The Alea Journal - September 2023

ALEA GLOBAL GROUP

FOREWORD

THE RISE OF SAUDI ARABIA'S ECONOMY

EL SALVADOR: FORGING A PATH AS THE BLOCKCHAIN CAPITAL

WHY TWITTER IS GOING NOWHEREREGARDLESS OF ELON

WHAT CAN BARBIE’S SUCCESS TEACH THE CULTURAL AND BUSINESS SECTORS ABOUT LIVE CINEMA?

SAUDI ARABIA'S STRATEGIC PLAY: THE PHENOMENON OF FOOTBALL CLUB ACQUISITIONS

30 YEARS OF SHEFFIELD DOCFEST

KUWAIT'S THRIVING ECONOMY: TRANSFORMATIVE STEPS TOWARDS GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

THE PRICE OF HOSPITALITY

MOHAMED AL-FAYED: FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO REMARKABLE SUCCESS

BHUTAN:A JOURNEY OF TRANQUILITY AND CULTURAL RICHNESS

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The alea journal

FOREWORD BY MOHAMMAD AL DUAIJ

CEO OF ALEA GLOBAL GROUP

Hello and welcome to the latest edition of The Alea Journal

When I first took over at Alea Global Group, I would describe the Gulf Region as something of a diamond in the rough I had traveled and studied all over the world, and I was struck by how much my home region had to offer but that was yet to be realized

Now, however, the whole world is seeing our potential, and that potential is solidifying into real global advantages and economic benefits

You can read more about the rise of Kuwait and Saudi Arabia in this issue including Saudi’s success in sport –and football in particular

We also look at El Salvador s new status as the blockchain capital of the world

In terms of cultural news there are no two topics bigger right now than the fate of Twitter under the rule of Elon Musk; and the way the Barbie movie has broken out of her box and out of the box office so successfully

We also nod to the 30-year anniversary of one of the world’s best documentary film festivals Sheffield DocFest in the UK

The cost of travel has been very unpredictable over the last couple of years so we take a look at why that might be And when it comes to travel, we also make the case for visiting Bhutan

Finally, we pay tribute to Mohamed Al-Fayed, and his remarkable achievements

To share your ideas or news of your own please don't hesitate to get in touch In the meantime we hope to see you at one or more of our forthcoming events

As ever, you can contact me at info@aleaglobalgroup.com

the Rise of Saudi Arabia's Economy

The Gulf States have emerged as a formidable economic force over the past few decades, with countries like Saudi Arabia at the forefront of this rapid transformation

Fueled by vast oil reserves strategic investments and bold economic diversification initiatives Saudi Arabia's economy has experienced remarkable growth, solidifying its position as a regional powerhouse We delve into the key factors contributing to the rise of Saudi Arabia's economy and its implications for the Gulf region

Oil Wealth and Economic Diversification

Historically, Saudi Arabia's economy has been closely tied to its immense oil reserves The country is one of the world's leading oil exporters and possesses significant influence over global oil markets. The revenue generated from oil exports has been a cornerstone of the nation's economic strength

However, recognizing the volatility of oil prices and the need to ensure long-term sustainability Saudi Arabia embarked on an ambitious economic diversification journey Vision 2030, an ambitious roadmap unveiled by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, outlines a comprehensive plan to reduce the country's dependence on oil revenues by fostering

growth in non-oil sectors such as tourism, entertainment, technology, and renewable energy

Strategic Investments and Mega Projects

Central to Saudi Arabia's rise as an economic powerhouse is its strategic investments in various sectors The country has committed to developing mega projects with the aim of attracting foreign investment, boosting tourism, and creating employment opportunities

Notable projects include NEOM a futuristic city designed to be a hub for innovation and the Red Sea Project, a luxury tourism destination on the Red Sea coast

These projects underscore Saudi Arabia's aspirations to become a global investment and tourism destination while simultaneously stimulating economic growth and diversification

Digital Transformation and Innovation

Another key driver of Saudi Arabia's economic rise is its focus on digital transformation and

innovation The government has been actively promoting the growth of the technology sector, supporting startups, and fostering an environment conducive to innovation

