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Surf Abu Dhabi is now the world’s largest wave pool

Surf Abu Dhabi, UAE

UAE – Surf Abu Dhabi, the world’s largest wave pool, officially opened in October 2024, offering a groundbreaking experience. Initially unveiled in 2019 as a project supported by surfing icon Kelly Slater, the facility now welcomes wave riders who are eager to test its advanced technology and custom-engineered waves.

The pool features four types of waves to accommodate surfers of all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Open surf sessions host up to four surfers at a time, allowing each participant to catch between 20 and 24 waves per session for £771 ($1,000, €927). For those desiring a private experience, bookings of the entire facility are also available, although prices are yet to be disclosed.

Adding to its prestige, Surf Abu Dhabi has secured a spot on the World Surf League Tour, drawing elite surfers and further cementing the UAE’s role in the international surfing community.

In our Riding the Wave of Surfing Futures report, we analysed how a stream of women surfers and newcomers of colour are making the activity mainstream, boosting the surf tourism market and the need for equipment and apparel.

Strategic opportunity

As surfing becomes increasingly premiumised in the UAE, consider ways to package it as part of luxury wellness experiences. Could it be bundled with spa treatments, fine dining or relaxation packages to appeal to tourists seeking high-end, all-inclusive leisure experiences?

Canada Water's new timber boardwalk is designed to promote biodiversity

Asif Khan boardwalk at Canada Water. Photography by Brendan Bell, UK

UK – British Land and AustralianSuper have unveiled a new boardwalk in Canada Water, London, designed by renowned architect Asif Khan.

The 170-metre red timber walkway is inspired by dockworkers who, in the 19th and early 20th century, would ‘timber hop’ to move around. Now, visitors can traverse Canada Dock by stepping from timber to timber.

Townshend Landscape Architects also created a series of steps down to the water’s edge where there is seating and an educational dipping pond. The firm partnered with the London Wildlife Trust to create a shoreline and a mosaic of different habitats to maximise biodiversity and support wildlife such as dragonflies, ducks and swans.

The landmark is part of a 53-acre master plan to deliver a new district for central London, bringing retail stores, leisure amenities, workspaces and homes to the area.

In Smart New Towns, we explored how urban regeneration requires more than just building houses. For areas to thrive, social infrastructure and environmental preservation must also be addressed.

Strategic opportunity

Design spaces that enhance biodiversity and foster community interaction by transforming under-utilised areas into thriving, eco-friendly hubs that drive the local economy

Australia’s proposed social media ban for under-16s sparks debate

Australia – Australia is moving toward landmark legislation that would ban children under 16 from social media, in an attempt to protect young users from online harm. Announcing the proposed laws, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed concern over the impact of social media on children, stating that this move was aimed at safeguarding Australian families and alleviating parental anxieties about online safety.

If passed, the law would require social media platforms to actively prevent under-16s from accessing their services. Parental consent will not be an exception, and enforcement will fall under Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, with no penalties aimed directly at users. The law is expected to take effect a year after its approval, with a subsequent review of its impact.

While proponents argue the legislation addresses adolescent mental health concerns (as explored in Teens, Tech, and Tapping Out), critics, including child rights advocacy groups, contend that an outright ban is overly restrictive and fails to equip young people with essential digital navigation skills.

The Light Phone III, US

Strategic opportunity

As a brand targeting young consumers, you have a responsibility to make your digital experiences –from social media content to newsletters and e-commerce– positive, educational, and inspiring rather than simply promoting more doom-scrolling

Stat: Travel tops homeownership for Chinese Gen Z

Miss by Chuqiao Liu, Beijing, China

China – The Gen Z workforce in China is prioritising travel over traditional milestones such as homeownership, with 70% of respondents in a recent HSBC survey stating that work incentives are driven by the desire to travel. This shift is transforming the travel sector, as younger people increasingly demand authentic, personalised experiences.

Links between luxury brands and the travel industry are gaining momentum. A notable example is The Ritz-Carlton’s October collaboration with Madrid’s menswear label Late Checkout, which blended luxury with modern style in a limited-edition capsule collection. ‘The juxtaposition of our timeless elegance with Late Checkout’s modern, playful aesthetic creates a unique synergy,’ said Jamie Kerr, vice president, The Ritz-Carlton.

Hong Kong International Airport is also embracing Gen Z’s preferences, offering luxury experiences and concierge services that cater to digital natives. ‘Gen Z want authentic experiences, and it’s important for businesses to deliver on the promises they make,’ Dale Parkington, general manager at The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, told Jing Daily. The combination of luxury, authenticity and niche travel and hospitality offerings is now central to attracting this influential demographic.

For deeper insights into the future of work and Gen Z’s travel-driven priorities, explore our Work States Futures and Emerging Youth: China reports for a closer look at this pivotal cohort.

Strategic opportunity

As Gen Z in China prioritise travel, consider how to introduce travel-based rewards or allow flexible work arrangements that enable employees to work from various locations. This aligns incentives with their core motivations and increases engagement