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TP-Link unveils Neffos X series smartphones at IFA 2016

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At the IFA 2016 electronics show in Berlin, TP-Link launched the latest Neffos series smartphones that establish the company as a serious contender in the mobile space. Created to seamlessly connect people to each other, and to the world around them, the Neffos X1 and the Neffos X1 Max push the boundaries of smartphone design, imaging prowess, mobile security, and processing performance.

“The new Neffos X Series smartphones are the perfect combination of smart technology and stylish design. They bring unparalleled value to our customers by prioritizing features that help them stay closer to everything and everyone around them,” said TP-Link co-founder and chairman Jeffrey Chao.

Stylishly sleek and built with premium materials, the Neffos X1 and X1 Max share the same metal unibody exterior that was inspired by the rocks found in streams — smoothed by the water over time without losing their mettle. Every detail has been refined to make the phones look and feel familiar, and give consumers the best user experience.

One highlight of the design is the dual-curved back that tapers towards the sides and allows for a more ergonomic fit. The subtle curves also make the X1 and X1 Max easier to hold and operate one-handed compared to other devices of similar size.

The Neffos X1 Max has among the narrowest edges in the industry at 2.75 mm, while the X1 has edges of 2.95mm. Both phones achieve these remarkably thin edges even with the side mute button. The X1 Max is also incredibly slender at 7.75 mm, and the X1 comes in at 7.95mm.
The X1 and X1 Max also have super-thin bezels and smooth, chamfered edges that measure only 0.6mm. With the length of the phones kept to a minimum, screen-to-body ratio is high at 76 percent.

The screen makes use of full in-cell technology with “touch and display driver integration” or TDDI, which is light and 0.2mm thinner than the usual lamination used on other smartphones. It also provides high control precision in games and apps, and seamless screen integration for much improved image quality while also extending battery life.

A 2.5D Corning Gorilla Glass sits on top of the X1 Max’s display to make swiping through screens feel natural. The display — gorgeous at 5.5 inches — has a high, 1,000:1 color contrast for best-in-class entertainment.

Colors are rendered with utmost accuracy and vibrancy. Details are sharp and viewing angles are excellent even at awkward angles. The Neffos X Series devices are perfect for playing graphics-rich games and watching TV shows and movies.

The smartphones come with a rear camera backed by a 13-megapixel Sony sensor with backside illumination, 5P lens, and fast PDAF (phase-detection auto-focus) of just 0.2 seconds. It also features an f/2.0 aperture lens for taking clearer shots in low light and providing a shallow of depth of field.

The Neffos X1 and X1 Max feature Real-time Night shooting, so even in low light, the image users see is the image they capture – taking the guesswork out of low light photography. The cameras also include standard features such as HDR, Time Lapse, and Panorama.
The live-shooting mode crosses over to the 5-megapixel front camera, and the Real-time Beautify mode makes taking selfies more intuitive. The perfect selfie is just one tap away with the Neffos X1 and X1 Max.
Super-fast fingerprint unlocking

The inclusion of a fingerprint sensor on the back of the X Series underlines the importance of mobile security in today’s interconnected world. This provides an additional unlocking option that’s more secure than a password. Better yet, fingerprint ID unlocks the phone in a mere 0.2 seconds.

Because the sensor makes use of sophisticated algorithms, it can refine fingerprint data with use. So the more a user unlocks the phone, the more accurate and fast it gets over time.

Powering the Neffos X1 and X1 Max is the octa-core MediaTek Helio P10 chipset with up to 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage, which can be expanded with a microSD card up to 128GB. The phone supports dual-band Wi-Fi and multiple LTE bands for fast internet access where available.

This means the X Series can handle anything from typical smartphone activities, like web browsing and video streaming, to demanding games. It also means steadier and more consistent wireless connections over Wi-Fi or mobile data.

The long-lasting 3,000mAh battery inside the X1 Max can go through a full day’s use and supports fast charging of up to 50 percent on a 30-minute charge, which makes recharging the phone more convenient.
Both the Neffos X1 and X1 Max run on the latest Android 6.0 Marshmallow software, which has been tweaked to deliver a balance of ease-of-use, longer battery life, swift and seamless multitasking, and smooth gaming.

With the X Series, consumers get more value for their money. Prices start at only €199 for the Neffos X1 and €249 for the bigger, more powerful Neffos X1 Max.

The smartphones, which will be available in cloudy grey and sunrise gold, will roll out in stores by Q4 2016.

