Prepare to Fall in Love with the Maldives this Eid Al Adha with Unforgettable Escapes at Centara Hotels & Resorts

 

Make the most of the upcoming long weekend and enjoy Destination Maldives with four unique resorts catering to every kind of traveller, from family adventures to romantic retreats and wellness escapes, all with exclusive discounts and perks

 

 

 

 

Eid Al Adha is just around the corner, making it the perfect time to take a well-deserved break. Set against a backdrop of turquoise waters and powder-soft beaches, and blending Centara’s signature Thai hospitality with authentic Maldivian charm, these four unique properties – Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives, and Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection – promise to take your celebration to new heights. Just a short flight from the UAE, travellers can bask in immersive island experiences, underwater adventures, exquisite dining, rejuvenating wellness experiences, and so much more.

 

Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives

 

 

As the newest addition to Centara’s Maldivian portfolio, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives completes The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, a multi-island destination that promises a truly distinctive holiday experience. A short speedboat ride from Malé International Airport, this refined beachfront resort offers unparalleled privacy, elegantly appointed villas, world-class dining, and immersive activities set against the natural splendour of the Indian Ocean. Guests can also unwind at SPA Cenvaree Retreat, where locally harvested oils, restorative herbs, and centuries-old Thai and Ayurvedic healing traditions come together in rituals designed to soothe the senses and restore inner balance.

 

Exclusive Introductory Offer

To celebrate Eid Al Adha, Centara invites guests to secure their next escape with its Grand Island Indulgence: Exclusive Introductory Offer. Available on bookings made until 30^th June 2025 for stays between now and 15^th October 2025, enjoy a relaxing 4-night stay while only paying for 3, or extend your escape with Stay 7, Pay 5. To make your stay that extra bit special, this incredible offer also includes meal plan upgrades, complimentary bubbly and couples’ massages, exclusive access to The Club, a choice of an ocean excursion, plus extra perks for CentaraThe1 members and more.

 

Booking dates: From now until June 30^th

Stay dates: From now until October 15^th, 2025

Offer: Pay for 3 nights and stay for 4 OR pay for 5 and stay for 7

Additional benefits:

• Upgrade to the Half Board Plus meal plan when booking a Room with Breakfast
• Club access
• Complimentary bubbly at Sunset Social on the first evening of the stay, with 2 glasses per 2 guests
• One couple’s spa treatment at Cenvaree Retreat
• Choice of a nighttime handline fishing trip or sunset dolphin cruise
• Additional 15% discount and triple points for CentaraThe1 members

*For bookings and more information, please click here.

 

Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives

 

 

Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives is also situated within The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, completing this multi-island wonderland. In contrast with its sister property, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, this underwater-themed resort is part of Centara’s renowned Mirage brand and offers a vibrant, family-centric escape filled with endless entertainment, diverse dining, a dedicated kids’ club, Games Room, and the acclaimed SPA Cenvaree alongside a colourful Candy Spa for children. At the heart of the resort is a spectacular outdoor water complex featuring a swimming pool, kids’ pool, lazy river, and playful splash zone, making it an unforgettable destination for guests of all ages.

 

Stay 3, Pay 2 with Centara

Experience an unforgettable family escape this Eid Al Adha with a limited-time Stay 3, Pay 2 offer at Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives. Savour every moment with every third night complimentary between now and November as you settle into one of 145 stylish, beach-inspired rooms, each featuring a dining table and a private outdoor bathtub, jacuzzi, or pool. Dive into non-stop fun with thrilling activities, an exciting kids club, a tropical lazy river, and relaxing treatments at the world-class SPA Cenvaree, plus playful mini treatments for little ones at the Candy Spa.

 

Don’t miss out and make the most of your well-deserved long weekend, Maldivian style, with boundless fun and adventure for guests of all ages at Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives.

 

Booking dates: From now until June 30^th

Stay dates: From now until November 30^th, 2025

Offer:  Every third night is complimentary from now until November!  - Stay 3 Pay 2, Stay 6 Pay 4, Stay 9 Pay 6 and more

*For bookings and more information, please click here.

 

Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives

 

 

Accessible by a short speedboat ride, this idyllic island retreat is an adults-only haven, blending indulgence and tranquillity in equal measure. Relish a secluded island escape as you reconnect and rejuvenate in a private beachfront villa, savour a romantic candlelit dinner on the beach, or simply soak up the sun beside the sparkling lagoon. Ideal for couples, honeymooners, or groups of friends, guests can also explore vibrant marine life through snorkelling or enjoy resort-wide activities, beach games, and water sports.

