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‘Dubai Bound to Make Ambitious Results in Global Climate Action’

At COP28, the European Union calls on all parties to take urgent action to bring down greenhouse gas emissions …reports Asian Lite News

The 28th United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP28) in Dubai is bound to make ambitious results in global climate action, Wopke Hoekstra, the European Union’s Commissioner for Climate Action, told the Emirates News Agency (WAM).

“We cannot leave Dubai without more ambition on climate mitigation,” he said on the sidelines of the conference.

“If we fail to reach the goals of the Paris Agreement, no amount of money will be enough to cover the damage. Just look at what’s already happening with a global temperature increase of 1.2 degrees,” Hoekstra pointed out.

EU’s single voice

At COP28, the European Union calls on all parties to take urgent action to bring down greenhouse gas emissions and respect all the commitments made under the Paris Agreement, he noted.

“As always, the 27 EU Member States speak with one voice, based on our common negotiating position. With our strong EU mandate, we will do our utmost in Dubai to drive forward climate action and build a greener future where nobody is left behind.”

The Commissioner observed that COP28 marks a crunch moment for global climate action. “The EU’s bar for success is high. There is no time to lose.”

Commitment to deliver a successful outcome

The commissioner said that in light of the several conversations he had with Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and COP28 President, he believes that “he and his team are very committed to delivering a successful outcome for the world and next generations.”

Hoekstra is confident that COP28 Presidency understand the need to facilitate the highest possible ambition, especially with regard to mitigation, adaptation, loss and damage and climate finance.

Significance of Global Stocktake

He emphasised the significance of the first-ever UN Global Stocktake at COP28 – an exercise for all countries to look back at their progress on climate action after the Paris Agreement and draw conclusions on how much is still to be done.

“It is already clear that the world is not on track to limit global warming to 1.5 °C. But the window is still open. The Global Stocktake is a moment for all countries to reflect and act without delay. Every party needs to accelerate their climate ambitions.”

Hoekstra expressed his optimism that the word could still offer the next generations a 1.5-degree future [global warming limit]. “It requires that the entire world takes action to reduce emissions and prepare for the impacts of climate change.”

Crucial Loss and Damage fund

Talking about operationalising the Loss and Damage Fund, a breakthrough achieved on the very first day of COP28, to which EU member states have made significant contributions, the commissioner said, “I want to make sure this fund becomes operational. It is important that the fund supports the most vulnerable and that every country that has the ability to contribute to the fund actually does so.”

He stressed it is important that every country in the world with the ability to contribute actually does so.

“This is our responsibility to act, and not only the EU, but the whole world. Equally, climate finance and how we actively support nations in the Global South to mitigate and adapt to climate change, need to be high on the agenda,” Hoekstra said.

He quoted a “good news”, the recent estimate of OECD (the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) that said developed nations may have achieved their overdue promise of US$100 billion to help poorer countries cope with climate change in 2022. Of that, the EU and its 27 Member States contributed around US$30 billion (€28.5 billion), the commissioner said.

Need for urgent action

Talking about the urgent need to act, he said, “Climate change is a crisis that we all face.”

Every country in the world is already confronting the impacts, whether it is flooding after heavy rains, extended droughts, extreme weather events, or loss of habitats and livelihoods.

Science, meanwhile, is abundantly clear about what we need to do and keeps giving us warning calls in every report released, the commissioner pointed out.

“We cannot steer away from our climate goals – future generations across the world are depending on us. This is why, I will continue to push for the highest possible climate ambition in Dubai.”

ALSO READ: UAE Puts Trade at Centre of Climate Debate

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Business Dubai UAE News

AQUA Properties Dives into the Future

Having successfully completed four residential and commercial projects in the UAE, AQUA Properties offers high-quality living spaces and attractive investment opportunities….reports Asian Lite News

AQUA Properties, a premier real estate firm in the UAE, is set to launch two groundbreaking projects in the next six months with a combined valuation of AED 3 billion, its Founder Ali Tumbi has announced.

Known for its comprehensive development approach, AQUA Properties specializes in delivering high-caliber residential and commercial properties tailored to meet clients’ expectations in quality finishes, smart home features, and prime locations.

“Currently overseeing three ongoing projects with two more in the pipeline, including upscale apartments and strategically located mixed-use developments, AQUA Properties stands at the forefront of innovative real estate solutions,” Tumbi said.

