Tag: Abu Dhabi

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Abu Dhabi’s G42 unveils world’s largest supercomputer

With a planned capacity of 36 exaFLOPs in total, this unprecedented supercomputing network will revolutioniSe the advancement of AI globally….reports Asian Lite News

Cerebras Systems, the pioneer in accelerating generative AI, and G42, the UAE-based technology holding group, announced Condor Galaxy, a network of nine interconnected supercomputers, offering a new approach to AI compute that promises to significantly reduce AI model training time.

The first AI supercomputer on this network, Condor Galaxy 1 (CG-1), has 4 exaFLOPs and 54 million cores. Cerebras and G42 are planning to deploy two more such supercomputers, CG-2 and CG-3, in the U.S. in early 2024.

With a planned capacity of 36 exaFLOPs in total, this unprecedented supercomputing network will revolutioniSe the advancement of AI globally.

Talal Alkaissi, CEO of G42 Cloud, a subsidiary of G42, said, “Collaborating with Cerebras to rapidly deliver the world’s fastest AI training supercomputer and laying the foundation for interconnecting a constellation of these supercomputers across the world has been enormously exciting. This partnership brings together Cerebras’ extraordinary compute capabilities, together with G42’s multi-industry AI expertise. G42 and Cerebras’ shared vision is that Condor Galaxy will be used to address society’s most pressing challenges across healthcare, energy, climate action and more.”

Located in Santa Clara, California, CG-1 links 64 Cerebras CS-2 systems together into a single, easy-to-use AI supercomputer, with an AI training capacity of 4 exaFLOPs. Cerebras and G42 offer CG-1 as a cloud service, allowing customers to enjoy the performance of an AI supercomputer without having to manage or distribute models over physical systems.

CG-1 is the first time Cerebras has partnered not only to build a dedicated AI supercomputer but also to manage and operate it. CG-1 is designed to enable G42 and its cloud customers to train large, ground-breaking models quickly and easily, thereby accelerating innovation. The Cerebras-G42 strategic partnership has already advanced state-of-the-art AI models in Arabic bilingual chat, healthcare and climate studies.

“Delivering 4 exaFLOPs of AI compute at FP 16, CG-1 dramatically reduces AI training timelines while eliminating the pain of distributed compute,” said Andrew Feldman, CEO of Cerebras Systems. “Many cloud companies have announced massive GPU clusters that cost billions of dollars to build, but that are extremely difficult to use. Distributing a single model over thousands of tiny GPUs takes months of time from dozens of people with rare expertise. CG-1 eliminates this challenge. Setting up a generative AI model takes minutes, not months and can be done by a single person. CG-1 is the first of three 4 exaFLOP AI supercomputers to be deployed across the U.S. Over the next year, together with G42, we plan to expand this deployment and stand up a staggering 36 exaFLOPs of efficient, purpose-built AI compute.”

A leading AI and cloud computing company based in the UAE, G42 is driving large-scale digital transformation initiatives globally. The UAE was the first nation to appoint a Minister for AI in their federal government, followed by massive investments, including the establishment of G42 research partner, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), the first post-graduate university in the world focused entirely on AI.

ALSO READ: UAE, Egypt deepen ties in education and research

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-Top News Environment UAE News

Abu Dhabi outlines plans to accelerate climate action

This emission reduction target represents Abu Dhabi’s commitment to the recent announcement of UAE’s emission target reduction of 40 percent by 2030. Abu Dhabi is committed to achieving its target through a reduction of absolute emissions by 47 million tonnes of GHGs by 2030….reports Asian Lite News

As part of its continued strides to uphold the global aim in keeping the rise in average temperatures between 1.5 and 2 degrees Celsius, and as an affirmation of the UAE’s climate action leadership, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has outlined plans for the “Abu Dhabi Climate Change Strategy”, which was recently approved by the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.

The comprehensive five-year plan will strengthen the emirate’s environmental resilience, achieve concrete progress towards achieving full climate neutrality, and further enhance Abu Dhabi’s contribution to the UAE’s global sustainability leadership, and attract investment as part of a secure and sustainable economy.

“Abu Dhabi is not alone in facing the impacts of the global climate change, and we must take proactive measures to mitigate and adapt,” said Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD. “Our plan provides proactive solutions to promote economic diversification through innovation and the use of low-carbon technologies.”