Initiatives such as the establishment of technology hubs and investment in cuttingedge technologies aim to position Saudi Arabia as a regional leader in the digital economy

Global Partnerships and Foreign Investment

Saudi Arabia's economic growth has been further boosted by its efforts to attract foreign investment and forge international partnerships

The nation has been actively engaging with global companies and investors, seeking to create mutually beneficial relationships that contribute to economic development

The recent opening up of the Saudi stock market (Tadawul) to international investors has also enhanced the country's standing in the global financial landscape allowing foreign investors to access a previously restricted market

And Saudi has made further efforts to attract foreign investors by improving its legislation, bringing it more in line with more liberal international standards, and winning more trust in the process

Implications for the Gulf Region

The rise of Saudi Arabia's economy has broader implications for the entire Gulf region As the largest economy in the region Saudi Arabia's growth has the potential to stimulate economic activity and trade among neighboring Gulf States The success of Vision 2030 serves as a model for other Gulf nations to diversify their economies and reduce reliance on oil exports

Saudi Arabia's remarkable economic rise is a testament to the nation's vision, strategic planning, and commitment to innovation and diversification By leveraging its oil wealth to invest in key sectors and fostering an environment conducive to business growth Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a driving force in the Gulf region's economic development

As the country continues to implement its transformative Vision 2030, the world watches with anticipation to witness the long-term impact of Saudi Arabia's efforts on its economy its people and the broader Gulf States

El Salvador: forging A Path as the Blockchain Capital

In recent years, the small Central American nation of El Salvador has made a remarkable entry onto the global stage, capturing attention for its progressive approach to technology and finance.

Fueled by a visionary leadership under President Nayib Bukele, El Salvador has taken bold steps to position itself as a hub for blockchain technology, becoming the world's first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender.

This groundbreaking move has not only put El Salvador at the forefront of blockchain innovation but has also ignited discussions about the future of digital currencies and their potential to transform economies worldwide.

The Blockchain Revolution

Blockchain technology, most commonly associated with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others, is a decentralized and transparent digital ledger system that records transactions across multiple computers

Its revolutionary potential lies in its ability to enhance security, transparency, and efficiency in various industries ranging from finance to supply chain management

El Salvador's Journey to the Top

El Salvador's embrace of blockchain technology can be traced back to its forward-thinking President, Nayib Bukele

Elected in 2019, Bukele recognized the potential of blockchain to uplift his country's economy, improve financial access for the unbanked population and attract foreign investment.

In June 2021, El Salvador made history by becoming the first country to declare Bitcoin as legal tender alongside the United States dollar. This monumental decision marked a significant turning point not only for the country but for the global cryptocurrency landscape The government's intention was to create more financial inclusion by enabling citizens even those without bank accounts, to participate in the formal economy through digital currencies

Challenges and Opportunities

While El Salvador's blockchain journey is filled with potential it hasn't been without its share of challenges. The rapid adoption of Bitcoin as a legal tender sparked concerns about volatility, potential money laundering, and a lack of regulatory oversight Critics also argued that the move could lead to financial instability and jeopardize the country's relationship with international financial institutions.

However, supporters of the decision highlighted the potential benefits, including reduced transaction costs for remittances (a critical source of income for many Salvadorans) increased financial inclusion, and the attraction of blockchain-focused businesses and investments to the country

Infrastructure Development

To facilitate the adoption of blockchain technology, El Salvador has been investing in critical infrastructure The government launched the "Chivo" wallet a digital wallet that allows citizens to send, receive, and spend Bitcoin with ease El Salvador also installed Bitcoin ATMs across the country, further enhancing accessibility to the cryptocurrency

Furthermore the government established partnerships with blockchain companies and experts to develop education and training programs, aimed at promoting a better understanding of the technology among citizens

Global Impact and Future Implications

El Salvador's pioneering move has sent ripples

throughout the world, sparking discussions about the potential of digital currencies as a means to drive financial inclusion and economic growth Other nations have begun considering similar moves exploring how blockchain technology can reshape traditional financial systems

However, the path ahead is not without uncertainty The success of El Salvador's blockchain experiment will depend on its ability to address challenges effectively adapt to evolving market dynamics, and strike a balance between innovation and regulation As more countries explore the integration of digital currencies into their economies, a new era of global financial transformation could be on the horizon.

