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-Top News Dubai UAE News

Union Properties Unveils Phase I of ‘Motor City Hills’

The project is designed as a residential project to accommodate family needs according to the highest standards and specifications…reports Asian Lite News

Union Properties PJSC has signed an investment agreement with leading real estate company AQUA Properties to launch “Motor City Hills” in Motor City.

This will be a unique project, the first of its kind in the region. Phase 1 of the project consists of 415 three-story townhouse villas with an area of up to 3,000 square feet (sq ft), and include 4 bedrooms. Aqua Properties will play an exclusive role in the marketing and sales operations.

The project is ideally located on land owned by Union Properties PJSC in the heart of Motor City, located near to the most prosperous commercial district in Motor City, which will include two types of villas, ranging between 2,500 to 3,000 sq ft, consisting of 4 en-suite bedrooms, including maids’ room. The project is designed as a residential project to accommodate family needs according to the highest standards and specifications. The project features a vibrant and spacious space combined with an array of exciting communal amenities, such as swimming pools, green playgrounds and children’s play areas.

Motor City Hills is ideally located in the heart of Motor City, which offers easy access to major roads, such as Hessa Street, Umm Suqeim Street and Sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Road. It is roughly a 20-minute drive from the bustling city areas, such as Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina.

ALSO READ: ‘Dubai at frontier of leading financial markets’

Commenting on the project, Ali Tumbi, the founder of Aqua Properties, said, “We are very excited about this new project, consisting of uniquely designed three-story townhouses, as we have seen a change in the demand for the type of real estate during the last period as a result of the pandemic shifting to Villas and townhouses. This community will target mid-income residents who wish to live in a vibrant and fully developed community, such as Motor City, which already includes shops, schools, and hospitals, creating an integrated family-oriented community.”

Tumbi said that sales would start in October. The completion of the first phase is expected in August 2024.

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-Top News Dubai Sports

CRICKET HUB: Advantage UAE

Howzat! Dubai, the headquarters of the International Cricket Council, will be the cynosure of more than a billion people over the next two months as it co-hosts along with Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, the Indian Premier League and the ICC Men’s Twenty20 World Cup…reports Asian Lite News

The Indian Premier League, the globe’s richest cricket tournament and one of the most-watched sporting events in the world, is currently taking place across three venues in the UAE following the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) decision to conduct the remainder of their marquee tournament’s 14th season in the UAE after concerns over the COVID-19 situation in India forced the suspension of the tournament in May with 31 of the season’s 60 matches still to be played.

CRICKET HUB: Advantage UAE

The BCCI also decided to host the 16-team ICC Twenty20 World Cup in the UAE and Oman. Dubai will host the final of the ICC Twenty20 World Cup on 14th November, 2021, after a total of 45 matches, with 12 of them being played in Dubai. The IPL 2021 final will also take place in Dubai, on 15th October, and it will host 13 of the tournament’s 31 matches.

Most of cricket’s one billion plus fans from around the world will, however, be waiting for day two of the ICC Twenty20 World cup when traditional rivals India and Pakistan renew their colourful cricketing rivalry here in Dubai on Sunday, 24th October, in the most popular format of the sport.

India vs Pakistan is one of the most intense and enduring rivalries in sports, and with 90 percent of cricket’s billion-plus fans coming from South Asia, the match at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on 24th October will be the biggest talking point of the tournament.

ALSO READ: International Communication Forum open at Dubai Expo

Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council, said, “Several people from India and Pakistan call UAE their home. A lot of Indian and Pakistani fans will be coming to the UAE from around the world for the tournament, and for this match in particular. I expect there will be a great buzz around this game, both inside and outside the stadium.

“This will be the first match between India and Pakistan in more than two years – the first since their clash at the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup in England.

“But before that, there is plenty of cricket to be played. We are proud to welcome the Indian Premier League back. They were here last year and their return reinforces Dubai and UAE’s reputation as the world’s leading host of top international sports tournaments, especially in this challenging COVID-19 era.

