The Abu Dhabi Government is set to participate for the 10th time in GITEX Technology Week, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, from 17th to 21st October…reports Asian Lite News
Thirty-one government and academic entities will be part of the Abu Dhabi Government pavilion to showcase more than 100 innovative initiatives and projects in digital transformation to create a unique experience for visitors through a unified platform for all government entities.
The Department of Government Support – Abu Dhabi (DGS), represented by the Abu Dhabi Digital Authority (ADDA), the government entity that leads the digital transformation of the Abu Dhabi government, organised a virtual preparatory meeting with representatives from the participating government entities to coordinate efforts and finalise preparations.
The meeting emphasised the importance of taking into account COVID-19 precautionary measures, including social distancing and the compulsory wearing of face masks.
The Abu Dhabi Government’s participation is part of the UAE’s 50th-anniversary celebrations, where the nation will be celebrating its remarkable journey over the last 50 years and begins preparing for the next 50.
This participation comes under the supervision of the Higher Committee of Digital Government as part of its efforts to implement a governance framework across the Abu Dhabi Government and make a fundamental change in the concept of government services, moving towards a digital future.
Ali Rashid Al Ketbi, Chairman of DGS, commented, “GITEX Technology Week 2021 is a unique opportunity to emphasise the readiness and development of Abu Dhabi’s digital infrastructure, shedding light on its digital capabilities and resources that support and enhance customer confidence, including citizens, residents, visitors and investors.”
The Abu Dhabi Government participation focuses on four key pillars: “Government Services”, providing a smooth and seamless experience designed to meet the needs of customers through digital channels and service centres; “Government Solutions”, promoting cooperation and supporting joint initiatives across various governmental entities and institutions to maximise the value of the initiatives’ output; “Data and Artificial Intelligence”, taking advantage of the safe and effective sharing of data to support the decision-making process and enhance government pro-activeness; and “Ecosystem Enablement”, driving socio-economic growth by accelerating integration with digital systems, applications, stakeholders, customers, and business partners.
Abu Dhabi to showcase over 100 digital initiatives at GITEX
By participating in GITEX Technology Week 2021, the Abu Dhabi Government aims to bolster strategic public-private partnerships, explore new areas of collaboration, and leverage the capabilities of major technology companies to support the emirate’s digital agenda.
The Abu Dhabi Government has also introduced the Abu Dhabi Government Virtual Pavilion Experience, which will give users the ability to make virtual visits to the pavilion from anywhere in the world. This is in addition to introducing the Virtual Assistant service to enable users to connect and interact with the 31 participating government entities, and partners from the academic sector and access details about events and activities taking place at the pavilion.
Throughout GITEX Technology Week 2021, the Abu Dhabi Government Pavilion will host a series of special events, including the launch of innovative digital initiatives and the signing of Agreements and MoUs.
Golf legends set sights on Dubai Moonlight Classic 2021
The 2021 tournament returns with fans at the centre of the action on- and off-course on Thursday and Friday..reports Asian Lite News
Superstar Thai sisters Ariya and Moriya Jutanugarn will line up alongside compatriot Atthaya Thitikul, Europe’s victorious Solheim Cup skipper Catriona Matthew and English legend Dame Laura Davies to compete under the floodlights at the 15th Dubai Moonlight Classic presented by Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA).
Golf
Former World No. 1 Ariya, and elder sibling Moriya, currently 23rd and 34th, respectively, in The Rolex Rankings will take to the Faldo Course at Emirates Golf Club from 27th to 29th October, 2021, alongside World No. 28 Thitikul, two-time LET 2021 winner, with Scottish star Matthew, a six-time LET career winner, and Davies, a four-time Major champion.
The 2021 tournament returns with fans at the centre of the action on- and off-course on Thursday and Friday. In addition to free entry for all, golf taster sessions run by the Peter Cowen Academy will be available for all age groups and abilities, providing family fun under the floodlights.
Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director, said, “The Dubai Moonlight Classic presented by EGA is one of the most highly anticipated, inclusive events on Dubai’s social and sporting schedule. We look forward to welcoming fans on Thursday and Friday to celebrate world-class sport, food, and entertainment set against the stunning Dubai Marina backdrop.
“Golfing legend Davies, a seven-time LET Order of Merit winner and 20-time LPGA event champion, said, “It is always a pleasure to return to Dubai; the players love to come here and tackle the Faldo. The weather and conditions are perfect for golf, and the atmosphere is always excellent. Playing under floodlights is something unique, and it gives the event an attractive dimension for new fans.”
Matthew, the first European captain to mastermind back-to-back Solheim Cup wins after orchestrating a thrilling 15-13 triumph at the Inverness Club in Ohio last month, said, “Dubai has always been a favourite destination for women’s golf as the city is a long-term supporter of the Ladies European Tour. Once again, the strong field and the tournament will inspire more interest in the game with a female audience. It would be great to see more young Arab girls playing the sport.”
The Energy Executive of the Year Award is the most prestigious in the energy industry…reports Asian Lite New
Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Managing Director and Group CEO of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), was honoured with the ‘Energy Executive of the Year Award for 2021’ by Energy Intelligence, validating the UAE’s vision for sustainable energy future.
Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber,
The Energy Executive of the Year Award is the most prestigious in the energy industry and is a testament to the UAE’s diversified energy leadership, progressive approach to the energy transition, and pioneering climate action
“The fact is, I would not be receiving this award today without the vision and continuous guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. He enabled everything I have achieved so far, both at ADNOC and beyond ADNOC. He has challenged me to push the boundaries of the possible. He has inspired me with his wisdom and guidance. And when times were tough, his support has been unwavering.
“I also owe a great deal to my family, who have been with me, and there for me, through everything.
In awarding, Dr. Al Jaber the Energy Executive of the Year Award for 2021, Energy Intelligence noted his role in mapping a path of modernisation for national oil companies. He was elected by the leaders of the world’s top energy companies and is the 25th winner of this distinguished honour. The last two recipients of the award were Amin Nasser, President and CEO of Saudi Aramco, and Ben van Beurden, CEO of Royal Dutch Shell.
The energy landscape has evolved significantly over the past five years he has been at the helm and the industry must remain agile and adapt to a variety of externalities, according to Dr. Al Jaber.
UAE flag
Dr. Al Jaber noted that the UAE has since gone on to establish itself as a leader in renewable energy with three of the largest and lowest-cost solar plants in the world, while its wind and solar portfolio has grown to 13 gigawatts in over 30 countries, in five continents.
On ADNOC’s transformation, Dr. Al Jaber recalled the challenging market dynamics when he was appointed as CEO and provided an insight into the motivation of the UAE Leadership in directing the company’s transformation.
“Our Leadership saw this as an opportunity that should not be wasted. An opportunity to transform our company. We focused on Performance, Profitability, and Efficiency, embedding technology across the organization and underpinning everything with HSE,” he said, adding that people were at the core of ADNOC’s strategy and they will always be the “magic ingredient.”
During his speech, Dr. Al Jaber rallied the oil and gas industry to embrace the opportunities being created by the energy transition and highlighted the steps ADNOC is taking in this regard.
UAE President’s Cultural Adviser, Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, pointed out that the Expo 2020 Dubai “is a wonderful opportunity for small and medium-sized enterprises to demonstrate their creative value alongside established global companies”, reports Asian Lite Newsdesk
Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Adviser to His Highness the President and Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), has described Expo 2020 Dubai as one of the world’s most important cultural, scientific, and economic events.
Nusseibeh said that the dazzling opening ceremony demonstrated the UAE’s ability to organise and host an event of this kind. It brings together 192 countries in an atmosphere of tolerance and coexistence, and each creates a pavilion in the character of their different cultures.
Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh
“The Expo 2020 supports global economic recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic. Its theme, ‘Connecting Minds and Creating the Future’ is an inspirational message to all countries and young people. Dubai invites the world’s thinkers and creative people to the UAE, to work with us in designing a better future for humanity,” he added.
Explaining the opportunity for young people, Nusseibeh stated, “There are three opportunities to take advantage of. The first is the practical experience to be gained by participating in the ‘YouthConnect’ forum. The second is the chance to show the world the intellectual, creative abilities of young people. The third is the avenue for an experience of world cultures and the open door to authentic Arab traditions, values, and arts.”
He pointed out that the Expo 2020 Dubai “is a wonderful opportunity for small and medium-sized enterprises to demonstrate their creative value alongside established global companies”. He explained that cultural and creative industries are important to economic growth in the nation and across the world.
He also underlined the important role young people play, saying, “They have the energy to show leadership in integrating cultural and creative industries into the fabric of economic life in the UAE, to ensure their sustainable development.”
The recruits of the National and Reserve Service thanked the UAE’s leadership for giving them the opportunity to participate in organising the Expo 2020 Dubai, the world’s largest international event, stressing their participation will enable them to sharpen their skills and knowledge and interact with people from different cultures.
Hosting the Expo 2020 Dubai is an honour for the UAE, the Gulf and the Arab Region, they added. They will be worthy of this prominent stature and help boost the position of the UAE, and stressing they must work together to achieve global leadership for the country, they noted.
The recruits, along with thousands of volunteers, are welcoming millions of visitors to the UAE during the expo, and they will perform various duties to offer visitors a unique experience.
The participation of the recruits in the expo is due to the directives of the UAE’s leadership, which believes in the importance of unifying and harnessing all national efforts to support national activities and present a high level of organisation in line with the country’s prominent stature. The leadership also believes the event’s success will be a national achievement to be added to the country’s list of achievements.
“I would like to thank our wise leadership for giving us an opportunity to join the Expo 2020 Dubai team, which is an experience that will provide us with incredible opportunities to sharpen our knowledge and develop on personal and professional levels, said Badr Hamad Saeed Al Junaibi, one of the recruits.
Another recruit, Mohanad Ahmed Ateeq Al Shehhi, stressed his participation in the expo will enable him to acquire unprecedented professional expertise, through engaging with the best international experts.
Recruit Ahmed Khalid Al Hosani said the importance of the event lies in the exchange of expertise and knowledge between participants, as well as in exploring successful experiences in all areas, noting that every Emirati citizen and resident would be proud to participate in the event, which is a great opportunity to volunteer, sharpen one’s skills and knowledge and explore other cultures.
Vehicles will automatically receive dispatch requests to the EXPO site based on the required number of taxis needed at each hour of the day…reports Asian Lite News
Roads and Transport Authority Dubai in collaboration with Hala has launched for the first time in the region the ‘Auto Dispatch’ of taxis at EXPO 2020. With the objective of timely and efficient dispatch of taxis vital to Expo visitors which enhances their journey experience, the RTA remains committed to provide seamless and well-integrated overall transport services, including public transport.
Hala-Taxi
Leveraging an innovative in-house technology developed by Careem, taxis will be automatically dispatched to EXPO 2020 based on the required demand. Vehicles will automatically receive dispatch requests to the EXPO site based on the required number of taxis needed at each hour of the day.
Hala, the Joint Venture between the Roads and Transport Authority and Careem, enables customers to book any taxi in Dubai via the Careem application. Tourists, residents, and visitors at EXPO will now have the ease of booking the taxis through their phones via the application, or self-serving kiosks. Customers will avail a one-time password (OTP) to instantly book via their mobile, connect with any driver, and immediately take off on their journey with zero waiting time.
