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ADD 2024 To Focus on Mobility Of Skilled Workers, Gender Equality

Abu Dhabi Dialogue 2024 addresses skill mobility between sending, receiving countries in line with future prospects of work. Abu Dhabi Dialogue, which is held on the sidelines of World Government Summit 2024, is a voluntary consultative mechanism that aims to provide a public platform for dialogue on best practices between Asian labour sending and receiving countries in the Asia corridor, supporting bilateral and multilateral partnerships in the region and enhancing collaboration on labour market regulatory…reports Asian Lite News

Preparations for the Seventh Abu Dhabi Dialogue (ADD) Ministerial Consultation started in Dubai as senior officials from the ministries of labour, human resources, and employment of 16 ADD member countries held eight working sessions attended by representatives of international organisations, the private sector and civil society, as well as experts and observers.

Abu Dhabi Dialogue, which is held on the sidelines of World Government Summit 2024, is a voluntary consultative mechanism that aims to provide a public platform for dialogue on best practices between Asian labour sending and receiving countries in the Asia corridor, supporting bilateral and multilateral partnerships in the region and enhancing collaboration on labour market regulatory.

ADD also provides a platform for exchanging innovative initiatives to enhance workers’ wellbeing, ensure prosperity in the business community, and maximise benefits and advantages for ADD member countries’ economies that stem from the movement of individuals for employment within the Asia corridor.

The first working session, led by Professor Gibril Faal, Director of GK Partners and LSE Visiting Professor in practice, addressed the role of technology in reducing and resolving labour disputes, and the need to employ advanced technology to launch initiatives to regulate the labour market, reduce labour disputes, and reach quicker and easier solutions to settle them.

Meanwhile, the second working session featured Ahmed Alarabi, Deputy CEO of Operations & Services at the Labour Market Regulatory Authority in Bahrain, during which he discussed the importance of expanding the scope of wage protection systems in labour-receiving countries to include domestic workers. He said this falls under the role that technology plays in enhancing workers’ wellbeing, empowering countries to manage labour markets, and implementing the best available means to monitor key indicators regarding workers’ rights. The session also discussed available options for implementing technology in labour markets and its potential impact.

The third working session reviewed the need to promote safe and low-cost monetary transfers for workers from labour-sending countries, and the impact this has in terms of enhancing their wellbeing. Presented by Dilip Ratha, Lead Economist at the World Bank and Chair of the KNOMAD Thematic Group on Remittances, the session explored ways to enhance banking services and make them accessible to all categories of workers, including domestic workers.

On a related note, the fourth working session highlighted ways to use technology to improve workers’ access to health information, which effectively helps ensure their wellbeing and establish a safe work environment. Sulaiman Aldakheel, General Manager of the Gulf Health Council, spoke at the session, underlining the pioneering efforts and initiatives of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries as leading destinations for labour, and highlighting the pioneering steps the GCC has taken to enhance workers’ protection, inform them of their rights in terms of health, and educate them about health and safety standards in the work environment.

Mobility of skilled workers

Senior officials from the ministries of labour, human resources, and employment in Abu Dhabi Dialogue member countries convened in two of the working sessions and discussed ways for facilitating and enhancing skills mobility between labour sending and receiving countries in line with the future prospects of work.

The first session addressed key guidelines for building successful partnerships between countries to streamline skill transfer between sending and receiving countries, based on the evolving needs of labour markets and economic growth strategies in labour-receiving countries.

Jason Gagnon, Head of the Migration and Skills Unit at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), spoke at the session, highlighting the importance of developing the skills of workers in labour-sending countries, in line with the requirements and work environment in labour-receiving countries, in order to achieve balance and harmony between workers’ skills and labour market requirements, as well as to enhance the role that temporary workers play in accelerating economic growth and offering added value to labour-receiving markets.

Meanwhile, the second session, which featured Kishore Kumar Singh, Senior Skills Development Specialist at the Decent Work Technical Support Team of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Regional Offi­ce for Arab States, underlined the most effective ways to match labour mobility with the needs of the labour market. The session discussed the importance of matching migrant workers’ skills and experiences with labour market requirements and future economic development goals in labour-receiving countries, in order to ensure the success and sustainability of labour mobility. This, he said, allows workers to seize the greatest possible opportunities, where they develop their skills in their home countries based on the latest requirements and modern systems adopted by labour-receiving countries.