“Through this strategy, critical sectors, such as infrastructure, energy, environment and health will be enhanced to ensure not only business continuity but also climate resilience and agility. Having one of the most climate resilient and adapted places in the region will attract further investment and give added confidence to businesses and individuals to move to and invest in Abu Dhabi,” she added.

Sheikha Al Mazrouei, Executive Director of Integrated Environmental Policy and Planning Sector at EAD, elaborated, “Our goal is for all these sectors to be fully adaptable to any possible repercussions of climate change by 2050. Over the next five years, we will also reduce the emirate’s emissions by 22 percent from 2016 levels, which is equivalent to CO2 sequestered by 500 million trees for 10 years.”

This emission reduction target represents Abu Dhabi’s commitment to the recent announcement of UAE’s emission target reduction of 40 percent by 2030. Abu Dhabi is committed to achieving its target through a reduction of absolute emissions by 47 million tonnes of GHGs by 2030.

The strategy was developed in collaboration with the Department of Energy, Department of Municipalities and Transport, Department of Economic Development, Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, and Abu Dhabi Waste Management Company. EAD also coordinated with the Ministry of Climate Change and the Environment, and the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), Emirates Global Aluminum, Mubadala and other private sector leaders.

Drawing on the emirate’s long history of sustainability, Abu Dhabi Climate Change Strategy will be implemented at an accelerated rate across two pillars: mitigation, which will involve reducing climate emissions while maintaining economic growth; and adaptation, which refers to enhancing the resilience and agility of key economic sectors against climate risks. The strategy will employ 81 initiatives and 12 strategic projects across key areas, including low-emissions vehicles, mangrove restoration, green procurement, building codes, negative emission technologies, decarbonisation, and cleaner renewables.

Dr. Al Dhaheri concluded, “The launch of the Abu Dhabi Climate Change Strategy is another example of the UAE’s climate leadership in the regional and global arena. It follows in the footsteps of being the first nation in the region to ratify the Paris Agreement, the first nation in the region to truly invest in cleaning its power supply by turning to renewables, and the first in the region to set a pathway to net zero by 2050.”

ALSO READ-UAE, Turkey cement ties with over $50B deals

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-Top News Abu Dhabi UAE News

Erdogan arrives in Abu Dhabi

Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, concluded his Gulf Arab tour, visiting Saudi Arabia and Qatar in the last two days, and upon arrival at Abu Dhabi, he was received by Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan in the UAE, marking the final leg of his tour….reports Asian Lite News

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has arrived in the UAE on an official visit, accompanied by Türkiye’s First Lady Emine Erdogan.

President Erdogan and his delegation were greeted at the Presidential Flight in Abu Dhabi by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court.

Also present at the reception were H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Advisor for Special Affairs at the Ministry of Presidential Court; Mohamed Hassan Al Suwaidi, Minister of Investment; Saeed Thani Hareb Al Dhaheri, UAE Ambassador to Türkiye; and a number of other officials.

Fifth summit in two years

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Türkiye’s visit to the UAE today marks the fifth in a series of summits and meetings that have significantly strengthened the comprehensive partnership between the two countries.

Over the past two years, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and President Erdogan have held four meetings, with the previous summits taking place in November 2021, February 2022, and a virtual call in March 2023 and the fourth in June 2023, demonstrating the commitment of both leaders to fostering a strong and enduring partnership.

The leadership of both countries remains dedicated to enhancing their partnership, recognising its importance in promoting inclusive growth, creating opportunities for well-being, and ensuring peace and stability for their peoples and the region.

The UAE’s partnership with Türkiye is a key part of its strategy to strengthen overall relations and cooperation with friendly nations.

Deals towards greater prosperity

The UAE and Türkiye have signed dozens of strategic agreements and MoUs to enhance bilateral cooperation in economic, security, environmental and technological fields, among others.

On 24th November 2021, the two countries signed a number of agreements and MoUs, which included an MoU between the UAE’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and the Turkish Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK); a cooperation agreement between Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC) and the Türkiye Wealth Fund (TWF); a cooperation agreement on the investment capital fund of the Abu Dhabi Holding Company and the TWF; a cooperation agreement between the Abu Dhabi Holding Company and the Investment Bureau of Türkiye; an MoU between the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) and Borsa Istanbul; an MoU in the field of exchanging information in the banking business between the Central Bank of the UAE and the Central Bank of Türkiye; an agreement of joint administrative cooperation in Customs Affairs between the UAE and Türkiye; an MoU in the field of energy; and an MoU in the environmental field.