AHMED BAHROZYAN, CEO, PUBLIC TRANSPORT AGENCY: “With the magnitude of visitors expected to visit Expo 2020, Roads and Transport Authority Dubai has the opportunity and responsibility of making sure that their commute is safe and seamless. Through its innovative digital solution, the ride hailing service is able to know exactly how many taxis are needed at any given time and automatically dispatch these to the Expo site. The increased taxi fleet enables the service to optimally balance supply and demand, making it more convenient for riders traveling to and from the Expo grounds.”
In line with the ‘Smart Dubai Vision’, RTA aims to ramp up and provide the entire Dubai Taxi fleet with the Hala e-hailing service and this solution, by collaborating with all of its franchise partners. This is definitely a big step in the right direction of achieving RTA’s vision of ‘The world leader in seamless & sustainable mobility’.
Basil Hovakeemian
Basil Hovakeemian, CEO of Hala, commented, “We are extremely excited to be joining efforts with the RTA at this prestigious event. We are committed to offering customers and visitors the most efficient, convenient, and affordable taxi service possible. We have worked closely with the RTA to ensure that we maximize our technological capabilities and available fleet to deliver an innovative and reliable solution for all travelers at EXPO 2020.”
Excitement levels were already high before the gates were opened at 10am at the Sustainability Entry Portal, with visitors lining up after travelling from all over the UAE and around the world to be among the first to see Expo 2020…reports Asian Lite News
“I woke up at 6am,” said 17-year-old Mubarak Salah Al Hemeiri, who came with his family from Al Ain, Abu Dhabi emirate, and planned to spend the whole day at the Expo site. “I don’t use social media. I came here to get my own first impression. I’m so excited. I couldn’t imagine seeing this city in the middle of the desert.”
Dubai-based Fabio Berti, from Italy, was also among the early birds, alongside his wife and children. “I am very happy to finally be able to see the Expo. I have been waiting a long time for this.”
EXPO 2020
It was a sentiment shared by Viju Kumar, a UAE resident for the past 15 years who visited Expo with his wife, Nirmala, after driving from Abu Dhabi. “We have been waiting for this since last year. We are excited to see what’s inside. We’ll stay here for the whole day,” Kumar said. Nirmala travelled to the UAE from India to spend a holiday with her husband and see Expo 2020.
Metra Jayakumar, a network engineer who works in Dublin, Ireland, also travelled to Dubai on holiday and to visit Expo 2020 with her husband, Sid, a business analyst. “I came to Expo to explore!”
Desmond Hayes, also from Ireland, was awed at seeing the world in one place. “I am here on vacation and have visited several different countries at Expo… The place in itself is amazing,” he said. “The construction is unbelievable.”
“Making something from nothing” is how Cara Fernando, a digital marketing entrepreneur from the Philippines, referred to how Dubai has developed the Expo site from scratch. “It’s amazing … so vibrant,” she said. “We are going to stay here till tonight to also watch the fireworks.”
Shaun Warner, who attended with his wife and two children, said that making something from nothing is “the story of Dubai” and exclaimed that the Expo site is “fantastic!”
“I came here to see the world in one place,” said Farrahana Hashim, an Abu Dhabi resident from Malaysia who was with her husband and four children.
Education was on the agenda for Monica Adamin, who brought a group of students for an awe-inspiring learning experience. “We are bringing students all the way from Italy to take part in some educational laboratories inside the Italy Pavilion. So, we’ll have a general look of the Expo and for the next three or four days, we will be working in the pavilion,” she said.
Expo 2020
Business was the priority for Atik Roman, originally from Bangladesh, who travelled from Florida, USA, and said that he “came here to see what kind of opportunities for investment are available”.
With up to 60 live events each day and more than 200 pavilions, the Expo site is coming alive during its 182-day feast for the senses. Its dynamic, diverse and ever-changing entertainment programme features an array of internationally celebrated names and the sounds, rhythms and sights of a global cast of performers.
