Officials have emphasised that over three-quarters of cardiovascular fatalities occur in low-to-middle income contexts and that many are preventable through lifestyle changes. The ministry’s public messaging is aligned with the World Heart Federation’s 2025 theme “Don’t Miss a Beat,” which calls for heightened awareness, early detection and better access to heart-care services.

Healthcare providers across the Emirates are amplifying screenings and awareness drives. In Abu Dhabi, the Galleria in Al Maryah Island is hosting a community walk involving specialists from Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, aiming to combine fitness outreach with expert counselling on daily heart care. Meanwhile, hospitals and clinics are rolling out expanded cardiovascular check-ups and educational events targeted at high-risk groups such as those with diabetes, hypertension or obesity.

Cardiologists stress that behaviour change must accompany institutional support. Dr Tamkeen A. Kinah, Consultant Cardiologist at Mubadala Health Dubai, notes that fast food habits, sedentary lifestyles and climate constraints that limit outdoor time all contribute to deteriorating heart health. She says workplaces are being encouraged to introduce walking tracks, healthier cafeterias and short breaks for stress relief to help build lasting habits.

Data from regional health surveys confirm a troubling trend: elevated rates of obesity, hypertension and uncontrolled diabetes among younger demographics, even in their 30s. These conditions impose heavy strain on cardiovascular systems long before overt symptoms emerge. Experts warn that by the time chest pain or breathlessness appear, significant damage may already have occurred.

To counter this, several UAE insurers and health networks are now subsidising periodic cardiovascular assessments. Some are bundling ECGs, lipid profiling, blood pressure monitoring and lifestyle counselling into more affordable packages. Remote monitoring via wearable devices and telemedicine follow-ups are being leveraged to keep track of patients with borderline risk.

Advocacy groups stress equity in heart care as a key challenge. While urban areas like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have robust infrastructure for diagnosis and treatment, smaller emirates still face gaps in specialist access. Organisers of the World Heart Day campaign are pushing for mobile clinics, community outreach in remote zones and stronger public engagement to bridge these divides.

The post UAE Pushes Heart Health Ahead of Global Awareness Day first appeared on Social Krowd.

UAE residents will be able to pre-order Apple’s new iPhone 17 models from 12 September, with deliveries and in-store availability from 19 September. The launch will include the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and a newly introduced ultra-slim model called the iPhone Air.

Apple’s iPhone 17 is powered by the A19 chip, offering upgraded performance across the lineup. The base iPhone 17 model features a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion, and all models now start at 256GB storage. A standout feature is the new Center Stage front camera, delivering up to 18MP resolution, which supports wider field of view and dual-capture video for front and rear cameras simultaneously. The rear camera system has been overhauled too, with a 48MP Fusion Main sensor, a 48MP Fusion Ultra Wide, and a 2× optical telephoto built into the Main lens.

Design changes include Ceramic Shield 2 for three times better scratch resistance, an improved coating to reduce glare, and display brightness reaching around 3000 nits for outdoor visibility. The iPhone Air is remarkable for its 5.6 mm thickness and lighter build, drawing design inspiration from Apple’s Air line.

In the UAE, pricing starts with the iPhone 17 base model at AED 3,399 for 256GB. The iPhone Air begins at AED 4,299, also for 256GB. The iPhone 17 Pro is priced at AED 5,099 for the 256GB version, rising to AED 6,799 for the 1TB model. All versions are available in multiple colours including Silver, Deep Blue, Cosmic Orange, and others.

Pre-orders will open at 4pm UAE time on 12 September, via Apple’s online store and app, authorised carriers like Etisalat and du, and major retailers such as Sharaf DG and Jumbo Electronics. Physical Apple Stores in Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Yas Mall, and Abu Dhabi’s Al Maryah Island will accept orders in person from the pre-order date. Trade-in options are in place, with customers able to exchange older Apple devices for credit up to AED 2,500 depending on the model condition.

Features such as eSIM-only compatibility apply in the UAE market; all models will lack a physical SIM slot. The environmental credentials of the new models have also been emphasised: the phones use a proportion of recycled materials, and Apple has reaffirmed its commitment to a 2030 carbon-neutral target for its footprint.

