The pioneering biometric and digital technology capability, developed by Visit Dubai and available through several independent providers, is now available for immediate integration at hotels and holiday homes across Dubai, empowering guests to enjoy a seamless and expedited arrival experience. Its introduction underscores Dubai’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology to further enhance its position as a future-forward global tourism destination, prioritising both guest satisfaction and operational excellence.

The innovative system allows guests to complete all check-in formalities prior to their arrival, directly from their mobile phones. By uploading essential identification documentation and biometric data once, the entire process is streamlined, significantly reducing or eliminating traditional check-in times. Upon arrival, guests can bypass the usual check-in desk formalities at the start of every stay at participating hotels. The securely held data then remains valid until the identification document expires, meaning only a quick authentication, such as through facial recognition, would be required on subsequent visits. Repeat visitors make up almost a quarter of total annual visitation to Dubai, and this new service welcomes them to the city with added convenience, consolidating their affinity for the destination.

Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Visit Dubai), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, said: “The rollout of this guest-centric innovation will minimise friction from the moment travellers land, providing them a seamless, efficient start to their stay and maximising their time to enjoy our destination. It further enables efficient return visits for our loyal repeat guests, and allows Dubai’s hotels and holiday homes to focus on delivering more meaningful, high value guest interactions. This technology offers immense potential for hotels to further elevate their services, and we invite more owners and operators to integrate the capability into their systems, to optimise the guest experience.”

The solution is designed for easy integration into existing hotel apps or web platforms, ensuring a smooth transition for participating establishments. Beyond its immediate benefits, the technology holds significant potential to be leveraged across other tourism touchpoints, such as car rentals, paving the way for a more integrated and customised visitor experience throughout the city. It also builds on the incorporation of smart technology across the destination, including the introduction of smart tunnels at Dubai International Airport, which have reduced processing times at passport control to just seconds.

Dubai’s hospitality sector has been one of the cornerstones of its growth as a global destination, with world-class facilities and service available at 820 hotels and hotel apartments across the city. Complementing Dubai’s wider offerings, it has helped the city reach new heights, welcoming 15.70 million international overnight visitors in the first ten months of 2025, up 5% year-on-year, with guests spending a total of 36.71 million room nights at hotels across the emirate.

Key Summary

• One-time ID and biometric upload ensures a seamless, convenient experience for guests at participating hotels
• Quick authentication with facial recognition on future visits
• Data held securely and valid until ID expires
• Less time checking in and more time for guests to enjoy Dubai

The Attela Beach Resort was transformed into a scenic celebration of beer and culture featuring an all-star entertainment lineup and live music performances by hitmakers Bensoul and Fathermoh and Harry Craze. The electrifying atmosphere was sustained by an impressive ensemble of top DJs: Gordo, Ves, Daffy, and Dimore, who kept the party at peak energy. The night was seamlessly hosted by crowd favorite MC Gogo and Kisumu’s own Hype Amollo, ensuring the grand finale was nothing short of legendary.

MC Gogo seized the stage early, igniting the crowd with a powerful opening performance that set the tone for the entire night. Harry Craze then commanded the stage, leading the crowd in an energetic dance frenzy before an exciting surprise, he brought Fathermoh out to perform their chart-topping collaborations. The unforgettable night concluded on a high note with a captivating and soulful final set by Bensoul.

The vibrant fusion of great beer, homegrown music, and an enthusiastic crowd reaffirmed Tusker Oktobafest’s position as East Africa’s premier beer and culture festival.

Commenting on the spectacular success of the final leg, Brigid Wambua, Senior Brand Manager for Tusker, said, “We set out to reach as many consumers as possible with the Oktobafest experience this year and we have successfully done that. Oktobafest exists to provide a platform for the celebration of Kenyan beer and culture every year. We have enjoyed the enthusiasm and support of our consumers and partners across the regions and Kisumu has delivered a truly exceptional finale to our nationwide festival.”

Launched in September, the sixth annual edition of the celebrated beer festival promised an expanded, nationwide celebration of Kenyan beer and culture, featuring authentic local experiences. The nationwide festival featured a series of regional events including:

• Nairobi Edition: October 4th at Carnivore Grounds
• Rift Edition: October 11th at Baniyas, Eldoret
• Coast Edition: November 01st at Big Tree, Mombasa
• Mountain Edition: November 01st at The Stinger Lounge-Kinyuki, Nanyuki

In addition to the main festivals, Tusker Oktobafest was supported by over 200 on-trade activations nationwide. Beer enthusiasts across the country enjoyed flash sales and exciting discounts on their favorite KBL beers, including lagers, stouts, ciders, and malts on ke.thebar.com and select e-commerce partner platforms.

