The Arab League's observer mission in Syria is now getting more difficult for different reasons," the UAE's Minister of Foreign Affairs H.H Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed told reporters on Tuesday. "We see that the killing has not stopped. The Syrian side has not honoured its commitments about the movement of the (Arab League's) observers. And, unfortunately, the observers were attacked by people who are not from the Syrian opposition ," Sheikh Abdullah said in a joint press conference in Abu Dhabi with visiting Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs Koichiro Gemba.            "The Arab League is supposed to speak about these attacks as those observers are nationals of member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) I leave topic to the Arab League Secretary General," Sheikh Abdullah added. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           A visiting delegation of assistants to U.S. Congress members on Tuesday was briefed on the work of the UAE's Federal National Council, FNC, and legislative and control roles. The delegation was received by Amal Al-Qubaisi, First Deputy Speaker of FNC, and members Rashid Al-Shuraiqi and Noura Al-Ka'abi.            Al-Qubaisi, in remarks during the meeting, stressed that FNC is among the institutions which realised the principles of political practice by the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al-Nahyan when the UAE federation was established. She noted that the first elections for half of FNC members were held in 2006 as part of the political programme of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. She also noted that women now enjoy the right to vote and run for FNC elections. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Japan's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Koichiro Gemba yesterday visited Masdar, Abu Dhabi's multifaceted renewable energy company.            The Minister met with Masdar officials to discuss ways the two nations can continue to grow their cooperation in the advancement, development and dissemination of renewable energy and clean technologies.            Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar, received the Minister of Foreign Affairs and offered a comprehensive overview of the company's progress in developing scalable and commercially viable renewable energy and clean technologies. In addition, he was updated on the progress of ongoing relationships between Masdar and Japanese companies.            Masdar is currently collaborating with various Japanese companies. Most notably, Masdar is working closely with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries on an electric vehicle pilot project. As the Middle East's first electric-vehicle car sharing pilot, the project deployed 10 electric vehicles to operate within Masdar City - and broader Abu Dhabi - to provide a smart, clean transportation system to its residents, staff and students.            Gemba, said: "Masdar serves as a reminder that through strong leadership and vision, nations can commit to innovation as a pathway to address some of the most pressing issues the world faces. I applaud the UAE for its role and focus to discover a blueprint for sustainable development and the development and dissemination of renewable energy. We look forward to further strengthening our relationship through collaborations in that field." Masdar has existing partnerships with other leading Japanese corporations such as Mitsubishi Holding, Mitsui Holding companies, GE Japan, Nippon Oil and Cosmo Oil, among others.            The relationship between the two countries also extends into the field of higher education. Most recently, two Emirati students completed their PhD programs at the Tokyo Institute of Technology before being re-instated at the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology - the world's first graduate level research driven institute focusing specifically on renewable energy and sustainable technologies.            "Our strong relationship with Japan is a testament to the visionary leadership of the UAE," added Dr. Sultan Al Jaber. "Masdar is proud of its role in helping position the UAE as a renewable energy hub, and in forging strong partnerships with the international community. We are honoured to welcome the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and look forward to further strengthening our ties with one of the world's most advanced, innovative countries." Japan recently announced its plans to develop an advanced national energy strategy. As part of the approach, renewable energy will play a major role in the country's development of a diverse energy mix. Along with the launch of a solar and wind feed-in tariff program, Japan aims to increase its share of renewable energy to 20 percent of total electricity generated by 2020.            Japan has also committed to reducing its carbon emissions by 25 percent by 2020.            Japan expects that its energy policy will lower the cost of solar power generation to a third of its current level by 2020 and to a sixth by 2030. In addition, Japan has announced plans to install solar panels on more than 10 million roof tops by 2030.            During the visit, the Japanese delegation was taken on a tour of Masdar City and the campus of Masdar Institute. On the tour, the delegation rode in Personal Rapid Transit vehicles - a zero-carbon driverless vehicle system - walked through student laboratories, were briefed by professors and students on current research projects and visited Masdar's 10MW solar power plant, which supplies energy to Masdar City.            The Japanese delegation included, among others, Japanese Ambassador Tatsuo Watanabe and Director-General of Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau Shigeo Matsutomi.            The visit by the Japanese Minister of Foreign Affairs comes just weeks before the start of the fifth annual World Future Energy Summit (WFES) held in Abu Dhabi, January 16-19. Thirteen Japanese companies, including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, will be exhibiting at this year's conference.            WFES is the world's foremost annual meeting committed to promoting advancement of renewable energy, energy efficiency, and the water and waste sectors by engaging political, business, finance, academic and industry leaders to drive innovation, business and investment opportunities in response to the growing need for sustainable energy.            More than 26,000 attendees, including 3,000 delegates, 650 exhibiting companies and 20 national pavilions, are expected to participate in the summit. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Public Works and Chairman of the National Media Council (NMC) on Tuesday chaired the regular meeting of NMC's Coordination Board. Issues related to media organisations and ways to promote cooperation and coordination among them were discussed at yesterday's meeting. In attendance at the meeting were heads of media organisations operating in the UAE. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Her Majesty Queen Beatrix Wilhemina Armgard of the Netherlands accompanied by Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman, DP World, visited yesterday, the flagship Jebel Ali Port in Dubai, as part of her state visit to the UAE. They discussed the expanding investment and trade relations binding the UAE and the Netherlands, where DP World is developing a new container terminal at Maasvlakte 2 at the Port of Rotterdam in partnership with four shipping lines and the Port of Rotterdam.            The royal delegation included HRH the Heir Apparent, Willem-Alexander, Prince of Orange, HRH Princess Maxima, Gerard Michels, the Dutch Ambassador to the UAE, accompanied by Reem Al Hashimi, UAE Minister of State.            The delegation was received by Bin Sulayem and Jamal Majid bin Thaniah, Group CEO, Port '&' Free Zone World, and Vice Chairman, DP World, Mohammed Sharaf, Chief Executive Officer, DP World, Mohammed Al Muallem, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, DP World, UAE Region and other DP World officials.            The Queen inspected the flagship port's state-of-the-art facilities and was briefed on the gate automation and other initiatives taken by DP World to constantly improve operational efficiencies.            Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Chairman, DP World, said: DP World is privileged and honoured to welcome Her Majesty Queen Beatrix Wilhemina Armgard and members of the royal delegation to Jebel Ali Port. The UAE and the Netherlands have enjoyed enduring two-way trade flow for decades and we believe that DP World's partnership with the Port of Rotterdam in the Maasvlakte 2 project will further enhance these bilateral relations." Mohammed Sharaf, Chief Executive Officer, DP World, said: "The Maasvlakte 2 development will bring the very best in marine terminal operations to the community in Rotterdam Port. We believe that our global experience and expertise will contribute significantly to the benefit of all stakeholders in the project. DP World looks forward to working with its consortium partners to make this a successful addition to the Port of Rotterdam." Under a concession signed in 2007, the consortium consisting of DP World, Mitsui OSK Lines, Hyundai Merchant Marine, Neptune Orient Lines and CMA CGM will equip and operate the first terminal in the Maasvalakte 2 development at the Port of Rotterdam.            The DP World terminal will have a 1900-metre long deep sea quay with a depth of 20 metres, capable of handling next-generation mega container vessels. In addition, it will have a 550-metre quay for inland shipping and feeder vessels. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           The UAE is in talks with Oman about jointly building a refinery with its non-Opec oil producing neighbour, the UAE's economy ministry said yesterday.            Sultan Bin Saeed Al Mansouri, the UAE's minister of economy, met with Omani officials in the Omani capital Muscat this week to discuss building a refinery at Duqm on the east coast of Oman, the ministry said on its website.            "We discussed the refinery project in the area of Duqm, a joint project between the two countries," Al Mansouri said after his three-day visit.            Oman has been investing in refineries to help meet surging domestic oil consumption which has more than doubled over the last decade thanks to energy-intensive industrial growth.            The Omani port of Sohar, located outside the strategically important Straits of Hormuz — where tensions between Iran and the West have been rising in recent weeks — has seen rapid growth in oil storage and shipping over the last few years.            The Omani government has earmarked Duqm as the next industrial growth city, with investments of up to US$15 billion (Dh55 billion) planned in new petrochemical and infrastructure projects at the port over the next ten years.            The UAE ministry cited an Omani official as saying that the state-run Oman Oil Company and Abu Dhabi's International Petroleum Investment Co (IPIC) are considering building a 230,000 barrel per day (bpd) refinery together.            Al Mansouri said the UAE saw Duqm as a strategic investment. Joint investment ·                    US$15b: investments planned for Duqm project ·                    230,000: planned capacity of joint venture refinery (in bpd). – Gulf News Â
           The UAE’s tourism sector has leaped by nearly 10 times over the past four decades as a result of massive investments within an extensive drive to diversify the country’s oil-reliant economy, a well-known expert has said.           Mohammed Al Asumi, a former economic adviser at Dubai Executive Office, said diversification of the sources of income is a strategic issue for the UAE, the largest Arab economy after Saudi Arabia.           In an article published by the Abu Dhabi-based Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research (ESCCR), he said the UAE, among the world’s 10 major oil powers, has used its immense hydrocarbon revenue to build an advanced infrastructure for the development of other productive and service sectors that help diversify sources of income.           “The country has become a first class tourist destination and is now attracting millions of tourists from all over the world every yea,†said Asumi, who had also served as chief of the economic section at the Emirates Industrial Bank.           “The success of the UAE’s tourism sector is evident from its contribution to the GDP, which has gone up from just one percent 40 years ago, when the Union was established, to about 10.4 percent at present.â€Â           Asumi, author of several economy books, said tourism now stands alongside the most important non-oil economic sectors that for the UAE GDP. He expected its contribution to GDP to rise further in the coming decades given the existence of an advanced infrastructure that allows the development of the sector on many levels. “To begin with, the UAE’s network of hotels is unparalleled in the region in terms of quality and facilities provided. They attract major players in areas such as art, sport and culture and bring global events to the country,†he said.           “World class facilities are also available for family and entertainment tourism, especially at the various shopping malls, beaches and heritage sites which lend diversity to tourism and attract visitors from around the world.â€Â           His figures showed a whopping 50 million tourists have visited Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), spending in excess of Dh88 billion since its inception about 14 years ago.            The number of tourists in Dubai reached 1.1 million last year alone while it exceeded two million throughout the UAE, he said. “These numbers are significant considering the global financial crisis and particularly the turmoil in the Euro zone as tourists from Western Europe constitute a large proportion of visitors to the country,†Asumi said.           “Rising tourist numbers has also rejuvenated airports in the UAE. With arrivals growing at an annual rate of 10-12 percent, the number through the airport in Dubai last year touched nearly 50 million according to preliminary estimates. Arrivals at Abu Dhabi International Airport are also projected to exceed 10 million for the first time.â€Â           Asumi also referred to the role of the UAE’s airlines in prompting tourism, including Emirates, Etihad Airways and Air Arabia. He said their role has not only turned the country into a global centre for transportation but has also made it attractive to tourists because of its easy accessibility from all parts of the world. “This is an important feature that is not available in many tourist attractions around the world, especially in the Middle East,†he said. “On the other hand, the remarkable interest the country has shown in the fast-growing exhibition industry, especially in Abu Dhabi, has made it a unique global hub for hosting and showcasing major international events related to economy, technology and culture.â€Â           He noted that the government has launched many mega tourist projects that have enhanced the role of this sector in the national economy.            Projects such as Saadiyat Island, Yas Marina Formula One Circuit, the French Louvre Museum and others reflect the country’s interest in the development of this sector, he said.           “This important economic sector has several advantages over and above its contribution to the diversification of economy as there are other aspects related to it that are equally important,†he wrote.           “It is one of the most labour-intensive sectors and therefore provides significant job opportunities for UAE nationals….even though this very important feature has so far not fulfilled its potential considering the small number of citizens working in the tourism sector, the prospects of more and more nationals joining workforce in this sector look promising.â€Â           According to Asumi, if the tourism sector continues at this pace for the next 10 years its share will swell to nearly 12.1 percent of GDP. “This is a large proportion that matches important sectors such as processing industries and financial services and will help the UAE become one of the three largest tourist destinations in the Middle East.†– Emirates 24|7Â
           A team of experts from the Departments of Conservation and Strategic Planning at the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (ADACH) took part in the 17th General Assembly and Scientific Symposium of the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) held at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, from 25th Nov to 2nd Dec. 2011.            The French National Committee of ICOMOS organised, in conjunction with the General Assembly, a Scientific Symposium on the theme "Heritage: Driver of Development" which brought together experts from more than 100 countries.            The Symposium's main goal was to determine how to make heritage to provide the tools and infrastructure that help to shape, plan and advance the development of society. The role of heritage was usually limited to the passive conservation of things of the past and was often seen as a barrier to development. However, heritage plays a key role in re-establishing cultural identity and diversity and stressing the feeling of the place.            In the context of the sub-theme of the Symposium on Regional Development, ADACH presented a research paper which addressed the issue of heritage and contemporary urban renovation and how to curb the driving forces of development in order to reduce the deterioration of the contemporary architectural heritage.            ADACH paper discussed the effects of rapid development on the continuity of the architectural boom in a stunningly fast urban transformation over the past fifty years that has witnessed periodic political, social, demographic and economic changes.            According to the paper, these changes were based on two motives: "the strong desire for modernisation" and "concern for the preservation of cultural identity." The emergence of one of these two motives on another played a substantial role in forming the architectural environment at the expense of Abu Dhabi's contemporary heritage.            The research paper shed light on the driving forces of changing stances over the past fifty years and proposed strategies to reduce the negative impacts of development on heritage of the contemporary City of Abu Dhabi in order to form a bridge of economic development of the Emirate with the potential aspirations to preserve its cultural heritage and identity development.            The paper is part of a research effort in the framework of the initiative to preserve contemporary heritage undertaken by ADACH based on the results of previous research which focused on the importance of Abu Dhabi's contemporary heritage and standards set out to estimate its values. The previous research results were presented earlier at the International Conference on Architectural Heritage of the 20th Century.            Founded in 1964, ICOMOS is an advisory body to UNESCO on nominations of sites to the World Heritage List. It has 110 member countries.            ADACH participation in the meetings of Scientific Committees and ICOMOS' General Assembly and Scientific Symposium is an effective way to communicate and interact with experts and specialists in this area. It also enhances its role in the international community of experts on cultural heritage preservation. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           The National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD), the Number One Bank in the UAE, delivered 9.26% returns for its fixed income unconstrained institutional clients in 2011, despite tough conditions in financial markets.            