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Africa News UAE News

Dubai Ruler Visits Namibia Pavilion

Sheikh Mohammed and Geingob then took a tour of the Namibia pavilion, which highlights the country’s potential to generate sufficient and sustainable energy for both domestic consumption and export…reports Asian Lite News

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, today met with Hage Geingob, President of Namibia, and Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana, at Expo 2020 Dubai.

During a meeting held at the Namibia pavilion, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and President Hage Geingob discussed bilateral ties between the two countries and their shared desire to explore new partnership opportunities that will further strengthen bridges of cooperation between Africa and the Gulf region and increase the volumes of trade and investment. The meeting also explored new avenues to share expertise across various sectors.

Sheikh Mohammed and Geingob then took a tour of the Namibia pavilion, which highlights the country’s potential to generate sufficient and sustainable energy for both domestic consumption and export, as well as the various investment opportunities it offers. His Highness was briefed about the country’s vast open spaces, abundant and diverse biodiversity and wildlife, rich cultural diversities and valuable traditional knowledge.

During his meeting with the President of Guyana at his country’s pavilion, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the importance of Guyana’s participation at Expo 2020 Dubai, which offers both countries an opportunity to explore new avenues to expand economic and cultural ties. The mega event serves as a platform for nations across the world to explore partnerships that will help shape a better future for humanity, His Highness noted.

President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali commended the UAE’s inspiring development model, which has enabled it to achieve top rankings in international competitiveness indexes. The President of Guyana also expressed his best wishes for the continued progress and prosperity of the UAE and its people.

Sheikh Mohammed then toured the pavilion of Guyana, which showcases the country as a leading eco-tourism destination and highlights its Green State Development Strategy as a pathway for sustainable and inclusive development. The pavilion also highlights the country’s economic features, which has enabled it to emerge as one of the fastest growing nations in the world.

During his visit to Expo 2020 Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed also toured the pavilion of Palestine, located at the Opportunity District. The pavilion highlights the Palestinian identity and narrative through a showcase of the country’s culture, history, civilisation, traditions, holy places, and its capital Jerusalem. The first exhibit in the pavilion recreates the feel of the old city of Jerusalem, with its narrow alleyways and decorative arches and screens. Stone slabs imported from the city complete the effect.

Moreover, Sheikh Mohammed visited the Austria pavilion, located at the Opportunity District. Under the theme ‘Austria Makes Sense’, the pavilion combines people, technology, and the environment in an engaging experience for all senses.

Another stop during His Highness’s tour at Expo 2020 Dubai was the Colombia pavilion, which showcases how music connects the nation to a thriving future of culture, innovation, and urban growth. The pavilion’s airy, free-ranging design represents Colombia itself, open and unbounded.

ALSO READ: 25 African nations ‘least’ water-secure

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Dubai EXPO 2020 UAE News

Minister of Climate Change and Environment visits Vietnam Pavilion at Expo 2020

Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and the Environment, has visited the Vietnam Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai…reports Asian Lite News

Almheiri learned about the country’s approach to leverage its large population in achieving sustainable socioeconomic development, as it’s the third most populous geographical region in Southeast Asia and the fifteenth globally.

She listened to an overview of the country’s national digital transformation programme that commenced two years ago. Vietnam has made great strides in the process of digital government transformation. In 2020, it ranked 86 amongst 193 countries in the United Nations’ e-government development index, and currently seeks to make it to the top 50.

Minister of Climate Change and Environment visits Vietnam Pavilion at Expo 2020 (WAM)

The Minister also learned about the role of Vietnamese women in the country’s economic development, as entrepreneurs and investors.

ALSO READ: Expo 2020 Congrats Botswana

Furthermore, she was briefed on Vietnam’s efforts to protect its environment and sustain its biodiversity, particularly the expansion of its mangrove forests that safeguard its coasts against erosion.

Minister of Climate Change and Environment visits Vietnam Pavilion at Expo 2020 (WAM)

Vietnam is one of the richest biodiversity hotspots in the world, and ranks the 16th most biologically diverse country in the world. Its various ecosystems include wetlands, tropical forests, and mangrove forests.

Expo 2020 Dubai is an important platform that aims to drive collaboration and build synergies with participating countries across all sectors. It reflects the UAE’s commitment to shaping a better future, where countries can prosper and thrive. (WAM)

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Dubai EXPO 2020 UAE News

Dubai Corporation for Ambulance unveils ‘HyperSport Responder’ at Expo 2020

Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services unveils the world’s fastest and most expensive ambulance responder at Expo 2020 Dubai…reports Asian Lite News

The Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS) today unveiled the ‘HyperSport Responder’, the world’s fastest and most expensive ambulance responder, at Expo 2020 Dubai. Manufactured in the UAE, the Lykan HyperSport supercar is the creation of the Dubai-based company W Motors and is valued at AED13 million.

