Categories
-Top News Dubai UAE News

Expo City Celebrates Diversity With ‘Dubai Iftar’

The third edition of ‘Dubai Iftar’ brings together people from various faiths at Expo City Dubai….reports Asian Lite News

The Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai, in collaboration with Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, today hosted the third edition of ‘Dubai Iftar’ at Expo City Dubai.

The interfaith iftar event saw people from different faiths, including religious leaders, gather together for a special iftar meal. The event was also attended by Muslim scholars, UAE officials, senior officials from various organisations, as well as representatives from consular and diplomatic bodies in the country.

‘Dubai Iftar’ was organised as part of the #RamadanInDubai campaign that was launched under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council. Organised annually, the iftar event aims to celebrate the values of generosity and sharing, while also promoting peaceful coexistence and social cohesion.

Commenting on the occasion, Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai, said the ‘Dubai Iftar’ event reflects the spirit of tolerance and compassion that characterises the Holy Month, while also showcasing the religious and cultural diversity within the UAE society.

“Our society is distinguished by its commitment to coexistence and religious freedom. These values are rooted in mutual respect and a dedication to safeguarding and integrating all members, irrespective of their cultural or religious backgrounds. Ramadan offers us the chance to renew our commitment to advancing our society’s development, strengthening bonds within our community and enhancing the quality of life of all society members,” Buhumaid said.

She added: “This iftar, uniting representatives from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds, underscores our shared goal of safeguarding our society’s ongoing development. Social progress isn’t solely the duty of governments or organisations; it’s a collective endeavour that requires active involvement from all members of society. Whether through ideas, volunteerism, charitable actions, or supporting programmes addressing societal needs, everyone plays a crucial role.”

Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Director General of Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, said that the ‘Dubai Iftar’ event embodies the essence of Emirati culture, which embraces coexistence and diversity. He emphasised the unique social fabric of the UAE, particularly in Dubai, which is known for its rich cultural diversity, with residents hailing from over 200 nationalities and speaking numerous languages.

He added that the event aligns with the vision of the UAE leadership and exemplifies the peaceful coexistence found in the UAE. “This initiative has gained substantial regional recognition for bringing people of diverse faiths, beliefs, and cultural backgrounds together. Through this gathering, we convey a message of love, tolerance, and peace from Dubai to all sects and religions worldwide,” Al Muhairi said.

Ahmed Khalfan Al Mansouri, Cultural Communication Advisor and General Coordinator of Ramadan Activities in Dubai, said that Al Wasl Plaza in Expo City Dubai was selected once again as the venue for ‘Dubai Iftar’ due to its symbolic significance as a beacon for connecting minds and civilisations worldwide. Additionally, the invitation was extended to include a broader array of representatives from various sects, religions, and members of the country’s consular and diplomatic corps, he noted.

Launched by the Dubai Media Council, the #RamadanInDubai campaign brings the public and private sectors together for the first time for a unified celebration of the Holy Month.

The Dubai Media Council has tasked Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO), with overseeing the campaign’s execution. The campaign has been designed to bring to the community the unique spirit, beauty and warmth of Ramadan and share the rich cultural heritage and traditions that are an integral part of celebrations during the Holy Month. The initiative also aims to create a unique ambience across the city that captures the true essence of Ramadan, reflecting the authentic Emirati customs and traditions that make the occasion truly special.

ALSO READ: UAE President, World Central Kitchen CEO discuss boosting Gaza aid

Categories
-Top News Dubai UAE News

New Hub to Boost Dubai’s Biz Environment

The Unified Digital Platform seeks to integrate various licensing processes in Dubai to significantly improve the investor experience in the city….reports Asian Lite News

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, issued Decree No. (13) of 2024 on the Unified Digital Platform for establishing companies in Dubai. The Decree forms part of Dubai’s efforts to enhance its business environment and advance economic growth.

The platform seeks to integrate various licensing processes in Dubai including those managed by the Department of Economy and Tourism, the Authorities of special development zones and freezones, including the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), and other relevant entities. The integration is aimed at significantly improving the investor experience in Dubai. By offering a streamlined channel for accessing information, obtaining licenses, and availing other services related to economic activities, the platform seeks to enhance the ease and convenience of investors.

The Decree, which applies to all economic activities in Dubai, also aims to regulate the issuance of licenses, permits and approvals in the emirate to enhance clarity and simplicity. It also seeks to help investors overcome obstacles in setting up or operating businesses in Dubai.

