Celestyal, an award-winning global cruise line that provides its passengers with all-inclusive onboard experiences, will homeport its newest ship, the Celestyal Journey, in Dubai for the next three years as part of its week-long, winter “Desert Days” calendar, which includes sailing roundtrip from the city and calling at Bahrain, Khasab, Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi.

Celestyal Journey marked its maiden call in Dubai on Monday, December 9, entering the emirate’s waters with a dhow escort and hosting a plaque exchange ceremony and a star-studded party to kick off this exciting tourism project, a result of collaboration between Greek company Celestyal and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) that aims to share the region’s extraordinary offerings with the wider world.

Celestyal Journey’s new “Desert Days” itinerary, which is available now, sails until March 2025, and will return each winter for the next three years.

Lee Haslett, Chief Commercial Officer, Celestyal said the “magical” maiden call into port, “marks a significant milestone” in the cruise line’s history.

“The dhow escort into port was a magical moment and the perfect way to officially start our long-term relationship with this captivating destination. We would like to thank our partners in the region and look forward to a successful first season and beyond.

“Dubai had to be on our Desert Days itinerary because it is such an iconic city and a place we believe our guests need to experience. As a truly global city, it provides the ideal mix of culture, immersion and bucket-list moments for our passengers.”

For his part, Saud Hareb Almheiri, Cruise Tourism & Yachting Lead at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said the UAE  is “honoured by Celestyal launching its service in Dubai and making our city the homeport for its cruise ship Celestyal Journey, highlighting the city’s status as the premier cruise hub of the region.

“The confidence shown by a global cruise line like Celestyal in choosing Dubai reflects our city’s unique value proposition – from our strategic geographic location and world-class maritime infrastructure, to our superior global connectivity and diverse destination offerings – all of which contribute to an unparalleled visitor experience.”

He said  this has all been made possible thanks to the city’s visionary leadership, as well as unwavering support and dedication of stakeholders and partners, who continue to play a pivotal role in Dubai’s growth as a cruise tourism destination.

“We look forward to welcoming passengers boarding Celestyal Journey and extending to them the warm hospitality that Dubai is renowned for,” he said.

Meantime, noting that The Arabian Gulf has long been a hub of culture, commerce, and luxury, Saleh Mohamad, General Manager of Elevate Cruises, said the monumental homeporting is seen to make the gulf “an even more desirable destination for travelers from around the world.”

“We are thrilled to be part of this journey, and we look forward to working closely together with Celestyal as we collaborate to provide unparalleled luxury and hospitality. At Elevate Cruises, we share a commitment to offering exceptional experiences, and this partnership is a powerful opportunity to bring our shared values to life and create meaningful, personalised journeys for our guests,” he said.

Next winter, Celestyal Journey will be joined by Celestyal Discovery when it starts its own three-year stint in Abu Dhabi. Offering three-night ‘Iconic Arabia’ weekend cruises round-trip from Abu Dhabi and calling at Doha, Bahrain and Dubai, Celestyal Discovery will also run a four-night, mid-week cruise sailing round trip from Abu Dhabi and calling at Fujairah, Muscat, and Khasab.

The remarkable Celestyal Journey boasts 630 suites and staterooms, seven restaurants, eight bars and lounges, two pools and jacuzzis, and an entire deck dedicated to wellness – complete with a spa, fitness, and wellness areas.

After a multi-million euro refurbishment in September 2023, Celestyal Journey received additional upgrades as it set off on its journey to the Middle East from Athens, including enhancements to the Junior Dream Suites and the addition of Café Nation, a popular coffee bar introduced on its sister ship, Celestyal Discovery, in March earlier this year.

The launch price of the ‘Desert Days’ itinerary starts from €359 / $409 / £319 / A$579 per person, representing a potential 67 per cent saving on the regular price, while the ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises start from €239 / £219 / $279 / A$389 per person, representing a 57 per cent saving.

 For more information visit celestyal.com  or call 0808 258 4170.

District 8, Dubai Marina’s newest multi-concept dining and social destination, announces the appointment of Kadir Dogan as General Manager. With over a decade of experience in luxury hospitality, Dogan brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to District 8, where he will oversee the launch and operations of this most-awaited venue.

Kadir’s extensive background includes successful tenures at renowned establishments across Dubai, including roles at Zenon Restaurant & Lounge and Nusr-Et. His recent position as Assistant General Manager at Zenon Dubai offered him a deep insight into Dubai’s ever-evolving dining scene, enabling him to contribute innovative ideas to District 8. Prior to that, Kadir spent six years at the award-winning Nusr-Et, where he honed his skills in premium dining and tailored customer experiences, creating memorable engagements for both local and international guests.

