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Dubai News UAE News

Barakah Plant Unit 2 connects to UAE’s transmission grid

The second unit of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant has been successfully connected to the UAE power grid two weeks after start-up of the reactor was completed in late August…reports Asian Lite News

The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) on Tuesday announced that its operations and maintenance subsidiary, Nawah Energy Company, has safely and successfully connected the unit to the UAE grid, delivering the first megawatts of carbon-free electricity from the second of four units at the Barakah Plant.

After the start-up in August, the Barakah Plant became the first multi-unit operating nuclear plant in the UAE and Arab World.

Barakah Plant Unit 2 connects to UAE’s transmission grid

With the Unit 2 grid connection successfully completed, the Unit is in preparation to adding a further 1,400MW of clean electricity capacity to the UAE grid, with the first megawatts of emissions-free electricity from this unit now being dispatched to businesses, schools and homes.

This milestone takes ENEC and its subsidiaries another step closer to the half-way mark of its goal to supply up to a quarter of the country’s electricity needs 24/7, while driving reductions in carbon emissions – the leading cause of climate change.

During grid connection, the Unit 2 generator was integrated and synchronised with the requirements of the UAE’s national electricity transmission grid, ahead of the start of commercial operations.

With the integration and connection complete, Unit 2’s nuclear operators will begin the process of gradually raising the power levels of the reactor, known as Power Ascension Testing (PAT).

ALSO READ: UAE Launches ‘United Global Emirates’ Campaign

Once the process is completed, Unit 2 will deliver thousands of additional megawatts of clean baseload electricity for decades to come. This testing will be conducted under the continued oversight of the UAE’s independent nuclear regulator, FANR, which has now conducted more than 335 inspections since the start of Barakah’s development.

By powering millions of businesses and households with abundant, clean electricity from the Barakah Plant, ENEC is leading the largest decarbonisation effort in the region, as the Plant now is the largest single source of clean electricity in the UAE and the Arab World.

The Barakah Plant, located in the Al Dhafra region of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, is one of the largest nuclear energy plants in the world, with four APR-1400 units. Construction of the Plant began in 2012 and has progressed steadily ever since.

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Business Dubai UAE News

The Annual Investment Meeting 2022 to focus on startups

The Annual Investment Meeting Startup Pillar to Empower Startups Globally…reports Asian Lite News

The world’s renowned and leading investment platform, The Annual Investment Meeting will be held on 29 – 31 March 2022, under the theme “Investments in Sustainable Innovation for a Thriving Future”, and will provide a powerful platform for SMEs and startups to maximize their potential, expand their network, and grow globally.

The Annual Investment Meeting 2022 strives to support all economic sectors by opening numerous doors of opportunities to the world as a dynamic roadmap to recovery as it puts a spotlight on six multi-faceted pillars including Startups.

AIM Startup PR image

With AIM’s pillars, AIM 2022 actively supports businesses, multinational organizations, regions, and countries during the rapid shift of the economy by extending its scope and not focusing on FDI alone. AIM 2022 is highly agile, and will serve as a dynamic gateway to jumpstart economies and boost economic productivity.

Globally, Startups play a vital role in strengthening new industries and coming up with innovative ideas; AIM’s Startup Pillar helps investors to nurture early-stage venture capital or seed funding to start a business. AIM 2022 will be a hybrid event that will feature Live Pitching sessions from the Startups exhibiting physically at the Dubai Exhibitions Centre at EXPO 2020 Dubai, or by exhibiting digitally via state-of-the-art virtual events platform.

Startups can now get the opportunity of networking with key industry figures, engaging with clients & investors, showcasing their innovations & B2B Matchmaking. The startups pitching competition will be based on the 3 tier Round of Funding format featuring various startups globally in the Pre-Seed, Seed & Series A funding categories.

The Annual Investment Meeting 2022 will also provide a virtual access to startups to gain maximum exposure and get connected with local and international investors from more than 170 participating countries, giving them abundant opportunities to find new sources of funding and financing solutions for their business.

