Category: Latest News

  • Hamdan bin Mohammed issues decisions appointing senior Dubai Government officials – UAE

    Hamdan bin Mohammed issues decisions appointing senior Dubai Government officials – UAE

    His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, issued a series of decisions pertaining to the appointment of senior officials across Dubai Government entities.

    His Highness issued Executive Council Decision No. (20) of 2024 appointing Naeema Abdullah Hassan Mohammed Ahli as CEO of the Dubai Women Establishment. The decision is effective from the date of its issuance and will be published in the Official Gazette.

    Sheikh Hamdan also issued Decision No. (22) of 2024 pertaining to the secondment of Ali Mohammed Ali Belrasheed Al Ketbi from Dubai Police, appointing him as a CEO of Dubai Government Workshop. The decision is effective from 12 January 2024, and will be published in the Official Gazette.

    Furthermore, His Highness issued Executive Council Decision No. (23) of 2024, appointing Obaid Saif Mohammed Karaa Al Nuaimi as CEO of Aviation Security and Accident Investigation at the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority. The decision is effective from the date of its issuance and will be published in the Official Gazette.

     

    Source: Al-Bayan newspaper

  • Enviromental Expert: Adverse weather condition witnessed by UAE caused by climate change – UAE

    Enviromental Expert: Adverse weather condition witnessed by UAE caused by climate change – UAE

    Several climate change and weather experts have affirmed that the intense and unprecedented rainfall experienced in the UAE on 16th April is indicative of the severe and exceptional climate shifts occurring globally due to the rise in record carbon emissions, emphasising that this extreme rainfall event cannot be scientifically attributed to artificial cloud seeding.

    On 16th April, the UAE experienced the most substantial rainfall in its modern history across numerous regions, marking the largest volume since climate data recording began in 1949.

    The National Centre of Meteorology reported the highest recorded rainfall in the Khatm al Shikla area of Al Ain, reaching 254.8 mm. This figure represents the highest amount in 75 years, emphasising the exceptional nature of this heavy rainfall event. Such extraordinary precipitation contributes significantly to elevating the average annual rainfall in the Emirates and bolstering the nation’s groundwater reserves overall.

    In this regard, Dr. Diana Francis, Senior Research Scientist, and Head of the Environmental and Geophysical Sciences (ENGEOS) Lab at Khalifa University, said in statements to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) that the extreme weather conditions that the UAE has witnessed in mid-April 2024 are exceptional in terms of severity and widespread impacts. “The amount of rain that fell on the 16th is unprecedented and is equivalent to the amount of rain the UAE receives in 2 years or the amount London receives in 7 months on average.”

    She explained that cloud seeding did not cause or contribute to the exceptional rainfall event, as the scale of the event is quite large and has impacted several countries in the region. Additionally, the event was forecasted at least 5 days in advance, and in those forecasts, cloud seeding is not accounted for. Furthermore, when such severe events are forecasted, cloud seeding is not conducted because it is too risky for the pilots to fly inside those convective clouds.

    She added that cloud seeding aims to enhance rainfall by helping water vapour to condense in existing clouds. It cannot in any way create clouds or water vapour itself, these must be present in order to perform seeding. During this event, all the conditions were met to produce large amounts of rain without the need for seeding.

    Dr. Francis forecasted that extreme weather events will become increasingly frequent and intense as a result of atmospheric warming. This warming phenomenon enables the atmosphere to retain more moisture, exacerbating the intensity of weather extremes.

  • RTA Dubai Announces Reopening of Beirut St. and Al Nahda St. Tunnel – UAE

    RTA Dubai Announces Reopening of Beirut St. and Al Nahda St. Tunnel – UAE

    The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has officially reopened the tunnel at the crucial intersection of Beirut St. and Al Nahda St. for traffic in both directions.

    RTA urges motorists to stay updated on road conditions by following their official accounts for real-time updates and alerts. 

    It is noteworthy that the Roads and Transport Authority announced yesterday, Saturday, that customers, in the event of losing their vehicle plates, can go to one of the following centers:

    Shamil Al Qusais Center

    Kars Al Mizar Center

    Distinguished Al Mazhar Markets Center

    Renewal Center

    Tamam Al Kandy Center

    Integrated Al Awir Center

    Integrated Al Qouz Center

    Distinguished Al Barsha Mall Center

    Wasel Jaddaf Center.

     

  • Hamdan bin Mohammed approves series of initiatives to mitigate impact of severe weather in Dubai – UAE

    Hamdan bin Mohammed approves series of initiatives to mitigate impact of severe weather in Dubai – UAE

    His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, said that guided by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the emirate is always prepared to respond effectively to any challenge. Highlighting Dubai’s robust crisis response mechanisms, he said that Dubai’s readiness is further strengthened by the strong support of the government and the community.

