Category: Ramadan

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-Top News Ramadan UAE News

Eid Mubarak

UAE rulers and other Sheikhs performed the Eid Al Fitr prayer alongside worshipers on the first day of Eid Al Fitr…reports Asian Lite News

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent cables of congratulations to the kings, Emirs and presidents of Arab and Islamic states on the occasion of Eid Al Fitr.

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed wished them and their peoples continued progress, prosperity and stability.

“On the occasion of Eid Al-Fitr I congratulate my brothers the Rulers of the Emirates, people of the UAE, and Muslims around the world,” the President wrote on Twitter. “We ask God to grant continued peace and wellbeing to the people of the world at this blessed time.”

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court, have dispatched similar cables to the leaders of Arab and Islamic states on the auspicious occasion.

“Happy new year to the UAE and its people. Happy new year to our Arab and Islamic nation. Happy new year to the world. May God accept your obedience and perpetuate your joys and fulfill all your aspirations,” Sheikh Mohammed said.

The rulers of seven emirates have also sent cables of congratulations to President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the leadership on the advent of Eid Al-Fitr.

Earlier, the UAE Moon-sighting Committee announced that today, 21st April, 2023, corresponding to 1st Shawwal, is the first day of Eid Al Fitr, after its meeting yesterday night.

Abdullah bin Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice and Chairman of the Committee, said that the committee, after exhausting the sharia methods of sighting the crescent and making the necessary contacts with neighbouring countries, succeeded in sighting the Shawwal month crescent on Thursday evening, and therefore declared that Thursday, 20th April, was the last day of Ramadan 1444, and that Friday, 21st April, is the first day of Eid Al Fitr.

The minister and members of the committee extended warm congratulations on the glorious occasion to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai; His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court, Their Highnesses Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates, and the Crown Princes.

They also congratulated the UAE people and Muslims across the world on the auspicious occasion.

Sheikh Mansour perform Eid prayer

His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court, and H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, today performed the Eid Al Fitr prayer alongside Sheikhs and worshipers at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.

Other Sheikhs performing the prayer included H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi, H.H. Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi; H.H. Sheikh Suroor bin Mohammed Al Nahyan; H.H. Sheikh Issa bin Zayed Al Nahyan; H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior; H.H. Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation; etc.

MBZ, Sisi share wishes, discuss issues

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan received a phone call from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, during which they exchanged Eid Al-Fitr greetings.

The discussion between Sheikh Mohamed and President Sisi touched on the determined efforts being made by the UAE and Egypt to calm the situation in Sudan and prevent any further escalation by urging all sides to engage in dialogue to restore stability. This comes in light of the support of both countries for the Sudanese people to achieve their aspirations towards enhancing security and development in their country.

Passenger rush anticipated

Over 500,000 passengers are expected to pass through Abu Dhabi International Airports (AUH) during Eid Al Fitr holiday, according to a statement issued by Abu Dhabi Airports.

During the period from the 15th till the 23rd of April, Abu Dhabi Airports estimates over 500,000 passengers passing through Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), with over 2,800 flights serving 105 destinations in 57 countries.

Passengers are reminded to follow these helpful travel tips to ensure smooth journeys throughout the festive season.

ALSO READ: Eid Ul-Fitr with a luxurious meal

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-Top News Asia News Ramadan

Karachi hit by acute water shortage during Ramadan

The residents said that their locality had been without a drop of water for the past three weeks…reports Asian Lite News

Acute water shortage, coupled with a worst gas crisis and power load-shedding in several parts of Karachi has added to the miseries of people during Ramzan as the water supply from one of the main supply lines of the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board was disrupted due to an abrupt power breakdown on Sunday, Dawn reported.

The supply of water continued to affect the whole city. However, the worst-hit regions were Landhi, Korangi, Qauidabad, Bin Qasim and adjoining areas after a 72-inch diameter line was impacted due to power suspension by the K-Electric at the Dhabeji pumping station at 11:05 am (local time). In some regions, people also held protests over the non-availability of tap water in their respective localities. Enraged residents of the Buffer Zone region held protests against the water utility in front of the Nazimabad pumping station, raising slogans and raised demand for immediate restoration of water supply to their locality.