The Annual Investment Meeting continues to gain support from several Ministries and Government Departments, Special Economic Zones (SEZ), Smart City Solution Providers, Venture Capitalists, Angel Investors and several financial institutions to provide Startups with an abundance of opportunities.

Startups contribute significantly to economic development and job creation globally. By 2030, the number of startups around the world is expected to increase and will create more than 600 million jobs.

ALSO READ: Global Business Forum Africa 2021 to hit Dubai

A wide range of activities await participating Startups at AIM 2022 such as World-Class Conferences and Workshops, to explore innovative strategies and practices led by more than 300 high-level speakers that includes world leaders, ministers and heads of distinguished local and international organizations and the Exhibition which is participated by the best local and international exhibitors across the globe with the goal of achieving economic growth for their respective country and region.

Mr. Walid Farghal, Director General of the Annual Investment Meeting said, “In these challenging times, it’s imperative to provide Startups and SMEs with the maximum support they need since they contribute so much to economic strength and development globally. The Annual Investment Meeting 2022 will serve as a vital tool for Startups to receive support from the global investment community as they network with key investors, learn about growth strategies, and promote their products, services, and ideas.”

AIM 2022 will provide businesses, governments and civil society with an independent and future-oriented platform to amplify their efforts to influence & facilitate multistakeholder interaction and impact. The Startup pillar will connect keen investors looking for new avenues and projects for investments in sustainable and innovative development, as well as governments looking for startup projects to increase their economic growth.

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Dubai UAE News Woman

Jawaher: The future generation of Emirati women should be strengthened

Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the UAE Girl Guides Association, are committed to raising capable generations of young female leaders in the UAE…reports Asian Lite News

Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the UAE Girl Guides Association, has emphasised upon the importance of boosting investments in the nation’s girl scout movement so as to strengthen its foundational role in empowering future generations of Emirati women to shape promising futures; fully equipped with the knowledge and skillsets required to lead successful personal as well as professional lives.

UAE Girl Guides Association

Her Highness made these remarks on a recent visit to the Sharjah Girl Guides (SGG) headquarters, where she was offered an overview of SGG’s overarching strategy and action plan for the near future to advance the scouting movement in the UAE, particularly, the emirate of Sharjah. HH Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi also heard from SGG officials on the past achievements of the entity, reflected in the entity’s successful efforts in boosting the role of their Brownies, Guides and Senior Guides in Emirati society. 

UAE Girl Guides Association

Stressing on the need for SGG members to build distinguished skillsets as well as value systems, Her Highness opined: “We are committed to raising capable generations of young female leaders in the UAE, equipped with the ability to serve the public, and with deep knowledge that they will find in good books and writing. The right knowledge, advanced skillsets, and a sense of service to community will lay the foundations for the rise of successive generations of Emirati women who will play a leading role in the country’s development.” 

ALSO READ: Veiled Afghan Women Stage Pro-Taliban Rally in Kabul

“We aspire to elevate SGG to a global level, and thereby, boost cooperation between Sharjah and the UAE, GCC and the wider region. We plan to do this by organising several value-creating and interactive guiding activities that will bring girl scouts from across the region on one platform with their peers, facilitate the sharing of knowledge and expertise, and allow SGG to realise organisational goals in more collaborative ways,” Sheikha Jawaher added.

UAE Girl Guides Association

On the tour of the SGG, the Chairperson of the UAE Girl Guides Association was accompanied by Shaikha Al Shamsi, Director of SGG, and several departmental heads. Her Highness examined the recent renovations carried out by SGG to enhance the stimulating and nurturing environment it provides its young members with to tap into their full potential, and also met a group of bright young Brownies and Guides, who spoke about their passions and the skills they acquired at SGG including writing, cooking, drawing, wood working, handicrafts, and others.

In conclusion of the visit, Her Highness urged the SGG team to continue their march towards advancing their members’ capabilities to raise successive generations young women leaders in Sharjah, also lauded their efforts to realise the organisation’s vision, which is in line with the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS), UAE Girl Guides Association, and UAE Vision 2021.