Expo 2020 Dubai is open every day until 31 March 2022, from 10am to midnight from Saturday to Wednesday and 10am to 2am on Thursday and Friday. (WAM)
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, visited the pavilions of Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and Russia at Expo 2020…reports Asian Lite News
His Highness said, “We have a rich civilisation and cultural heritage that give us a strong base to realise our modern ambitions and aspirations. The groundbreaking projects launched across the Gulf region seek to advance the goal of enhancing human happiness and contribute to creating a glorious future for the world,”
Royals at the Expo
His Highness was accompanied during the visits by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai; H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Expo 2020 Dubai Higher Committee; H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Media Council; and H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Meanwhile, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, also dropped in the UAE Pavilion.
Royals at the Expo
Sheikh Mohamed viewed the areas in the pavilion, which tells the story of the establishment of the UAE and the dreams of its founders, who created an inspiring history established on a set of human values and unlimited ambitions.
He exchanged cordial talks with the organisers of the pavilion, which was designed in the shape of a falcon ready to fly, telling the story of the UAE and the vision of its leadership.
Royals at the Expo
The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi then explored the sections of the four-storey pavilion, which covers an area of 15,000-square metres and includes sections for hospitality, cultural exhibitions and showcasing Emirati achievements.
Stadiums in UAE to operate at 70 pc capacity for T20 World Cup1
The tournament kicks off with the Round 1 match between Oman and Papua New Guinea in Muscat…reports Asian Lite News
All UAE venues will be operating at approximately 70 per cent of maximum seated capacity in the upcoming men’s T20 World Cup, said the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday.
Tickets are available for fans to watch the top 16 T20 teams in the world vying for the ultimate prize in the shortest format which gets underway in Muscat on October 17 and is set to conclude in the UAE on November 14.
Stadiums in UAE to operate at 70 pc capacity for T20 World Cup
Moreover, Abu Dhabi has also introduced new socially distanced ‘pods’ of a maximum of 4 spectators on their east and west grass mounds. The Oman Cricket Academy has had a temporary infrastructure built to welcome 3,000 fans.
“We are delighted to be welcoming fans back to international cricket in both Oman and the UAE to enjoy the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Our thanks to our hosts BCCI, Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) and Oman Cricket as well as the local governments in these regions for their support in ensuring fans could attend in a safe environment,” said ICC acting CEO Geoff Allardice in a statement.
“The biggest sporting spectacle to have ever taken place in the region deserved to be played out in front of passionate cricket fans from all 16 nations competing and we are doing everything possible to keep it safe for all. It has been five years since the last Men’s T20 World Cup and we can’t wait for the world’s best players to arrive in Oman and the UAE and showcase the very best of T20 cricket,” he added.
Jay Shah, Honorary Secretary BCCI, said, “I am delighted that the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will be played in front of cheering fans both in the UAE and Oman. My sincere thanks to the government of the UAE and Oman for paving the way for fans to return. The anticipation for the World Cup, which is taking place after five years, is building with each passing day.”
“I am sure we will have fans coming from different parts of the world to support their team. The vibe they will create will boost the performances on the field. The ticket sales have started, and I urge everyone to stay safe and follow the health advisories and savour the experience,” he added.
According to the statement, the ICC and event host BCCI has worked closely with host authorities to ensure fans can be welcomed in a safe environment and COVID 19 protocols will apply at all venues.
Stadiums in UAE to operate at 70 pc capacity for T20 World Cup1
The schedule offers a host of key rivalry fixtures and mouth-watering matchups. The tournament kicks off with the Round 1 match between Oman and Papua New Guinea in Muscat.
Whilst, Australia and South Africa play the first match of Super 12s on 23 October in Abu Dhabi followed by the replay of the 2016 final between England and West Indies also on 23 October in Dubai. One of cricket’s biggest rivalries, India and Pakistan, will take place on 24 October in Dubai.
