Mohammed bin Zayed stresses UAE's commitment in retaining role as global energy provider           His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces has said that under the wise leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE is committed to retaining its leading role as a main global energy provider through energy diversification in the renewable energy sector.            At the opening ceremony of the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) yesterday, Sheikh Mohammed also stressed the importance of holding discussions and seminars in shaping the policies that foster cooperation between international community members in order to ensure energy security, sustainable development and the reduction of carbon emissions. He also emphasised that improving the quality of life is one of the topmost goals of the leadership of the United Arab Emirates.            Sheikh Mohammed said: "Energy is a vital vein that nurtures all aspects of modern civilisation. In addressing the several challenges facing the world today, it is our responsibility to guarantee energy security and to exert every effort in developing clean technologies. It is our responsibility to take advantage of the various renewable natural sources of energy to achieve sustainable development." Sheikh Mohammed added: "Almost five years ago, we began our work in building capacity in the renewable energy sector. Today, we realise that this approach has gained increasing regional and global attention. We are continuously hearing of new solar or other renewable energy projects being launched, this is exactly what is required, a collaborative effort to achieve energy security. We are still working on achieving our plans to move in two parallel streams towards developing local and international projects.            General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed hailed Masdar's efforts in hosting the World Future Energy Summit and for its role in enhancing the United Arab Emirates stature in the international arena -specifically in the renewable energy and sustainable development sectors.            He noted that Masdar is a strategic, long term national initiative considering to be an important investment with its economic, political, scientific and social implications.            He greeted WEFS guests including Presidents, Ministers, dignitaries, academics and entrepreneurs, emphasising that the UAE has and will always have faith in the power of collaborative efforts in facing global challenges and achieving collective goals. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Over a billion people lack access to electric power and three billion people depend on coal, wood and waste material for their heating and cooking needs, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told delegates at the fifth World Future Energy Summit 2012 (WFES) which is taking place in Abu Dhabi under the patronage of General Sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.            "The WFES, which is held under the theme ‘Powering Sustainable Innovation', is the perfect platform to examine the implications for the large-scale adoption of renewable energy and clean technologies in the world," said Ban, calling on "world leaders to spearhead initiatives to help increase investments in the field of renewable energy and its technology transfer".            Ban added that the mounting pressure to realise emissions reductions will help inspire greater adoption of sustainable energy across the world.            "Renewable energy is essential for our societies. It is a key to bring about global economic growth in addition to protecting the global environment for the generations to come," he said.            The UN chief called on world leaders and heads of state to act in order to save the world and collaborate with the private sector to innovate clean energy projects that help change the lives of people. There is a dire need for a clean energy revolution. There should be a high level of cooperation and partnerships, encouraging public and private spending for intellectual capital, Ban said stressing that investment in green economies can provide an opportunity for growth and prosperity in developed and developing countries.            "We need innovation to meet the increasing world demand on energy through partnerships between the public and private sectors on one hand and civic societies on the other because this will help create economic opportunities, protect the environment and improve the living conditions of the people," he said. Emissions targets            "Sustainable development needs sustainable energy. Therefore, there is a dire need to decrease the gas emissions by 2050 by 50 per cent in the world," Ban said.            Sultan Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar, said that Abu Dhabi is leading by example with its objective of producing 7 per cent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2020.            "Energy solutions cannot be driven by individual countries and must rely on collaboration, and encourage fostering competition between different energy industries," said Al Jaber.            Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao highlighted renewable energy initiatives in his country. "In China, we embrace innovation, sustainable redevelopment and renewable energy as core drivers for our economic growth and for the better living conditions for our people," he said.            He added: "China has emerged as a renewable energy power worldwide, and there are cities in China which depend on renewable energy."            Nasser Abdul Aziz Al Nasser, president of the United Nations General Assembly, said that 2012 is going to be the year of renewable energy.            "The importance of developing resources and taking initiatives aimed to help us use new technology to proceed further with our economic growth," Al Nasser said. Efficiency challenge            He reiterated that there is a call by the UN to provide sustainable energy to the world by 2030 by enhancing power efficiency.            South Korea's Prime Minister Kim Hwang-sik said: "Renewable energy has been a topmost priority on the South Korea agenda, as a country that has prided itself throughout the years for great innovations, it only made perfect sense for Korea to be strongly represented in a summit that focuses on powering innovation."            Kim said that South Korea aims to generate 11 per cent of its energy from renewables by 2030, pointing out that 2 per cent of its GDP has been allocated to renewable energy development.            "This is compared with a current figure of 2.46 per cent achievement of these targets," said Kim, adding that Korea has earmarked US$891.2 million (Dh3.27 billion) for renewable energy projects and financing for solar and wind power energy facilities. Export potential            He pointed out that Korea "aims to strengthen its new and renewable energy sectors amidst expectations that such sectors would export US$40 billion in 2015 compared with US$4.6 billion in 2009. Bertrand Piccard, CEO of Solar Impuse, said that besides raising awareness of the increasing cost competitiveness of solar power applications, "world leaders should promote sustainable energy in order to save the environment which has been badly affected by gas emissions".            "The panel discussions and exhibition will highlight all the key issues relating to the integration of solar into the energy mix," Naji Al Haddad, Exhibitions director of WFES 2012, said.            A total of 25 key renewable energy projects, with a combined value of US$4 billion, are participating in the Project Village.            Middle Eastern projects on show at the dedicated Project Village at WFES 2012 include a 200-megawatt wind farm under development on the Gulf of Suez; a 160-megawatt solar power plant in Morocco; and the US$400 million Shams Ma'an photovoltaic power plant underway in Jordan, exhibition sources said. – Gulf News Â
           The First Minister of Scotland, Mr Alex Salmond, has invited a gathering of the world's most talented innovators to visit Scotland to see the world-class energy research being undertaken here.            The First Minister extended the invitation to attend the Scottish Low Carbon Investment Conference while addressing the World's Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) at the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi. He told the gathering of over 150 students from UAE universities, international universities, and young professionals from local companies that they should experience the world class related energy research, development and industry taking place in Scotland.            The Scottish Low Carbon Investment Conference, which will take place in October this year in Edinburgh, brings together government, finance, utilities and developers to engage directly on the opportunities and challenges presented by the global shift to low carbon economies. It will be an ideal forum for the group to mix with outstanding students studying renewables at Scotland's leading Universities, senior business leaders, Ministers and policy makers and to contribute to discussions on the future of the European/Scottish renewables industry.            The First Minister said: "It is clear that nations can no longer consider the challenge of energy security as something for the next generation to tackle and solve. "As the next generation, you have the tools and you know the challenge. But we do not have the lifetime to realise the dream of a secure global future.            "We must start from today with our young future energy leaders using your talent and enthusiasm to turn vision into reality. This is a global challenge and therefore one which demands collaboration across nations. That is why I would like you - some of the best renewables minds in the world - to visit Scotland - the best location for developing renewables in the world." The First Minister also told the highly influential gathering that 2012, the year of the climate discussions in Rio and a year the FM has declared a Year of Climate Justice that they have the power and foresight to put the journey to a low carbon future on the global map.            Commenting on the First Minister's invitation Lena Wilson, chief executive of Scottish Enterprise, said:"Scotland is globally recognised as a world-leader in the low carbon industry and it's vital for Scotland's long term economic future that we continue to build on this and find new ways of working and developing our expertise to improve our success.            "The Scottish Low Carbon Investment Conference is the ideal opportunity for Scottish-based companies to meet and share ideas and experiences with like-minded organisations and to network with key players from across the industry.            "Scottish Enterprise would welcome the opportunity to meet with professionals, local companies and universities from the Middle East at events like these - creating possibilities for invaluable collaborative projects and future joint working." Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President, Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, said: "We express our sincere appreciation and thanks to His Excellency Alex Salmond, First Minister of Scotland, for his participation in the YFEL conference. His interaction with YFEL members, sharing of experience and words of encouragement will help motivate the youth in their commitment to become responsible energy industry leaders of tomorrow. It also provided YFEL members an opportunity to share their innovative ideas in advanced energy and sustainability with the Scottish leader.            "The Scottish First Minister's participation strongly reflects the importance of Masdar Institute's outreach initiative that aims to inspire, educate and position students and young professionals for obtaining solutions to the world's most pressing environmental issues. We thank the UAE's wise leadership for their guidance and support that ensured this knowledge exchange during WFES 2012." The young innovators are part of the outreach initiative created and run by the Masdar Institute of Science of Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university and part of Masdar, Abu Dhabi's multi-faceted renewable energy company. 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 programme. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, and Toyota Motor Corporation, the world's leading automotive manufacturer, today signed a deal to set up Masdar Institute-Toyota Scholarship Program for conducting research on the advancement of low-carbon emission vehicle technologies.            According to the agreement, Toyota, winner of the Zayed Future Energy Prize in 2010, will use the US$1.5 million prize fund to establish a scholarship program for 10 students. One student will be selected for each academic year and the scholarship includes a two-week trip to Japan.            The annual scholarships will be offered to highly-qualified graduate students from around the world to work on projects in the area of technologies for sustainable development.            On behalf of each party, Nobuyuki Negishi, Chief Representative, The Middle East '&' North Africa Representative Office, Toyota Motor Corporation, and Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, attended a signing ceremony at the Masdar Institute stand at the World Future Energy Summit 2012 in Abu Dhabi yesterday. The agreement was signed in the presence of Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of Masdar Institute, and Director-General of the Zayed Future Energy Prize.            Makoto Kitamura, Grand Master of Toyota's Middle East '&' North Africa Representative office, and Eigo Yamamoto, Sales '&' Marketing Manager, Toyota, were also present at the ceremony, in addition to Dr Steve Griffiths, Executive Director, Institute Initiatives, and Dr Youssef Shatilla, Professor and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Masdar Institute.            Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Director-General of the Zayed Future Energy Prize, said: "This substantive partnership between Toyota Motor Corporation and the Masdar Institute sits at the heart of what the Zayed Future Energy Prize has set to achieve. In merely two years, the Prize has taken its rightful place as a catalyst for expediting innovation around the world.            "The scholarships funded by Toyota will serve to ensure that these scholars will benefit from a rich, academic, research-driven environment where they will be able to pursue the development of cutting-edge technologies." Talented students selected to receive Masdar Institute-Toyota Scholarship will write their final Master's degree thesis on a sustainable mobility topic such as product development or technology strategy. Each student with the scholarship will have a supervisor at Masdar Institute who will closely monitor and support the student's studies and Master's thesis work.            In addition, each student will spend two weeks at Toyota Motor Corporation and other sites in Japan, learning about the company's efforts to develop cutting-edge low emission vehicle technologies and also Japanese industries' efforts in realising simultaneously economic growth and environmental preservation.            Nobuyuki Negishi said: "Toyota recognises the importance of global sustainability and implements several programs across various platforms to engage with the community. Masdar Institute is one of the leading research-oriented academic institutions that constantly engage with the youth to develop and implement clean energy technologies. We are honoured to establish this scholarship program at Masdar Institute that will create the right environment for students to conduct their research and achieve breakthrough in bringing new energy technologies for everyday use." Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh said: "The establishment of Masdar Institute-Toyota Scholarship Program takes us another step forward in facilitating research in key sustainable technology areas that remain one of the cornerstones of our academic activities. Signing the deal with a global automobile leader such as Toyota further strengthens our status as a world-class institution that aims to nurture students and develop them into capable energy leaders of tomorrow. We are delighted to enter into this arrangement that will contribute to the advancement of low-carbon emission vehicle technologies." Masdar Institute-Toyota Scholarship Program and its benefits are subject to the student maintaining a minimum CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) as determined by Masdar Institute and satisfactory progress on their research. The scholarship will be offered to talented students qualified to meet Masdar Institute's admission standards which include appropriate TOEFL score, GRE and an excellent CGPA from a recognised university.            Students will divide their time between class work and research in one of Masdar Institute's Master of Science (MSc) programs including Electrical Power Engineering, Engineering Systems and Management, Computing and Information Science, Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Microsystems Engineering and Water and Environmental Engineering.            The Zayed Future Energy Prize, managed by Masdar, seeks to identify, recognise and reward innovation, leadership, long-term vision and impact on renewable energy and sustainability. It seeks to encourage the many solutions and technologies, which are helping to create a new, sustainable energy future that could change the world. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Masdar Capital, the private equity arm of Abu Dhabi based renewable energy company Masdar, yesterday announced plans to form a renewable energy project platform, in partnership with Development Bank of Japan Inc. ("DBJ").            The MoU, signed during the opening day of the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi, is an equal share partnership with investments focused on commissioned solar and wind projects within the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development nations, with a specific geographic focus on North America and Europe.            Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar said: "Masdar Capital's collaboration with DBJ through the renewable energy project platform signals a clear cooperation between our two countries that are actively partnering to diversify our energy mix through renewable energy. Given the lack of financing available to fund operational renewable energy projects, it is an opportune time to invest in projects that can provide stable returns to Masdar Capital and DBJ." He continued: "Masdar has forged a strong relationship with Japan over the last three years and Masdar Capital has welcomed investments in our second fund from a number of esteemed Japanese investors.            "Partnerships are a critical part of Masdar's business model as we look to collaborate with the best partners to diversify our future energy mix. Masdar typically looks to work with those who have strong domain knowledge and a consistent and extensive track record when signing into a partnership." This partnership represents one of Masdar's commitments to the Sustainable Energy for All initiative.            Masdar Capital and DBJ both plan to commit significant capital to a platform that will target stable returns from investing in renewable energy operating assets that utilise bankable technologies. This platform will look to make minority equity investments in operational assets, targeting assets managed by reputed players in the renewable energy space.            Initially, this platform will target onshore wind and solar PV assets in countries with relatively low sovereign risk. A pipeline of over 1GW of operational solar and wind assets fitting the platform's mandate have already been identified.            Masdar Capital, an Abu Dhabi based asset management company, currently has over US$540 million invested across the Masdar Clean Tech Fund and DB Masdar Clean Tech Fund, jointly managed with partners. Masdar has also partnered with Japan on a number of other initiatives including the Beam Down Project, a joint pilot project of the Masdar Institute, Japan's Cosmo Oil Company and the Tokyo Institute of Technology. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Masdar City and TVP Solar have announced the completion of installation of a field of TVP Solar's MT-Power high-vacuum flat solar thermal panels for the solar cooling plant at Masdar City during WFES 2012.            Masdar City, one of the most sustainable cities in the world and one of the integrated units of Masdar, Abu Dhabi's multi-faceted renewable energy company, is testing TVP Solar's MT-Power panels for potential future use to meet the air-conditioning requirements of the City.            TVP Solar expects the MT-Power panels to provide over 70% solar-to-cooling conversion efficiency operating at 180 degrees C to drive a double-effect absorption chiller. The panels capture diffuse and direct light, thus providing at least 30% higher energy output than any concentrating collector. In addition MT-Power effectively operates in the harsh and dusty environment of the desert, requiring zero maintenance and no precision cleaning.            Combining traditional flat plate design with the best thermal insulator (high-vacuum), MT-Power panels, invented by Dr. Vittorio Palmieri, suppress convection losses and maintain the fluid-flow entirely within the vacuum envelope, thus providing unrivalled thermal performance while keeping a very low collector cost profile.            Alan Frost, Director of Masdar City, said: "Serving as a test-bed for innovation, Masdar City offers a fertile environment to inspire creativity and growth to organisations operating in the strategic and dynamic renewable energy and clean technologies sector. TVP Solar's innovative, high-vacuum flat solar thermal panels fit well with Masdar's solar cooling plant ambitions and the region's weather conditions".            TVP Solar expects its products to revolutionise the solar industry and renewable technologies, serving large air-conditioning consumers, such as commercial/office buildings and data centres, while significantly saving on utility bills and CO2 emissions. Without incentives, in select countries, a solar field of MT-Power will have a simple payback period below 6 years" said Piero Abbate, CEO, TVP Solar.            Masdar City is continuously evolving as an attractive destination for the knowledge-intensive industries, companies operating in renewable energy as well as sustainable and clean technologies. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           UAE-China relations are bracing for broader cooperation buoyed by huge promising potentials both the two friendly countries wield in world economy, President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan asserted yesterday during talks at Al Mushrif Palace with visiting Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao.            ''We are looking forward that Mr. Jiabao's trip to the UAE will constitute an advanced step towards greater cooperation and further enhancement of economic partnership between the two friendly countries.'' Sheikh Khalifa said, adding that participation of the Chinese premier in the World Future Energy Summit (WFES 2012) in Abu Dhabi paves the way for a new era of joint cooperation.            The UAE president said eye-catching economic growth China has posted enabled it to become a major international actor in the world economy.            Sheikh Khalifa said: ''The UAE has the sincere desire to bolster its relations of cooperation with China in pursuit of more progress and development in both countries and further stability in world economy''.            While Sheikh Khalifa and Mr. Jiabao touched on the distinguished bilateral relations of friendship and reviewed latest regional and international developments, they expressed their determination to solve regional and international problems and lay down foundations for international cooperation based on respect for international laws and interests of all countries.            As he lauded the stellar progress the UAE is witnessing under the leadership of President Khalifa, the Chinese premier said the progress made by the UAE over the few recent decades confirms that ''We are before an important model of inclusive development at regional and international level''.            He lauded the UAE-China cooperation as an example of international collaboration within the context of economic and trade partnership.            Highlighting the vital importance of meetings and contacts between government officials and economic and business circles in both countries, Mr. Jiabao said these activities had laid the groundwork for a sustained, constructive cooperation and we aspire for stronger one in the coming period''. A number of Sheikhs, ministers and top officials as well as member of the delegation accompanying the Chinese premier attended the audience. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
          Trade exchange between the UAE and Iraq continues to grow and has exceeded US$4.5 billion last year despite the global economic crisis, H.H Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the UAE said at a joint , at a joint press conference with his Iraqi counterpart Hoshyar Zebari in Abu Dhabi.            Sheikh Abdullah also condemned the recent terrorist acts in Iraq and reiterated the UAE's support for Iraq's stability and security. For his part, Zebari hailed the UAE's decision to waive Iraq's debt as an initiative which is proof of the depth of relations between the two countries.            The press conference was held upon the conclusion of the 8th meeting of the UAE-Iraqi Joint Committee which chaired by the two ministers. The UAE Minister noted that an agreement will be signed with Iraq to define a legal mechanism for waiving Iraq's US$ 5.8 billion debt.            "Iraq's relations with the Arab Gulf countries are reasonable," he said adding that more efforts and action by both sides are needed to further enhance these relations." "There was a decision by Arab leaders to hold the next Arab summit in Baghdad, Iraq. We Arabs should make sure the next summit will be a step forward and at the same time keep Iraq's right to host an Arab summit," he added.            Asked on Iran's recent warnings to Gulf countries if they raise oil output to replace Iranian crude facing an international ban, Sheikh Abdullah emphasised on the need for a diplomatic solution adding that the escalation from the media, politicians, or military officials is not beneficial for the region or the stability of oil markets and the global economy cannot accommodate more tension.            For his part, Zebari said Iraq is against escalation and against dealing with these differences using military force. "It is not in the interest of any party to allow this crisis to go on" he said noting that there were serious and continuous bids by Iraq to send clear messages to the Iranian leadership on the importance of the Straits of Hormuz for all countries.            "Any talk on waterways, and Hormuz in particular, has an effect on all of us in the Gulf countries, Iraq and Iran. All of us will do everything possible to defuse the crisis," he added.            Asked to comment a proposition by the emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani to send peacekeeping troops to Syria, Sheikh Abdullah said: "We are making consolations, exchanging views and listen to proposals by leaders on the situation in Syria. Arab foreign ministers will discuss this. The next Arab ministerial meeting in Cairo on 22 January will evaluate the work of the Arab League's observer mission and view reports by the mission and the Secretary General.            He noted that 12 Emiratis are among the members of the Arab League's observer mission in Syria and said there are no plans to increase the number of observers or withdraw them from Syria. For his part, Zebari said Iraq supports a solution to the crisis with Iran through dialogue and peaceful means.            "There is a big crisis of confidence with Iran," Zebari said. "We are not with escalation, or military force. We are with calming and dialogue," he said noting that 90% of Iraq's oil exports are transported through the Strait of Hormuz. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           A number of ministers will attend tomorrow to answer questions addressed to them by the Federal National Council Members when the FNC convenes again in the fourth session of its 15th legislative chapter. The aridness of farmlands belonging to citizens in the eastern and central regions will be one among the questions posed to the government.            The capsizing of a tanker carrying hundreds of tons of diesel off the coast of Umm Al Qaiwain will also come up for discussion in tomorrow's session. Another question will be related to the price variations of water and electricity in different emirates.            The need for setting up a supreme Sharia council for monitoring Islamic banks in the country will also be put on the table for discussion by the country's parliament. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC), in cooperation with Etihad Airways, welcomed this morning the first airberlin flight to Abu Dhabi International Airport.            Germany's second largest airline's inaugural flight arrived to Abu Dhabi International Airport at 6:35 am local time, where it was saluted with traditional water cannons and greeted by James E. Bennett, CEO of ADAC, James Hogan, President and CEO of Etihad Airways and Hartmut Mehdorn, CEO airberlin.           airberlin will operate four weekly non-stop flights between Berlin and Abu Dhabi, with travellers now enjoying access to a total of 29 flights a week between Abu Dhabi and four German hubs, with a plan to increase to 42 flights from mid-April.           Commenting on the occasion, James E. Bennett, CEO ADAC, said: "ADAC is delighted to be welcoming a new member in its family, airberlin, adding at the same time a new destination on Abu Dhabi International Airport's expanding network. airberlin is our first new airline in 2012 and this new route demonstrates the confidence of leading airlines in the potential of Abu Dhabi as an international tourism and trade hub. We wish them every success and look forward to seeing even more services from Abu Dhabi." The new Berlin-Abu Dhabi route was launched following Etihad Airways' strategic agreement with airberlin, increasing their stake to 29.21 per cent and seeing Etihad Airways becoming the biggest single shareholder in the European airline.           Commenting on the new route and partnership, James Hogan, Etihad Airways President and Chief Executive Officer, said: "This is a great day for airberlin, Etihad Airways and Abu Dhabi International Airport. Today's inaugural from the German capital into Abu Dhabi expands our joint network reach, gives Etihad Airways access to 35 million new passengers, and provides a real opportunity for global growth for both airberlin and Etihad Airways. It is just the start of what will initially lead to Etihad Airways code sharing on 36 of airberlin's 171 destinations, and airberlin code sharing on 24 of our 72 passenger destinations." "It all adds up to a great deal for travellers at all ends of our combined and extensive global network of 239 destinations, full frequent flyer benefits included. The cooperation with airberlin will dramatically improve global connectivity for our guests in the GCC, Middle East, Germany, Switzerland, and Austria," added Hogan.           Hartmut Mehdorn, airberlin CEO, added: "With the increasing demand for flights to and from Abu Dhabi to Berlin, this route allows our customers to enjoy Abu Dhabi as a destination, and also increase the opportunity for German travellers to use this convenient and accessible gateway to Asia and Australia. We look forward to working with Abu Dhabi Airports Company and Etihad Airways on further developing our services to travellers from Abu Dhabi International Airport." airberlin will start operating flights on the Berlin-Abu Dhabi route every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday, using A330-200 aircraft with a seating capacity of 303 seats. airberlin flights from Abu Dhabi to the German capital will be on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. - Emirates News Agency, WAMÂ
           Emirates Palace, the iconic 5* destination hotel in the heart of Abu Dhabi has been awarded two internationally acclaimed titles at the 2011 World Travel Awards - described by the Wall Street Journal as the "Oscars of the travel industry." Located on a 1.3 km stretch of private white pristine beach with 100 hectares of manicured lawns and lush landscaped gardens, Emirates Palace breathtaking surrounds make it the ultimate award-winning choice for corporate entertaining and indulgent getaways.            In light of its technologically advanced corporate facilities and outdoor venue space for 20,000 guests, Emirates Palace is particularly proud to receive the prestigious World's Leading Conference and Meetings Hotel' title.            Equally delighted to be recognised for its sumptuous suites, Emirates Palace clinched the World's Leading Presidential Suite' category - highlighting its impeccable suite design and world-class service. Providing luxurious decor within traditional Arabian surrounds, the Presidential Suite must be seen to be believed.            General manager Bugra Berberoglu commented: "Once again, Emirates Palace has received the international acclaim it deserves. These two exclusive World Travel Awards are a welcome reward for our continued efforts to ensure Emirates Palace is known as one the world's most iconic destination hotels." - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Nakheel plans to generate extra revenue by conducting cruises around its Palm Jumeirah and The World developments.            The first set of cruises, under the brand name ‘Cruise with Nakheel' will tour the Palm Jumeirah, offering views of the island's resorts, villas, apartment complexes and marina.            The trips will cater to groups of 12, 15 or 30 people on vessels of three sizes: 38, 52 and 80 feet. Cruise prices will start at Dh1,000 per boat, depending on the size of the vessel. The one-hour trips will operate daily between 9am and 5pm. Commercial concept            "‘Cruise with Nakheel' is a completely new concept for marine tourism. Travellers can now go ‘inside' the Palm Jumeirah and enjoy views of the island and its buildings as never before. The Palm is already one of Dubai's biggest attractions, and we look forward to bringing more visitors to this world-famous landmark through our new cruise service," Saeed Hareb, managing director of Nakheel Marine and Leisure, said.            According to a Nakheel spokesperson, the company is expecting up to 60 trips per month. "It has been welcomed by tour operators, who say it is a new opportunity to offer something unique for customers. We at Nakheel receive many individual requests from people," the spokesperson said. Separate cruises to the World islands will also be made available, repositioning the development as a tourist offering.            The World project covers 931 hectares, with islands ranging from 150,000 to 450,000 square feet.            According to Nakheel, 70 per cent of the 300 islands have been sold and the rest are still owned by Nakheel. Only two privately owned islands have begun construction — the six-island Heart of Europe Project developed by the Kleindienst Group and the Lebanon Island developed by Wakil Admed Azmi.            Recently, the oyster-shaped islet, part of the Asia island, was put up for sale at a price of Dh105 million.            As part of this tourism initiative, Nakheel said it plans to create 500 artificial reefs around The World islands in order to encourage marine life and aid the local fishing industry. – Gulf News Â
