the Prime Minister’s Easter 2024 message
 
March message from Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Bilal El-Hayek
 
A solemn funeral to the late Nazih Nicolas in Sydney
 
One Year of Repair, Reform and Action, and much more to do.
 
Kuwait deplores Israeli occupation's seizure of Palestinian land
 
Patriarch Duwaihi's beatification ceremony to be held in Lebanon
 
One Year of Repair, Reform and Action, and much more to do across Canterbury
 
Have your say on a planning proposal in Carlingford
 
Protecting religious institutions
 
AFIC President, stated that AFIC strongly condemns any act of violence and terrorism and stands in solidarity with the Russian people
 
The community’s hopes and expectations of a Muslim public figure
 
Mr Keating has been a public critic of the AUKUS security pact,...”.
 
EMIRATI NEWS 5/10/2011





Ahmed bin Saeed, Nahyan bin Mubarak, 5 others won Swiss Ambassador's Awards

            H.H Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Aviation Authority and Chairman of Emirates Group, and Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and five other prominent members of the UAE community won the Swiss Ambassador's Awards for their efforts to enhance relations between the UAE and Switzerland.

            The Swiss Ambassador to the UAE, Wolfgang Amadeus Bruelhart, in a ceremony last night, honoured the recipients including Majid Ali Al Mansouri, Chairman of the Department of Municipal Affairs, Rashid Omran Trayyem, Member of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Peter Harradine, President of the Swiss Business Council Dubai '&' Northern Emirates, Jacques Perrin, President of the Swiss- Emirati Friendship Forum 2011 Lausanne, Obaid Salem Al Zaabi, Permanent Representative of the UAE to the United Nations Office in Geneva and Badria Al Mulla, Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Swiss- Emirati Friendship Forum.

            In remarks at the ceremony, Ambassador Bruelhart said the UAE is Switzerland's largest trading partner in the Gulf and Middle East as trade exchange between the two countries reached AED 8.6 billion in 2010. The number of Swiss companies operating in the UAE went up to 600, he added. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Emerging Emirati theatre artists showcase talent

            Laughter of around 700 people rocked the opening night of the fifth edition of the Dubai Festival for Youth Theatre on Sunday at Al Mamzar.

            The festival, held under the patronage of Sheikh Majid Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Culture, aims to promote Emirati and Arab theatre artists by providing a dedicated platform to showcase their talent.

            "The significant strides made by the Festival is underscored by the strong participation from the theatre community, as well as the number of plays that will be performed. With over 150 new artists, eight new directors and three new playwrights, the fifth edition clearly highlights the success of the Festival in fostering new Emirati talent and encouraging them to step forward to prove their abilities," said Saeed Al Naboudah, Acting Director General of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority.

            Kuwaiti artists Abdul Rahman Al Aql, Dawood Hussain, Bassem Al Amir, and Qatar's Ganem Al Salithi graced this year's festival.

Satirical comedy

            Theatre personality Yahya Al Haj, was honoured as the ‘Personality of the Year' for his contributions to the development of Arabic theatre, focusing on training young and emerging talent.

The festival premiered with Fasel wa Nowasel by the Bani Yas Theatre.

            A satirical comedy directed by Hamed Al Mahry, the play highlighted how the media focus on trivialities and form instead of content. It critiqued how ratings negatively influence TV programming in the region and how TV programmes affect the region's culture and behaviour.

Members of the audience, comprising mostly young people, noted how the play captured their imagination. "It was really interesting because we felt as if we were really there watching TV and we're switching channels as the play unfolded," Shatha, 27, told Gulf News. "The lighting effects were really great. Also, even with very little props, costumes, and effects, you could actually feel the story," Kelly, who watched the show with her colleagues, told Gulf News.

Jury members

            This year's festival will feature 11 plays from almost all the established theatre groups in the UAE. The jury includes screenwriter Jamal Salem Al Tamimi, theatre professionals Hafez Amaan and Najila Al Shehhi, theatre actor Abdullah Saleh, and writer/poet and theatric researcher and critic Haitham Al Khawaja.

INFORMATION

What: Dubai Festival for Youth Theatre (5th Edition)

Where: Dubai Cultural & Scientific Association, Al Mamzar

When: October 1 to 12

Contact: 800 4003 or [email protected]. – Gulf News

 

ADACH announces expedition from Oman to UAE

            The Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (ADACH) yesterday announced the (FOOTSTEPS OF "Mubarak Bin London") expedition which will see Captain Saeed Rashed Al Mesafry and Lt Ghafan Mohammed Al Jabry join world record-breaking adventurer, Adrian Hayes, in recreating the adventures of the great explorer Wilfred Thesiger, by travelling from Salalah in Oman to Abu Dhabi via Liwa and Al Ain.

            As part of the celebrations to mark the UAE's 40th Anniversary, the expedition team will travel by camels and on foot a distance of more than 1,500km.

            More than 100 years after the birth of Thesiger, the team will rely on basic provisions, nature and Bedouin hospitality to survive the 40 day trek. They will leave Salalah in late October 2011 and aim to reach Liwa by National Day, before completing their journey to Al Ain and finally Abu Dhabi around 9th December 2011.

            Abdulla Butti Alqubaisi, Director of the Communication Department ADACH, is delighted to be the presenting partner of the expedition: "Our aim to promote the rich heritage and culture of Abu Dhabi will be greatly enhanced by the Footsteps of Thesiger expedition. With a key historical focus, the expedition will allow residents and visitors to gain an understanding of Abu Dhabi's past, showcase the beauty of the Arabian deserts and learn from the values upheld by members of the original expedition, which include courage, perseverance and goodwill.

            Given that 2011 is the 40th Anniversary of the UAE, the expedition is perfectly timed as a key part of the UAE's national celebrations. 

            A key component of the expedition is ADACH's educational programme. The programme will allow school children to follow online the journey made by the modern day travellers and allow them to compare it with that of the original explorers." Abu Dhabi Media Company has invested in the project and will be following the Footsteps of Thesiger expedition. They will be filming a world class documentary that will be screened globally in 2012. The documentary will show the teams exploits as they follow in the footsteps of "Mubarak Bin London" and describe the changes in the desert landscape. The expedition is also being supported by members of the UAE Armed Forces, the expedition team will include two Emirati Nationals, Captain Saeed Rashed Al Mesafry and Lt Ghafan Mohammed Al Jabry.

            The former British Army Gurkha Officer and father of two, Hayes, who is currently training for the 40 day expedition commented: "The Footsteps of Thesiger expedition has been a thought of mine for many years. I have been planning this since my Greenland expedition two years ago. The journey will take place against some of the most beautiful yet harshest desert environments on the planet. Honouring the culture and heritage of the Bedouin, UAE and Oman, together with the extraordinary travels of Thesiger and his companions, we aim to travel and survive by means as close to the methods used by the 1940s expedition team." Lt Ghafan Mohammed Al Jabry, UAE Armed Forces, added: "When the opportunity arose from the UAE Armed Forces to form part of the expedition team - I knew it was a challenge I was eager to undertake. The expedition is set to promote the culture and heritage of Abu Dhabi and I am proud to be closely involved in an event which forms part of our National Day celebrations. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Countdown is on to Gitex Shopper

            With just days to go until the consumer electronics event of the year kicks off, Gitex Shopper exhibitors are in the final stages of preparing the biggest ever retail extravaganza in the show's history. Unrivalled prices on over 25,000 different up-to-the minute gadgets, bundled deals and an array of exciting competitions has set the stage for the best Gitex Shopper yet.

            Taking place from 8 - 15 October 2011 at Airport Expo Dubai and organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), Gitex Shopper brings together over 100 power retailers and leading technology names. The exclusive prices and convenient access to the crème-de-la-crème of technology brands will entice more than 160,000 visitors to the event. CompuMe, Dell, du, Etisalat, E4U, Emax, HP, Jacky's Electronics, Jumbo Lenovo, Panasonic, Samsung and Sharaf DG are just a few of the leading brands and retailers who will be present at Gitex Shopper this year.

            Access to Gitex Shopper has never been easier thanks to the free shuttle buses from Rashidiya Metro station and the newly opened Qusais Metro stop on the Green Line. Eager shoppers can register online at www.gitexshopperdubai.com, where they will also go in the draw to win tickets to Gitex Shopper and a JVC Camcorder.  - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Gitex Technology Week 2011 - spotlight on world's latest trends

            Gitex Technology Week which runs from 9 - 13 October at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC), connects more than 130,000 industry professionals from five continents with over 3,500 suppliers. Under the 2011 theme of "Redefine the Future" Gitex maintains and enhances its status of the region's only finger-on-the-pulse ICT event that not only provides practical solutions, but drives the investment that helps to make the Middle East a competitive technology market.

            This year's Gitex Global Leaders Summit, themed 'Innovation in Leadership', has some of the most inspirational and sought-after speakers within the ICT industry, including Pranav Mistry, the rising star of new technology and radical inventor of Sixth Sense Mistry, voted one of the top 15 Asian scientists to watch and one of the top 35 innovators in the world under the age of 35, will be demonstrating his unique human interface concepts and introducing prototypes for the first time in the Middle East.

            One of the sectors new to Gitex 2011 is Cyber Security @ Gitex. A recent Norton Cybercrime report revealed that the global cost of cybercrime is US$388bn, with 76% of UAE residents having been the victim of data theft over the past twelve months. The inaugural Cyber Security sector will offer presentations on cybercrime awareness and how to avoid falling into cyber traps. Live demonstrations by Terabyte Sponsors Abu Dhabi Police, Gigabyte Sponsor McAfee, Byte Sponsor Norton and event supporters TRA, aeCERT, and Black Hat will give visitors practical advice on how to defend against attacks across a variety of platforms.

            To further raise awareness and highlight the sophistication and speed of ICT security risks, the first ever Middle East and India regional finals of the Global CyberLympics Championships will be held alongside the CyberSecurity @ Gitex feature. Some of the world's most skilful hackers will take part in a series of ethical hacking games of both offensive and defensive security challenges, relayed live on screens around the virtual battlefield.

            For the first time at Gitex Technology Week, Gitex Digital Marketing is an opportunity to assess, evaluate and analyse the full potential of what is becoming an essential business tool. In a recent survey by digital marketing experts Econsultancy, entitled 'The State of Digital in MENA', 58% of businesses in the region are increasing their digital budgets this year, and 53% doing the same for mobile marketing. Social media is also thriving, with 56% of Middle Eastern companies currently using social networking websites such as Facebook and Twitter to attract business. With sponsors including Yahoo Maktoob (Pearl Sponsor), Ikoo (Emerald Sponsor), ICANN (Opal Sponsor) and Khellan and TkXel among the exhibitors, Gitex Digital Marketing will be strongly attended by experts hailing from digital creative agencies, email software companies and mobile advertising, among many others.

            The inaugural Gitex Card Technology feature will reflect and drive one of the most rapidly developing ICT sectors. From widespread use in the financial services sector to mobile phone SIM cards, road toll systems, national ID cards and hospital records, the use of smart card technology, be it in contact or contactless format, continues to accelerate at an exponential rate. In keeping with regional advancements, GITEX will again be expanding its profile to incorporate this increasingly important sector.

            In the Gitex Telecoms sector, as the Middle East prepares to roll out the next generation of Long Term Evolution (LTE) and 4G technology, the implications for the industry and consumers are vast. In response to this revolution in digital communication, Gitex is introducing its first ever Telecoms Symposium. Sponsored by Etisalat and supported by Euromonitor and knowledge partner Telecom Review, the initiative is the region's most comprehensive and influential telecoms forum.

            Keynote Speaker Jim Balsillie, CEO, Research in Motion is one of the most influential figures in his field, and an inspiration to both business owners and the leading players in the telecoms industry. Addressing the unprecedented telecoms developments in the UAE, Osman Sultan, CEO of du will focus on LTE deployment and the cost of migrating to 4G for the providers - a crucial aspect of the timing and effectiveness of next generation communications. And with a wealth of experience and expertise from other international telecom gurus, including Olivier Campenon, President, EMEA, British Telecom, Mario Bouchard, President and CEO, IBwave and Mehmet Balos, Executive Director, GenBand, insights into the opportunities and challenges in today's telecoms markets will be invaluable.

            InfoComm Middle East and Africa (MEA) 2011 will make its REGIONAL debut alongside Gitex TECHNOLOGY WEEK, in a joint collaboration between Dubai World Trade Centre in an effort by the international association of pro AudioVisual and information communication industries to help AV professionals and end-users in the region to keep abreast of latest developments and expand their skills and knowledge.

            Once again, more and more international companies will experience the global influence of Gitex as the event welcomes exhibitors from new countries including Kazakhstan, Latvia, Malta and Morocco and nine new national pavilions including Bangladesh, Italy, Lebanon, Pakistan, Palestine, Scotland and Spain. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Overwhelming participation for 2012 Zayed Future Energy Prize

            Zayed Future Energy Prize, announced yesterday that it has attracted outstanding participation for the 2012 awards: 1,103 nominations and 425 submissions from participants in 71 countries around the world, which represents an increase of 180 per cent over the first year of the prize in 2009.