H.H. Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum releases UAE Gender Balance Council’s ‘Balance for Better’ report at the Women’s Pavilion at Dubai Expo 2020, reports Asian Lite News
The UAE Gender Balance Council (UAEGBC) kicked off its participation in Expo 2020 Dubai with the launch of its ‘Balance for Better’ report, a complete source of UAE country-specific gender balance insights. The launch of the report is yet another milestone in increasing awareness on gender balance and amplifying the UAE’s successful gender balance journey.
Expo 2020 Dubai
The report, which was developed under the guidance and directives of wife of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, H.H. Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, and President of Dubai Women Establishment; outlines the UAE’s successful gender balance journey since the country’s establishment in 1971, with a focus on best practices in three specific fields: economy, society and politics. It also includes conversations with key experts from ministers to officials and public figures on their views about the UAE’s gender balance accomplishments and successes in their sectors, and presents practical case studies, showcasing examples that have led to a positive change.
The report was launched by Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice President of the UAE Gender Balance Council in the Women’s Pavilion at Dubai Expo 2020. The launch was followed by an insightful panel discussion which included Hessa bint Issa Buhumaid, Minister of Community Development, and Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi, Minister of State, and was moderated by Faisal bin Huraiz from Sky News Arabia.
The report launch and panel discussion were also attended by Naama Al Mansouri, Aisha Al Mulla, Jameela Al Muhairi, Shamsa Saleh as well as Their Highnesses members of the Federal Supreme Council, editors in Chief of local newspapers, media professionals and influencers.
Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum expressed her happiness with the launch of this report, serving as a vital resource in advancing gender balance across governmental and private sector institutions. The report draws on the UAE’s gender balance successes and the factors that made the country a regional and global model. The report also recognises the important role women will play in bringing to life the ‘towards the next fifty’ strategy. These achievements were only made possible as a result of the unlimited support and remarkable contributions provided by the UAE’s wise leadership and the ”Mother of the Nation” H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation.
Sheikha Manal added that with the participation of 192 countries and several global organisations, Expo 2020 Dubai is truly a global gathering and the right platform to launch the UAE GBC’s report, as it sheds light on the UAE’s successful journey and experience in this field and its commitment to achieving the 2030 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically the fifth one on achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls.
She also highlighted that the UAE’s current global and regional positioning in gender balance is a result of the foundations laid 50 years ago by our founding father the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Foundations that continue to inspire nation’s leaders, decision-makers, officials, employees and youth.
Expo 2020
Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also expressed her thanks to all UAE ministries, government entities and private institutions for their support in launching several gender balance initiatives. Their support has played a central role in fostering an enabling environment in which women can meaningfully participate and thrive in the economy through proactive, transformative and measurable workplace policies and practices. Our leadership today continues their wisdom, including a commitment to the principles of gender balance and the advancement of women across diverse fields, and recognises the important role women will play in bringing to life the ‘towards the next fifty’ strategy.
She stressed the importance of fostering dialogues among the public and private sectors, and partner stakeholders in support of altering normative frameworks to further drive women’s engagement and enhance the country’s global competitiveness level, in line with the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai,
The creation of the ‘Balance for Better’ report is a symbol of UAE GBC’s commitment to achieve further gender balance successes. It also plays a crucial role in fulfilling the UAE’s commitments to the United Nations’ (UN) 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and enhancing the UAE’s ranking in global competitiveness reports on achieving balance.
The report covers a range of topics, starting with the foundations laid by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in supporting women, which were carried forward by H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak with the launch of several initiatives, including the national strategy for the Empowerment of Emirati Women 2015-2021.
In her opening speech, Mona Al Marri said that the nation’s journey has earned the world’s respect and admiration and today we all enjoy the success of our efforts to achieve gender balance, as we continue on this path. She highlighted that the Council’s initiatives which include among others the global balances circles, hosting the UN’s high-level panel on women’s economic empowerment and the gender balance guide, are important steps in fulfilling the country’s vision to narrow the gender gap through strong collaboration and actions of all sectors across the UAE. This objective is inspired by the pioneering vision of the UAE’s leadership, which continuously aspires to be at the forefront, supported by the loyalty, innovative spirit and abilities of its citizens.
