How to Choose the Right Catering Service in Dubai
Key Factors to Consider When Booking Catering in Dubai
Menu Variety
Dubai is a multicultural city, and guests often expect a wide selection of international cuisines. The best catering companies offer customizable menus that include everything from Arabic and Asian to European and fusion dishes.
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Professional Service
Quality of service is just as important as the food itself. Trained staff, punctual delivery, and smooth coordination are essential for any catering provider in Dubai.
Event Type Experience
Some caterers specialize in weddings, others in corporate events or private parties. Always look for a company with experience in your specific event type to ensure they understand your needs.
Presentation and Setup
A professional catering team should provide not only delicious meals but also elegant presentation and stylish table setup, especially for formal occasions.
Client Reviews and Reputation
Before booking, it's a good idea to check online reviews and see past client feedback. Positive testimonials are a good sign of consistent quality and reliability.
Trusted Catering in Dubai
If you're planning an event and looking for a trusted company in the catering Dubai market, Smart Catering is a service worth exploring. They offer a wide range of menu options, professional service, and flexible solutions tailored to each event. Whether it's a small private gathering or a large-scale corporate function, working with experienced caterers can make all the difference.
Also published on Medium.
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Middle East Eye
an hour ago
- Middle East Eye
Starmer's 'all guns, no butter' policy will cost him dearly
The recent Nato summit demanded that member states agree to reach a target of five percent of GDP on defence spending over the next decade. Nato secretary general Mark Rutte was beside himself with joy. This will make Nato 'more lethal', he vowed. Rutte was in no doubt as to why Nato had successfully agreed on this historic high in arms spending: US President Donald Trump, or 'daddy', as Rutte called him. In embarrassingly fulsome messages to Trump, made public by the US president, Rutte put to shame the most obsequious courtier in an 18th-century absolute monarchy, as he verbally prostrated himself at the feet of the ruler of the empire. In all fairness to Rutte, he was correctly summarising the view of European governments. Much as some claim to dislike Trump, they have fallen in line with his demands for increased arms expenditures in double-quick time. All but Spain endorsed the five-percent defence spending target, despite the fact that the US spends only 3.5 percent of GDP on arms. New MEE newsletter: Jerusalem Dispatch Sign up to get the latest insights and analysis on Israel-Palestine, alongside Turkey Unpacked and other MEE newsletters Trump was triumphant, using the Nato news conference to rub the noses of European leaders in the latest proof that the US is the organisation's top dog. Never has founding secretary general Lord Ismay's aphorism - that Nato exists to keep 'the Soviet Union [read Russians] out, the Americans in, and the Germans [read Europeans] down' - been more true. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is an unqualified enthusiast for rearmament. The most clearly defining policy of his prime ministership so far, where so much else is shrouded in serial U-turns, is a commitment to US-led rearmament. The picture of Starmer at the recent G7 summit bowing at Trump's knee to pick up papers that the president had dropped went viral, because it accurately captured the political relationship between the two governments. Credibility gap Starmer, of course, signed up to the five percent of GDP rearmament target and coupled it with a commitment to buy a dozen American F35A fighters capable of carrying a nuclear payload, marking the first time the UK will have the capacity to deliver airborne nukes since the Cold War. The cost of this programme alone will be £15bn. More broadly, the newly publicised Strategic Defence Review underpins Starmer's over-inflated rhetoric about the UK needing to prepare to fight on the 'home front' in the case of a full land invasion of the UK. Such a project, unsuccessfully contemplated by Napoleon and Hitler, was last accomplished in 1066. There is no plausible modern candidate for this project. Russia, with an economy the size of Spain's and a military depleted by three years of unsuccessful war in Ukraine, is certainly not the 21st-century equivalent of either Napoleon or Hitler when their empires spanned the continent. Indeed, having failed to reach Kyiv, it is improbable to the point of absurdity to think that Russian troops might soon be on the Normandy beaches. The period of high Starmerism is past. Now the pendulum is swinging in the other direction, back towards traditional centrist Labourism The UK defence establishment and government are well aware that this huge credibility gap exists in the minds of British voters. The Strategic Defence Review