            This year the award honours three categories - Small-to-Medium Size Enterprises (SME) and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO), Large Corporations and Individuals from all over the world who create impactful innovations that address the greatest global energy challenges, from climate change and environmental pollution to declining energy resources.

            The two dominant sectors of the 2012 Zayed Future Energy Prize are energy efficiency and CO2 reduction as the most important bridging technologies for a shift towards the use of renewable energies and mitigating the negative impact of climate change.

            The Zayed Future Energy Prize honours the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founding Father of the United Arab Emirates, who championed environmental stewardship as an integral part of UAE history and heritage.

            The 2012 competition has also received significant participation from developing markets, with over 37 per cent of entries from India, Egypt, China, Iran, Pakistan, Jordan, Nigeria, Mexico and Brazil.

            The prize is a facilitator for future-oriented solutions and technologies in sectors such as: solar and wind power; energy efficient building design; smart-grid devices; carbon capture and sequestration; biofuels and biomass, and sustainable waste management.  The submissions received will now be judged on four main criteria: Impact, Long-Term Vision, Leadership and Innovation, and undergo a multi-tiered evaluation process, consisting of four stages, and according to the highest global standards.

            In the first stage, a reputable international research and analysis firm runs due diligence on all submissions to ensure that they meet the criteria of the Prize. Subsequently, the Review Committee, which is comprised of international energy experts and faculty members from several educational institutes in the UAE such as the Masdar Institute of Science '&' Technology and UAE University, assesses a minimum of 60 submissions in greater detail and selects the top 30 entries for further evaluation. At the third stage, the Selection Committee formed by high-level energy experts from around the world further assess a minimum of 30 candidates shortlisted by the Review Committee and select the best 15 finalists to be presented to the Jury for the last stage of deliberation. Finally the Jury will select the winners and runners-up in each category from among the best 15 candidates.

            The winners and runners-up will be honoured in an Awards Ceremony in Abu Dhabi, on January 17, 2012. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

OCHA lauds UAE's humanitarian role in world scene

            Geneva - UAE's humanitarian assistance to countries in need without distinction to colour, religion and race comes within the top priorities of the country leadership under its humanitarian principles towards supporting international to deliver relief to victims and create environment conducive to decent living for the whole humanity, according to Obaid Salim Al Za'abi, Permanent Representative of the UAE to the United Nations Office in Geneva.

            Al Za'abi made his remarks during an audience yesterday with Mr. Rashid Khalikov, Director of Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), against the backdrop of OCHA participation in the Summit on the Global Agenda 2011 which will be held in Abu Dhabi on 9th October 2011. As he highlighted the importance role the UAE is playing at the international humanitarian scene, the UN official said more effort is needed to inform the international organisations and world public opinion about the UAE's significant humanitarian role.  - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

UAE continues to invest heavily across the hydrocarbon value chain, says UAE OPEC governor

            These are not risks that have any major policy implication for countries such as the UAE, which are in for the long haul and able to withstand the ups and downs of the global oil market, according to United Arab Emirates OPEC governor and General Manager of Abu Dhabi's ADNATCO ''&'' NGSCO Ali Obaid Al-Yabhouni.

            "We continue to invest heavily across the hydrocarbon value chain. Our aim is not to produce a few extra barrels over the coming months but to endow ourselves with the capability to continue exporting oil and gas at stable rates into the next decades, for the benefit of future generations", Yabhouni added in a speech at the 19th Middle Petroleum and Gas Conference (MPGC 2011), opened yesterday in Dubai.

            He stressed the UAE's "export capability because many of the massive investments in our domestic energy industry, such as those in renewables and nuclear power plants, are aimed at freeing up more hydrocarbons for export to consuming nations, while at the same time, allowing us to reduce our carbon footprint." He added that especially during times of uncertainty, we all face a common challenge and key players in the oil market need to work together through, for example, improved IOC-NOC collaboration. NOCs also need to work together, sharing experience, technology and research, for our mutual benefit.

            The current sovereign department crisis in the Euro zone that threatens the world economy, added to fears of a double dip recession, are clearly unrelated to events in global energy markets. Indeed, time and time again, we have seen major oil producing countries using their sovereign funds to step in to make major strategic investments to shore up international financial institutions and energy conglomerates, Obaid Al-Yabhouni.

            "For most of this year, oil prices have been at a level that encourages producers to continue making those massive investments that are required to continue supplying global markets," "Oil supply and demand appears to be largely in balance, while at the same time managing to respond effectively to unexpected circumstances as and when they inevitably occur. Over the last few months, we have seen one important producer face disruption in its supply and halt its exports completely, yet it was noticeable that it had a short-lived, and rather negligible, impact on oil prices," he further said.

            "Importantly for us, as producers, has been the global economy's ability to withstand current prices, which I should stress are being established in international markets within a context of adequate supply from all major producers. No-one complains of supply tightness and stock levels throughout the world remain at comfortable levels." "This does not mean, of course, that the oil market will not be affected by this latest chapter in the global economic emergency. After several years in which attention was focused on supply, it is now evident that we need to keep a close eye on demand, despite the fact that emerging economies have accounted for the bulk of the oil market's demand growth over the last few years, notably China and India," Yabhouni added.

            He cited recent forecasts which suggest that China's economy will grow at 9.0% in 2011, while India growth will slow slightly to 7.7%. This remains remarkably strong.

            "However, there are ominous clouds on the horizon that represent a major downside risk. HSBC's recent China Flash Purchasing Managers Index showed the Chinese factory sector contracted for a third consecutive month last month, as both new orders and new export orders fell on slack global demand.

            Yabhouni also noted that there are already evidence of falling oil imports from both China and India, though it will take time to judge whether this is due to seasonal factors or whether there is a structural reason for the fall.

            "Markets are beginning to realize the risks, as some forward prices, for the first time in many months, move from contango to backwardation," he explained.

            The UAE OPEC governor said he was "not predicting a major demand slump", but rather "simply warning that we have to remain alert, ready to respond to changing situations, in particular to growing concerns over the economy and its inevitable impact on oil demand." "Economic growth needs to be built on stable foundations. These include strong financial institutions, stable regulatory frameworks, continued technological innovation, fiscal transparency and energy security, all factors that will allow the world to crawl back into a sustained growth. Together, as an industry, we are responsible for the last pillar - by no means the least important one - and we can be confident that the investment undertaken in recent years will guarantee future energy stability for decades to come," Yabhouni further said. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Abu Dhabi raises stake in OMV

            Vienna - Abu Dhabi's investment fund has raised its minority stake in OMV, two weeks after the Austrian oil and gas group said it would offload unprofitable refining and marketing assets.

International Petroleum Investment Company (IPIC) raised its stake to 24.9 per cent from 20.4 per cent, OMV said in a statement yesterday. Austrian state holding company OeIAG owns around 28 per cent, according to Reuters data.

            OMV said last month at its capital markets day in Istanbul that it would divest up to €1 billion (Dh4.91 billion) of refining and marketing assets by 2014 to focus on its more profitable exploration and production business. OMV's shares extended losses to trade 1.6 per cent down by 1224 GMT yesterday, roughly in line with the sector which was down 1.7 per cent. - Reuters

 

Dubai oilfield to start production this year

            Al Jalila oilfield in Dubai is on track to begin operations before the end of this year, a conference was told yesterday.

            Sheikh Ahmad Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Supreme Council of Energy, confirmed a government statement issued earlier this year which predicted full-scale commercial production at the field within a year.

            The statement added that Al Jalila should "notably increase the production of crude in Dubai, whose current oil reserves are about 4 billion barrels."

            Speaking to reporters in Dubai yesterday, Sheikh Ahmad said: "God willing, it will start this year," but declined to elaborate on production levels.

Commenting on the business outlook for Dubai, Sheikh Ahmad said the Government is satisfied with the composition of the emirate's economy and urged companies to press ahead with restructuring plans. "I am very happy with the core business of Dubai," which includes trade and tourism, said Sheikh Ahmad. "There are some companies that must continue to work on their restructuring."

            Samuel Ciszuk, senior Mena energy analyst with IHS Energy, said yesterday that the overall importance of the field was unclear.

            "All additions will make a difference to Dubai, given its small and declining overall output," said Ciszuk.

Bank's position

            "However it is likely not a particularly large field. The feeling seems to be that it will slow the decline over the coming decade, rather than reverse it, but again, that is only a guess."

            Ciszuk added that the speed with which Dubai has been able to develop the field indicates that it is likely to be very small, but that in light of the announcement, work was likely to be completed soon.

            Speaking at the annual Middle East Petroleum and Gas Conference in Dubai, Sheikh Ahmad also said that UAE banks are sufficiently liquid to support the country's economic growth and the problems in Europe and US have no direct impact on the country's financial system.

            The UAE's average sustainable crude oil production capacity is set to increase 12.5 per cent to 3.06 million barrels per day by 2014, according to estimates by the Paris-based International Energy Agency (IEA). — Gulf News with inputs from Himendra Mohan Kumar and agencies

 

Dubai emerges as world’s 3rd largest diamond hub

            Dubai is set to reinforce its position as the world’s third largest diamond trading hub with the value of 2011 trading set to surpass the US$35 billion mark achieved in 2010, Ahmed bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman of Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, or DMCC, said on Monday.

         From US$20 billion in 2009, the value of Dubai’s vibrant diamond trade rose to US$35 billion in 2010, and this year it is poised to scale new highs, bin Sulayem said at a press briefing to announce the 8th Dubai City of Gold Conference being organised by the Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group.

         Fuelling this growth in diamond trading is Dubai Diamond Exchange, a subsidiary of the DMCC, and a leading global diamond trading platform.

         Dubai’s diamond trade, which has adapted to the recession very fast, was instrumental in triggering a boom in previous stones business across the Middle East, he said.

         According to latest available data from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dubai Diamond Exchange reported  128 per cent growth in polished diamond exports, valued at US$14.6 billion, even as US$41.3 billion worth of gold was  traded in Dubai in 2010, an increase of 18 per cent on the previous year.

         Bin Sulayem said Dubai’s gold and diamond trading remains on a growth trajectory given that the UAE is the highest per capita jewellery consumption destination in the world.

         He said the DMCC, set up in 2002 as a strategic initiative to enhance commodity trade flows by providing the physical and financial infrastructure, is committed to support industry initiatives that are in line with its vision.

         He said more than 800 gold and diamond-trading companies operate out of the Jumeirah Lake Tower, or JLT Free Zone.

         “Our sponsorship of the Gold Conference reflects our strategy to support initiatives that are aimed at enhancing gold trade through the emirate, such as our recent unveiling of the UAE’s first gold bullion coin,” said bin Sulayem. The second bullion coin will be unveiled in the near future, he said.

         Anan Fakhreddin, Chairman of Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group, or DGJG, said the City of Gold Conference would highlight the intrinsic value of gold and precious metals in an environment of heightened risk and economic uncertainty.

         “Gold remains one of the best-performing investments hitting a record high of US$1,920.30 an ounce in early September. Its price is more than 25 per cent higher year to date,” he pointed out.

         Themed on the outlook for the gold, gems and jewellery industry in the Middle East, the one-day conference will present specialists’ views and analysis on precious metals, gems and jewellery in the Middle East.

            Over 450 delegates comprising CEOs, industry leaders and bankers from local and international markets, as well as representatives from the Government of Dubai are expected to participate in the Conference.

         “This event will facilitate the exchange of ideas and provide an opportunity to network with global players, while sharing best practice case studies and experiences with top experts. The Conference underlines Dubai’s leadership role in the gold and jewellery trade at the global level.”

         “The price of gold is often a mirror of existing uncertainties in the economic and political outlook, and gold as an asset class has clearly been a great attraction for the broad-based investment community in the region,” said Gerhard Schubert, Head of Precious Metals, Emirates NBD.

         Alison Burns, Head of Precious Metals, Standard Bank MENA, said while speculative and ETF investment demand has been a major driving factor in gold’s recent bullish trend, Dubai remains a major regional hub for physical distribution.

         Munir Kaloti, President, Kaloti Jewellery Group, said the conference with its spotlight on the Middle East is the perfect platform to discuss the current and future opportunities in this region from a global perspective. – Khaleej Times

 

Stronger UAE-Italy trade cooperation discussed

            Minister of Foreign Trade Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi and Italy's Minister of Economic Development Paolo Romani here discussed ways to promote trade and investment relations between the two countries.

            In remarks at the meeting, Sheikha Lubna noted that there are state-sponsored plans in place for the non-oil sectors where strategic investment opportunities and partnerships with UAE companies are available for Italian companies and investors. She called on the private sectors in the UAE and Italy to realize these opportunities into investments to further enhance the national economies of both countries.

            Al Qasimi further stressed that the UAE has a robust economy and remains a gateway between the East and the West and continues to back non-oil knowledge-based sectors to boost competitiveness and further develop the business environment.

            For his part, the Italian minister stressed his country's interest in promoting cooperation with the UAE which he said is "an important strategic partner in the Middle East." Non-oil trade exchange between the UAE and Italy reached AED 16.4 billion in 2010 and grew by 22% to reach AED 5 billion in the first quarter of 2011. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

UAE ups its battle against cybercrime

            Forget your laptops and PCs, cybercrime has now wormed its way into your pockets and purses, with industry experts revealing that mobile security threats are growing at an alarming rate in the UAE.

