Milano by Danube has announced the launch of its new B2B showroom in Deira, further strengthening its presence in one of the UAE’s most dynamic commercial districts. Marking the brand’s fourth showroom in Deira, the expansion reinforces Milano’s commitment to serving the region’s thriving export, wholesale and retail markets while positioning the company to capitalize on the anticipated recovery in global trade activity.

Recognised as the heart of Dubai’s traditional trading ecosystem, Deira has long been a preferred sourcing destination for buyers from across the CIS region, East and West Africa, the Middle East, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Mauritius, Fiji and several other international markets. As one of the world’s leading port and free trade hubs, Dubai continues to attract wholesalers, exporters, traders and project buyers seeking reliable sourcing partners, with Deira remaining at the centre of this activity.

Recent geopolitical developments led to a temporary moderation in trading activity across key hubs such as Deira; however, market indicators now point towards a steady return of demand, renewed buyer movement, and strengthening business confidence. The launch of Milano by Danube’s new B2B showroom comes at this pivotal juncture, reflecting the brand’s confidence in Deira’s resilience and Dubai’s continued position as a global trading gateway.

Milano has consistently adopted a long-term growth approach, continuing to invest even during periods of market uncertainty. The company recently expanded its retail footprint with the launch of its Maleha showroom in Sharjah and has now further strengthened its presence in Deira by securing a prime location that supports its long-term vision for export-led growth. Beyond expanding its own footprint, this launch is expected to boost confidence among traders in the Deira market and encourage more businesses to expand and invest in the area.

Speaking on the occasion, Anis Sajan, Vice Chairman of Danube Group, said, “Deira is not just a market for us; it is where my journey began. This is where I learned the fundamentals of trade: trust, relationships, hard work, and speed. In many ways, this journey feels deeply personal. I started Milano from Deira, and coming back to launch yet another showroom here feels truly surreal. I believe the export market is poised for significant growth over the next six months, and this is the right time to strengthen our presence, invest strategically, and prepare for the opportunities ahead.” 

Sahil Sajan, Director at Milano, added, “The new showroom has been designed as a one-stop sourcing destination for wholesalers, exporters and retail customers. Our diverse product portfolio across sanitaryware, hardware, electricals, chandeliers and tiles allows customers to source multiple categories under one roof. Combined with our strong inventory, competitive pricing and efficient supply chain, we are able to offer greater convenience and flexibility to our customers while strengthening Milano’s position as a preferred sourcing partner for businesses across global markets.” 

Milano’s integrated supply chain further differentiates the brand within the market. With warehousing facilities in Jebel Ali, the company maintains substantial inventory while also enabling customers to source mixed product categories.

Sahil Sajan further added, “Despite geopolitical tensions and rising freight costs, we remained confident that demand would remain resilient and that customers with genuine requirements would absorb the additional cost. Therefore, we continued our shipments without interruption and ensured that none of our containers were sent back to their source. This decision is now contributing to our growth.”

Looking ahead, Milano expects to achieve a further 20% growth over the next six months as export activity gains momentum, reinforcing its commitment to supporting Dubai’s position as one of the world’s leading global trading gateways. 

Newby Teas, in collaboration with Lunarossa, hosted Tea Voyage: An Exclusive Tea Blending Experience, an immersive evening that brought together the craft of fine tea, creativity, and Italian hospitality aboard the elegant Lunarossa houseboat.

Setting sail from Business Bay Marina towards the World Islands, guests embarked on a unique sensory journey surrounded by Dubai’s breathtaking views, a golden sunset, and the calming rhythm of the sea. The intimate setting of the Lunarossa houseboat provided the perfect backdrop for an evening dedicated to discovery, connection, and the art of tea.

The Tea Voyage experience began with an introduction to the fascinating world of tea, exploring its rich history, origins, and the characteristics that distinguish each type of tea. Guests also discovered how tea cultivation, harvesting techniques, and leaf selection influence not only flavour and aroma, but also naturally occurring compounds such as fluoride, reinforcing Newby’s commitment to quality from leaf to cup.

Guests were then invited to discover the art of tea blending through an interactive sensory experience. Beginning with four carefully selected base teas, participants explored each tea individually, engaging their senses to understand the distinctive aromas, flavours, and personalities of each blend. They were then introduced to supporting and top notes, experimenting with an array of ingredients ranging from vibrant strawberry and mango, to delicate raspberry and peach, as well as calming chamomile and rose. Experiencing tea from leaf to cup, demonstrated the patience and precision behind every carefully crafted blend.