    HH Sheikh Hamdan approved a series of initiatives and measures to urgently mitigate the impact of the severe weather in Dubai, which were formulated at a recent meeting he held with heads of government entities. The meeting, attended by His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, evaluated the progress of efforts to ease the repercussions of the extreme weather in the emirate.

    Guided by the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan, and under the oversight of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management, Dubai Government’s on-ground teams, supported by community volunteers, have been actively working on urgent solutions to challenges, informed by a detailed assessment of the situation in affected areas.

    The Crown Prince of Dubai directed the establishment of a committee to urgently review all requests from Emirati citizens affected by the heavy rains. The committee will determine the most appropriate measures to address these requests, prioritising the repair and rehabilitation of the homes of affected citizens.

    His Highness also directed the Dubai Land Department and the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) to coordinate with property developers to expedite the restoration of normalcy in all communities managed by the developers. All residential management companies and real estate developers will offer the following services at no additional charges: alternative housing for residents affected by the weather; distribution of food within affected communities; comprehensive pest control services; enhanced security to ensure safety of residents; assistance with returning to residential properties, including interior cleaning services; monitoring and documenting damages caused by the rains during the insurance coverage period; and assistance in assessing potential risks to properties.

    His Highness said that Dubai is determined to support all those affected by the adverse weather conditions, adding that he will personally monitor the progress of response measures. He emphasised that on-ground teams will provide effective support to all citizens and residents.

    His Highness also directed the formation of a committee to support affected people, chaired by Omar Bushahab, CEO of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment. Members of the committee also include Dubai’s Community Development Authority, Dubai Municipality, the Roads and Transport Authority, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, and the Department of Economy and Tourism. The committee is tasked with receiving and promptly addressing requests from citizens affected by the recent rains, ensuring that their concerns and needs are handled efficiently and effectively.

    His Highness commended the Department of Economy and Tourism for collaborating with the private sector and hotels in Dubai to provide temporary accommodation for citizens affected by the extreme weather until their homes are repaired. He stressed the importance of offering immediate accommodation for all affected citizens during the repair period. The well-being of citizens remains the top priority of the Dubai government, he stressed.

    His Highness also directed Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department with monitoring and providing humanitarian support to people in need. He also instructed the Community Development Authority to activate the ‘Jood’ platform to receive contributions from the private sector to provide humanitarian assistance to people affected by the extreme weather in the emirate.

     

  • Hamdan bin Mohammed directs the formation of a committee to support those affected by the reduction of “Al Hadeer” – UAE

    Hamdan bin Mohammed directs the formation of a committee to support those affected by the reduction of “Al Hadeer” – UAE

    His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, affirmed that under the leadership and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, and with the integration of efforts between government teams and the unity of its society, Dubai will remain in safe hands and will continue to overcome all challenges in various situations and under any circumstances, no matter their scale or impact.

    His Highness the Crown Prince of Dubai has approved a package of urgent initiatives and measures prepared in light of the meeting he chaired in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance, and included leaders of relevant entities in the Dubai government days ago to follow up on the efforts made to address the repercussions of the recent “AlHadeer” weather conditions witnessed by the country. Government field teams began working in light of his directives during the meeting, and under the supervision of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Committee for Emergency and Disaster Management, and through close cooperation with community volunteer efforts, they worked on finding necessary urgent solutions based on a thorough assessment of the situation in various affected areas of the Emirate of Dubai.

    His Highness the Crown Prince of Dubai directed the establishment of a committee to study all requests from affected citizens and determine how to address them, with priority given to maintaining and rehabilitating all affected citizens’ homes.

    Additionally, His Highness directed the Dubai Land Department and the Real Estate Regulatory Agency to coordinate with all development companies to ensure the return to normalcy of all areas belonging to developers in the coming days. Real estate developers and residential community management companies in Dubai have committed to providing a range of services to the affected citizens free of charge, including providing alternative housing, providing food supplies to affected residents in residential communities, providing sterilization and pest control services, providing security services for residential buildings, coordinating the return procedures for residents to their residential units, providing interior cleaning services, as well as following up on any damages incurred within the insurance period and assisting in assessing the risks and damages inside the real estate units.

    His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reiterated his full commitment to providing care and support to those affected by the exceptional weather conditions witnessed by the country in all possible aspects, saying, “Our teams are in the field around the clock, and I personally follow up on the developments… We are keen to provide care for every citizen and resident in Dubai… and we are proud of the initiatives we see from the sons of the Emirates and residents… the solidarity of the community is exemplary and honorable, demonstrating its authentic nature and noble values.”