           The Ministry of Public Works has accomplished the first road lighting project that extends 11km, through using solar energy.            The Wadi Sidr Area was selected to apply this system, which does not require the electrical installations, lines of low and high tension.            This system also contributes to reduction of the rates of carbon emissions, hence reduce the environmental impact of light on the surrounding areas. It is characterised with low cost of maintenance.            Dr. Abdullah Al Nuaimi Belhef, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Public Works, said in a statement yesterday that this project comes in line with the directives by the UAE and Abu Dhabi governments on the implementation of projects that meet the principles of sustainability.            He added that this project in addition to being empirically supported by studies and experiments in the field of IT projects, it represents the successful achievement whose concept can re-apply in all road projects far from the electrical installations. Belhef said the project saves high cost operation expenses of the traditional electric lighting. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Abu Dhabi Fest from March 11 to April 6            Classical music, theatre, performing arts, jazz, ballet and fine arts, catering to all ages, will be on showcase for the ninth edition of the Abu Dhabi Festival which will run from March 11 to April 6. Under the theme ‘Connecting Cultures’, the festival will see participation from 18 countries, including the UK, which was given the Country of Honour this year.            During its launch on Monday, Hoda Al Khamis Kanoo, founder of the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF) and artistic director of the Abu Dhabi Festival, noted the collaboration with the UK’s Royal Opera House, Manchester International Festival and Edinburgh International Festival, and seven events, which will be held for the first time in the Arab world. “What makes this edition ... particularly special is that it will not only enable us to look forward to a future filled with unlimited creative possibilities, but it will also help us look back and learn from the lessons of the past. This March, we shall pay homage to the golden age of Arab cultural expression that stretched from AndalucÃa to China,†said Kanoo.            “The Abu Dhabi Festival 2012 shall shine the spotlight in the talents of a wide range of artists and musicians, including Anwar Abudragh and the Maqamat Ensemble, Goksel Bagatir and the UAE’s very own Faisal Al Sari,†she added.            Highlights of the festival include sitar player Anoushka Shankar who will be performing from her latest album and world tour ‘Traveller’; oud master Nasser Shamma who will be teaming up with the Global Music Ensemble, musicians from Italy, the US, Greece and Colombia.            The festival will also host the screening of Wagner’s Ring Cycle over two weekends, starring Bryn Terfel (Wotan), Deborah Voigt (Brünnhilde) and Jonas Kaufmann (Siegmund).            Building on the successful introduction of contemporary dance to the festival last year, ‘Sutra’ with the monks from the Shaolin Temple is a stunning blend of Kung Fu, Tai Chi and contemporary dance brought to Abu Dhabi through Sadler’s Wells theatre in London.            Dresden’s famous Semperoper Ballet will also team up with NDR Radiophilharmonie (Hannover) to perform ‘La Bayadère’. The Royal Opera House’ production of ‘Beloved Friend’ is set to the music of Tchaikovsky and includes dancers from the Royal Ballet and is an Arab World Premiere. Jazz will make its popular return to the festival with nine-time Grammy award-winning singer, songwriter and performer Natalie Cole. Daughter of the jazz legend Nat King Cole, she will make her Middle East debut in Abu Dhabi in an evening titled ‘Natalie Cole in Concert’. Fadel Shaker’s ‘A Night of Legends’ will feature a selection of songs and music closest to his heart.            Also at the festival is a special programme from Scottish Opera’s BabyO, offering babies from six months to two years an unforgettable musical experience by seamlessly combining recorded music with live singing.            Tickets for the festival can be purchased at http://www.timeoutickets.com/abudhabifestival. - Khaleej Times Â
           While trying to explain his interest in birds and wildlife photography to sceptics, Ahmed Al Ali often asks them to guess the number of bird species living in or visiting the UAE.            They usually say 10 or 20. But the correct answer, he says, is 443.            "This is all because you don't see," said the 30-year-old UAE national from Sharjah. "You skip, you do not pay attention. If you pay attention you will see."            Mr Al Ali, an IT professional at a Government department in Abu Dhabi, is one of few Emiratis who has taken to observing and photographing birds. His hobby has changed him, and is influencing his community.            A precise, eloquent man, Mr Al Ali is aware of the value of explaining the natural world with facts. But his strongest weapon is his photography.            "I take pictures of birds in all situations - morning and evening, while they are eating, showering, dusting, fighting," he said.            While making the case for the need to preserve bird habitats, he shows people beautiful pictures of the amazing array of rare resident and visiting birds. This can get them emotionally involved, he said.            "This is the key to interest local people," he said. "After all, the same thing happened to me. After five years of photography, I find myself slipping more into wildlife and conservation."            It was the beauty of the birds that drew Mr Al Ali's interest in them as photography subjects. Before he took up photography, he was drawing - and horses were his favourite subject.            In 2005, he started practising photography, learning from online forums where photographers from other Gulf countries would post their work and offer advice to each other. It was in early 2007, after seeing the work of a Kuwaiti photographer, that he decided to make birds his subjects.            "The start was with obvious birds you can see everywhere," he said, naming his first subjects - the house sparrow, the common mynah and the parakeet. "Then I started to read and read and I discovered there is this thing called bird watching."            He got in touch with members of the Emirates Bird Records Committee. Through reading and interacting with the group, he started to learn the names of different bird species and the best locations where they could be observed. The new hobby took favour over his other interests such as amateur radio, now only done while he is driving, and video games, which he has stopped playing.            "Whenever I find time, I either read about birds or I go to look for birds," said Mr Al Ali, who recently became the UAE regional representative of the Ornithological Society of the Middle East.            He recently lectured at Kalba, showing a small but interested group of attendees what the rare birds inhabiting the town's unique mangrove forest and beaches look like.            As he discussed his hobby, he was interrupted by a telephone call from Abdulla Al Zaabi in Kalba, asking for the phone number of environmental officials. Mr Al Zaabi had noticed men trapping seagulls, most likely with the aim of selling them to falconers, and wanted to report it to authorities. However, when the two men had first met, Mr Al Zaabi was less aware of these issues, and could not believe anyone would want to hire a fishing boat just to watch sea birds.            What helped Mr Al Ali advance as a photographer was reading about birds, interacting with bird watchers, and practice.            "When you try something for a little bit of time, you get used to it," he said.            Also important is attention to detail and patience, which, he said, "is the prime thing in wildlife photography because you are photographing a moving thing".            It took several months for him to photograph the Collared Kingfisher in Kalba's mangrove. The bird is shy and quiet, and it takes a long time to find it among the dense branches of mangroves.            The masked shrike, a small, shy migrant that visits briefly in spring, is another example.            "It took me two or three years to find this bird and I only got one decent picture," he said.            Because of the novelty of his hobby, Mr Al Ali has also seen his share of uncomfortable situations. His large lens sometimes makes people suspicious about his intentions. He has been followed by curious onlookers, which scares away the birds he is looking to photograph. Occasionally, he is stopped by village elders and police.            Yet, the enjoyment he gets from producing a beautiful picture is worth it, he said. And so is the effort to educate others on the need to preserve the country's natural heritage.            "If I was aware of this issue before going to college, I would have studied environmental science," he said. "Our education did not give us the chance to see the environment."            He said more work needs to be done to raise awareness of environmental issues.            "As they say, no one is bad. There are just people who do not know better." – The National Â
           Lucky was the last word an onlooker might use to describe the starving, oil-coated seabird lying helplessly on the sand.            Its inky legs were bound tightly by a fishing line, a hook had grazed its grey throat, and its charcoal feathers were infested with fleas and mites.            Despite all that, the rare socotra cormorant had not run out of luck completely: a gaping, camera-clicking crowd gathered around it on January 2 on the beach in front of the looming towers of Jumeirah Beach Residence.            The commotion caught the attention of the Italian tourist Stefano Gandhini - who just happened to know one of the few people in Dubai qualified to help.            Mr Gandhini was a guest of the veterinarian Dr Peter Jaworski, a bird specialist at the Modern Veterinary Clinic in Al Safa.            "He called me immediately," said Dr Jaworski, from Poland. "The bird was covered with parasites. Fleas and mites were eating him alive. When we put him in the bath at the clinic, the tub was crawling with parasites. This was an indicator that he was very weak. He had been starving probably for a few days."            The vet treated the bird and force-fed it with treats purchased from the fish counter at the Spinneys market near the clinic on Al Wasl Road. Slim, easy-to-swallow ladyfish were a favourite, though the cormorant was also partial to mackerel and other types of seafood.            "Fortunately, he accepted this way of feeding," added Dr Jaworski. "He was getting stronger day by day and was soon eating 15 to 20 fish a day."            The vet made plans to release the bird as soon as it was well enough. However, as it steadily recovered, it began to lose its natural fear of humans - an instinct that would be vital if it were to survive back in the wild.            Dr Jaworski believes the bird's troubles began when it became covered with oil that had spilled from a tanker or other vessel. It had then become snagged in the fishing line, and the hook had caused a small wound on its neck.            According to Tommy Pedersen, who runs the uaebirding.com website, birds are found in this sort of condition quite frequently in the UAE.            "This is a fairly common occurrence as there is an amazing amount of loose fishing line and cut fishing nets drifting offshore," he said. "On the East Coast, oiled gulls are a common sight off Fujairah."            The socotra cormorant - whose Latin name is Phalacrocorax nigrogularis - is listed as vulnerable in the International Union for Conservation of Nature's red list of threatened species. Its population trend is decreasing. Pictures of the species drenched in oil became a familiar image during the first Gulf War.            Back at the clinic, the time was fast approaching when the bird would have to be released. "It was getting really attached to humans," said Dr Jaworski. "The trick with any wild animal is not to let it get attached, so I was trying to minimise any physical contact except for treatment to keep it as wild as possible.            "But the bird was following us, he was responding to a sound like the fridge opening or the bucket of fish being opened like he was really happy, so I wanted to release him as soon as possible."            At last, the moment arrived yesterday morning when the cormorant was to be freed. Dr Jaworski did not feed the bird beforehand so it would start seeking food immediately upon its release. He might have regretted this decision, however, when the hungry cormorant took a wild peck at his face with its slender, sharp beak.            The bird was placed in a carrying box, which the vet laid on the back seat of his car before heading off to a nature reserve in Dubai. The big moment came, the box was to be opened, and the fit-again cormorant was to be freed to sweep once more across the Gulf skies ... but it was not to be. Dr Jaworski took a quick look around and decided there was too big a risk that the bird would start following human visitors, so he took it back home.            He remains determined to free the bird, and now plans to do so in a few days' time at a remote site well away from any humans.            "He must be released to the wild," he said. "Every single individual is important." When the sleek cormorant is free once more, Dr Jaworski hopes it will stay well away from oil spills and fishing lines, lest its good luck finally run out. – The National Â
Enhancing guidelines for Al Ain zoo            As part of its commitment towards conserving wildlife and endangered species, Al Ain Zoo will be hosting the third annual workshop of the International Union for Conservation and Nature’s (IUCN) Species Survival Commission Task Force from Tuesday to Thursday.            This task force combines the expertise of the Re-introduction and Invasive Species Specialist Groups to develop revised guidelines for the reintroduction of plants and animals into the wild and other deliberate movements for conservation purposes.            Since their last meeting in Al Ain Zoo in April 2011, task force members have been actively working on revising these guidelines to an all-embracing template such that this year’s workshops will be focused on editing and testing the guidelines against real-life situations.            The enhanced guidelines will then be presented to the international conservation community at the World Conservation Congress in Korea in September 2012 with more than 6,000 attendees.            Dr Arshad Toosy, acting chief of life science and conservation development at Al Ain Zoo, said that these workshops have been successful since their launch in 2009 “in bringing leading international experts to share expertise, discuss current issues and develop real solutions as conservationists confront issues such as climate change and urbanisation.†           Dr Mark Stanley Price, Al Ain Zoo conservation fellow and senior research fellow at the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, University of Oxford, added that the main driver for updating the guidelines is the increasing realisation that the world’s wildlife faces significant problems through loss and breaking up of habitats, unsustainable overuse and pollution and emerging diseases.            “There is very little of the earth’s surface that is not affected by human activities, and very often the effects and changes are harmful to wildlife. Part of conservation’s response to these challenges is to see where and how plants and animals can be restored. Al Ain Zoo is successfully playing precisely this role through its conservation programmes.†           Al Ain Zoo supports a range of global initiatives as part of its commitment to developing leading conservation and breeding programmes for endangered arid land species. It is also a core supporter of the Sahara Conservation Fund, enabling them to implement their wide range of in-situ conservation programmes such as the Saharan Carnivore Conservation, Ostrich Conservation and Antelope Reintroduction Programmes.            Closer to home, Al Ain Zoo provides animals for the Arabian Oryx reintroduction programme in the UAE and the region. – The Gulf Today Volvo Ocean Race has left its mark on Abu Dhabi           As the UAE leg of the Volvo Ocean Race came to an end yesterday, team Abu Dhabi's crew felt a legacy had been left to the city in its inaugural host year.            "We've put Abu Dhabi on the world map," said Butti Al Meheiri, the head of the shore crew. "This will make it a real destination for tourists, to see how beautiful sailing is here, especially in the winter."He said the event had spurred much interest from Emiratis eager to try the sport. "A lot of locals have come to ask how to get involved, how to learn sailing. It's really helped promote the sport here."Khalid Al Qubati, an Emirati volunteer at the event and a sailor himself, said: "This shows the world what fun it is to be in Abu Dhabi and what a beautiful place it is."Ross Farquhar, from Canada, has spent many years sailing. During eight years living in the UK before coming to Abu Dhabi three years ago, he took part in many major races, including Cowes."There needs to be greater accessibility to sailing here, more of a community," he said. "There's only two places to sail in Abu Dhabi and it's all small boats. There's a bit more in Dubai, but not much."            Caoimhe Lalor, from Ireland, also sailed regularly before moving here eight years ago. "Hopefully this event will encourage people to sail, to get boats and get on the water," she said. After winning Friday's port race, Mr Al Meheiri said the Abu Dhabi team had left for their sprint to Sharjah with a spring in their step. "It definitely gave them a boost," he said. From Sharjah, the teams will be taken to a safe haven in the Indian Ocean, the boats loaded onto a carrier to avoid the threat of pirates, before starting the race to Sanya, China, the next leg of the nine and-a-half-month marathon. – The National Â