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Dubai Food UAE News

Punjab Grill expands to Dubai

Punjab Grill Brings its Exquisite Culinary Experience to Dubai…reports Asian Lite News

The Dubai location offers an intimate dining experience with an innovative menu of modern Indian cuisine. Add to this sophisticated design with touches of Indian heritage woven throughout, and Punjab Grill is well-positioned to become one of Dubai’s most sought-after dining destinations.

The restaurant overlooks the Oberoi Courtyard, while inside it features a live open kitchen where a team of skilled chefs are always on the go preparing dishes from the menu over flaming grills and aroma-saturated tandoors. Leading this team is Executive Chef Sandeep Ail, hailing from Mumbai, where he underwent culinary studies at the Institute of Hotel Management.

ALSO READ: Dubai’s food and beverage trade with Africa nears $14bn

Sandeep Ail’s diverse menu – authentically Indian yet with exciting gastronomic twists – will include Punjab Grill classics such as the Butter Chicken and Kashmiri Lamb Chops along with new additions such as Dabur Black Cod, Sesame and Coconut Prawn served with Ragi noodles, and Duck Breast Vindaloo. The menu also has a good range of gluten-free options and dishes that can be prepared to cater to vegan diets such as Tandoori Portobello and Kundapur Roast Cauliflower. Freshness is key and ingredients are locally sourced, including Burrata produced in the UAE and fresh oysters from Dibba Bay.

Dabur Black Cod

The Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, one of India’s most luxurious hotel brands, is an ideal fit for the exclusive Punjab Grill, which is a memorable setting not only for romantic outings but also corporate luncheons and private occasions with family and friends.

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-Top News Dubai UAE News

Dubai-Abu Dhabi bus service resumes

The operation of this inter-city bus service is coordinated with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Transport for serving passengers between the two emirates…reports Asian Lite News

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced the resumption of the E101 bus shuttle between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

The operation of this inter-city bus service is coordinated with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Transport for serving passengers between the two emirates.

Adel Shakri, Director of Planning and Business Development, Public Transport Agency, RTA, said that Route E101 would start from Ibn Battuta Bus Station in Dubai and head to the Central Bus Station in Abu Dhabi.

“This route is critical to the integration of mass transit means between the two emirates and the smooth movement of passengers.

RTA stresses the importance of complying with all the applicable precautionary measures, such as physical distancing and wearing of masks to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

It calls upon all Dubai Bus and Intercity Bus riders to observe these measures for the public health of the UAE community,” noted Shakri.

Riders have to comply with the precautionary measures enforced by the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, which state that individuals allowed to enter Abu Dhabi Emirate are: Vaccinated individuals whose status is shown as green on Al Hosn App and designated by letter E or Star.

Unvaccinated individuals will be allowed to enter Abu Dhabi within 48 hours of receiving the COVID-19 test result.

Riders heading to Abu Dhabi must not use DPI test results to enter the Emirate two successive times. Such requirements must be reflected on Al Hosn App and in compliance with any new precautionary measures that might be introduced by the concerned bodies in the Emirate.

ALSO READ: UAE participates in Arab foreign ministers meeting in Cairo

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Arab News Dubai UAE News

MG Motor launches an Exclusive MG RX8 Black Edition

The MG Motor Black Edition model confidently displays a sleek, stylish black exterior look, that evidently makes it stand apart from other models in the range…reports Asian Lite News

MG Motor has revealed a new special edition of its popular seven-seater SUV the MG RX8 in the Middle East this September. The MG RX8 Black Edition introduces a bolder, more assertive look to the range, with a raft of all-black interior and exterior style changes in comparison to other RX8 models. Customers can now purchase the car from the MG distributor in their area.

MG_RX8_Black_Edition_Front Grill

The Black Edition model confidently displays a sleek, stylish black exterior look, that evidently makes it to stand apart from other models in the range. The bold new look is supplemented by black side mirror covers, side mouldings, door handles and roof rails, and rounded off by the Black Edition badge and black chrome finish exhaust and bumper at the rear. The MG RX8 is also powered by an electric side-step that is triggered when you open the door to ensure stepping in and out of your car is convenient. Stunning midnight black 20” alloy wheels further elevate the limited edition RX8’s style.