At District 8, Kadir is tasked with leading an exceptional team of almost 300 professionals to deliver an experience that merges high-end dining with sophisticated entertainment. District 8’s three unique venues – Blume, Rodina, and Luxuria – offer distinctive culinary and social experiences.

Inspired by the Silk Road, Blume features Mediterranean and Far Eastern influences in a lush, exotic setting that is perfect for gatherings. Rodina, a nod to Russian heritage, provides an elegant fine dining atmosphere with curated live performances. Luxuria, a regal-themed karaoke lounge, transforms nightlife with its opulent décor, live entertainment, and bespoke guest experiences.

“District 8 is where global cultures, refined tastes, and unforgettable experiences come together,” shares Kadir. “Each concept is designed to surprise and delight, creating a dynamic hub that evolves with every

visit. I’m excited to lead this extraordinary project and to help establish District 8 as a landmark in Dubai’s luxury scene.”

Brought to life by the acclaimed Alex Investment Group, the visionaries behind the celebrated Zenon Restaurant, District 8 is set to be a trailblazer in Dubai Marina. With an unwavering commitment to luxury and authenticity, the group has crafted a destination that merges culinary artistry with immersive entertainment.

For the first time ever, Sonos is landing at Sole DXB, the region’s leading contemporary culture festival, taking place from December 13th to 15th at Dubai Design District (d3). Sonos is merging culture with premium audio experiences at the Sonos House of Sound, showcasing the Sonos Ace headphones and introducing the new colours of Sonos Roam 2. Sonos brings its world-class sound to the heart of this year’s Middle East’s cultural renaissance at this iconic festival.

Step into the Sonos House of Sound and experience music in an entirely new way. Curated vinyl and playlists will celebrate the Middle East’s rich heritage, paired with contemporary local artists, the Sonos space immerses guests in a pure sound journey. Using Sonos’ advanced audio technology, visitors will enjoy high-fidelity sound, either through the shared home system or a more intimate listening experience with Sonos Ace headphones. The space will feature a relaxed lounge area for attendees to unwind, engage, and truly feel the immersive quality of Sonos sound.

Throughout the three-day event, the Sonos House of Sound will host intimate conversations where artists share personal stories and the creative sparks that drive their work, exploring the heritage and inspirations behind Middle Eastern music. Hands-on workshops will give guests a chance to create beats using iPad, beatbox machine, microphone, and bring them to life through Sonos Ace headphones.

Festival-goers will have the chance to experience the Sonos Ace headphones firsthand. Recently launched globally, the Sonos Ace combines premium sound with a sleek, fashion- forward design, featuring metal accents and matte finishes that align with the streetwear aesthetic at Sole DXB. Equipped with spatial audio featuring Dolby Atmos and Active Noise Cancellation, Sonos Ace delivers an immersive listening experience, creating a personal audio bubble perfect for moments of escape.

In addition to the headphones, Sonos will unveil the new colours of the Sonos Roam 2, now available in Olive, Wave, and Sunset. Inspired by desert landscapes, coastal beaches, and painted evening skies, these new hues reflect the natural beauty of the region. Lightweight and compact, the Roam 2 offers remarkable clarity and bass that festival-goers can take anywhere, from the streets of Dubai to the beach.

Stay tuned for more details on Sonos’ programming at Sole DXB, including workshops and special sessions.

Visit the Sonos House of Sound in partnership with Sound Experience Store, Mall of Emirates, from December 13-15 at Sole DXB 2024. Follow @soledxb on Instagram for the latest updates.

As the sun sets over the bustling skyline of Dubai, many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) find themselves not only working hard to provide for their families but also facing the challenge of finding quality education for their children. For parents who have made the bold decision to live and work in the UAE, being away from their loved ones is never easy, especially when it comes to the well-being and development of their little ones. Second Home Playhouse is here to change that, offering a safe, nurturing, and affordable environment for young learners.

In an exciting moment of celebration and achievement, Second Home Playhouse recently held its First Quarter Recognition Awards. This event honored the hard work and growth of the young learners enrolled in the playhouse. Children were recognized for their development in social skills, creativity, language, and motor abilities. These awards are not just about celebrating accomplishments, but about inspiring children to continue exploring, learning, and growing in their unique ways.

