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See it before it’s sold: Abu Dhabi to unveil ultra-rare $20m blue diamond

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Abu Dhabi is about to get a sparkling treat. On April 8, the city will play host to the grand unveiling of one of the world’s rarest gems — a 10.3-carat vivid blue diamond called The Mediterranean Blue, which is valued at a jaw-dropping $20 million (Dh73.4 million).

Set to be displayed at the stunning Bassam Freiha Art Foundation on Saadiyat Island, home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the upcoming Guggenheim, this dazzling beauty is already making waves. Sotheby’s, the world-famous auction house, will later put it up for sale at its Geneva High Jewellery auction on May 13.

So, what makes the Mediterranean Blue so special? For starters, vivid blue diamonds of this size are very rare. This particular gem has the highest colour grading for a blue diamond from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). The Mediterranean Blue is Type IIb, a classification that represents less than 0.5 per cent of all diamonds.

“Any vivid blue diamond is a discovery worth celebrating, but one of this size and depth of colour is a rare event,” said Quig Bruning, Sotheby’s Head of Jewellery for the Americas & EMEA.

Originally a whopping 31.94-carat rough diamond, The Mediterranean Blue was found in South Africa’s Cullinan mine in 2023. It took an entire year of careful study and another six months of expert cutting and polishing to bring out its breathtaking brilliance.

Sotheby’s hasn’t hosted a public exhibition in Abu Dhabi since 2009, making this unveiling an extra special occasion.

(Source: Instagram, forbes.com)

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

Events

Eid Al Adha 2025: Expected dates and how to make the best out of the long break

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As summer peaks, so does one of the UAE’s most significant holidays, Eid Al Adha. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a longer break, now is the perfect time to start planning your leave.

While the official dates for Islamic holidays depend on the moon sighting, astronomical projections indicate that Eid Al Adha 2025 is expected to fall on Friday, June 6.

What is Eid Al Adha?

Eid Al Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most important holidays in the Islamic calendar. It follows the Day of Arafah, a significant day of fasting and prayer for Muslims.

When Is Eid Al Adha 2025 in the UAE?

Based on current forecasts:

  • May 27: Crescent moon expected to be visible
  • May 28: Likely to be the 1st of Dhu Al Hijjah
  • June 5 (Thursday): Day of Arafah
  • June 6 (Friday): Eid Al Adha

UAE Public Holiday for Eid Al Adha

According to the UAE’s official holiday calendar, the public holiday spans from the 9th to 12th of Dhu Al Hijjah, meaning four days off.

If Eid falls on Friday, June 6, the UAE will enjoy a four-day weekend:

  • Thursday: Arafah Day
  • Friday: Eid Al Adha
  • Saturday–Sunday: Regular weekend

However, if the moon isn’t sighted on May 27, the start of Dhu Al Hijjah may shift by a day — meaning Eid Al Adha could fall on Saturday, June 7, pushing the holiday to run from Saturday to Tuesday. In that case, it won’t align with the weekend.

How to Turn Eid Al Adha Into a 15-Day Holiday

Want a longer break? Here’s a smart plan using minimal annual leave:

  • Take leave from Monday, June 2 to Wednesday, June 4
  • With the Eid break from June 5 to June 8 (if Eid is on Friday), you get 11 days off
  • Add leave from Monday, June 9 to Thursday, June 12 to extend the break
  • Include weekends before and after: May 31–June 1 and June 13–14

Total time off: 15 days
Annual leave used: Just 7 days

Official Eid Al Adha 2025 dates will be confirmed by the UAE Moon-Sighting Committee closer to the time.


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Business

BEYOND Expo 2025 marks 5th anniversary with launch of global expansion platform for Asian tech companies

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As it celebrates its fifth anniversary, BEYOND Expo 2025 has announced a major initiative aimed at increasing the international growth of Asian tech companies. The newly launched BEYOND BGlobal Network is designed to help Asian companies expand internationally by offering year-round support, global market insights, and access to strategic networks.

With many Asian businesses looking beyond domestic markets for long-term growth, the BGlobal Network aims to address the specific challenges of international expansion, such as localisation, cross-border operations, and global brand positioning.

“Globalisation is more than just entering new markets, it’s about creating meaningful, sustainable connections,” said Jason Ho, co-founder of BEYOND Expo. 

“The BGlobal Network connects Asian companies with key local players, resources, and expertise to help them thrive on the world stage.”

A Milestone Launch at BEYOND Expo 2025

The BEYOND BGlobal Network will officially launch during the closing ceremony of BEYOND Expo 2025 on May 24 at the Venetian Macao Cotai Expo. The ceremony will also feature a special edition of Fund at First Pitch, where selected startups will present their global ambitions to a panel of celebrity athletes and investors.