One of only seven Lykan HyperSport cars in the world, the ‘HyperSport Responder’ accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.8 seconds and has a top speed of 400 km/h with its twin turbocharged 780 hp Porsche engine.

Dubai Corporation for Ambulance unveils ‘HyperSport Responder’ at Expo 2020 (WAM)

Equipped with 440 diamonds lined in the front LED headlights, the responder also comes with a gold-plated interior roof and the car’s cabin is upholstered in gold stitched leather.

Khalifa bin Darrai, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS), said: “Dubai has become synonymous with everything that is unique and the first in the world. The launch of ‘HyperSport Responder’ reflects Dubai’s unique position as one of the leading cities in the world in the field of innovation. The car’s speed and capabilities can significantly reduce response time during emergencies and ensure timely intervention.”

Dubai Corporation for Ambulance unveils ‘HyperSport Responder’ at Expo 2020 (WAM)

The supercar’s exterior features the slogan ‘Dubai, the world’s best city to live in’ and the logo of ‘DubaiDestinations’, an initiative launched recently by the Dubai Media Council to highlight the emirate’s unique experiences and activities. The high-performance car is set to serve as a new attraction for visitors at Expo 2020 Dubai, the world’s largest cultural event.

Dubai Corporation for Ambulance unveils ‘HyperSport Responder’ at Expo 2020 (WAM)

The ‘HyperSport Responder’ comes with a hand-made carbon-fiber body and is equipped with many futuristic features including the world’s first 3D hologram holographic mid-air display with interactive motion control, a satellite navigation and a system that connects to the internet.

The Lykan HyperSport car made its first appearance in the Hollywood blockbuster movie Fast & Furious 7.

ALSO READ: Expo drives efforts to address world’s greatest challenges

The ambulance is another addition to the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services’ fleet of 331 vehicles that cover different areas in the emirate, which helps to ensure the highest levels of emergency response. (WAM)

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Dubai EXPO 2020 UAE News

Mohammed bin Rashid visits German Pavilion at Expo 2020

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, today visited the German pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai…reports Asian Lite News

During the visit, His Highness highlighted the importance of Germany’s participation in Expo 2020 Dubai, given its extensive knowledge and experience in the field of innovation and in providing solutions that serve humanity.

H.H. Sheikh Mohammed also emphasised the opportunities that the mega event offers to share ideas and innovations that contribute to building a better future for humanity. The UAE is keen to support innovative ideas that seek to enhance people’s happiness and quality of life, he noted.

ALSO READ: Mohammed bin Rashid: UAE continues to be a pioneer in climate action

His Highness toured the pavilion accompanied by H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance; H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group; and H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

During the tour, Sheikh Mohammed was briefed on the various features of the German pavilion, located at the Sustainability District. Under the theme ‘Campus Germany’, the pavilion features sustainability-themed examples of innovation and ingenuity.

His Highness was also briefed on the pavilion’s individual exhibition spaces which have been designed to create an immersive experience for visitors. The pavilion features an ‘Energy Lab’, ‘Future City Lab’ and a ‘Biodiversity Lab’, which showcase various German innovations that promote sustainability. (WAM)

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-Top News Dubai EXPO 2020

Expo hosts colourful celebrations on India’s R-Day

Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade attended the reception at India Pavilion, reports Asian  Lite News

The India Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai on Wednesday celebrated the 73rd Republic Day with great zeal and enthusiasm. Dr Aman Puri, Consul General of India in Dubai  and Deputy Commissioner General of India at Expo 2020 unfurled the national flag to mark the occasion.

Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade of the United Arab Emirates and Shri Sunjay Sudhir, Ambassador of India to the UAE attended the reception, which was jointly hosted by the Indian Embassy and the Indian Consulate in the evening to celebrate the occasion.

Expo hosts colourful celebrations on India’s R-Day

A special video on the 73rd Republic Day celebrations in India was also showcased on the massive facade of the India pavilion.