ALSO READ: Hyundai announces Hydrogen Vision 2040

Naturally, the black theme extends to the cabin. The interior of the spacious seven-seater MG RX8 Black Edition is clad in high quality all-black leather, provided by German company ‘Bader’, one of the leading premium leather suppliers in the motoring industry. The highest trim (LUX) comes with ventilated seats to ensure passengers experience nothing but the best comfort. The MG RX8 is robust and spacious, its ample wheelbase and large third-row space clearly sets itself apart from the competition in its segment.With MG’s newest model, customers can embody who they are by doing what they love without any compromise.

TOM LEE, MANAGING DIRECTOR, MG MOTOR, MIDDLE EAST: “The MG RX8 is a 7-seater flagship that continues to play a leading role as customer’s favourite MG model ever-since its introduction to the region. We continue to work very hard with our partners to deliver the best and most exceptional MG products our customers deserve, and that caters to their needs here in the region. We are confident that with an exclusive special edition from the MG RX8 – in an all-black trim with 13 unique upgrades – customers will experience individuality, exclusivity as well as uniqueness in this special edition.”

MG’s seven-seater SUV, the RX8 is a flagship model that is extremely well equipped and spacious. A truly capable 4×4, the RX8 offers a real-time 4×4 Torque on Demand (TOD) System, as well as an advanced 4WD system with six different driving modes. The RX8 is powered by an efficient 220HP 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine that features Net Blue Technology and  develops maximum torque of 360Nm. It is mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shift gear change. The car also offers a wireless phone charging and smartphone connectivity with Apple Carplay and Android Auto enable to a 10-inch colour touch-screen. The car offers a ‘theatre-style’ seating design that incorporates a shallow front-to-rear gradient that means passengers in the third-row benefit from an exceptional view with unrivalled 884mm of legroom (the largest third-row space in its class).

MG_RX8_Black_Edition_Interior

The MG RX8 Black Edition is now available for sale across the Middle East. This comes at an extremely exciting time for the brand in the region, where it has seen sales rocket over the past couple of years.

The car will be available in one trim at $28,900. Prices vary per market and customers are advised to contact their local MG distributor to check stock availability.

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Dubai EXPO 2020 UAE News

Expo 2020 to create huge economic benefits

Expo 2020 Dubai is expected to create huge tangible and intangible economic benefits for the emirate and the wider region…reports Asian Lite News

Expo 2020 Dubai is expected to create huge tangible and intangible economic benefits for the emirate and the wider region, with new and expanded infrastructure serving business communities and societies for the long-term, says Shukri Eid, Managing Director, Gulf Region, Cisco.

SHUKRI EID, MANAGING DIRECTOR, GULF REGION, CISCO: “What’s fascinating is the sheer scale of Expo 2020. We are talking about vast investments in infrastructure. District 2020 – as the site will be known after Expo 2020 – will retain more than 80 percent of the infrastructure built as it transitions into a human-centric mixed-use and fully integrated community for businesses, residents and tourists alike. As a ‘city of firsts’, District 2020 will become a global hub for innovation that brings together an inclusive and diverse community of stakeholders to accelerate the future of industries and technologies. Ultimately, the site was designed to create a more resilient, smarter and sustainable urban environment that lives on after the six-month event. Job creation is another aspect of Expo 2020 legacy, not only for the sake of the event itself, but also to benefit Dubai, the UAE and the wider region for years to come. The benefits of Expo 2020 will be felt long after the last day of the event.”

At a time when the need for a collective response to essential global challenges is needed more than ever, Expo 2020 will leverage the convening power of World Expos and the UAE’s unique position as a global nexus to bring together 191 countries and millions of visitors, to inspire meaningful change and create a brighter future for us all.

One of the first events of this scale to take place since the start of the pandemic, and the first World Expo ever held in the MEASA region, the six-month experience will be a beacon of hope for the global business community.

Shukri Eid, Managing Director, Gulf Region, Cisco

It represents an unprecedented opportunity for businesses of all sizes, international organisations and government entities from across the world, to come together to foster a more diversified and resilient global economy, inspire a vibrant business environment and drive sustainable growth.

