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Category: UAE News

  • Sheikh Mohammed revamps Dubai Chambers

    Sheikh Mohammed revamps Dubai Chambers

    The move is also part of efforts to catalyse Dubai’s economic transformation and further reinforce the city’s rise as a global business hub, reports Asian Lite News

    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, approved the new Board of Directors of Dubai Chambers, which was recently restructured into three entities – Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy and Dubai Chamber of International Trade.

    The decision forms part of restructuring the Chambers’ operations to enhance its contributions to Dubai’s economy, raise the level of support provided to emerging business sectors and accelerate Dubai’s innovation journey.

    The move is also part of efforts to catalyse Dubai’s economic transformation and further reinforce the city’s rise as a global business hub.

    His Highness said the three new chambers are integral to Dubai’s new drive to create a highly competitive, advanced investment environment geared for rapid growth. “In the light of the changes sweeping across the globe, we need to adopt new business models that enable us to raise our sustainability and attain continued success. Deploying innovative operational frameworks and developing flexible legislations will help us foster further growth and achievement in Dubai’s economy,” His Highness said.

    “Dubai Chambers will be one of the organisations spearheading our efforts to further transform the emirate’s business environment and enhance its position as a dynamic regional and global centre for business, trade and finance,” His Highness said. “Dubai will continue to constantly offer new opportunities and facilitate the efficient flow of international trade backed by its advanced logistics hub, state-of-the-art ports and airport infrastructure, and its pro-growth business environment,” His Highness noted.

    Speaking on the Chambers’ business plan, His Highness said: “The members of Dubai Chambers will be active stakeholders in executing Dubai’s international trade strategy which aims to expand our external trade to AED2 trillion in five years,” His Highness added.

    His Highness also reviewed the objectives of all the three chambers and stressed on the need for them to work in close coordination and harmony under the Board of Dubai Chambers. His Highness further said the work of the chambers should be guided by a comprehensive strategic vision that reflects the directives of Dubai Government.

    ALSO READ: UAE joins Central American Integration System

    In March, His Highness approved the restructuring of Dubai Chambers into three separate organisations with unique functions – Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy and Dubai Chamber of International Trade.

    Juma Al Majid was named as the Honorary Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry while Abdulaziz Al Ghurair was appointed as its Chairman. Sultan bin Sulayem was named Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of International Trade and HE Omar Al Olama was named Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy.

    The Board of Dubai Chambers is chaired by Abdulaziz Al Ghurair and its members include Omar Al Futtaim, Khalid Jumaa Al Majid, Rajaa Al Gurg, Omar Al Olama, Sultan bin Sulayem, Butti Saad Al Kendi, Helal Saeed Al Marri, Faisal Jumaa Belhoul, Patrick Chalhoub, Ghassan Al Kibsi, Dr. Amina Al Rustamani and Tariq Hussain Khansaheb.

    The Board will work to create a comprehensive unified strategy for Dubai Chambers, set key priorities and objectives, propose major initiatives to advance Dubai’s strategic economic development, and ensure streamlined coordination and integration between the three chambers.

    The Board of Dubai Chambers seeks to accelerate the growth of the Dubai economy by promoting Dubai as a global business hub and attracting multinational companies. The Dubai Chamber of International Trade will represent and support the interests of local companies with international presence and international companies based in Dubai. It will also support Dubai’s vision to expand to new global markets, forge new economic partnerships and support local companies in achieving global success, while also attracting promising talent and investors from across the world. The Dubai Chamber of International Trade seeks to cover 30 international markets that are considered important markets for Dubai through promotional projects.

    The Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy is tasked with launching projects and developing studies on the new future economy, as part of efforts to build the world’s best digital infrastructure and transform Dubai into an international technology hub. With the objective of promoting the interests of technology companies and advancing the role of the digital economy in the emirate, the new chamber will build a network of relationships with local and international tech entrepreneurs and investment funds. It will also help draft legislations in Dubai and the UAE to create a growth-friendly environment for the digital economy.