El Salvador's journey to becoming the blockchain capital has been nothing short of remarkable By adopting Bitcoin as legal tender and embracing blockchain technology the country has paved the way for a new era of financial innovation and inclusivity While challenges and uncertainties persist, El Salvador's bold step has already begun reshaping global conversations about the future of money technology and economies As the world watches this pioneering nation, it's clear that the impact of its decisions will extend far beyond its borders, leaving an indelible mark on the course of technological progress

Why Twitter is going nowhere - regardless of Elon

Elon Musk is a divisive character, to say the least Depending on who you ask, he’s either a problematic creator of failing businesses who is sticking his nose into politics where he has no right, or he is an unjustified target of a smear campaign whose backstory has been misrepresented entirely and who has created and continues to create revolutionary things for the world while fighting the system and upholding freedom of speech at all costs

Where we stand on the matter isn’t really important, but it is interesting to note that the controversy around his ownership of Twitter has created a lot of chirping and not much flight

For all the noise his detractors have made about leaving the social media platform behind, citing the new owner and the views they believe he holds the app and site continue to retain users and the few attempts to create an alternative platform have failed in their migration efforts

Interestingly this is not the first time a controversial figure has been the figurehead of a big online platform In fact, many say that Tom from MySpace was the last truly popular and uncontroversial person to head up a social media platform, and they may well be right Mark Zuckerberg is hardly a popular name or face, despite billions of people using Facebook every single day Likewise neither the eye rolling at Jeff Bezos nor the allegedly unethical work practices at Amazon seem to have made a dent in the company ’ s fortunes

But Musk is a different proposition altogether Love him or loathe him, he certainly has main character energy, and has really been front and center of the Twitter takeover putting his personality and views out there for all to see We don’t really know what Zuckerberg thinks about much of anything, nor Bezos, so we don’t know much about the people we ’ re giving our money and attention to in each of those cases But Musk’s thoughts are shared all day long on his own platform, which is very much a break from the norm Are his ideas any better or worse than those of his Facebook and Amazon counterparts? We simply don’t know so we can only wonder

The problem for his critics is this: he has taken over a hugely popular platform which took years to build up the number of users it has Those users have, in turn, spent years building their followings and working out how to use the platform to their best advantage in life and in business This is why it’s very challenging for any new platform to come along and challenge it While those who want out want out immediately, there is no equivalent place to go, nowhere with comparable functionality and reach because that takes time

Twitter became popular in the first place because it found its niche so successfully, providing a service that couldn’t be found anywhere else. Threads was the closest potential contender but there was simply too much friction in the user experience for people to have the patience to allow it to take over While those who want to leave Twitter are adamant about their wish to do

so, the truth is that human nature values convenience and a frictionless online experience; we want to be able to join a platform, immediately find what and who we ’ re looking for, and use it with ease Few people have the patience for the slow and difficult phases of building up our carefully cultivated follow lists all over again learning how to share content in the most compelling way, and building our experience to our liking all over again

When the only thing people don’t like about Twitter is the guy who owns it, that’s a minor obstacle in using our favorite social media platforms on a day-to-day basis If this weren’t true, we’d all be shopping around elsewhere for our budget products online, rather than heading to Amazon, but the truth is that convenience ease and familiarity beats the longer and more difficult journey to the end result when it comes to online experiences So unless and until Twitter becomes genuinely difficult to use, it’s going nowhere.

What can Barbie’s success teach the cultural and business sectors about live cinema?

By Kate Wellham

As someone who works in the film sector, I’ve been absolutely fascinated by the phenomenon of the Barbie movie But for me, a producer who helps to bring film to life through live film screening events of all kinds my interest lies not necessarily in the content of the film itself but in the way audiences and brands engaged with it in the real world

For example, I bet you thought of Barbie as soon as you saw the cover of The Alea Journal today

What Barbie has done perfectly is break out of her box and into our daily lives Whether we were interested in the movie or not, it’s fair to say it’s been inescapable for months prior to its release Even if you haven’t seen the movie, and have no intention of seeing it

This has been thanks to a combination of brand partnerships – with Barbie and her signature pink appearing on products both physical and digital –and customisable ways audiences have been able to interact with and join the Barbie universe through things like AI filters and photo opportunities.