Wishing everyone on India’s 73rd Republic Day, Sunjay Sudhir, Ambassador of India to the UAE said, “There is a civilizational and cultural connect between India and UAE, which makes our relationship very special. As India celebrates 75 glorious years of independence and the UAE, its ‘Year of the 50th’, our two nations have embarked on the journey towards a future-ready partnership. India-UAE relations have scaled new heights also owing to the great personal bonds 
between our leadership.”

“The 3.4 million Indians in the UAE are perhaps the most critical pillar of strength for the country. Their contributions, even during the most critical of times, have been exemplary and will act as an inspiration to Indians around the world,” added Shri Sudhir.

Expo hosts colourful celebrations on India’s R-Day

Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade of the UAE said, “I congratulate the government and people of India on this special day. India and UAE share great historic ties as trading routes between both the countries existed for centuries. The UAE’s partnership with India is underpinned by strong trade and investment ties, that continues to grow.”

“The upcoming CEPA deal between the two countries will increase the investment flows and joint ventures and unlock new economic opportunities across various sectors for the UAE & India businesses. It will also lead to new employment opportunities and provide platforms for SMEs of both countries to expand internationally by granting them access to new customers, networks and avenues for collaborations,” added Dr Thani.

Expo hosts colourful celebrations on India’s R-Day

The event concluded with dance and music performances by artists from India and Dubai, who recreated the carnival of dance through various traditional Indian dance forms including Bharatnatyam, Ghoomar, Bihu, Manipuri, Bhangra and Garba among others.

The celebrations this year are special as India’s Republic Day falls in the 75th year of Independence, being celebrated as ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’ across India.

ALSO READ: Boris greets India on Republic Day

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Dubai EXPO 2020 Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka National Day celebrated at Expo 2020

The event shed light on Sri Lanka’s readiness for growth and revival of the Tourism industry post-pandemic…reports Asian Lite News

Buoyed on by a steady increase in tourist arrivals, Sri Lanka, with confidence and pride, presented the country’s tourism roadmap on the Expo 2020 Sri Lanka National Day which was celebrated on Monday, 03 January 2022, at the Expo Media Centre in Dubai.

Expo 2020 Sri Lanka National Day was led by Honourable G. L. Peiris, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Honourable Prasanna Ranatunga, the Minister of Tourism & Aviation and Kimarli Fernando, Chairperson of Sri Lanka Tourism and Commissioner General for EXPO 2020 Dubai. The event shed light on Sri Lanka’s readiness for growth and revival of the Tourism industry post-pandemic. In addition, the National Day attracted visitors with colourful cultural performances performed at the Al Wasl Plaza situated at the Stage of Nations.

Sri Lanka National Day at EXPO

Inbound tourism in Sri Lanka is booming due to the successful implementation of the vaccination programme. As a result, the country is witnessing a decline in COVID-19 infections, with over 85% of the eligible population from Sri Lanka’s 21.9 million being vaccinated. In addition, the administering of booster Pfizer vaccines is rapidly progressing, with priority being given to personnel from the travel industry.

During the event, Kimarli Fernando quoted, “Sri Lanka has recovered post-pandemic with confidence, and the country is now steadily moving forward, prioritising its tourism sector in the interests of the country and travel-hungry tourists. We are honoured to be awarded the ‘Safe Travel Stamp’ by the World Travel and Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and World Travel & Tourism Council in 2021.”

The destination is fully operational and delighting vaccinated as well as non-vaccinated tourists, with a set of health & safety protocols to follow:

• Vaccinated travellers do not need on-arrival PCR tests and can stay at any type of accommodation.

• Not-vaccinated travellers need a Covid-19 test at the arrival and must stay in a ‘Flexible bio-bubble’ with all facilities of the hotels made available and the ability to visit approved tourist sites.

• All visitors must pay local Covid-19 insurance of 12 USD with one month cover of 50,000 USD

ALSO READ: Expo 2020 passes half-way mark, with just 87 days left

To learn more about the COIVD-19 travel protocols, travellers can visit www.srilanka.travel/helloagain. Individuals planning to travel can apply for a tourist visa online by visiting www.eta.gov.lk.

Sri Lanka’s large forest cover accounts for around 30% of its landmass, and with waterways hidden inland, the country is a haven for those seeking to connect with their inner self to heal from the stresses of modern living. Recognised as one of the World’s Top Wellness Destinations in 2021 by the Global Wellness Institute, Sri Lanka is the perfect Wellness Getaway destination with Ayurveda treatment and Yoga meditation offered by most tourist resorts. In addition, there are forest lodges and hermitages where one can truly relax and find solace in being one with nature.