The residents said that their locality had been without a drop of water for the past three weeks. The people warned that they would hold a protest in front of the KWSB head office if the water supply was not restored to their area, as per the Dawn report.

Residents of several localities, including Gulshan-i-Iqbal, Mohammad Ali Society, Malir, Shah Faisal Colony, Surjani Town, New Karachi, Garden, Saddar, Defence Housing Authority and Clifton have said that their localities were not receiving water even before Ramazan.

Some of the residents claimed that an artificial water crisis was created in connivance with the water utility staff, which was forcing the people of these regions to buy water through tankers at a higher rate, as per the news report.

Speaking to Dawn, the insiders in the water utility revealed that more than 550 million gallons of water a day was being fed into the city’s main pumping station at Dhabeji for city that required more than 1,100 MGD. The insiders said 40 per cent of water was either lost or stolen before it reached consumers.

As per the news report, there are numerous leakages in the supply lines of the water utility that resulted in the wastage of millions of gallons on a daily basis. Thousands of gallons of water are being wasted for a long time due to the cracks in a line for DHA.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the water utility said that the restoration work on the 72-inch line affected due to the power breakdown was in progress. He further said that the repair work on the impacted line will be completed in the next 24 hours and added that water supply to the city continued through alternate lines. (ANI)

ALSO READ: Pakistan’s March inflation climbed to 35.4%

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Environment Ramadan UK News

The Islamic Way to Protect Environment

The climate crisis also brings together communities as we all struggle with its impacts. It threatens all of humanity, all faiths, and all cultures. If we do not work together, we cannot adapt or prevent the destruction…writes Afzal Khan MP

Islam is inherently environmental. Harmony and balance in the natural world is central to our Muslim faith. It is our duty to conserve nature and the Earth deserves respect and care. Nationally and internationally, we are seeing Muslim environmentalists and campaigners highlight how Muslims can make a positive impact by putting the environment at the centre of their faith.

The impact of the climate crisis is being felt across the globe. We have seen unprecedented fires, devastating droughts, life-threatening heatwaves, and catastrophic flooding. But most of the impact of climate change is felt by the world’s poorest countries. Those who contribute the least to global carbon emissions, and including much of the Muslim world. In Pakistan, a country close to my own heart, faced devastation last year from floods over an area larger than the United Kingdom. Over 1,000 people died, and 33 million lives were turned upside down in hours, displaced from their homes by a climate disaster.

We are all responsible for our own actions. Although we must hold governments and corporations accountable, we are all khalifah (stewards) of the Earth. “Thus We have made you trustees on the earth after them, to see how you would act.”[Qur’an 10:14]. Allah (swt) allows us the use of nature, but expects us to be responsible for balance and sustainability.  

Kalifah is not a concept unique to Islam. We see this variations on natural stewardship across different faiths, including Christianity and Judaism. Together, being of faith means caring: caring for people and caring for the planet. Our faith and values are a tool that allow us to achieve a goal towards a common cause.

Our faith is not the only thing to bring us together. The climate crisis also brings together communities as we all struggle with its impacts. It threatens all of humanity, all faiths, and all cultures. If we do not work together, we cannot adapt or prevent the destruction.

There are many ways we can become better climate activists using our faith. But, the overarching theme is remembering balance (Mizan). The Qur’an says, “O Children of Adam, dress well whenever you are at worship, and eat and drink [as We have permitted] but do not be extravagant (Mizan): God does not like extravagant people.” [Quran 7:31] This is a reminder that we should act in moderation and with balance. When considering the environment, we must avoid excess waste, pollution, or environmental destruction. This is particularly important to remember as we near the end of Ramadan and may consider items or gifts that are unnecessary or extravagant for Eid al-Fitr. This was reflected by Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) in his own actions, during ablution (wudu) he used limited water, and he spoke of why we do not waste water, even if at a running stream.