            Speaking at a GITEX Technology Week media event, Lt Colonel Faisal Alshamari, Abu Dhabi Police and Ministry of Interior, revealed in the last one year alone, cyber crime reports in the country have increasingly shunned your traditional platforms to find a leap in hackers targeting mobile phone users.

            “Everyone is online these days, with your BlackBerrys, iPhones and other smartphones allowing users to access the internet instantaneously,” said Alshamari. “Hackers have smartened up and have realised a weak link, giving many the opportunity to exploit users who are caught unawares or simply haven’t taken the necessary precaution to protect themselves.”

            Cybercrime in the UAE has tightened its noose around end users in recent years, with last year alone seeing US$600 million spent in the country to combat this very threat.

            Quiz Alshamari though and he says the number is much higher.

            He said: “The US$600m is a very rough estimate, which doesn’t even begin to include the operational cost that goes into fighting cybercrime annually. I would put that estimate at much higher, even double.”

            While some may still question the UAE’s vulnerability to cybercrime, but according to a recent Norton Cybercrime Report, two people are affected by this threat every minute across all platforms, including traditional computers, mobile phones, gaming consoles and others.

            The astounding figure only seconds the other statistic that claims nearly 76 per cent of UAE residents have been victims of data theft over the past 12 months.

Securing cyberspace

            Industry experts say no one is exempt from cyber crime threat, be it individuals, corporates or governments, especially with high tech packages now readily available on the black market to facilitate from small time hacking to espionage.

            At a government level, the UAE last year became a member of the Virtual Global Taskforce, a global entity that fights cybercrime across boundaries.

            “Cybercrime is borderless and forever evolving, so we as a government body, aside from introducing laws within the country, we need to ensure we are working with our counterparts in different countries to tackle the problem at its root,” said Alshamari.

            He gave the example of the Nigerian inheritance scam, which originated from another country, made its way into many an inbox within the UAE and later even wound its way into a phishing scam over mobile phone devices.

            But the government’s involvement doesn’t stop there. Awareness campaigns that are educating individuals in upping their security and reporting the crime to authorities is taking the fight forward.

            “Mobile devices particularly are developing into an easy target, with many individuals carrying company provided phones and using it as an open channel for personal use,” he added.

Parental control

            However, Alshamari quotes recent studies that state young children are the most vulnerable to cybercrime, and it is up to parental vigilance to ensure the safety of the young ones and themselves.

“It is terrible to see young children in Dubai playing with BlackBerry devices,” he stated. “Earlier, many parents handed such a device to their kids, not knowing that a proxy did not exist for this.

            “Did they not realise that such negligence was leaving their kids open to being violated not by just your regular hackers and identity theft thieves, but also sexual predators who were targeting young children?”

            Now with BlackBerry’s proxy well and truly established here, Alshamari says that parents need to continue their vigilance and always remember self-awareness is always the first line of defence in any battle.  – Emirates 24|7

 

Emirates SkyCargo transports heaviest ever item

            Emirates SkyCargo came to the rescue of a ship undergoing repairs when it transported a 36-tonne rudder part - the heaviest single item ever carried by the freight division of Emirates Airline. The rudder stock - 9.16 metres long and 1.05 metres wide - was required for urgent repairs to a vessel at Dubai Dry Docks. The part - tailor-made by Korean steel manufacturer Taewoong - would normally be transported by sea, but a quick solution was required to reduce the cost of the ship being out of service.

            In conjunction with Dubai-based charter broker Air Charter International, it was transported on an Emirates freighter - a Boeing 747-400F - from Seoul to Dubai and tested ground-handling operations at both airports to the fullest. "Transporting a piece of cargo this heavy requires the highest degree of care and special handling," said Hiran Perera, Emirates' Senior Vice President Cargo Planning '&' Freighters. "Two cranes - capable of lifting 50 tonnes each - along with , two high loaders were required, while more than 30 workers in both Seoul and Dubai made sure the intricate loading operation went smoothly.

            "Precision planning and the combined expertise of everyone involved at Emirates SkyCargo, dnata, Air Charter International and Atlas Air was crucial to this success of this project," added Perera. "This is testament to our commitment to meeting even the most challenging customer requirements. We are also committed to facilitating international trade, so it is particularly satisfying that we will have contributed to the vessel's quick return to service." "With our client's needs at the forefront of our efforts, it is crucial to be able to rely on a good partner," said Ms Claire Brugirard, Commercial Manager at Air Charter International. "We were very pleased with the performance of Emirates SkyCargo in completing this project successfully. This shows that when broker and operator work together as a team, true added value can be provided to the client." - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Al Ain revamps roads to tourist hot spots

            Al Ain Municipality has widened and refurbished roads in some of the city's tourist hot spots to handle the growing traffic.

            The development has given a new look to the areas and eased the lives of thousands of people who travel through the areas, which include Green Mubazzarah Park, Ayn Al Fayda and Sha'ab Al Ghaf.

            The area, located in the foothills of Jebel Hafeet, witnesses a huge amount of traffic on national holidays and festive occasions such as Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha and the new year.

            The project was launched in April last year and cost Dh63 million, said Rashid Al Niyadi, the municipality's project manager, Internal Roads and Infrastructure.

            The project was in line with the municipality's pursuit of the development of infrastructure and traffic safety enhancement in tourist hot spots, he said.

            Al Niyadi said new developments include the expansion of single-lane roads to dual carriageways. There are now three lanes in each direction with street lights and a drainage system for storm water.

Scenic beauty

            A new roundabout has also been constructed outside Green Mubazzarah Park and the roads have recently been opened for general traffic. The area was earlier infamous for long traffic queues and jams on festive occasions. People from all over the UAE and further afield visit Jebel Hafeet and its surrounding areas due to its scenic beauty and modern developments.

            "The project has been developed by keeping in mind the future requirements and needs of pedestrians and bicycle riders," he said.

            The roads now provide swift and easy access.

            Al Niyadi said studies have shown a steady growth of traffic in the area. Around 5,000 vehicles have been using the roads on a daily basis and this volume is expected to reach 31,000 vehicles in 2020. – Gulf News

 

Visitors can plant date palms at Abu Dhabi festival

            The Emirates International Date Palm Festival (EIDPF) yesterday announced the programme for the six-day event, which will include an entertainment line-up featuring arts, culture and traditional activities.

            Held under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, Minister of Presidential Affairs and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority, the festival will take place from November 21 to 26 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec) in the capital.

            The festival will have three new features this year. The first is date planting, which will provide visitors with an opportunity to plant their own tree and have their name on it during the festival.

After the festival concludes, the trees will be moved to a public location in Abu Dhabi, contributing to beautifying its landscape.

            Another new attraction, a "CookingArea" will be added to the festival. Renowned celebrity chefs will demonstrate to visitors how the flavours of the date can be captured in both modern and traditional recipes.

            A display of the lifestyles and traditions of Emiratis before the discovery of oil will be in the Heritage Village. This new feature will explore many traditional and cultural activities such as dancing, reciting poetry recital, handicraft displays and much more. Mohammad Jalal Al Reyaysa, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee for the Emirates International Date Palm Festival , said: "We expect this year's festival to get huge interest from exhibitors, professionals and visitors alike."

            Returning this year is the Date Palm Theatre, one of last year's biggest hits. It will provide a stage for students to showcase their talents to audiences through plays, traditional performances and competitions in the morning and afternoon.

            The Kids' Zone will enable children to participate in activities and competitions, learn about the date fruit and other foods, have their pictures taken at the novelty camel board, and come away with a goody bag, among other activities. – Gulf News

 

FINA/ARENA Swimming World Cup could inspire next great Emirati swimmer, UAE coach believes

            UAE swimming coach Jay Benner believes this weekend's FINA/ARENA Swimming World Cup has the potential to inspire the next great Emirati swimmer.

            Benner and his team are looking forward to welcoming the top swimmers from around the world to the Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Sports Complex for the October 7-8 event.

            Benner said: "Any time you have the chance to come and see world class swimmers, you should do it. Many of these swimmers will be competing at the Olympics in London next year, which makes this event that much more spectacular." "This provides great opportunities for people to come and watch great athletes and have an appreciation for how incredible these swimmers are. This will allow the children in this region to become more involved in the sport. To see what these swimmers are doing will hopefully inspire some younger swimmers. Hopefully out there, we have the next great Emirati swimmer," he added in a press statement.

            Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, Dr Ahmed Saad Al Sharif echoed Benner's statement regarding the youth stating: "We are excited to bring this wonderful event to Dubai and we believe the children will benefit greatly from it. Our aim is to raise awareness here in Dubai and we believe events like this will have a great effect on young UAE swimmers for many years to come." The UAE National swimming team will be pushed to the limit in the next couple of months with the GCC Games and the Arab Games following the FINA/ARENA Swimming World Cup but Benner believes this weekend's competition is a vital part of preparation for those events.

            Speaking about the competition, Benner expressed the need for his swimmers to learn as much as they can from the international competitors at the FINA/ARENA Swimming World Cup. "This opportunity gives our swimmers the chance to see what's involved in watching how world class swimmers warm up, how they prepare, and how they get ready for the competition. It can certainly benefit all of the swimmers that are here, even the ones who are not competing. You need something to inspire them to grow and compete at a world-class level. This is the goal and hosting competitions like this gives us that opportunity," said Benner.

            Ahmed Al Falasi, President of the UAE Swimming Federation is fully committed to using the venue for as many swimming events as possible the years ahead. "There are not many places in the world where a national team has the opportunity to train and compete in such an exceptional venue. Our swimmers absolutely love training at the facility and we feel honoured to be able to host competitions such as this." 

UNHCR lauds Fatima's initiatives towards welfare of refugee women and children

            UN High Commissioner for Refugees Antonio Gutierrez has commended initiatives launched by H.H. Sheikha Fatima bin Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union and Honorary Chairwoman of the UAE Red Crescent Authority (RCA), to help alleviate the suffering of refugee women and children around the globe.

            The chief of UN refugees agency said the Sheikha Fatima Fund for Refugee women and children provides better care and living for women and children victimised by disasters and crises so as to enhance their resilience to survive harsh circumstance of being refugees.

            He added the Fund affirms Sheikha Fatima's commitment to improving living conditions and ease suffering of refugee women and children.

            The UN official also appreciated massive efforts made by the RCA in support of refugees, noting the RCA's aggressive movements and operations in flash points receive commendation and credit from the international community and the UN.

            Gutierrez, who made his remarks during a meeting he held recently in Geneva with RCA Chairman Ahmed Humaid Al Mazrouie, said his agency was grateful to the RCA for its noble humanitarian initiatives for improving the living conditions of the marginalised segments.

            He said the UNHCR always seeks to coordinate and cooperate with the RCA for its valuable leading experience in relief of refugees.

            The UNHCR and RCA chiefs explored opportunities for reinforcing joint partnership in order to carry out joint humanitarian refugee-centred programmes. The two sides agreed to formulate a joint taskforce to coordinate emergency relief operations and provide basic services to refugees.

            The RCA chief said his agency was ready to further boost its constructive cooperation and expand avenues of partnership with the UNHCR for the best interest of targeted groups. ''The RCA lends significant attention to development projects towards refugees so as to improve their living conditions in camps," he affirmed.

            He informed the UN official about the RCA's experiments in a number of countries that experienced tragic events that produced inhumane situation like Afghanistan, Yemen, Libya and Somalia. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

UAE implements a number of development projects in Pakistan

            Islamabad - The UAE Project to Help Pakistan is carrying out a number of development projects worth US$100 million in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Bajaur Agency and South Waziristan areas in Pakistan. This is in line with the initiative of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

            Abdullah Khalifa Al Gafli, Director of the UAE Project to help Pakistan, in a statement to WAM, stressed UAE's keenness to provide a decent life for residents of Pakistan, through the provision of vital services including basic infrastructure.  He noted that the achievement of project is going according to plan, pointing out that they have implemented 98 per cent of the 51 educational projects, as well as the implementation of about 85 per cent of the 64 water projects, while it is expected that some of these projects will be completed within the coming months.

            Al Gafli added that 75 percent of work on the construction of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan bridge has been completed and it is hoped that project will be completed during August 2012. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

UAE pins on a pink ribbon to fight breast cancer

            It’s that time of year again, where the world unites for a change to join arms in the battle against breast cancer.

             According to the UAE Ministry of Health, cancer is the second cause of women deaths, with breast cancer being the most common denominator.

            The highest mortality rate is between the age group of 45 years to 59 years, with the highest incidence also reported in the same group.

            Unfortunately, the most alarming fact is that while this disease can be prevented, it is almost always detected at a late stage. But awareness and testing can change all that.

            The concerns are shared globally, and as a symbol to mark the Breast Cancer Awareness programme launched by Estée Lauder, in 2000 a campaign was launched, marking the start of the Global Landmarks Illumination Initiative where landmarks across the globe glowed pink for the cause.

            The cause has spread even to the UAE, and this year the Burj Al Arab, The Fairmont Dubai, The Grand Hyatt, The InterContinental and The Crowne Plaza in Dubai Festival City will glow pink for the cause.