Among the upcoming projects is a distinguished more than 50-storey luxury tower on Sheikh Zayed Road and a sprawling 300,000 sq.ft. plot, marking the largest land parcel in the Arjan area. Having successfully completed four residential and commercial projects in the UAE, AQUA Properties offers high-quality living spaces and attractive investment opportunities.

Tumbi affirmed the company’s ambitious goal to deliver over 500 residential and commercial units in the first quarter of 2024. Noteworthy completed projects include J5, J8, O Ten, and Mysk, contributing to positive client responses, high occupancy rates in completed projects, and robust investor interest in ongoing developments.

“AQUA Properties aims to provide clients with exceptional real estate solutions, leveraging our expertise and extensive network to offer a wide range of property solutions and investment opportunities,” stated Tumbi.

This year, AQUA Properties achieved a historic milestone by acquiring the largest piece of land in Arjan, spanning an impressive 300,000 sq.ft., surpassing any previous land purchases in neighbouring communities to-date.

UAE realty market and outlook

Reflecting on the UAE realty market, Tumbi emphasized its consistent robustness, driven by investor confidence in developing infrastructure and the attraction of new developers amid global increases in interest rates. Dubai’s distinctive market dynamics, influenced by cash transactions, continue to position it as a preferred destination for real estate investments, he added.

According to recent data from the Dubai Land Department, Dubai recorded 116,116 new property transactions worth approximately Dh430 billion, or $117 billion, in the first nine months of 2023. The real estate sector registered significant growth, with transactions surging by 33.8% annually and values rising by over 36.7% during the period.

In closing, Tumbi remarked, “This significant development sends a powerful message to international investors who are eager to safeguard their wealth by investing in real estate, which is increasingly recognized as the new global currency.”

Established in 2005, AQUA Properties FZ LLC has emerged as a leading real estate firm in the UAE. Committed to excellence and customer satisfaction, the company transitioned into a full-service development entity in 2010, offering a diverse range of residential and commercial properties designed to meet clients’ needs. AQUA Properties provides comprehensive property services, including marketing, brokerage, leasing, property management, project planning and development, contracting, and homeowner’s association management.

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Dubai Lite Blogs

Meet Bros to Ignite the Stage at Forttuna Global Excellence Awards in Dubai

Expressing their fondness for Dubai, Meet Bros shared, “Dubai has always been one of our favourite destinations. We love the vibe; the city doesn’t sleep. It’s a lot like India because we have similar people. It feels like you’re going to one of your own cities in India.”…reports Asian Lite News

Internationally acclaimed Bollywood musicians, Meet Bros, are set to deliver a sensational performance at the upcoming Forttuna Global Excellence Awards for Healthcare Professionals 2023 in Dubai. The event, curated and produced by Entrepreneur Madhurima Nigam of Andromeda Productions alongside Raul Handa — Founder & CEO. Jiiber Jaber Entertainment, promises an unforgettable experience at the Al Sahara Desert Resort in Dubai on December 10.

Known for their electrifying stage presence and chart-topping hits, Meet Bros are gearing up to set the Dubai sands on fire. Speaking about their upcoming performance, the duo commented, “For Meet Bros, it’s a very staple head go when we and Khushbu come on stage. We are going to have everyone dancing; not one person will be seated. We deliver a power-packed show – high octane, high energy, danceable music to engage all our lovely crowds. We sing everything from retro to the latest electronic music as well.”

The collaboration with event curator Madhurima Nigam has been seamless, according to Meet Bros. “It was very smooth working with Madhurima because she understands an artiste very well. The process of an event, so everything we need for it to be a hit show she’s making sure it’s there. It’s been absolutely flawless working with her.”

Expressing their fondness for Dubai, Meet Bros shared, “Dubai has always been one of our favourite destinations. We love the vibe; the city doesn’t sleep. It’s a lot like India because we have similar people. It feels like you’re going to one of your own cities in India.”

Performing in the heart of the desert adds an intriguing element to the event for Meet Bros.       ” The desert itself is an interesting venue to perform; it’s not something you do every day. Looking forward to it because it’s going to be a very exciting evening. We’re very happy that we’re doing something different.”