spends an unusual amount of time worrying about how rearmament can be sold to the population. It calls for a 'national endeavour', first mooted by the previous Tory government, in which a wide variety of propaganda and 'educational' weapons will be fired at hapless citizens in order to reduce them to compliance with the warmongers' project. And there is no Starmer speech that does not echo the Strategic Defence Review's insistence that there will be a 'defence dividend', in the Orwellian language now common in government circles, that will result in more jobs. So far, the 'national endeavour' project is failing spectacularly. The purchase of F35A jets is a case in point. It's a slap in the face for Unite the Union general secretary Sharon Graham, who campaigned relentlessly for a renewal of the Eurofighter Typhoon fleet in the name of British jobs. In a sharp lesson in the UK's defence subservience to the US arms industry, Starmer ignored her and opted instead to flatter Trump with a purchase of American planes manufactured by Lockheed Martin, with only 15 percent of UK-made components. Leadership in danger But even when money spent by the UK government isn't pouring directly into the bank accounts of US defence contractors, it will never produce the same number of jobs as the same amount of money spent on civilian industry. Defence spending is simply a massively inefficient way of generating jobs. Beyond these specific arguments is the gigantic fact that Starmer is advocating huge increases in arms expenditures, while hacking away at the already emaciated welfare budget. The assault on welfare, the defining project of the first year of the Labour administration, has already produced a record-breaking back bench rebellion. This in turn produced yet another screeching U-turn from Starmer. Accompanying the U-turn is the blame game. At the moment, No. 10 guru Morgan McSweeney and 'iron chancellor' Rachel Reeves are the ones catching it in the neck. Starmer is running out of road Read More » As tens of thousands of people at the recent Glastonbury Festival cursed Starmer's name, Starmer himself has been busy apologising for his own mistakes to any journalist who will listen. A sure sign that Starmer's leadership is endangered was Health Secretary Wes Streeting's recent TV interview, in which he refuted criticism of the Glastonbury crowd by saying that Israel should get its 'own house in order'. Starmer is now a couple of by-election losses away from a leadership challenge. Perhaps he can make it to the May 2026 council elections if the fates spare sitting MPs and no by-election takes place. But whatever the timing proves to be, the period of high Starmerism is past. Now the pendulum is swinging in the other direction, back towards traditional centrist Labourism. 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Hi Dubai
3 hours ago
- Hi Dubai
Why Store Design and Product Placement Are Key to Retail Success in Dubai
Dubai's retail market is one of the most competitive in the world. With luxury malls, boutique pop-ups, and experiential concept stores all vying for attention, the pressure on retail businesses to stand out is higher than ever. And in this environment, first impressions do more than attract; they convert. Today's shoppers in the UAE expect speed, clarity, and experience. According to the 2024 Retail Experience Monitor, over 70% of UAE consumers use digital tools while shopping in-store, blending online convenience with physical engagement. That means your store layout isn't just about design, it's a strategic touchpoint that influences real-time decisions. At the same time, the TASC UAE Retail Outlook Report values Dubai's retail sector at over $100 billion, with strong growth expected through 2028. In a market of this scale, how your store looks, feels, and flows could be the difference between someone browsing and someone buying. So here's the question: Can store design and product placement actually impact what people buy and how much they spend? In this article, we explore how strategic store design and thoughtful product placement are shaping consumer behavior, boosting conversions, and redefining retail success in Dubai. Why Store Design Matters More Than Ever in Dubai In Dubai's fast-paced retail world, design plays a crucial role in shaping customer experience. With destination malls like Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates attracting millions of visitors, the standard for retail presentation is exceptionally high. Shoppers walk in expecting polished, well-thought-out environments that reflect the brand's identity from the first step inside. Every visual element—lighting, layout, shelving, signage—helps create a sense of trust and familiarity. In premium markets, especially, store design becomes part of the brand promise. The way a space is organized can influence how customers feel, how long they stay, and how likely they are to make a purchase. There's a clear connection between comfort and spending. When the atmosphere feels welcoming, people tend to slow down and explore more. According to retail studies, even