With unwavering dedication, the team tirelessly executes their humanitarian duty, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to global welfare….reports Asian Lite News
The UAE Floating Hospital in the Egyptian city of Al Arish is steadfast in providing therapeutic, surgical, and humanitarian aid to the Palestinian residents of the Gaza Strip.
With unwavering dedication, the team tirelessly executes their humanitarian duty, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to global welfare.
From this standpoint, the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan came to provide all forms of support and assistance to the residents of the Gaza Strip, as part of “Operation Chivalrous Knight 3”.
Established through collaboration between the Ministry of Defence and Abu Dhabi Ports Group, the floating hospital boasts a diverse medical and administrative staff. Specialists in anesthesiology, general surgery, orthopedics, emergency, intensive and internal care, alongside nurses, technicians, and hospital management professionals ensure comprehensive care.
Dr. Ahmed Mubarak, Director of the Floating Hospital, emphasised the facility’s state-of-the-art equipment, aligning with international standards. With a capacity of 100 patient beds and as many for their companions, the hospital offers comfortable accommodations for families.
Equipped with advanced surgical and intensive care units, emergency services, radiology, and support facilities, including laboratories and pharmacies, the hospital provides vital medical services. Two ambulances stand ready for urgent care and critical cases, supplementing the Emirati field hospital in Gaza.
Each patient undergoes thorough evaluation, ensuring personalised treatment at the highest healthcare standards. Currently hosting 153 patients across gender-specific wards, the hospital has performed 328 surgeries since its inception.
Enhancing emergency response, the hospital features a helipad and naval vessels. These assets facilitate swift medical interventions for critical cases, underscoring the commitment to saving lives in Gaza.
The record-breaking edition will feature 2,300 exhibitors from 165 countries, with around 41,000 visitors expected to attend the event….reports Asian Lite News
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, inaugurated Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024, the leading global travel and tourism event being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 6-9 May.
The record-breaking edition will feature 2,300 exhibitors from 165 countries, with around 41,000 visitors expected to attend the event.
This year’s edition of ATM will mark the event’s largest to date. Having launched in 1994 with 300 exhibitors and 7,000 trade visitors, ATM has now established itself as a globally renowned event integrating all travel sectors and verticals, from MICE to leisure and luxury hospitality, to corporate travel. Exhibitor participation has increased by 26% this year, with growth recorded across all event verticals.
During the opening, Sheikh Ahmed said that the massive interest generated amongst ATM 2024 attendees reaffirms Dubai’s standing as a major destination for tourism and travel in the region, highlighting its role in shaping the future of the industry by bringing together leaders of allied sectors from around the world.
Sheikh Ahmed later toured various pavilions at the exhibition. He was accompanied by Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy; Hilal Saeed Al Marri, Director-General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism; Danielle Curtis, Director of the Arabian Travel Market in the Middle East, and several top officials and leaders representing the travel and tourism industry at the regional and global levels.
ATM 2024 will focus on the theme, “Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship”, spotlighting visionary entrepreneurs in aviation, hotels, hospitality, and public attractions, and underscoring their transformative role in the future of the sector.
A four-day conference agenda will feature 200 speakers across more than 50 sessions on two main stages – the Global Stage and the new Future Stage. The Global Stage will host daily summits exploring entrepreneurship, developing markets, sustainability, and luxury, while the Future Stage will be the home of all innovation-related content, covering topics such as AI, NextGen destinations, travel technology, and future trend forecasts.
The opening day of ATM 2024 features 12 sessions across the Global and Future stages. Highlights of the day include the Global Stage Welcome: The Gateway to Global Insights keynote speech from Issam Abdulrahim Kazim, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, and the Ministerial Debate: Streamlining Tourism within the GCC. The Market Insights Summit will also mark four days of focused deliberations at ATM, with entrepreneurship, luxury and sustainability rounding out ATM’s summit programme this week.
Looking ahead to Day Two, the most impactful trends in travel technology will be discussed at the Beyond the Hype: Demystifying 2024 Travel Tech Trends session on the Future Stage. The Global Stage will, in the meantime, gather aviation experts from IATA, Riyadh Air, AviationXLab and Cirium to explore How Technology is Disrupting Aviation followed by a session on Navigating the Future of Air Travel with Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports.