As a teaser for their fans, Meet Bros revealed exciting plans for new music releases. “We have loads of music coming out; we have 12/20 singles coming out in the next 3 months on MB music and other labels as well. There’s a lot of various genres from romantic to electronic, and we can’t wait for the fans to hear it.”

Prepare for an exhilarating evening filled with music, energy, and surprises as Meet Bros take the stage on December 10 at the Forttuna Global Excellence Awards for Healthcare Professionals 2023 in Dubai.

ALSO READ-Expo City Dubai Unveils ‘Bee The Change’ Campaign

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Dubai COP28 Merges Art and Climate

More than mere decorations, these artworks serve as potent visual narratives. …reports Asian Lite News

The walls and corridors of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai have transformed into an unexpected art gallery, showcasing powerful works by visual artists from around the globe. These artistic voices collectively amplify the urgency of addressing climate change, sparking critical conversations and inspiring hope for a sustainable future.

More than mere decorations, these artworks serve as potent visual narratives. Sculptures and paintings capture the stark realities of climate change’s impact on people and ecosystems, while simultaneously igniting a sense of optimism about the conference’s potential to deliver transformative solutions.

From China, a Bloom of Hope

Qi Zhihu, a Chinese artist, presents “Let a Thousand Flowers Bloom”, a ceramic statue that embodies resilience and renewal. This intricate replica of the milk thistle, coloured with ash from the firing process, symbolises the significance of climate action from a Chinese perspective. The milk thistle, known for its toughness and ability to thrive in harsh conditions, becomes a potent symbol of hope amidst adversity.

Oceans of Life and Memory

South African artist Stephanie Neville’s “Goal 14” delves into the depths of the ocean, exploring themes of environmental sustainability, memory, and female identity. This painting, inspired by the 14th Sustainable Development Goal, celebrates the fragile beauty of the oceans while acknowledging their vulnerability. Neville incorporates shells and coral into her transparent fabric canvas, echoing the fluidity of water while prompting reflection on the textile industry’s environmental footprint.

Tolerance, Mercy, and Love: A Call for Peace

Nora al-Ali, an Emirati artist, employs vibrant colours and shapes in her mixed-media piece titled “Goal 16 – Peace and Justice”. This artwork draws attention to the 16th Sustainable Development Goal, promoting tolerance, compassion, and love as cornerstones of a sustainable future. Al Ali’s creation serves as a powerful reminder that climate action thrives in a world where empathy and understanding prevail.

Nature’s Harmony: A Swedish Perspective

Madeleine Kurtsdotter, a Swedish artist, pushes the boundaries of colour, harmony, and form in her experimental piece. Her painting juxtaposes natural landscapes, human figures, and travel motifs, creating a hyper-realistic portrayal of our environment. Kurtsdotter’s work connects to the 13th Sustainable Development Goal, urging viewers to acknowledge the Earth’s interconnectedness and the immediate consequences of climate change on our planet and ourselves.

These are just a few of the many artistic voices resonating throughout COP28. As the conference unfolds, these artworks will continue to inspire dialogue, fuel collective action, and remind us that even in the face of immense challenges, creativity and collaboration can pave the way towards a brighter future.

ALSO READ: ‘COP28 Drives Capital Toward Emerging Markets for Climate Battle’X

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UAE, Brazil, Paraguay Ink Deal on Bi-Oceanic Corridor

The project aims to enhance regional integration and logistical efficiency between the UAE, Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, and Chile.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Brazilian and Paraguayan counterparts Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Santiago Peña respectively, witnessed the signing of a joint declaration for cooperation regarding the Bi-Oceanic Corridor. This took place during the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) held at Expo City Dubai.

The project aims to enhance regional integration and logistical efficiency between the UAE, Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, and Chile. It also focuses on attracting investments and generating investment opportunities in Latin America through the corridor, thereby expanding regional trade.

The project contributes to enhancing economic competitiveness in the region by connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through the Brazilian port of Campo Grande, extending to Paraguay and northern Argentina, and reaching the Chilean port of Antofagasta, 2,400 kilometres away.

The declaration was signed by Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment; Rubén Ramírez, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Paraguay; Mauro Vieira, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Brazil; Alberto van Klaveren, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Chile; and Jorge Agustín Molina Arambarri, Ambassador of Argentina to the UAE, in the presence of several officials from the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

It also aims to increase the flow of agricultural products to Pacific Ocean ports and boost regional trade and tourism. Additionally, the project focuses on reducing container transportation costs, thereby diversifying regional markets and expanding trade opportunities with Asia and other regions around the world.