NBAD achieved this high return by astutely investing in UAE and GCC bond markets, a selection based on internal research and investment process. The returns have been delivered in a very low risk fashion with portfolios displaying lower volatility than even 3 - 5 year US Treasuries, NBAD said in an emailed press release.            "2011 has been an incredibly difficult year for financial markets and investors had to studiously monitor the market to stay ahead of the game," said Mark Watts, the Head of Fixed Income at NBAD's Asset Management Group. "2011 opened with a positive tone but things soon changed with the onset of what commentators have dubbed the Arab Spring.' During the summer, markets were further rocked by the US credit rating downgrade and the start of the debt problems in Europe, which have remained a dominant theme throughout the rest of 2011. We are pleased to have returned over 9% for our unconstrained portfolios in this environment." NBAD's Asset Management Group is one of the largest asset managers in the region. In 2011, Global Investor magazine, published by Euromoney, named NBAD's Asset Management Group the UAE Best Asset Manager of the Year Award.            The Group launched the GCC's first exchange-traded fund in 2010, the NBAD OneShare Dow Jones UAE 25 ETF, which was named the Best Investment Product in the prestigious Banker Middle East Products Award 2011 by Banker Middle East magazine.            NBAD's Asset Management Group has greatly enhanced the diversity of financial products in the UAE market by introducing a number of innovative financial products that expanded investors' options especially in realm of fixed income.            Recently, AMG launched 100% capital-protected commodity basket investment, a highly innovative product that allows investment in five commodities and offers investors the potential for attractive returns. The NBAD 100% Capital protected 5-in-1 Commodity basket investment offers investors the unique opportunity to capture upside in the highly exciting commodity markets without exposing themselves to downside risk if held to maturity.            Looking forward to 2012, Watts believes that Europe will remain a key focus for markets and the onus is on EU governments to agree on sufficient measures to remove the risk of a Euro break up.            "Europe is set to enter into a recession in the coming months and this is not a positive backdrop for global growth. There are some positive signs from the US to balance this but with China decelerating, the outlook for financial markets remains finely balanced. We are forecasting decent returns in 2012 from regional bond markets, which will remain partially insulated from global events and will benefit from oil prices that remain above fiscal breakeven." Alan Durrant, NBAD's Group Chief Investment Officer and General Manager of Asset Management Group, said the robust returns the Group achieved reflects the quality of resources it can utilise.            "I am proud of the results my team of highly skilled professionals has accomplished. The Group's investment strategy is backed by the most sophisticated and capable research capabilities," Durrant said. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           First Gulf Bank PJSC (FGB) announced mandating each of Citi, HSBC, NBAD and Standard Chartered banks as Joint Lead Managers for its 5-year USD 500 million Sukuk under the FGB Sukuk Company Limited U.S. US$3,500,000,000 Trust Certificate Issuance Programme. Subscription is set to begin on January 11, 2012.            Last year, FGB received excellent endorsement for its Sukuk where it was 6 times oversubscribed by more than 200 different investors worldwide. Of these investors, 46% were Middle East based, 24% were from Europe, 24% from Asia and 6% from the US and other markets. The transaction was divided between Banks (49%), Funds (39%), Retail (6%) and Insurance and Pensions (6%).            The final price for last year's Sukuk was set at 200 basis points above midswaps. The Regulated S Bonds are listed in London and retain a fixed profit rate of 3.797 % p.a. Proceeds from the Sukuk are to be used for Islamic general corporate purposes and to fund the growth of the FGB's Islamic loan book. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Bishkek has been named as flydubai's 50th destination, marking the pioneering airline's entry into the Kyrgyz Republic and expanding its global network to 28 countries across the GCC, Middle East, Africa, Indian Sub-Continent, Asia and Central and Eastern Europe in just two and half years of operations, Dubai's low-cost carrier said in an emailed press release.            The new service, which is due to begin on 7 February 2012, makes flydubai the first UAE airline to offer direct flights between the Emirates and Kyrgyz Republic. Flights will operate twice a week, departing Dubai on Tuesdays and Fridays, with flights from Bishkek to Dubai leaving on Wednesdays and Saturdays. One-way fares start from Dh990, flydubai added.            flydubai CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith said: "We are proud to launch our latest services, bringing our destinations in the former Soviet Union to 12. It is also a significant milestone for us as the 50th destination we have announced - quite an achievement since our first flight in June 2009.            The Kyrgyz Republic has opened its economy to foreign investment in key industries including metallurgy and is developing its tourism potential. Beauty spots such as Issyk Kul Lake are growing into popular tourist destinations while trekking and camping trails as well as skiing bases are developing all over the country, drawing in travellers locally, regionally and internationally.            The Kyrgyz Republic has a growing presence in the UAE thanks to a 3,000-strong expatriate population. Flights to Bishkek will start from February, ensuring they are able to travel home to visit friends and family more often. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           The Environment Agency- Abu Dhabi (EAD), said in a statement yesterday that the results of laboratory analysis of water samples collected from the sea regarding the spill of sewage in some areas within the island of Abu Dhabi, show the leakage has been brought under control.            It added that the incident did not cause any environmental effect in the area.            The EAD has been stepping up efforts to assess the environmental situation and reduce possible adverse effects of this incident. The monitoring teams have been deployed to collect the samples of water on a daily basis. The EAD teams have patrolled the area by using the boats and ensured that the surrounding areas were not affected. They also collected the samples of water on a regular basis.            During this period no any case of death of fish was detected, or any marine algae monitored on the surface of the sea- a thing that confirms the absence of any environmental effects in this area as a result of this incident.            For its part, the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority has adopted the precautionary measures with respect to the incident, notifying all the hospitals in the emirate to monitor any conditions that may be caused by direct exposure to the effects of pollution caused by the leakage. It added that the EAD should be directly informed about any case.            The Health Authority- Abu Dhabi has not received any case regarding the incident to date.            Meanwhile, the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority has tightened control over the fish markets in the emirate to ensure food safety and coordinate with the competent authorities in this regard.            It is worth mentioning that all the competent authorities in the emirate have taken precautionary measures to ensure safety, human health and the environment. The measures include the prevention of swimming, fishing and other water activities and entertainment on a temporary basis at Al Bateen and Corniche East beaches, pending the final results of laboratory tests that require a thorough examinations and cultivation of samples to make sure of type and proportion of contaminants in the affected areas.            The Abu Dhabi Sewerage Services Company had brought under control in two days the break of one of the main sewer pipe at the island of Abu Dhabi, which led to the temporary closure of this pipe. However, the line has been repaired and resumed full work. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Some 63 per cent of deaths of children under the age of 14 are caused by road accidents in the UAE, said an official at the Supreme Council of Family Affairs in Sharjah while stressing the importance of using children's car seats.            "Child car seats protect children and reduce the mortality rate by 71 per cent. Out of all the car accidents recorded in the country, 83 per cent of children who used car seats did not suffer any form of injury," Khadeeja Al Mansouri, Head of Health Promotion Department at the Council. Awareness campaign            The authorities have taken the responsibility to educate the public about the importance of using children's car seats and various other ways on how to keep them safe on the road. The Sharjah Ladies Club's Child Safety awareness campaign which was launched last month will run until April in various government department buildings.            Khadeeja also said that only two per cent of Emirati families use car seats. "Children below 13 years old must sit in the back seat and wear a seat belt, but unfortunately many parents do not follow this rule," she said.            Car seats should be set up facing the back seat so that in case of an accident, the airbags do not hit the child's face. Car seats should also never be placed in the front seat, and the seats should be properly secured with a seat belt.            Alerting parents on safety rules has become a priority in the country in recent weeks. Gulf News has also launched its "Child Security & You" campaign to inform families about the dos and don'ts in keeping children safe at home and on the road.            "Children should never be left alone in a car, even though the windows are kept open, especially in hot weather, because it can lead to suffocation," Khadeeja said.            She also stressed that parents should be responsible and not leave their children alone at home and they should not play in parking lots. – Gulf News Â
           Hollywood blockbuster Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol may have showcased Dubai as a land of blinding sand-storms and camels (among other things) but Chinese production Dwelling In the Fuchun Mountains, that will be filmed locally, is all set to do much more.            "With all due respect, we can assure that we can do much better to present this [city] - the beauty. You can never have sandstorms or bad things happening here - for sure," said Sun Jian-Jun, the director, addressing a press conference at Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai on Tuesday.            The action drama starring Andy Lau, with a production budget of over US$20 million, will shoot its key scenes in Dubai's iconic landmarks including The Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab and Atlantis, The Palm.            An international team is also on board to elevate the filming standards of the action drama based on the rare Chinese landscape painting. A bunch of gangsters plotting to steal the legendary painting by Huang Gongwang with Lau stepping in to foil their efforts form the plot.            "Everything in our movie will present a very positive image, promoting this country as it is - no exaggerations because this land is truly a fantasy land," said Jian-Jun. An adrenaline-charged teaser showing Andy Lau and the leading ladies Chiling Lin and Jinghchu Zhang executing deadly stunts and thrilling car chases was also unveiled at the press conference. Billed as the first production to be pre-dominantly shot outside China, Dubai is one of six cities to be featured along with Hangzhou, Fuyang, Taipei, Tokyo and Milan.            "Actually I had a lot to say, but it's bad the others have said so already. I guarantee that I will use my best efforts to make it all come true," said Lau. The Hong Kong superstar, aptly described by his director as a cross between Michael Jackson and Tom Cruise owing to his sizeable acting and singing credentials, added that he looked forward to shooting in Dubai.            "I have been here only for 16 hours, but I will be able to answer more about Dubai at the end of the shoot," said Lau.            Though the crew was tight-lipped about the duration and the shoot locations, its captain maintained that efforts are being made to showcase the city in all its splendour.            "Just like in our country, lot of westerners come into our country - want to show it as a dirty place and present very untrue side of China. That's not going to happen here in my movie. I can guarantee you that everything we shoot here will be the best way to show the 300 million people that this is the most beautiful country," said Jian-Jun.            His leading lady Jingchu Zhang described Dubai as a "magic land" and was confident that her film will add a chapter to the famed Arabian Nights tales. "It is a dream to be here because I arrived yesterday … It is like a magic land. In the movie - I have a dangerous scene but the view is going to be beautiful. The 1001 Arabian Nights story is very famous in China but this will be 1002 story," she said.            The Chinese production, with a 300 strong crew stationed in Dubai, is slated for a summer release in July or October 1 in keeping with the Chinese National Day. – Gulf News The UAE is the second best Arab economy in 2011: Forbes - Middle East            The UAE has been ranked the second best Arab economy, according to "Forbes - Middle East" study 2011.            According to the study, the high oil prices, witnessed during the past year, have contributed to the achievement of profitable revenue growth in the economies of the Arab oil-exporting countries, 7 of which topped the list of "2011 Top Performing Economies in the Arab Region." Saudi Arabia topped the list, followed by the UAE in the second place, Qatar in third place and Oman in fourth place. The results of the study showed that those countries have taken advantage of the surplus revenues to increase spending on investments in domestic infrastructure and other vital sectors, such as health and education, in addition to raising their people's standards of living, as most of those countries have approved significant increases in employee wages. For these same reasons, Kuwait occupied fifth place on the list, to be followed by Iraq and Algeria.            Morocco deserved to win, with distinction, the first place amongst Arab nonoil exporting countries. It occupied eighth place on the list as it achieved GDP growth rate of nearly 4.6 percent. Trying hard to get out of the cycle of the world's poorest countries, Mauritania comes in ninth place on the list, achieving a growth rate of 5.1 percent. Jordan occupies tenth place, with its economic institutions working hard to implement a financial policy that can rescue the country, get it out of its debts that exceed US$19 billion, and improve its growth rate that reaches 22.5 percent. Given that the Arab Spring hasn't reached these countries, the internal stable security has proved beneficial.            On the other hand, Syria, Tunis, Egypt and Bahrain, have largely been affected by the popular revolts and the high oil prices as they are oil importers. Those two factors stand behind the decline in most of their economic indicators, such as foreign currency reserves and foreign investments. Meanwhile; those countries occupied places from 11th to 14th, respectively.            Lebanon occupied 15th place as it was affected by the events on its borders with Syria, granting the "Cedar Country" the title of "Master of Debts", as Lebanon's public debt rate reached 126 percent of its Domestic Product.            The study is part of Forbes Middle East's interest in assisting governmental financial and economic planning sectors to develop and build future economic policies, based on accurate and objective data and analysis. The magazine also aims to provide the Arab readers all over the Arab world with a comprehensive panorama about the most important financial and economic events and facts, the region has witnessed in 2011.            The study, that was conducted in cooperation with the International Monetary Fund in the US, included 19 Arab countries. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Under the guidance and patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Supreme Council of Energy (SCE) for Dubai has launched the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. This is a leading project implemented by the SCE and managed and operated by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA).            This is the first utility-scale production capacity park of its kind in the region and a prelude to the introduction of promising projects to use renewable energy in electricity production in Dubai. This project will use solar radiations that are available all year-round to produce electricity using the latest technology available in international markets. This will, in turn, play an important role in supporting sustainable development plans and preserve natural resources while protecting the environment from pollution.            Diversification of the energy mix is one of the UAE's top priorities as stressed by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who said: "The UAE is striving to develop and boost its rich resources and expertise in the international energy markets and enhance its leading role as a world centre for renewable energy research and development".            Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has always stressed the importance of preserving environmental and energy resources. He said:"We recognise that preserving our energy resources will be one of the greatest challenges in our drive towards sustainable development. This, however, will not materialise unless the different facets of our society adopt energy conservation principles in their core values. The future generations will be the chief beneficiary of our achievements and the best judge of what we accomplish in this field" At the launching ceremony Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer Vice Chairman of the Supreme Council of Energy and MD '&' CEO of DEWA delivered a speech on behalf of HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum Chairman of the Supreme Council of Energy highlighting the advanced position achieved by the UAE in its continuous quest to achieve sustainable development and build a competitive economy in a future that depends less on fossil fuel energy through a range of sustainable energy sources.            "Dubai has made great and unprecedented achievements, which has made it one of the world's most competitive countries. This prominent position is the culmination of the efforts of our leadership to create a stimulating business environment, characterised by a cutting-edge and robust infrastructure and world-class, efficient and reliable services. These services have greatly contributed to establishing Dubai's reputation as a globally-preferred hub for finance, business and tourism," said Sheikh Ahmed.            "In line with the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to promote Dubai's sustainable development, Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 has been developed in alignment with the strategy of The Government Of Dubai. This energy strategy puts security of supply amongst its key objectives; to achieve sustainable development, meet the needs of both present and future generations and to create an urban infrastructure with sustainable resources for the Emirate of Dubai," added Sheikh Ahmed.            "Therefore, the Supreme Council of Energy is meeting its responsibility to continue our relentless pursuit to provide clean-energy solutions to efficiently meet our future requirements and develop a reduced carbon-footprint economy. This is why we are investigating the utilisation of renewable energy; especially solar energy, which is both sustainable and eco-friendly".            After the announcement of launching, Sheikh Mohammed and the officials watched a visual presentation about the future vision of the colossal project. It also shed light on Dubai's development, which made it inevitable to search for new sources of energy which are environmentally friendly and less expensive as reflected in the pilot project.            Sheikh Mohammed then viewed a detailed model of the Solar Park project and its various stages of implementation.            Expressing satisfaction over seeing his dream being translated into reality with the help from God, Sheikh Mohammed graced the project and wished the officials every success.            Shining more light on the importance of the project Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer said: "The importance of this step, which comes within a global movement to source new sources of energy using renewable energy resources, and among them solar energy, to preserve the natural resources and curb CO2 emissions will contribute to establishing a clean and healthy environment to live in, according to a scientific study we have undertaken to research the opportunities for using solar energy in electricity generation" .            Al Tayer explained that the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 has included a plan for diversifying the energy sources in Dubai so that solar energy contributes 1% to the overall energy production for Dubai by 2020 and this will increase to 5% by 2030. This is in addition to generating 12% from nuclear power and 12% from clean coal. The remainder will come from gas.            "The Supreme Council of Energy shares with the world the challenges in the production and management of energy in an efficient and reliable manner. The Dubai Global Energy Forum, which had its inaugural session in April 2011, focused its deliberations over three days on the challenges affecting energy in all their forms, as well as sustainable development and climate change".            "The first project of the park will witness the production of power using photovoltaic cell technology, with a production capacity of 10MW by 2013. By 2030, the park will produce 1,000MW on the completion of all its phases," he added. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           The Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO), has released its annual book featuring the official activities of UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum during the year 2010.            Written in the backdrop of the historical successes achieved by Dubai and the UAE during the past year, the newly-released publication, entitled 'Scenes from a Journey', chronicles the Dubai Ruler's movements and accomplishments throughout the calendar year.            The book renders a comprehensive account of Sheikh Mohammed's endeavours during 2010, including photographic documentation of his meetings with kings, presidents and leaders from around the world, as well as his attendance at the year's most important summits and events.            Readers are given special access to the key meetings taking place during 2010, as the annual book features Sheikh Mohammed in discussions with such notables as former President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt, Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain, President Pratibha Patil of India, President Olafur Ragnar Grimsson of Iceland and President Karolos Papoulias of Greece, in addition to numerous other international leaders.            Sheikh Mohammed's involvement in high profile sporting occasions and his participation in forums with heads of UAE federal and local government departments are also covered in eye-catching pictorial sequences.            The publication's centrepiece revolves around three groundbreaking, historical achievements that stand out in a year filled with distinction and progress; the opening of the tallest man-made structure on Earth, the 828 meter Burj Khalifa, which attracted world-wide acclaim and attention; the completion of the first phase of Al Maktoum International Airport, soon to be the largest passenger and cargo airport in the world; and the inauguration of Meydan Racecourse for the Dubai World Cup, thus cementing the emirate's leading position in the international sporting arena.            Another Historical landmark reached in 2010 saw Sheikh Mohammed witness the signing of US$13.9 billion worth of contracts between Emirates Airlines and Airbus on the sidelines of the Dubai International Airshow.            The 224 page book goes on to exhibit snapshots of His Highness' participation in a number of conferences, including the Arab-African Summit in Libya, the Summit on the Global Agenda in Dubai, the International SportAccord conference in Dubai, the Big Five Exhibition also in Dubai and the 31 Summit of Gulf Cooperation Countries in Abu Dhabi.            Sheikh Mohammed's horsemanship features prominently in the year book, with special attention given to his role in leading the UAE endurance team to victory at the FEI World Equestrian Games held in Lexington Kentucky in September.            Readers can also avail of the opportunity to get to know His Highness on a more personal level by following his many field visits to ministries, schools and healthcare facilities around the UAE. During the photographic journey, we can see Sheikh Mohammed's desire to break from routine and encourage the spirit of innovation in the country.            The book also depicts Sheikh Mohammed's dedication to bringing more development and progress to the UAE, as we see him unveiling the federal government strategy for 2011-2013 and launching the website for Vision 2021. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Vice President, Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum received yesterday at the Zabeel Palace in Dubai, Her Majesty Queen Beatrix Wilhelmina Armgard of the Netherlands and the delegation accompanying her.            During the meeting, which was attended by Crown Prince of Dubai HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Deputy Ruler of Dubai HH Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, they reviewed the relations of friendship and cooperation between the UAE and the Netherlands and discussed ways of strengthening them at various levels.            Welcoming Her Majesty, Sheikh Mohammed stressed the importance of the royal visit, which paves the way for opening new horizons for cultural, economic and political cooperation.            The Queen praised the qualitative evolution of civilisation witnessed by the UAE under its wise leadership. She also noted Dubai's world reputation and stressed that its success story is hailed and appreciated as exemplary at the state level. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           A high level delegation from the Netherlands, headed by Her Majesty Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, H.R.H. the Prince of Orange and H.R.H. Princess Maxima of the Netherlands yesterday visited Masdar, Abu Dhabi's multifaceted renewable energy company.            The delegation, received in the UAE by Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, and in Masdar by Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar, discussed a number of possible strategic co-operations in a bid to promote and facilitate mutually beneficial economic relationships.            The discussions addressing the outlook for economic developments, especially in the field of infrastructure and sustainability, environmental policy, business development opportunities as well as port development policy, were led by Sheikha Lubna and Maxime Verhagen, the Dutch Minister of Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Innovation.            Sheikha Lubna said: "This meeting builds on an historic relationship. Trade was always considered the most important factor for relations between the Netherlands and the UAE, and these ties continue to become stronger today. In fact, most people would be surprised to know that the Netherlands' ties with the Arab world date back more than three centuries." "The discussions that took place today, I am sure, will heed long term benefits that will be crucial for both our countries." The long historical relations between the two nations are reflected through thriving trade relations and cultural and academic exchange; in addition, a large number of Dutch companies and Dutch expatriates are also based in the UAE today.            Moreover, in 2002, the UAE opened an embassy at The Hague, the seat of the Dutch government. The Netherlands also opened the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency in the UAE in 2008.            Commenting on the visit, Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, CEO, Masdar, said: "We are honoured to welcome their Royal Highnesses to Masdar, to showcase our progress and the partnerships we enjoy and to build on those successes through exploring other areas of possible collaboration." Masdar has collaborated with Dutch company 2getthere to implement the City's Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system, the state of the art pilot project which forms part of Masdar's sustainable transport system.            "We aim to continue partnering with Dutch companies on such innovative projects to help accelerate, develop and disseminate renewable energy and clean technologies," he added.            The Netherlands ranks fourth highest in Europe in terms of wind power production. Initially, wind farms were placed onshore, but since 2006, they can be found offshore across the Netherlands as well.            Their Royal Highnesses and their accompanying delegation were received by executives of Masdar including: Frank Wouters, Director, Masdar Power; and Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President, Masdar Institute.            The Netherlands announced last year it will gear its renewable energy policy to meet the binding European Union target of 14 per cent renewable energy target in 2020 in a more cost-effective way. The improved support scheme, called 'SDE+', builds on 15 years of experience of stimulating renewable energy.            The royal delegation's visit started with a short explanation of Masdar City at scale model followed by a ride in one of the PRTs.            Upon arriving at the PRT station at Masdar Institute campus, one of the world's most sustainable campuses for graduate level students and the first research-driven institution in the region dedicated to finding solutions to the challenges of future energy and sustainability, the delegation was escorted to sign the VIP guest book before being taken to the meeting room.            Masdar represents a multifaceted approach to renewable energy and comprises of the integrated business units --Masdar Capital, Masdar Carbon, Masdar Power, Masdar City, and Masdar Institute.            The visit came ahead of the World Future Energy Summit (WFES), the world's foremost annual meeting committed to promoting advancement of renewable energy, energy efficiency and the water and waste sectors by engaging political, business, finance, academic and industry leaders to drive innovation, business and investment opportunities in response to the growing need for sustainable energy. The fifth edition of WFES will run from 16th to 19th January, 2012 and will be held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Masdar Institute of Science of Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, yesterday announced it has lined up a packed calendar of events for its outreach initiative the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) programme during the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2012.            Organised under the patronage of His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and hosted by Masdar, Abu Dhabi's multi-faceted renewable energy company, the fifth edition of WFES will be held from 16-19 January at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).            The event will gather the world's most influential leaders in renewable energy, including heads of state, policy makers, government officials, business leaders, and academics to discuss, promote and debate challenges and solutions to the world's energy requirements.            This year, over 150 YFEL members, representing students from UAE universities, international universities, as well as young professionals from local companies will be attending specialised forums, seminars, debates and panels at WFES 2012. The members for 2012 were selected out of 400 applicants, after a stringent vetting process that ensured only the most eligible candidates are chosen for the exclusive YFEL program.            In addition to the Emirati philanthropist, Mohammed Salem bin Kardous Al-Ameri, who supported the YFEL 2011 programme with its first individual financial contribution, corporate sponsors in 2011 included Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC), Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority (ADWEA) and Dolphin Energy.            A key element of WFES, the YFEL programme that aims to develop tomorrow's leaders in the fields of advanced energy and sustainability, will provide opportunities for YFEL members to share their innovative ideas with their peers as well as industry, government and academic leaders.            During WFES 2012, the YFEL stand will host various programs in addition to receiving dignitaries and environmentalist including polar explorer Sir Robert Swan, energy industry leaders and Aidan Dwyer, a 13-year old scientist who has achieved breakthrough in solar power and one of 12 students to receive the 2011 Young Naturalist Award from the American Museum of Natural History in New York.            Some of the events that will be organised by Masdar Institute at the YFEL stand include a presentation by Mohamed El-Ashry, Chairman, Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century (REN 21), and Senior Fellow, UN Foundation, a debate on The World-Wide Increase in Population Needs to be Reversed' by Dr. Ken Volk, Outreach Manager, Masdar Institute, and a presentation by YFEL 2011 members Haljmar Nilsonne and David Rasmus Davidsen, who were the winners of a case competition for their project that was to develop a model for calculating the carbon costs of running a conference with WFES.            Moreover, another winning project - Black Silicon Solar Cells - by the two talented YFEL participants, focused on a method Davidsen developed and showcased during the YFEL programme at WFES 2011. The innovative clean-tech method applies nanostructures to improve the efficiency of solar photovoltaic cells, allowing manufacturers - through only one extra manufacturing step to significantly reduce the unwanted reflection of sunlight.            Davidsen and Nilsonne proudly acknowledged the role of YFEL in connecting the two young innovators. Nilsonne said, "Because of this award, I have been interviewed for a couple of different things, and I always begin by telling the story of how we met thanks to YFEL and Masdar Institute." In addition, the first day's schedule will also include a sightseeing tour to Sheikh Zayed mosque and Ferrari World that will be led by YFEL 2011 members Cica Al Attas and Burhan Buci.            Many other high-profile industry leaders and delegates are also scheduled to visit the YFEL stand at WFES 2012 and interact with select members.            The second day's events will begin with a briefing on the YFEL 2012 project that will be followed by select members attending the plenary session Business Leaders in Renewable Energy - Insights from the Executive Suite'. The rest of the events at the YFEL stand will include sessions by Bjorn Lomborg, renowned writer on environment, and Director of Copenhagen Consensus Centre, Sir Robert Swan, Aidan Dwyer, and a session by Dr Steve Griffiths, Executive Director of Initiatives at Masdar Institute. These events are open only to select YFEL members who are meticulously chosen based on their individual professional skills and leadership qualities.            Later in the evening, YFEL members will participate in the Zayed Future Energy Prize Award Ceremony and Gala Dinner at the Emirates Palace Hotel.            The Directorate of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) from the UAE Foreign Ministry will host a panel discussion on Women Leading the Way in Clean Energy and Climate Change' at the YFEL stand on the third day. A presentation titled Direct Production of Hydrogen in the Sulfur Recovery Process of Sour Gases by an YFEL member Iman Ustadi is also scheduled for the day. Members will later attend the program on Energy Storage - Technical challenges: Market opportunities'.            Following the panel discussion on Finance Leaders in Future Energy - Insights from the Financiers' at the start of the fourth day, YFEL members will receive Morten Albaek, Senior Vice-President, Group Marketing and Customer Insight, from the Danish wind energy firm Vestas, at the YFEL stand for an opening speech about future energy visionaries and innovations. Later, Saif Al Sayari, Vice-President for Operations Technology '&' Innovations at Abu Dhabi National Energy Company, UAE, will address the YFEL gathering.            Prior to WFES 2012, YFEL orientation gathering is scheduled on 15 January at Rotana Hotel in Yas Island to update the members on their individual roles at the event.            Dr. Lamya N. Fawwaz, Executive Director of Public Affairs, said: "The YFEL program offers an avenue for students and young professionals to enrich themselves for career-related growth. As an integral element of WFES, YFEL creates vital learning opportunities for its members. The dialogues and networking possibilities will facilitate long-term interactions, widening their ability to understand the global culture in research and innovation in the fields of clean energy, sustainability and environment." Fawwaz added that active participation in WFES will significantly enhance YFEL members' skill-base, networking opportunities and provide a platform to innovate and compete with their peers overseas. We thank the wise UAE leadership for creating such effective international platforms that benefit our future leaders." Zainab Al Ali, Senior Outreach Officer and Program Coordinator for YFEL, said: "Our presence in WFES is a strong acknowledgement of the need to develop young professionals and broaden their capabilities. This year the YFEL comprises members representing diverse professional backgrounds, academic disciplines and geographies. Our holistic program offering for the year commences with the events at WFES and we believe YFEL members will utilise this opportunity to develop into valuable contributors to the clean energy and sustainable technology sector." Part of the Masdar Institute's Outreach programme, YFEL offers young professionals and students from the UAE and abroad an opportunity to become more engaged in finding solutions to the world's biggest challenges - achieving energy efficiency and tackling climate change. It also aims to bring young professionals closer to government representatives, business leaders and other organisations active in the area of alternative energy and sustainability. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           The United Arab Emirates, the fourth largest oil producer in the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries, is seeking partnership with international energy companies to access the technology required to expand production capacity in the era of post-easy oil, the country's energy minister said yesterday.            For much of the 20th century, the Gulf has been blessed with a steady flow of low-cost oil and gas production, thanks to its abundance of conventional reservoirs - in parts of Iraq crude oil has been known to bubble to the surface without any assistance. But as a relatively mature oil producing region, there is renewed focus on improving recovery from the Middle East's largest fields.            "Over the years, oil and gas has become more challenging to produce, and the UAE has embraced this challenge with the development of increasingly complex fields such as ultra-sour gas reservoirs," Mohammed Bin Dhaen Al-Hameli told the audience of energy industry executives at The 3rd Gulf Intelligence UAE Energy Forum in Abu Dhabi. "More than ever, the UAE is looking for oil majors, service companies and technology suppliers that are able to help the nation develop new projects," he said.            The US Geological Survey estimates there are some 3 trillion barrels of heavy oil in the world, about 100 years of global consumption at current levels. The catch: only a fraction of it - about 400 billion barrels - can be recovered using existing technology. New techniques are required to unlock more.            But with ageing reservoirs and prices at US$100 per barrel, the economics of using enhanced oil recovery to go after heavy oil extraction has become more attractive.            "Global Enhanced oil recovery spending has leapt from a standing start over the past decade to almost US$100bn and is expected to continue growing rapidly with the support of government investment as we have seen in Oman, the UAE and now Saudi Arabia," said Stuart Walley, regional manager for Senergy in the Middle East and India.            The world's largest reservoirs, such as Kuwait's Burgan, Abu Dhabi's Upper Zakum and Saudi Arabia's giant Ghawar, have pumped more than half their recoverable reserves after 50 years - the point at which production traditionally begins to decline.            Demand for energy will grow faster in the Middle East over the next two decades than any region other than Asia, according to the International Energy Agency. "The outlook for the international energy industry in 2012 is clouded by uncertainty with ongoing concerns about economic growth, energy consumption and global financial stability, but not withstanding these issues, the U.A.E. continues to invest heavily in oil and gas production," Al-Hameli said at the 3rd UAE Energy Forum.            The Gulf Intelligence Forum was held in the Cert Technology Park in Abu Dhabi with more than 100 industry professionals in attendance from companies including ADNOC, Maersk Oil, Shell, Occidental Oil '&' Gas and Total. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Energy Minister of the UAE Mohammed Bin Dhaen Al-Hameli said Monday the pipeline which will transport oil between Habshan oil field in Abu Dhabi and Fujairah bypassing the Strait of Hormuz will be operational within six months. "The pipeline is almost complete but hopefully it will be operational within six months, by May or June," Al Hameli told reporters on the sidelines of the 3rd Gulf Intelligence UAE Energy Forum in Abu Dhabi.            The 360 kilometre pipeline has the capacity to transport between 1.5-1.8 million barrels a day, he said. "The project involves a lot of work as the pipeline has to be filled with crude and tested," he added. The UAE minister noted that oil will continue to play its significant role in the global energy mix in the decades to come. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           IRENA Director-General Adnan Z. Amin, held a special briefing with Ambassadors and Members and Signatories from IRENA's Asian, Latin American, African, Western European and Others, and Eastern European groups over the past days to bring them fully up-to-date with the key issues for the Agency's forthcoming Second Assembly from 14-15 January 2012 in Abu Dhabi.            These were a series of high-level pre-conference discussions being organised to provide a forum for programmatic and substantial issues and present activities related to IRENA's 2012 Work Programme.            Topics include the main Assembly agenda, including two Ministerial Roundtables, on IRENA's Medium-term Strategy and Cooperation with the Private Sector, and the Pacific Leaders' Meeting. Participants were also briefed on the details of the Assembly's technical meetings, which focus on the Global Solar and Wind Atlas, the Competitiveness of Renewable Power Generation, a Renewable Readiness Assessment Workshop and the Capacity Building Expert Meeting.            "These meetings will ensure maximum productivity by preparing delegates for the debate, negotiations, networking opportunities and exchange of ideas that the Assembly will bring," commented Amin. "Our first Assembly successfully allowed us to create structure, consolidate capacities and set IRENA's first objectives. The second Assembly will focus much more on action." - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           H. H. Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council member and ruler of Sharjah, has ordered the allocation of Dhs20 million the emergency housing cases in the emirate of Sharjah. He instructed that the new budget will be under supervision of the Department of Housing in the emirate of Sharjah to rent alternative houses against dilapidated ones or those inappropriate for residency.            Sheikh Sultan called in a phone conversation 'direct line' broadcasted by Sharjah Radio and TV, for setting up a plan to build houses to meet accumulated applications. He pledged to follow up the issue personally. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Du mobile phone users now have a place exclusively for them to browse through music.            The telco yesterday launched the Music Store, a service that allows users to download five songs a day for a daily subscription of Dh1. The site has an initial offering of over 10,000 songs.            Users of the service will not be charged for the download either. Du says the site offers Arabic, Bollywood, Indian, Tagalog and Western music. The files are DRM-free, meaning they can be moved and played on other devices. Subscribers will even be allowed to re-download the songs a maximum of three times.            The service will also allow du customers to share songs they like from the music store on to social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter. The social integration will enable users to "like" a song on Facebook, share that tune with their friends via a Facebook wall post, or tweet about it on twitter.            Online music has become big business since Apple launched iTunes, one of the first legal music services, 10 years ago. The iTunes Store generated revenue of US$1.1 billion (Dh4.04 billion) in the first fiscal quarter of this year. However, iTunes is not available in the Middle East and other attempts to offer online music have met with limited success. – Gulf News Â
Strict action against price increase            The Department of Consumer Protection at the Ministry of Economy has initiated strict measures to prevent traders from increasing the price of consumer products, taking advantage of the recent pay rise of Federal Government employees.            Dr Hashim Al Nuaimi, Director of Consumer Protection Department, said that measures will be taken in coordination with local government departments to prevent traders from raising prices. Action will be taken on 2,545 complaints lodged by people countrywide with the ministry on the increase in the price of consumer items since the President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, announced the pay rise for the federal government employees, he said.            The ministry’s office in Fujairah received 289 complaints on tampering with commodities’ price at the outlets in the emirate last year, he said at a coordinating meeting attended by the directors and officials at the ministry, economic department, Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the municipalities of Fujairah, Kalba, Khorfakkan and Dibba Al Hisn.            The meeting was designed to schedule the plans and measures to increase the awareness of the consumers, control the market and prevent exploitation and monopoly in a way that does not affect the profit achieved by the trade establishments and companies.            Dr Hashim Al Nuaimi appreciated the efforts made by local watchdog entities in fighting the unauthorised price hike. The ministry, in association with the local government departments, will launch extensive field visits to shops to check the prices.            Khalid Al Jassim, Director of the Fujairah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, suggested mapping out a plan to codify the prices of the services provided to the public. – Khaleej Times Â
Luxury car sales accelerate in Emirates           Luxury cars are back in vogue across the Emirates as top-end motor sales accelerated last year - with the UAE accounting for a quarter of global Bugatti sales.            Rolls-Royce, Bentley and Bugatti all reported robust sales increases last year compared with 2010.            "When the big downturn hit a couple of years back, the market was on its knees," said Bill Carter, the valuations manager at Autodata Middle East, an independent vehicle information provider. "The first area that always recovers is the luxury sector because those people are not affected to the same degree as the man on the street."            Karl Hamer, the managing director for Al Habtoor Motors, the exclusive distributor of Bentley and Bugatti in the UAE, said last year had been very positive.            "We sold the kind of volumes that we had sold in 2007, before the global financial crisis," he said. "2011 has been a very good year for us."            He said the dealer had sold 50 Bugattis, which was about a quarter of the total number sold worldwide last year. A Bugatti Veyron typically sells for about US$1.7 million (Dh6.24m).            Al Habtoor also reported that Bentley sales grew 250 per cent across the UAE last year compared with 2010, but Mr Hamer declined to comment on the number of cars sold.            Globally, Bentley, which is owned by the Volkswagen Group, sold 7,003 cars last year, up 37 per cent on 2010, with the US being the company's biggest market.            Mr Hamer said Maclaren, which launched its first road cars in Dubai in November, had also been strongly welcomed, with the first batch of 28 vehicles quickly sold out. Sixty cars are due for delivery this year.            Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, which is part of the BMW Group, yesterday said it sold a record 3,538 cars last year, a nearly 31 per cent increase on the 2010 total of 2,711 cars.            The sales figure last year represents the best result in the company's 107-year history, with the previous record set in 1978.            The UAE grew sales 32 per cent last year on the previous year, with the Middle East up 23 per cent overall.            Torsten Müller Ötvös, the chief executive of Rolls-Royce, said more entrepreneurs and business executives were buying the company's cars as a reward for a strong showing last year. "We have all the celebrities, royals and famous people buying our cars but we are seeing more captains of industry and entrepreneurs buying; people who set themselves targets that they made, so they are now rewarding themselves."            James Crichton, the brand's Middle East director, said he expected further growth this year but was also cautious in his outlook.            "I'm optimistic, but I'm realistic because there's a lot going on with unrest in the region and continuing troubles in the euro zone." – The National UAE ranked the first Arab Country, 30th globally in the Human Development Index            The UAE has been ranked the thirtieth among 187 countries, according to the index of human development world report 2011 released by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).            Under the auspices of H. H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime minister, Minister of Presidential Affairs, UNDP, in collaboration with Emirates Council for Competitiveness, has organised a ceremony at UAE Centre for Strategic Research and Studies, in Abu Dhabi, to launch the human development report 2011.            The ceremony was attended by Mohamed Al Shehhi, Undersecretary of Minister of Economy, Alisar Sarrouh, UNDP Coordinator, Mohammed Omar Abdulla, Undersecretary of the Economic Development Department, Abdullah Lootah, Secretary General of UAE Council for competitiveness as well as a number of high Government officials.            Norway, Australia, Netherlands, USA, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Germany and Sweden came in the first ten places in the index of human development world report 2011. UAE came in the thirtieth place among 187 countries.            In her keynote speech, Sarrouh welcomed all participants. She said that UNDP Human Development Report 2011 is a continuation for the past years reports. However, the current one has focused on sustainable development and human equality; the two points that reflect the interest of the governments all over the world for achieving the highest rates of sustainable development according to equitable rights and responsibilities.            In his speech, Sultan bin Saeed Al-Mansoori, Minister of Economy, said that this exceptional ceremony confirmed the international place of the UAE place HD, assuring the continues progress in the state and achievements in HD conference report. He cited that it has been ranked in 33rd after it was in 32 in 2010. The UAE wise leadership adopted an ambitious vision established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, God bless his soul, who said, "human is the base of any civilisation." The minister confirmed the resolve of the wise leadership to use the oil resources revenues to activate the HD and total development and focus on developing the state's infrastructure of schools, hospitals , ports and airports.            He referred to the state's care for education, considering it as gate to innovation and preparation of generations to achieve the development goals.            The governmental and private schools are now 1400. They were 74 schools in 1971. Regarding the Higher Education, there was one University; UAE University in Al Ain. There are more than 50 higher educational institutions, among them well known international Universities.            In Health services, the minister said that UAE provides good healthcare services that cover all the populated areas. There are 40 hospitals and more than 115 medical care centres. Emirati women also became an essential partner in society development.            Economically, GDP increased from 6.5b dirhams in 1971 to more than one trillion dirhams in 2010, raising the per capita income to 132, 000 Dirhams.            The industrial sector has greatly improved and contributed 16.4 per cent in 2010. He expressed hope of the UAE would build competitive knowledge economy according to 2021 vision.            Al Mansouri thanked UNDP, Emirates Competitiveness Council, Economic Development of AD and Emirates Centre for Strategic Research and Studies for efforts in organising this event. Mohammed Omar Abdullah, the undersecretary of Department of Economic Development, Abu-Dhabi, said that such occasion which has become an annual global event for various governments, organisations, authorities and institutions.            He added that this year's report, under the title of Sustainability and Equity: A Better Future for All, asserts the close link between sustainability and social fairness and clarifies that human development cannot be realised without realising the principle of sustainability; based on fairness and empowerment. The report takes all sides accountable jointly towards deprived categories all over the world, either now or in the future.            He said that UAE has early realised the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all citizens, giving them the same rights and responsibility sharing; as this has great impact on sustainable development and on building a prosperous future for the coming generation.            "That was the basis of our wise leadership's vision which was built on principles of sustainability and empowerment for community individuals. These are the same principles that mainly constitute the main themes of Emirates Vision 2021 and Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030," said Abdullah.            He made it clear that such a vision accurately defines the needs and capabilities, clear planning for ambitions and objectives and a full realisation for the regional and international changes, bearing in mind all conditions and local peculiarities.            Abdullah said that the early realisation and well planning by the wise leadership in UAE have contributed to upgrading the level of the state in the performance and competitiveness classification index and set it as an object for lauding from various international authorities on top of which is UNDP.            He added that UAE has become 30th place in the world Human Development Index rankings for 2011, thus achieving two grades above that of 2010 and becoming the first Arab country for the second consecutive year. The state also got two grades higher in the gender streaming index issued by the World Economic Forum for 2011, as the highest Arab country.            He said that the UAE achievements are normal outcome of the efforts and attitude of the wise leadership represented in H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President and his brother H. H. sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister, and General H. H. Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces, and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, and their keenness for empowering all community categories.            He added that UAE, through its wise policies, gave priority for consolidating the principle of people's participation, activating the relationship between citizens and authorities.            Within this context, he referred to the extent the state witnessed in looking after the special needy to let them become active and contributing to the overall development. In addition to that, the state has executed a wide network of services and programmes that serve the citizens and the expats, covering different domains of healthcare, education and qualification.            The undersecretary of Abu Dhabi Economic Development Department, said that the efforts exerted by the wise leadership are not restricted to human development locally but have extended to the outside.            The state has prompted to give support to various friendly peoples throughout capitalising human, development activities as well as educational and healthcare projects.            