“As a pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka has unique cultural and geological features. Our country has shining blue water beaches, rich cultural heritage, National Parks and avenues for Adventurous outings. A holiday in Sri Lanka is no longer an on-screen experience due to a pandemic. We are open and greeting visitors with a warm Ayubowan!” added Kimarli Fernando to conclude the event.

Travellers planning a holiday to Sri Lanka can visit the Sri Lanka Pavilion in the Opportunity District at EXPO 2020 Dubai for more information and guidance. Visitors at the Pavilion can also relish a world-famous Ceylon Tea served with warm hospitality. Further, the Pavilion offers attractive prizes through a raffle draw, including airline tickets to Sri Lanka courtesy of Sri Lankan Airlines and exquisite gem-studded jewellery through Gem and Jewelry Authority.

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Arab News Dubai EXPO 2020

Expo 2020 passes half-way mark, with just 87 days left

Many people also continue to travel to the site using RTA transport, honouring Expo 2020’s sustainability subtheme…reports Asian Lite News

Expo 2020 Dubai has recorded 8,958,132 visits during its first three months, boosted by a slate of spectacular events across the December festive season and with more world-class sport, music and cultural performances expected in the second half of its six-month run.

From October to December 2021, Expo hosted a total of 8,902 government leaders, including ministers, presidents, prime ministers and heads of state – all speaking at numerous official events, including Expo National Days, which provide a unique opportunity to spotlight a nation’s culture, achievements, pavilion and event-time programming.

Expo 2020 (wam)

Almost half of all visits (47 percent) have been generated by Expo’s Seasons Passes, with the number of repeat visits to Expo in the first three months reaching 3.5 million – a reflection of the myriad of experiences that require more than one visit.

Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director-General of Expo 2020 Dubai, said, “We enter a new year having built solid friendships that will enable us to drive urgent action on some of the greatest challenges facing us all.

“Our latest figures are testament to the determination and hard work of everyone involved in Expo as we pass our half-way mark. And with the health, safety and wellbeing of everyone continuing to be of the highest priority, the numbers also reflect the strength of our ongoing stringent COVID-19 safety measures, which continue to protect visitors, staff and Expo participants alike.”

Expo 2020 (wam)

December highlights included jaw-dropping fireworks and electrifying New Year’s Eve sets from world-renowned DJs Armin van Buuren and Dmitri Vegas. The celebrations topped an incredible month that began with the UAE’s Golden Jubilee and included a show-stopping performance from Alicia Keys and a concert from A.R. Rahman – his first in almost two years.

With just 87 daysleft, each jam-packed with more amazing experiences. Between 1st October and 31st December, almost one third (30 percent) of all visitors came from outside the UAE, with the top international visitor countries including India, Germany, France, the UK, the USA, Russia and Saudi Arabia.

Many people also continue to travel to the site using RTA transport, honouring Expo 2020’s sustainability subtheme.

Between 1st October and end-December, almost 675,000 rides were made to and from the site using taxis, more than a million trips were made on the free Expo Rider bus service, and more than 3.4 million users entered and exited Expo via the Dubai Metro.

ALSO READ: Expo 2020 All Set For Longest New Year Celebration

Expo 2020’s virtual visitation crossed the 50 million mark, driven by the fantastic offering of Live@Expo, which enables visitors to take a bespoke live virtual tour through the site, as well as headline acts which have seen millions of viewers tune in from around the globe.

The Expo School Programme attracted 334,110 visits from private and public schools over 41 school days, representing around a third of the total student population in the UAE. The programme’s virtual series, Expo Adventures, saw visits soar to 3.9million up to 31 December with students attending from more than 60 countries.

Expo 2020 (wam)

As the most significant global gathering to be held since the start of the pandemic, Expo 2020’s stringent COVID-19 safety measures are designed to protect everyone visiting and working on site. They include mask-wearing – indoors and outdoors – for visitors, staff and participants, and on-site PCR testing facilities for Country Pavilion staff, frontline workers, and entertainers.

All Expo and International Participant staff, volunteers, contractors and service providers must be vaccinated, while visitors ages 18 and above must present proof of any vaccination or a negative PCR test taken within the previous 72 hours. (WAM)

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Dubai EXPO 2020 Saudi Arabia

Suhail bin Mohammed visits Saudi Pavilion at Expo 2020

Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, has visited the Saudi Arabia Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai…reports Asian Lite News

The Saudi pavilion is characterised by its innovative and sustainable design, enabling it to acquire a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design in energy and environmental design.

