By Adrian Galben, General Manager, Crown Farms

Crown Farms, the Fujairah-based organic farm management company, is excited to unveil its new line of organic fertilizers, marking a pivotal step in advancing the UAE’s vision for sustainable agriculture and organic farming. This groundbreaking initiative not only reinforces Crown Farms’ commitment to eco-friendly agricultural practices but also strengthens its portfolio by increasing In-Country Value (ICV) and reducing reliance on imports. With a focus on complete traceability and sustainability, Crown Farms aims to foster a self-sufficient, independent agricultural ecosystem that supports the nation’s long-term environmental and food security goals.

Crown Farms’ organic fertilizers are formulated to enhance soil fertility by enriching it with organic matter, improving both water retention and nutrient absorption. This process leads to healthier soil capable of supporting sustainable crop growth over the long term. With a rich blend of essential nutrients including Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium, these fertilizers ensure that crops receive the necessary components to thrive. The balanced nutrient profile helps maintain consistent and robust growth, making it a valuable solution for modern farming.

Additionally, these fertilizers adhere to the strict organic standards set by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, ensuring safe and sustainable use in certified organic farms across the country. Free from harmful industrial chemicals, Crown Farms’ fertilizers protect the environment by preventing contamination of soil, water, and crops. This chemical-free composition supports the health of agricultural ecosystems and reduces dependency on synthetic fertilizers. Moreover, the natural formulation promotes strong root growth, helping plants develop resilience to harsh environmental conditions. Produced to the highest standards, these fertilizers are fully certified for use in organic farming, making them a trusted choice for farmers dedicated to sustainability.

Adrian Galben, General Manager of Crown Farms, said: “At Crown Farms, we are proud to be playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable agriculture in the UAE. Our new organic fertilizer is more than just a product—it is a step toward achieving agricultural independence and reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to sustainability and food security. By empowering local farmers with cutting-edge, eco-friendly solutions, we are helping to reduce reliance on imports, ensuring traceability from farm to table, and building a resilient agricultural ecosystem. This project reflects our dedication to aligning with the UAE’s vision for a greener, more self-sufficient future in food production.”

Crown Farms’ organic fertilizers are versatile and well-suited for a diverse array of crops, from vegetables and fruits to herbs. Whether used in home gardens, large-scale commercial farms, or fully organic agricultural setups, these fertilizers integrate seamlessly into any farming practice. They are designed to work effortlessly with drip irrigation systems or direct soil applications, providing a natural, efficient boost to productivity while nurturing soil health.

Akabeko, Dubai’s first table-top Yakiniku Japanese restaurant is introducing a unique matcha experience, where guests can immerse themselves in a specially crafted afternoon tea spread. Running from February 2^nd to March 31^st between 12 pm to 4 pm, the afternoon tea celebrates the art of Japanese tea with uniquely conceptualized matcha desserts paired with an array of savory Wagyu delicacies and an indulgent tea selection from Mucharaka Tea. The one-of-a-kind experience offers an authentic taste of Japan in a serene setting, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

The afternoon tea presents a harmonious blend of savory and sweet creations, thoughtfully curated by the owner from menu to plating to bring an exquisite spread for guests. Staying true to Akabeko’s nose-to-tail philosophy, the savory Wagyu bites are transformed into delectable culinary creations where every section of the meat is efficiently utilized. These include a Bao Bun with Japanese A5 Wagyu slices, greens and garlic chips, a Mini Croissant with Japanese A5 Wagyu slices, shiso leaf and spicy mayo, a Japanese A5 Wagyu Cheese Burger Slider and a Grilled Rice Ball.

For matcha lovers with a sweet tooth, the menu features uniquely crafted Matcha-infused sweets and pastries including a rich Caramel Matcha Pudding with sesame snap, an airy Matcha roll cake with Matcha cream, a Matcha macaron and a Matcha Dorayaki – a traditional Japanese snack with a matcha twist.

To complement the culinary delights, Akabeko has partnered with Mucharaka Tea – an authentic Japanese tea brand that offers tea sourced from Japan to the UAE, to offer a curated selection of hot and cold teas that elevate the dining experience. For those who prefer the warmth, there are plenty of hot tea options to choose from including green tea, Genmaicha, caramel roasted green tea, Japanese Earl Grey tea and Japanese Black tea while those who prefer their tea cold, can enjoy a selection of mango green tea, peach green tea and lemon green tea. The cold brew tea is also now available in a sparkling version, adding a bubbly touch to your tea experience while still enjoying Japanese tea. Additional beverages such as a matcha latte and coffee are also available.

The matcha experience is beautifully presented amidst a captivating Zen garden-inspired décor on the table, featuring a stone garden layout and traditional Japanese masu boxes and wooden trays, artfully displaying the culinary creations. This intricate, yet serene setting transports guests straight to the heart of Japan, bringing an experience that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Shangri-La Jeddah is pleased to announce the appointment of Brice Lunot as its new General Manager. A cultivated hospitality leader with over three decades of experience in luxury hospitality, Brice brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to the esteemed property, consistently driving excellence in the industry.

Brice Lunot joined Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts in 2019, where he played a key role in the success of various luxury properties. His journey with the group includes serving as General Manager at Shangri-La Le Touessrok in Mauritius and later leading Shangri-La operations in Maldives. Most recently, Brice served as Acting General Manager at Shangri-La’s flagship property on the Red Sea, where he demonstrated outstanding leadership, commitment, and expertise.

As the new General Manager of Shangri-La Jeddah, Brice is set to enhance the guest experience while reinforcing the hotel’s presence in the region. His deep understanding of the Shangri-La brand, coupled with his dedication to excellence will drive innovation, exceptional service, and operational success.

Located along the picturesque Jeddah waterfront, Shangri-La Jeddah is a premier luxury destination that blends timeless elegance with modern sophistication. With Brice Lunot at the helm, the hotel is poised for an exciting new chapter, further solidifying its reputation as a top-tier destination for travelers and residents alike.