He said that the aid given by the state through its institutions such as Abu Dhabi Development Fund, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Humanitarian Association and UAE Red Crescent Society, has become an important tool in achieving development, either totally or sustainably in several countries. Add to that the world development and humanitarian initiatives and projects conducted by the government in coordination with the concerned UN agencies and other world partners.            He added that four decades after the establishment of UAE, the recognition of human value as pivotal for total development has vigorously contributed to the march of the state till it has become admirable for the whole world nowadays more than ever before.            The undersecretary of Economic Development Department of Abu Dhabi expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the sincere leaders and the locals who persevered to get the state to such advanced levels which are the fruit of the deeds of the founder late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who set the example and followed by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.            Rebecca Grynspan, Associate Administrator of the UNDP said it is a great opportunity to launch the report in Abu Dhabi for the second consecutive year because of the high place UAE achieved in the report as it is the first among Arab countries She added that the report looks at various challenges facing development in the world specially how to meet the basic needs of the peoples.            She added that the report comes at a time when the world leaders are preparing for meeting in Rio De Janero to discuss sustainability and equity as elements of world development.            She said the world development report set a message regarding the environmental side that necessitates certain steps to environmental catastrophes and to avoid further degradation.            Amatul Aleem Sowsawa, UN General Secretary Assistant for UNDP in the Arab region said: "We are glad for launching Human Development Report 2011 for the second consecutive year in Abu Dhabi, the capital of UAE. It is an opportunity to highlight the challenges and opportunities facing human development in the Arab region and to highlight the UAE admirable march of human development in the recent years at the time of celebrating 40 anniversary of its establishment.            Al Sawsawa asserted that although UAE has achieved the highest per capita income all over the world, it has also achieved unprecedented leaps in human development particularly healthcare and education by virtue of its successful strategies and vision of investing its income in these two fields.            She said that in the healthcare field, UAE has invested vigorously and wisely along the past 40 years. The average life expectancy for individuals increased from above 14 to 76 years. In education, UAE has achieved clear progress gradually along the past 30 years as UAE child is enjoying a high level of education for 13 years.            She added that along the past five years, UAE could climb 19 grades in the human development index which means that UAE citizens are enjoying the highest ever standard of living; more rapidly than other several countries.            Amatul Aleem Alsawsawa said that it is important to refer to the tremendous efforts exerted by the UAE government to diversify its national economy over the past decades by means of capital investments in new sectors in order to extend its economy boundaries and creating jobs for its steadily increasing population.            She gave a notice that the most prominent investments that availed UAE to occupy advanced levels in human development were in healthcare and pharmaceuticals and other sectors like aviation, transport, trade, tourism, media, telecommunication as well as culture and education.            Regarding human development report 2011, she made it clear that it has focused this year on sustainability in human development trying to answer: How can we secure human development both today and tomorrow? Referring to the data mentioned in the report which indicate the increasing wide environmental degradation all over the world.            Thus; if a part in the world has become richer it will in turn witness a deterioration in such environmental main indicators, carbon dioxide emissions, soil and water quality and other environmental indicators.            Alsawsawa said in this respect that in the Arab region a number of challenges are faced regarding sustainability because the region is the most arid area in the world, thus, badly impacting development in several domains including healthcare, agriculture, food security and urbanisation. She called for using scientific creative techniques according to well considered integrated strategies.            She added that it is important for the Arab countries such as UAE to continue their investment in technology that is necessary for water security in order to secure more fresh renewable water reservoir which are really very low.            Al Sawsawa said that the report sets another challenge related to poverty levels in the world, which requires from the countries including the Arab countries to boost the poor and local communities through efforts aiming at lowering its levels. Several countries succeeded in that by means of achieving the highest levels of human development by focusing on the data indicating the existence of poverty enclaves within their boundaries that should be eliminated.            She lauded the distinguished record of UAE of human development, especially over the 40 years that followed its establishment as a federal state. She called upon all to think deeply of the challenges reflected in the report, because of their great importance not only for countries that still strive for human development but also for those that accomplished much progress in this regard.            Abdullah Lootah, Secretary General of Emirates Competitiveness Council, said that UAE has become pioneering in human development as it has been on top of Arab countries in the World Human Development Report 2011 for the second consecutive year, and the 30th among 187 countries globally.            Lootah said it is by virtue of successful policies followed by the leadership and the government, UAE achieved such a prominent place in human development. UAE strategies were and still built on developing the human capital focusing on accomplishing the highest rates of improvement and growth in education, healthcare and quality of life coping with its 2021 strategy that aim at achieving sustainable development in all domains.            He mentioned that UAE dedicated 46 per cent of its 2011 budget to spend on education, healthcare and community, as the government offers compulsory free education and support the citizens through several options in the field of higher education.            He added that education system in UAE copes with the commitments towards human development standards. In both primary and secondary education phases, the country moved from 74 schools with 32800 students in 1971 to more than 1000 schools with 800000 students today. In higher education, there are 76 higher education institutions across the country. Also UAE hosts some world pioneering institutions in higher education such as Sorbonne University, INSIAD, London School of Business, New York University and others.            In healthcare, he said that Ministry of Health and healthcare authorities in UAE established pioneering healthcare networks in relation to facilities, skills and quality. Government hospitals are more than 90 and primary healthcare centres and maternity care centres are 246 across the country as well as a number of private medical centres.            Thus UAE has become a medical care destination in the region. For example the joint successful project between the government of Abu Dhabi and Imperial college for establishing Imperial college for diabetes in UAE.            He added that UAE is still determined to take important steps to face the current challenges specially renewable energy needs in the future by injecting tremendous investments to improve renewable and alternative energy sources including wind and solar energies and other non-traditional sources in order to reduce dependency on oil as a sole source of energy.            He said that H. H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President, has clearly delineated the future vision for UAE, as said: "We are still going forward in developing our human resources, building the skills and capabilities, as we believe that human being is the purpose. We will continue also to encourage the qualified local professionals in order to let them occupy their normal place in leading the current surge to ensure a promising and shining future".            He mentioned that the 2011-2013 UAE strategy defined seven main priorities: coherent society, preserve the identity, first class educational system, providing healthcare for all, knowledge based competitive economy, ensuring fair judiciary, sustainable environment and infrastructure.            He added : "UAE has accomplished a remarkable economic progress. It has become the second biggest GCC economy, as its GDP grew from 6.5 b. Dirhams in 1971 to 1248 b. Dirhams currently as of real value. While the economy has witnessed 4 per cent growth in 2011.            Concluding his address, Lootah thanked UNDP, asserting that UAE is keen to endear the continual cooperation with UNDP, governments, international organisations, academia and individuals to realise the hopes of the peoples in the world of achieving the highest rates of human development. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
UAE is interested in drawing lessons from Dutch development model: Khalifa            President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed yesterday his hope the state visit by Her Majesty Queen Beatrix Wilhelmina Armgard of the Netherlands to the UAE would deliver a new qualitative leap in the distinguished bilateral relations, energise the joint economic and investment partnership and usher it into new sectors.            Sheikh Khalifa also hoped during talks with HM Queen Beatrix at Al Mushrif Palace that the trip would further bilateral bonds of cooperation and friendship and open up new broader avenues of joint economic and investment fields for the best interest of the peoples of the two friendly countries.            Sheikh Khalifa and his royal guest discussed adequate means to take joint cooperation to new heights and to tap available, promising resources for pushing this cooperation ahead for betterment of mutual interests. They also exchanged views on latest regional and international developments and topics of common concern.            Sheikh Khalifa said the UAE was sincerely interested in drawing lessons from the Dutch successful development experiment through transfer of knowledge in areas of technology and industry by establishing joint investment ventures.            For her part, Her Majesty Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands said she was delighted at visiting the UAE and at meeting with His Highness President Khalifa. HM said she was also impressed with the progress the UAE is making in all walks of life, particularly in economic and civilisational renaissance, which has enabled it to occupy a prominent regional and international status thanks to the wise leadership of President Khalifa.            HM added that her visit to the UAE would spur her country to explore greater opportunities for joint cooperation and partnership through ''what we sense in regards to tremendous potentials and rapid achievements in various domains''.            She asserted that her trip aims to further bolster these bonds.            The UAE President and the Queen Beatrix of Netherlands exchanged souvenirs. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Queen of the Netherlands tours Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi            Her Majesty Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, visited here yesterday the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.            She was accompanied during the tour by Prince Willem-Alexander, Crown Prince of the Netherlands and his wife Princess Maxima and other senior officials.            Queen Beatrix visited the library of the Zayed Grand Mosque and the tomb of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, adjacent to the Mosque. She expressed her admiration of the Mosque as a huge Islamic landmark.            Her Majesty was received by Yusuf Al Obaidli, Director of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre and other officials.            The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, which belongs to the Ministry of Presidential Affairs, is sponsored by H. H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs. It is the nucleus of the cultural and intellectual activities. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Abdullah bin Zayed to lead official to Greece            H. H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister of the UAE, will head an official delegation to the Republic of Greece next Wednesday.            Economic and investment representatives of the delegation will explore prospects for enhancing bilateral cooperation between the UAE and the Republic of Greece.            The official delegation accompanying Sheikh Abdullah will be comprised of representatives from a number of federal agencies, local representatives from chambers of commerce and industry, and high-ranking representatives from private and government-owned companies from various sectors.            During the two-day visit, discussions will take place between the UAE delegation and Greek representatives from both the public and private sector, focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in all fields. The agenda will also include a series of official meetings, as well as a meeting of the first Joint Committee between the two countries, which will be chaired on the Greek side by Benjalos Theodoros, Deputy Prime Minister of Greece. This meeting is intended to strengthen joint cooperation in the fields of education, finance, tourism, health, and security, among others.            A UAE-Greek Economic Forum will also be organised to discuss developing investment opportunities in Greece into joint projects that support government efforts to achieve common interests between the two friendly countries.            On this occasion, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan referred to the growing relations between the UAE and Greece, which were officially established on 31 May 1975. He further noted that the UAE is keen to develop relations with Greece, to live up to the ambitions and aspirations of the leadership and people of the two friendly nations based on mutual respect and common interests.            Sheikh Abdullah added that the economic relations between the two countries are expected to grow, and that the volume of non-oil trade with Greece for the year 2010 was US$117 million, ranking Greece 39th amongst countries in terms of non-oil foreign trade with the UAE.            He confirmed that the first meeting of the Joint Committee between the two countries will contribute to strengthening cooperation between the two sides, and highlights the strength of friendship and cooperation between Greece and the UAE.            He further noted that the meeting is an important step toward pushing the two countries to greater heights in all fields of common interest.            The UAE minister hopes that the Joint Committee will make recommendations which meet the hopes and aspirations of the two countries and their people. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Speculations, geopolitical uncertainty behind high oil prices: UAE Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Mohammed bin Dhaen Al Hamili, Minister of Energy, said yesterday speculations and current geopolitical developments in some parts of the world were the culprit behind high prices at world oil markets. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Al Hamili asserted that the oil markets were well supplied and that OPEC producers were investing heavily in boosting their output capacity. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â The UAE minister said during talks yesterday with visiting Dutch Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Innovation Mr. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Maxime Verhagen that : ''The UAE, as a member of OPEC, is committed to maintaining stability in world oil and energy markets in light of current developments in the world economy''. The two ministers discussed avenues of joint cooperation in energy spectrum and the possibility of knowledge and technology transfer. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Al Hamili lauded the positive contribution made by Dutch companies in development of the oil, gas and energy industries in the UAE. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â The UAE and Netherlands have shown sincere desire to conclude a memorandum of understanding for cooperation in energy. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â The Dutch minister said his country was interested in bolstering its relations of cooperation with UAE in areas of energy, economy and trade. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
World Solar Car Challenge 2011 winner Tokai Challenger set for Middle East debut at World Future Energy Summit 2012 Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Tokai Challenger, winner of the 2009 and 2011 World Solar Challenge, the world's premier race for solar cars, is set to make its Middle East debut at the World Future Energy Summit from January 16. The Tokai Challenger will be available for visitors to view in Hall 9 of Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), for the duration of the Summit. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â The Tokai Challenger, a high-speed solar car developed by Tokai University in Japan, is equipped with Sharp-manufactured solar cells boasting the highest level of conversion efficiency in the world. The car, which has a top speed of 160 kilometres per hour, has been designed and tested by students from Tokai University in collaboration with leading Japanese automotive companies. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â In the 2011 edition of the World Solar Challenge, the Tokai Challenger covered the race distance of 2998 kilometres in 29 hours 49 minutes at an average speed of 100.54 kilometres per hour. Previously, the car was also the winner of the 2010 South African Solar Challenge, recognised by the International Solarcar Federation and the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â The World Future Energy Summit 2012 is being held from January 16-19 at ADNEC and is expected to see around 26,000 attendees, including 3,000 delegates, 650 exhibiting companies, and nearly 20 national pavilions. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Mohammed bin Rashid issues decree on fines levied on economic establishments            Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, has issued a decree on the value of fines imposed on the economic establishments in the Emirate of Dubai.            The Decree No. 1/Year 2012 stipulates to reduce the amount of the fines in accordance with the rates and periods specified in the table annexed with it. The violations existed prior to the issue of the decree on 5th January 2012 only will be eligible for reductions.            According to the table, 40 percent of the amount will be waived on fines payable from the date 1/1/2012 until 29/2/2012.            A total of 30 percent will be reduced from fines payable between the dates 1/3/2012 and 30/4/2012 and 20 percent from fines payable between 1/5/2012 and 29/6/2012. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Ministry of Finance issues its first consolidated financial procedures Federal Government E-Book Manual for Year 2012 Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â As part of its continuous efforts to improve its governmental operations and raise the level employee performance within all Federal Government entities; the Ministry of Finance (MoF) has recently issued for the first time a federal government e-book manual for financial procedures for the year 2012. The effort falls in line with MoF's belief in the importance of switching to efficient electronic systems that aim to simplify work procedures and its support of UAE institutional progress and development. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â The new manual aims to provide a comprehensive guide for all procedures pertaining to monetary interactions used by the UAE's different ministries. MoF's strategy has been focused on adopting the highest international standards for managing financial resources for the UAE's government to achieve sustainable growth and development for the nation. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Commenting on the release of the new manual, Mariam Mohammad Al Amiri, Assistant Undersecretary for the Management of Financial Resources, said: "The release of the new manual incorporating all the procedures regarding monetary interactions used in the UAE's ministries reflects the efforts undertaken by the Ministry of Finance's employees to continuously enhance operations of the UAE's federal activities." "The manual includes all the forms, policies and legal tools used by the UAE's different ministries and which are adopted by their respective accounting departments, and allows users to retrieve this information easily," Al Amiri added. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Through its overall strategy, MoF aims to continue its support efforts for the creation of a state-of-the-art, advanced e-government which utilises the latest technologies in the field of finance and administration to enhance decision-making processes. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