ALSO READ: Global Leaders Overlooking Early Climate Warnings: King Charles

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Dubai Environment UAE News

WGES Explores Roadmap to a More Sustainable Future

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy (DSCE), and the World Green Economy Organisation (WGEO) organise the 9thWorld Green Economy Summit (WGES) at Madinat Jumeirah Conference Centre in Dubai with the theme ‘Bridging the Gap to the Future: Advancing the Global Green Economy’.

The summit will offer an active platform to discuss ways to enhance cooperation and joint efforts, create paths for exchanging expertise to bolster climate action and environmental initiatives, and accelerate the transition towards a green economy. The summit exemplifies the UAE’s leading position as a global hub for the green economy, innovation, and sustainable development. The summit is further committed to supporting and promoting international cooperation focused on tackling sustainability challenges.

“The UAE has adopted the green economy as one of the pillars of its new knowledge-based model, as part of the “We Are the Emirates 2031” vision, and as an essential axis in implementing the country’s sustainable development. Accelerating green growth represents an important path in the country’s economic journey and several ongoing initiatives to build a flexible and sustainable economic model for the future. Among these initiatives is the circular economy policy, which contributes to building an economic system that is more sustainable, rationalizes resources, and relies on clean energy, and less on waste, pollution, and carbon emissions,” said Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy.

“The 2023 edition of the Summit seeks to achieve various goals such as galvanising international efforts to mitigate climate change, sustainable development in key sectors such as energy, agriculture, and industry, raising awareness of the importance of the green economy and fostering green innovation, technology, and investments. Additionally, the global summit focuses on assessing previous progress and underscoring vital innovations from national institutions, civil organisations, and the private sector. It will also showcase futuristic and innovative solutions that have the potential to boost the transition towards a comprehensive green economic model,” said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, MD CEO of DEWA, and Chairman of WGEO.

‘’The summit also paves the way for COP28. The summit will explore priority areas and topics for COP28, particularly accelerating systematic, fair and responsible transformation in the energy sector and developing climate financing systems. It will also host sessions and discussions focusing on green policy, green finance, green technology and innovation, green energy, and green partnerships,” Al Tayer added.


As environmental and climate concerns surge alongside global economic and social repercussions, there is an urgency to forge international collaborations and multi-sector partnerships. These are cornerstones for achieving shared visions on approaches and methodologies to mitigate sustainability challenges that are driving the world to devise frameworks to ensure a prosperous future. In this regard, the vital role of sustainability-focused international conferences and forums cannot be overlooked. These events offer dynamic platforms for constructive discussions and sharing expertise, perspectives as well as developmental methodologies that guarantee unhindered growth of countries and economies while conserving natural resources and the environment, as well as addressing challenges such as carbon emissions.

The World Green Economy Summit (WGES) stands as one of the key international events that promotes the green economy and reach carbon neutrality. The annual summit, which convenes in Dubai, is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. It assembles prominent experts, thought leaders, stakeholders, and researchers from renowned global universities and research centres. In addition, WGES promotes global cooperation and partnerships between governments, the private sector, and society to bolster sustainable development and environmental conservation. It serves as a platform for discussing various critical topics that contribute to advancing the sustainability agenda globally, including energy, finance, food security, reducing carbon emissions, innovation, the youth, and organizational governance. Furthermore, the summit highlights the development and promotion of international collaborations with civil societies to achieve these objectives.

The summit’s session focusing on ‘Green Policy’ will highlight the progress in global carbon markets, national and institutional approaches, sustainable development goals and fair green transition policies. The session on ‘Green Financing’ will address ensuring balanced access of finance to low- and middle-income countries, tackling investment risks, exploring financing techniques, the global economic landscape, and solutions provided by private sector companies. The ‘Green Technologies and Innovation’ session will focus on technology and solutions that can expedite the transition to a green economy. These include deep-sea mining, artificial intelligence (AI), hydrogen, electric vehicles, carbon capture and storage, and urban innovation. The ‘Green Energy’ session will explore addressing risks and challenges to energy supplies that might hamper the seamless transition to green energy. The session will also highlight topics such as the link between water, food, and energy, solar energy in low- and medium-income economies, the critical role of oil and gas companies in energy transition, and other factors related to the leading energy industries. The ‘Green Partnerships’ session will explore prospects of collaborations between international organizations supporting the Global Alliance on Green Economy, the financial industry, cities, educational settings, youth, and civil society.

