Indian school launches ‘ISSAACC’ to foster scientific temper

Principal of IISJ Dr. Mohammad Imran, Abdul Ghafoor Danish, Dr. Prince Mufti Zia, Professor Javed Mussarat, and Consul Mohammad Hashim, along with others at the ISSAACC launch ceremony.
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Updated 06 September 2025
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Indian school launches ‘ISSAACC’ to foster scientific temper

International Indian School Jeddah has unveiled a new transformative platform to provide students with global scientific exposure, practical mentorship and career guidance.

The International Scientific Society for Advanced Academic and Career Counseling was announced in a landmark ceremony that brought together eminent scientists, educationists, and community leaders.

The ceremony began with a welcome address by Principal of IISJ Dr. Mohammad Imran, who underlined the importance of curiosity-driven education and platforms that prepare students for the future.

Dr. Prince Mufti Zia, founding director of ISSAACC and IISJ managing committee member, introduced the vision of the society, describing it as a practical avenue for students to transform their scientific ideas into reality.

Prof. Anwar Bilgrami, chief patron of ISSAACC, elaborated on the motives and strategies of ISSAACC, urging students to nurture scientific temperament and pursue innovation with focus and clarity.

Abdul Ghafoor Danish, media and outreach adviser, highlighted the necessity of ISSAACC in broadening career options for students, beyond traditional fields such as medicine and guiding them toward diverse rewarding careers.

Nooruddin Khan, financial adviser of ISSAACC, emphasized the society’s role in preparing young Indians to contribute to the nation’s global rise through science and technology.

Guest of Honor Prof.Javed Mussarat, vice chancellor of Integral University, Lucknow, inspired students with his keynote address, urging them to set career goals early and pursue them with dedication.

The ceremony also carried the message of Consul General of India in Jeddah Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, read out by Chief Guest Mohammad Hashim, consul (commerce and PIC) at the Indian Consulate. Suri congratulated IISJ on this landmark initiative and assured support for empowering Indian youth.

Chairman of IISJ Managing Committee Dr. Abdul Saleem, together with fellow members Dr. Mohammed Shafee, Dr. Nusrat Khan,  Dr. Farheen Ameena Taha, Dr. Zubair Hameed, and Dr. Hemalatha Mahalingam, extended their full support to ISSAACC, calling it a transformative step for IISJ and the Indian community in Jeddah.

The ceremony saw the launch of the ISSAACC website, providing a roadmap for student engagement. The “Young Scientist Program,” with an initial grant of SR5,000, was announced for student research proposals.

Members of the ISSAACC advisory board, most of whom are globally ranked among the top 2 percent scientists, pledged full cooperation in guiding IISJ students.

The inauguration of ISSAACC at IISJ marks the beginning of a new era in student empowerment. With the active involvement of globally recognized scientists, community leaders, and the school’s leadership, ISSAACC is set to nurture innovators, researchers, and leaders who will shape the future of science and strengthen India’s global standing.


31st Dubai Shopping Festival kicks-off with star-studded concerts, unique experiences

Updated 12 December 2025
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31st Dubai Shopping Festival kicks-off with star-studded concerts, unique experiences

The 31st edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival, the world’s longest-running annual retail celebration of its kind, launched with an unforgettable opening weekend, with dazzling live performances, shows and events. 

Running until Jan. 11, the DSF extravaganza is transforming Dubai into a vibrant hub of unbeatable shopping deals,  and immersive entertainment, drawing millions of visitors to experience the city’s unmatched blend of retail innovation, culture, and global flair.

Kicking off the festivities in spectacular style, the opening weekend saw high-energy concerts, captivating family entertainment, and cutting-edge visual displays, which set the tone for a 38-day season of wonder, excitement and family entertainment.

e& DSF Nights

Adding style and glamor to the weekend, international icon Nora Fatehi dazzled audiences at e& DSF Nights, the daily celebrations that will be held at Dubai Festival City Mall. Famed for her high-energy dance performances and infectious rhythms, Fatehi’s live show wowed fans on Dec. 6, at the mall’s scenic Festival Bay. The venue showcased stunning fireworks complementing an evening of cultural vibrancy and celebration. 

As part of the broader e& DSF Nights series, the event featured interactive zones, waterfront attractions, and free public installations, creating an inclusive and unforgettable experience for all ages.

Hatta mountain experiences

DSF will also feature an exciting and immersive mountain experience at Hatta Wadi Hub for the second year in a row, featuring Candlelight Concerts by Fever, Dinner in the Sky, and the Roxy Dome Cinema.

Candlelight Concerts by Fever

Experience a magical outdoor candlelight concert series for all to enjoy with incredible music from Vivaldi to Coldplay against the stunning backdrop of the Hatta mountains. Tickets are on sale for 70 dirhams ($28). Kids eight years and below are welcome to join the children’s concert taking place on Dec. 13 for free.

Dinner in the Sky

This elevated experience will debut at the Hatta mountains for a scenic meal in the clouds like no other. Perched 50 meters above ground, experience a stunning dinner for 300 dirhams.

Breathtaking shows 

Elevating the spectacle further, DSF will unveil its new Drone and Pyro Show, a mesmerizing technological marvel featuring more than 1,000 drones, including 100 pyro drones, across two nightly displays. Fusing art and innovation, these breathtaking shows will illuminate the city skyline with color and creativity, symbolizing Dubai’s visionary and future-forward spirit. A Dubai-inspired soundtrack by legendary composer Hans Zimmer will be used for the drone display, where thousands of synchronized drones will dance through the night sky, transforming the city skyline into a cinematic symphony of light and sound.

Tickets for e& DSF Nights are now available to purchase via Platinumlist.net. Fans are urged to secure their seats early before they sell out. Two additional A-list concerts at Coca-Cola Arena and e& DSF Nights will soon be announced, adding to the festival’s star-studded entertainment lineup.