The Decree seeks to enhance electronic integration between licensing departments and other key entities to avoid duplication of procedures, and support Dubai’s digital transformation in line with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to establish the city as a digital economy hub.

In a move that complements the new Decree, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, issued Resolution No. (5) of 2024 of the Council, approving the key principles behind facilitating the investor’s journey in Dubai. These principles are applicable to the processes for all licenses, permits and approvals related to business activities in Dubai. The Resolution is effective from the date the new Decree goes into effect.

According to the Resolution, all licensing entities and federal and local entities tasked with regulating and supervising business activities in Dubai, are responsible for facilitating a smooth journey for investors in Dubai and implementing the procedures required to facilitate this.

The Resolution also outlines various measures to provide a smooth experience for investors including registration on the ‘Invest in Dubai’ digital platform, unified digital data registration, instant licensing, instant license renewal, one-step fee payment, streamlining of licensing requirements, and the standardisation of procedures, rules and conditions.

According to Decree No. (13) of 2024, the Department of Economy and Tourism is responsible for operating, managing and developing the ‘Invest in Dubai’ platform in collaboration with relevant licensing bodies, in line with the digital transformation guidelines set by the Dubai Digital Authority.

According to the Decree, all requests related to licensing and permits should be processed through the ‘Invest in Dubai’ digital platform in accordance with the procedures, requirements, timelines and fees mentioned in the ‘Guide’, an electronic document developed by the Department of Economy and Tourism, which outlines the requirements for operating a business in Dubai.

The Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai will issue the decisions necessary to implement this Decree, which annuls any other legislation that may contradict it. This Decree is effective from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

ALSO READ: UAE Steps Up Gaza Aid During Ramadan

Categories
Dubai

Indian Investors Lead New Business Entries in Dubai

The number of new Syrian-owned companies joining Dubai Chamber of Commerce reached 2,755 in 2023, representing YoY growth of 28.8%. The country ranked fourth among the top investor nationalities for new company registrations…reports Asian Lite News

A recent analysis by Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has revealed that Indian investors topped the list of nationalities of new non-UAE businesses joining the chamber last year. A total of 15,481 new Indian-owned companies became members in 2023, representing year-over-year (YoY) growth of 38% and underlining Dubai’s continuing attractiveness among Indian businesses and investors.

Pakistan ranked second in terms of new company memberships in 2023, with the chamber welcoming 8,036 new Pakistani businesses in 2023 – a remarkable growth rate of 71.2% compared to the previous year. Egypt ranked third, with 4,837 new members registering, representing YoY growth of 63.2%.

Prominent destination for investments

His Excellency Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, commented: “During the past year, Dubai has consistently attracted foreign direct investment from many different nations and sectors, underlining the diversity of the emirate’s business environment and its broad economic appeal as a global business destination.”

His Excellency added that the chamber is committed to providing specialised value-added services that support its strategic priorities, facilitate business activity, and enhance the competitiveness of companies in the emirate, stating: “The remarkable increase in the diversity of nationalities represented among the owners of member companies reflects Dubai’s growing prominence within the global business landscape, especially since the announcement of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).”

Dynamic growth trajectory

The number of new Syrian-owned companies joining Dubai Chamber of Commerce reached 2,755 in 2023, representing YoY growth of 28.8%. The country ranked fourth among the top investor nationalities for new company registrations.

The United Kingdom ranked fifth with a total of 2,267 new companies, up from 1,503 in 2022 to achieve YoY growth of 50.8%. The number of new Bangladeshi-owned member companies increased by 42.8% to reach 2,252. China ranked seventh on the list with 1,560 new companies joining the chamber in 2023, achieving an annual growth rate of 66.5%.

The number of new Jordanian companies increased by 31.6% to reach 1,469, compared to 1,116 in 2022. Iraqi companies ranked ninth on the list, with 1,247 new companies registered during 2023. This represented YoY growth of 95.5% compared to the 638 companies that joined in 2022. Yemeni companies ranked tenth with 1,214 new companies, achieving an annual growth rate of 57.5% over the 771 companies that joined in 2022.

Increases across diverse sectors

The majority of new companies that registered with Dubai Chamber of Commerce in 2023 operate within the wholesale and retail trade and repair of motor vehicles sector, which accounted for 44.2% of new memberships. This was followed by companies from the real estate, renting, and business activities sector, which represented 32% of the total. The construction sector ranked third with 8.3% of total new companies, while the transport, storage, and communications sector came fourth, accounting for 8.1% of the new companies joining as chamber members.