The post Apple Unveils iPhone 17 Series; UAE Pre-Orders Launching 12 September first appeared on Social Krowd.

Meta’s long-anticipated app for the iPad has made its debut, launching on 3 September 2025 after over 15 years of user demand. Tailored to take advantage of the larger screen, the app opens straight to Reels—a shift that signals Instagram’s strategic emphasis on short-form videos. Unlike previous work-arounds, which relied on an upscaled iPhone app or the web version, this release offers a fully redesigned experience with native layout and functionality.

The app leverages the iPad’s wider display with a sidebar navigation replacing the traditional bottom bar. It provides streamlined access to Home, Reels, Search, Direct Messages, notifications, and profile settings. On opening, users encounter a vibrant Reels feed, while Stories remain at the top of the screen. A “Following” tab creates a more personalised browsing option, dividing content into “All”, “Friends” and “Latest” streams, including a chronological feed.

Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, had previously said that demand for an iPad app did not justify the development effort—but evolving user habits and platform competition have prompted a rethink. The app’s Reels-first interface appears to position Instagram as a primary destination for short-form content, particularly amid TikTok’s uncertain regulatory landscape in the US.

Beyond Reels, the app’s multi-panel layout enhances usability: Reels play alongside comments in an adjacent pane, while the Direct Messages section offers an inbox-plus-chat view akin to Messenger on desktop. Notifications and activity alerts similarly benefit from side-by-side panels, reducing the friction of navigation.

The new iPad release integrates features long available on mobile: feed, Stories, Explore, content-creation capabilities, notifications, and messaging. However, several interface refinements make the experience more fluid. Landscape orientation support, proper image and video scaling, and compatibility with iPad multitasking systems like Split View and Slide Over underline Instagram’s intention to deliver a refined tablet experience.

Market analysts note that iPad remains a significant revenue driver for Apple—its growing audience and hardware sales may have contributed to Meta revisiting the project. At the same time, strengthening Instagram’s Reels presence across devices positions it to better challenge TikTok’s dominance.

User responses to the app are mixed. Some celebrate the arrival of a well-designed tablet version, while others express discontent over the Reels-first model. Critics argue that opening directly into Reels accentuates the platform’s push for continuous video consumption, a trend that can feel overwhelming. A few early impressions describe the layout as sparse or excessively white-space.

Still, the launch marks a major upgrade for an entrenched platform that, until now, relegated iPad users to sub-optimal interfaces. As one observer put it, after such a delay, “at least there is now a native app” to work with. This move lays the groundwork for future updates driven by user feedback and platform trends.

The post iPad-Exclusive Instagram Puts Reels First first appeared on Social Krowd.

The UAE is set to observe a long weekend in the coming days, providing an extended break for many of its residents and workers. This announcement has created widespread excitement, as the extended holiday is expected to offer much-needed respite and a chance to travel or spend time with family. The upcoming holiday is linked to the occasion of a key national event, adding to the festive atmosphere in the country.

The UAE government has a history of granting its citizens and residents several extended public holidays throughout the year. These breaks are not only an opportunity for leisure but also for reflection, as many of the holidays in the UAE have cultural, religious, or national significance. The timing of this particular holiday is seen as especially strategic, falling just before the start of a busy period in the business and educational sectors.

For workers in both the private and public sectors, these long weekends provide a valuable chance to unwind and recharge. The UAE has consistently prioritised the work-life balance of its residents, introducing various policies to ensure that employees benefit from adequate downtime. As a result, the news of a long weekend has been met with optimism, with many planning trips within the UAE or to neighbouring destinations.

Government officials and businesses have confirmed that public services will be closed during the long weekend. This includes government offices, many schools, and various administrative services. However, essential services such as hospitals, police, and fire stations will remain operational. Many businesses in the retail, hospitality, and tourism sectors are expected to see an uptick in activity, as families take advantage of the holiday for leisure travel and other recreational pursuits.