We’ve also seen famous names associated with the movie and its soundtrack, not only the on-screen stars but also musical artists who have released songs and videos in association with it

The hype has permeated so many aspects of real life that seeing the movie itself has only been a small

part of the Barbie experience

Engaging with the film has been made so simple and fun that audiences have been walking around doing the marketing themselves, from wearing copious amounts of pink to saying “hi Barbie” to each other making Ken puns and sharing photos posing in human-sized Barbie boxes

It s been a triumph of live cinema on a global scale Pair that with the manufactured battle with the Oppenheimer release and all the juxtaposition that provided and this was a movie release that had more attention than any other in recent memory

Of course part of this was due to the star herself And no not Margot Robbie (although she has to take some credit of course) but Barbie

This internationally-famous doll has been a staple of childhood around the world since the late 1950s and has taken the cultural temperature every step of the way.

There’s a Barbie for every fashion trend, for every country, for every career Barbies that were nothing more than toys when they were made have since become collectors’ items and art in their own right.

And while Barbie doesn’t exactly represent every body type, she goes quite a long way towards representing other facets of life There are Barbies of every ethnicity, Barbies doing every impressive or interesting job you can imagine, there’s a Barbie in a hijab a Barbie in a wheelchair and yes there are Barbies with babies – despite Barbie coming into existence initially in response to baby dolls being the only option available

Mattel has done much of the work preparing audiences for this movie over the last 60+ years by making efforts to reach girls all over the world with Barbies that look just like them, no matter who those little girls are or where they are Their outreach has been so thorough that women of all ages were interested in seeing this movie and finding out exactly how it was going to bring their plastic childhood friend to life.

The stage has never been set so perfectly for a cultural whirlwind, and audiences were wild for it

And now to the content itself The movie is in my opinion, very good. It’s not the best thing I’ve ever seen, it makes some interesting observations about womanhood that are not news to women, but are still good to see discussed in such a public way

It’s funny it’s visually interesting it’s stylish and it’s engaging

It was always going to be a winner, though, because all it needed to do was play its small part in the Barbie experience by not being actively bad The Barbie movie phenomenon was very little about the movie, and so much about getting us all to turn the real world into Barbie Land for a while

That’s live cinema, and it’s the reason I do what I do In an era when staying indoors alone and consuming film has never been easier – thanks to on-demand streaming – film has to try something completely different if we want to encourage inperson social interaction It has to make memories

In the early days of cinema going to the theatre was the only way to see a film and there would often be dressing up among the crowd, and a live musical performer providing the audio Seeing a movie was an exciting event, a real occasion, and there’s no reason it can’t be again

All we need to do is find new and innovative ways to blend the real world with the fictional one – just like Barbie did – and we can open up new opportunities for audiences and business alike

Saudi Arabia's Strategic Play: the Phenomenon of Football Club Acquisitions

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has emerged as a significant player in the world of football club acquisitions making multi-billion-dollar investments that have reshaped the landscape of global sports ownership

From high-profile European clubs to regional teams, Saudi Arabia's growing involvement in football has captured the attention of enthusiasts and industry experts alike. Let’s delve into the motivations behind Saudi Arabia's football club purchases explore recent examples and discuss emerging trends in the realm of sports investments

The act of investing in football clubs goes beyond the mere ownership of a sports entity It often

involves a blend of economic, geopolitical, and social motivations. While financial gains are undoubtedly a driving force other factors play a pivotal role in influencing these acquisitions

Economic Diversification: As part of its Vision 2030 initiative, Saudi Arabia seeks to diversify its economy and reduce its dependency on oil revenue. Investing in football clubs offers a means of diversification through lucrative entertainment, media, and sponsorship opportunities, while also promoting tourism and local business growth

Soft Power and International Prestige: Football has the unparalleled ability to

capture the hearts of people worldwide By acquiring high-profile clubs Saudi Arabia gains a platform to enhance its soft power, project a positive image on the global stage, and strengthen its international reputation