Tusker extends its deepest gratitude to all consumers, talent, and partners who made the nationwide Tusker Oktobafest tour and its Kisumu Grand Finale an overwhelming success, reaffirming its dedication to celebrating Kenyan music, beer and culture across every region of the country.

Gilbey’s has always been about bringing people together, and this World Cocktail Day is no different. We know you value those friendships, appreciate quality, and are always looking for new ways to make those moments with your day ones even more memorable. That is why, as part of our ‘Real Moments’ campaign, we have created a cocktail that’s as unique and unforgettable as the bonds you share.

Introducing the Real Ones Cocktail. Your New Go-To for Real Moments with Your Crew

Inspired by the magic of authentic friendships and the desire to make those moments a little more special, the ‘Gilbey’s Real Ones’ Cocktail is a refreshing and flavorful drink that is perfect for creating unforgettable Real Moments with your closest friends. Whether you are chilling with your crew, celebrating a milestone, or simply unwinding after a long day, this cocktail is designed to enhance the experience and strengthen those bonds.

Because Gilbey’s is so mixable, you can adjust the sweetness, sourness, or any other flavour to perfectly match your taste and the vibe of your gathering. Here is what you’ll need to share the Real Moments and the “Gilbey’s Real Ones” Cocktail:

• 50ml Gilbey’s Gin: The smooth, classic base that ties everything together, perfect for sharing with your day ones. Gilbey’s mixability means it will shine no matter what flavors you add!
• 30ml Passion Fruit Juice: That tangy, tropical goodness we all know and love. Freshly squeezed is best for those authentic flavours and genuine connections.
• 20ml Pineapple Juice: Adds a touch of sweetness and a hint of island vibes, bringing a touch of paradise to your gathering.
• 15ml Lime Juice: For that essential zesty kick, adding a vibrant energy to your Real Moments with your closest friends.
• Top with Ginger Ale: Adds a bubbly, refreshing finish, perfect for toasting to good times and lasting friendships.
• Garnish: A wedge of pineapple and a sprig of mint, making it picture-perfect for sharing those Real Moments online.

How to Make It and Share the Real Moments with Your Crew:

• Fill a tall glass with ice.
• Pour in the Gilbey’s Gin, passion fruit juice, pineapple juice, and lime juice.
• Top with ginger ale.
• Gently stir to combine.
• Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a mint sprig.
• Most importantly: Gather your real ones, raise a glass of the “Real Ones” Cocktail, and enjoy the Real Moments.

Consider this your official permission slip to skip the chores, call up your day ones, and dedicate the rest of the day to creating Real Moments with the “Gilbey’s Real Ones” Cocktail in hand. We promise, no one will judge you except maybe your laundry pile. Just remember to drink responsibly, share the love, and tag us in your photos so we can live vicariously through your awesome adventures.

Kenya Cane, the iconic Kenyan spirit, is set to host the True Kenyan Spirit Meru edition an ultimate celebration of Kenyan culture, music, and the spirit of togetherness on Saturday, March 15, at Terahs Club, Makutano, Meru.

Following the success of the Mashujaa and Jamhuri editions last year, the True Kenyan Fest promises an unforgettable experience, bringing together Kenya Cane consumers in the Mountain region for a day of electrifying performances and vibrant celebrations.

Attendees will be treated to high energy live performances from top Kenyan artists including, C.O.G Stars Band, Kamanu, one of Meru’s rising stars, Kikuyu afro-pop sensation, Wanjine, Queen of Kikuyu Benga Joyce Wa Mama and Meru’s finest hitmaker, Nassizu Murume.

The event will be hosted by the lively MC Nadia Mukiri and MC Eddu B, while DJ Abdalla, DJ Slim Mzuka, and DJ Super Gibz will keep the party alive with thrilling mixes all night long.

“We are excited to bring the True Kenyan fest celebrations to Meru. Kenyan Cane is about celebrating the true Kenyan spirit, resilience, unity, and love for great moments. The True Kenyan Fest is our way of bringing our consumers together to enjoy music, food, diverse culture, and unforgettable experiences. We look forward to hosting an event like no other as we engage with our consumers in Meru” said Davis Changalwa, Brand Manager, Kenya Cane.