Call to action opens IRENA's second Assembly            The world's most influential advocates for renewable energy gathered in Abu Dhabi, UAE for the International Renewable Energy Agency's Second Assembly, where they were told that they must develop a new type of organisation for a new world.            "We must be lean, nimble and competent," said IRENA's Director-General Adnan Z. Amin, in his opening address. "We must bring all actors to the table, we must provide the knowledge base to support action globally. Above all we must be transparent and effective." The IRENA Assembly has attracted more than 800 delegates and speakers. They represent 131 countries and 57 organisations, and include 64 ministers and other high-level officials. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon will join the delegates tomorrow to make a special address on the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All (SE4ALL) before officially inaugurating this initiative on the following day at the World Future Energy Summit, which follows the IRENA Assembly.            "This gathering is a clear indication that renewable energy plays a leading role in sustainable development," said Dr. Sultan Ahmad Al Jaber, President of the First IRENA Assembly and UAE Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs and Special Envoy for Energy and Climate Change, who officially opened the event by handing over the presidency for the Second Assembly to Mr. Salvador Namburette, Minister of Energy for Mozambique.            "Interest in this Assembly shows that renewable energy has moved from the margins to centre stage of global debate," said Mr Namburette. "I salute the IRENA Secretariat for having catalysed this change in a relatively short period of time and laying the foundation for taking IRENA to even greater heights." Highlights of the two-day Assembly will be the interactive Ministerial Roundtables, one held to discuss cooperation with the private sector to increase the deployment of renewable energy, and the other focusing on policy issues related to IRENA's medium-term strategy. Other activities will include the High-Level Group sessions, and technical meetings on the Global Solar and Wind Atlas, and on the competitiveness of renewable power generation. The main Assembly events were preceded by a special IRENA Pacific Leaders Meeting.            "Our First Assembly allowed us to successfully set initial objectives, create structure and consolidate capacity" added Mr. Amin, who also serves as a special adviser to the SG's High Level group on SE4ALL and will speak at WFES. "These two days will focus much more on action - in particular the implementation of our 2012 Work Programme." Many of the Assembly delegates will attend the 2012 WFES in Abu Dhabi where IRENA and its partners will host an information and discussion booth, joining more than 150 eminent speakers, 650 exhibiting companies and 20 national pavilions under an underlying theme of Powering Sustainable Innovation. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Etihad Airways named World's Leading Airline at World Travel Awards            Etihad Airways has enjoyed stunning success at the World Travel Awards, taking the top honour for the third year in a row. It was named the World's Leading Airline last night at a black-tie gala event in Doha, Qatar. The judges also presented Etihad Airways with awards for the World's Leading First Class and World's Leading Airline to the Middle East.            These three awards cap an extraordinary 12 months for the airline. Highlights included the launch of seven new international routes, a move into operating profitability and the purchase of a 29.2 percent stake in airberlin, a landmark deal that enables access to 33 million new passengers in Europe.            James Hogan, Etihad Airways' President and Chief Executive Officer, said: "We are delighted to have been named World's Leading Airline at the World Travel Awards for the third successive year.            "2011 was a fantastic year for Etihad Airways, during which we began to reap the full benefits of financial and operational strategies developed over the last five years.            "Nothing is as important to us as our guests and we work tirelessly to ensure their experience with Etihad Airways surpasses expectations. We are always looking to innovate, whether that be by introducing qualified chefs in our Diamond First Class or bringing industry-leading in-flight entertainment systems with mobile and internet connectivity to the sky.            "Etihad Airways' vision is simple: to be the best airline in the world. These accolades from industry experts at the World Travel Awards demonstrate that we are meeting that goal." The World Travel Awards - described as the "Oscars of the travel industry" by the Wall Street Journal - recognise the best airline, hospitality and tourism brands in the world. Judges look for excellence in categories such as customer relations, creativity, quality of service, product innovation and business acumen.            Etihad Airways' success in Doha follows recognition at the World Travel Awards Middle East in May, when the airline took home awards for Middle East's Leading Airline, Middle East's Leading Airline First Class, Middle East's Leading Cabin Staff and Middle East's Leading Airline In-flight Entertainment. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Dubai Cruise Terminal wins World's Leading Cruise Port Award for 4th year in a row            Dubai Cruise Terminal, operated by global marine terminal operator DP World and managed by Department of Tourism '&' Commerce (DTCM), has won the World's Leading Cruise Port award at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2011 for the fourth consecutive time.            Tariq Bin Khalifa, Director, Account Management, DP World, UAE Region, and Mohammed Al Mannaei, Director - Port Rashid, DP World UAE Region, received the award on behalf of the company at WTA's Grand Final Gala ceremony in Doha on Wednesday evening (January 11). The event was attended by hundreds of top industry executives, including decision makers in global travel and tourism, DP World said in a press release.            The event marked the culmination of a year-long search for the very best travel and tourism brands in the world, and Dubai Cruise Terminal located at Port Rashid was voted the world's best from among WTA's 17 regional winners for the year.            The WTA honour comes just two months after DP World announced plans to expand the current terminal facilities by the end of 2012 to cater for as many as five cruise ships at one time from the existing capacity for two vessels. DP World's vision is for Port Rashid to eventually be able to serve as many as seven cruise vessels at one time.            "The consistency with which Dubai has been voted the World's Leading Cruise Port at the World Travel Trade Awards confirms our long-term commitment to invest in developing Port Rashid further as the regional cruise destination of choice. We are honoured by this recognition and we thank our strategic partner in promoting cruise tourism, the Department of Tourism '&' Commerce Marketing (DTCM), for their important role in the success of Port Rashid as a cruising destination," Mohammed Al Muallem, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, DP World, UAE Region, said.            Dubai Cruise Terminal won the Middle East's Leading Cruise Port award four consecutive times at the World Travel Awards between 2008 and 2011.            According to DTCM, Dubai will see a cruise tourism growth in excess of 58% by 2015. Dubai Cruise Terminal experienced a 30% growth in tourist traffic between 2009 and 2010, from 100 ships and 260,000 passengers to 120 ships and more than 390,000 passengers. The pattern is set to continue with 135 cruise vessel calls in 2011and 475,000 passengers.            As well as Port Rashid, DP World also developed and operates South America's largest and most modern cruise terminal, Quinquela Martin in Buenos Aires, Argentina, located in its Terminales Rio de la Plata (TRP). - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Having travelled more than 48,000 kilometres using only solar energy, the MS Tûranor PlanetSolar has docked in Abu Dhabi to complete its journey that began last September. The biggest solar ship ever built is currently docked at the Abu Dhabi Marina, close to the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec), where it will remain for the duration of the World Future Energy Summit 2012.            The ship, which departed on September 27, 2010, from Monaco's harbour for a journey around the world from east to west, will be a guest of honour at WFES 2012 as part of its official national stopover partnership with WFES 2012.            Measuring about 101 feet long and 49 feet wide, the MS Tûranor represents what can be done today with solar energy. Over the past year, the ship has been circling the globe, passing by Miami to the Panama Canal, to the Philippines to Hong Kong to Doha and Abu Dhabi and will end its journey back in Monaco.            Dr Sultan Ahmad Al Jaber, Chief Executive of Masdar, said: "We are pleased to welcome PlanetSolar to Abu Dhabi for the fifth annual World Future Energy Summit. PlanetSolar's voyage around the world spreads an important message about renewable energy and sustainable living and encompasses the wise leadership's vision to create a greener future though a unique platform. Clean solutions            "Sustainable transport has an important role to play in developing future clean transport solutions and projects such as PlanetSolar and Solar Impulse, a solar aeroplane, demonstrate innovative ideas in sustainable transport solutions," he added.            The World Energy Council estimates that total fuel demand in all transport modes by 2050 will increase by 30 per cent (Tollway) to 82 per cent (Freeway) above the 2010 levels and will be driven entirely by trucks, buses, trains, ships and airplanes.            "The United Nations estimates that the shipping industry alone is responsible for 4.5 per cent of the world's greenhouse gas emissions, and PlanetSolar's voyage actively highlights the importance of sustainability within this industry.            "On a local level, Abu Dhabi Ports Company is actively promoting sustainability in shipping within the UAE and in 2011, received three awards for sustainability in their operations," said Dr Al Jaber.            Abu Dhabi is taking strides to enhance sustainable transport through a variety of measures at both Masdar and beyond. Masdar City utilises electric vehicles and Personal Rapid Transit vehicles (driverless automated vehicles) within the city.            Masdar has partnered with Etihad to cooperate across a range of activities to reduce the airline's carbon footprint through sustainable and energy efficient measures.            The World Future Energy Summit 2012 is being held from tomorrow to Thursday at Adnec and is expected to see around 26,000 attendees, including 3,000 delegates, 650 exhibiting companies, and nearly 20 national pavilions. – Gulf News Â
Emirati woman snatches runner-up title in Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies IFAHR Cup for Amateur riders            Muscat - Norway's amateur female jockey Selija Sturin leapt into victory on the horse "Muhal' to snatch the crown in the first round of the Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies IFAHR Cup for Amateur riders.            UAE's Shazra AlHajjaj finished close to Selija securing the runner-up cup in the world's richest championship for amateur lady riders which was held at Alfaleej racecourse in the capital of Oman. The event was organised under the umbrella of the Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan World Festival for Arabian horses. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Preparations on in full swing as WFES 2012 gets underway on Monday            With less than three days to the opening ceremony of the World Future Energy Summit 2012, preparations are on in full swing at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The Summit will see delegates and visitors from over 140 countries congregating in the Emirate from January16-19.            Over 26,000 attendees, including 3,000 delegates, 650 exhibiting companies and 20 national pavilions, are participating at WFES 2012. During the Summit in the UAE capital, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will launch the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
US$1 million donation by UAE national for Masdar Institute's YFEL program            Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program of Abu Dhabi's Masdar Institute of Science and Technology received US$1 million donation from member of the UAE's Federal National Council (FNC) Sultan bin Rashed Al Dhaheri, according to Masdar Institute in an emailed press release.            UAE National Contributes to Masdar Institute's Young Future Energy Leaders Program Al Dhaheri's contribution is expected to further strengthen YFEL's continuing initiatives to educate, inspire and position students and young professionals to become future leaders capable of tackling the world's most pressing challenges, according to the independent, research-driven graduate-level university which is focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies.            Masdar Institute's outreach program aims to develop tomorrow's leaders in the fields of advanced energy and sustainability. This is the second such initiative by a UAE national towards empowering youth and developing human capital in the UAE through the YFEL program. In 2011, Mohammed Bin Kardous Al Ameri, an Emirati philanthropist and an enthusiastic supporter of YFEL contributed Dh1 million to the program that seeks to provide a platform to engage youth in debates and global discussions in advanced energy and sustainability.            "Education holds the key to social and economic progress. At the same time, it is equally important for the youth to acquire special workplace skills, leadership qualities and professional training, which have become mandatory in today's labour market. The responsibility to provide these special skills lies with the community. As a member of the community and a UAE national, I feel privileged to contribute to the YFEL program, which nurtures and develops today's youth and students into capable decision-makers of tomorrow. I see a great future for the UAE and its people through Masdar and its various initiatives. I am confident the YFEL program will continue to benefit more members in the coming months," Sultan bin Rashed Al Dhaheri commented.            "Knowledge-building measures, especially through outreach programs, are essential to develop the society for the future. In this aspect, we acknowledge Sultan bin Rashed Al Dhaheri's support with his noble contribution. This generous contribution is a testament to the value and the awareness Masdar has effectively created among the community, and demonstrates the importance of renewable energy and sustainable development, as well as the creation of a platform that enables our youth to excel," Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of Masdar Institute Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber said.            "This is a remarkable gesture because these voluntary initiatives reflect the collective commitment by key members of the community towards developing capable leaders for the future. We thank the UAE's wise leadership for their support to all our measures and we believe similar efforts by the wider community will help nurture the future energy industry leaders," Al Jaber added.            "The commitment by Sultan bin Rashed Al Dhaheri indicates the willingness of the UAE nationals to contribute to the development of human capital in the UAE. This gesture concurs with the objectives of Abu Dhabi's leadership to make the emirate a knowledge-based economy. We are confident with the support of the country's leadership, programs such as YFEL will make a remarkable impact in creating the right environment for youth and we welcome the participation of the Emirati community towards achieving our goals," Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President, Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, said.            Al Dhaheri is a prominent member of the UAE business community is among the founders of the National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD) and the Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (ADNIC), and continues to be on the board of both the institutions.            As a board member of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce since 1971, Al-Dhaheri continues to contribute to the establishing and strengthening Abu Dhabi's trade relations with other countries. He is also the Chairman of Sultan Bin Rashed Company (Sultaco), a nationally-owned trading company based in Abu Dhabi with branches in Dubai, Sharjah and Al Ain. Established in 1968, Sultaco has an exhaustive list of illustrious projects and achievements.            As a dynamic forum, YFEL encourages highly qualified and talented students and young professionals to become proactive in their contribution towards debates and global discussion in advanced energy and sustainability. In addition, it helps members to enhance knowledge and leadership skills to achieve professional goals, organises short courses, workshops and seminars, offers opportunities to share innovative ideas in advanced energy and sustainability with peers, provides networking opportunities and visibility through high level events and meetings, while recognising members' contributions and accomplishments. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
     Islamabad - The construction of a strategic highway between Wana and Angoor Ada, South Waziristan, Pakistan, will be funded by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) through the Khalifa Bin Zayed Foundation, the UAE Project to Assist Pakistan has announced.      The US$38 million Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan Wana-Angoor Ada Highway will be completed by the beginning of next year 2013, according to Abdullah Al-Ghafli, Director of the UAE Project to Assist Pakistan (UAE PAP), in a speech at a ceremony in Islam Abad to mark the first anniversary of the UAE PAP. An agreement on the construction of the highway was signed by the management of UAE PAP and the competent Pakistani authorities during the ceremony. Funding of the 50 kilometre vital road was instructed by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.      In attendance at the ceremony were Director of the UAE PAP Abdullah Khalifa Al Ghafli, Major General Zahir Shah, Commander of the GOC 45th Engineers Division of the Pakistani Armed Forces, Ambassador of the UAE to Pakistan Eissa Basha Al-Nuaimi, Zahid Ali Shah, Environment Minister of the government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, senior officials, members of diplomatic missions, representatives of Pakistani and international humanitarian organisations.      In remarks at the ceremony, Al-Nuaimi said the new project reflects the deep-rooted and long standing relations between the UAE and Pakistan, He reiterated the UAE's commitment of the UAE's leadership, namely President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi '&' Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces, to assisting reconstruction and development efforts in Pakistan.      In doing so, the UAE's leadership are following in the footsteps of the late founding father Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al-Nahyan who laid the foundations for the strong bilateral relations between the two courtiers, according to the UAE diplomat.      "The UAE PAP represents a landmark in relations with Pakistan and is among the pioneering efforts launched in South Asia in response to the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals , the UAE is now the top donor of assistance to Pakistan," he added.      In a presentation on the UAE's efforts for Pakistan, Abdullah Al-Ghafli noted that UAE's PAP, along with infrastructure development, is constructing 51 projects including 41 schools, 10 institutes and colleges.      He also noted that PAP is planning to build new model schools with a total cost of around US$26 million.      For his part, Major General Zahir Shah said that with US$ 110 million in total value, the UAE's Project to Assist Pakistan is giving positive results in Pakistan's targeted sectors such as education, water, transport and public health.      He conveyed greetings for His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed from General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
