Abdullah bin Zayed calls on world community to support Somalia's response to fighting maritime piracy

            The UAE yesterday called on the international community to provide support for Somalia and its neighbours so as to build their national effective response capabilities to piracy off their coasts.

            ''In this respect the UAE is pleased to contribute US$ 1 million to building and upgrading capabilities of Somali naval forces and coast guard to carry out their missions properly,'' HH Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs, told the opening session of the 2nd high-level, public-private UAE Counter-Piracy Conference, co-convened by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and global marine terminal operator DP World.

            ''The second conference comes at a critical time for both Somalia and partners advancing the international response to maritime piracy off the coast of Somalia,'' Sheikh Abdullah said in his address read on his behalf by Dr. Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.

            Sheikh Abdullah stressed the need for maintaining the momentum of progress gained in the first conference to reach a holistic solution to the international problem.

            ''We particularly need to ensure that progress will produce positive results for the people of Somalia in a bid to arrive at our long-term, sustainable solution to the piracy off the Somali coast,'' he said, adding that the UAE would like to raise two main issues in these meetings. First: the human threat piracy poses off the coast of Somalia which we evidently sense in the trauma of captive seafarers and their families. That threat was escalating last year as more seafarers were held captive for long time, facing violence and increasing inhuman conditions. DP World and its industry partners view piracy as a matter of grave international concern.

            ''We in the UAE have a longstanding maritime and trade history that is why we are deeply concerned for the suffering of those captive seafarers,'' he added, emphasising that governments should strive to work out adequate means that could explore new methods to mitigate the suffering of those seafarers.

            Second; It is quite clear now that there is a need for concerted efforts to formulate a more capable regional command within the international anti-piracy response out of the fact that the regionally-managed solution is the only one capable of surviving in the long run.

            This conference, he added, sends a clear message: Somalia's regional partners will stay put and steadfast at the first lines of international response against threat of maritime piracy. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

American official hails UAE's hosting of Second International Counter-Piracy Conference

            Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Bureau of Political-Military Affairs Thomas Kelly has lauded hosting of the second International Counter-Piracy Conference by the UAE.

            Organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dubai in conjunction with DPW, the conference aims to address how best to combat piracy and encourage the economic growth in Somalia to ensure stability.

            Kelly praised the financial and humanitarian contributions of the UAE to Somalia, especially to the Contact Group, and training of Somali forces. He said as long as there is instability and unemployment among the youth in Somalia, it will be very difficult to curb the piracy phenomenon there.  – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Abu Dhabi Police seize 400 kilos of hashish from truck drivers

            Police in the capital foiled an attempt by two male drivers to smuggle 400 kilograms of hashish into a neighbouring country.

            Half of the 400 kilograms was packed in plastic and foil wrap in two cardboard boxes, and the other half was found in cooperation with Dubai Police, hidden in plastic barrels at a rented house in Dubai that was being used as a warehouse, police said.

            Col Dr Rashed Boursheid, director of the CID at Abu Dhabi Police, estimated the market wholesale price of the confiscated drugs was approximately Dh4 million. He said the retail price would quadruple to Dh16m.

            The investigation began when police received a tip off about a large smuggling operation. Police ambushed the gang in Abu Dhabi and confiscated the drugs, Col Dr Boursheid said. The suspects, AM, 43, and DF, 30, both of Asian nationalities, worked as truck drivers.

            Brig Gen Aameer Al Miheri, deputy director general of police operations at the Abu Dhabi Police, named the operation "6x26" because it coincided with the World Anti-Drugs Day that fell on June 26. – The National

Gargash says FNC debates reflect political progress

            The keenness of the leadership to boost the role of the Federal National Council (FNC), manifested in the empowerment programme announced by the President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, reflects positively on the House’s work, Dr Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Minister of State for FNC Affairs, has said.

            In a speech on the concluding day of the first ordinary session of the 15^th Legislative Chapter of the FNC on Tuesday, he said: “Empowering the council was and will remain the prime objective of the political leadership which the UAE citizens also have yearned for, as it is the all-inclusive federal edifice and important historic institution.”

            He described the programme as the main part of the state’s ambition, and a realisation of the President’s desire to upgrade the mechanisms of political participation gradually to boost the political system, economic growth and comprehensive development of the federation.

            The vital and constructive debates seen at the session between the ministers and the members were evidence to the civiliSed standard the FNC had reached, and reflected the political development of the country, he reiterated.

            The council, according to him, had succeeded in highlighting a number of general and life-related issues, especially those pertaining to the environment and the society, whose impact is felt by all segments in the society. The government works hand in hand with the FNC to resolve those issues.

Dr Gargash underlined the keenness of the political leadership on bolstering the cooperation between the executive and legislative institutions to achieve the welfare and well-being of the UAE.

            In this context, he referred to the strong cooperation between the government and the FNC which had yielded many achievements and successes.

            He praised the appreciation shown by the government in meeting the needs of the House in the previous period. This appeared in the government’s response to the national issues, which it handled with the highest standard of transparency, accuracy and objectivity.

            He also referred to the keenness of the ministers to attend the House session and answer all queries of the members in a detailed and thorough manner. This, according to him, proved that they were well aware of the importance of the role of the House in boosting the general performance of the government and the march of the comprehensive development of the UAE.

            Dr Gargash also lauded the important role FNC Speaker Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr and the members of the council have played by addressing the general issues and the questions which are of the highest interest in the country. This also showed the keenness of the members in reflecting the issues of the man in the street and bringing them to the notice of constitutional institutions.

            He also praised the joint action between the government and the FNC, and the standard of debate, which symbolised the high standard of the UAE society. He appreciated the remarks made by the council, whether through the questions or discussions of general topics and draft laws.

            “The contribution of the members of the council have enriched the dialogue, draft laws, and served as qualitative addition towards promulgating the laws which steer the management of and society in the country.”

            He said the first session of the 15^th Legislative Chapter is a benchmark in the march of the FNC, as half of its members were elected by a bigger electoral college as compared to 2006.

            The presence of new members, who represent different segments of the Emirati society, and women members who were either appointed or elected enabling them to play their role in the council, has enriched the parliamentary experience.

            During its last 14 sessions, the council had played legislative and watchdog’s roles, and had supported and guided the executive authority, Dr Gargash said.

            He also praised the permanent and temporary committees of the council and the parliamentary diplomacy of the House. – Khaleej Times

Abu Dhabi Airports Company signs Dh10.8 billion contract for construction of the Midfield Terminal Building

            Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) and the joint venture (JV) of TAV, CCC, and Arabtec yesterday signed an Dh10.8 billion contract for the construction of the Midfield Terminal Building (MTB) at Abu Dhabi International Airport, with opening planned in 2017. Construction of the 700,000m2 terminal building, one of the world-class infrastructure projects being undertaken in the capital, will commence in the third quarter of this year.

            The project will include two key phases: the 4 year construction phase, followed by the Operational Readiness Assessment phase (ORAT), where during a 9 month period thorough tests of all aspects of the terminal will take place to ensure operational and efficiency readiness from the first day of operation.

            Following extensive and ongoing development of the existing airport facilities, the Midfield Terminal Building is the cornerstone of ADAC's vision to become the world's leading airport group, delivering highest quality services and infrastructure to serve Abu Dhabi and the world. ADAC is playing a key strategic and operational role in ensuring that Abu Dhabi's integrated infrastructure system across air, rail, road and sea has sufficient capacity to cater to the increasing numbers of travelers expected as part of the Emirate's long-term economic and tourism strategies.
            Designed by lead designer Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF) together with Ove Arup, NACO and BNP Associates, the design focused extensively on passenger experience, and meets the highest quality and service standards, including the International Air Transport Association (IATA) level of service A - the highest levels of space allocation for passenger processing areas.

            During the construction process, the area immediately surrounding the MTB is also being developed to ensure the required infrastructure and facilities are available to support the operation of the MTB in 2017. These include the aircraft parking stands, terminal roadways, connecting roads to Abu Dhabi/Dubai highway, and utility plants. Procurement for these projects is currently underway to ensure delivery in phases between 2014 and 2016.

            The MTB is designed to achieve a minimum Two Pearl Rating, following the Urban Planning Council's Estidama approach towards sustainable design. The project will minimiSe its impact on the environment, making use of innovative and cutting edge design elements, such as high performance angled glass to reduce heat and increase air-conditioning efficiencies.

            Passenger facilities and duty-free retail will include high-end commercial offerings across more than 18,000 square meters, including internationally renowned luxury goods and designer outlets, and almost 10,000 square meters of international restaurants and cafes, offering a wide range of styles and cuisines. Passenger facilities will also include over 27,500 square meters of airline hospitality lounges, a transit hotel and a heritage and culture museum.

Operational highlights include: 

Piers will accommodate up to 65 aircraft, including the Airbus A-380

Check-in is capable of handling around 8,500 passengers per hour

Check-in will provide 165 conventional counters and 48 self-service kiosks

Baggage system is designed to process over 19,000 bags per hour with over 22 kilometers of conveying lines and 10 reclaim carousels

136 security screening lanes for passengers, with a further 25 for staff.

            The building will be constructed using approximately 69,000 tons of steel, more than 680,000 cubic meters of concrete, and nearly 500,000 square meters of steel and glass cladding, 135,000 tons of rebar, 360,000 square meters of suspended ceilings and 325,000 square meters of natural stone flooring. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

NBAD looks West for expansion

            National Bank of Abu Dhabi says it will expand in western countries as the lender, along with many counterparts in the Arabian Gulf, has avoided the credit rating downgrades hammering many big rivals in the West.

            "Our strong credit ratings will certainly create opportunities in geographies where many local banks have been downgraded and where customers and investors are looking for a safe haven for their funds," said Abdulla AbdulRaheem, NBAD's group chief operating officer.

            Downgrades of 15 global investment banks by Moody's Investors Service last week left half a dozen regional lenders among the world's most highly-rated. Six banks - NBAD, Qatar National Bank (QNB), National Bank of Kuwait, Sabb (Saudi British Bank), Banque Saudi Fransi and Samba Financial Group - are currently rated Aa3 and were left unscathed by the ratings agency's knife.

            As a result of last week's downgrades, seven of the world's biggest banks - Barclays, JPMorgan, UBS, BNP Paribas, Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs and Crédit Agricole - have now been cut to credit ratings below those of the Gulf lenders.

            The only global investment banks that now match the Gulf lenders in financial strength are Royal Bank of Canada and HSBC, with the British bank also rated as having a negative outlook.

            The relative strength of NBAD's credit ratings could help it take market share from European and US rivals as its international expansion plans swing into action.

            A higher credit rating typically lowers borrowing costs and increases the number of investors willing to use the bank as a counterparty for derivative trades.

            Moody's ratings downgrades were brought about by a reassessment of the business models of global banks with capital markets operations, which include market making and proprietary trading, which have been deemed more vulnerable to market volatility following the financial crisis.

            Banks in the Middle East had been wary of entering those business lines and focused on retail and corporate lending, giving them added stability, said Khalid Howladar, a senior credit officer at Moody's.

            "On a standalone basis, banks here don't tend to practice the risky types of activities that the global investment banks do," he said.

            "Standalone ratings are relatively weak and its government support that now tends to bring them up above their European peers."

            Whether the assumptions of government support in the Gulf were justified would be examined by analysts at Moody's in the second half of this year, Mr Howladar added.

            "Globally, in the wake of recent events we've looked at systemic support with a much more discerning eye - here in the Middle East, this is a crucial factor in bank ratings that we're going to look at," he said.

            The results of this review would come "well in advance of any potential ratings actions" on Gulf lenders, Mr Howladar added.

            In contrast to business orthodoxy, a lack of diversification had worked in Gulf banks' favour amid a slowdown in the US and a sovereign debt crisis in Europe, said Naveed Ahmed, a financial analyst at Kuwait's Global Investment House.

            "If they were more diversified, they would have had more exposure to these debts which have now become toxic for the western banks," he said.

            The Gulf banks' relative strength gave them a strong foundation to expand globally, but their movements until now have been tentative, Mr Ahmed added.

            "They're looking to diversify their footprint around the world but banks have been very choosy regarding this," he said.

            NBAD has laid out plans to quadruple its annual earnings by 2021 with planned expansions in fast-growing economies such as Brazil, Indonesia and mainland China, while QNB had previously attempted to expand internationally through the acquisition of DenizBank, a Turkish lender, but the deal was not completed.

            Standard & Poor's has nine of the 15 downgraded banks on negative watch, with five now rated below the strongest Gulf banks.

            All three major ratings agencies have a stable outlook for the Gulf's strongest lenders. – The National

Dubai's trade with Egypt grows 36% during first quarter of 2012

            Dubai's trade with the Arab Republic of Egypt recorded a significant growth of 36 per cent during the first quarter of 2012, reaching Dh2.2 billion (LE 3.5 billion), compared to Dh1.6 billion (LE 2.6 billion) in the first quarter of 2011.

            According to the latest statistics released by Dubai Customs on Dubai's foreign trade during the first quarter of this year, the value of Dubai's total imports from Egypt during the period from January to March of this year reached Dh540 million, compared to Dh484 million during the same period in 2011, while Dubai's exports to Egypt reached Dh512 million compared to Dh308 million in the first quarter of 2011. Re-exports from Dubai to Egypt reached Dh1.2 billion, compared to Dh795 million in the first quarter of 2011.

            In 2011, Dubai's trade with Egypt reached Dh8.4 billion (LE 13.7 billion), compared to Dh7.2 billion (LE 11.7 billion) in 2010, growing 16 per cent, with Dh2 billion worth of imports from Egypt, Dh2 billion worth of exports to Egypt, and Dh4.3 billion worth of re-exports.

            This growth is a result of the special political and commercial relations that the UAE shares with Egypt, and the interest of both countries in promoting joint Arab action, and their efforts to achieve Arab economic integration.

            The mutual investments in both countries are seeing strong growth, with the total UAE investments in Egypt reaching Dh18.4 billion (LE 30 billion). These are long-term strategic investments designed to support the Egyptian economy and include agriculture, industry, real estate and tourism sectors, and are expected to witness further growth in the coming period. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

EMAL adds foundry ingots to its product portfolio

            EMAL has announced the launch of a new added value product in 2012: foundry aluminium which is mainly used in the automotive sector. The addition of foundry to EMAL's portfolio is part of its long term vision of producing more value added products as it develops into one of the world's largest single-site aluminium smelters. Total annual production at the Al Taweelah will rise to 1.3 million metric tonnes once the Phase II expansion is completed in 2014.

            EMAL President and CEO, Saeed Fadhel Al Mazrooei, said: "As a world-leading company, operating in a global market, it is important that EMAL is flexible to changing demand. The automobile sector is an important and growing segment in the aluminium market , and EMAL is not only well placed to manage this growing demand both in terms of our product development and marketing strategy, but also well placed to respond to customer demand for flexibility while retaining our commitment to provide quality products at value cost." By 2013 total annual sales of EMAL is forecasted to increase by 5 per cent. Currently Asia (excluding China) is EMAL's biggest regional market with 50 per cent of total sales based on 2011 sales figures. EMAL sales in Europe are projected to grow from 23 per cent in 2011 to 35 per cent by 2013. Overall sales growth will be achieved by concentrating on growing countries such as Japan and Germany, with strong automotive markets.

            On the development of foundry products at EMAL, Al Mazrooei added: "It is another important step forward as it will expand our customer base and help grow the business for the future prosperity of the country." – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Drydocks World announces Joint Venture partnership for global strength and synergies

            Drydocks World, announced that it has entered into a global strategic alliance with Kuok Group to form a Joint Venture between Drydocks World - SEA and Pacific Carriers Limited, a highly recognised international name in the shipping industry.

            The new venture will subsequently be renamed DDW-PaxOcean Asia Pte Ltd and will continue to have its headquarters in Singapore. Khamis Juma Buamim, Chairman of Drydocks World and Maritime World, will also serve as the Chairman of the Board of DDW-PaxOcean Asia.

            Buamim said, "We are committed to this partnership with Kuok and its subsidiaries, which has a long-standing reputation in the shipping industry. Our clients can now benefit from the combined strengths of both our organisations and a broadened global reach within the maritime industry. It is indeed a historic agreement that is totally aligned with our strategic direction and the potential for future business growth is huge." "We are delighted to have Drydocks World as a joint venture partner," said Pacific Carriers Chairman Teo Joo Kim. "With Pacific Carrier Group's fleet of vessels and Kuok Group's two shipyards in China coupled with the shipyard facilities and expertise of the joint venture and Drydocks World, I see marvelous opportunity to create value for the benefit of the respective parties." All parties will work together to grow DDW-PaxOcean Asia into a leading yard in the region. The two partners will also collaborate on cross-promotional activities and other strategic initiatives within the offshore and marine industry.

            DDW-SEA currently operates four shipyards in Southeast Asia - the Tuas shipyard in Singapore, and the Graha, Nanindah and Pertama shipyards located in Batam, Indonesia. Activities at the shipyards include offshore, shipbuilding, repair and conversion. In addition, DDW-SEA also has a shipping fleet of over 130 vessels.

            The Agreement is subject to closing conditions, including the completion of the integration process, and is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2012.  – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Abu Dhabi to have 30 new hotels

            According to Abu Dhabi Hoteliers group, among them there will be no less than five Marriott hotels, including a 60-room Marriott Executive Apartments, a 195-room Courtyard by Marriott in the Central Market, a 244-room Edition hotel (a Marriott brand) and a giant 532 Ritz-Carlton, one of Marriott’s luxury brands, near Maqta Bridge. Apart from Ritz-Carlton, planed for opening in 2013, all other brands are scheduled for 2014.

            Among the 30 new openings announced between 2012 and 2015, a few are already receiving guests. Among them, is Anantara’s third hotel in Abu Dhabi emirate, the Eastern Mangroves, owned by Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC).

            “This is our first business hotel, so we can now offer a unique 360 degrees experience for our guests, with island — the Anantara Desert Islands on Sir Bani Yas — desert — the Qasr Al Sarab in Liwa — and city — the Eastern Mangroves by Anantara — destinations,” said David Garner, regional director of sales and marketing of Anantara Hotels, Resorts and Spas in the Middle East.

            As a business hotel, the one three weeks old Eastern Mangroves Anantara is expecting to get 45 per cent of its business from the corporate market, 30 per cent from the leisure market and 25 per cent from MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions).

            “In the first year, we expect to have 70 per cent of occupancy from UAE and the GCC countries,” mentioned Garner.

            “We are planning to offer combination packages, starting with one or two nights in the city, then fly our guests to Sir Bani Yas for three or four nights, then drive to Qasr Al Sarab for a few nights and finally back to the city. This way, international visitors get to see what Abu Dhabi has to offer,” he added. To start with, Anantara Eastern Mangroves is charging Dh1,200 per room, but it gives back exactly the same amount as credit to be spent in the hotel’s restaurants and spa.

            Other hotel openings include five new properties by Rotana, including two in the Capital Centre, the development around Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, the 414-room Centro Capital Centre opening this year and the 300-room Capital Centre Rotana opening next year. Also announced is a 400-room Saadiyat Rotana Resort for 2015 and a mammoth 600-room Arjaan next to Marina Mall. – Khaleej Times

etisalat, du net Dh19bn from mobiles

            etisalat and du, the UAE’s two telecommunications service providers, netted around Dh20 billion from mobile phone subscription in 2011 and nearly two thirds of the revenue came from pre-paid GSM SIM cards.

            By the end of April, the two firms had 12.49 million mobile phone users, including around 763,000 subscribers who entered the market in the first four months of 2012, according to figures by the Telecom Regulatory Authority (TRA).

            The figure includes around 11.005 million pre-paid GSM subscribers and the remaining users are on a monthly bill.

            Revenue netted by etisalat and du from pre-paid users totalled around Dh12.33 billion in 2011 while monthly bill subscribers fetched Dh6.78 billion, showed the figures published in the semi official daily Alittihad.

            The earnings were nearly 8.3 per cent higher than in 2010, when they stood at nearly Dh17.4 billion, the report showed.

            At the end of April 2012, etisalat and du also had 1.89 million fixed line telephone subscribers and 911,466 internet users. - Emirates 24|7

Retailers go into promotional overdrive for Dubai Summer Surprises

            While all retailers are eligible to take part in the Dubai Summer Surprises, it is not necessary that they must run promotions during this period. But if they do, they will need to come up with the real deal.

            “The Department of Economic Development (DED) has a unit dedicated to consumer protection and compliance,” said Suhaila Gobash, director at Events and Festivals Marketing Services. “This unit runs a dual strategy of educating retailers and consumers; for instance through the ‘Know Your Rights’ campaign and running regular and random inspections on all retailers in Dubai to ensure compliance and fair trading.

            “The latter includes comparisons of prices before and after the festival’s start to ensure the advertised discounts are real.”

            Fines for offending retailers vary from Dh5,000 to Dh250,000. In most cases, the violators are given a first warning and where there are repeat offences the fines are maximised.

            The DED also has the right to cancel the trade licence in case of repeat offences.

            This year 6,000 retailers have registered for the Dubai Summer Surprises promotions. “Dubai Events & Promotions Establishment (Depe) encourages retailers to add value by creating special offers, discounts and other promotions to attract additional sales during DSS,” said Suhaila.

“The attraction of DSS is being a city-wide festival covering all segments from product retail to the various service retailers, including hotels, restaurants, spas etc.”

            Suhaila said that the various units within Depe and DED work jointly in developing better regulations and to realise opportunities for growth in the retail and events sectors.

            “During the festivals Depe spends millions in attracting visitors to Dubai promising an outstanding destination for shopping and entertainment,” she added. “DED plays a key role to fulfil this promise through inspections and campaigns for fair competition, consumer rights and fair pricing and promotions, especially when it comes to the DSS or DSF.”

            Most regional visitors look to the festivals organised by Depe to visit Dubai. In 2011, DSS attracted almost 4 million consumers who spent a combined Dh8.8 billion, out of which Dh2.7 billion was spent exclusively on shopping.

            “While all retailers benefit from the campaigns and promotions of DSS, we have to ensure that retailers add value to the festivals and either conduct their own promotions or participate in city-wide promotions organiSed by Depe or by one of its partners such as the Dubai Shopping Malls Group,” she said. “Therefore, retailers who want to benefit and add value need to register and contribute to the success as either participating retailers or as sponsors of the festival.”  - Gulf News

Festival City launches freehold homes

            The developer behind Dubai Festival City is selling the first freehold homes on the site after restarting work on stalled buildings following the 2008 financial crisis.

            Al-Futtaim Group Real Estate is selling four and five-bedroom villas starting from Dh4.8 million (US$1.3m) - the first to hit the market on a freehold basis on the north side of Dubai Creek.

It represents the latest sign of returning developer confidence in the city's luxury property market, which has benefited from rising demand for completed properties as well as an influx of funds from the wider Arab world.

            The first batch of 24 townhouses to be sold at Al Badia Residences will be followed by the release of more houses and apartments over the next 18 months, according to Ian Plumley, the general manager of property sales at Dubai Festival City. Much of the demand is coming from regional investors.

            "In the last nine to 12 months we have seen the premium coming to the top. Quality is selling," he said. "There are a lot of wealthy people living in Syria and Iran and they may not want to invest their wealth in their own countries now. Dubai is a safe haven."

            Dubai Festival City helped to kick-start the emirate's six-year building boom in 2002 and at the time was billed as the biggest mixed-use development in the Middle East. The 1,300-acre site includes a vast shopping centre with 2 million square feet of retail space and about 1,000 apartments. It is also the new home for the Dubai Hard Rock Cafe.

            Brokers and developers are reporting a sales activity increase in some prime Dubai property locations where prices have lost as much as half of their value since the 2008 market peak. Falling mortgage rates and the increased availability of completed units over the past year have started to lure buyers back to the market.

            The first signs of rising rents for villa properties emerged during the first quarter of this year, with lease rates growing by about 3 per cent on the previous quarter, according to data from CBRE, the international property consultancy.

            "At the peak of the boom, people were paying more for off-plan properties than completed ones, which didn't make any sense," said Craig Plumb, the regional head of research at Jones Lang LaSalle in Dubai. "It is good to see developers building first and then selling,"

            Developers including Nakheel and Emaar Properties have this year started to sell new homes for the first time in four years. Last month, Nakheel launched Palm Views on the Palm island, a collection of 192 studio apartments aimed at younger residents. The developer has also announced plans to build new townhouses on the island. Emaar said it took just one day to sell all 224 of the apartments in its Panorama at The Views development last month.

            The release of units for sale at Dubai Festival City comes just days after the emirate made more land available to foreign investors.

            Two plots of land were released for foreign buyers in Dubai Investments Park on a leasehold basis for up to 85 years, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, disclosed on his website.

            It was not clear whether the land was intended for commercial or residential use. – The National

Khalifa University students in miniature satellite contest

            Khalifa University students team has been ranked 22nd worldwide at the recent CANSAT competition held in Burkett, Texas.

            The team had to design, build, test and launch a miniature satellite the size of a soda can, hence the name “CANSAT”. 


            This annual competition is organised by The American Astronautical Society (AAS) and American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA).  – Gulf News

Courtesy Breeding Centre Sharjah

            A study of the UAE east coast's only remaining natural mangrove area will be used in decisions on what tourism development will take place there.

            Khor Kalba, in an enclave along the Indian Ocean that belongs to Sharjah, is one of the country's most important bird areas and conservationists have long called for its protection.

            An announcement this spring that the area will be a nature reserve was welcomed but many were worried at the effects of tourism development.

            While combining nature conservation and tourism in a sustainable manner is working well in some countries, the UAE's track record is weak, the experts said.

            But the priority in Kalba will be conservation, said Paul Vercammen, operations manager at Sharjah's Breeding Centre for Endangered Arabian Wildlife.

            "This certainly is being taken seriously," Mr Vercammen said. "We will give them [developers] the limits of what they are allowed to work with."

            The breeding centre operates under the emirate's Environment and Protected Areas Authority, which is working on the Kalba project with other government departments including the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq).

            The mangrove and its adjacent mudflat and acacia forest are being surveyed by staff from the Sharjah branch of an international engineering company.

            The scoping study will inform officials of all the components needed for a more detailed investigation, called an environmental impact assessment.

