|
|
|
| |
| A comprehensive guide
to current and future events and exhibitions in the UAE |
|
Valuable concise reference source on the UAE,
covering political system, economy, business, history and heritage,
education, women, healthcare, tourism and environment. |
|
|
Natural history of the UAE,
covering all animals and plants recorded in the Emirates. |
|
|
Report by National US Arab Chamber of Commerce on the UAE. Vol XV, No 3, June 2007. Includes analysis of UAE economy. |
|
President meets Crown Prince of Qatar
posted on 21/08/2008
 President HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan received in Abu Dhabi yesterday Crown Prince of Qatar HH Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani. At a meeting held at Al-Rowdha Palace in Al Ain, they reviewed the brotherly relations between the two countries. Sheikh Tamim conveyed the greetings from Emir of Qatar HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani to Sheikh Khalifa, who asked the Qatari crown prince to carry his greetings to the Emir of Qatar. The meeting was attended by Minister of Presidential Affairs HH Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the Qatari Charge d' Affairs in UAE Fahd Ibrahim Al Mana'. – Emirates News Agency, WAM
RETURN TO TOP | WAM
UP TO THE MINUTE NEWS
Khalifa orders offering of US$10 million to Djibouti
posted on 21/08/2008
President HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has issued instructions to offer US$10 million to Djibouti, as a support to its foreign balance of payment. Khalifa's gesture reflects brotherly ties, solidarity and assistance to the government of Djibouti to meet its obligations in regard to commodity imports and other necessary items.
Djibouti Ambassador to UAE Idriss Ahmed Chirwa, hailed the initiative of Sheikh Khalifa, adding that "such gesture is expected from Sheikh Khalifa, who is always well ahead when it comes to the Arab solidarity. This initiative strengthens brotherly relations between the two countries".
He noted that the UAE and Djibouti enjoy distinguished trade relations, adding that the imports from the UAE stood at US$400 million last year. Meanwhile, the UAE investments in the horn of Africa country of Djibouti, in housing, ports and tourism touched US$1 billion in the same period last year. The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development executes a number of developmental projects in Djibouti in line with its efforts to assist the Arab and developing countries. – Emirates News Agency, WAM
RETURN TO TOP | WAM
UP TO THE MINUTE NEWS
Continuing occupation of UAE islands condemned
posted on 21/08/2008
Iran's failure to respond to the Gulf Cooperation Council's condemnation of its setting up of installations on UAE's Abu Musa Island shows the absence of a constructive view by the Iranian side. In a telephone interview with the Abu Dhabi television programme Al Madar, Abdul Rahman Al Attiyah, GCC Secretary-General, said Iran did not reply to the GCC's communiqué condemning Iran's setting up of two offices, a marine rescue centre and a registration office for ships and sailors on UAE's Abu Musa Island. The GCC called on Iran to remove all illegal installations and stop illegal procedures on the island.
Al Attiyah said historical facts assert the legal status of the three UAE islands that were occupied by Iran, despite British indifference at the time of their pullout from the region and the subsequent Iranian occupation.
He added that the Iranian occupation was not accepted and is being condemned by all Arabs, and Iran has failed until this moment to get international consent for its occupation.
Al Attiyah asserted that there are sincere hopes and wishes in the UAE and GCC countries as a whole to build positive relations with Iran.
"There are only two obstacles that may jeopardise these hopes, one is undermining the building of bridges of trust and the other is solving the issue of the three islands that belong to the UAE, in addition to respecting the sovereignty of neighbouring states ... and their regional waters," he added.
"For us to build a serious partnership that preserves the rights of every country in the region, it is essential to take the case to an international arbitration level. Such procedures have proven their validity over time, and it is the best way to solve problems ... and [its rulings] are never biased," Al Attiyah said.
Al Attiyah said GCC countries have opened their doors, stressing their good intentions, and invited Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to the last GCC summit. He said Iran should put more emphasis on good neighbourly relations.
"It is inconceivable in this time and age that a country occupies the land of another country, as ... in the Israeli-Arab dispute." – Emirates News Agency, WAM
RETURN TO TOP | WAM
UP TO THE MINUTE NEWS
Ministry of Education coordinates with other concerned ministries to thrive "Resalat Hob" project
posted on 21/08/2008
 Mohammed Jumaa bin Hindi, Executive Director of Ministry of Education for Financial and Administration Affairs, has declare that the Ministry has fixed a plan that aims to cooperate with 'Resalat Hob' project, which is a letter of love that is going to be handed over to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoom, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, next December by students with special needs.