National Committee for International Humanitarian Law launches web portal            Dr Abdul Rahim Yousif Al Awadi Assistant to Foreign Minister for Legal Affairs, officially launched yesterday the web portal of the National Committee for International Humanitarian Law.            International humanitarian law is a set of rules which seek, for humanitarian reasons, to limit the effects of armed conflict. It protects persons who are not or are no longer participating in the hostilities and restricts the means and methods of warfare. International humanitarian law is also known as the law of war or the law of armed conflict.            The newly launched website shines light on the vision and mission of the National Committee for International Humanitarian Law. It mirrors UAE's keenness to give protection to human rights and uphold the human dignity as enshrined in the country's constitution and the teachings of Islam. The web portal also contains reports on the achievements of the National Committee in the related field. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
RCA dispatches 940 tonnes of food staff to Mogadishu            The Red Crescent Authority (RCA) sent yesterday a ship to the Somali Capital, Mogadishu, carrying 940 tonnes of food staff and other relief materials to help the victims of drought and famine there.            The humanitarian aid includes food stuff, medicines, clothes, blanket, sheltering materials, school devices and electrical appliances.            The move follows the directives by the UAE leadership to urgently dispatch humanitarian aid to Somalia to alleviate exacerbating humanitarian situation. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Abdullah bin Zayed receives U. S. Congress Delegation, International Quartet Envoy            H. H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister, has received in his office at the ministry delegation of senior assistants of U. S. Congressmen. The two sides discussed the bilateral relations between the UAE and U. S. and explored the ways to bolster them in different areas of mutual interest.            The U. S. officials lauded the UAE achievements in the political, economic, social and cultural fields. Sheikh Abdullah also received the Middle East's International Quartet Envoy Tony Blair. They discussed the latest developments in the region and the efforts being exerted regarding the Middle East peace process, as we as the latest developments of the Palestinian issue. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Hyderabad - Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Minister of Foreign Trade has stressed the strength and depth of the cooperation ties between the UAE and Asian countries, especially with India. Â Â Â Â Â Addressing the Partnership 2012 Summit, organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry and Government of Andhra Pradesh in Hyderabad City, she underscored the significance of increasing and diversifying the trade and investment cooperation ties among the South countries to further enhance the economic and political relations, as well as focusing on the sectors that constitute priorities for development. Â Â Â Â Â Sheikh Lubna noted that the UAE economy enjoys a number of ingredients for attracting foreign investments in the framework of its strategy for diversification of sources of income, and focus of the government on building promising sectors such as renewable energy, specialised and logistics services and technology sectors. Â Â Â Â Â The UAE minister participated in the inauguration of the exhibition held at the sideline of the summit. Some delegations had showcased partnership and investment opportunities. She also attended the UAE-Indian Gathering for Executive Directors at the sideline of the event. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mubarak Al-Nahyan, Minister of Public Works and Chairman of the National Media Council on Saturday called all employees of the council to participate in the "Desert Clean-up Campaign" which kicks off on 20 January in response to a call by H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister through Twitter. Â Â Â Â Â Sheikh Hamdan said the campaign will receive response from all young men and women of the UAE. Â Â Â Â Â "Sheikh Abdullah's initiative reminds us of the efforts of the late founding father Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al-Nahyan who succeeded in giving the UAE a prominent stature among nations engaged in protecting the environment," Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mubarak said. Â Â Â Â Â "The initiative is further proof that environmental protection has become established in the UAE's policies based on the country's heritage which is rich in innovative relevant initiatives on the way to sustainable development as an example to be globally followed," Sheikh Hamdan added. Â Â Â Â Â Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed tweeted to his followers: "How about we all take part in cleaning up the desert? I'd like to participate if you agree on January 20." Along with NMC, the Centre for Waste Management Abu Dhabi, the Environment Agency- Abu Dhabi (EAD), Abu Dhabi's Environment Friends Society, National Bank of Abu Dhabi, Takatof. Union National, Sanid, the UAE's New National Emergency Response Programme and other bodies. Â Â Â Â Â The nationwide campaign which kicks in the seven emirates aims to raise public awareness of the importance of keeping the desert free of harmful waste. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
     Prices for a number of building materials showed changes during December 2011, compared with November 2011, according to the latest monthly statistical report issued by Statistics Centre- Abu Dhabi (SCAD).      It added that prices for transport equipment increased by 11.3 per cent as all items in this group registered price increases of between 1.3 per cent and 43.5 per cent. The glass group rose by 6.4 per cent. In addition, prices of concrete rose by 6.0 per cent and wood rose by 2. 2 per cent.      Prices of Wires for Apartments decreased by 3. 6 per cent, Sink Stainless Steel with Mixer-Single by 2.4 per cent and Steel" by 1. 6 per cent.      During December 2011 compared with December 2010, the strongest increase at 39.8 per cent was in prices for transport equipment. Prices of Aggregates and Sand rose by 18.1 per cent as all items in this group registered price increases of between 3.6 per cent and 41.7 per cent. In addition, prices of Tiles and Marble rose by 12.1 per cent and Waterproofing Products rose by 10.7 per cent.      Some other commodity groups showed a decline in average prices during December 2011, compared with December 2010. Prices of power cable fell by 10.4 per cent, (PVC) Pipes by 8.0 per cent, concrete" by 6.6 per cent and Block by 6.4 per cent.      Most of the commodity groups of building materials recorded higher average prices during Q4 2011 compared with Q3 2011. Increases ranged between 0.8 per cent for false ceiling and 15.9 per cent for the glass group.      The average prices for diesel and roofing materials stabilised during the Q4 2011, compared with Q3 2011.      A number of commodity group prices declined between Q4 2011 and Q3 2011. The average prices of Sink Stainless Steel with Mixer-Single decreased by 41.9 per cent, Power cable by 9.3 per cent, concrete by 7.7 per cent, Wires for Apartments by 7.1 per cent and Aggregates and Sand by 6.3 per cent. The average prices of fifteen commodity groups increased during Q4 2011 compared with Q4 2010. Increases ranged between 0.8 per cent for "Cement" and 30.7 per cent for "Transport equipment".            Among these commodities "Aggregates '&' Sand" increased by 19.9 per cent, "Tiles and Marble" by 13.5 per cent, "Wires for Residential Towers" by 13.4 per cent and "Waterproofing Products" by 11.8 per cent.            The average price for diesel stabilised during Q4 2011, compared with Q4 2010. Some other commodity groups showed a decline in average prices during Q4 2011, compared with Q4 2010. Prices of (PVC) Pipes fell by 8.0 per cent, Block by 6.4 per cent, and Natural Stone by 5.9 per cent. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           For more than a year, energy and water consumption efficiency have been brought to the fore in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, with new projects awarded building permits only if they prove efficient use of resources, said a senior official.            Urban planning authorities are now drawing up guidelines that will also make existing structures sustainable.            These guidelines will call for more efficient water, lighting, cooling and insulation fixtures, among various other elements, so that older buildings and villas also make the best use of the emirate's scarce water resources and adapt better to the intense summer heat, said Humaid Al Hammadi, associate planner for Estidama at the Urban Planning Council (UPC).            He added that producing desalinated water is extremely cost-and energy-intensive, and we need to make better use of the emirate's limited water resources. "We can also save a lot of energy by simply insulating structures better from the heat and making use of available wind. These are the kinds of measures we want to encourage in order to make community life sustainable in the emirate," he said. Requirements            The measures will be part of the UPC's Estidama (sustainability) Pearl Rating System for existing buildings, which are expected to be introduced by the end of the year. The system will mirror the framework used to rate the sustainability of new projects in the emirate.            "It is clearly more difficult to change a building's sustainability rating after it has already been built, but we hope to tackle this by pushing owners to adopt small but effective measures like water-efficient taps and energy-saving lights," he added. Details on how landlords and property management companies would be urged to implement these standards are, however, not yet available.            "We are still discussing the exact requirements for existing buildings and villas. What we do know is that despite the initial investment that will be required, these standards will lead to long-term savings in operation and maintenance costs, and allow the emirate to make better use of its resources," Al Hammadi told Gulf News.            He added that even in new projects rated at one Pearl, water consumption in the long run is reduced by 21 per cent when compared to buildings that are not designed under these standards, and consumption of energy is also 41 per cent lower. Granted permits            Since September 2010, new construction project designs in the emirate have been required to obtain a minimum rating of one Estidama Pearl before being granted building permits. Government building designs have had to be even more sustainable and acquire at least a two-Pearl rating before getting the go-ahead.            Since then, 64 project designs have been awarded ratings by the UPC. These projects are then audited and rated during their construction as well.            "The rating system for new projects will also be expanded this year. When an Estidama-rated building is completed, we will review how efficiently it is being run for two years," Al Hammadi added. Pearl Rating System            Abu Dhabi: The Estidama Pearl Rating System measures how sustainable a building is culturally, environmentally, economically and socially, and is tailored to the climatic and cultural needs of Abu Dhabi.            Based on this system, buildings are rated at one-Pearl if they achieve the minimum level of sustainability by using efficient water and lighting systems, minimising waste production and being made of durable, environmentally friendly and locally available materials, among other elements. A building that is more sustainable than the minimum requirements set by the Urban Planning Council (one-Pearl) is given a higher Pearl rating, the highest rating being five Pearls.            In a bid to encourage developers to build more sustainable projects, the Urban Planning Council will soon open up three show villa projects that are rated at 3 Pearls each.            These show projects, which display the benefits of constructing beyond the mandatory one-pearl Estidama rating for villas, will be located in Abu Dhabi's Khalifa City A, as well as in Al Ain and Al Gharbia. – Gulf News Â
Research on to develop new fodder            In a move to develop indigenous salinity–resistant fodder, the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) has embarked on a new research project in association with the UAE University’s Faculty of Food and Agriculture.            As part of the project, around 150 gene types of wild plants that grow naturally in the UAE with varying degrees of salinity will be studied in comparison to the Rhodes grass.            The move is part of the authority’s efforts to support food security policies in the emirate and aims at assessing the production and nutritional value of a number of feed crops that could substitute the recently banned Rhodes grass, which is a highly water-intensive crop.            The growth and production of these plants in three levels of water salinity will be assessed and the one that proves more resistant to salinity will be recommended to the farmers. Subsequently, their palatability for the cattle and impact on the health of the cattle will also be assessed.            Saeed Jasim Mohammed, acting Director of Communication and Community Service at the ADFCA, said that the authority’s research and development division had embarked on this project in order to identify indigenous crops that withstand the climatic and other conditions specific to the country.            “This will help us produce salinity-resistant fodders which will result in reduction in the consumption of ground water for feed production. The partnership with the Faculty of Food and Agriculture is to take advantage of its long-standing expertise in studies and research of this kind,†Mohammed said.            He said that the project is an ambitious one aimed at utilising the farming lands with a high level of salinity in the best way and increasing agricultural income. “The result of this project will allow us to use crops cultivated in hard conditions not conducive to growth. Depletion of fresh water has become a major hurdle to sustainable farming in the country, a problem compounded by wrongful grazing of cattle, which led to massive destruction of useful local fodders,†he added. Mohammed pointed out that the cultivation of water-intensive crops like Rhodes and clover had resulted in massive depletion and salinity of ground water, necessitating suitable alternatives for feed crops that meet the needs of the farmers.            The three-year long project, for which the preliminary work and technical studies have already been completed, will comprise experiments in the Research and Development Division’s labs in Bani Yas and Al Salamat Research Station and the execution of the experiments about animal growth at the farm of the Faculty of Food and Agriculture in Sweihan in the emirate. – Khaleej Times Â
International kite fest has visitors on a high            For a lazy Friday morning in the city, the swift flow of crowds to a mall is something unusual. Kite lovers in the city headed for Dubai’s Outlet Mall for a day of kite flying as the International Kite Festival took off on a high note.            Dee Troup, British expatriate, had brought along her two-year-old daughter Maddie to the festival as the little one joined her parents with a small kite of her own. “This is the first time she is flying a kite and she seems to enjoy it a lot. I am surprised it’s so windy and we didn’t expect to fly kites in Dubai ever. It’s a wonderful surprise,†said Dee as she enjoyed with her family.            For Elise Allain from the US and her friends, the colourful kites flying across the sky were a wonderful way to start the weekend. “There is very little you can do on a Friday morning and there was no way we could miss this festival. Most countries have kite festivals and it is a great sport which needs to be promoted here,†said Elise.            The centrepiece of the attractions was a large kite flown by a team of professionals from India. Crafted from wood and cloth, the kite owned by ‘Team Mangalore’ has officially been acknowledged the largest kite in Asia.            Kites of all sizes and shapes made their way to the festival as families set out for a fun-filled afternoon. Ali and Ammar Buhammed, representing the Kuwaiti team, were in high spirits as the breezy weather was right for kite-flying.            “It’s very windy and we have decided to tie the kites with the FJ cruiser of one of our friends. Anchoring the large kites to our body can be challenging in this weather,†said Ammar.            Flying seven kites for the show, the blue teddy bear and white tiger were one of the first kites displayed at the festival.            “We get the kites designed by professionals in New Zealand and take them with us whenever we travel for shows. It’s a hobby for us and it is a great way to relax and enjoy with people who are learning to fly kites for the first time,†said Ammar. For David Gomberg, a kite-flying professional from the US, the windy weather was a perfect match for the kites he had brought along with his teammate Jim Martin.            “Flying large kites is always popular with the crowds. The octopus is one of the most popular designs we have and it’s always a hit,†said David.            Kite enthusiasts continued to make their way to the mall and the designated flying area as the professional teams showcased their creations.            For Faisal Khan and Dilnaaz Khan, the sport has always held a special place in the family. “The month of January is known for kite flying in India and we always make it a point to travel and attend the festivities. We are very happy to see the same vibes and feel in Dubai and this is something special for us,†said Dilnaaz.             The event is being hosted as part of the festivities during the month-long Dubai Shopping Festival. – Khaleej Times Â