Gender equality

Two of the working sessions included meetings to discuss ways to integrate gender equality into the framework of employment policies of Abu Dhabi Dialogue member nations. The first session examined current and potential demand for employing female workers in the field of technology, as well as ways to facilitate access to tech-related sectors to enhance women’s participation in labour markets.

The session featured Dr. Jean D’Cunha, Senior Global Advisor on International Migration, Decent Work, and Entrepreneurship at UN Women, and discussed the need to enhance women’s participation and integration in the labour market considering the major technological developments, transforming various business sectors, which have led to a significant expansion in suitable jobs for female workers, reducing the number of highly intense, which are unsuitable for women.

The second session covered ways to better evaluate women’s employment, and strategies for achieving equity and expanding women’s participation in labour markets, especially in the health sector. Speaker Tanja Dedovic, Senior Regional Thematic Specialist for Labour Mobility and Social Inclusion at the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) explained the importance of women’s participation in the labour market, the major role they play, and the vast areas where they can excel.

Activities of the Seventh Abu Dhabi Dialogue Ministerial Consultation are scheduled to officially begin on Sunday, 11 February, where ministers of labour, human resources, and employment will discuss the outcomes of the working sessions held by senior officials to review recommendations and make appropriate decisions.

The UAE hosts the Permanent Secretariat of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue, which was launched in 2008 as a forum for dialogue and cooperation between Asian labour sending and receiving countries.

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Abu Dhabi’s Seventy Second Investment Cleared for Healthcare Deal in India

In recent months, Abu Dhabi has been actively investing in the healthcare sector…reports Asian Lite News

The Abu Dhabi-registered Seventy Second Investment Company, a wholly owned unit of the state-backed Mubadala’s Mamoura Diversified Global Holding, has received clearance from India’s fair-trade regulator, the Competition Commission of India (CCI), for a stake in one of the country’s biggest healthcare facilities, Manipal Health Enterprises.

According to the CCI filing this week, the deal has been approved under the green channel route, which allows for immediate approval at filing, news agency Press Trust of India reported.

Manipal Health Enterprises, which is commonly known as Manipal Hospitals, is a part of the Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG), which operates 33 hospitals across 17 cities in India. According to the company website, they are touted as the second-largest hospital chain in the country.

In recent months, Abu Dhabi has been actively investing in the healthcare sector. In November, the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) and Malaysia’s Employees Provident Fund backed the $1.2 billion takeover of southeast Asian hospital operator Ramsay Sime Darby Healthcare by private equity firm TPG and Hong Leong Group.

The acquisition was the biggest conducted by ADIA in the healthcare, life sciences and pharma sectors since it participated in the $1.6 billion takeover and recapitalisation of US-based veterinary company Amerivet in March 2022, according to industry specialist, Global SWF.

The other big transaction by ADIA last year was its purchase of a 3% stake in India-based Intas Pharmaceuticals for $250 million from Singapore’s Temasek.

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Yas Island Abu Dhabi: Where Fearless Spirits Find Ultimate Thrills

Experience a unique Pearl Diving adventure at Yas Waterworld, which offers you the opportunity to dive into an underwater tank and retrieve oysters containing precious pearls…reports Asian Lite News

In a world filled with everyday routines and responsibilities, there exists a special set of people who find solace, joy, and happiness in living on the edge. The pursuit of danger becomes a source of joy, a way for an individual to break free from the mundane and embrace the exhilarating unknown. In a quest for excitement, many individuals discover a unique form of happiness in fearful activities that pumps adrenaline. Seeking a lifestyle that provides a sense of liberation and fulfilment that can only be found in the heart of life’s most daring moments.