Within its competencies and as commissioned by the UAE Cabinet, the Council has updated several legislations and policies that promote gender balance. She added that despite the fact that the UAE’s experience in supporting women and achieving balance between women and men has reached advanced levels, there are still many opportunities to enhance the UAE’s position in related global competitiveness rankings.
During the panel discussion, the ministers touched on a number of topics and praised the Council’s effort in creating the ‘Balance for Better’ report as it plays an important role in raising awareness among the public and private sector.
The secret of Emirati women’s success
From her side, Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Minister of Community Development, emphasised the commitment of the wise leadership to supporting Emirati women, saying, “The secret of our women’s success is due to the continuous support of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan; His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai; His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, as well as Their Highnesses members of the Federal Supreme Council.”
“This success is also the result of the continuous support by some of the UAE’s greatest women, including H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation; H.H. Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, wife of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai; and H.H. Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,” she added.
Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid elaborated that the remarkable success of the UAE in the global leadership test in the past fifty years is due to the local society’s commitment and participation, both men and women. This commitment is a clear indication of the progress of sustainable development in the UAE, which began with the country’s establishment in 1971.
EXPO 2020
Supportive legislation
Commenting on the UAE legislation and policies supportive of women empowerment, she said, “The UAE consistently seeks to implement new legislations to benefit the community. When the UAE launched the Mars Hope mission, the country was also working on a new policy to protect senior citizens and determine a criteria to measure social cohesion and improve living standards. These community efforts were led by the Ministry of Community Development with the launch of several pillars to increase the participation of women in our society and their contribution to the country’s economic development.”
National symbol
During her speech, Dr. Maitha Al Shamsi hailed H.H. Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and praised the team behind the success of this report. The report highlights the UAE’s successful journey in providing women with equal career advancement opportunities, which encourage them to take on leadership positions, enabling them to be true partners in strengthening the nation’s capabilities and its development.
She added that the report is a national symbol of our wise leadership’s ongoing commitment on gender balance and showcases the country’s commitment to achieve the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals and enhance its ranking in global competitiveness reports.
She continued by saying that gender balance has always played an integral role within UAE society and remains a key national priority for the country’s future. The remarkable progress that we see today, concerning women’s participation and their many achievements within various fields, is the result of a vision, based upon this principle with efficiency and the ability to give back, as the main drivers of excellence.
She also highlighted the remarkable contributions, initiatives and valuable projects led by Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak over the years to support women and provide them with the opportunity to work side-by-side with men across all sectors, and to prove themselves and their capabilities in serving the nation and supporting its progress.
France National Day was celebrated in the presence of Le Drian; Franck Riester, French Minister Delegate in charge of Foreign Trade and Economic Attractiveness…reports Asian Lite News
Jean-Yves Le Drian, French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, has said that the participation of the world’s countries in Expo 2020 Dubai enhances international cooperation, as the most important cultural event in the world carries a message of hope at the time of the coronavirus pandemic.
In his statement marking France’s National Day at Expo 2020 Dubai, he said that his country’s pavilion will remain active during the next six months as it was today, and “if we can help maintain the confidence of the world through the Expo platform, this in itself is a good thing.”
The France Pavilion, located in the Mobility District of the World Expo, is intended to be a place of emulation, reflection and inspiration for international visitors. For six months, the France Pavilion will offer a rich visitor experience whose slogan is, “France, Lightspeed Inspiration”, which reflects its ambition and programme.
France National Day was celebrated in the presence of Le Drian; Franck Riester, French Minister Delegate in charge of Foreign Trade and Economic Attractiveness; as well as the sponsors and stakeholders of the France Pavilion, and many French artists.
The pavilion’s visitors’ journey takes visitors on an experience highlighting unique and daring French innovations and creations in all the fields that have made the history of humanity a journey of progress: science, research, technology, arts, crafts, and education.