On 14th February 2022, the two countries exchanged 13 cooperation agreements, memoranda of understanding and protocols to expand partnerships in several fields, including investment, health, agriculture, transportation, industries, advanced technologies, climate action, culture, youth, and others.

Economic cooperation

Economic cooperation is a crucial pillar of the growing collaboration between the UAE and Türkiye, with their strong economic ties dating back to the establishment of the UAE and continuously progressing over the years.

In 1984, the two countries signed an Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreement, followed by several agreements that strengthened economic and trade cooperation.

Most recently, in March, the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) was signed, setting the stage for increased non-oil intra-trade to reach US$40 billion within five years, the creation of 25,000 job opportunities by 2031, and a 21.7 percent boost in UAE exports to Türkiye.

In 2022, the total non-oil trade between the UAE and Türkiye amounted to nearly US$19 billion, reflecting an increase of 40 percent from 2021 and a substantial 112 percent surge from 2020. Türkiye has emerged as the fastest-growing partner among the UAE’s top 10 trade partners.

In November 2021, the UAE announced the establishment of a US$10 billion investment fund in Türkiye, focusing on strategic investments, most notably in the logistics sectors, including energy, health and food.

Cultural ties

The UAE and Türkiye share a rich cultural heritage and literary legacy, underscoring their mutual desire to strengthen cultural ties and collaboration. In February 2022, both countries signed an MoU aimed at reinforcing their cultural connections.

More recently, cultural ties between the two nations have flourished, as evident by Türkiye’s role as the guest of honour at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2023 and its active participation in Expo 2020 Dubai. The Emirates Publishers Association also showcased 284 books from 31 Emirati publishers at the International Arabic Book Fair in Istanbul in October, further enhancing cultural exchanges.

ALSO READ: Saudi Crown Prince receives Erdogan in Jeddah

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-Top News Abu Dhabi India News

IIT Delhi to set up first global campus in Abu Dhabi

An MoU has been signed for the opening of an IIT-Delhi campus in Abu Dhabi in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. According to the MoU, Masters-level programmes are expected to commence on the campus from January 2024 while Bachelors-level courses will start from September 2024.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his three-day visit to France and the United Arab Emirates.

In the last leg of the visit, Prime Minister arrived in Abu Dhabi to a warm welcome by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. This reflects the depth of the bilateral relations between the two countries. Prime Minister also inspected the ceremonial Guard of Honour with Sheikh Mohamed at the magnificent Qasr Al Watan. The two leaders held wide-ranging talks on bilateral and global issues. The India-UAE relationship is rapidly transforming in line with the Vision Statement unveiled by the two leaders during their virtual summit in February 2022.

During the visit, the two leaders witnessed the exchange of three historic Memoranda of Understanding (MoU).

A MoU was exchanged for the establishment of a campus of IIT Delhi in Abu Dhabi between the Indian Ministry of Education, UAE’s Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge and the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT).

This is the first ever IIT to be set up in the Middle East/North Africa (MENA) region. This is a landmark project which reflects the vision of the leaders and it will be a tribute to the people of India and the UAE who are the backbone of the historic relationship.

The idea behind setting up of IIT campus in Abu Dhabi is to bring the academic excellence of IITs to the wide international community. The campus aspires to be a truly global campus which will also benefit the large Indian diaspora in the UAE and the region.

“This marks a significant stride in our educational internationalisation and is testament to India’s innovation prowess. Education is the bond that unites us, it’s the spark that ignites innovation. Together, we will leverage this power for mutual prosperity and global betterment,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted.

MoU on Local Currency Settlement (LCS) System was signed between the Reserve Bank of India and the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates enabling the use of Indian Rupee (INR) and UAE Dirham (AED) for Cross-border Transactions.

This is India’s first-ever LCS and is expected to reduce transaction costs and time and increase reliance on local currencies. This will further add to the preferential terms accruing from Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

The traders can choose the payment currency based on mutual agreement. Further, the surplus balance in local currencies can be used for investing in local currency assets like corporate bonds, Government securities, equity markets etc. LCS is likely to have a transformational impact not only on the bilateral economic relationship but in larger economic engagements across the world.

