News

6 Arab Musicians Triumph In TikTok MENA LIVE’s #GimmeTheMic

Aimed at discovering talented music creators, the competition has already revealed some of the most promising regional acts.

Published

8 months ago

September 11, 2024

Nour Nasir

6 arab musicians triumph in tiktok mena live's #gimmethemic

The TikTok LIVE #GimmeTheMic competition has concluded, providing a platform for rising musicians across the MENA region to share their unique sounds. The grand finale, held on September 9 at the Theatre of Digital Art and streamed live on the @TikTokLive_MENA page, featured standout performances from the finalists, all vying to represent the MENA region on the world stage.

tiktok mena live #gimmethemic winners 2024

Since debuting last year, #GimmeTheMic has evolved into more than just a competition. It has become a showcase of creativity, resonating with TikTok’s vast community. Aimed at discovering and promoting talented music creators, this initiative has already revealed some of the most promising artists in the region. The 12 finalists, chosen through in-app voting by TikTok users, are part of a new wave of talent ready to make their global mark.

The road to the final performance was marked by intense preparation and overseen by an esteemed panel of judges. Celebrity experts included Arab pop sensation Sandy, Syrian singer and actor Samo Zaen — winner of the Best Middle East Artist Award — and Moroccan artist Grini, a recipient of the MTV European Music Award.

Through dedicated coaching sessions, the judges offered insights and personal experiences from their own careers. The sessions helped the contestants not only improve their skills but also gain confidence in their abilities. As a result, the competition served as a unique learning experience for all participants.

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Reflecting on the event, Samo Zaen noted, “These performers aren’t just picking up the mic; they’re taking control. TikTok has become a space for artists to showcase their work and connect with a global audience”.

The competition’s six winners — Fathy Samir (@fathysamirrofficial), Balqees Raed (@balqees7890), Ahmed Yaser (@ahmedyassersinger), Amira Aly (@merooamira000), Jan Georg (@jaaan.official), and Amr Tarek (@amrtarek.tv) — will now represent the MENA region in the global #GimmeTheMic contest. Their success in the competition has already set the stage for a brighter future in the region’s music industry, fostering a community of creators passionate about sharing their craft with the world.

News

UAE’s Etihad Rail Launches In 2026 — What You Need To Know

A 1,200 km passenger network will transform public transport, with 11 connected cities, and high-speed trains cutting inter-emirate travel times.

Published

1 day ago

May 19, 2025

Nour Nasir

Etihad Rail

Etihad Rail has confirmed that its long-anticipated passenger train service will officially launch in 2026, ushering in a new era of high-speed, inter-emirate travel. The UAE’s national railway developer shared the announcement on X (formerly Twitter), as work continues on a 1,200 km passenger network set to connect 11 cities across all seven emirates.

The news marks a major leap in public transportation for the country, with passenger trains designed to reach speeds of up to 200 km/h. Travel times will be significantly reduced — Abu Dhabi to Dubai is expected to take just under an hour, while the journey to Fujairah will be cut to around 105 minutes. A separate high-speed line, capable of reaching 350 km/h, is also in the works to link Abu Dhabi and Dubai in just 30 minutes.

The backbone of the network was completed in 2023, when Etihad Rail launched its 900 km freight service linking key industrial and logistics hubs across the UAE, including ports in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Fujairah. Now, the focus has shifted to passenger infrastructure.

The first station will be located in Sakamkam, Fujairah city centre, and a second is confirmed near University City in Sharjah. Dubai’s main station is expected to be adjacent to Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station, while Abu Dhabi’s is anticipated along the corridor separating Mussafah Industrial Area and Mohammed Bin Zayed City.

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Once completed, the passenger network will link cities including Al Sila, Al Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Dubai, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. Integration with Oman is also part of the long-term vision. A new cross-border project — Hafeet Rail — will span 303 km between Sohar and Abu Dhabi’s Al Wathba area. Developed by Etihad Rail in collaboration with Oman Rail and Mubadala, the link is expected to deepen trade and tourism ties between the two countries.

Etihad Rail’s passenger trains will carry up to 400 passengers each and feature Wi-Fi, entertainment systems, charging points, and onboard food and beverage options to ensure a comfortable experience. To further simplify access, passengers will be able to pay with their nol cards, thanks to a partnership between Etihad Rail and Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The collaboration aims to integrate fare payments and booking systems under one unified platform.