During this holy month of Ramadan, I am proud to see so many Muslims across the world engaged and ready to make change. I am delighted to work with climate activist Zehra Abbas to mobilise communities in the UK, Palestine, Canada, Lebanon, Malaysia, Cyprus, Bangladesh and more to coordinate ‘green’ iftars in each country.

Afzal Khan MP

Each of these iftars have the aim to have the same programme, so all attendees can discuss the importance of climate action. These events are free or low-cost, interfaith, plant-based, and zero-waste and in[EY1]  many of the events, the food is what Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), had noted as some of his favourites. This includes foods such as barley, dates, and pomegranates, which in most regions has little carbon footprint. The food is purchased with no plastic packaging wherever possible, attendees are encouraged to bring their own cutlery and plates, as well as no food waste being produced. There are guest speakers at the event who speak on the importance of interfaith work, what zero-waste is and how we can all do it, stewardship in Islam, and animal rights in Islam. Attendees are encouraged to walk, cycle, or rideshare to the event to reduce their own carbon footprint and wasteful decorations are excluded, opting instead for natural décor. A zero-waste event can be seen as daunting, but instead it is scaling down what many would consider to be the norm.

During Ramadan, I know myself and many others reflect. We reflect on what we do and how we can be better Muslims and community members. This is why during Ramadan I attend many interfaith iftars – it is a way to break down barriers in our community and talk about our shared goals. It is also important for me to reflect on the principles and key messages of Islam, such as Mizan and Khalifah, with those around me.

As a Muslim, I consider my faith to be part of who I am. My values and beliefs stem from by belief in Allah (swt) which Qu’ran teachers me how to put into practice. This is why I am passionate about action against the climate crisis, and I want to do all I can to improve our planet for our generation and future generations. When nature thrives, we all thrive – I hope together as Muslims and the wider community we will continue to come together on this global movement.

(The writer is Shadow Minister for Legal Aid of the United Kingdom)

