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Smart Dubai hosts 40 international hackers at the first ‘Happiness Hack Dubai’
Forty hackers from four international hacking teams are gathered with 28 Happiness Champions from 23 government and private sector entities at Dubai International (DXB) Terminal 3 this week to hack new smart solutions delivering happier city experiences in Dubai.
‘Happiness Hack Dubai: Smart Travel Experience,’ is the first in a series of hackathon events hosted by Smart Dubai to discover, design and prototype new solutions bringing happiness to all city sectors, in line with the mandate of the Smart Dubai Happiness Agenda, to achieve 95% happiness for Dubai by 2021.
Her Excellency Dr. Aisha Bin Bishr, Director General of the Smart Dubai Office, announced the event, saying: “Happiness Hack Dubai is a new platform for local and international experts to collaborate and innovate smart solutions, contributing to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum: to make Dubai the happiest city on earth, and to work together to achieve the future of Dubai. Happiness Hack Dubai is a great opportunity for our government employees to engage with a global community to improve experiences for anyone who lives in or visits Dubai.”
“Happiness Hack Dubai shows the positive impact we can achieve for cities when we work together. We are leading a new, people-centric approach to cities and industries that will establish Dubai as a model of collaboration and design thinking for the world,” Dr. Aisha Bin Bishr said.
The first edition of Happiness Hack Dubai will focus on the travel sector. “Happiness Champions and top international experts will work side-by-side to build tangible new solutions enabling happy experiences for Dubai visitors, going from challenges and initial ideas, to working prototype in just 5 days,” Her Excellency said.
The hackathon will run from 5th to 9th February in the Arrivals Hall of Terminal 3 at DXB. The event is also supported by Customer Experience experts from Dubai Airports, Jumeirah Group, Du, Etisalat, Smart Dubai Government, and Dubai Data Establishment. Hackers and Happiness Champions will explore open city data from the travel sector; analyse results of sector-specific surveys conducted by the Happiness Agenda team; review challenges identified by sector stakeholders; and design and prototype needs-based solutions to positively impact happiness within the tourism sector. The Happiness Champions will lead the implementation of the selected prototypes, which will be announced in a ceremony later this month.
The Smart Dubai Office is collaborating with HACKMASTERS, a technology and innovation network based in the United Kingdom and supported by the UK’s Department for International Trade (DIT). HACKMASTERS and the DIT have provided access to innovative UK-based companies and talent who will contribute technological expertise to the event.
Speaking at a pre-launch event on Thursday, Mr. Paul Fox, British Council General to Dubai, said: “This new and innovative approach to collaboration brings the best of British talent to serve Dubai’s ambitions. The Department for International Trade helps companies and organisations across the UAE find world-leading solutions from the UK, and I am delighted that British innovation is at the heart of this important initiative.”
The UK-based companies supporting the event include: BAE Systems, who have contributed expertise on the future of airports; Black Swan, who contributed data analytics and AI expertise; W3W, who shared expertise as innovators in the travel sector; and Tideway, the UK’s biggest infrastructure group collaborating with High Speed 2 and Cross Rail.
Happiness Hack Dubai is a program of the Happiness Agenda, a strategic initiative by Smart Dubai adopted by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in May of last year. The Happiness Agenda aims to discover basic & higher needs, formalise definitions & establish a cultural baseline for happiness in Dubai; influence policies & recommend approaches to focus the city and people on happiness; build awareness, teach self-reflection and influence the city to priorities happiness; and research, formulate and implement a predictive happiness impact score & citywide index. Happiness Hack Dubai will contribute to the goal of the Happiness Agenda by designing needs-based solutions to enable positive impacts on happiness in each sector.
Happiness Hack Dubai is executed through a collaborative partnership with the UK’s Department for International Trade (DIT) and HACKMASTERS. DIT has overall responsibility for promoting UK trade across the world and attracting foreign investment to the UK’s economy. DIT is a specialised government body with responsibility for negotiating international trade policy, supporting business, as well as delivering an outward-looking trade diplomacy strategy. HACKMASTERS is technology network that partners with clients to imagine future concepts and build valuable prototypes in days, not months with particular focus on the future of mobility, home, health, education and cities.
The Smart Dubai Office leads Dubai’s smart city program, utilising technology innovation to improve efficiency and enhance experiences for the city, in line with its vision to make Dubai the happiest city on earth. The Smart Dubai Office works with its establishments, Smart Dubai Government and Dubai Data, and more than 25 partner entities from the government and private sector to deliver its strategic initiatives and products across six city dimensions: living, economy, governance, mobility, environment and people.
News
Deep Dive Dubai Launches Sunken City Walk, a Cinematic Underwater Experience that Makes Adventure Just a Step Away

Deep Dive Dubai has unveiled its newest attraction for experience seekers with the launch of Sunken City Walk. The guided underwater activity invites guests to step into a cinematic cityscape filled with surreal details. From an underwater swing and motorbike to a café table that looks straight out of a movie scene, this is Dubai’s latest must-try attraction.

The hour-long journey begins with a full briefing and safety overview, followed by guests changing into wetsuits and equipment provided on-site. They then join trained instructors for a 20-minute guided underwater walk through the Sunken City—an accessible, certification-free experience that requires no swimming skills, making it ideal for guests aged 10 and above. Currently offered at an introductory price of AED 600, with an optional 30-second keepsake video for AED 200, the experience is currently available in four daily slots at 11 AM, 12 PM, 2pm, and 3pm.
Jarrod Jablonski, Director, Deep Dive Dubai, said that “With Sunken City Walk, we’re continuing to shape Dubai’s reputation as a city of unforgettable experiences. It’s a unique attraction that reflects Dubai’s spirit, where visitors can discover adventure in ways they never thought possible.”
The launch reflects a global trend that travellers are choosing experiences over possessions. Supporting this, Shamal’s Experience Economy Report stated that 75% of UAE residents are more willing to spend on experiences, with 80% allocating a dedicated monthly budget. The launch also aligns with Dubai’s commitment to strengthening its global tourism appeal. According to Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the city welcomed 9.88 million international visitors in the first half of 2025, a six percent increase year-on-year, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s leading lifestyle and tourism hubs. Sunken City Walk at Deep Dive Dubai adds a new way for visitors to experience the city’s spirit of reinvention, where adventure is always just a step away.
While Sunken City Walk offers a first taste of underwater adventure, guests can plunge into the incredible world of diving at Deep Dive Dubai, choosing from experiences such as scuba diving, freediving, and specialised diving courses.
News
Free Mineral Water for All: UAE Startup to Launch Groundbreaking Public Hydration Initiative

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.
Home Integrator
Ardee Developments Announces Sales Launch for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island

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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