Under the newly implemented LCS system, the first transaction involved the sale of 25 Kg of Gold from a leading UAE gold exporter invoiced at approx 12.84 crore Rupees. Gold, gems and jewellery are the second most traded commodities between India and the UAE. Last year, the two-way trade between India and UAE was worth USD 20 billion which was about 42 per cent of total non-oil trade between the two countries.

The two leaders also witnessed the exchange of MoU on bilateral cooperation on interlinking the payment and messaging systems between the Reserve Bank of India and the Central Bank of the UAE.

The MoU will facilitate the integration Unified Payments Interface (UPI) of India and the Instant Payments Platform (IPP) of the UAE. It will also facilitate interlinking card switches of the two countries – RuPay switch and UAESWITCH to facilitate the mutual acceptance of their domestic cards and processing of card transactions directly without relying on any other network.

Very importantly, the Central Bank of the UAE could benefit from the Structured Financial Messaging System (SFMS) developed by RBI. These linkages are also expected to further facilitate the LCS technique in the long run by providing an alternate payment-switching system. (ANI)

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-Top News Abu Dhabi UAE News

Abu Dhabi to offer 5,000 new healthcare jobs for Emiratis

DoH called on all healthcare facilities in the emirate to work towards achieving targets by retaining and increasing Emiratisation rates…reports Asian Lite News

The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the regulator of the healthcare sector in the emirate, has set Emiratisation targets “Tawteen” for all healthcare facilities operating in Abu Dhabi to provide 5,000 new job opportunities for UAE nationals until the end of the year 2025.

DoH called on all healthcare facilities in the emirate to work towards achieving these targets by retaining and increasing Emiratisation rates within their healthcare and administrative staff.

The Department indicated that it is working closely with healthcare providers in the emirate to raise Emiratisation rates in medical professions, which include doctors, nursing staff and extended healthcare professions, while the administrative staff include employees working in information technology, human resources, accounting, finance, and legal sectors. This comes in line with the DoH’s efforts to unlock opportunities for local talents in line with the Tawteen agenda for the healthcare workforce and ensure its sustainability.

Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Under-Secretary of DoH, said, “Under the directives of our wise leadership, the Tawteen targets were implemented in healthcare facilities in Abu Dhabi to empower national competencies, allowing them to further contribute to the healthcare system, in order to enhance its outcomes and establish a competitive knowledge-based economy in the Emirate. This comes in line with the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi’s (DoH) efforts to support Tawteen initiatives in the healthcare sector to retain qualified national medical professionals, further cementing Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global healthcare destination.”

DoH will support all facilities to achieve the target and make the most of the “Nafis” initiative and its platform to identify citizens seeking employment in the healthcare field.

Furthermore, Ghannam Al Mazrouei, Secretary-General of the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council, praised DoH’s efforts to increase the Emaritisation rates and monitor healthcare facilities to achieve their Tawteen goals, in accordance with the decisions related to the subject. This provides a supportive work environment to UAE nationals, especially those working in the healthcare sector, allowing them to fill positions in this vital and important sector.

He also praised the cooperation shown by various national entities to provide means of success and support to “NAFIS” and its different programmes and initiatives, and to raise the competitiveness of Emirati cadres. This will entail a substantial leap in different national fields and sectors, which helps achieve the goals and aspirations set by the wise leadership to consolidate and unify efforts to support and adopt national talents, qualify Emirati cadres, raise their competitiveness, and increase their presence within the workforce in the private sector.

ALSO READ: UAE Private sector sees major jump in number of Emiratis

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Business

Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank rebrands Wholesale Banking

The Corporate & Investment Banking at ADCB brings in-depth knowledge and expertise across a range of markets with a strong understanding of the evolving needs of a wide spectrum of clients…reports Asian Lite News

Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) has announced the rebranding of its Wholesale Banking as “Corporate & Investment Banking”, reflecting the expanded scope of services the Bank provides institutions, corporates, and Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) across the region, particularly in light of its growing track record and expertise in structured financing, and financial and capital markets solutions.

The new Corporate & Investment Banking identity encompasses the division’s market-leading products and solutions, from sophisticated transaction banking and lending services, to capital markets advisory and specialist financing, such as green bonds and loans. The recent integration of financial markets solutions, which provides investment and risk management services such as hedging and FX advisory, complements the Bank’s lending business and enriches its comprehensive product offering for corporates.  

