His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai attended the Italian Endurance Race at Ancona at which the Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum clinched the title for the second year in a row.

With riders from 13 countries taking part in the event, Emirati riders dominated all four stages of the 120-km race and won the first three places.
Sheikh Hamdan finished first with a time of 05:20.53 hours followed by Sheikh Hasher bin Mohammed Thani Al Maktoum (05:20.54 hours) and Ghanem Al Oaisi shared the third place with Abdullah Al Marri (05:20.55 hours).

In a statement to the Government of Dubai Media Office, Sheikh Hamdan praised the excellent preparation of Emirati riders and their efforts in securing the golden title for the UAE in which His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum led Emirati riders to claim the FEI World Endurance Championship in Euston Park, Britain in 2010.

Sheikh Hamdan noted the high level of preparedness of Emirati riders in their preparations for the World Endurance Cup as part of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Normandy 2014 next August.

He added that UAE has gained reputable status in the field of endurance horse racing all over the world.

Meydan Chairman and CEO Saeed Humaid Al Tayer congratulated the Emirati team headed by the Crown Prince of Dubai for a well-earned victory.

Concluding the race, Sheikh Hamdan and his teammates were presented with trophies amid applause and cheers from audience.

Also attending the race were, Minister of Economy Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Director of Dubai Ruler's Office Lt General Musabbah Rashid Al Fattan, UAE Ambassador to Italy Abdulaziz Naser Al Shamsi, Dubai Director of Protocol and Hospitality Khalifa Saeed Suleiman, Meydan Chairman and CEO Saeed Humaid Al Tayer and a number of officials and endurance race enthusiasts.

Mohammed honours President of the Region of Marche, Italy

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai honoured President of the Region of Marche Gian Mario Spacca on the sidelines of the UAE-Italian Economic Forum held at the Province of Ancona, Italy.

The honouring is in appreciation for Gian Mario Spacca’s role in encouraging partnership between Italian and UAE-based companies and supporting investment projects in both countries.

During the ceremony, Sheikh Mohammed said that Italy constitutes an important trade partner for the UAE. His Highness also praised the exceptional ties between the two countries.
Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also honoured Spacca with an honorary gift from Meydan for his role in supporting horse race events.

The UAE delegation to the UAE-Italian Economic Forum, held 12-15 June, includes Minister of Economy Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, heads of UAE federal entities, representatives from the private sector, investors and businessmen.
 

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, launched a prize award scheme on Sunday to reward those who harness the huge positive potential of social media for the good of the Arab world.

The ''Arab Social Media Award'' includes 20 categories covering all kinds of social media activities and initiatives by individuals and organisations, as well as the title of "Social Media Personality of the Year" for the region’s most influential online figure.

Speaking at the launch, Sheikh Mohammed noted that social media were now fundamental to the social, economic and political fabric of the Arab world and played a key role in shaping events.

"Social media influencers are important change-makers in society. Those who bring wisdom, creativity and positivity are a powerful force for good, because social media are powerful tools for development and progress," he said.

"The Arab world has not yet made the most of the enormously positive potential of social media. This prize will highlight successful examples and use them as a basis to maximise the benefits for society," Sheikh Mohammed added.

The award will highlight the most important social media initiatives in the Arab world and promote best practices on social platforms and technologies at a ceremony to be held annually in Dubai.

"We want this prize to add real value to existing efforts to develop all channels and sectors of the Arab media. By honouring online influencers, we stress the great value that an innovative and effective social media presence can bring," Sheikh Mohammed said.

The Arab Social Media Award is based on three main standards: Communication, Creativity and Impact. It recognises communication within communities, tangible benefits for social development, and the contribution of positivity to progress and prosperity.

The prize honours the most distinguished and influential person or organisation in each of 21 categories. The sectors are as follows: government entities, private sector, blogs, media, sports, tolerance, social service, education, youth, technology, entrepreneurship, economy, politics, health, arts, security and safety, shopping, environment, tourism and entertainment. The influential individual who made the greatest tangible impact through social media will be named "Personality of the Year".