 

Ultimate Adults Only Escape

This Eid Al Adha, reboot, recharge, and rejuvenate with a one-of-a-kind getaway at Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives. This adults-only island paradise invites guests to bask in the Maldivian sunshine with 30% off on all villas and 45% off for CentaraThe1 Members. To begin your unforgettable sojourn in style, guests can enjoy 50% off on transfers for stays of 2 to 4 nights, plus guests staying in an opulent Overwater Villa will be treated to a bottle of sparkling grape and a fruit basket upon arrival.

 

To make your escape even more unforgettable, savour the resort’s world-class dining experiences with 20% off food and drinks throughout your stay or savour a succulent 3-course poolside dinner, available for guests on Half Board and above. Additionally, take advantage of 10% off water sports and excursions alongside complimentary snorkelling, pedalo, and kayaking, allowing you to make cherished memories with loved ones. Finally, a visit to Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives would not be complete without a pampering session at SPA Cenvaree, where guests can enjoy buy one, get one on select treatments.

 

Book now and spoil yourself and a loved one with an unparalleled escape at Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives.

 

Booking dates: From now until January 10^th, 2026

Stay dates: From now until January 10^th, 2026

Offer:

• 45% off on all villas for CentaraThe1 Members

• 30% off for non-members
• 50% off on transfers with a minimum 2 nights to a maximum 4 nights
• Sparkling grape & fruit basket upon arrival in Overwater villas
• One 3-course poolside dinner under the stars for Half Board Plus and above
• Buy one and get one on select spa treatments
• Special evening turndown service with bed decoration on arrival night
• 20% discount on Food & Beverage from all outlets’ a la carte menu
• 10% discount on water sports and excursions
• Complimentary use of Snorkelling gear, pedalo, and kayak

*For bookings and more information, please click here.

 

 

Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection

 

 

Escape to Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection, where Thai-inspired hospitality meets the raw beauty of a pristine island surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Choose from 112 beachfront and overwater villas, then dive into unforgettable adventures like snorkelling along the colourful house reef and exploring a nearby shipwreck teeming with nurse sharks, rays, and lemon sharks. The expert dive centre team is on hand to guide couples, families, and adventure seekers alike through these wonders, all while sharing ways to help preserve the reef’s natural ecosystem.

 

Sea, Sand, & Centara

Escape the ordinary with an unforgettable stay at Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection, with 45% off Flexible Rates for CentaraThe1 members and 30% off seaplane transfers, as well as endless perks and exciting experiences around every corner. From the moment you arrive to find handmade chocolates and fresh tropical fruit in your villa, you’ll know you’re somewhere special. Spend your days snorkelling vibrant reefs, paddling through crystal-clear waters, or exploring the island’s lush surroundings, then unwind with a buy-one-get-one spa treatment or sip cocktails with 20% off across all à la carte dining venues.

 

Families can look forward to a complimentary picnic lunch, while couples enjoy an intimate three-course dinner under the stars. Alternatively, enhance your stay further with floating breakfasts served in your private pool, beautifully decorated beds on arrival night, and generous savings on water sports, and more. With free stays and meals for little ones aged 6 and under, and complimentary access to snorkelling gear, kayaks, and pedalos, this island retreat offers everything you need for a truly magical Maldivian escape this Eid Al Adha.

 

Booking dates: From now until January 14^th, 2026

Stay dates: From now until January 14^th, 2026

Offer:

• 45% off Flexible Rates on all meal plans for CentaraThe1 Members
• 30% off on seaplane transfers for all persons with a minimum stay of 2 to 6 nights until January 10^th, 2026 all
• Homemade chocolates & fruit basket upon arrival in Overwater and Club Pool Villas
• One free picnic lunch – for the whole family (Half Board Plus and above) or one 3-course private beach dinner under the stars for couples (Half Board Plus and above)

• Buy one and get one on select spa treatments

• Kids 6 years and below Stay & Eat for Free as per the meal plan booked by parents
• 20% special discount on indulging floating breakfast (Only in Club pool villas)
• Special evening turn-down service with bed decoration on arrival night
• 20% discount on Food & Beverages in all outlets on the à la carte menu
• 10% discount on Water Sports and Excursions
• Complimentary use of snorkelling gear, pedalo, and Kayak

*For bookings and more information, please click here.

مجموعة فنادق بارسيلو تفتتح فندقها الثاني في جزر المالديف

يعد فندق بارسيلو ناساندورا ماليه أول فندق خمس نجوم في عاصمة جزر المالديف، ماليه. يقع الفندق على الواجهة البحرية ويوفر إطلالات مفتوحة على المحيط الهندي. يضم الفندق الجديد 136 غرفة أنيقة و116 شقة مصممة بعناية ومساحات مكتبية متميزة.

