stc Group increases connectivity speed in the two Holy Mosques by over 120%

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Updated 05 March 2025
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stc Group increases connectivity speed in the two Holy Mosques by over 120%

stc Group, Saudi Arabia’s leading digital enabler, is enabling world-class connectivity for millions of pilgrims and visitors during Ramadan with its expanded 5G network, increasing network infrastructure to accommodate over 120 percent faster download speeds.

stc Group’s network analytics indicate that data usage during Ramadan have already increased by 37 percent while voice services will increase by more than 18 percent. 

To ensure seamless, high-speed connectivity for all, stc Group has expanded its 5G network by more than 30 percent to ensure strong and stable performance during peak times, allowing visitors to remain connected to their loved ones without interruption.

Network speed analysis results from Ookla, a global provider of network data and analytics, has indicated a significant improvement in stc Group's network performance across the grounds of the two Holy Mosques. 

The average download speed has increased by 107 percent inside the Grand Mosque and by 120 percent inside the Prophet's Mosque, offering pilgrims and visitors continuous world-class connectivity despite the high network traffic at the expansive holy sites.

stc Group is investing in cutting-edge digital solutions and innovative technologies in artificial intelligence and data analysis to enhance network efficiency during peak network traffic times. 

During Ramadan and Hajj, specialized technical teams work around the clock to ensure optimal network performance, enhancing preventive maintenance plans and continuously expanding the digital infrastructure. 

This includes expanding Wi-Fi access points inside the Holy Mosques, adding mobile stations to support high congestion areas, and increasing the capacity of international call traffic by 100 percent to meet the needs of all pilgrims around the holy sites.

stc Group's efforts are enhancing the quality of services provided to pilgrims, raising the efficiency of the Kingdom's digital infrastructure during the holy month of Ramadan, enabling visitors to enjoy their spiritual journey with ease.


Dubai Shopping Festival’s sporting events turn city into hub for outdoor action

Updated 31 December 2025
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Dubai Shopping Festival’s sporting events turn city into hub for outdoor action

The Dubai Shopping Festival is raising the bar this winter with a high-impact sporting calendar that runs throughout December and January, transforming the city into a hub for elite competition, community fitness and outdoor action. 

From professional basketball to baseball games, polo tournaments, half marathons, and horse racing, the festival brings together athletes, families and spectators for a dynamic winter season of sport. The diverse lineup of events strengthens DSF’s role in supporting Dubai’s active lifestyle, showcasing world-class sporting venues and encouraging community engagement during the city’s peak outdoor season. 

Key sporting events taking place during DSF: 

Dubai Racing Carnival 

  • Race days: Jan. 2, Jan. 9 and ongoing dates until March 13. 
  • Location: Meydan Racecourse 

The flagship winter racing season features international horses and top jockeys. 

More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnivaland https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnival-festive-friday 

Silver Cup 

  • Date: Jan. 10-Jan.24 
  • Location: Al-Habtoor Polo Resort and Club 

Silver Cup, part of Dubai’s prestigious polo calendar, sees six of the world’s best teams go head-to-head in a 20-goal handicap. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/silver-cup 

Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge — Build-Up Ride 4 

  • Date: Jan. 4 
  • Location: Al-Qudra Cycle Track 

The last of the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge Build-Up Rides is designed to help cyclists build their stamina ahead of the ultimate challenge. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/spinneys-dubai-92-cycle-challenge-build-up-ride-4 

Hood to Coast Dubai 2026 

  • Date: Jan. 10 
  • Location: Al-Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve 

Hood to Coast Dubai challenges teams to conquer a series of relay segments through expansive desert trails, with each runner taking on their leg before passing the baton. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/hood-to-coast 

Skechers Performance Run — Race 4 (16k/10k/5k/3k) 

  • Date: Jan. 10 
  • Location: Meydan 

Enjoy a fun day out for the whole family at this popular community race offering various distances, where participants can run along the traffic-free roads of Meydan. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/skechers-performance-run 

Marina Home Dubai Creek Striders Half Marathon 2026 

  • Date: Jan. 11 
  • Location: Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club 

One of the largest races of its kind in the UAE and the Middle East, this half marathon will mark its 23rd edition in 2026. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-creek-striders-half-marathon 

A citywide sporting season 

With events spanning elite international fixtures, community runs, polo tournaments, multi-distance races, trail challenges and recurring racing nights at Meydan, DSF strengthens Dubai’s winter season for sport, well-being and outdoor experiences.