Yas Island Abu Dhabi is an ideal destination catering to these fearless individuals, offering an ideal chance to indulge in an adventurous spirit. Step into a world where adrenaline surges and excitement knows no bounds –the realm of thrilling amusement park rides. As you enter through the gates, sense the air which is filled with laughter, screams, and electrifying excitement. From towering roller coasters that defy gravity to spin attractions that leave your senses confused, each ride promises an unforgettable journey into the heart-pounding thrill of pure amusement.

Climb your walls to the Roof Walk Experience at Ferrari World

Climb up the wall of adventure with the Iconic Roof Walk at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, where you’ll tread unexplored paths and meet the gaze of the world’s largest Ferrari logo against the breathtaking backdrop of Yas Island. This extraordinary encounter elevates your experience in the amusement park both figuratively and literally! Throughout your journey, an Experience Guide will accompany you, ensuring safety at every step. Step into the extraordinary by reserving your spot for this unparalleled experience and walk where no one has walked before!

Plunge in for an Emirati Pearl Diving Experience at Yas Waterworld

Experience a unique Pearl Diving adventure at Yas Waterworld, which offers you the opportunity to dive into an underwater tank and retrieve oysters containing precious pearls. This adventure which replicates the traditional Emirati pearl diving, allows you to personalize your experience further by having the pearls set into jewellery, thus creating a personalised and meaningful souvenir of your time at Yas Waterworld.

Buckle up for a thrilling ride at Fast and Furry-ous in Warner Bros World

Fast and Furry-ous, welcomes you to the heart of coyote territory! Gather the family and head to Dynamite Gulch for an exhilarating, furiously fast rollercoaster race. Navigate through the scenic Southwest American desert backdrop, featuring authentic visual humour and iconic elements from the show. You can also embark on an inverted rollercoaster adventure alongside Wile E. Coyote as he tirelessly chases Roadrunner. Soar above sandy dunes, speed through thrilling ups and downs, and navigate sharp banked turns – it’s an untamed ride that promises wild excitement at every twist and turn!

Fall in Depths of Ocean in Hypersphere 360° at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi

Dive into the world beneath the waves and embark on an extraordinary journey through the depths of the ocean in a fully immersive, 360-degree multimedia sphere. Participate in this unusual ride, where you move and tilt to defy the forces of gravity and completely immerse yourself in the oceanic virtual reality. Picture yourself surrounded by the vast expanse of the underwater realm, where every twist and turn reveals, a new wonder waiting to be discovered. The captivating graviton-like experience transports you into the heart of the ocean to witness the vibrant marine life and to explore hidden landscapes that have remained largely unseen by human eyes.

Dare to let go at Jebel Drop in Yas Water World

Prepare for the ultimate thrill at Yas Waterworld’s Jebel Drop as you take a plunge on the steepest waterslide in the park, thus witnessing awe-inspiring panoramic views of the entire waterpark. It’s a dream come true for adrenaline junkies. To make the most of this heart-pounding adventure and minimize wait times, consider arriving early. Dive headfirst into the excitement and make for an unforgettable journey of aquatic thrills!

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Abu Dhabi Sets Up AI and Advanced Technology Council

The council will be responsible for developing and implementing policies and strategies related to research…reports Asian Lite News

In his capacity as Ruler of Abu Dhabi, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, has issued a law establishing the Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council (AIATC).

The council will be responsible for developing and implementing policies and strategies related to research, infrastructure and investments in artificial intelligence and advanced technology in Abu Dhabi.

His Highness has also issued a resolution appointing members of the new council. The Ruler’s resolution appointed H.H. Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi, as Chairman of the AIATC, and H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, as Vice Chairman. 

The resolution also appointed Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Jassem Mohamed Bu Ataba Al Zaabi, Faisal Abdulaziz Al Bannai, and Peng Xiao as members of the AIATC.

The establishment of the AIATC reflects a strong belief in the importance of technological leadership in building the economy of the future. The council will develop plans and research programmess in collaboration with local and global partners to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status in the fields of artificial intelligence and advanced technology. It complements Abu Dhabi’s strategy to position the emirate as a world-leading hub for investments, partnerships, and talent in the sector.

The establishment of the AIATC is a manifestation of the bold vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness’ wise directives emphasising the importance of the sectors of the future. The council will contribute to enhancing and ensuring the continued development and prosperity of the post-hydrocarbon economy.