            "We will know what kind of information we need to collect," said Mr Vercammen, explaining that some elements were already clear. The study, he said, should look into how sediments are deposited on and from the mangrove, the effect of fresh water coming from the mountains in winter, water quality in the area and the expected impact of air, noise and light pollution.

            The impact assessment will start about the end of summer. It will take between three and six months to complete.

            Once the document is ready, it "will define the limit of what can be allowed and what not", Mr Vercammen said.

            The Khor Kalba protected area consists of a core section where there will be no development and limited human presence.

            That area includes 6 square kilometres of mangrove, 2 sq km of beach, 3.5 sq km of acacia forest and 4.5 sq km of mountains.

            The area will be surrounded by two buffer zones where some low-scale development will be allowed.

            The project includes building a visitor centre along the acacia-tree alluvial plane bordering the mountains.

            The centre will have a display of native animals such as the Arabian leopard, Arabian tahr and Gordon's wildcat.

            Although it was declared protected many years ago, the acacia forest was used by Kalba residents who used to take camels and goats to graze there.

            The area supported about 200 camels and 500 sheep and goats. It has been fenced off and a herd of 16 mountain gazelles was released last month. The animals are settling in and the centre is planning to release more next year, said Mr Vercammen.

            The project also includes the construction of a small heritage centre within one of the buffer zones of the protected area.

            There, visitors will be able to see and interact with birds of prey such as falcons and owls. The heritage centre is expected to open before the end of this year. – The National

A toon friend for Emirati children

            Emirati youth will find a new champion of their country’s heritage and development in the cartoon character, Mansour, scheduled to appear on airwaves later this year, said show creator Rashed Al Harmoodi during the cartoon’s launch on June 26 at the Summer in Abu Dhabi festival.

            “We want to make sure that our children play an essential role in developing the UAE,” he said, describing the inspiration behind the first Emirati production to utilise high quality, 3D animation techniques.

            “If this is the best language that children understand, then let’s talk cartoon language and communicate. The five-year-olds of today are the future generation who will lead the UAE to the second stage of development, and we have to talk to them and tell them what’s important in a fun and indirect way,” he explained.

            According to the cartoon developers, the Arabic-language show, also named Mansour, will address three core issues relating to the future of young Emiratis. Broadly, these include the UAE’s economic diversification away from oil and gas, the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle and the preservation of national heritage, culture and language.

            The adventures of 10-year-old Emirati Mansour, an enthusiastic athlete who aspires to become an aerospace engineer, will be crafted to touch on these subjects in an entertaining and relatable way, said Al Harmoodi. He hopes the show’s target audience of five- to 12-year-olds will take away positive messages relating to education, health and family.

            One storyline, for example, will follow Mansour’s efforts to get an overweight friend involved in sports after seeing his own, much loved grandfather struggling with diabetes. “We are trying to make Mansour a role model and a communication tool between us and the next generation,” emphasised Al Harboodi.

            The cartoon show, spearheaded by Fanar Productions and supported by Mubadala Development Company, is slated to appear on local networks this September. To encourage young Emiratis and expats to enhance their Arabic skills, Mansour will not debut with English subtitles, though producers concede they may later be added as the show spreads beyond the UAE. – Khaleej Times

16 UAE hopefuls set for Red Bull Street Style battle

            Sixteen of the UAE's top freestyle soccer players will battle it out for the chance to represent their country in the world final of Red Bull Street Style tournament later this year.

            Returning to these shores for the third time, the competition pits the budding hopefuls against each other as they look to impress judges with their 'tekkers' and vast array of tricks.

            The first stages of qualifiers took place in Dubai and Sharjah uncovering six of the most talented players, but the capital proved to be home to the finest skills with the remaining 10 finalists emerging from Abu Dhabi.

            They will now come together for what promises to be an exciting battle with the tournament, taking place at Dubai Festival City on Friday (7pm), based on three main pillars: 3 Minutes, 2 Players, 1 Ball.

            In every match, two freestylers battle against each other with only 30 seconds to showcase their ability to the panel of judges.

            The one lucky winner will then battle 31 other freestylers in Italy in September for the crown of best soccer freestyler in the world, currently held by Norway’s Anders Solum, who took the title in Cape Town in 2010.

            One competitors taking part will be 21-year-old Ammar Freez, who shot to fame earlier this year after reaching the semi-finals of Arabs Got Talent.

            Winner of the Head & Shoulders in the UAE competition last week against many of the rivals he faces on Friday night, the Dubai-based freestyler is confident of taking the title and booking his place in Italy.

            "I am hoping to win and I think I have a very good chance after becoming UAE champion in the Head & Shoulders competition last week. So I am confident of winning both," he told Sport360°.

Check out Ammar in action below. It's going to take something special we feel to beat him this Friday judging by this. – Sport 360°

Al Nasr set to sign Palermo's Fabrizio Miccoli

            EXCLUSIVE: Palermo striker Fabrizio Miccoli’s agent says the ball is in Palermo’s court over a proposed move to Al Nasr, adding that a deal could be done  on Thursday.

            Miccoli, 32, enjoyed an impressive Serie A campaign last season, scoring 16 goals and boasting 14 assists in 28 appearances, which almost earned him a call-up to Italy’s European Championship squad.

            With his contract due to expire at the Stadio Renzo Barbera in 12 months, Miccoli could now be set for a move to the UAE with his agent Francesco Caliandro confirming to Sport 360° that he is keen on the move.

            “The situation is in progress because it is very important for my client to continue his career in Dubai over the next two years. This transfer is now in this moment firmly in the mind of my player and all looks good.”

            “From our side it is a yes, and there is a very high probability that the deal will go through very soon, but a lot depends on Palermo,” added Caliandro. “There are conditions on his contract with Palermo, but from Al Nasr’s side everything is ok.”

            Nasr boss Walter Zenga, who worked with Miccoli during his time in charge of Palermo, is said to have personally brokered the deal.

            Abdullah Al Bannai, a board member at the club, refused to comment on the progress made in securing the services of the former Juventus, Perugia and Fiorentina hitman.

            “Regarding Miccoli, we are still discussing terms with his agent but still we haven’t signed a contract. We are in talks with the player to discuss if he has a chance to play for Al Nasr.

            "Mr Walter Zenga has personally asked for this player, but we don’t know whether he will come or not, we are not very sure.”

            Regarding the club's move for another Italian, Novara striker Giuseppe Mascara, Al Bannai added: “We have talked with him (Mascara); we haven’t signed with either player because we are still waiting to hear from them whether they want to come or not.”

            However, last night, Mascara confirmed he will be playing his football in Dubai next season and praised his new employers for making sound decisions regarding the players they needed.

            “The directors of Al Nasr are very efficient, as it’s not true that a rich club just spends money without logic. They know their football and do not intend to make bad choices,” Mascara said, adding he is looking forward to partnering Miccoli in Al Nasr’s forward line.

            The 32-year-old has passed a medical and is currently back in Italy after being offered a one-year contract with the Dubai club with the option to extend. – Sport 360°

Youtube Channel on UAE films reaches half a million viewers

            The Youtube Channel on UAE has over 90 films and half a million viewers spread throughout the world. It contains the best of the best films on the UAE including many that have showcased the country at recent World Expos in Spain, Shanghai and Korea.

            The channel covers a wide range of themes from history to 21st century development and this week the youtube channel, filmsonuae, will receive its half million viewer.

            Popular films on the channel include many of the marine related films, such as The Turtle, made for the current EXPO at Yeosu, Korea. The channel reflects the National Media Council's (NMC) keenness to make the films available throughout the world, on the youtube platform. The channel, which is run on behalf of the NMC by FQC Media, has been live for over a year and has attracted a growing number of followers.

            One of the most popular films is a short presentation in the Aldar HQ building in Abu Dhabi. The films can be seen at www.youtube.com/user/filmsonuae. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Marvel superheroes find home in Dubai with theme park

            The Avengers, Spider-Man and the X-Men are among a gang of heroes set to unleash their super-powers in the UAE next year when a Marvel Comics theme park opens in Dubai.

Marvel Adventure, a new indoor family entertainment centre, is scheduled to open its doors to superheroes and comic-book fanatics by the end of next year in the City of Arabia development on Emirates Road.

            It will include retail outlets, restaurants and a range of interactive experiences featuring Marvel characters such as Captain America and the Hulk.

            The 1.2 million square foot theme park is being built by Ilyas and Mustafa Galadari Group (IMG), the developers of City of Arabia, which is part of the sprawling Dubailand development on the edge of the city.

            The planned Marvel development will be dwarfed by Abu Dhabi’s Ferrari World, the world’s biggest indoor theme park.

            “We are pleased to collaborate with Marvel for our multi-faceted themed family entertainment destination,” said Ilyas Galadari and Mustafa Galadari, of IMG Group.

            “This will be one part of the region’s largest temperature controlled entertainment destinations that IMG is developing which is sure to be a strategic landmark in Dubai, appealing to the region as well as other parts of the world.”

            The announcement comes in the middle of a blockbuster summer for superhero films at cinemas across the UAE.

            “The park will do beyond well,” said John Chahine, the general manager for Italia Film Company, which distributed The Avengers film in the UAE.

            “People are getting more familiar with the Marvel characters,” he added.

            “Not only will the park attract tourists, it will combine with a very strong base of customers who reside in the UAE.”

            The Avengers had the biggest industry opening ever in the Middle East and the film is already one of the most successful of all time in terms of box-office takings.

            It has made more than Dh23 million (Dh6.26m) in the UAE since its launch last month, according to distributors, selling more than 500,000 tickets.

            The Amazing Spider-Man is also opening in cinemas this summer, followed by Marvel’s Iron Man 3 in May next year and Thor 2 later the same year.

            “I think the park is great for the [film] industry,” said Andy Fordham, the technical and digital film director at Gulf Film, a film-distribution company and parent company for Grand Cinemas, one of the region’s leading cinema chains.

            “The UAE has one of the highest attendances per head for cinema attendance and that has to translate well into this park concept,” he added.

            The park is hoping to attract more than 10,000 visitors per day and is expected to provide a boost to hotels in the area.

            “Following the outstanding global and local box office success of Marvel’s The Avengers and the strong affinity for Marvel in the UAE, we are thrilled to be working with the IMG Group to bring some of Marvel’s most popular characters to kids and families across Dubai,” said Simon Philips, the president of Marvel Entertainment International.

            City of Arabia, which was put on hold for years, is planned to be an entertainment, commercial and residential development. It had originally due to open in last year and include the world’s largest shopping mall and a dinosaur theme park.

            The development was pitted to be part of the wider 278 sq km Dubailand development, originally intended to include a series of sprawling theme parks such as Universal Studios and Six Flags.

            More than 40 projects were planned for the development, which was launched in October 2003 but only a handful are under development.

            IMG did not disclose the cost of building the Marvel theme park but announced last month it had raised financing from Al Hilal Bank and Mashreq to fund the project.

            The details of planned rides and experiences were also not disclosed. “It’s great that projects like this are happening again in Dubai,” said Ben Caddy, the managing director behind Middle East Film and Comic Con, which launched its first event this year in Dubai and welcomed 15,000 visitors.

            “It’s the type of thing that will get global coverage and recognition,” Mr Caddy added.

            “Marvel is something we have grown up with. We know these characters like the back of our hand and they speak to every nationality.” – The National

Nestlé to invest over Dh500m to build manufacturing facility at Dubai World Central

            H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman, Dubai Aviation City Corporation has yesterday (June 26, 2012) received Walter the Swiss Consul General Deplazes and Chairman '&' CEO Nestlé Middle East Yves Manghardt.

            The visit comes after Nestlé's CEO signed a partnership agreement with Dubai World Central (DWC) for a 175,000 square meter-plot. An initial investment of over Dhs500m has been earmarked by Nestlé for the manufacturing facility for nutrition, culinary and coffee products.

            H.H. Sheikh Ahmed said, "DWC offers strategic advantages that make it an ideal and attractive destination for leading multinationals. It is an important component in Dubai's vision to provide a comprehensive platform that caters to the needs of aviation, air transport, commercial and logistics businesses. This partnership with Nestlé reaffirms DWC's role as a catalyst for growth and a new gateway for long-term economic and social development in Dubai and across the region." Chairman '&' CEO Nestlé Middle East Yves Manghardt said: "Nestlé is committed to strengthening our presence in the Middle East markets. We will continue to invest in projects that enable us to better serve consumers in the region, while leveraging the strategic advantages of DWC and the UAE in general as a distribution and manufacturing base."

            Technical Director at Nestlé Hans Juergen Jung said: "Producing locally allows us to bring products faster and therefore fresher to consumers. This is a clear advantage we already experience with our many manufacturing plants in the Middle East. The construction of a new facility at Dubai World Central strengthens our local manufacturing capabilities, giving us more flexibility in adopting our products to local consumer preferences and using local and regional raw materials. This second production facility in Dubai will also open opportunities to gain synergies in our warehousing and logistics to serve the whole Middle East Region." Nestlé further revealed that the new facilities are expected to generate up to 800 additional jobs thus complementing DWC's commitment to reflecting the government strategy of Dubai and UAE in terms of economic and social development.

            DWC has already attracted a number of global companies including Aramex, Ehrhardt + Partner Solutions, Kuehne + Nagel, Schaefer Systems International, Panalpina, Hellmann Caliper, INL and RSA Logistics. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Emirates Steel scoops Quality System Certificate for manufacture of concrete reinforcing bar

            Emirates Steel has been awarded a Quality System Certificate (QSC) as a Material Organization (MO) from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) for the manufacture of concrete reinforcing bar (rebar).

            The Company is the fourth rebar manufacturer worldwide to be awarded this certificate and the first in the GCC.

            "The ASME Certificate and the implementation of our Nuclear Quality System (NQS) program will enable us to produce and supply our products to companies involved in nuclear activities," said Emirates Steel's Chairman, Engineer Suhail Mubarak Musallam Athaeeth Al Ameri.

            "This is a very significant accomplishment for our Company," he added. "We expect that the nuclear market is going to be a growing market for the use of rebar. With this issuance of a QSC to our Company, we are now well positioned to service that growing market." Emirates Steel's NQS was developed to supply products to nuclear projects and will be activated only for nuclear orders.

            "ASME's certificate provides us with a high degree of confidence that our products conform to established safety standards," pointed out Engineer Saeed Ghumran Al Romaithi, Emirates Steel's Acting Chief Executive Officer. Emirates Steel's NQS was developed based on ASME NCA 3800 requirements with products complying with ASTM A615 Gr. 60 and ASME CC 2300.

            Al Romaithi explained that Emirates Steel plans to expand its business by supplying high-quality, reliable materials demanded by nuclear plant builders, and seeks to contribute to nuclear power safety by bringing its technological and quality levels in general up complying with ASME standards.

            According to Al Romaithi, obtaining the ASME certification is an important strategic milestone for the Company, demonstrating the high standards of quality that its facilities adhere to. The Company has earned the ASME certification through proven achievements in maintaining high quality. "Since Emirates Steel began in 2001, we have been committed to being the most knowledgeable, responsive and reliable source of rebar products in order to consistently produce products that exceed customer expectations.  – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Dubai most transparent real estate market in Mena

            Dubai remains the most transparent market within the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region, while Abu Dhabi holds the second spot in Jones Lang LaSalle’s (JLL) 2012 Global Real Estate Transparency Index released on Wednesday.

            In terms of the global ranking, Dubai and Abu Dhabi hold the 47th and 52nd position, respectively, on the transparency index.

            According to the report, despite transparency levels have improved in 80 per cent of the Mena markets in the past two years, these gains have been relatively “modest” and real estate markets in the region remains less transparent than other global regions.

Dubai, JLL states, scores most strongly for its regulatory framework, with the Real Estate Regulatory Authority widely acknowledged to be the market leader within the region, and the Dubai International Financial centre, which is emerging as the vehicle of choice for listed real estate funds.

Although Abu Dhabi is one to two years behind Dubai in its property development cycle, the report points out that it has seen a similar improvement in transparency to Dubai since 2010.

            “The quality of market data is better in Abu Dhabi than Dubai in some sectors and the planning system is more regulated (through the Urban Planning Council); advances in these areas have reinforced Abu Dhabi’s position as the second most transparent market in the Mena,” JLL says.

Dominating the list of the world’s most transparent markets are the Anglophone countries.

            The United States tops as the world’s most transparent real estate market this year, followed closely by the United Kingdom and Australia. New Zealand  occupies the fifth position and  Canada is in sixth place.

            They are joined by several European markets - Netherlands (4th), France (7th), Finland (8th), Sweden (9th) and Switzerland (10th), which together constitute the world’s “highly transparent’ markets.” – Emirates 24|7

Ministry of Interior wins two prestigious awards

            The Ministry of Interior, represented by Abu Dhabi Police and Dubai Police, has won two prestigious international awards by the United Nations and the Business Initiative Directions (B.I.D) in recognition of its efforts to eliminate gender discrimination in public service as well as in recognition of leadership in quality.

            Dubai Police won the first place by the United Nations Public Service Award for 2012 for its efforts to eliminate gender discrimination in public service. Deputy Dubai Police Chief Major General Khamis Matar Al-Mazeinah received the award from Sha Zukang, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs at am award-giving ceremony held at the UN General Assembly headquarters in New York, USA. UAE Permanent Representative to the United Nations Abdul Rehman Al-Jarman was present at the ceremony.

            The UAE participated in five categories of the award, namely combating corruption, improving services in public service, encouraging policy-making participation, decision-making through innovative mechanisms and knowledge development in government.

            The United Nations Public Service Awards is the most prestigious international recognition of excellence in public service. It rewards the creative achievements and contributions of public service institutions that lead to a more effective and responsive public administration in countries worldwide. Through an annual competition, the UN Public Service Awards promotes the role, professionalism and visibility of public service.

            Abu Dhabi Police won the Platinum Category of the International Star for Leadership in Quality. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

etisalat ready to implement TRA's "My Number, My Identity" campaign

            Following the launch of the "My Number, My Identity" campaign by the UAE Telecom Regulatory Authority (TRA), etisalat yesterday announced the near-completion of all procedures to begin SIM card registration for its mobile customers. Starting 17 July 2012, Etisalat's customers can choose from over 100 points of sale across the UAE to process their mobile registration.

            As per the directive of the TRA, mobile customers in the UAE are required to update their profile in the operator database and ensure all SIM holders are the same as the registered owner of the SIM card. Customers will need to register their SIM cards by submitting an application form along with valid identification document including Passport with valid residency, Emirates or GCC ID card. For business and government customers, the requirement is a valid establishment card.

            Registration of the SIM card is only required once and all unregistered SIM cards will be cancelled once the registration period expires.

            Commenting on the registration campaign, Eng. Saleh Abdulla Al Abdooli, Chief Executive Officer, Etisalat, said: "The My Number, My Identity campaign aims primarily at providing the necessary protection to subscribers and enabling them to procure all services easily. Etisalat has fully harnessed its resources to complete this process successfully for its customers through its points of sale. This campaign is particularly important for subscribers because it prevents any unauthorised or criminal usage of SIM cards and helps in curbing legal or social violations besides reducing frauds that have been noticed during few last years."  – Emirates News Agency, WAM

UAE leads global voices against maritime piracy

            In the fight against maritime piracy, humans pay the most with their lives. Ask families of captured crew about the months of agony and sleepless nights. Some ships like the MV Iceberg 1 have been missing for over two years — the longest in the captivity of Somali pirates. Efforts to free others like the MV Albedo have run into rough weather, with pirates upping their demands and threatening the kin of their victims.

            Ransoms are being negotiated and families live in hope as more ships are attacked. It’s a vicious cycle and the UAE hopes the second counter piracy conference which began yesterday will provide a regional response to end the phenomenon.

            Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Foreign Minister, is seeking a comprehensive solution to the problem where all actors from the public and private sectors are involved.

            “The persistence of pirate activity off the coast of Somalia reaffirms the UAE’s belief that more work toward a comprehensive international counter piracy response is required. We are confident that this important meeting will contribute further to the realisation of a long-term and sustainable solution to this issue of major global concern,” Sheikh Abdullah said in a statement. Pirate actions cost the world US$7 billion in ransoms, according to the Oceans Beyond Piracy project. Some 555 sailors were taken hostage last year. Of these, 35 died at the hands of the criminals, according to the figures released last week.

            Mariners are often used as human shields and are subject to abuse. Released sailors said they were burnt with cigarette butts, punched and slapped, while some recalled being tied up in the sun for hours, locked in freezers, and having their fingernails pulled out with pliers.

            Shocking statistics, but it’s time to face the facts that this violence cannot be tolerated and the two-day initiative by the UAE will also focus on the genesis of the problem in deprived Somalia. President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed of Transitional Federal Government of Somalia will attend the meeting with a top delegation and deliver the keynote address. Koji Sekimizu, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organisation will speak of the losses the shipping has had to incur.

            The London conference on Somalia held earlier this year had pledged to combat and boost humanitarian aid to the country and another meet in Istanbul sought a political solution to tackle the issue at source. Development work must continue in Somalia and the UAE is taking the lead through this gathering to finding ways to help suffering Somalis who face famine, poor governance and a violent society in shambles .

            Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, will host the 400 delegates, and Reem Ibrahim Al Hashimi, Minister of State, will participate in a discussion.

Industry will be led by DP World chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Vice-Chairman Jamal Majid bin Thaniah, and Ali Obaid Al Yabhouni, President, UAE Ship Owners Association. – Khaleej Times

15th FNC chapter’s first ordinary session ends

            The Federal National Council (FNC) in a closed-door meeting on Tuesday reviewed its businesses and performance in the first Ordinary Session of the 15th Legislative Chapter, from November 15, 2011, to June 26 this year.

            The closing and the 14^th meeting of the session discussed reports from each committee in the presence of Dr Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Minister of State for FNC Affairs, and Dr Hadif bin Jowan Al Dhahiri, Minister of Justice.

            Speaker Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr presented an overall report on the House’s businesses conducted during the period with minute details about the number of sessions, questions, ministers called to answer members’ questions and even the number of hours spent. “Today, the FNC concludes the first Ordinary Session of its 15^th Legislative Chapter with the end of the 14^th meeting,” Al Murr said.

            He expressed his gratitude to the President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan; His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai; and Their Highnesses Members of the Supreme Council and the Rulers of the Emirates for the care as well as continual support enabling the FNC to accomplish its mission of serving the country and its citizens.

            The Speaker said the gradual expansion of the council’s responsibilities has led to the election of half its members, including women legislators.

Both the standing and ad-hoc committees alone have held 130 meetings, taking 345 work hours.    “Over this period, we have made tremendous achievements to serve the country and its people. The House discussed 13 draft laws with recommendations and amendments suggested and 44 questions were addressed to ministers. Four bills are still before the committees for discussion,” he added.

            “The council also received and addressed 156 complaints from the public that were raised to the ministries and establishments concerned, in addition to 276 technical papers prepared by the FNC Secretariat to help better serve the nation. The secretariat was also involved in scientific research.”

After his speech, the Speaker asked the secretary-general of the secretariat that all committee reports of the period be read out, reviewed and debated. Each and every report was discussed and examined till the House was satisfied. – Khaleej Times

Masdar Institute student wins award at Pacific Asia Workshop on Intelligence and Security Informatics 2012 in Kuala Lumpur

            Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, yesterday announced a research paper co-authored by one of its students has won the 'Best Paper Award' at the Pacific Asia Workshop on Intelligence and Security Informatics (PAISI) 2012 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

            The first-ever paper by Mustafa Amir Faisal, a Computing and Information Science student at Masdar Institute, was selected the winner from among a total of 16 research papers that were presented at PAISI 2012. Mustafa's paper won the award for its research innovation, potential significance, rigorousness of research methods, clear presentation, and relevance to the PAISI audience.

            PAISI is one of the leading academic events in intelligence and security informatics in the Asia-Pacific region. The PAISI proceedings are published in the prestigious Lecture Notes in Computer Science series by academic publishing company Springer Verlag. Around 80% of PAISI's participants are from academia and 20% from industry.

            In his paper titled 'Securing advanced metering infrastructure using intrusion detection system with data stream mining', Mustafa proposes a general framework for intrusion detection in advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) in smart gird and the use of state-of-the-art data stream mining techniques to detect anomalous events, which mean possible intrusion attempts, in the AMI system.

            Other contributors to the paper include Dr. Zeyar Aung, Assistant Professor, Masdar Institute, Prof. John Williams, Professor of Information Engineering at MIT's Engineering Systems Division and Director of Auto-ID Lab, and Dr. Abel Sanchez, Executive Director of MIT's Geospatial Data Center and a Lead Scientist/Software Architect of Auto-ID Lab.

            Dr. Scott Kennedy, Associate Dean for Research, Masdar Institute, said: "Students and the faculty continue to mark their excellence by winning awards at international forums. The award for Mustafa Amir Faisal is another strong indicator for the profound levels of research work conducted and guided at Masdar Institute. In academia, the best paper awards in conferences and workshops are regarded as distinguished achievements. Winning such an award reiterates the fact that Masdar Institute's research endeavors are well respected by the international research community, thereby bringing more acclaim to the Abu Dhabi-based institution." PAISI 2012 best paper award is based on the overall quality of the research work. The general criteria include novelty of research contribution, potential impact of research, soundness/correctness of methods and data, clarity of presentation, and relevance to the PAISI audience.

            Dr. Zeyar Aung said: "To win the best paper award for one's first publication is quite a rare achievement. This award can help boost Mustafa's future research and academic career. Mustafa's paper is significant for intrusion detection system (IDS) for advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) because smart grids have become a global trend nowadays and AMIs are being deployed in many countries at a rapid pace. And IDS is very important for AMI security because it serves as the second line of defense, after the first line of defense mechanisms such as authentication, authorisation, and access control, are compromised." Mustafa Amir Faisal said: "This is truly a momentous occasion for me as this is my first-ever research paper. But I have to thank my guides and co-authors for their contribution that has turned the paper a true winner among other presentations at PAISI 2012. Masdar Institute has directed me along the right path for my future and I am grateful to the institution, the MIT faculty and my peers. I believe the PAISI 2012 award has given me the right momentum to proceed further in my research work." Established as an on-going collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute 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 through education and research.  – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Abu Dhabi police offer road travel tips

            The Abu Dhabi Traffic and Patrol Department launched on Tuesday a campaign to foster safety awareness among road travellers.