“Last year, the IPL family was here for more than two months and the logistics was mindboggling. Eight teams play in the IPL, so you had hundreds of players as well as support and administrative staff here, along with their families living in bio-secure bubbles. In addition, there was an over 700-strong TV production crew and more than 90 commentators.

CRICKET HUB: Advantage UAE

“It was a daunting endeavour, but together as one team, we pulled it off and we are now looking forward to another great season of IPL ahead – this time with fans in the stadium.”

The IPL 2021 resumed in Dubai on 19th September with Chennai Super Kings defeating defending champion Mumbai Indians at a sold-out Dubai International Cricket Stadium, which will also host the final on October 15.

A staggering 405 million viewers in India – out of a total TV viewership of 836 million – watched the 2020 tournament, shattering all previous records by any broadcasting property in India. The opening match of the 2020 IPL in UAE was viewed by a whopping 158 million, which was 21 percent higher than 131 million viewers recorded during the opening match of IPL 2019.

The 405 million Indian viewers of the 2020 IPL spent a total of 400 billion minutes watching the tournament, which was a 23 percent jump in total consumption over IPL 2019 (326 billion minutes), and a 12.4 percent increase over ICC World Cup 2019 (356 billion minutes).

The eight teams taking part in the IPL are defending and five-time champions Mumbai Indians, three-time winners and 2019 runners-up Chennai Super Kings, two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders, who are owned by Indian filmstar Shahrukh Khan, 2008 winners Rajasthan Royals, 2016 champions Sunrisers Hyderabad, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Delhi Capitals, and Kings XI Punjab.

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Dubai Health UAE News

FOCP hosting the Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

The UAE-based civil society organisation, Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) is hosting a series of events and initiatives to foster greater public awareness about childhood cancer throughout September, the Childhood Cancer Awareness Month…reports Asian Lite News

As member of the Childhood Cancer International (CCI), a global umbrella organisation of childhood cancer institutions and advocates, FOCP is also participating in the international campaign, ‘Light It Up Gold’. Founded by the American Childhood Cancer Organisation, the campaign involves participating organisations from around the world lighting up prominent buildings, iconic landmarks and monuments in golden hues throughout the month to raise awareness for childhood cancer. Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is symbolised globally by a gold ribbon.

FOCP hosting the Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Three UAE landmarks bathed in gold

Two of Sharjah’s significant landmarks, the iconic House of Wisdom (HoW) and Sharjah Archaeological Museum, are illuminated in gold throughout this month to express solidarity with children suffering from cancer as well as to highlight their plight all over the world.

The biggest building in shape of frame in the world, Dubai Frame has also been lit in gold to support children with cancer. As dedicated benefactors of childhood cancer patients, FOCP encourages iconic buildings, historical landmarks and monuments to champion the cause of paediatric cancer awareness by lighting them up in gold through the month.

Webinar on childhood leukaemia 

FOCP organised a virtually held discussion, titled ‘Childhood Cancers: Knowing the warning signs’ hosted in collaboration with pediatric hematologist and oncologist Dr Eman Taryam AlShamsi, offered insights into common cancers in children, their causes and early warning signs. Highlighting the least known facts about childhood cancers, she discussed the significance of early diagnosis, treatment advances and reasons for delay during diagnosis, as well as to explore challenges and barriers to early testing and referral and how to overcome them. She also advised attending parents to be more sensitive to the complaints of children and pay heed to their discomforts, instead of ignoring them.  Another webinar on childhood leukaemia for parents and caregivers of children with cancer will be conducted online at the last week of September.

ALSO READ: UAE lauded for its digital transformation programmes

‘Light It Up Gold’ social media activations

FOCP is also leveraging social media to spread awareness about childhood cancers, the impact on sufferers and families, and raise funds to support them. An exclusive video interview with an oncologist doctor, has been posted on their social media platforms, and highlight the symptoms of paediatric cancer as well as treatment options and management of side effects. Another interview will zoom in on the life and cancer journey of a survivor who will detail the process of treatment and recovery, in a bid to inspire other cancer patients undergoing treatment. Both videos will be posted on FOCP’s social media handles on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Youtube.

