Dubai scores another first - Blackberry Q5

Dubai scored yet another first and continues to take a leadership position in the global mobile devices business. Blackberry laucnhed its latest introduction to its portfolio, the Blackberry Q5, at a global launch in Dubai today. Customers in Dubai will be able to buy the model 2 weeks before the rest of the world where the model is expected to launch in the first week of July. This is the first of Blackberry's BB10 offerings in the mid segment with the new model expected to retail at AED 1,499/-. Based on a dual core 1.5 GHz processor and Blackberry's popular keypad, a whole new segment of customers will now be able to experience the new BB10 operating system.

The Blackberry Q5 is available exclusively at the new Blackberry store being opened at Dubai Mall. The launch of Blackberry Q5 also coincides with the opening of the first Blackberry store in the Middle East. As per media reports the store is being operated locally by Axiom Telecom. The store was opened by Blackberry's COO Christian Tear today. Huge queues were seen at the store in Dubai Mall, with customers all waiting to pick up the new Blackberry Q5 while it lasts. 

The largest Cheesecake Factory now in Dubai

It is probably a given that what hits you the most from a visit to The Cheesecake Factory is the food. My experience was a bit different.

It is the sheer size and enormity of the restaurant that shocks you when you visit the recently opened The Cheesecake Factory at The Mall of the Emirates. The exterior of the restaurant could easily fool you. But as you step inside you realize that the restaurant is bigger than most you've seen before. The restaurant can apparently host over 525 guests at any time and includes private dining rooms for that exclusive experience. 

The Mall of the Emirates has certainly scored a winner with The Cheesecake Factory. Without doubt the mall has one of the best collection of restaurants include the first IHOP outside USA. 

Please note its not just the size of the restaurant that surprises you. The portions are very generous too. The herb crusted salmon and shrimp scampi is definitely recommended. The crispy tempura prawns are a winner. The Caeser salad comes in XXL and probably enough for 3. 

A place for friends to meet

I spotted this seating arrangement at a place in Satwa. Located behind the DNRD office, this is symbolic of the local culture of meeting with friends and neighbors in the majlis