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Free Mineral Water for All: UAE Startup to Launch Groundbreaking Public Hydration Initiative

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Ourwatr

Staying hydrated just got easier, and greener, thanks to Ourwatr, that’s launching a nationwide free mineral water programme starting June 2025. It’s a first in the region: clean, refreshing mineral water made freely available across the country, delivered through a unique model that blends sustainability, community care, and social impact.

From metro stations and shopping malls to parks and government offices, thousands of chilled bottles of mineral water, sourced locally from Dibba, Fujairah, will soon be within everyone’s reach, every day. Ourwatr’s mission is simple: hydration is a right, not a privilege.

“At Ourwatr, we believe that drinking water should be accessible to all,” says Abhinav Murali, Co-founder.

“That’s why we’re giving away premium mineral water for free, and every bottle supports communities in need. It’s hydration with heart, proudly made right here in the UAE.”

Stamp of UAE quality

All Ourwatr bottles carry the prestigious EQM (Emirates Quality Mark) certification, guaranteeing they meet strict UAE national and international quality standards. When you grab a bottle, you’re assured of top-quality water, safe, pure, refreshing and approved by the country’s standardisation authority.

Mission in a bottle

With temperatures rising across the UAE, especially during summer, access to clean drinking water is more important than ever, for workers, families, children, and the elderly alike.

“In our desert climate, hydration isn’t just healthy; it’s life-saving,” adds co-founder Bharath Mohan.
“Each bottle we provide is a small act of kindness toward our community.”

Ourwatr is more than just a startup, it’s a mission in a bottle. Launched by three young, UAE-based entrepreneurs, the idea was sparked by a simple but powerful observation: access to free, convenient hydration isn’t always a given.

Wanting to change that, the trio built a business with heart at its core. The team is also in talks with various UAE charitable organisations and government agencies to expand its reach and impact. For every bottle distributed, a portion will be donated to local charities, turning everyday hydration into a meaningful act of giving.

A Model Built on Purpose and Sustainability
Ourwatr isn’t just about water, it’s about doing good. Instead of selling to consumers, the company partners with brands and organisations who cover the production and distribution costs. In return, sponsors co-brand the bottles, using them as a platform to share positive messages and shared values, while making a real difference.

“Sustainability isn’t just about less waste,  it’s about creating lasting, meaningful change,” explains Sharat Nair, Co-founder.

The bottles are crafted from recyclable materials, aligning with the UAE’s zero-waste goals and green agenda.

Backing UAE Vision 2030
Ourwatr’s initiative supports the UAE’s Vision 2030 goals around health, sustainability, and quality of life. The startup is already collaborating with local authorities to expand water access and reach as many people as possible.

More than just water, Ourwatr is delivering hope, equality, and care, one bottle at a time.

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Ardee Developments Announces Sales Launch for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island

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Ardee Al Marjan

Ardee Developments has announced the launch of sales for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island, its highly anticipated branded residential offering in partnership with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.

Official sales will commence on 1 June 2025 with expression of interest starting 15 May 2025, marking a major milestone in the evolution of Ardee Al Marjan Island, the company’s flagship, multi-billion-dirham development set to redefine coastal living in Ras Al Khaimah.

Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island will comprise 523 upscale residences — including apartments, townhouses, and sea villas — ranging from one to six bedrooms and spanning 86 m² to over 300 m². Every home is thoughtfully designed to embody refined beachfront living, with uninterrupted sea views and elegant interiors that reflect timeless sophistication.

Bringing together the prestige of the Fairmont brand with the ease of resort-style living, residents will enjoy exclusive access to a private beach, the Fairmont Fit Fitness Centre and Studio, family & kids pool, adults sky pool & terrace & bar, dedicated boardroom and private dining room, resident’s owners lounge as well as wellness facilities including treatment rooms, screening room, games room, kids club and seamless connectivity to the adjacent Fairmont resort.

Further enriching the offering is a tailored suite of à la carte services. From in-home catering and private chef experiences to childcare, dog walking, housekeeping, personal concierge support, and a home maintenance program while residents are away, every element is designed to simplify and enhance everyday living. In addition, residents will enjoy exclusive access to the Accor Owner Benefits Program. This includes Diamond status in the Accor Live Limitless (ALL) programme, the ability to gift Gold status to family and friends, and VIP privileges at over 5,700 hotels and resorts around the world.