Individuals and organisations wishing to participate can nominate themselves or others on the award's official website. Results will be announced by the end of 2014.

Sheikh Mohammed directed the Executive Office to organise and supervise the award and insure its integrity. A committee including experts and sector specialists will evaluate applications and select the winner for each category.

The new award reflects the government’s commitment to harness the growing importance of social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook and pioneer their role as major communication channels driving the development of government, society and business in the Arab world.

311 personnel of General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs promoted

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has ordered the promotion of 311 non-commissioned officers and personnel of the Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs in Dubai, including one officer promoted to the rank of Brigadier and other six officers to the rank of Major.

Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, said 76 women at the directorate were among those promoted.

He thanked and pledged the allegiance to the wise leadership, noting that the gesture is added to the good deeds of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid who motivates hard working Emiratis.

Al Marri called on the personnel of the general directorate to exert their utmost efforts to upgrade the performance at all departments so as to achieve the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid to make the UAE No. 1 in delivery of better government services to Emiratis and expatriates as well.

He commended the directives and follow up of performance at the Ministry of Interior's directorates and departments by Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, to ensure excellence and innovation, as well as delivery of better services to public. 





 

Masdar and the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy ( K.A.CARE) on Monday announced an agreement to work together to advance the development of renewable energy and clean technology across the region.

The accord, which comes at a time of increasing interest in renewables across the region, lays down a framework to jointly invest in clean energy projects and green technology investment funds. It will also create opportunities for collaboration on research and development of advanced clean energy technologies, including solar, wind and water.

General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, attended the signing of the strategic framework agreement in Abu Dhabi where it was signed by Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Chairman of Masdar, and Dr. Hashim bin Abdullah Yamani, President of K.A.CARE.

Sheikh Mohamed hailed the agreement and its important role in adding to the strong historic and strategic relationship between the UAE under the leadership of the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

"Increased cooperation among GCC countries is crucial to advancing security, stability and sustainable growth throughout the region," said Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed. "Energy is fundamental to all economic and social development. The enhanced cooperation between Masdar and  K.A.CARE will contribute to extending the region’s energy leadership."

Dr. Al Jaber said, "Masdar shares many strategic objectives with K.A.CARE. The U.A.E. is a pioneer in deploying renewable energy and is also a major contributor to the international deployment of clean energy.

"By sharing our knowledge and experience with K.A.CARE, we believe that together, we can further advance the use of renewables and ensure our long term economic and energy security."

The King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy was established in 2010 with the aim of diversifying Saudi Arabia’s energy sources, to include nuclear and renewables.

Through the agreement, Dr. Yamani said that the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy aims to diversify Saudi Arabia’s energy sources.

"We are delighted to sign this agreement with Masdar, that has a proven track record and demonstrated credible achievements during the last eight years in this emerging sector. As renewable energy solutions approach grid parity, we are confident our combined efforts will contribute to the implementation of renewable energy projects in the region and around the world," Dr. Yamani said.

Since its establishment in 2006, Masdar has played an increasingly important role in extending Abu Dhabi’s energy leadership beyond hydrocarbons, by adopting an integrated, holistic renewable energy business model – merging higher education, R and D, investment and sustainable living. The company has deployed close to 1GW of clean energy projects in the U.A.E. and around the world. 
 

Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, Chairman of The Executive Office, said today that the Arab Social Media Award announced earlier this week would stimulate a “leap” in the positive impact of social media on the realities of the Arab world.

“The Arab Social Media Award will focus on the real effect of modern communication channels on our social, intellectual and cultural reality,” Gergawi said.

“Our goal is to recognise and reward social media initiatives that make a truly positive impact on the ground. We are talking about stimulating a quantum leap in Arab social media.”

The Arab Social Media Award was launched two days ago by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

The prize honours the most distinguished and influential person or organisation in each of 20 categories.