ALSO READ: TBHF calls for supporting refugees in Ramadan

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-Top News Ramadan UAE News

TBHF calls for supporting refugees in Ramadan

الشارقة في 28 مارس / وام /   أطلقت "القلب الكبير" المؤسسة الإنسانيّة العالميّة المعنيّة بمساعدة اللاجئين والمحتاجين، حملة إنسانية تحت شعار "حاضرهم غائب.. تبرّع لمستقبلهم" لجمع أموال الزكاة والصدقات والتبرعات خلال شهر رمضان المبارك لمواصلة تقديم المساعدات الإنسانية لضحايا الزلزال في سوريا وتركيا وإعادة تأهيل المؤسسات الأكاديمية والطبية هناك لاستعادة قدرتها على تقديم الخدمات لأفراد المجتمع إلى جانب توفير الموارد لدعم قطاعات الصحة والتعليم والتأهيل ضمن المجتمعات المحتاجة في عدد من الدول.                  ويترجم شعار الحملة إيمان مؤسسة "القلب الكبير" بأهمية العمل على محورين متوازيين الاهتمام بحاضر اللاجئين والمحتاجين وتحدياتهم الحياتية اليومية والعمل على تأسيس مشاريع وبرامج إنسانية مستدامة لضمان مستقبل يقدم لهم ولأبنائهم حياة كريمة.                  ودعت مؤسسة "القلب الكبير" أفراد المجتمع والمؤسسات والهيئات والجهات الحكومية ومنظمات المجتمع المدني والجمعيات الخيرية والمؤسسات الإنسانية وشركات القطاع الخاص للمشاركة في الحملة وتخصيص أموال زكاتهم وصدقاتهم وتبرعاتهم لتوفير الموارد اللازمة لتغطية احتياجاتهم الآنية والمستقبلية من خلال وسائل متعددة وهي: الحوالات المصرفية على رقم الحساب: 0011430430020 – مصرف الشارقة الإسلامي والشيكات والدفع نقداً في مقر المؤسسة والتبرع عن طريق خدمة الرسائل القصيرة ومن خلال الإنترنت على الرابط التالي: https://tbhf.ae/zakat.                  وتؤكد الحملة أن حق اللاجئين والمحتاجين بخدمات صحية وتعليمية وتأهيلية هو الركيزة الأساسية لضمان مستقبلهم وتحوّل واقعهم نحو الأفضل وأن بناء المؤسسات ودعم قدراتها على توفير كافة الخدمات اللازمة خطوة استراتيجية لمواصلة تقديم المساعدات وحماية المجتمعات من تداعيات المتغيرات الصعبة التي تمر بها كما تترجم الحملة الرؤية الإنسانية التنموية لمؤسسة القلب الكبير والتي تتجسد في توفير مقومات النهوض بالمجتمعات بالاعتماد على ثرواتها البشرية.                  وتركز الحملة على دعم القطاع الصحي في المجتمعات المحتاجة من خلال تطوير مراكز الرعاية وتدريب الطواقم الطبية وتوفير المعدات اللازمة وبناء عيادات متخصصة في المناطق النائية؛وعلى صعيد التعليم ستوجه الحملة أموال الزكاة والتبرعات نحو بناء وتطوير المدارس ورياض الأطفال وتوفير المعدات التعليمية اللازمة إلى جانب تقديم المنح الدراسية للطلبة الذين تحول ظروفهم دون استكمال مسيرتهم التعليمية.                  كما ستخصص الحملة جزءاً من أموال الزكاة والتبرعات للاستجابة الإنسانية الطارئة وتوفير الحماية والمأوى لتخفيف تداعيات الزلزال المدمر في سوريا وتركيا من خلال المساهمة في دعم مشاريع البنية التحتية السكنية بالإضافة إلى المساهمة في وضع خطط متكاملة لتعزيز مراحل التعافي وإيجاد حلول جذرية مستدامة على المدى الطويل.                  وقالت مريم الحمادي مديرة مؤسسة القلب الكبير : يعاني المحتاجون واللاجئون من ظروف صعبة وقاسية وتغيب عنهم الاحتياجات الضرورية ونسعى من خلال هذه الحملة إلى الاستجابة العاجلة لاحتياجات حاضرهم وتأمين مقومات مستقبل يحفظ كرامتهم ومن أجل تحقيق ذلك نسعى لحشد الجهود المجتمعية لتوفير الموارد اللازمة فنحن أمام مهمات إنسانية عاجلة يتوقف عليها حياة الملايين من الرجال والنساء والأطفال في أكثر من مجتمع حول العالم.                  وأضافت : نحن نعمل بإيمان كبير بحق الإنسان الكامل والشامل في الحياة بكل ما تحمله هذه الكلمة من معاني وما تفرضه من احتياجات فلا يكفي فقط توفير مقومات العيش الأساسية على أهميتها بل يجب أن نبقى متيقظين للاحتياجات الأخرى التي تمنح للحياة قيمتها وأبرزها الأمن والدفئ الاجتماعي والثقة بالمستقبل وتجنب خوف وقلق الأهالي على مصير أبنائهم وبناتهم وهذا ما نعنيه عندما نقول تبرع لمستقبلهم لأننا بذلك نتبرع للأمل بغد أفضل ليس للمحتاجين واللاجئين وحدهم بل لنا جميعا.

TBHF calls on members of the UAE’s community, charitable individuals worldwide, private sector businesses, government entities, civil society organisations and charities to respond to TBHF’s Zakat Appeal …reports Asian Lite News

The UAE non-profit, The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF), is reinforcing efforts to extend both emergency response and developmental support to under-resourced communities with “Enlighten their Future”, a Zakat Appeal campaign designed to coalesce community’s support through charitable donations throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan.

The global humanitarian organisation, which has been serving millions of refugees, internally displaced people, and others in need for over a decade, will mobilise the funds raised to support sustainable long term development and humanitarian development projects in the vital sectors of education, and specialised healthcare in underprivileged communities across various countries, in addition to providing ongoing humanitarian response to the victims of the earthquake and natural disasters in Syria and Türkiye, supporting scientific and health centres, and helping institutions restore their ability to provide services to people in both countries.