ALSO READ: WGES Attracts Decision-Makers and Experts Worldwide

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Global Power City Index: Dubai Makes History

Dubai has been ranked among the top 10 cities in the Global Power City Index (GPCI) 2023, a prestigious and internationally recognised league table issued by the Mori Memorial Foundation’s Institute for Urban Strategies in Japan. The new ranking makes Dubai the first city in the Middle East to attain this prestigious global recognition.

In the 2023 index, which ranks major cities on to their ‘magnetism’ – or power to attract people, capital and enterprises – Dubai climbed three places to eighth overall. The achievement cements Dubai’s position as a leading global city, driven by the vision of its leadership and the collective determination of its citizens and residents.

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, said that Dubai’s progress in the Global Power City Index 2023 reflects the dedicated efforts to realise the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to attain top global positions across various vital sectors and establish Dubai as the world’s best city to work and live in.

Congratulating Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid on the emirate’s achievement as the first city in the Middle East to make it into the prestigious list, Sheikh Hamdan said, “There is no limit to our ambitions, and with the unwavering dedication of our nation’s people, we will continue to strengthen Dubai’s position as a model for the cities of the future, achieving milestones that set the global standard. Dubai’s excellence and accomplishments stem from the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, propelling the city at an accelerated pace towards the pinnacle of leadership and excellence.”

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed urged both the private and public sectors in Dubai to persist in their efforts to establish Dubai as a sustainable development model that places the development of people’s capabilities and enhances their quality of life at the forefront of its priorities. He underscored the government’s ongoing commitment to achieving further milestones in various global competitiveness indicators and consolidating a knowledge and creative economy through the adoption and implementation of modern legislative frameworks and regulatory rules, carefully crafted to address global changes. These efforts affirm Dubai’s capability to efficiently keep pace with the evolving landscape, he said.

“To cement Dubai’s position as a global economic powerhouse and its role as a catalyst for growth, we must cultivate world-class working environments that empower our national talent and attract the brightest minds from across the globe. This commitment to excellence will propel comprehensive development, establishing Dubai as a global benchmark for sustainable economic prosperity and resilience,” His Highness added.

In the 2023 index, Dubai retained its fourth position for the second consecutive year within the Cultural Interaction parameter, surpassing Tokyo, Istanbul, Madrid, Moscow, and Singapore. Meanwhile, London, New York, and Paris maintained the top three spots. The ranking is an outcome of Dubai’s commitment to enhancing its status as a cultural destination, a major hub for creativity, and one of the best cities in which to live and work. This effort aligns with Dubai’s cultural vision that aims to cement the emirate’s position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent. Dubai has also maintained its top regional ranking in Cultural Interaction.

The Global Power City Index (GPCI), which has been published annually since 2008, is a global benchmark for measuring the performance and competitiveness of global cities. It is used by governments, businesses, and individuals to make decisions related to investment, immigration, and travel. The index reflects the dynamic nature of cities and their ability to adapt and thrive in the face of global challenges. It provides a comprehensive overview of cities’ standing and impact on the global stage. The index comprises six parameters, including Economy, Research and Development, Cultural Interaction, Liveability, Environment, and Accessibility.

Dubai progressed in several sub-parameters within Cultural Interaction, ranking first globally in the Number of Foreign Residents and second in the Number of Luxury Hotel Rooms, reinforcing the emirate’s cultural offering, creative environment, and diverse tourist attractions.

The index further revealed Dubai’s excellence and leadership across various sub-indicators, encompassing work flexibility, low unemployment rate, and city cleanliness. It also highlighted Dubai’s success in hosting global exhibitions and events, attracting visitors and tourists, and increasing the influx of travellers through its airports.

Today, Dubai stands as one of the world’s most renowned cities in terms of economies, finance, business, tourism and travel. It is also one of the most successful cities in attracting talent, with more than 200 nationalities from various backgrounds living together in a tolerant and welcoming society. Dubai is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

ALSO READ: Expo City Dubai All Set For COP28

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Dubai Quilter Leads Group UAE Quilt Project

Farida was inspired to create the patchwork quilt as a testament to her love for her adopted home. The Canadian national has been living in the UAE since her childhood…reports Asian Lite News

Dubai-based quilt artist, Farida Talaat embarked on a group quilt project by calling upon the UAE’s sewing and quilting community to join her in creating a unique patchwork quilt revolving around the theme: ‘What the UAE Means to Me’.