“His Highness Sheikh Mohammed believes that combining the productive energy of youth with the vast capabilities of social media platforms can effect real positive change in the Arab world.

“He launched this award to encourage social media influencers to innovate and to think big,” Gergawi said.

Sheikh Mohammed himself was an early adopter in social media and is well known for frequent innovations online. He was the first world leader to announce a cabinet change on Twitter, and earlier this year launched the largest ever online brainstorm for government service improvement.

Sheikh Mohammed is now among the top 10 world leaders on social media, with almost six million followers across his various social media platforms.

The Executive Office has been directed to organise the new Arab Social Media Award as an annual event and to oversee its secretariat.

Gergawi said committees would be formed to screen nominations and select winners.

Submissions will be evaluated according to their relevance to the realities of the Arab world, innovation in execution, reach, and positive public sentiment, Gergawi said.

“We expect significant participation especially from Arab countries with a high population density such as Egypt, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Morocco, as well as from all other Arab countries.

“We believe that by highlighting the most successful social media initiatives in the Arab world, and by promoting best practices on social technologies, we can enable real change in the Arab reality,” Gergawi said.

“Our goal for this award programme is clear: we intend to enhance social media practices in the Arab world towards international best practice.

“We will honour individuals and organisations who are active and successful on social media platforms, and in doing so we will shed light on the social media initiatives that make the most powerful positive impact in the Arab world.”

The categories for the award are as follows: government entities, private sector, blogs, media, sports, tolerance, social service, education, youth, technology, entrepreneurship, economy, politics, health, arts, security and safety, shopping, environment, tourism and entertainment.

Individuals and organisations wishing to participate can nominate themselves or others at www.arabsocialmediaaward.ae.

Results will be announced by the end of 2014.

General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, has received Jacob Lew, United States Secretary of the Treasury and his accompanying delegation, currently visiting the country.

Sheikh Mohamed welcomed the visit of the Secretary of the Treasury and discussed with him bilateral relations between the UAE and the United States and ways of boosting them in light of the ties of friendship that link both countries and their common strategic interests.

During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on the regional and international situation and developments, and the efforts made to support security and stability in the region, as well as reviewing a number of issues of common interest.

The meeting was attended by Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy National Security Advisor, Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chief of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince's Court, and a number of senior officials.
 

The recent article by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, titled "The Emigration of Minds", has proven to be an international success, having been translated into 16 languages in 49 countries, and re-printed in 59 newspapers within a week of its first publication.

In the article, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid examines the global phenomenon relating to the millions of human capital immigrants and the new direction that emigration of the minds is taking, while sharing explanations of new studies which put the UAE is in the forefront of countries to attract these knowledge professionals.

The article was published in 12 European and 15 Asian countries as well as in the US, Brazil, Argentina and many major newspapers in the Arab world and Africa.

Sheikh Mohammed’s article began with his experience at the Mons Officer Cadet School in the UK, which he said was a time when many of the best Arab minds sought out international opportunities in search of a better life.

Sheikh Mohammed said that in recent times, studies have shown that the influx of human knowledge began to demonstrate a reversing trend in response to the changing global economy. He explained these changing trends, saying that the picture is not always bleak and that history doesn’t move in a fixed direction; nor is the world a consistent place.

The UAE has joined other emerging economies as a leading destination for attracting global talent, according to the study, which named Spain, US, Italy, UK and Ireland as some of the main countries from which professionals emigrate.

In the article, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid also said that the UAE’s number one position in attracting human capital knowledge and minds can be used as a model by other countries in the region or around the world.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid concluded that the future will bring about many new trends and shifts in this field reflecting the nature of competition between countries. He added that wise nations are the ones which believe in the potentials of humankind and appreciate the true value of the human mind, ideas and creativity.
 

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai attended yesterday, in the presence of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Queen Elizabeth II, the start of the Royal Ascot races, which will run until June 21.