            But that doesn’t mean the work is done. This month needs the help of all of you, and Emirates 24|7 jumps in to the cause to bring you ways how you can spread awareness and fight the good fight to finally beat breast cancer before it is too late.

Pink Ribbon Book Sale – October 7

            Volunteer In Dubai, in association with Safe and Sound and Aramex, has the Pink Ribbon Book Club.

            The aim of this initiative is to raise both awareness and funds for Safe and Sound, starting off by collecting unwanted books in the Dubai community, which will then be sold in to raise funds on October 7 at the Pink Ribbon Book Sale.

            All of the proceeds will be used to continue raising awareness for breast cancer in the UAE, as well as to provide tangible support to less fortunate women in the city, in the form of free mammograms.

            The sale will happen monthly on the second Friday of every month in BurJuman, starting this weekend.

            Help out by donating books, spread the word amongst family and friends and even volunteering. Email bookclub @volunteerindubai.com

Pink Survivor Fashion Show – October 21

            If there ever was an evening to turn out and show your support, this is it.

BurJuman once again will host the Pink Survivor Fashion Show, an annual event where breast cancer survivors walk the ramp to create awareness for a cause close to their hearts, and prove that life does go on; they are living proof.

            The event also aims at generating awareness amongst women that early detection can save lives. So sign up for that mammogram today, especially when Welcare Hospital is jumping in on the bandwagon and providing 50 per cent discounts n them.

            The Pink Survivor Fashion Show starts at 7.30pm in BurJuman.

Think Pink at Karaoke Night at d’fusion – October 21

            Who says cancer awareness cannot be conducted while having fun and still spreading the word across the community?

            BurJuman has teamed up with Grandeur Hotel, inviting residents to spread the message of hope, love and support through an evening of music and mayhem at d’fusion, the Indian fusion restaurant that gives a kick with its karaoke nights.

            So head down there on Wednesday, October 21 for a special ‘Pink Karaoke’ night, where BurJuman will be distributing pink ribbons for guests to wear as well as Safe and Sound’s educational collateral, packed with pertinent information on this deadly disease, early diagnosis, detection and treatment.

d’fusion will also be ‘going pink’ with its menu on the night featuring some delectable pink desserts conjured up by Chef Mujib, as well as a signature non-alcoholic fruity pink drink being served to quench the thirst of aspiring singers and music lovers in the audience.

            The popular Fusion Five band members will be on hand to sing songs made famous by strong female singers and breast cancer survivors including Kylie Minogue, Anastasia and Olivia Newton-John.

            Guests are also free to dedicate their song choices to friends, family and loved-ones who have been touched by this disease and continue to fight the good fight. Call: 0 4 325 6448

Raffles Spa Pink Day – October 22

            Here’s a rare opportunity to nab a treat and do it for a good cause. Raffles Dubai is hosting a Pink Day on October 22, where all proceeds from the tips of your manicured and pedicured nails, to ladies and gents salon offerings, and spa treatments will be donated to the Safe and Sound Breast Cancer Awareness Programme. Call 04 314 9828

The Pink Walkathon – October 28

            Perhaps the biggest event of the Breast Cancer awareness month, join the community as your every step will be matched by thousands of others who will come together to show support for the disease and raise funds for the cause.

            And the draw is not the walk itself, but also the community carnival that features a live jazz band, food stalls, free drumming by Dubai Drums, a Pink bazaar for some killer bargains, a kids corner and much more.

            The 3.6km walk starts and finishes at BurJuman, with registration fees costing Dh50 for adults and Dh30 for children between the ages eight and 12 years. Children below eight years walk for free and do not require registration.

            For corporate or group registrations of 10 people and above, the Pink Team will come to your premises to collect the completed registration forms, the money and provide you with the walk T-shirts as per the sizes requested.

            All fund usage is monitored by The Red Crescent and go towards providing free mammograms, patient care and spreading breast cancer awareness.

 K-Lynn Pledge – month long

            Lingerie brand, K-Lynn, is all geared up to get you to take the “K-Lynn Pledge”. What it is, you ask? Think a community initiative that raises awareness of breast cancer care throughout this month. Every woman who takes the pledge will receive a voucher for a breast care consultation at Dubai London Specialty Hospital, along with free mammograms and sonograms where required. The pledge will be photos and signatures that will find its way into the window display of K-Lynn’s store at Mall of the Emirates.

The Grand Hyatt Dubai – month long

            Another treat for the senses, The Grand Hyatt Dubai spa is kicked up about supporting the Estée Lauder breast cancer awareness programme by donating 10 per cent of the price of every Creamy Cranberry Facial sold. The 60-minute facial is priced at Dh410. Call 04 317 2612. – Emirates 24|7

 

Ministry of Health celebrates World Heart Day

            The Ministry of Health celebrated the World Heart Day coinciding to 29th September under the title "One World..One Home..One Heart".  Through this celebration, the ministry highlighted the dangers of heart and vascular diseases, number one killer diseases in the world.

            The health education and enhancement department at the ministry of health organised a number of programs and activities that would highlight the dangers of heart diseases, heart strokes, high blood pressure, cholesterol and smoking, unhealthy food, obesity and less physical activities on the health of community members.

            On this occasion, an accredited scientific day was also organised in Al Fujairah Hospital for doctors and healthcare specialists to emphasise the latest developments in the field of heart diseases and develop the skills and capabilities of doctors and employees of the healthcare field.

            Dr. Fadeela Mohamed Sharif, Director of Health Education and Enhancement Department at the Ministry of Health, said: "The ministry organised a medical tests campaign for the ministry's employees in Dubai and customers on Thursday 29th September to provide blood sugar tests, cholesterol, blood pressure and body mass to calculate the dangers of heart diseases rates and give individual assistance and plans based on the results of the tests. The check-up tests are done by doctors and nutrition specialists from the ministry. The campaign is also organised in coordination with Pfizer Inc.

            The UAE, launched the third phase of the heart campaign to cover the staff of various organisations and companies. In addition, the Ministry of Health also seeks to organise a number of campaigns in public areas and shopping malls. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

EAD launches new documentary series covering critical environmental issues

            The Environment Agency — Abu Dhabi (EAD) has launched a major new documentary series this week, entitled “The Environment Show with Ask Ali.” The unique series about the UAE -made in the UAE, for the UAE - will be showcased at the newly created Eco-Cinema at the “Bu Tinah Experience” dome located at the Abu Dhabi Corniche.

            Each episode of the series will cover critical environmental issues of relevance to the UAE and will be launched to the public in a series of movie premieres held at the Eco-Cinema every week.

            The especially-commissioned documentary series is part of a long-term collaboration project between EAD and Ali Al Saloom, EAD’s Environmental Awareness Ambassador and the popular UAE cultural ambassador and columnist. The first episode, which will be premiered on Monday Oct. 3 at 7pm, will see Ali Al Saloom go in search of endangered Hawksbill Turtles around Bu Tinah Island. In a dramatic turn of events during the documentary,  Ali suddenly becomes surrounded by turtles and gets a closer look at this endangered species.

            This episode also contains extraordinary film footage of a Hawksbill turtle laying eggs on Bu Tinah Island and of young hatchlings starting their epic journey of life in the Arabian Gulf.

            After each premiere, the films will be shown throughout the week at the “Bu Tinah Experience” Eco-Cinema and will also be posted online at EAD’s YouTube channel. The dome is open to the public every day from 10am-10pm until Nov.13 and entrance is free.

            The Hawksbill turtle is classified as “critically endangered” on the IUCN Red List.  Threats facing this species in the UAE include boat strikes, abandoned fishing nets, barnacles and plastic bags.

            In the UAE, the hawksbill thrives around Bu Tinah in a protected area. This year alone, at least 600 of these endangered animals have been born on the island. – The Gulf Today

 

Abu Dhabi residents receive census forms

            Abu Dhabi authorities began distributing forms to residents to fill them and post them back as part of the emirate’s largest census project covering the population, gender, occupation and other demographic data.

            Most residents in the capital and other parts of the emirate have been handed the forms in envelops over the past three days while those who were absent from their homes found the papers at their doors.

            The envelops contain several forms to be filled by the parents and other members of the family, including information on their nationality, age, residence, occupation, marital status, education and other personal data.

            “The Abu Dhabi Census 2011 is a major project that aims to provide official statistics and build an updated database for the people who live in each of the regions of the emirate (Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Western Region),” said the Abu Dhabi statistics centre  (SCAD), which is managing the project.

            “The information obtained from the 2011 Census will depict a complete picture of the population of the emirate, both nationals and non-nationals.”

            It said data collected from residents would also be analysed and compared with information collected in previous censuses in 2005 and 2001 in order to find out how the population of the emirate is growing and changing over the years. 

            Authorities will also use this comparison to make predictions with regard to population growth as well as future population changes and to help decision makers and businesses to take important decisions.

            “Abu Dhabi Census 2011 requires the collective efforts and contribution of all segments of the society in order to ensure its full success as well as the achievement of its objectives,” SCAD said.

            “Believing in the complementarily of social roles and the need to establish productive co-operative relations with its strategic partners, SCAD invites all to register and contribute to the success of this important project which will reinforce the development plans in the emirate and support Abu Dhabi government's pursuit of the highest standards of welfare for the community.”

            The Centre assured all residents it would respect their privacy and protect the secrecy of all information they provide in line with the 2008 law number 7. Latest estimates by SCAD show Abu Dhabi emirate’s population stood at around 1.96 million in mid 2010, including nearly 1.1 million in Abu Dhabi city.

            Emirates were estimated at just over 900,000 in the emirate. Life expectancy for males was put at 74.9 year and for females at 77 years. The emirate’s GDP was estimated at Dh620 billion in 2010, with a per capita income of around Dh315,000, one of the world’s highest GDP per capita levels. – Emirates 24|7

 

Abu Dhabi oil income up by Dh82bn in 2010

            Strong oil prices allied with higher crude output to boost Abu Dhabi’s hydrocarbon income by nearly Dh82 billion in 2010 but the earnings remained far below the record income achieved in 2008, according to government data.

            From around Dh196.6 billion in 2009, the value of the emirate’s exports of oil, gas and petroleum products soared to nearly Dh278.6bn in 2010, showed the figures published in Abu Dhabi’s yearbook released this week.

            The 2010 income was one of the highest revenue levels in the emirate’s history but remained far below the record high earnings of Dh415.8bn achieved in 2008 as a result of higher production and a surge in crude prices to their highest ever average of around US$95 a barrel.

            The increase last year boosted Abu Dhabi’s total exports to Dh300.7bn from around Dh214.8bn in 2009, the report showed.

            The increase also resulted in a 15.8 per cent growth in nominal GDP to nearly Dh620.3bn in 2010 from Dh535.3bn in 2009.

            Despite a 5.6 per cent rise in the population, the surge in GDP boosted Abu Dhabi’s per capita income to Dh315,300 last year from Dh293,100 in 2009, maintaining the emirate’s status as one of the richest nations in the world and second only to Qatar in the Arab region.

            Oil prices averaged around US$75 in 2010 compared with nearly US$62 in 2009 while Abu Dhabi’s crude output swelled to nearly 2.255 million bpd from Dh2.189 million bpd in the same period, the report showed.

            But gas production declined to around 4,847 million cubic feet per day in 2010 from nearly 5.674 million cubic feet per day in 2009.

            The report showed Abu Dhabi’s population grew to around 1.967 million in mid-2010 from about 1.862 million in mid-2009.

            Abu Dhabi controls the world’s sixth largest proven oil reserves of around 92 billion barrels, nearly seven per cent of the global crude potential. Its gas resources are estimated at around 212 trillion cubic feet, the world’s fifth after the reserves in Russia, Iran, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

            According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), higher revenue and lower spending allowed Abu Dhabi to cut its fiscal deficit by more than half in 2010. Expenditure was cut from around Dh261.4bn in 2009 to Dh245.5 billion last year although it remained at one of its highest levels.

            The deficit was slashed to nearly Dh57.07bn from around Dh117.4bn, the emirate’s largest budget shortfall. The fiscal balance recorded its highest surplus of nearly Dh113bn in 2008. – Emirates 24|7

 

India-UAE trade hits US$30bn in first half

            Trade between India and the UAE has increased to US$30 billion (Dh108bn) for the first six months of 2011.

            In 2010 trade between the two countries touched US$44.5 billion. Sanjay Varma, India's Consul General in Dubai said, "The first six months alone has witnessed trade between the two countries at two thirds of what was achieved the whole of last year," he said.

            According to him, clubbed with oil, the trade between the two countries could well reach US$80-90 billion annually. He was speaking during the reception hosted by the Indian Business and Professional Council (IBPC) to the visiting Indian Minister for Corporate Affairs, Veerappa Moily.

            Moily himself was all praise for the Indian businessmen based in the UAE and urged them to invest more in India. – Emirates 24|7

 

Abu Dhabi International Airport foresees 8 percent growth in weekly flights in winter schedule

            Abu Dhabi Airports Company yesterday announced that the timetable for the period November 2011 - March 2012 at Abu Dhabi International Airport presents an 8 percent increase in the total weekly aircraft movements compared with last year's winter schedule.

            Travellers will be offered over 900 flights weekly from Abu Dhabi to five continents around the globe, with additional frequencies, newly launched airlines and destinations.