The Corporate & Investment Banking at ADCB brings in-depth knowledge and expertise across a range of markets with a strong understanding of the evolving needs of a wide spectrum of clients. Across the region, ADCB is a key partner for government entities, financial institutions, large corporates, and commercial customers, including SMEs that are playing a growing role in the region’s economic ambitions. The Bank is also using its regional network, including its subsidiary bank in Egypt, to help corporate clients develop cross-border commercial and investment relationships along growing economic corridors.

The UAE, which is hosting the COP28 global climate summit in November 2023, foresees an investment of AED 600 billion in clean and renewable energy over the coming decades to deliver its Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative. ADCB will play a key role in mobilising capital and helping its clients transition to a low-carbon economy and is committed to providing AED 35 billion in green financing by 2030.

ADCB’s solutions are underpinned by innovative technology and digital platforms, such as the ADCB ProCash and ProTrade channels, for cash management and trade transactions respectively, which further enhance its capabilities to provide an exceptional customer experience.

This rebranding comes after a period of strong growth for ADCB’s Corporate & Investment Banking, which has continued to deepen relationships with existing clients as well as forge new relationships with corporates and institutions across the region.

ADCB is proud to be supporting the region’s ambitious economic growth programme, playing a prominent role in helping regional corporates, financial institutions and governments access the global capital markets.

ALSO READ-

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Abu Dhabi UAE News

DCD opens its Corporate Social Responsibility Guide

H.E Mohamed Helal Al Balooshi, Executive Director of the ​Community Engagement and Sports Sector at DCD​, said: “Social responsibility is one of the key pillars that the growth of the community depends on, and it must be taken seriously…reports Asian Lite News

The Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi (DCD), as the regulator of Abu Dhabi’s social sector, today launched its Corporate Social Responsibility Guide (CSR Guide).

The guide aims to encourage and develop responsible social and environmental behaviours among companies, raise awareness about the importance of their participation in social work and highlight the value of community service. This initiative is in line with DCD’s ambitions to develop policies required to increase participation, community contributions, investments and innovations within the social sector, with an overarching goal of achieving the emirate’s social priorities.

The guide, which is optional for entities wishing to engage in social responsibility, provides a framework for standardising corporate methodologies in Abu Dhabi. Moreover, it sheds light on various areas of work within the social sector through channels like the Authority for Social Contributions – Ma’an platform and addresses other accredited agencies to determine ways of receiving and distributing contributions. This guide also aims to complement existing standards and frameworks related to the non-financial performance of organisations, which includes social performance and environmental impact.

H.E. Eng. Hamad Ali Al Dhaheri, Undersecretary of the Department of Community Development, said: “The department was keen to put in place key steps that would activate the CSR system, aimed at strengthening the social fabric of the emirate and making a significant impact on a wide segment of the Abu Dhabi community. At DCD, we are committed to providing a decent quality of life for all members of society by creating, protecting and supporting a sustainable society and economy through effective collaboration with various groups and local authorities, where transparency is paramount.”

H.E Excellency Salama Al Ameemi, Director General of the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, explained that the organisation is tasked with receiving contributions from the public and private sectors, social institutions and community members, and is responsible for directing those contributions to social priorities identified in the emirate in cooperation with partners. Those partners could be within the spheres of health, education, environment, social sector, and infrastructure.

Ma’an has made a remarkable social impact with its partners through the execution of CSR initiatives by providing entities with greater flexibility and an increased ability to interact with Abu Dhabi society.

The authority cooperates with partners in government and third sector agencies to strategically identify and highlight social projects, direct contributions to them and follow up on their implementation. This greatly reduces the burden on companies by removing the need for them to identify, implement and follow up on those social projects.

She added: “The methodology for dealing with the contributions is very transparent, as Ma’an provides reports on the impact of the contributions and how the targeted segment benefited from them. At Ma’an, we are committed to developing incentives and tools to streamline CSR contributions – this includes the launch the Abu Dhabi Social Responsibility Label.”

H.E Mohamed Helal Al Balooshi, Executive Director of the ​Community Engagement and Sports Sector at DCD​, said: “Social responsibility is one of the key pillars that the growth of the community depends on, and it must be taken seriously. We must draw upon our successful experiences and motivate others to support different sectors of society, which will encourage solidarity, create a more positive outlook about the business sector as a true partner to society, and support the government sector in providing services to society.”