            The Traffic Police will step up efforts to monitor the external highways, especially Abu Dhabi-Al Ghuwaifat road, and provide information on how to deal with emergencies and safety tips.

            “A plan has been set to intensify patrols on the external roads that lead to exiting the country. Patrols will monitor the traffic, distribute booklets that include traffic tips and guidance about vehicle maintenance, especially tyres, distances between cities and location of petrol stations,” said Brigadier Hussain Al Harthi, Director of Abu Dhabi Traffic and Patrol Department, in a statement on Tuesday.

            Al Harthi warned that accidents due to tyre bursts recorded in the emirate of Abu Dhabi reached 22 in the last five months, leading to three fatalities and five severe injuries.

            Al Harthi explained that the campaign will include awareness sessions at petrol stations along with traffic messages that will be transmitted through Emirates FM Radio, M Star FM, the Quran station, and Sharjah radio station. Additional tips and guidance will be sent out via emails, the Abu Dhabi police website, and social networks like Facebook and Twitter.

            Al Harthi called on motorists to be attentive, especially early morning, observe speed limit, and abide by the traffic regulations for their own safety. He also recommended not to carry luggage on top of the vehicle that exceeds 60cm in height. Failing to do so will result in vehicle impoundment for a week, a Dh200 fine and three black points.

            Al Harthi advised motorists to check vehicles before traveling and use high quality tyres to avoid accidents, warning that the frequency of these accidents increase in summer months due to excessive heat. – Gulf News

Dubai Municipality warns of syringe chocolate

            Dubai Municipality has warned against consuming the unauthorised 'Syringe Chocolate' being promoted via social network websites.  The Municipality's Food Control Department summoned the company which confirmed that it does not produce such type of products and that it has nothing to do with the promotional campaign. The Municipality advised the public to purchase food products from authorised establishments only as they get approval for all food items, apart from to the periodic check up by the concerned authorities. – Emirates  News Agency, WAM

Dubai Customs launches awareness campaign to highlight risks of Tramadol abuse

            Dubai Customs, in coordination with Dubai Health Authority and Dubai Media Incorporated (DMI), has launched an awareness campaign about the risks of Tramadol abuse.

            The campaign coincides with the International Day Against Drug Abuse which is commemorated worldwide on June 26.

            Ahmed Butti Ahmed, Executive Chairman of Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, Director General of Dubai Custom, said that the campaign comes as part of Dubai Customs ' keenness on protecting individuals from the potential risks of dangerous substances which are detrimental to their health and safety, while preventing the illegal entry of restricted goods, including 'Tramadol, and encouraging public collaboration in thwarting attempts of smuggling this type of narcotics meant for local use in illegal ways.

            Butti Ahmed pointed out that though Tramadol is an effective opiate medication used to moderately alleviate severe pain and can be used only if prescribed by a doctor, it has dangerous side effects on human health and sanity.

            This is why most of the nations worldwide, including the UAE, have restricted its use and enlisted it as a dangerous substance. According 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 include Tramadol and its other substances, a permit from the Ministry of Health is mandatory before importing it.

            DMI, the campaign's media partner, will include awareness messages in all its publications and spread them through TV and radio channels to introduce community members to the risks of this drug based on information released by the Dubai Health Authority and published medical reports about the definite side effects of Tramadol. Moreover, DMI will continuously publish the campaign news and updates, in addition to conducting interviews with participating bodies to generate public awareness of the risks of Tramadol addiction and abuse.

            The Health Authority indicated that continuing to overuse Tramadol results in dangerous health problems, including seizures, blurry vision, depression and severe mood swings. Also, overdose will lead to low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, drowsiness, low level of consciousness that may turn into narcolepsy and shortness of breath that may develop into apnea.

            Tramadol is a double-edged sword, it is a pain-reliever when used exactly as prescribed by a physician, carefully following his/her instructions regarding the dose and period of time the drug must be used. On the other hand, abusing the drug, either by illegally obtaining it and using it without any medical need, or by increasing the dose prescribed by the doctor can lead to addiction which has devastating effects on the individual and the community at large. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Noor Dubai screens over 6,000 in Togo

            The eight-day camp which began on June 18, screened 6,893 people, distributed medication to 3,000 patients, and eye glasses to 1,150 people. It conducted 345 surgical procedures mainly to treat blindness caused by cataract.

            The camp is the first of four camps supported by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs and Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Women Establishment.

            Sheikh Mansour and Shaikha Manal are supporting these four camps to celebrate the first anniversary of the birth of their son Sheikh Hamdan bin Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

            Shaikha Manal said: “The significant number of people screened and treated in the camp tells us how important such health services are to the region. Noor Dubai was able to provide immediate healthcare services to those in need through the distribution of eye glasses, medication and performing sight saving surgery.”

            She praised the efforts of the UAE in the field of blindness prevention and added: “The gift of sight is precious, the decision to launch an initiative that supports the Noor Dubai Foundation’s activities comes from Sheikh Mansour’s determination to alleviate the suffering of people who are in need of it, and to help them become active and productive members of their communities.” Qadhi Saeed Al Murooshid, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Noor Dubai Foundation, thanked Sheikh Mansour and Shaikha Manal for launching the initiative to deliver support and assistance to others. Atakpame is 153km away from the Capital city Lome and is the 5^th largest in Togo by population.

            The camp was hosted by a community health centre, functioning with a few nurses and paramedics. There are no physicians in the health centre and no one to perform any surgical treatment.

            Statistically, there are 600,000 registered blind people in Togo and 40 per cent of them are blind due to cataract, a blinding condition that can be easily reversed by a simple 15-minute surgical procedure.  Noor Dubai Foundation has started preparations for its next eye camp in Sri Lanka which will start on July 5. – Khaleej Times

Summer Fun Weekends at Masrah Al Qasba Theatre

            Al Qasba, Sharjah's premier tourist, leisure and cultural destination, is presenting three mesmerising shows as part of their Summer Fun Weekends programme on the stage of the Masrah Al Qasba Theatre this summer from 29th June to 14th July. Children and adults are invited to be amazed by enchanting shows and brilliant illusions on Friday and Saturday evenings at Al Qasba.

            Speaking about the Summer Fun Weekends programme, Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, Chief Operating Officer at Sharjah investment and development authority Shurooq said, "We are very excited to be presenting these three wonderful shows weekly to our visitors this summer. The two interactive children's shows are sure to be great hits with our younger visitors in addition to the magic'&' illusion shows by Gaston Quieto. Al Qasba is always looking to find new and exciting offerings for its visitors and this programme is yet again proof of our status as a premier leisure destination.

            On the weekend of the 29th and 30th of June, the "Pirates of Arabia Adventures" show takes centre stage at Masrah Al Qasba Theatre to enchant the audience with thrilling roars where they have to help the two young granddaughters of the famous pirate Black Beard, outsmart the three mean pirates who had stolen Black Beard's treasure chest. The theatre will witness two shows daily; the English language show will be at 6:00 P.M and the Arabic show at 8:00 P.M.

            The evenings of the next weekend on the 6th and 7th of July showing at 8:00 P.M, will be full of magic and illusion as the internationally acclaimed and award winning illusionist Gaston Quieto takes to the stage to confound and captivate his audience. The famous illusionist will be presenting his trademark show with the best of his wide range illusions.

            On the 13thand the 14thof July, it will be all about the sweetest treats as the children are taken on a magical adventure with the famous Willy Wonka's factory in The Trip to The Chocolate Factory. Mr. Wonka and his friends will need the audience's help to stop the evil Bastinda from taking over the factory and stopping everyone in the world from ever enjoying the taste of sweets and chocolates again. The show will be performed twice daily; the English language show will be at 6:00 P.M and the Arabic show at 8:00 P.M.

            Al Qasba prides itself on giving its visitors the opportunity to enjoy culture, entertainment and leisure attractions representing the very best from the Arab world and beyond, as well as being an outstanding family destination with a range of activities and events to keep children and adults occupied all year long with a commitment to continuing providing the ultimate in leisure experiences to their customers throughout the summer months. All shows are priced at Dh50 per ticket, and there are Arabic and English shows each night, except for the Magic and Illusion show. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Diving with sharks in Dubai at Atlantis

            On the whole, sharks tend to get a bit of a bad rap.

            While a handful may live up to their reputation as apex predators with a taste for human flesh, most species of shark are entirely uninterested in feasting upon us.

            Nevertheless, we've watched Jaws too many times to be entirely unaffected by the myths surrounding these carnivorous fish. So, it was with some trepidation that we slowly submerged ourselves in the Shark Lagoon pool at Aquaventure at Dubai's Atlantis hotel for its new visitor attraction.

            The water park's Shark Safari experience utilises the Sea Trek system, which is essentially a modern version of the old-style diving helmet that has air continually pumped in, creating a bubble that allows you to breathe.

            While the equipment is cumbersome, weighing you to the bottom and denying you the freedom of being able to float freely, it does mean you can take in subaquatic sights without the steep costs of learning to scuba dive.

            In fact, our instructional session beforehand - which consisted of a series of flash cards commanding us not to handle any of the wildlife, reminding us to keep breathing and showing us how to communicate with our guides underwater via hand signals - was over in less than two minutes. Once you begin the experience, undoubtedly your first observation will be that sharks clearly like their water cold. Really, really cold. But once you're inured enough to these icy temperatures to submerge yourself up to your shoulders, one of the staff will position the weighty helmet on your head, then you're edging your way down the rungs of the ladder to the floor of the tank, some 10 metres down.

As you descend, the atmospheric pressure intensifies, causing head pain similar to the kind that flares up during lift-off or the landing of an airplane. Hence, you're continually required to hold your nose and pop your ears as you lower yourself.

            Being acutely aware of sharks' keen sense of smell, I was slightly concerned that an unwieldy swipe of my Gilette on my neck that morning might still be seeping blood. I feared the presence of drops of blood in the water could well result in an epic tussle for our lives with these beasts.         Thankfully, the blacktip reef sharks, marble rays and other exotic fish here don't pose much threat to humans, and they remained oblivious to our presence in their realm.

After a quick plod around the bed of the tank, gawping at the marine life and waving at guests of the park as they floated by the tank on rubber rings, our guides indicated to us that our tour was over.

            Possibly because this was an event for the press and they were eager to get the next batch of journalists down the ladder, it all seemed a bit rushed. So, in no time at all, we were climbing back up to the real world, breaking the surface of the water and the helmets were being lifted from our heads.

            Despite its briefness, it was still an interesting experience, though one that could possibly be more enjoyable in the real ocean rather than the false environment of a theme park.

            That said, many scuba divers spend years questing for a glimpse of notoriously elusive sharks, and with this you're 100 per cent guaranteed of both seeing these magnificent creatures and of a return to dry land with all your limbs intact.

            * Shark Safari at Aquaventure, Atlantis, The Palm costs Dh275 per person for 20 minutes underwater. Call 04 426 1000 or visit www.atlantisthepalm.com for more information. – The National

A song of success for Shamma Hamdan

            It is not just Shamma Hamdan, the 18-year-old singer-songwriter and the only Emirati contestant on Arabs Got Talent, who is feeling the tension before her showdown on Friday night's live final of the popular talent competition. Her Dubai-based family are biting their nails in anticipation.

Speaking before jetting off to Beirut with her parents to join her now-famous younger sister, Salama, 20, explains that the last six weeks have been a whirlwind of activity for the family.

            "I remember Shamma telling us her aim was to see whether she could get to the live-performance round in Lebanon," she recalls. "But none of us expected her to get this far. It is really something quite unbelievable."

            Then again, Salama was aware of her sister's burgeoning talent, even before Hamdan herself.

            "We would go to our friends' place or they would come to ours and Shamma would pull out her guitar," she says.

            "Shamma would just play and I would watch how our friends were listening to her; they were really held captive by her performance. I just knew Shamma had something special."

Salama used that reasoning to convince her sister to enter the competition. Her advice was simple: be yourself.

            The judges and television audience have embraced the 18-year-old Hamdan, who has thundered through to reach the finals with her unique musical blend of Khaleeji balladry and Spanish flamenco. Salama describes her sister's style as the culmination of her varied music collection, ranging from Khaleeji music to Western pop and rock. More impressively, Salama says her sister's fusion approach could attract new fans to Emirati and Khaleeji music.

            "Shamma is unique in that way," she says. "There will be people who sometimes don't listen to that style of music because they think it is just the oud, but Shamma has shown it can be much more than only that. I think this is why the judges like her."

            It may also be the reason why some segments of UAE society have criticised Hamdan's appearance on the talent show.

            Hamdan has endured criticism on social networking sites for her initial appearance on the show in May, where she wore a purple suede jacket and a bandanna around her neck, and sported short, wavy hair.

            Salama explains that the rebuke had also stung the family but they were consoled by the even greater support she received from locals.

            "At first, it did hurt because they were talking about our little sister and member of our family," she says. "But later on, when people saw her talent, the number of fans overshadowed all of that, so it worked out well in the end."

            With only two days to go until the final of Arabs Got Talent, Salama says she is not worried about her sister falling victim to stage fright. Instead, it is Hamdan's other tests occupying the family's mind.

            "She has her school exams two days after the final," says Salama.

            "We hope she can balance that pressure of the final and her studies all together, because it will be a very busy time for her."

            With a family holiday to Europe on the cards during the Eid break, Hamdan is perhaps set to receive the best reward of all. – The National

Mohammed bin Zayed meets British Premier

            London -  H.H. General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces met yesterday at 10 Downing Street with British Prime Minister David Cameron and discussed with him bilateral ties and ways to enhance them.
The meeting, attended by UAE Foreign Minister H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, also touched on issues of mutual interest and the latest regional developments.
The two sides expressed satisfaction over the progressive ties of friendship between the two countries. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

UAE leaders greet Mursi, wish growth

            President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent a cable of greetings to Egypt’s president-elect Dr Mohammed Mursi congratulating him over his victory in the elections. The message read: “It gives me pleasure to offer to you the noblest greetings and graces on my own behalf and on behalf of the people of UAE on the occasion of your winning of the presidency of Egypt.” “In this occasion, we in the UAE look forward to seeing the sisterly Egyptian Arab Republic achieve further progress and development under your presidency. We wish you and the fraternal people of Egypt all the security, peace and prosperity under your wise leadership.”

            UAE Vice-President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum also sent a similar cable to Mursi in which he expressed his best wishes for the welfare and prosperity of the people of Egypt. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

UAE embassy in Ankara regrets Syria's downing of Turkish military aircraft

            Ankara - The United Arab Emirates embassy in Ankara has issued a statement regretting shooting down of a Turkish military aircraft by Syria.  The embassy offered sympathy to the Turkish government and to the families of the missing people and expressed the hope that they will be found and returned home safely. The embassy also expressed confidence that the Turkish government will adopt a wise approach in handling this delicate issue. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

UAE Permanent Representative to UN in Geneva addresses Human Rights Council

            Geneva - UAE Permanent Representative to United Nations and other organisations in Geneva Ambassador Obaid Salem Al Zaabi has delivered a speech before the Human Rights Council, on the report presented Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, especially in women and children, and also the report of task team on the cultural rights.

            The UAE envoy expressed his support to the comparative method based on human rights to combat the human trafficking phenomenon, citing the UAE's efforts to tackle the human trafficking. Ambassador Al Zaabi also referred to the training session at the GCC level held in Abu Dhabi in Dec. 2011, in which experts from the Human Rights Commission, including the Special Rapporteur during her visit to the UAE, attended the session. Regarding the report of task team on the cultural rights and international cooperation, the UAE ambassador expressed his full support to the report. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

UAE Pavilion in Yeosu Expo plays marine film

            Yeosu, South Korea - The UAE pavilion in Yeosu Expo 2012 in Korea witnessed a positive response to efforts by the UAE to protect the marine environment.

            The UAE’s efforts were highlighted in a movie titled ‘Turtle’, and a series of other films produced by the National Media Council that touch upon issues related to the environment.

            Ali Khamis, an Emirati actor that featured in the 12-minute film ‘Turtle’, told the Emirates News Agency (WAM) that the film is a message from the UAE to the world on its efforts to protect the marine environment and oceans, and its leading role in preserving environmental balance.

            “The film was shot in 13 days in various locations in the UAE, like Fujairah, Dibba, Abu Dhabi and the Western Region. I hope the movie is shown in the UAE in various universities, schools and TV channels to spread the message of environmental awareness,” said Khamis.

            Ahmad Al Dahoori, who plays the role of a boy called Ali, said that he would not use non-biodegradable plastic bags anymore due to the dangers it cause to the marine environment, an initiative which has also been adopted by the UAE government.

            In the movie, Ali experiences deep sadness over the passing of a turtle, Lu’lua (Pearl in Arabic), who has been the subject of study and observation for 40 years and passes away due to swallowing a plastic bag thinking that it was a jellyfish. – Gulf News

NAMLC meets UK delegation at FATF XXIII Plenary

            The National Anti-Money Laundering Committee's Delegation headed by Abdulrahim Mohamed Al Awadi, Executive Director, Head of Anti-Money Laundering '&' Suspicious Cases Unit (AMLSCU) at the Central Bank of the UAE, on a visit to Rome, Italy held a meeting on 19/06/2012 with the representatives of the UK delegation attending the 3rd Plenary meeting of FATF XXIII from 18/6/2012 to 22/06/2012 in Rome, Italy.

            The Central Bank of the UAE said that the meeting was held as per the directives of the Governor of Central Bank of the UAE, Chairman of the National Anti-Money Laundering Committee (NAMLC) to enhance strategic relationship with friendly countries on matters of global concern, The meeting was held on the sidelines of the FATF XXIII Plenary in Ergife Palace Hotel in Rome, Italy and attended by members of the NAMLC Delegation representing Dubai Police General Headquarters, General Directorate of State Security in Dubai, State Security in Abu Dhabi and Federal Customs Authority.

            At the above mentioned meeting the NAMLC Delegation highlighted the workshops and trainings conducted jointly with UK Authorities '&' Others on AML/CFT for all stakeholders, which reflected UAE's commitment to international cooperation on matters of global concern.

            The two delegations then discussed the ways and means to enhance and consolidate further the excellent relationship that exists between UAE and the United Kingdom, especially in the area of combating money laundering, terrorist financing and related economic and financial crimes, as follows: - Enhancement of cooperation and coordination between the concerned authorities in the UAE and their counterparts in UK in the area of combating money laundering, terrorist financing and other related economic and financial crimes - Feedback on the level of cooperation between the Financial Intelligence Units of both the countries.

- Holding joint workshops for all stakeholders with regard to capacity building on AML/CFT including on the revised FATF Recommendations adopted in February 2012 and on other international instruments and related topics.

- Exchange of information on suspected illicit financial flows which may occur between United Arab Emirates '&' United Kingdom.

- Other relevant business. The above meeting reflected the determination of United Arab Emirates and United Kingdom to enhance and consolidate cooperation among themselves and with the international community on matters related to combating money laundering, terrorist financing and related economic and financial crimes as face to face exchange of views with friendly countries and agreeing on methods of cooperation is an important factor to encounter such crimes that are mostly of an international nature. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

UAE has most women bosses

            A new survey has showed that the UAE has more women bosses in comparison to other GCC countries.

            With 20 per cent of the UAE’s bosses being women, the survey revealed interesting findings.

“Women across the MENA region are breaking stereotypes and embracing their careers more wholeheartedly than ever before. There is a desire for equality and it seems that, for the most part, this desire is being met by employers,” said Lama Ataya, Chief Marketing Officer, Bayt.com.

            The findings were revealed as part of The ‘Women in the MENA Workplace 2012’ survey conducted by Bayt.com, and YouGov.

            Women who are 25 or below are also strongly motivated to put their education to good use, while those in the 36-45 age bracket want to secure their children’s future.

            When looking for a job, MENA women take the following into consideration, in order of importance: salary (59 per cent), opportunities for long-term career growth (31 per cent) and health insurance for their whole family (28 per cent). Retirement benefits are important to working women aged 46 and above.

            Seven out of ten women are comfortable working in mixed-gender environments, in which 74 per cent of all survey respondents work. In Saudi Arabia, 37 per cent of the women work in mixed workplaces; however, they are separated from men.  “It is encouraging to find that so many women are comfortable working in mixed-gender environments, which is perhaps a nod to a more Westernised influence over regional society,” said Sundip Chahal, CEO of YouGov.

            In terms of benefits, the most commonly received is personal health insurance, followed by paid maternity leave; company transport or transport allowance; job-related training and family health insurance.

            Almost half of the surveyed women (44 per cent) state that fewer opportunities for job promotions are the biggest challenge they face in their work. Stressful and demanding work environments follow, according to 38 per cent, while a third (33 per cent) state that lack of flexible work timings, limited opportunities to perform and insufficient job training and coaching are equally demanding.

            Sentiments are equally divided in terms of whether women feel they receive equal or less pay than men working within their company (an evenly-split 41 per cent both ways), with women in Qatar, the UAE and Saudi Arabia feeling that they receive less. Four out of ten (40 per cent) of the region’s working women believe that their chances for promotion are dependent more upon their performance than their gender. However, 31 per cent believe that they are at a disadvantage in this respect because they are female.

            Data for the survey was collected online from May 17 to 30, with 2,185 respondents in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Algeria, Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia. – Khaleej Times

RCA dispatches humanitarian aid to those affected by drought in Mauritania

            Nouakchott - The Red Crescent Authority (RCA) has in cooperation with the UAE Embassy there provided humanitarian aid to those affected by the drought in Mauritania. It included basic food items, such as rice, wheat, sugar and oil. The move comes within the framework of the RCA to tackle the effects of famine and drought in the Western Coast of Africa. Over 14 million people in a number of Western African countries are affected by the drought that led to the food insecurity and malnutrition, especially among the children. Mauritania, Niger, Chad, Mali, Burkina Faso and some regions of Senegal were hard hit by the drought that claims 300, 000 lives annually. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Zayed Giving Initiative launches Sheikha Fatima Anti Blindness Campaign in Egypt

            The Zayed Giving Initiative will launch in the first week of July the Sheikha Fatima's Anti Blindness Campaign in different provinces in Egypt. The campaign, which will be launched in conjunction with competent authorities there, reflects the depth of bilateral relations between the two sisterly countries.

            The launch follows the directives by the UAE leadership and sponsorship of H. H. Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation and Chairwoman of Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood. The mobile hospital includes the latest medical devices necessary for the eye diseases' diagnoses and treatment. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority publishes 2011 ADIA review

            The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) yesterday published its 2011 ADIA Review, which provides an insight into our activities over the past year while aiming to further enhance understanding of our approach to investing.

            Established in 1976, ADIA is a globally-diversified investment institution that prudently invests funds on behalf of the Government of Abu Dhabi through a strategy focused on long-term value creation.

            The enclosed ADIA Review provides a broad overview of our activities in 2011, including analysis of market conditions across the many asset classes in which we invest and significant developments within each of our investing departments. In addition, it offers insights into ADIA's culture and explains our approach to key areas such as investment strategy, governance and risk management.

            The 2011 Review also highlights some of the key developments at ADIA during 2011, including: Restructuring of our geographically-focused external equities departments under two new departments - Indexed Funds, and External Equities Merging of ADIA's real estate and infrastructure activities into the renamed Real Estate '&' Infrastructure Department Redesign of ADIA's leadership and management development programmes in line with our cultural values. The full 2011 ADIA Review is available on our website, http://www.adia.ae.   – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Abu Dhabi, Oman to set up 230,000bpd refinery

            Abu Dhabi and Oman have signed an agreement to set up a refinery in the Sultanate with an output capacity of 230,000 barrels per day, to be followed by a petrochemical complex, Oman’s official media reported on Tuesday.

            The refinery in the southern industrial port of Duqm will be equally owned by the International Petroleum Investment Company (IPIC) and Oman Oil Company (OOC), which both are controlled by their respective governments.

            The agreement created a joint venture called “, Duqm Refinery and Petrochemical Industries” and the refinery will be completed by 2017, according to the official Omani News Agency.

            It quoted Nasser bin Khamis Al Jashmi, Undersecretary of the Oil and Gas Ministry and OOC Chairman, as saying the development of the refinery and petrochemical complex is considered to be one of the most important investment projects as it will play a vital role in supporting the oil and petrochemical industries in Oman due to the strategic location of the Duqm area, adjacent to one of the world's key shipping trade routes.

            "We are determined to put all necessary efforts to see the project is successfully commissioned in 2017 and there is no doubt our solid partnership with Oman Oil Company gives us confidence in achieving that,” said IPIC managing director Khadem Abdullah al Qubaisi. – Emirates 24|7

Abu Dhabi okays new power plant

            Abu Dhabi has okayed the construction of a 1500 megawatt power plant in Mirfa on build own and operate basis, to boost exports of electric power to energy deficit emirates.

            In its last session the Abu Dhabi Executive Council chaired by General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, approved the summery to build a mega power plant which will produce 53 million gallon of water daily also.

            The project comprises construction of combined cycle power plant generating 1000 to 1100 MW, in addition to installation of four gas turbines of 400 MW and installation of 30 MGD desalination unit, and sale of three desalination units of 23 MGD capacity.

            Abdulla Saif Al Nuaimi, the director general of Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority, or Adwea, said: “The project will satisfy the increasing demand for electricity, which is rising 11 per cent annually.”

            He said it is the commitment of Adwea to satisfy the requirements of other emirates in compliance with directives of the President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The export of electric power would increase from 2000 megawatt in 2011 to almost double at 3900 megawatt in 2015.

            The director-general said that the proposed site is the ideal to meet any expected shortage and it will achieve higher efficiency level besides reduce production costs.

            Al Nuaimi said Mirfa is a strategic project for Adwea as it will rehabilitate, upgrade and increase the capacity of the plant located near demand centres of Tarif and Liwa.

            Also Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, or Adnoc, is currently building its nitrogen gas plant near Mirfa which will need 200 MW of electricity to run it, which will be supplied by the new plant. About the features of the project, the director general said the project upon commencing operation will produce 400 MW in summers of 2014 and will add another 1000-1200 MW in the summers of 2015.
- Khaleej Times

DTCM promotes Dubai as a favorite destination

            The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) has successfully participated in the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) in the Chinese city of Shanghai.

            This was the sixth successive year participation of DTCM in the ILTM Asia will this year took place at the Shanghai Exhibition Centre (SEC) in the first week of June.

            The Dubai Stand measured 138 square metres and had 25 co-participants representing hotels and tourism companies in addition to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA-Dubai).

            ILTM Asia brings together the world's most sought after destinations, ultra-luxurious accommodation, elite transportation and unique travel experiences, showcased for the most discerning Asian luxury travel buyer. The by invitation only event offers luxury travel providers the opportunity to reach Asia Pacific's VIP Buyers through its unrivalled Pre-Scheduled and Online Diary Appointment programme of one-to-one meetings and extensive networking opportunities.

            The DTCM officials said more than 40 meetings were conducted with the 470 representatives of various companies and organisations as part of the networking, marketing and promotional measures.

            Mohammed Al Muhairi, Head of Australia and Asia region at DTCM's Overseas Promotion and Inward Missions Department, said a workshop was conducted for the tour operators to create awareness about Dubai and its varied tourism services for business and leisure travelers.

            As many as 16 companies from Dubai participated in the workshop which was attended by representatives from 110 tourism companies from China's various regions. A raffle draw was also conducted for a free holiday package for one of the participants.

            The GDRFA-Dubai representative, Capt. Abdul Salam Al Sharif, provided information to the Dubai Stand visitors about the visa facilities for tourists and others in addition to various online services offered to the visitors of Dubai.

            The number of Chinese tourists to Dubai in 2011 increased by 27% and reached 193,791 when compared with 2010 figures.

            According to a recent report by the Telegraph's destination expert Lara Dunston, for many visitors to Dubai, the main reason to visit the city is to shop, and shopping is arguably a favorite occupation of its inhabitants; partly because the shopping is so good, and partly because, in a country where the weather is sweltering most of the year, air-conditioned shopping malls have become - like traditional town squares - a wonderful place to socialise.

            There are few shopping "streets" in Dubai, and when there are - Jumeirah Beach Road and Sheikh Zayed Road - they are not the kind of roads you'd stroll because distances between interesting shops (Jumeirah Beach Road) and malls (Sheikh Zayed Road) are too great, the report says. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Dubai foreign trade surges Dh298.1 billion in Q1 2012

            Dubai's non-oil foreign trade registered 6.6 per cent growth during the first quarter of 2012, amounting to over Dhs298.1 billion, compared to Dhs279.7 billion achieved in the first quarter of last year, according to latest statistics released by Dubai Customs.

            Ahmed Butti Ahmed, Executive Chairman of Ports, Custom and Free Zone Corporation, Dubai Customs Director General, said, "The continued growth in Dubai's foreign trade reflects the strength and resilience of the UAE economy, thereby affirming the wise approach adopted to support economic diversity." Ahmed further explained that the statistics presented include non-oil direct trade, free zone trade and customs warehouses. The Dubai Custom's top official shared that the growth of Dubai's trade flow with countries from different parts of the world can be widely attributed to the implementation of several economic, tourism and construction projects, which also includes the development of modern infrastructure like customs facilities at ports and airports and the provision of more advanced services.

            Dubai Customs has expressed its keenness in constantly improving the services provided to customers, exporters and importers while also developing more strategic regulations and procedures of Custom Clearance a move that shows support for the continuing efforts to achieve sustainable development in the UAE and help attract more investments into the country. The move also looks toward preserving the gains achieved by Dubai's positioning as a strategic trade link between East and West.

            The emirate's strength as a trading hub is demonstrated by the strong relations maintained with countries from all over the world and is further consolidated with the presence of a wide network of leading shipping companies and air and sea liners based in Dubai ports and airports.

            "The continued growth of Dubai's foreign trade has mainly resulted in the development of modern customs systems that ensures offering a wide range of high quality services to the private sector and shipping and logistics companies," added Ahmed.

            Ahmed has also revealed that Dubai's imports reached Dh175.2billion during the first quarter of 2012, as compared to the Dh166.2billion posted over the same period in 2011. The figures presented represent a growth rate of 5.4 per cent while the value of exports and re-exports over the first quarter of 2012 amounted to over Dh122.9,bn, which shows a growth of 8.5% from the Dhs113.4bn entered during the same period in 2011.

            According to Ahmed Butti, the country's positive trade rates and the continuing development of both infrastructure and legislative directives that are aimed at attracting more foreign investments, are expected to boost the UAE's chances of hosting Expo 2020. Aside from these factors, the chances are further made stronger with the country's experience in hosting previous international events like the annual meeting of the Board of Governor's of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund in 2003.

            The Dubai Customs Director General also added that the UAE's openness to the world markets, combined with its capacity to deal with diverse consumer products has helped in addressing cultural diversification in the country. Also, the growing purchasing power parity has also contributed to the increase in the volume of imports. Moreover, high quality Emirati made products, the promotion of the national industry and the strategic facilities offered to exporters, have also played a significant role in increasing export volumes and expanding into more foreign markets.

            India is currently ranked as Dubai's top trading partner in terms of imports, exports and re-exports, achieving as total value of over Dh40billion. It emerged as Dubai's top exporting and re-exporting country at Dh21billion and came second in terms of imports at Dh19billion, following China at Dh25.5billion, while the US came in third place at Dh16billion.

            Unwrought, worked and semi-manufactured gold topped the list of Dubai's imports with Dh25.6billion from January to March 2012, followed by diamonds at Dh13.9billion and jewelry and precious metals at Dhs11.7billion. Imports of telecom equipment have reached Dh11.4billion, while cars touched Dh7.6billion.

            Gold was also the number one product to be exported from Dubai during the said period at Dh18.6billion, followed by jewelry and precious metals at Dh1.4billion and non-crude oil at Dh1.2billion.

            Telecom equipment and devices came in first in terms of re-exported products from Dubai to the rest of the world at Dhs19.5billion, followed by diamonds at Dh13.6billion, non-crude oil at Dh4.6billion, IT machinery at Dh4.3billion and gold at Dh3.2billion. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Jebel Ali voted best seaport in Middle East for 18th consecutive year

            DP World's flagship Jebel Ali Port has been voted the Best Seaport in Middle East for the 18th year in a row at the 26th Asian Freight and Supply Chain Awards (AFSCA) organised by the Hong Kong-based transport and logistics market newspaper Cargonews Asia.

            On behalf of DP World, UAE Region, Kris Chang, Managing Director, DP World - China, received the prestigious award, at a glittering ceremony in Shanghai, China attended by more than 400 top executives from the Asian supply chain industry.

            The AFSCA award selection involves key decision makers in the industry who take part in an independently verified process comprising a nomination round and a voting round. The winners are chosen by thousands of readers of Cargonews Asia voting for the best-performing companies across a number of categories.

            Jebel Ali Port was cited for sustained excellence through innovative, technology-driven initiatives focused on improving supply chain efficiency for customers and responding to their changing needs.

            Mohammed Al Muallem, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, DP World, UAE Region, said: "Winning at AFSCA is always special for us because of the tough criteria employed to judge port performance. The 18th successive award reaffirms Jebel Ali Port's premier position in the Middle East. It is a tribute to our hard-working employees and our ability to deliver the best possible service to our customers. We dedicate this award to all those who made it possible for us to sustain our performance excellence." Established in 1987, AFSCA is Asia's longest-running awards event. The prestigious award is of 18 categories which covers air and sea ports, air cargo and container awards, along with Best Green Service Providers. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

UAE corporates' net profits surge

            The net profit of UAE corporates surged 11.5 per cent to $3.01 billion in the first quarter as the total net income of GCC companies for the same period rose 12.9 per cent to $14.5 billion, a research by Global Investment House shows.

            In Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange, a total of 59 companies, covered in this study, reported an aggregate net profit of $2.25 billion for the first quarter compared to $1.87 billion in the same 2011 period, a growth of 20.5 per cent.

            On the other side, a total of 34 companies listed on the DFM, that were covered in the report, posted a decrease of 8.9 per cent in their first quarter net profit to $754.8 million from $828.6 million in the same 2011 period,” Faisal Hasan, head of research at Global Investment House said in the research note.

            The study covers 543 GCC listed companies, in which 39 companies are from Bahrain, 160 from Kuwait, 65 from Oman, 41 from Qatar, 144 from Saudi Arabia, and 94 from the UAE. The study excludes companies that have not reported their financial results, dual listing companies and companies whose fiscal year does not end on 31^st of December.

            All GCC stock markets managed to enhance their bottom lines by the end of March 2012, barring the Bahrain bourse, with its corporate profitability declining by 0.9 per cent year on year, it said.

            The Kuwaiti market had the best performance among its regional peers, with its corporate profitability increasing by 40.6 per cent year on year after excluding non recurring earnings of Wataniya of KWD265.5 million which was recorded in the 2011 first quarter due to a revaluation of the existing held interest in Tunisiana following the increase in the shareholding from 50per cent to 75per cent, the study said.

            By sector, the first quarter aggregate net profits for GCC banking sector increased by 9.9 per cent year on year. Insurance sector was also a notable gainer, with its aggregate net profit increasing by 34.7 per cent by the end of first quarter 2012.

            “On the negative side, aggregate net profit of GCC services stocks retreated marginally by 0.2 per cent, as it dropped to $444.3 million in 2012 first quarter from $445 million in 2011 first quarter.

            Profitability of Bahraini listed stocks declined marginally by 0.9 per cent by the end of first quarter as compared to the corresponding period of the previous year. Aggregate corporate profits announced by Bahraini companies stood at $560.3 million in first quarter 2012, down from $565.5 million in the same 2011 period.

            The overall profitability of Omani companies listed in the regular market (excluding companies with fiscal year not ending on December 31) reported rise of 18.3 per cent amounting to $414.3 million compared to $350.1 million reported in the corresponding period of 2011.

            The study observed that profitability of listed Qatari companies witnessed margin growth during the first quarter of 2012.

            The listed companies on Qatar Exchange reported 1.3 per cent growth in their net profit in first quarter at $2.52 billion compared to $2.48 billion in 2011 first quarter.

            “Good financial results recorded by Qatari banks lent great support to the overall profitability of Qatari stocks,” the study said.

Global said the aggregate net profit of Saudi corporate reached $6.7 billion by the end of first quarter, up by 14.9 per cent year on year.

            “By sector, 13 out of the 15 sectors of the market managed to enhance their bottom lines by the end of first quarter, compared to the previous year, while two sectors reported a decline in their net profit. Net income of banks and financial services sector grew by 22.5 per cent by the end of first quarter,” it said. – Khaleej Times

UAE scores over other regional countries in shopping amenities

            The United Arab Emirates boasts more than 2 million square meters of shopping area, scoring over all other countries in the region, according to a regional shopping industry expert.

            Khalid Shraim, Senior Marketing Manager, Bawadi Mall says that UAE malls have set high standards and created a unique culture that is being followed by other malls in the GCC and Levant region. This culture revolves round offering "edutainment" to mall visitors rather than mere shopping service.

            Shraim said UAE malls have become leading tourism destinations for tourists. He added: "Most tourists ask for malls, having Googled the popular malls in their home countries or having been referred to by friends and relatives. They enjoy our malls because of the unique ambience and plenty of activities we line up for them." He added that 9 percent of Bawadi Mall visitors are tourists coming from Oman, other GCC countries and beyond.

            Shraim said that retail, shopping and tourism industries in the UAE are inter-related and inter-dependent, and these sectors are growing faster than others in the MENA region, thanks to the a distinctive shopping culture and purchasing power of the Gulf consumers as well as tourists coming to the UAE from different parts of the world and the government's continuous support to these sectors.

            Shraim added that the UAE has pioneered innovative practices in the shopping industry that other parts of the world are emulating, such as festivals, outreach campaigns, competitions, and cultural gatherings.

            "International brands are looking at the UAE market as a focal point to reach out to the entire Middle East region. Hugh investments, franchises, tie ups and other kinds of partnerships are taking place in the country that hosts a significant amount of tourists from all parts of the world," Shraim added. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Dubai World Trade Centre building 'an example for the future'

            The British architect John Harris thought his work in Dubai was done after he laid out the first master plan for the city and saw his ideas become reality in the 1960s.

            Mr Harris was at the airport preparing to leave when he felt a hand on his shoulder and a voice said: "Sheikh Rashid wants to see you."

            The subject that Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed, then Ruler of Dubai, wished to discuss was a new commission - the World Trade Centre.

            Mr Harris and his practice went on to design the tower, Dubai's first, which was to become an architectural symbol. He spent the next seven years working on the project.

            The 149-metre tall, 39-storey office tower was inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth in 1979 and was the tallest building in the Arab world until the completion of the Burj Al Arab 20 years later.

            When the trade centre was built, it rose up in splendid isolation above the surrounding desert. It has since been dwarfed by many other buildings nearby and across the city.

            Its fame is reflected in the fact that it is pictured on the Dh100 banknote.

            "In those days it was felt to be in the middle of nowhere, and that people would be unlikely to move their offices there because it was too far from Deira and Bur Dubai, where the real action was," says Guy Guillemard, the centre's first employee.

            "But we proved them wrong. I felt that regional offices, as opposed to those that were dealing with the souq or trade around the creek, would soon appreciate the benefits of superior office space.

            "Initially it seemed bizarre to be building such a tall structure in an area of no density, let alone low density. There were almost no other buildings around it.

            "But I bowed to the recognition by the Al Maktoum family of the power of symbols, and I think the tower was a symbol of international standing and intentions.

            "Also, it was great to provide a viewing point. It was the place where people would bring their visiting chairman, and that sort of thing, and take a look at the emerging city."

            Mr Guillemard arrived at the trade centre in 1979 and spent a year as head of marketing and exhibitions before becoming general manager and a director.

            He left after 10 years and is now chief executive of Signature Clubs International, which runs the Capital Club at the Dubai International Financial Centre.

            "Our mission at the trade centre was very much about marketing Dubai internationally," Mr Guillemard says. "It may sound weird now because Dubai is so well known, but in those days very few people had heard about Dubai.

            "So our work in doing missions overseas and trying to attract trade shows to Dubai, and regional offices and trade offices to base themselves here was very much part of the plan.

            "It wasn't a case of sitting back and trying to let the office space to the local market, it was about creating new relationships, bringing people in and projecting Dubai as the logical place to be."

            The tower's first tenant was BP, and others who took space in the early years included Ernst & Young, IBM and Amro bank.

            Today the building is home to the Dubai Financial Market, a number of consulates, and companies such as Federal Express, General Motors, Johnson & Johnson, MasterCard and Sony.

"Our strategy was to try to make it comparable with a top-quality office building you'd find anywhere else in the world," Mr Guillemard says.

            "So I negotiated the first in-building post office, we had courier offices and on-site banking, and we had not only a staff canteen but one or two nice restaurants. We introduced serviced offices ahead of Regus and the other big players, and we tried to provide a high standard of management, welcome and assistance."

            Mr Harris, who recalled the scene at the airport in later life, died in 2008, aged 88.

His legacy, and in particular the tower, is appreciated by today's architects, who admire the way he incorporated elements of traditional Islamic architecture.

            "This is one of my favourite buildings," says Ahmed Al Ali, an Emirati and a principal of X-Architects in Dubai. "It's quite beautiful because it is really strict modernist architecture, but at the same time it has another layer of respect for the place itself.

            "I really love it. Even though it was built in the '70s it should be looked at as an example for the future." – The National

UAE well positioned to host World Expo 2020

            Seoul - The UAE is well positioned to host a very special World Expo 2020 in Dubai, the first ever in the Arab world, says Reem Ebrahim Al Hashemi, Minister of State and Managing Director of the Higher Committee for Hosting the World Expo 2020 in an interview with KBS TV, the country’s state-run television network.

            Appearing in a TV special dubbed “We’re here at 2012 Yeosu Expo” which went on air on Sunday afternoon (11.10am UAE time) over KBS main channel 9 nationwide, Reem said: “We are very confident of our ability to host this major event. I just hope that we have the opportunity to do so and that we can welcome you to a very special Expo in Dubai in 2020.”

            The programme was taped on June 14 when Reem was in Korea to attend the UAE Day celebrations held at the Yeosu Expo UAE pavilion at the head of a 100 plus UAE delegation. The program was hooked up with KBS TV international service as well.

            While praising the unlimited support given by the UAE government to enable strong participation at Expo 2012 Yeosu together with a series of previous Expos over more than 40 years since before the State was even established, Reem made it clear that the UAE endorses and embraces Bureau International des Expositions (BIE)’s own vision for Expos that foster education through experience, development through innovation and experimentation through cooperation.

            Reem said:” We truly believe in the power of Expos to create a better world. The UAE has a deep insight into the benefits of shared experiences, knowledge and skills. We have over two hundred nationalities living with us and we have no doubt that this has been one of the driving forces for our progress. Multicultural exchange has been a founding principle of the Emirates long before the country was formed in 1971.”

            “And just as we celebrate the mix of cultural diversity and innovation that has been our strength, so we understand how expos can play a similar role, enabling different nations to contribute their respective knowledge in the battle to face the major challenges for humanity.” Reem went on to say when asked by reporters what motivated Dubai to become a candidate city to host Expo 2020.

            Touching on the competitive edge of Dubai over other candidate cities, she noted that over 60 million visitors travel through UAE’s six international airports each year, and with transport, social and economic infrastructures that are second to none,

            “We are promoting Dubai as a host city for Expo 2020 under the theme of Connecting Minds, Creating the Future. I will do my best to achieve such goal while in Korea,” Reem said pointing out that Dubai is the Arab world’s first global city of the 21st century.

            The UAE is a strong, vibrant and modern nation open to the world. One-third of the world’s population lives within a four-hour flight of the UAE, two-thirds within an eight-hour flight, top campaigner of Dubai 2020 Expo added.

            Among other strong points of Dubai are its strategic location, advanced world-class infrastructure and mature service sector which has made Dubai the gateway to Europe, Asia and Africa, she explained, pointing out that the city has already developed a robust network of economic and urban infrastructure and more are in the pipeline.

            She was referring to Dubai’s logistical reach by both sea and air which is unparalleled. DP World, the world’s fourth largest seaport operator, manages more than 60 terminals across six continents.

            Dubai’s powerful air transport capabilities which are embodied in its two airports Dubai World Central and Dubai International Airport, making them the fourth busiest in the world.

            She then noted that UAE is one of the safest countries in the world as a home to over 200 different nationalities that live and work together harmoniously under tolerance policies of the UAE leadership without being discriminated against because of their ethnic background, religions and beliefs

            “Given its growing prominence in regional and global affairs, the United Arab Emirates is the most suitable host for the World Expo. We want to bring the expo to the world and the world to Dubai,” Reem concluded.

            The KBS special programme with focus on Dubai’s bid to host 2020 World Expo was also watched by hundreds of thousands of Korean expatriates residing in the United States and Southeast Asian countries through KBS TV global service network hooked up with satellites. KBS TV earlier played up prominently news about UAE National Day and an exclusive interview with Reem during its prime time news programmes on June 14 and 15.

            With 49 days to go before the end of 2012 Yeosu Expo, the number of visitors to the Expo 2012 is likely to top 2,200,000 on Sunday, organisers of the Yeosu Expo said on Sunday.  – Gulf News

Topaz to build new ferry for Sharjah to Abu Musa route

            Topaz Marine Engineering, a UAE shipbuilder with a focus on supporting the offshore oil and gas industry, is branching out to supply the Government of Sharjah with a catamaran passenger ferry.

            The ferry is set for delivery next year, when it will carry 40 passengers at a time to and from Abu Musa, one of three islands occupied by Iran, located some 60km from the UAE mainland.

            Topaz said it was tapping a growing regional market by building on its expertise with catamarans after delivering two such vessels this year.

            "Ferry boats are becoming increasingly common across the [Arabian] Gulf countries and Topaz is responding to this demand," said Thomas Bower, the managing director at Topaz.

            The Sharjah contract caps what the company called "an excellent start to the year".

Apart from two catamaran ferries delivered to a United Kingdom client, it has delivered four boats, including two wind-farm support vessels, in the first six months of this year.

            Topaz, the subsidiary of Oman's Renaissance Services, incurred a loss of US$11 million (Dh40.4m) last year. It also became embroiled in a fraud scandal that cost the company US$2.9m, and led it to abandon a planned initial public offering on the London Stock Exchange.

            Debts of US$330m were addressed last month with the refinancing of US$203m in loans. The move freed up US$60m of equity for investment, the company said at the time.

            While Topaz has endured challenging times, it is well entrenched in Gulf markets and in the Caspian. It also has a presence in Saudi Arabia, where offshore oil and gas production is growing. Although a move into Brazil has been less successful, break-even there is within reach, said Topaz. – The National

Global volatility lowers Abu Dhabi Investment Authority’s returns

            The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (Adia) recorded a fall in long-term returns last year amid volatility in global financial markets.

            Investments generated returns of 6.9 per cent at the end of 2011, compared to 7.6 per cent a year earlier, measured in dollars over 20 years. The fund does not disclose annual performance.

            "The distinction between the developed and emerging economies is fading faster than many had imagined," said Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, managing director of Adia, in its annual review published yesterday. "The clearest sign of this is the contrast between widespread downgrades in the credit ratings of developed economies and the continued strengthening of many emerging countries."

            Adia has grown to become one of the world's largest sovereign wealth funds since its creation in 1976 with a mission to invest on behalf of the Government of Abu Dhabi, focusing on long-term value creation.

            While it does not disclose the value of its assets, research organisations such as the Petersen Institute for International Economics and the Sovereign Wealth Fund Institute rank it as the world's largest state-owned investment vehicle with estimated holdings worth more than US$620 billion.

            Adia restructured several departments last year as its workforce grew to 1,275. That included combining its real estate and infrastructure activities into one department. At the same it merged four geographically-focused external equities departments into two units - the Indexed Funds Department and the External Equities Department.

            Global sovereign wealth funds (SWF's) controlled about US$4 trillion in assets in March 2011, up from US$3.6 million in 2010, according to PriceWaterhouseCoppers (PWC), the consultancy.

            Some of the world's largest SWF's are to be found in the Middle East, where governments spend money earned from oil and gas exports on long-term investments.

But the emergence of large Asian funds in recent years is fast changing the landscape, analysts say.

            "Commodity-based funds, centred largely in the Middle East, are being challenged for ascendency by funds which are financed from trade or fiscal surpluses," said the Impact of Sovereign Wealth Funds on Economic Success report from PwC. "Whilst Singapore has been saving in this type of fund since the early 1980s, the establishment of a number of funds in China and elsewhere mean that non-commodity funds now account for around 40 per cent."

            Adia started publishing some performance figures two years ago.

            The move followed its appointment as co-chair with the International Monetary Fund of the International Working Group of Sovereign Wealth Funds in 2008. – The National

Air Arabia’s new low cost baggage policy

            Air Arabia announced on Sunday, that it has introduced a new online pre-booked baggage policy, enabling passengers to pay for only the baggage weight they need.

            The new policy, effective for all tickets purchased on or after July 1, 2012, allows passengers when booking a flight with Air Arabia to pre-book a checked baggage weight allowance (20kg, 30kg or 40kg), with no limitation on the number of pieces.

            Passengers who pre-book a 20kg checked baggage allowance will pay just Dh10, while passengers booking 30kg will pay just Dh20. Subject to availability, a 40kg checked baggage allowance can also be pre-booked for Dh100. These rates, which are the lowest available in the market, apply to one way tickets and are inclusive of all applicable taxes. The airline also announced that it has raised its cabin baggage allowance from 7kg to 10kg.

            ‘At Air Arabia, we place great importance on using customer feedback to identify new areas where we can make their flying experience a better one,’ said Adel Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia. ‘The newly designed and improved baggage policy offers great peace of mind for our customers. This move will enable our passengers to save even more when flying with Air Arabia, by only paying for the baggage allowance they need.’

            Pre-booked baggage can be availed through all sales channels: airarabia.com, Air Arabia ticketing offices, call centres, and travel agents. Any booking made prior to July 1, 2012, will be unaffected. – Khaleej Times

Abu Dhabi provides high quality labour cities that fully respect workers' rights

            Given that the massive scale of economic activity in Abu Dhabi, particularly within the civil construction field, requires an enormous workforce, the Emirate is keen to ensure that workers have the best possible living conditions. This is being achieved by establishing and administering guidelines and regulations that require all employers to comply with all international laws and regulations in respect of health, psychological, and social conditions for workers. Providing workers with facilities that permit them a decent standard of living is in accordance with leadership's emphasis that Abu Dhabi should be the pioneer within the region in this particular field. Abu Dhabi is determined to present a progressive role model that is based on full compliance with workers' rights.

            Abu Dhabi has invested Dh20 billion in 23 different labour cities that are able to accommodate more than 385,000 workers. Current occupancy of the labour cities is at 195,000 workers, or 51%. Abu Dhabi has also implemented regulations that require companies to transport their workers between their worksites and the labour cities, and forbids them to accommodate workers on construction sites or in other crowded places under unsanitary conditions. 

            The labour cities provide sports and social activities, public parks, markets, mosques, cinemas, internet facilities and cable television services. Public services are provided in the form of healthcare clinics and hospitals, supervision of hygiene and food services, and security services. Professional catering companies provide workers' meals to avoid unsanitary meal preparation practices which cause food poisoning and related healthcare issues. To ensure consistently high standards, the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority is charged with directly supervising all of the workers' daily meals, as well as conducting routine inspection rounds in the labour cities to ensure they are in compliance with health conditions approved by the Authority.

            Many decisions and regulations aimed at ensuring complete compliance with workers' rights have been passed at both the Emirate and Federal level. The Government of Abu Dhabi will continue to conduct routine inspections to ensure that companies adhere to these obligations, and those that are found to be in breach will be punished accordingly. 5,470 companies were fined during the period from June 2010 to May 2012, while 648 companies undertook remedial actions to ensure compliance within a specified period of time. 

            With regard to health and safety practices on construction sites, the Health Authority - Abu Dhabi (HAAD), Abu Dhabi Environment, Health and Safety Management System, Abu Dhabi Environment Health and Safety Center (ADEHSC), as well as many other concerned organising entities, have developed a program that provides free guidance and advice to business owners and health and safety specialists, as well as workers. The objective of these organisations is to help companies comply with the Health, Safety and Environment Management System's organisational framework requirements, and in particular, protecting workers working in high sites from injury or even death. 