Enhanced Diplomacy: Football transcends borders and cultures, offering opportunities for cultural exchange and diplomacy. Owning football clubs enables Saudi Arabia to forge connections with other nations fostering closer diplomatic ties and partnerships

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has made a series of high-profile football club acquisitions that have caught the attention of the sports world:

Newcastle United FC: One of the most significant acquisitions is the purchase of Newcastle United FC in the English Premier League This multibillion-dollar deal not only signals Saudi Arabia's entry into the world of elite football but also sparks debates about the influence of foreign ownership in the sport

Al Nassr FC: Domestically, Saudi investors have acquired clubs such as Al Nassr FC a Riyadhbased team that competes in the Saudi Professional League These investments contribute to the growth of local football and its infrastructure

And it’s not only the clubs in which Saudi Arabia is investing, but also the players. Just this year, Karim Benzema Roberto Firmino N'Golo Kante Ruben Neves and Jota have all signed to Saudi clubs and last month Saudi Arabia’s most decorated club, Al Hilal, revealed they had secured Neymar Junior

Beyond football, Saudi Arabia's interest in sports extends to various disciplines:

Esports: The expansion of Saudi investments into esports demonstrates a forward-thinking approach The country is hosting major esports events and tournaments, fostering a thriving esports ecosystem and connecting with a younger, tech-savvy audience

Women's Sports: Saudi Arabia's investments in women's sports are indicative of its commitment to promoting gender equality and inclusivity The establishment of women's sports leagues and participation in international competitions showcase the nation's dedication to empowering women through sports

Saudi Arabia's foray into football club acquisitions showcases the multifaceted motivations that underpin these investments From economic diversification and soft power projection to enhanced diplomacy and international prestige, the reasons behind such acquisitions are as complex as the world of sports itself

With the acquisition of renowned clubs and participation in diverse sports disciplines, Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a global player in the realm of sports investments As the landscape continues to evolve, the sports world watches with anticipation to see the long-term impact of these investments on Saudi Arabia's economy, international relationships, and the broader world of sports

30 years of sheffield docfest

y y festival, and here are just a few highlights that show the range and quality on offer every year

p y carnage of war, and the desolation and destruction of once populated communities

If Only Night Wouldn’t Fall

A unique perspective on three Western countries’ attempts to grapple with anxiety, depression and psychosis

What links Norwegian primary school children, a meditation facilitator in a Florida town and a Dutch man struggling to avoid relapse into psychosis? Marc Schmidt’s film follows case studies across three countries in order to explore the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness

The key lies in prevention rather than cure, with practitioners seeking workable solutions to anxiety, depression and psychosis Through a combination of interviews and the detailing of a variety of experiments, accompanied by a rich and immersive sound design,

Schmidt’s cleverly constructed film presents an empathetic portrait of a universal problem, allowing us to reflect on how much we understand what goes on in our minds, and to witness the development of technology and practices aimed at helping us

Is There Anybody Out There?

In this deeply personal and disarmingly honest documentary filmmaker Ella Glendining searches for individuals with the same rare disability as herself

Born with no hip joints and short femurs, a condition so rare that there is little reliable information about it,

Ella Glendining decides to go in search of people who can share their experience and feelings about having a body like hers

In doing so, she challenges lazy ableist assumptions, experiences a number of unexpected surprises and encounters people who look like her. With great warmth and an infectious joy for her body and life as it is

Glendining challenges us to question the way we see others, like and unlike ourselves

Is Anybody Out There? is a revelatory film that gently tugs at the viewer’s biases and looks to a day when inclusivity is no longer an ‘issue’.

Maestra

A film about perseverance and breaking glass ceilings, five women prepare for and compete in an international competition for female conductors

Maggie Contreras follows a group of entrants in the lead-up to the prestigious, bi-annual La Maestra competition which takes place in Paris Each entrant distinct personalities who have had to face a variety of obstacles to reach this point, still face challenges in a world that has been unfairly dominated by men

They have had to contend with conflict, the challenges of motherhood and family, and personal trauma. Surviving it all is their passion for and commitment to their craft and a desire to succeed against all odds In addition to charting the women ’ s journey against the exciting and dramatic world of classical music,

Contreas’ film is a celebration of female camaraderie in a creative landscape whose gender imbalance has long needed correcting.