Also present were Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Princess Haya bint Al Hussein, wife of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikhs, owners and a crowd of horseracing fans.

'The Emigration of Minds' an international success

The recent article by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, titled "The Emigration of Minds", has proven to be an international success, having been translated into 16 languages in 49 countries, and re-printed in 59 newspapers within a week of its first publication.

In the article, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid examines the global phenomenon relating to the millions of human capital immigrants and the new direction that emigration of the minds is taking, while sharing explanations of new studies which put the UAE is in the forefront of countries to attract these knowledge professionals.

The article was published in 12 European and 15 Asian countries as well as in the US, Brazil, Argentina and many major newspapers in the Arab world and Africa.

Sheikh Mohammed’s article began with his experience at the Mons Officer Cadet School in the UK, which he said was a time when many of the best Arab minds sought out international opportunities in search of a better life.

Sheikh Mohammed said that in recent times, studies have shown that the influx of human knowledge began to demonstrate a reversing trend in response to the changing global economy. He explained these changing trends, saying that the picture is not always bleak and that history doesn’t move in a fixed direction; nor is the world a consistent place.

The UAE has joined other emerging economies as a leading destination for attracting global talent, according to the study, which named Spain, US, Italy, UK and Ireland as some of the main countries from which professionals emigrate.

In the article, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid also said that the UAE’s number one position in attracting human capital knowledge and minds can be used as a model by other countries in the region or around the world.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid concluded that the future will bring about many new trends and shifts in this field reflecting the nature of competition between countries. He added that wise nations are the ones which believe in the potentials of humankind and appreciate the true value of the human mind, ideas and creativity.
 

General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, reaffirmed that the healthcare sector in the UAE receives unlimited support from President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is keen on providing state-of-the-art healthcare services that ensure the wellbeing of all UAE residents.

The statement came during a visit by Sheikh Mohamed to the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi project, where he reviewed the progress of the hospital project scheduled to begin seeing patients in 2015.

"We will spare no effort to improve all development and social sectors through effective partnerships and constructive cooperation with highly qualified international organisations in order to improve the quality and efficiency of our healthcare services and develop our national capacity both on the level of managing and operating our healthcare institutions and on the performance level of medical and paramedical staff," said the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. By building such strong partnerships with highly efficient organisations, we aim to transfer successful corporate cultures and systems in order to develop our vital sectors and make a qualitative move with regards to our services, particularly in the healthcare sector, which is considered a top priority by our wise leadership, who gives utmost attention to the wellbeing of Emiratis and UAE residents".

Upon arrival at the multi-specialty hospital built on Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed was received by Dr Delos (Toby) Cosgrove, CEO and President of Cleveland Clinic US; Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Managing Director and Group CEO of Mubadala Development Company, Waleed Al Mokarrab Al Muhairi, Mubadala's Deputy Group CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi; Suhail Mahmood Al Ansari, Executive Director of Mubadala Healthcare; and Dr Marc Harrison, CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, in addition to other executives. The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi was accompanied by Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, National Security Advisor and Vice Chairman of the Executive Council of Abu Dhabi, and a number of Abu Dhabi Executive Council members.

Sheikh Mohamed and the audience listened to a briefing on the vision and values that the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi strives to provide in order to become a preeminent medical center and the best choice for patients in the region. This vision includes providing outstanding patient experiences, superior clinical outcomes, and improved quality of life for the people it serves in the context of fiscal and social responsibility. 

Operating under a Patient Centered Model of Care and embodying a ‘Patients First philosophy,’ the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi will deliver on its mission of providing compassionate, patient-centred care of the highest quality, and will be committed to exceeding patients' expectations for comfort and convenience based upon the principles of cooperation, compassion and innovation. Its Group Practice Model of Care, a collaborative, team-based approach to patient care, is unprecedented in the UAE and the GCC region. This model of care will organize a variety of physicians as an integrated team around a particular disease to collaboratively address patient needs. The Group Practice Model of Care has been in place since the foundation of Cleveland Clinic and has proven invaluable to comprehensive patient care.

Sheikh Mohamed toured the hospital, which includes different departments and treatment units of the hospital, starting with the conference centre equipped with the latest presentation technologies and accommodates 200 people for hosting forums, symposiums, workshops and international and local medical events.

During his tour in the hospital, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi visited the Multidisciplinary Simulation Centre, a high-fidelity clinical simulation center that provides trainees with medical consultations and improves their abilities through interconnection between training rooms and operation and treatment rooms and through a CCTV that enables the trainee to monitor treatment and operations and communicate directly with the medical teams.

Sheikh Mohamed viewed the five Centres of Excellence at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, included in the following clinical institutes: Heart & Vascular, Neurological, Digestive Disease, Eye and Respiratory & Critical Care. Other Institutes also include Surgical Subspecialties, Medical Subspecialties, Emergency Medicine, Anesthesiology, Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Imaging, and Quality & Patient Safety. The hospital is currently being loaded with the latest medical technology and equipment. To ensure a unique healthcare service, 80 per cent of the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Institute Chiefs have Cleveland Clinic experience.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is a 364 (expandable to 490) bed hospital, with five clinical floors, three diagnostic and treatment levels, 13 floors of critical and acute inpatient units, 240 specialized consultation rooms and 26 operating rooms.

The hospital comprises an acute and critical care nursing unit that includes 72 ICU beds and 292 private inpatient rooms. All areas have telemetry capabilities and will feature the latest technologies and communication systems. The ground floor houses the emergency sections, imaging units, laboratories and reception halls in addition to a number of outpatient clinics.
Thanks to a partnership between Mubadala Development and US-based Cleveland Clinic, the hospital has a creative, environmentally responsible design and efficient operating systems.

Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Group CEO and Managing Director, Mubadala Development Company said, "We were honoured to welcome His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces to Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. The visit marked a milestone towards the delivery of a key component of Abu Dhabi’s healthcare vision to provide the world’s most advanced medical expertise and facilities to the people of the UAE. It is a vision that is shared by Mubadala and Cleveland Clinic as we strive to address the country’s most pressing healthcare needs through the creation of this highly specialized, world class facility here in Abu Dhabi."

"We have had a tremendous collaboration between Cleveland Clinic and Abu Dhabi and we see the two facilities working hand in glove with each other", said Dr. Delos (Toby) Cosgrove, CEO and President of Cleveland Clinic, who expressed pleasure at seeing physicians who are coming to Abu Dhabi to be of the same caliber as those in Cleveland." 

With regards to the considerations taken into account to make Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi a world-class facility, Dr. Cosgrove said they looked at everything that goes into making a healthcare facility a world class one, including the physical facilities, personnel, and training of the personnel as well as all the finest details of operating and patient room. He added that "From the very beginning, the agreement was that this would be a transfer of our clinical culture and that we would bring everything we possibly could from the Cleveland Clinic and transplant them here, and so we’re very pleased to have the opportunity to do that."

Dr. Marc Harrison, CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, said, "Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi would not be possible if it wasn’t for the great collaboration between Abu Dhabi’s leadership and Cleveland Clinic’s ability to execute on healthcare. Together we’re doing unbelievable things that have never been done anywhere in the world before." He added that the agreement between Abu Dhabi and Cleveland Clinic was to replicate the culture of the latter in Abu Dhabi, and to that end, they have been bringing the best people, processes and technologies, and also hired many people from Cleveland Clinic who have come to Abu Dhabi to make their life and to make a difference in healthcare."
 
He added that the building is now being commissioned and loaded with medical equipment. So far, he said, the hospital has been equipped with 30,000 pieces of medical equipment, 20,000 pieces of furniture, and 20,000 pieces of IT equipment. Dr. Harrison also mentioned that many people are joining the team, and more than 1,500 people will join between now and the opening of the hospital.