    ALSO READ: T20 World Cup set to be played in UAE from Oct 17

  • T20 World Cup set to be played in UAE from Oct 17

    T20 World Cup set to be played in UAE from Oct 17

    The three venues in the UAE that would be hosting the world cup are Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi…..reports Asian Lite News

    T20 World Cup will be hosted by three venues in the UAE….reports Asian Lite News

    The T20 World Cup is likely to start on October 17 in UAE, with the final on November 14. The Indian cricket board will be informing the International Cricket Council (ICC) about its decision to shift the 16-nation tournament to the UAE in its next meeting.

    Three venues in UAE – Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Dubai – will host the T20 World Cup games, with Oman hosting the qualifiers.

    The BCCI wanted to host the T20 World Cup in India but two issues came in the way. It is learnt that they didn’t get any tax exemption from the Indian government. Also the BCCI wasn’t sure about how keen international players would be to return to India after the IPL was suspended because of Covid-19 cases in the bio-bubble.

    During a virtual meeting with all state associations a few weeks ago, the board members were informed by BCCI office bearers that by shifting T20 World Cup to UAE, the board will save around 41 percent of total earnings.

    The BCCI had already planned UAE as back up, with Oman to host the qualifiers. The board last month had even blocked hotel rooms and in conjunction with ICC had approached Oman Cricket Board to come on board.

    ALSO READ: IPL to resume on Sep 19 in UAE

    ALSO READ: Gavaskar in love with T20 cricket

  • UAE joins Central American Integration System

    UAE joins Central American Integration System

    Foreign Minister says the Emirate joining the group was an evidence of the extraordinary ties that bring together the UAE and Central American and Caribbean regions, reports Asian Lite News

    The UAE has joined the Central American Integration System (SICA) as a Non-Regional Observer Member State. The state’s accession agreement to the organisation was signed during the Ministerial Council of SICA, which was held in San José, Costa Rica.

    In a recorded speech, H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, emphasised the UAE’s contribution to the success of the noble endeavours of the Central American Integration System.

    “On behalf of the UAE, I would like to thank the esteemed Members of the Central American Integration System, and their representatives, for the gracious invitation extended to the UAE to join SICA as a Non-Regional Observer Member State. I also thank the Republic of Costa Rica for the invitation, which represents the first participation of the UAE in the Ministerial Council of SICA under the presidency of the Republic of Costa Rica,” Sheikh Abdullah said.

    The UAE Foreign Minister stated that this achievement is evidence of the extraordinary relations that bring together the UAE and States in the Central American and Caribbean regions.

    He added, “This cooperation between us is based on a solid foundation of historical diplomatic relations, and this step confirms the UAE’s commitment to continue developing comprehensive ties across various fields and elevating our relations to new heights through this platform.

    “Proudly, the UAE plays a vital role in the region as a facilitator and catalyst for global business and trade. It’s a destination for cultural, scientific, political exchange, and a trusted partner to friends and allies around the world.”

    Sheikh Abdullah highlighted that the economic relations between the UAE and the SICA Member States continue to grow and prosper and that over the past five years, the mutual trade relations have expanded by over 40 percent.

    “The upward trajectory of our trade ties, coupled with over US$670 million in UAE investments in the region since 2003, reflects on our shared desire to build a constructive and mutually beneficial relation,” he explained.

    H.H. continued, “The UAE shares many strategic interests with the Member States from SICA, ranging from human rights to climate change and biodiversity; from progressive economies to balanced development; and from peace and security to education and health. We are also at the forefront of urban and rural development, sustainable mobility and connectivity, renewable energy, tourism, supply chains and logistics, artificial intelligence, food security, youth and women’s empowerment.”

    The UAE is a key international player in further developing cooperation with the Member States of SICA, and it has been a partner in addressing the ramifications of the Covid-19 pandemic, Sheikh Abdullah said. “We look forward to utilising this platform to explore forms of cooperation and exchange expertise with our allies from the Central American region.”

    The UAE will soon be hosting one of the most significant events Expo 2020 Dubai, “and we aspire to identify ways of capitalising on this global event, to serve our common goals to explore cooperation through SICA,” he said.