Suhail bin Mohammed visits Saudi Pavilion at Expo 2020

During the visit, Al Mazrouei explored Saudi Vision 2030 and its innovative projects that underscore the ambitions of Saudi Arabia’s leadership, along with its future economic and investment opportunities and various energy, sustainability, mining and transport projects, as well as its significant efforts to preserve the environment and natural resources and address climate change.

ALSO READ: Morocco celebrates National Day at Expo

He also viewed the pavilion’s contents, foundations and sections that are based on four key pillars, which include people, nature, heritage and opportunities.

At the end of the visit, Al Mazrouei expressed his pleasure at visiting the Saudi pavilion and thanked the Saudi youth who organised it, lauding the strong ties between the two countries and their deep-rooted partnerships.

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-Top News EXPO 2020 World

Expo to offer round-the-clock New Year celebration

Aligned with numerous global time zones across 13 hours of festivities, Expo’s site-wide New Year’s celebrations will begin at 15:00 on Friday, 31st December, and last until 4:00 the following morning…reports Asian Lite Newsdesk

Expo 2020 Dubai invites the world to ring in 2022 in electrifying style, with round-the-clock entertainment featuring a slate of world-class DJs, two stunning fireworks displays and a midnight ‘ball drop’ at Al Wasl Plaza, held against a backdrop of extensive safety measures that will ensure an unforgettable New Year’s Eve.

Expo to offer round-the-clock New Year celebration

Aligned with numerous global time zones across 13 hours of festivities, Expo’s site-wide New Year’s celebrations will begin at 15:00 on Friday, 31st December, and last until 4:00 the following morning. Standout must-sees include DJ star Dimitri Vegas, who is set to thrill crowds at Expo’s Jubilee Park from 23:30 in what will be an unmissable celebration for the senses, and a spectacular set at 1:30 from Armin Van Buuren, one of the world’s biggest DJs and producers in electronic music. Numerous Arab, Filipino and Indian DJs will feature throughout the evening too.

Tareq Ghosheh, Chief Events and Entertainment Officer, Expo 2020 Dubai, said, “Celebrated by every country in the world, New Year’s Eve is a unique moment in time – celebrations made ever more poignant over these past two years as we address the pandemic together. As we continue to safely host 192 nations over 182 days, as the largest event ever held in the Arab world, we are thrilled to host a spectacular celebration of top class entertainment and activations, welcoming 2022 with open arms and renewed optimism for a brighter future.”

Effortlessly connecting Expo 2020 to the city of Dubai, Dubai Metro will also run continuously throughout New Year’s Eve, ensuring every visitor to Expo can enjoy the bevy of world-class experiences on offer. More than 70 restaurants and 120-plus food concepts will also be to hand on New Year’s Eve.

The newly-opened Festival Garden in Expo’s Jubilee Park, featuring communal seating, a main stage, food trucks, kiosks and carts, offers a perfect place to enjoy music and entertainment for the entire family, while a variety of exclusive restaurants across Expo will offer set menus, DJ performances and entertainment throughout New Year’s Eve.

The largest major global event to be held since the start of the pandemic, Expo’s latest COVID-19 measures include the expansion of the number of on-site PCR testing facilities to four, and free testing for all Country Pavilion staff. While all frontline workers and entertainers continue to be tested on a regular basis, some close contact events, such as parades and roving entertainers, have been temporarily suspended as a short-term precautionary measure.

ALSO READ: Expo 2020 Tightens Covid Rules

Visitors aged 18 and above are required to present proof of any vaccination or a negative PCR test taken within the previous 72 hours. In addition, Expo 2020 maintains on site sanitisation stations and mandatory face masks both indoors and outdoors.

With more than 90 percent of the UAE population fully vaccinated, Expo 2020 Dubai has required mandatory vaccination and boosters of all Expo and International Participant staff, volunteers, contractors and service providers.

Ensuring safe celebrations

The Steering Committee of the College of Commissioner Generals of Expo 2020 Dubai has held its third event-time meeting, doubling down on its united commitment to continue hosting an exceptional and safe World Expo in a manner that is engaging, exciting and full of learning.

Expo

The meeting of the committee, which represents Expo’s 192 participating nations, was attended by Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director-General of Expo 2020 Dubai, and Dimitri Kerkentzes, Secretary-General of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), the governing body of World Expos. It was chaired by Manuel Salchli, Chair of the Expo 2020 Dubai Steering Committee and Commissioner General for Switzerland at Expo 2020.