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Abu Dhabi announces lorry and worker-bus ban on New Year’s Eve

Exemptions from the ban include vehicles from public cleaning companies and logistical support,” added the Traffic and Patrols Directorate…reports Asian Lite News

Trucks, heavy vehicles and buses transporting labourers will be banned from Abu Dhabi roads on New Year’s Eve, the Traffic and Patrols Directorate of the Abu Dhabi Police, in cooperation with the Integrated Transport Centre, announced.

“This includes Sheikh Zayed Bridge, Sheikh Khalifa Bridge, Mussafah Bridge and Al Maqtaa Bridge,” the Traffic and Patrols Directorate of the Abu Dhabi Police added, noting that the ban will be implemented from 7 am on Sunday, December 31, 2023, until 7 am on Monday, January 1, 2024.

“Exemptions from the ban include vehicles from public cleaning companies and logistical support,” added the Traffic and Patrols Directorate.

“Traffic patrols would be deployed across all roads and traffic surveillance would be intensified through smart systems in order to ensure traffic flow,” noted the Directorate. (ANI/WAM)

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Modi to Attend Inauguration of BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi

During the meeting, the discussions revolved around Abu Dhabi temple’s significance for global harmony and Modi’s vision for India’s spiritual leadership on the global stage…Reports Asian Lite News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accepted the invitation extended by Swami Ishwarcharandas and Swami Brahmaviharidas, along with the board of directors for the inauguration of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi on February 14 next year, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha said in a press statement.

PM Modi and the BAPS Swami Ishwarcharandas met on Wednesday at the Prime Minister’s residential office and PM Modi graciously accepted the invitation, expressing his enthusiastic support for the historic and iconic temple.

Swami Ishwarcharandas honoured the Prime Minister by adorning him with a garland and draping a saffron shawl over his shoulders, acknowledging his significant contributions to our nation and the world. The Prime Minister was specially commended for the remarkable renovation and development of pilgrimage sites across India, a feat unparalleled in recent centuries, said the press statement.

During the meeting, the discussions revolved around Abu Dhabi temple’s significance for global harmony and Modi’s vision for India’s spiritual leadership on the global stage.

The release read, “The BAPS delegation prayed for the Prime Minister’s health and acknowledged his exceptional global achievements, notably strengthening relationships with the UAE and other Middle Eastern countries. They also discussed the pride and inspiration Modi’s leadership has instilled in Indians worldwide.”

Recalling his personal and immortal memories of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and his glorious centenary celebrations, the Prime Minister expressed prayers for Mahant Swami Maharaj’s health.

PM also appreciated the efforts of key individuals, volunteers and supporters, involved in the BAPS Hindu Mandir project in Abu Dhabi, including those present before him such as Chairman Ashok Kotecha, Vice Chairman Yogesh Mehta and Director Chirag Patel, recognizing their contributions as significant sources of pride for India.

In a light-hearted exchange, the Prime Minister asked Chirag Patel about his love for tennis and his father Rohitbhai Patel and grandfather P D Patel; and also encouraged his children to continue working hard and achieve success in the sport.

As per the press statement, Swami Brahmaviharidas showcased the latest update of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, emphasizing its intricate carvings and all-inclusive grandeur, saying that “the inauguration ceremony will be a great event, a millennial moment of celebration for time to come.”

To which PM Modi added, “It will reflect the ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – an ideal spiritual space, not merely rooted in beliefs and traditions, but a confluence of diverse cultures and civilizations. The essence of spiritual harmony, symbolizing the path forward.” (ANI)

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Abu Dhabi Launches Maritime Hub for Industry Collaboration

The Maritime Hub was formed following extensive research and benchmarking against other leading maritime cities such as Singapore and France….reports Asian Lite News

Abu Dhabi Maritime, part of AD Ports Group, working in cooperation with the Integrated Transport Centre – Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), has announced the official launch of Maritime Hub Abu Dhabi, “Maritime Hub Abu Dhabi – Maritime Hub (maritimehub-ad.com)”, a platform to bridge the gap between public and private stakeholders to connect and strengthen the maritime sector.