    Sheikh Abdullah concluded by saying, “We are confident that this platform and its members will prioritise the importance of regional and global cooperation, and multilateral support. The UAE reaffirms its commitment to pursue these common goals, and its readiness to seize this opportunity to achieve our common vision.

    “We also emphasise on the contribution of the UAE to the success of the noble endeavours of the Central American Integration System.”

    Omar Saif Ghobash, Assistant Minister for Cultural Affairs, attended the Ministerial Council of SICA and signed the UAE’s accession agreement to the organisation as a Non-Regional Observer Member State.

    ALSO READ: UAE-based Indian national sanctioned for smuggling Iranian oil

  • Abdullah bin Zayed, US envoy to UN discuss strategic ties

    Abdullah bin Zayed, US envoy to UN discuss strategic ties

    During a video call, Sheikh Abdullah thanked the US Ambassador for congratulating him on the UAE’s election for the 2022-2023 term on the UN Security Council….reports Asian Lite News

    Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, has discussed with Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US Representative to the United Nations, the UAE-US strategic relations, the two countries efforts to maintain international peace and security, and means to strengthen cooperation in the international arena.

    During a video call, Sheikh Abdullah thanked the US Ambassador for congratulating him on the UAE’s election for the 2022-2023 term on the UN Security Council.

    He also stressed the UAE’s aspiration to work with the US to confront pressing global challenges, enhance partnership to consolidate security and stability in the region and the world, as well as achieving peace and prosperity for all peoples.

    Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed re-affirmed the depth of the UAE-US ties and their continuous keenness to develop existing cooperation to serve their common interests and benefit their peoples.

    The video call was attended by Ambassador Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs and UAE’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.

    Meanwhile, on Wednesday, the foreign minister had participated in a high-level meeting on International Cooperation under the Belt & Road Initiative (BRI) in the Asia-Pacific Region, which was organised virtually today by the People’s Republic of China.

    The meeting, which was chaired by Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, reviewed the prospects of strengthening international cooperation in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of accelerating economic recovery from the crisis.

    ALSO READ: UAE sends 20 ambulances to Gaza

  • Political dialogue only viable solution to Libyan crisis: UAE

    Political dialogue only viable solution to Libyan crisis: UAE

    The UAE minister commended the positive developments towards solving the Libyan crisis and welcomed the UN Security Council’s adoption of Resolution 2570…reports Asian Lite News

    Political dialogue is the only viable solution to the Libyan crisis, Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar, UAE Minister of State, said as he led the UAE’s delegation to the Second Berlin Conference on Libya.

    The international conference, held at the premises of the Federal Foreign Office in Berlin, brought together several foreign ministers, senior officials and representatives of regional and international organisations to discuss the latest developments in Libya.

    Khalifa Al Marar stressed the importance of achieving progress in the security field in alignment with other tracks through implementing the Libya Ceasefire Agreement including opening the coastal highway and immediate withdrawal of all foreign fighters and mercenaries.

    He called on Libyan and international parties to commit themselves to the political process and provide all factors to its success in order to realise security, stability and unity of Libyan institutions to fulfil the aspirations of the Libyan people for a more prosperous future.

    The UAE minister commended the positive developments towards solving the Libyan crisis and welcomed the UN Security Council’s adoption of Resolution 2570 (2021), Resolution 2571 (2021) and Resolution 2510 (2021), which all support the implementation of the outcome of the Berlin International Conference on Libya and call for building on the momentum of achievements made towards the settlement of the Libyan crisis.

    TRIPOLI, June 22, 2018 (Xinhua) — Illegal immigrants are transfered to Tripoli’s naval base in Tripoli, Libya, on June 21, 2018. Libyan navy on Thursday rescued 379 illegal immigrants in two separate operations off the western coastal town of Garrabulli, a navy spokesman said. (Xinhua/Hamza Turkia/IANS)
    1594 illegal migrants rescued

    At least 1,594 illegal migrants were rescued off the Libyan coast and returned to the country in the past one week, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said.