            The new enriched schedule is a result of the joint efforts of Abu Dhabi Airports Company and its airline partners to offer efficient and quality services to all travellers from the Capital's airport through a wide selection of flights and frequencies with enhanced global connectivity. This development comes as the airport prepares for the peak travel season during the months of October to January as Abu Dhabi hosts major international and local events including the 2011 Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November, along with this season's holidays of Eid Al Adha and Hajj.

            The 2011-2012 winter timetable includes amongst others, Etihad Airways new destinations to Chengdu, Dusseldorf, Male and the Seychelles as well as additional frequencies, as well as Air India Express, Yemenia Airways and Saudi Arabian increased frequencies within their network. Moreover Singapore Airways and Lufthansa have optimised their schedules, while another significant contributor to this growth, are the newly-welcomed in 2011 VAustralia, Cathay Pacific and Czech Airlines.

            Eng. Ahmad Al Haddabi, Chief Operating Officer, Abu Dhabi Airports Company, said: "As the Emirate of Abu Dhabi gears up for the busy coming months, with major international, local events and holidays taking place, Abu Dhabi Airports Company is continuously adapting its plans and developments to deliver services that would exceeds the expectations and demands of its travellers and airlines partners equally besides we value the commitment of all our airlines to work with us in fulfilling this objective as they strive to increase their frequencies and launch new destinations to accommodate the market's needs." "It is only through joint collaboration and close coordination between the airport operator and the airline that quality services could be delivered to all customers." Al Haddabi added.

            In the new timetable for winter 2011, Abu Dhabi International Airport's top routes are Bahrain with 63 weekly flights followed by Doha with 61 flights and Muscat with 57 flights. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Emirates A380 makes inaugural landing in Johannesburg

            Johannesburg welcomed its first scheduled Emirates A380 service yesterday, as flight EK761 from Dubai arrived at O R Tambo International Airport. Johannesburg, the economic powerhouse of South Africa, is the first destination for the double-decker in Africa and the sixteenth destination on the Emirates A380 network.

            "The demand for Emirates' services in and out of Johannesburg has always been high, with passenger growth of more than 27 percent over the last year. It is fitting that our A380 is now serving South Africa and we would like to thank the Department of Transport and OR Tambo International Airport for their efforts in enabling us to bring this exceptional aircraft to Johannesburg," said Jean Luc Grillet, Emirates' Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations, Africa.

            "The UAE and South Africa's strong and successful relationship has been built on the twin pillars of trade and tourism. In introducing our flagship aircraft and the extra capacity it offers, Emirates will help to further boost this important partnership," added Grillet.

            Over the last year, Emirates has carried more than 900,000 passengers across its three South African gateways - Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg. In the first eight months of 2011, the airline also carried more than 37,500 tonnes of high value cargo on its South African routes, with exports up 26 percent from the same period in 2010.

            "Our world-class infrastructure investment in O R Tambo International Airport is integral to the continued economic growth of Johannesburg, the primary passenger and freight gateway into Africa," said Vuwani Ndwamato, Director Air Transport at the Department of Transport . "The introduction of the Emirates A380 exemplifies our efforts to power a world-class city and stimulate investment to strengthen South Africa's position as a major player in the global economy," Ndwamato added.

            Emirates is the largest operator of the environmentally friendly double-decker aircraft, flying the A380 to London Heathrow (double-daily), Manchester, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Toronto, Seoul, Bangkok, Beijing, Shanghai, Jeddah, New York, Hong Kong, Sydney and Auckland.

            From 1st December 2011, the A380 will also begin serving Kuala Lumpur and Rome, followed by Munich from 1st January 2012.

            So far in 2011, Emirates has launched passenger flights to Basra, Geneva and Copenhagen. St Petersburg will be launched on 1st November, followed by Baghdad on 13th November; and Dublin, Rio and Buenos Aires in January 2012. Emirates' 20th and 21st destinations within Africa - Lusaka and Harare - will launch on 1st February 2012.  The Johannesburg A380 service will operate daily as EK 761, departing Dubai at 0440hrs (local time) and arriving at O R Tambo International Airport at 1050hrs (local). The return flight, EK762, departs Johannesburg at 1410hrs (local) and arrives in Dubai at 0010hrs (local) the following day. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

RTA to launch Wi-Fi on some intercity bus routes

            As much as 85 per cent of public transport (PT) users in Dubai are middle class Asian residents, a recent transport survey has revealed.

            Conducted by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) as part of its routine assessment programme, the survey also reveals that a similar percentage of PT commuters men.

            While the share of youngsters – between the age of 18 to 25 – has increased over the last year with 25 per cent ridership, those below 18 are only 2 per cent of total riders.

            However, the middle-aged people – between 26 and 45 – are still the primary users of public transport with a share of 63 per cent.

            RTA is trying its best to woo the younger people on the public transport bandwagon, which includes both buses and metro. Among its initiatives to attract students and youngsters is the recent launch of student pass.

            According to a senior official in RTA’s Fare Collection department, the initiative is getting some serious response with at least 100 applications per week for student passes as well as other discount passes.

            “These initiatives will help attract more people to public transport as it is evident by the tremendous response we have received to special passes so far,” said Mohammed Al Mudharreb, Director of Nol.

            The authority is also planning to launch a number of value added services like WiFi connectivity on some intercity bus routes to attract young and net-savvy commuters.

            The dedicated bus and taxi routes project is another initiative aimed at improving the efficiency and consequently getting more people on the buses.

            Confirming with the general impression that the public transport is the medium of choice for middle-income category, the survey shows that 88 per cent of the commuters are employed, while 77 per cent are below the income of Dh4,000 per month.

            Though at 11 per cent, people with higher salaries and businesspeople (5 per cent) are increasingly turning to public transport.

            According to the early 2011 figures the overall public transport ridership in Dubai is around 175 million passengers, which includes buses, metro and water transport system.

            However, the figure excludes taxis, which transported 164.7 million passengers last year. The RTA feels the launch of Green Line and the new special discounted monthly passes along with special passes will help raise the above numbers significantly. – Emirates 24|7

 

ADCB launches free banking to retail customers

            Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) yesterday announced the launch of Free Banking to all its retail customers. Under the new structure, ADCB will not charge retail banking customers fees for transactions and services on their personal current and saving accounts.  The launch is a revolutionary concept which will have a positive impact on retail customers, marking the first time this has been implemented by a UAE bank.

            Specifically, all existing and new ADCB retail customers will pay no fees for a large number of previously charged banking activities*. The new fee structure will apply to ADCB's personal current and saving accounts. The service will instantly benefit existing customers, whilst attracting new customers to transfer their banking relationship to ADCB, enabling the Bank to create a strong and sustainable relationship and further strengthening ADCB's retail banking franchise. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Dubai market slides but Abu Dhabi rides higher

            Dubai's shares fell yesterday, weighed down by banking stocks, as investors speculated that the European debt crisis may put pressure on the country's financial sector.

            Dubai Islamic Bank slipped 1.5 per cent to Dh1.95 a share. Tamweel, the mortgage finance company, was down 0.8 per cent to 70 fils a share.

            The Central Bank on Thursday said deposits dropped 3.2 per cent to Dh1.07 trillion in August from July. Loans rose 0.5 per cent to Dh1.056tn during the same period.

            "It's mostly foreign institutional depositors who are pulling out their money, similar to what happened in 2008," said Nabil Farhat, a partner at Al Fajer Securities in Abu Dhabi. "It's putting some pressure on the financial system, because the banks are publicly listed and the stock market is transparent, you can see it," he said.

            Shuaa Capital, the country's largest investment bank, jumped the highest in more than a month, up 5.5 per cent to 79 fils after announcing it appointed Michael Philipp to its board. Mr Philipp was previously the chairman and chief executive at Credit Suisse Europe, Middle East and Africa.

            The Dubai Financial Market General Index lost 0.3 per cent to 1,426.54, 10 points away from its lowest close since March 8.

            By contrast, the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange General Index was up 0.1 per cent to 2,535.84.

Elsewhere in the region: Kuwait's index added 0.1 per cent to 5,839.20; Bahrain's measure rose 0.9 per cent to 1,176.89; Oman's index lost 0.1 per cent to 5,594.23; and Qatar's benchmark dropped 0.4 per cent to 8,356.77. The Saudi Tadawul All-Share Index was little changed at 6,112.41. – The National

 

Emirati artist’s works on show at Sharjah Museum

            Around 80 thought-provoking art pieces portraying messages on the value of society, culture and tradition, many with symbols of modernity, are on exhibit at the second edition of the “Lasting Impressions Exhibition” of the Sharjah Art Museum. The exhibition is hosting the artworks of Emirati artist, Dr Najat Meky, one of UAE’s pioneering national artists, whose latest unique art pieces are making a public debut in UAE.

            Manal Ataya, Director-General of the Sharjah Museums Department, told Khaleej Times that the artworks are being shown to the public for the first time. “Hosting Dr Meky demonstrates our continued support to prominent contemporary artists in the regional art level and to expose their work locally and foster their recognition internationally.”

         Themed as “Colourful Rhythms”, the exhibition features the artworks of a woman who plays with colours, subjects, shapes, lines and symbolisms to express and trigger emotions. Explaining her artwork titled “Time”, an abstract image using lines and shapes, Dr Meky said that both negativity and positivity of a fast pace and slow-paced lifestyle are portrayed in “colour rhythms.”

         She said that all her works are connected to environment and nature is painted in emotive colours to create visual excitement and encounter dynamism. “Every work is laden with an emotional message in a more in-depth meaning.”

         Dr Meky has exhibited her artworks widely and gained local and regional recognition, including the UAE Award of Culture and Arts in 2008, first edition of the Sharjah Biennial Award in 1993, Mahaba Biennial in Syria in 1999, GCC Biennial in Qatar in 1998, a silver medal from the Ministry of Youth and Sports in Dubai in 1996, an award from the first Al Ain Plastic Arts Exhibition in 1991 as well as the Al Owais Award of Culture and Science in 1994.

         Internationally, Dr Meky has participated in the Frankfurt Book Fair (2004), China International Sculpture Symposium (2008), the second World Conference on Arts Education in Seoul, South Korea (2010), the fourth International Beijing Biennial (2010), the International Art Festival in Korea and the Middle East (2010), and the Teheran International Biennial. She had participated in numerous other important local and international events.

         Hind bint Darwish, Curator of the Sharjah Art Museum, said that the pieces are displayed across the museum’s four levels, and spread out in parts over its 30 halls. The art exhibition is under the patronage of  His Highness Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the exhibition on Wednesday. The exhibition will be on till  Nov.  21.

         The occasion was attended by Mohammed Diab Al Mousa, Emiri Court Advisor; Manal Ataya, Director-General of the Sharjah Museums Department; Hisham Al Mazloum, Director of the Arts Directorate at Sharjah Department of Culture and Information; and Qaystin Siebel, the US Consul in Dubai; as well as a large number of Arab and international artists and media representatives. – Khaleej Times

 

Dubai landmark ready to welcome world

            The stage is set and all eyes will be on the Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Sports Complex this weekend for the FINA/ARENA Swimming World Cup. Over 170 swimmers from 29 countries will converge on the venue for its second major international swimming event in under a year.

            The spectacular facility, which was built in 2010, was hailed by many international swimmers as one of the best in the world at last year's FINA World Swimming Championships (25m).  It is certainly one of the largest and most technologically advanced in the world, boasting a 50m competition pool, a 25m dive pool, and a 50m warm up pool with a horseshoe-shaped seating bowl in the main arena, which can accommodate 15,000 spectators, says a press release.

            The size of the overall project is an impressive 24 hectares with the building itself occupying 56,031 square metres.

            The long-term vision is for the venue to serve as a hub for indoor sports in the Middle East - not only providing the region with its first 50m pool, but also a multi-purpose setting which can be easily converted for sports such as basketball, handball and volleyball.

            Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, Dr Ahmed Saad Al Sharif, said: "We are very proud to once again be welcoming the world to the Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Sports Complex. Many of the swimmers at the Championships last year commented on how spectacular the venue is and we look forward to placing it on the world stage once again for the FINA/ARENA Swimming World Cup next weekend." President of the UAE Swimming Federation, Ahmed Al Falasi added: We are privileged to have such a world class facility in Dubai and this Complex is fast becoming a hive of activity with local swimming clubs, and now also the national team, training there on a daily basis. "I am certain the sport of swimming will benefit greatly from such a facility. We encourage all UAE public to come and experience the venue first hand and see some top-class international action next weekend," added Al Falasi. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

TEAM Abu Dhabi 1-2 in GRAND PRIX of China

            Liuzhou, China - Team Abu Dhabi enjoyed a sensational Grand Prix of China on the Liu River in Liuzhou on Sunday. Thani Al-Qamzi and Ahmed Al-Hameli finished first and second overall in a dramatic race that they completely dominated.

            According to Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club (ADIMSC), Al-Hameli led from the green flag and always looked comfortable at the front of the field of 18 boats, but he slowed enough to allow his team mate through within sight of the finish and Al-Qamzi duly claimed his first Grand Prix win from the last 27 starts to move right into contention for the 2011 UIM F1 H20 World Championship with two races remaining in Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.  "Everything went right from the start and we had the perfect strategy," said a delighted Al-Qamzi, who now trails the championship-leading Qatar driver Jay Price by 12 points.

            Team Abu Dhabi runs under the auspices of the ADIMSC and team manager Scott Gillman. Team Abu Dhabi has full support from the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), which runs under the chairmanship of H.H. Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al-Nahyan and the patronage of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan.

            Al-Hameli and Al-Qamzi started from first and third on the grid once Alex Carella had suffered an engine problem in practice and been pushed down to the rear of the field and promoted Al-Qamzi from fourth. A good start to the 36-lap race was imperative.

            Al-Hameli shadowed Jonas Andersson into the opening turn buoy, but the Swede had jump-started the green flag. Within seconds Phillipe Tourre and Valerio Lagiannella were involved in a violent collision and a yellow flag was raised while the damaged boats were removed from the course.

            Action resumed on lap four and both Al-Hameli and Al-Qamzi made an excellent start and held first and second positions, with Price, Phillipe Chiappe and Sami Selio close behind. Al-Hameli extended his lead over Al-Qamzi to 3.25s through nine laps and the margin remained constant for the next 10 laps, with Al-Hameli reaching the 20th tour with a lead of 2.89s.

            An accident involving Sami Selio forced a second yellow flag incident on lap 29 of 36. The Team Abu Dhabi duo maintained their advantage after the restart with four laps remaining, with Al-Qamzi moving in front of Al-Hameli with one lap to run. The duo reached the chequered flag in first and second positions and the double victory was made even sweeter with the news that arch-rival Jay Price had missed a turn buoy and been disqualified from fifth position. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

UAE group break dances to success

            The United Arab Emirates crew “Over Boys” won Braun Battle of the Year Middle East Championships in Dubai on Sunday. In the Emirate of Dubai, the Middle East’s melting pot, 11 dance crews from as far as Jordan, Oman and Kuwait battled for the only group ticket available to represent the region at the grand final of the Braun Battle of the Year 2011 in Montpellier, France on Nov. 19. All three levels of the ‘Star Atrium’ in Dubai Mall were crowded with people enthusiastically cheering the collectives on stage. The Over Boys from the UAE break danced to victory and now get their chance at the world championship.

            Aladdin was on the stage, just as the Kings of Teheran and the Middle Beasts, but no one could beat the dynamic Over Boys. In a tight battle against the Breakestra crew from Bahrain, it earned the highest score from the three-strong judges panel. “I want to thank all the boys for fighting so hard and investing so much of their time in the past months and weeks. Thanks to the judges for making us so happy and thanks to all the people who came here today”, said the team’s head b-boy, overwhelmed in the minutes after the official decision.

            The prize for the best show went to the Middle Beast collective. They came all the way from Jordan and understood best how to entertain a jury of experts and at the same time a big crowd of spectators who left their shopping spree aside to support the boy crews.

            The winner of the MTV Show “America’s Best Dance Crew”, world-respected b-boy Ronnie Abaldonado, not only attended Friday’s special workshops to pass on his techniques and tricks, but was also part of the jury during the main event. Besides him, Swift Rock (GER) and Neekoe (UAE) critiqued the break-dancers’ synchronicity, stage presence, choreography as well as b-boying moves during their six-minute crew performances and the following head to head battles of the best four crews.

            The Middle East Championship was the last of five main Braun Battle Of The Year Championships (including the USA, Germany, Italy and BeNeLux) taking place this summer. Crews from official qualifiers in Japan, Singapore, India, Brazil and South Africa among many others will also compete with each other. – The Gulf Today

UAE's NARC 500 houbara bustards released in Algeria 

            500 captive-bred houbara bustards were released last week in the wild Algeria by Abu Dhabi-based National Avian Research Centre (NARC).

            Present at the release ceremony in Al Abyadh Sidi Al Sheikh in Al Beidh province were Juan Al Khaiili Director of NARC, Dr. Nigel Collar, representative of BirdLife International, a global alliance of conservation organisations working together for the world's birds and people, officials of the Algerian Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and representatives of hunters societies and wildlife enthusiasts.

            Al Khaiili said Algeria is one of the natural habitat for the endangered North African houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata undulate)which now faces extinction due to over-hunting. "The places were carefully selected to provide the released birds a natural and appropriate diet," he added.

            The birds were raised at the National Avian Research Centre (NARC) as part of efforts to protect houbara bustards and its plan to increase its population in their natural habitats across Asia and North Africa.

            The houbara lives in remote, empty expanses of desert and semi-desert plains and steppes. It is an opportunistic feeder - eating a variety of plants, seeds and berries as well as ants, locusts, spiders and scorpions. Houbara bustards also eat small lizards, mice and the young chicks of some other birds.  "Hunting is part of the national heritage of Arab and Gulf countries. A draft agreement on increasing houbara bustard population is being prepared by NARC and BirdLife International," he further said.  - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

UAE relief team continues efforts in Pakistan

            Badin, Pakistan - The UAE relief team on ground in Pakistan continued distribution of the relief aid in the township of Badin in the southern Sindh province. The region was among the lands most affected by the floods which, caused the government to declare a state of emergency.  The relief team is consisted of the UAE Armed Forces staff and volunteers of the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Humanitarian and Charity Foundation. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Deadline set to go green in UAE

            In a major step to boost the protection of the country's environment and stop the use of harmful material, manufacturers of plastic bags will have until the end of the year to register their products as biodegradable, according to a deadline set by the Ministry of Environment and Water.

            An ingredient which can be added to the plastic bag production line has been approved by the ministry and is now widely available on the market, said Dr Mariam Al Shenasi, executive director at the ministry.

Campaign

            "It should be very easy now for manufacturers to make the switch," Al Shenasi told Gulf News. "We started the campaign two years ago and sent out reminders six months ago. It is time to take action."

            Forty-eight per cent of private sector companies in the UAE, such as supermarkets, that use plastic bags have already switched to biodegradable bags in line with a federal decree issued in 2009 to rid the UAE of plastic bags by 2013, she said.

Gulf News started a Say No to Plastic Bags campaign in 2008 to raise awareness to the negative impacts of plastic on the environment. Jute bags were handed out to readers across the UAE before a second campaign, Go Green, was launched in 2009. - Gulf News

 

Masdar: The challenges we face making green energy viable

            In making renewable energy and clean technologies a viable alternative to fossil fuels, we face three fundamental challenges.

            Firstly, technology: do we actually have the systems, materials and parts necessary to harness efficiently the almost limitless available energy from sun, wind and waves and distribute it to homes, offices and factories?

            The second is cost: research and development is very expensive, and there is no guarantee of success. Judging by US patents, only one or two of every 100 inventions is successful.

            And the marketplace for renewable energy is still very small, so solar, wind and biofuel all face significant diseconomies of scale relative to traditional hydrocarbon fuels, as well as huge infrastructure investment barriers to market.

            The final core area of discussion is policy. The international community is committed to finding solutions to global warming, resource depletion and energy security.

            But how best to use incentives, taxation and legislation to develop technology, build a marketplace and affect change?

            It will take years before we have all the answers. But already it is clear that there are a handful of absolutely fundamental enablers.

            One is the ability to store energy. In the past this was not an issue - there was plenty of wood, coal, oil and gas.

            But the sun does not always shine and the wind does not always blow.

            Meanwhile, demand for power is continuous; there is no way that an intermittent supply would work. Our energy has to be 24/7. So we need to store the energy generated by the sun, for example, during the day, to power homes and factories at night.

            But today's batteries are still barely capable of running a car, let alone powering a community through the night. This is a challenge that Bill Gates, the founder of Microsoft, recently described as "a mind-blowing problem ... and more demanding by a factor of 100 than any other battery challenge we have today."

            The good news is the search for a solution has taken a significant step forward in recent months.

            For the first time, there is now a solar plant, Gemasolar in Spain, that is capable of producing electricity 24 hours a day.

            It is a truly extraordinary achievement, the result of a joint venture between Masdar, Abu Dhabi's holistic renewable energy initiative, and Sener, a Spanish engineering and construction company.

            The plant has overcome the solar energy storage problem by combining two key technologies.

The first is a 185-hectare field of mirrors that concentrates the sun's rays onto a single area at the top of a 100m tower in the centre of the field.

            The second is a system that pumps molten salt through the tower to absorb the heat generated at the top. This salt, stored in large tanks on the ground and connected to a steam turbine, releases its energy over time. In effect, it is a 15-hour battery.

            The Gemasolar plant has been operational since June and has already delivered its first uninterrupted 24 hours of electricity.

            It will eventually supply electricity to 25,000 homes in the Andalucia region of Spain. It is expected to save more than 30,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions every year.

            Gemasolar was the right investment at the right time. It has proved that solar power is a realistic and reliable option.

            So, we have the technology. What of policy and cost? This is where countries and companies around the world have to take notice. There is now a great opportunity that we have to make the most of.

            Countries with available land and plenty of sun, such as Spain, the US, Australia, parts of Africa, and the UAE, need to put in measures to support the broader deployment of these systems.

State funding to support research and development, focused on this technology, is needed to drive micro-innovation that will refine efficiency and cost.

            Marketplace incentives such as feed-in tariffs - payments for contributing power to the grid - and renewables obligations will also be required to drive adoption of molten salt storage.

            We also want to see investment-friendly environments that encourage the funding necessary for these huge projects, even in dire economic times

            In this light, it is worth bearing in mind that the construction of Gemasolar generated jobs in an area of high unemployment. These sites create jobs.

            As the first of its type, Gemasolar inevitably required considerable investment. In a market of one, there were limited suppliers for required components such as the salt, receivers and pumps. But as the plants multiply, we can expect huge economies of scale.

            The design will get better, too. We are already looking at ways to improve storage facilities, and maximise the generating benefits through multiple towers. These studies need to be supported and accelerated, to make future plants more cost-effective.

            Abu Dhabi has played a leading role globally in developing a solar power plant that has such importance for the world. But where we and Spain have led the way, others must now follow to ensure this breakthrough model for 24 hour energy production from the sun can be rapidly deployed all over the world. - Dr Sultan Al Jaber is the chief executive officer of Masdar. – The National

 

Capital Gate wins prestigious Cityscape Awards 

            Capital Gate has received award for Best Overall Project of the Year 2011 and Best Commercial / Mixed Use Project at the Cityscape Global Awards for Architecture in Emerging Markets.

            The iconic 35-storey, 160m Capital Gate tower - built to lean 18 degrees westwards, is owned and developed by ADNEC (Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company) and designed by global architecture firm, RMJM. It forms the focal point of ADNEC's Capital Centre master-planned development in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.

            "Capital Gate is an icon for Abu Dhabi. The global acclaim the project continues to attract pay tribute to the team work and outstanding commitment of all those involved in making this visionary project a reality," said Ali Saeed Bin Harmal Al Dhaheri, ADNEC's Managing Director.

            The Cityscape awards follow a string of other accolades for Capital Gate including the Guinness World Record for ‘furthest leaning manmade tower,' and were collected by Sanjay Tanna, ADNEC's Director of Business Development '&' Investments, and Chris Jones, RMJM Middle East Managing Principal.

            "RMJM are delighted to receive these awards for the Capital Gate tower project. In close collaboration with ADNEC, our team at RMJM Middle East have provided comprehensive design, engineering and supervision services to deliver a truly unique, innovative and iconic development," said Chris Jones, RMJM Middle East Managing Principal.

            The tower's status as one of the world's most complex architectural and engineering projects has also been endorsed via features on Discovery Channel and the exclusive ‘Megastructures' documentary on National Geographic Channel.

            Capital Gate houses the soon to be opened, five-star ‘Hyatt Capital Gate' hotel, as well as approximately 15,000m2 of high quality office space.  Hyatt Capital Gate will offer upscale business travellers a unique experience with its luxurious rooms, contemporary interiors, innovative dining outlets and impeccable service. The hotel's sky lobby cantilevers 80 metres above-ground; the lounge and swimming pool at the hotel, present panoramic views of the city.

            Capital Gate's dramatic steel and glass facade provides a unique presence on the Abu Dhabi skyline with its 18 degree lean, four times that of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. On the exterior a sculptural stainless steel ‘splash' flows up the tower. This provides efficient solar shading to the most exposed facade and at low level forms a new shaded canopy to the historic Grandstand that accommodates dignitaries and visitors during outdoor events. A free form internal atrium with a dynamic glass roof brings natural light deep into the tower. External lighting is designed to minimise both light pollution and energy consumption. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Statistics Centre - Abu Dhabi starts 3-day preparation for 'Abu Dhabi Census 2011'

            The enumerators of Statistics Centre - Abu Dhabi started their three-day preparation for the national project of "Abu Dhabi Census 2011" which is regarded as the largest project to count the population of the emirate and identify their characteristics accurately.

            Six thousand enumerators, controllers and administrators have delivered envelopes, containing census questions, spaces to answer and how to complete the questionnaire, to the doors of residential units such as villas, apartments, etc. The envelopes also contain some awareness brochures about the census, Statistics Centre - Abu Dhabi and the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The distribution process will continue till Monday as the enumerators will start their fieldwork and interview households for the actual data collection next Tuesday, according to a press release by the Centre.

            Hotels and Hospitals Reflecting the Centre's interest in the accuracy of the census results, enumerators have started visiting hotels and hospitals all over the emirate to deliver census paper questionnaires to count the patients and residents who might be in any of these organisations next Tuesday, when the population census will start. Excluding those individuals from the count would affect the accuracy of the collected data and consequently the released figures. Therefore, SCAD has distributed questionnaires to both residents of hospitals and hotels.

            Geographical Maps: The Census Centres, through which Statistics Centre manages the census fieldwork, received today the geographical maps of all the regions of the Emirate showing the distribution of population in those regions, so that the enumerators would be able to accomplish their work accurately and quickly.

            Release of Results Statistics Centre: Abu Dhabi plans to announce the preliminary results of Abu Dhabi Census 2011on the 25th of December 2011 and to release the final results by the end of May 2012.

            Coding Team: Statistics Centre will conduct a theoretical training for the census coding team Sunday through Tuesday, entitled "Introduction to Enumeration, International Coding Classification, the Importance of Coding and the Coding system adopted for Abu Dhabi Census 2011," followed by a practical training on coding on Wednesday and Thursday.

            Interview Times: SCAD indicated that enumerators will be working mainly from 4-9 pm Sundays through Thursdays from the 4- 24 October 2011, and they may also work morning shifts or during weekends. Enumerators will be based in 37 centres all over the emirate (Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Western Region).

            Mechanism of Action and Communication with the Enumerator: SCAD also added that the census mechanism of action is that the enumerator visits households to collect data electronically using "iPads" that are directly connected to the operations room at the main headquarters of the centre. If the household head or the responsible adult refuses to complete the electronic questionnaire, the enumerator completes the paper questionnaire and later inputs the data into the iPad in the census centre where he/she works and sends it to the headquarters of Statistics Centre - Abu Dhabi. The household head can also fill in the paper questionnaire delivered to his residential unit before Tuesday by himself and hands it to the enumerator later on.

            If people are not at home during the enumerator's first visit, he/she leaves a door hanger with his/her contact number and it is quite important that the household head calls back the enumerator to schedule another visit.

            Individual Data Confidentiality Statistics Centre:  Abu Dhabi would like to assure everybody that the Centre protects the privacy of the personal data of everyone in the Emirate as the confidentiality of individual data is guaranteed by Law No. 7 issued for the year 2008 by H.H. Head of State on the establishment of the Centre. The Centre pledges not to reveal any unit record data as the whole process of census is about useful aggregate data.

            Enumerators as well as SCAD staff back at the Abu Dhabi and Al Ain offices have signed a legal document - an undertaking - that all census information provided is deemed confidential. The signing of this non-disclosure form is something many other countries ask their enumerators and office staff to sign as well.

            37 Field Centres Statistics Centre: Abu Dhabi manages this huge fieldwork through 37 census centres spread all over the regions of the emirate: 19 in Abu Dhabi, 12 in Al Ain and 6 in the Western Region.

            Compiling Aggregate: Statistics based on Individual Data After the enumerators finish their daily fieldwork visits within their work areas, they return to their centres to upload the collected data through a secure electronic channel to the Centre's headquarters where the data analysis phase starts and the collected individual information are compiled into aggregate statistics.

            Social Media: SCAD has launched several initiatives through various social media on the internet, such as Blog, Facebook and Twitter, to promote statistical awareness and identify social reactions to this significant national event.

            A Huge Campaign: Through collaborating with many government and public entities, SCAD initiated a huge media and publicity awareness campaign aiming to reach every household and individual in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The support and cooperation of those authorities to ensure the success of the census is highly appreciated by the Centre as it reflects their awareness of the census far reaching results.

            Friday Prayer Speech: The General Authority for Islamic Affairs and Endowments has also cooperated with the Statistics Centre - Abu Dhabi. The Friday prayer speech explained, to crowds of worshipers, that the census is the most important pillar of the integrated planning and overall development in the emirate, calling on everyone all over the emirate to contribute to the success of the population census by cooperating with SCAD, stating that the census will include every household and every person, whether national or non-national. The Imams also stressed the importance of providing accurate information, pointing out that this kind of cooperation is highly praised in Islam.

            Importance of Participating in the Census: You are vital to the Abu Dhabi 2011 Census. Participating in the Census is in every citizen and resident's best interest. SCAD called upon everyone in Abu Dhabi Emirate to do his/her share and take part in the census: "Filling out the census form is the best way to ensure that you were included in the count. Thus, you can help the Emirate thrive, assist the Government in working better for you, get the medical and educational services your family needs, and help businesses grow in Abu Dhabi". Moreover, SCAD asserted: "When you participate in the census, the information you provide would help the Government of Abu Dhabi to understand the characteristics of the population residing in the emirate, such as nationalities of the people in the emirate and the number of their household members and the different characteristics of the population."

            Census Results Support Development Plans: The information obtained through the Census results would be used for setting policies and making decisions that would improve the quality of life in our communities as well as the social and economic conditions in the emirate. The government uses the results of the population census in support of programs and services, such as educational and social programs, housing, development and health care services, infrastructure and public works. The private sector uses census data as well to make decisions about the locations of factories, shopping malls, cinemas, banks and offices i.e. activities which often lead to creating new jobs.

            Your data is used in so many other important ways - your contribution and willingness will help make Abu Dhabi Census 2011a success. Census numbers can help your community determine public improvement strategies. In addition, many day-to-day matters can be solved through answering the questions on the census form. For example, traffic congestion in a certain area; elderly people living alone or over-crowded schools. Non-profit organisations use census data to estimate the number of potential volunteers in communities across the Emirate.

            Approved Plan The Statistics Centre: Abu Dhabi asserted that the preparation for the census project is going according to the approved plan, pointing that the complete, final training for all project staff was already concluded. The training was divided into four phases and included four types of training. It took place in ten training centres spread over all the regions of the emirate. It was conducted by ten census methodologists, ten trainers in the information technology used in the project and three fieldwork experts, in addition to General Services' fieldwork support team and others. Statistics Centre - Abu Dhabi supported enumerators with the useful technical skills which they will use during the fieldwork phase of the project. Enumerators were trained to use Abu Dhabi Census 2011 software applications on the iPads, the printed materials and the application of the census support office. The data of new establishments, hospitals and hotels was electronically uploaded and dashboards were used. SCAD would follow up the daily achievement and the enumerators' electronic reports daily.

            IT Systems: The project depends on a full range of the latest time-efficient technological systems that produces more accurate statistical outputs. The Centre has provided the enumerators with state of the art electronic devices for data collection on site. Such devices are equipped with air maps, and geographical co-ordinates connected with satellites that enable the Centre to direct the enumerators during the fieldwork and provide them with guidance and feedback in a timely manner. Moreover, such devices allow the Centre to review, monitor and control the quality of the collected data during the fieldwork.

            Census Questionnaire: Two types of questionnaires are used in the census: an electronic questionnaire used for private households and individuals in share households and the individuals residing in public housing, workers' camps, farms and other workers quarters, and the paper questionnaire which is intended for the residents of hotels, hospitals, dormitories, etc.  The electronic and paper questionnaires are in both Arabic and English. Translators will be available at each Centre for people who do not speak either of these languages.

            Census Questions: Enumerators would be interested in obtaining basic information about the people such as: age, gender, nationality, educational qualification, marital status, economic activity and other information that would provide the most comprehensive, accurate, and updated database about the people in all regions of Abu Dhabi Emirate.

            Call Centre: In case of having any inquiries or questions, please contact our Customer Service Centre, where about 40 employees are available to respond to individuals and households and to receive census related suggestions. Calls and suggestions are received on 800555 - Abu Dhabi Government Call Centre.

            International Recommendations: Despite the international recommendations to conduct decennial censuses, SCAD has decided to conduct a quinquennial census. This decision is in line with similar communities experiencing rapid and continuous demographic changes due to their constant dependence on foreign labour. Conducting a five- year- census stems from SCAD's intention to provide decision makers with the most accurate and up-dated information regarding the population of the emirate which would result in the drawing of more accurate development strategies.

            Role of the Enumerator: Critical for the Success of the Census Enumerators play an important part in the Abu Dhabi Census2011. They are the public face of the census and will be going door to door collecting information about the families and households throughout the Emirate. People will know it is a Statistics Centre-Abu Dhabi (SCAD) enumerator at their door because he/she will have identification and will be wearing a 2011 Census official uniform.

            Each enumerator has been assigned a work area and will have maps to help him know which buildings and villas they are to visit. There will be enumerators working hard all over the Emirate; from Liwa to Al Ain to Al Shahamma to Abu Dhabi central city. The magnitude of the project stresses the significant role of enumerators in its success.

            Key to Strategic Planning: SCAD encourages everyone to cooperate with the census enumerators and believes that this cooperation represents the basic building block set to help those responsible for strategic planning to provide the highest standards of luxury and prosperity for everyone in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, under the wise leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. - Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

UAE takes part in WHO health meet

            Abdul Rahman Al Owais, acting UAE minister of health, will head the UAE delegation to World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Eastern Mediterranean Meetings in Cairo on Sunday.  At the forthcoming meeting, participants will nominate a new director for WHO Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean to succeed Hussain Al-Jazaeri. Continuing until Oct.5, the meetings will discuss member states’ accomplishments in fighting diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, polio and measles. It will also emphasise anti-tobacco programmes in regional countries and rates of road accidents.

Dr Mahmoud Fikri, assistant undersecretary for health policies at the Ministry of Health, said that member states will also review the declaration announced by the United Nations on non-infectious diseases such as diabetes, cancer and heart diseases. – The Gulf Today

 

Dubai unveils plans for overhaul of health care services

            A host of initiatives is under way to overhaul the medical sector in Dubai and ensure that everyone has quick, affordable and efficient access to health care services.

            Health insurance for everyone will ensure that both Emiratis and expatriates will be able to afford health care.

            Careful planning has gone into the Dubai Health Strategy that will bring about changes in the fast growing medical sector over the next two years.

            A senior official of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has promised that things will radically change for the better. "There will be a quantum leap in the level of health care and medical services," said Qadi Al Murooshid, director-general of the DHA spelling out far-reaching initiatives.

Detection measures

            The plan has gone into action to also control the rapid spread of non-communicable diseases in society such as diabetes, hypertension and obesity, which is putting a huge burden not only on the government but also on families whose members suffer from these lifestyle diseases.

            Doctors have expressed alarm that a large number of people are becoming incapacitated because of cardiovascular diseases. They say that while some risk factors like genetics cannot be changed, simple changes will give people a better lifestyle, and that is not being done.

            A senior DHA official said the strategy will ensure that detection measures are put into place to warn people earlier to make a change. There will be household surveys conducted periodically and detailed information gathered. At present a lack of registries of life-threatening conditions like cancer, heart attacks and strokes hamper treatment or follow-up help to patients.

            The information will include the risk factors to people. The surveys will show how many people suffer from non-communicable diseases, who in the family have been involved in accidents and sustained injuries, and what exactly are the health care needs of people.

The private sector is expected to play a large role in bringing improved health care services into fruition and as to what exactly is needed up to the year 2020. Special projects will be launched to fill the gaps in services in areas such as rehabilitation services, fertility and neo-natal care. – Gulf News

 

UAE to pump US$76bn into energy sector

Country ranked second after Saudi in energy investment in Mena

            The UAE could pump a whopping US$76 billion into projects to develop its hydrocarbon sector over the next five years to become the second largest Arab energy investor after Saudi Arabia by overtaking Iran.

            Official estimates showed energy capital investments in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) could total around US$525 billion during 2012-2016 but such projects face funding problems, rising costs and other challenges.

            “In the contexts of a global economic downturn and regional political turmoil, our review of Mena energy investment for the five-year period 2012-2016 points to a broken momentum, yet mixed outlook. On the one hand, driven by the oil downstream and the power sector the anticipated investment of US$525bn is higher than the actual capital requirements found in the last review,” said the Dammam-based Arab Petroleum Investment Corporation (Apicorp), an affiliate of the 10-nation Organisation of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (Oapec).

            “On the other hand, such a level remains well below the potential investment identified on that occasion. Whatever the interpretation of these findings is, one thing is clear. Project sponsors will continue to face many of the same challenges, i.e. cost uncertainty, feedstock availability and fund accessibility, with the latter becoming more critical than any time before.”

The study, sent to 'Emirates24|7', said internal financing would not pose major problems as long as the value of OPEC Basket crudes stays above US$90.

            “In contrast, external financing, which comes predominantly in the form of loans, is likely to be daunting in face of a combination of collapsing loan supply and persistently high cost,” the study said.

“Faced with more pressing social demands, governments may not be able to make up for the funding shortfalls……. their best policy going forward is to attempt to regain private investment momentum.”

A breakdown showed just over two-thirds of the energy capital investment potential continues to be located in the same five countries reviewed previously, namely Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iran, Qatar and Algeria, none of which has faced the sort of upheaval witnessed in the countries aforementioned.

            Saudi Arabia, the world’s dominant oil exporter, tops the ranking with US$141bn. In this country investment has mostly been generated by Saudi Aramco and Sabic as domestic private investors have continued to struggle to attract capital.