Awareness is the first step to defeating cancer

Commenting on the importance of the campaign, Dr Sawsan Al Madhi, Director General of FOCP, said: “According to a 2018 study, childhood cancer is the fourth leading cause of death globally among children under 15. The most common types of cancer diagnosed in children aged up to 14 years are leukemia, brain and other central nervous system tumors and lymphomas. In the UAE, among all cancer cases, approximately 9.5 per cent are paediatric cancer. Leukemia accounts for almost one in every three cancer cases in children here and the World Health Organisation predicts a rise in childhood cancers in the country”.

“Having the knowledge of these regional and global statistics and catching early signs and symptoms of childhood cancer is key because early detection in most cases will mean half the battle won. It is our duty as advocates, parents, teachers, community members, and nations to empower each other to safeguard our children from this ailment,” Al Madhi added.

Manal Ataya, Director-General of Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) said: “Lighting up Sharjah Archeology to mark Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is part of our strategic partnership and cooperation with FOCP. It also stems from our commitment to social responsibility towards benefitting cancer patients through programmes that are specifically designed to meet their needs and enhancing their well-being.”

Marwa Al Aqroubi, Director of House of Wisdom said: “Our children not only represent joy and youthfulness – they are our future. Ensuring their wellbeing is one of the most significant causes we can commit to, because when we commit to helping them, we commit to helping humanity.”

For his part, Mohammed Abdulrahman Ahli Head of Specialized Parks and Recreational said, “it is very important to support patient with cancer in different Initiatives & here in Dubai Frame we lit the biggest building in shape of frame to support children with cancer”.

FOCP hosting the Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

FOCP’s unwavering support to young people in their fight against cancer

Adjusting to a child’s cancer diagnosis and finding ways to stay strong is challenging for everyone in a family. All members in a family dealing with childhood cancer need constant guidance on a number of issues, which FOCP offers along with treatment and financial support to its young beneficiaries. 

This includes awareness programmes to help paediatric cancer patients and their families through FOCP’s ‘Ana’ childhood cancer initiative launched in 2014 under the directives of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah and Founder and Patron of FOCP.

Joy Cart is another FOCP initiative designed specially to offer added emotional support to younger cancer patients undergoing treatment. Though monthly events organised in paediatric cancer wards in hospitals across UAE, multiple fun activities including distribution of toys and other gifts, Joy Cart not only brings smiles to the faces of children who are fighting every odd to survive, but also offers them hope and a chance to express themselves creatively, which go a long way in ensuring their wellness.

FOCP was founded in 1999 under the directives and patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, Founder and Royal Patron of FOCP, International Ambassador of the World Cancer Declaration for Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), and Patron of the Global NCD Alliance Forum. It is the leading civil society organisation in the UAE that advocates to promote cancer screenings and awareness of the early detectable cancers.

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Dubai EXPO 2020 UAE News

International Communication Forum open at Dubai Expo

The milestone 10th edition of the prestigious two-day forum promises to be rich and diverse…reports Asian Lite News

The 2021 edition of the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) opens Sunday at Expo Centre Sharjah, under the patronage of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

EXPO 2020

The milestone 10th edition of the prestigious two-day forum promises to be rich and diverse, bringing together a host of 79 communication experts from around the world to evaluate the historical experience of government communication, discuss innovative crisis management mechanisms and determine the future of public communication.

ALSO READ: Bookings open for Emirates Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai

Organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB) under the slogan ‘Historic lessons, Future ambitions’, IGCF 2021 promises to deliver a rich and diverse edition with heads of states, ministers, thought leaders and influencers, coming together to deliver keynote speeches and participate in pathbreaking interactive sessions.