As an OFW parent, seeing your child receive such recognition is a heartwarming experience that brings a sense of pride, knowing that their development is in safe and caring hands, even while you’re away working. But for many parents, finding the right educational program for their children in Dubai can be a daunting task. The costs of international schools and the pressure of balancing work and family can be overwhelming. Second Home Playhouse offers a solution that combines affordability, flexibility, and quality education, making it the ideal choice for OFW families.

Affordable Education for Your Little Ones

One of the greatest challenges that OFWs face is finding a balance between supporting their families financially and ensuring that their children receive quality education. Many OFWs are keen on bringing their families to Dubai, but the financial burden of expensive schools can sometimes hold them back. Second Home Playhouse understands this struggle and offers affordable programs that cater specifically to young learners aged 1-6, with fees that make quality early childhood education accessible for everyone.

With year-round enrollment, parents can rest assured knowing that they can enroll their children at any time during the year. Whether you’re arriving in Dubai in the middle of a term or just after a break, Second Home Playhouse is here to accommodate your needs, providing a flexible solution that fits your schedule.

Program Details and Monthly Fees

Second Home Playhouse offers a range of play-based learning programs, designed to foster creativity, emotional growth, and early learning in a fun, interactive environment. Here are the programs available:
• PH1 (Ages 1-2): Sensory exploration and foundational social skills development.
• Half-Day Fee: AED 500
• Full-Day Fee: AED 667
• PH2 (Ages 2-3): Language development and motor skills.
• Half-Day Fee: AED 542
• Full-Day Fee: AED 708
• PH3 (Ages 3-4): Creativity, problem-solving, and self-expression.
• Half-Day Fee: AED 583
• Full-Day Fee: AED 750
• PH4 (Ages 5-6): Early critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership.
• Half-Day Fee: AED 625
• Full-Day Fee: AED 792

These fees are monthly and cover flexible session options, including morning, afternoon, and full-day programs. With flexible hours, children can join based on your preferred schedule, giving parents peace of mind while they are working, knowing their child is in a safe and supportive learning environment.

Why Bring Your Child to Dubai?

Being an OFW parent often means making difficult choices. Many parents choose to leave their children behind in the Philippines, but the distance can take a toll on both the parents and children. Having your child with you in Dubai while you work gives you the advantage of being more involved in their daily lives and development.

With Second Home Playhouse, OFW parents can provide their children with access to quality education without the need to be separated. This connection is invaluable — your child can grow up in a dynamic, multicultural environment, surrounded by the diversity that Dubai offers, while benefiting from a hands-on education approach. You get to witness firsthand their learning journey, celebrate their milestones, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing they are being well cared for.

A Place for Growth and Empowerment

At Second Home Playhouse, the focus is on developing the whole child through play-based learning. This approach ensures that children are not only learning academic concepts but also developing socially, emotionally, and physically. From interactive games to arts and crafts, from language exercises to physical play, every activity is designed to encourage curiosity, self-expression, and collaboration.

For OFW parents, the feeling of relief knowing their children are growing and learning in a supportive and loving environment while they work is priceless. The flexibility of year-round enrollment means that no matter when you decide to move to Dubai, your child can start their educational journey without delay.

A Community of Support for OFW Families

Being away from family can be difficult, but the community at Second Home Playhouse provides a sense of belonging for both parents and children. Parents can rest assured that their children are in good hands, with highly trained facilitators who focus on individual development in a safe and friendly environment. Moreover, with ongoing updates and opportunities for feedback, you can stay connected to your child’s progress, no matter where your work may take you.

As an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) living in Dubai, you’ve worked hard to provide for your family and secure their future. But have you ever thought about creating a stable income stream back home? Franchising offers an incredible opportunity to grow your wealth while positively impacting your community.

For OFWs who want to invest in a reliable, low-risk business in the Philippines, the Filipino Learning Center (FLC) is the perfect choice. With its affordable franchise fee and strong support system, FLC makes starting your own kindergarten and learning center both achievable and rewarding.

What Is Franchising and Why Is It a Great Option for OFWs?

Franchising is a business model where you operate a branch of an already successful brand. Instead of starting from scratch, you benefit from the franchise’s proven system, trusted name, and ongoing support.