    “In the period of June 13-19, 1,594 migrants were rescued/intercepted at sea and returned to Libya,” Xinhua news agency reported on Tuesday citing the IOM as saying.

    In 2021, 14,388 illegal migrants, including women and children, have been rescued, while 194 died and 492 went missing off the Libyan coast on the Central Mediterranean route, according to the Organization.

    Libya has been plagued by insecurity and chaos since the fall of the late leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, making it a preferred point of departure for illegal immigrants wanting to cross the Mediterranean Sea toward European shores.

    Rescued migrants end up inside overcrowded reception centres across Libya, despite repeated international calls to close them.

    The IOM Displacement Tracking Matrix has identified and located 348,372 internally displaced persons in Libya.

    ALSO READ: Israel FM to visit UAE in first official tour

  • UAE-based Indian national sanctioned for smuggling Iranian oil

    UAE-based Indian national sanctioned for smuggling Iranian oil

    According to the US Treasury, UAE-based Sabharwal is a maritime shipping professional who manages shipping operations for al-Jamal’s network…reports Asian Lite News

    The US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has designated India national, Manoj Sabharwal, among members of a smuggling network that helps fund Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force (IRGC-QF) and the Houthis in Yemen.

    Led by Iran-based Houthi financier Said al-Jamal, this network generates tens of millions of dollars in revenue from the sale of commodities, like Iranian petroleum, a significant portion of which is then directed through a complex network of intermediaries and exchange houses in multiple countries to the Houthis in Yemen.

    According to the US Treasury, UAE-based Sabharwal is a maritime shipping professional who manages shipping operations for al-Jamal’s network and advises al-Jamal on smuggling Iranian oil products.

    Sabharwal is responsible for coordinating shipments of Iranian petroleum products and commodities throughout the Middle East and Asia while obscuring al-Jamal’s involvement.

    Sabharwal is being designated for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of al-Jamal.

    Since the onset of the conflict in Yemen, the Houthis have relied on support from the IRGC-QF to wage their campaign against the internationally recognised Yemeni government and the Saudi-led Coalition.

    Despite growing calls for peace, the Houthis have continued to escalate their lethal attacks inside Yemen and in the region, with dire consequences for Yemeni civilians and Yemen’s neighbors. The Houthis have used ballistic missiles, explosives, naval mines, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles to strike military targets, population centres, infrastructure, and nearby commercial shipping in Saudi Arabia, along key international trade routes.

    ALSO READ: UAE sends 20 ambulances to Gaza

  • Abu Dhabi announces resumption of cruise liners

    Abu Dhabi announces resumption of cruise liners

    The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), has announced the resumption of cruise liners in Abu Dhabi starting from 1st September, 2021, after months of closure in 2020 due to the COVID-19 precautionary measures.

    In 2019, maritime tourism in Abu Dhabi witnessed impressive growth, resulting in a record-breaking year for the sector. Around 500,000 cruise visitors arrived in the Emirate’s ports throughout the year which marked a 46 percent increase compared to 2018. Similarly, the number of cruise calls witnessed a rise of 43 percent in 2019 to reach a total of 192.

    “We are delighted to welcome all cruise liners back to Abu Dhabi after a challenging year,” said Ali Al Shaiba, Executive Director of Tourism and Marketing at DCT Abu Dhabi.

    “This comes as part of the efforts to enliven the Emirate’s tourism sector after the impressive results we have achieved in combatting the spread of the pandemic, and yet another step towards strengthening the UAE capital’s position as a world-class hub for maritime tourism.”

    “We will continue to work closely with our partners at Abu Dhabi Ports to further boost the maritime tourism sector and attract more businesses and tourists providing them with unparalleled services and experiences while exploring Abu Dhabi and its diverse offerings,” he said.

    Noura Rashed Al Dhaheri, Managing Director – Cruise Business, Abu Dhabi Ports, said, “We are well prepared to receive and welcome vaccinated visitors to the UAE’s capital once again and are excited to see the resumption of cruise activities at both Zayed Port and Sir Bani Yas Island.”