يعزز هذا الافتتاح الجديد توسع مجموعة بارسيلو في آسيا، حيث تُدير المجموعة حاليًا فنادق في 6 دول آسيوية. ويُعد هذا الافتتاح هو الثاني للمجموعة في أرخبيل جزر المالديف بعد افتتاح منتجع بارسيلو ويل لاجون جزر المالديف العام الماضي.

دول مجلس التعاون الخليجي، مايو 2025: تواصل مجموعة فنادق بارسيلو توسيع وجودها الدولي مع افتتاح فندق بارسيلو ناساندورا ماليه، أول فندق خمس نجوم في عاصمة جزر المالديف. تتكون جزر المالديف من 26 جزيرة مرجانية و1200 جزيرة صغيرة في المحيط الهندي. ومع درجات الحرارة الدافئة على مدار العام، والمياه الصافية، والشواطئ الرملية البيضاء، والتنوع البيولوجي البحري الغني، تعد هذه الجزر جنة حقيقية، وهي المكان المثالي للسباحة طوال العام.

يتميز فندق بارسيلو ناساندورا ماليه بموقعه الفريد على الواجهة البحرية مع إطلالات غير محجوبة على مياه جزر المالديف الفيروزية. ويجمع بين الموقع الممتاز والتصميم الجذاب، مما يوفر للضيوف تجربة متكاملة في وجهة ساحرة. يضم الفندق 136 غرفة من فئات متنوعة و116 شقة حصرية، مما يقدم للضيوف إقامة حضرية فاخرة في مدينة ماليه الحيوية.

يتمتع فندق بارسيلو ناساندورا ماليه بموقع مثالي قبالة محطة العبّارات هينفيرو، ويبعد 10 دقائق فقط بالسيارة عن مطار فيلانا الدولي.

كما تتنوع تجربة الطعام في فندق بارسيلو ناساندورا ماليه بين ثلاثة مطاعم، ومقهى للوجبات الخفيفة، وصالة للشيشة: مقهى أليماس في الطابق الأرضي، مطعم أويفارو الذي يقدم الطعام طوال اليوم بنظام البوفيه، مطعم دونز المتخصص في المأكولات الصينية، بار وصالة بي هيفن على سطح الفندق والذي يقدم مجموعة من المشروبات المنعشة ومنطقة مخصصة للشيشة، وأخيرًا بار المسبح الذي يوفر للضيوف فرصة الاسترخاء بجانب أول مسبح في المدينة على الواجهة البحرية.

يتميز فندق بارسيلو ناساندورا ماليه أيضًا بمنطقة واسعة للاهتمام بالعافية والاسترخاء، تشمل سبا عصريًا يضم ست غرف علاج فاخرة. كما يحتوي الفندق على نادي رياضي مجهز بالكامل مع إطلالات بانورامية على البحر، مما يوفر أجواء مثالية للضيوف لممارسة التمارين الرياضية.

بالإضافة إلى ذلك، يوفر الفندق أكثر من 1000 متر مربع من المرافق المُصممة خصيصًا لفعاليات الاجتماعات والمعارض والمؤتمرات، مما يجعله مكانًا مثاليًا للشركات ولقاءات الأعمال.

مع هذا الافتتاح الجديد، تؤكد مجموعة فنادق بارسيلو التزامها بتوسيع وجودها في آسيا، حيث تُدير حاليًا 11 فندقًا في 6 دول: جزر المالديف، إندونيسيا، سريلانكا، تايلاند، الإمارات العربية المتحدة، وسلطنة عمان.

يُمثّل فندق بارسيلو ناساندورا ماليه ثاني فنادق المجموعة في جزر المالديف. أما الفندق الأول، بارسيلو ويل لاجون جزر المالديف، فهو منتجع خمس نجوم يضم 100 فيلا فاخرة، 30 منها فوق الماء. يقع المنتجع على جزيرة بودوفينولهو في جنوب أتول أري، بالقرب من منطقة المحيط الجنوبي أري محمية سامبا والتي تعد واحدة من أفضل المواقع في العالم لمشاهدة أسماك قرش الحوت، مما يجعله وجهة مثالية لعشاق الغوص.

itel Debuts CITY Series with CITY 100 New Model: A Stylish, Durable & DeepSeek AI-Powered Smartphone for Gen Z

SHENZHEN, China, May 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- itel, a reliable smart life brand for everyone, is excited to announce the launch of the CITY 100, the inaugural smartphone in its brand-new CITY Series. itel CITY 100 redefines expectations for budget smartphones by integrating strong performance within a sleek design, bridging the gap between advanced AI capabilities and budget-friendly devices, empowering users to enjoy a smarter, more connected life.