            To ensure all companies adhere to health and safety requirements, as well as proper environmental standards for workers, the Abu Dhabi Municipality has applied a strict electronic monitoring system. Permits to proceed with work are only granted if the companies are in compliance with environment, health and safety standards.

                These actions are in accordance with decision No (42) of 2009 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Abu Dhabi, regarding Abu Dhabi's Health, Safety and Environment Management System to provide a unified mechanism within the Emirate to facilitate the application of standardised environment, health and safety-related regulations. Within the same context, in 2010 the Abu Dhabi Executive Council established an Environment Health and Safety Center with its primary goal the building of capabilities in the field of professional health and safety. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Operation Smile UAE provides free corrective surgeries to children with deformities in Jordan

            Operation Smile UAE has provided free corrective surgeries to children from Jordan, Palestine and Syria born with cleft lip, cleft palate and other facial deformities.

            The week-long medical mission by Operation Smile, running between 21-27 June at the Prince Hussain Bin Abdullah II Hospital near Amman, mobilised up to medical volunteers from the UAE and around the world who travelled to Jordan to provide surgeries to the children suffering from the deformities. The team consists of surgeons, pediatricians, aestheticians, dentists, bio-medical technicians, child-life support doctors and nurses, along with medical and community volunteers from Jordan to assist the mission.

            Operation Smile UAE and Operation Smile Jordan expressed appreciation of the facilities provided by the Jordanian ministry of health for the mission.

            Operation Smile UAE is the initiative of the wife of H.H. Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikha Al Yaziya Bint Saif Al Nahyan who is the patron of the UAE chapter of the global Operation Smile organisation. Since its inception in January 2011, the charity has brought "Smiles" to over hundreds of children through the funding of six different missions around the world.

            Operation Smile UAE brings together medical practitioners from the UAE and across the globe in its bid to offer free surgeries to children with facial deformities. The surgeries offer immediate and life-altering results, giving hope and social acceptance back to children and their families.

            The Virginia-based Operation Smile is an international children's medical charity with programs and chapters in more than 60 countries, and provider of free reconstructive surgery for children and young adults around the world who suffer from facial deformities. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Khalifa Foundation saves 'one of the best schools in the Gaza Strip'

            One day three years ago, in the early hours, Israeli forces struck the Beit Lahia Primary School in Gaza with white phosphorous and artillery shells.

            At least two bombs exploded, killing four pupils. The burning chemicals wrecked the playground. The blasts damaged the school building and scattered most of the nearly 2,000 refugees who had sought shelter in the United Nations-run school.

            A year later, Beit Lahia was the first school to be adopted as part of a United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) programme. In 2011, the UAE's Khalifa Foundation took over most of the school's major costs, including repairs.

            "A lot of our activities," says Dr Mahmoud Hemdiat, UNRWA's education chief in Gaza, "are funded by our family in the Emirates." The family is staying.

            This spring, the Khalifa Foundation signed an extension to support the school, which has been renamed Khalifa bin Zayed School, for a second year. Under the Adopt A School programme, the humanitarian organisation pays teacher salaries and provides pupils with computers, uniforms, hygiene kits and stationery.

            UNRWA authorities said the UAE's sponsorship was a model for the Adopt a School programme. The UN hopes the initiative will help support existing schools, since the Israeli blockade limits the construction of new schools.

            "All of the Gaza Strip is suffering or living in complex or complicated circumstances, and our full respect and our full appreciation is to our brothers in the UAE," Dr Hemdiat says.

            In 2010, the Palestinian Territories was the biggest recipient of UAE foreign aid, receiving Dh363million, according to the UAE Office for the Coordination of Foreign Aid's most recent report.

That works out to 13 per cent of the UAE's total foreign aid that year. The federal Government was the single largest donor, contributing Dh162 million. Of that, Dh158million was general budget support to the Palestinian Authority.

            Ninety-five per cent of all aid to the territories went towards development projects. The majority of humanitarian relief came from the Red Crescent, which donated Dh8 million for health and shelter.

            The Khalifa Foundation gave Dh8.3 million to the Palestinian Territories in 2010.

Khalifa bin Zayed School hosts two elementary schools, one for boys and one for mixed classes, and serves nearly 3,000 pupils.

            "I can claim it is one of the best schools in the Gaza Strip," says Adnan Abu Hasna, a media adviser for the UNRWA. "We have seen a dramatic change in the past two years, and now thousands of students are requesting to go to our schools."

            Before the Khalifa Foundation arrived, the school had been struggling to recover.

            The school "really suffered from a lack of interest and attention", Mr Hasna says. "The level of teachers was very low, and we lacked support services for students."

            The foundation's money enables the school to buy sporting equipment and to start football and volleyball teams. Classes in reading, writing and mathematics have been improved, and the number of classrooms has risen from 23 to 29.

            "We try to educate them on citizenship, global citizenship, and Islamic identity," Dr Hemdiat says. "We encourage students to be creative and more active."

            The school's headmaster, Riad Maleeha, says it ranked first in performance in its region this year.

            "The school has had a very positive effect on the community, because we encourage our students to do well," Mr Maleeha says.

            The Khalifa Foundation and UNRWA have been working together since 2008, when the foundation supported a project to feed to poor refugees in Gaza.

            UNRWA operates more than 220 schools in Gaza. – The National

Al Ain sets focus on cultural and heritage sites

            Urban planners have set their focus on all the cultural and heritage sites in downtown Al Ain to integrate them through a pedestrian walkway and a host of modern amenities to improve access for tourists.

            Inspection teams and experts from Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) have initiated study trips to the area that houses historical forts, vast date palm oasis, museums, a centuries old Aflaj (underground fresh water reservoirs) and archaeological sites.

            The sites currently stand individually, divided by civic infrastructure, empty sandy patches, and other obstacles that prevent tourists and visitors from exploring all of them in one go. The gaps and obstacles between the sites have also been affecting their prominence though some of them are listed among the Unesco’s World Heritage places.

            “Our aim is to prepare a plan connecting all of these sites together through a pedestrian walkway,” said Eric H. Wilson, Planning Manager at Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC). The walkway will have green areas, water dispensers, shaded rest places, and other amenities and pass through the areas of the city’s popular restaurants, he said.

            The planning has been coordinated with the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority and help will also be sought for Al Ain Municipality and a number of other agencies to ensure the current and future demands for power and water and other amenities, he said. The plan will incorporate the weather and environmental aspects too.

            Work on gathering required data and information has started and a comprehensive plan will be ready in October for the approval and execution of the UPC. Opinions and suggestion will also be taken from a range of stakeholders to incorporate them into the plan.

            “Our team will embark on different community outreach programmes, which will enable residents and stakeholders to engage and interact directly with them to discuss and understand the development opportunities,” he added.

            The planning of the cultural and heritage sites in the downtown area, which is also called the Wasat Madinat or Central District, is part of the wider scheme called the Urban Areas Development Plan.

            Humaid Ali Al Ka’abi, Planning Professional at the UPC, said the council had been working on the Al Ain 2030 Plan since 2007. This plan has two segments: the Urban Structure Framework Plan and the Rural Structure Framework Plan. Both the plans together form the Al Ain Regional Structure Framework.

            He said Al Ain has been divided into 64 districts ‑ 29 urban districts and 35 rural and suburban districts. These districts are further divided into 322 communities. “We have recently completed surveys in two rural districts of Al Quaa and Al Hayer,” he said.

            The overall plan, said Al Ka’abi, comprises a series of planning policies and major projects that will directly benefit the communities located in these districts by enhancing the lifestyles of residents based on needs assessment and in-depth research.

            “Our objective is to make a difference for Al Ain’s future generations by designing a city that enhances the sustainable social, cultural, environmental and economic aspects of the area,” said Wilson and Al Ka’abi.

            The new Al Ain Development Code will also be utilised to guide the shape of future development in the city, said Wilson. The use of these tools will help to mitigate some of the challenges that have already been identified, including the importance of protecting the city’s many environmental and historical assets and its unique identity as an oasis city with the need for development and improvements in connectivity across the city, he said.

            Al Ka’abi said Al Ain is a vibrant city with an ever increasing Emirati population that also necessitates land management. The plan will improve the efficiency of available land in the city by identifying sites for new buildings on underutilised land.

            He said the proposal will also ensure a high quality of life for all residents, provision of adequate community facilities schools and clinics, along with a number of parks and plazas.

Another plan is also being developed by the Department of Transport (DoT) to streamline the city’s transport system. Called the Al Ain Surface Transportation Master Plan (STMP), it will enhance connectivity in and between the districts.

            Quality, said Al Ka’abi, is the hallmark of the entire planning endeavour and that is why Al Ain 2030 Master Plan has received the acclaimed 2009 ISOCARP Award for Excellence. It has won also won this recognition for being the best strategic regional planning initiative. The International Society of City and Regional Planners (ISOCARP) Awards for Excellence has also recognised its initiatives. – Gulf News

Sharjah Biennial 11 names its guest artists

            The Sharjah Biennial 11, returning next year from March 11 to 13 and run by the Sharjah Art Foundation, has revealed which five artists have been invited to create exclusive works.

            On the list are the French visual artist Saadane Afif, the Indian architecture and crafts collective Studio Mumbai, the Chinese multimedia specialist Yang Fudong, the Japanese architect Kazuyo Sejima and the Egyptian artist Wael Shawky.

            Curator Yuko Hasegawa, who is also the chief curator of Tokyo's Museum of Contemporary Art, selected artworks exploring the diversity of cultures, societies and political relations.

Hasegawa, who also worked on the 12th Venice Architectural Biennale (2010) and the Seoul International Media Art Biennale (2006), explained her use of Sharjah's historic courtyards as the metaphor underpinning her selection for next year's event.

            "A broad range of artists will be invited to create works that will offer new experiences to be shared," she says. "Here, the courtyard becomes more than a place, it becomes a condition where culture is nourished and true knowledge is formed."

            Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi, the president of the Sharjah Art Foundation, praised Hasegawa's "thoughtful" selections.

            "The 2013 Biennial will reflect Sharjah's long history as a place where diverse communities are encouraged to share ideas and contribute to the multicultural landscape that is characteristic of the Emirate," she says. "Ms Hasegawa has proposed a deeply thoughtful biennial that will address some of the issues critical to art production in this current moment of great cultural change."

            The Sharjah Art Foundation also announced a new exhibition by Derek Ogbourne. The Museum of Optography, the Purple Chamber presents an eclectic mix of selections including drawings, paintings, photography and objects blurring the lines between art, science and history.

July 2 to October 10, The Collection Buildings in Sharjah's Art Area. Visit www.sharjahart.org. – The National

After City of Life, Emirati director Ali Mustafa launches awareness video

            Emirati director Ali Mustafa has swapped the high-wire drama of his successful City of Life and Classified films for a new short video to raise awareness in Africa’s Sahel region.

            The one-minute video, which was launched recently, is one of several Oxfam initiatives to raise awareness and funding in and from the Middle East to help people in the West and Central African nations.

            “People in Mali are running out of food, just like those in Niger, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Senegal and Chad. While the world looks the other way, 18.4 million people are going hungry. Children will die in huge numbers if we don’t act now, and this can be avoided if we are all pulling in the same direction,” Mustafa, who visited Mali last year as part of his support to Oxfam, said.

Raising funds

            “Before the Dubai International Film Festival in 2011, I was invited by Oxfam to support awareness in Mali and we managed to raise US$1 million [Dh3.67 million]. With Dubai Cares, I visited some of the schools in poverty-stricken areas and since then, am always ready to help Oxfam when I can,” he said.

            “Spreading awareness is the least I can do and I wish I had the time to do more,” he added.

Through using online social media, Mustafa has made a one minute appeal on Youtube, and Oxfam has already received positive feedback.

            “We are at a crucial point for aid to the Sahel,” Oxfam chief executive Barbara Stocking said in a statement. “For many people, the situation is becoming desperate. It is important to remember that droughts are natural, but hunger is man-made. The Sahel will always suffer from droughts, but need not suffer from hunger if the right actions are taken. It is not too late to respond but we must act quickly. Delays will not only cost countless lives, it will also cost donors more in the long run.”  - Gulf News

Skydive Dubai Team place admirable 15th in Geko Ypres Rally

            The Skydive Dubai Rally Team duo of Rashid Al Ketbi and Khalid Al Kendi let slip a potential top-10 finish in what was otherwise a remarkable final day of the Geko Ypres Rally, round six of the Intercontinental Rally Championship (IRC), in Belgium.

            The pair eventually finished 15th overall as Juho Hänninen emerged the victor with Freddy Loix and Pieter Tsjoen placing second and third respectively.

            A stunning fightback first saw the Dubai-based team climb nine positions from 32 to 23 at the end of leg one on Friday and then fly through nine of the remaining 11 special stages yesterday for 13th overall going into the final 42km over two special stages.

            They stuttered at the end but the result, however, is commendable given that Rashid and Khalid had never tackled the Ypres course before, this being their debut IRC campaign.

            Rashid’s sense of urgency to join the pack in front was evident on the last stage of day one on Friday when he stepped on the gas to record an average speed of 104.30kmp against 95kmp the previous five stages.

            Resuming in 23rd overnight, Rashid mixed caution with aggression to close out the first stage yesterday morning in 20th and for 19th overall.

            Apparently encouraged by the progress he had made, despite continuing wet and slippery conditions, the Skydive Dubai driver once again touched the pedal to the floor on special stage eight, flying at an average speed of 102.82kmp and climbing to 17th overall.

            Rashid then briefly climbed to 16th on the following stage going into the first of three service breaks for the day. The four stages between the first and second service break saw Rashid once again adopt a cautious approach which saw him maintain a steady 17th overall going into special stage 14 and the penultimate section of the day.

            Ahead of Ypres, Rashid had told Sport360° he would aim to break into the top-10 and go for the points and, perhaps, this was playing on his mind when he began tackling the penultimate 53.95km stretch.

            Maintaining an average speed of 104kmp, Rashid’s Skoda S2000 ate up the kilometres to first climb to 16th, then to 15th and 13th overall going into the final service break.

            With just two stages to go, Rashid slowed down, averaging 95kmp, finishing stage 17 two places down. Finally, the Dubai driver did not want to risk his position further and ended the campaign in 15th. – Sport 360°

National Geographic Abu Dhabi wins three golds at PromaxBDA Awards

            National Geographic Abu Dhabi (NGAD) maintained its winning streak at the PromaxBDA Global Excellence Promotion, Marketing and Design Awards, as announced on June 14 in Los Angeles, USA. The channel, which will celebrate its third anniversary on July 1, participated amidst global competition in three categories and won gold in each one of them.

            NGAD won in the following categories: Sales Promotion - Collateral/Specialty, for its Wild Cards campaign; Non-Fiction/Reality Programming Campaign Using Integrated Media, also for Wild Cards, and Consumer Promotion Using Integrated Media, for its Earth Day - Use Plastic Wisely campaign.

            This brings the total wins achieved by the channel at the Promax Awards to seven golds, one silver and one bronze - a phenomenal achievement in just three years.

            "It is an honour and a pleasure to have our efforts recognised at such a prestigious forum. National Geographic Abu Dhabi is committed to developing marketing materials that are as unique and innovative as our channel's programming is. To have our marketing and promotional campaigns competing and winning at a global level is testament to the fact that some of the world's finest work comes from this region," said Athreyan Sundararajan, Head of Marketing and Business Development, National Geographic Abu Dhabi.

            He added, "It can be a challenge to create communication material for a factual entertainment channel, as there is an intense need to be creative, appealing and yet direct enough to have the communication register. Both of our campaigns, for Wild Cards and Earth Day, proved to be successful initiatives and receiving global accolades - most importantly those allocated by our peers - makes us feel incredibly proud of our work and inspires us to continue to push the envelope." – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Visitors throng UAE Pavilion at Yeosu expo

            Yeosu, South Korea - The UAE Pavilion at Expo 2012 in Yeosu, South Korea, is witnessing an increasing rate of Korean and foreign visitors as Korean schools and universities began their summer vacations. The pavilion is organised and managed by the National Media Council (NMC).

            "Thousands of people are visiting the pavilion on daily basis to get glimpses of the progress and development the UAE has achieved in all fields," Abdullah Al Aidarous, Deputy Commissioner General of UAE Pavilion told WAM.

            Al Aidarous said thanks to the unlimited support of the UAE's leadership, and the close follow up of Foreign Minister '&' NMC Chairman H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE Pavilion at the Expo 2012 in Yeosu, featured among the best five pavilions and that it is expected to win more awards up to the end of Expo 2012 in August.

            He also underlined the great boost the pavilion received when the Minister of State '&' Managing Director of the Higher Committee for Hosting the World Expo 2020 Reem Al Hashimy joined celebrations of the "UAE Day" at EXPO 2012 Yeosu and helped in promoting UAE among Korean and foreign audiences.  Visitors to the pavilion also applauded the traditional dancing shows performed by Emirati troupes at the pavilion and the documentaries shown there. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Dubai drumming up support for Expo 2020 bid

            UAE residents are being urged to boost Dubai’s bid to become the first Middle Eastern city to host the World Expo - the event at which the best in global architecture, design and culture is on show.

The team preparing the emirate’s bid for the 2020 edition of the event wants people to write an essay or poem in English or Arabic to explain why they think Dubai is suited to host the Expo - and there’s top prizes on offer for the most creative submissions.

            The theme for the next Expo, which is held every four years and attracts millions of visitors, is ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’. The Dubai bid team is hopeful that a successful publicity campaign will increase the emirate’s chances of being upgraded from ‘Candidate City’ to ‘Expo host’.

Members of the public who put forward a creative explanation - which can also take the format of a short film, painting or photograph - of why Dubai should host the event, could be named an ‘Expo Ambassador’ and be off to Paris to represent the UAE as a guest of the Expo 2020 team. Other prizes include Expo-themed tablet computers.

            The campaign has already begun attracting attention

online - with the more than 6,000 likes on Facebook and hundreds more following the bid on Twitter.

            This year’s Expo is being held in Yeosu, South Korea and as many as eight million people are expected to have attended by the time it finishes on August 12.

            This year’s theme is ‘The Living Ocean and Coast’ and is aimed at focussing global attention on the sustainable use of oceans and coastlines.

            The UAE Pavilion at the event has been designed to showcase our coast and provide an overview of the UAE’s maritime heritage. The event team has set up a viewing area in the Pavilion to show specially commissioned films highlighting the pivotal role of the sea in trade and the need for ecological sustainability on the Gulf coast.  For more details, visit expo2020dubai.ae – 7Days

UAE announces "Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week" at Rio+20

            Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - To continue international dialogue on sustainable development taking place at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, Rio+20, the United Arab Emirates has announced the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), which will be held between January 13 - 17, 2013.

            "Through the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, we are providing numerous platforms of dialogue that will address sustainable development. ADSW will be held in continuation of the commendable efforts of the Brazilian government at Rio+20 and in response to the UN Secretary-General's call for significant commitments to action in support of his International Year of Sustainable Energy for All," said Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Assistant Minister and UAE Special Envoy of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Climate Change and Chief Executive Officer of Masdar.

            The announcement of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week made by Dr. Al Jaber took place at a reception honouring UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in recognition of his Sustainable Energy for All initiative.

            The reception, which took place as part of the Rio+20, was attended by various ministers, heads of states and business leaders including United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon; President of the Republic of South Africa, Jakob Zuma; the Minister of Energy of the Republic of South Africa, Dipuo Peters; the Minister of Mines and Energy of Brazil, Edison Lobão; Former Prime Minister of Norway, Gro Harlem Brundtland; Director-General of UNIDO Kandeh Yumkella; Director General of IRENA, Adnan Amin; Chairman of Bank of America, Chad Holliday; Founder of Grameen Bank and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Dr. Muhammad Yunus; Chairman of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Dr. Rajendra Pachauri; and President of the United Nations Foundation, Senator Timothy Wirth.

            Guests from the UAE included head of the UAE delegation, HE Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, UAE Minister for Foreign Trade and HE Dr. Rashid Ahmed bin Fahad, UAE Minister of Environment and Water.

            During his remarks Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon emphasised how energy is the golden threat to advancing the sustainable development agenda.

            "I thank the Government of the UAE and his Excellency Dr Sultan Al Jaber for co-hosting this reception with the Government of Brazil. Masdar's commitments and support for Sustainable Energy for All are an example of its ongoing leadership on clean energy," said Ban Ki-moon.

            Thousands of participants from governments, the private sector, NGOs and other stakeholders will gather in Abu Dhabi next year during ADSW. The events which will be held during ADSW include: the Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA); the World Future Energy Summit (WFES); the International Renewable Energy Conference in Abu Dhabi (ADIREC); the International Water Summit (IWS); and the Awards Ceremony for the Zayed Future Energy Prize.

            Dr. Al Jaber added, "Now is the time to address real-world challenges by adopting clear and focused practical measures for developing practical national energy strategies and implementing sustainable development. We are determined to achieve tangible results through our discussions here at the Earth Summit, at COP-18 later this year which is being held in the Middle East for the first time, and through Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week in January, 2013." Following the launch of the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All announced by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon during WFES in January this year, the UAE has made significant commitments to meet global energy demands by providing assistance to developing countries, such as Tonga and Afghanistan to meet their energy needs from renewable energy sources.

            "The legacy of sustainability which lies deep within the UAE's heritage was instilled in us by our Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who recognised the need to protect our environment and preserve our natural resources for future generations," said Dr. Al Jaber.  – Emirates News Agency, WAM

UAE committed to sustainable development: Sheikha Lubna

            Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi said the UAE had made great progress in diversifying the base of economy, with oil and gas production, while still very important, now accounts for only about a third of GDP.

            Addressing a session of the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development Rio+20, which ended yesterday, Sheikha Lubna underlined UAE's commitment to sustainable development which shapes the country's domestic policy as well as international cooperation, both rooted deeply in the values of the country, shaped above all by the founding father the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Below is the full text of Sheikha Lubna's speech Your Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen.

            It is an honour and a pleasure to address you here in Rio at this important event, which marks the 20th anniversary of the original Earth Summit, and which is likewise poised to influence the direction of sustainable development for our generation.

            The United Arab Emirates is proud to be part of the global effort to enhance the sustainability of global development.

            In many ways, the Rio process has marked important milestones in the UAE's development story.

            When the first Earth Summit was held in Rio in 1992 the UAE as a country was just 20 years old.

            Now, 20 years on, we have the opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made, and the challenges we still have ahead of us. I want to reflect on the UAE's progress on each of the pillars of sustainable development - economic, social and environmental.

            On economic development we have made great progress. Since the first Rio summit the UAE's economy has grown by over 400 percent.

            Perhaps more importantly, we have made great progress in diversifying the base of our economy. Oil and gas production, while still very important, now accounts for only about a third of GDP. I will come back in a moment to the role that sustainability has played in this diversification.

            On the social front, the UAE is now among the top 30 countries in the world as measured by the UNDP's Human Development Index. Great advances in health, education and prosperity underpin this progress.

            I want especially to point to the active role that the UAE has taken in the empowerment of women. Twenty years ago women formed barely 10% of the workforce. Today, 77% of Emirati women continue to higher education from high school, and around 60% are in employment.

            The UAE has 4 women cabinet ministers, and women are represented in government, the private sector, the judiciary and even the armed forces.

            The environmental pillar has also long been important to us. Well before the first Rio summit the UAE had set aside significant areas for conservation.

            But today that commitment to the environment is much further-reaching. Clean energy is a central plank of our development strategy. And we are innovating solutions in energy efficiency, water efficiency, building standards, and sustainable cities that we hope will have beneficial applications in our region and the world.

            These ambitious activities have come together in the announcement this year by the UAE's Prime Minister, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Makhtoum, that the UAE is embarked upon a strategy of pursuing a Green Economy for Sustainable Development.

            Today, this vision is driving a range of important initiatives across the UAE. Let me point to a few examples: - The UAE has adopted the first mandatory building efficiency codes in the region, and mandatory efficiency standards for cooling.

- Abu Dhabi and Dubai have set the region's first renewable energy targets, and this year we are opening a 100MW concentrating solar plant, one of the largest in the world.

- We are building Masdar City, a world-first low-carbon urban development powered by renewable energy and a test bed for cutting edge clean energy and efficiency technologies.

- The Masdar Institute, established together with the Massachusetts Institute for Technology, is the world's first postgraduate university solely dedicated to clean energy technology.

- The Emirati student body is roughly half women, and these students are already generating new clean energy technology and intellectual property today. Some of those students are with us here in Rio.

- Dubai has implemented the first light rail system in the region, which now carries more than 40 million passengers per year.

            The UAE's commitment to sustainable development extends to international efforts too.

            The UAE is a generous donor of international assistance.  Significant parts of our aid has driven progress on the Millennium Development Goals, particularly on issues such as health and education.

            Increasingly, we are also putting our development assistance behind the wider deployment of renewable energy, with supported projects in Afghanistan, Tonga, Seychelles and others.

            In addition, we are a major investor in clean energy internationally, for instance a new concentrating solar power plant in Spain opened last year as part of a joint venture between Masdar and Sener.

            This commitment to international sustainable development efforts is underlined by our support for the International Renewable Energy Agency, which is headquartered in Abu Dhabi.

            This is part of a wider effort to help bring the world together on innovation and sustainability issues. Dubai hopes to be the host of the World Expo in 2020 under "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future" theme. Yesterday, we have announced " Abu Dhabi Sustainability week" that will take place Next January, bringing together the World Future Energy Summit, the International Water Summit, the International Renewable Energy Conference, IRENA's General Assembly and the Zayed Future Energy Prize Award Ceremony. We believe that such gatherings can help foster the deeper international cooperation essential for tackling the world's major challenges especially the Energy-Water Nexus.

            So our commitment to sustainable development shapes both our domestic policy and our international cooperation. Both are rooted deeply in the values of our country, shaped above all by our founding father the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. These values include a respect for nature, an emphasis on education, a stress on rights and opportunities for women, and an open and tolerant society.