            “Taking over from Iran, the UAE has become a distant second with nearly US$76bn worth of energy investment,” said the three-page study, authored by Ali Aissaoui, senior consultant at Apicorp.

It said tighter international sanctions, and the retreat of foreign companies, have ended up taking a toll on Iran’s energy investment, which now stands at a mere US$58 billion. Similarly, but for completely different reasons, investment in Qatar has also been on a sharp downtrend. 

            “With the moratorium on further development of the North Field still in place, energy capital requirements have plummeted to US$41 billion,” it said. Aissaoui, an Algerian, said the same low amount is found in Algeria where investment recovery seems to be slower than progress in repairing broken governance within the state-owned Sonatrach company.

            “Finally, it is worth highlighting the peculiar circumstances of Kuwait and Iraq, where energy investment has remained chronically below potential.” In Kuwait, the study said, the problem seems to be one of policy paralysis induced by indecisive politics. 

            As a result, major components of the upstream program and key downstream projects such as the giant Al-Zour refinery are still to be decided.

            In Iraq there seems to be no major disagreement about the vital need to achieve the full development of the oil and gas sectors.

            “However, for the commitment to be credible, the federal government needs to pass a long-awaited package of hydrocarbon legislation and provide durable solutions to recurring security threats and logistic complications.”

            Sector-wise, the study showed the oil value chain accounts for 42 per cent of the Mena investment, the gas value chain for 34 per cent and the remaining 24 per cent represent the oil and gas fuelled power generation sector. But the study said it saw more challenges to the investment scene in the region as the average energy project, which has increased almost three times between 2003 and 2008, has resumed its upward trend after declining significantly in the middle of the global financial crisis. But it stressed that the relatively moderate 12 per cent upward trend underpinning the current review should not mislead.

            “The extent project costs are predictable depends on the outlook for the price of engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) and its components.  These include the prices of factor inputs, contractors’ margins, project risk premiums and an element that mirrors general price inflation in the region,” it said.

            “Despite efforts to quantify in a meaningful way each of these parameters, we have found it difficult to infer how up and how long the overall cost trend is likely to be when combining all components.” As for supply, Apicorp said that while aggregate recoverable gas reserves in Mena are substantial and their dynamic life expectancies are fairly long, acceleration of depletion appears to have reached a “critical rate” for more than half the gasendowed countries. If production continues not to be replaced in Algeria, Bahrain and to a lesser extent Iraq (the latter can still increase supply by cutting down flaring gas), this can lead to a supply crunch, obviously sooner for Bahrain than later, it said.

            The UAE, Oman, Syria and Tunisia would face a similar prospect in the absence of additional imports via respectively the Dolphin Pipeline (Qatari gas to the UAE and Oman), the Arab Gas Pipeline (Egyptian gas to Jordan, Syria and Lebanon), and the transit pipelines to Europe (Algerian gas to Tunisia and Morocco).

            Furthermore, the supply patterns of Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have reached a tipping point that should trigger further actions to secure supply, it added. Turning to finance, it said uncertainties surrounding project costs and feedstock supplies are compounded by a sudden deterioration of funding conditions, which is likely to complicate further the strategic decisions energy corporations in the region make with respect to investment and financing.

            “In a context of widespread deleveraging, transactions have continued to be structured with higher equity content. To be sure, the upstream and downstream have not much choice but to rely on internal financing, either from state budget allocations or from corporate retained earnings,” it said.

“However, the downstream, which normally exhibits a ratio of 30 per cent equity and 70 per cent debt, has needed higher equity levels. In the oil based refining/petrochemical link the equity-debt ratio has been 35:65.”

            The report said the ratio in the gas based downstream link has been 40:60 to factor in higher risks of feedstock availability. In the power sector, the ratio has been reset to 30:70 to reflect much less leveraged IPPs and IWPPs. “As a result, the weighted average capital structure for the oil and gas supply chains is found to be 57:43,” it said.

            “Although essentially unchanged from the previous review, this structure confirms the trend towards more equity, when set against the equity-debt ratios of 50:50 found in the 2008-2012 review and 54:46 found in 2009-2013.” – Emirates 24|7

 

 UAE bank deposits dip by over Dh35bn in August

            Deposits with UAE banks plunged by more than Dh35 billion in August in the biggest monthly decline in many years but lending and loan loss provision slightly picked up, according to the central bank.

            The decline in deposits depressed the combined assets of the country’s 23 national banks and 28 foreign units by nearly Dh16bn although the sector maintained its position as the largest in the Arab region.

            From around Dh1,113.6bn at the end of July, the consolidated deposits with the 51 banks dived to nearly Dh1,078.4 billion at the end of August, a decline of Dh35.2bn, the central bank said in its latest banking indicators report.

            The decline followed several months of a rapid growth in deposits and was the largest monthly fall in several years.

            The report gave no reason for the sharp drop but analysts believe it was caused by a slump in government deposits with banks as it has apparently withdrew part of its funds to meet immediate financial commitments.

            While there are no available data for government deposits in August, central bank figures for previous months showed they swelled from around Dh1202bn at the end of March to Dh226bn at the end of April and Dh229bn at the end of May before tumbling to Dh191bn at the end of June.

            The report showed the banks’ total assets shrank to around Dh1,670.4bn at the end of August from Dh1,686.2bn at the end of July after a rapid rise in the previous months. Loans edged up to around Dh1,056.8bn from Dh1,052bn while capital and reserves reversed months of a steady increase and receded to nearly Dh266bn from Dh269.4bn.

            Certificates of deposits (CDs) held by banks also fell to Dh94.3bn from about Dh108.2bn while there was no data on Islamic CDs, which stood at Dh17.6bn at the end of June, more than triple their level at the end of 2010.

            Provisions for non-performing loans increased to Dh49.2bn from Dh48.4bn, boosting the total provisions allocated in the first eight months to Dh4.9bn. This compares with nearly Dh11.7bn during 2010. – Emirates 24|7

 

August sees 14 per cent passenger growth at Abu Dhabi International Airport

            Abu Dhabi Airports Company yesterday released the traffic report for Abu Dhabi international Airport for the month of August 2011, recording a robust 14 per cent growth over last year's figures with passenger traffic reaching 1.09 million.

            Cargo traffic was also on the rise reaching 39,841 tonnes, with an increase of 5 per cent compared to the month of August 2011.

            The double digit growth recorded at Abu Dhabi International Airport during August is mainly attributed to the healthy growth of all airlines operating at the airport, while also supported by the Eid holiday.

            Being one of the fastest growing airports in the region, Abu Dhabi has been growing by 12.2 per cent, during the first 8 months of 2011.

            James E. Bennett, Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports Company commented: "The continuous increase of Abu Dhabi International Airport's passenger traffic goes in parallel with the growth that the Emirate is witnessing in trade, industry and tourism. Up to August, we have welcomed 8,000,000 passengers through our airport, providing efficient and high-quality services. We continuously monitor the market and the travel trends, to ensure that Abu Dhabi international Airport offers enhanced connectivity and an increased number of destinations and frequencies to all travellers." London, Jeddah, Doha, Bangkok, and Manila were the top five routes from Abu Dhabi International Airport during the month of August, generating 21 per cent of the total passenger traffic at the capital's airport. The top regions for the month were Far East, Middle East and Europe with 37 per cent, 25 per cent and 22 per cent growth respectively.

 

2020 master plan defines land usage in Dubai

            A 2020 master plan for the city of Dubai has been approved by the Executive Council, which clearly demarcates usage of land in the emirate, a senior government official has revealed.

            “It is a master plan for the city of Dubai… we have to know what we are going to do and what is our requirement on these lands and how we need to develop it,” Director-General of Dubai Municipality Hussain Nasser Lootah told 'Emirates24| 7'.

            “This master plan has taken all the aspects - residential, industrial, commercial, schools, hospital and even infrastructure - into consideration. We have taken it to the Executive Council and they approved it. We are leading the project and are cooperation and coordinating with government organisations and private developers.”

            The new master plan will define the land usage, which means that no one can build a residential hi-rise on a land that has been allocated for some other use.“You can’t come to an area and say I want to make a hi-rise building since the land use has been identified.”

            Lootah stressed that Dubai was not just a real estate city and it was not right for people to concentrate only on real estate.

            “Real estate is part of the city… we are developing, Dewa is developing big projects, RTA has completed the Metro and so many roads. We too have completed a huge sewage plant, we are building new public gardens and launching so many other projects… so it is not just real estate,” he added. – Emirates 24|7

Camel milk hits the big screen

            A documentary about camel milk that features the UAE will be shown to audiences in London this month at a culinary arts festival.

            The 50-minute film Hot Chocolate for Bedouins examines the nutritional benefits of camel milk and how it helps marginalised people in poor countries.

            The UAE is one of more than 20 countries featured in the film, which was conceived as a three-month project on camel cheese.

            "We found out that, supposedly, camel-milk cheese is impossible to make," said Philippa Young, a UK filmmaker associated with the What Took You So Long Foundation.

            But Ms Young and the two members of her team visited a dairy in Mauritania that produces camel-milk cheese, which looks like Brie or Camembert, and discovered otherwise.

            In their efforts to tell the story of camel milk, she and her fellow filmmakers, from Sweden and the US, have travelled to much of Asia and some of Africa.

            Filming was done in countries including Oman, Qatar, China, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Morocco, Egypt, India and Kenya.

            The team also discovered there is advanced research on the merits of camel milk being conducted in Holland, Sweden and Denmark.

            "We have gone wherever we heard a new story and where we felt we should go," said Ms Young, the producer.

            The team was attracted to Abu Dhabi because of the annual Al Dhafra Camel Festival and its beauty contest.

            Finding the idea curious, they soon changed their minds after looking at the camels on show.

"Camels are beautiful," Ms Young said.

            The visit also gave the filmmakers a glimpse into the culture. With limited resources the team members used public transport and carried their own equipment.

            After a day of filming at the festival, the team members were hitching to try to find shelter for the night.

            Only 30 seconds passed before they were given a ride by a group of Emiratis who offered them shelter at their desert camp.

            Despite a language barrier everyone had a great time, dancing around the campfire and drinking tea. "They were very happy we loved the camels as much as they did," said Ms Young. "We communicated through gestures and a little bit of English. "I was blown away by it. There was nothing there but just hospitality. This might sound strange to you but you do not get this in other parts of the world."

            The crew also filmed at Dubai's Central Veterinary Research Laboratory. An extended version of the film will be finished next year after filming in the US and Pakistan.

            Ms Young said promoting the consumption of camel milk could help the UAE preserve its environment.

            "The weird thing is that in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, people have their huge farms with cows that are flown from Europe," she said.

            Ms Young said cow dairies required a lot of energy as the animals had to be kept cool, but camels were perfectly adjusted to the climate.

            "It could be something very proudly Emirati that you can bring to the rest of the world and be appreciated for," she said.

            Alexa Perrin, the founder of the Experimental Food Society, which will take part in the festival where the film is screening, agreed.

            Mrs Perrin was introduced to camel milk by her mother-in-law, Lilianne Donders, the "camel whisperer" who has lived in the Middle East for more than 30 years and has interacted with camel herders in Oman, Syria and the UAE.

            Ms Donders has also trekked in the region with her own small herd of camels. She lives in Oman with her husband, Robert Weener, and her eight camels.

            Ms Donders appears in Hot Chocolate for Bedouins after the crew interviewed her in Oman.

Mrs Perrin saw the film when it screened at a conference in May, and decided she wanted it to be part of her festival.

            She remembers the first time she was invited to drink camel milk. She hesitated because of her distaste for cow's milk.

            "I do not particularly like cow milk but when I was given camel milk I liked it," Mrs Perrin said.

She believes that because of its nutritional benefits - it has high amounts of vitamin C and proteins, and is low in fat - camel milk can fit in with the trend for healthy food in Britain.

            "I think it will be very well received," Mrs Perrin said.

            The UAE is applying to the EU for permission to export camel milk and products such as chocolates to Europe. The application, which began six years ago, is in its final stages. – The National

 

Rain hits RAK, residents welcome weather

            Shouka village and the surrounding areas south of Ras Al Khaimah experienced medium to heavy rainfall between 4.00 and 4.30pm on Saturday.  Residents of the area said that while the intensity of rain showers was medium over the mountains, the village received heavy showers, leading to roads being water-logged.  The showers, which led to a fall in temperature, were accompanied by thunderous clouds, lightning and strong winds, which uprooted a number of trees.

            However, the rainy weather attracted a large number of Emirati families from Sharjah and Melleha, who joined Shouka’s residents in enjoying the natural scenery amid the rainfall.

            Meanwhile, Masafi and Mareed — north of Fujairah — experienced medium to heavy rainfall, which lasted for approximately 20 minutes.
Enjoyable sight

            A Fujariah resident, Khamees Mohamed Bereki, said that following the rain showers in Mered area, lots of water flowed down the mountain areas and a large number of people rushed to the area to enjoy the sight.  Meanwhile, there were light showers in Wadi Ghalela area north of Ras Al Khaimah which lasted 10 minutes, but that too led to accumulation of water.  During the last two days, the middle region of the country along with its mountainous regions, including Masafi, Thawban and surrounding areas, received medium to heavy rainfall. – The Gulf Today


 














Copyright 2007 mideast-times.com