Unibody Frame & Ultra-Flat Display – A First in Its Class

Embodying the series motto – Fun, Yet Strong –CITY 100 is more than just a device, it's a lifestyle companion for young trendsetters. With a premium 7.65mm unibody frame, it offers seamless and sleek aesthetic. Unlike traditional budget phones designs, it features an ultra-flat display that sits perfectly flush with the frame. This refined design ensures comfort during long browsing sessions and adds a touch of sophistication to every interaction. Its immersive 6.75-inch display offers a smooth 90Hz refresh rate, a peak brightness of 700 nits and an 83% wide color gamut to deliver smooth and vibrant visuals even under sunlight.

Engineered for durability, itel CITY 100 is also remarkably durable with an IP64-rated dust and water resistance, effortlessly withstands the rigors of daily use. Built to last, itel supports this phone with a 60-month fluency guarantee. Also CITY 100 comes with a free magnetic speaker in particular countries and supports accessories like stands and card holders. Furthermore, CITY 100 features a 5200mAh high-capacity battery with 18W fast charging and a 4-year battery health guarantee, ensuring all-day long performance and long-term reliability.

itel's First DeepSeek AI-Powered Creativity

What truly sets itel City 100 apart in its price range is its creative AI functions. As itel's first smartphone equipped with the DeepSeek R1 model, itel CITY 100 support intelligent interaction scenarios powered by itel AI. This enables users to transform texts into custom wallpapers or stylize their favorite images with AI creativity, while also enjoying various AI assistant services, such as one-press AI search for shopping or help, instant AI translation, image-to-text conversion, AI writing, AI call noise reduction, and AI voice snap.

Thanks to the upgrade of AI tools, young users can engage with the latest advancements in AI technology and experience the convenience brought by mobile innovation. itel's commitment to integrating AI into mobile applications demonstrates its dedication to meeting the smart lifestyle needs of entry-level users, making technology more accessible and affordable. With these enhancements, itel continues to bridge the gap between advanced AI capabilities and budget-friendly devices, empowering users to enjoy a smarter, more connected life.

As the first release in itel's City Series, City 100 is built for the adventurous, expressive, and connected young people who embrace technology not just as a tool, but as a way of life. From its trendy, integrated design to its strong, reliable performance, this is a device that dares users to explore, play, and live their lives to the fullest and have confidence comparing with same price competitors.

For more information please visit: https://www.itel-life.com/ 

2025 Civil Society Forum: African Development Bank and Civil Society Reaffirm Alliance for Africa's Transformation

 

The forum provided an opportunity for the Bank to present its Civil Society Engagement Action Plan (2024–2028), reaffirming its commitment to an inclusive and participatory development process

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ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast, May 14, 2025/ -- The African Development Bank www.AfDB.org has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to collaborating with African civil society to advance the continent's development agenda. This was a key message of the 2025 Civil Society Organizations (CSO) Forum, which was successfully held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, in Abidjan. The forum, organized under the theme: "Celebrating the Contribution of Civil Society to Africa's Development," brought together over 150 participants at the Bank's headquarters, with thousands more connected online across Africa and the diaspora. A Novel Action Plan to Deepen Engagement This edition of the CSO Forum marked a pivotal step in reinforcing a solid, transformative, and trust-based partnership between the African Development Bank and civil society organizations. This enduring alliance is essential for collectively serving African populations and achieving impactful development across the continent. The forum provided an opportunity for the Bank to present its Civil Society Engagement Action Plan (2024–2028), reaffirming its commitment to an inclusive and participatory development process. Zeneb Touré, Manager of the Civil Society and Community Engagement Division, presented the strategic framework to Beth Dunford, the African Development Bank Group's Vice-President for Agriculture, Human, and Social Development, who accepted it on behalf of the institution's President, Akinwumi Adesina. Demonstrating the Bank's commitment to a diverse and inclusive partnership, Dunford shared the Action Plan with representatives of key civil society components: the Bank-Civil Society Committee, the Climate and Energy Coalition, and a continental network of women entrepreneurs' associations. Augustine Njamnshi, a prominent voice in the civil society climate and energy movement, welcomed its adoption: "The approval of this Action Plan marks a historic turning point in our collaboration with the African Development Bank Group. Born from a shared vision, this document becomes our collective legacy. We express our sincere gratitude to the Bank for this profound act of trust." Highlighting the essential role of civil society as an integral part of Africa's progress, Kolyang Palebele, representative of the Platform of Farmers' Organizations of Africa, expressed the spirit of collaboration, praising "the Bank's unique power to unite the continent's driving forces around a common vision of improving the lives of African people." "Civil society is not on the margins of development dynamics; it is the very essence, its living memory and its engine for change," Mr. Palebele stated. "Over the years, civil society engagement has become a cornerstone of the African Development Bank’s work. What was once an aspiration has become evolved into a structured, institutionalized, and results-oriented collaboration partnership." Ms. Dunford emphasized. Empowering Communities Through Decentralized Engagement During the forum, an important session highlighted the progress made in decentralizing the Bank's engagement with civil society. Successful experiences from the five regions of Africa were presented. This localized approach was strongly commended by the Vice-President for Regional Development, Integration and Service Delivery, Nnenna Nwabufo, who appreciated a transformative cross-border initiative between the Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The project has provided over 2.4 million people with access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, while strengthening community resilience and fostering cooperation. Fostering Mutual Accountability Through Open Dialogue The forum culminated in an unprecedented and frank dialogue between senior representatives from seven strategic departments of the Bank and leaders of civil society organizations. Discussions focused on crucial areas such as access to information, environmental and social safeguards, climate action, agriculture, gender equality, youth empowerment, and grievance mechanisms. This essential interaction highlighted a shared commitment to transparency, responsiveness, and mutual accountability in the pursuit of sustainable development outcomes. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