DEWA starts new water Dh96mn pipeline            In line with its strategic plan to develop water networks for Dubai, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has started a project to supply, extend, test and commission a new main water pipeline, made of reinforced fibreglass. This 900mm and 1200mm pipeline will be 17 km long.            "This project is in line with the vision of the Emirate of Dubai to deliver world-class electricity and water services, and promote its leading position as a hub for finance, business, trade and tourism. Also, it is part of the projects to develop and enhance the infrastructure to improve efficiency and reliability of the water network," said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of DEWA.            "The cost of the project will exceed Dhs96m and it will take about 24 months to complete. This new water pipeline will extend from the main water pumping station at Al Quoz, passing the Camel Race Course road to Business Bay, between Al Doha Road and Al Khail Road.            "This project is an addition to DEWA's water network infrastructure, as it will enhance its efficiency and operational capacity to carry water to economically-important areas like Business Bay," he said. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Non-oil UAE trade fetches Dh600 billion in eight months            UAE non-oil foreign trade has shown progressive growth during the eight months of 2011 compared to the same period of the previous year.            Federal Customs Authority (FCA) preliminary statistics show that UAE non-oil foreign trade has grown for the stated period by 22% compared to the same period of the previous year as Total non-oil Foreign Trade has grown from Dh492.5 during the first 8 months of 2010 to Dh600.1 billion in the same period of 2011, i.e., an increase of Dh107.6 billion.            In a press release issued yesterday, FCA said that preliminary statistics for the first 8 months of 2011 show a 22% growth in imports to increase from Dh317.5 billion during the first 8 months of 2010 to Dh386 billion for the same period in 2011.            On the other hand, exports witnessed an astounding growth by 40% for the same period with an increase from Dh53.6 billion to Dh75.2 billion.            Re-exports, however, experienced a growth rate of 15% to go up from Dh121.4 billion to Dh139 billion for the same period.            For FCA, in terms of value, UAE total foreign trade in August, 2011 valued YoY Dh76.2 billion compared to Dh66.5 with an increase of 14%.            August Imports, in turn, hit YoY Dh48.9 billion with an increase of 18%. Exports achieved YoY Dh10.4 billion with an increase of 15%. Yet, re-exports recorded a YoY increase of 4% to hit Dh16.8 billion.            However, weight-wise UAE total foreign trade in August, 2011 has hit 6.8 m tons, of which 4.3 m tons in imports, 1.9 m tons in exports and 641 thousand tons in re-exports.            According to the FCA press release, each of India, China, the US, Japan, Germany, South Korea, the UK, Italy, Switzerland, and France respectively, topped exporters' list to the UAE in August, 2011 with a total value of Dh29.4 billion, or 60% of the UAE total imports.            On the level of non-oil exports, India, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Kuwait, South Africa, Iraq, Thailand, Turkey, and Hong Kong, respectively, spearheaded importers from the UAE with Dh7.7 billion, accounting for 74% of the UAE exports.            Meanwhile, India, Iran, Belgium, Iraq, Hong Kong, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Kuwait, and Qatar topped the list in terms of re-exports with Dh12.4 billion, representing 73% of the UAE total re-exports.            The total value of UAE-GCC non-oil foreign trade hit Dh4.8 billion in August, 2011, of which Dh2.2 billion in imports, Dh1.1 billion in exports and Dh1.5 billion in re-exports. Saudi Arabia maintained its first rank among GCC region's trading partners with a total value of Dh2 billion in August, 2011. Kuwait came second with Dh799 m, followed by Oman (Dh727 m), Bahrain (Dh679 m), and finally Qatar (Dh559 m).            Further, FCA press release read, "UAE total foreign trade with Arab countries in terms of value amounted to Dh9.5 billion in August, 2011, with Dh5 billion worth of imports, Dh1.8 billion worth of exports and Dh2.7 billion of re-exports.            Saudi Arabia topped the list of Arab states in terms of non-oil trade with the UAE, followed by Iraq, Morocco, Sudan, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Egypt, and Comoros tailed the list." The preliminary statistical data of August, 2011 showed that gold ranked first among imports with a value of Dh9.4 billion, followed by diamond with Dh4.2 billion, cars with Dh2.6 billion, ornaments and jewellery with Dh1.3 billion, and telephone sets Dh659 m.            Gold, according to FCA, also came first among exports in August, 2011 with Dh6.6 billion, followed by petroleum oils and other derivatives with Dh334 m, and ornaments and jewellery with Dh173 m.            On the level of re-exports, diamond came first with a total value of Dh5.2 billion, ornaments and jewellery and related parts with Dh934 m, cars (Dh931 m) and telephone sets (Dh784 m).            The total trade volume of UAE free zones and markets in August, 2011 amounted to Dh1.3 billion. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Two million visitors throng Dubai's Global Village in 2011            Global Village, member of TECOM Investments, achieved a new record by hosting two million visitors since its opening on 1st November to the end of December.            This was the highest number of visitors that Global Village attracted, more than any entertainment project in the region with over 200 thousand visitors in some weekends.            This record is added to Global Village's best achievements since its inception 16 years ago, confirming it will always meet the expectations of its audience.            The Global Village parking accommodates a maximum of 16,000 cars sometimes fully occupied from 6:00 pm which has led Global Village administration to provide more buses to transport visitors to and from parking spaces to the gates in order to offer the best experience for all visitors.            Furthermore, entertainment and arts performances brought from around the world are witnessing high turnouts from all visitors. The selling and buying movement also captured wide attention due to various products offered by more than 29 pavilions including 45 countries from around the world.            Global Village is an ideal place for all nationalities, for both families and youth in the UAE to spend a joyful time, said a release.            Global Village provided an array of spectacular events and shows including highly advanced technology, the Dancing Fountain show broadcasted on the online Global Village TV channel 24 hours a day. Global Tent is also another surprise this season accommodating over 600 people.            Out of its keenness to provide more enjoyment options, Global Village increased Fun Fair's space area this year by 30% and added new games suited for all ages from 4 years of age and others attracted to adventures.            Since the inauguration in 1997, Global Village has become the key entertainment and shopping destination in the region. It includes rich diverse cultures and civilisations and offers a diverse range of restaurants and shops from across the world. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           The federal government has urged its ministries and departments to publish more open data on their websites to enhance e-readiness and help promote the concept of open government, one of the pillars of a knowledge-based economy.            Publishing open data is also one of the United Nations' criteria for measuring online presence and e-government readiness. The UN is expected to issue its 2012 e-government survey later this month.            Open data involve the idea that certain data should be freely available to everyone to use and republish as they wish, without restrictions by copyright, patents or other mechanisms of control.            Emirates e-government has allocated a special section on the UAE federal government portal (government.ae) for open data. The section includes data from all federal government entities.            Dubai is the first emirate to implement e-government by bringing all services online.            It is currently moving towards mobile-enabled services by issuing apps for various mobile platforms.            Ahmad Bin Humaidan, director general of Dubai E-government, told Gulf News that although most of the required data are available on the websites of the government bodies, the government plans to publish more data to add to the existing online information and services through a centralised portal to increase awareness and access. Key service for citizens            "Open data on the government websites accelerates the transformation of an administration-centred government to a service-centred government and significantly improves the efficiency of the government," Bin Humaidan said.            "It is a key service for citizens and businesses."            Therefore the government agencies are sparing no efforts to optimise their e-government platforms and increase the flow of information.            "Developing a code of practices for data gathering and its use for statistical purposes helps the government facilitate improved use of data for decision-making, planning and service delivery," he said.            Bin Humaidan added that developing consistent identification data across a central government system is critical, subject to compliance with data protection laws and principles.            He added that e-suggestion and e-complaint options are available on all government websites within Dubai E-government to help communicate and engage with the public in order to improve service delivery.            Salem Khamis Al Shair Al Suwaidi, Emirates E-government Director-General, said: "Since we publish open data on the official portal of the UAE government, we urge government entities to make more documents available as open data so that we may publish them on the open data section on the portal."            He said Emirates E-Government intends to dedicate a special portal for the government's open data but this depends on the volume of open data available on government websites. – Gulf News Â
Emirati walker to Makkah receives warm welcome at UAE embassy in Riyadh            Riyadh - Jalal Bin Thaneya, the lonely Emirati walker who set on a journey of 2000 kilometres on his feet from Ruwais to Makkah to raise funds for the people with special needs, was given a warm welcome by UAE Ambassador in Riyadh Mohammed Saeed Al Dhahiri and the members of the diplomatic mission.            The ambassador praised Bin Thaneya for his courage and commended the humanitarian mission he carried with him. He also assured the trekker every help to make his mission a success. The 25-year-old Emirati from Dubai had triumphantly ventured similar missions before, that included crossing the 'Empty Quarter' on his feet in two weeks. Motivated by his wish to help people with special needs, the Middlesex University graduate also climbed 90,000 steps to the top of Emirates Tower in 12 days. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
ALHOSN University enters a new year  ALHOSN University, an Abu Dhabi–based private educational institution dedicated to ‘global knowledge with a local vision,’ entered a new year in its march to progress inspired by its achievements in 2011 that included a string of key partnerships, various awards and impressive contributions to society. ALHOSN’s software engineering students did themselves and their school proud by winning the 6th Mobile Application Contest (MAC) for their SAWACAE Mobile Software Application for Water Consumption Awareness. It marked the first time for the university to compete in the annual MAC, with the team having only three months to prepare for the contest. Dr. Somkiat Mansumitrchai and Dr. Candy Chiu also proved the high calibre of ALHOSN’s educators by grabbing an Outstanding Research Award at the 2011 Costa Rica Global Conference on Business and Finance for their probing analysis of internet banking prospects in the UAE. Several strategic agreements over the past months had enabled ALHOSN University to strengthen ties with the global academic community and enhance its educational and training capabilities. The university inked an International Articulation Agreement with US-based Kettering University to foster mutual understanding, development and research, and entered into a 5-year education and research agreement with the University of Michigan-Dearborn covering the sharing of engineering expertise and cooperation in student and faculty exchange programs. It also signed an agreement with TAMKEEN Consulting and Training to exchange expertise in managerial and occupational sectors towards the development of locally- and regionally-targeted training programs. Firsts ALHOSN both headed and participated in various ‘firsts’ throughout the year, starting with the inauguration of Abu Dhabi City’s first ‘American Corner,’ a premier resource centre for US history, culture, policy and business. It was the first university to be visited by ‘Tathqeef,’ an innovative traffic safety awareness vehicle created by the Department of Traffic and Patrol of the Abu Dhabi Police. It also participated in several debuting events, including the first-ever Al Gharbia Universities and Colleges Fair organised by the Western Region Development Council; the inaugural UAE Lead – Youth Leadership Congress – which took place as part of NAJAH 2011, the 5th edition of the UAE’s leading annual exhibition on higher education, training and careers; and Taweya 2011 – the first National Exhibition for Society Awareness and Humanitarian Services. In terms of its academic line-up, ALHOSN has announced that it will be offering its first courses under its newly-launched Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) program in the Spring Semester of 2012. Several new student-cantered services were rolled out by ALHOSN University this year, many of which were IT-related. The university launched a Facebook page featuring photos, videos and status updates on the university’s latest activities and news developed by an in-house team. It also introduced new online modules for students’ course registration and payment requests at its website, which recorded 4,915,063 visits to advance closer to the 5-million mark since being re-launched in July 2009 with more advanced features and capabilities. It was a busy year for ALHOSN University in terms of seminars, workshops and special events. Last March, the ALHOSN Centre for Research & Consultancy organised an advanced building design software seminar in collaboration with Techiesoft FZ LLC, one of the most integrated IT, CAD/Engineering and Project Management solutions providers in the Middle East, which pledged USD 1 million worth of structural design tools for the university. The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council outlined its youth-oriented ‘UniverCity’ programme for raising awareness on its Urban, Economic, Environmental and Social Development activities under its ‘Estidama’ initiative during another seminar held as part of ALHOSN’s World Environment Day celebrations in June. The university also hosted workshops on the Abu Dhabi Council for Economic Development’s ‘Akoun’ entrepreneurship campaign for youths; problem-solving skills in collaboration with Bloom Management Consulting Centre; and Building Information Modelling (BIM) in partnership with SmartME, the regional arm of the non-profit international alliance representing construction-related businesses. The University’s Department of Business Administration teamed up with the Abu Dhabi Council for Economic Development (ADCED) to host the ‘Dirhami Day Financial Workshop’ facilitated by renowned financial expert and TV host Salah Al-Halyan. Prominent international figures visited ALHOSN University this year, including Ms. Dawn McCall, Coordinator of the US Department of State’s Bureau of International Information Programs, and Jordan’s former Prime Minister, Dr. Abdul Salam Majali, who spoke about leadership in higher education at the American Corner last October. Social responsibility ALHOSN University supported various social causes in 2011, such as allotting on-campus office space for Emirates National Students Union, an independent Arab and Muslim organisation representing students inside and outside the UAE, and supporting the ‘Ata’ahad’ (‘I Pledge’) Campaign against the use of mobile phones while driving launched by Al Emarat Al Youm, the most widely-read newspaper online in the Gulf. The university also organised a week-long series of fund-raising and educational events devoted to Breast Cancer Awareness (BCA) last October. US Ambassador to the UAE Michael H. Corbin officially concluded the BCA program in a ceremony which also marked his first visit ALHOSN’s American Corner since his arrival to the Emirates in August of this year. ALHOSN University celebrated the UAE’s historic 40th National Day with a series of cultural events at its male and female campuses in late November. It was a befitting year-end festivity, which saw ALHOSN reaffirm its commitment to supporting the UAE’s social, economic and educational development. Named after Abu Dhabi’s historic ALHOSN Palace, ALHOSN University was founded in 2005 by the Abu Dhabi Holding Company in response to growing local demand for high-quality, value-based educational institutions. It currently offers 12 undergraduate and 7 graduate programs under the Faculties of Engineering and Applies Sciences, Business, and Arts and Social Sciences. ALHOSN accepts students of all nationalities and also accommodates youths with special needs. All its programs are accredited by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Knowledge Without Borders Project launched on first day of back to school Knowledge Without Borders is planning to provide a library of Arabic books to 22,000- 24,000 families in the emirate of Sharjah over the course of this year.            