           When Radwa El Ghamry told her family she wanted to jump from a plane and glide to the ground with a parachute strapped to her back, tears began streaming from their eyes.            They thought skydiving was too dangerous and that it was an activity only for men.            "It was something strange for the whole family and they all started crying because I wanted to go jumping," she said.            Eventually, they accepted her love of the extreme sport.            Ms El Ghamry is one of four women who are flying through cultural barriers at 13,000 feet (3,962 metres).            They are the first female Arab skydiving team in the Gulf.            Ms El Ghamry and Nada Attia, both from Egypt, have joined Emiratis Shaikha Al Muhairi and Hamda Saif, both from Dubai, in training at Skydive Dubai, a skydiving facility, to become a four-way team formation. The latter are the first Emirati women to participate in the sport.            The girls, all in their late teens to early 20s, will compete against other skydivers. "Before I came to Dubai I was in military training and we did military jumps from the sky," Ms El Ghamry said.          "I always liked the sky when I was young and wanted to go to the galaxy." She said there was no skydiving base back home, so she came to the UAE last year and joined her cousin, Ms Attia, who was doing a school project about skydiving with two of her classmates, Ms Al Muhairi and Ms Saif.            In June last year, the classmates showcased their skydiving 3D game project - which allows users to experience the feel of jumping from an aircraft without the actual action - in the Young Entrepreneur Competition.            Their project earned them recognition from Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, the Crown Prince of Dubai, who is a skydiving enthusiast. They were also introduced to Skydive Dubai.            Nasr Al Niyadi, a skydiver from the Emirates Aviation Society, gifted the ladies their first tandem, a version of skydiving in which a student is connected through a harness to an instructor.            "Skydiving was the first thing I liked from sports," said Ms Al Muhairi. "It was weird at the beginning for my family but they are happy and supporting me that I am doing something new."            All four women agreed that their first skydiving experience together was phenomenal. "After we tried the tandem, we loved it," Ms Saif said. "You feel so free up there, you can do anything you want - you flip, you turn, you circle, you can't explain how it feels.            "But at first we were afraid to go for it because we are Arabs and it's difficult to do what we do." Through a turn of fate, Ms Saif met Chris Colwell, who spoke at TedxDubai last October about his adjustment to life as a quadriplegic following a skydiving accident in his hometown of DeLand, Florida.            "Somehow I heard about the girls and their project, so I wanted to see them, but it didn't happen," Mr Colwell said. "But one day I was at a sports shop in Deira City Centre and I heard someone behind me say, 'Chrrrrris', and it was Hamda.            "She was standing there and it was very shocking to me because she was the first woman who spoke to me wearing an abaya," he said.            Since then, the group has formed a friendship with Mr Colwell, who documents his journey on YouTube. "I can see the passion in them, although they have a lot of fears," Mr Colwell said. "They have many people around them that don't have the confidence and are quick to crush their ideas.            "But now they can see that anything is possible because they really want it."They are pioneering something and doing something that hasn't been done before, so there is a lot of pressure on them, but they are the right ones for the job."            Ms El Ghamry agreed, saying: "We want to send a message to all the girls: if you love something, you have to go for it and think about how you can do it. "Don't accept no for an answer, but of course with respect to your religion and culture."            Ms Attia embraces the idea that the team is breaking cultural barriers. "This is the only sport I want to continue throughout, especially because not many Arab and Muslim girls do it. So we're kind of special," she said. Mr Colwell corrected her. "You're not kind of special," he said. "You are special." – The National Â
Azzam ready to make a splash in home waters           With just a day left before the in-port race and then the start of Leg 3 of the Volvo Ocean Race, the five boats that arrived here last Wednesday got a feel of local conditions in a short practice race yesterday afternoon.            Groupama, who finished the Leg 2 Stage 2 sprint into Abu Dhabi ahead of Telefonica, finished first in yesterday's non-scoring 3.6 nautical mile race.            Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing finished second, ahead of Puma Ocean Racing, Camper and overall leaders Telefonica.            Meanwhile, fans — who get to see some action in today's pro-am race — will see the five boats battle for the first set of points in Leg 3 in tomorrow's Etihad Airways In-Port Race.            The hour-long event, which starts at 2pm tomorrow, is the first points-scoring competition of Abu Dhabi's fortnight-long stopover, with the home team Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing looking to cheer their fans with a win.            Team Telefonica are leading with 66 points, eight ahead of Camper, with Groupama on 42, Puma Ocean Racing on 28, Abu Dhabi on 18 and Team Sanya currently on four.            Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing's skipper Ian Walker said his team are looking to garner some useful points in tomorrow's in-port race.            "It has been a rollercoaster start to this race. We've experienced every emotion and are only 11,000 miles into the race," said the British double Olympic medallist. Local knowledge            "Getting to Abu Dhabi from Cape Town was so important for us and, now we are here, getting a great result in front of so many home supporters is our sole focus."            Walker, who sailed the emirate's seas for nine months last year in preparation for the Volvo Ocean Race challenge, said that local knowledge will help the team, but maintained that, with the five-strong fleet so evenly matched, boat handling will most likely prove the decisive factor in the race for victory.            "The in-port course is very tight, so it negates our home turf advantage to some extent. Where this race will be won will be on handling, tactics and, most importantly, getting a fast start. This style of stadium racing is all about getting across the start line in the best position — the rich get richer as there is just not the time to make up lost ground. The teams have all proven that they are hungry to win, but we believe we are hungrier," said Walker.            For Abu Dhabi's Adel Khalid, the first Gulf national to compete in the 39-year history of the Volvo Ocean Race, tomorrow's race represents a magical moment to compete in front of his friends and family. Support group            Having seen off competition from 120 other UAE nationals for his spot in the onboard crew, the 23-year-old Olympian rallied the local community — both national and expatriate — to come down and cheer on Azzam, the Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing's boat.            "This is the build-up to everything the entire team has been working on for 18 months. We have had so much support since arriving in Abu Dhabi and we need it more than ever this weekend. I have always said being a part of this project was a dream — on Friday that dream really comes true," Khalid said. – Gulf News Â
           It's hardly unusual for the denizens of the internet to tell television makers, often in less than respectful terms, where to go. Now, though, two Emirati brothers are taking that advice more literally. This week Mohamed and Peyman Parham Al Awadhi began shooting Peeta Planet, a pioneering television travel show that will take its cues on where to go and what to see from the two men's followers on Twitter.            The brothers say the series - the first to be made by their production company, Qabeela New Media - is the UAE's first example of a new genre called social TV.            Having already used social media to help build a following for their Wild Peeta chain of shawarma restaurants - discussing menus and decor with their online fans - the brothers are no strangers to utilising social media for business purposes, but they say Peeta Planet will take the concept further.            This week, guided by social media suggestions, they have been filming at various locations around the UAE. The brothers are executive producers and on-screen hosts, and the show is being shot by an award-winning documentary film crew.            The Dh437,000, hour-long pilot will also feature material to be shot in Japan at the end of the month.            Four further 45-minute episodes will be made between March and May in Australia, the UK, the US and Brazil. There will be versions in Arabic and English.            "It's a reality show driven by social media," says Mohamed, 38. "We thought, wouldn't it be cool to create this show which is about two Emiratis who started this shawarma concept and met all these amazing people on social media because of it, and what if we travel around the world and meet other social media communities?            "And what if social media communities tell us where to go, who to meet, what to eat, what adventures to have? With social TV, from day one, from the time of idea conception, you're on Twitter and Facebook talking about it."            The inspiration for the show came when, exhausted after the launch of their first restaurant at Dubai Healthcare City in 2009, the brothers urgently needed a holiday but were unsure where to go.            They turned to their social-media contacts for ideas and, when someone suggested Sri Lanka, they decided to go there. Once in Colombo they asked for more ideas and their followers quickly nominated places to stay and sights to see, even helping them hire a car and driver.            "We stopped at the most amazing villages, we passed through so many terrains, rice fields and jungles and seaside places, and we ate the most amazing food," he adds. "And it wasn't anything out of Lonely Planet, it was real people telling us where to go.            We posted pictures, and when we came back everybody who followed us said, 'Thank you so much for doing that, because we felt that we took this mini-vacation'.            "So that gave us the idea, what if we create this show that is highly social, that's not like any other travel show anyone has ever seen? We think the future of TV is social, and we're at the edge of this new frontier of television."            Though the brothers will appear on screen, Mohamed insists the real stars will be the people they meet on their travels. They plan to make other programmes, but will maintain the distinctive social network style.            "When we created the company we said we wanted to create socially conscious, highly social media-savvy shows, so that's what we're going to do going forward.            "I think it makes for relevant programming, content that people are actually interested in, that means something to them."            Jonathan Ali Khan, the managing director of Ras Al Khaimah-based Wild Planet Productions, believes the brothers' approach will appeal to viewers. "It's high time the TV industry realised that new media is something that people are turning more and more towards, and social media is a hugely important component of that new media," he says. "People like to interact and participate and become more involved in programmes.            "Innovators like these two gentlemen have obviously seen an opportunity to capitalise on the viewers' interests, and that's an important sign of the times. The viewer is going to become much more significant in the equation." – The National Â
           Imagenation Abu Dhabi, in partnership with twofour54 tadreeb, yesterday announced the six finalists of the first annual Arab Film Studio's Short Film Competition.            The finalists will now participate in a three-month film training program and series of challenges which will culminate with one winner being awarded 50,000 AED to develop a feature screenplay for Image Nation Abu Dhabi.            Imagenation Abu Dhabi launched Arab Film Studio in the fall as part of its mission to identify, train and foster budding Emirati filmmakers and provide them with the discipline and training needed for successful careers in the film industry. The call for entries was announced in early November with contestants asked to submit a brief three-minute video. The entries were then reviewed and contestants interviewed, with six finalists selected.            The six finalists, who are all UAE Nationals, include Eisa Al Sabousi, Fatima Al Dhaheri, Khalid Al Abdulla, Mariam Khanji, Omar Butti and Sarah Al Ameri. They will create teams with members representing any nationality. Teams will then participate in a three-month intensive film training program to learn all elements of film making from development through production and marketing. Courses will be delivered by film professionals from twofour54 in partnership with the BBC Academy and SAE Institute Dubai. Throughout the program, teams will participate in activities including script writing, make up and sound design with the final task being a short film produced by each team. The short films will be reviewed by a distinguished panel of international judges with one film selected as the overall winner.            Wayne Borg, Deputy CEO and Chief Operating Officer, twofour54 commented: "twofour54 is committed to the development of the Arab world's media and entertainment industry and we are always looking to support initiatives such as Arab Film Studio. The number and quality of entries clearly demonstrates the growing interest that young UAE Nationals have in developing films that tell their story and reflect them culturally. twofour54 tadreeb will now provide the finalists with world-class training to further develop the skills they need to succeed in the media industry." - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           A first-of-its-kind youth initiative to discover and invest in rising stars in the media was announced by Dubai Press Club yesterday.            Called ‘Youth Take the Stage', the competition allows students to participate in shaping the 11th annual Arab Media Forum, to be held in May under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The competition is open to media and communications students studying in UAE universities, giving them the opportunity to develop content and themes for a workshop during the forum.            The best submission will be presented during the workshop with the winning student rubbing shoulders with media professionals and participating experts.            "By using the latest media tools available, Arab youth were able to play a major role in changing perceptions and increasing urgency for change in the region," said Mariam Bin Fahd, executive director of the Dubai Press Club.            "We're looking to nurture young talent by giving them a platform to tell the media industry how we can better serve the issues they care about. We also hope to give young people access to the industry's thought leaders and experts for a real exchange of ideas."            Entries can be submitted at http://www.arabmediaforum.ae. The deadline is February 8. Other terms and conditions may be found on the website. – Gulf News Â
President of Greece receives Abdullah bin ZayedAthens - President Karolos Papoulias of Greece received here yesterday UAE Foreign Minister H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Sheikh Abdullah conveyed to President Papoulias greetings of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his wishes of further progress and prosperity to the people of Greece. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â He also stressed the importance of strengthening ties between the two countries in all domains, including energy and investments. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â President Papoulias asked Sheikh Abdullah to pass on his greetings to President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and expressed Greece's keenness to further boost relations with the UAE. The meeting also touched on bilateral relations and ways to enhance them, as well as topics of mutual interest. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Athens - Visiting UAE Foreign Minister H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and his host Vice President of Greece Theodore Pangalos opened here yesterday the UAE-Greece Economic Forum.            In his welcome address, Sheikh Abdullah said prospects for further expansion in bilateral relations were possible under the political will of the two governments.            ''The Forum aims to boost and facilitate channels of communication between public and private sectors in the two friendly countries for expanding avenues of joint economic and investment cooperation,'' Sheikh Abdullah added.            ''Our interest in this friendly country (Greece) springs out of the fact that despite the difficult economic circumstances the world economy, including the Greek financial crisis, is passing through, we believe that there is a hope for recovery, which requires collective cooperation from all of us in order to maintain our achievements in the world economy hierarchy.            The UAE foreign minister told the gathering that he was confident that Greece, driven by its rich historic and civilisational legacy, will weather the storm.            According to him, the UAE is interested in enhancing its trade and investment relations with Greece.            Sheikh Abdullah said that stimulating greater trade and economic exchange between the two friendly countries calls on economists, businessmen and investors to translate investment opportunities into real, viable ventures that satisfy market demands and spur economic growth. ''The financial crunch has affected economies of countries and the best mechanism to address it is to further boost joint cooperation, explore investment opportunities and new markets as well as to achieve integration for building capacities in pursuit of economic growth and addressing potential future challenges,'' he added.            Sheikh Abdullah hoped long EU-GCC negotiations would culminate into creation of a free trade zone which, he affirmed, would have far-reaching positive impact on joint trade and investment relations.            On his turn, the Greek Vice President of Greece Theodore Pangalos said Athens lends special attention to its relations with the UAE.            The UAE, he added, offers attractive investment climate which lured international businesses, making it a prominent world-class trade and financial hub and magnet destination for international companies, providing a gateway to the lucrative regional markets. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