Travel Tech, the travel technology exhibition at ATM will continue through 7th May, showcasing the innovative technologies driving the travel and hospitality sector and the Entrepreneurship Summit on May 7 will delve into the topic of Nurturing Travel and Tourism Entrepreneurship to Drive Economic Growth, along with exploring how Global Disruptions are Catalysts for Innovation.
ATM 2024 is part of Arabian Travel Week, a ten-day-long festival of travel and tourism events that take place in Dubai. In addition to ATM, other events that are part of Arabian Travel Week are the ATM Start-up competition, ATM Travel Tech, GBTA Business Travel Forums and Buyer Networking.
ATM 2024 is being held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre and its strategic partners include Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) as the Destination Partner, Emirates as the Official Airline Partner, IHG Hotels & Resorts as the Official Hotel Partner, and Al Rais Travel as the Official DMC Partner.
Delivering vital food aid to feed 120,000 people in Gaza reflects the UAE’s dedication to offering relief and tackling the humanitarian crisis there….reports Asian Lite News
The United Arab Emirates, in close partnership with American Near East Refugee Aid (Anera), has announced the successful delivery of 400 tonnes of food aid for the brotherly people of Gaza, specifically intended for the northern Gaza Strip.
The delivery and distribution of life-saving food aid to feed around 120 thousand people, aligns with the UAE’s commitment to provide relief and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, said, “The UAE’s safe and successful delivery and distribution of food relief to the Gaza Strip, especially the Northern Gaza Strip, marks a significant scaling up in action. We remain firmly committed to our position of solidarity with the brotherly Palestinian people and alleviating suffering in the Gaza Strip. The UAE, working in parallel with international partners, is determined more than ever to intensify all efforts to ensure that aid lifelines get to those who need it the most.”
Sean Carroll, President and CEO of Anera, said, “Anera and the people we serve are extremely grateful for support from the government and people of the UAE, that allows us to deliver this food to northern Gaza, where the needs are so great.”
Following the allocation of US$15 million under the Amalthea Fund to support aid flows in Gaza, the UAE continues to collaborate with international partners and organisations to effectively deliver food and relief through land, air and sea, to strengthen the humanitarian response and meet the needs of the people in the Strip.
To date, the UAE has delivered more than 31,000 tonnes of urgent humanitarian supplies, including food, relief and medical items, dispatched through 256 flights, 46 airdrops, 1,231 trucks, and six ships.
Furthermore, the UAE has initiated a number of other sustainable relief projects to supply food and water to the people of Gaza. These efforts include establishing five automatic bakeries to meet the needs of 72,000 people; supplying flour to eight existing bakeries to meet the needs of 17,140 people; and setting up six desalination plants (operating with a combined capacity of 1.2 million gallons of water) that benefit up to 600,000 people per day.
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the development of military human capital, citing initiatives like the National Service Programme, which strengthens national belonging and readiness among Emirati youth….reports Asian Lite News
On the occasion of the 48th anniversary of the unification of the UAE Armed Forces, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan delivered the following statement to members of the armed forces:
‘’May 6th is one of the most revered and enduring days in the history of the UAE. On this day in 1976, one of the most important decisions of the nation was made to unify our armed forces. This decision strengthened the Union and reinforced the pursuit of national cohesion by the UAE’s Founding Father and his fellow rulers, may God bless them.
On this precious occasion, I extend my best regards and appreciation to all members of our armed forces across various branches, and I thank them, offer my support, and value their contributions, dedication, and steadfastness in upholding the nation’s progress in diverse fields. I also commend the values they champion, all of which represent our dear nation, particularly in their efforts to assist the needy and support those afflicted in disaster and crisis areas.
On this day, we pray for mercy for our honourable fallen heroes who gave their lives in defence of the UAE and its values and continue to serve as exemplars of patriotism and sacrifice.
Our armed forces will remain a shield for the nation, a protector of development, and a pillar of progress in the UAE.’’
‘A pivotal moment’
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, said that the decision to unify the Armed Forces on 6th May 1976, stands as a pivotal moment that goes down in the chronicles of the UAE’s history.
Reflecting on the journey since the unification decision in 1976, Sheikh Mohammed hailed the remarkable advancements in organization, weaponry, efficiency, and performance of the UAE Armed Forces.
Emphasizing the pivotal role of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the Founding Fathers, Sheikh Mohammed underscored the commitment to establish a formidable Armed Force capable of safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, security, and stability. Over the past 48 years, the Armed Forces have attained excellence, aligning with the nation’s comprehensive development.