Adding a culinary element to the evening, guests were given a unique palate teaser, challenging them to identify the flavours behind a specially created rooibos infusion inspired by the flavours of tiramisu. Combining cocoa nibs, cocoa powder, and creamy notes, the creation captured the indulgent essence of the classic Italian dessert in a refined tea format.

As part of the Tea Voyage experience, guests became tea blenders themselves, carefully weighing and blending their chosen ingredients to craft their own signature teas. Each participant brewed their personal creation and shared the inspiration behind their blend, giving it a unique name and transforming the simple ritual of tea into a personal expression of creativity.

The collaboration with Lunarossa brought together two worlds built around craftsmanship and memorable experiences. Meaning “Red Moon” in Italian, Lunarossa is a Business Bay-based Italian restaurant known for its authentic Italian cuisine and warm hospitality. Its beautifully designed houseboat, featuring serene blue interiors and elegant details, created an atmosphere of tranquillity and sophistication throughout the evening.

Despite the warmth of the July evening, the gentle sea breeze, open skies, and stunning sunset views created the ideal environment for guests to relax, connect, and immerse themselves in the world of tea.

Through Tea Voyage, Newby Teas continues to redefine the tea experience, transforming every cup into a journey of flavour, creativity, and discovery.

Travellers are increasingly prioritising wellbeing, preventative healthcare and meaningful experiences over traditional holidays amid recent global uncertainty. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has introduced ‘Healing is the New Luxury,’ a new campaign designed to strengthen the country’s position as one of the world’s leading wellness destinations for GCC travellers.

The campaign reflects a growing shift in travel behaviour, with visitors increasingly seeking longer, experience-led holidays centred around health, relaxation and personal wellbeing. Combining luxury hospitality, medical excellence, wellness traditions, gastronomy, nature and culture, Thailand is responding to rising demand for travel that delivers both restorative and enriching experiences.

The GCC continues to be one of Thailand’s highest-value tourism markets, with more than 600,000 visitors expected from the region by the end of 2026, including over 150,000 travellers from the UAE. Travellers from the region are among the country’s longest-staying and highest-spending international visitors, reinforcing the Middle East’s strategic importance to Thailand’s tourism growth.

To support this demand, Thailand is strengthening air connectivity with the UAE through airline partners including Emirates, Etihad Airways and Air Arabia. More than 15 direct flights each day now connect Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah to destinations across Thailand, as airlines continue to expand capacity in response to growing demand.

Through ‘Healing is the New Luxury’, TAT is highlighting Thailand’s comprehensive wellness ecosystem, bringing together internationally accredited hospitals, luxury wellness resorts, traditional Thai therapies, preventive healthcare, holistic wellness programmes, gastronomy, nature, and authentic cultural experiences under a single destination offering. Thailand has more than 400 internationally equipped hospitals and clinics serving overseas visitors. In 2025, the country’s health tourism sector generated approximately 125 billion Baht, reflecting the growing global demand for integrated healthcare and wellness travel.

Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “As we enter the high season for Middle East travellers, Thailand is ready to welcome visitors from across the region with confidence. This readiness is supported by strong air connectivity and convenient access. Most recently, flydubai launched its daily direct Dubai–Don Mueang service, adding another important gateway between the UAE and Bangkok, with plans to further increase frequency to double daily from 18 July 2026 onwards. To advance our strategic goals, TAT has launched ‘Healing is the New Luxury,’ reflecting a growing demand for travel experiences with deeper meaning. For Thailand, luxury means priceless moments that heal the heart, uplift the mind, and restore balance. It is found in warm Thai hospitality, Thai cuisine, tranquil beaches, spiritual journeys, wellness, and meaningful local experiences. Thailand is a year-round holiday destination and is ready for the Middle East high season. It is safe, accessible, and welcoming for all travellers.”

GCC travellers typically stay in Thailand between 10 days and three weeks, significantly longer than many other international visitors. UAE travellers frequently visit the country, spending an average of more than 100,000 Baht per trip. Demand is increasingly shifting from traditional leisure holidays towards wellness retreats, preventive healthcare, luxury hospitality, and personalised experiences.

Medical travellers from the GCC are among Thailand’s highest-value visitor segments, spending an average of 107,662 Baht per trip. While Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi and Chiang Mai remain the country’s most popular destinations, TAT is also promoting emerging destinations including Khao Yai, Kanchanaburi, Chanthaburi and Trat to encourage multi-destination itineraries, longer stays and year-round travel beyond the traditional peak season.

As wellness tourism continues to reshape global travel, ‘Healing is the New Luxury’ reflects Thailand’s ambition to strengthen its position in the global wellness economy while deepening engagement with GCC travellers seeking personalised experiences that combine health, luxury, culture and hospitality.