, and introducing year-long, themed experiences and events, celebrating various iconic properties. And kicking off our series of events with NARUTO THE GALLERY, is extra special, as we celebrate NARUTO’s 20-year legacy by creating an incredible experience for anime fans in the region to connect with the series on a personal level.”

“We are truly honoured to bring NARUTO THE GALLERY to Dubai as its next destination. Through this exhibition, we hope to provide as many fans as possible with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history and legacy of NARUTO,” said the NARUTO THE GALLERY Executive Committee.

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Dubai International Baja is Now Underway

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After months of preparation, the final event in the international off-road rallying season is underway. Crews have completed the spectacular Qualifying Stage in the Hatta Suhaila Area and the Ceremonial Start at Dubai Festival Bay and are now focusing on the 359km of driving in Dubai’s daunting Al Qudra Desert that will make up Saturday’s Al-Futtaim Toyota Stage 2 of the event.

Lucas Moraes took victory on the first stage in Hatta by the narrowest of margins over his Toyota Gazoo Racing teammate Seth Quintero. Just 0.2s separated the Brazilian and his Spanish codriver Armand Monelon from the US star Quintero and his German co-driver Dennis Zenz in their Toyota Hilux machines.

12-time event winner and reigning champion Nasser Al Attiyah got to within 1.4s of the leading pairing on his one-off outing with his team in his Taurus T3 Max while his team-mate Khalifa Al Attiyah was fourth, less than 10 seconds from the leading crew. Father/daughter combination Lionel and Lucie Baud were a fine fifth at the end of their first stage of rallying in Dubai with their Mini JCW Rally.

It was a tough start to the weekend for a couple of pre-event favourites Khalid Aljalfa and Eduard Pons who were 2m28s and 2m40s down after the stage after delays. However, they retain every chance of vying for honours in their battle for T3 class honours in the FIA World Cup Baja series. Poland’s Konrad Dabrowski took the early bragging rights among the two-wheel entry, the 23-year-old steering his Duust Rally Team KTM 450 to the fastest time in the 3.4km timed run at Hatta.

That was 25 seconds faster than Rafic Eid of Lebanon on his Gasgas and 28.2 seconds quicker than Pedro Bianchi Prata on his Honda CRF. Leading Quad rider on the Yamaha Raptors in the opening test was local man Abdulaziz Ahli, who had just under ten seconds in hand over Abdulaziz Al Atawi with the Saudi’s fellow countryman third Hani Al Noumesi third.

Following the stage in Hatta, the crews made their way back to the Service Park in Dubai Festival City for the tactically important Start Selection Ceremony. The competitors were then flagged away at Ceremonial Start in front of the fans in Dubai Festival City by His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council in the company of His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, Omar Abdullah Al Futtaim, Vice Chairman and CEO of the Al Futtaim Group and His Excellency Dr Amer Al Zarooni Chief Executive Officer of the Al Jalila Foundation.

The crews then turned their attention to the challenges of Al-Futtaim Toyota Stage 2. In total there are 395km of timed ‘selective’ sections across the weekend and, with the untimed sections, the crews are facing a total of 867km of driving and riding until the champions of Dubai International Baja 2024 are crowned.

This year’s innovative use of the rugged landscape around Hatta means that gravel/dirt tracks make up 20% of the total route terrain on the selective sections. The rest is made up of open desert (35%) and 45% on the daunting dunes of Dubai which have made this rally so famous and popular with crews the world over.

Al-Futtaim Toyota Stage 2 begins at 8 am (Saturday 30th November) with the first crews expected to complete the selective sections from 11.30 am onwards, after which the teams will return to the Service Park in Dubai Festival Mall where they will be on view to spectators throughout the day. Now in its eighth edition under the Baja format, the event draws top competitors from around the globe to tackle the challenging dunes of Dubai.

Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and organised by the Emirates Motorsport Organization (EMSO) in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council, the Baja is supported by Official Automotive Partner Al-Futtaim Toyota, Energy Partner ENOC, and the strategic collaboration of the Dubai Government and its entities, including the Dubai Police, RTA and Dubai Municipality.

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