Quilters and sewing enthusiasts from both emirates joined forces on a group quilt to commemorate the UAE’s 52nd National Day, with each participant creating a part of the quilt that reminds them of the UAE; it could be a landmark, a feeling, or a memory.

Each quilt patch square would tell its quiltmaker’s story, reflecting on their journey in the country.

The different quilt squares or blocks feature various fibre crafting methods including knitting, crochet, cross-stitchery, appliqués, intricate bead work and hand- and machine-embroidery.

There were the typical UAE symbols; a palm tree, a camel, sand dunes, dates, a map of the country and a Henna-adorned hand. Other squares show the beautiful nature of the desert, while some express the essence of what the UAE represents for most expats with more nuanced meanings like home, community, family and future.

Farida was inspired to create the patchwork quilt as a testament to her love for her adopted home. The Canadian national has been living in the UAE since her childhood.

“Much like a patchwork quilt is made of a heterogenous mix of mismatched fabric, so is the UAE; a melting pot of nationalities and cultures that live together in harmony,” she says.

The project started in summer when Farida asked her fellow quilter friends and the quilting society to each design and create a quilt block; a 10″ x 10″ piece of square fabric.

A total of ten members from across the UAE participated in the collective feat. Everyone had a special story about what the UAE meant to them, and so each square represented something personal to its maker.

For example, Lamia Bentellis of Algeria created an eclectic patchwork of colours and prints with the word ‘Family’ appliquéed on her square.

Somaya Abdel Kader from Egypt has been in the UAE with her family since the late seventies. They toggled between Sharjah and Fujairah and have finally settled in Dubai since 1984. She created a 3D knitted heart in the colours of the UAE flag.

Sue Markou – a fellow Canadian – created two blocks; one is an artistic depiction of Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, Emirates Towers, Dubai Eye, a palm tree and a camel, while the other is an embroidered recreation of the UAE’s map featuring raised embroidery with a moving bead resembling the Jabal Jais zipline.

She has lived for nearly 20 years in Dubai. “Dubai has given us safety, security and lots of fun indoors and outdoors,” she says.

Vidhya Michael of India created a square in the shape of the flag of the UAE embellished with a stitched outline of the country’s map encircling the word ‘Home’. She has lived in the country for 30 years, and in India for 26. “I lived here longer than in my own country!” she says.

Indian Malika Rehman has lived in the UAE with her family for over four decades and is proud of this longevity. Her quilt square shows a kneeling camel and a Palm tree in a sand dune setting.

Farida’s own square features fabrics in shades of blue green resembling not only the sea, but also the tremendous greenery that the dessert country boasts; something that reminds her of Canada. A metallic silver fabric in the shape of the Museum of the Future illustrates how Farida sees the future of her chosen country; bright.

During the process, Farida led the group along the way, occasionally prompting her peers with reminders and topic ideas, sparking their creativity and imagination.

Once all the quilt squares or blocks were complete, Farida then got sewing. The blocks were assembled and sewn together in rows and columns to create one large quilt top, which was then quilted and completed with a backing to make a finished and fruitful quilt.

Finally, the quilt was complete and unfurled. “I like to think it was a patriotic and sentimental piece of work for all of us,” says Farida. “I’m glad I was able to bring together a group of passionate crafters connected by their crafting skills and their love for the UAE,” she added.  

“It feels so good to connect with friends and complete strangers in an entrepreneurial way, and foster a wonderful and inspiring conversation around our shared love and appreciation for our second home. And this is what the UAE means to me.”

ALSO READ-Modi to visit UAE to attend World Climate Action Summit

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Expo City Dubai All Set For COP28

UAE Vice President H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed toured Expo City Dubai to inspect final preparations for COP28

His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, has inspected the final preparations for COP28, including the administrative, logistical, and operational preparations for its events, which will kick off on 30th November.

During an inspection tour of Expo City Dubai, Sheikh Mansour toured the venue of the World Climate Action Summit, the sites of the pavilions of countries and organisations, and the halls that will host all meetings of the parties to discuss the negotiating texts.

