UAE's hospitality and tourism sectors need lateral hiring and ‘Dubai will remain young’ initiative to kick off, Gulf News Editors comment on the top news on July 3

‘DUBAI WILL REMAIN YOUNG’ INITIATIVE: There are plans to expand first-rate amenities for senior persons in Dubai. The seniors programme, under the motto "Dubai will remain young,” covers citizens over the age of 60. It strives to enhance their quality of life by ensuring their inclusion and active involvement in social events through the expansion of Thukhor Social Club model, one of the projects of Dubai's Supreme Committee for Development and Citizenship. The initial site is the Thukhor Social Club located in Al Safa Park, which has so far signed up 350 members, both male and female, since it opened on May 30, 2023. The new clubs will be placed in key areas of the emirate. There are 11,000 elderly residents in Dubai, according to the emirates' statistics. The expansion of this social club will promote intergenerational connection, and give elderly adults access to a welcoming environment where their experience and talents are acknowledged. The move will also benefit the senior citizens’ overall quality of life. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

LATERAL HIRING KEY TO TAP TALENT POOL: Lateral hiring is the need of the hour in UAE's hospitality and tourism sectors. The industry must tap into the vast talent pool from diverse industries such as IT, finance, marketing and management to meet targets of recruiting 7,000 new professionals by the end of the year. By adopting a broader approach to recruitment, hospitality companies can unlock higher value propositions, and bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and valuable skill sets, resulting in increased operational efficiency and enhanced competitiveness. However, this also presents new challenges for existing hotels, as new establishments often offer more attractive packages, making it difficult for them to compete. And there is a pressing need to Emiratise the sector as well. One good news is that salaries in the industry have seen an upward trend, reflecting the market's growth and increased competition. By embracing lateral hiring, adopting digital recruitment strategies, and prioritizing local talent, these sectors can thrive in the changing landscape and deliver exceptional experiences to travellers coming in to experience everything the UAE offers. (By Dhanusha Gokulan, Chief Reporter)

STEVE SMITH IS A RUN MACHINE GOING IN FULL STEAM: Steve Smith has been scaling one peak after the other, showing he is one of the greatest in modern day cricket. The middle-order batter scored his 12th century to become only behind Australian great Donald Bradman, who has 19 tons to his credit. His second century at Lord’s, the first being a 215 in 2015, makes him the fourth highest scorer in Ashes, overtaking former skipper Steve Waugh. In the process he also became the fastest to reach 32 Test hundreds, edging out Ricky Ponting and Sachin Tendulkar. Going by former England skipper Alastair Cook, Smith is a run machine. He is proving to be one. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)

BOLLYWOOD BEGINS TO TACKLE DIFFICULT AND COMPLEX THEMES WITH SENSITIVITY: Actors Kiara Advani and Kartik Aryan are known to attach themselves to entertaining, mass-centric glossy films, a.k.a. masala movies. However, they are subtly switching lanes. In their latest release, 'Satyaprem Ki Katha', which is currently playing in UAE cinemas, this pair took on a complex issue like consent and date rape without being didactic and preachy. It is heartening to see mainstream Bollywood actors, who usually gravitate towards song and dance musicals, take on films that carry an important message. They are stepping out of their comfort zones and are encouraging dialogue by spearheading films that address difficult subjects with sensitivity and empathy. Here's hoping more actors who enjoy a huge fan base and clout follow suit. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)