Al Balooshi continued: “This guide will not constitute a management system, nor it is intended to replace any existing practices or strategies related to corporate social responsibility. It is intended as a voluntary guide that companies in Abu Dhabi can rely on if they wish to perform in line with global best practices related to corporate social responsibility.”  

Corporate social responsibility acts as a cornerstone for generating radical solutions to address societal issues, adopting successful practices, supporting youth in achieving a brighter future, advancing the economy, and fostering partnerships between the business and government sectors for the benefit of all.

The guide seeks to raise awareness of responsible social and environmental behaviours, encourage incentives and benefits related to community contributions, advocate business participation in community actions, and support the adoption of social responsibility actions and measures.

Adoption of social responsibility creates a sustainable impact on the development of society, the economy and the environment, promotes innovation and creativity in society, contributes to the adoption of inspiring ideas, and the creation of role models. The guide aims to contribute to promoting a culture of social responsibility, whether as a concept or in real-life application through programmes and events – with the ultimate goal of driving national development.

ALSO READ-UAE gears up for UN High-Level Political Forum

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Abu Dhabi cuts single-use plastic bags by 95%

In 2020, EAD introduced the comprehensive Single-Use Plastic Policy with the aim of reducing the reliance on single-use plastic items…reports Asian Lite News

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has announced that the implementation of the ban on single-use plastic bags since 1st June, 2022, has successfully prevented over 172 million bags from entering the environment.

In 2020, EAD introduced the comprehensive Single-Use Plastic Policy with the aim of reducing the reliance on single-use plastic items and promoting sustainability and recycling in Abu Dhabi.

Prominent retail outlets such as Carrefour, Lulu Hypermarket, Abu Dhabi Co-operative Society, Spar, Choithrams, Spinneys, Waitrose, and others, including ADNOC outlets, joined the initiative. These retailers have witnessed a significant reduction of 90 to 95 percent in the consumption of plastic bags. Now, for every 100 bags that were previously used at the cash counters, only five reusable bags are being taken by consumers.

Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of the EAD, said, “In Abu Dhabi we have seen an unprecedented reduction in single-use plastic bags since the implementation on the ban just one year ago. To date we can safely say that we have prevented 172 million single-use plastic bags from entering and harming the environment. We could not have done this without the unconditional support of the retailers who acted quickly in implementing the ban. They have recorded remarkable figures reaching more than 95 percent reduction in the number of plastic bags at the cash counters of some of the major retailers. This reduction in the number of bags and the increase in demand for reusable bags resulted in an overall reduction of the weight of plastic consumed by 77 percent. To put this into context, this is the equivalent to a reduction of more than 1,000 tonnes of plastic bags that were eliminated in just one year.

“The whole Abu Dhabi community played a pivotal role in helping us achieve this noteworthy success by rapidly adopting reusable bags and it reveals how the environment has become a significant topic of interest. The residents of Abu Dhabi shifted their mindset and adapted quickly to the ban, helping us fulfil our mission of saving the planet to create a sustainable future for all.

“By reducing the amount of single-use plastic bags from negatively affecting the environment we are able to protect our terrestrial and marine biodiversity so that the future generations have a healthy environment sustaining them going forward”. The carbon footprint of the quantity of plastic eliminated is equivalent to 272,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent which translates into saving emission from 629,000 barrels during the past year.”

A significant initiative that greatly contributed to the success of the single-use plastic bag ban was the launch of the public-facing outreach campaign, Mission to Zero. This ambitious campaign aimed to achieve the visionary goal of zero consumption of single-use plastics, zero waste, zero carbon emissions, and zero impact on biodiversity.

Mission to Zero employed various offline and online activations to engage and inspire the Abu Dhabi community, including government organizations, the private sector, businesses, retailers, restaurants, and youth. Dynamic visuals and captivating slogans were displayed on bridges, buses, and lamp posts across Abu Dhabi through outdoor advertising, reaching an audience of five million people. Additionally, the social media campaign garnered an impressive five million views.

The campaign also incorporated an SMS campaign to raise awareness among the Abu Dhabi community about the detrimental effects of single-use plastic and promote a culture of recycling. The SMS messages were targeted towards supermarkets, baqalas, catering companies, and the general public, utilizing multiple languages such as Arabic, English, Hindi, and Urdu. Each target group received a series of seven messages, resulting in a total of 655,000 SMS messages sent by the end of the campaign.