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Dubai News UAE News

Dubai Chambers discuss new trade plans

Dubai International Chamber was established to strengthen partnerships with global corporations, investors, and entrepreneurs and boost Dubai’s status as a major trade hub…reports Asian Lite News

The Board of Directors of the newly formed Dubai International Chamber, one of the three chambers under the umbrella of the newly formed Dubai Chambers, held its first meeting earlier today at the Dubai Chamber headquarters where board members discussed priorities and new plans to boost Dubai’s trade with global markets.

DIC board meeting

The meeting was chaired by His Excellency Sultan bin Sulayem, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dubai International Chamber, in the presence of board members H.E. Helal Saeed Al Marri; Stephen Moss; Gassan Al Kibsi; Mark Willis; Nader Haffar; Dr. Habib Mulla; Nabil Habayeb; Sanjiv Kakkar; Elissar Farah Antonios; Julia Onslow-Cole; Rani R. Raad;  Rola Abu Minh; May Nasrallah Merville; Shukri Eid; and Ahmed Alkhallafi. The meeting was also attended by H.E. Hamad Buamim, President & CEO, of Dubai Chamber.

The board discussed ways to leverage the Chamber’s international network to tap into the 30 priority markets, which have been identified as high potential markets that can accelerate the growth of Dubai’s foreign trade. Member companies of Dubai International Chamber will work towards achieving target of boosting Dubai’s foreign trade to AED 2 trillion within the next five years, consolidating Dubai’s position as global trade hub.

ALSO READ: Dubai becomes UN-designated role model for smart, sustainable city

HE Sultan bin Sulayem, stated that trade is the cornerstone of Dubai’s economy and essential for its diversification and stated that the new board will focus its efforts on implementing as new strategy announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which aims to boost Dubai’s foreign trade to AED 2 trillion within the next five years and cement the emirate’s position as global trade hub.

HE BIN SULAYEM: “Through integrated plans, the chamber will target new international markets and support the expansion of national companies abroad. The chamber will also support and integrate global investors, entrepreneurs and talent into Dubai’s flourishing business community within a comprehensive framework that ensures providing an agile pro-business environment,” said HE Bin Sulayem.

“I am confident that the Dubai International Chamber will not only achieve its new targets but take Dubai’s trade ties with promising markets to the next level. The Chamber is already in strong position to achieve its objectives as it can leverage Dubai Chambers’ resources and vast network of international representative offices across Africa, Eurasia and Latin America,” he added.

DIC board meeting

Dubai International Chamber was established to strengthen partnerships with global corporations, investors and entrepreneurs and boost Dubai’s status as a major trade hub. Adopting a more specialised approach to driving Dubai’s foreign trade, the chamber will promote the opportunities that the emirate offers in facilitating trade flows.

The Chamber was established under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, as part of a recent government restructuring that aims to drive a comprehensive economic development in Dubai.

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Dubai EXPO 2020

Ancient Pharaonic coffin to be displayed at Egypt pavilion

The ancient coffin of Priest Psamtik has arrived in Dubai to be displayed for Egypt Pavilion visitors at Expo Dubai 2020…reports Asian Lite News

The coffin of priest Psamtik, ‘the son of Pediosir’ is one of the colored wooden coffins that were recently discovered in the area of Saqqara by the archaeological mission of the Supreme Council of Antiquities.

Coffin

The coffin is decorated with a large necklace that ends with the heads of a falcon, with the goddess of sky “Nut” appears spreading her wings, carrying the two feathers of ‘Maat ‘(the goddess of truth and justice).

The center part of the coffin is decorated with religious incantations. Around its sides are two rows of “Was” deities holding a scepter in her hands. At the lower part of the coffin, two figures of the god of afterlife Anubis appear above his cottage standing in front of the deceased.

ALSO READ: Expo unveils Hammour House community art project

A group of modern replicas of King Tutankhamun have also arrived to be displayed at Egypt pavilion.

The collection of King Tutankhamun replicas  include his golden mask, his own sarcophagus, the ‘Ka’ guardian statue of the king, the special festive chair as well as the golden king’s throne.

The notion of coffins in the ancient Egyptian civilization is of great significance from a religious and symbolic point of view, as it is the most important phase in the burial process and the place where the body of the deceased is prepared for the process of judgment in the afterlife.