Inspired by the illuminating spirit of the Holy Month, TBHF fundraiser’s slogan “Enlighten their Future” represents two parallel pillars of development that the entity focuses on – offering immediate and lifesaving aid to victims of crisis as well as initiating projects that will empower those affected by climate change, natural disasters, war, conflict and disease, and support them to build their futures in order to bring about sustainable development in under-resourced communities.

TBHF calls on members of the UAE’s community, charitable individuals worldwide, private sector businesses, government entities, civil society organisations and charities to respond to TBHF’s Zakat Appeal with their generous contributions, which can be made through bank transfers to Sharjah Islamic Bank account number 0011-430430-020, as well as cheque and cash payments, or donations via SMS and via: https://tbhf.ae/zakat.

TBHF Director, Mariam Al Hammadi, explained that the impact of the support from donor communities in the UAE and beyond will be massive, as the populations served by TBHF are now more than ever in dire need of emergency response, shelter, security, education, livelihoods, and other long-term developmental assistance.

“The lives of millions of families, women, children, and the elderly in many communities worldwide depend on humanitarian missions, which can only be possible and successful with the benevolence and support of humanitarian champions to whom we have presented this appeal. Contributions this Ramadan will improve educational opportunities, give families who have lost everything after the recent earthquake a chance to rebuild their lives, and take quality healthcare to remote locations,” Al Hammadi further noted.

“Human life in any circumstance is precious. It is God’s gift and therefore deserves to be nurtured and lived to the fullest. With our Zakat Appeal this year, we are fostering hope for a better tomorrow, not only for refugees and vulnerable people but for all of us,” TBHF Director concluded.

Those who support TBHF’s “Enlighten their Future” campaign, will be contributing to improving healthcare in under-resourced communities with the provision of better tools, equipment and services, medical teams, and will enable the construction of specialised centres in remote locations.

In the education sector, scholarships will be awarded to out-of-school children, new schools will be built, kindergartens will be supported, and so on.

ALSO READ: UAE to double re-export in 7 years

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-Top News Ramadan UAE News

MBZ exchanges Ramadan greetings with Rulers

They all performed Al Maghreb Prayers before attending the Iftar banquet hosted by the President for the Rulers, Crown Princes, Deputy Rulers, Sheikhs, and visitors…..reports Asian Lite News

President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan today received the Supreme Council Members, Rulers of the Emirates at Qasr Al Watan Palace and exchanged with them the Ramadan greetings.

They prayed to perpetuate the blessings of security and stability, and to revisit the fasting month with more goodness, progress, and prosperity for the UAE and its people.

Those received by the UAE President included Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai; Sharjah Ruler Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ajman Ruler Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Fujairah Ruler Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Umm Al Qaiwain Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla and Ras Al Khaimah Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi.

He also received Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai; Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance; Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah; Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman and Chairman of Ajman Executive Council; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah; Sheikh Rashid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla, Crown Prince of Umm Al Qaiwain; and Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah along with a number of sheikhs from across the country, as well as ministers, members of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, and high-ranking officials.

In attendance during the reception were Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region; Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region; Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council; Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation; Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior; Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court; H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Zayed Al Nahyan; H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

They all performed Al Maghreb Prayers before attending the Iftar banquet hosted by the President for the Rulers, Crown Princes, Deputy Rulers, Sheikhs, and visitors.

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UAE President, VP exchange Ramadan greetings

This came during an Iftar banquet that was hosted by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid for Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed at Za’abeel Palace in Dubai….reports Asian Lite News

President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, exchanged greetings on the occasion of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

This came during an Iftar banquet that was hosted by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid for Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed at Za’abeel Palace in Dubai.

The iftar banquet was attended by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai; Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance; Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region; Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council; Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior; Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court; Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Meanwhile, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid has received well-wishers who visited him to greet him on the occasion of the advent of the Holy Month of Ramadan, at the Za’abeel Palace in Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, in the presence of Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Maktoum, accepted the greetings of well-wishers who included senior officials from Dubai Government entities and other dignitaries.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, and Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, were also present.