    “In line with Abu Dhabi’s health protocols for international arrivals, Abu Dhabi Ports is initiating various health and safety measures to protect passengers and crew, which includes daily sterilisation activities across the terminal, the requirement of PCR testing before embarkation, as well as the implementation of a comprehensive emergency response plan for handling positive cases within the terminal.”

    “Cruise passengers visiting Abu Dhabi can be assured that every measure to safeguard their health and safety during their stay is being undertaken.”

    As part of its strategy, DCT Abu Dhabi will be announcing a series of initiatives throughout the year. These include upcoming projects and events, as well as participation in international events as part of its efforts to promote the destination to global audiences.

    Abu Dhabi is also seeing the development of several landmark projects, such as Al Qana, the 2.4- kilometre canal project, the world’s first Warner Bros Hotel, Waterfront of Al Qana, near the Grand Canal, the largest aquarium in the Middle East and Snow Abu Dhabi – the world’s largest indoor snow park measuring 11,660 square metres, all set to open later this year.

    ALSO READ: Abu Dhabi launches new company to promote tourism

  • Mohammed bin Rashid announces countdown for Expo 2020 Dubai

    Mohammed bin Rashid announces countdown for Expo 2020 Dubai

    In 100 days, the UAE will be the first country in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region to host a World Expo in the largest global gathering since the outset of the Covid-19 pandemic, reports Asian Lite News

    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, has announced the countdown for Expo 2020 Dubai, the world’s largest cultural event to convene the global community towards creating solutions for a better future.

    In 100 days, the UAE will be the first country in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region to host a World Expo in the largest global gathering since the outset of the Covid-19 pandemic.

    Expo 2020 Dubai, set to begin on 1st October, is expected to attract more than 25 million visitors from all over the world to discover life-changing innovations. The mega event aims to drive collaboration and innovation to develop real-life solutions as the world heads into a post-pandemic economic recovery.

    Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum tweeted, “100 days to go for Expo 2020 Dubai, the world’s largest cultural event. 100 days to go for the gathering of 192 nations in Dubai in the biggest global event since the outset of the pandemic to usher in a new phase of recovery.”

    “50,000 employees have set up 192 pavilions and 30,000 volunteers are ready to welcome the world at Expo 2020 Dubai.”

    Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid added, “Expo 2020 Dubai will provide the space for the largest and most inclusive cultural and knowledge exchange in the world,” noting that, “Expo 2020 Dubai will pave the roadmap for key economic, development and cultural trends of the post-COVID-19 era. Our success in hosting the world’s largest cultural event reflects the power of human solidarity in overcoming the pandemic.”

    He added, “the global community is preparing for a new stage of collaboration by harnessing science and technology to combat the pandemic. Expo 2020 Dubai provides the platform for sharing knowledge and innovations. Through Expo 2020 Dubai, the UAE is bridging cultures and galvanizing efforts and aspirations towards creating a better future for everyone. People from every corner of the globe are welcome to join the once-in-a-lifetime inspiring and enlightening experience that pays testament to human creativity. We will meet at Expo 2020 Dubai.”

    Expo 2020 Dubai sets multiple milestones as the first World Expo to be held in the MEASA region in the 170-year history of the mega-events. It will also be the first global event since the advent of the coronavirus outbreak.

    In another first, every participating nation will have its pavilion. Countries will be clustered not by their geography, but under Expo 2020s three subthemes of Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability– areas seen as essential to building a better future for humanity.

    More than 200 nations, multilateral organisations, businesses and educational establishments will come together to develop innovative solutions to pressing challenges facing the world. The diversity of participating nations and organisations makes Expo 2020 Dubai the most inclusive and international World Expo ever to be organised.

    The UAE will host the mega event with tight Covid-19 precautionary measures and a safe environment where about 90 percent of the population have been vaccinated against Covid-19, positioning the country among the top five nations in the vaccine distribution rate.