Benefits of Franchising for OFWs

1.  Proven Success: You’re investing in a business model that has already been tested and works.
2.  Lower Risk: With a strong brand and support system, your chances of success are much higher.
3.  Built-in Brand Recognition: Customers already trust the name, so you don’t need to spend years building credibility.
4.  Comprehensive Support: From training to marketing, the franchisor helps you every step of the way.
5.  Time-Saving: The groundwork is already done for you, so you can focus on running and growing the business.

For OFWs in Dubai, franchising offers an ideal way to prepare for a stable and profitable life when you return to the Philippines.

Why Invest in Filipino Learning Center (FLC)?

The Filipino Learning Center (FLC) offers a low-cost, high-value franchise opportunity that’s perfect for OFWs. As an established name in early childhood education, FLC focuses on providing quality programs for young learners, making it a profitable and meaningful investment.

What Makes FLC a Smart Investment?

1.  Affordable Franchise Fee: For just PHP 150,000, you get a complete package to start your business.
2.  In-Demand Industry: Education is recession-proof, and the demand for quality early education in the Philippines continues to grow.
3.  Holistic Support: FLC guides you through every step, from securing permits to training staff and marketing your school.
4.  Relatable Mission: Education is something all Filipinos value, making this business not just profitable but also meaningful.

What’s Included in the FLC Franchise Fee?

For a one-time fee of PHP 150,000, you’ll receive:

1. Operational Permit Processing

FLC handles all the necessary legal registrations and filings, including:
• SEC Registration: To establish your business as a legal entity.
• BIR Registration: For tax compliance and official receipts.
• SSS, Pag-IBIG, and PhilHealth Registration: Ensuring employee benefits are in place.

2. Full Curriculum and Educational Materials

You’ll receive ready-to-use lesson plans and materials for these age-specific programs:
• 🌼 Playgroup (Ages 1-2): Focus on socialization and motor skills.
• 👶 Daycare (Ages 2-3): Structured learning through play.
• 🎨 Nursery (Age 3): Foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and science.
• ✏ Kinder (KG1 & KG2):
• KG1 (Ages 4-5): Phonics, basic math, and socio-emotional readiness, integrated with the ECCD (Early Childhood Care and Development) framework.
• KG2 (Ages 5-6): Critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with graduates receiving a Learner Reference Number (LRN) to advance to formal schooling.

3. Training and Support • Owner Training: Learn to manage operations, finances, and customer engagement.
   • Staff Training: Equip teachers with the skills to deliver FLC’s high-quality programs.
4. Marketing and Branding Assistance • Pre-opening campaigns with social media templates, flyers, and banners.
   • Support for organizing enrollment events and open houses.
5. Facility Design and Operations Manual

Guidance on setting up your learning center for success and a manual covering daily operations and financial workflows.

6. First Month of Services Free

Personalized guidance and operational support during your launch period.

Why Now Is the Time to Invest in FLC

Education: A Growing Industry

In the Philippines, parents prioritize education for their children. This makes early childhood education a profitable and recession-proof industry, with a built-in demand for programs like those offered by FLC.

Affordable Investment

FLC’s PHP 150,000 franchise fee is a low-cost entry into a high-demand market. Unlike other franchises, FLC has no hidden charges or royalty fees, allowing you to keep your profits.

A Stable Business for OFWs

By investing in an FLC franchise, you can build a steady source of income back home while you’re still in Dubai. This means you’ll have something to come back to, giving you and your family a secure future.

Ongoing Support for Franchisees

FLC offers optional monthly support services for just PHP 7,500 to help you grow your business. This includes:
• Updates to lesson plans and teaching materials.
• Marketing strategies tailored to your location.
• Regular consultations for operational advice.

How to Get Started

1.  Contact Us: Reach out to discuss the franchise details.
2.  Secure Your Spot: Pay the PHP 150,000 franchise fee to begin the setup process.
3.  Launch Your Business: With FLC’s guidance, you’ll be ready to welcome students in no time.

📞 For inquiries, contact Jessian at +63 956 880 1805.
📍 Visit us at 2nd Floor, Lot 27 Blk 46 Pontiac cor. Datsun Sts., Fairview Park, Quezon City.

Invest in Education, Invest in Your Future

Owning a Filipino Learning Center franchise is more than just a business—it’s a chance to make a difference in your community and secure a stable financial future. If you’re an OFW looking for a smart, meaningful investment, FLC is the perfect opportunity.

This year’s UAE Flag Day celebration at the Filipino Private School was more than just a festive display of colors—it was a heartfelt expression of gratitude, unity, and the deep sense of belonging shared by the Filipino community in the UAE. For decades, Filipinos have called the UAE home, contributing to its development while nurturing their families and dreams in a land that has embraced them as its own.