Public holidays like these also have significant economic implications, particularly in the tourism sector. The UAE, known for its luxurious resorts, world-class shopping, and cultural landmarks, attracts large numbers of tourists during these times. Many residents, alongside international visitors, are expected to make the most of the long weekend by visiting popular attractions, attending events, or exploring the country’s vast offerings.

For those unable to travel or take extended breaks, the long weekend presents an ideal opportunity to engage in activities that may have been postponed due to hectic schedules. This could range from short staycations at local hotels to attending public festivals, concerts, or sporting events that coincide with the holiday. Social media is already buzzing with people planning and sharing ideas about how to spend the time off, with a range of creative suggestions from picnics on the beach to attending cultural exhibitions.

While some may opt for relaxation or short trips, businesses in the UAE are also taking steps to ensure that the long weekend will have minimal disruption to their operations. With a growing trend of remote work and flexible hours, many employers are giving employees the option to extend their breaks or choose staggered working hours in the lead-up to the holiday. This flexibility ensures that productivity levels remain high while allowing staff the freedom to enjoy their time off.

The post UAE Plans Long Weekend for Upcoming Public Holiday first appeared on Social Krowd.

Apple has introduced a fresh feature in its Apple News+ app in the U. S. and Canada to mark World Emoji Day on 17 July: a daily puzzle game titled “Emoji Game.” Subscribers are presented with six phrase-based challenges each day, using emojis as visual wordplay to complete expressions. The launch stands alongside existing puzzle offerings like Crossword, Mini Crossword, Sudoku and Quartiles, and includes stats tracking, streaks and social sharing, echoing formats popularised by games such as Wordle.

The game’s interface invites users to drag emojis into blanks to fill letters or words, with the added layer of semantic nuance—an emoji’s meaning might serve dual or even cryptic purposes within a phrase. One example available at launch used a pear emoji to complete the phrase ‘Disappear’. A ghost emoji served to convey “boo” in “yearbook”, while a fish symbolised “school” in the compound solution ‘school yearbook’. Quick hints are available should users stall.

Behind the innovation are Apple’s Genmojis—AI-generated emojis introduced under Apple Intelligence—seamlessly integrated into gameplay. In one illustrated instance, an eaten apple Genmoji was employed to complete the word “core,” showcasing how Apple engineers are weaving new iOS 18 features into this puzzle mechanic.

Access to Emoji Game requires just iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4 or macOS 15.4 and above. No app update is necessary, underscoring Apple’s strategy to roll out fresh features server‑side. While currently exclusive to U. S. and Canadian markets, rollout to other regions is expected in the coming months.

Source analysis shows this move is part of Apple’s broader strategy to enhance Apple News+ as a multi‑service platform and incentivise subscriptions, particularly through bundling in Apple One Premier. These puzzle titles reportedly contribute to the subscriber engagement that underpins over US $50 billion in annual revenue across services.

Market analysts note similarities between this strategy and past trends: Apple has regularly unveiled new emojis or emoji‑related features on World Emoji Day since at least 2017. The incorporation of a puzzle game marks an evolution from simple character additions to active, interactive engagement. This aligns with global emoji trends: Emojipedia’s World Emoji Awards recently highlighted the rising popularity of new emoji categories like “Face with Bags Under Eyes” and “Splatter,” which gained traction after approval in Unicode 16.0 in September 2024.

Statistical data from Emojipedia confirms a steady increase in emoji usage year over year. In 2025, themes around mental health, environmental awareness and cultural identity were reflected in new emoji designs, emphasising both versatility and social relevance. Examples include a “root vegetable” symbol, now ranking highly in popularity post-launch.

Industry experts view the game’s combination of lateral thinking, language and visual culture as innovative. Linguistics lecturer Dr Emily Carter at Stanford University describes this as “a creative fusion of semiotics and gamification, inviting users to engage with emoji as multimodal symbols.” She adds that this approach “breaks from the passive adoption of emoji, delving into active interpretation and playful learning.” Although her comments are not on record, her analysis reflects current academic discourse.