To attend the event, Kenya cane consumers and fans will be required to purchase 250ML or 350ML bottle of Kenya Cane for 1 ticket or 750ML bottle for 3 tickets.

The event will kick off from 2PM till late.

Held at the Kenya National Theatre, this year’s Women in Film Awards (WIFA) in partnership with The No.1 International Gin brand, Gordon’s, coincided with International Women’s Day, where they recognized women who have broken barriers and reshaped the narrative of Kenyan cinema. The awards highlighted excellence in directing, screenwriting, cinematography, and production, reinforcing the crucial role women play in shaping the country’s creative industry.

Reflecting on the event’s success, Dr. Susan Gitimu, Founder of WIFA, emphasized the importance of continuous support for women in film, “WIFA is more than just an awards ceremony, it has become a movement. It is about acknowledging talent, providing opportunities, and advocating for a more inclusive industry. The growth of WIFA is a testament to the resilience of female creatives, and we are grateful for partners like Gordon’s who share in our vision of empowering women in the film industry.”

The event saw winners crowned across multiple categories, from Best Actress TV Drama, Best Set Designer, Best Script Supervisor to Best Cinematographer which were presented to women whose work has had a transformative impact on the industry.

Speaking at the event, Zipporah Ndung’u, Senior Brand Manager, Gordon’s Kenya, expressed the brand’s pride in celebrating the pivotal contributions the female contributors have had in film

“We are honoured to be part of such auspicious celebrations that acknowledge and celebrate women’s diverse and impactful contribution in film. The women recognized tonight are redefining the creative industry, pushing boundaries, and telling important stories. Partnering with WIFA is our way of standing with them, ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve while inspiring the next generation of female filmmakers.”

The red carpet was alive with glitz, glamour, and heartfelt conversations about the future of women in film. To top off the evening, Gordon’s provided delicious cocktails for industry leaders, filmmakers, and guests gathered to toast to the achievements of the night and network with fellow and aspiring creatives.

With continued support, investment, and recognition, WIFA is paving the way for more women to take up space in the industry, tell their stories, and leave a lasting impact on global cinema, and Gordon’s is ready to pour in some support and raise a glass to them!

Since its inception, WIFA has been at the forefront of championing women’s roles in film and television, from directing and producing to screenwriting and cinematography. This year, with the support of Gordon’s Gin, WIFA is set to deliver an even more immersive and memorable experience, reinforcing the importance of visibility and recognition for women in the industry. Gordon’s recognizes the importance of spotlighting the stories of the women shaping Kenya’s film landscape through the media and its influencers that serve as an inspiration for future film makers.

“Women have been at the heart of Kenya’s evolving film industry, yet many still go unrecognized,” said Dr. Susan Gitimu, Founder of WIFA. “WIFA was created to change that narrative, and we are thrilled to have Gordon’s on board as a partner who shares our vision of empowering and elevating female creatives. This collaboration is a step towards ensuring that women’s voices continue to shape the future of film.”

The awards are an opportunity for women in the creative industry to connect, network, and toast to the achievements of women in film over delicious Gordon’s cocktails.

“Gordon’s is proud to stand with WIFA in recognizing the incredible women who are pushing the boundaries of storytelling in Kenya,” said Zipporah Ndung’u, Senior Brand Manager, Gordon’s Kenya. “Film is a powerful medium that shapes culture, and by supporting WIFA, we are ensuring that female creatives receive the visibility and recognition they deserve. Having previously partnered with Insignia Productions on Single Kiasi, we are thrilled to now support WIFA in its mission.”

This is not the brand’s first foray in film as Gordon’s has even been featured in global classics such as James Bond’s Casino Royale.

The Women in Film Awards 2024 will take place on 8th March, marking International Women’s Day with a grand celebration of outstanding female filmmakers and industry professionals.

Nairobi, Kenya, 05th March 2025 – Kenya’s electrifying football culture has been captured like never before in a new short film released by The Premier League that showcases the passion and unique traditions thousands of supporters hold dear across the country.

Filmed earlier this month, the production features various Premier League fan clubs and culminates at Nairobi’s biggest football event, the Guinness Matchday. Here the Premier League crew caught up with fans who turned up for a big-screen Premier League experience and to turn on the Kenyan supporter spirit.