تزايد الطلب الإيطالي يُعزز الاقتصاد السياحي في أبوظبي

 

 مضاعفة القدرة الاستيعابية للمقاعد المميزة مع استجابة الاتحاد لنمو السوق الإيطالي

• ثلاث رحلات يومية إلى ميلان ورحلتان يوميتان إلى روما استجابةً للطلب المتزايد

 

أبوظبي، الإمارات العربية المتحدة - أعلنت الاتحاد للطيران، الناقل الوطني لدولة الإمارات، عن نمو ملحوظ في الطلب الإيطالي على السفر الجوي بين إيطاليا وأبوظبي، لدعم طموحات أبوظبي في القطاع السياحي وتعزيز الروابط التجارية والثقافية الأوسع بين إيطاليا والإمارات.

 

تعليقاً على هذا الموضوع، صرّح جوريان ستيلدر، نائب رئيس أول لشؤون الشبكة والتحالفات والقطاع في الاتحاد للطيران: "يُبرز النمو المُستمر الذي نشهده من السوق الإيطالية جاذبية أبوظبي كوجهة سياحية ومركز عالمي. ويستجيب المسافرون الإيطاليون بشكل جيد لعروضنا، مع طلب مُستمر على رحلات الترفيه والأعمال على حد سواء. يُعزز هذا الربط القطاع السياحي ويدعم تعزيز الروابط في مجالات التجارة والثقافة والاستثمار."

 

وبرزت إيطاليا كواحدة من أسرع الأسواق الأوروبية نموًا بالنسبة للاتحاد للطيران، حيث سجلت حركة السفر بين إبطاليا وأبوظبي زيادة بنسبة 76% مقارنة بالعام 2023، في انعكاس واضح لجاذبية أبوظبي المتنامية كوجهة للزوار الإيطاليين.

 

وقد دفع هذا الطلب المستمر الاتحاد للطيران إلى زيادة خدماتها إلى ثلاث رحلات يومية بين أبوظبي وميلان، ورحلتين يوميتين إلى روما، مما يوفر للمسافرين الإيطاليين خيارات مريحة لزيارة أبوظبي.

 

ستُشغّل طائرة الاتحاد للطيران الجديدة إيرباص A321LR لرحلتها اليومية الثالثة إلى ميلان، مُقدّمةً تجربة سفر فاخرة تشمل مقصورة خاصة بالدرجة الأولى، ومقاعد القابلة للتحويل إلى سرير كامل على درجة الأعمال، وخدمة واي فاي عالية السرعة، وخدمة طعام مُحسّنة على متن الطائرة. تُضفي هذه الطائرة راحة الاتحاد للطيران المُميّزة على الرحلات الطويلة على الرحلات القصيرة والمتوسطة، مما يُحسّن تجربة السفر للضيوف الإيطاليين.

 

وابتداءً من نوفمبر، ستوفر الاتحاد للطيران أكثر من 10,000 مقعد أسبوعيًا بين إيطاليا وأبو ظبي لكل رحلة ذهاب وكل رحلة إياب، بزيادة بنسبة 80% في السع  مقارنة بنوفمبر 2023. كما سيتضاعف عدد المقاعد المميزة المتاحة إلى أكثر من 1000 مقعد في الأسبوع، استجابةً للطلب المتزايد على هذا المسار.

 

وتواصل الاتحاد تعزيز حضورها في إيطاليا من خلال شراكاتها الاستراتيجية، حيث يمكن للمسافرين السفر مع شركة طيران ITA Airways وشركة قطارات ترينيطاليا من 14 مطارًا محليًا و31 محطة قطار في جميع أنحاء إيطاليا للصعود على رحلات الاتحاد من روما وميلان. وتستند هذه الشراكات على اتفاقية المشاركة بالرمز الناجحة مع ITA Airways والتي أُبرمت في ديسمبر 2021، والتي أتاحت ربطًا أفضل بين الإمارات وإيطاليا.