For over forty years, the Filipino community has played an essential role in shaping the modern UAE. Starting from humble beginnings in the 1970s, Filipinos have grown to become one of the most significant expatriate groups in the country. Their contributions span across various sectors, including healthcare, education, business, and hospitality, and their vibrant culture and strong work ethic have enriched the UAE’s diverse society.

The UAE Flag Day event at Filipino Private School captured this unique bond, showcasing children waving the UAE flag while learning about the country’s values—tolerance, progress, and unity. The celebration was a testament to the harmonious relationship between Filipinos and their second home, underscoring the community’s respect and loyalty to the UAE.

For the Filipino community, the UAE has been more than just a workplace; it has been a place of growth and opportunity. From the impressive skyscrapers of Dubai to the tranquil deserts of Abu Dhabi, Filipinos have found hope, built futures, and pursued dreams.

Dubai has stood as a symbol of aspiration for many Filipinos. With its thriving economy, the city has provided a fertile ground for professional and personal growth. Filipinos in Dubai have not only advanced their careers but also supported their families back home, achieving milestones and building a better future. Beyond work, the city’s rich cultural fabric has allowed them to embrace a lifestyle that blends their heritage with the UAE’s multicultural environment.

The Filipino community’s active participation in local events, festivals, and schools like the Filipino Private School highlights their efforts to stay connected to their roots while integrating seamlessly into their adopted home. It is in places like these that cultural pride and loyalty to the UAE coexist, fostering a unique and harmonious blend of traditions.

As the UAE continues to celebrate its achievements and look ahead to an even brighter future, the Filipino community remains committed to contributing to the nation’s growth. The UAE Flag Day celebration serves as a powerful reminder of shared values such as dedication, hope, and mutual respect that unite the Filipino and Emirati people.

Filipinos in the UAE are grateful for the opportunities this nation has provided and look forward to continuing their journey of shared success. To the UAE, they offer a sincere “Thank you” for providing a place where they can thrive, work, and dream.

The UAE Flag Day celebration at the Filipino Private School encapsulated the spirit of unity and appreciation that defines the relationship between the Filipino community and their host nation. It served as a reminder for all to cherish the opportunities provided and to contribute positively to the growth of the country that has given so much.

For a glimpse of the moving Flag Day celebration at Filipino Private School, watch the event here:

Dubai Safari Park is kicking off its 6th season as the top destination for animal welfare and edutainment in Dubai. The park is committed to educating guests about conservation, endangered species protection, and environmental awareness. The new Junior Ranger Program, highlights this focus through live presentations, up-close animal experiences, engaging workshops, and guided Safari tours.

The newly launched Junior Ranger Program provides an exclusive opportunity for children to officially start their journey as Dubai Safari Park Junior Rangers. This unique and immersive experience brings children closer to wildlife while teaching them about conservation and animal welfare. Parents can purchase the Junior Park Ranger Season Pass at a price of 550 AED for their children to embark on six exciting missions outlined in their ranger journals. These missions are filled with fun and educational animal care activities. All the Junior Rangers who have completed the program will be entered into a grand raffle at the end of the season for a chance to win an unforgettable Kenyan safari adventure.

In addition to the Junior Ranger Program, Dubai Safari Park introduces several new ways for children to engage with wildlife. The Young Explorer Workshop, held every Saturday, allows kids to tackle hands-on conservation challenges guided by animal specialists. The park also offers exclusive school programs, such as “Learn in the Wild,” where students can learn about animal welfare, conservation, and environmental protection.

But Dubai Safari Park edutainment program isn’t just for kids. Guests of all ages can enjoy live animal presentations and over 14 animal encounters with lemurs, macaws, rhinos, elephants, and many more. Guests can participate in daily Wildlife Talks led by experts, explore conservation efforts through guided safari tours in the Explorer Village and Arabian Desert Safari, and see three live presentations, including the newly launched “Echoes of the Wild,” featuring playful animals like coatis, raccoons, and otters.

Under the theme “Conservation for the Planet,” the extensive edutainment program aims to educate visitors of all ages about critical wildlife issues, such as habitat destruction, climate change, and poaching. The new offerings and experiences introduced this season, are designed to achieve a balanced experience of fun and learning, for visitors to develop a deep appreciation for wildlife and the importance of conservation.

For more information, including bookings, visiting hours, and tickets, visit Dubaisafari.ae.