ALSO READ: UAE participates in G20 meet on finance

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-Top News Ramadan UAE News

UAE leaders share Ramadan greetings

President Sheikh Mohamed greeted for continued good health and well-being, and further progress and prosperity…reports Asian Lite News

President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent congratulatory messages to the Kings, Emirs and Presidents of Arab and Islamic nations on the advent of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Sheikh Mohamed wished the leaders and their peoples continued good health and well-being, and further progress and prosperity for Arab and Islamic nations.

He also had phone calls with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain; King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein of Jordan; Egyptian President Abdul Fatah el-Sisi; and President of Tunisia Kais Saied.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, sent similar messages to Arab and Muslim leaders and people on the occasion.

Rulers of Sharjah, Fujairah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al-Quwain have sent cables of congratulations to President Sheikh Mohamed.

They wished further welfare and progress for the UAE and good health for President Sheikh Mohamed, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, and the Supreme Council Members.

Ramadan pardons

Sheikh Mohammed has ordered the release of 971 prisoners of different nationalities from Dubai’s correctional and punitive establishments, ahead of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Attorney General of Dubai Chancellor Essam Issa Al Humaidan said the pardon reflects Sheikh Mohammed’s keenness to reunite the pardoned individuals with their families during the Holy Month. The pardon gives the released prisoners an opportunity to get a fresh start in life and reintegrate into the community, he added.

Dubai Public Prosecution, in collaboration with Dubai Police, has already commenced the legal procedures to implement Sheikh Mohammed’s order, Al Humaidan said.

“As the holy month of Ramadan begins, I wish you all a blessed month of reflection and pray that God continues to grant peace and harmony to the people of the UAE and the world.”
—-Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed

Ajman Ruler Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi has issued an order for the release of 135 prisoners who have demonstrated good conduct during their incarceration in Ajman’s correctional and punitive facilities.

Sharjah Ruler Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, has ordered the release of 399 prisoners.

RAK Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi has ordered the release of 338 prisoners and Fujairah Ruler Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi released 151 prisoners. UAQ Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla also pardoned a number of prisoners.

Zero food waste during Ramadan

Under the directives of Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, wife of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE Food Bank has initiated a campaign to provide 3 million meals and food parcels to disadvantaged individuals and families both in the UAE and abroad during the holy month of Ramadan.

In collaboration with various partners, the UAE Food Bank, affiliated with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has announced its initiatives for the Holy Month of Ramadan. Besides distributing three million donated meals, these initiatives are aimed at managing food surplus, reducing wastage, and providing sustenance to those in need both within and beyond the UAE. The organisation also seeks to raise public awareness regarding the crucial goal of achieving zero food waste.

Dubai community initiatives

Reflecting the spirit of giving that marks the Holy Month of Ramadan, ENOC Group unveiled a series of community initiatives that aim to benefit more than 400,000 less privileged people across the Emirate of Dubai.

ENOC Group is expanding and strengthening the reach of its Ramadan Aman campaign this year by partnering with Al Ihsan Charity Association to distribute 200,000 Iftar meal boxes to ensure that people who are stuck at traffic signals can break their fast on time.

“Congratulations to the people of the Emirates and to all the Arab and Islamic peoples on the occasion of the blessed month of Ramadan. May God bring it back to us and you with goodness, mercy, security and faith.”
—-Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid

On 10th April, apart from Dubai, ENOC’s employees will also distribute Iftar boxes across Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain.

Under the Ramadan Grocery Distribution initiative in collaboration with Zoom, 50,000 individuals in labour camps will receive a selection of essential grocery items for 14 days during Ramadan this year. ENOC volunteers will pack the grocery boxes which will be delivered from 23rd March to 5th April.

Through its long-standing partner, Beit Al Kheir, ENOC Group will distribute 10,000 Ramadan iftar meals during the last two weeks of the Holy Month to people in need in Dubai. ENOC employees will volunteer their services and help with daily distribution at labour camps in the emirate.

ALSO READ: Ramadan Mubarak

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-Top News Ramadan UAE News

Ahlan Ramadan

The Muslims all over the world is gearing up to embrace the holy month of Ramadan with the sighting of the crescent moon…reports Asian Lite News

The UAE moon-sighting committee is scheduled to convene today (29th Sha’ban), following the Maghreb prayer at the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, to determine the commencement of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Presided over by Abdullah Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice, the meeting will be attended by several high-ranking officials.

The Shariah courts across the country will monitor and notify the committee of any sightings, while the Lunar Calendar Committee at the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department will continue to gather evidence and report its findings to the Moon-Sighting Committee.

Pardon for 1025 prisoners

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has ordered the release of 1,025 prisoners serving various sentences in the UAE, ahead of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

The move comes as part of President Mohamed’s humanitarian initiatives and is reflective of the values of forgiveness and tolerance to give pardoned inmates an opportunity to start a new life and ease the suffering of their families.

Sheikh Mohamed’s annual pardon ahead of the month of Ramadan aims to enhance family cohesion, brings about happiness to mothers and children and provides released prisoners with an opportunity to re-think their future and return to the righteous path that allows them to lead a successful social and professional life.

Ramadan packages

Marihub, the pioneer developer and operator of ship supplies platforms, will provide Ramadan packages, including food and high-quality personal care products, to seafarers as a gesture to support the Salmeen initiative launched by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI).

The Ministry launched Salmeen in June 2022 to support seafarers in the maritime sector and guarantee that their needs are fulfilled, deeming them as one of the most significant pillars of international trade. The initiative aims to improve the quality of life of seafarers and support them, as per the UAE Government’s Excellence Model.

Commenting on the announcement, Hessa Al Malek, Advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs, UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, said, “The UAE is one of the global leaders when it comes to humanitarian work. Humans are the centre of our attention, and we don’t limit ourselves to offering scattered aid alone.”

“The nation’s work model is aligned to provide better support to people. That is why, the country was the first in the world to assist stranded seafarers during the peak of the COVID-19 Pandemic to safely return home, while adhering to the highest safety requirements.”

“We also launched several initiatives focused on protecting seafarers and their rights, such as ‘Supporting our Blue Army’. As part of the initiative, ship management companies and owners were asked to provide mandatory health and life insurance to seafarers. As a result, we can confidently say that the UAE protects seafarers’ rights and encourages workplace safety and provision of quality of life,” she added.

Osama Al Arabi, Executive Director of Support Services and Co-Partner of Marihub, stated, “To support the Ministry’s efforts in improving the quality of life for seafarers, and in honour of the holy month of Ramadan, we will donate special packages containing a comprehensive selection of food and personal care products.”

“These packages are specially designed for seafarers who work for several days on ships. Our focus is on providing integrated food items that will help enhance the seafarers’ ability to work during fasting hours, ultimately improving their quality of life, and creating a more comfortable and suitable working environment”

“More than 80 percent of global trade is transported via sea, yet traditional methods continue to dominate many aspects of the maritime industry, such as the supply of food and personal care products to seafarers. This often results in difficulties in providing sufficient quantities of products, directly impacting the quality of life for seafarers.”

“To address this issue, we have launched the Marihub platform, offering a comprehensive solution to ship operation and management companies and owners. The platform provides access to the best food and health supplies, as well as services such as refuelling, lubricating oil, and spare parts,” Al Arabi added.

Marihub recently signed an agreement with MoEI to develop digital platforms that help in digitalising the operations of the maritime sector, increasing its operational efficiency and reducing expenses.

ALSO READ: Remote work for UAE govt workers during Ramadan

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Ramadan UAE News

EID IN THE UAE

Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and the Rulers of the Emirates, and the Crown Princes and Deputy Rulers, extended their greetings to President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the occasion of Eid Al Fitr

Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and the Rulers of the Emirates, and the Crown Princes and Deputy Rulers, extended their greetings to President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the occasion of Eid Al Fitr, wishing him good health and happiness to continue the path of giving, progress and development for the benefit of the country.