The transfer of these artifacts comes to assure the keenness of all Egyptian state agencies to maximize all their capabilities to grant the success of the Egyptian participation in Expo Dubai 2020 and to ensure that Egypt’s pavilion reflect the significance of the country’s role and leadership as one of the most top tourist attractions and archaeological destinations in the world.

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-Top News COVID-19 Dubai

DEWA updates 2022 strategy for post-Covid phase

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has organised a workshop to update its 2022 strategy…reports Asian Lite News

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, and DEWA’s top management team participated as DEWA is committed to regularly updating its strategy to keep pace with rapid developments.

In his keynote speech at the workshop, Al Tayer said that updating DEWA’s strategic plan is especially important as this year celebrates the UAE’s Golden Jubilee and Expo 2020 Dubai will take place for the first time in the region.

“Thanks to the vision and directives of our wise leadership, the UAE has succeeded in handling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic to become one of the fastest countries in the world to react to it. Dubai Government has demonstrated its resilience and ability to keep pace with all changes and developments, continue to work in any circumstances, and efficiently manage any emergency or crisis.”

ALSO READ: Dubai becomes UN-designated role model for smart, sustainable city

“Drawing on lessons learned from the latest events, DEWA has succeeded in aligning its operations and strategy to address the challenges posed by the pandemic and transform them into opportunities, as well as prepare for the next phase by developing plans and insights to build new foundations and work mechanisms. The regular review of DEWA’s strategy aims to ensure that it contributes to increasing its competitiveness and excellence in anticipating and shaping the future, as well as developing long-term, proactive plans to realise the government of the future,” added Al Tayer.

“We are committed to regularly updating DEWA’s strategic plan to keep pace with all developments in line with government plans and strategies. These include the UAE Centennial 2071, the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, and the UAE Strategy for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, among others. I thank all divisions for their efforts during the past period. I urge you to continue the journey to excellence and promote DEWA’s role in making a brighter and more sustainable future. This will support the realisation of the vision of the wise leadership to make the ‘Year of the 50th’ a starting point for another fifty years of progress and prosperity,” Al Tayer concluded.

“Strategic planning is a key pillar for DEWA to ensure we are prepared for the future and achieve its vision to become a globally leading sustainable innovative corporation. At DEWA, we use the latest strategic planning tools, including third-generation Balanced Scorecards and outlining performance indicators and smart objectives to measure efficiency and reliability. This ensures effective execution and continuous improvement of plans to improve work mechanisms to the highest international standards,” said Khawla Al Mehairi, Executive Vice President of Strategy and Government Communications at DEWA.

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-Top News Dubai World

Dubai becomes UN-designated role model for smart, sustainable city

Sheikh Hamdan congratulated various government entities whose efforts led to this global recognition, and urged to continue to work to raise Dubai’s global sustainability rankings, reports Asian Lite Newsdesk

Dubai has gained the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction’s recognition as a role model for a smart, sustainable, and resilient city.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of The Executive Council, met with heads of government entities whose efforts helped Dubai gain the UN recognition.

UAE flag

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed said the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to transform Dubai into a model for future cities has been the driving force for achievements in sustainable development.

Powered by national and international talent, Dubai has implemented world-class projects and deployed state-of-the-art solutions to make it the world’s best place to work and live, he said.

The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction’s recognition acknowledges Dubai’s adoption of best practices and innovative approaches in disaster risk reduction. Dubai was ranked first globally in term of resilience. It was also the only city to be recognised among 56 cities shortlisted from 4,357 competing cities.

ALSO READ:

During the meeting that took place at Dubai World Trade Centre, Sheikh Hamdan congratulated various government entities whose efforts led to this global recognition. He urged the teams to continue to work to raise Dubai’s global sustainability rankings.

He also highlighted the importance of supporting innovative ideas that can help Dubai convert challenges into opportunities and create a brighter future.