The move comes in line with the intensive concern of the organising committee of knowledge without borders to spread its main goal which is to encourage parents and children to spend more time reading and, with this aim in mind.            Knowledge without Borders aims to further cement Sharjah's reputation as the Cultural Capital, through intensive educational programmes, as well as lectures, school and library activities.            With the rise of the sun this Sunday morning the first day of school, the mobile library showed up at the alsalam kindergarten in Sharjah announcing the start of its activities for this year. It featured hundreds of titles for all ages to spread the culture and emphasis on reading to everyone. The mobile library will stay there for three days to keep the books in reach of everyone there for whoever wants to borrow and read at anytime. Figures of cartoon came along with the mobile library to provide entertainment to kids.            The project also organised a readers club and a short story reading was done, in addition to a workshop to teach kids reading and literature concepts.            "Kids are our main target and the programme of reading focuses on how to encourage young children to read and listen to their training, analysis and discussion and discover their interests and needs through the activities of reading stories", said Rashid Alkous General Manager of the project, indicating that reading as a human activity is one of the most important habits that elevate thinking, awareness of rights and evoke his personal experiences.            The programme includes a number of events and visits to various places in the UAE. - Emirates News Agency, WAM            Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) organisers and participants are taking advantage of online tools to promote and generate awareness about their activities during the festival.            According to a study by YouGov commissioned by the Dubai Events and Promotions Establishment (Depe), last year's festival brought in Dh15.1 billion to Dubai's economy and a similar figure is expected this year.            In order to generate that hefty sum, the Depe has spent Dh70 million in the past year on promoting DSF through local and overseas events in London, the GCC and Asia. This year sees the organisation increasingly harnessing the power of the internet to create awareness and attract consumers.            Last year, DEPE launched an online Dubai calendar, the first official reference for all events including festivals, exhibitions, cultural and sport happening throughout the year in Dubai. As DSF unfolds, the calendar has been an invaluable tool for promoting the various events and promotions run during the festival.            According to Dubai Events, the total number of visits between December 1, 2011 and January 1, 2012 to the website reached 61,750 with 79.29 per cent of the visits being unique. In the run-up to DSF, visits to the website featuring the festivals events increased by 20 per cent.            Statistics show that the top five countries actively researching DSF events are the UAE, India, Saudi, US and Russia.            This year also sees DSF taking advantage of the growth of social media by launching its own Facebook and Twitter accounts.            "We are using social media to not only inform people about events but to also engage with them, get feedback and use such feedback for our research while planning for future events," said Suhaib Abdullakutty, senior publications editor for customer, brand development and innovation.            The Facebook page currently has over 17,700 fans who have registered to take part in the online DSF Puzzle Challenge. The Twitter page is also running a competition, ‘Tweet to Win' which has attracted over 2,800 followers.            Other participating retailers are taking advantage of online platforms as a form of low-cost advertising and a way to engage effectively with their consumers.            "Over the past few years, online platforms have become a very effective means for customer engagement. We have used online advertising as a tool to announce our tactical initiatives in the past - adding it as an essential element of the 360 degree communication outreach. We have found that these usually attract click-through to our website where we can host more elaborate campaign messaging," said Rahul Saxena, head of marketing at Babyshop.            Babyshop is actively using its Facebook fan page to engage customers in discussions about their parenting experiences.            "A key aspect of online marketing is its ability to start a conversation. We have noticed independent forums which are widely regarded as credible sources of information and to exchange ideas. People are more open to sharing their opinions on social media vehicles as they have a visible interface with the brand," said Saxena.            According to Neelesh Bhatnagar, director of Oasis Centre, their Facebook fan page received a boost in followers who are keen to be involved in their promotions. As well as using Facebook and Twitter, Damas Jewellery is also using utilising YouTube to run its advertisements to an online audience.            "These media are powerful tools where you can directly ‘talk' and ‘listen' to our target market, young ladies who go for fashionable and trendy jewellery and who are technologically equipped.            "We have launched our biggest ever social media campaign for the newly launched Farfasha Collection for 2011-2012. The Farfasha brand was launched in 2005-2006 to showcase a trendy and colourful gold jewellery line to fashion conscious, stylish and youthful consumers so we are targeting the same market segment and these are the people who are very much into social media with their iPhones, iPads, BlackBerrys, and other smartphones," said Raj Sahai, Damas director of retail.            Home Centre is tracking online target audience behaviour and advertises specifically in websites that potential shoppers for Home Centre would frequent. "Online advertising is extremely integral to our DSF advertising plan. We are primarily opting for mainstream and general interest websites to advertising our promotion of getting a gift voucher worth Dh50 for every Dh250 spent at any of our stores," said Aarti Jagtiani, general manager at Home Centre. – Gulf News Â
           An initiative taken by Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE Foreign Minister, has once again drawn everyone's attention to the conservation of desert ecosystems.            Sheikh Abdullah said through twitter that he would like to participate in the desert clean-up campaign on January 20.            The deaths of camels in the UAE deserts after consuming plastic bags have highlighted the levels of pollution caused by human beings in recent years.            The authorities have been conducting an awareness campaign to prevent pollution due to plastic bags and tourism related activities.            A senior official recently told Gulf News that tourism should produce benefits for the local community and help to preserve the local culture and heritage while contributing to the conservation of the environment.            It is critical that these operators understand that they have an environmental responsibility and that the guidelines which they and their customers are following contribute to the preservation of the very natural heritage that their business is promoting, said Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, secretary-general of the Environment Agency- Abu Dhabi (EAD).            Around 50 per cent of camel deaths in the UAE each year are attributed to plastic bags they have eaten, assuming it to be food, she said.            To help minimise the amount of litter polluting the environment, the EAD launched in February 2011 a campaign to raise awareness of the harmful effects of plastic bags on the environment and to reduce the amount of packaging used by manufacturers and retailers, an official spokesman of the agency said.            The campaign urges consumers to switch to biodegradable plastic bags, and supports manufacturers and retailers in making this switch.            EAD's ‘Make UAE Plastic Bag Free' campaign was launched in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Environment and Water (MoEW), the Centre of Waste Management — Abu Dhabi (CWM) and local supermarkets and malls. The campaign urges consumers to reduce the use of all types of plastic bags, and demonstrates to them the negative effect of plastic bags on the UAE's wildlife. Support            In February, EAD will mark National Environment Day by taking this campaign to even more key malls around the emirate.            New partners will come on board for this phase including Abu Dhabi Police, Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and the Family Development Foundation. Continuing to support the campaign will be major retailers such as the Abu Dhabi Cooperative, Carrefour, Lulu Hypermarket, Spinneys and Abela.            According to the Centre for Waste Management — Abu Dhabi, plastic makes up 19 per cent of domestic waste in Abu Dhabi city. Plastic bags are light in weight, therefore they can be easily carried by the wind into forests, deserts, beaches. Floating plastic bags also pose a threat to biodiversity when animals mistakenly swallow them for food. Also, plastic bags choke sewers, contaminate soil and waterways and also enter the food chain.            EAD's campaign was launched to support the government's initiative to phase out the use of plastic bags in the UAE by 2013. In 2009, the MoEW issued a Ministerial Decision to implement a programme to reduce the use of plastic bags. – Gulf News Â
           The UAE is poised to enjoy a major economic boost from the legion of international sporting events taking place in the country this year. Experts say the Volvo Ocean Race is just the beginning of a big year for sport in the UAE, as more than 12,000 hotel nights in the capital have been booked by race teams, organisers and guests - and the same number of reservations are expected from fans, according to the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) .            Within the next few months, the UAE will host two international golf championships, an international tennis championship, the Dubai World Cup horse racing meet, the Abu Dhabi International Triathlon, the Dubai Marathon and a number of cricket matches between England and Pakistan.            "Sporting events by their nature are often strong generators of awareness, given widespread market interest and dedicated media coverage, especially when coupled with the celebrity status of many top-ranked competitions and participants," said Lawrence Franklin, the strategy and policy director at ADTA. He said the country would continue to harness the benefits of sporting events as it matures as a destination and increase focus on events that had the capacity to "realise major economic returns rather than solely awareness-building".            Greg Sproule, the managing director in the Middle East and North Africa for IMG, one of the largest sports agencies in the world, said events were likely to be "refined" this year to provide the         biggest economic benefits. "Sporting events are just one part of the tourism puzzle," he said. "But these big events bring TV audiences and that impacts spending in the economy."            IMG helps to organise and run the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, the Abu Dhabi International Triathlon and the Mubadala World Tennis Championship.            About 100,000 spectators are expected to visit the purpose-built Destination Village on the capital's breakwater during the Volvo Ocean Race's two-week stint in Abu Dhabi. St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, the official hotel of the event, earmarked 1,300 room nights for the period. John Pelling, the hotel's general manager, said the event provided a good platform to promote its brand. "I am confident that Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority's events calendar not only raises awareness for 'destination Abu Dhabi' but offers us the stage to create once-in-a-lifetime experiences," he said.            The decision to become a host city for the Volvo Ocean Race is part of a strategy by Abu Dhabi to boost tourism through major sporting events.            "A country bids for one of these events because it's big business," said Brian Greenwood, a managing partner for the Middle East and India at the sports marketing company Prism.            "People follow international events. A lot of people come into the country to follow the tennis, and the golf, certainly."            Experts say each sports tournament brings different benefits, all boosting the UAE economy.            The Formula One race in the capital is a global televised event that puts Abu Dhabi on the map, said Mr Greenwood, while sailing showcases Abu Dhabi's coast and attracts a different type of tourist.            About 60 per cent of Volvo Ocean Race followers occupy senior managerial positions, according to organisers.            "Sailing covers everything from dinghy sailing where you do not need a lot of money, to superyachts, where clearly you do. But yes, there is a certain group there that is usually educated and has disposable income and is interested in going to new places," added Mr Greenwood.            The Volvo Ocean Race, which takes place across six continents, will also generate significant television time for Abu Dhabi. More than 70 broadcasters from 50 countries are covering the event.            The Abu Dhabi leg of the event, which started on New Year's Eve, ends on Saturday, when the boats will leave for leg three of the race to Sanya, China. – The National Â
Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands arrives in the UAE Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Her Majesty Queen Beatrix Wilhelmina Armgard of the Netherlands arrived in Abu Dhabi yesterday on an official visit to the UAE. She was received by Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemy, senior officials and the Ambassador of the Netherlands Gerard Michelles. Queen Beatrix is being accompanied by the Heir Apparent HRH Willem-Alexander, Prince of Orange and his wife HRH Princess Maxima. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Coptic Orthodox Church lauds UAE inter-faith policy            The tolerant inter-faith policy adopted by the UAE under the wise leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has drawn praise from the Coptic Orthodox Church of Egypt at a Christmas mass here last night.            In the name of Pope Shenouda III of Alexandria and Patriarch of Saint Mark, Ishaq Al Anba Bishoy, Pastor of Al Anba Antonio Orthodox Coptic Cathedral Church in Abu Dhabi, paid gratitude in a Christmas mass sermon last night to Sheikh Khalifa, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Their Highnesses Rulers of Emirates, His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, government and people of the UAE, for the support and assistance awarded to Christians to perform their religious activities with full freedom and safety.            He painted Sheikh Khalifa's tolerant policy as a '' message of love and peace to all countries of the world which renders the spirit of brotherhood and love that should prevail among followers of divine religions, particularly on our dear Arab land, birthplace of religions and cradle of civilisations and cultures.            Both Muslims and Christians lit candles at the Cathedral and prayed The Almighty for peace and harmony on the Arab World and beyond.            Ali Al Hashimi, Religious and Judicial Adviser at the Ministry of Presidential Affairs, who attended the mass along with other officials, stressed the importance of maintaining common factors and noble values bringing both Muslims and Christians together. ''Christ's Birthday is a revered occasion to Muslims,'' he said, noting that the Holy Quran mentioned the miracle of His birth. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
FNC passes draft bill on protection of the children of unknown parentage            The Federal National Council, the country's parliament, passed last Tuesday, the draft bill on protection and patronage of the children of unknown parentage. The bill was passed after a session of discussion with the government and necessary amendments proposed on the draft law.            The original bill, which had 24 articles, was expanded with an additional article, and a number of new clauses and amendments were introduced to it.            A new term to connote the person who takes the custodial protection of the child of unknown parentage was introduced by the FNC into Article one of the draft bill. The draft law also gives definitions to a number of various other terms.            The bill stipulated the duties and rights of the persons or families giving patronage and protection to the children of unknown parentage. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Campaign to Cure One Million Children and Elderly People expands into Africa '&' Asia            The UAE's Campaign to Cure One Million Children and Elderly People started expansion into Asia and Africa in coordination with the ministries of health in targeted countries, according to Dr. Adel Al Shameri, CEO of Emirates Global Humanitarian Mobile Hospital (Elaj) '&' the Zayed Giving Initiative.            The number of mobile hospitals run and funded by the UAE went up to four with a capacity of 250 beds, according to the operation plan for 2012 which will be approved in the coming weeks, Shameri said.            The expansion plan which is part of the UAE's humanitarian effort worldwide is collaborated by the Red Crescent Authority (RCA), the Women General Union, the Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, the Khalifa bin Zayed Charity Foundation, the Ministry of Health and the UAE Armed Forces, he noted.            So far, beneficiaries of the Campaign included more than 900000 children in Pakistan, Eritrea, Morocco, Indonesia, Somalia, Kenya, Egypt, Bosnia and Lebanon in addition to 2210 patients who underwent open heart surgeries by the Campaign's international medical team, Al-Shameri stated. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