a small increase in dwell time can lead to a noticeable lift in sales. This makes design a practical tool—not just a creative decision. Is your store layout encouraging people to stay longer and move with ease? Design preferences are also shifting. Many retailers are now adopting minimalist approaches that create space for products to stand out. Curated lighting, soft music, and scent branding are being used more deliberately to shape how people engage with the space. In Dubai, small design elements inspired by local culture—like warm neutral palettes, textured wood, or Arabic typography—can deepen the customer connection and make the experience feel more personal. The goal isn't to decorate—it's to create an environment that feels aligned, comfortable, and memorable. When done well, store design can enhance not only how a space looks, but how it performs. The Psychology of Product Placement Where you place a product in your store can have as much impact as the product itself. Customers are naturally drawn to items placed at eye level, which is why this space is often referred to as 'buy level.' It's the area that gets the most attention—so why not reserve it for your bestsellers or highest-margin items? If your top product isn't in the shopper's direct line of sight, are you missing out on easy conversions? But it's not just about shelf height. The way items are grouped can guide buying behavior just as effectively. Placing complementary products side by side—like handbags next to shoes, or coffee mugs near specialty blends—encourages people to buy in sets. When products feel connected, customers tend to see them as part of a complete experience. Have you looked around your store lately and asked: Which products naturally go together, and are they even close to each other? Layout also plays a big role in how people move, pause, and choose. Clear signage, logical flow, and open sightlines make the shopping journey easier. If a customer walks into your store and feels unsure of where to go next, chances are they'll either speed through or walk away. Does your current layout lead them toward the areas you want them to spend the most time in? Retailers who rethink their product zones often notice immediate shifts. For example, moving impulse buys closer to checkout or creating small themed sections—like a 'Gifting Corner' or 'Self-Care Shelf'—can subtly influence decision-making and increase average basket size. Could a simple rearrangement be all it takes to get people to pick up one more item? Product placement isn't random—it's a silent salesperson. Done right, it guides choices, triggers associations, and increases both satisfaction and spending. Common Mistakes Retailers Make Even the best products can get overlooked if the store layout and environment aren't working in your favor. Here are some of the most common design mistakes that can hurt customer experience—and sales. Overcrowded Displays Create Visual Fatigue Too many products crammed into one space can feel overwhelming. Instead of drawing customers in, cluttered displays often cause them to disengage. A clean, focused layout allows key items to shine and helps shoppers make quicker, more confident decisions. Could a little less actually lead to a lot more? Poor Zoning and Pathways Confuse Movement When customers walk into your store, their path should feel intuitive. Without clear zoning—like separating sections for new arrivals, promotions, or categories—people may feel lost or unsure of where to go next. That hesitation often translates into shorter visits and missed sales. Does your store gently guide people—or leave them guessing? Weak Lighting and Mirror Placement Miss the Mark Lighting isn't just functional—it's emotional. Poor lighting can make products look dull and change the way people feel in your space. In fashion retail, mirrors placed in dark or awkward corners can ruin the try-on experience. Good lighting highlights your products and helps customers feel more confident while browsing. Is your store lighting helping customers see your products—and themselves—at their best? Missing Sensory Anchors Lose Engagement Sound, scent, and even room temperature influence how people feel. A light fragrance, curated playlist, or comfortable atmosphere can turn a basic visit into a memorable experience. Without these elements, your store risks feeling flat and forgettable. What emotion does your store trigger when someone steps inside? Misplaced High-Value Items Reduce Visibility Placing premium or high-margin products in low-traffic corners is a missed opportunity. These items deserve prime positions—spots with high visibility and natural footfall. If customers aren't seeing them, they're not buying them. Are your most profitable products in the path of most people? Getting the basics right—space, flow, lighting, and sensory impact—can dramatically change how customers interact with your store. A few adjustments in the right areas can go a long way toward boosting engagement and increasing basket size. Location-Based Strategy Retail in Dubai doesn't follow a one-size-fits-all model. With malls, souks, pop-ups, and high-street stores all playing a role in the city's shopping landscape, design strategies need to be adapted to the environment around them. Stores inside major malls like Dubai Mall or Mall of the Emirates operate within large, structured environments where footfall is high but attention is limited. These locations require striking visuals, strong window displays, and layouts that invite customers to pause and explore. Shoppers in malls are often there for a full experience—not just a transaction—so how well does your space hold their interest within the first few seconds? By contrast, retail inside traditional souks like the Gold or Textile Souk calls for a different approach. These areas are more intimate, atmospheric, and culturally rooted. Shoppers here expect a slower pace, a touch of nostalgia, and a stronger emphasis on personal interaction. Would your design still feel appropriate if it were placed in an environment that values tradition over trend? Street-facing stores and standalone retail outlets benefit from direct visibility but face challenges like heat, traffic, and varied shopper intent. These spaces need strong signage, shade-conscious layouts, and quick-entry setups that accommodate both casual walkers and purposeful buyers. Is your entrance inviting enough for someone passing by to step in without hesitation? Then there are pop-ups—short-term, high-impact spaces often found during festivals, seasonal events, or in popular outdoor districts. Here, simplicity and storytelling matter most. With limited time and space, design must be compact yet memorable. Are you telling a clear brand story in the first few steps of your space? Across all formats, one thing remains essential: bilingual signage and wayfinding. Dubai's customer base is incredibly diverse, and clear Arabic and English communication builds trust and improves navigation. If a new visitor entered your store today, would they immediately know where to go and how to engage? Understanding where your store lives—and who it serves—helps guide every design decision that follows. In Dubai, success often depends on how well your physical space speaks the language of its location. Technology Integration in Store Layout Technology is reshaping how retail works—especially in Dubai—where the line between physical and digital is increasingly blurred. Smart mirrors and AR displays can become powerful experience enhancers. They help shoppers visualize products—like trying on makeup or seeing outfits on themselves—without hands-on effort. One beauty retailer using AR mirrors saw average dwell times increase by over four minutes; that extra attention translated into more upsells and higher cart totals. Is your current layout inviting shoppers to explore with technology—or just showing off screens? Interactive displays and guided digital paths can influence where customers go and how long they stay. Those screens can highlight trending items, redirect shoppers to promotions, or tell a curated brand story. When placed with purpose, they drive both movement and emotional connection. Could a screen or sensor act as a subtle guide in your space? On the backend, RFID tags and modern footfall counters are quietly fueling smarter decisions. These tools track which products are handled most and which zones attract attention, helping you rearrange for maximum impact. Retailers analyzing foot traffic data often reshuffle displays to promote best-selling items or reduce congestion, improving sales and experience. Are you tracking movement—and acting on what the data shows? Dubai shoppers expect tech-savvy retail experiences. But success comes from integration, not gimmicks. Tech works best when it feels helpful, informative, and aligned with your brand atmosphere. Tips for Small and Mid‑Sized Retailers You don't need a massive budget to create a store that feels fresh, inviting, and profitable. Small design choices, done consistently, can have a big impact on how customers move, browse, and buy. Smart Upgrades That Don't Break the Bank Lighting is one of the easiest and most effective changes you can make. Good lighting doesn't just brighten the space—it draws attention to the right products and sets the tone. Even switching to warmer bulbs or adding spotlights to feature displays can elevate the overall experience. Clear, bold signage is another low-cost tool that delivers value. Whether it's guiding customers to bestsellers or highlighting promotions, well-placed signs help reduce hesitation and improve flow. Ask yourself—are your customers walking through the store confidently, or stopping because they're unsure where to go? Use Flexible Fixtures to Stay Agile Modular shelving gives you the freedom to shift things around without major disruption. Whether you're showcasing new arrivals or testing bundle offers, movable units let you adapt quickly to what's working. A flexible setup encourages experimentation—and gives your space a dynamic, evolving feel. If you had the freedom to refresh your displays weekly, how much more attention could you attract? Rotate Displays to Stay Fresh Seasonal re-merchandising keeps your store feeling alive. Updating displays around local holidays, weather changes, or trends gives regular customers a reason to come back and explore. Even small touches—like a color shift or themed corner—can refresh the vibe and make your products feel more relevant. Have you planned your next visual refresh, or are you waiting for things to slow down? Know When to Get Outside Help Many small retailers manage design in-house—and often do it well. But as your store grows, a second opinion can make a difference. Hiring a designer for a layout consultation or visual audit doesn't have to be a long-term expense. Even a short engagement can help identify missed opportunities or improve your space's impact. Is there an area in your store you've walked past a hundred times—but never really optimized? The most effective upgrades don't always cost much—they simply come from seeing your space the way your customers do. With the right changes, even a small store can feel like a curated experience worth revisiting. A well-designed store does more than look good—it works hard behind the scenes. From guiding movement to sparking impulse decisions, every element of your layout plays a role in how customers engage with your brand. When space is used with intention, it becomes an active part of the sales process. Design and placement are not one-time decisions. They evolve as your products change, as seasons shift, and as your customers respond. The most successful retailers don't wait for problems to appear—they walk their space regularly, test new ideas, and adjust what isn't working. It's a cycle of attention, not perfection. So here's a final question worth asking: When's the last time you walked through your store—not as the owner, but as a first-time customer? What did you see, feel, or miss? In a market like Dubai, where every detail shapes perception, design is far more than a backdrop. It's one of your strongest tools for growth. Use it wisely—and keep it working. Also read: The Future of Retail Is Here: How Dubai is Leading the E-Commerce Charge From world-class logistics and futuristic payment solutions to immersive shopping experiences, the city has positioned itself as a global hub for e-commerce and retail innovation. Take a closer look at the factors driving this transformation and how Dubai is redefining the future of retail. The Psychology of Luxury: Why We Love High-End Living in Dubai Discover why Dubai is the ultimate luxury hub, attracting millionaires with tax-free living, high-end real estate, and exclusive experiences. How Local Business Collaborations Are Fueling Growth in Dubai Discover why brand collaboration in Dubai is the key to growth, engagement, and trust in today's competitive business market.
Khaleej Times
4 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Oil prices gain on US trade optimism, drop in crude inventories
Oil prices rose on Thursday, buoyed by optimism over U.S. trade negotiations that would ease pressure on the global economy and a sharper-than-expected decline in U.S. crude inventories. Brent crude futures had gained 52 cents, or 0.76%, to $69.03 a barrel by 1040 GMT. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures climbed 60 cents, or 0.9% to $65.85 per barrel. "The U.S. crude inventory draw and the trade efforts are adding some support to prices," said Janiv Shah, an analyst at Rystad. Two European diplomats said on Wednesday that the EU and the United States were moving towards a trade deal that could include a 15% U.S. baseline tariff on EU imports and possible exemptions, potentially paving the way for another major trade agreement following the Japan deal. On the supply side, U.S. Energy Information Administration data on Wednesday showed U.S. crude inventories fell last week by 3.2 million barrels to 419 million barrels, exceeding analysts' expectations in a Reuters poll for a 1.6 million-barrel draw. Oil had also seen some support from a suspension of Azeri crude exports from the Turkish port of Ceyhan and a brief halt to loadings at Russia's main Black Sea ports which has since been resolved. BP said that organic chlorides were detected in some of the oil tanks in the terminal at Ceyhan, adding that oil loading continued from some of the tanks with chloride levels assessed to be within normal specifications, while export activities via the BTC pipeline also continued. But analysts expect oil price gains to remain limited. "Uncertainty over U.S.-China trade talks and peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia is limiting further gains," said Hiroyuki Kikukawa, chief strategist of Nissan Securities Investment, a unit of Nissan Securities, predicting WTI would likely remain range-bound between $60 and $70 a barrel. Russia and Ukraine held peace talks in Istanbul on Wednesday, discussing further prisoner swaps, though the two sides remain far apart on ceasefire terms and a possible meeting of their leaders. "Next to watch would be the demand indicators as we are in the peak season and any upside or downside would impact refining margins," Shah added.