The heads of government entities said the directives of Sheikh Mohammed, and the continuous follow up of Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, have helped Dubai become a smart, sustainable and resilient city that provides a robust infrastructure and world-leading service quality.

The assessment of Dubai by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction focused on 10 Essentials for Making Cities Resilient, 117 indicator criteria, and other requirements and conditions.

Dubai’s risk and disaster management teams work to constantly raise their preparedness to deal with unforeseen crises and develop long term strategies to promote a culture of readiness to manage all kinds of risks.

Foreign trade

The Board of Directors of the newly formed Dubai International Chamber, one of the three chambers under the umbrella of the newly formed Dubai Chambers, held its first meeting at the Dubai Chamber headquarters where board members discussed priorities and new plans to boost Dubai’s trade with global markets.

The meeting was chaired by Sultan bin Sulayem, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dubai International Chamber, in the presence of other board members.

The board discussed ways to leverage the Chamber’s international network to tap into the 30 priority markets, which have been identified as high potential markets that can accelerate the growth of Dubai’s foreign trade.

Member companies of Dubai International Chamber will work towards achieving the target of boosting Dubai’s foreign trade to AED2 trillion within the next five years, consolidating Dubai’s position as global trade hub.

Sultan bin Sulayem, stated that trade is the cornerstone of Dubai’s economy and essential for its diversification and stated that the new board will focus its efforts on implementing as new strategy announced by Prime Minister, which aims to boost Dubai’s foreign trade to AED 2 trillion within the next five years and cement the emirate’s position as global trade hub.

Dubai International Chamber was established to strengthen partnerships with global corporations, investors and entrepreneurs and boost Dubai’s status as a major trade hub. Adopting a more specialised approach to driving Dubai’s foreign trade, the chamber will promote the opportunities that the emirate offers in facilitating trade flows.

The Chamber was established under the directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, as part of a recent government restructuring that aims to drive a comprehensive economic development in Dubai. 

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Dubai Travel & Tourism UAE News

Dubai Presents Latest Period Drama trailer

Dubai: A Captivating Saga raises the curtain on a city that has always been a bustling cosmopolitan center of trade and cultural exchange…reports Asian Lite News

Dubai Tourism’s ‘Period Drama’ trailer is next in the Dubai Presents series of blockbuster videos starring Jessica Alba and Zac Efron. The latest trailer takes viewers back to Dubai in the 1950s and centers around the story of a young aviation pioneer at a crossroads in search of the conviction and answers she needs to beat the odds.  

Through stunning cinematography and art direction, Dubai: A Captivating Saga raises the curtain on a city that has always been a bustling cosmopolitan center of trade and cultural exchange. The trailer hints at an itinerary packed with hidden gems – from uncovering the city’s rich history dating back to the Iron Age to a perfect day spent on a desert oasis; indulging in a delectable Emirati meal over a campfire and learning about Bedouin traditions from falconry to astronomy and more.

ALSO READ: In conversation with OPPO Brand Ambassador

Filmed by Director’s Guild award-winning director Craig Gillespie, the ‘Period Drama’ trailer pays homage to the city’s multicultural roots and identity as we gear up to celebrate the UAE’s Golden Jubilee and welcome the world at Expo 2020

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Dubai News UAE News

Gastech to power Net-Zero future

The policy makers and energy leaders examine what needs to be done to enable the pivot towards hydrogen and ensure a rapid expansion of the hydrogen economy…reports Asian Lite News

For the first time this year, a dedicated hydrogen zone, Gastech Hydrogen, has been added to Gastech, the world’s foremost gas, LNG, hydrogen, and energy event.  The conversation delivering on the global hydrogen vision to help meet decarbonisation targets and progress towards net-zero energy commitments.

Co-located with Gastech 2021, taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre, in Dubai, the Hydrogen Zone features a series of dedicated conference sessions focused on the potential of hydrogen in creating a cleaner, more sustainable energy future and for GCC hydrocarbon producers to reduce methane emissions and drive the development of the hydrogen economy.