At a town hall event attended by representatives from numerous areas across the maritime industry, participants were apprised of the benefits the Maritime Hub intends to bring to the sector and were provided with insights on topics including Abu Dhabi’s Industrial Strategy, presented by the Department of Economic Development (DED), Maritime Sustainability Passport by ESG Plus, and Decarbonisation Awareness by DNV – Maritime Hub Abu Dhabi’s’ knowledge partner.

Captain Saif Al Mheiri, Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Maritime, said, “The Maritime Hub demonstrates our commitment to the maritime sector’s growth and prosperity. This initiative will create an unparalleled platform for stakeholders to come together, share knowledge, and drive progress that will reshape the industry landscape and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s standing as an international maritime city.”

The Maritime Hub was formed following extensive research and benchmarking against other leading maritime cities such as Singapore and France. Founded on three core strategic pillars – Connect, Create and Collaborate, the Hub aims to harness collective synergies through cooperation across public and private sectors, thus bolstering growth across the entire maritime ecosystem.

By engaging with the Hub through networking events, maritime stakeholders will benefit from interaction with influential bodies, policymakers and a vibrant community of players covering offshore, maritime suppliers, shipbuilding, ship operating, dredging, maritime services, knowledge institutes, water sports and fisheries, seafarers and academia who share a common goal of charting a course toward maritime excellence in Abu Dhabi.

A committee composed of representatives from various segments of both the public and private maritime sectors will lead working groups, contributing innovative ideas, addressing challenges and guiding collaborative efforts to promote industry growth and development.

The Hub will also play a role in facilitating the maritime industry’s sustainability, by offering awareness, guidance and familiarisation on the pathway to decarbonisation, promoting best practice and the development of eco-friendly solutions to assist businesses in reducing their carbon footprint.

By forging essential links with global and domestic stakeholders, policymakers, and media, the Maritime Hub intends to elevate Abu Dhabi’s maritime sector, enhancing exposure, and augmenting its economic impact, while promoting collaboration and knowledge exchange for the benefit of all.

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Abu Dhabi Hosts Epic Esports Battle: India vs. Pakistan

India’s True Rippers Esports and Pakistan’s Team WahWah to compete in a Counter-Strike Showmatch on Sunday 17th December at Etihad Arena. Tickets are still available to watch highly-anticipated match as well as the World Final….reports Asian Lite News

India and Pakistan are set to renew their rivalry this weekend with both countries’ best Counter-Strike gaming players set to compete in an exhibition match at this weekend’s BLAST Premier World Final in Abu Dhabi.

True Rippers Esports from India and Team WahWah from Pakistan will come together for the special Showmatch on Sunday at Etihad Arena with the chance to claim bragging rights in the Tier One tournament with tickets now available. Both True Rippers and Team WahWah will include two elite global esports BLAST Premier players in their ranks, which have been selected by fans on BLAST.TV.

They will have the chance to play in front of thousands of fans at the Etihad Arena as well as a global audience spanning 150+ territories.

The showmatch is part of a partnership between BLAST, an esports entertainment company, and NODWIN, South Asia’s leading esports and gaming media company, which launched the ‘The Draft’ – a Counter-Strike tournament to kick off next year, that will give teams from India and Pakistan the chance to play with tier-one players on the global stage.

A recent report by esports market research firm Niko Partners revealed that the Asia and MENA regions accounted for over 56% of global esports revenue in 2022. India and Pakistan were the countries with the strongest number of active esports players in the South Asia region in the same period.

Faye Marlborough, Brand Director for BLAST, said: “We’re thrilled to be announcing the special Showmatch between True Rippers Esports and Team WahWah at the BLAST Premier World Final. Both countries have a strong following when it comes to esports and gaming, especially Counter-Strike and we cannot wait to see them play in front of a vibrant atmosphere at the Etihad Arena. With the World Final title decider also taking place on the same day, we encourage everyone to book their tickets now for this amazing spectacle.”

Tickets to the BLAST Premier World Final can be bought on Ticketmaster and Etihad Arena with prices starting at just AED 160.  Discounts of up to 20 per cent for those who wish to book four or more tickets and hospitality tickets are also available.