Al Hashemy said, “As we approach the three-month mark, having welcomed millions of people from around the world, we are humbled by the depth of pride, learning and exploration that visitors are enjoying on site. We will continue to ensure that the health and safety of all visitors and staff alike remains our number one priority. In coordination with our partners in both the local and federal levels, we will continue to be agile, proactive and factual to ensure an unforgettable and safe Expo 2020 experience for all.”

Salchli said, “During the near-three months of Expo, the outstanding commitment of International Participants and Organisers to offer a unique visitor experience has been on full display for the world to see. As we approach the halfway mark, heralding the new year with renewed optimism, I am confident such embedded international collaboration will continue to support International Participants’ national objectives, which includes addressing the global challenges shared by all.”

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-Top News EXPO 2020

Winners of 16th Al Burda Award announced at Expo

The Ministry of Culture and Youth announced the 30 winners of the 16th edition of the Al Burda Award at a gala evening held on 19th December, 2021, at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo 2020 Dubai…reports Asian Lite News

The awards were in six categories: Classical Poetry, Nabati Poetry, Classical Calligraphy, Modern Calligraphy, Ornamentation and Typography.

Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of State, attended the awards ceremony and honoured the 30 winners and took memorial photos with them. Alongside was Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of Culture and Youth.

Winners of 16th Al Burda Award announced at Expo

Commenting on the ceremony, Al Kaabi thanked H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, for the continuous support and for taking the award to the global level. She stated that the award, in its sixteenth session, received more than 1,557 contestants in a variety of Islamic arts, ensuring its position as one of the leading global events celebrating modern Islamic art and the artists.

She added that since its launch, the award aims to be a bridge for inspiring cultural and artistic communication between people, aiming to brighten the future by introducing authentic Islamic civilisation, culture and arts throughout history.

The current edition awarded Egyptian poet, Heba Alfeky, the first prize in Classical Poetry, with the second position in the same category secured by her compatriot Diyaa Alkilany. Lamis Al Rahabi and Bahija Masri Idlbi from Syria won the third and fourth prize, respectively, in the Classical Poetry category.

Abdulaziz bin Hamed Mohammed Al-Omairi from Oman won first place in Nabati Poetry, followed by Mohammad Hamdan Alanezah from Jordan in second place. Ali Alqarni from Saudi Arabia and Muzna Rabia Albrieki from Oman took the third and fourth places,respective.

Egypt’s Mohamed Gaber Abouelella was placed first in Classical Calligraphy, followed by Meryem Nuruzi Halilani of Turkey, who secured the second place. Noman Tayseer Rajab from Syria, Ahmad Ali Namazi Reihanloo from Iran and Mahfod Thunnun from Iraq won third, fourth and fifth positions respectively in the Classical Calligraphy category.

The Modern Calligraphy category had four awards, with Mahsa Javad Davachi, from Iran, winning first prize and Dhia Al-Jazaeri from Canada coming second. Third and fourth prizes were taken by Iran’s Babak Mohammad Ali Hejazi and Masoud Asghar Mohebbifar, respectively.

Mihriban Beyza Kaya, from Turkey, won first prize in Ornamentation, while the second, third, fourth and fifth positions went to Iranian compatriots Masoumeh Ahmad Moradi, Afsaneh Khademreza Mahdavi, Asgar Ahmad Moradi, and Zaynab Ibrahim Shahi.

Eight winners were announced in the Typography category, namely Syrian national Duaa Abzeed, Jamal Eldin Elsamani Mohammed from Sudan, Tarek Samir Alsawwa, from Syria, Reza Babajani, from Iran, Bita Amel, from Iran, Lama Kadri, from Lebanon, Asia Alsheshani, from Jordan and Fatima Abdulla Alketbi, from the UAE.

ALSO READ: Expo 2020 Tightens Covid Rules

The awards evening hosted several standout performances from a cross-section of genres, with artists including Watar Orchestra from Iraq, Dubai Chamber Choir and Sheikh Mahmoud Eltohamy from Egypt, the latter with a piece titled “Anin”. Noumoucounda Cissoko from Senegal delivered a musical recital titled “Mandi Strings”, while Lebanese singer Jahida Wahba presented several songs from her catalogue.

The closing performance was an Emirati Malid delivered by Rashid Al Nuaimi and Saif Fathel.

The Al Burda Award is a global platform that reflects the diversity of creative expression throughout the Islamic world and seeks to revitalise the Islamic cultural and artistic movement. The award was launched by the Ministry of Culture and Youth in AH 1425/2004 under the patronage of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed to commemorate the birthday of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH).