the Prime Minister’s Easter 2024 message
 
March message from Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Bilal El-Hayek
 
A solemn funeral to the late Nazih Nicolas in Sydney
 
One Year of Repair, Reform and Action, and much more to do.
 
Kuwait deplores Israeli occupation's seizure of Palestinian land
 
Patriarch Duwaihi's beatification ceremony to be held in Lebanon
 
One Year of Repair, Reform and Action, and much more to do across Canterbury
 
Have your say on a planning proposal in Carlingford
 
Protecting religious institutions
 
AFIC President, stated that AFIC strongly condemns any act of violence and terrorism and stands in solidarity with the Russian people
 
The community’s hopes and expectations of a Muslim public figure
 
Mr Keating has been a public critic of the AUKUS security pact,...”.
 
EMIRATES NEWS (3/5/2012)





How the UAE's women flourish even in a man's world

            Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, the UAE's Minister for Foreign Trade, holds the distinction of being the first woman to hold a ministerial portfolio in the Gulf. Here she evaluates the prospects for women in the male-dominated financial industry.

Why are so few women attracted to a career in financial services?

            There are many factors behind this phenomenon. Some women find that the long hours associated with financial services work prevent them from fulfilling their family duties. Others lament the compensation and career development gaps that they feel favour men. There is also a fear that female-related concerns, such as going on maternity leave, could result in the loss of promotions, pay rises and other opportunities. Moreover, many women are caught up in the stereotype that, like the technical fields, the financial services sector is a world designed exclusively for men.
What can companies do to both attract more women and ensure that they are supported as they progress into senior positions?

            Financial services firms should closely review their corporate culture and determine if it fosters equal opportunities for men and women. Any gaps should be addressed via effective measures such as schemes for mentoring, training and supporting women, policies that emphasise equality, and reward schemes that recognise best employees regardless of gender. Companies should clearly send out the message that their organisation encourages, supports and recognises women achievers. Cultivating a corporate mindset that fosters equal opportunities for both sexes will make it easier for women to aspire to and undergo the transition to senior positions.
Governments, companies, associations and councils are all focusing on advancing women in business, but limited real progress is being made, especially in the private sector. Is there an opportunity for better collaboration, and if so, what could that look like?

            Collaboration will need to start from the top. If the government shows a genuine concern for empowering women, then the concerned agencies, the private sector and the general public will follow suit.

            Here in the UAE, for example, government has made great strides in improving the representation of women in the public sector and making us a leader in women’s rights in the Arab world. Emirati women, in fact, now account for more than 60 per cent of the government workforce.

            This confidence in our abilities has had a spillover effect on the private sector, as our country now has the largest number of businesswomen in the region. A 2011 index of women in business in the Gulf shows UAE women topping the region in terms of business ownership, business and government leadership, workforce participation, regular employment opportunities, and education.

            Of course, leading by example is not enough. There should be concrete programs for advancing women’s roles in business. Government should be vocal in encouraging private businesses to enhance the role of women within their ranks and make the workplace as gender-neutral as possible. Private companies in turn could coordinate with Government in reaching out to women through campaigns or sharing women-related information and statistics.

            A good collaborative system would be one where communication channels between government and corporations are open, extensive and transparent.

            We must also keep in mind that women in the UAE prefer government work due to its working hours, which allows them to both have a career and also focus on their home and children.

International practices include quota systems and reporting requirements for the number and skills held by individuals on boards. Should similar practices be considered in the UAE, or more broadly, GCC?

            Women are typically under-represented in the boardrooms of financial services firms. A 2011 census of women executive officers of Fortune 500 companies estimates that women account for around 18.4 [per cent] of executive officers in the finance and insurance industries. Clearly there is a lot of ground to cover as women have more than enough expertise and capability to handle executive responsibilities.

            While quotas are set by law in some countries, I believe this should not be the go-to solution for the UAE and the region, in general. As a woman, I would prefer to attain my position by real merit rather than always wonder if I was appointed to the board just to hit a quota or through affirmative action.

            As I have mentioned earlier, it would be better for government and businesses to work hand-in-hand in strongly encouraging and supporting more female participation within the private sector, and for companies to create environments that are more conducive to gender-neutral excellence. Perhaps some incentive schemes can be put into place, but again, I would prefer that women motivate themselves. The focus should be more on creating a fair environment for them in terms of mechanisms such as training and consideration for roles on the corporate board.

Why should women join financial services in the UAE? What are the advantages?

            The UAE is the region’s most dynamic economy, so what better place for women to pursue a career [than] in financial services? Banks and financial institutions here continue to launch campaigns specifically geared at attracting women to key positions; the industry is very welcoming towards women.

            In fact, Emirati women account for more than 67 [per cent] of the local banking sector’s employees and 43 per cent of total bank jobs. Financial services is considered one of the most important economic sectors in the UAE so there is a strong enthusiasm among women to join the field.

Women also finance a third of transactions in the UAE’s financial and banking sector, so there is a strong affinity between this line of business and women.

What are the specific skills and leadership capabilities that women should possess to ensure a successful career in financial services?

            In terms of skills, it would of course be critical to have solid academic and practical backgrounds in areas such as investment banking and securities, commercial banking, accounting, financial analysis and management, and the likes.

            Women are known for their attention to detail, strong interpersonal skills, persuasiveness and adaptability to adversity, all of which are important to financial services. They know when to take risks and when to strategise. They just have to harness these innate abilities in the field of financial services.

            In terms of leadership, women already have strong decision-making skills since we are acutely aware of how our actions can impact the lives of others. Women eyeing leadership roles in financial services have to be assertive within a domain that as I have said is believed to be mostly for men, and cultivate legitimacy and credibility within their firms.

What should a female professional in financial services do to have a successful career?

            One strategy is to determine the things that you are passionate about in your job.

            Achieving a sense of satisfaction from work will provide huge resources of energy for a woman to fulfil her duties. Another is to constantly create relationships across the organisation and its partners and clients. A female professional should also play to the natural strengths of her gender.

            These are just some of the basic approaches. The reality is that there is no magic formula for ensuring a successful career. Strategies can change over time as new challenges and additional elements come into play. The key is to tailor whatever resources and traits are available to a woman’s career ambitions, situation and personality. Women have exceptional levels of patience, focus, sensitivity and decision making so they have the power to make their careers work.

What role models do you have, and how have those individuals influenced your career as a business woman?

            There are a lot of people that have served as role models for me, not only for business but for life.

            My late father taught me at an early age to constantly explore the world and strive to learn new things. My mother told me not to set limits to what I could achieve as a woman but never to turn my back on my heritage and my identity.

            I have my uncle, H. H. Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council member and ruler of Sharjah, [who] often reminded me that quality education would assure my path to fulfilment and success

            It was my beloved mentor, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who really recognised my potential as a businesswoman. He was the person who appointed me as CEO of Tejari, the Middle East’s first and foremost electronic business-to-business marketplace

            And then, of course, I owe a lot of my leadership skills and love for my country and its people to our late president and the Father of the UAE, H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. I have also enjoyed the same level of guidance, respect and support from his son, our current leader, H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. – The National

 

Hollywood hotels coming to the UAE

            A group of UAE and international investors plans to roll out hotels and resorts that will recreate the mood and ambience of some of the most popular Hollywood movies produced by Paramount Pictures — such as The Godfather, Saturday Night Fever, Star Trek, Titanic and Mission Impossible.

            A new Paramount-branded hospitality concept — Paramount Hotels and Resorts — is currently under development in Spain.

            "Paramount Hotels and Resorts are envisioned to deliver the ultimate in star treatment for every guest, drawing on the 100-year history of Paramount, the authentic California lifestyle, and the glamour of Hollywood," the company said in a statement.

            "Each property will be developed as a major production, featuring studio-inspired entertainment, sophisticated design, fine dining experiences, luxury shopping, spas and other world-class amenities."

            PHR LLC, currently based in Dubai, has secured an exclusive long-term agreement with Paramount Licensing, the licensing division of Paramount Pictures Corporation, to establish the chain of Paramount-branded hotels and resorts.

            "We are soon going to announce the next project, which could be in the UAE," Gassan Aridi, chief executive of Alpha Tours and an investor in PHR, told Gulf News.

            "We are planning to roll out at least 15 resorts within the next five years."

            PHR LLC has secured an initial roster of major investors and the consortium is actively seeking additional hotelier partners in target markets.

            PHR LLC will lead all development and fundraising activities under the guidance of Thomas Van Vliet, chief executive officer. Van Vliet has held leadership positions in major hospitality companies for more than 25 years.

            "While not an investor, Paramount will oversee the creation of this exciting new hospitality concept," the company said.

            Initial sites in various stages of development include Brazil, the Caribbean, Indonesia, Oman, Qatar, Russia, South Africa, the UAE and the UK.

            Target locations include both capital or gateway cities and popular resort destinations. Individual properties will be designed to appeal to the business traveller, leisure traveller, or both, based on the dynamics of the local market.

            "The Paramount brand is known the world over, from its iconic gates to its impressive cinematic history," said Van Vliet. "Our goal is to deliver on the expectations of the brand with experiences that are ‘unmissable, unforgettable, and unmistakable.' We are thrilled to be sharing this exciting news today."

            Earlier, Van Vliet told Gulf News that some of the outlets will be themed on famous Hollywood movies. "Such as you might see a Godfather themed cigar lounge and Saturday Night Fever-themed night clubs in some of the resorts," he said.

            Aridi said some of the resorts could have theme parks that will have rides themed with some of the movies produced by the company.

            Paramount Pictures Corporation is an American film and television production/distribution company, located on Melrose Avenue in Hollywood.

            Founded in 1912 and currently owned by media conglomerate Viacom, it is the third oldest film studio in the world behind Universal Studios and Gaumont Pictures. It is also the last major film studio still based in Hollywood. Paramount is consistently ranked as one of the largest — top-grossing — movie studios. – Gulf News

 

Dubai restaurants rated among the world's best

            Two UAE restaurants are now counted among the World's Best Restaurants after a prestigious annual list included Zuma and La Petite Maison in its top 100 on Monday.

            The San Pellegrino World's Best Restaurants, a list compiled by Restaurant magazine through an "academy" of more than 800 judges around the world, is seen as one of the definitive restaurant guides, and inclusion on the list can catapult a restaurant from obscurity to global fame. This year's number one restaurant is Noma, in Copenhagen, Denmark. Noma has held the title for the last three years.

            "The cherry on the top is this one," said Ajaz Shaikh, operations director at Zuma, of his restaurant's inclusion in the list at number 83.

            "It's absolutely phenomenal. Having two restaurants in Dubai representing the region — and both in DIFC, it's kudos. We'll focus next year, if we can, on pushing more local restaurants, but to just to start off, having us there, well, I am the happiest guy in the world today."

            Zuma, a contemporary Japanese restaurant, opened in 2008 and also has locations in London and Miami (which did not make the list), while La Petite Maison — in at number 96 — began serving its Provencale dishes in 2010. Both are located in the Dubai International Financial Centre.

            Cedric Toussaint, the general manager at La Petite Maison, which also has an outlet in London, said the recognition was important for the restaurant, but also for Dubai's dining scene.

            "People now know that some interesting restaurants are in Dubai. Before, diners were referring to all the best restaurants around the world. Now they can refer to something they have themselves in Dubai. They are part it."

            Shaikh underlined the importance of the win. "I know for a fact there are people who go around the world, eating off this list. Suddenly, Dubai is on the foodie map. Before, people said Dubai is copy-paste, that nothing works here. Hopefully now our region will be taken more seriously."

            "This is the de facto list of who's who in the food and beverage, chef and restaurant world," said Shaikh.  The Middle East is one of 27 regions included for assessment by the Best Restaurants Academy, whose members include food critics, chefs, restaurateurs and respected experts. In the Middle East, the chairman of the 31-member panel is James Brennan, a freelance food writer who has written for Gulf News. Each panellist must select seven restaurants at which they must have eaten in the past 18 months, three of which must be outside their own region. – Gulf News

 

Shurooq announces Kalba Eco-Tourism project

            In a groundbreaking move, the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), in collaboration with the Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) in Sharjah, has announced the launch of an eco-tourism project, which will be implemented in Kalba City in the Emirate of Sharjah.

            The announcement was made by Marwan Bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO of Shurooq, during a press conference, which was held yesterday (Tuesday) on the sidelines of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2012.

            The press conference was held in the presence of Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) in Sharjah, Abdullah Saif Al Yamahi, Chairman of the Kalba Municipal Council, Tim Rundle, Director of the International Conservation Services, a number of officials and individuals concerned with tourism, as well as media representatives.

            The project, the largest of its kind in the development eco-tourism facilities in the UAE and the region, will be set up in Khor Kalba, 15 km south of Fujairah city on the UAE-Oman borders.

            The Kalba Eco-Tourism Project, which will be developed in collaboration with the Sharjah Environment and Protected Areas Authority(EPAA), and the International Conservation Services, will feature natural reserves and diverse tourist and commercial facilities.

            Shurooq was established in 2009 with the aim of achieving social, cultural, environmental and economic development on the basis of Sharjah's distinct Arab and Islamic identity, so as to encourage investment by adopting the best international standards in providing quality services that help attract investors from the region and the world.

            The Authority's main mission is to provide the necessary facilities and incentives, to overcome obstacles facing investment activities in the Emirate, to evaluate tourism-related infrastructure projects, and to lay down the necessary plans and groundwork to complete such projects. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Etihad Airways confirms 2.987% stake in Aer Lingus

            Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, confirmed yesterday it had acquired a 2.987 per cent stake in Aer Lingus. The airline said the purchase reflected its desire to forge a commercial partnership with the Irish national carrier.

            Etihad Airways believes a possible partnership could produce significant commercial benefits for both airlines.

            Etihad Airways operates 10 flights a week from Abu Dhabi to Dublin and has carried more than 750,000 passengers between the two capitals since it began flying the route in July, 2007.

            The airline has a premium lounge at Dublin Airport, an engineering maintenance facility and has conducted recruitment drives across the country. It also recently renewed its sponsorship of the Gaelic Athletic Association, signing a five-year deal.

            Etihad Airways has strategic codeshare partnerships with 34 airlines around the world.

 

Dubai World Central seeks anchor airline to start passenger operations

            Dubai World Central (DWC) Al Maktoum International is waiting for an anchor airline to kick off passenger operations, according to Dubai Airports' top executive.

            "We are in negotiations now with several airlines and we are looking for a significant commitment before we want to put several hundred of our people and our resources up into the new terminal. We don't want to have a terminal that doesn't have any business. So we are making sure that we have got a good anchor airline to start operations," Paul Griffiths, Dubai Airports CEO, said yesterday on the sidelines of a conference to announce an updated programme for Dubai International Airport's Concourse 3.

            He added that the airports body has had "some interesting discussions" with a number of parties, "some of whom actually want to place airplanes at DWC".

            Griffiths also said that no date has been decided to start passenger flights from DWC.

            "We would rather make sure we have got something that we can announce," he said.

The DWC's passenger terminal will be ready for occupation once operational trials are completed this year, Griffiths said.

            However, we have made a strategic decision that we don't want to open the terminal until such time as we have got to find operations," he added.

            According to original estimates, DWC when completed, is estimated to be a US$34 billion (Dh124.9 billion) project.

            "That clearly is going to be the cost over an extended period of time," Griffiths said.

            Meanwhile, Dubai Airports said that Dubai International's Concourse 3 — the world's first purpose-built A380 facility — is on track for completion by year-end, and will open to the public in the first quarter of next year. It will increase the airport's capacity to 62 million passengers from the current 51 million.

            Designing of the new Concourse 4, which will be dedicated to more than 110 international airlines, is also under way. – Gulf News

 

Dubai Duty Free receives ‘Best Duty Free Shopping’ award

            For the 11th consecutive year, Dubai Duty Free (DDF) has received the award for ‘Best Duty Free Shopping’ at the Business Traveller Middle East awards ceremony held at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers on the eve of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2012. Dubai Duty Free, which achieved record sales of US$1.46 billion last year, came out tops in the reader’s survey conducted by the magazine within the category ‘Best Airport in the Middle East for Duty Free Shopping’.

The awards ceremony attracted over 350 senior executives from the travel and tourism industry and featured Michelin star chef and restaurateur, Georgio Locatelli as guest speaker. – The Gulf Today

 

 

Emirates Palace scoops 6 prestigious titles at Middle East World Travel Awards

            The Emirates Palace has once again emerged as the bright star at the 19th World Travel Awards, the travel, tourism and hospitality industry's most coveted international recognition, winning six awards: Middle East's Leading Luxury Resort, Middle East's Leading Meetings '&' Conference Resort, Middle East's Leading Suite, UAE's Leading Resort, Abu Dhabi's Leading Meetings '&' Conference Hotel and Abu Dhabi's Leading Resort.

            The global accolades were presented to General Manager of Emirates Palace, Bugra Berberoglu, at a glittering gala ceremony staged by the organisers, the World Travel Awards, at the Jebel Ali Golf Resort '&' Spa in Dubai yesterday in the presence of a myriad industry leaders and senior professionals from the travel, tourism and hospitality along with other award winners and nominees.  – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Dubai Chamber study indicates strong growth in the UAE's tourism sector

            A recently-released Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry study reveals that the UAE tourism sector has shown strong growth and has intensely contributed in promoting the country as a world tourism hub.

            The study released on the sidelines of the launch of the 19th edition of the Arabian Travel Market which is attended by 2,400 companies from 87 countries indicates that the year 2012 augurs well for the growth of the tourism sector in the country.

            Based on information derived from Business Monitor International (BMI) UAE Tourism Report Q1 2012, the study states that the UAE tourism sector is structured into tourism hospitality services (mainly hotels and restaurants), tourism transportation (mainly airline, airport and related travel services) and tourism infrastructure (shopping malls, shopping festivals, golf-course and infrastructure for sporting events like cricket, racing and football).

            According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), in 2011, 74.7% of UAE tourism spending was on leisure activities, while about 25.3% was on business activities. With UAE's strategic location and position as a tourist hub, foreigners contributed a large portion, about 78.5% in 2011, to the UAE's overall tourism spending.

            Sector outlook and growth opportunities; After buoyant historical growth, the UAE tourism sector is expected to see strong growth in the future. According to World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) forecasts, the UAE tourism sector is expected to experience annual real growth of about 6.5% during the period 2011-2021, with employment expected to also grow by an annual real growth rate of about 4.1% during this period.

            The study further states that inbound arrivals from the traditionally important markets including the Middle East, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region are expected to show strong growth in 2012. However, it is also significant that arrivals from new markets, such as Latin America and Africa, which at present, contribute a small portion to the overall number of tourist arrivals are also expected to experience robust growth. Increased tourist flows from new markets indicate the UAE's success in diversifying the sources of its tourist arrivals.

            Also, growth of tourist arrivals from emerging economies such as Asia-Pacific, Latin America and Africa is also important from the perspective of consumer expenditure, as the wealth of residents in these regions is expected to experience significant growth overtime. Also an important emerging prospect could be the growth of tourist flows from the world to other parts of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, including places like Iraq and Turkey, for which Dubai can serve as a hub for global travellers.

            Creating packages where visitors can combine business travel with leisure can perhaps serve to increase the average length of visitor stay, from its current level of about three nights. Success in helping the sector improve its competiveness would involve improving cooperation between tourism related entities, including tour operators, hotels and organisers of major sporting and shopping events. Other policy measures could include improved quality standards and a long-term strategy for the tourism sector. These measures could further contribute in improving the overall efficiency of the sector and could help realise long-term benefits from the opportunities presented by the growth of tourist flows from emerging economies.

            Challenges facing the UAE tourism sector; Important challenges facing the UAE tourism sector includes competition from other destinations, the need to offer a diverse range of tourism activities which can appeal to visitors of different ages and backgrounds, collaboration within the sector and the need to develop a long-term strategy for the sector.

            Another important challenge is the short-length of stay by foreign visitors. Encouraging these visitors to stay longer, thereby spending more money in the UAE is important for the further development of the tourism sector.

            Measures to meet these challenges could include development of a long-term strategy to help the sector's growth, attracting more business travellers who can spend more time and money, helping business travellers combine leisure with business travel and more cooperation between the government and the private sector.

            Encouraging different tourist activities, such as eco-tourism could help to create a more sustainable tourism sector and could also help to improve the environment. It could help to attract a niche of travellers interested in more environmentally friendly tourism. Diversification of tourism flows into new markets, a strategy that has been successful given the growth figures highlighted in table 1, should also help the Dubai and UAE tourism sectors to continue to be the engine of future economic growth.

            Conclusion and government initiatives; The UAE tourism sector therefore has strong prospects for growth. A proactive policy on the part of the tourism sector businesses and the government to attract visitors from new potential growth markets of Turkey, Indonesia, Mongolia and Central Asia could help further strengthen the growth of this sector. Other measures could include more regional cooperation, with tourism agencies in the GCC and MENA regions, to position Dubai as a gateway for tourism travel to these countries from the rest of the world.

            In its conclusion, the study states that Dubai's strategic location and strong air and transport infrastructure have given it the ability to project itself around the world as a hub of tourism. A sound long-term strategy to exploit future opportunities, and enable more private sector and government cooperation, could further cement its position as the world's tourism gateway to Asia, Africa and the Middle East. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

ADNOC contributes Dh1 million to Masdar Institute's YFEL

            As a sign of continuing cooperation, the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) has contributed Dh1 million for the second consecutive year in support of the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program, an outreach initiative of Masdar Institute of Science and Technology.

            The contribution also marks ADNOC's consistent support as the Platinum Sponsor for the YFEL annual program that aims to inspire, educate and position students and young professionals to become tomorrow's the energy industry leaders. The current program has more than 160 members.

            With a widening support base from the community including leading government organisations, the YFEL program aims to be even more effective in nurturing and fostering energy leaders of the future. One of the key reasons that continue to elicit voluntary response from the wider community, especially important individuals and corporations, is the program's valuable addition to the professional growth of youth.

            For 2012, YFEL has already lined up an intensive program schedule for the members. This year, the program commenced with the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2012, in which YFEL members actively participated, showcasing six innovative project concepts.

            Earlier, Sultan bin Rashid Al Dhaheri, Member of the UAE Federal National Council (FNC), announced his contribution of one million US dollars to the YFEL program, which was in addition to government and private corporations that are equally keen to support the program. Last year, YFEL received support from Mohammed bin Kardous Al Ameri, an Emirati philanthropist, who contributed Dh1 million. The individual financial contribution was in addition to the platinum and gold sponsorships that were provided by corporations.

            Established in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute is an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, which integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

On Labour Day: Labour Minister flags off Mobile Care Unit for Workers

            Minister of Labour Saqar Ghobash flagged off yesterday a Mobile Care Unit for workers.

            Participating in a celebration of the World Labour Day organised by the Labour Ministry at the Armed Forces Officers Club in Abu Dhabi, the Minister also honoured a group of skilled workers including nationals.

            Following the footsteps of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who appreciates skill and dedication to work, we are happy to honour this galaxy of citizens and residents, who proved their competence and excellence in the skilled work, said the minister. The Mobile Care Unit will visit work sites and labour camps and ensure that the workers get their rights. The Unit will also receive complaints and suggestions from the workers and will enlighten them on various aspects related to contractual work. The Labour ministry had introduced Labour care stations in the proximity of labour camps in various emirates since 2007.  – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Dubai Customs foils attempt to smuggle 91million Tramadol tablets worth around Dh1 billion

            Dubai Customs has successfully foiled an attempt to smuggle 91 million Tramadol tablets, with total value estimated at Dh1billion. The drug is prohibited to be used outside the medical normal use.

            The seizure was a knock out for the traffickers who deal in this type of drug which is widely used by young people in many other countries in the region.

            The large amount was caught at Jebel Ali Port and Jebel Ali Free Zone hidden in 1695 carton boxes inside 6 containers, four 40-square-foot containers and two 20-square-foot containers coming from an Asian country through different navigation lines were intended to fool and distract attention of Customs inspectors. Yet, the wishes of the unscrupulous people who always seek to have unlawful earning were collapsed and scandalised by the vigilance and high security alert of Dubai Customs inspectors who managed to detect and failed the conspiracy of the importing company.

            Saeed Ahmed AL-Tayer, Senior Director of Jebel Ali Cargo Operations Department said that they have tracked the activities of the suspected company operating at Jebel Ali Free Zone. The available information at Dubai Customs e-Clearance System indicated that, and as per to the Customs declaration, the company had imported huge amounts of cosmetics and medical instrument and the goods were in the way arriving by sea from some Asian Country to Jebel Ali Port. The inspectors, with their experience and vigilance managed to discover that trick.

            The examination proved that the cartons contained drugs of Tramadol and the description was not in conformity with the declaration which mentioned the goods as cosmetics and medical instruments without identifying their types. The cartons were resealed and the contraband was halted. A sample was sent to the Ministry of Health, which is the competent authority. The use of this opiate substance without a medical prescription may endanger life, result in heart attack and then death. The Ministry reported that the drug is enlisted as a prohibited opiate not permitted to use without a medical prescription and it is under restricted control.

            The Ministry report also stated that the importing company by violating Customs regulations and misrepresenting information, has also violated many Articles under the Federal Law No 4-19983 (The Pharmaceutical Professions and Institutions Contents), including that the importing company is a trading company and not licensed to import pharmaceuticals; besides, the company had not obtained a prior permit (basic condition for clearing shipment) to import the medical drug and also the company did not have any license for establishing a medical storing warehouse and even the storage was not in compliance to the world and local specification.

            It was clear that the large imported amount was intended for business purposes and not for medical use. Intention was to sell this drug in large quantities at the local market. The drug can generate effects similar to those of cocaine and leads to addiction which will force the addict to double the doze to reach for the desired effect. This, in turn, can lead to heart attacks and death when used in this way. Overdosing can cause breathing difficulties, drowsiness, dizziness, skin rash, tingling, sleeping, coma, uncontrollable shaking of part of body, nausea, hallucinations, heart attack and death. Other symptoms of overdose also include decreased size of the eye pupil, vomiting and chills.

            There were 1695 cartons inside the 6 containers that the company imported. They contained about 91million Tramadol tablets, which are prohibited to use in the country in pursuant to the Ministerial Decree No (15) 2011- Attached Tables of Federal Law No (14) 1995 (Second Article) concerning the Counter Measures against Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances and its amendments which have added Tramadol and its other substances to the list. Therefore, this incident is considered a crime of smuggling with reference to the Provisions of Article 5/145 of GCC Customs Unified Law. According, a decision to confiscate the contraband was taken and it was referred to the related authority to destroy it.

            Saeed Ahmed AL Tayer, Senior Director of Sea Cargo Operations, Jebel Ali explained that the seized amount was estimated at AED1billion and the Customs inspection team experience, vigilance and high security alert have successfully thwarted and prevented the infiltration of this amount to local use which could have caused harm to addicts, emphasising that Dubai Customs, being the first line defender, will adhere to prevent the community from infiltrating prohibited goods and will not tolerate importation of restricted goods but only to follow condition and terms of legal procedures and will ensure safe sanity of people in the community.

            Senior Director of Sea Cargo Operations pointed out that the negative impact of these drugs are huge because they hit the youth who are the backbone in the development process.

            He stressed that Dubai Customs always seeks to achieve the strategic goal of protection and supporting legitimate trade through recruiting best skilful human capitals, honing their inspective skills through specialised training courses and programs which teach them about different types of narcotics and drugs. These efforts and courses enhance security alert of Customs inspectors and provide them with high advanced technical inspection tools to facilitate the operations for inspecting containers and shipments and these successfully for the last few years have culminated to come up with quality achievements in areas of inspection and enhanced image of Dubai as a secured transit destination.

            Al Tayer said the Customs facilitations provided to businesses go in tandem with the controls and regulations which target community protection and prosperity. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Health Care City targets global medical hub status

            Dubai Health Care City is attempting to stem the flow of people going abroad for treatment and position itself as the medical hub for international and regional patients.

            "Last year the DHCC treated half a million patients, and some of them had come from abroad," Dr Ayesha Abdullah, managing director of Health Care City, said.

            She said there has also been an increase in the number of patients visiting Dubai for treatment and more investment coming into the city.

            "This will increase the number of beds [in the emirate]," she said.

            Asked how DHCC will tackle competition from nearby countries such as India or Thailand where medical treatment is cheaper, the director general said: "For some patients, cost is a factor, but for a majority it is quality service, value for money."

            Dr Ayesha said DHCC offered nine centres of excellence in various specialities and sub-specialities, from plastic surgery to heart surgeries.

            The director-general was speaking to Gulf News at the launch of a publication called Patients Without Borders which gives options to global patients to seek treatment in Dubai.

Josef Woodman, author of the DHCC edition of Patients, said Dubai's position, which is near other cheaper medical destinations was "both good news and bad news".

            The good news is that many affluent Indians and Europeans come to Dubai to seek some elective procedures which are unavailable in their own countries, he said.

            Woodman said it was a game-changer when Asia came to the forefront in health care and it was not the US and Europe any more that people went to for treatment, he said. "The Middle East has now joined the [Asian] group," he said. Woodman said there has been a rise in medical clusters around the world where doctors, academics, researchers and practitioners work together in one cluster.

            "London has its Harley Street and Dubai the DHCC, where 500,000 patients sought treatment in its 100 clinics and hospitals," he said.

            He pointed out that medical travel has increased 30 per cent around the globe, mainly because of rising costs in developed countries such as Canada, the UK and Germany. "Many patients from these countries are seeking treatment abroad," he said.

            According to the research firm Business Monitor International, health tourism in the UAE is growing at 15 per cent annually. "The UAE is attaining premium rankings, leading the GCC in superior health care expertise, affordability, availability and brief waiting periods," it noted. – Gulf News

 

ADAC and the Green Sheikh team up to go beyond Earth Hour for children with special needs

            Initiated under the patronage of Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Ali Al Nuaimi, known as the Green Sheikh, Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) launched a green initiative specifically designed for children with special needs to give them the opportunity to express their thoughts and experiences on the challenges that planet Earth is facing, and how they can contribute effectively in saving the scarce resources by reducing energy and water consumptions in their classrooms and homes. This initiative came as part of ADAC's Earth Hour 2012 campaign, with the themes of Going Beyond the Hour' and I Will If You Will, to drive employees and community engagement towards saving the environment.

            Supported by the Centre of Waste Management (CWM) in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain Private Centre of Care and Rehabilitation (APCCR), the green initiative consisted of a specially designed workshop, where the Green Sheikh talked to children with special needs about the best environmental practices. The workshop was followed by the launch of an art competition in the private centre’s art classroom to encourage children with special needs to create artworks inspired by specific topics related to planet earth, such as saving the scarce resources and reducing energy and water consumption. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

66 falcons to be released in Kazakhstan

            This month, 66 falcons will be flown to Kazakhstan to be released back into the wild by Falcon Hospital Abu Dhabi (FHAD).

            They are all wild falcons surrendered to the hospital in the past 12 months and, according to Dr Margit Muller, director of FHAD, they are all fit and ready to be returned to their natural habitat.

            “We checked and made sure their health is good and in the past couple of months, they have been training as well,” Dr Muller told Khaleej Times.

            The falcons’ rehabilitation and freeing is part of the annual Shaikh Zayed Falcon Release programme, established by the late Shaikh Zayed in 1995. Now run by FHAD, under the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi umbrella, the programme is aimed at rehabilitating confiscated falcons and other raptors by releasing them back into the wild.

            Since it started 17 years ago, the programme has significantly contributed to curbing the illegal falcon hunting by issuing Falcon Passports, a three-year licence that allows both UAE nationals and residents to move legally acquired falcons frequently across international borders for personal use.

            About 1,400 wild falcons have been returned to the wild since the release programme began. Usually, they are freed in springtime in the mountain peaks of Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Iran or, more recently, Kazakhstan, which are countries on their migration routes.

            “Some of the 66 falcons that we are releasing this year have been confiscated on the borders or on the UAE territory and some were injured birds from previous releases. We also had some wild falcons given to us from other countries like Bahrain,” said Dr Muller.

            Since certain species of falcons like the Saker, which is most favoured in the Gulf for hunting, are endangered, capturing a wild falcon is illegal in the UAE. Only farm-bred falcons are allowed for falconry. Yet, poachers, especially from Iran and Pakistan, try to bring in wild falcons in the UAE for illegal trade.

            “Definitely, the numbers of confiscated wild falcons are going down year after year,” said Dr Muller. It is programmes such as this one that helps, but also increasing awareness and better results in captive breeding. – Khaleej Times

 

Sea turtles tracked while swimming to cooler waters

            The arrival of summer is the trigger for plans to escape to cooler climes.

            This is as true for UAE residents as for the hundreds of endangered marine turtles that live along the country's shores. But while humans need to make a plane ride or at least a car trip to escape the heat, the turtles' plan is simpler - they swim into deeper, cooler waters.

            The trend is becoming apparent in a study that examines the migration patterns of female Hawksbill turtles in the UAE, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Iran.

            The project started in spring 2010 when conservationists from the Emirates Wildlife Society - World Wide Fund for Nature (EWS-WWF) attached satellite transmitters to 20 turtles from the region. The effort continued last year and resumed last week in Oman.

            This week, conservationists are tagging sea turtles in Sharjah. The devices track the turtles' whereabouts, including where they feed, where they lay their eggs, and where they go after laying their eggs.

            "I do not think when we started this we ever expected to get the results we did," said Dr Nicolas Pilcher, research partner on the project and founder of the Marine Research Foundation in Malaysia.

            Over the past two years, the scientists attached satellite tags to female Hawksbill turtles, arriving on secluded beaches to lay their eggs. The devices reported the turtles' whereabouts every time they came to the surface to breathe. The signals showed the team where the turtles were going after laying their eggs, indicating the location of vital feeding grounds.

            Dr Pilcher identified these locations by studying some 18,000 location data points, showing where the turtles have been. He noticed the turtles' preference for certain locations - healthy coral reefs providing a steady supply of sea sponges and jellyfish for the turtles to feed on.

            This in itself was not surprising as the goal of the project was to find the location of the key feeding grounds. However, when Dr Pilcher compared the turtles' movement on a monthly basis, he saw that they were moving into the deeper waters as summer progressed. They were heading for the cooler waters in August and returning closer to shore in September.

            "Nearly every animal did this," he said. "We managed to link it to temperature.

            "Keep in mind that these are cold-blooded animals...half a degree can make a difference," said Dr Pilcher, who is also co-chair of the marine turtle specialist group, a global team of scientists who are part of the reputed International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

            More details are likely to emerge as the data is further analysed and more turtles are fitted with transmitters this spring.

            Tomorrow, the team will leave for Sharjah's protected Sir Bu Nair island with trips to Iran, Qatar and Abu Dhabi's Jarnein island pending this week and next. Altogether, 31 turtles will be tagged this year, bringing to 75 the number of animals supplying data to the project. – The National

 

Noor Dubai's eye camp screens 6700 patients in Ethiopia

            The Noor Dubai Foundation has recently successfully conducted its third mobile Eye Camp for the year in Worabe - Ethiopia. The eye camp, which conveniently located in the main city of the Silt'e region is being held from the 26th of April until the 3rd of May and is supported by the Dubai Islamic Foundation and conducted in collaboration with the Al Basar Foundation.

            The screening program for patients began on the 26th of April when over 5000 patients were examined for visual impairment and 200 were admitted to the camp for sight saving surgery. Surgery started on the 27th of April and by midday the number of surgeries had increased to over 250. Most patients were treated for Cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation. The camp was attended by patients from all over Silt'e. Up to date, there have been over 6700 patients screened and treated and over 332 surgeries performed.

            Ethiopia, which has a population of over 82 million, is the second-most populous nation in Africa. Overall, there are 1.2 million blind people, 2.8 million people with low vision, and 9 million children aged 1-9 years have active trachoma, an infectious disease that leads to blindness. The national prevalence of blindness is 1.6% and the national prevalence for low vision is 3.7%. Surveys, conducted by the local authorities, have shown that both blindness and low vision are more prevalent among females.

            According to the statistics provided by the local authorities, the major causes of blindness in Ethiopia are cataract (49.9%), trachomatous corneal opacity (11.5%), refractive error(7.8%), corneal disease (7.8%), glaucoma (5.2%).

            The Noor Dubai medical team consisted of 5 ophthalmology specialists and 7 ophthalmic technicians who were joined by volunteers from the Worabe health centre as well as teachers and employees of the local school. The eight day camp screened 6700 patients, performed 330 surgeries, and distributed reading glasses. Members of the team will return to Ethiopia to examine the post operative cases in 4 weeks and again in 6 weeks. Dr. Manal Taryam, who accompanied the Noor Dubai team during its camp activities in Worabe, said the team faced many challenges including difficulties to establish an easily accessible camp and severe weather conditions. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Fair philosophy for Emirates' lone fighter at London 2012

            Pursuit of his Olympic dream has not kept Humaid Al Derei from also continuing to work toward his future in the medical field, writes Amith Passela. Photos by Lee Hoagland

            Humaid Al Derei will not arrive unprepared at the London 2012 Olympics. The 20-year-old Emirati will be only the second judoka to represent the UAE at the Summer Games, and he is putting himself through a punishing schedule that sees him train for two-and-a-half hours, five days a week at the Abu Dhabi Combat Club.

            He wants to justify the wild card given to him after the World Championship in Paris last August, and if preparing for the pinnacle of judo competition were not difficult enough, Al Derei has the added challenge of combining his training with his medical studies. The black belt first dan also uses whatever spare time he has to film documentaries on martial arts.

            But his main goal is a career in medicine.

            "I have to do a balancing act with my training and studies because they are both very important to me," Al Derei said. "Still, I want to achieve the best result in both."

            Timur Mokhamed Khanov, coach of the UAE's national judo team, agrees Al Derei has multiple responsibilities.

            "He has a very difficult task," said Khanov, an Uzbek. "I would have preferred him training full-time, but I don't want to stand against his wish when he is thinking of his future. Humaid is disciplined. He never misses training and always arrives before time, and works hard to achieve his goals."

            Al Derei acknowledges it is not possible to pursue a career in his sport.

            "Judo is an Olympic sport but doesn't get the same support as jiu-jitsu," Al Derei said. "For certain, I can't make a living out of judo. It is a great sport and I will continue to practice as long as I can."

            Al Derei has been involved in judo for the past decade, half of his life. He flirted with jiu-jitsu and boxing at the Abu Dhabi Combat Club but opted for judo. "I liked its philosophy of not hurting the opponent," he said.

            The fourth in a family of nine boys, Al Derei was encouraged to take up the sport by his father.

            "He wasn't in to judo but he had some friends practising it," Al Derei said. "He introduced me and my older brothers to the sport through his friends. My brothers gave up after some time, but I got hooked.

            "To now represent the country in the Olympic Games is already an achievement. It has been my dream in the last two years and to receive a wild card is the best reward I could ever receive in the sport."

            The first Emirati judoka to compete in the Olympics was Saeed Al Qubaisi at the Beijing Olympics in 2008, but Al Derei's role model is Mohamed Ali Rashwan, the Egyptian judoka and silver medallist in the 1984 Olympic Games.

            Rashwan lost the final to Japan's Yasuhiro Yamashita when he decided not to attack the right leg of his opponent, which had been injured during the competition.

            Rashwan won the fair-play international award as a result, something that really struck Al Derei when he studied the career of the Egyptian during a trip to Cairo for the World Championship in 2005.

            "I read his biography and I liked his philosophy," he said. "Here was a man who believed in fair play even if it meant losing an Olympic gold medal. So from that time, he was my role model."

            Aspiring judo fighters in the country could grow up using Al Derei as an inspiration, particularly as he is already grooming the next generation with a series of tutorials.

            "That's something I really enjoy," he said. "Perhaps I can use all my experience to become an instructor when I decide to quit from competitions." Khanov, who represented his country at the 1996 Atlanta Games, believes Al Derei has the qualities to become the first Emirati national coach.

            "In my opinion, this is what he enjoys most," said Khanov, who is completing the first of his three-year contract with the UAE Wrestling, Judo & Jiu Jitsu Federation.

            "He spends more time in helping others. He is almost like my assistant, and I encourage him because he is also learning when he is teaching." – The National

 

American footballers pride at progress of the game in UAE

            American football made its competitive debut at Zayed Sports City yesterday as two teams from the fledgling UAE Falcons held a proper scrimmage.

            "Before, we didn't have enough people to do what we did now," said Khalid Al Qassemi, 25, a member of the Sharjah royal family who played offensive right guard for one side.

            "Before, it was just an offence-against-defence type of game. Now, with two proper teams, we consider this our first local American football game. Reaching where we are right now, it's a very, very proud moment."

            Beginning in heat that sapped energy, especially for receivers, and continuing into fresh darkness, the game ended in a 14-6 victory for the Dubai Falcons over the UAE Falcons.

            Afterward Kai Trompeter, the coach, told his players: "You will play lots of football. I'll personally be working on this very hard."

            That will entail "formalising" with hopes for a league, said Dustin Cherniawski, the free safety who played for the Canadian Football League 2007 Grey Cup champions Saskatchewan Roughriders. "At the moment it's almost more of a social thing," he said, "but what you could say is that due to overwhelming interest, it's quickly formalising into plans for the fall."

            Word of mouth has attracted several Emiratis to the game plus expatriates from countries including Egypt, Jordan, Australia, Canada, the UK and, of course, the US. A database of 150 could suffice for a league, Cherniawski said, adding, "What we're trying to do is get people talking."

            Andre Tosic, 30, the athletic quarterback, saw this stage in his native Serbia 10 years ago when he joined a nascent league. "I've been in exactly the same situation there," he said. "It's going to happen here." – The National

Arab media landscape marks a break from the past

            Current events in the Arab world are strongly influencing the way people in the region interact with the media and have led them to spend more time following the news and political talk shows, according to the Arab Media Outlook Report (2011-2015) launched on Monday by the Dubai Press Club.

            Titled Arab Media: Exposure and Transition, the report highlights the changing media outlook, shifts in consumption patterns and revenue forecasts from the advertising, print copy circulation, online and pay TV segment trends set against a 2015 timeframe.

            Recent events in the Arab world have had a relatively positive impact on the regional media, raising the bar in terms of the quality of news reporting, accelerating the engagement with digital platforms and firmly placing the region on the strategic map of global media houses, Mariam Bin Fahd, executive director of Dubai Press Club, said.

            "In several markets directly affected by the political uprisings, the structure of the media industry is virtually being overhauled with a significant break from the past. However, the pace of media reform in these markets is likely to be gradual with the pressing economic and political issues being taken up as immediate priorities," Bin Fahd said.

            "Our analysis considers the economic and political environment of each of the markets covered in the report, nevertheless there could be potential downside risks given that the media industry in some of these markets is in a rebuilding phase," she added.

            When it comes to television, the report noted that consumers are increasingly turning to ‘ultra local' content in the aftermath of the regional uprisings, while local content is becoming a strong focus for Pan-Arab broadcasters and there is an increasing trend towards the development of original content for the region.

            Imports continue to dominate the Arab TV landscape with Turkish series enjoying immense popularity and the success of local versions of international talent shows such as Arab Idol, and geographic hubs for TV series production expanding across the region, with some of the Gulf states making the most of the recent unrest in traditional markets for content production such as Egypt and Syria.

            In the UAE, live political talk show Al Etijah Al Moakes on Al Jazeera claimed top spot while imported programmes such as Arab Idol, Dance India Dance and other programmes including Jeopardy, Comedy Circus, Sada Al Malaeb, fared well

            The report also noted that foreign media houses are investing in regional TV content and identifying strategic, underserved niches, while social networking has gained ground as the most common online activity across a few regional markets; and YouTube usage has increased significantly.

With Facebook being used to organise protests and share up-to-the-minute information on revolutionary activities at a local level, usage of the site in the Arab world more than doubled from January to April 2011.

            Strong growth in Facebook usage has been prominent in those countries where the revolutions have taken place, while the total number of Facebook users in the Arab world has risen from under 20 million in November 2010 to 36 million in November 2011

            More than 140 stakeholders associated with the print, television, online, radio, and cinema platforms, in addition to advertising agencies from across 17 markets in the Arab world, have shared their perspectives in the current AMO report.

            The study also expands the geographic coverage of the previous editions to include two new markets, Iraq and Libya, both of which have seen dynamic shifts in the media industry over the past year. – Gulf News

 

Abu Dhabi makes world's striking city skylines list

            Abu Dhabi has raced up a chart ranking the 100 most striking city skylines in the world.

            Five years ago the capital did not even appear in the list, but today it is in 43rd place following the completion of a large number of high-rise projects. A year ago the city was ranked 89th.

            Dubai and Sharjah are also in the chart, which is produced by building data firm Emporis. The list ranks the cities whose skylines have the greatest visual impact.

            Dubai has moved up one place to seventh compared with last year, having been ranked 18th five years ago. Sharjah is 73rd, up from 77th a year ago, and was also 73rd in 2007.

            The UAE's first skyscraper, the 39-storey Trade Centre Tower in Dubai, only opened in 1979, and the fact that three of the country's cities now feature in such a chart reflects the dizzying pace of development since then.

            However Emirati architects, while acknowledging the achievement of the UAE in developing so dramatically and raising its international profile, have questioned whether adding more tall buildings is the best way forward for the country now.

            "Dubai looks a very modern city competing with the rest of the world and has this image of newness and financial power which comes with the skyline," said Ahmed Al Ali, a principal of Dubai-based X-Architects. "I agree with this approach.

            "But since this has been done now, I think maybe in the future we will see more development which will really be sensitive to cultural and environmental issues in this part of the world.

            "I think there are much more sensible and sophisticated approaches that could be taken from the traditions and the architectural history that this country has. This is right for the future and is really more valid than skyscrapers."

            Farid Esmaeil, Mr Al Ali's fellow-principal at X-Architects, described the UAE's development as "a fantastic achievement", though he added: "I'm definitely not an anti-tower person, but sometimes I do not agree with the way the towers are built. They have become very generic and very international."

            The skyline ranking list reflects the number and height of buildings with 12 floors or more in each city. Points are awarded according to the number of floors with, for example, buildings between 12 and 19 storeys scoring one point while those with 100 or more storeys earn 600 points.

            The points are added up and the total number determines each cities' place in the table. Dubai, for example, has 604 qualifying buildings and a total of 16,978 points. Doha is ranked 56th, Cairo 83rd and Kuwait City 87th, while Mumbai is in 20th place.

            Hong Kong is top of the list, followed by New York, Chicago, Singapore, Seoul and Sao Paulo. Only completed buildings are included, and TV towers, masts, bridges and other structures do not count. The figures are drawn from Emporis's database, and the list is continually updated as new buildings are completed.

            Emporis, which is based in Germany, collects and supplies information about buildings and construction projects and is regarded as an authority on the subject.

            The UAE also figures in a new list from the company that shows the 100 cities with the most skyscrapers. Dubai is fifth with 230 skyscrapers, Abu Dhabi is 58th with 28 and Sharjah is 72nd with 19. A skyscraper is defined as any building that is 100 or more metres tall. Dubai's 828-metre Burj Khalifa, of course, tops the list of the world's tallest buildings.

            Surprisingly, given Dubai's reputation as a shopping destination, only one of the city's giant retail centres appears in a list of the world's 10 largest malls.

            The Dubai Mall is ranked ninth in a table dominated by Asia, with the New South China Mall in Dongguan, China, topping the list. However the ratings are based on gross leasable area, and the Dubai Mall is the world's largest mall based on total area. – The National

 

US Senator John Kerry visits UAE

            His Highness Gen. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces received at Al Bahr Palace yesterday the U.S. Senator John Kerry, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, who is currently visiting UAE as part of a regional tour.

            They discussed during the meeting, attended by H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, National Security Advisor and H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, ways to enhance ties of friendship and cooperation between the two countries, as well as regional and international developments. They also exchanged views on a number of issues of mutual interest.

            Sheikh Mohammed said the UAE was looking forward to see the region overcoming current challenges through wise policies that contribute in boosting stability and addressing crises. "The most major challenge for all is to achieve development, to provide opportunities for the generations to come and to build a sustainable future," he added.

            He added that despite the current regional circumstances, the UAE tries to promote positive values about the success of Arab and Islamic societies.

            "We seek to fortify our society against the unknown, to play a positive role in maintaining security and stability in our region and to be a source of regional optimism," said Sheikh Mohammed.

            Senator John Kerry expressed appreciation to the UAE and its leadership, praising its approach towards regional developments. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

UAE now a favourite destination for foreign investors and tourists

            Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has viewed new statistics on the UAE's hotels industry in 2011, on the sidelines of the current Arabian Travel Marketing (ATM) week in Dubai. The figures which were released by released by the National Council for Tourism and Archaeology show that hotel occupancy stood at over 14 million guests and that guest nights rose by 15% over the past few years to 40 million.

            The occupancy rate went up to 70% taking revenues to Dh22 billion.
 European guests topped the list of hotel guests followed by Asians, citizens of the GCC member countries while North Americans came in the fourth place.

            Sheikh Mohammed hailed the achievement made by the governmental and private establishments who seek to promote tourism and attract more foreign investments and tourists.  He expressed confidence in the national material and human resources and underscored diversification of the sources of national income through a modern and diversified tourism industry.  The UAE, he noted, is now a favourite destination for foreign investors and tourists. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Emirates says ‘Hello Tomorrow’ at Arabian Travel Market 2012

            Emirates — the Official Airline of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) — will be calling all ‘Globalistas’ at the exhibition this year, with a spectacular showcase of its new ‘Hello Tomorrow’ global brand platform and the introduction of exciting interactive and digital features to its iconic Emirates Globe stand.

            When the annual travel exhibition gets under way on Monday, visitors to the Emirates stand will be wowed by a striking visual display manifesting the spirit of ‘Globalistas’ — individuals who are living and championing the global lifestyle enabled by Emirates.  The three minutes showcase will be played out continuously throughout the exhibition across 30 screens wrapping the colossal 9.2m structure at Emirates stand No. UAE1210, located in Hall 3.

            The vibrant display, which explores different themes synonymous with a global lifestyle such as travel, culture and language, has been produced in celebration of Emirates’ 19th year at ATM and the recent launch of the company’s global ‘Hello Tomorrow’ brand platform.  ‘Hello Tomorrow’ seeks to position Emirates as the enabler of global connectivity and meaningful experiences, as the company continues its evolution from a travel brand to a global lifestyle brand.

            In addition to this stunning showcase, regular guests at ATM will also notice a range of new interactive features that have been introduced to the Globe this year. Digital displays will replace traditional brochure stands on the outer edges of the platform, inviting visitors to search and vote for their favourite Emirates destinations through an interactive world map.

            The 40-inch displays will also link straight to the new Emirates Facebook page, which, since its launch in late March, has already nearly 400,000 fans and currently ranks as the number one airline on the social networking site in the MENA region.

            “Since our last appearance at ATM, Emirates has made great strides towards achieving our vision for the future growth of the airline and we look forward to sharing these with the industry”, said Thierry Antinori, executive vice-president, Passenger Sales Worldwide, Emirates airline. “Our new ‘Hello Tomorrow’ brand platform takes centre stage on Emirates Globe this year, following its successful launch around the world and its significance in positioning Emirates as the enabler of global connectivity and meaningful experiences. – Khaleej Times

 

DTCM soft-launches new Hotel Classification Checklists

            Dubai's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) has announced the soft launch of the new Hotel Classification Checklists for all categories as part of the new Classification Scheme.

            The department said the New Classification Scheme highlights the quality of Guest Accommodation in the emirate, strives to satisfy all consumers and promote retention, diversified Guest Accommodation options develops new investment opportunities and opens new consumer markets, provides transparent and detailed requirements for Guest Accommodation, in line with international practices.

            It encourages improved standards in Guest Accommodation portfolio. The designators allow the industry, and the destination, to conduct targeted marketing. The Accolades communicate the exceptional level of luxury Guest Accommodation available in the emirate, and identify and reward those 5-Star Hotels and Resorts, which consistently exceed expectations. It focuses on Special Needs and Environmental Initiatives and enables the consumer to conduct specific accommodation searches, and make informed choices.

            The following are new features introduced in the new Scheme: 

Introduction of new categories of accommodation and grading levels to broaden the Guest Accommodation offering in the emirate and is designed to ensure that each budget is catered to.

            Introduction and automation of new grading process to ensure that quality standards are consistently delivered, and fairly assessed.

            Introduction of overnight assessments for higher Gradings to evaluate service delivery.

            Introduction of the self assessment processes so that establishments may fully understand their compliance in advance of the official Classification Assessment, and take any required action.

            Introduction of the Designator programme to highlight Guest Accommodation specialities, and facilitate targeted marketing.

            Introduction of the Accolade Programme to recognise and reward those hotels and resorts which consistently exceed expectations.

            New Customer Care Centre, including an Advisory Team to offer advice during all stages of the process, from new establishments to long existing establishments who may be undergoing refurbishments etc.

            Classification Software with an online portal for industry members, media and investors, with a range on e-services.

            During the Arabian Travel Marketing (ATM) week, DTCM will be providing draft copies of the new Industry Manual and Criteria Checklists as well as conducting presentations highlighting the new classification scheme. Additionally, DTCM will be accepting pre-registration applications for accessing the new classification software once it goes live.

            Dubai has further consolidated its position on the world tourism map with its hotels and hotel apartments posting impressive all-round performance in hotel guest numbers, cruise passengers, revenues, guest nights and average length of stay.

            Dubai hosted an impressive 9.30 million hotel guests and cruise passengers in 2011, up by 10 per cent compared with the previous year. Guestnights rose by 23 per cent to 32,848,190 while the average length of stay went up by 12 per cent to 3.6 days last year.

            Dubai's 575 hotel establishments generated revenues of AED16 billion last year, an increase of 20 per cent. The year saw a five per cent increase in the number of hotel rooms and hotel apartment flats which stood at 53,828 rooms and 21,015 hotel flats.

            Dubai hotels ranked number one on the global hotel occupancy list at 86.2 percent in January 2012, up from ninth place a year earlier, according to a report by the hotel industry research firm STR Global, higher than in Tokyo, Paris or New York. Occupancy rates and daily revenue per room have risen too.

            Guiding its future growth ambitions, the DTCM has released the new hotel classification checklists and Classification Scheme to increase the emirate's guest accommodation portfolio and encourage diversity in line with the international standards and the expectations of its current and future visitors.  – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

UAE set to enter UN tourism agency

            The UAE, one of the largest tourism markets in the Middle East and North Africa, is set to become a full member of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) this year, a top official said.

            Despite its success in tourism the UAE is the only country in the region that is not a UNWTO member.

            "The government has been talking to us about becoming a full member following the establishment of the National Council for Tourism and Antiquities," Taleb Rifai, UNWTO secretary-general, said.

            The UNWTO has 155 members. Although all UN members are entitled to membership, some such as the UAE, the United States, New Zealand and some Scandinavian countries have yet to join.

To join, each country must nominate a government body, authority or ministry to represent it.

            Before 2009, the UAE did not have a federal tourism regulatory body to represent it at international tourism events.

            Most of the UAE's participation in major travel exhibitions was through individual emirates and their tourism bodies.

            In 2009 the UAE government set up the National Council for Tourism and Antiquities (NCTA) as the federal tourism coordinating body. It is responsible for representing the country at global tourism events and coordinating rules and regulations among tourism departments in each emirate to create a proper regulatory environment for the industry.

            However, despite great success in tourism, the UAE still does not have a tourism ministry to oversee the development of the sector. The country has yet to develop a centralised database for tourist arrivals and currently only a small amount of information is available.

            The UAE Cabinet has recently designated the NCTA as the national representative for tourism affairs and following the necessary paperwork, it could become a full member of the UNWTO.

            "We welcome the UAE Cabinet's decision designating the NCTA to be the official national representative for tourism affairs of the UAE, which will help us to induct the country as a full member of the UNWTO, following necessary paperwork," Rifai told Gulf News.

            "We have almost concluded an agreement, and I have received news that the cabinet has held discussions, and it is - in principal - approved. We are awaiting official notification and would be delighted to welcome the UAE as a member."

            Rifai said the US had yet to become a UNWTO member for similar reasons. The US does not have a federal tourism regulatory body or national representative.

            "They are now nominating the Department of Commerce to represent the country for tourism as well, which will pave the way for the US to become a full UNWTO member," he said.

Single GCC visa

            Looking at the Gulf region, he said, a lot more could be done to boost the tourism industry. Although GCC citizens can travel within the region visa-free, with residents getting visas upon arrival, a single visa scheme would allow increased visitor traffic to the region.

            "In the long term, the Gulf countries will eventually develop a single visa scheme for international visitors — that's the worldwide trend," Rifai said.

            "This will obviously help greater mobility across the region and increase tourist traffic flow."

            Aviation and tourism have been at the centre of the economic transformation in the Gulf for the past 25 years. A study by Oxford Economics shows aviation in the Middle East supports 2.7 million jobs and US$129 billion (Dh473.8 billion) in GDP.

            Aviation's role is set to grow rapidly as international passenger numbers jump from 77.1 million in 2010 to 220 million by 2030.

            "Aviation's ability to play a leading role in GDP growth is not guaranteed. It depends on having the right conditions in place to support competitive sustainable businesses," said Tony Tyler, director-general and CEO of the International Air Transport Association. – Gulf News

 

Travel Trends: A golf course in Dubai’s World Central Airport

            A new report by one of world’s largest hotel groups says airport indulgences are at an all-time high, and that shopping and indulging in luxuries at airports worldwide will be a key global travel trend that will have potential impact in 2012 and beyond.

            With over 153 million room nights booked by guests each year, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), says in its report that new global travel patterns are impacting local geographies, and cites the world’s largest airport, Dubai’s upcoming World Central Airport as an example.

            IHG says that 100 new airports will emerge by 2020 in China, while “Dubai’s World Central airport will house a golf course and the world’s largest mall.”

            So what does the future hold for us when we travel? “Well, we could be travelling virtually baggage free by being able to rent our clothing and accessories from hotel lobbies, de-stress in special sleeping labs in hotels and stimulate our minds through in-room brain spa menus,” the report states.

            “We could even be shopping from our mobiles by scanning codes from an in-flight magazine and have items delivered to any hotel in any destination,” the report speculates.

            The contributors to IHG’s trends report were asked what they thought were the main drivers of change that would influence 2012 in terms of travel and these insights have been reflected in five macro trend areas.

            Among the mega-trends that the hotel group’s analysts have outlined are:

 

REMAPPING: New global travel patterns are impacting local geographies  The remapping trend looks at how our travel and lifestyle patterns are changing and the impact this is having upon urban areas. For example, as we see the rise in populated areas outside of main city centres, smaller cities are being developed. Spas are more likely to be seen in an urban area now over a country retreat and we will see an increase in small communities around airports.

            - 100 new airports will emerge by 2020 in China, while Dubai’s World Central airport will house a golf course and the world’s largest mall.

            BRAIN SPA: The desire to learn more will influence destination decisions Brain Spa looks at our growing appetite to expand and keep our intellect in good health – in fact we are prepared to travel for it. Forbes has tipped the market for goods and services that claim to enhance IQ as the next trillion dollar industry and Brain Fitness software is already worth US$265 million in the US.

            - The market for goods and services responding to the new demand for mental stimulation is expected to grow between US$1 billion to US$5 billion by 2015.

            DEMO-LUXURY: Airport indulgences are at an all-time high This trends looks at a new type of luxury – it no longer means high-cost but more ‘everyday indulgence’. It looks at how brands are co-creating with customers to offer these indulgences and how we are much more prone to ‘borrowing’ and not ‘buying’ one-off luxury items. As airport turnover goes through the roof – one of these ‘indulgences’ has been identified as the increase in shopping at airports.

            - Global airport retailing is now worth 27.1 billion and is the second fastest growing channel of retail after e-tailing as many women prefer to travel light and shop at the airport.

            THE INTERNET OF THINGS: Using the web to buy ‘in flight’ and get ‘in hotel’. This trend looks at our relationship with the internet and how it will take on a new meaning in the future. It focuses on how the internet will slowly move out of conventional devices such as the mobile and move into less likely items like magazines, for example. We could soon be buying items in-flight and receiving them at our destination. Or, ordering food from our mobiles and it being ready on the restaurant table on arrival – and so the phenomenon ‘from tablet to table’ is born.

            - Did you know that computers of the next generation will need to be 1000 times faster in order to keep up with the speed that the industry is moving

            PEOPLE PLAY: Consumers will be loyal only if brands ‘play nicely’ This trends looks at how sophisticated brands have become in order to continue to maintain customer loyalty.  Game play has become a huge focus area as big brands adopt some of the principles of Facebook and Google. - The total spend on loyalty-based game play applications will rise to US$1.6 billion globally by 2015 as the war for brand loyalty moves up a gear in response to increasingly savvy consumers. – Emirates 24|7

 

Dubai Hotels report Dh5. 4 billion revenues in Q1 2012

            The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) has announced that the hotel industry registered growth in the first quarter of 2012, which showed a 9 per cent increase in guest numbers, 24 per cent increase in revenues, 22 per cent jump in guest nights and a 12 per cent rise in the average length of stay.

            The impressive January-March 2012 results caps the stellar performance posted by the hotels in Dubai last year with revenues touching an all-time high of Dhs16 billion and 10 per cent increase in the guest numbers which crossed the nine million mark.

            During Q1 2012, Dubai hotels and hotel apartments played host to nearly 2.6 million guests, an increase of 9 per cent over the corresponding period last year.  Similarly, the guest nights swelled by 22 per cent to touch 10.35 million, while the revenues recorded 24 per cent increase to more than Dhs5.38bn.

            The number of hotels increased by 1 per cent to reach 577 with the total number of rooms and flats swelling 4 per cent to 75171.

            Hotel room occupancy rate stood at 87 per cent, an increase of 8 per cent while it was 84 per cent occupancy for the apartment flat, a 5 per cent increase.

            However, the apartment average room rate witnessed 12 per cent increase to reach Dhs448 while the hotel average room rate was Dhs655, an increase of 7 per cent.  – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

VP calls for exemption of goods, items of people with special needs from custom duties at GCC level

            Goods and special items of people with special needs have been exempted from custom duties at the level of the Gulf Cooperation Council for Arab States (GCC), according to special initiative from Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

            The kind gesture aims to ease burden on this category, and in appreciation to the role of people with special needs in comprehensive development. Sheikh Mohammed has instructed the Dubai Customs to implement the exemption procedures in the framework of joint GCC work.

            The Dubai Customs commenced the necessary procedures and submitted the initiative to the General Secretariat of the GCC through the Federal Customs Authority. The items of people with special needs are currently charged by 5 per cent in accordance with the unified GCC Custom Law.

            Meanwhile, the Committee of Custom Union of the GCC welcomed this humanitarian initiative of Sheikh Mohammed, describing it "as a civilised humanitarian gesture from Sheikh Mohammed towards the handicaps".

            The Committee approved in its recent meeting held at the Secretariat General of the GCC in Riyadh from April 9- 11, 2011, the exemption of goods and items of the people with special needs.  Among the materials and goods covered by the exemption, are vehicles and bikes designed specifically for people with special needs and with disabilities, as well as the hearing aids and electronic devices for the blind and elderly.

            The Director General of Dubai Customs and CEO of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, Ahmed Butti Ahmed, lauded the initiative of the Vice President. "It is a valuable gift from Sheikh Mohammed to this category", he added, citing Sheikh Mohammed's humanitarian record locally, regionally and internationally. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

UAE ambassador launches e-system for issuing visas

            Rabat - Al Asri Saeed Al Dhaheri, UAE ambassador to Morocco has launched a new system for issuance of visas which is a printing program for electronic-visa sticker with highly and accurate standards. Al Asri signed the first issuance of electronic-visa sticker and stressed that the new system comes in line with Ministry of Foreign Affairs' strategy to promote consular services and adopting the most advanced technology. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

UAE enjoys high degree of safety and stability, says Nahyan

            Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research said the United Arab Emirates enjoys a high degree of safety and stability.

            "The economy continues to grow at a steady and rapid rate. We are a major centre of global commerce, focusing on international trade, global energy, tourism, finance, information technology and media. Our economy is highly competitive, transparent, and supportive of business and entrepreneurs. The country boasts of strong institutions that make continued prosperity and economic growth possible," Sheikh Nahyan said in a keynote speech to the Gulf Aluminium Council's (GAC) 2nd Annual Dinner held at Emirates Palace on 29 April.

            Hosted by Emirates Aluminium (EMAL), the dinner was attended by the world's leading figures in the aluminium industry, who are in Abu Dhabi for Aluminium Week.

            "Forty years ago, the founder of the United Arab Emirates, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahayan, projected us into the future through his wisdom and vision. Likewise today our President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, leads us with wisdom and vision. We owe a great debt of gratitude to the leaders of our country for creating a tolerant, hospitable environment of opportunity for all of our people," he added.

            Sheikh Nahyan stressed that the United Arab Emirates embodies the values of tolerance and cooperation in a world characterised by heightened tension and increased divisions. Our country plays a prominent role in regional and international affairs. He also emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region and the world so that international cooperation can flourish, free trade and investment can thrive, and where market confidence and economic activity are encouraged.

            "Abu Dhabi, the heartland of the United Arab Emirates, has seized its opportunities and has become a truly global city, not only a centre for finance, business, education, technology, health, and culture but also a nurturing source of innovation and creativity that promises to benefit the world. And, consistent with its historical record, Abu Dhabi is moving aggressively into the future. The Abu Dhabi 2030 plan, for example, lays the foundation for a socially cohesive and economically sustainable community that preserves the city's unique cultural heritage while gathering power from its connections with other cultures. Our leaders have carefully fixed both the goals toward which Abu Dhabi will move and the complex methods for most effectively reaching those goals." "Looking toward the future, Abu Dhabi has noted that the global demand for aluminium is predicted to grow steadily over the next decade. Our low business costs, advanced transport infrastructure, and political and economic stability place us ideally to meet the growing demand. We take great pride in the achievements of our two UAE producers, EMAL and DUBAL, in becoming reliable sources of quality metal to customers around the world. They will grow in global prominence. In particular, our investment in EMAL will make it the world's largest single-site aluminium producer by 2014 when it may produce as much as one-third of the aluminium manufactured in the Gulf region." The entire output of the Gulf countries has made them significant contributors to global progress, according to Sheikh Nahyan.

            "It is recognition of the importance of this country and this region to aluminium that this week Abu Dhabi is hosting three of the most important meetings of the industry. It will not be the last time. We all know the answer to the question in Shakespeare's Coriolanus: "What is the city but the people?" The people of Abu Dhabi constitute its essence. Its people working together have in forty wondrous years made Abu Dhabi a great city with a heartbeat that resounds in the region and around the world," he further said. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

DP World reports 10% increase in container volumes in Q1- 2012

            DP World Limited on Monday reported an increase of 9.5% in gross volumes in the first quarter of 2012 handling 13.8 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) across its global portfolio of marine terminals.

            Excluding the contribution from new capacity, like for like growth was 7.4%, according to DP World Chairman Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem in a press release.

            "Excluding the contribution from new capacity, like for like growth was 7.4%," he added. "This growth was driven by an excellent performance in our Asia Pacific and Indian Subcontinent region which reported 14.6% growth in volumes as new capacity across the region supported strong growth across our Asia Pacific portfolio. Growth in Europe, Middle East and Africa region was 4.4% with a good performance in the Middle East and Africa mitigating the ongoing challenging operating environment in Europe. The Americas and Australia region reported growth of 8.7% driven by a very strong performance in the Americas region. "Our portfolio of consolidated terminals reported container volumes of 6.6 million TEU.

            Had our five terminals in Australia not been deconsolidated from the 12 March 2011, underlying growth would have been 5.9% when compared to the same period last year.

"Jebel Ali, UAE has continued to deliver strong volume growth handling 3.2 million TEU in the first three months of the year, 8.5% ahead of the same period last year.

            "The global macroeconomic uncertainty has continued into 2012. With our portfolio focused on the faster growing emerging markets and more stable origin and destination (O'&'D) markets, we remain committed to delivering improved operational and financial performance over 2011," he further said. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Dubai Trade achieves cost savings of Dh148 billion for the country in five years

            The time-saving efficiency of e-services developed by Dubai Trade FZE, the leading trade facilitator under Dubai World, is leading to billions of dollars in annual savings for the public sector and numerous benefits for traders and the economy as a whole, according to a recent, independent case study carried out by the Emirates Competitiveness Council (ECC).

            The study says the reduction in the number of days required to import or export goods via Dubai ports from 12 days to seven days has potentially led to total savings of Dh148 billion (more than US$40 billion) over five years ending 2011, which accounts for about 17 percent of the UAE's 2009 GDP. The benefits will further multiply this year after Dubai Trade reduced the processing time to only seven days through its electronic services.

            The ECC study follows a recent 2012 World Bank "Doing Business" report that shows the UAE today has raised its global ranking to fifth in trading across borders', and is now ahead of Organisation of Economic and Cooperation Development (OECD) countries by a wide margin.

            Dubai Trade has created a competitive advantage to both the public and private sectors by leveraging UAE's location advantage; having a strong customer-centric business strategy in place; and fostering innovative public and private sector synergies, the study says.

            The report's 2012 edition indicates that the UAE is now ahead of the Organisation of Economic and Cooperation Development (OECD) countries by a wide margin. In the UAE, it takes only seven days to export a container at a cost of US$630 and seven days to import at a cost of US$635, the report says, while in high-income OECD countries it takes 10 days to export and 11 days to import, with the cost per container exceeding US$1,000 for import or export.

            The Emirates Competitiveness Council case study, titled Dubai Trade - Building Competitive Advantage through Collaboration, is part of studies issued by the ECC called Policy in Action Series. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

DP World approves distribution of 24 US cents dividend per share

            DP World Limited held their Annual General Meeting (AGM) in respect of the full year 2011 this morning, with all resolutions put to shareholders passed, with over 99% of the votes cast in favour. Shareholders voted in favour of the re-appointment of all eight Directors of the DP World Board.

            The resolutions also included the approval of a dividend of 24 US cents per share for the full year 2011.

            Chairman Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem said; "On behalf of the Board of DP World I am pleased to announce that our shareholders have approved the dividend in respect of the full year 2011. The dividend of 24 US cents per share will be paid on 2 May 2012." The dividend comprises a 10% increase in the underlying dividend to 18.7 US cents per share, supplemented by a special dividend of 5.3 US cents per share reflecting the separately disclosed profit attributable to Owners of the Company. This results in a total dividend distribution of US$199 million.

            The dividend will be paid on Wednesday 2 May 2012 to shareholders on the register as at the close of business on 10 April 2012.

            For shareholders with NIN accounts the dividend will be paid via a cheque. If shareholders have applied for an iVestor card this will be credited automatically or if they have already elected to receive dividends by bank transfer, this will happen automatically.

            For shareholders who do not have a NIN, the process of dividend payments will be the same as in previous years, paid via their broker. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Retail boom in Abu Dhabi set to end trek for shoppers

      Thousands of Dubai residents may head down the Sheikh Zayed Road to Abu Dhabi every morning to work, but there is a sizeable flow of Abu Dhabi residents heading the other way to shop, according to new research.

            One in five Abu Dhabi residents regularly leaves the capital to shop in Dubai, with 80 per cent of those shoppers in the high-income bracket, according to a report by DTZ, a global property specialist.

            And the industry is not blind to the trend: retail space in Abu Dhabi is set to double over the next three years, DTZ said, having partnered the independent advisory company GMRC to survey residents.

            Mall space in Abu Dhabi should grow from a current 709,000 square metres to 1.4 million sq metres by 2015.

            Andrew Goodwin, the head of retail for the Middle East and North Africa at DTZ, said there was "significant leakage" of spending from Abu Dhabi to Dubai at the moment - a problem that would be solved by the growing level of retail in the capital.

            "Abu Dhabi has not yet experienced the same level of shopping-centre development that has occurred in Dubai in either quantity or quality," said Mr Goodwin in his report, seen by The National.

            "The poor offering of luxury retailing within Abu Dhabi has become particularly apparent since the opening of the luxury and upper marquee-focused extension of Mall of the Emirates in Dubai and Dubai Mall with its extensive high-end offers."

            The number of retail stores in Dubai has grown at a fast pace in the past 10 years, with the addition of hugely successful malls such as Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall and, more recently, Mirdif City Centre.

            Retail space has increased 60 per cent in Dubai since 2005, according to Jones Lang LaSalle, and the per capita mall space is almost double the level in Abu Dhabi, which has the second-highest rate in the Middle East.

            But a number of major projects are under way in the capital and are expected to be finished in the next few years, increasing both the quality and quantity of retail.

            Residents are expected to benefit from greater fashion offerings, a better range of luxury stores and a number of waterfront dining venues.

            Three malls are expected to be completed this year: Paragon Bay Mall on Reem Island; Capital Mall in Mohammed bin Zayed City; and Deerfields Town Square in Al Bahia.

            Last week, Gulf Related and Mubadala Real Estate & Hospitality, a unit of Mubadala Development, announced they would bring a series of luxury brands to a new mall called The Galleria, set to open in August next year on Sowwah Square on Al Maryah Island. Mubadala is a strategic investment company owned by the Abu Dhabi Government.

            Sorouh Real Estate, one of the biggest developers in Abu Dhabi, also announced last week it would launch Boutik, a branded mall concept, in many of its major developments.

            Yas Mall is also expected to be completed by the end of next year, while a new Ace Hardware megastore is expected to open this year next to the new Ikea on Yas Island. Yas Mall will become the second-biggest mall in the Emirates behind Dubai Mall.

            "The race to provide the long-awaited regional mall required by Abu Dhabi to stem the leakage of trade to Dubai is being developed by Aldar on Yas Island," said Mr Goodwin.

            "The critical mass of this, coupled with adjoining leisure activities, will create a major destination for shopping in a new location and help to distribute the trade throughout the metropolitan area."

            DTZ estimates Abu Dhabi's retail spending to be Dh17 billion (US$4.62bn) this year.

            "As one of the fastest-growing and richest cities in the world, Abu Dhabi's retail market has grown considerably in recent years, reflecting an expanding population with greater disposable income," said Mr Goodwin.

            Developers in the UAE continue to invest in retail developments as the sector has been one of the best-performing in the past year, with retailers enjoying year-on-year sales increases of up to 30 per cent.

Emaar is extending the size of Dubai Mall and Nakheel is looking at doubling the size of both Dragon Mart and Ibn Battuta Mall, as well as building Palm Mall on the Palm Jumeirah. – The National

 

Young Artist Award calls for entries

            This year's Sheikha Manal Young Artist Award (YAA) has announced its call for entries, accepting applications from May 1 to November 1.

First launched in 2006, the competition recognises emerging artists in the UAE, under the patronage of HH Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

It is open to all UAE residents, age 18 to 35. Applicants should not have had a previous independent solo exhibit.

For more information, visit http://www.youngartistaward.ae. – The National

 

Foreign rule gives UAE Pro League clubs a lift in AFC clashes

            Pro League Committee (PLC) Deputy Chairman Abdulla N Al Junaibi believes the league’s adoption of the Asian Football Confederation’s (AFC) 3+1 foreign player rule as aided UAE clubs in the Champions League.

            Prior to this season, the clubs were allowed to field three foreign players domestically, making it tough for clubs competing in Asia. Some clubs signed an additional Asian player for the Champions League, but they would only be eligible for that competition.

            That changed ahead of the fourth edition of the Pro League with all 12 clubs now able to field four foreign players, of which one must be Asian. Speaking at an extraordinary meeting of the PLC Board of Directors, Al Junaibi confirmed the rule would be kept domestically for the next two seasons at least.

            “Previously we had three foreign players and now it is 3+1 like in the AFC,” he said. “We mentioned here that there are no changes in terms of the 3+1 rule, we are using the same as the AFC regulations it will not be changed.”

            The fortunes of the UAE sides in Asia, especially those from Abu Dhabi, have greatly improved this season. Al Jazira have qualified for the last 16 with two games to spare while Bani Yas are in strong contention to make it out of Group B.

            In turn, the Pro League has risen two places from seventh to fifth in AFC rankings, and Al Junaibi told Sport360° that the rule change had been a factor. “I think it has, especially as all of the four clubs who are playing in the AFC Champions League are playing 3+1 domestically as AFC regulation. So it is better to have it internally before going internationally,” he added.

            “It is one of the factors, but really this is the fourth Pro League season and there have been a lot of developments from year one until now. What is happening now is a good result, even if some of the clubs don’t go to the round of 16, we can see that our clubs are really playing and doing well reflecting the improvement. Last year the UAE were No7 in AFC, now we are No5, which means there is development which also reflects the results of these teams in AFC competition.” – Sport 360°

UAE regrets attempt to target Saudi Arabia diplomatic missions in Egypt

            Ambassador Dr. Abdul Rahim Yousuf Al Awadi, Assistant Foreign Minister for Legal Affairs has said that United Arab Emirates is watching the development closely over the Saudi Arabia's recall of its ambassador from Egypt and the closure of its consulates in Alexandria and Suez.  It also regrets the attempt to target Saudi diplomatic missions in Egypt and try to affect historical relationship between the two countries.

            "UAE stresses security and safety of diplomatic works, missions and diplomats besides the need for strict adherence to all the terms of the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations in particular Article 22 and 29," the official said.

            Ambassador Al Awadi added that protection of diplomatic missions and diplomats become essential for maintaining Arab relations and unjustified escalation should be contained in the backdrop of developments witnessed by the Arab world.

            UAE hopes that the crisis will be overcome for the benefit, well-being and prosperity of the people of both countries, the official added. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi launched at Arabian Travel Market

            Aldar is set to bring Yas Island, Abu Dhabi's major destination for business and leisure travellers to Arabian Travel Market, the leading travel exhibition for the Middle East region starting tomorrow in Dubai.

            Being showcased at ATM for the first time, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi will significantly add to the attractions of Yas Island when in opens in Q4 2012. Visitors to the water park will enjoy 43 rides, slides and attractions that follow the adventures of the waterpark's main character Dana - a young Emirati girl in search of a legendary pearl which brought prosperity to the people of her village.

            Also new for ATM 2012 is the agreement between Aldar and Viceroy Hotel Group for the management of what is now Yas Viceroy Hotel, combining Viceroy's passion for design and personalised service with one of the iconic five star hotels of Abu Dhabi.

            Six other hotels on Yas Island offering 1,800 rooms and conferencing facilities have been developed around a plaza close to the Yas Marina Circuit. The hotels are managed by Aldar and operated by global brands IHG (Crowne Plaza and Staybridge Suites), Rezidor (Radisson Blu and Park Inn) and leading regional operator Rotana (Rotana and Centro).

            Mohamed Al Mubarak, Deputy CEO, Aldar Properties, commented "We return to Arabian Travel Market this year with yet more exciting developments at Yas Island to showcase. The introduction of the luxury hotel brand Viceroy to the Middle East, the recognition that continues to be given to Yas Links from the global golfing community, the growing list of superstars to perform here, it all adds up to another exciting and successful year in the life of Yas Island." We are particularly excited about the newest member of the Yas Island family - Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi will provide an important addition to the attractions of on offer. The water park pays tribute to the Emirati culture and heritage of pearl diving, and offers rides and attractions for every member of the family." – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Key industry players gather at Arabian Travel Market

            This year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2012 will get a boost for the first time in its 19 year history as a large section of Tourism Ministers from the Middle East and Africa region are expected to attend the event that starts today (Monday), and is being held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

            The event will bring together the Ministers and other key industry players keen to develop the vibrant sector, as the four-day show acts as a platform to enable the players to explore some of the untapped opportunities.

            According to the organisers of the event, Mark Walsh, Portfolio Director, Reed Travel Exhibitions said that this year’s event is bigger than previous years with a total of 2400 exhibitors taking part and 82 new participants will be showcasing their products and services in what is considered to be the region’s largest tourism show.

            Speaking during a well-attended media briefing on Sunday, the Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) said the UAE is looking to achieve 9 per cent growth in visitor arrivals in 2012 as the country continues to benefit from unrest elsewhere in the region.

            Saleh Mohammed Al Geziry, DTCM’s Director of Overseas Promotions and Inward Missions, disclosed Dubai posted a 10 per cent rise in hotel guests in 2011 against the previous year, welcoming 9.3 million hotel guests and cruise passengers with the average length of stay also rising 12 per cent to 3.6 days.

            He noted that Dubai tourism industry continues its strong growth despite the global economy still remaining unsettled due to the strong fundamentals and capability to meet the demands and expectations of the tourists and industry players.

Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority reported a record number of hotel visitors for 2011, with over 2.1 million hotel guests, beating the previous record high of around 1.8 million in 2010. Industry players noted that the travel industry within the Gulf is expanding, adding that it is dynamic and vibrant. – The Gulf Today

 

ATM to highlight Sharjah's international perspective

            Mohammed Al Noman, Chairman of The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) has stressed the significance of taking part in the Arabian Travel Market 2012, which represents an opportunity to shed light on the Emirate of Sharjah's international perspective.  He added that the participation of the SCTDA in the event also comes in line with the strategy of the SCTDA to participate at the local and international exhibitions, which contribute to promoting the Emirate of Sharjah, being the important promotion platforms for new tourism projects.

            Al Noman said the ATM 2012, which will kick off on Monday at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre will see strong presence of the Emirate of Sharjah with participation of the SCTDA for 15th times in a row. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Ras Al Khaimah expects one million visitors in 2012

            Ras Al Khaimah is confident to welcome one million visitors this year as the government accords top priority to promote the emirate as leisure destination, a top official of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (Ras Al Khaimah TDA), said.

            The authority yesterday launched a major initiative to the rising emirate as a key hotel and resort investment hot spot ripe for investor development at Arabian Hotel and Investment Conference, or Ahic.

            “Ras Al Khaimah investors guide initiative will directly appeal to and inform potential investors of the benefits of investing in Ras Al Khaimah’s developing hospitality industry,” Victor Louis, chief investment officer, Ras Al Khaimah TDA, told Khaleej Times during an interview on the sidelines of Ahic.

Elaborating, he said the investors guide will facilitate all investment opportunities in the emirate. “We introduce to the investors the available investment opportunities including 35 plots within the Al Marjan Island, where UAE’s first Waldorf Astoria, Rixos Bab Al Bar, DoubleTree by Hilton and Real Madrid Resort will take place as scheduled.

            “The highlight of the guide is a section where we provide the investors with complete 10 years plans feasibility studies of the different hotel capacities in Ras Al Khaimah,” Loiuis said.

            He said clear strategic goals and aggressive targets have been set by Ras Al Khaimah TDA including increasing the total number of annual visitors to 1.2 million by 2013 and increasing the emirate’s total hotel and resort room inventory to 10,000 keys by 2016.  “By participating at Ahic, Ras Al Khaimah TDA is looking to generate direct tourism investment and encourage investment opportunities into the emirate,” he said.

            At Ahic, Ras Al Khaimah TDA is looking to highlight the robust performance of the emirate’s tourism industry and its attractiveness as an investment destination since the establishment of the authority in May 2011.

            “Hotel occupancy in Ras Al Khaimah remained extremely solid in 2011 for the beach resorts during 2011 were a healthy 70 per cent and 65 per cent in the city hotels indicating an increase of 9.35 per cent in beach resorts and seven per cent in the city hotels,” Louis said.

            He said the revenue per room (RevPAR) figures for 2011 also show an increase on 2010 with Ras Al Khaimah beach resorts enjoying a healthy increase of 24.5 per cent while the city hotels rose by a solid 10.24 per cent. “These figures were translated into Dh400 million hotels revenue stating an increase of 37.61 per cent compared to the year 2010,” he said.

            He said the emirate received 306,750 visitors in first quarter compared to a total of approximately 208,000 visitors for the same period in 2011, reflecting an increase of 47 per cent.

            “Over the first quarter of 2012 occupancies have risen by a total of three per cent at beach hotels and resorts, and 11.5 per cent at city hotels. Additionally, RevPAR also improved by 31.5 per cent for beach hotels and resorts and 50.46 per cent for city hotels,” he said adding that the total hotels revenue surged 40 per cent to Dh139 million in first quarter of 2012.

            On  Ras Al Khaimah’s attractiveness as an investment destination: “We have created an environment that provides encouraging returns on investment and through our continuing promotion and development of Ras Al Khaimah as a tourism destination we will continue to ensure that this environment continues and is strengthened for the benefit of investors and the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah alike.”

            He said Ras Al Khaimah TDA is keen to attract leisure travellers as well as expat community in UAE and GCC to promote the tourism in the emirate.  “The government is spending US$250 million in tourism infrastructure projects this year,” he said.

            “The authority is focusing to promote Al Marjan Island, the first man-made island project to be developed within Ras Al Khaimah and consists of a cluster of five coral-shaped island extending over 2.7 million square metres,” he said.

            He said the emirate is open to welcome all hospitality brands and major international hotels are scheduled to make foray during next couple of months. – Khaleej Times

 

Sorouh profit rises 22% as project revenues grow

            Developer Sorouh Real Estate said yesterday the evaluation process to look at the legal and business aspects of a potential merger with the emirate's largest real estate developer Aldar Properties is under way.

            "The ultimate outcome of this process will take into account the best interests of shareholders. A further update will be made as and when appropriate," Sorouh said while announcing its first quarter results.

            On March 11, Sorouh and Aldar announced that they were in early discussions to evaluate the possibility of a merger. Sorouh said its first quarter net profit jumped 22 per cent year-on-year to Dh92.8 million while revenue grew a whopping 114 per cent to Dh967.2 million year-on-year. Its stock closed 1.77 per cent higher at Dh1.12 on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange yesterday.

            Reacting to Sorouh's performance in the first quarter, Marwan Shurrab, vice president at Dubai-based Gulfmena Investments, told Gulf News: "The first quarter numbers showed strong performance for 2012, indicating the ability to generate liquidity to meet obligations in the short term."

            Shurrab added: "The growth we are seeing in the first quarter supports the market performance in the year-to-date, giving indication that future growth will further support the financial performance of the company."

            Higher net profit represents a "continued strengthening of sustainable recurring income from Sorouh's investment portfolio and revenues from its national housing projects," Abu Dhabi's second biggest developer said.

            The company also said its revenue from national housing projects increased significantly, generating Dh62 million in gross profit.

            "Revenues from investment properties grew 14 per cent year-on-year to almost Dh50 million. The company is on track to reach its target of Dh500 million of recurring income by 2014," Sorouh said.

            Managing director Abu Baqer Seddiq Al Khouri said: "We continue to diversify our revenue streams which will support the quality of our earnings over the medium to long term. The current flight to quality with Abu Dhabi real estate leaves us well positioned to deliver an exciting project pipeline of some 7,000 units between now and the end of 2013." – Gulf News

 

Jumeirah in deals to manage 50 hotels

            The Jumeirah Group has agreements to manage 50 hotels, short of its target for 60 agreements by 2012, its executive chairman said.

            The company, which operates luxury hotels and resorts owned by Dubai’s government, will manage a total of 35 to 40 hotels in the next five years and plans to open one hotel in each of Azerbaijan, Kuwait and Dubai this year, Gerald Lawless told reporters at a conference in Dubai. The company currently operates 20 hotels and has agreements for another 30.

            “I’d say we are a little bit short of that, but not that short,” he said of the target for 60 hotels.

The average occupancy rate for Jumeirah’s beach hotels was 84.4 per cent in the first quarter of the year, while the average occupancy rate for the company’s city properties was 85.5 per cent. Jumeirah is in the “final stages” of agreeing three management contracts in Saudi Arabia, he said. – Khaleej Times

 

Etihad Guest bags top honours at Freddie Awards

            Etihad Airways’ frequent flyer programme, Etihad Guest, has again triumphed at the 2012 Freddie Awards. Etihad Guest was recognised for the Best Redemption Ability, Best Elite Programme and Best Loyalty Credit Card among all airlines in the Middle East, Asia and Oceania.  The programme was also runner up in  four  categories: Best Promotion for Earning, Best Promotion for Redemption, Best Customer Service and Programme of the Year.

            Introduced in 1988 by InsideFlyer magazine’s Randy Petersen, the ‘Freddies’ have grown in stature and importance to become the most prestigious member-generated awards. – The Gulf Today

 

ADAC brings world's air transport networking event to Abu Dhabi

            Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) will host the 18th World Route Development Forum, which will take place from 29th September to 2nd October at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) this year.

            The event is hosted by ADAC and will be supported by Etihad Airways, as official carrier and in partnership with Abu Dhabi Tourism '&' Culture Authority, Department of Transport (DOT), ADNOC Distribution, and Mubadala Aerospace. The 18th World Routes will be sponsored by DFS Duty Free and Abu Dhabi Media, as the official media partner.

            The second World Routes event took place in Abu Dhabi in 1996 in the capital's downtown Hilton Hotel. Sixteen years later and at much grander scale, the event is being held again in Abu Dhabi, as one of the world's best connected cities, easily accessible for delegates from across the globe. These factors combined set to make this event the largest World Route Development Forum to date with 3,000 air service industry professionals expected to attend.

            The World Route Development Strategy Summit, supported by IACO and the World Bank, will become a one day event on the Sunday where delegates will hear from industry leaders including James E. Bennett, CEO of ADAC, and James Hogan, CEO of Etihad Airways. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

SCAD: 2908 residential units completed in Q4 2011

            Statistics Centre - Abu Dhabi yesterday released its latest statistics on the buildings completed in the three regions of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Gharbia region) during the fourth quarter of 2011.

            The report analyses data on the buildings completed in the fourth quarter of 2011 by region, type of usage and cost of construction, based on the administrative records of Abu Dhabi Municipalities.

            According to the report, the number of buildings completed (new and additions) in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi in the fourth quarter of 2011 was 1,108 buildings of which 1,019 were new buildings, 646 were residential buildings. The fourth quarter of 2011 also saw 2,908 residential units completed in Abu Dhabi Emirate. The report estimates average construction cost per square metre in the Fourth quarter of 2011 of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi at Dh3,615.

 

Distribution of Building Completions by Region: A total of 1,108 buildings were completed in Abu Dhabi Emirate during the fourth quarter of 2011, of which 67.0 per cent were in Abu Dhabi region, 30.0 per cent in Al Ain and 3.0 per cent in Al Gharbia region. The number of buildings completed during Q4 in Al Ain region increased 12.3 per cent to 338.

 

Distribution of Building Completions by Type and Region: A total of 1,019 new buildings were completed in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi during the fourth quarter of 2011. Meanwhile 90 additions were completed during the same period, including extensions on the same on the same parcel of land and additions of new units to existing buildings. Accordingly, the total number of buildings completed during Q4 2011 was 1108.

 

Distribution of Residential Unit Completions by Region: A total of 2,256 residential units were completed in Abu Dhabi region during the fourth quarter of 2011. This represents a decline of 31.7 per cent compared to the third quarter.  The corresponding figure for Al Ain region was 581 units, marking an increase of 64 units compared with the third quarter. By contrast, the number of residential units completed in Al Gharbia region during Q4 2011 retreated 41.3 per cent to 71 units.

 

Distribution of Building Completions by Type of Use and Region: SCAD's data indicate that over half of the buildings completed in the fourth quarter (58.3 per cent or 646 building) in Abu Dhabi Emirate were residential, compared with 281 residential/commercial buildings i.e. 25.4 per cent of the total buildings completed during the period under review.

            The report also reveals that most of the buildings completed in Abu Dhabi region in Q4 2011 were residential buildings, reaching 369 buildings, down from 541 buildings in Q3 2011. On the other hand, the number of mixed use "residential/commercial" buildings completed was 247, representing a decline of 115 units compared to the third quarter. Completions of buildings classified as: commercial, industrial and public facilities also decreased in the fourth quarter compared to the third quarter.

            Compared with Q3 2011, the fourth quarter saw residential building completions in Al Ain region completed rise 12.3 percent to 268 buildings. Likewise, a slightly increase was recorded in the completions of buildings classified as "residential/commercial", "industrial" and "public facilities" in Al Ain region over the same comparison period.

            In Al Gharbia region, the number of residential buildings completed declined to 9 units during the Q4 compared with Q4 2011, while the number of industrial buildings completed grew to 15 buildings in Q4 2011.

 

Average Estimated Cost of Construction by Building Area: During the third and fourth quarters, the estimated average construction cost per square metre in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi ranged between Dh3,265 and Dh4,100 per metre, depending on the total built area, the interior finishes and type of use.

            Data shows that buildings, which were used as residence by the landlord, had the highest construction cost compared to buildings used for investment purposes. Buildings with a total construction area s between 300-599 square metres had the highest construction cost of Dh4,100 per metre and were mostly used as a residence by the landlord. Buildings with a total construction area of (900- 1200) square metres had the lowest construction cost of Dh3,265 per metre.

            Significance of the report SCAD's report on the building completions coincides with the Centre's participation in the Cityscape Exhibition, reflecting the Centre's recognition of the huge importance of the real estate sector for as set out in the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 whether reference is to completed projects or developments under construction. SCAD is keen to highlight in its publications in 2011 a full range of data on the real estate sector in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi in light of the impressive growth the emirate continues to post and the promising outlook for robust growth in the coming years. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Dubai petrol subsidies in the billions

            Dubai has spent billions to ensure that its motorists can fill their tanks cheaply, official documents show.

            Federal legislation mandates that Emirates National Oil Company (Enoc), which is owned by the Dubai Government, and its subsidiary Emirates Petroleum Products Company (Eppco) sell petrol at subsidised prices.

            As a result, the companies are losing money on petroleum sales, forcing the Government of Dubai to make up the difference.

            "Both Enoc and Eppco have been incurring cash losses in recent years as a result of the imposition of a fixed petrol price," the Dubai Government reveals in a bond prospectus released to attract international investors to its next debt issuance.

            "To compensate for such losses, the Government of Dubai provides a subsidy to both of these companies."

            By the end of last year, Dubai had spent Dh5.59 billion (US$1.52bn), according to the prospectus.

            "It's a major draw on already-strained government resources," said Simon Williams, the chief economist for the Middle East and North Africa at HSBC.

            "Petrol prices should be higher, but it is difficult to see how they could be increased, given the social impact."

            Enoc and Eppco sell petrol at Dh1.72 a litre. Unlike the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc), the Dubai group does not have sufficient domestic sources of crude, forcing it to buy fuel from outside at international prices. Enoc has in the past complained bitterly about running a loss on petrol sales, and last year it closed its retail network outside Dubai.

            In October, the company forecast an annual loss of Dh2.7bn for 2011, a year in which oil prices rose to levels last seen in 2008.

            "This also has a serious impact on our ability to expand our retail network to meet the growing demand," Enoc said.

            The price of oil has continued its advance this year. After averaging about US$107 a barrel last year, Brent crude sold at an average of US$119 a barrel in the first three months of this year.

            Petrol prices were increased twice in Dubai in 2010, and many observers believed more increases were in the pipeline.

            But spending has been raised to improve the living standards of UAE nationals, putting an end to the speculation.

            After the closure of Enoc and Eppco stations outside Dubai, Adnoc has started expanding its UAE-wide retail network. The Abu Dhabi company is said to have plans for 234 stations across the country by the end of the year, many of which are to be built in the poorer Northern Emirates.

            The UAE is not alone in providing subsidised fuel to its residents. Petrol in the Emirates is the most expensive in the GCC.

            In no other member state is fuel sold for more than Dh1.14. Petrol stations in Saudi Arabia charge the equivalent of only 48 fils.

            The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that in 2010, governments worldwide spent US$409bn on subsidising petrol consumption, increasing carbon dioxide emissions by 4.7 per cent. Only 8 per cent of the subsidies benefited the lowest income bracket, says the IEA.

Saudi subsidies on basic goods is about 10 per cent of GDP, according to HSBC. – The National

 

Dubai Islamic Bank sustains growth in Q1

            Dubai Islamic Bank, DIB, the oldest Islamic bank in the region, on Sunday reported an 11 per cent surge in net profit to Dh245 million for the first quarter of 2012 from Dh222 million in the same 2011 period.

            The bank said the result demonstrated its “sustained growth across core operations.”

            DIB’s total revenue during the first quarter was Dh1.23 billion compared to Dh1.28 billion in the first quarter of 2011 while the bank’s assets stood at Dh92.5 billion as customer deposits reached Dh68.1 billion, an increase of five per cent compared with Dh 64.7 billion as of December 31, 2011.

            Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, chairman of the bank, said DIB’s strong start to the year was testament to its “proven business model, robust liquidity position and stable funding base.” The recent repayment in full of a US$750 million five-year sukuk further underlines the bank’s financial strength, he added.

            The bank said in a statement that its core business continued to grow in the first quarter of 2012, with income from financing and investing assets and investment sukuks increasing by two per cent.

            “DIB has begun 2012 where it left off in 2011 by reporting strong and sustained growth across its core operations,” said Abdulla Al Hamli, chief executive officer of DIB. “Our continued investment in both bricks and mortar and alternative distribution channels has served to further reinforce DIB’s status as the UAE’s leading Islamic bank.”

            The bank maintained a financing-to-deposit ratio of 77 per cent as of March 31, 2012. The bank also reported a Basel II capital adequacy ratio of 18.2 per cent as of March 31, 2012. 

            “DIB continued to strengthen its balance sheet with additional provisions of Dh 299 million during the first quarter of 2012,” said the statement.

            DIB opened three new branches during the first quarter of 2012. The branches in the Gold Souk in Deira, Al Baraha area and Al Barsha Mall, bring the bank’s UAE-wide network to a total of 74 branches. The quarter also saw the launch of Al Islami Business Online, a portal enabling companies to access over 75 services at the click of a button.  DIB’s growth underscores the new found vibrancy in Islamic finance vis-à-vis the conventional banking industry in the backdrop of the global financial meltdown, analysts said.

            Banking assets in the UAE are predicted to grow to 20 per cent of the total banking sector in 2012 from an estimated 18 per cent this year, according to Standard Chartered Saadiq, the Islamic arm of the bank.

            The bank said it expects Islamic assets to constitute 38 per cent of total consumer banking assets in the UAE in 2012, compared to about 35 per cent in 2010. It didn’t provide a 2011 estimate. According to the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the collective assets of the eight Islamic banks in the UAE were Dh269 billion at the end of 2010, accounting for around 16.2 per cent of the overall banking assets of Dh1.66 trillion.

            Globally, the Islamic banking industry is estimated to be worth US$1 trillion, the bank said as it unveiled its new customer offerings for UAE customers, in response to growing interest in and customer demand for Islamic finance in the country and across the region.

            Ernst & Young said in a report that Islamic banking assets with commercial banks globally would reach US$1.1 trillion in 2012, a jump of 33 per cent from the 2010 level of US$826 billion. In the Middle East and North Africa, Islamic banking assets increased to US$416 billion in 2010, representing a five year compound annual growth rate of 20 per cent compared to less than nine per cent for conventional banks, Ernst & Young said in a report. – Khaleej Times

 

Warrior vibes - Emirati contemporary pop artist debuts her solo art exhibition

            Throughout history, men have been celebrated and remembered as the ones to rule and dominate, whether in the workplace, at home, or in battlefields. This perception has kept today’s generation from truly acknowledging the great women warriors, who have fought and led troops into battle, and stood up to the powerful male leaders of their day.

            But present today is far from ancient yesterday, and the time has come when brave females are recognised and carried on shoulders for everyone’s eyes to see. Vibrant Emirati contemporary pop artist Khawla Al Marri pulses her pride of Arab women warriors into her first solo exhibition titled ‘Fighter’, which opened on Wednesday, April 25 at The Ara Gallery and will be on till June 2.

            Arab ladies are usually known for their tenderness and compassion, which makes it hard to associate them to a ‘fight’, so to speak. But this is where the artist cleverly demands interest and snatches inspiration for her theme. The story behind ‘Fighter’ is the end composition of merging two influential subjects together. First is the fact of existing Arab women warriors in history, who were great contributors in battlefields, and the other is the strength and optimism that modern Arab females possess.

            In an interview with Panorama, Al Marri explains why she chose to mirror Arab women in particular and not women in general. “I wanted to represent and empower women from my culture and also use one part of this theme as a reminder of our history and how courageous women were in battlefields, and not to forget how strong individuals they are today,” she says.

            A Dubai-based independent artist, Al Marri derives the muse for her artwork from eclectic elements that are available in everyday life, such as culture, film, fashion, music, and thought. And speaking of everyday life, Al Marri goes into detail about how the war zone in her theme is linked to life and its difficulties. And most importantly, she explains why her exhibition is made up of a series of over-sized paintings of seven different and unique women.

            “These seven women are friends and close ones who are dear to me, people who taught me valuable things. Each one of them is a strong individual. In my opinion, a warrior is a woman with amazing inner content and strength,” clarifies Al Marri.

            Under regular terms, an art presentation is usually viewed as the big picture that encompasses several pieces of work by the artist. Looking at the ‘Fighter’ however, each one of the seven paintings deserves to be called an exhibition in itself, due to the deep and rich background linked to each chosen woman. According to Al Marri, these female warriors spread colour, and the splash of bold colours is another beautiful description of ‘life’.

            The creativity and attachment she has for her country and its culture has geared Al Marri with the elements she needs for her signature touch in art. The artist brings her own twist to Pop Art by infusing it with “a taste of life in her native UAE.” Al Marri’s solo is a perfect example of the message that she strives to spread, in which she describes it as a reminder to all women that they are strong individuals who can make things happen, create new smart ideas, and inspire people who surround them.

            For her next project, Al Marri will be working on a previous street installation project ‘Got Arabic Coffee’ and taking it to the streets of Paris. It started when in November 2011 she placed an Arabic coffee teapot and cups in the streets of London. The project carries a strong cultural awareness message on how ‘strongly linked’ Emiratis are with each other and ‘coffee’ is the link that connects people.

            As for now, turn up at Khawla Al Marri’s solo debut ‘Fighter’ to appreciate what words cannot deliver about the heroism of Arab women in history and the coming future. From the words of the artist herself, “We have amazingly modern women who have all of these characteristics that beautify the world.”

            ‘Fighter’ will continue to be on display at The Ara Gallery in Down Town Dubai till 2nd June 2012. – The Gulf Today  

 

Make-A-Wish UAE will Join the World by granting special wish on World Wish Day

            Make-A-Wish United Arab Emirates will Join the World on World Wish Day, the global celebration of wish granting, on 29 April by fulfilling a 10 year-old girl Shivani to be a princess and host a cupcake party.  The wish will be among 100s granted on World Wish Day in 48 countries served by the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

            World Wish Day is organised by the Make-A-Wish Foundation to commemorate the anniversary of the wish that inspired the creation of what is now one of the world's leading children's charities. Seven-year-old Chris Greicius' wish to be a police officer was granted in Phoenix, Arizona by volunteers from several law-enforcement agencies on 29 April 1980.

            Chris' legacy continues today with Make-A-Wish United Arab Emirates under the leadership of Sheikha Sheikha Bint Saif Al Nahyan, wife of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Advisor to the President.

            "Everyone has the opportunity to Join the World in celebrating wishes around the globe this World Wish Day. A wish improves the life of the wish child and everyone is touched by that wish. World Wish Day allows people from all over the world to come together to help make more wishes come true, said Rita Bains, Make-A-Wish UAE Board Director. This year, we ask individuals in our community to Join the World by celebrating Shivani's wish and by taking part in World Wish Day celebrations in their communities." Wishes granted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation typically fall into one of four categories: To Be (e.g., a ballerina, a firefighter), To Meet (e.g., a favourite celebrity or athlete), To Have (e.g., a computer, a playhouse), or To Go (e.g., to a theme park, to Hawaii. To date, the Foundation has granted the wishes of more than 290,000 children worldwide.

            "World Wish Day recognises the global appeal of our mission and making life better for seriously ill children by granting their fondest wishes," Reem Al Fahim, Make-A-Wish UAE Board Director, said. "People can help wishes come true for other children in the UAE every day, and it's easier than they think." The Make-A-Wish Foundation grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. The Foundation is one of the world's leading children's charities, serving children in 48 countries on five continents. With the help of generous donors and more than 30,000 volunteers worldwide, Make-A-Wish grants a wish somewhere in the world every 23 minutes. Since 1980, it has granted more than 290,000 wishes to children around the world.

            Make-A-Wish United Arab Emirates was established in 2003, since then it has granted the wishes of over 600 children with life threatening medical conditions. With two main offices in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Make-A-Wish grants wishes to children aged 3-18 residing in the United Arab Emirates regardless of nationality. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Camel milk flavours hit the shelves

            Six flavours of camel milk have made their way to supermarket shelves across the country, offering a nutritious alternative to consumers.

            The camel milk has been launched by Al Ain Dairy, a leading dairy producer in the UAE, under the brand name of Camelait. The six flavours are date, cardamom, rose, chocolate, saffron and laban available in 250ml PET bottles.

            The product has been made with 100 per cent pure fresh pasteurised camel milk, contains less than 2 per cent fat and natural fruit sugars. It contains absolutely no artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives, said a spokesperson of the company.

            Camel milk has recently seen a surge in popularity with more people discovering the health benefits it offers.

            This milk is easily digested by lactose-intolerant individuals, is rich in Vitamin B and D and has 10 times more iron than cow's milk, she said.

            "The lactoferrin, a multifunctional protein contained in camel milk, also has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties and is known to have anti-diabetic actions too," said Shashi Menon, an official of Al Ain Dairy.

            But for some it is an acquired taste. "We wanted to challenge that perception by bringing not only popular flavours but innovative ones too so that everyone will enjoy trying it out," she added. – Gulf News

 

Empowering community to recycle

            The site went live as environmentalists shared news and communicated and interacted with one another about community events and tips. With support from the site’s Facebook page and twitter feed, visitors are encouraged to frequently revisit and engage in the conversation about the environment.

            Bee’ah in partnership with the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) also successfully organised the first environmental walkathon. Residents in large numbers took part in the event, and helped draw attention and raise awareness on the importance of recycling and the protection of the environment of Sharjah and the UAE.Salim bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of Bee’ah said: “At Bee’ah, we believe that the key to achieving our environmental goals is to empower the community to adopt sustainable habits, by educating them with environmental principles, as well as providing them with the tools to make recycling a very simple and easy task.

            “This is why we are creating various initiatives to help overcome the UAE’s environmental challenges, and attain our goal of zero-waste by 2015 across Sharjah by finding other uses for waste as valuable resources. We are already on the way forward and hope that each member of society will attribute to our successes on our journey of progress.”

            Khaled Al Huraimel, Chief Executive Officer of Bee’ah said: “mybeeah.ae is the first environmental interactive website in the region that gives individuals the power to make a difference! We are very pleased with the responses we have received so far from the public and have already registered 5,000 members even before the launch. It is a big encouragement as it demonstrates that we are on the right path of delivering our sustainable promise in educating the youth, engaging the public, and leading the change towards a more sustainable environment and a greener future.”

            Environmental advocates can register on the new website for the mybee’ah loyalty programme which rewards loyal environmentalists with redeemable points for their individual environmental efforts. This can be done by recycling at the Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) located around Sharjah city and soon around the UAE, by participating or volunteering at environmental events or even by engaging on the website. Points are redeemed in exchange for discounts, vouchers and other incentives from affiliate partners. – Khaleej Times

 

Two Emiratis and Lebanese go to Barcelona for Nike Globe Finals

            Emiratis Omar Rahmani and Mounir Bourayou and Lebanon’s Alexis Khazzaka will represent the Middle East at Nike’s The Chance Globe Finals in Barcelona later this year.

            The trio were picked by Nike coaches from among nearly 300 youngsters from four countries - including Saudi Arabia and Qatar - to participate in the regional trials at Al Ahli Club in Dubai.

            The first session was held two weeks back and 100 were retained for the final weekend which concluded at Rashid Stadium on Saturday.

            The Chance is a global football talent search aimed at giving amateur footballers the chance to prove themselves alongside other aspiring players from around the world. The youngsters are part of a group of 100 who will visit Spanish giants Barcelona’s famed youth academy La Masia, which has nurtured the likes of Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta, Xavi and Francesc Fabregas.

            In late August, the players will participate in an intense training and conditioning programme and play against each other and will be evaluated by a world-class team of coaches and scouts.

Rahmani said: “The past two days were really tough and I still can’t believe that I’m one of the final three. It’s a dream come true.”

            Bourayou echoed similar sentiments, saying: “It’s a dream come true. I will do my best in Barcelona and I hope I’ll get noticed.”

            The three will be assessed through training drills including Nike SPARQ, a training and conditioning system that helps build better athletes.  They will be exposed to world-class facilities, elite coaching, and inputs from nutritionists, psychologists and fitness conditioners.

            Khazzaka was confident of being picked, but it was a learning mission for the Lebanese nevertheless.

            “When I first came here, I was sure that I would be one of the final three, but the past two days have been really intense and at some point I had my doubts,” he said.

            “I’m extremely happy that I will be representing my country in Barcelona and I hope I’ll get noticed - that would be the ultimate dream.”

            As the ultimate prize, the final 16 will be chosen by Nike from the global finals, who will then participate in a unique training tour as their reward, where they will face some of the best academy teams in world football, including Manchester United, Juventus and a US Youth National Team during a four-week tour. The tour will be held under the watchful eyes of club coaches and scouts. – Sport 360°

 

UAE swimmer Obaid Al Jesmi fit and ready for Olympics

            UAE veteran swimmer Obaid Al Jesmi says the ‘huge’ margin by which he won his races at the National Winter Swimming Championships last weekend shows he is fit and ready to go the Olympics.

Al Jesmi, who represented the UAE at the Athens and Beijing Olympic as well as six World Championships, recently underwent surgery but still managed to set a new national record in the 400IM race on Saturday.

            Al Jesmi is facing a battle though to claim the expected one wildcard entry the UAE will get for London 2012.

             “Look at how I beat my competitors, we’re talking 11 seconds or 15 seconds ahead. That is huge,” Al Jesmi told Sport360. – Sport 360°

 

Emirates Airlines line-up Real Madrid shirt sponsorship deal

            Emirates Airlines are in talks to replace Austrian betting firm win as Real Madrid's main shirt sponsor from 2013, Sport360° understands.

            Emirates added to their extensive sports sponsorship portfolio in July last year when they became a Partner and Official Airline to the Spanish giants.

            The five-year sponsorship deal marked the first anniversary since Emirates launched flights to the Spanish capital and gave the Dubai-based airline brand visibility at the Estadio Bernabeu and Real Madrid City, as well as promotional and hospitality rights worldwide. '

            "The airline shares our belief in loyalty, effort, commitment and innovation and these common principles will create a special understanding," Madrid president Florentino Perez said at the time. 

            “I believe we are at the beginning of an intense relationship that will bring the club closer to the millions of fans that it has around the world."

            Nine months on and Emirates are understood to have set their sights on becoming the club's main shirt sponsor as Madrid's existing deal with bwin is due to expire at the end of the 2012-13 season.

            Bwin have been Madrid's title sponsor since 2007 and renewed their contract two years later in a deal believed to have been worth in excess of €20million a year.

            However, industry insiders have informed Sport360° that Emirates are intent on usurping bwin in the next round of negotiations with some claiming a €25million a year offer is already on the table for the honour of adorning Madrid's famed white shirt.

            If the claims are to be proved accurate, the deal would represent the third biggest shirt sponsorship deal in history behind only Barcelona's link-up with the Qatar Foundation (€30.5m) and Bayern Munich's Deutsche Telekom partnership (€29m).

            Madrid would become the sixth team in European football to be emblazoned with the Fly Emirates logo after Arsenal, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, Hamburg and Olympiacos.

A spokesperson for Emirates refused to comment on the Madrid story when contacted by Sport360°– Sport 360°

UAE elected to board of UN agency

            The UAE has been elected to the Executive Board of the Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women at the UN for a three-year term until December 2015.

            The elections were held during a session by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in New York.

            Elected from the Asian Group along with the UAE to fill five vacant seats were the Philippines, Solomon Islands, Thailand and the Maldives.

            In the elections, 16 other member countries were elected to the board of the newly-created agency.

            In July 2010, the United Nations General Assembly created the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women in a historic step to accelerate the Organisation's goals on gender equality.

            The board has ten members from Africa, ten from Asia, four from Eastern Europe, six from Latin America and the Caribbean, five from Western Europe and six from contributing countries.   – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

UAE launches Global Sustainable Cities Network at 3rd CEM in London

            London - The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced the launch of a major new initiative, the Global Sustainable Cities Network (GSCN), at the third annual Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) yesterday in London. This builds on the UAE's already active role in international clean energy cooperation through several initiatives in efficiency and low-carbon energy supply.

            The GSCN will provide a platform for pioneering sustainable city initiatives throughout the world; enabling knowledge sharing of city development best practices. It will publish a set of recommendations for driving the commercialisation, scalability and cost reduction beginning with focus areas such as waste-to-energy and demand-side management within cities. The Network will also provide a platform to encourage collaboration between cities and drive public private partnerships.

            Founding members of the Ministerial latest initiative in addition to the UAE include China, Sweden and Denmark, who have worked closely in preparing for the launch and the initiative's work plan. The Network is open to participation by additional CEM countries. Masdar City, the UAE's emerging clean-tech cluster and test-bed for renewable energy and sustainable technologies, will act as Secretariat to the Network.

            "The Global Sustainable Cities Network is a platform that will foster collaboration among pioneering urban sustainability programs applying clean energy technology in cities. For a nation such as ours facing exponential growth and resource demand, this network can be a critical tool for our rapidly evolving cities," UAE Special Envoy for Energy and Climate Change and Chief Executive of Masdar Dr Sultan Ahmed Al-Jaber said The CEM is the only annual meeting of ministers from the world's leading economies that addresses policies and programs that promote the advancement of clean energy technology. The UAE has been a key driver of the CEM process through Masdar and the Directorate of Energy and Climate Change at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which hosted the second ministerial in Abu Dhabi last year and the organising session for the inaugural ministerial with US Energy Secretary Stephen Chu.

            "The UAE believes that the future energy landscape will depend significantly on energy that is sustainable, affordable and secure. Our country has been at the forefront of oil and gas production for decades, and we're now using that energy expertise as a foundation for international collaboration in the clean technology sector," Al-Jaber said. "Encouraging clean energy adoption will hinge on our ability to work collectively in sharing knowledge and delivering tangible projects similar to the London Array offshore wind farm being developed by Masdar and its partners here in the UK." At the Ministerial, the UAE also presented its Atlas Project, which will assess and map renewable energy resources, part of the global atlas led by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), headquartered in Abu Dhabi. During a special ceremony, ministers from participating countries, including the Germany, India, South Africa and United States joined the UAE in pledging their support for the IRENA atlas project.

            Through Masdar, the UAE is investing heavily in large scale renewable energy projects and clean technology, both within the Emirates and across the globe in markets such as the United States, United Kingdom, Spain and China. The UAE has also encouraged clean energy in developing countries through smaller scale aid projects in Afghanistan, Tonga and Seychelles, and has committed US$350 million over seven years for such projects.

            Dr. Al Jaber also participated in the High Level Panel of the Sustainable Energy for All Initiative. This was launched by the UN Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon, to promote universal energy access, doubling both energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption. It is expected to make major announcements at the UN Earth Summit in Rio this June. The UAE will have a major presence in Rio, where negotiations will involve the clean energy economy and sustainable development, both key points as the UAE continues its exponential growth.

            "As populations like ours expand and the risks of climate change continue to grow, creating a sustainable future for all will depend on empowering ourselves to use resources efficiently and responsibly," said Al Jaber. "The UAE is investing in measurable goals to achieve clean energy related objectives with real-world impact." – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Sheikh Nahyan opens the largest mural in the Gloria Hotel, Dubai

            Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, opened yesterday the largest mural in the world, done by the Lebanese artist Souheil Madi, in Gloria Hotel Dubai. Dr. Ghaith Bin Hamel Al Ghaith, Vice Chairman of Al Ghaith Holding and the number of the governing body of Gloria Hotel and a group of dignitaries and a number of media personalities, attended the opening ceremony.

            The artist, Souheil Madi, mentioned that his mural "Caravan of Women" is the largest of its kind in the world, and will be recorded in the Guinness Book of Records. "I drew the painting on the roof of the eighth floor in Gloria Hotel, which consists of 41 floors. The painting can be seen from high altitudes and helicopters", Madi said: "It is a giant flat 3D painting that lies on a space of approximately 1700 meter square".

            According to the artist, the "Caravan of Women" represents the Camel caravans that used to pass through the Arabian Peninsula desert with women on board. The goal behind this painting is to honour mother, wife, daughter, and sister.

            Madi pointed out to the size of the board and the short time it was completed to qualify for registration in the Guinness Book of World Records, said that the largest flat-panel registered in the encyclopaedia did not reach this standard.

            From his perspective, Dr. Ghaith Al Ghaith, pointed out that the hotel residents enjoy seeing this giant work of art, which reflects the cultures and history of the United Arab Emirates. It also shows how much the country cares for the arts and the artists, as the painting is now the newest tourist landmark in Dubai.

            Dr. Al Ghaith mentioned the efforts spent by the hotel to supply all needed items to finish this painting as a personal move for supporting the artistic movement, and to add a new landmark for tourists.

            It is worth mentioning that the Lebanese painter Souheil developed the foundations of a technique bears his name included 894 of art lovers from around the world, the first Arab artist drawing boards palace of Napoleon III in France. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

NYU Abu Dhabi Team takes top spot in Hult Global Case Challenge

            A team of four students from New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), joined by one NYU alumnus, were awarded a portion of the US$1 million prize to have their ideas implemented by the not-for-profit organisation SolarAid after winning the Hult Global Case Challenge, an international case study competition for higher education institutions around the world. The annual competition hosted by Hult Business School in partnership with the Clinton Global Initiative and the Innovation, Excellence and Leadership Centre challenges student teams to present actionable solutions to achieve the social and economic development goals of partner NGOs in the areas of energy, education and housing.

            Three not-for-profit organisations related to these three tracks share the US$1 million prize to implement the ideas of the winning proposals. The finals, held in New York, were attended by former US President Bill Clinton, who presented the NYUAD students with their award, and Nobel Peace Prize Winner and Founder of Grameen Bank Professor Muhammad Yunus.

            The NYUAD team Sophomores Madhav Vaidyanathan, Songyishu Yang, Muhammad Awais Islam, Gary Chien, and Abu Dhabi-based NYU alumnus Neil Parmar won the energy track of the competition for their solution to providing solar lighting to one million homes in Africa by 2013. Ramesh Jagannathan, professor of Chemical Engineering at NYUAD, served as the team's faculty advisor.

            The organisation SolarAid has been working in rural areas across East and Southern Africa installing solar panels to create greater access to electricity. SolarAid's share of the prize money will be used to implement the team's solution of creating a network of entrepreneurs and technicians who will sell and fix solar lamps in a sustainable way.

            Speaking in support of the winning team's solution, SolarAid CEO Steve Andrews said: "Our goal is to eradicate the kerosene lamp from Africa by the end of this decade. That's simply a huge challenge, which will only be possible with massive innovation. Having the top students from around the world competing to come up with great ideas for how we will do this is an extraordinary boost. It's already changing the way we think and work." "NYU Abu Dhabi's social enterprise is unique and innovative and capitalises on an incremental pay business model. Through making access to electricity affordable and bite size, I am confident their model will be widely scaled and adopted through communities across Africa and beyond," Ahmad Ashkar, founder and CEO of the Hult Global Case Challenge, said.

            The students said that they were motivated by solving a very real problem, rather than winning a competition.  "If our model can actually achieve that goal and light up one million households, all of us will be very impressed and delighted that whatever we contributed to this can actually help those people out there," Gary Chien said.

            "Our idea was simple and I really think that it can be implemented very soon," Madhav Vaidyanathan added.

            Thousands of students representing more than 130 countries participated in five regional competitions in Boston, Dubai, London, San Francisco, and Shanghai, in addition to an online competition. The NYUAD team competed against 15 institutions in the energy track during the Dubai regional event, before moving on to compete against regional finalists in the energy track from five other institutions. A team from Carnegie Mellon won the prize for the education track, supporting the One Laptop Per Child initiative, and a Hult International Business School team took first place in the housing track, benefiting Habitat for Humanity.

            Vice Chancellor of NYUAD Al Bloom said: "On behalf of the NYU Abu Dhabi and broader NYUAD communities, I congratulate our phenomenal students on their victory in the 2012 Hult Global Challenge. Our students' success emerges from their extraordinary intelligence, imagination, perseverance, and commitment to humanity, and terrific support from faculty, staff, and alumni. Their achievement is a wonderful reflection of the intellectual qualities and core values of NYU Abu Dhabi." – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Ideas take wing as students compete to build drones

            Emirati engineering students gained practical experience at a different level last week while testing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) they built on their own during a nationwide Higher Colleges of Technology competition.

            Male and female students divided into nine teams from across 17 campuses applied their mathematical and scientific knowledge to build and fly their creations.

            "This is an engineering design project where students design, build, test and pilot remote-controlled UAVs," said Mike Jacobsen, chair of electrical engineering at Abu Dhabi Men's College. "They do this by following specifications and guidelines and then fly the machines by satellite GPS systems."

            The teams were judged for speed, performance and endurance of their respective UAVs. "Students were judged for design, weight, specifications and knowledge of their aircraft," he said. "Through this competition they learn teamwork, presentation and leadership skills." Students also gain engineering research experience through the application of knowledge to solve practical problems, Jacobsen said.

            This competition, in its second year, is run in conjunction with Northrop Grumman Corporation (NGC) and the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Systems Investment. "NGC supplies the teams with identical kits for the planes' engines but the teams have to do all the work in getting their planes to fly," Jacobsen said.

            NGC has also sent engineers to provide training and advice to Emirati students for the competition, which was targeted at second- and third-year engineering students.

            "The designs this year are quite complex and probably more advanced than the inaugural event of last year where first-year students were involved," he said.

            Although the flying part of the competition may look like pure fun, pulling it off calls for significant research, analysis and planning on the students' part. "Through research we found that v-tails mostly used on gliders did not best fit our purpose because we wanted to make our UAV as light as possible, so we built a horizontal and vertical stabiliser," explained engineering student, Shereen Al Mazroui. "For construction material, we used really light balsa wood and some fibreglass for the machine to be light yet strong enough not to break."

            "Although the activity was not graded, it gave students the practical experience of putting engineering principles into effect," Jacobsen said.

            The Flying Atoms team from Dubai Men's College took top prize and won a trip to the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International Convention for North America to be held in Las Vegas in August. – Gulf News

 

UAE is specifically interested in Portuguese renewable energy sector: Abdullah bin Zayed

            Lisbon - The UAE is interested in tapping the Portuguese experience in diverse sectors as energy and infrastructure,'' visiting UAE Foreign Minister HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan said yesterday.

            Sheikh Abdullah told a joint press conference yesterday with his Portugal's counterpart Paulo Portas that Portugal has special strategic place as a gateway to Africa and Latin America through its historic relations with Portuguese-speaking countries.

            Apart from seaports, airports, banking and telecommunications, Sheikh Abdullah noted renewable energy is one of the most crucial sectors that draws interest of the UAE in Portugal's economy.

            On the situation in Syria, the UAE foreign minister said;'' It's not going on the right track''. He stressed the urgency of supporting the central mission of the UN-Arab League envoy to Syria, Kofi Annan, in light of the difficulties he is experiencing under the current circumstances.

            For his part, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Portugal Paulo Portas highlighted the importance of Sheikh Abdullah's visit to Lisbon and its constructive results in enhancing bilateral bonds. The Portuguese government, he underlined, considers the UAE an important economic and trade partner. He also voiced Lisbon's full support for the UAE in the wake of the recent visit by Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmedinejad to UAE's island of Abu Musa. He reiterated his belief in settling the dispute through negotiations.

Addressing the business mission accompanying Sheikh Abdullah, the Portuguese minister invited them to explore the promising business opportunities Portugal can offer through its ambitious ongoing privatisation programme.

            He indicated that the Portuguese parliament has recently passed the UAE-Portugal agreement on avoidance of double taxation.

            He said his talks with his UAE counterpart provided an opportunity to discuss the political situation in the Middle East and current massive transformations.

            Answering a question on Syria, the Portuguese minister described the situation there as a ''daily drama'' and the Assad's regime had lost its legitimacy since it refused to accept ongoing changes in the region as a whole and directed its army against its people''. ''This situation is completely unaccepted by all international norms'', the minister affirmed. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Portuguese Prime Minister receives Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed

            Lisbon - Portuguese Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho and visiting UAE Foreign Minister HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan explored here yesterday mechanism of boosting joint cooperation and bilateral relations for the best interest of the two countries. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Portugal Paulo Portas and members of the delegation accompanying Sheikh Abdullah were present at the meeting.  – Emirates News Agency, WAM Arabs reiterate firm stance of fully backing UAE's full sovereignty over three islands – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Abdullah bin Zayed meets King of Spain, opens UAE's new embassy in Madrid

            Madrid - King Juan Carlos of Spain received this evening UAE Foreign Minister H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan who conveyed to him greetings of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his keenness to further ties between the two countries. King Juan Carlos welcomed Sheikh Abdullah and asked him to pass on his greetings to Sheikh Khalifa.

            The meeting, attended by Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs '&' Cooperation Jose Manuel Margallo and UAE Ambassador to Madrid Dr Hasa Abdullah Al Otaibah, touched on bilateral relations and ways to enhance them in all fields.

            Earlier, Sheikh Abdullah opened the new UAE embassy building in Madrid in presence of Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs. In a speech he gave after the opening, Sheikh Abdullah expressed pleasure at opening the new embassy in Madrid, "the capital city that symbolises the fusion of the two cultures and our deep-rooted ties." "The UAE is moving ahead with the march of development, started by its founder the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and with the numerous achievements, including cementing ties of friendship and cooperation with all nations of the world." Sheikh Abdullah said relations between the two countries had witnessed a huge progress, thanks to the keen efforts of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and King Juan Carlos.

            "The progress in relations has culminated in a number of bilateral agreements and in UAE's support to the initiatives made by successive governments in Spain to lay solid foundation for world peace. The most prominent initiative was the Alliance of Civilisations forum, co-sponsored by Spain and Turkey," he added.

            Sheikh Abdullah also underlined cooperation between the two countries in military, economic, commercial and advanced technology fields, including Gemasolar Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) project.

            In the cultural exchange front, the UAE held cultural weeks in Granada and Madrid. A twinning agreement was signed between Ajman and Almeria and a similar agreement was also signed between Al Ain Sport Club and Atletico Madrid.

            Sheikh Abdullah concluded by saying: "We are celebrating the opening of the new UAE embassy in Madrid which reflects our desire to continue the development of political, economic and cultural ties between our countries. Spain enjoys an excellent position as a key European Union and international community member." Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs '&' Cooperation Jose Manuel Margallo said he was honoured to be part of the opening of the UAE embassy in Madrid. The opening ceremony was attended by Dr Hasa Al Otaibah, senior Spanish officials and members of the diplomatic corps in Madrid. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Arabs reiterate firm stance of fully backing UAE's full sovereignty over three islands

            Cairo - The Council of the League of Arab States (LAS) reiterated Arabs' firm stance of fully backing the UAE's full sovereignty over its three islands, Abu Musa, the Greater Tunb, the Lesser Tunb, including their regional waters, airspace, continental shelf and their exclusive economic zone, as integral parts of the UAE.

            The league's Council, in a final communiqué issued late last night at the conclusion of an extraordinary session of foreign ministers of member states, condemned the Iranian President's visit to Abu Musa Island on 11 April 2012 as a violation of the UAE's sovereignty over its three islands. The communiqué also called on the secretary general of the League of Arab States to follow up the issue, coordinate with the UAE at all international circles.

            It stressed that Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's visit to the UAE island would not change the historic and legal facts which all hold proof to the UAE's sovereignty over these three islands, and demanded that Iran respond to calls by the UAE to find a peaceful and just solution through negotiations or by resorting to the international court".

            It further pledged "full support to the UAE in all actions it takes to restore its rights and sovereignty over its islands".

            It also reaffirmed the historic relations between regional countries and Iran and the keen interest in promoting and bolstering them for the good of regional peace and stability.

            Calls by the UAE to find a just and peaceful solution to the issue of the islands are reflective of its balanced and serious belief in its relations with Iran and interest in promoting future prospects of resolving the causes of dispute which mars between Arab states and Iran, the communiqué said.

            The Peninsula Shield's "Islands of Loyalty' war games scheduled next week are routine exercises being implemented as per longstanding plans and cannot be linked to any of the regional developments," Kuwaiti Deputy Prime and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah said at a joint press conference with Arab League Secretary General Nabil Al-Arabi here last night. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Masdar maintains commitment to sustainable energy for all

            The third High Level Group meeting for the United Nation's Sustainable Energy for All initiative took place in London last week preceding the 3rd Clean Energy Ministerial. As a member of the high-level group, Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, has committed to developing renewable energy projects and encouraging clean energy innovation through Masdar Abu Dhabi's multifaceted renewable energy company.

            The Year of Sustainable Energy for All, announced in Abu Dhabi by United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon at the World Future Energy Summit in January, aims to engage governments, the private sector, and civil society in an effort to achieve sustainable energy for all.

            As part of its commitment, Masdar will set up two renewable energy projects in Tonga and Afghanistan: the grid connected PV plant in the island of Vava'u in Tonga will supply 13 % of the island's demand, saving 180,000 liters of diesel oil annually and 400 tonnes of carbon dioxide, and the project in Afghanistan will supply 8 isolated villages with 600 individual solar home systems. Masdar also plans to partner with the Development Bank of Japan to invest in global solar and wind power projects.

            Managed by Masdar, the Zayed Future Energy Prize, has also created a new category, the Global High School Prize, aimed at awarding US$500,000 amongst five schools that submit winning cases for how to improve their school's energy footprint. The Prize will take place across 5 regions Africa, Oceania, Asia, Europe and the Americas.

            In an effort to further reinforce the mandate and objectives of the Year of Sustainable Energy, entrants to the Global High School Prize are required to ensure that their funding proposals answer to one or more of the initiative's three objectives: ensuring universal access to modern energy services; doubling the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency; and doubling the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.

            Masdar is developing large scale renewable energy projects and investing in clean technology, within the United Arab Emirates and across the globe in markets including China, Spain, the United States and the United Kingdom.

            The Sustainable Energy for All meeting in London was Co-Chaired by Kandeh Yumkella, Director-General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation and Chairman of UN-Energy, and Charles Holliday, Chairman of Bank of America.

            Members of the High Level Group for the Sustainable Energy for All initiative reviewed the commitments made by the public and private sector, the planned activities and outcomes of the upcoming Rio+20 Earth Summit in Brazil, as well as the initiative's post Rio+20 implementation, monitoring and reporting mechanism.

            The High-Level Group, convened by the Secretary-General is comprised of thought leaders from - the private sector, government, intergovernmental organisations and civil society. The Group aims to develop a global strategy and concrete agenda for action to reach the three objectives by 2030.

            The High-Level Group meeting preceded the 3rd Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) which also took place in London. The CEM is the only annual meeting of ministers from the world's leading economies that addresses policies and programs that promote the advancement of clean energy technology. As a member country, the UAE has been a key driver of the CEM process through Masdar and the Directorate of Energy and Climate Change at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which hosted the second ministerial in Abu Dhabi last year and the organising session for the inaugural ministerial with US Energy Secretary Stephen Chu.

            At the CEM, the UAE launched along with China, Denmark and Sweden the Global Sustainable Cities Network (GSCN), a new initiative that will help advance objectives of Sustainable Energy for All. The GSCN will provide a platform for pioneering sustainable city initiatives throughout the world; enabling knowledge sharing of city development best practices, encouraging collaboration between cities and driving public private partnerships. Masdar City, the UAE's low-carbon low-waste emerging clean-tech cluster and test-bed for renewable energy and sustainable technologies, will serve as Secretariat to the GSCN and publish a set of recommendations for driving the commercialisation, scalability and technology cost reduction. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Aldar reports a net profit of Dh478.2 million in Q1 of 2012

            Aldar Properties PJSC (the Company), Abu Dhabi's leading property development investment and management company, yesterday announced its financial results for the first quarter ended 31 March 2012 reporting a net profit of Dh478.2 million compared to Dh189.1 million for the same period last year.

            Revenue for the quarter increased to Dh3,589.1 million (Q1 2011: Dh784.7 million). The Company recognised Dh3,229 million (Q1 2011: Dh470.9 million) from the sale of land plots and completed residential units and development management fees, of which Dh2.2 billion was related to sale contracts signed in 2011 with the Government of Abu Dhabi and related entities.

            Recurring revenues for the period amounted to Dh360.1 million, up 14.8% from Dh313.7 million for the first quarter 2011. This increase was primarily due to improved performance in Aldar's operational businesses, which include schools and hotels, which generated revenues of Dh148.6 million (Q1 2011: Dh137.9 million). Rental income from investment properties, which include Aldar's commercial office and retail portfolio, increased to Dh150.8 million (Q1 2011: Dh123.3 million).

            Aldar ended the period with a total cash and bank balance of Dh5.8 billion (31st December 2011: Dh4.2 billion). Aldar successfully signed an Dh4 billion revolving credit facility with National Bank of Abu Dhabi at competitive rates. The facility, which has a tenor of three years and remained undrawn at the quarter end, will be used for general purposes in support of Aldar's normal course of business activities and will allow the Company to optimally manage its working capital and liquidity requirements over the next three years.

            From an operational perspective, the period saw the delivery and handover of residential units and land, continued construction progress for the Company's owned and managed development activities and improved performance from operational businesses.

            Aldar handed over 606 residential units at Al Raha Beach, of which 425 were to third parties and seven at Al Gurm, the private luxury residential resort during the first quarter. The Company also handed over plots of land to the Government of Abu Dhabi and related entities at Al Raha Beach as part of the agreement announced in January 2011, with further plots to be transferred as infrastructure is developed and finalised. Further unit handovers as part of the Government sales agreements signed in 2011 are expected to take place over the course of 2012.

            At Yas Mall, Aldar's 235,000 SQM retail development on Yas Island, contractors have been mobilised and are now on site. Piling works are continuing and the installation of underground services has commenced. Set to be Abu Dhabi's largest mall, the project remains on schedule for delivery in Q4 2013 and pre-leasing is over 50% with over 18 months to completion.

            Also on Yas Island, Aldar handed over the 5,443 SQM Ace Hardware store to the tenant Al Futtaim for fit-out, seven weeks ahead of scheduled delivery. The store is set to open this summer joining the Middle East flagship IKEA store which opened in 2011.

            Significant progress was made at Al Bateen Park, a new residential development at the heart of Abu Dhabi Island. The project, which is made up of 284 apartments and 75 villas and townhouses, is already over 90% pre-sold and remains on its original delivery schedule of Q4 2012.

            The first quarter saw significant progress at Al Falah, the 12.5 million SQM master planned development located to the east of the Abu Dhabi International Airport and the Abu Dhabi-Dubai Highway which will provide 4,857 homes for middle-income UAE families. Construction of the first phase of the project, which includes 1,000 villas, is nearing completion and hand over to the relevant authorities will take place in the second quarter.

            Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, the water park with 43 rides and attractions has seen significant structural progress during the period. Situated next to the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi will be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2012.

            Aldar's investment properties saw maturing revenues contributing to quarter on quarter growth as the Company enjoyed the annualised benefit of new assets such as IKEA Yas Island and retail at established developments such as Al Bandar and Al Raha Gardens.

            Aldar's operational businesses also performed well during the first quarter. Aldar's hotel portfolio which includes seven on Yas Island showed robust occupancy levels in a soft pricing market as the leisure and entertainment destination continues to develop.  These efforts were further boosted by the news that Yas Links was selected as the 24th best golf course in the world outside America by Golf Digest, one of the world's leading golf publications, after only two years of operation.

            The total number of students studying at Aldar Academies' six schools has now reached 3,500 for the current academic year. The schools have a total capacity of 5,500 pupils and pupil numbers are expected to increase as new classes launch in line with market demand.

            Commenting on the results, Ali Eid Al Mheiri, Chairman of Aldar Properties, said: "Aldar's financial strength is clearly evident in these results for the first quarter of the 2012 financial year

            Building on the solid financial foundations that were created in 2011, these results reflect the significant deliveries of residential units and land plots at Al Raha Beach that began in the quarter and will continue through the year, supported by strong recurring revenues from our operating businesses.

            A number of key milestones were achieved in our investment property portfolio and managed development projects. We now look ahead to the completion of projects such Al Bateen Park, Al Ward and Al Falah, the major housing community for UAE Nationals where 1,000 of 4,857 villas will be handed over to the relevant authorities imminently.

            Last year we took steps to position Aldar's operations to deliver its future strategy. The successful completion of this process has ensured the business is now in a position of strength to benefit from developing market opportunities." – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Abu Dhabi Terminals' Cargo Handling Grows in Q1 

            Abu Dhabi Terminals (ADT) reports the continued growth of cargo and passenger handling at its main port in Mina Zayed during the first quarter of 2012.

            ADT posted a 10% growth in containers handling at a total volume of 177,147 TEU. The general and bulk cargo went up to1,452,630 freight tons, registering a 16% growth, while RoRo rose by 20% to18,770 vehicles and cruise increased by 8% to 107,273 passengers. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

flydubai fuelling UAE tourism

            flydubai, Dubai's innovative low-cost airline, is playing a significant role in the UAE's fast-growing travel and tourism sector, new figures have revealed.

            The World Travel and Tourism Council estimates that the direct contribution of travel and tourism to the UAE's GDP is expected to hit US$19.9bn this year and is set to become increasingly important as a sector in driving the country's overall economic development.

            Key to this growth has been the performance of flydubai, the world's fastest-ever growing start-up airline ever. New figures have been released covering the period from February 2011 to March 2012 that highlight the remarkable growth in its passenger numbers, particularly from the CIS, Eastern and Central Europe and GCC markets. Key statistics include: A 284% annual growth in passenger numbers from the CIS and Central Europe markets between February 2011 and March 2012, compared to the period of February 2010 and March 2011.

            An 89% annual growth in passenger numbers from the GCC between February 2011 and March 2012, compared to the period of February 2010 and March 2011.

            In just under three years, flydubai has launched operations to more than 45 destinations across 29 countries and is now the second-largest airline operating out of Dubai Airport. Crucially, it now has the most comprehensive network of all Middle Eastern carriers to Central and Eastern Europe and has opened up new markets that previously had no direct UAE air links.

            The airline now has 78 regular flights per week to 13 different destinations in the CIS countries, Eastern and Central Europe, including Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Serbia, Turkmenistan and Ukraine. It is currently the only scheduled operator flying to Dubai from Belgrade, Donetsk and Kharkiv.

            Latest figures from Dubai International Airport reveal that passenger traffic between Dubai and Russia in the first quarter of this year climbed 46.53% to 359,066, compared to 245,050 during the same period in 2011. This remarkable growth is being linked to flydubai's expansion to several cities in Russia and the CIS region which includes twice weekly flights to the Russian cities of Kazan, Ufa, Samara and Yekaterinburg.

            flydubai's GCC network is also the largest of all Middle Eastern carriers, with 424 flights per week to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar. Within Saudi Arabia alone, the airline has 73 flights every week covering seven destinations. The airline is also the only scheduled operator flying from UAE to Abha, Gassim, Taif and Yanbu. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Al Majaz Waterfront wins Sharjah Tourism Excellence Award 2012

            Al Majaz Waterfront, the debut project of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) and the newest leisure and tourist destination in the emirate, has won the Sharjah Tourism Excellence Award as the best tourist destination in the emirate.

            Al Majaz Waterfront was opened to public in December last year, and was officially inaugurated by His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, last month.

            Al Majaz Waterfront is situated in the emirate's most vital residential district on the picturesque Khalid Lagoon, between Jamal Abdul Nasser Street and the Khalid Lagoon Corniche, a highly populated area with an estimated population of 100,000 people. The emirate's newest tourist destination managed to attract a large number of residents, visitors and tourists in the past few months.

            The Sharjah Tourism Excellence Award is given annually by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) to the best establishment that implements international quality standards in compliance with the potential of the emirate's tourism sector, under the patronage of HH Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah.

            The Al Majaz Waterfront boasts many landmark leisure amenities, most notably the Sharjah Fountain, which was launched in February with daily spectacular musical shows.

            The Sharjah fountain, the largest of its kind in the region, is the Waterfront's star attraction with the ability to shoot water up to 100 meters high and 220 meters wide. It has two giant water screens, and is equipped with the latest sound and light techniques. It will have different musical and laser shows, with laser arrangements and eight video projections on water screens.

            The Waterfront also boasts covered areas for entertainment and cultural activities, green spaces and a distinguished mosque, in addition to kiosks for snacks and soft drinks, walking areas, public utilities and 1000 parking lots.  The project, which is valued at Dhs120m, spreads over 231000 square feet. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

DP World wins Golden Peacock Award for CSR

            DP World is the winner of the prestigious Golden Peacock Award for Corporate Social Responsibility for 2012 for its work in India, where it operates five marine terminals.

            The coveted annual award, instituted in India in 1991 to encourage corporate responsibility initiatives promoting sustainable development, was presented at an award ceremony in Dubai in recognition of DP World's efforts to integrate responsible business practices into its operations in India. It is the second time the company has won a Golden Peacock award.

            Among the factors cited by the award jury in its decision were the company's responsiveness to the needs of different stakeholders, and its ability to develop innovative partnership models to fulfil social responsibilities tailored to the welfare of the communities where it operates.

            The ceremony, held during the Dubai Global Convention, incorporating the 7th International Conference on Social Responsibility, was attended by a distinguished gathering of business leaders, jurists, academics, environmentalists, economists, legislators and policy makers.

            In 2011, DP World Nhava Sheva, Mumbai, won the Golden Peacock Environment Management Award, instituted by the World Environment Foundation, for its environmental initiatives such as the "Hari Kranti" (Green Progress) campaign to plant 20,000 bamboo saplings in Ransai village of Uran District in Maharashtra state.

            DP World also won the coveted CSR Award at the Lloyd's List Global Awards 2011 in London. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Dubai crude oil price for July 2012 delivery is less US$0.10 pb than average daily settlement price

            The Department of Oil Affairs in the government of Dubai yesterday announced that it had notified its customers that the official price of Dubai crude oil, which will be delivered next July, will be US$0.10 less per barrel than the average daily settlement price of the DME Oman Crude Oil Financial Contract in Dubai Mercantile Exchange contracts traded during the next month.

            An official at the Department of Oil Affairs in the government of Dubai told Emirates News Agency "WAM" that the department sets the price of Dubai crude oil in the markets in parallel with Oman oil prices, which reinforces the transparency of pricing process commitment and setting a fair value of crude oil in the Middle East. The official monthly price of Dubai crude oil - with the transition to the pricing futures contracts - is determined in advance, for a differential price is placed before three months, "M-3", while the official final monthly price is determined at the end of the second month " M-2 ".

            The DME Oman crude oil is considered as a benchmark for pricing crude oil by the countries that produce it, and it gives them a differential price that reflects the quality of the product.

            Everyday at 12:30 pm (Dubai time), Dubai Mercantile Exchange determines the daily settlement price of the Oman contract, which is the average price of transactions made within five minutes from 12:25 pm to 12:30 pm, Dubai time.

            On the last circulating day of the month, the settlement's window lasts for thirty minutes from 12:00 pm until 12:30 pm, Dubai time. The Dubai Mercantile Exchange is the first regarding futures trading of commodities and energy in the Middle East. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Istithmar World acquires Kerzner's 50% stake in Atlantis hotel

            Istithmar World, a subsidiary of Dubai World, yesterday announced that it had bought out Kerzner International Holdings Limited's 50 per cent stake in Atlantis, The Palm for US$250 million (Dh918 million), becoming the sole owner.

            Atlantis, Dubai's mega resort flagship, has 1,537 rooms, a waterpark and 18 restaurants. Istithmar World and Kerzner jointly developed the resort which opened in 2008. Kerzner will continue to be the operator of Atlantis, The Palm, a statement said yesterday.

            "The performance of the Atlantis continues to exceed our expectations. This deal, allowing us to become the sole owner of Atlantis, The Palm Dubai, effectively consolidates our investment in one of our best performing assets," said Sheikh Ahmad Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai World, in a statement.

            Sheikh Ahmad added: "This acquisition is in line with our strategy of managing our assets for value and investing selectively where growth opportunities exist."

            Istithmar was advised on the transaction by Moelis & Company, which acted as financial adviser, and New York law firm Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz.

            The restructuring shrinks Kerzner to a resort management, development and branding company that will continue to run the seven One & Only resorts and Atlantis properties, known for Mayan-themed water slides and up-close encounters with dolphins and sharks.

            Kerzner has struggled with debt since a US$3.6 billion leveraged buyout in 2006 led by founder Sol Kerzner took it private for US$3.6 billion. Owners include Istithmar, Goldman Sachs Group Inc.'s Whitehall Funds and Colony Capital LLC.

            The revised agreement with Brookfield includes modifications for the dissenting creditors but still puts Brookfield in control of Atlantis. Brookfield, in turn, has converted its US$175 million slice of Kerzner's debt into equity. Holders of the resort's remaining US$2.3 billion of debt have agreed to push the due date to September 2014. Brookfield intends to refinance the debt by then.

— Gulf News with inputs from agencies

 

Major fire guts 34-floor residential building in Sharjah

            A massive fire broke out at around 2:30 am on Saturday morning on the north side of Al Tayer building in the Al Nahda area of Sharjah.

            Panic spread among the residents living in the building when fire broke out but they managed to escape unhurt.

            But residents fear many pets left behind by them in the 34 floor residential building may not survive the fire.

            The reason for the blaze is still unknown.

            Civil defence and police reacted fairly quickly and ambulances, fire-fighters were quickly dispatched. Civil defence team from Ajman also rushed to fire site.

            However, the residents say they could not see any of the building management and officials during the whole incident.

            Residents said the water to douse the building fire came only an hour after the fire swathed the building.

            Till 9:30 am flames could be seen in some of the floors and smoke billowing out of the building but none of the dozen or so fire tenders were seen doing anything.

            The residents, who were stranded outside, were asked by the police to gather at the nearby Al Nahda park and register themselves.

            Residents also claim that the water sprinklers or the smoke alarm system were out of service and did not work.

            In fact some of the residents tried to put out the fire with the water hose in the building but there was no water there.

            Eye witnesses say the fire was almost contained but since there was a delay in dispensing water the situation went out of control.

            One of the angry residents said that there have been several fire incidents in Al Nahda area which is crowded with high rise buildings and by now the civil defence should have managed to work out a plan to deal with such situations that have hit Al Tayer building yesterday. – Emirates 24|7

 

Divers give Abu Dhabi's ports a deep clean

            Discarded tyres, a fishing rod, a hammer and a plastic wall clock were recovered from Abu Dhabi's four ports yesterday by a team of more than 80 divers trawling for junk.

            We enjoy the marine life and for us to protect it, we need to take care of it," said Abdullah Ayoub, 42, an automatic engineer at Gasco who led a team of 15 divers from his company.

            Yesterday marked the eighth time Gasco has taken part in the Emirates Diving Association's marine clean-ups.

            The volunteers' usual haul includes cans, plastic bottles and bags and discarded fishing nets and cages.

            Yesterday, divers cleared rubbish from Mina Zayed, the Free Port, the New Free Port and the Fishers Port.

            Their finds included pipes, metal frames and plastic boat parts.

            The clean-up campaign is part of Abu Dhabi Terminals' efforts to protect the marine environment, which it says is facing an unprecedented threat from pollution, waste and urban development.

            "We cannot do it alone," said Abdulla Al Muharrami, the deputy chief executive officer at Abu Dhabi Terminals.

            "We need the support of both the government and private sectors."

            A total of 250 volunteers, including 150 divers, signed up for the two-day campaign, which is to concluded yesterday with a clean-up at Mussaffah Port.

            Khalid Al Hammadi, 31, a Takatof volunteer, found a square plastic clock on the seabed.

"Maybe it came from one of the big boats," he said.

            Another team was led by Abdullah Al Ali, 40, an immigration department worker, who also serves as the organiser at the Emirates Diving Association in Fujairah, Khor Fakkan and Kalba.

            "Many people don't care about the environment," he said. "They should be fined for throwing rubbish into the sea. This is my country and I should do my part."

            Mohammed Younis Al Shehhi, 30, and Mohammed Abdullah Al Dhaheri, 25, from Sharjah Police, were also participating.

            "We like diving but we also want to protect the environment," said Mr Al Shehhi. "We take cans, bottles, rope, fishing nets and so much rubbish out of the waters."

            Yahya Mokhtar, 45, a control engineer at Abu Dhabi Marine Operating Company, co-ordinated 18 divers at the Free Port.

            "We have about 80 to 100 divers in our company," he said. "Part of our vision is to spread marine awareness and contribute to the environment and society."

            "It's nice to see a group of divers who are committed to the environment," said Kathleen Russell, the manager and course director at the capital's Al Mahara Diving Centre. "We would like to live in a cleaner and healthier world."

            Some of the waste will be recycled, with the Abu Dhabi Centre of Waste Management providing bins to segregate plastic, cans, bottles, paper and general waste. – The National

UAE, US seek to boost military ties

            His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, received US Secretary of Navy Ray Mabus and his accompanying delegation at Zabeel Palace on Wednesday. The meeting was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

            Sheikh Mohammed and the US Secretary exchanged views on enhancing bilateral relations, especially in the areas of defence and military fields. The two sides also discussed the Arab and regional political and security issues as well as ways to enhance stability and peace in the best interest of peoples of the region and the world.

            Sheikh Mohammed stressed the significance of education as a tool for spreading culture of stability among the poor communities, especially in the Third World, adding that education provides job opportunities to youth and keep them away from economic, social and psychological problems.

            The US Secretary of Navy hailed the friendship between the two countries founded on mutual respect and common interests. He also highlighted the huge development the UAE has attained, thanks to its wise leadership.

            Present at the meeting were Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Director of Dubai Ruler’s Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, Major General Mohammed Dhaen Al Qamzi, US Consul General in Dubai Justin Siberell and other officials. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Abdullah bin Zayed underscores UAE-Algerian relations

            Algiers - H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister underscored relations between the UAE and Algeria. "We are proud of our relationship with Algeria and the privilege we enjoy in Algeria," Sheikh Abdullah stated after a meeting with Algerian president Abdelaziz Bouteflika.

            "Patronising this relationship by President Bouteflika is important for us in the UAE in to bolster this historical relationship between the two countries and advance it in various spheres in light of pan-Arab and regional developments," Sheikh Abdullah added.  He noted that the Algerian president enjoys wide experience that mandates listening to him and tapping his wisdom and thoughts regarding these developments and ways to tackle them. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Algerian President receives Abdullah bin Zayed

            Algiers - Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika received in Algiers yesterday, UAE Foreign Minister H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is on a one-day official visit to Algeria.  The meeting was attended by Algerian Foreign Affairs Minister Mourad Medelci and UAE Ambassador to Algeria Mohammed Ali Nasser Al Mazroui.

            Algeria Press Service (APS) said that the visit of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed comes ahead of the tenth session of the Algeria-UAE Joint Committee, which is set to review the bilateral cooperation between the two countries study ways to promote it in various fields.

            APS added that the current visit is an opportunity to exchange views and coordinate on issues related to the current Arab situation as well as regional and international issues of common concern. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

UAE renews support for UN Security Council Resolutions on Syria

            New York - The UAE on behalf of the Arab group at the United Nations has renewed its support for the UN Security Council Resolutions 2042 and 2043 of 2012 concerning to resolving the current crisis in Syria through peaceful means.

            Ambassador Ahmed Al-Jarman, Permanent Representative of the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations, and Chairman of the Arab Group in his statement on behalf of the Arab Group said that the Arab Group supports the UN Security Council Resolutions ( 2042 and 2043) as well as the efforts of the Joint Special Envoy Kofi Annan towards resolving the crisis through peaceful means.

            Following is the full speech of Al-Jarman: Madam President, Let me on behalf of myself and the Arab Group to congratulate Your Excellency on your Presidency of the Security Council for this month.

            Madam President, The periodic monthly briefings submitted by the Secretariat to the Security Council on the latest developments at the Occupied Palestinian and Arab Territories since 1967, reflect in way or another the gravity of the legal, humanitarian and political violations being committed by Israel "the occupying Power" against the Palestinian people, which include the continued and systematic expansion of its illegal settlement expansion in the depth of the West Bank and East Jerusalem and their surroundings, the expulsion of the Arab population from their homes, and confiscation of more private and public lands and properties, all of which undermined the elements of the Palestinian State and its national authority.

            The Arab Group renews its condemnation of such serious Israeli actions, which were the direct cause of failing all regional and international efforts made so far to resume peace negotiations and resulted as well in increasing anger, tension and instability in the region as a whole. The Arab Group is deeply concerned about the continuing inability of the international community to end such violations or the aggressive Israeli measures, which encouraged Israel to continue its provocative decisions regarding the establishment of new settlements and expanding existing settlements as part of its policy to consolidate its occupation of the Palestinian lands, particularly in the city of East Jerusalem, with the aim of changing its demographic, historical and religious nature and the Arab character of this city in serious anticipation of the results of the negotiations.

            The Arab Group regards such Israeli practices as null, void and unrecognised in accordance with the principles of the Charter, the provisions of international law, the relevant international resolutions and the principles of the roadmap. Therefore, today we demand for the international community and the UN Security Council in particular to assume its full responsibility towards forcing Israel to cease immediately its serious policies, including the immediate cancellation of all illegal decisions and unilateral measures taken by Israel in this regard.

            We also demand for the Council to support the recent decision of the Human Rights Council, which calls for sending an independent international fact-finding mission to investigate the repercussions of Israel's settlements on the civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights of the Palestinian people, in order to determine the responsibility that Israel would have to bear in full towards this issues and to ensure its compliance to immediately stop all illegal settlement activities. That would pave the way for the establishment of an environment conducive to the unconditional and immediate resumption of peace negotiations for finding a comprehensive, just and lasting solution to the Question of Palestine, based on the principle of the two-state solution provided for in the Road Map and the Arab Peace Initiative.

            Madam President, While we are deeply concerned at the continued humanitarian and economic dire situation of the Palestinian people resulting from the Israeli occupation and closures, we call upon Israel to immediately lift the closures on Gaza crossings in accordance with Resolution 1860, and to remove all military barriers in the Palestinian towns and villages which limit trade and the movement of the Palestinians. We also demand for Israel to stop its repeated attempts to freeze customs and tariffs funds belonging to the Palestinian Authority. We hope that the international community increases its economic, financial and humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people, and we urge donor countries to fulfil their commitments towards providing one billion dollars to the annual budget of the Palestinian Authority for 2012, pursuant to the decision taken by the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee for Coordinating Humanitarian Assistance to the Palestinians at its meeting held last March in Brussels, in order to enable the Palestinian Authority to control the growing fiscal deficit and fulfil its responsibilities towards the Palestinian People. In the humanitarian context, we also call upon Israel to immediately and unconditionally release all Palestinian prisoners detained at Israel's prisons, who live in difficult illegal conditions at the prisons and detention centres of Israel.

            Madam President, We renew our total condemnation of the continued Israeli occupation of the Syrian Golan, and we consider all measures practiced by the occupation in the occupied Syrian Golan to be null and void.

            We also deplore Israel's relentless violations of the Lebanese sovereignty, by land, sea and air, and request the international community to compel Israel to fulfil its obligations set out in resolution 1701, particularly with regard to the implementation of its military withdrawal from the rest of the Lebanese territory.

            Regarding the crisis in Syria, the Arab Group supports UN Security Council Resolutions 2042 and 2043 of 2012, as well as the efforts of the Joint Special Envoy Kofi Annan towards resolving this crisis through peaceful means in accordance with the terms of reference of his mandate, and the relevant decisions of the Arab League, which include a political road map for the Syrian crisis based on the Arab initiative. In this context, we reiterate our support for the resolutions issued by the recent Summit of the League of Arab States held in Baghdad, which condemned the serious violations of human rights of Syrian civilians and called the Syrian Government to immediately stop all acts of violence and killings, protect the civilians, ensure the freedom of peaceful demonstrations, the immediate release of all detainees in these events, withdrawal of military forces from all cities and villages and allow immediate access to Arab and international relief organisations. We hope that concerned parties in Syria bear their national responsibilities, and comply with their commitments and pledges set out in the six-point settlement plan of the Joint Envoy, in a rigorous and transparent manner, in order to end the bloodshed of the Syrian people, achieve their legitimate aspirations, and restore security and stability throughout the country.

            Madam President, In conclusion, we hope that the Security Council, in the context of its responsibilities, will take the critical measures required to revive the efforts aiming at achieving comprehensive, just and lasting peace and security in the Middle East. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

UAE hosts International Contact Group on Afghanistan

            The UAE hosted here yesterday the International Contact Group on Afghanistan with participation of 60 countries and a number of the regional and international organisations.

            Dr Saeed Al Shamsi, Assistant UAE Foreign Minister for the International Organisations, Special Envoy for Afghanistan and Pakistan, welcomed in his speech Ambassador Michael Koch, new Special Envoy of Germany for Afghanistan and Pakistan. Marking the end of his tenure, Dr Al Shamsi congratulated Major General Faris Al Mazrouei, Assistant Foreign Minister for the Security and Military Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on his appointment as a new UAE envoy for Afghanistan and Pakistan.

            He added that the security and stability of Afghanistan is linked to the regional and international security, hence there should be an international consensus to support the Afghan national security forces after 2014.

            Al Shamsi stressed that the UAE is committed to use its capabilities regarding the strategic location and experiences to further support the development in Afghanistan, adding that the UAE sees the economic stability as a safety valve for the security and peace in Afghanistan.  – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

UAE to host the second international counter piracy conference in June

            In its continued efforts to further advance public-private coordination to counter the growing threat of maritime piracy, the United Arab Emirates, in a partnership between the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and global ports operator DP World , will convene its second public-private international counter piracy conference in Dubai, on 27-28 June.

            Foreign ministers and senior government officials from more than 50 countries as well as CEOs of leading global companies in maritime related industries are being invited to the two-day event, entitled 'A Regional Response to Maritime Piracy: Enhancing Public-Private Partnerships and Strengthening Global Engagement', to be held in Dubai between June 27 and 28, 2012.

            This UAE driven conference aims to build up on achievements of last year's UAE-hosted forum, which saw over 700 delegates representing more than 65 governments, international organisations and more than 120 representatives of the global maritime industry come together in Dubai to share experiences and develop coordinated international initiatives to face the challenges of maritime piracy.

            The first high-level public-private Counter-Piracy Conference, 'Global Threat, Regional Responses: Forging a Common Approach to Maritime Piracy', convened in April 2011, was a landmark event in international counter-piracy cooperation. It signalled a transformative moment in the maritime sector's engagement with the international community on counter-piracy, as a number of maritime companies donated funds to the United Nations' Trust Fund for initiatives to counter piracy off the coast of Somalia.

            The Conference achieved the unanimous agreement of a strong and substantive Conference Declaration that covered a range of counter-piracy issues, and has since served as a benchmark for regional piracy policies. It also helped emphasise the priority of the threat of maritime piracy among the businesses and governments of the region, and provided an opportunity for the wider international community to reaffirm commitment to supporting the region at the forefront of combating this global challenge.

            Piracy's devastating human and financial costs continue with 13 vessels hijacked and 197 seafarers held in captivity in the first three months of this year. Hundreds of families are being victimised by this growing threat; annual financial cost to global trade is estimated at US$12 billion a year, according to the International Maritime Bureau.

            In this context, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed al Nahyan said: ''The UAE believes that maritime piracy, notably in the Gulf of Aden and the western Indian Ocean, remains of serious global concern. Pirate activity off the coast of Somalia continues to plague our region. Attacks by pirates endanger the lives of hundreds of seafarers, just as they undermine the prosperity and livelihoods of Somalia, its immediate neighbourhood, and the world.

            "This is the second time that the UAE is inviting foreign ministers, industry leaders and international experts to meet together in Dubai, and to coordinate our international response. We are doing so because we continue to believe that an enhanced counter piracy response can be achieved through greater regional and international engagement on this issue of global concern.

            "In this second conference, we will build on the significant advances of the first. For the UAE's part, we will emphasise that our collective counter-piracy strategies must emphasise a long-term, sustainable solution. This must include empowering regional states to mount an effective national challenge to disrupt and defeat piracy groups operating off their shores, through supporting the development of national response capacity. It must also include long-term strategies of humanitarian support that address the root causes of maritime piracy.

            "The UAE has shared its approach to the challenge of counter-piracy with the Arab League, and continues to work with the Arab League and its Member States in order to deliver a regionally-focused contribution, which benefits from full international engagement".

            Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Chairman, DP World , said: "Once more, we are proud to help facilitate this important dialogue. We are very much aware that the private sector continues to be directly impacted by the threat of piracy; hence we wish to reiterate our endeavour in collaborating closely with the respective governments and the international community in this regard. Piracy is indeed a growing destabilising factor that needs to be combated, not only to help facilitate the safe flow of trade across nations but also to provide a safe working environment for seafarers and peace of mind for their families.

            "We are of the view that collaboration through public-private partnership will go a long way to facilitating preventive measures as well as long term solutions to the problem." The UAE's second high-level, public-private counter-piracy conference will further explore key areas of the progress made so far in the global fight against piracy, and comes on the heels of a range of UAE-led counter-piracy initiatives, including its current Chairmanship of the Contact Group on Piracy off the Coast of Somalia.

            This year's conference promises to provide a new, regionally-based platform from which the international community can develop the effective response required by the emerging global consensus that maritime piracy represents one of the most uniquely threatening challenges of the 21st century. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Abu Dhabi International Airport named best airport in Middle East

            Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) announced yesterday that Abu Dhabi International Airport was awarded the Best Airport in the Middle East Award at the prestigious 2012 World Airport Awards, ranking the Capital's Airport as the third best airport in the world, within the size category of 20 million passenger per year.

            During the awards held in Vienna, Abu Dhabi International Airport was also certified as a 4-Star airport, which recognises the continued and ongoing improvement in the Capital's Airport facilities and service standards.

            Khalifa Al Mazroui, Chairman of ADAC, commented: "ADAC is extremely proud and honoured that Abu Dhabi International Airport has succeeded in becoming the Best Airport in the Middle East, while also the becoming the first airport in the Middle East to increase its Skytrax rating to become a 4-star airport. These accolades acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the whole airport team and demonstrate its commitment to delivering excellence and top quality service that match the Capital's growing international reputation." He continued: "We would like to thank all of our partners and stakeholders, particularly Abu Dhabi Police and customs, for their continued support for all ADAC initiatives. We would also like to extend our thank you to all passengers who took part in the survey for their positive feedback and trust in Abu Dhabi International Airport and its services.

            "ADAC is moving ahead with its plans for the development of Abu Dhabi International Airport infrastructure to support Abu Dhabi Vision 2030, and deliver efficient and quality services on a par with leading international airports enabling it to cater for the air transport needs of the Emirate and region for decades to come. Ranking in third place worldwide within the airport's size category is a new milestone for the company in achieving its vision in becoming the world's leading airports group" added Al Mazrouei.

            Launched in 1999, the World Airport Survey is the leading airport passenger satisfaction benchmark, covering over 388 airports in 2012. The Airport Star Ranking provides an accurate and independent guide for travellers around the world, and passengers travelling through Abu Dhabi International Airport can look forward to a high quality experience. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

UAE offers 'shining example' in aviation

            Over the past 25 years, the Gulf region has experienced an economic transformation, in which the UAE has played a leading part. Aviation has been at the centre of this change, which is reflected not only in the success of the well-known and rising Gulf airlines, but also in the emergence of some of the world's most impressive airport infrastructure.

            The fast growth of aviation in the region should not, however, obscure the fact that global aviation faces considerable challenges. Last month, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) downgraded its airline profit forecast for this year from US$3.5 billion (Dh12.85billion) to US$3billion. We expect to generate revenue of US$633billion this year, so that means a paltry 0.5 per cent profit margin on revenue growth of 5.9 per cent and traffic growth of 3.6 per cent. Rising fuel prices are the biggest culprit for these falling profits.

            In the Middle East, IATA sees a profit this year of US$500 million. The Middle East is one of just two regions whose outlooks have improved since our December forecast.

            A study conducted by Oxford Economics shows that the Middle East represents 3 per cent of global passengers, has 5 per cent of the total jobs and 6 per cent of the GDP generated by air transport. That translates to air transport supporting 2.7 million jobs, and contributing US$129billion to GDP. Furthermore, aviation's role in the region is set to grow rapidly over the next two decades as international passenger numbers rise from 77.1 million in 2010 to 220.4 million in 2030.

            So when I am asked what the future of aviation will look like, I am tempted to respond that I hope it bears more than a passing resemblance to what is occurring today in the UAE, as well as in places like China, Singapore and South Korea, where governments are using aviation strategically to spearhead economic development.

            However, this bright future is not guaranteed. It depends on having the right conditions in place to support competitive sustainable businesses. Many of these are beyond the direct control of airlines, and most require that industry and government work together with a common vision and purpose. Two key areas concern infrastructure and environment.

            Any forward look at aviation must incorporate a vision of adequate airport and air traffic management infrastructure. Without it, aviation's contribution as an economic catalyst is compromised. The Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region has invested more than US$100billion in airport projects, including US$6.8billion in Abu Dhabi, US$14billion on the new Doha International in Qatar and US$33billion on the new Al Maktoum International for Dubai.

            But runways and terminals are, of course, only half the story. What is also required is efficient air traffic management (ATM). Within the Mena region, ATM infrastructure is not harmonised or facilitated to its full extent, and routings in some areas are less efficient than they could be. With movements growing 11 per cent annually in the flight-information regions of Bahrain, the Emirates and Muscat, we could see a doubling of traffic in seven years, creating the potential for aerial bottlenecks.

            Add to this the fact that just about half of the airspace is permanently open to civil aviation, with the rest controlled by the military, and you have a recipe for future gridlock. On the positive side, the UAE is ahead of many other air navigation service providers with regard to ATM capabilities, and Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain are in the process of making much-needed upgrades to their air traffic management.

            Aviation's licence to grow and fulfil the global demand for connectivity is also contingent upon environmental responsibility and sustainability. That means aviation must address its 2 per cent contribution to man-made CO2 emissions, and to do that the industry has committed itself to improving aircraft fuel efficiency by 1.5 per cent annually to 2020, to cap net CO2 emissions from 2020 with carbon-neutral growth, and to cut net carbon emissions in half by 2050 compared with 2005.

            Sustainable biofuels will play a key role, and we are seeing important progress around the world, with more than a dozen projects under way. In this region, Qatar Airways, Airbus, Rolls-Royce and others have formed the Qatar Advanced Biofuel Platform consortium to develop the first large-scale, algae bio-jet fuel value chain in the world.

            The aviation industry also recognises that economic measures are a necessary - if temporary - bridge to enable it to meet its environmental targets. But it is critical that such measures are agreed upon in a global approach under the leadership of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

            Unfortunately, Europe has chosen a go-it-alone approach with the inclusion of international aviation in the EU Emissions Trading Scheme. This is creating opposition, because non-European states see the intention to tax airlines for emissions over non-European Union territory as an attack on their sovereignty.

            No one wants a trade war, and there is a solution. A global agreement through the ICAO is the way forward. Now is the time for Europe sincerely to take a stake in making the discussions and decisions at the ICAO a success.

            Aviation is a force for good in the world. It connects people and goods to markets, reunites families and enables journeys of discovery.

            Despite some challenges, the UAE's support for aviation is a shining example to other governments around the world. I hope this example is heeded so that the benefits of this wonderful industry may continue to be enjoyed by all. – The National

 

Dubai Airport links E-Gate, biometric passports

            A new smart e-Gate system which reads passport information and captures biometric data including facial recognition in 12 to 14 seconds has been launched at the Dubai International Airport Wednesday.

            Initially, it is installed at Terminal 3 arrival and will eventually be installed across all Dubai International's immigration entry and exit points soon.

            The system, equipped with retinal scan using a high-accuracy camera, will eliminate the need for the e-Gate card currently issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigner Affairs (GDRFA).

            Sheikh Ahmad Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates airline and Group, has unveiled the new technology which he described as a "new era in passenger service".

Faster, more efficient

            The new technology paves the way for a faster and more efficient movement of the growing number of passengers into and out of the world's fourth busiest airport for international passengers.

The system then matches the traveller's captured biometrics and passport information against existing lists to detect any potential immigration issues. All these procedures will be completed in less than 15 seconds while maintaining a high-level accuracy and security standards.

            Holders of modern passports with bar-codes that can be read by the e-reader can use the e-Gate, including children above the age of seven. Passengers who hold passports without e-readable barcodes, can proceed to the existing e-Gates or the conventional immigration counters to complete their entry or exit process.

Fastest-growing airport

             General Mohammad Al Merri, Head of Dubai General Directorate for Residency and Foreigners Affairs said the Smart e-Gate is an ambitious and futuristic project and an important step towards encouraging the culture of e-travel.

            "Working in an airport that is considered as one of the fastest growing airports in the world represents a challenge for all of us in facilitating the entry and exit of passengers without affecting security standards," he said.

            "We have succeeded in achieving this thanks to clear vision, team spirit, the use of the state-of-the-art technologies and the great support given by Sheikh Ahmad Bin Saeed, his daily follow up of work in the airport, and his directives to eliminate any obstacles that may hinder the progress in achieving the ultimate goal of making Dubai International the world's best airport."

Two-month trial

            The project was managed by a multi-specialised workgroup, led by Brigadier General Obaid Bin Surour. The team met with representatives of the concerned agencies and departments in the airport to discuss their needs and views, and hence, a plan of action was drawn up for the implementation of the project.

            Before rolling the technology out, GDRFA will conduct a two-month trial of the system.

Lieutenant Colonel Khalid Nasser Abdul Razzaq Al Razzouqi, Assistant Director General of Electronic Services at GDRFA, said: "The new e-Gate will give us high efficiency in handling issues such as huge growth rates in passenger numbers, the use of fake passports and the reduction of time in completing passenger procedures at the counters to 12-14 seconds only, which is a record time."

            Lt. Colonel Khalid explained that a group of officers from the directorate had been trained on the operation of the smart e-Gate. – Gulf News

 

UAE showcases its investment potential and growth opportunities in Hanover

            Hanover, Germany  - Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, inaugurated the UAE Investment Forum as part of the UAE's dedicated pavilion at Hannover Messe, the international industrial and technology fair regarded as one of the world's largest industrial and technology events, being held from April 23 to 27, 2012, in Hanover, Germany.

            The UAE Investment Forum will serve as a window into the investment potential and growth opportunities offered by the country for foreign investors and businesses.

            Opening the Forum Sheikha Lubna said: "One aspect that continues to draw us to Hannover Messe is its diversity. In a similar fashion, the UAE looks to diversity to fuel its growth. Our comprehensive economic diversification programme has enabled us to raise the contribution of our non-oil industries to over 70 per cent of our GDP.

            "Last year, the UAE's industrial investments reached a record high of US$ 31 billion to surpass the 2010 figure by 12.8 per cent. Our goal is to make our non-oil industrial activities account for 25 per cent of our economic output by 2025," she added.

            Sheikha Lubna said that innovation is important to the UAE's vision of developing a resilient industrial framework. "Our various global recognitions have affirmed UAE's strong commitment to innovation and technology-enabled development. We are also focused on renewable energy, as reflected in pioneering initiatives such as Masdar City, one of the world's foremost eco-cities taking shape in Abu Dhabi".

            Sheikha Lubna added that the announcement in January of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to launch a long-term national initiative to build a green UAE economy underlines the country's vision for long-term sustainability.

            To be undertaken under the slogan 'A green economy for sustainable development', the initiative will transform the UAE into a global leader and a hub for trade in green products and technologies. It also seeks to maintain a sustainable environment to drive long-term economic growth.

            Sheikha Lubna invited German investors to evaluate the various business and investment incentives that the UAE offers to industrial firms. "The UAE offers several advantages including a safe work environment, the absence of corporate and personal taxes, 100 per cent repatriation of profits, business-friendly policies, and abundant sources of inexpensive energy. We also offer the facilities and services of our 32 state-of-the-art free and industrial zones which received thousands of corporate registrants last year despite the sustained global downturn," she said.

            "Last year we recorded an estimated economic growth of around 3.3 per cent despite unprecedented regional and global challenges. This year we have set a federal budget of USD 11.4 billion to fund the expansion of our economic activities, generate more jobs, expand our trade and further develop our infrastructure to retain our competitive status as the second largest Arab economy".

            The UAE is the second-most preferred Foreign Direct Investment or FDI destination in the Arab world. An UNCTAD report issued last year pegged the UAE's cumulative FDI inflow at US$75.7 billion from 2000 to 2011, accounting for almost 17 per cent of the total Middle Eastern FDI for the period. The country's non-oil foreign trade rose 22 per cent to USD 250 billion, with exports surging an impressive 35 per cent, reaffirming the country's status as the region's commercial hub.

            The Forum witnessed a key note address by H.E David McAllister, Prime Minister, State of Lower Saxony; followed by a panel discussion on "Investing in the UAE", showcasing the complementarity of each emirate and unique value-proposition of the UAE for Foreign Direct Investment in various technological sectors of excellence for German companies.

            The Forum was closed by a discussion between Mohammed Omar Abdullah, Undersecretary of the Department of Economic Development of Abu Dhabi, and Brian Lott from the Mubadala Development Company about "Economic diversification, from planning to reality".

            They highlighted the investment opportunities in Abu Dhabi and efforts to enhance diversification by focusing on strategic sectors and small and medium businesses. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Lubna discusses trade and investment ties with German officials

            Hanover, Germany - Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Foreign Trade yesterday received Prime Minister of Lower Saxony, David McAllister at UAE Pavilion's headquarter at the Hanover International Industrial Exhibition 2012 in Germany.

            During the meeting which was attended by Mohammed Omar Abdullah, the Undersecretary of the Department of Economic Development (DED) and a number of senior officials, they reviewed trade and investment ties and ways to boost them as well as developing economic partnership among entities and companies operating in both countries.

            Sheikha Lubna referred to the strong economic and trade relations between UAE and Germany. She also stressed UAE's keenness to consolidate and develop wider horizons of future cooperation in the frame of the diverse opportunities in the trade and investment sector.

            The minister affirmed UAE's keenness to become part of the international economic events including Hanover International Industrial Exhibition which is considered as one of the international exhibition in the field of modern industries, citing to the importance of exchanging thoughts and expertise in the field of trade, investment and industry.

            For his part, Prime Minister of Lower Saxony welcomed the remarkable participation and underlined the distinguished economic and trade relations with the UAE.

            Meanwhile Sheikha Lubna also met yesterday with Federal Minister of Economics and Technology Dr. Philipp Rosler and discussed bilateral relations between the two countries particularly in the economic and trade sectors as well as ways to boost them for the interest of the two countries.

            The meeting which was held on the sidelines of Hanover Industry Exhibition 2012 also discussed the importance of the international exhibitions for convergence of ideas and finding solutions to economic and industrial projects worldwide.

            Lubna affirmed UAE's keenness to boost economic, trade and investment cooperation and benefit from investment opportunities in the two countries. She also referred to the importance of continuous interaction as well as encouraging private sector for investment in both countries in addition to establishing joint projects since the two countries have investment opportunities backed by the accelerating growth achieved by the two economies.

            She added that UAE is considered as one of the world's advanced centres for exhibition industry and witnessed huge international turnout.

            For his part, Rosler hailed UAE's participation at the exhibition as well as the strong relations between the UAE and Germany which resulted in a host of projects, programs and signing of MoUs. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Emirates NBD profit falls 54.6%

            Emirates NBD said yesterday its fiscal first quarter net profit fell 54.6 per cent year-on-year to Dh641 million on total income of Dh2.7 billion.

            The comparative quarter was aided by a Dh1.83 billion gain on the stake sale of Network International, Emirates NBD said in a statement to the Dubai Financial Market (DFM), where its stock is listed.

            The shares of Emirates NBD fell 2.77 per cent yesterday, closing at Dh2.81.

Its operating profit before impairment allowances of Dh1.7 billion rose 20 per cent from the first quarter of 2011.

            "Moderate increase in impaired loans ratio during the first quarter of 2012 of 0.3 per cent [was] in line with expectations. Total assets [were] up 4 per cent at Dh296.7 billion compared to Dh284.6 billion at the end of 2011," the bank said.

            At the end of March, Emirates NBD's customer loans stood at Dh204.1 billion, broadly stable relative to Dh203.1 billion at the end of 2011. Its customer deposits were at Dh208.5 billion, up 8 per cent from Dh193.3 billion at the end of December 2011.

            Chief Executive Officer Rick Pudner said: "During the first quarter of 2012 we have continued to deliver stable and robust financial results, reflecting the strength of our business model and cementing our position as the region's leading banking group. Whilst uncertainties and challenges remain in the global economic environment, we remain confident about the strength and capabilities of Emirates NBD to continue to realise more success and our ability to capitalise on value-adding opportunities for our shareholders."

            Summing up Emirates NBD's first quarter performance, Shabbir Malek, banking analyst at EFG-Hermes told Gulf News: "The quarter was affected by a compression in net interest spreads but that was offset by a stronger non-interest income.

            "Going forward, provisions of the bank are going to remain high as they build up their non-performing loans coverage."

            He added: "The bank's loan growth is likely to stay weak and net interest spreads are going to stabilise around the current levels."

            Emirates NBD's total income for the quarter increased by 19 per cent to Dh2.686 billion compared with Dh2.26 billion in the first quarter of 2011.

            Its net interest income for the quarter improved by 8 per cent to Dh1.777 billion from Dh1.64 billion in the first quarter of 2011 but declined by 8 per cent compared with Dh1.929 billion in the fourth quarter of 2011 driven primarily by a normalisation of the net interest margin to 2.63 per cent from 2.85 per cent in the previous quarter. – Gulf News

 

Dubai to lead UAE growth in 2013

            Dubai is firmly moving towards a full recovery and is expected to spearhead real growth in the UAE economy in 2013, according to a Western study.

            The UAE’s GDP, the second largest in the Arab world, surged by 4.7 per cent in 2011 after recording 3.2 per cent growth in 2010 and 3.7 per cent contraction in 2009, said the study by the Washington-based Institute for international Finance (IIF).

            IIF projected UAE GDP growth to slow down to 3.2 per cent in 2012 and 2013 due to slackening growth in the hydrocarbon sector.

            It expected Dubai, the region’s business hub, to lead growth with 4.2 per cent in 2013 while Abu Dhabi’s non-oil sector will swell by around four per cent.

            Abu Dhabi’s hydrocarbon sector will contribute 1.3 per cent to growth.

            The report showed Dubai’s GDP, the second largest in the UAE after Abu Dhabi, shrank by around four per cent in 2009 and 2.2 per cent in 2010 because of the 2008 global fiscal distress and the debt issue. But GDP rebounded into growth of 3.2 per cent in 2011 and is projected to remain positive at about 2.5 per cent in 2012, IIF said.

            The report attributed the UAE’s high growth in 2011 to what it described as a sizable increase in crude oil production and solid growth in Dubai’s core activities of trade, retail sales, and tourism, which have more than offset the continued retrenchment in the construction and real estate sectors.

“We expect growth to moderate to 3.2 per cent in 2012. Average crude oil production in Abu Dhabi is expected to increase by 3.3 per cent in 2012, compared with an increase of nine per cent in 2011.”

            IIF, which groups major banks in the West, said continued higher oil prices and fiscal surpluses have encouraged Abu Dhabi’s Executive Council to press ahead with several of its large projects this year. This may more than offset a possible weakening of private sector investment and result in non-hydrocarbon growth of 3.3 per cent in 2012, it said.

            Turning to finance, IIF said it expected UAE government expenditure to increase by nearly 14 per cent this year because of higher salaries and a projected sharp rise in spending on infrastructure in Abu Dhabi.

            “Nonetheless, under the assumption of an average oil price of nearly US$114, the increase in hydrocarbon revenues will more than offset the rise in spending, leading to a fiscal surplus of 4.7 per cent of GDP in 2012, as compared with 4.4 per cent in 201,” the report said.

            It said higher hydrocarbon exports would also largely strengthen the UAE’s external position, with the current account surplus rising to around US$51 billion in 2012, or 13.3 per cent of GDP.

            “This, combined with an assumed return of five per cent on investment, will lead to further growth in the SWFs’ balances to a total of US$580 billion by end-2012.…the assets will further swell to US$630 billion by end 2013.”

            According to IIF, progress in structural reforms in the UAE over the next few years, the strengthening of federal institutions, and the enhancement of transparency and governance could accelerate the pace of non-hydrocarbon growth to over four per cent in the medium term.

            “Dubai’s excellent infrastructure and its prime location as a global hub for trade and tourism should continue to underpin diversification and growth…. Abu Dhabi’s resources, its considerable investments in modern infrastructure, energy and services should help sustain solid growth for the UAE over the medium term,” it said. – Emirates 24|7

 

Aldar launches new Operative Village in Al Ain

            Aldar Company yesterday launched a new Operative Village that will cater for the ongoing development in Al Ain and improve the quality of labour accommodation. The first permanent camp of its kind in the Garden City, the Al Ain Operative Village has a current capacity of 5,690 residents over 74,911 SQM and facilities including dining halls, laundries, a medical facility and pharmacy, mosque, supermarket, money exchange and an internet cafe. The development also includes recreational facilities such as TV rooms, gym, basketball and volleyball pitches, as well as a dedicated manager for social and sporting events.

            Leasing to third parties has already begun, with more than 50% of the existing capacity under offer. The facility is upgradable to a capacity of 10,000 with room for further development to a capacity of 20,000 over 387,900SQM based on market demand.

            Aldar currently owns a number of operative villages across the Emirate, including six on Abu Dhabi which caters for approximately 32,000 workers in both construction and operations in Abu Dhabi. Working closely with the Ministry of Labour, Aldar has been praised for its exemplary standards, provision of high quality facilities and commitment to creating communities. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

 

Cityscape Abu Dhabi ends on a positive note

            The sixth edition of Cityscape Abu Dhabi concluded on Wednesday, bringing an end to four successful days of the latest real estate development updates and announcements, both locally and internationally.

            Several major UAE based developers showcased their key developments to visiting investors and partners from more than 80 countries. Among them, Sorouh Real Estate launched its retail property brand Boutik, aimed at enhancing the lifestyle experience at some of its major developments.

            The Abu Dhabi based developer will open its first Boutik branded space in Sun and Sky Towers on Al Reem Island in June this year, hosting the first ever Waitrose supermarket in Abu Dhabi. In the second half of the year, Sorouh will also open the grade A shopping mall, Boutik Al Ain, home to a Carrefour hypermarket.

            Gurjit Singh, Chief Operations Officer at Sorouh said: “Cityscape Abu Dhabi continues to be one of the most important real estate exhibitions in the MENA region, and we continue to support this annual gathering to demonstrate our commitment to Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 and the long-term vision for the economic development of the emirate.”

            Baniyas Investment and Development Company (BIDC) also showcased its award winning development, Bawabat Al Sharq project, in Bani Yas city.  The investment and development arm of the Bani Yas Club had a busy year in 2011, when they launched the luxurious Andalucian style villas on Bawabat Al Sharq. The distinct three, four, and five bedroom villas were the focal point of BIDC’s exhibition stand at Cityscape Abu Dhabi this year, and will begin to be handed over to owners by the end of 2013.

            “Cityscape Abu Dhabi is the most important real estate show in Abu Dhabi, providing a unique platform to learn of the latest market updates of the regional real estate industry,” said Wael El Ashry, Commercial Vice President at Baniyas Investment and Development Company.

            “Being a key player in the real estate industry, Baniyas Investment and Development Company participated this year to gain an overall analysis of the current real estate market scenario, as well as to showcase our flagship developments.” While major local real estate developers were busy providing the updates for ongoing developments in the UAE capital this year at Cityscape Abu Dhabi, several other exhibitors were attempting to attract would-be investors to the opportunities available to them on a global scale.

            Leading the pack was the UK based realtor and developer Knight Knox International, which launched two separate projects at Cityscape Abu Dhabi, including the Laguna Beach Resort Two in Pattaya, Thailand —  a collection of 1,100 luxury freehold studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom condominiums, and the luxury Sea Caves Residences on the west coast of Pafos, Cyprus.

Meanwhile, BuildUp Real Estate was looking to lure Middle East investors and end-users to some of the most pristine Mediterranean real estate that Greece currently has to offer. – Khaleej Times

 

Institute dedicated to Arabic's glory

            A new specialised institute focusing on Arabic has been established at Zayed University to reinforce the language across the region and the world, it was announced Wednesday.

            "The Institute for the Arabic Language is the first institute in the Arab world that will be specialised in developing the Arabic language curriculums. The institute will be an international house of expertise, committed to develop the methods of teaching the Arabic language, and to assess and create new innovative teaching and learning manners, based on rigorous evaluation and assessment of educational tools," said Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, at the press conference that took place yesterday at his palace.

            "The Arabic language should occupy top priority in the educational systems. Efforts should be exerted so that the Arabic language regains its place among other international languages. The institute will have experts in teaching the Arabic language and will reinforce the initiative and care given to the language by [His Highness] Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai," he added.

            Sheikh Nahyan stressed the importance of restoring the prestige and grandeur that Arabic had enjoyed for many centuries.

            The institute will offer advanced programmes using modern and creative teaching methods to raise the standard of teaching and Arabic linguistics. It will offer degrees-oriented programmes with multiple Master degrees in creative and specialised topics related to the Arabic language, including a Master's programme in innovative methods for teaching Arabic language. The institute will also offer a Masters degree in translation and interpretation.

            "The institute will include an international centre to teach the Arabic language for non-Arabs from across the globe. This centre will attract international students, and will turn the UAE into an international hub for those desirous to learn Arabic and explore its culture and knowledge," Sheikh Nahyan said.

            Additionally, a centre will be established for exchange programmes among international universities.

            The institute will support schools and universities across the UAE in improving the Arabic language, and will offer its expertise to the GCC countries and the Islamic and Arab world’s at large.

            "The Institute, will intrinsically collaborate with all schools, colleges and universities in the country to meet the social and national requirements, in order to present our Arabic language in its best image," Sheikh Nahyan added.

            "Through scientific research, education, higher education and post-graduate studies, the institute will reinforce the national, regional and Arab identity," Sheikh Nahyan said.

Gap in knowledge

            Dr Abdul Rahim Abdul Alim, head of the Arabic Department at Zayed University told Gulf News: "There is a significant gap between the students' knowledge of Arabic Language and their ability to express themselves in Arabic in the various subjects they study at universities compared to their abilities to express themselves in English.

            "We want to give them the same aptitude and skills in their mother tongue, which will strengthen in their minds an equal importance of the Arabic language," he added.

Initiative: Support role

            An official at Zayed University confirmed that two institutes will be established soon that will reinforce the role of the Institute for the Arabic Language.

            In addition to the Institute for the Arabic Language, the Institute for the Study of Emirates Society and the Gulf Region will be established, and will offer research and teaching programmes. It will also offer courses in multiple subjects related to the Gulf region besides master programmes.

            The other school, the Institute for Global Dialogue and World Peace is intended to be a hub for the world's top thinkers and researchers, who will meet and exchange their insights and experiences for the benefit of humanity. – Gulf News

 

New courthouse and museum in Fujairah

            His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Fujairah, hailed the architectural design of the Courthouse building in Fujairah while inaugurating it on Wednesday.

            The function was attended by Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown prince of Fujairah; Sheikh Rashid bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Chairman of the Fujairah Culture and Information Authority; Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad bin Saif Al Sharqi and Dr Hadif bin Joaan Al Dhahiri, Minister of Justice. The opening ceremony of the courthouse, which lies at Al Hail neighbourhood on the New Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed street, included the screening of a short documentary on the evolution and progress of judiciary in the UAE in general, and Fujairah in particular.

            The film also demonstrated the building which can accommodate the court chambers and prosecution offices. After the inauguration, Sheikh Hamad went around the building and inspected the courtrooms of the federal lower, appeal and Sharia courts and their seven chambers where each was named after each emirate.

            Sheikh Hamad also opened the Judicial Museum, the first facility on the level of federal courts. Amiri decrees issued by the late Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi and dating back to 1969 have been showcased in the Museum.  The building also houses a customer service centre with 25 counters for all courts, public prosecutions, archives, notary public, enquiry and lawsuits filing and registration as well as special office for businessmen which renders full-fledged services to businessmen, lawyers, litigants. – Khaleej Times

 

An Emirati’s ode to the Taj

            Well-known Emirati fashion designer Zareena Yousuf will pay a tribute to the renowned Indian landmark, the Taj Mahal, as she unveils her latest evening wear collection at her bi-annual fashion show, which is to be held at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre on April 28.

            Similar to the intricate patterns and craftsmanship immortalised on the popular stone monument, Zareena’s latest creations feature complex embroidery detail woven into the rich Jalabiyas (evening wear for women), whether it is through flowing motifs or daring colour combinations, in every aspect of the design.

            The extreme detailing means that every single Zareena creation takes around 200 to 600 hours of hand-crafted embroidering — executed by her team of over 20 artisans.

            “There is a deeper connection between fashion and architecture, whether by shape, colour, material or simply location,” says Zareena. “As a child, I have always been fascinated by some of the architectural landmarks around the world, especially the Taj Mahal, which continues to inspire many creations and designs. My latest fashion line recognises the Taj Mahal’s undiluted stature as an eternal symbol of love.”

            Zareena’s designs have always been aimed at women who prefer a distinct perfection, quiet elegance and creativity as they step out in style for social and evening ceremonies. Known for their fresh approach and fluid designs, her creations are highly sought after in the Arab world and have placed her in the top echelons of the Arab fashion world.

            Since 2002, Zareena has launched two shows every year featuring her own collections — an accomplishment few designers can boast of. Zareena Yousuf’s fashion show takes place at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre, Hall 5, on April 28, from 7.30 pm onwards. – The Gulf Today

 

UAE's palm leaf architecture celebrated at London expo

      London is hosting the first European exhibition to celebrate the date palm leaf's pivotal role in the United Arab Emirates' traditional architecture with the ground-breaking event being co-sponsored by Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority.

            The exhibition, 'Arish: Palm Leaf Architecture in the United Arab Emirates runs at the Royal Geographic Society in London until May 5 and celebrates the palm's influence on Arabian architecture, following the publication of a book devoted to the subject by architect and author Sandra Piesik.

            Piesek's book 'Arish: Palm Leaf Architecture' explores the modern use of palm leaves and conveys the 7,000-year history of palm leaf buildings through historical photographs and other sources.

            "Inspiration for the exhibition came from my desire to find out more about Emirati culture. There's amazing knowledge about the Middle East's ancient civilisation which I felt was important to capture," says Sandra Piesik, Director and Architect at London's 3 Ideas Limited.

            Under the patronage of His Excellency Abdul Rahman Ghanem Al Mutaiwee, the UAE Ambassador to the United Kingdom, with guest participation from Dr Anne Coles and Alexander Maitland, the official biographer of the latte British explorer Wilfred Thesiger, who crossed the UAE's Empty Quarter (Rub Al Khali) desert in the 1940s, 'Arish: Palm-Leaf Architecture' presents a contemporary view on the future of the Arabian Gulf's most renewable and locally-available building resource.

            "The palm leaf plays a vital part in the history of Abu Dhabi and, indeed the UAE as a whole. Given the authority's remit to promote and leverage the culture of our emirate, it is apt that it has got fully behind this unique event," said Nabeel Al Zarouni, UK Country Manager for Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority.

            "We host an annual festival in Abu Dhabi, the Liwa Date Festival, which celebrates the unique contribution palm trees and dates have made to our history, and it's a marvellous moment to see its part in our heritage presented at this exhibition. We hope it will inspire many more travellers to visit our emirate," Al Zarouni adds.

            The exhibition also includes early 20th century photographs of buildings and sites on the Arabian Peninsula taken from The Royal Geographical Society's (including The Institute of British Geographers) photographic collection.

            "The exhibition is a great use of The Royal Geographical Society's public space and demonstrates incredible imagination and creativity," says David Riviere, Head of Finance and Services at the Royal Geographical Society.

            Entry to 'Arish: Palm Leaf Architecture in the United Arab Emirates' is free. Other event sponsors include Etihad Airways, National Bank of Abu Dhabi, the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in London, Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development and The British Foundation for the Study of Arabia. – AMEInfo.


 














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