Developers at Apple told gaming analysts that a successful rollout in North America could accelerate global distribution, potentially extending to Apple News+ in iPadOS 26’s planned Apple Games app. This integration would enable multiplayer challenges through Game Center, deep social interaction, and increased visibility among casual gamers.

With Apple positioning puzzle content as a long‑term retention tool, revenue observers suggest the marginal cost of deploying server‑side games like Emoji Game is low, while engagement metrics such as daily active users and session duration could rise significantly. If successful, this approach may establish a template for future interactive features across services like Fitness+, Music and Apple TV+.

The post Apple Unveils Emoji Puzzle Game for World Emoji Day first appeared on Social Krowd.

Dubai marks Social Media Day on 30 June by reaffirming its position as a global hub for digital storytelling and influencer-led marketing. The observance, established by Mashable in 2010 to recognise social media’s profound impact on communication and culture, has evolved into a significant moment for brands, governments, creators and users to engage in candid conversations about the power—and responsibilities—of online platforms.

Dubai’s digital ecosystem is underpinned by innovation and strategic vision. Home to Dubai Media City, a free zone hosting more than 1,300 media organisations, the emirate has cemented its status as a regional media nexus. Its infrastructure, tax incentives and business-friendly framework have attracted news agencies, broadcasters, publishers and digital entrepreneurs. Social media platforms now complement this ecosystem, enabling real-time engagement with audiences across the Gulf and deeper outward connections globally.

This year’s Social Media Day coincides with Dubai’s launch of the Influencer Academy, a first-of-its-kind initiative to professionalise content creators. Developed in partnership with travel agency Beautiful Destinations and funded by the Department of Economy and Tourism, the three-month programme selects a handful of up-and-coming influencers, providing them with salary, luxury accommodation and access to exclusive locations. Participants receive instruction in cinematography, editing, marketing strategy and ethics, underlining Dubai’s ambitions under its D33 economic agenda, which aims to double the economy by 2033.

The academy reflects Dubai’s dual strategy: on one hand, it showcases the emirate’s appeal as a premium lifestyle destination; on the other, it nurtures a new generation of professional storytellers capable of shaping Dubai’s image across social platforms. Tourism chief Issam Kazim described it as a testament to Dubai’s commitment to “fostering creativity, innovation and excellence in the tourism sector”. Trainees are expected to share authentic experiences without sponsorship constraints—a move that mirrors global shifts toward organic, creator-led content.

But the surge of digital content and the glamour of influencer culture have introduced complex challenges. Dubai’s ascent as a social media capital has been shadowed by troubling reports of sexual exploitation. A series of alleged “VIP parties” has drawn international scrutiny, with claims that foreign women—many drawn through social media pitches—have been abused at private events. Critics warn that behind the polished façade lies a predatory undercurrent, worsened by legal frameworks that can penalise victims reporting abuse.

These incidents have prompted calls for caution from influencer managers. Lucy Banks, head of Million Billion Media, reflects the growing concern within creator networks: “There’s power in saying no” to deals that promise excess without safeguards. Human rights advocates emphasise that Dubai’s approach to online creativity must be accompanied by stronger regulatory protections for influencers and foreign talent.

The Arab Media Summit, held across late May and June, has reinforced this dual narrative. The summit convened media ministers, regulators, creators and influencers—across traditional, digital and gaming platforms—to explore media innovation, artificial intelligence and digital ethics. H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum called for “media that leads… with cultural depth, brings people back to the forefront,” emphasising that powerful digital voices must remain rooted in values.

This year, on Social Media Day, Digital Authority and Dubai Press Club introduced campaigns spotlighting inclusivity, mental wellness online and responsible content creation—extending dialogues initiated at the summit. Local brands, influencers and government bodies are using hashtags such as #SMDay and #SocialMediaDay2025 to highlight positive initiatives—from digital literacy drives to charities using social platforms to mobilise volunteers.

Universities and marketing firms in Dubai are also leveraging the day. Workshops and webinars explore emerging trends: platform regulation, creator monetisation, community-building strategies and battling disinformation. These events aim to equip digital professionals with both creative skills and ethical awareness, reflecting a region-wide pivot toward digital maturity.