Bin Hindi stated that Dr. Haneef Hassan, Minister of Education, has recommended that all schools should open their doors to these people who need to be looked after and he has assured that the impact of "Resalat Hob" on the Ministry is obvious as it is the most important body to support these children and provide them with education and knowledge.
He also declared that the Ministry of Education has provided all equipment and tools as well as arranged for safety, health, and environmental requirements in schools in order to help students with special needs to receive the best of education, entertainment, and even transportation. For this purposes the Ministry has coordinated with the Ministry of Social Affairs and other concerned ministries in the country.
The top education official assured that teachers, equipment, and all other educational tools are too costly but the minister has ordered our department to focus on this side and work hard to serve disabled people until they get the right education and development. He said: "I would like to emphasize on the importance of "Resalat Hob" as it is coming from people who really appreciate and love His Highness for his generosity and kindness".
Finally, and during the visit of "Resalat Hob" team to Mr. Bin Hindi's office, he signed the "Golden Register", which will be presented to His Highness along with "Resalat hob" in the ceremony. "Resalat Hob" project is considered to be unique not only in the UAE but all around the world. Deyaa Al Jameel, Head of Organizing Committee said: "Al Deyaa Media Production together with Rashid Paediatric Therapy Centre have planned and focused on this project to make it an unusual event".
Al Jameel also declared that the Organizing Committee has invited a big number of local, Arab, and international celebrities and VIPs to come to UAE in order to express their gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed for his major role in supporting disabled people all around the world It is worth mentioning that "Resalat Hob" is made from genuine leather, the words on it are written by gold, and its size makes 12sq.m. On the other hand, the Committee has contacted the Guinness Book of World Records to enter this letter of love, into its records. – Emirates News Agency, WAM
RETURN TO TOP | WAM
UP TO THE MINUTE NEWS
Ministry of Social Affairs launches 'Dirham Wa Bas' campaign
posted on 21/08/2008
 The Social Responsibility Fund, an Initiative of the Ministry of Social Affairs, today announced the launch of 'Dirham Wa Bas' Campaign (One Dirham Only), a campaign for raising funds for social care and development projects in the UAE. Supported by the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the ‘Dirham Wa Bas Campaign' invites financial contributions from the public to support the Social Responsibility Fund. By encouraging contributions of as little as a dirham, the Campaign seeks to facilitate public participation in the fund-raising effort.
Donation boxes placed across the UAE, including all Emarat petrol stations, major shopping malls and retail stores, will enable all members of the public to contribute to the Campaign.
Launching the Campaign at a press conference held at DIFC, Minister of Social Affairs HE Maryam Al Roumi, said: "The ‘Dirham Wa Bas' Campaign is one of the initiatives of the Social Responsibility Fund aimed at supporting sections of society, which need our help, such as people with limited income, disabilities and the elderly. Everyone can contribute to this Campaign.
All financial contributions starting from as little as one dirham are needed and appreciated. The Campaign is part of the Social Responsibility Fund's objective of bridging the gap between the public and private sector and uniting them to address and solve social and community issues."
"The ‘Dirham Wa Bas' Campaign will tap the power of public participation in contributing towards social causes in the UAE. Small contributions can add up to make a huge difference. We seek the support of all members of the public across the UAE to make the Dirham Wa Bas Campaign a success," the minister added.
The DIFC will actively support the roll-out of the campaign by providing their expertise and marketing support to develop publicity campaigns that will help the ‘Dirham Wa Bas' Campaign reach out to the retail industry and the UAE public.
The ‘Dirham Wa Bas' Campaign is a programme launched to support the Social Responsibility Fund an initiative of the Ministry of Social Affairs aimed at financing social care and social development projects in the United Arab Emirates. Part of the Ministry's strategy for 2008-2010, the mission of the Fund is to support social projects that have the potential to contribute to the enhancement of society while fostering cooperation between the private and public sector in contributing towards social responsibility projects. – Emirates News Agency, WAM
RETURN TO TOP | WAM
UP TO THE MINUTE NEWS
Dubai media persons to engage US Democratic Party Rep. on Middle East Policy
posted on 21/08/2008
Dubai is among the five international cities that the Democratic Party of the US has chosen as venues for a digital video conference on the foreign policy positions of the democratic candidate on the Middle East.
Jerry Hagstrom, a political analyst and a senior leader of the Democratic Party, will engage media persons and policy specialists from the floor of the Democratic National Convention in Denver between 4 p.m.- 6.30 p.m. on Monday, August 25 at the Dubai School of Government.
The program, held by Dubai School of Government, in association with Dubai Press Club and the American Centre for Press and Cultural Affairs at the US embassy, will offer the participants an opportunity to discuss with the representative of the Democratic Party on issues of concern to the Arab region and the foreign policy approaches of the democratic presidential candidate Barrack Obama.
The US Consul General Paul Sutphin and a host of media personalities will participate in the live video conference. Jerry Hagstrom will also answer questions from the participants on a wide range of issues pertaining to Barrack Obama's approach to the Middle East.
Speaking on the program, the US Consul General Paul Sutphin said: "We are delighted to offer this opportunity to discuss a wide range of policy issues through the video conference. The proceedings of the National Democratic Convention will be broadcast live from the headquarters of the party. The imminent presidential elections in the US is a significant occasion for exchange of ideas on the rule of law and other issues that concern the US and the Middle East."
Hafed Al-Ghwell, Director, External Relations, Dubai School of Government, has welcomed the opportunity to host the televised conversation, saying: "Dubai School of Government has established its reputation as a platform for open debates and discussions on issues of concern to Dubai and to the region. This conference indeed strengthens that reputation." He added: "The opportunity to learn the Democratic Party's positions on issues relevant to us is significant for our future.
The proposed conference provides opportunity for direct interventions from Dubai. Participants from Dubai will be able to air their views and enquire about issues that concern them." Maryam Bin Fahad, Executive Director, Dubai Press Club, has expressed her delight at the conference and said the Press Club had always functioned as a platform for debates and discussions on regional and international socio-political issues. "The upcoming presidential elections in the US has strong implications for the world as the US is a superpower that influences international politics in important ways," she added. Bin Fahad also hoped the conference would throw light on the expected foreign policy changes in America with regard to the Middle East in the wake of the elections. – Emirates News Agency, WAM
RETURN TO TOP | WAM
UP TO THE MINUTE NEWS
IPIC signs MoU with two partners to build fertilizer complex in Uzbekistan
posted on 21/08/2008
 Abu Dhabi government owned-International Petroleum Investment Company (IPIC) of Abu Dhabi and Borealis signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Uzbekistan's State Joint-Stock Company (Uzkimyosanoat) to conduct a feasibility study for the construction of a world-scale Fertilizer complex in Uzbekistan.
State Joint-Stock Company Uzkimyosanoat consists of 12 chemical plants, 13 distributing companies, two engineering and scientific research institutes and a logistics company. Borealis is second in Europe manufacturer of plastics, and 65 % of its shares are owned by IPIC.
Scheduled to start up in 2012, this would be the largest plant nutrients complex in Central Asia and would comprise Ammonia Unit and Urea Plant, a press release said Wednesday. It added the study should be completed by the end of 2008 and will be used as the basis of decision for further project steps in first quarter of 2009.
"We are excited to be partnering with Uzbek side, this MoU reflects the strong trust and relation between the three companies to pursue further opportunities in various fields" Khadem Al Qubaisi, Managing Director of IPIC, said.
"Both IPIC and Borealis see a bright future in partnering with Uzkimyosanoat to tap into Central and Eastern Asia's dynamic growth markets." according Hubert Puchner, Vice President Sales and Marketing Fertilizer and Melamine in Borealis. – Emirates News Agency, WAM
RETURN TO TOP | WAM
UP TO THE MINUTE NEWS
Dubai Airports to start first phase of operations at T3 from Oct 14
posted on 21/08/2008
Dubai Airports has announced that a phased transition of operations to Dubai International's new Terminal 3, the multi-level underground structure measuring 300mX350m, will start from October 14, 2008.
The 'soft' opening will be implemented in four phases, to ensure that systems and processes are working to the highest standards of efficiency, enabling customers to make their way through the facility as easily and speedily as possible. With a built-up area of approximately 515,000 square metre, the Terminal will have 14 baggage belts, restaurants, first and business class lounges and 2600 underground parking spaces.
The Emirates Airline-dedicated 220 check-in counters terminal is currently undergoing operational readiness trials to ensure that customers have an unmatched experience, whether arriving, departing or in transit.
HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, and Chairman of Dubai Airports, said: "Terminal 3 and the associated development represent a much needed expansion of Dubai's aviation infrastructure. The new facility will play an important role in supporting Dubai's economic progress, and reaffirm the city's image as an emerging global aviation hub."