His Highness Sheikh Mansour was accompanied by Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and President of COP 28, along with a number of members of COP28 Higher Committee.

He listened to a briefing from the COP28 team on the most prominent events that the conference will witness, which is expected to be attended by more than 160 heads of state and government, 85,000 participants, and more than 5,000 representatives of the media accredited by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

COP28 is of particular significance as it will witness the response to the first global stocktake to assess progress in implementing the objectives of the Paris Agreement.

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Dubai at Forefront of Shaping the Future: Hamdan

DFF’s flagship event offers an international platform for sharing insights, experiences, inspirations and foresight that will shape the future of humanity in vital and futuristic sectors….reports Asian Lite News

Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), DFF announced that it will organise the Dubai Future Forum 2023, the world’s largest gathering of futurists, on 27 and 28 November at the Museum of the Future.

DFF’s flagship event offers an international platform for sharing insights, experiences, inspirations and foresight that will shape the future of humanity in vital and futuristic sectors. Dubai Future Forum 2023 will bring together over 2,500 futurists, leaders and experts from more than 100 countries, as well as representatives from more than 100 top global institutions specialising in foresight and future sectors. Additionally, it will feature approximately 150 speakers participating in more than 70 inspiring sessions dedicated to discussing, debating and predicting the future trajectory of the world.

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said that Dubai’s success in developing its forward-looking vision and future plans over the past years has been the result of its commitment to embracing the concept of future design across vital sectors. The city is dedicated to anticipating rapid transformations and keeping aligned with current trends, H.H. noted.

“The world sees Dubai as the city of the future, and we echo this vision with a positive outlook that is founded on international cooperation, partnerships and the exchange of experiences and knowledge,” Sheikh Hamdan said, adding that this perspective reflects the belief of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in the significance of foresight and shaping the future.

H.H. added: “Dubai is at the forefront of shaping the future, and our journey will persist as we work towards offering the world an integrated model for future design, embracing a culture of readiness for global transformations and the countless opportunities that arise as a result.”

Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees and Managing Director of DFF, said: “The Dubai Future Foundation supports global efforts to design the future and keep pace with transformations through various projects, initiatives, partnerships and global gatherings that the Foundation organises to assess future opportunities and prepare for the challenges ahead. This is all in fulfilment of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.”

Al Gergawi added: “The science of anticipating the future has become one of the most important pillars for achieving success in future planning, and the world must unite in forming clear future visions about the future of the world on economic, technological, governmental, health and societal fronts.

“The Dubai Future Forum, the largest global gathering for futurists, will convene the most prominent and distinguished institutions in anticipating and designing the future, emphasising the importance of positive partnerships and the necessity of launching meaningful dialogue about what the future will be like in the coming years and decades, all happening in the Museum of the Future – the ideal destination for designing the future,” Al Gergawi said.

Over 150 speakers, including future experts, ministers, government officials, CEOs, innovators and technology leads, policymakers, academics and thought leaders from across the UAE and the world will impart their insights during the event. The Forum will feature over 70 sessions, including keynote speeches and workshops.

These speakers will explore various future-focused sectors, including space, sustainability, environment, energy, food, health, medicine, education, technology, machine intelligence, the digital economy, government work, new social systems and more.

The second edition of the Dubai Future Forum will focus on four main themes, namely Regenerating Nature, Empowering Generations, Transcending Cooperation and Transforming Humanity.

Under the Regenerating Nature theme, participants will tackle the future of planet Earth, the imperative to mitigate environmental risks and the enhancement of nature’s ability to renew itself. Meanwhile, the Empowering Generations theme explores solutions to humanity’s most complex and universal needs as the global population will continue to grow for another three generations.

The Transcending Cooperation theme will examine the proliferation of artificial intelligence, the future dynamics between humans and machines, and how societies can adapt to rapid technological advancements. The fourth theme delves into the potential to bring about radical changes in ways of life by replacing the traditional models that countries, communities and individuals currently adhere to.

The inaugural Dubai Future Forum featured the participation of over 400 of the world’s brightest minds and inspirational futurists, along with more than 45 leading international institutions and organisations specialising in foresight and future-related sectors. The agenda encompassed over 30 sessions and workshops, with contributions from more than 70 speakers from the UAE and around the world, drawing the participation of over 1,000 attendees.

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