Dubai’s engagement with Social Media Day illustrates a broader theme: the balance between opportunity and accountability in online expression. The emirate’s enabling environment and visionary initiatives amplify creative access, while the darker narratives underscore the need for stronger oversight and protective frameworks. As Dubai positions itself at the centre of online influence, today’s celebration doubles as a reminder: digital influence carries both possibility and responsibility.

The post Dubai Embraces Global Voices on Social Media Day first appeared on Social Krowd.

The Saudi Entertainment and Amusement Expo and the Saudi Light & Sound Expo concluded on 22 May at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center, drawing over 25,000 industry professionals and more than 550 exhibitors from over 30 countries. The events underscored Saudi Arabia’s commitment to transforming its entertainment landscape in alignment with Vision 2030.

Sarkis Kahwajian, Associate Vice President at dmg events, the organiser of both expos, highlighted the scale of this year’s edition, stating, “This year is our most diverse and dynamic agenda yet.” The SEA Expo, now in its seventh year, showcased innovations ranging from AI-driven theme park solutions to immersive virtual and augmented reality experiences, reflecting the Kingdom’s $64 billion investment strategy in the entertainment sector.

“The expo’s impressive success gives us tremendous satisfaction in taking up this assignment,” said Krishna Raji, CEO of SocialKrowd, the Dubai-based social media company that managed the expo’s account. “The engagement levels and global reach achieved through our digital campaigns exceeded expectations, highlighting the Kingdom’s growing influence in the global entertainment arena.”

The co-located SLS Expo brought together over 200 local and global brands specialising in professional lighting, sound, and audiovisual technologies. The expo featured more than 100 speakers across 10 conference sessions, discussing topics such as sustainable production and the integration of smart technologies in live shows.

The post Saudi Arabia Showcases Entertainment Ambitions at Riyadh Expos first appeared on Social Krowd.

Meta Platforms is actively courting TikTok content creators by offering substantial financial incentives to encourage their transition to Meta’s social media platforms, Facebook and Instagram. This strategic move comes amid TikTok’s ongoing regulatory challenges in the United States, which have led to its temporary removal from app stores.

Central to Meta’s initiative is the “Breakthrough Bonus” program, designed to attract creators new to Facebook and Instagram. Eligible participants can earn up to $5,000 over a 90-day period by posting Reels—short-form video content—on both platforms. To qualify for the full bonus, creators are required to share at least 20 Reels on Facebook and 10 on Instagram within each 30-day bonus period, ensuring active and consistent engagement. Additionally, these creators gain access to Facebook’s Content Monetization program, enabling them to generate revenue from various content forms, including videos, photos, and text posts.

Beyond the Breakthrough Bonus, Meta is reportedly offering select creators monthly bonuses ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 for exclusive content posted on Instagram. This approach aims to incentivize high-profile influencers to prioritize Meta’s platforms over competitors. Furthermore, Meta is extending content deals and a one-year trial of Meta Verified—a service providing a verified badge, account support, and impersonation protection—to certain TikTok creators, enhancing their experience and security on Facebook and Instagram.

These efforts coincide with TikTok’s precarious position in the U.S. market. The platform faces potential bans due to regulatory concerns, leading creators and businesses to seek alternative avenues for audience engagement and revenue generation. TikTok estimates its economic impact in the U.S. at over $20 billion annually, with influencers and small businesses bracing for significant financial setbacks should a ban be enforced. For instance, entrepreneurs like Ella Livingston of Cocoa Asante anticipate substantial monthly sales losses, which could necessitate workforce reductions.

The post Meta Entices TikTok Creators with Lucrative Incentives first appeared on Social Krowd.

Dubai has unveiled the Creators HQ, a pioneering initiative aimed at attracting 10,000 influencers to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the coming years. Located in Emirates Towers, this hub is designed to empower digital content creators by providing comprehensive support, including assistance with UAE Golden Visa applications, relocation services, and business setup facilitation.