Athens - UAE Foreign Minister H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his Greek counterpart Stavros Dimas yesterday opened the first meeting of the UAE-Greece Joint Committee.            In his opening speech, Sheikh Abdullah thanked Minister Dimas for hosting the meeting and congratulated on the formation of the new Greek government.            Sheikh Abdullah expressed UAE's keenness to strengthen ties with Greece, saying the committee's first meeting was a result of a sincere will to further bolster cooperation and coordination on different issues. He said the meeting coincided with the Economic Forum "which constitutes an opportunity for the interested parties in the government and private sectors to exchange views and to identify investment potentials in Greece." Sheikh Abdullah emphasised the importance of enhancing the economic partnership between the two countries by increasing the size of direct investments and by finalising ratification of the agreement on the avoidance of double taxation. The UAE ratified the agreement on 27 June 2010.            He indicated that the joint committee meeting will discuss ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation in commercial, financial, investment and judicial fields, as well as transport and energy. It will also review draft Memoranda of Understanding for cooperation in higher education, defence, tourism, archaeology and healthcare.            For his part, the Greek Foreign Minister welcomed Sheikh Abdullah and his accompanying delegation "His Highness the Foreign Minister, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and I had an excellent meeting and discussion. We discussed bilateral and regional issues within the framework of our meeting and the convening of the first Greek-United Arab Emirates Joint Cooperation Committee, with which we are starting this major effort to further develop not only political relations - which are at an excellent level - but also our economic relations, which are developing and have a lot of room for further growth, he added.            He went on to say: "I would like to thank His Highness for his personal efforts to make this meeting succeed and for the participation of many important UAE companies and investors. We have a great friend of Greece, and we assure him that our country will be a longstanding friend, ally and partner of the United Arab Emirates. Again, I welcome him and the investors and businesspersons from the UAE, and I wish them every success." At the end of the meeting, the UAE and Greek foreign ministers attended signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation between the two countries in financial markets. The MoU entails exchange of expertise and best practices in regulation of financial markets.            The MoU was signed by Abdullah Al Turaifi, Chief Executive Officer of the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) and Konstantinos Botopoulos, Chairman of the Hellenic Capital Market Commission. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will return to the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2012 to launch the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All. This will be Ban Ki-moon's second consecutive year addressing Heads of State and international delegates at the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi.            The Secretary-General's return to Abu Dhabi underscores the importance he places on energy issues, most notably his new Sustainable Energy for All Initiative. The Secretary-General has set three objectives for his Initiative to be achieved by 2030: ensure universal access to modern energy services; double the rate of improvement in energy efficiency; and double the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.            "I commend the UAE for hosting this important event," said the Secretary-General. "The World Future Energy Summit brings together the key stakeholders needed to make both the Initiative and the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All a success" "I expect this Summit to bring forth serious commitments to the Sustainable Energy for All Initiative .commitments that reduce energy poverty, foster economic dynamism, and protect our planet," the Secretary-General said. "That is why I am here, and why this Initiative is among my top priorities", he added.            The Initiative is mobilising commitments from business, the financial sector, government, and civil society in the run-up to the Rio+20 Conference on Sustainable Development, seeking to catalyse actions across the public and private sector that further his objectives.            Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar and the UAE Special Envoy for Energy and Climate Change, said "We are honoured to welcome the Secretary-General to Abu Dhabi and WFES. His return is a clear indication of the importance the UN places on sustainable energy. It also underscores that the UAE is being recognised across the world as a catalyst and hub for sustainability, green growth, innovation, and energy efficiency.            "The return of the Secretary-General for a second consecutive year to WFES is a testament to the success of the vision of the UAE leadership to build bridges and forge lasting relationships.            "Achieving energy security through renewable energy and energy efficiency are the core of our strategy towards diversifying our energy mix in the UAE. Launching the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All from Abu Dhabi at the World Future Energy Summit presents a perfect fit. We are honoured that the Secretary-General chose Abu Dhabi for this crucial activity", he added.            Access to energy is a global issue and one that is an often overlooked in the issue of poverty. According to the United Nations, more than 1.4 billion people worldwide have no access to electricity, approximately 3 billion people rely on traditional biomass for cooking and heating and up to a billion more have access only to unreliable electricity networks.            The "energy-poor" suffer economic consequences of insufficient power for productive income generating activities and for other basic services such as health and education.            The UAE has prioritised the development of renewable energy and energy efficiency.            In the past five years, it has broadened its energy portfolio to deploy renewable energy projects locally and internationally, including the 10MW solar plant in Masdar City, the largest in the region, Shams1, a concentrated solar power plant capable of generating 100MW of power, Gemasolar, 19.9MW concentrated solar power plant, the first commercial-scale plant in the world to apply central tower receiver and molten salt heat storage technology, and London Array, a 1GW off-shore wind farm.            In addition, it has invested in intellectual capital at Masdar Institute to create new, green technologies and has brought together private and public funding on research and development and deployment.            Now in its fifth year, WFES is the world's foremost annual meeting committed to promoting advancement of renewable energy, energy efficiency, and the water and waste sectors.            Alongside his keynote address at the World Future Energy Summit, the Secretary- General is scheduled to deliver remarks to the 2nd Session of the Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) also taking place in Abu Dhabi on January 14-15, 2012.            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
           The EU-GCC Clean Energy Network, which aims to advance the common interest between the EU and the GCC regions for strategic cooperation, yesterday announced it will host its second annual conference concurrently with the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2012 in Abu Dhabi.            Organised under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, WFES 2012 will be held from 16-19 January 2012 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). Co-organised by the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) and Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, the EU-GCC Clean Energy Network's annual conference will be hosted at the same venue from 17-19 January.            The key focus areas for the 4th Discussion Group (DG) meetings during the conference will include carbon capture and storage, clean natural gas and related technologies, renewable energy sources, as well as electricity interconnections and market integration. The conference will also provide an opportunity for distinguished clean energy experts, including representatives from the European Commission and the GCC authorities to exchange views on the potential ways to support and enhance the long-term strategic clean energy relationship between the EU and the GCC regions.            In addition to attending the conference, officials from the member institutions will have the opportunity to network with key clean energy technology providers at the WFES 2012 Exhibition.            Renowned members of Masdar Institute faculty will play a leading role during the conference. Dr. Sgouris Sgouridis Assistant Professor - Engineering Systems and Management, Masdar Institute, will lead the Third Sustainable Biofuels Workshop: Middle East Perspective'. The workshop will feature leaders in biofuel development and adoption active in the Middle East from the industry including Boeing Company, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, and Neutral Fuels, research institutions including Masdar Institute, Qatar University, Lausanne Federal Polytechnic University, and the International Energy Agency and leaders in certification. These stakeholders will discuss the latest progress in feedstock development, usage pathways, and sustainability certification.            Dr Nikolaos Koukouzas, Deputy Director of Centre for Research and Technology Hellas/ Institute for Solid Fuels Technology and Applications (CERTH/ISFTA), Greece, and Dr Othman Zarzour, Project Manager, Masdar, will be conveners of the meeting on carbon capture and storage. Dr Rabia Ferroukhi, Energy Technology Expert, EU-GCC Clean Energy Network, Dr Manuel J. Blanco, Director, Solar Thermal Energy Department, National Renewable Energy Centre (CENER) of Spain, and Dr. Carsten Hoyer-Klick, Project Manager, German Aerospace Centre, DLR, Germany, will be the conveners of the meeting on Renewable Energy Sources'.            The DG meetings will wind up the first day with the session on Clean Natural Gas and Related Technologies' for which the conveners will include Prof. Mohsen Assadi, Managing Director, Centre for Sustainable Energy Solutions, Stavanger, Norway, and Dr Naji Abi-Aad, Research Advisor, Ministry of Energy/Qatar Petroleum, Qatar.            On the second day, the first of the DG meeting on Energy Efficiency/Demand Side Management' will be convened by Dr Alexandra Papadopoulou, Senior Expert, Energy Policy Unit, National Technical University of Athens, Greece and Dr Nawal Al Hosany, Associate Director of Sustainability at Masdar, while the meeting on Electricity Interconnections And Market Integration' will have Dr Najib Dandachi, Asset Management Director, Transco, Abu Dhabi Water '&' Electricity Authority, UAE, and John Traynor, Senior Consultant on Electricity Integration, ESB International, Dublin, Ireland, as conveners.            The second plenary meeting on Network Sustainability' is also scheduled for the second day. On the final day, Prof. Taha B.M.J. from Water and Environmental Engineering program and Dr. Isam Janajreh, Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering, Masdar Institute, will lead a training seminar on Wind Resource Assessment', while Dr. Carsten Hoyer Klick, will present the session on Solar resource assessment'.            Dr Manuel J. Blanco will conduct the seminar on Concentrated solar thermal power plant', while Dr. Mohammad Abu Zahra, Assistant Professor, Chemical Engineering Program, Masdar Institute, will deliver training on Carbon capture and storage' (CCS) which will cover CO2 capture, transport and storage technology overviews and challenges. The training will end with a group discussion on the viability of CCS in the region.            Hamza Kazim, Vice-President, Operations and Finance, Masdar Institute, said: "Being a research-driven academic institution, Masdar Institute will join the NTUA to remain focused on all avenues that encourage knowledge sharing and information exchange. The EU-GCC Clean Energy Network acts as a consortium that seeks to create, operate, promote and disseminate information and proposals and sustainable strategies. During the Second Annual Conference of the EU-GCC Clean Energy Network, Masdar Institute faculty will play a definitive role with other stakeholders in interacting and engaging with clean energy leaders to further expand knowledge building in sustainable energy and advanced technologies." In addition to Masdar Institute, the other GCC counterpart organisations in the Network are King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute, Sultan Qaboos University of Oman and Arabian Gulf University. The Network's operations are supported by numerous organisations in both the regions. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Some 500 experts and security specialists will take part in a two-day Crisis and Emergency Management Conference (CEMC 2012) which starts on Monday in Abu Dhabi.            The annual event is hosted by the UAE's National Emergency and Crisis Management Authority (NCEMA) and is organised by the Institute for Near East and Gulf Military Analysis (INEGMA).            Participants from the GCC, the US, EU, Asia and other Arab countries will discuss enhancing response culture to the risks threatening lives and assets in the region.            The conference will be held under the patronage of Sheikh Hazza Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, National Security Advisor and Vice-Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council.            Jamal Al Hosani, director of information and communications technology at NCEMA, said: "The idea of this conference came from the need to develop the concepts of the crisis, disaster and emergency management and to deepen the overall national response culture to the risks threatening lives and assets."            Nader Haddad, INEGMA's business development and strategic communications manager, said: "The attendance is expected to include a remarkable number of prominent high-level governmental officials, decision makers, industry partners and NGOs."            "The main topics that will be addressed… are the strategic insights for planning and executing in post-disaster recovery operations, managing natural disasters and challenges as well as measuring resilience-community subsystems and their ability to withstand disasters," said Ali Rashid Al Niyadi, Director, NCEMA Operations Department. – Gulf News Â
           Tripoli - Libya stands ready to strengthen cooperation with the UAE and to draw lessons and benefits from its successful experiences and experiments in various fields in pursuit of achieving renaissance of the new Libyan State, Libyan Foreign Minister Ashour bin Khayal said yesterday. The Libyan top diplomat made his remarks during an audience here with the UAE Ambassador to Libya Sultan Rashid Al Kitoub, which tackled ways of enhancing bilateral ties. The UAE ambassador said the UAE was looking forward to open up broader avenues of joint cooperation and partnership for serving interest of the two brotherly countries and peoples. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Statistics Centre - Abu Dhabi (SCAD) Statistics Centre - Abu Dhabi issued yesterday its monthly report on the consumer price index (CPI) and the inflation rate in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi for the month of December 2011 and the fourth quarter of 2011.            The report analyses the CPI calculations for the periods under review, with the year 2007 fixed as the base year. It also details CPI results by welfare levels and types of households.            As detailed in SCAD's monthly CPI report, average consumer prices rose by 1.9 percent during 2011, compared with 2010. A closer look shows that the "Food and non-alcoholic beverages group", contributed the largest share (67.7 percent) of the rise in the index during 2011, due to increases in the prices of most of the subgroups making up this group. The largest increase within this group was in the prices of the "Coffee, tea and cocoa" subgroups, which advanced by 15.3 percent each, followed by the "Meat" group (up 14.7 percent), "Mineral water, soft drinks, fruit and vegetable juices" and "Fruits" (up 8.6 percent each), and "Fish and seafood" (up 7.4 per cent).            The next largest contributor to the overall year-on-year increase in the CPI during 2011 was the "Housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels" group, which accounted for 31.9 percent of the overall increase in consumer prices during this period, reflecting a rise of 1.5 percent in the average prices of this group. The large contribution is explained by the sizable relative weight of the group in the basket making up CPI expenditure groups.            The "Transport" group contributed 25.4 percent to the year-on-year rise in consumer prices in 2011, during which it increased by 5.1 percent.            SCAD's report also reveals that the key expenditure group that slowed down the rise in consumer prices during the year 2011 compared with 2010 was "Clothing and footwear", which contributed -67.4 percent of the overall change in consumer prices over the periods under comparison, as the prices of this group dipped by 13.8%.            As SCAD's report elaborates, average consumer prices increased by 1.2 percent in December 2011, compared with December 2010. The most significant individual increase was 8.0 per cent, reported for the "Restaurants and hotels" group, followed by "Alcoholic beverages and tobacco" (up 7.4 per cent) and "Food and non-alcoholic beverages" (up 6.8 per cent). On the other hand, the prices of the "Clothing and footwear" group decreased by 4.5 percent over the same comparison period.            