To further spread awareness, students made 1,600 visits to baqalas, actively educating others about the harmful impact of single-use plastic bags. Additionally, 24 workshops were organized, attracting 4,142 individuals who participated in discussions and learning sessions.

In June 2022, the EAD released a specialized guide titled “Becoming Free of Single-Use Products: A Guide for Abu Dhabi Government.” Currently, 14 government entities have successfully eliminated single-use products, and more entities are expected to join this initiative. These government entities motivated their employees to reduce the consumption of single-use items such as bags, cups and lids, cutlery, plates, stirrers, and bottles in their events and operations.

Looking ahead, the EAD has planned future initiatives, including the introduction of a Bottle Return Scheme and a ban on Styrofoam products in 2024. These initiatives reflect the ongoing commitment of the EAD to drive sustainable practices and create a greener future for Abu Dhabi.

ALSO READ: UAE leaders drive sustainable agenda forward

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Abu Dhabi Crown Prince begins Malaysia visit

The visit aims to further strengthen bilateral ties and cooperation between the UAE and Malaysia across key sectors, including reciprocal trade and energy….reports Asian Lite News

His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, arrived in the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur on an official visit.

H.H. Sheikh Khaled was received by His Royal Highness Prince Hassanal Ibrahim, Crown Prince of Pahang; and YB Dato’ Seri Diraja Dr. Zambry bin Abd Kadir, the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs.

The visit aims to further strengthen bilateral ties and cooperation between the UAE and Malaysia across key sectors, including reciprocal trade and energy.

Sheikh Khaled is being accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure; Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade; Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport; and Ahmed Jasem Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development.

Meanwhile, the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur have lit up with the UAE flag to celebrate the official visit of His Highness Sheikh Khaled, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, to Malaysia.

The Petronas Twin Towers are among Malaysia’s most prominent tourist attractions.

The economic relations between the two countries are witnessing robust growth and prosperity.

The UAE is Malaysia’s largest economic partner in the Middle East and West Asia, and non-oil trade between the two nations reached roughly $4.3 billion in 2021, an increase of 20% from $3.5 billion in 2020.

Military ties

The annual joint exercise “Desert Tiger” demonstrates the two countries’ desire to share military expertise and improve their military cooperation. The joint exercise is part of a larger effort by the leaders of the two nations to forge illustrious partnership and broaden the sphere of collaboration in order to realise a shared goal of exchanging knowledge and enhancing military capabilities between the two sides to improve performance, combat effectiveness, and teamwork.

On the sidelines of the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX 2023), the ground forces of the two nations inked an agreement for military cooperation in the areas of training, coordination, and exchange of experiences.

Health

Cooperation between the two countries in response to COVID-19 constituted a model of constructive international cooperation in confronting the pandemic and containing its humanitarian repercussions. In March 2020, the UAE sent an aid plane carrying 20,000 COVID-19 testing kits to Malaysia. It also sent in mid-May another plane of medical equipment carrying 14,000 units of disinfectant fluids.

In addition, the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Al Nahyan  Foundation provided food aid during the month of Ramadan 2020 to alleviate the suffering of pandemic victims. More than 100 entities and thousands of individuals have benefited from those efforts.

Culture & Education

The demographics and cultural diversity of the UAE and Malaysia reflect the values of tolerance and moderation shared by the two nations.

Malaysia is an educational destination for Emirati students pursuing studies in its universities, particularly in the fields of management, accounting, and law.

ALSO READ: UAE firm eyes huge opportunities in Saudi mobility sector

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Abu Dhabi fastest-growing economy in MENA

Abu Dhabi

The emirate has been taking strategic steps to diversify its economy while maintaining a prudent fiscal policy and progressively responding to the market needs and trends…..reports Asian Lite News

The Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi (SCAD) has released the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) estimates report for 2022, unveiling a 9.3% growth by the end of the year, compared to 2021. The new figures position the emirate as the fastest-growing economy in the Middle East and North Africa region.

During 2022, Abu Dhabi’s growth across its diverse sectors is attributed to its robust economic framework, coupled with a collaborative approach from both the public and private sectors. The emirate has solidified its international position and retained its competitive edge, while also maintaining a stable macroeconomic environment.