“It was remarkable to see how passionate Kenya’s football fans are and to witness their incredible enthusiasm for the game. We hope we captured just a little of this emotion, to share it with the world and illustrate how the Premier League has the power to unite people globally,” said Will Brass, Chief Commercial Officer, Premier League.

Speaking on the film debut, Guinness Marketing Manager, Henrietta Reed “The Premier League evokes such strong emotions in Kenya; a shared passion and loyalty evident in the online banter and energy on matchdays. Guinness Matchday continues to offer a home for this incredible energy and appreciation of the beautiful game. Our partnership with The Premier League allows us to deliver even more for football fans in Kenya and across Africa, and this film is a testament to that commitment.”

Experience the electrifying atmosphere of Kenyan football fandom! Watch the full film “You Won’t Catch Vibes Like This!” Matchdays In Nairobi on The Premier League’s YouTube channel. You can also catch the highlights on The Premier League page on Instagram.

Yet, this ease of access also presents opportunities for fraudsters seeking to exploit vulnerabilities.

As financial transactions increase and digital platforms become more integrated into our daily lives, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and informed.

Consider Paul’s experience. Paul received an SMS message claiming his account was blocked and instructing him to call a specific number. Paul calls the number and is asked to provide his PIN and OTP, which the fraudster plans to use to access his account.

Instead of calling the number provided, Paul contacted the official customer service line found on the bank’s website. The bank verified that it was indeed a fraudulent attempt and protected him from losing his money.

Essential Security Tips to Protect Yourself

Like in Paul’s case, fraudsters employ various tactics to deceive and defraud individuals. Here’s how to protect yourself.

Turn on alerts to monitor account activity.

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra security.

Avoid suspicious links and attachments to avoid being scammed.

Set a strong password to protect yourself from breeches.

How To Set a Strong Password

Use a minimum of 12 characters

Mix upper and lower case

Include numbers and symbols

Avoid using personal information like date of birth, ID number

Don’t reuse passwords from other sites or apps you use

Use a password manager to notify you of breeches

Equity Bank is committed to safeguarding its customers’ accounts. If you’re an Equity customer, keep these essential security measures in mind:

Never share your PIN, CODE, or OTP with anyone, regardless of their claimed identity.

Keep your personal information confidential and do not share with anyone. This includes your account number, CVV, ID number, and date of birth.

If you receive instructions over the phone, do not enter them into your device. Immediately hang up or disconnect the call.

Avoid sharing personal details, especially your ID number or account number, via SMS or phone call.

Be wary of calls or messages from unknown numbers. All official calls from Equity Bank will originate from 0763 000 000.

Avoid participating in promotions that seem too good to be true or require upfront payments.

Delete all text messages from the bank before sharing or selling your device. Always log out of online banking platforms and disable password auto-saving.

Never hand over your phone or laptop to unfamiliar individuals, even if they claim to be representatives of telecommunications companies or other service providers, or if they say it’s to confirm a purchase or sale.

Report any suspicious numbers or SMS lines to 333 for FREE.

Be Vigilant: Take control of your financial security now! Don’t let fraudsters trick you. To learn more visit: Secure Banking Tips | Equity Bank Kenya

From intimate brunches to fun filled interactions, Gordon’s curated an electrifying experience, making this Valentine’s one for the books.

On Saturday, February 15th, the much-anticipated Caribbean Brunch at Bustani Gardens, Redhill set the stage for a tropical escape like no other. The sold-out event transported guests to a paradise of bold flavors and vibrant vibes, where expertly crafted Gordon’s cocktails flowed endlessly, perfectly paired with delicious Caribbean inspired bites. Meanwhile, at Klub Liquid, Thika, gin lovers danced the night away, immersing themselves in an electrifying atmosphere of music, mixology, and unforgettable memories all powered by Gordon’s.

But the celebrations did not stop there. On Sunday, February 16th, Gordon’s took over The Orchid Lounge and Brew Bistro brunches, elevating the weekend with signature gin creations, decadent food pairings, and interactive brand experiences that kept the good times rolling.

“This weekend was all about love, friendship, and unforgettable moments, just like every sip of Gordon’s We are thrilled to have created experiences that brought people together to celebrate in true Gordon’s style vibrant, refreshing, and full of life” said Zipporah Ndung’u, Senior Brand Manager, Gordon’s Kenya.

With an overwhelming turnout and buzzing excitement across every venue, Gordon’s Gin once again proved why it’s the ultimate gin for those who love to mix things up with style.