Sri Lanka Minister

In addition to the conference sessions, taking place today and tomorrow, a high-level Ministerial Panel was held on the opening day of Gastech 2021 which focused on what more needs to be done by policymakers to ensure the rapid expansion of the hydrogen supply chain and what impact regulations will have on facilitating the pivot towards green and blue hydrogen. Ministers from leading energy markets participated in the panel.

H.E. UDAYA GAMMANPILA, SRI LANKA’S MINISTER OF ENERGY: “Whilst electrification using solar, and wind can help replace fossil fuels in the longer term, not all energy intensive applications can be readily electrified (e.g. aviation). We therefore believe hydrogen can be the fuel of the future, by tapping further into Sri Lanka’s abundant wind and solar potential. Indeed, hydrogen is likely to make Sri Lanka self-reliant in energy and possibly a net exporter.”

Today, (September 22) Hydrogen Zone attendees heard how hydrogen presents Gulf energy producers with a globally significant opportunity to remodel their business practices and lead the transition towards Net-Zero energy. Although scaling up projects, infrastructure and end user accessibility will present huge challenges, the production of both green and blue hydrogen offers a unique chance to deliver on climate commitments and drastically reduce CO2 emissions. Tomorrow (September 23), the focus of the Gastech Hydrogen Zone discussions will switch to what must happen by 2030 if hydrogen is to overcome existing barriers to wide scale adoption and achieve the vision of the hydrogen economy.

In the Gulf region, substantial natural-gas reserves are seen as an opportunity to produce hydrogen. Work is already underway on megaprojects to expand the UAE’s hydrogen economy, including a two gigawatt green ammonia project by Taqa, the Abu Dhabi National Energy Company, and Abu Dhabi Ports which will use green hydrogen as feedstock to produce liquid ammonia for use in ships as bunker fuel and for export.

ALSO READ: UAE Targets $100B Trade With India Within 5 Years

Meanwhile, the Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) has announced plans for a $1 billion green ammonia plant, which will produce 200,000 tonnes of green ammonia from 40,000 tonnes of green hydrogen. In addition, Masdar has partnered with Siemens Energy, the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, Etihad Airways, Lufthansa, Marubeni Corporation and Khalifa University to develop an electrolysis facility to produce green hydrogen for the transport industry.

And, in Ruwais, the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) is developing an ammonia project, using blue hydrogen, derived from methane, as a feedstock, at its downstream industrial hub and formed an alliance with ADQ and Mubadala to accelerate the use of hydrogen in key economic sectors, including utilities, transport and industry.

Elsewhere in the Arabian Gulf region,  Oman has announced a US $31 billion green hydrogen factory to be built in the Al Wusta governorate and Saudi Arabi plans to invest US $5 billion in the futuristic city Neon to produce green hydrogen from both wind and solar powered electrolysis by 2025.

Taking place over three days, the Gastech Conference programme has brought together over 300 government ministers, energy industry leaders, policymakers, and key customers to map out a future low-emission landscape. Key topics being discussed, in addition to hydrogen’s role in the energy transition, include decarbonisation and emissions management; financing and project investment; adapting business models in a post-Covid world; integrated energy suppliers; gas and LNG supply and demand dynamics; diversification of the future workforce and trading, contracting and pricing.

Lorenzo

Simultaneously, the Gastech Technical Conference is taking place around five learning streams – Hydrogen; Marine; EPC and Project; Processing and AI and Technology. The programme is providing multiple opportunities for working professionals to learn from over 300 of the world’s leading energy engineers as they present the latest technological breakthroughs and market opportunities for the industry.

Gastech 2021, is being held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai and is supported by the UAE’s Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure.  The exhibition and conference is co-hosted by ADNOC, Shell, and Venture Global LNG.

Before it closes tomorrow, (Thursday, September 23) Gastech 2021 will have received more than 15,000 visitors including senior decision-makers and energy industry thought leaders, and 250 exhibiting companies. Taking place alongside Gastech 2021 is the SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (ATCE) enabling visitors to attend both events’ exhibitions without the need to register twice.