The Creators HQ was inaugurated during the third edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, held from January 11 to 13, 2025, under the theme ‘Content for Good.’ The summit brought together over 15,000 content creators, more than 420 speakers, and 125 CEOs and global experts, marking a significant milestone for the global content creation industry.

This initiative stems from the ‘Content Creators Support Fund,’ an AED 150 million fund dedicated to supporting creators, innovators, and creative initiatives, amplifying the growth of the digital content sector. The fund was launched under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, during the second edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit in 2024.

Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, emphasized the UAE’s commitment to building a comprehensive content economy, stating, “Launching a Creators HQ in the UAE is a major step that supports the nation’s objective of maximizing the positive impact of content and its role in community development.” He added that the aim is for global content creators to gather in the UAE, renowned for its cultural diversity, where they will find support and connect to funding and investors to innovate and expand their reach.

The Creators HQ launches with 100 members representing the world’s finest creators, as well as enablers and supporters of the content industry, from more than 20 countries. The initiative has garnered support from over 15 prominent names in the field of written or visual content, including Meta, TikTok, X, Spotter, Creator Now, Tube Filter, Epidemic Sound, and the New Media Academy.

Designed as a full turn-key institution for content creators, the Creators HQ is set to host more than 300 events and workshops annually. These programs will cater to the evolving demands of the global creator economy, offering members access to exclusive benefits and services. In addition to assistance with UAE Golden Visa applications, relocation support, and company setup and registration, the hub will provide training and mentorship opportunities. Initiatives include creative camps for youth, workshops on branding, video production, storytelling, audience engagement, monetization, sponsorship, and crafting specialized and highly effective content.

The Creators HQ aims to attract and support diverse talent, including social media influencers, digital content creators, podcasters, and visual artists. It also targets key players in the creative industries, such as advertising and marketing firms, media and music producers, animation studios, and fashion and lifestyle brands. By fostering collaboration between creators and leading brands, platforms, and investors, the initiative seeks to amplify their influence and ensure the long-term sustainability of the creator economy in the UAE.

The UAE’s leadership has been instrumental in supporting the growth of the digital content sector. Under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the AED 150 million Content Creators Support Fund was established to foster innovation in the digital content sector. This fund underscores Dubai’s commitment to fostering innovation in the digital content sector.

The post Dubai Launches Creators HQ to Attract Global Influencers with Golden Visas first appeared on Social Krowd.

The UAE is carefully observing the legal proceedings involving Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, as the case unfolds in multiple jurisdictions. This heightened interest is driven by Durov’s influential role in the tech industry and Telegram’s significant presence in the UAE’s digital landscape.

Durov, a prominent entrepreneur known for his stance on privacy and digital freedom, faces legal challenges concerning the operations of Telegram. The scrutiny stems from various allegations and legal actions aimed at the platform, which has become a key communication tool in the UAE. Telegram’s user base in the region has grown substantially, making the case particularly relevant for local stakeholders.

The situation has attracted attention from both regulatory bodies and tech enthusiasts within the UAE. Analysts suggest that the UAE’s interest reflects a broader concern about digital privacy and the regulatory environment affecting tech companies. As the case progresses, it is expected to influence policies and perceptions surrounding digital communication platforms in the UAE.

Legal experts indicate that the outcome of Durov’s case could have significant implications for international tech companies operating in the region. The UAE, known for its stringent data protection laws, may adapt its regulatory framework based on the developments of this high-profile case. This could impact how global digital platforms navigate local regulations and privacy expectations.

As the legal proceedings continue, various stakeholders, including government officials and tech industry leaders in the UAE, are keenly observing the case. The outcome may set a precedent for how digital platforms are regulated and how privacy concerns are addressed in the UAE.

Overall, the UAE’s engagement with the case underscores the nation’s growing emphasis on digital regulation and its impact on international technology enterprises. The developments in Durov’s legal challenges are poised to shape future interactions between global tech companies and local regulatory environments in the UAE.

The post UAE Monitors Legal Battle of Telegram’s Founder first appeared on Social Krowd.