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The United Arab Emirates has delivered another large shipment of humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza through its partnership with the American Near East Refugee Aid (ANERA). On [Date], 400 tonnes of critically needed food supplies arrived at the port of Ashdod in Israel from Larnaca, Cyprus. The food aid, which includes items like rice, flour and canned goods, will help address the dire humanitarian situation facing many Gazans. Poverty and unemployment levels in Gaza remain extremely high due to the ongoing blockade and periodic conflict. This shipment of food will go a long way in meeting the basic needs of families struggling with shortages and rising prices. The UAE remains committed to supporting all humanitarian efforts to alleviate the suffering of Palestinian civilians. Working closely with international organisations like ANERA allows the UAE to efficiently channel aid and ensure it reaches those most in need. Cyprus also played an integral role by facilitating the s...

Korea Western Power (KWP) has reached an agreement with Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) to develop a massive 1,500 megawatt (MW) solar photovoltaic power plant in Abu Dhabi - the largest single solar energy project ever awarded to a Korean company.  Located approximately 70km east of Abu Dhabi city, the Al Ajban Solar PV Park project will span an area of 20 million square meters, equivalent to around 2,850 soccer fields. Construction is set to commence in the second half of 2022 with commercial operations slated to begin in 2026.  The scale of the undertaking cannot be overstated - with a total investment of 1.3 trillion Korean won, it represents KWP's largest renewable energy investment to date. Once complete, the solar farm is expected to generate around 4,500 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually, powering tens of thousands of homes across Abu Dhabi with clean solar power.  In a major win for Korea's renewable expertise, KWP has signed a 30-year power pu...

The United Arab Emirates and Ukraine signed a landmark bilateral trade agreement last week that has the potential to significantly bolster economic ties between the two countries both during and after Ukraine's recovery from the war with Russia.  Dubbed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), the deal aims to liberalize trade in goods, services, investment and facilitate cooperation across multiple areas between the UAE and Ukraine. Some key aspects of the CEPA include: - Tariff Elimination: The agreement will eliminate or reduce tariffs on over 80% of traded goods between the countries within 5 years of implementation. This will boost two-way merchandise trade which reached $385 million in 2021. - Agriculture Market Access: Major Ukrainian exports like grains, poultry and dairy will gain vastly improved access to lucrative Middle Eastern and North African consumer markets via the UAE.  - Industrial Goods Boost: Engineering products, machinery, metals and chem...

The government of Dubai has set aside 2 billion AED ($544 million) to fund relief and repair work following devastating floods that hit the emirate in recent weeks.  A ministerial committee has been tasked with overseeing the distribution of funds and assessing flood damage. They will work with federal and local authorities to compensate those affected and help rebuild damaged homes and infrastructure. The financial allocation was announced during a UAE Cabinet meeting chaired by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai.  Sheikh Mohammed acknowledged the unprecedented scale of the flooding, which saw over 200,000 calls to emergency services as 17,000 personnel from various agencies and thousands of volunteers worked to manage the crisis. He praised their collective response under difficult conditions. Thanks to round-the-clock efforts and support from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, normal life was...

The Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Bandar Al-Muzain, traveled to Abu Dhabi on Thursday for an official meeting with his UAE counterpart, Lieutenant General Issa Al-Mazrouei. The bilateral discussions aim to further bolster military ties and joint defense capabilities between the two allied nations. According to a statement from Kuwait's General Staff, Lt. Gen. Al-Muzain was joined by a delegation of senior Kuwaiti military officers for the visit, which came at the invitation of Lt. Gen. Al-Mazrouei. In a welcoming ceremony at UAE military headquarters, the leaders inspected an honor guard and exchanged gifts.  In their meeting, Al-Muzain and Al-Mazrouei conducted an in-depth review of existing defense coordination and explored new avenues for cooperation. Key areas of focus included border security, maritime security, intelligence sharing, counterterrorism operations, and military training exchanges. Both sides emphasized their commitment to safeguard...

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, met with His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain today at the King's residence in Abu Dhabi. The leaders held in-depth discussions on advancing cooperation between their nations.   Sheikh Mohammed welcomed King Hamad and reiterated the deep-rooted historical ties between the UAE and Bahrain. He expressed his wish for Bahrain's continued prosperity under King Hamad's leadership. Enhancing strategic partnership was a key topic on the agenda. The nations reaffirmed their commitment to building on existing collaboration in mutually beneficial ways. Both sides explored new opportunities to boost cooperation across several vital sectors. Economic and commercial relations received special emphasis. The leaders reviewed possibilities for increasing bilateral trade and investment. Tourism was also discussed as an area with strong potential for partnerships.  Sustainable d...

  Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology of the UAE and President of COP28, spoke at the annual Petersberg Climate Dialogue today, urging governments to take more ambitious climate action. He highlighted the successes of the UAE Consensus achieved at COP28 last year in setting a clear pathway to limit global warming to 1.5°C. Dr. Al Jaber called on nations to strengthen their Nationally Determined Contributions with economy-wide emission reduction plans and increased climate finance. He said governments must "think bigger and act bolder" to drive a just and equitable global energy transition through smart policies and private sector investment in green infrastructure, renewable energy, climate adaptation and new technologies like artificial intelligence. As COP28 President, Dr. Al Jaber is pushing the COP Presidencies Troika of UAE, Brazil and Denmark to enhance implementation of the UAE Consensus and maintain momentum on the urgent climate ch...

  The UAE recently hosted the "Youth Retreat 2024" under the theme of Development, Empowerment, Future." Organized by the Federal Youth Authority and held at the Museum of the Future, the retreat gathered over 200 young Emirati men and women. Addressing the youth, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum expressed confidence in their ability to create positive change and urged them to seize opportunities available in their thriving nation. Top leaders also in attendance included Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, and Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The Minister of State for Youth Affairs Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi was praised as a role model who had taken Emirati youth aspirations to new heights through his accomplishments in space. The retreat reflects the vision of UAE leadership to nurture the energies and skills of youth. By providing an empowering ...

Dubai has long cemented its reputation as the city of the future, and now it's quite literally taking flight with the advent of aerial vehicles. Leading the charge are American companies Archer and Joby Aviation, who are partnering with UAE entities to launch electric flying taxi services as early as 2023.  Their electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft promise to revolutionize how residents navigate Dubai's bustling metropolis. Archer's Midnight taxis will zip between key destinations like Marina Mall and Atlantis The Palm in a mere 30 minutes - slashing current commute times by more than half. Joby plans to launch a similar service by 2025-26. Beyond shaving hours off daily commutes, these ultra-modern air taxis offer an environmentally-friendly mode of transit. Powered by emission-free electricity, they align with the UAE's sustainability goals in an era of climate action. Flying will truly enter a new green era here as airspace above our cities become...

In the ever-evolving landscape of urban development, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to make remarkable strides, particularly in the realm of smart city initiatives. The latest findings from the IMD Smart City Index 2024 underscore this progress, with both Dubai and Abu Dhabi securing notable positions within the top 20 cities worldwide.  Abu Dhabi's ascent, climbing three spots to claim the 10th position, and Dubai's impressive five-place jump, landing at the 12th rank, highlight the UAE's commitment to leveraging technology for the betterment of urban living. Notably, they stand as the sole representatives from the Middle East in this prestigious league of smart cities. Globally, the perennial dominance of Zurich for the fifth consecutive year sets a high bar, with Oslo and Canberra closely following suit. The noteworthy presence of Geneva and Singapore among the top ranks underscores the diverse geographical spread of cities excelling in smart city endeavors. Th...

The United Arab Emirates, and Dubai in particular, has become a popular destination for wealthy individuals from Africa looking to relocate in the past decade. According to a new report from research firm New World Wealth, approximately 3,500 African millionaires have migrated to the UAE since 2010, averaging 350 per year. The majority of these migrants have come from Africa's largest wealth markets - South Africa, Egypt, and Nigeria. However, sizeable numbers also originated from Tanzania and Algeria. New World Wealth head of research Andrew Amoils noted that a combination of factors is driving this migration trend. Business opportunities seem to be a big pull for African millionaires. As one of the leading financial and commercial hubs in the region, Dubai presents many prospects for business expansion and investment. Its strategically important location allows for easier access to Middle Eastern, European, and Asian markets. Safety and security concerns back home also motivate s...

The UAE has pledged $50 million to support the second phase of the Lives and Livelihoods Fund 2.0 (LLF 2.0), a major multilateral initiative administered by the Islamic Development Bank aimed at sustainable development in low and middle-income countries. Announcing the contribution at the AVPN Global Conference 2024 in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, underscored the UAE's commitment to working with partners in uplifting communities worldwide. LLF 2.0 is focused on investing in critical sectors like health, agriculture and social infrastructure to achieve 10 of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. The $50 million will be channeled towards climate-smart agriculture, primary healthcare, underfunded social services and infrastructure projects across 32 IsDB member nations. Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, which will disburse the funds, said ...

  As one of the most international and multicultural cities in the world, Dubai boasts a lively melting pot of people, ideas and cultures. With such diversity and modernity also comes a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. However, beneath Dubai's shiny modern exterior lies a deeply traditional society with its own respected customs. When exploring Dubai's bustling malls, restaurants and public areas, modest attire covering shoulders and knees is emphasized out of consideration for local norms. While enforcement is not stringent, dressing respectfully shows awareness of community values. Both men and women should avoid tight, sheer or backless tops. Shorts and skirts need to reach below the knee. At popular beaches mostly frequented by tourists, swimsuits are acceptable. However, outside such designated areas revealing clothes can cause unintended disrespect. Sarongs, long shirts or pants allow fully enjoying Dubai's attractions while practicing courtesy. Tying a shawl over sh...