Established in 1965, Dubai Chamber of Commerce continues to represent, support, and protect the interests of the business community in Dubai, create a stimulating business environment, and promote the emirate as a global business hub. The chamber is one of three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, which was restructured under a decree issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

ALSO READ-

Categories
-Top News Dubai UAE News

Dubai Tourism Shines at ITB Berlin

Participating at major international trade shows such as ITB Berlin is a key element of DET’s marketing strategy to promote Dubai to a global audience and grow inbound visitation from both traditional and emerging overseas markets….reports Asian Lite News

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) successfully showcased Dubai’s diverse destination proposition alongside 56 key partners and stakeholders at the Internationale Tourismus-Börse Berlin (ITB Berlin) trade show, held recently. This was the 32nd time that Dubai had exhibited at one of the world’s leading travel trade shows, which this year attracted almost 100,000 attendees.

Demonstrating the breadth of the city’s tourism offering to global travel industry leaders and professionals, DET was joined in Berlin by co-exhibitors from across the tourism ecosystem including government entities, hotels, tour operators and destination management companies (DMCs), and among them were Address Hotels + Resorts, Atlantis Dubai, Banyan Tree Dubai, Museum of The Future, and, for the first time, flydubai.

Participating at major international trade shows such as ITB Berlin is a key element of DET’s marketing strategy to promote Dubai to a global audience and grow inbound visitation from both traditional and emerging overseas markets. In 2023, Dubai welcomed a record 17.15 million international overnight visitors, representing a 19.4 percent YoY growth compared to the 14.36 million tourist arrivals in 2022. The German market played a crucial role, contributing significantly to Dubai’s tourism success, with a remarkable 36 percent YoY growth and 574,979 overnight guests in 2023.

At its stand in Berlin, the Dubai delegation engaged with travel trade professionals from around the world and welcomed top politicians and industry leaders including Kai Wegner, Governing Mayor of Berlin; Franziska Giffey, Berlin Senator for Economics, Energy and Public Enterprises; and Julia Simpson, President and CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council.

Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said, “As Dubai continues its growth in alignment with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, set forth by our forward-thinking leadership, we are strategically harnessing the significant momentum generated during a highly successful 2023 to showcase Dubai’s diverse destination offering to key overseas markets. The strong, unified presence of the Dubai delegation at ITB Berlin reflected the city’s robust public-private partnerships and our determination to showcase Dubai as the best city to visit, live, and work in. Together with our stakeholders, we were able to enhance Dubai’s visibility and perception among travel trade professionals from around the world, creating new paths to attract more visitors to the city and consolidate its status as a leading destination.”

Dubai’s international visitor performance bolstered its ranking as the No.1 global destination for an unprecedented third successive year in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2024, the first city to achieve this unique accolade. This was further reinforced at ITB Berlin after Dubai was named 2023’s highest-rated destination in the Destination Performance Index (DPI) by IPK International, one of the world’s leading tourism consultancies specialising in tourism research, marketing and planning. The annual study, taking into consideration global tourist trips, traveller satisfaction, recommendations, and the desire to revisit, highlighted Dubai’s outstanding performance in attracting and satisfying tourists.

Reflecting Dubai’s commitment to creating unique and memorable experiences for travellers of all budgets and preferences, the milestones are a testament to the emirate’s vibrant and diverse offerings, supported by world-class infrastructure, exceptional service at all touchpoints, and continuous collaboration between the government and private sectors.

This year’s ITB Berlin welcomed almost 100,000 visitors across the three-day event, including more than 5,500 exhibitors from 170 countries, 1,300 senior buyers, 80 ministers and state secretaries, 72 ambassadors, and 3,200 accredited journalists. Much-discussed topics at the Berlin Exhibition Grounds included AI and its potential uses in tourism and the urgency of the sector achieving sustainability.

ALSO READ: UAE Braces For Severe Weather Conditions

Categories
-Top News Dubai India News

Over 15K New Indian Firms Join Dubai Chamber

Pakistan ranked second in terms of new company memberships in 2023…reports Asian Lite News

A recent analysis by Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has revealed that Indian investors topped the list of nationalities of new non-UAE businesses joining the chamber last year. A total of 15,481 new Indian-owned companies became members in 2023, representing year-over-year (YoY) growth of 38 percent and underlining Dubai’s continuing attractiveness among Indian businesses and investors.

Pakistan ranked second in terms of new company memberships in 2023, with the chamber welcoming 8,036 new Pakistani businesses in 2023 – a remarkable growth rate of 71.2 percent compared to the previous year. Egypt ranked third, with 4,837 new members registering, representing YoY growth of 63.2 percent.