 

ويستفيد المسافرون الإيطاليون من برنامج التوقف في أبوظبي والذي يوفّر إقامات فندقية مجانية لمدة تصل إلى ليلتين، مما يسمح للزوار بتجربة المعالم الثقافية في أبوظبي الخلابة وأماكن الترفيه العالمية المستوى. وقد شهدت حجوزات التوقف من السوق الإيطالية نموًا بنسبة 92% منذ عام 2024.

 

ومع استمرار نمو الطلب من السوق الإيطالية، تتمتع الاتحاد للطيران بمكانةٍ تؤهلها لاستيعاب أعداد المسافرين المتزايدة من خلال جدول رحلاتها الحالي.

 

وتابع ستيلدر قائلاً: "يعكس الأداء القوي لرحلاتنا إلى إيطاليا مكانة أبوظبي كوجهةٍ للمسافرين الإيطاليين ومركز عالمي جذاب. ويدعم هذا النمو القطاع السياحي مع قيمة طويلة الأمد من خلال توطيد العلاقات مع أحدى أهم أسواقنا الأوروبية".

Robotic Liver Transplants at KFSHRC Now Extended to Children

8-year-old child becomes the first to receive a liver transplant from a live donor


Riyadh

When technological precision meets the compassion of medicine, healing becomes a story worth telling. This is what unfolded at King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSHRC) Riyadh, where an eight-year-old child underwent a life-saving liver lobe transplant using an advanced robotic surgical system, after liver failure had exhausted his small body and deprived him of his childhood. The high-precision technology enabled the young patient to be discharged just two weeks after surgery, half the usual recovery time, allowing him to return to a normal childhood. The medical team described the outcome as the essence of their striving to achieve.

The child’s condition required urgent intervention, complicated by the small body size and the limited space available for surgical access. However, KFSHRC’s extensive experience with robotic organ transplants in adults paved the way for adapting the technology to a paediatric case. A tailored surgical plan was developed, involving precisely repositioning the robotic instrument entry points to accommodate the child’s anatomy.

Professor Dieter Broering, Executive Director of the Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence and lead surgeon on the case, explained : "Robotic surgical techniques have traditionally been limited to adults, but we succeeded in adapting them for children, offering exceptional precision and a marked reduction in complications. The transplant required redesigning the surgical approach to suit the child’s small body and confined space, which we addressed by meticulously adjusting the entry sites for the robotic tools to ensure maximum safety."

The procedure was successfully performed by extracting the left lobe from a living donor and fully transplanting it into the child, using a robotic surgical system, without any direct manual intervention. This approach significantly minimized the size of surgical incisions. It accelerated the recovery process, allowing the child to be discharged within two weeks, compared to the usual month-long hospital stay for similar transplants.

This operation represents a ground-breaking model for expanding robotic surgery in paediatric care. The technology offers exact control, reduces surgical complications, and enhances overall safety, paving the way for the future development of child-specific robotic surgical systems.

This achievement is part of a series of milestones positioning KFSHRC as a global leader in robotic surgery. The hospital previously performed the world’s first fully robotic heart transplant and the world’s first robotic liver transplant—advancements that garnered attention from both local and international media. These breakthroughs reflect KFSHRC’s commitment to pioneering innovative medical solutions and delivering world-class specialized healthcare.

The accomplishment also represents a success of the Health Sector Transformation Program, one of the key initiatives under Saudi Vision 2030, launched by H.R.H Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Prime Minister of the Kingdom. It stands as a testament to the quality of healthcare provided to all people in Saudi Arabia.

It is noteworthy that KFSHRC has been ranked first in the Middle East and Africa and 15th globally in the list of the world’s top 250 Academic Medical Centres for the third consecutive year and recognised as the most valuable healthcare brand in the Kingdom and the Middle East, according to the 2025 Brand Finance rankings. Additionally, it was included in Newsweek magazine's World’s Best Smart Hospitals list for 2025. For more information, visit www.kfshrc.edu.sa or contact our media team at 








Mediacoverage@KFSHRC.edu.sa
​

جراحو التخصصي يوسعون نطاق زراعة الكبد باستخدام الروبوت لتشمل الأطفال

التقنية جربت لأول مرة على بالغ قبل عامين وأثبتت نجاحها

الرياض

تمكن جراحو مستشفى الملك فيصل التخصصي ومركز الأبحاث بالرياض، من زرع فص كبدي لطفل في الثامنة من عمره باستخدام منظومة جراحية روبوتية متقدمة، وقد غادر الطفل المستشفى بعد أسبوعين فقط، بدلًا من شهر كما هو معتاد، ليعود إلى حياته الطبيعية، في نتيجة وصفها الفريق الطبي بأنها مذهلة.