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the development of military human capital, citing initiatives like the National Service Programme, which strengthens national belonging and readiness among Emirati youth. He expressed gratitude to citizens for their dedication to serving the nation and recognized graduates as valuable assets.
Acknowledging the expanded roles of the Armed Forces, including research, development, and manufacturing, Sheikh Mohammed praised the establishment of a UAE military industry, aligning with Sheikh Zayed’s vision.
‘Safeguarding foundations’
His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, affirmed that the unification of the armed forces has contributed to consolidating the pillars of the union and preserving its security, sovereignty, and achievements.
He emphasised that the decision to unify the armed forces was a strategic choice during a pivotal stage to complete the building of the institutions of the country and advance its progress.
In a speech on the occasion of the 48th anniversary of the Unification of the Armed Forces, which falls on the 6th of May, His Highness stated that UAE armed forces are a strong supporter of the state’s renaissance and development by providing a safe and stable environment conducive to development and progress.
He also highlighted their role in keeping pace with the country’s development at various levels, recalling with reverence the efforts of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his founding brothers and their wisdom and awareness of the requirements of building a state of significance and status. It is based on unified national strength at a high level of efficiency and readiness necessary to fulfill its role in consolidating the foundations of this country and protecting its security and stability.
His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan stated that UAE Armed Forces have contributed over decades and continue to enhance security, stability, and peace, embodying the authentic approach of the country in cooperation and solidarity. In this context, he pointed out the qualitative humanitarian efforts exerted by the UAE Armed Forces in many regions of the world, responding to humanitarian situations where their name has always been associated with values of goodness, generosity, support for truth, and aiding the needy and afflicted without discrimination.
His Highness extended thanks and appreciation to the first generation of members of the UAE armed forces. He prayed for the mercy and forgiveness of Allah Almighty for those who have passed away, as well as for the souls of the country’s heroic martyrs who gave their lives for the nation. They remained loyal to its values and defended its security and stability, helping it to stand proud and esteemed.
The SPL pavilion at the 15th SCRF is buzzing with activity, engaging kids and parents with its agenda focused on critical thinking and exploring the wonders of the universe….report Asian Lite News
The Sharjah Public Library (SPL) pavilion at the ongoing 15th edition of Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF) has emerged as a beehive of activity, educating and entertaining children of all ages as well as their parents with its comprehensive agenda designed to foster critical thinking and unveil the intricate wonders of the universe.
Cyber safety awareness and exploration of silent books
Among the engaging activities, the ‘Silent Book’ workshop uniquely opens the doors of imagination through drawings and images narrating the story, allowing children to interpret it in their style without needing written words. Meanwhile, the ‘Digital Awareness’ workshop steers children towards conscious and responsible video gaming. Through a short film presentation and hands-on workshops, children learn to navigate the internet safely, emphasising the importance of caution when interacting with strangers online.
Creative writing workshops
The ‘Creative Writing Stations’ workshop takes children on a journey through five practical stations: I Read, I Observe, I Think, I Plan, and I Design. At each station, children learn how to read and discuss stories. They then apply what they’ve learned in hands-on workshops to develop their creative skills further.
Superhero designing and beeswax making
For ‘Dragon Ball’ and ‘Grendizer fans,’ the Superhero workshop offers an exciting adventure for children who dream of a world filled with superheroes. Here, they learn to create their unique superhero characters through vibrant comic stories. In the ‘Bee Waxing’ workshop, children delve into the wonderful world of bees, learning about the properties and benefits of beeswax, drawing lessons in perfection and creativity, and developing their fine motor skills while also exploring the cultural and historical significance of beeswax across various global cultures.
Strengthening family bonds
Workshops that strengthen family ties include the ‘Creative Personality Lab,’ an interactive experience that helps children understand their responsibilities towards themselves, their families, and their nation. This workshop encourages creativity and inspiration through thought-provoking questions that reflect their personalities. The ‘Family Tunes’ workshop invites families to participate in collaborative art projects that strengthen their bonds through shared creativity.
The ‘Artistic Tale’ workshop offers participants a chance to learn the theoretical and technical basics of the Oud, an ancient musical instrument, while the ‘From the Heart of the Desert’ workshop explores sustainability and the heritage of Sheikh Zayed through an engaging journey.