It also reflects the success of Abu Dhabi’s diversification strategy efforts led by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, (ADDED) which included nurturing a business- supportive environment, a robust regulatory framework and unparalleled connectivity and infrastructure to enhance its capabilities to achieve a sustainable and smart economic development.

The emirate has been taking strategic steps to diversify its economy while maintaining a prudent fiscal policy and progressively responding to the market needs and trends, including initiatives to further enhance legal and regulatory frameworks to encourage foreign direct investment and promote its domestic investments.

Additionally, the Abu Dhabi Industrial Strategy (ADIS), launched in June 2022, has played a major role in diversifying the emirate’s economy. ADIS aims to strengthen the emirate’s position as the region’s most competitive industrial hub by investing AED10 billion across a number of programmes to more than double the size of the sector to AED172 billion, creating 13,600 jobs and increasing the emirate’s non-oil exports by to AED178.8 billion by 2031.

This will facilitate access to financing, enhancing ease of doing business, attracting foreign direct investments, improving access to quality infrastructure and utilities, and supporting collaboration with local and international partners.

“The continued strong performance of Abu Dhabi’s economy is a testament to the leadership’s farsighted vision and effectiveness of economic diversification strategy which champions public-private partnership and incentivises foreign and domestic investments,” Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, the Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), said.

“A forward-looking enabler, ADDED views Abu Dhabi’s achievements that have cemented its position as a preferred destination for business, investment, and talents as a foundation of the next phase of our development; ‘Economic Diversification 2.0’. That is why we are forging ahead with our plans to develop and implement policies and initiatives to address geopolitical, economic, scientific, and technological developments reshaping the economy.

He added that Abu Dhabi’s ‘Falcon economy’ is characterised by growing, liberalised, and diversified economy, and driven by a strategic vision that places sustainability, social and human development at the top of its priorities. “We will further accelerate and enhance efforts to benefit from digital transformation, innovation, and advanced technology in economic and social plans.”

Abdulla Gharib Alqemzi, Acting Director General of the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi, said: “The Emirate of Abu Dhabi has achieved remarkable growth rates in its non-oil gross domestic product, registering a remarkable 8.4% increase by the end of 2022. This growth is credited to the wise leadership’s strategic policies that prioritise economic diversification, private sector engagement, and human capital investment. These measures have created a resilient economic environment capable of withstanding various challenges, strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a thriving global hub.

According to the estimates issued by the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi, Q4 2022 real GDP achieved a growth of 5.9% worth AED 278.3 billion compared to the same period in 2021. The contribution of non-oil sectors to GDP reached 50.2% to record AED 139.6 billion of the GDP total value during Q4 2022.

According to 2022 GDP estimates, the non-oil sectors witnessed a notable growth of AED 43 billion, bringing the total to AED 554.6 billion by the end of 2022. This resulted in the non-oil sectors contributing 50% to the GDP.

Real estate activities in Abu Dhabi witnessed a remarkable increase of 17.1% compared to 2021. This growth is due to the increase in real estate projects during 2022 and the interest of international businesses to invest in this strategic sector.

During 2022, growth rates in health and social work activities in Abu Dhabi increased by 16.6% as a clear indication of the serious endeavours to strengthen the health system in accordance with the highest international standards and to enhance the role of the private sector in providing best-in-class health services.

The wholesale and retail trade activities in Abu Dhabi displayed a growth rate of 11.6% in 2022, reaching AED 58.6 billion. This growth indicates the sector’s significant contribution of 5.3% to Abu Dhabi’s real GDP in 2022, reflecting thriving growth in local markets.

The transport and storage activities exceeded AED 18.6 billion in 2022, with a growth of 10.9%. This sector comprises several activities including passenger and cargo transport by rail, land, air, and sea means and related storage activities.

Accommodation and food service activities in Abu Dhabi witnessed a growth rate of 11.9% in 2022 as a clear sign of the thriving tourism industry in the emirate, solidifying its position as one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations.

Abu Dhabi’s manufacturing activities showed a growth of 9.7%, contributing 8.2% to the emirate’s GDP and reaching AED 90.8 billion in 2022. The sector’s growth is expected to continue, benefiting from Abu Dhabi’s ambitious industrial strategy, which aims to drive economic growth and contribute significantly to enhancing the emirate’s trade with international markets.

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