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UAE@52: People At The Heart

People of the UAE are central to our efforts to progress: UAE President

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has affirmed that the UAE remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering international cooperation, dialogue, and peace in the face of global challenges, and will extend its support to countries and communities in need by continuing to strengthen international engagement and build partnerships around the world.

In a statement marking the UAE’s 52nd Union Day, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed said, “The people of the UAE are central to our efforts to progress. It is through devotion and selflessness towards the nation that true accomplishments are realised. Above all, unity and loyalty are the firm foundations laid by the late Sheikh Zayed and his brothers for our nation that underpin our achievements and will continue to do so in the coming decades, God willing.”

The UAE President noted that this year’s Union Day comes as the UAE hosts the largest international event on environment and climate, the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), with high-level global participation.

“The UAE’s hosting of COP28 underscores its credibility both regionally and globally, as well as the prominent role our nation plays in global issues—especially climate change mitigation—and its longstanding support for sustainability initiatives,” His Highness explained.

Below is the statement in full:

“To the people of the UAE,

The second of December is one of the most beloved days for us in the UAE, as it is the day on which hearts united in building our nation. It is the day when shared ambitions came together and when the country’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and his brothers, the Rulers of the Emirates—may their souls rest in peace—penned the first line in the UAE’s story.

On Union Day, we foster a spirit of ambition in our country’s youth so they may leave their mark on our nation, just as their predecessors did with their rich legacy. Union Day is a time for newer generations to understand that our successes are the result of our resolve, and that we share a responsibility in building upon these achievements.

We have achieved significant accomplishments over the years, and with God’s blessing, we are heading towards a future that is brighter, more hopeful, and more prosperous.

While we advance, we honour all those who contribute to the UAE’s continued journey of development, and we take pride in all of the residents who live alongside us with dignity and honour.

As we enter a new year of the UAE’s history, let us reflect on the lessons of our past: that challenges can be overcome with determination, perseverance, and hard work. The people of the UAE are central to our efforts to progress. It is through devotion and selflessness towards the nation that true accomplishments are realised. Above all, unity and loyalty are the firm foundations laid by the late Sheikh Zayed and his brothers for our nation that underpin our achievements and will continue to do so in the coming decades, God willing.

In 2023, the UAE witnessed a historic milestone that added to its notable record in advancing scientific progress through the longest Arab space mission by astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi.

Through this accomplishment, we reaffirmed that our people are at the heart of shaping a better future. The UAE is a nation that never stops moving forward in all areas of development, as we believe that stagnation will only lead to regression.

This year’s Union Day comes as the UAE hosts the largest international event on environment and climate, the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), with high-level global participation. The UAE’s hosting of COP28 underscores its credibility both regionally and globally, as well as the prominent role our nation plays in global issues—especially climate change mitigation—and its longstanding support for sustainability initiatives.

It is our sincere hope that COP28 will forever be remembered as one of the most impactful global climate conferences. The UAE, in cooperation with its partners, will continue to work towards outcomes that benefit all people.

In this vein, the UAE remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering international cooperation, dialogue, and peace in the face of global challenges. By continuing to strengthen international engagement and build partnerships around the world, we will extend our support to countries and communities in need.

Our membership of the United Nations Security Council for the 2022-2023 term proved important in this regard. The UAE played a key role in the adoption by the Security Council in June of its historic resolution on tolerance, peace, and international security. This pivotal milestone, a world first, recognised hate speech and extremism as sources of instability and increasing conflict around the world.

The UAE’s joining of the BRICS group, starting in 2024, further underscores our focus on international collective action to strengthen development and help ensure prosperity for people around the world.

President H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed along with world leaders at a COP28 event in Dubai.

Brothers and sisters,

Today, I am pleased to announce the Union aspirations for 2024 and call on every facet of our society, including government, the private sector, and civil society, to adopt this guidance in their projects, programmes, and initiatives throughout the coming year.

The first aspiration relates to Emirati values, which are a fundamental pillar of our society, reflecting not only our people, but also our nation and its reputation.