            Much remains to be done. For instance, the UAE is working to reduce its' greenhouse gas emissions. This is challenging due to our cooling needs - a basic necessity in a hot arid environment - the need to desalinate water, and an energy intensive industrial base.

            But we are committed to taking action to mitigate this effect, and the significant progress we have made in so many other areas of sustainable development gives me confidence that we can be an active contributor to the global solutions required here too.

            We want the process beyond Rio to build on this kind of progress. I want to comment briefly on what I think has been achieved here in Rio, and where it take us next.

            First, I welcome the launch of a process to develop Sustainable Development Goals, building on and complementing the existing Mugs. The UAE has been an enthusiastic supporter of this concept, and we intend to remain active in their further development.

            It is no longer acceptable that more than 1.3 billion people do not have access to electricity, or that over 780 million people still lack access to safe drinking water. Let us therefore agree to a set of priority areas, including energy, water, education and food security, to provide guidance to the SAG process. These themes are the corner stone in our global coordinated effort to eradicate poverty.

            Second, we welcome the formal recognition of the Sustainable Energy for All initiative, for which Masdar's COE Dr. Sultan Al Jaber serves on the High Level Panel. These initiatives should generate a range of targeted and ambitious programs to drive clean energy and other sustainable sectors. We should build on the work of this initiative to drive access to energy around the world, using ever cleaner technologies.

            Third, I am encouraged to see the Rio text recognise the central role that education and empowerment plays in any successful strategy to promote sustainable development. We should seek ways to enhance the empowerment of women, which has been such a central part of the UAE's success story.

            Fourth, the recognition of the Eye on Earth network is an important endorsement of the important role played by high quality environmental information. We invite all countries to join us in this initiative, which helps deliver on goals set at the last Earth Summit in Johannesburg in 2002.

            We also welcome the attention given to water issues in the text. It is clear to me that this raises questions about international governance of water that need further discussion. I would like to extend to you an invitation to participate in the next International Water Summit in Abu Dhabi next January as an important forum for taking what we have discussed and agreed upon in RIO into a concrete plan of action.

            The scale of the sustainable development challenge ahead of us is undoubtedly large. But the experience of countries like the UAE provide practical, positive examples of what can be achieved in 20 years.

            I look forward to meeting again in 2032 and sharing our experiences and hearing about yours. I have no doubt that we will still speak of formidable challenges ahead.

            But I also believe that we will hear stories of human ingenuity creating a better world. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Sultan Al Jaber: Immediate action needed for securing energy supplies towards sustainable development

            Sao Paolo, Brazil - UAE Special Envoy to Energy and Climate Change Affairs and COE of Masdar Dr. Sultan Al Jaber has stressed the importance of taking immediate action for securing energy supplies towards sustainable development and meeting the needs of the future through the adoption of a diverse energy mix.

            In an interview given to the Brazilian newspaper 'Estado do Sao Paolo' on the fringes of the Rio+20 Summit, Al Jaber said that Even though the UAE has significantly large hydrocarbon reserves for the next 150 years to come , the best solution is to rely on a variety of sources, including traditional energy while promoting clean technologies.

The following is the full text of the interview:

Q- You come to the Rio+20 summit with the objective of introducing Masdar city, the sustainable city in the UAE, what are you expectations of the Rio+20? How would you prioritise the projects in your presentations during your stay in Brazil?

            A- A global platform like Rio + 20 will allow us to showcase Masdar City, one of our flagship projects. A low carbon, low waste urban development that aims to become one of the world's most sustainable cities, Masdar City serves as a test bed for the latest innovation in renewable energy research for Masdar and its partners.  However, showcasing Masdar City is only one of the many reasons for our participation in Rio + 20.

            Masdar is part of the UAE delegation that comprises 20 federal and local UAE entities.

            The UAE is looking forward to participating in negotiations at the 2012 UN Earth Summit in Rio, which will be a major opportunity for countries to shape solutions aimed at achieving sustainable development, to build on initiatives such as the United Nation's Year of Sustainability for All which Masdar has committed to and to encourage the adoption of clean energy and sustainable development goals (Sags).

            We hope the Earth Summit in Rio will provide more opportunities to enhance cooperation across the public and private sector, which is key in securing sustainable development.

Q- What is the primary goal for Masdar City? Is it zero emission? Or is it the creation of a Laboratory-city with the objective of developing and testing new technologies on behalf of the other cities of the world?

            A- Masdar City is a low carbon, low waste urban development that will be one of the most sustainable cities in the world. It not only embodies Abu Dhabi's commitment to a sustainable future, but also pioneers best practices in sustainable urban planning, design, and construction.

            Masdar City serves as a test-bed to develop and deploy best practices for sustainable urban planning and latest technological developments in clean technology through collaboration and partnerships with like-minded companies and countries.

            At Masdar, we encourage new ideas that test, build and scale the diverse energy mix necessary to enable a sustainable and energy secure society. In the long run, Masdar seeks to develop a green print of the manner in which the nation will function in future.

            Masdar Institute and many of our partners are currently using Masdar City as a test bed for pilot projects including light electric vehicles, breakthrough research and development (R'&'D), and testing of new photovoltaic PV technologies.

Q - By setting an example, will Masdar have a call of converting other cities into a zero emission philosophy in the future? Do you see an average city one day with zero emission?

            A - Masdar City aspires to be a commercially viable role model for other cities to follow. We are confident that there will come a day soon when all cities in the world aspire to attain the highest levels of sustainability.  Meanwhile Masdar, through its integrated units, will continue to encourage cutting edge research and innovation in the renewable energy and clean technology sector.

Q - Which remarkable Masdar initiatives can be used as an example for the current big cities that have reached a dramatic level of emission, such as Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo for instance?

            A - With highly populated cities, the aim should be to smartly manage the energy consumption and generation. Masdar City is working on a few such initiatives at present. For example, to lower electricity consumption as well as make use of sustainable sources of electricity, roof-mounted and ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) power generation is being leveraged.

            Masdar City houses a 10-megawatt (MW) PV solar plant which is capable of meeting the electricity requirements of the City; while excess production is fed into Abu Dhabi's grid. Such initiatives are examples of what can successfully be applied to large scale cities that can drastically bring down the level of emission.

            Siemens and Schneider are also using the Masdar City platform to develop the next-generation Building Management Systems that will manage multiple buildings and be integrated with a utility's Energy Management System.

            Masdar City is co-developing other smart building technologies, leveraging on the City's on-going investment in buildings and infrastructure, and Masdar Institute's research capabilities. The City also serves as the testbed for the Siemens Smart Grid which will seek to continually optimise and reduce energy usage in its buildings.

            Masdar, together with Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority (ADWEA), jointly installed photovoltaic (PV) solar rooftop installations on 11 government and private buildings in Abu Dhabi. The 2.3 MW of PV panels on the rooftops will generate 4.025 GWh/year of electricity and save around 3,220 tons of carbon dioxide per year.

            The objective of the pilot project is to support renewable energy efforts within the UAE, investigate and prove the potential for building integrated PV installations to help meet Abu Dhabi's future electricity demands.

            These are some of Masdar's initiatives that may serve as a role model for other cities. The Personal Rapid Transit is with no doubt one of Masdar's greatest ambitions.

Q - Do you see this model of transport substituting the use of automobiles in the future? Are we close to the objective of completely discarding cars as the primary means of transportation in our metropolises?

            A - The key goals at Masdar City -- to ensure sustainable transportation -- are to reduce total passenger-kilometres travelled, total carbon dioxide emissions per passenger-kilometres travelled, and ensure user satisfaction with the city's transportation system.

            To ensure this, Masdar City is testing the Personal Rapid Transport (PRT) and the Mitsubishi Electric Vehicles (EVs) on pilot project basis. However, these have been used not to entirely substitute cars but to complement them as sustainable transportation for point to point journeys.

            We look forward to a future where this form of transport is widespread and our efforts in compiling years of study and research of the PRT can be used as samples of successful, clean transport on a large scale.

Q - The Project Masdar is based on the use of renewable energy, mainly solar energy. However, this technology is not entirely sustainable if we take Germany as an example. Do you believe that Solar energy is truly the future of energy?

            A - We have always advocated a diversified energy mix approach that includes the use of hydrocarbons while simultaneously focusing efforts on the development and implementation of clean technology to reduce carbon emissions; peaceful nuclear power; and renewable energy.

            Masdar is not based only on solar energy, but works through the spectrum of the renewable energy and sustainable technology industry, through integrated units.

            Through one of our integrated units we are exploring several renewable energy resources. The choice depends on each country's renewable resources and the abundance of these resources at that location. In the UAE, we are blessed with sunshine throughout the year so it is definitely a source that we can leverage on.

            Masdar's 10MW solar power plant, the largest grid-connected solar power plant in the Middle East, produces about 17,500MWh of clean electricity annually, thereby offsetting 15,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year (which is equivalent to taking 3,300 cars off Abu Dhabi roads per year). The plant also helps meet the energy needs of Masdar.

            Shams One, the 100MW concentrated solar power (CSP) plant, being built by Masdar is one of the largest CSP plants in the world and the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa. Masdar has also partnered to build three solar plants in Spain.

            Besides investing in solar energy, Masdar has also partnered with leading companies for building world's largest offshore wind farm in the UK, London Array.

            Masdar's other integrated units work on reducing carbon emissions and provide capital and management expertise by targeting clean technology investments with the greatest business benefits globally and for UAE.

            Masdar, through Masdar Institute, also develops human capital and the latest breakthrough research in clean technology. Masdar City, one of the world's most sustainable and commercially viable developments, is also a landmark achievement. We believe in investing in, and opting for, a diverse energy mix.

Q - The United Arab Emirates is an important producer of oil and can continue to do so and gain profit for at least 150 years to come. Why invest in an uncertain project such as Masdar?

            A - Even though the UAE has significantly large hydrocarbon reserves, securing energy supplies towards sustainable development and meeting the needs of the future requires immediate action. Scarcity of fresh water resources in the Arabian Gulf has necessitated reliance on desalination which requires energy and thus energy security has become vital.

            The transition to new resources however may take decades since the majority of current power generation systems rely mostly on hydrocarbons.

            The best solution, therefore, is to rely on a variety of sources, including traditional energy while promoting clean technologies.

            For the UAE, reinvesting a share of its oil revenues into renewable energy will support its transition into a knowledge-based economy. Ultimately, the UAE will benefit from a diverse economic base by minimising dependence on oil as the main driver and increasing the contributions of non-oil sectors in the GDP.

            This will also help maintain the leadership position of the UAE in global energy markets and enhance the growth of the local economy. This strategic approach was reflected in Abu Dhabi's vision 2030 that underscored the importance of diversifying the economy.

            In this context, thanks to the wise directives of His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, Masdar' was established in 2006 as a multifaceted strategic initiative, wholly-owned by Mubadala, to develop and implement renewable energy solutions and clean technology.

Q - Brazil has begun exploiting its marine petrol sources, what advice do you have for the Brazilian government concerning energy-related investments?

            A - Today Brazil is the world's 11th-largest oil producer. By 2020 it is expected to be in the top five, according to a report by The Economist. There is no 'one size fits all' approach towards meeting energy needs. Each country needs to determine its energy mix based on the natural resources available, the geographical and climate conditions.

            The Brazilian government is already supportive of conservation of resources; and further diversification of their energy mix will help in the sustainable growth of the country.  When looking to advance the field of renewable and sustainable energy, international cooperation is a key element that enables sharing of knowledge and experience, which is vital for the advancement of any industry.

Q - I would like to know what Masdar can teach Brazil. Will the project Masdar be open, for instance, to exploiting locally produced bio-fuel?

            A - Masdar is a strong advocator for knowledge sharing and exchange of information between companies and countries. Masdar is keen on collaborating with like-minded companies and countries and welcomes those wishing to explore latest technologies related to renewable energy or clean technology. For example, research related to biofuels may be of common interest to Masdar Institute and Brazilian entities.  Masdar is looking to leverage its presence at the Rio+20 Conference to attract not only the South American but the global community to collaborate in its R'&'D efforts towards developing alternate energy solutions.

Q - What are your expectations of Brazil in relation to the project Masdar? Are you seeking Brazilian investors or companies willing to locate to Masdar, for example?

            A - We welcome any Brazilian investor or company that is willing to open in Masdar City. Masdar City is steadily emerging as an incubator for sustainable development and looks forward to leveraging renewable energy and clean technology by integrating education, research and development (R'&'D) and investment.

            The Masdar City free zone is considered a landmark development for Abu Dhabi and we welcome Brazilian companies to not just set up base but be part of the growth and development of the city and help in finding solutions for global concerns.

            There are several advantages to setting up base in Masdar City. Masdar City free zone seeks to leverage the strategic location of the Abu Dhabi, which provides easy access to the entire Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

            UAE's longstanding trade and business links with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and surrounding regions as well as the Indian subcontinent makes the proposition of conducting business from the Masdar City free zone immensely attractive.

            Masdar City free zone is equipped with sophisticated information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure and a strong intellectual property (IP) protection framework.

            Businesses setting up operations at the Masdar City free zone can do so within a period of two weeks. These companies can also avail a 10% premium on leasing/rent rates that considerably reduces their total investment.

            The Masdar City free zone offers its resident companies a quick and easy process of registration, speedy visa processing and friendly government relations. It also offers redemption on import tariff.

            The companies and entrepreneurs setting up business here are not only offered complete tax redemption but are also not required to have a local sponsor. Additionally, no restriction is imposed on capital, profits, quotas and currency. The organisations are also allowed to hire expatriate staff with no restriction imposed on the number.

Q - The launch of project Masdar has reached a figure of US$15 Billion in 2008. For a city that will have a population of 50 million, isn't that a rather excessive cost? In your opinion, what makes Masdar a realist project and not necessarily an elitist one?

            A - At full build-out, Masdar City is expected to have tens of thousands of residents and commuters not 50 million residents. Masdar City's total investment amounts to approximately US$18-US$19 billion. Masdar is planning to work with other developers in the development of Masdar City to make it a commercially viable option.

            This City will serve as a role model for the rest of the world. Since no one had attempted something of this nature earlier, all efforts are being made to make Masdar City an option that is available for all and not elitist in nature.

            The current level of investment into Masdar might be considered high, but it's a long term investment for the future of the nation. The UAE has been recognised as a leader in the energy sector and our leaders have always believed that leadership entails responsibility.

            Given increased domestic energy requirements, it's important for the UAE to secure alternative sources of energy.

            We must diversify the energy mix to achieve energy security in the long run. The benefits of generating renewable energy are many. It will help reduce gas imports, diversify the energy sector and increase security of supply. It also gives us first-hand expertise in renewable energy, offering excellent career opportunities in the sector.

            As leader in the energy sector, we have a responsibility to contribute to the energy sector's evolution. We see renewable energy as a natural extension to our existing energy expertise and a logical step forward in maintaining our future prosperity. If we are to maintain our leadership in the future energy market while safeguarding our environment and economy we must invest in renewable energy and clean technologies.

            This is the vision of our wise leadership and it is this vision that led to the establishment of Masdar. In the six years since its formation, Masdar has demonstrated the feasibility of renewable energy projects in the region and raised awareness of its importance through platforms like World Future Energy Summit. These projects are real, developed and operational on the ground.

Q - Masdar is aiming to concur other international projects of the same category, such as the BedZed quarter in London, or Dongtan in China. What gives Masdar the edge compared to its competitors?

            A - Masdar's impact is the result of our unique structure that integrates the whole value chain of renewable energy and clean technology. This spans from education, research and development with Masdar Institute; through investments in advanced new technologies with Masdar Capital; to large scale clean technology implementation and reduction of carbon emissions through Masdar Power; to, finally, providing a leading global platform for demonstrations, co-operation and partnerships in a sustainable living environment that is Masdar City.

            Masdar's integrated units are supported by a team focused on sustainability, innovation, technology and strategic partnerships that is delivering a commercial technology portfolio relevant to the entire Masdar initiative.

            It is through this wide scope that we are able to present a sustainable and multifaceted approach to renewable energy and clean technology that is not available in one single company anywhere else in the world. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

UAE signs agreement to convert Korea's Green Growth Institute into int'l organisation at Rio + 20

            Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - The United Arab Emirates has signed an agreement to convert the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) from a Korean Foundation to an international organisation, which will now include the membership of 17 countries from around the world.

            The event took place on the sidelines of the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development being held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, which has held in-depth discussions on the concept of green economy as one of the mechanisms to implement sustainable development.

            The UAE Special Envoy for Energy and Climate Change and Chief Executive Officer of Masdar Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, who officially represented the UAE during the signing ceremony, said: "We are pleased to be part of this new agreement that will see GGGI transition to an international, multi-stakeholder organisation that will support the global paradigm shift towards greener economies. We are confident that by building bridges of cooperation between members of the international community through GGGI, our shared vision of increasing political commitment, participation of both the private and public sector, and overall increase in awareness of sustainable development will be realised." In addition to the UAE, 16 countries have signed the agreement to support GGGI's expansion, including: South Korea; Guiana; Paraguay; Kiribati; Australia; Denmark; the United Kingdom; Vietnam; Mexico; Norway; Cambodia; Philippines; Costa Rica; Papua New Guinea; Ethiopia; and Qatar.

            Attending the signing ceremony were delegates from each of the participating countries. The UAE delegation included the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Environment and Water and the Office of Cabinet Affairs, and Masdar officials.

            Dr Al Jaber added: "Sustainable development is of great importance to the UAE and our leadership. The legacy of sustainability which lies deep within the UAE's heritage was instilled in us by our Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who recognised the need to preserve our natural resources for future generations. Through initiatives such as GGGI, we hope not only to continue his legacy, but also to assist and encourage other countries to implement green growth policies and move towards a green economy." GGGI is an international organisation that helps developed and developing countries pioneer a new "green growth" model that includes economic growth with climatic and environmental sustainability. With offices in Seoul, Copenhagen, and Abu Dhabi, the scope of GGGI's work spans the globe and brings together diverse groups to put green growth into everyday practice and produce significant, tangible results.

            The UAE is innovating and empowering others to build a sustainable future for all, building on the legacy of its founding fathers to deliver on promises today. Through advanced thinking and technology, the UAE is bringing to life action-oriented ideas and innovation that lead to a sustainable economy, environment and society. As part of a growing international movement, the country is collaborating with like-minded nations to continuously learn best practices, build upon progress, and create a sustainable future for all. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

UAE provides insight on "Black Gold and the Green Economy" at Rio+20 Summit

            Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - The United Arab Emirates, in partnership with the Kingdom of Norway, tonight will hosted the official United Nations side event, "Black Gold and the Green Economy: Hydrocarbon Exporters' Perspectives," at the Rio+20 United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development. Both the UAE and Norway have emerged as vocal champions of clean energy and green growth through national policy and overseas development assistance, while remaining two of the world's largest and most reliable hydrocarbon exporters. Drawing on diverse views from the public and private sectors, the event examines the sustainability rationale in hydrocarbon-exporting countries, as well as their role in the global transition to sustainable development. The event marks the summit's only direct discussion of oil and gas in the Rio+20 agenda.

            Opening remarks by Dr. Rashid bin Fahad, UAE Minister of Environment, and Audun Garberg, Norwegian Undersecretary of the Environment, addressed both the drivers and barriers that shape long-term economic, social, and environmental health and performance in their countries. Jose Maria Figueres, president of the Carbon War Room and former president of Costa Rica, moderated the interactive, frank conversation about hydrocarbon exporters' motivations for pursuing green growth measures and the likely sustainability efforts in energy-exporting countries over the next decade given the direction of world energy markets. Confirmed panelists include: Bader Al-Lamki, Director of Clean Energy and Carbon, Masdar Phillipe Benoit, Head of Energy Efficiency and Environment, IEA Michael Liebreich, CEO, Bloomberg New Energy Finance Hege Marie Norheim, SVP of Climate, Statoil Samantha Smith, Global Head of Climate, World Wildlife Fund Nejib Zaafrani, CEO, Dubai Supreme Council of Energy "The national experiences unique to the UAE and Norway show that there is a robust rationale for diversifying and evolving our energy markets, leveraging our historic expertise. We are in the vanguard of clean energy deployment at home and abroad because we understand the costs of resource inefficiency and the importance of having a diversified energy mix," said Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, The UAE Special Envoy for Energy '&' Climate Change, and Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, the UAE's pioneering clean energy and sustainable development company.

            Reflecting this outlook, the UAE has made unprecedented multi-billion-dollar investments in renewable energy, urban sustainability, and carbon and environmental management in the last decade. Domestically, the UAE has committed to over 2500MW of solar and wind projects, while abroad its portfolio includes the London Array, the world's largest wind farm, and the pioneering Gemasolar in Spain, which can supply solar power around the clock. The UAE is also a major supporter of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's Sustainable Energy for All initiative, implementing grant-based renewable energy projects in the Seychelles, Tonga, Afghanistan, and Mauritania.

            The UAE has moreover developed as a global hub for cooperation on clean energy and sustainability. It hosts the 157-country International Renewable Energy Agency, as well as the regional office of the Global Green Growth Institute, and each year brings over 25,000 leading business and government representatives to the World Future Energy Summit, the premier conference on the clean energy sector. Masdar City, a global incubator for cutting-edge sustainable urban technologies, and Masdar Institute, a research university developed with MIT, furthermore foster continual partnership with leading global sustainability innovators.

            "Collaboration between governments and the NGO sector is imperative to illuminating the right approach to protecting the environment while supporting efforts that will build a green economy," said Dr. Rashid Ahmad Bin Fahad, UAE Minister of Environment and Water. "The UAE has emerged as a hub for international sustainability cooperation, as demonstrated by its role as host to the International Renewable Energy Agency, as well as its development of Masdar City and the Masdar Institute, the Middle East's most renowned research Centre that incubates and disseminates clean technology in partnership with leading global innovators." "Black Gold and the Green Economy" will take place on 20 June 2012 at 7:00 pm, at Rio Centro, Pavilion 3. Seating is limited to 100 guests.

            About The United Arab Emirates at the Rio+20 UN Conference for Sustainable Development The UAE is innovating and empowering others to build a sustainable future for all, building on the legacy of its founding fathers to deliver on promises today. Through advanced thinking and technology, the UAE is bringing to life action-oriented ideas and innovation that lead to a sustainable economy, environment and society. As part of a growing international movement, the country is collaborating with like-minded nations to continuously learn best practices, build upon progress, and create a sustainable future for all.

            The UN Conference on Sustainable Development Rio+20 is organised by the United Nations in coordination with the Brazilian government, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the original Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. More than 130 heads of state and government will attend, joined by over 50,000 representatives of business, NGOs, government, and civil society. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Drydocks World Dolphin beta launches largest world wind-powered offshore platform

            Drydocks World said that construction has begun on DolWin beta, the world's largest Wind Power HVDC Offshore Platform for Aibel AS, a leading service company that works within the oil, gas and renewable energy sectors.

            A steel cutting ceremony was held to mark the occasion attended by H. H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman and CEO of Emirates Group as the Guest of Honour at the ceremony. Also present were prominent people from Government and Private sectors.

            "This is one of the several pioneering projects that we have initiated especially to support the Wind Energy sector. We have aligned our business focus with industry developments and have been successful in gaining a foothold within the renewable energy field, which will remain one of the areas of our prime focus in the years to come. We are delighted to be working with industry majors such as Aibel, ABB and TenneT, which helps us focus our capabilities on next generation technology and infrastructure. I am also extremely grateful to H.H. Sheikh Ahmed for endorsing the project and encouraging the initiative," said Khamis Juma Buamim, Chairman of Drydocks World and Maritime World.

            DolWin beta will be built for a large wind farm cluster in the German sector of the North Sea. It will receive alternating current from wind farms, and convert it into direct current before sending it onshore via subsea cables. The dimension of the platform is 100.1 by 74.1 m. It will be 83 m tall with accommodation and outfits and weigh 20,000 metric tonnes approximately.

            The platform can generate 900 MW power and can receive electricity from three wind farms, i.e. a total of 240 turbines. This offshore wind connection will avoid more than three million tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year by replacing fossil-fuel based generation.

            The EPC subcontract between Aibel AS and Drydocks World was signed on 12 January 2012. The platform will be ready for sail away from Dubai Drydocks end 2013, and will, after assembly and testing inshore be towed out to the DolWin field from Aibel's yard at Haugesund, Norway.

            The German company TenneT has awarded the Contract to ABB to supply the Platform, which acts as a transmission link that will connect offshore wind farms located in the cluster DolWin in the North Sea to the German grid. The project is designed and managed by Aibel AS. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

ADNOC signs agreement with Wintershall and OMV

            The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), Wintershall Middle East GmbH- Abu Dhabi (Wintershall) and OMV Abu Dhabi E'&'P GmbH (OMV) yesterday signed a Technical Evaluation Agreement.

            The agreement aimed at appraising the sour gas and condensate field in Shuwaihat, located some 25 km to the West of Ruwais in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi.

            In a press statement "ADNOC" said that the operator Wintershall will conduct the appraisal phase with OMV as an equal partner by drilling up to three appraisal wells and acquiring 3D- seismic over the field. In the case of a successful appraisal campaign, ADNOC will participate in the development and production pages of the Shuwaihat field.

            To optimise the appraisal and a future development of the Shuwaihat sour gas and condensate field, Wintershall and OMV will employ advanced technologies of the highest standards. Both companies have a proven track record in Germany and Austria of more than forty years of safe development and production of sour gas (H2S and CO2) and oil fields.

            A successful appraisal campaign will result in Shuwaihat being an important development of a gas and condensate field in the Western region of Abu Dhabi, contributing to cover the increasing hydrocarbon demand of the UAE and the country's long-term export capability. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Dh10b Habshan-Fujairah pipeline begins oil exports

            The new Dh10 billion Habshan-Fujairah pipeline saw crude oil exports begin yesterday in Abu Dhabi, bypassing the Straits of Hormuz — a politically and economically strategic move for the UAE, experts said.

            About 30 per cent of the UAE’s crude oil was exported through the pipeline from Abu Dhabi yesterday but this is expected to increase to 50 per cent or one million barrels a day by July 1, Dr. Numan Ashour, A UAE based economist, told Gulf News.

            The pipeline ends the UAE’s total dependence on the vital Gulf shipping artery which Iran has threatened to block as Western sanctions on its oil exports have tightened.