This came during a reception hosted today by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai; and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces; to Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and the Rulers of the Emirates, and Their Highnesses the Crown Princes and Deputy Rulers, at Al Mushrif Palace in Abu Dhabi.

ALSO READ:

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed received H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah; H.H. Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah; H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Umm Al Qaiwain; and H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.

Categories
Arab News Qatar Ramadan

Qatar Tourism to host Eid Al Fitr Fest

Qatar Tourism to host its first Eid Festival at Doha Corniche

The Eid Al Fitr festival from May 3-5 along Doha Corniche is coordinated with the Ministry of Interior and Ashghal to manage logistical routes at the location

In celebration of Eid al Fitr this year, Qatar Tourism (QT) will host the Eid Festival along the Doha Corniche from Tuesday, May 3 to Thursday, May 5 between 4-11pm each day.  In addition to the region’s first-ever giant balloon parade with a marching band, festival goers are sure to find something for every member of the family – from stage performances and roaming artists to carnival games and food trucks and kiosks followed by fireworks displays that will light up the Doha sky every day at 9pm. The event is coordinated with the Ministry of Interior and Ashghal to manage logistical routes at the location.

Over the course of the festival, the Doha Corniche will be pedestrianised to allow residents and visitors to experience one of the capital city’s most-loved thoroughfares in a new and exciting way. QT is working with its partners at the Ministry of Interior and Ashghal to deliver safe proceedings throughout the Eid Al-Fitr festivities taking place along a 1.4 km stretch of the Doha Corniche. Moreover, during the three-day festival, there will be live musical performances daily at 19:30 featuring renowned local and regional artists.

The Ministry of Interior (MoI) announced that Doha Corniche Street will be temporary closed from 3 to 5 May, specifically from Tuesday early morning to Thursday midnight. The reopening of traffic will resume on the morning of May 6th in coordination with MoI’s General Directorate of Traffic and the Ministry of Transport.

As per this announcement, traffic closure will go into effect starting 3 May from the Sharq intersection towards the Sheraton intersection in the north and from the Sheraton intersection to the Port intersection in the south, and all roads leading to corniche will be closed, including the following intersections: (Al-Fardan, Al-Jasra, Al-Marmar, Al-Diwan, Al-Maha, Civil Defense and Barzan).

ALSO READ: UAE announces weeklong Eid al-Fitr holiday for Federal entities

In order to facilitate movement of individuals to corniche, alternative means of transportation will be available. There are 37 metro stations in Qatar, including 7 that directly lead to Corniche such as (Al-Bidda, Doha Corniche, and West Bay), in addition the second ring road and the third ring bus service on the Corniche. There will also be areas designated for pedestrians, and 7 new facilities for “Park and Ride” available near the metro stations such as the Education City, Al-Qassar, and Al-Wakra.

The Ministry of Interior encourages the public to cooperate with traffic police and abide by traffic diversions to ensure the safety and security to all those using the Corniche Road. It also advises the use of alternative roads designated for vehicles, namely the A-Ring Road and Istiqlal Road.

Engineer Mohamed Ali Al Marri, the Secretary of the Committee for Corniche Street closure implementation plan and Design Engineer: “Ashghal, in coordination with MOI is planning, designing, and implementing the Corniche closure plan, in addition to carrying out some infrastructure works to enhance traffic flow during the closure period. The Supervisory Committee of beautification of Roads & Public Places is working on beautifying and upgrading Al Corniche Street to provide upgraded pedestrian paths, new cycle lanes, new street lighting and increase the landscaped areas. There are also additional pedestrian crossings along Corniche Street and Al Bidda Street. During closure, Ashghal will provide 17 new bus stops for the Corniche Shuttle Bus Routes which will have 25 bus stops, along with about 55 Variable message signs and fixed directional signs across the road network to lead drivers to the alternative routes. Also, over 200 wayfinding signs will be provided to guide visitors along the Corniche.”

This is in addition to developing several intersections and reprogramming the traffic signals timings to ease traffic flow. Furthermore, 40 traffic signal intersections will be upgraded to operate with pedestrian detection system to improve pedestrian safety.