Eid’s comments came during the latest installment of the “En Route to Expo” video series run as part of the Business Connect platform, launched by Dubai Chamber in partnership with Entrepreneur Middle East.

ALSO READ: Special Passport For Expo 2020 Dubai Launched

“At Cisco, we are proud to be playing a role in enabling one of the most technologically advanced expos in the event’s history. We were fortunate to be appointed as the Official Digital Network Partner of Expo 2020 Dubai back in 2018. Since then, we have truly moved full speed ahead to build on the promise of making Expo 2020 Dubai a highly immersive, informative and once-in-a-lifetime experience,” he added.

The “En Route to Expo” series provides a platform for public and private sector stakeholders to highlight their contribution to Expo 2020 Dubai and discuss its impact and legacy.

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News

The Future in Motion to be held in Ras Al Khaimah

The 100-day countdown begins as the Global Citizen Forum returns to the global stage with its next Annual Summit to be held in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates from December 12-13, 2021, at the Al Hamra International Exhibition & Conference Centre…reports Asian Lite News

Under the theme, The Future in Motion, the summit will be hosted in partnership with Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority — gathering the world’s leading minds to reimagine a new momentum for human mobility and feature pioneering initiatives that promote sustainable tourism.

RAKI PHILLIPS, CEO, RAS AL KHAIMAH, TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY: “We are delighted to welcome the Global Citizen Forum back to the UAE to be part of this important dialogue for a more resilient future in Ras Al Khaimah. The Emirate is committed to creating a sustainable world with responsible tourism at the heart of our strategy. As a nature-based Emirate, the significance of mobility will be brought to life across new attractions and offerings and will enhance knowledge and understanding of conservation and sustainable tourism,” commented Raki Phillips, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority.

“With the upcoming World Expo in Dubai, the UAE has become one of the world’s most desired and remarkably safe post-pandemic travel destinations and we look forward to welcoming members and guests as we spearhead meaningful initiatives to create considerable change for generations to come,” shares Armand Arton, Founder and Chairman of the Global Citizen Forum.

GCF – RAK Logo

In 2020, Ras Al Khaimah became the first safe-city in the world as certified by Bureau Veritas, as well as the first to receive the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Safe Travels stamp. The Emirate is also one of the fastest developing sustainable tourism destinations in the region, named the Gulf Tourism Capital two years in a row, and continues to host a number of prestigious regional and international events every year.

Previous Annual Summits hosted in Dubai, Toronto, Monaco, and Sveti Stefan have welcomed the late Kofi Annan, José Manuel Barroso, Irina Bokova, Kristalina Georgieva, Duško Marković, Jeanette Kagame, Gaston Browne, Robert De Niro, Wyclef Jean, Akon, EVE, as well as a number of heads of state, members of Royal families, notable entrepreneurs and philanthropists.

ALSO READ: Dubai Chamber launches a new cycle of competition

Since its inception in 2013, the Global Citizen Forum has built a global network of leaders, visionaries and catalyzers with a common mission to unlock the potential of global citizenship and empower a world rooted in the freedom of sustainable human mobility.

Watch the launch announcement video of GCF 2021, premiered today at 8am (UTC)

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Arts & Culture Dubai Lite Blogs

Never miss these skyscrapers in Dubai

The property offers 1,608 guest rooms and suites, the luxurious Saray Spa and more than 15 award-winning restaurants…reports Asian Lite News.

Skyscrapers are the face covers of Dubai. Dubai — the city of unlimited possibilities — is at the top of every travellers’ bucket list. The city continues to dazzle travellers with its breath-taking locations, fascinating attractions and glittering skyline. It houses the best architectural establishments with magnificent views of the city that will leave you in awe. The emirate is also known for its record-breaking structures. Whether it is the world’s biggest fountain or agardens, Dubai has it all! If you’re travelling to Dubai then these skyscrapers must be on your itinerary:

Burj Khalifa

At over 828m tall with 162 floors, this is the world’s tallest tower. It was designed by American architect Adrian Smith at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill to resemble the Hymenocallis or Spider Lily — a regional desert flower. Visitors are welcome to experience Burj Khalifa by dining at one of its many restaurants, including At.mosphere on the 122nd floor, as well as visiting one of the observation decks, “At the Top Burj Khalifa SKY”, the highest outdoor observatory in the world located on the 148th floor, 555m high.