            It will secure safe transportation of the UAE’s oil exports, cut insurance costs and guarantee uninterrupted oil revenue flowing into the country in the face of Iranian threats or in case of war, analysts said.

            “It is significant first because it reduces reliance on a troubled Hormuz and gives the UAE the chance to continue a major part of its exports unimpeded. Secondly, it will contribute to making Fujairah a major oil terminal as it will pull additional storage and handling projects and a well- sophisticated refinery in the near future,” Saadallah Al Fathi, former head of the Energy Studies Department in OPEC Secretariat in Vienna, said in an email to Gulf News.

            The pipeline is likely to reduce the UAE’s transport costs, said Ashour.

            “The 360-km pipeline with a single 48-inch diameter also reduces shipping costs for the UAE’s oil exports because shippers charge a insurance premiums based on war risk for entering the Gulf Waters,” he said.

            Other Gulf OPEC producers Kuwait and Qatar will continue to rely on shipping through the Strait to export fuel amid escalating tensions in the region.

Politically, the pipeline is a strategic asset to the UAE.

            “It will show Iran that the countries of the region will not take its threats lightly and that they have the means to reduce the damage if ever it occurs. It is also an invitation to Iran to follow a cooperative policy rather than force other countries into expensive means to deny Iran the possibility of threatening their exports,” said Al Fathi.  – Gulf News

UAE, UK meet to further boost ties

            The UAE and the United Kingdom have discussed ways and means to enhance and consolidate further the relationship that exists between the two countries, especially in the areas of combating money laundering, terrorist financing and related economic and financial crimes.

            Both the sides met in Rome on the sidelines of the third Plenary meeting of FATF XXIII. The meeting was attended by members of a delegation from the National Anti-Money Laundering Committee, or NAMLC, representing the Dubai Police General Headquarters, the General Directorate of State Security in Dubai, State Security in Abu Dhabi and the Federal Customs Authority from the UAE side.

            The UAE Central Bank on Saturday announced that the meeting was held to enhance strategic relationships with friendly countries on matters of global concern. The UAE delegation was headed by Abdulrahim Mohamed Al Awadi, executive director and head of the Anti-Money Laundering and Suspicious Cases Unit at the UAE Central Bank.

            The NAMLC delegation highlighted the workshops and trainings conducted jointly with UK authorities and others on AML/CFT for all stakeholders, which reflected UAE’s commitment to international cooperation on matters of global concern. They discussed enhancement of cooperation and coordination between the authorities concerned in the UAE and their counterparts in the UK. They also talked about getting feedback on the level of cooperation between the financial intelligence units of both countries.

            Holding joint workshops for all stakeholders was also discussed with regard to capacity building on AML/CFT including on the revised FATF recommendations adopted in February 2012 and on other international instruments and related topics.

            Both the countries also agreed on the exchange of information on suspected illicit financial flows which may occur between the UAE and the UK. – Khaleej Times

Dubai makes strong progress with drop in credit risk: Analyst

            Dubai’s default risk dropped almost four times more than the Middle East average this month as a series of debt repayment agreements showed government-related companies are benefiting from an economic recovery.

            The cost of insuring the emirate’s debt for five years retreated 40 basis points in June to 355 yesterday, according to data provider CMA. That compares with an 11 basis-point decline in average credit default swaps in the Middle East to 320, while contracts for the Group of 10 nations fell 15 basis points in the period to 150, data compiled by Bloomberg show.

            Jebel Ali Free Zone, a business park operator in Dubai under Dubai World, and DIFC Investments are among companies that have refinanced debt. Investors regard these deals as evidence that Dubai is living up to pledges that its companies would repay debt without state help as economic growth accelerates, pushing bond yields to record lows. “All cylinders are firing and Dubai is definitely making strong progress with its deleveraging efforts,” Gus Chehayeb, a Dubai-based researcher on Middle East credit markets at Exotix, said by phone.

            Jebel Ali Free Zone raised US$650 million on June 12 by selling seven-year Islamic bonds to help repay a Dh7.5 billion (US$2 billion) sukuk ahead of its November maturity. The company, which has US$2.7 billion of debt maturing through 2019, is also arranging a US$1.2 billion Islamic loan to repay the sukuk. DIFC Investments obtained a US$1.04 billion syndicated facility from a group of banks to help pay a US$1.25 billion Islamic bond due this month.

            The yield on Jebel Ali’s seven per cent sukuk due 2019 fell 62 basis points since they started trading last week to 6.38 per cent at 4:36 pm in Dubai, data compiled by Bloomberg show. The yield on the Dubai government’s 6.396 per cent Islamic bonds due November 2014 plunged 47 basis points this month to 3.65 per cent.

            The emirate’s US$82 billion economy, which relies on trade and hospitality for more than a third of gross domestic product, benefited from 10 per cent growth in visitors last year. – Bloomberg

Dh1,742.1 billion total bank assets at end of April, says Central Bank

            The Central Bank announced that total bank assets increased by Dh 0.7 billion to reach Dh1,742.1 billion, at the end of April.  It also added that money supply M0 (currency in circulation + currency at banks) remained at Dh53.6 billion at the end of April.

            Money supply aggregate M1 (currency in circulation plus monetary deposits, i.e., current accounts and call accounts at banks) increased by 2.1%, from Dh280.2 billion at the end of March 2012 to Dh286.1 billion at the end of April of the same year.

            Money supply aggregate M2 which comprises of M1 and quasi-monetary deposits (resident time and savings deposits in Dirhams, commercial prepayments in Dirhams and resident deposits in foreign currencies), decreased by 2.4%, from Dh880.4 billion at the end of March 2012 to Dh859.2 billion at the end of April of the same year.

            Money supply aggregate, M3 (M2 plus government deposits at bank operating in the UAE as well as at the Central Bank) decreased by 1.1%, from Dh1,078.2 billion at the end of March to Dh1,066.3 billion at the end of April of the same year.

            Total bank deposits decreased by 0.6% during the month of April 2012 to close at Dh1,138.9 billion. Meanwhile, total bank loans and advances (net of provisions and interest in suspense) decreased by 0.2% to reach Dh1,072.3 billion. During the first 4 months of 2012, intermediary monetary aggregate M2 increased by 4.0%, while bank loans and advances increased by 0.1% and bank deposits by 6.5%. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Ahmed bin Saeed: Emirates Airline to receive 4 Airbus A380s soon

            H.H Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group has said Emirates Airline will soon receive four Airbus A380 aircraft as part of an order. The Airline will arrange for about US$1 billion in financing for the four aircraft. A total of fifty eight A380-800s (superjumbos) have been ordered so far by the carrier. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Adnec hopes to ExCeL at Olympics

            Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (Adnec) is hoping the London Olympics this summer will help the emirate to compete for a bigger share of the global conference and events industry.

Adnec is preparing to host tens of thousands of visitors a day for the Games at the vast convention centre it owns in the British capital.

            ExCeL London, which Adnec acquired for Dh2.3 billion (US$626.1 million) in 2008, is one of the largest venues for the Games.

            "It is also the only venue to host an Olympic event every single day of the Games," Adnec said, adding it was expected to attract more than 70,000 visitors each day.

            The centre is hosting seven Olympic events including boxing, wrestling, judo, table tennis and fencing. Six Paralympic events are also being held at the venue. A global television audience of up to 4 billion viewers is expected to watch the Olympics, which start on July 27.

            Adnec has ploughed substantial investment into the exhibition centre, located in the Docklands area, ahead of the Games. This includes a £165m (Dh944.6m) extension of the building, which increased its size by 50 per cent. Adnec also built an Aloft hotel at the venue.

            "The impact of this investment goes further than the London 2012 Games," Adnec said.

"It has meant ExCeL London has been able to compete for a larger number of events, and events of larger scale, too. This has already had a positive economic ripple effect on the city of London."

            The events sector, estimated to be worth some US$300bn a year globally, is also intended to play an important role in Abu Dhabi's plans to attract 7.9 million hotel guests a year by 2030. There is stiff competition, with Dubai and Qatar, among others, also vying for their share of the market.

            "The benefits of this investment have been mutual," said Adnec. "ExCeL London helps to promote Abu Dhabi as a destination for … international events."

            A total of 231 events were held at Adnec last year compared with 148 in 2010, the company reported. It is investing Dh8bn in developing the Capital Centre exhibition district in Abu Dhabi, with several hotels, offices and residential buildings.

            Adnec is also developing the Dh3.5bn Al Ain Convention Centre district, designed to have conference facilities, hotels, and residential and commercial buildings. – The National

UAE opens 40 schools in Pakistan

            Swat - Upon the directives of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of UAE, the UAE Project to Assist Pakistan has accomplished 40 world-class schools and institutes and handed them over to the local authorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan.

            Nearly 21,000 boy and girls have already started classes.

            A grand opening ceremony was held at one of the boys' school in the presence of Abdullah Khalifa Al Ghafli, Director of the Project, Major General Zahir Shah, Commander of the GOC 45th Engineers Division of the Pakistani Armed Forces, a group of Pakistani army commanders and senior government officials.

            Al Ghafli and the senior accompanying civilian and military attendants unveiled the memorial plaque declaring the official opening of the school and then paid tribute to President Khalifa for the grant which constitutes a necessary, qualitative addition for improving and upgrading the education sector infrastructure in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. They also took a tour of the school building where they inspected classes, scientific and computer laboratories, sports facilities and other support services. They also met with the school principal and teaching and administrative staff.

            Al Ghafli also opened another school for girls and toured its various sections.

            The Project, which focuses on four major sectors: education, public health, roads and bridges, comes within the framework of the good efforts by the UAE to help Arab and Islamic countries as one of the leading donors in the field of humanitarian aid and international development around the world.

During the ceremony school bags were distributed to the learners as part of the 30,000 bag programme launched by the Project to assist needy students across Pakistan.

            Abdullah Al Ghafli, Director of the Project, told Emirates News Agency (WAM) that ,'' It's a great honour for us to implement directives and initiatives of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan with a humanitarian and development touch in education for the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. The initiative underlines Sheikh Khalifa's determination to extend assistance to students so as to get learning facilities in an ideal environment.'' Al Ghafli indicated that the UAE President's directives had brought to life modern educational facilities worth US$ 27.6 million accommodating up to 28,000 students. The Project has built and rebuilt 35 schools and colleges, two model schools, 40 primary to secondary schools, 11 technical  technological and vocational colleges and institutes.

            He announced that the Project has already started implementing directives of the UAE President for construction of two model schools in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and South Waziristan, with each school costing US$500,000.

            He added that the educational facilities had been carried out in different parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, South Waziristan and Bajaur, the areas where schools were destroyed and due to lack of nearby schools, students had to take a long journey to join schools in other remote regions.

            He lauded the construction of these schools as a ''remarkable achievement'' to the UAE and its prudent leadership in significantly and efficiently contributing to the development of education infrastructure in Pakistan

            Educators and guardians praised the timely UAE humanitarian project saying the UAE President's initiatives had provided the proper learning environment to underprivileged students, and painted faces of students, parents and educators with smile and joy.

            They said the Sheikh Khalifa's humanitarian initiatives would build and develop the Pakistan human being academically, intellectually and culturally. The added that these educational institutions will prepare the Pakistani children to face future challenges skilfully.

            Noting the vast difference between the old and modern schools built by the UAE Project to Assist Pakistan, they said the new one stand as educational-friendly facilities providing big stimulate to both students and teachers to pursue their learning pathway. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

UAE pledges Dh500m in aid to Yemen

            The UAE has launched a donation campaign to help Yemen in a time of national crisis. The multi tasked campaign includes a telethon to be conducted on June 29.

            The campaign is aimed at providing aid and food supplies to the nation struck by near catastrophic food shortages throughout the country.

            The Red Crescent Authority (RCA) announced on Saturday the launch of a campaign to raise additional money to support Yemen.

            RCA’s campaign will be launched on June 29, in cooperation with the Khalifa Bin Zayed Humanitarian Foundation and the Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Foundation.

            “Plans are already in place to begin collecting donations in ten RCA branches and over 200 locations across the Emirates, including shopping malls and supermarkets. In addition to financial donations, food, clothing and other needed items will be collected,” Fahd Abdul Rahman, Deputy Secretary General for Resource Development at the Red Crescent told Gulf News.

            “An official delegation from RCA is ready to go to Yemen to conduct a field study to determine the needs and urgencies, and to put in place plans to prioritise meeting the needs of the Yemeni people,” he added.

            An official from the UAE Armed Forces told Gulf News that the Armed Forces are ready to provide aeroplanes to airlift food and urgently needed material to Yemen whenever required.

            Yemeni Prime Minister Mohammad Salem Basindwa expressed his gratitude over the announced assistance.

            “The Yemenis are grateful to UAE’s move to reach out to them in these times of difficulties,” said Basindwa.

            Participants in the Friends of Yemen meeting that took place in May, and which included many world countries, pledges to raise US$4 billion (about Dh140 billion) for development and humanitarian projects in the country.

            At least 10 million Yemenis, some 44 per cent of the population, do not get “enough food to eat and one in three children was severely malnourished, “the delegates at the Friends of Yemen meeting were told.

Near famine

            The United Nations said that the food crisis has reached a catastrophic level in Yemen, where over half a million people have been displaced. Highly affected are children, many of whom are nearing famine.

            “In children under five, 58 per cent are severely malnourished. We are at the stage where we will see a famine like in the Horn of Africa, unless we intervene now,” Geert Cappelaere, Director of Unicef’s operations in Yemen, told Gulf News.

            Earlier this month, President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan has approved Dh500 million in aid to Yemen.

            The funds are committed to buy important food items such as sugar, cooking oil, baby milk powder, canned food or rice, and distribute it directly among the hungry and needy people of Yemen.

            Distribution outlets in different regions in Yemen are being set up to expedite delivery to where its most needed.  – Gulf News

Doing it for the dugongs

            There’s one big problem with tagging a dugong - they are very, very fat. Graceful, yes; beautiful, yes but it’s hard to clip a tag on them because the fat doesn’t give anything to pin the tag on.

            That’s one of the problems Dr Himansu Das of the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi’s biodiversity management sector has been facing recently.

            He’s part of a UAE team that has been working closely with experts from Australia to protect declining numbers of dugongs, which the International Union for Conservation of Nature labels “vulnerable” because of declining numbers of the species.

            The dugong is a large marine mammal that survives on seagrasses found off the coast of the UAE, Oman, Australia and other countries with a warm climate. It has a dolphin-like tail and uses its small forelimbs to manoeuvre.

            Dr Das has been up in a spotter helicopter looking for dugongs as part of a major study of their habitat and breeding patterns off the UAE coast. Of the difficulties in tagging a dugong, he explained: “It takes 10 to 15 people to tag them. One mistake and you lose the chance.

            “With a shark, you can simply press down and the tag stays on. With a dugong, we had to tie the tags around their tail, so that it trails after them on a chord.”

            Dr Das and a team from Charles Darwin University in Australia have been tracking the UAE dugongs and have found them in two areas, Al Yasat Island and Marawah marine reserve, both of which have a plentiful supply of seagrasses.

            The team started on April 25, caught their first dugong on April 26, had no luck for a few days then caught two on April 29 and went through another dugong lull before finding the another one on May 1.

            “The boats have to chase the dugong into shallow water, where they can be captured, without causing them too much stress,” continued Dr Das. “It’s not an easy task.”

            Dr Das and the Australian team know from previous studies that dugongs are easier to spot in the winter, when the seagrasses are more plentiful.

            They have also learned that dugongs are becoming more scattered because of environmental damage to seagrasses. By far their biggest problem, said Dr Das, is fishing nets, which can have a devastating effect on dugong populations, especially as they are such slow breeders.

            The more fish populations decline, the more fishermen are entering seagrass areas to find fish and the more dugongs are getting caught in nets.

            The research team tagged the animals close to the Qatar border so they can study the international migration of the animals in and out of the UAE coastline and learn how best to protect their habitat. “Coastal development is definitely having an effect on their populations in the Gulf,” said Dr Das.

            “The more we build over or destroy the sea grass, the more stress it will put on the dugong breeding population.”

The UAE has signed a UN memorandum that requests countries with dugong populations do all they can to save them.

“The memo calls for as many corrective measures as possible,” said Dr Das. “We are taking a lead on this and hope to ensure their populations survive for many generations to come.” – 7Days

Conservation study to take place at Fujairah's Wadi Wurayah

            The Wadi Wurayah National Park in Fujairah is set to undergo a baseline vegetation study to help conserve the area's rare plants.

            The study will be undertaken by Emirates Wildlife Society in association with WWF (EWS-WWF), Fujairah Municipality sponsored by long-term partner the HSBC Bank.

            The study will uncover key information regarding the wadi's trees, map and assess the current vegetation and help EWS-WWF and Fujairah Municipality better understand the value of the vegetation for the species living in the area.

            Aided by HSBC volunteers, the team will put in place measures to protect tree saplings.

Ida Tillisch, Acting Director General of EWS-WWF stated: "Wadi Wurayah is of considerable ecological significance providing a habitat for more than 500 species, recorded in the area. Some of these species are among the rarest found in the UAE and the protection of the wadi has been a vital first step to ensure this unique area will be preserved for future generations."

            The wadi is home to a rich diversity of rare and endangered species including trees, for example the Sidr and Shuh trees that are indigenous to the UAE and a vital part of Wadi Wurayah's natural habitat. In addition, both trees are an important food source and shelter for much of the wildlife living in the area including the Blanford fox, Arabian Tahr, Caracals, birds and bees.

            Tillisch added: "Through this baseline study we seek to better understand the condition and capacity of the vegetation in the area. This will help put the right measures in place to ensure its on-going protection and preservation in-line with an overall management plan for the area."

            In March 2009, Wadi Wurayah was declared a Mountain Protected Area by H.H. Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Fujairah following a three-year assessment. – 7Days

Mohammed bin Rashid meets Queen Elizabeth II

            London - Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum met here yesterday afternoon Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom and Common Wealth at the sideline of the Royal Ascot Horse Racing Festival 2012. Sheikh Mohammed and Queen Elizabeth II exchanged cordial conversation on the horse racing festivals in the UAE and Britain, and their significance in boosting this original sports locally and internationally. Present were H. H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and wife of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, HRH. Princess Haya bint Hussein.  – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Masdar Institute, IRENA and stakeholders officially release UAE Solar Atlas at Rio+20 Earth Summit

            Rio De Janeiro-Brazil - Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, the Abu Dhabi-headquartered International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), and other collaboration partners yesterday jointly announced the official commissioning of the UAE Solar Atlas. The beta version of the Atlas was released earlier in April 2012.

            The data on solar energy will be freely available online from early 2013 and can be accessed by government organisations or private enterprises for assessing the technical feasibility of any proposed renewable energy project. The data would also be fed into IRENA's global geo-referenced renewable energy (RE) potentials database.

            The announcement was made on the sidelines of the Rio+20 Earth Summit 2012 that is being held from 20-22 June in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Six days of open-ended informal intercessional were also held in the build-up to the Summit, including the third and final Preparatory Meeting.

            A delegation from Masdar Institute is actively participating in the summit as part of the overall Masdar initiative. Masdar Institute is part of the UAE Pavilion that also hosts Masdar and other Mubadala entities. The Solar Atlas is prominently displayed for the benefit of the visitors and stakeholders.

            Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Special Envoy for Energy '&' Climate Change, United Arab Emirates, and CEO of Masdar, said: "The official launch of the UAE Solar Atlas comes at a time when investment in solar energy is witnessing an uptrend. This multi-stakeholder initiative will immensely help investors to assess risks and commercial viability before implementing new solar energy projects. Masdar is proud to be part of this project that will provide further momentum to greater adoption of clean energy sources." Adnan Amin, Director-General of IRENA, said: "The official release of the UAE Solar Atlas at the Rio Summit signifies the remarkable commitment of the global partner organisations in bringing clean energy closer to the community. This Internet-based platform is designed to raise awareness of technology opportunities and serve as a repository for high quality renewable energy resource data, offering an avenue for those seeking to choose the solar energy route as part of their energy mix." Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President, Masdar Institute, said "The commissioning of the Solar Atlas ensures renewable energy markets regularly receive reliable and stable data on the annual solar irradiance. Such data can prove extremely valuable for deploying various technologies including roof or land area for photovoltaic cells. The MENA region offers abundant potential for tapping solar energy and we believe the UAE Solar Atlas, supported by the country's leadership, will encourage other countries in the region to implement renewable energy projects in this part of the world."

            The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken a leading role in initiating the national contribution to the IRENA Global Atlas Project. Other local stakeholders include the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, the Environment Agency-Abu Dhabi (EAD), UAE National Centre of Meteorology and Seismology (NCMS) and Masdar Power.

            International partners in the IRENA Global Atlas initiative include the Energy Research Centre (ERC) of the UK, ParisTech (France), the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) of the US, and the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP) of the World Bank.

            Dr Steve Griffith, Executive Director of Institute Initiatives, Masdar Institute, pointed out that the UAE Solar Atlas is part of the Global Atlas for Solar and Wind Energy project and developed by Masdar Institute's UAE Research Centre for Renewable Energy Mapping and Assessment. Dr. Hosni Ghedira, Director of the Centre, represents Masdar Institute, while Ali Nimer, Acting Director, Administration and Management Services, represents IRENA.

            A team of 12 researchers and engineers contributed to building profiles of solar and wind resource quality, land use, and grid connectivity in collaboration with local and international partners.

            Dr. Hosni Ghedira said that the UAE Research Centre for Renewable Energy Mapping and Assessment is mandated to develop the UAE solar and wind energy resource maps, in addition to developing regional knowledge and leadership in renewable energy assessment and mapping for the Arabian Peninsula and countries with similar climate, mainly in Africa.

            A robust satellite-based solar mapping tool developed and validated at the Centre was utilised for producing hourly/daily/yearly of three solar irradiance maps for the Solar Atlas. The accurate assessment of the three solar irradiance components helps to simulate the efficiency of available power generation technologies. An accurate assessment of the spatial distribution of solar resources, with detailed and bankable data for specific potential sites, is expected to help attract investments for creating new solar energy capacity.

            Dr. Hosni Ghedira added that collaborating on capacity development among stakeholders in participating countries, as well as assisting developing countries to build their renewable energy technology databases were the other aspects.

            The UAE Solar Atlas is the outcome of the agreement signed between Masdar Institute and IRENA. The agreement announced at the World Future Energy Summit 2012 in Abu Dhabi also covers exchange of information; joint implementation of project activities, analyses and research studies; as well as defining technical compatibility and methodological harmonisation and data transparency protocols for solar and wind data.

            For IRENA, the project is a model for its capacity-building activities in the developing world, and for augmenting its own capacity to generate and manage a global potentials atlas/database.

            The UAE Research Centre for Renewable Energy Mapping and Assessment at Masdar Institute aims to develop regional knowledge and leadership with participation and data-sharing opportunities for IRENA and the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) member states. The UAE Atlas project set up a team to achieve two objectives - to collect and combine existing databases on wind and solar potentials in the UAE into one open web-portal platform from which solar and wind energy maps can be accessed; and train university students and researchers in solar/wind resource mapping, both to run data collection and analysis and to continue education of future participants.

            Established as an on-going collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute 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 through education and research. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Sheikha Lubna stresses UAE's keenness on supporting international efforts in promoting sustainability at Rio de Janiero

            Rio de Janeiro - Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, has arrived in Rio de Janiero as head of the United Arab Emirates delegation to take part in Rio+20 United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development.

            She is backed by a delegation representative of more than 20 public and private sector entities from across the country that share the nation's vision for a green economy and are actively working to advance the Rio+20 agenda in support of global sustainable development for all.

            Sheikha Lubna on the occasion said: "Seeing our nation's progress towards sustainable energy over the past four decades makes me proud of what we've achieved in such a short time. The legacy of responsibility instilled on us by our founding father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan has never been clearer than it is today." She added: "And yet we are inspired to do more. We have come to Rio to be active participants in the global effort to put the world on a sustainable path, and look forward to sharing with the world how a small and dynamic society is innovating and empowering to build a sustainable future for all." At Rio+20, Sheikha Al Qasimi will address heads of state and world environmental leaders during the official Rio+20 high level plenary session tomorrow. Her remarks will reflect the UAE's pursuits in the Rio+20 negotiations to ensure the United Nations' text negotiations align with the country's economic, environmental and societal sustainability priorities.

            "The UAE remains hopeful the world can reach international consensus on ambitious Sustainable Development Goals, build upon concrete initiatives such as Sustainable Energy for All, and promote access to environmental and societal data and information. Our delegation stands ready to move these outcomes forward, and to share our nation's vision for a green economy and our commitment to sustainable growth," Sheikha Al Qasimi stated.

            "Sheikha Lubna gives powerful voice to our country at Rio+20 because innovation does not end at our borders. Under her patronage, we are eager to share how the advancements we are making at home can empower others through the incubation of advanced clean technologies, cross-border economic investments, and critical development assistance around the world," said Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Special Envoy of Foreign Affairs for Energy '&' Climate Change, and Chief Executive Officer of Masdar. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Ajman Ruler establishes e-Government

            His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, has issued an Emiri Decree, setting up the Ajman electronic Government.

            The move aims at facilitating the electronic transformation and enabling the government departments to benefit from the latest technologies and contribute to the digital society development, coordinate with government institutions on preparation, setting up and developing systems and programmes of the information technology.

            According to the decree No. 17 for 2012, as of the date of enforcement, the department will be set up under the name of Ajman Electronic Government, and attached to the Executive Council. The new department will enjoy corporate body and legal capacity to enable it carry out its terms of reference in accordance with the provisions of the decree. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Dubai’s first Four Seasons hotel to open by 2014

            Global luxury hotel chain Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts will open its first hotel in Dubai on Jumeirah Beach by the middle of 2014, the Canada-based company announced yesterday.

            The Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, as the hotel will be called, is owned by the Dubai-based Bright Start. H and H Investment and Development is the appointed development manager.

            About 10 per cent of construction on the 237-room hotel has already been completed to date since work began in April 2012, said Shahab Lutfi, chief executive of H and H Investment and Development said.  He refused to disclose the value of the project.

            “We’ve been working towards establishing a presence in Dubai for many, many years,” said Kathleen Taylor, the president and chief executive of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts said. “As they say, good things come to those who wait.”