The ‘Embroidery and Folklore’ workshop also showcases the aesthetics of Palestinian dress and the art of embroidery. ‘A Story with Saif Al-Muslimani’ gives children the opportunity to hear inspiring stories narrated by the young Saif Al-Muslimani. Moreover, the ‘Book Restoration’ workshop teaches participants how to renew and repair old books, emphasising the importance of recycling and resource conservation.
During her tour, Sheikha Latifa met with the organisers and was briefed on the huge turnout of visitors to the pavilion at the annual Abu Dhabi International Book Fair…reports Asian Lite News
H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) and Member of the Executive Council, visited the pavilion featuring publications by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, at the 33rd Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.
H.H. Sheikha Latifa toured the pavilion which showcased prominent works by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, including titles such as ‘My Vision,’ ‘My Story,’ ‘Flashes of Thought,’ ‘Reflections on Happiness and Positivity,’ collections of Zayed poems and other verses, ‘40 Poems from the Desert,’ ‘For the Love of Horses,’ ‘Two Great Leaders,’ ‘My Little World,’ ‘A Journey from the Desert to the Stars,’ ‘Flashes of Wisdom,’ and ‘Quotes by Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.’
During her tour, Sheikha Latifa met with the organisers and was briefed on the huge turnout of visitors to the pavilion at the annual Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.
Sheikha Latifa said that culture and knowledge serve as fundamental indicators of progress and civilization. She underscored the vital importance of investing in knowledge to foster positive change and pave the way for a brighter future.
“The UAE’s wise leadership prioritises culture, promotes knowledge, and fosters a love for reading among the youth through comprehensive national strategies and by hosting significant events like book fairs that draw hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. What we witness today at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair exemplifies the steps taken to strengthen the UAE’s status as a cultural leader with a broad impact on thought, creativity and publication,” Sheikha Latifa said.
“His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum consistently teaches us that true power resides in knowledge and that the written word is a powerful tool for changing the world. Sheikh Mohammed’s publications have unveiled boundless opportunities for self-development and serve as a source of inspiration in leadership and personal growth. This cultural and humanitarian treasury of thoughts is a priceless legacy for future generations,” she added.
H.H. also highlighted the importance of dedicating a pavilion to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed’s works, which provides visitors of all ages with a glimpse into his various contributions.
Two Great Leaders
During a visit to the children’s book section at the pavilion, Sheikha Latifa interacted with a group of students attending the book fair and listened to them speak about their reading interests and the titles that captured their attention.
She read aloud the ‘Two Great Leaders’ book to the children, which portrays the lives and legacies of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum in simple and engaging language. This book commemorates two leaders whose memories and contributions continue to resonate deeply with the people of the UAE.
1,350 publishers
Organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre under the theme ‘Where World Tales Unfold.’, the 33rd Abu Dhabi International Book Fair was held from 29 April to 5 May 2024.
This edition of the book fair featured 1,350 publishers from 90 countries, including 140 newcomers and 375 local exhibitors. Egypt served as this year’s Guest of Honour, with the late Naguib Mahfouz being designated as the ‘Personality of Focus’ in this edition of the book fair.
The pavilion dedicated to the publications of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum showcased 13 influential works that have made significant contributions to both the local and regional cultural scenes. These works cover a diverse range of topics, including management, excellence, leadership, the history of Dubai and the UAE, and insights drawn from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed’s personal experiences.
The pavilion also hosted various sessions with renowned authors and personalities to delve into the visions and experiences of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, examining the profound impact of his publications on government operations, development, and cultural life.
This year, ATM is centred on the theme ‘Empowering Innovation – Transforming Travel through Entrepreneurship’, spotlighting the pivotal role of start-ups and entrepreneurs in shaping the sector’s future…reports Asian Lite News
Arabian Travel Market (ATM), the leading global event for the travel and tourism sector, returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre for its 31st edition.
Taking place from 6th to 9th May, over 41,000 attendees are expected to visit the annual trade show, which will feature 2,300 exhibitors from 165 countries.
This year, ATM is centred on the theme ‘Empowering Innovation – Transforming Travel through Entrepreneurship’, spotlighting the pivotal role of start-ups and entrepreneurs in shaping the sector’s future. This focus will provide a platform for industry leaders and policymakers worldwide to empower the travel and tourism community to harness entrepreneurism and identify opportunities for growth.