Prominent destination for investments

Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, commented, “During the past year, Dubai has consistently attracted foreign direct investment from many different nations and sectors, underlining the diversity of the emirate’s business environment and its broad economic appeal as a global business destination.”

Lootah added that the chamber is committed to providing specialised value-added services that support its strategic priorities, facilitate business activity, and enhance the competitiveness of companies in the emirate, stating, “The remarkable increase in the diversity of nationalities represented among the owners of member companies reflects Dubai’s growing prominence within the global business landscape, especially since the announcement of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).”

Dynamic growth trajectory

The number of new Syrian-owned companies joining Dubai Chamber of Commerce reached 2,755 in 2023, representing YoY growth of 28.8 percent. The country ranked fourth among the top investor nationalities for new company registrations.

The United Kingdom ranked fifth with a total of 2,267 new companies, up from 1,503 in 2022 to achieve YoY growth of 50.8 percent. The number of new Bangladeshi-owned member companies increased by 42.8 percent to reach 2,252. China ranked seventh on the list with 1,560 new companies joining the chamber in 2023, achieving an annual growth rate of 66.5 percent.

The number of new Jordanian companies increased by 31.6 percent to reach 1,469, compared to 1,116 in 2022. Iraqi companies ranked ninth on the list, with 1,247 new companies registered during 2023. This represented YoY growth of 95.5 percent compared to the 638 companies that joined in 2022. Yemeni companies ranked tenth with 1,214 new companies, achieving an annual growth rate of 57.5 percent over the 771 companies that joined in 2022.

Increases across diverse sectors

The majority of new companies that registered with Dubai Chamber of Commerce in 2023 operate within the wholesale and retail trade and repair of motor vehicles sector, which accounted for 44.2 percent of new memberships. This was followed by companies from the real estate, renting, and business activities sector, which represented 32 percent of the total. The construction sector ranked third with 8.3 percent of total new companies, while the transport, storage, and communications sector came fourth, accounting for 8.1 percent of the new companies joining as chamber members.

ALSO READ: UAE welcomes UNSC resolution calling for ceasefire in Sudan

Categories
-Top News Dubai UAE News

MBR issues law on taxation of foreign banks in Dubai

The Director-General of the Department of Finance will also issue the necessary decisions to implement the provisions of this Law, which will be published in the Official Gazette…reports Asian Lite News

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, issued Law No. (1) of 2024 on taxation of foreign banks operating in Dubai.

The Law applies to all foreign banks operating in Dubai, including special development zones and free zones, with the exception of foreign banks licensed to operate in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

According to the law, foreign banks are subject to a 20 per cent tax on their annual taxable income. However, if these banks pay corporate tax in accordance with Federal Law No. (47) of 2022 on the Taxation of Corporations and Businesses and its amendments, the amount of corporate tax will be deducted from their total tax liability.

The Law specifies the principles governing the calculation of taxable income, tax filing and payments, procedures for the audit of tax filing, voluntary disclosure, and responsibilities and procedures related to tax auditing.

The law also outlines the rights of foreign banks and their branches licensed by the Central Bank of the UAE. It specifies the steps for notifying the results of the tax audit. Further, it allows the taxable entity to lodge objections with Dubai’s Department of Finance regarding the amount of tax or fines imposed on them, subject to certain conditions detailed in the law.

According to the Law, the Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai will issue a decision on acts deemed as violations of this Law and penalties imposed for violations. The total penalties imposed should not exceed AED500,000. The fine will be doubled in case of repeat violations within two years up to a maximum of AED1 million.

This new Law applies to the tax year beginning after its enactment.

The Director-General of the Department of Finance will also issue the necessary decisions to implement the provisions of this Law, which will be published in the Official Gazette.

The new Law annuls Regulation No. (2) of 1996 or any other legislation that may contradict it. Decisions and memos issued to implement Regulation No. (2) of 1996 will remain in place till the issuance of new decisions that replace it.

Law No. (1) of 2024 on taxation of foreign banks operating in Dubai is effective from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette. (ANI/WAM)

ALSO READ-UAE Condemns Israel’s Approval Of New Settlements

Categories
-Top News Dubai UAE News

Dubai Foundation for Women & Children outlines 2024 strategic vision

During the “Leadership Meeting,” an annual event chaired by Sheikha Saeed Al Mansouri, Acting Director-General of DFWAC, the foundation discussed the significant milestones and achievements made over the past year (2023)…reports Asian Lite News

The Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC) has unveiled its comprehensive plans, strategies, and a range of programmes, proposals, and initiatives set for rollout in 2024 to improve the quality of lives of both women and children.