JW Marriott Marquis

The two towers of the JW Marriott Marquis make up the tallest five-star hotel in the world. Located in the heart of Dubai’s downtown district, this luxury hotel’s design is inspired by a date palm tree and boasts awe-inspiring views of the Arabian Sea and the Dubai cityscape. The property offers 1,608 guest rooms and suites, the luxurious Saray Spa and more than 15 award-winning restaurants.

Cayan Tower

A skyscraper with a unique twist, Cayan Tower is a must-see for those with an appreciation for architecture. Designed by the same architectural firm behind Burj Khalifa, the shimmering silver Cayan Tower twists 90 degrees as it rises. In an amazing feat of clever engineering, each of the 75 floors is rotated by 1.2 degrees to create the helix shape.

The Address Beach Resort

Home to the world’s highest outdoor infinity pool and the highest occupied sky bridge in the world, the stunning Address Beach Resort is an ellipse with a void in the centre to increase daylight penetration and views to Palm Jumeirah, JBR Beach and the horizon. Designed by Shaun Killa, there are two separate towers, one comprising residential apartments and the other holding the hotel and serviced apartments. Visitors can book a stay and enjoy access to the unique pool.

Gevora Hotel

Stay, dine and relax at the tallest hotel in the world with unforgettable views of Dubai. The hotel boasts of luxurious facilities with 528 rooms, three restaurants and a relaxing health and wellness club. The hotel is 356 metres tall, 50 metres taller than The Shard in London and 56 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

Dubai World Trade Centre — Sheikh Rashid Tower

Dubai’s first high-rise building, the Dubai World Trade Centre has played a pivotal role in the growth of international trade for the Middle East, ever since its inauguration by Queen Elizabeth in 1979. It was designed by British architect John Harris and it’s also the building on the back of the AED 100 banknote.

ALSO READ-Dubai Chamber launches a new cycle of competition

READ MORE-PepsiCo to reveal innovations in F&B industry at Dubai Expo

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Dubai News UAE News

UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment visits The Sustainable City

A delegation headed by His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment of the UAE, visited The Sustainable City (TSC), the Middle East’s first fully operational sustainable community…reports Asian Lite News

The ministerial delegation toured the agricultural farms, biodomes that produce around 1 million saplings every year, Sanad Village, the largest rehabilitation and education center for people of determination, and SEE Institute, the positive-energy building which will produce 150% of its energy requirements.

Minister of Climate Change and Environment of the UAE visits The Sustainable City

The delegates lauded TSC’s efforts to comply with the highest standards of environmental sustainability through an integrated and socially inclusive approach while leading sustainable development in the region. They also discussed ways to foster sustainability, raise environmental awareness and accelerate the fight against climate change.

HIS EXCELLENCY DR. AL NUAIMI: “TSC is a prototype of a sustainable community that promotes environment-friendly production and consumption practices in line with the UAE’s drive to achieve sustainability across the board and combat climate change to build a better future for the current and next generations.”

The visit was a major step in strengthening the partnership between the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and TSC.

ALSO READ: UAE underscores importance of renewing a culture of peace

The delegation, including top ministry officials, was welcomed by Eng. Faris Saeed, Chairman of Diamond Developers, and his team.

Thanking the ministerial delegation, Eng. Faris Saeed said: “We are grateful to His Excellency and his delegation for the visit and appreciation. The support from the authorities strengthens our journey of building low-carbon and climate-resilient communities.”

Minister of Climate Change and Environment of the UAE visits The Sustainable City

TSC, which considers the three pillars of sustainability – social, environmental and economic – is globally known for its future-proof sustainable solutions. After receiving worldwide recognition for its successful self-sufficient model, Diamond Developers has launched a second TSC project in the neighbouring emirate of Sharjah. The UAE-based company also has plans to announce more sustainable cities in the region and beyond.