I call upon everyone to promote this Emirati spirit both locally and globally, so the world can see the pride we take in our own identity and our openness to other cultures. Our society’s deep-rooted values should remain a constant guiding light for our unity, solidarity, respect for others, and support passed down from generation to generation.

In the workplace, strong work ethics, including dedication, hard work, integrity, and efficiency, should come to be seen as a distinctive Emirati trait.

Second, the UAE is a nation that pursues innovation, with its people at the forefront of progress. Lifelong learning is the fuel that propels our nation forward.

It does not stop at a certain level or age, nor is it confined to schools and universities. Rather, it is a continual endeavour throughout life, whether in the majlis, workplace, or home.

Lifelong learning leads to further success and self-improvement and contributes to the progress of society and humanity. The success of the people of the UAE contributes to the success of our nation as a whole.

I call upon everyone, including individuals, government entities, and the private sector, to make lifelong learning a core principle of our society so that the UAE becomes a hub of learning and future skills development that can unlock new opportunities for progress.

H.H. Sheikh Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

Third, sustainability is not a new pursuit for the UAE; it is deeply rooted in our society due to the challenging conditions faced by our ancestors. The late Sheikh Zayed was a patron of sustainability, which became ingrained in all of the UAE’s endeavours.

While the Year of Sustainability in the UAE concludes at the end of 2023, sustainability remains embedded in our culture, practices, and many aspects of our daily life, and I invite everyone to continue supporting initiatives related to sustainability in the future.

The UAE is determined to honour the legacy of our Founding Father, and we ask the community to continue adopting sustainable practices. Globally, the UAE will continue its role in mobilising international efforts to support environmental action, protect life, and preserve resources for future generations.

Lastly, the world is evolving ever faster, and nations are racing towards development. In this race, education will be our mainstay in the pursuit of progress. Our place in the future will be determined by education, our status among nations will be shaped by education, and reaping the rewards of development and progress will be made possibly solely by education. I therefore urge everyone in this sector to continue working together to further enhance the quality of education available to the people of the UAE.

We aim to advance our nation’s education, to innovate and go beyond traditional methods, and to create abundant opportunities for our youth to grow. Educational entities should place teachers at the heart of their strategic planning, unifying and coordinating efforts to ensure education leads to success in the race towards progress.

Today, I extend my blessings to the Rulers of the Emirates, Crown Princes, Deputy Rulers, and the loyal people of the UAE. I pray to God to preserve and protect our nation, and I wish you, its people, all the very best for the future.

May the peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you.”

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Abu Dhabi Unveils Mega Housing Project for Emiratis

Part of the “Emirati Neighbourhood Initiative”, the project has been developed “with the highest international standards”…reports Asian Lite News

As part of a government initiative to offer high-quality residences to citizens, Abu Dhabi has revealed a massive housing development, delivering over 300 new homes to Emiratis.

Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has inaugurated the emirate’s Al Wathba housing project, which features 347 homes built at a cost of AED1.1 billion ($299 million).

Part of the “Emirati Neighbourhood Initiative”, the project has been developed “with the highest international standards” and it features sustainable designs that seek to improve the citizens’ overall wellbeing and quality of life, according to a statement.

Since its establishment, the Abu Dhabi Housing Authority has provided more than 39,000 residential plots and more than 16,000 new homes to beneficiaries. So far, the total value of housing benefits delivered has reached AED141 billion ($38.4 billion).

The latest housing allocation is spread across 875,000 square metres and includes various community facilities, such as four commercial complexes and 64 shops. The development also has 15 parks and four mosques that can accommodate 1,725 people.

“The Al Wathba housing project signifies the Abu Dhabi Housing Authority’s commitment to delivering the leadership’s directives,” said Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Housing Authority.

“This initiative stands as a cornerstone in guaranteeing citizens’ access to quality housing.”

Since its establishment, the Abu Dhabi Housing Authority has approved more than 44,000 housing loans and facilitated housing loan exemptions for 4,000 beneficiaries.

During the third quarter of the year, Abu Dhabi’s real estate market saw the delivery of 1,000 residential units spread across several communities, according to Asteco.

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