During the “Leadership Meeting,” an annual event chaired by Sheikha Saeed Al Mansouri, Acting Director-General of DFWAC, the foundation discussed the significant milestones and achievements made over the past year (2023).

Attended by heads of departments and sections, the meeting touched on aligning the foundation’s strategies and plans with the Dubai Agenda, which aims to build the happiest, most cohesive, and most tolerant families, uphold national values and identity, promote healthy lifestyles, and enhance the quality of psychological and preventive services provided to the community.

Expressing her pride in the foundation’s 2023 accomplishments, Sheikha Al Mansouri highlighted that the foundation’s team has made tremendous efforts to fulfil its objectives and respond to societal needs.

She emphasised that enhancing partnerships and collaboration with strategic partners and the community is crucial to bolster the foundation’s humanitarian endeavours and realising the goals of Dubai’s Social Agenda 33.

Al Mansouri highlighted that the meeting provided a vital platform for coordinating efforts across DFWAC’s departments to improve communication, programme execution, and service efficiency. It is also crucial to boosting team spirit and fostering a sense of community among employees by involving them in decision-making and programme enhancement.

The meeting delved into analysing the outcomes and gauging these programmes’ social and economic effects on society. A thorough review of DFWAC’s accomplishments over the past year showcased its steadfast commitment to advancing its core goals of nurturing, supporting, and rehabilitating women and children.

Additionally, the meeting was held as part of the foundation’s ongoing efforts to enhance and advocate for the well-being of women and children, solidifying its pivotal role in fostering a more prosperous and sustainable society in Dubai.

ALSO READ: Ahlan Ramadan At Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Categories
-Top News Dubai Investment

Dubai Announces 20% Annual Tax On Foreign Banks

The Law specifies the principles governing the calculation of taxable income, tax filing and payments, procedures for the audit of tax filing, voluntary disclosure, and responsibilities and procedures related to tax auditing…reports Asian Lite News

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, issued Law No. (1) of 2024 on taxation of foreign banks operating in Dubai.

The Law applies to all foreign banks operating in Dubai, including special development zones and free zones, with the exception of foreign banks licensed to operate in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

According to the law, foreign banks are subject to a 20% tax on their annual taxable income. However, if these banks pay corporate tax in accordance with Federal Law No. (47) of 2022 on the Taxation of Corporations and Businesses and its amendments, the amount of corporate tax will be deducted from their total tax liability.

The Law specifies the principles governing the calculation of taxable income, tax filing and payments, procedures for the audit of tax filing, voluntary disclosure, and responsibilities and procedures related to tax auditing.

The law also outlines the rights of foreign banks and their branches licensed by the Central Bank of the UAE. It specifies the steps for notifying the results of the tax audit. Further, it allows the taxable entity to lodge objections with Dubai’s Department of Finance regarding the amount of tax or fines imposed on them, subject to certain conditions detailed in the law.

According to the Law, the Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai will issue a decision on acts deemed as violations of this Law and penalties imposed for violations. The total penalties imposed should not exceed AED500,000. The fine will be doubled in case of repeat violations within two years up to a maximum of AED1 million.

This new Law applies to the tax year beginning after its enactment.

The Director-General of the Department of Finance will also issue the necessary decisions to implement the provisions of this Law, which will be published in the Official Gazette.

The new Law annuls Regulation No. (2) of 1996 or any other legislation that may contradict it. Decisions and memos issued to implement Regulation No. (2) of 1996 will remain in place till the issuance of new decisions that replace it.

Law No. (1) of 2024 on taxation of foreign banks operating in Dubai is effective from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

ALSO READ-Dubai Residency, Work Permits in Just 5 Days

Categories
-Top News Dubai UAE News

Dubai Residency, Work Permits in Just 5 Days

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed said: “Today marks the inaugural launch of the ‘Work Bundle’, a pioneering project designed to expedite, simplify, and streamline the processes related to residency and employment.”…reports Asian Lite News

The UAE government has launched the “Work Bundle” to facilitate employee residency procedures and work permits in private sector companies. The first phase of the initiative will be implemented in Dubai and will be gradually expanded to include other emirates.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, gracefully announced, “In our ongoing quest for government excellence, we have recently introduced the ‘Zero Bureaucracy’ initiative, aimed at streamlining procedures and enhancing efficiency within the federal government. In alignment with this vision, today marks the inaugural launch of the ‘Work Bundle’, a pioneering project designed to expedite, simplify, and streamline the processes related to residency and employment.”