Reiterating that Terminal 3 will be made fully operational in a phased approach, Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said: "Raising customer service standards at Dubai International is at the heart of our strategy.
The expansion plan of US$ 4.5 billion includes the construction of Terminal 3 and two associated airside facilities. It will cater to the rapid expansion of Emirates fleet, especially to serve its fleet of superjumbo the Airbus A380. The two airside facilities will have 23 gates specifically designed for the super jumbo for twin deck embarking and disembarking. The second airside facility will be dedicated to the A380 and will be ready in 2009.
Detailed A380 compatibility tests were carried out at Dubai International in August 2007. Dubai International fulfilled all A380 compatibility tests, including those for taxiways, runway, and ground support equipment as well as docking trials at the terminal gate.
By the end of 2008, Dubai International will have a total of seven gates for superjumbo A380. Upon completion of the ongoing expansion, Dubai International will have 25 gates for the A380, making Dubai the world's largest A380 dedicated facilities. Every aspect of the expansion is designed for high volume passenger throughput, associated with full fledged A380 operations. – Emirates News Agency, WAM
RETURN TO TOP | WAM
UP TO THE MINUTE NEWS
Nakheel to seek US investments
posted on 21/08/2008
 Senior executives of Nakheel are scheduled to go to the United States tomorrow to meet with a number of top US developers and investors seeking investment opportunities in Dubai. Leading the Nakheel team on this visit to Los Angeles will be CEO Chris O'Donnell and director of sales, marketing and customer service Manal Shaheen. They will be accompanied by a team of company professionals.
The delegation will continue to pursue the company's strategy of highlighting the Dubai World-owned real estate company's expertise and projects to the US market which have already caught the world's attention with their unique architectural design and innovative concepts.
The delegation will also introduce various new investment opportunities in Dubai, including the recently launched Trump International Hotel & Tower on Palm Jumeirah, the company said in a statement. "This visit is significant in many ways. Firstly, it highlights Dubai's incredible growth to American investors and encourages them to recognise and understand the significance of the emirate's current economic vibrancy. This is particularly so within the real estate market, where Dubai has experienced the most impressive growth in the region during the first decade of this century," said Shaheen.
"Secondly, this visit presents us with an excellent opportunity to promote Nakheel projects, allowing investors to examine our ventures up close and become familiar with both our company and our projects."
Nakheel already has a major presence in North America and has signed several important agreements with some of the continent's leading brands and corporations. Nakheel has partnered with The Trump Organisation to develop the New York businessman's first project in the Middle East - Trump International Hotel and Tower.
It is also developing the first Worlds of Discovery theme parks outside the US, with SeaWorld, Aquatica, Busch Gardens and Discovery Cove set to become major attractions on Palm Jebel Ali by 2012.
In addition, Nakheel recently invested 20 per cent in Cirque du Soleil, the world's leading live entertainment company, in association with Dubai World sister company Istithmar World.
Nakheel's hotel division, Nakheel Hotels, is also following a dual strategy of investing in key gateway cities around the world alongside up-and-coming destinations which offer huge growth potential.
Major investments have already been made in North America, including a US$375 million investment in the world-renowned Fontainebleau Miami Beach resort which has enhanced an existing portfolio of hotels in key North American locations, including New York, Washington DC, Los Angeles and Los Cabos. – Gulf News
RETURN TO TOP | WAM
UP TO THE MINUTE NEWS
Mubadala's first US$8b investment fund deal with GE in ’09 first quarter
posted on 21/08/2008
Abu Dhabi's Mubadala Development Co. will make its first deal under an US$8 billion investment fund venture with General Electric Co. (GE) early next year, an official said on Wednesday. "The estimate for doing the first transaction is the first quarter," Waleed Al Mokarrab Al Muhairi, Mubadala's chief operating officer, told Zawya Dow Jones.
GE and Mubadala, in late July announced an agreement that involves allocating US$4 billion each in equity for an investments targeting projects worldwide. "The fund will be global from day one," Al Muhairi said.
Mubadala Development Company (Mubadala) and General Electric (GE in July agreed to set up a US$8 billion joint venture commercial finance company to explore investment opportunities in infrastructure, real estate, leasing, and finance sectors in Mena region. The new joint venture business initially will focus on investment opportunities generated through GE Capital's existing origination and servicing capacity with targeted assets in excess of US$40 billion, once it is launched. – Khaleej Times
RETURN TO TOP | WAM
UP TO THE MINUTE NEWS
| |
Home