White Nanny Black Child

A group of adults find solace in sharing their experiences of growing up as children of Black Nigerian immigrants who were fostered by white British families

Between 1955 and 1995, over 70,000 West African children were fostered by white Britons, in a practice known as ‘farming’ Many individuals then had to live, often in silence, with the longlasting impact of this controversial official policy

Nine of those raised this way were invited to a workshop retreat under professional guidance to discuss their experiences Each take turns delving into their past, revealing the confusion and trauma of dealing with such change at a young age

For many, this marks the first time they have had the opportunity to connect with people who have shared a similar childhood

White Nanny Black Child presents a personal, moving and sometimes unsettling meditation on identity, belonging and the nature of family

Kuwait's Thriving Economy: Transformative Steps Towards Growth and Development

Kuwait, a nation known for its rich history and abundant oil reserves, is undergoing a significant transformation in its economic landscape Recent developments, such as the approval of laws permitting residential cities and the establishment of a new sovereign fund for mega projects, highlight Kuwait's commitment to diversifying its economy fostering sustainable growth, and positioning itself as a regional economic powerhouse In this article, we delve into the two pivotal developments that are shaping Kuwait's economic future

Residential Cities Law: Paving the Way for Urban Expansion

Kuwait's decision to approve a law permitting residential cities signifies a strategic step towards urban expansion and improved quality of life for its citizens The law, as reported by Zawya, will allow firms to establish residential cities, aiming to address the growing demand for housing and enhance the urban living experience. This move aligns with Kuwait's broader vision of sustainable development and urban planning

The establishment of residential cities is expected to address the housing shortage, create new job opportunities in the construction and real estate sectors, and boost economic activity By promoting the development of modern, well-planned communities Kuwait aims to provide its citizens with enhanced infrastructure, recreational facilities, and a higher standard of living

New Sovereign Fund for Mega Projects: Igniting Economic Growth

Kuwait's decision to set up a new sovereign fund dedicated to mega projects marks a significant leap forward in the nation's economic diversification efforts As reported by Reuters, this fund is aimed at financing large-scale projects that contribute to economic growth, job creation, and the overall development of various sectors in Kuwait

The creation of the sovereign fund demonstrates Kuwait's commitment to reducing its dependence on oil revenue

s and fostering a more resilient and diversified economy By investing in mega projects across sectors such as infrastructure, technology, tourism, and healthcare, Kuwait is poised to attract foreign investment, boost local industries, and position itself as a regional economic hub.

The combined impact of these two developments is expected to be far-reaching, both domestically and regionally

Kuwait's focus on urban expansion and housing development is set to alleviate pressure on the housing market create employment opportunities and enhance the overall living conditions for its citizens The establishment of residential cities also reflects the government's commitment to sustainable urban planning and environmental conservation

The new sovereign fund for mega projects, on the other hand holds the potential to catalyze economic growth on an unprecedented scale

By investing in diverse sectors, Kuwait is aligning itself with global trends in economic diversification and innovation This approach not only attracts international investors but also contributes to the nation's long-term economic resilience

Kuwait's economy is on the brink of a transformative journey, driven by visionary policies and strategic decisions The approval of laws permitting residential cities and the establishment of a sovereign fund for mega projects underscore Kuwait's commitment to sustainable growth, economic diversification, and improved quality of life for its citizens

As these developments unfold, Kuwait is not only charting a new course for its own economic prosperity but also setting an example for other nations in the region

By embracing innovation, fostering investment, and prioritizing the welfare of its people Kuwait is wellpositioned to realize its ambitions of becoming a dynamic and thriving economic hub in the Middle East

The price of hospitality

If you ’ re a frequent traveler, you may have noticed the wildly fluctuating prices of flights and hotels in the past few years

This is largely to do with some of the unique conditions caused by the pandemic and international travel restrictions with efforts to boost flagging tourism meeting the consequences of reduced travel to form an unpredictable upand-down in costs depending on regional factors

Whether or not these fluctuations will continue depends on a number of factors, some related to ongoing impacts of the pandemic and some completely unrelated so let’s take a look at what may be going on

Government support for tourism

Some parts of the world reliant on tourism were able to prop up tourism-related businesses with government support.

