Hamish Smith is invited on a trip to Dubai that turns out to be bartender retreat in the UAE desert. The terrain wasn't the only changing landscape, he says.

Ready-to-serve cocktail brand Whitebox Cocktails has partnered with brand-building agency, Artisan Spirits, to expand its international distribution.

Dubai has scrapped its 30% tax on alcohol sales for the rest of the year in an apparent bid to boost tourism, while also stopping the charge on personal alcohol licences, something residents who wish to drink at home are required to have.

London Essence has announced the launch of five of its mixers in the UAE, distributed by Dubai Refreshment Company.

Kingfisher has launched a 6x33cl can format in time for the festive trading period as it bids to ramp up off-trade sales.

Alcohol free beer and cider specialist Drynks Unlimited has secured an additional £1 million investment in order to ramp up production.

UK spirits and liqueur agency, Mangrove, has announced plans for expansion into the Middle East and south Asia.