A four-day conference programme will deliver over 50 informative sessions from more than 200 high-profile speakers who will address attendees across the Global Stage and the new Future Stage. Issam Abdulrahim Kazim, Chief Executive Officer – Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, will host the Global Stage Welcome: The Gateway to Global Insights keynote speech, outlining Dubai’s tourism goals and plans for the coming years. Later tomorrow, Ministers from the GCC and beyond will take to the stage to discuss the key strategies to support and develop tourism in the region at the Ministerial Debate: Streamlining Tourism within the GCC.
ATM will also host the Market Insights Summit on the Global Stage on opening day, exploring the potential of China, India and Latin America as they emerge as key players in global tourism. The panel for the Summit includes Basmah Al-Mayman, Regional Director for the Middle East, UN Tourism; Guy Hutchinson, President, Middle East & Africa, Hilton; Julia Simpson, CEO & President, World Travel and Tourism Council; and Jan Gerrit Koechling, Partner, Roland Berger.
The Future Stage will officially launch tomorrow with a focus on the Trends Shaping the Future of Hospitality in the Middle East, led by senior representatives from IHG Hotels and Resorts, Marriot International, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Banyan Tree Dubai, Mastercard and Silkhaus. Other sessions tomorrow on the Future Stage include The New Age of Island Tourism, which explores how islands in the Middle East are offering new opportunities for tourism, and the Global Economic Disruptions Affecting the Future of Travel session.
Speaking ahead of launch day, Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said, “Following the unprecedented success of our 30th edition in 2023, exhibitor participation has increased by a remarkable 26% this year, making ATM 2024 the largest in the event’s history.
“This notable growth underscores ATM’s reputation as an unmissable event for the global travel and tourism community, offering unrivalled business and networking opportunities for attendees and exhibitors across a wide range of travel sectors and verticals.”
Growth has been achieved across all show verticals, including regional year-on-year upticks for the Middle East (28%), Asia (34%), Europe (34%) and Africa (26%). In addition, more than 100 prominent travel technology companies will showcase their latest innovations to a global audience at this year’s event. The Travel Tech section is 58% larger this year, indicating an unprecedented surge in interest from companies that want to display their latest technological advancements.
ATM continues its commitment to sustainability for another year, building on the show’s main theme in 2023 and in keeping with its 30 long-term sustainability goals. The Sustainability Summit on 9 May will explore Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations, consumer preferences, and the collaborative efforts required to create a more sustainable future for travel and tourism. Meanwhile, the Sustainable Stand Award will recognise the exhibitor who has made outstanding efforts to reduce their stand’s carbon footprint.
Held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024’s strategic partners are the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Destination Partner; Emirates, Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts, Official Hotel Partner; and Al Rais Travel, Official DMC Partner.
Dr. Al Jaber conveyed the UAE leadership’s greetings and its commitment to strengthening the GCC’s relations in investment as well as partnerships in vital sectors…reports Asian Lite News
UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber led a Emirati delegation participating in a series of regional industrial meetings taking place in Doha, Qatar.
The delegation participated in the meetings of the GCC Industrial Cooperation Committee and Ministerial Committee for Standardisation Affairs, with the aim of strengthening industrial and investment relations between GCC states. Qatar, which currently presides over the GCC Council, chaired meetings between GCC ministers of trade and industry.
Last week, another set of sessions took place involving undersecretaries of trade and industry to discuss the meetings’ agendas as well as the trends, topics and reports that would be presented at the ministerial meetings. During the 52nd meeting of the GCC Industrial Cooperation Committee and the seventh meeting of the Ministerial Committee for Standardisation Affairs, delegates discussed enhancing cooperation in industry as well as in the field of standards and metrology. Several technical reports and strategic plans to increase cooperation between member states were also reviewed.
Dr. Al Jaber conveyed the UAE leadership’s greetings and its commitment to strengthening the GCC’s relations in investment as well as partnerships in vital sectors. He thanked Qatar’s leadership and people for hosting important discussions on collaboration. He said, “Today’s meeting is a testament to the strong industrial relations between GCC states, which is vital to supporting sustainable economic growth in the region. The GCC represents an Arab and regional model for economic cooperation and sustainable economic development. “The UAE’s Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology aims to strengthen collaboration around investment to enhance the growth and development of the industrial sector. This development is supported by deploying advanced technology to achieve the national goals of GCC member states and contributes to building a more sustainable future.” Dr. Al Jaber added, “The ministry focuses on promoting the adoption of advanced technology and sustainability in the national industrial sector through various incentives and enablers, including financing. In doing so, we are raising the competitiveness of UAE products, enhancing their quality and boosting the attractiveness of the UAE as a hub for industrial investments.