This allowed those businesses to ride out the months in which their regular income suffered, and meant they were able to continue relatively as normal once travel opened up again

By supporting these businesses, governments were able to keep their prices at nearer to prepandemic levels and there were even reductions in prices in some areas during the period of time in which travel was allowed but not back to normal levels

But in some cases, there was no support, and this led to the closure of many tourism related businesses, which leads to our next issue…

Supply and demand

Where supply of tourism-related business has been reduced, the demand for those remaining resources is high, meaning the remaining businesses can increase their prices and keep them elevated, knowing that travelers with sufficient funds will pay them

In some regions, this has vastly increased the prices across the board for any and all services from transport to hotels food excursions and anything else you can think of that is part of the travel and tourism ecosystem

Sustainability goals

As sustainability issues continue to push to the forefront of any and all areas of life travel and tourism is particularly under scrutiny This is because air travel is one of the largest polluters in the world, and reducing it is seen as a desirable goal by many

This is likely to have an impact on flight prices in the coming years both as a way to discourage frequent air travel, and as a knock-on effect of the additional measures airlines must take in order to meet emissions goals or compensate for their carbon footprints

Sustainability is also impacting travel trends with many travelers consciously opting to fly less, to choose other forms of long distance transport, or to visit places closer to home that they would not normally visit

These changes of route on a mass scale are also changing the landscape in terms of which destinations are popular and which are becoming less so This in turn is causing fluctuations in prices across all impacted regions

Lack of available labor

The travel and tourism sectors were hit so hard during the pandemic and lockdowns that many people in those industries found other lines of work and have not returned to the sector

This has led to under-resourcing across the board, reducing businesses’ capacity to accommodate the number of people they were able to before

As capacity reduces, demand becomes higher, and prices inevitably follow

Mohamed Al-Fayed: From Humble Beginnings to Remarkable Success

Mohamed Al-Fayed's life story was a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and unwavering belief in oneself Born into a modest family in Alexandria Egypt on January 27 1929

Al-Fayed's journey from humble beginnings to becoming a prominent business magnate and influential figure in the United Kingdom was nothing short of remarkable This article reflects on the life and achievements of Mohamed AlFayed, highlighting the key moments and attributes that led to his success

Mohamed Al-Fayed's early years were marked by modesty and the values of diligence and perseverance Growing up in Alexandria, he learned the importance of hard work and resourcefulness from his father, who ran a small shop Despite facing economic challenges AlFayed displayed an early aptitude for business and a keen interest in commerce

Education was a priority for the young Al-Fayed, and he attended the Victoria College in Alexandria, where he excelled academically He then pursued a degree in economics at Alexandria University, laying the foundation for his future success in the world of business

In the early 1950s Mohamed Al-Fayed embarked on a journey that defined his life He opened a small trading company, initially dealing in imported goods such as kitchen appliances and textiles This marked the beginning of his entrepreneurial career, where his dedication and keen business acumen soon became evident

In the years that followed Mohamed Al-Fayed's business ventures expanded, encompassing diverse industries such as shipping construction and manufacturing His ability to spot lucrative opportunities and his tireless work ethic propelled him to establish a strong presence in the Egyptian business landscape

One of the most significant milestones in Mohamed AlFayed's career was his acquisition of the world-renowned luxury department store Harrods in 1985 This acquisition marked a turning point in his life as he relocated to London and embarked on the ambitious task of revitalizing the iconic store

Under Al-Fayed's leadership Harrods underwent a remarkable transformation He invested heavily in improving the store's infrastructure expanding its product offerings, and enhancing the overall customer experience His dedication to quality and innovation elevated Harrods to new heights of luxury retail excellence, attracting highprofile clientele from around the world

In 1997, tragedy struck when Mohamed Al-Fayed's son Dodi and Princess Diana tragically died in a car accident in Paris