As for the month-to-month change, average consumer prices edged down 0.2 percent in December 2011 compared with November 2011. The largest single fall during the aforesaid period was recorded in the prices of the "Housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels" group, which declined by 0.7 percent.            Detailed by welfare level, consumer prices increased by 3.6 percent for households of the "bottom" welfare quintile during 2011 compared with 2010. The corresponding rise for other welfare levels was 1.2 percent for households of the top quintile, 2.4 percent for the middle quintile and 2.8 percent for the "lower middle" welfare level.  As per SCAD's report finds, consumer prices advanced by 2.0 percent for households of the "bottom" welfare level in December 2011, compared with December 2010. The corresponding rises were 0.9 percent for the "top" welfare level and 1.6 percent for the "middle" welfare level.            A breakdown of the change in consumer prices in December 2011, compared with November 2011 shows that prices declined by 0.1 percent for the "Bottom middle welfare level and by 0.2 percent for the "middle" and the "top" welfare quintiles.            The report also found that during 2011, compared with the 2010, consumer prices increased by 1.9 percent for national households. The corresponding rise for other household types was 1.6 percent for non-national households and 3.2 percent for collective households.            As SCAD's report further adds, consumer prices increased by 1.5 percent for national households in December 2011, compared with December 2010. The corresponding rise for other household types was 0.8 percent for non-national households and 1.2 percent for collective households.            A breakdown of the change in consumer prices during December 2011, compared with November 2011 shows that prices levels retreated in December 2011 by 0.2 percent for national and non national households.            During the fourth quarter of 2011, average consumer prices rose by 0.9 percent compared with the same period of 2010. The rise resulted in a surge of 1.8 percent in consumer prices for households of the bottom welfare quintile over this period. The corresponding rise for other welfare levels was 0.5 percent for households of the top quintile and 1.3 percent for the middle quintile.            The rise in consumer prices in Q4 2011 compared with Q3 2011 pushed up consumer prices for households in the bottom welfare level by 0.7 per cent, while prices increased by 0.6 per cent for households in the middle welfare level and by 0.4 per cent for households in the top welfare level.            Consumer prices for national households advanced by 1.0 percent during Q4 2011 compared with the same period in 2010, while the rise over the same comparison period was 0.6 percent for non-national households and 1.6 percent for collective households.            As SCAD's report finds, consumer prices in Q4 2011 compared with Q3 2011 increased by 0.6 per cent for national households, 0.4 percent for non-national households and 0.6 percent for collective households.            In preparing its monthly CPI reports, Statistics Centre - Abu Dhabi follows the methodologies adopted internationally in this field, using a broad and highly representative basket of goods and service, to ensure accuracy in the calculation of the index, which is the sole officially authorised source for monitoring changes in prices and inflation in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.            SCAD has recently developed the computing of the CPI so that it is compiled according to households' types and levels of welfare. As for the welfare level approach, the population is divided into five segments (quintiles) representing five levels of welfare, based on average per capita annual expenditure. Each quintile reflects the consumption pattern represented by that quintile. In regard to the household type approach, the population is divided into three types of households as set out in the results of the Household Income and Expenditure Survey (2007-2008), namely, national, non-national and collective households.            To represent all regions of the Emirate, the selected sample of items included in the Consumer Price Index basket uses actual data from the 2007 household income and expenditure survey. The sample of outlets were selected in such a way as to represent points of purchase for a large base of consumers all over the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, taking into account the geographical distribution of sources within the emirate. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has mandated sale and lease back transactions to the value of US$367 million to Sanad Aero Solutions (Sanad) and Engine Lease Finance Corporation (ELF), for the financing of its 16 in-service spare engines and seven future spare engine deliveries.            Sanad will purchase and lease back to Etihad Airways five GE90 and six Rolls Royce Trent 500 engines and ELF will purchase and lease back to Etihad Airways six Rolls Royce Trent 700 and six IAE V2500 engines. Both transactions are for a 10-year operating lease term.            The spare engines are for Etihad Airways' entire fleet of passenger and cargo aircraft.            James Hogan, Etihad Airways President and Chief Executive Officer, said: "These spare engine sales and lease back transactions provide the airline with a long-term financing solution for its entire spare engine fleet while mitigating residual value risk and providing competitive cost of ownership over the long term.            Jon Sharp, President and Chief Executive Officer of ELF, said: "We are particularly pleased to extend our already strong relationship with Etihad Airways, which continues to set the pace for airline performance. This transaction is a perfect illustration of how two innovative companies can work together to mutual advantage." - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) hosted a record number of events in 2011 at its three event facilities, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, ExCeL London, and the Al Ain Convention Centre. Together the three venues welcomed 733 events - an increase of 18 per cent over 2010.            Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre saw a 56 per cent year-on-year increase as its total number of events shot up to 231 from 148 in 2010. Events hosted at ExCeL increased from 242 in 2010 to 284 in 2011, an increase of 17 per cent. "The growing number and scale of the events we host is a clear signal of our ambitions and rising prominence in the events industry," said Ali Saeed Bin Harmal Al Dhaheri, ADNEC's Managing Director.            "In 2010, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre made great strides towards its goal of becoming the most successful exhibition, conference and events centre in the region. ADNEC is raising the profile of Abu Dhabi internationally and playing a key role in boosting the volume of business tourism to the Emirate. The ADNEC team is moving forward and developing the company in line with Abu Dhabi's strategic 2030 vision", added Al Dhaheri.            Key ADNEC milestones in 2011 included achieving 44 per cent Emiratisation and offering challenging and rewarding careers to qualified young UAE nationals and Scooping more than 20 global industry awards including  International Venue of the Year' (ADNEC) at the AEO Awards (Association of Events Organisers), as well as being named highly commended in the Venue Sustainable Initiative of the Year category;  Exhibition Venue of the Year,' (ExCeL) at the Events Awards 2011, and World's Leading Meetings '&' Conference Venue (ExCeL) at the World Travel Awards 2011.  - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Central Bank of the UAE announced that the statistics of the UAESWITCH for the 4th quarter of 2011 have shown an increase in number and value of financial transactions, carried-out electronically through the UAESWITCH.            The total number of financial transactions has increased to 19.441 million financial transactions in the said quarter, compared to 18.231 million transactions in the 3rd quarter of 2011, i.e. an increase of 6.63 percent .            Also, the total value of financial transactions increased to Dh21.429 billion in the 4th quarter of 2011, compared to Dh20.427 billion in the 3rd quarter of 2011, i.e. an increase of 4.90 percent.            As for the total number and value of financial transactions carried-out through connection of the UAESWITCH to the GCC Switches, the total number of such financial transactions decreased to 867 thousand transactions in the 4th quarter of 2011, compared to 940 thousand transactions in the 3rd quarter of 2011, i.e. a decrease of 7.76 percent. The total value of the financial transactions, also, decreased to Dh1.178 billion in the 4th quarter of 2011, compared to Dh1.237 billion in the 3rd quarter of 2011, i.e. a decrease of 4.77 percent. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) reports yesterday the UAE remains the most competitive banking market in the GCC, a key finding from its proprietary "GCC Banking Competitiveness Report." The recent issue of the report confirms that the UAE remains the most competitive banking market in the region. The country's population of approximately 8 million is served by 51 banks with more than 840 branches and over 4,000 ATMs, delivering high levels of service, yet lower profitability than its GCC counterparts. ADIB further notes that UAE banks' net interest margin, which is the spread between what banks pay for deposits and what they charge for financing and loans remains the lowest among the GCC, at an average of 2.9%. Saudi banking spreads are currently closer to 3.5%, Qatar at 3.4% those of Kuwait banks are at around 3.2%.            Nevertheless, ADIB urges banks across the region to improve their levels of competitive analysis while at the same time raising the level of industry debate. This is necessary, it believes, if they are to ensure their continued strength in the challenging global economic environment and better meet the needs of their customers and shareholders. ADIB's decision to start releasing extracts from its proprietary competitive analysis, via quarterly briefings with selected audiences, is a demonstration of its own commitment to improve regional competitive insight.            Comparing the number one and two banking markets by size in the GCC, the UAE and Saudi Arabia, Andrew Moir, Global Head of Strategy and Finance at ADIB, says: "Despite the fact that the UAE is a bigger banking market in terms of assets, it remains less profitable than that of Saudi Arabia. In the UAE, the mix of deposits, low customer charges, the presence of high levels of non-performing assets and competitive dynamics have negatively impacted banking profitability and capital ratios. However, lower net interest margin spreads means that consumers in the UAE are getting better rates overall but shareholders are getting lower returns as compared to those in other GCC markets." The "GCC Banking Competitiveness Report" is one of the tools with which ADIB has built its award-winning strategy and consolidated its position as a top-tier Islamic financial services institution since the new management team joined the bank in early 2008. It is updated on a quarterly basis by the bank's Strategic Planning Department and has until now been used only for internal purposes.            The report focuses on various metrics and ratios that reflect both Islamic and conventional GCC banks' structures and performance, ranging from customer growth, staffing and service to product trends and performance, financial ratios and indicators, investor insights, capital trends, liquidity, cost of funds and overall pricing dynamics. Specifically, financial performance, including banking spread analysis; provisioning and profitability are key components of the report.            "This report is one of the mechanisms used by ADIB to ensure continued enhancement of its overall offering. While the full report will not be made public, certain key insights will in future form part of a quarterly briefing to the market since we believe that if banks across the region commit themselves to learning from each other, we will all benefit. Customers and shareholders will then get the best possible service, solutions and returns from the industry," concludes Moir. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           Nakheel is looking to draw more tourists and new residents to the Palm Jumeirah with the addition of a new shopping mall.            Located at the tip of the Palm Jumeirah, across the bay from Atlantis Hotel, ‘The Pointe' will focus on its food and beverage and leisure offering. The 136,000 square metre mall will also feature computer-controlled fountains, a public walk, monorail access and boat rides between The Pointe and Atlantis Hotel.            "It will be a real tourist destination not only for The Palm residents but also for visitors. The population on the Palm Jumeirah is around 30,000 and we expect that to grow with all these new amenities. There will be new ideas which will enhance the Palm Jumeirah. These will be announced in the second half of this year," Ali Rashid Lootah, chairman of Nakheel, said. Raising bank finance            According to Lootah, the development will be worth at least Dh300 million. Nakheel is      currently in talks with banks to raise project financing. "We have all the financial options available. We're in talks with banks who are showing interest," Lootah said yesterday.            The project aims to be completed by the end of 2013.            Nakheel is also due to begin work on the Palm Jumeirah's other retail offering, the Palm Mall, which will add a further 800,000-900,000 square feet of leasable retail space to the development.            "We hope we can launch it this year. Realistically, we would probably be able to launch sales in mid to end of February," Lootah said.            This year, Nakheel is focusing on developing its retail offering. In August, it announced its plan to more than double the size of Dragon Mart Mall by adding 1.7 million square feet of retail space and 5,000 parking spaces.            According to Lootah, their expansion plans at Dragonmart have been met with a positive response, with 60 per cent of the new space already leased out. He also announced plans to expand retail space at Ibn Battuta Mall, details of which will be announced later in the year.            Lootah recently said Nakheel was on track to deliver 7,000 units this the year. It has also announced the handing over of 1,000 villas at Jumeirah Village.            Nakheel suspended around 100 projects and completed a US$16-billion debt restructure when Dubai's real estate sector softened.            Last year, the developer announced the completion of its restructuring, including US$8.71 billion of government debt which was converted to equity last year. Nakheel plans to issue the second tranche of its Islamic bond by June, which will be used to settle contractor claims. Handovers drive profits            Nakheel reported a net profit of Dh526 million for the first half of the financial year ending December 31, 2011 on Dh1.5 billion revenues, mainly driven by the handover of properties in a number of projects. – Gulf News Â
           The Abu Dhabi leg of the community event and cancer research fundraiser, the Terry Fox Run, is set to take place on the Abu Dhabi Corniche on February 17 2012. The Run, now in its 17th year in the Capital, is held under the patronage of Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Advisor to His Highness the President of the UAE.            The Terry Fox Run, also known as 'The Marathon of Hope', gives cancer patients the hope that one day, a cure, or even prevention, for cancer will be found.            The Run plays a major role in supporting medical research that is not only helping to raise cancer awareness among the community, but that is also financially contributing to research conducted here in the UAE. The UAE plays an important part in the accelerating search for the cure and prevention of cancer, thanks to the efforts of the annual Terry Fox Runs held in Abu Dhabi along with other cities in the UAE.            On the Run day, the programme will begin at 7:00am. A 15-minute aerobic session will help warm-up the crowd, and the 40-member Abu Dhabi Police band will play the UAE national anthem minutes before the Run begins.            The Run will kick off from the Abu Dhabi Corniche (a.k.a.: the Fanzone) to the car park near the Corniche Hospital, and back. People can walk, run, roller-blade or skateboard, and the course is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers; however, cycling will not be permitted due to safety precautions. Registration begins at 7 am and the Run itself will start at 10am. Cash and cheque donations are kindly accepted on the event day. - Emirates News Agency, WAM Â
           The 2012 Dunlop 24 Hours of Dubai race gets under way today with free practice followed by qualifying.            Teams will have more than eight hours of track time at Dubai Autodrome to prepare themselves for the race, which starts at 2pm tomorrow.            About 74 cars are set to begin the seventh running of the day-long race this year and the field is of the highest standard ever.            Porsche, BMW, Ferrari, Audi, Mercedes, Lotus, Lamborghini, Ginetta and Aston Martin are just some of the legendary marquees set to do battle.            Entry is free for fans throughout the entire weekend, with access to superb views from the main grandstand and free admission to the paddock area, where they can get close up to the teams, drivers and the machines.            For families there is a myriad of activities on the sidelines of the race, including food and beverage points, a UAE heritage village and a wide variety of entertainment.            At 8pm tomorrow night, six hours into the race, there will be a spectacular fireworks display. The race will end at 2pm on Saturday afternoon and will be followed by the podium presentation for the overall winners and class winners.            Mohammad Bin Sulayem, FIA vice-president and ATCUAE president, said: "We in the UAE are privileged to have two great races in the country. Of course the Abu Dhabi GP is a fantastic event, then we have the Dunlop 24 Hours of Dubai which has a huge field and the atmosphere is fantastic. "I really enjoy coming here during the 24 hours weekend. It makes me wish that when I was racing there were facilities such as this for me to race." – Gulf News |