UAE envoy receives Chinese painting for Khalifa            Beijing - UAE Ambassador to China Omar Al Bitar has taken delivery of a painting of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan from Wu Sike, Chinese special envoy on the Middle East, on behalf of the Global Commercial District (GBD) Public Diplomacy Cultural Exchange Centre.            The portrait is drawn by the famous contemporary Chinese brush artist Chin Sung on rice paper using traditional Chinese ink and colours. The traditional Chinese indelible ink - used in the painting - can stand the test of time for more than 1000 year.            The presentation of the art work comes on the eve of the upcoming state visit by Wen Jiabao, Premier and Party secretary of the State Council of the People's Republic of China, to the UAE on mid-January and signifies the depth of the growing distinguished bonds between the UAE and China and their friendly peoples.            The UAE envoy highly appreciated the noble feeling held by the Chinese people and government to the people and government of the UAE. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Energy efficiency top of the agenda as advance registrations for WFES 2012 surge            Attendees from nearly 140 countries are expected to attend the fifth edition of the World Future Energy Summit, which takes place in Abu Dhabi from January 16-19, organisers said in a press release.            Over 26,000 attendees, including 3,000 delegates, 650 exhibiting companies and 20 national pavilions, are expected to participate in the summit, they said Reed Exhibitions.            And the issue of energy efficiency is top of their agenda, according to a survey of those registering in advance.            WFES 2012 will devote a special session to the topic on January 17, with contributions from a spectrum of industry names, including General Electric, Bayer Material Science, Schneider Electric, Siemens, and Exxon Mobil.            Numerous exhibitors will also be presenting their latest technologies and solutions in the energy efficiency domain, many of them brand new to the MENA market.            A wide variety of energy efficiency-related products will be on display and nine companies will launch new innovations in the sector in the region.            So far, WFES 2012 has received advance registrations from more than 120 countries, led by the UAE, Saudi Arabia, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, the US, UK, Germany, France, China and Japan, according to Exhibitions Director Naji El Haddad.            He said: "The fact that energy efficiency is the main topic of interest to experts and the public alike shows the universal relevance of the summit's theme, Powering Sustainable Innovation. All industries, from transport to construction to manufacturing to LED lighting and HVAC, have much to gain from the adoption of energy efficiency strategies and the implementation of the latest available technologies and innovations - and that's why we are seeing such broad interest in the fifth edition of WFES.            "A huge variety of products in the energy efficiency domain, spanning every conceivable industry application, will be on show at WFES 2012, many of them new to market. And we're expecting high attendance from a range of professionals who are increasingly integrating energy efficiency into their operations, including architects, engineers, building contractors and other experts related to the building industry." Now in its fifth year, the World Future Energy Summit is the world's foremost annual meeting committed to promoting advancement of renewable energy, energy efficiency, and the water and waste sectors.            The annual summit engages political, business, finance, academic and industry leaders to drive innovation, business and investment opportunities in response to the growing need for sustainable energy.            On the theme Powering Sustainable Innovation, WFES 2012 will stage both a high-level conference and exhibition, with companies from all over the world promoting their latest products and services.            To be held under the patronage of His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and hosted by Masdar, the World Future Energy Summit 2012 runs from January 16-19 at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Over 4,000 students invited to 2012 World Future Energy Summit            More than 4,000 students have been invited to attend the 2012 World Future Energy Summit (WFES) to be held in Abu Dhabi, from 16-19 January.            Masdar - Abu Dhabi's multi-faceted renewable energy company - is making a concerted effort to ensure that events such as WFES, besides offering a platform for collaboration between countries and commercial enterprises, will also offer the youth a learning experience.            More than double the total number of students that participated in last year's event is expected to attend the annual Masdar-hosted event this year. All seven emirates will be represented by students from middle school to college/university level.            "The wise leadership of the UAE has made education a pillar to the long-term success of the nation," said Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar. "Today, the UAE is a leading energy producer, and for us to maintain this role, our future energy leaders must be innovators in new forms of the value chain in order to develop a diverse mix of energy sources." "Our leadership's view is that our future prosperity is dependent on the investment of our human capital. It is Masdar's mandate to ensure that the UAE's youth are informed about and encouraged to join this new upcoming sector. I am confident about our future with the UAE well-poised to continue its strong contribution to the world," added Dr. Al Jaber.            Aida Al Busaidy, Internal and Online Communications Manager at Masdar, said: "Following the success of last year's engagement with the youth and the increased demand for further participation, we saw fit to expand our reach and invite more students. Our key focus this year is to engage the students with major players in the industry and ensure they leave with a well-rounded experience. It is crucial that our youth understands the importance of sustainable living and is inspired to pursue careers in math and science." A key element of WFES is the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program. This unique program, led by Masdar Institute, helps mentor future leaders in the fields of alternative energy by engaging them with the leaders of today. Entry into the program is selective and highly competitive. Prospective candidates, from the UAE and around the world, need to demonstrate not only interest in future energy and sustainable development but display their ability to make a real and ongoing contribution at the highest level. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           As twilight sets in, a community park behind the Mall of the Emirates flickers to life with solar-powered pole lights.            Residents can be seen bringing in their youngsters to enjoy the evening breeze, walking or stretching around a patch of greenery with park benches not far from the villas and residential buildings of Al Barsha.            There are six parks already fitted with solar lights, as Dubai turns to the sun for power. Two more will follow early this year, a senior official at Dubai Municipality's Landscaping Section told XPRESS.            At least four more community parks may switch to solar lights by the end of 2012. "All neighbourhood parks will eventually have solar lights," the official said. More projects            With a spike in the cost of electricity, the municipality looks for ways to turn green by switching to energy-saving LED and metal halide lights, which use less than half the power of regular tungsten-halogen lights. Hussain Nasser Lootah, Director General of Dubai Municipality, said earlier that all parks will eventually use solar-powered lighting.            Bigger community parks like Safa and Zabeel where the lighting infrastructure is already in place will, however, take some time to switch to solar, the official said. "Our focus is on new community parks with no lighting facilities installed yet. The big parks have the infrastructure already in place," he added. The municipality has already completed work on the 1.55-hectare Dh7 million Al Sufouh Park using solar lighting systems, the first to use this technology with 25 pole lights. The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority also uses solar parking lights in a number of its offices. Dubai hopes to source at least five per cent of its power from renewable energy.            Its foray into solar energy, however, pales in comparison to Abu Dhabi's Masdar initiative, which is already producing 10MW from a massive array of solar panels. – Gulf News Â
MoE, ZonesCorp ink MoU on industrial property rights            Protection and management of industrial property towards achieving technological and industrial development will be given a shot in the arm under a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the Ministry of Economy and the Higher Cooperation for Specialised Economic Zones (ZonesCorp).            Inked by Mohammed Ahmed bin Abdul Aziz Al Shehhi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy, and Mohammed Hassan Al Qamzi, CEO of ZonesCorp, the MoU underlines the contribution of industry in the economic development.            Al Shehi highlighted the importance of protection of industrial property as a top priority in the ministry's strategy given the fact that the industrial sector is a major pillar of the national economy whose share in the GDP is projected to surge to 25%.            He said synergy among all industry stakeholders, especially those concerned with management and protection of industrial property, will boost efforts aimed at protecting intellectual property and encouraging creativity and innovation thus leveraging the State's policy on building a competitive knowledge-based economic in line with UAE Vision 2021.            Al Qamzi said the MoU will enable them to sharpen the competitive edge of industrial projects through innovation, IT and intellectual property rights. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Abu Dhabi's NPCC wins Indian contract            Abu Dhabi's National Petroleum Construction Company (NPCC) has won an AED 550M contract from India's Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) for the engineering, procurement and construction of Platforms 14 '&' 16 in the Mumbai High Field.            NPCC had entered two rounds of tough competition with several international companies and local providers before winning the contract . The project includes the engineering, procurement of materials, manufacturing, transportation, installation and trial run for five offshore rigs, said a statement from NPCC.            NPCC, more optimistic over its prospects in 2012 than last year, also has plans to target projects in Saudi Arabia as well as new markets farther afield such as Angola, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Nigeria, and Southeast Asia, according to CEO Aqeel Madhi. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
The Dubai Mall hosts 54 million visitors in 2011 Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â The Dubai Mall achieved a record-smashing year in 2011 to become the world's most-visited shopping and leisure destination, welcoming more than 54 million visitors in 2011. The number of visitors in 2011 is about 15% higher than the 47 million visitors in 2010, according to Emaar Properties, developer of the Mall. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â The Dubai Mall is centrally located in Downtown Dubai, described as 'The Centre of Now,' and overlooking Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â The number of visitors to The Dubai Mall is more than the number of annual tourists to New York City in 2011, reported at 50.2 million. The visitor numbers exceed the annual visitors to Las Vegas - expected to welcome 39.2 million people in 2011? and Los Angeles at 26.3 million3 and also surpasses the visitor arrivals to all landmark leisure destinations and theme parks in the world including Times Square (39.2 million); Central Park (38 million); and Niagara Falls (22.5 million) among others, Emaar added. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Retail sales across the various outlets in the mall also have reported robust growth at about 35% on average compared with 2010. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â "The Dubai Mall's record-breaking footfall elevates its position as the world's most visited tourism and shopping destination, topping the annual visitor arrivals to all landmark attractions anywhere in the world," Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman of Emaar Properties PJSC, said. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â "This also underlines Dubai's premier position regionally and internationally, reflecting the strength of the strategic vision and development goals for the city outlined by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President '&' Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. The visitor numbers to The Dubai Mall are also a strong testament to the growing appeal of Dubai as a preferred tourism destination, and a compelling indicator of the robust performance of the city's retail sector led by this trophy asset of Emaar. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â He added: "The visitor footfall is matched by the increase in retail sales, highlighting the contribution of The Dubai Mall to Dubai's retail sector. The mall's varied choice of retail outlets - with the world's leading brands operating their flagship stores or marking their Middle East debut at The Dubai Mall - underlines its premier position as the must-visit destination for the booming consumer segment not just in the Middle East but across the region, spanning South Asia, Africa, CIS countries and Europe." Driving the growth of The Dubai Mall was the creation of the US$20 billion Downtown Dubai, described as 'The Centre of Now.' The flagship development of Emaar Properties features Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, seven world-class hotels, thousands of residential apartments, modern offices and The Dubai Fountain, among other attractions. "The various components of Downtown Dubai have positioned this flagship development of Emaar as a premier lifestyle destination boosting the growth of the city's tourism, hospitality, retail and other economic sectors," added Mr Alabbar. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Offering the full breadth of retail choices, the mall's spread of 1,200 outlets meets all shopping requirements of visitors - from fashion wear to accessories, electronic appliances to home furnishing, the latest communication gadgets to audio-visual choices, books, jewellery and much more. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Significantly, the mall's retail spread includes flagship stores of the world's top-notch brands across all the different sectors making The Dubai Mall the first choice for discerning customers. The upmarket fashion brands, located within a dedicated Fashion Avenue, reiterate the position of Dubai as the region's fashion capital. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â The mall also has over 160 food and beverage outlets - providing a choice for any taste. Several F'&'B outlets at the mall are new and exclusive, further asserting The Dubai Mall's choice as the must-visit destination for dining out with friends and family. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Adding further to the appeal of the mall to visitors from across the world are its spectacular leisure attractions such as Dubai Aquarium '&' Underwater Zoo, which holds the Guinness World Record for the largest acrylic viewing panel; the Olympic sized Dubai Ice Rink; the region's first SEGA Republic - the largest of its kind indoor theme park; KidZania , the only one of its kind children's edutainment centre in the entire Middle East region; and the 22-screen Reel Cinemas, one of the region's largest megaplexes that can seat over 2,800 people. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â The spectacular Dubai Fountain in the waterfront promenade of the mall attracts thousands of visitors every day, and the mall also hosted several thousand visitors who attended the New Year's Celebrations 2012 organised by Emaar in Downtown Dubai. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
311,791 students in Abu Dhabi are back to school, says ADEC            The 2nd school trimester begins next Sunday for 311,791 students and 31,097 staff members across public and private schools in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Education Council, or ADEC, said in a press release.            Schools have already finalised all necessary preparations including the availability of new textbooks to receive students.            Mohammed Salem Al Dhaheri, ADEC's Executive Director of School Operations said that schools are ready to start the 2nd trimester following the end of the 1st trimester break.            He emphasised that ADEC is keen to ensure all educational services and needs are in place for students and teachers in order to develop education in Abu Dhabi in line with Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030.            He further expressed his appreciation to both students and staff whose efforts made during the 1st trimester which shall pave the way for them to achieve excellence and render a qualified and educated generations.            "ADEC has already received four newly-built schools that will be ready to accommodate students as of tomorrow. These schools are Mubarak bin Mohammed (Cycle1) at Al Bateen area with 45 classrooms that can accommodate a capacity of 1200 students." "The 2nd is Al Khatim Girls School (KG '&' Cycles 1, 2 and 3) with 28 classrooms that can accommodate a capacity of 600 students. The 3rd is Al Jahili School in Al Ain, designated mainly for Cycle3 female students with 50 classrooms that can accommodate 1500 students. The 4th is Mariam bint Sultan C3 School in Al Towaya, for female students, with 40 classrooms that can accommodate 1200 students," Al Dhaheri explained.            The total number of students attending Abu Dhabi public schools in all Cycles amounts to 126,207; those are enrolled in 268 schools and kindergartens operated by 12,962 teaching and administrative staff. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
'Tweet with Kalima' contest on Twitter launched            The Kalima project for translation, affiliated to the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage, has announced the launch of "Tweet with Kalima" contest on the micro-blogging website Twitter.            The new initiative is part of Kalima's new schemes to promote translation, reading, cultural interaction and the use of Arabic language among the users of Twitter.            The contest is open to all Arabic speakers. It is based on the translation from English of quotes selected by Kalima, and then posting them on its Twitter account.            Two winners from among those who made the best translation of the selected aphorisms and quotes will be selected weekly until the opening of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (28 March - 2 April 2012). Winners will be announced everyday throughout the Fair.            "As all the initiatives of the National Library, this contest comes to cope with modern developments, under which the social networking sites, including Twitter, gained more public attention," said Jumaa Al Qubaisi, Deputy Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage for the National Library Affairs.            Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Director of Kalima, highlighted the symbolic value of the contest and the addition it can provide.            The value of the prize awarded to the winners every week is a voucher worth Dh500 to be exchanged for books, which the winner - if he/she is a resident of Abu Dhabi - can choose from among the publications of Kalima or the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage. The winner can choose the books he/she wants to receive via Kalima website. This applies to residents outside Abu Dhabi or outside the UAE, where Kalima will deliver books to the winners via the postal service.- Emirates News Agency, WAM |