This event profoundly impacted AlFayed leading him to embark on a relentless quest for the truth behind the circumstances of the accident

His pursuit of justice led to a lengthy legal battle and inquiries, but he remained unwavering in his determination to uncover the facts surrounding the incident

Beyond his business acumen and legal battles Mohamed Al-Fayed also demonstrated a commitment to philanthropy

He was involved in numerous charitable endeavors, supporting causes such as children's hospitals and medical research

His dedication to giving back to society reflected his understanding of the importance of using one's success for the betterment of others

Mohamed Al-Fayed's life was a remarkable tale of ambition resilience, and the pursuit of excellence

From humble beginnings in Alexandria, Egypt, to becoming the owner of Harrods and a prominent figure in the United Kingdom, AlFayed's journey was an inspiring example of how determination and hard work could lead to extraordinary success

His legacy as a successful entrepreneur and his unwavering commitment to justice and philanthropy continue to leave a lasting impact on the world, ensuring that his memory is remembered and celebrated

At Alea Global Group we have nothing but respect and admiration for Mr Al-Fayed’s achievements throughout his life, and our thoughts are with his family and friends

Bhutan

A Journey of Tranquility and Cultural Richness

Tucked away in the eastern Himalayas, the Kingdom of Bhutan stands as a pristine gem of untouched natural beauty and deep-rooted cultural heritage This tranquil and unspoiled destination has gained global recognition for its emphasis on Gross National Happiness, pristine landscapes, and vibrant traditions A visit to Bhutan promises a unique blend of awe-inspiring landscapes, spiritual experiences, and cultural encounters that will leave travelers enchanted and rejuvenated

A Journey of Natural Wonders

Bhutan's landscapes are nothing short of breathtaking From the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the lush valleys, travelers are treated to a diverse range of natural wonders

The Paro Valley, home to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, provides an aweinspiring backdrop of dramatic cliffs and serene surroundings. Hike through rhododendron-filled forests and terraced fields, and be rewarded with panoramic views that are nothing short of magical

The Punakha Valley, known as the "Winter Home of the Monastic Body," offers picturesque landscapes dotted with rice paddies and orchards, with the impressive Punakha Dzong commanding the scenery

The peaceful Haa Valley, surrounded by pine-clad mountains, provides the perfect setting for meditation and introspection

Embracing Culture and Traditions

Bhutan is a land where tradition is woven into every aspect of daily life. The vibrant festivals, or "tshechus," showcase traditional dance, music, and colorful attire

These events offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Bhutanese culture, witness masked dances that depict ancient stories, and gain insight into the spiritual essence of the kingdom

Buddhism plays a significant role in Bhutanese life, with monasteries and temples dotting the landscape

The Dochula Pass, located at an elevation of 3 100 meters offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and is adorned with 108 stupas, or chortens, dedicated to peace and victory

Warm Hospitality and Cultural Encounters

Bhutan's people are known for their warm and welcoming nature A visit to local villages provides the opportunity to engage with locals, learn about their way of life, and perhaps even participate in traditional activities

The Bhutanese value harmony and community, making interactions with locals an integral part of the travel experience

Unique Accommodations and Sustainable Tourism

Bhutan takes pride in its sustainable tourism practices, which are aimed at preserving the environment and cultural heritage Accommodations range from cozy guesthouses to luxurious lodges all designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings The opportunity to stay in traditional Bhutanese architecture adds to the authenticity of the experience

Preservation of Nature and Mind

Bhutan's commitment to Gross National Happiness extends to its environmental conservation efforts The country is carbon negative ensuring its natural wonders remain pristine for generations to come Bhutan's holistic approach to well-being includes promoting mental wellness through meditation retreats and serene landscapes that foster inner peace

A journey to Bhutan is not just a vacation; it's an opportunity to step into a world where the air is pure, the landscapes are untouched, and cultural traditions are deeply revered This enchanting kingdom offers a rare combination of natural beauty spiritual depth and genuine hospitality that leaves travelers not only captivated by its splendor but also inspired by its values As you embark on a journey to Bhutan, prepare to be transported to a realm of tranquility cultural richness and happiness that truly defines this hidden Himalayan paradise

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