He noted that under the forward-looking vision of its leadership, the UAE had created a pioneering model for strengthening economic and development partnerships and integrating the private sector into national plans for sustainable growth.
Industrial collaboration
Dr. Al Jaber participated in the 52nd meeting of the GCC Industrial Cooperation Committee. During the meeting, delegates reviewed a report on assessing a unified definition of GCC standards, lists of goods subject to collective protections, a plan to implement a unified strategy for industrial development, and the decision to raise customs tariffs on rebar and iron coil imports.
It also witnessed a presentation by the executive management of the GCC Customs Union Authority on the challenges it is addressing.
Standardisation and metrology
Dr. Al Jaber also attended the seventh meeting of the Ministerial Committee for Standardisation Affairs, during which the Chairman of the GCC Standardisation Organisation (GSO) delivered a presentation on the GSO’s progress and efforts from September 2023 through to March 2024. The meeting also addressed a memorandum on specifications and standards from the GSO’s presidency regarding the adoption of 17 draft technical regulations, along with the conversion of 39 draft technical regulations into standardised specifications. It also authorised the withdrawal of two draft technical regulations. The ministers examined several memorandums from the GSO’s presidency, which included its accounts for the fiscal year 2023, and updates on the GCC Accreditation Center (GAC). They also debated a memorandum from the GSO’s presidency on approving the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the GSO and the Russian Federal Agency for Technical Regulation and Metrology.
Members of the Ministerial Committee for Standardisation Affairs include Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro, Bahrain’s Minister of Industry and Commerce; Dr. Majid bin Abdullah Al-Qasabi, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Commerce; Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Oman’s Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Thani, Qatar’s Minister of Commerce and Industry; Abdullah Hamad Al-Joaan, Kuwait’s Minister of Trade and Industry; and Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the GCC.
UAE delegation
The delegation accompanying Dr. Al Jaber comprised Omar Al Suwaidi, Under-Secretary of MoIAT, and Osama Amir Fadhel, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Industrial Accelerators Sector at MoIAT.
Bin Touq noted that the UAE-Iran economic partnership continues to grow across various fields, serving as one of the key pillars supporting the bilateral ties…reports Asian Lite News
The first session of the Joint Economic Committee (JEC) between the UAE and the Islamic Republic of Iran was held in Abu Dhabi, chaired by Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, and Mehrdad Bazrpash, Minister of Road and Urban Development of Iran.
The session, which was attended by several government officials from both sides, explored the strengthening of cooperation in many economic sectors of mutual interest. These include the new economy, tourism, transport, entrepreneurship, energy and renewable energy, SMEs, innovation, logistics, agriculture and environment. The meeting also discussed the means to support joint efforts needed to elevate bilateral economic relations to new heights.
Bin Touq noted that the UAE-Iran economic partnership continues to grow across various fields, serving as one of the key pillars supporting the bilateral ties. The UAE is keen to expand the scope of the economic and trade cooperation with Iran to more areas of shared interest, he said.
He stated, “The convening of the first session of the UAE-Iran JEC reflects our shared aspirations to solidify existing economic ties and expand them to the future sectors. These efforts are in line with the UAE wise leadership’s vision to strengthen the country’s bilateral cooperation with global partners.”
Moreover, the Minister of Economy apprised the Iranian delegation of the economic developments witnessed by the UAE’s business environment over the recent years. Most notably, these include the amendments made to the Commercial Companies Law to allow 100 per cent foreign ownership, modernization of visa and residency systems and introduction of self-employment and green residency pathways to enhance the country’s attractiveness to talent, investors, employers and businesses. He also reviewed the promulgation and introduction of new federal laws, including those concerning family businesses, commercial agencies, cooperatives and trade through modern technical means. These economic developments ensure a favourable climate for various business models, thus promoting sustainable growth of the UAE economy. Apart from these, the launch of initiatives designed to support the national economy’s transition to a circular model, most notably the ‘UAE Circular Economy Policy 2031’, were highlighted.