    Expo 2020 Dubai coincides with the UAE’s Golden Jubilee, presenting an excellent opportunity to share the UAE’s successful experience and inspiring story with the world.

    Over its six-month duration, Expo 2020 Dubai showcase the latest innovations in a variety of fields that will have a meaningful and positive impact on people’s lives.

    ALSO READ: UAE sends 20 ambulances to Gaza

  • Abu Dhabi launches new company to promote tourism

    Abu Dhabi launches new company to promote tourism

    The launch of the company is in line with ADNEC’s new broader role to support the growth of Abu Dhabi as a tourism destination…reports Asian Lite News

    Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) has launched “Tourism 365” to create experiential travel opportunities for tourists coming to Abu Dhabi, and enhance the emirate’s regional and global positioning in the wider tourism sector.

    The launch of the company is in line with ADNEC’s new broader role to support the growth of Abu Dhabi as a tourism destination, increasing leisure visitors, enhancing guest experiences, and extending their stay in the UAE’s capital.

    The company will work in concert with key stakeholders across Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector and the UAE. It will include Capital Experience, a high-quality destination management company, and Capital Travel, a premium travel operator.

    Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC, commented, “In launching Tourism 365, ADNEC continues to fulfil its strategy in developing Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector. Through strengthening and enhancing our business portfolio in tourism, and expanding to include leisure tourism, we actively amplify the economic impact of ADNEC Group.”

    Tourism 365 will play a critical role in growing the emirate of Abu Dhabi as one of the Middle East’s leading tourism destinations. “It will do so through close collaboration with partners across the government and private sectors, most notably the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), alongside local and global companies specialised in this critical sector,” he added.

    Al Dhaheri went on to say that the new company will contribute to enhancing Abu Dhabi’s vibrant tourism ecosystem, bringing significant returns on investment to the emirate. It will do so by launching a range of companies that will promote the tourism industry and other supporting sectors, securing major partnerships with dominant international and travel companies.

    Tourism 365 will also enable innovation across the tourism sector, increasing the emirate’s attractiveness to international visitors, and showcasing all that Abu Dhabi has to offer across the Middle East.

    ADNEC has appointed a qualified team to lead the new entity, ensuring that its staff are fully qualified to lead this important initiative. Roula Jouny has been appointed as the Executive Director of Tourism 365 and will lead the launch of the destination management entity. With over 20 years in the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry, Jouny brings a wealth of experience to enable the wider strategic vision of the company.

    Speaking on the launch of Tourism 365, Jouny said, “Over the coming months, Tourism 365 will collaborate closely with other tourism-focused entities, helping to collectively grow the future of the tourism sector. Our subsidiaries will bolster the wider tourism offerings of not just Abu Dhabi, but the UAE as a whole, increasing visitor numbers and promoting the nation’s tourism assets across the globe.”

    ALSO READ: Abu Dhabi receives new anti-Covid medication

  • UAE sends 20 ambulances to Gaza

    UAE sends 20 ambulances to Gaza

    The shipment of the aid was organised by the country’s humanitarian arm, the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC)..reports Asian Lite News

    The UAE on Monday sent 20 ambulances equipped with essential emergency, security and safety equipment to the Gaza Strip through the Rafah Border Crossing.

    The shipment of the aid, which was organised by the country’s humanitarian arm, the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC), aims to support Gaza’s health sector and improve local humanitarian conditions.

    The UAE always seeks to support the humanitarian efforts to assist the Palestinian people under the current circumstances, which require everyone’s solidarity to enable them to overcome their harsh social conditions, through providing for their needs, especially for women and children.

    The UAE is closely monitoring the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and sent 960 tonnes of urgent medical and food supplies to some 20,000 local families in June, as part of its humanitarian and relief programmes aimed at assisting the people of Palestine.

    The country also sent 808 tonnes of urgent relief aid in January, through 29 trucks that passed through the Rafah Border Crossing, to support 20,000 families, provide for the basic needs of Palestinians and improve their living conditions.

    ALSO READ: Israel strikes Gaza in response to arson attacks