    He also directed the formation of a committee to care for citizens affected by the weather conditions, chaired by His Excellency Omar Hamad Bu Shehab, CEO of the Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment, with membership from the Dubai Community Development Authority, Dubai Municipality, Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, Dubai Department of Economic Development and Tourism, whose task is to receive all requests from citizens affected by the rains for processing.

    His Highness the Crown Prince of Dubai praised the efforts of the Dubai Department of Economic Development and Tourism and its work with the private sector and hotel establishments in Dubai to provide rooms for temporary accommodation for the affected until the completion of their home maintenance. He directed to continue providing urgent accommodation for all citizens during maintenance works, affirming that the interest of the citizen will remain the top priority for the Dubai government.

    The directives also included the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department to follow up on humanitarian cases among residents and provide necessary support, as well as directing the Dubai Community Development Authority to activate the “Jood” platform to receive contributions from the private sector to support humanitarian cases in the emirate.

  • RTA Dubai designates 9 centers for receiving vehicle plates in case of loss – UAE

    RTA Dubai designates 9 centers for receiving vehicle plates in case of loss – UAE

    Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority clarified that in the event of a lost vehicle plate, its owner must immediately report the loss and apply for a replacement or damaged plate through the authority’s electronic portal rta.ae.

    The authority, via its official account on (X) platform, indicated that customers can receive their new vehicle plates at one of the following centers:

    Shamil Al Qusais Center

    Kars Al Mizar Center

    Distinguished Al Mazhar Markets Center

    Renewal Center

    Tamam Al Kandy Center

    Integrated Al Awir Center

    Integrated Al Qouz Center

    Distinguished Al Barsha Mall Center

    Wasel Jaddaf Center.

  • NCM forecasts fair to partly cloudly weather tomorrow in the UAE – UAE

    NCM forecasts fair to partly cloudly weather tomorrow in the UAE – UAE

    The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) forecasts sunny weather for tomorrow, with some partly cloudy periods, especially in the east during the afternoon. Humidity is expected at night and Monday morning in some coastal and inland areas.

    Winds will be light to moderate, blowing from southeast to northeast at 10-20 km/h, with occasional gusts reaching 30 km/h.

  • NCM forecasts weak to moderate weather 20-24 April – UAE

    NCM forecasts weak to moderate weather 20-24 April – UAE

     The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) forecast that the weather situation in the UAE from Saturday, 20th April to Wednesday, 24th April, 2024, will shift from “weak to moderate and fast”.

    According to NCM, there is a chance of local convective clouds over the mountains by afternoon associated with rainfall on Saturday, while Monday may involve light rainfall by night over the islands and some western areas.

    On Tuesday, there is a chance of light to moderate rainfall over some areas and maybe heavy at times over some eastern areas, the forecast further revealed. Meanwhile, Wednesday is likely to see light to moderate rainfall over some Eastern areas during the daytime.

    The centre assured that it is monitoring the situation and will share the latest developments with the public.

  • Dubai Residency Completes Procedures for Over 400,000 Passengers Amid Emergency Weather Conditions – UAE

    Dubai Residency Completes Procedures for Over 400,000 Passengers Amid Emergency Weather Conditions – UAE

    The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, at Dubai airports and land and sea ports, through their concerted efforts, achieved exceptional performance that surpassed the aerial challenges and provided high-quality services to passengers during the recent emergency weather conditions experienced by the country. Employees of the Directorate completed procedures for 419,047 passengers during the last three days of April 15, 16, and 17, by providing flexibility, efficiency, rapid response, and proactive handling of emergency situations, which contributed to enhancing the positive image known about the officers of the air, land, and sea ports in Dubai, amidst the recent emergency weather challenges faced by the country, under the direct supervision of Team Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, which contributed to enhancing cooperation and smoothness in passenger movement.

    Passenger Satisfaction

    Dubai airports received 195,803 passengers on April 15, including 111,346 arrivals and 84,457 departures, while on April 16, there were 55,520 departures and 78,281 arrivals, totaling 133,801 passengers. On April 17, there were 74,406 passengers, including 25,503 departures and 48,903 arrivals. The total number of passengers through all air, land, and sea ports on April 17 was 75,245, compared to 136,376 the previous day, with April 15 recording about 207,426 passengers from all ports.

    Team Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri expressed his appreciation and gratitude for the great efforts made by the working team and emphasized the importance of cooperation with partners and coordination in achieving public service goals and raising passenger satisfaction levels, indicating that these achievements once again highlight the high spirit of dedication and professionalism exhibited by airport, land, and sea port employees in Dubai, enhancing Dubai’s position as one of the leading global travel and tourism destinations.