The inaugural UAE-Iran JEC session also discussed new mechanisms to enhance trade exchanges and the key role played by the private sector in promoting economic cooperation. The provision of all means of support to exporters and importers to facilitate trade exchanges and the diversification of these goods and services; and the opening of new communication channels between the two private sectors also formed part of the discussions.
The two sides agreed to establish joint technical task forces to follow up on the implementation of the Committee’s outputs, which outline economic and trade cooperation in the immediate future. The JEC also agreed to provide various programs and facilities to promote the growth of SMEs and support their exports in entering new markets.
Furthermore, the two sides explored the strengthening of cooperation and investment in sectors and activities related to tourism, trade, traditional energy, renewable energy and industry, R&D, institutional innovation, the exchange of knowledge in financial markets, entrepreneurship, agriculture and aviation.
Heavy rains have returned to the country with several flights being cancelled and delayed in and out of Dubai…reports Asian Lite News
Days after the United Arab Emirates witnessed flooding in April, heavy rains have returned to the country with several flights being cancelled and delayed in and out of Dubai while people and students were asked to work and study from home, Khaleej Times reported.
An orange alert was issued on Thursday as heavy rains and thunderstorms lashed the UAE. Over the past few days, the UAE has been preparing for this wave of unstable weather, which is forecast to peak on May 2, until May 3.
People have been advised to take safety measures across all sectors. Schools are on distance learning while companies have been asked to allow people to work from home. Parks and beaches have been shut.
Dubai announced work from home for government employees on May 2 and May 3 due to unstable weather conditions prevailing in the emirate, according to Khaleej Times.
Meanwhile, from Friday to Sunday, coastal regions including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman anticipate dry conditions with partly cloudy to clear skies, Gulf News reported.
However, internal areas of the UAE such as Al Dhafrah, Al Ain, Fujairah, and their environs might experience overcast conditions with the possibility of light to moderate rainfall, it was reported.
On Wednesday, UAE’s disaster management authority reiterated the nation’s readiness to tackle the upcoming weather conditions. It said that all relevant agencies are ready to tackle the anticipated weather fluctuations by implementing measures.
Earlier, an NCM expert said the impending weather condition is not anticipated to be the same as the rainfall seen on April 16. Officials have discussed the precautionary measures that must be taken during this time.
The UAE on Wednesday announced that students will have online classes for all government schools on May 2 and 3 in the country due to prevailing weather conditions.
Furthermore, the government announced that all private schools in Dubai will have online learning on May 2 and May 3 due to expected unstable weather conditions. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) announced that the decision is applicable to all private schools, nurseries and universities.
Five inbound flights to Dubai Airport were diverted overnight, while 9 arrivals and four outbound flights were cancelled, according to Dubai Airport spokesperson, Khaleej Times reported on May 2.
The airport spokesperson further said, “Guests departing from Dubai’s airports are advised to allocate additional time for their journey to the airport, as road congestion may be anticipated. We strongly encourage the utilisation of the Dubai Metro to get to DXB Terminals 1 and 3 wherever feasible.”
Emirates cancelled several flights due to bad weather across the UAE on Thursday. Flight operations at Dubai International Airport have been reduced.
In a statement, Emirates said, “Customers arriving or departing from Dubai airport on May 2 can expect some delays as flights are rescheduled,” the report said.
A Flydubai spokesperson said that the “adverse weather conditions in Dubai on Thursday have caused some delays to their operations,” Khaleej Times reported.
The spokesperson added, “Passengers are advised to allow extra time for their journey to DXB, whether they are travelling by car or public transport. Passengers are also advised to update their contact details via the manage booking tab and check (flydubai website) for the latest updates regarding their flight.”
Sharjah-based Air Arabia advised passengers flying from Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah to plan for additional travel time to the airport due to the weather conditions. Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways asked passengers using the Etihad bus service between Zayed International Airport and Dubai “to check in early for their transfer to allow additional time to reach the airport”.
Indian Airlines IndiGo said that their flight operations have been affected due to bad weather in Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and Abu Dhabi. Vistara and SpiceJet also said that departures, arrivals, and flights will be impacted due to inclement weather, the report said.
In a post on X, IndiGo on Thursday stated, “#6ETravelAdvisory: Due to bad weather in #Dubai #Sharjah #RasAlKhaimah #AbuDhabi, our flight operations are impacted. Road blockages may disrupt local transport. Plan accordingly and allow extra time for airport travel.” (ANI)