وكانت حالة الطفل تتطلب تدخلاً عاجلاً، وسط تحديات جسدية معقدة تتعلق بحجم الجسم ومحدودية المساحة المتاحة للجراحة، غير أن خبرة جراحي التخصصي في زراعة الأعضاء باستخدام الروبوت للبالغين مهدت الطريق لتكييف التقنية بما يتلاءم مع جسد الطفل الصغير، من خلال تصميم خطة جراحية دقيقة تعتمد على إعادة ضبط مواضع إدخال أدوات الروبوت لتنفذ الزراعة.

وقال البروفيسور ديتر برورينج، المدير التنفيذي لمركز التميز لزراعة الأعضاء وقائد الفريق الطبي للعملية : "لطالما اقتصرت تقنيات الجراحة الروبوتية على البالغين، لكننا نجحنا في تكييفها لتخدم الأطفال أيضًا، بما توفره من دقة عالية وتقليل واضح للمضاعفات، مشيراً إلى أن إجراء الزراعة تطلّب إعادة تصميم الخطة الجراحية بما يتناسب مع حجم الجسم الصغير والمساحات المحدودة، وهو ما تعاملنا معه عبر تعديل مواضع إدخال الأدوات الجراحية بعناية بالغة لضمان أقصى درجات الأمان".

وقد أُجريت العملية بنجاح عبر استئصال الفص الأيسر من كبد متبرع حي وزراعته بالكامل للطفل باستخدام منظومة روبوتية دون تدخل يدوي مباشر، ما أسهم في تقليل حجم الشقوق الجراحية، وتسريع وتيرة التعافي، حيث غادر الطفل المستشفى بعد أسبوعين فقط، مقارنة بالمدة الاعتيادية التي تتجاوز الشهر في مثل هذه الحالات.

وتمثل العملية نموذجًا رائدًا في توسيع استخدام الجراحة الروبوتية لتشمل فئة الأطفال، حيث إن التقنية توفّر تحكمًا عالي الدقة، وتُقلل بشكل ملموس من المضاعفات، وتُعزز الأمان الجراحي، وهو ما يفتح آفاقًا واعدة لتطوير أنظمة روبوتية مخصصة للأطفال في المستقبل القريب.

ويأتي هذا الإنجاز ضمن سلسلة من النجاحات لمستشفى الملك فيصل التخصصي ومركز الأبحاث التي عززت مكانته كمرجع عالمي في مجال الجراحة الروبوتية، حيث نجح في إجراء أول عملية زرع قلب طبيعي كاملة بالروبوت في العالم، في حدث تناقلته وسائل الإعلام المحلية والعالمية، كما نجح في زراعة أول كبد بالروبوت في العالم، مما يعكس التزام المستشفى بتقديم حلول طبية مبتكرة تواكب أحدث التطورات التقنية، وترسخ ريادته في تقديم رعاية صحية تخصصية على مستوى عالمي.

يُذكر أن مستشفى الملك فيصل التخصصي ومركز الأبحاث صُنف الأول في الشرق الأوسط وأفريقيا والـ 15 عالميًا ضمن قائمة أفضل 250 مؤسسة رعاية صحية أكاديمية حول العالم لعام 2025، والعلامة التجارية الصحية الأعلى قيمة في المملكة والشرق الأوسط، وذلك بحسب "براند فاينانس" (Finance Brand) لعام 2024، كما أدرج ضمن قائمة أفضل المستشفيات الذكية في العالم لعام 2025 من قبل مجلة نيوزويك (Newsweek).

SATExpo’s second day highlights AI integration and future of satellite innovations

 

UAE, May 14, 2025: Transformative solutions, breakthrough technologies, pioneering concepts shaping the future of the satellite sector, and a racing stimulation were at the forefront of SATExpo Middle East 2025, the newly launched regional event for the space and satellite industry.

Taking place from 13 – 15 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the premier edition of the exhibition is anticipated to attract over 8,000 visitors, including key stakeholders from telecommunications authorities, network operators, defence and military leadership, and leaders from the oil, gas and mining sectors, all seeking to explore next-gen satellite technologies to strengthen their industries.

French satellite leader Eutelsat electrified this year’s SATExpo by hosting a pulse-pounding iRacing Live competition in collaboration with eCLUTCH, the Middle East’s fastest-growing eSports content platform. Transforming the exhibition into a high-speed virtual racetrack, the event saw attendees battle in real-time on professional racing simulators, showcasing the explosive potential of satellite-powered eSports.