Sheikh Mohammed further elaborated, “The Work Bundle is set to reclaim 62 million working days previously devoted to the renewal of residencies and employment contracts within government frameworks. This project is expected to curtail 25 million procedures on an annual basis, thereby yielding substantial savings for both the governmental and private sectors. We would like to thank all federal and local entities for their invaluable collaboration in bringing this project to fruition. Our commitment to eradicating bureaucracy remains unwavering, to make people’s lives easier and happier.”

The initiative aligns with the “Zero Bureaucracy” programme aimed to simplify and reduce government procedures and eliminate unnecessary requirements. This enhances levels of efficiency, quality, and flexibility in the UAE, supporting efforts to eliminate bureaucracy.

Dubai received 14.36 mn int’l visitors in 2022, close to pre-Covid levels.

A single platform

The “Work Bundle” serves the business community by simplifying and accelerating the procedures for private sector companies. The project offers a single platform to complete employment services including renewal, cancellation, medical examination, and fingerprinting.

The initiative is a result of close cooperation between federal and local government entities to enable clients to complete their transactions in the fewest steps possible through digital platforms where the service is available.

The entities include the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, and Dubai Health. The project is supported by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.

The project is also supported by Digital Dubai, which provides the digital infrastructure and services to allow seamless data exchange between the relevant entities.

Digital transformation

The “Work Bundle” is a key step within the UAE digital transformation efforts in a way that contributes to enhancing the UAE’s competitiveness in global indicators related to the ease of establishing and managing businesses for private sector companies.

The “Work Bundle” also improves the customer experience by providing one platform instead of 5, and reduces procedures from 8 services to a unified single platform, while the required steps were reduced from 15 steps requiring 16 documents to 5 steps and 5 documents only, and reduced the number of visits from 7 visits to only two visits, which in turn reflected on the time taken to complete the transaction, also reduced from 30 working days to 5 working days.

The project aims to simplify procedures and reduce effort and time, it will cut 25 million procedures annually, 12.5 million annual visits, and 62.5 million working days annually.

The Work Bundle will be provided as a first phase on the “Invest in Dubai” platform, and it is also planned to be available on a number of other government digital platforms in the coming period and in https://workinuae.ae/.

Steps for recruiting a new employee from outside the country include filling out the unified application, and issuing a work permit for the employee, then the employee should continue to complete the residence procedures, which include medical examination and issuance of the Emirates ID card, as mandatory steps that require employee’s presence.

Renewal service requires the owner of the company to fill out the unified application, then the employee completes the medical examination and is issued an Emirates ID card.

ALSO READ: UAE to Strengthen Pricing Regulations During Ramadan

Categories
-Top News Dubai UAE News

Dubai Mall Most Visited Place on Earth

Figures also showed a staggering 20 million people visited the mall in the first two months of this year alone, with 2024 set to be another record year….reports Asian Lite News

Dubai Mall welcomed a record 105 million visitors in 2023, a jump of over 19 percent on the previous year’s 88 million, according to latest figures released by the mall on Tuesday.

Figures also showed a staggering 20 million people visited the mall in the first two months of this year alone, with 2024 set to be another record year.

“These numbers reflect Dubai Mall’s impressive status and mirrors the forward-thinking leadership and strong economy of Dubai. Our mall embodies the city’s vibrant spirit and dedication to excellence, turning the leadership’s vision into a reality. Being an integral part of Dubai’s economic fabric, we play a crucial role in the city’s success and innovation,” said Emaar founder Mohamed Alabbar.

The new figures also show how the mall has become a global draw, attracting visitors from every corner of the world.

“This wide range of nationalities not only underscored the mall’s worldwide charm but also reflected the cosmopolitan culture of Dubai itself,” Alabbar added.

The mall’s events and promotions in 2023 and the beginning of 2024 were a key driver of its foot traffic, as well as essential festive occasions and international celebrations. Major events like the Dubai Shopping Festival, the Dubai Food Festival and the acclaimed 3 Day Super Sale further demonstrated the mall’s ability to draw and engage massive crowds.The mall’s digital footprint expanded significantly, with an Instagram following currently at 1.3 million.

The mall’s customer satisfaction averaged 4.6, reflecting positive feedback from thousands of customers.

ALSO READ: UAE Unveils Dh1B Education Fund For Ramadan