With prices starting from AED 2.49 Million, Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island offers an exclusive opportunity for discerning buyers seeking long-term value, effortless luxury, and a lifestyle defined by exceptional quality in one of the region’s most iconic coastal destinations.

Beyond the residences, guests were given an exclusive look at the next phase of the Ardee Al Marjan Island masterplan. The development is progressing into a fully integrated coastal destination that blends residences, hospitality, leisure, retail, and entertainment on an unprecedented scale.

Key components of the masterplan include branded and serviced residences, private villas, townhouses, a flagship luxury hotel, and a vibrant retail and F&B promenade. The destination will also feature a variety of curated lifestyle offerings — from wellness hubs and gaming lounges to family entertainment zones and waterfront experiences — all designed to create a future-ready, immersive community.

Prioritizing walkability, nature access, and sea connectivity, the project will boast expansive green spaces, direct beach access, and panoramic views, setting a new standard for contemporary island living in Ras Al Khaimah.

Vishal Mehta, CEO of Ardee Developments, added: “As we prepare to open sales of Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island this June, we are proud to invite buyers into a community that reflects excellence at every level. In partnership with Al Marjan Island, Fairmont Hotels, and Christie’s International Real Estate, we are shaping a new era of luxury coastal living in Ras Al Khaimah — one defined by world-class design, hospitality, and lifestyle, brought together in a truly integrated destination.”

To support global sales efforts, Ardee Developments has appointed Christie’s International Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah as the exclusive master agency. Christie’s will lead GCC and international outreach and client servicing, ensuring a seamless buyer journey.

“This is a vibrant and integrated coastal lifestyle community that combines natural beauty, unparalleled hospitality and leisure not seen in the area before,” said Jackie Johns and Dinesh Chhatwani, Managing Partners at Christie’s International Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah. “Ras Al Khaimah’s momentum as a global hospitality and investment hub, and its rapidly growing real estate market, makes it the ideal launchpad for Ardee Developments to execute its grand vision.”

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MERED Unveils Strategic Vision for Saudi Arabia at Saudi Giga Projects 2025

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MERED

MERED outlined its long-term investment plans and strategic vision for Saudi Arabia at Saudi Giga Projects 2025 in Riyadh. The event, a key platform aligned with Vision 2030, brought together government bodies, giga project leaders, and private sector executives to discuss development, contracting, and talent-building opportunities within the Kingdom’s fast-growing construction and real estate sectors. As part of MERED’s participation, CEO Michael Belton joined a fireside chat where he shared insights into the company’s market entry approach and growth plans for the Saudi market.

“The Kingdom’s rapid urban and infrastructure growth is reshaping residential demand and creating new opportunities for long-term development,” said Michael Belton, CEO of MERED. “Vision 2030 and ongoing economic diversification are driving strong demand across residential, retail, commercial, and hospitality sectors, supported by investor-friendly reforms. In major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, we’re seeing increased interest in premium and luxury living, as well as growing demand for Class A office spaces that reflect the ambitions of a modern business environment. MERED is well-positioned to meet these changing market needs through high-quality, innovative developments that offer lasting value.”

Yazan Al-Khalidi, Chief Commercial Director at MERED, joined a panel alongside leading developers, consultants, and contractors to discuss workforce capabilities and the skills required to deliver Saudi Arabia’s giga projects efficiently and at scale. The Kingdom’s real estate sector is projected to contribute 10% to GDP by 2030, while non-oil economic activity now accounts for over 50% of national GDP. Knight Frank’s Saudi Report 2025 reveals that 93% of high-income Saudi nationals are actively seeking to buy property, reinforcing the country’s ambition to build a competitive luxury real estate market.

Alongside its growth plans in Saudi Arabia, MERED is supporting the development of future architectural talent in line with the region’s broader goal of equipping young people with in-demand skills. As part of this effort, the company is sponsoring a select group of students to attend the Pininfarina Architecture Summer School in Turin this July, through its partnership with the prestigious Pininfarina Academy, founded by the renowned Italian design house. The program offers hands-on training and exposure to international design practices, giving participants valuable experience they can apply to architectural projects across the region.

MERED’s participation underscores its broader commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s real estate ambitions through innovation, sustainability, and knowledge transfer. With a pipeline of projects already launched in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including the 290-meter ICONIC Residences designed by Pininfarina, the brand is well-positioned to introduce high-end, future-ready developments to the Saudi market.

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