There were winners off the racetrack as exhibitors Agility Beyond Space (ABC), a global satellite operator and SpaceBridge, a leading provider of satellite network equipment solutions, announced a strategic collaboration to improve managed data services across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. This collaboration will combine ABS’s satellite expertise with SpaceBridge’s cutting-edge network technology to deliver next-generation connectivity solutions—including high-performance broadband and secure internet trunking—to enterprises, governments, mobile operators, and critical infrastructure sectors.

SATExpo Middle East was borne out of a growth sector within long-running B2B broadcast and media event, CABSAT. The co-located events celebrated their 1^st and 31^st edition respectively and SATExpo welcomed long-running CABSAT exhibitors to a new event dedicated to their sector, the satellite and space economy.

Mustafa Murad, CEO at Gulfsat Communications, said: “We proudly showcase our cutting-edge services at SATExpo 2025, where we will exhibit secure, flexible and reliable satellite Video & DATA solutions tailored for large enterprises and government entities. Going in line with the fast-geopolitical dynamics in the MENA region, Gulfsat offers a unique, protected, anti-jamming, broadcast DTH service on all its bouquets active on the 7/8 West orbital position. Attendees will also be able to explore our fully scalable, end-to-end IoT connectivity solutions, designed to empower smart operations across diverse sectors.”

Driving forward discussion and collaboration within the industry, SATExpo Middle East Summit 2025 has convened international leaders in satellite and space for the two days of high-level dialogues and collaborative innovations.

The event’s inaugural day ignited dynamic discussions on the seismic shifts transforming the space economy, featuring insights from industry titans like Axiom Space (USA), Es’hailsat (Qatar), FADA (UAE), S4 GmbH (Germany), and Astroscale (Japan). Sessions explored critical frontiers—from the private sector’s expanding role in space commercialization to the revolution of compact, AI-powered satellites and their pivotal role in building smarter, safer cities. Visionary keynotes captivated audiences, including Prof. Dr. Klaus Schilling’s breakthrough perspectives on Earth observation and interplanetary missions.

The event’s second day was filled with transformative content, spotlighting AI’s revolutionary role in satellite data, the critical push for localised space technologies, and the meteoric rise of women shaping the cosmos. Industry pioneers like Rivada Space Networks (UK), OrbitWorks (UAE), Kuwait Maps CIS, SpaceData Inc. (Japan), and Saudi Arabia’s NeoSpace Group ignited debates on next-generation innovation—from machine learning-powered Earth observation to sovereign space capabilities.

The day wrapped up with Prof. Sherif Sedky, CEO of Egypt’s Space Agency and UN COPUOS Chair, giving a fireside chat where he unveiled bold strategies for empowering SMEs through space agencies while dismantling barriers to create an inclusive, globally collaborative space economy—proving the Middle East is writing the playbook for 21st-century space leadership.

While Prof. Sedky charted the socioeconomic future of space exploration, Aya Iwamoto of Astroscale brought the discussion back to its physical foundation - the urgent need to preserve Earth's orbital environment. As regional leaders reimagine space's potential, global innovators like Astroscale are tackling the practical challenges that could make or break humanity's cosmic ambitions.

 

Aya Iwamoto, Vice President, Strategy and Policy at Astroscale, said: “In today’s rapidly evolving space sector, ensuring the long-term sustainability of Earth’s orbit has become one of the key priorities. At Astroscale, we are developing cutting-edge technologies for space debris removal. Our latest mission, which has successfully completed proximity operations and debris inspections, increases the opportunities to mitigate challenges posed by surging space debris. We aim to innovate solutions that can shape a safer, more responsible approach to space operations globally and preserve orbital access for future generations.”

The show, which will run until May 15, 2024, organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), also introduced a range of new product announcements. These included:

• Space Norway’s THOR 8 – Next-gen multi-mission connectivity orbit delivering enhanced capacity and global coverage
• Shenzhen Elebao Technology’s GX1 Streamer – High-performance media streaming device co-developed with Realtek
• Coxsat Technology’s Ku-band LEO TDD SATCOM Terminal – Optimised for 500–1200 km satellite operations
• AI Dial Tone Trading’s Upgraded Starlink Connectivity – Enhanced satellite internet service
• Northtelecom LLC’s NT Global Hybrid Connectivity – Revolutionary GEO/LEO/L-Band/5G integrated solution
• Lyrasense GmbH’s LYRASENSE Platform – No-code AI agent for geospatial intelligence (satellite/aerial/IoT data fusion)

SATExpo Middle East concludes on Thursday, 15 May. More information is available here: https://satexpome.com/