“As we celebrate five years of BEYOND, the BGlobal Network represents a bold next step in empowering regional innovation,” said Dr. Gang Lu, co-founder of BEYOND Expo. 

“This initiative is designed to help high-potential companies navigate their global journeys with confidence.”

Connecting Asian Talent to the World

The BGlobal Network provides member companies with access to a wide network of decision-makers across industries, ranging from global retailers and e-commerce platforms to venture capital firms, financial institutions, and localisation experts. It also opens opportunities for collaboration with global influencers and strategic partners, helping companies boost visibility and build brand equity overseas.

Throughout BEYOND Expo 2025, the initiative will be spotlighted through dedicated sessions such as the BGlobal Summit, the Global Investment Summit, and the BEYOND Wealth Summit. Sector-specific programming will explore topics including AI, HealthTech, FinTech, Robotics, Mobility, ClimateTech, and SportsTech.

Five Years of Cross-Border Impact

Since its launch in 2021, BEYOND Expo has become a leading platform for connecting innovation hubs across Asia with global markets. The 2025 edition is expected to attract over 30,000 attendees from more than 120 countries, with participation from startups, multinational corporations, investors, and media.

“The BGlobal Network reflects our commitment to helping Asia’s most ambitious companies turn possibility into impact,” said Jason Ho.

Looking Ahead

More than just a tech showcase, BEYOND Expo 2025 aims to serve as a launchpad for global success. With the introduction of the BGlobal Network and a strong focus on international collaboration, this year’s event sets the stage for a new era of cross-border innovation.

To learn more about the BEYOND BGlobal Network or register for BEYOND Expo 2025, visit www.beyondexpo.com.

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BEYOND Expo 2025 to ‘unveil possibilities’ as Asia’s premier tech summit 

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BEYOND Expo 2025 is set to return to The Venetian Macao from May 21 to 24 with a forward-looking theme — ‘Unveiling Possibilities’. This premier technology and innovation event will spotlight how uncertainty can spark opportunity, bringing together global leaders in tech, business, and finance to explore innovative ideas that are shaping the future.

With over 1,200 expected exhibitors, 30,000 attendees, and 300 international speakers, BEYOND Expo 2025 will offer a platform for global collaboration across sectors including technology, healthcare, sustainability, and investment.

“BEYOND Expo is more than just an exhibition, it’s a dynamic ecosystem where global innovators converge to shape the future,” said the organisers. 

“This year, we’re focused on translating uncertainty into action and potential.”

This Year’s Highlights:

  • Three Dedicated Exhibition Zones:
    ConsumerTech, ClimateTech, and Healthcare will anchor the expo, featuring breakthrough products and solutions from leading global companies and startups.
  • High-Level Summits:
    The ConsumerTech Summit, ClimateTech Summit, Healthcare Summit, and Global Investment Summit will host discussions on industry transformation, AI, sustainability, and future funding.
  • Cross-Regional Forums:
    Spotlighting emerging innovation ecosystems, sessions like the Asia-Latam Tech Forum, Asia-Euro Tech Forum, and Middle East Tech Forum will foster global exchange.
  • Thematic Sessions:
    The BEYOND Wealth Summit, SheTech Summit, and Founder Forum will explore family offices, female-led innovation, and entrepreneurial journeys in Asia and beyond.
  • Fund At First Pitch:
    A platform connecting promising startups with global investors. In 2024, the initiative attracted over 150 startups and 100 investment institutions, resulting in 50+ successful matches.
  • BEYOND Awards:
    Recognising excellence across four categories, ConsumerTech, ClimateTech, Healthcare, and Impact, the awards will spotlight companies and technologies shaping the future.
  • Lifestyle and Networking Events:
    The “TFC” (The Fun Continues) series will return with curated cultural, social, and sports activities, including a gala dinner, yoga sessions, and charity tournaments.

Since launching in 2021, BEYOND Expo has emerged as a premier platform for business, tech, and policy leaders across the Asia-Pacific and beyond. In 2024, 40 per cent of exhibitors were international, with more than 200 global media outlets in attendance.

“BEYOND Expo 2025 aims to connect visionaries from around the world to unlock the next wave of innovation,” said event co-founder Dr. Gang Lu. 

“We invite everyone, from Fortune 500s to startups, to take part in this journey.”

Early bird registrations and booth reservations are now open. Visit www.beyondexpo.com or email BD@beyondexpo.com for more details.

Opening/Closing Ceremonies and Industry Summits: 

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