  The UAE and Oman have cemented plans to strengthen bilateral ties after several significant agreements were signed during the state visit of Sultan Haitham bin Tariq to Abu Dhabi. President Sheikh Mohamed and Sultan Haitham oversaw the inking of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) covering renewable energy, railways, technology, education and investment. The renewable energy MoU was inked between Abu Dhabi's Masdar and Oman's ACWA Power. Under this, a 200MW wind farm will be built in Dhofar's Boudaiya area, featuring 16 turbines supplied by General Electric. The 100MW solar plant in Al Dhafra will use over 300,000 Canadian Solar photovoltaic panels mounted on trackers. As part of the railway sector MoU, engineering consultancy SNC-Lavalin will conduct the feasibility study for the proposed 300km electrified line between Ghweifat in UAE and Sohar Port in Oman. The standard gauge track will enable operations up to 160kmph and reduce cargo transit time by 3 days. The telecom M...

  Last week, intense rainfall battered parts of the UAE, causing widespread flooding that left many homes, roads and communities submerged under water. It was a challenging time that tested the resilience of the nation. However, emerging from the crisis has been countless inspiring stories of compassion and humanity, demonstrating the strength of the UAE's social fabric. Through acts of selflessness and volunteerism, ordinary citizens became everyday heroes, extending helping hands to those in need. One such story that warmed the hearts of many was of veterinary nurses Ryan Cayamanda and Joshua Aldrin De Vera from Animalia Vets in Dubai. As floodwaters rose around their clinic located in Garhoud, the duo worked tirelessly for over 72 hours, wading through chest-deep waters in protective gear to save animals injured or displaced by the storms. Despite the risks, they undertook multiple overnight rescues, carrying injured cats and dogs to safety. Their relentless dedication ensured n...

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, said that human values are needed to make the transition to Artificial Intelligence (AI) more inclusive and less disruptive for everyone, stating that creative approaches to innovation and technology development are crucial to continued economic growth and societal success. Speaking at the "Machines Can See" Global Summit 2024, held recently at Dubai's Museum of the Future, Sheikh Nahyan highlighted the need to ensure the preservation of humanity while continuing innovation toward a future that is safe, fulfilling, prosperous, and tolerant for all. "We must always be concerned for the welfare of all human beings and be willing to take action to see that everyone has a positive future and a high quality of life. We witness that concern acted upon daily here in the UAE, which looks forward to a future where successful economies around the globe are human economies that incorporate human values ...

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Excellency António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, today discussed during a phone call cooperation between the UAE and the United Nations, especially in the humanitarian field, and support for peace and development regionally and globally. During the call, the two sides also discussed a number of regional and international issues of common concern, foremost among them developments in the Middle East and the need to contain tensions and prevent escalation, as this entails a serious threat to the security and stability of the region and international security and peace. They called for restraint and prioritising the voice of wisdom to spare the region from further conflict that harms all and hinders cooperation and development efforts that benefit its peoples. His Highness the President and His Excellency the Secretary-General of the United Nations reviewed the situation in the Gaza Strip and the importa...

A Vision for Shared Progress , As His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq embarks on a state visit to the UAE today, expectations are high for productive talks that further advance the development pathways of both nations. Under the wise guidance of the leaders, the Emirati and Omani people have thrived in a climate of stability, with robust economic growth and improved living standards. With their common aspirations for prosperity, security and regional stability, the countries maintain a natural alliance based on trust and cooperation. During the visit, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Majesty will review cooperation across vital sectors like energy, trade, infrastructure and more. Their positive working relationship since His Majesty assumed power in 2020 bodes well for identifying new synergies. By aligning their long-term visions, the UAE and Oman can significantly boost collaborative efforts towards common goals. From strengthening GCC unity to facil...

  Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro received a high-level UAE delegation led by Dr. Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, as part of the UAE's visit to several Latin American nations. During the meeting in Caracas, Dr. Al Zeyoudi conveyed greetings from the UAE leadership - President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, and Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed - wishing Venezuela continued progress and prosperity. President Maduro reciprocated the warm wishes to the UAE leadership and expressed his country's desire to strengthen cooperation with the UAE across various fields. He praised the UAE's role in promoting international stability and prosperity through its strong global relations. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral ties in areas of mutual interest like investment, trade, and the economy. Both sides highlighted the importance of these meetings in advancing UAE-Venezuela cooperation for...

The Sultanate of Oman and the United Arab Emirates enjoy deep-rooted fraternal bonds and a strategic partnership that continues to grow stronger under the wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The state visit this week by His Majesty the Sultan to the UAE carries great significance, aiming to further promote the exceptional bilateral relations between the two nations towards broader horizons that serve the interests of their peoples and maintain security and stability in the region. The distinguished Oman-UAE relationship is built on a foundation of economic and trade cooperation that was first laid by the late Sultan Qaboos and Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan decades ago. Their shared vision fostered real fraternity and harmony over the past 50 years. As His Majesty and Sheikh Mohamed meet, they will exchange views on regional and global developments while reinforcing their countries' drive to boost...