            This is Four Seasons’ second attempt to enter the Dubai market.

            The hotelier, positioned in the ultra-luxury segment of the market, has been looking for an appropriate location since a Four Seasons hotel project in Festival City’s Al Badia Golf Club complex was called off by developer Al-Futtaim Group Real Estate in June 2009 amid the global economic downturn.

            Located on the northern end of Jumeirah beach, the new hotel sits on 11-acres of waterfront and is two kilometres away from Dubai’s commercial district.

            It will have an Andalusian-style exterior and contemporary interior with Arab influences, Lutfi noted.

            The hotel will target business and leisure travelers, Taylor said.

            With 237 rooms, including 49 suites, it offers 270 metres of beachfront, three restaurants, function spaces, a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts and a private beach club.

            The hotel was designed by international architect firm WATG and the interior design by San Francisco-based BAMO.

            The UAE’s first Four Seasons hotel however will open in Abu Dhabi in late 2014 or 2015, said Scott Woroch, vice president of worldwide development at Four Seasons. 


Regional pipeline


            The Four Seasons plans to double its scale in the next five years in the region, Woroch said.

It has properties in the pipeline for the GCC including Abu Dhabi, Oman, Bahrain, Jeddah, Qatar and Kuwait for the next two years, he added.

            “The Middle East and GCC, Asia Pacific, India and Latin America are the most vibrant areas for development today in the pipeline,” he said.

            The Middle East and Africa contribute about 25 per cent of the chain’s global revenue, he added.

            Business in the region continued to perform “extremely well” in countries outside the reach of the Arab Spring, said Taylor.

            Performance in some Arab Spring countries has recovered now compared to last year, with Egypt recovering half way back to pre-revolutionary levels, she told Gulf News.

The hotelier will open eight new hotels in 2012, including three in China, said Woroch. – Gulf News

Two new DIFC laws enacted

            The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), the independent regulator of all financial and ancillary services conducted through the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Thursday announced that His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, has enacted two new DIFC Laws.

            These Laws are the Markets Law 2012 and the Regulatory Law Amendment Law 2012, which are both administered by the DFSA..

            The new Markets Law 2012, which replaces the current Markets Law 2004, brings about a number of changes including changes to prospectus disclosure, what activities constitute an offer, market misconduct provisions and corporate governance.

            The prospectus disclosure changes include the requirement for a prospectus to be formally approved by the DFSA before it can be used to make an offer of securities to the public, or to have the securities referred to in the prospectus admitted to the official list of securities maintained by the DFSA.

            The new laws are designed to promote investor protection in a manner that better aligns the DIFC to international standards, particularly European Union (EU) requirements and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

            The amendments to the Regulatory Law 2004 support the changes brought about by the new Markets Law regime, for example, the law now provides for the DFSA to undertake regulatory oversight of auditors of DIFC incorporated companies listed on an Authorised Market Institution (AMI) or any other exchange.

            The amendments also make changes to the recognition powers of the DFSA with respect to cross-border trading including recognition of alternative trading systems, the quasi exchanges which are developing an increasingly important role in trading of financial instruments on the international capital markets.

            The changes permit non-DIFC exchanges and clearing houses meeting certain regulatory standards to provide access to their facilities to persons located in the DIFC and permit non-DIFC firms meeting certain regulatory requirements trade investment products on a DIFC exchange from a place of business outside the DIFC.

            “These changes bring our markets regime into closer alignment with the EU requirements while retaining features necessary to accommodate regional needs and circumstances,” said Ian Johnston, Chief Executive Officer of the DFSA

            The DFSA’s supervisory oversight has also been expanded to include auditors for companies incorporated in the DIFC which seek listing on an exchange in the DIFC or in another jurisdiction.      “These changes will also allow the DFSA to meet Principle 8 of the Core Principles of Independent Audit Regulators by the International Forum for Independent Audit Regulators, of which the DFSA is a member,” said Johnston

            The new Markets Law 2012 and the Regulatory Law Amendment Law 2012 were enacted on June 7, 2012, and come into force on July 5, 2012. – Gulf News

Abu Dhabi spending at all time high

            Abu Dhabi, buoyed by a surge in oil revenue, boosted public spending to an all time high in 2011 and the increase was in both current and development expenditure, according to the IMF.

            The increase was in both current expenditure and development spending, which climbed to its highest level of more than Dh7 billion as the emirate appeared to be pursuing post-crisis fiscal expansionary measures.

            Despite a sharp rise in oil income, the emirate’s fiscal balance recorded a deficit albeit less than half the 2010 shortfall.

            From around Dh260.2 billion in 2010, actual public expenditure swelled to a record high of around Dh314.7 billion in 2011, the Washington-based International Monetary Fund said in a study on the UAE.

            Revenue also surged to Dh280.9 billion from Dh192.1 billion after a sharp rise in hydrocarbon export earnings to Dh261.4 billion from Dh169.2 billion.

            The report showed the fiscal balance recorded an actual deficit of around Dh33.8 billion in 2011 compared with Dh68 billion in 2010.

            Abu Dhabi, the main oil producer in the UAE, has recorded fiscal gaps over the past three years because of a post-crisis expansionary financial policy intended to cushion the downward pressure of the 2008 global distress on its economy.

            The deficit grew to its highest level of Dh116.7 billion in 2009 after a sharp fall in crude prices depressed the emirate’s revenue to Dh147 billion from Dh305 billion in 2008. Despite the fall, spending soared to Dh263 billion from Dh187 billion.

            The deficit during 2009-2011 was in contrast with large surpluses recorded in the previous four years, with the surplus hitting a record Dh118.4 billion in 2008.

            On the revenue side, the IMF report estimated Abu Dhabi’s investment income, mostly from overseas assets, dipped to around Dh12.2 billion in 2011 from Dh15.7 billion in 2010. The income stood at about Dh19.7 billion in 2009 and was as high as Dh28.4 billion in 2008 and a peak of Dh39.5 billion in 2007.

            The report gave no reason for the decline but the foreign assets of Abu Dhabi and other Gulf oil producers were severely hit by the 2008 global crisis.

            The report showed development spending climbed to its second highest level of Dh27.3 billion in 2011 after hitting a record high of Dh27.6 billion in 2009. The 2011 level was higher than the 2010 spending of Dh23.7 billion.

            A breakdown showed housing received the lion’s share of development allocations, standing at around Dh7.2 billion, the highest ever.

            Allocations were estimated at Dh5 billion for transport and communications, around Dh3 billion for electricity and water and Dh2.2 billion for health. – Emirates 24|7

UAE records 15% surge in outward remittances

            The UAE recorded an ‘extremely high annual growth rate of 15 per cent in outward remittances’ which has helped to lessen the pressure of currency appreciation, experts said in new study released on Tuesday.

            While remittance flows to countries in the Middle East and Africa region grew by 2.6 per cent, the slowest among all developing regions due to the uncertainties and civil unrest triggered by the Arab Spring, the GCC countries accounted for more than 25 per cent of inward remittances to the various countries in the region, said the study without giving specific details on remittance value.

            The study titled, ‘Economic Impact of Uprisings on the Mena Region,’ was sponsored by Western Union, a leader in money transfer and global payment services.

            The study observed that an upsurge in oil prices, notably after oil production in Libya was affected, positively impacted the GCC countries.

            The rise in oil prices implies growing surpluses in the government budgets of GCC countries which will enable higher public spending, and help GCC members to maintain the level of employment in their economies without negative impacts on immigrants status and remittances flows. However, GCC countries stock markets were slightly affected, as were their direct and indirect investments in Mena countries that experienced revolutions. However, the impact was mild, when compared to what happened to their investments and sovereign wealth funds during the 2008-09 financial crises, experts pointed out in their study.

            The study observed that the economic performance and future economic prospects of GCC countries are favourable and have positive implications for remittance flows to migration-sending countries and could play an important role in relaxing foreign-exchange constraints in those countries.

            “Despite the uprisings, the Middle East and Africa region is still witnessing moderate economic growth. The evolution and changes in the political and economic structures of various countries have given rise to certain opportunities,” said Jean Claude Farah, Western Union’s senior vice-president for the Middle East and Africa.

            “The GCC countries have been preferred destinations for recent migrants and we have started to witness an increase in Arab migrants from countries like Yemen and Egypt. The GCC countries sailed through the period of regional unrest nearly unscathed while also experiencing robust economic activity,” said Farah.

            The study, highlighting the economic ramifications of the uprisings, was conducted by Dr Ahmed Ghoneim, Professor of Economics at Cairo University, with assistance from Cairo-based, Heba El-Deken, senior economist at American University and Asmaa Ezzat, assistant lecturer at Cairo University.

            The study noted that labour markets in the countries that experienced revolutions are facing major disruptions, with increasing rates of unemployment, exacerbated in some cases by large-scale return of migrants from other troubled countries.

            Higher oil prices have also negatively affected major oil importing Arab countries, especially their balance of payments and government budget deficits which in turn affects the flow of remittances to some Mena countries, such as Egypt and Tunisia and further deepen the problem of unemployment.

            The study stressed the need to enhance good governance mechanisms as many of the economic and political problems that the region’s economies have experienced in the last ten years have stemmed from a lack of transparency and accountability.

            “The development paradigm in Mena countries also needs to be revisited; monetary and fiscal policies should continue to aim at disciplining the core functions of the economies, but their focus should be on inclusive growth that prioritises employment, income distribution and poverty reduction, and encompass social considerations as well,” expert said.

            They said the financial sector in the region needed “serious and rapid reform to attain several objectives, including widening access to credit for SMEs as it can help significantly in creating employment, and addressing the issue of non-performing loans, which represents a major problem in the region.”

They warned that inflation is expected to rise sharply in all Mena countries and monetary policy alone is unlikely to be able to accommodate such inflationary pressures. – Khaleej Times

Taqa unit secures US$1.4bn debt for expansion

            Abu Dhabi-based Taqa, or the Abu Dhabi National Energy Co., said in a statement yesterday that Jorf Lasfar Energy Company, its wholly owned subsidiary, had secured US$1.4bn in financing for expansion of its power plant in Morocco.

            In a statement posted on the Abu Dhabi Exchange, Taqa said Jorf Lasfar “has signed financing arrangements for US$1.4 billion equivalent of 16-year, multi-currency non-recourse project financing for the 700 MW expansion of Taqa’s Jorf Lasfar coal-powered power complex in Morocco.”

            Taqa added Jorf Lasfar is the largest coal-fired power complex in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region, and the first independent power producer (IPP), in Morocco.

            “The expansion is a key infrastructure project for Morocco’s energy strategy intended to meet the needs of ONEE (Office National de l’Electricité & de l’Eau Potable) and to increase the country’s installed electricity generation capacity. The 700 MW expansion will bring Jorf Lasfar’s gross capacity to 2,056 MW,” Taqa said in the statement.

            BNP Paribas, Société Générale and Standard Chartered Bank were the mandated lead arrangers for the international debt facilities, while Morocco’s Banque Centrale Populaire (BCP) was the mandated lead arranger for the Moroccan dirham credit facilities, representing approximately 40 per cent of the total debt, Taqa said.

            In addition, Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), Nippon Export and Investment Insurance (NEXI) and Export-Import bank of Korea (Korea Eximbank) are to provide direct loans and loan guarantees for more than 50 per cent of the total project debt, the statement said, adding that this was the first time that the Japanese and Korean credit agencies have participated in a project finance transaction in Morocco. – Emirates 24|7

DEWA launches Dh144 million Main Substation

            As part of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority's (DEWA's) ongoing strategy of developing and improving the efficiency and reliability of its infrastructure and services, it has commissioned, earlier this month, a state-of-the-art main substation in the south Jebel Ali Free Zone to support the 132 kV high voltage power transmission network to manage customer requirements in the area.

            The cost of the newly-established 132/11 kV station with a transmission capacity of 150 MVA is approximately Dh108.5 million. The project also involved laying 132 kV underground cables with a cost of Dh35.5 million.

            "Under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and with a view to strengthening Dubai's high-ranking status as a global hub for finance, trade and tourism, DEWA's efforts have been consistent in enhancing the reliability and capability of our networks through the implementation of vital infrastructure projects," said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD '&' CEO of DEWA.

            "This Dh144 million project will enhance DEWA's network capacity to transmit power to the south Jebel Ali Free Zone, with 4.75 kilometres of underground cables offering a voltage of 132 kV. It connects the new station to the main 132/11 kV substation in north Jebel Ali Free Zone, and the main 400/132 kV substation located in the south Jebel Ali Free Zone, guaranteeing constant and reliable services to all consumers at all times," he added.

            "These stations feature the latest and most advanced digital technology available for substations, which directly supports their reliability and facilitates the ambitious plans of Dubai in the construction and economic sectors. The upgrading of existing stations is only an extension of the main project, which involves the construction of 29 new substations with a voltage capacity of 132 KV," concluded Al Tayer. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

DP World rejects Yemen port claim

            Yemen's anti-corruption body has called for the cancellation of a contract with DP World, the Dubai company that operates the Port of Aden.

            The Supreme National Authority for Combating Corruption urged the country's cabinet to cancel the contract, citing a breach of contractual obligations, the state news agency Saba reported yesterday.

            The decision came after a panel found that DP World failed to carry out the first phase investment plan to develop the port of Aden "within the scheduled time frame".

            The Dubai ports operator established a partnership with the Yemen Gulf of Aden Ports Corporation in 2008, at the time committing some US$220 million (Dh808.1m) of investment over five years.

            "DP World rejects such unfounded and misleading accusations. We have met all contractual commitments with respect to the Aden port operations," DP World said in a statement.

            The anti-corruption authority has asked the Yemeni government to provide funding to implement what it describes as the stalled development works in the port and select a new operator. DP World owns a 33.4 per cent stake in Dubai & Aden Port Development, according to regulatory filings.

            Yemen's Aden container port has suffered a series of setbacks as a rising number of pirate attacks has diverted some container and tanker traffic to other locations. At the same time, industrial action by port workers has also disrupted operations. Last month, the port was paralysed by a strike lasting at least 10 days, Reuters reported, citing a union official.

            DP World's expanding footprint in the rival port of Djibouti may also be a factor in deteriorating relations.

            DP World is 80 per cent owned by the Government of Dubai through its Dubai World conglomerate. – The National

UAE stresses the important role played by ILO in promoting dialogue between parties to production

            The United Arab Emirates has asserted that the role played by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in promoting dialogue between the parties to production and protecting the balance in their relationship is of prime importance.

            In a state intervention made at the ILO headquarters in Geneva, the Undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Labour Humaid Rashid bin Dimas Al Suwaidi told the Chairman and members in the Board of Directors of the International Labour Organisation that the development of the ILO mechanisms requires continuous enhancement of the level of the dialogue between the parties to production, namely the government, the employer and the employee.

            "The ILO is distinguished from other international organisations in the sense that it promotes the dialogue between these parties in a way that it will protect their interests to serve the labour markets in the member states", said Deemas.

            He stressed the importance the next phase in the work of the organisation, especially in the light of the election of the new chairman and the various governing bodies.

            The International Labour Organisation (ILO) had voted the UAE to be a member of the organisation's board of directors for West Asian countries during the 100th session last year.

            On another level, the annual Conference of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) concluded its 101st session at the Palais des Nations and the ILO headquarters in Geneva with the participation of the UAE delegation headed by Minister of Labour Saqr Ghobash. The conference adopted new international labour standard on social protection and called for urgent action on youth employment.

            Deemas asserted "UAE's keenness to actively participate in ILO meetings to promote the country's position in international fora and to highlight the efforts and achievements in the field of organising and controlling the labour market in such a way that will equally protect the interests of the contractual workers and the employers". – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Ministry of Labours' fees, fines revised

            His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has issued a resolution revising the Ministry of Labour’s fees and fines.

Sheikh Mohammed issued Cabinet Resolution No. 10 for the year 2012, amending some of the administrative fines in Cabinet Resolution No. 27 for the year 2010. According to www.sheikhmohammed.ae, the new fines’ scheme will be effective from August 1.

            Delay in renewing a labour card for 60 days or more after its expiry will invite a fine of Dh1,000 per month even if the delay is only for less than a month, according to the new resolution. The fine for the failure to get a mission labour card issued even 30 days after the date of entry or renew it even seven days after its expiry is Dh100 per day. All these fines are effective from January 1, 2011.

            The companies having falsified Emiratisation records will invite a fine of Dh20,000 per employee and the same amount will be levied from the companies for providing incorrect information in the Wage Protection System (WPS) to evade or manipulate the regulations per case.

            Non-settlement of employee’s wage for 60 days will attract a fine of Dh5,000 per employee with the maximum of Dh50,000 if the case includes more than one employee. Firms forcing employees to sign documents showing that the payment of their dues was made will have to pay the same amount as fine. According to the new resolution, Dh20,000 is the fine per case for non-compliance with the labourers’ housing and accommodation regulations and for not employing the worker for a period exceeding two months. Charging the worker for the visa and employment fees or deducting such fees from his wage without any ad hoc law or legislation will attract a fine of Dh20,000. The same amount will be the fine if the firm doesn’t comply with the Emirati employment policies and procedures, doesn’t respond to the Ministry of Labour’s summons within the time frame specified by the ministry or submits false documents or information to the ministry. Not reporting absconding workers in compliance with the relevant rules and regulations and filing a malicious absconding report will also attract a fine of Dh20,000.

            The company will be fined Dh15,000 if it flouts the midday break rule. The failure to subscribe to the wage protection system, adhere to the professional health and safety standards, report work injuries, occupational diseases or a worker’s death to the ministry, and/or failure to follow medical hazards and emergency procedures will attract a fine of Dh10,000 per case. – Khaleej Times

Government to ensure price stability before Ramadan

            There will be no increase in the price of fruit and vegetables before and during the fasting month of Ramadan due to start next month.

            To cater to rise in demand during the Holy month, supplies are to be increased by more than 50 per cent according to a senior Consumer Protection Department official.

            “Fruit and vegetable vendors have agreed to resist from raising prices before Ramadan. We will also regularly inspect that the prices are maintained and not arbitrarily increased,” said Dr Hashem Al Nuaimi, Director of the Consumer Protection Department of the Ministry of Economy. Al Nuaimi, who held a meeting with the Suppliers of Fruits and Vegetables Committee on Wednesday, said violators of the price cap would get fined between Dh5,000 and Dh100,000.

            Prior to fixing the prices of basic commodities, the department has been conducting meetings with various outlets to prevent any rise in prices. Earlier this week, the Ministry of Economy said the UAE would fix prices of 1,650 basic commodities to the end of this year. In 2011, the number of such items was around 800.

            Consumers usually complain of outlets raising the cost just before they are fixed by the government prior to Ramadan.

            Al Nuaimi said the authorities would ensure any such malpractice would not take place and consumers would not suffer.

            He said people could lodge complaints if they find they are being overcharged and that these would be addressed.

            The department has also conducted meetings with fish traders in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to determine fish prices during Ramadan.

            An average rise of 20-30 per cent is recorded during the Holy month of Ramadan from Muslim families and authorities said people should resist from hoarding as supplies would be increased to cater to the demand.

            “The supplies would be increased by about 50 per cent,” said Al Nuaimi. – Gulf News

Second edition of Hamdan Photography Award announced

            The second edition of the Hamdan International Photography Award (Hipa) with a prize of US$120,000 (Dh440,777), the highest of its kind in the world, was announced on June 19.

            Held under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, the second edition, like its inaugural 2011 edition, aims to secure its place in the creative global arena. The award positions the emirate as a hub of culture and serves as a tool to promote its artistic vision, supporting photographers around the world, including Emirati talent.

            The new theme, ‘Beauty of Light’, also the category of the grand prize, requires submissions to illustrate the effective use of light. In addition, there are three more categories — General, Emirates, and Black and White, and two special awards to appreciate work towards photography and research in photography.

            Speaking to Gulf News, Sahar Al Zarei, Assistant Secretary General of Hipa, said that the award is reaching out to people across the world. “We will participate in international photography events leading up to the date of submission [September 1, 2012].”

            She explained that the award’s strategy is to nurture Emirati talent which has benefited from photography training facilities and associations launched in the past few years in the country. “In the early 1990s, we barely had any Emirati photographers. Last year almost 2,000 of the 6,000 selected entries were Emirati. At Hipa, we hope to tap this local talent and promote UAE exhibitions in the country and abroad, fostering cultural exchange between countries.”

            In the debut award, two winning contestants were disqualified because they violated the entry guidelines which state photographs that have previously won awards, or those that have been used for commercial purposes are not accepted. When asked whether there are measures to prevent such incidents from reoccurring this year, Sahar said that Hipa plans to increase efforts to help achieve best practice.

            “We have highlighted this rule. We also plan to raise awareness about the guidelines and promote the award in the coming months through road shows and exhibitions in the region and internationally in countries, including Germany, China, India, Washington, Bangladesh and Malaysia,” she said. – Gulf News

Thousands of prizes to be won at Al Qasba

            Al Qasba, Sharjah's premier tourist, leisure and cultural destination, is welcoming in the summer months with a range of thrilling giveaways and raffle draws to give all of their visitors the experience of being winners and the opportunity to experience the joy of summer with Etisalat - Eye of the Emirates.

            Sharjah's premier tourist destination has teamed up with a number of exciting sponsors to give their guests a chance to win a range of wonderful prizes. From the 15th of June to the 31st of July, visitors can buy a promotional package for only Dh100 that will give them four tickets to ride the Etisalat - Eye of the Emirates.  Speaking on the occasion, Hazem Sawaf, Marketing and Communications Director at Al Qasba Development Authority, said, "We are looking to give families the opportunity to be able to enjoy the school holidays through a host of promotions and discounts and the wide range of entertaining activities that Al Qasba has always been keen to organise during summer." A total of two thousand prizes will be distributed amongst visitors in Al Qasba this summer as part the promotional package that will contain. And visitors will be walking away with sweet treats from Maras Turka, beautifully brewed beverages from Caribou Coffee, mouth-watering meals from Nando's, buy one get one free boat rides, or free passes to Dreamland Aqua Park. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Mohammed bin Rashid wins European Endurance Race in Italy

            Rome - Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, was crowned, for second running year, champion of the 160-km European Endurance Race 2012 at Ancona race track in Italy. By this wonderful victory, Sheikh Mohammed will lead UAE riders to the World Endurance Championship 2012 in England next August. Last year, Sheikh Mohammed won the first round of the European Endurance Championship, staged in Verona, Italy.

            Sheikh Mohammed clocked in at 8:51:10 beating an elite of the world's rival riders. H. H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and H.H. Sheikh Majed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, came second and third respectively.  – Emirates News Agency, WAM

Summer fun kicks off in the Capital

            The annual Summer in Abu Dhabi (SIAD) festival was officially opened by the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (ADTCA) on Wednesday at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec).

            As in previous years, plenty of indoor fun, mostly for children and teenagers, is spread across 21,000 square metres, including an ice rink for shows.

            “All in all, we have 90 activities at Adnec this summer, including 10 rides and 18 skill games,” said Faisal Al Sheikh, events manager at the ADTCA.

            “For the first time, we have a live animal show as well, which we decided to do as a result of a last year visitors’ survey,” he told Khaleej Times.

            “Partially, we choose the attractions for SIAD based on the suggestions of our visitors, as we share our vision with them. Of course, we also keep an eye on what’s going on around the world in the show and entertainment business and select what we consider most suitable for our festival.” The live animal show is a standard circus act involving three sea lions, which runs three times a day.

            Another major attraction is the Ice Village, based on the story and characters of the Ice Age, where children get to play in artificial snow and meet the iconic Ice Age characters, including the squirrel.

            “We started this pattern last year, when we had the Smurf Village, which promoted the 2011 released The Smurfs movie. This summer, the Ice Village is aligned with the release of Ice Age 3 movie, which will be in the cinemas this August,” mentioned Al Sheikh. The Dingle Fingle Stunt Academy is showing some basic clown tricks in a daily show, while the now traditional heritage area is back, but only showcasing Emirati customs and traditions with daily handicrafts making workshops as well.

            Show World has seven different ice spectaculars and shows, based on famous fairytales - Snow White, Peter Pan, Cinderella, Ice Age, The Jungle Book, Beauty and the Beast and Louna, a famous Arab doll. They all run several times a day, at different dates, each show being about 45 minutes long, starting with Cinderella on Ice.

            A major partner of the ADTCA this year is the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, which is hosting a range of activities and workshops at SIAD-Adnec, as part of its Sport and Games Festival. Targeted at everyone from five to 35 years of age, these include judo, basketball, football, table tennis, tennis, badminton and golf. – Khaleej Times

Joy for Princess Haya's Joviality at Royal Ascot

            Her Highness Princess Haya Bint Hussain, wife of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, tasted success at Royal Ascot yesterday.

            Joviality gave her a 15th winner in Britain this season by beating favourite Chachamaidee in the Group Two Windsor Forest Stakes.

            Trainer John Gosden endured the extremes of racing in 24 hours when the horse gave him a lift after the fatal injury suffered by The Nile on Tuesday in the St James’ Palace Stakes.

He said: “It was a thrilling performance. We had a difficult day (on Tuesday) and it’s a strange game – it’s a game of vicissitudes.”

            Princess Haya will now bid for more glory as the UAE has an impressive list of contenders for today’s Group 1 Gold Cup. Her hopes rest with Gulf of Naples while Nehaam will represent Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance.

            He won the race back in 1990 with Ashal. But it is Sheikh Mohammed’s Godolphin stable who are most fancied to challenge last year’s winner Fame and Glory, who is owned by Dubai-based Fitri Hay.

            Saeed bin Suroor, who has won the Gold Cup with Classic Cliche, Kayf Tara (twice), and Papineau, trains Colour Vision and said: “He had a good blow out on Sunday and I am looking forward to seeing how he gets on, although he wouldn’t want the ground to be soft.”

            Frankie Dettori will be in the saddle while Godolphin also field the Mahmood Al Zarooni-trained Opinion Poll, who was last year’s runner-up.

            “I have been very happy with Opinion Poll so far this year and he looks better than ever,” said Al Zarooni. “He ran two very good races at Ascot last season and returns there in very good form.” - Sport 360°