    Passenger Safety

    Team Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri emphasized that the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, in collaboration with airport management and all partners, is working to enhance passenger safety through the adoption of a set of policies and procedures aimed at ensuring their safety and providing a quality travel experience. He noted that the postponement of some flights during adverse weather conditions is a measure taken by companies out of great responsibility and high concern for passenger safety, explaining that fluctuating weather conditions are among the challenges facing the travel industry, but thanks to good planning, effective organization, full commitment, proactivity, and the civilized and courteous approach and constant smile that our visitors are accustomed to at our ports, Dubai has been able to deal with these emergency situations professionally and with high professionalism. As a result, the measures taken ensure the safety of passengers and maintain the quality of services provided to them without any delay.

    Source: Al-Bayan newspaper

     

  • UAE President honours eight individuals with Abu Dhabi Awards – UAE

    UAE President honours eight individuals with Abu Dhabi Awards – UAE

     His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, has honoured eight individuals for their notable contributions to communities across the UAE at a ceremony marking the 11th edition of the Abu Dhabi Awards, held at Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi.

    The 11th edition of the Abu Dhabi Awards honoured individuals whose contributions have positively benefited the UAE across diverse fields such as education, sustainability, medicine, humanitarian relief, community awareness, and the empowerment of People of Determination.

    His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conveyed his congratulations to all the honourees, recognising their inspiring efforts and significant contributions in service to society.

    His Highness said: “The recipients of the Abu Dhabi Awards truly embody the timeless values of giving, compassion, and altruism, and through their deeds they have positively impacted UAE society in a variety of ways. By honouring their selflessness and dedication, we also celebrate and reinforce the values exemplified by the Founding Father of the UAE, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.”

    The ceremony was attended by H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi; H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior;H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Martyrs Families affairs; H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Advisor for Special Affairs at the Presidential Court; in addition to a wide range of dignitaries, senior officials, the families of award recipients, and the official partners and supporters of the initiative.

    Individuals honoured in the 11th edition of the Abu Dhabi Awards include:

    Amna Khalifa Al Qemzi, a pioneer in organic agriculture who is dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability and sharing her expertise with community members through her continuous endeavours in this field.

    Dr. Ahmed Osman Shatila, a consultant neurologist who manages the Multiple Sclerosis Clinic at the Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, which he also played a pivotal role in establishing, and who consistently dedicates his expertise to benefit the UAE community.

    Imen Sfaxi, who bravely utilised her first aid expertise to assist those injured in a fire that occurred in a residential building in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi in 2022.

    Salaamah Saif Al Teneij, who at 16 years of age plays an active role in raising awareness about various topics of importance to children, including bullying prevention and online safety.

    Klaithem Obaid Al Matrooshi, a pioneering figure in the field of human rights, who has worked to empower People of Determination, especially women, and has achieved outstanding local and global accomplishments.

    Mezna Matar Al Mansoori, a key figure in the educational sector in the Al Sila area in the Western Region who has made significant contributions in the field of child development benefiting several generations. Described as a virtuous educator and a caring and inspiring mother, she has worked tirelessly to instil in children and youth the foundations of civic responsibility and the values of tolerance, giving, and goodness.

    Saeed Naseeb Al Mansoori, who has become a role model for his generosity, charitable endeavours, and exemplary citizenship. One of his most notable contributions has been his unwavering support for education in the Al Wathba region spanning over 30 years. Saeed serves as an inspiration for generations, with many fondly recalling his kindness, motivation, and assistance in their pursuit of knowledge and service to the nation.

    John Sexton, who is renowned for his dedication to education, and who has made a significant contribution to the nation’s educational landscape, most notably through his pivotal role in the founding of New York University Abu Dhabi. Through his unwavering encouragement and support for students, Sexton has positively influenced the lives of many in the UAE and around the world.

    The Abu Dhabi Awards recognise those who have selflessly devoted their time and efforts to serving the UAE community, leaving a lasting positive impact. Their profound contributions will endure for decades to come.

    The Awards also aim to serve as a source of inspiration, motivating all members of the community to perform acts of goodness and make their own positive contributions to society. They provide an opportunity for individuals to nominate unsung heroes who have contributed to the advancement of society through their sacrifices and selfless efforts in service to the community.

    Established in 2005, the Abu Dhabi Awards have recognised 100 individuals from 17 different nationalities for their valuable contributions in various fields, including medical care, education, environmental sustainability, and the preservation of the rich heritage of the UAE.

    Community members are encouraged to nominate their own heroes for future editions by visiting the Abu Dhabi Awards website: www.abudhabiawards.ae