On his part, Suhail Mahmood Al Ansari, Executive Director of Mubadala Healthcare and board member of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, said that the first thing that came onto the table was how to attract the best partner to establish a preeminent acute care hospital for Abu Dhabi. ‘Naturally, the long term relationship with Cleveland Clinic that Abu Dhabi and the United Arab Emirates has had historically helped us in identifying the right partner who shares the same vision and commitment as we do to establish this partnership. The partnership is extremely deep; it’s not one of just a few years, but rather one where we truly transfer culture across borders between Ohio and Abu Dhabi to establish such a center that brings up the best of the best.

He added that the clinical expertise and patient experience that the Cleveland Clinic has can be far more successfully delivered in Abu Dhabi when the right people are behind it. "When we have a tremendous commitment from our partner that deploys and commits to us its top caliber that call Abu Dhabi a home and base themselves over here, working hand in hand and side by side with Mubadala, our efforts result in us being where we are today", he further said.

Al Ansari also said that the construction works on the building were completed in April 2014, and that they are now ‘clinically activating the building’ by furnishing it with all the medical equipment, technology and personnel, and commissioning its management systems and clinical spaces.

Pics: Wam

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Sports Council, has issued a decision restructuring the Board of Directors of Dubai International Marine Club.

The Board will implement the club's annual programmes and bolster its global stature in the  maritime sports.

The decision comes within the executive regulation of Dubai clubs. It named Saeed Mohammed Harib as chairman of the Board and Khalid Mohammed Al Zahid as deputy chairman, in addition to five members.

The resolution will be effective from the date of issuance and annuls previous decisions that contradict with its provisions.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has attended day 2 of the Royal Ascot 2014. The day was also attended by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Queen Elizabeth II. The events is being held at the renowned Ascot Racecourse and runs until June 21.

Mustajeeb, owned by Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance, was crowned winner of the Jersey Stakes, followed by Muwaary, also owned by Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The final race of the day, Sandringham Handicap for fillies, was won by Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid's Muteela.

Present were HRH Princess Haya bint Al Hussein, wife of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikhs, owners and racing fans.

Pics: Wam

A wide range of topics highlighting the significance of social media strategies as key drivers of business growth will be discussed in the Social Media Summit, which will take place on this coming Monday in Dubai.

Mona Al Marri, Director General of the Government of Dubai Media Office will deliver the keynote at the inaugural edition of the summit at Armani Hotel, Dubai.

Hosted by AreebaAreeba, the new world social networking website in the Middle East with more than three million active users, the summit will feature speakers from leading global and regional technology and media groups including Google, LinkedIn, Twitter, Microsoft, IBM, du, Etisalat, CNBC Arabia, CNN Arabic, OSN, Nissan, Blackberry, Dubai Media Inc. (DMI) and more.

The summit is expected to attract more than 200 delegates from across the region.

"The goal of the of the inaugural edition of the Social Media Summit 2014 falls in line with the vision of the Government of Dubai to utilise of modern technology to catalyse the development of societies in the Arab world," said Al Marri.

"As one of the top world leaders who actively use Twitter to connect with the public, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai was keen to recognise the positive potential of such platforms.

“His Highness launched the Arab Social Media Award to honour institutions and individuals who employ social media platforms to bring about and sustain positive development within societies," Al Marri added.

Key presentations at the summit include ‘Twitter versus TV - from Second Screen to First, the Intersection of Social, Mobile, and Television’ by Steven Kalifowitz, Head of Brand Strategy for MENA, Twitter; ‘Keeping Up with Changes in a Connected World, from Social Media to Social Business’ by Mohammed Burhan, Chief Executive Officer, CNBC Arabia; and ‘A Different View on Social Media that Can Unlock Great Hidden Potential’ by Osman Sultan, Chief Executive Officer, du.

Other speakers at the Social Media Summit 2014 include Khalifa Hassan Alshamsi, Chief Digital Services Officer, Etisalat Group; Manal Siddiqui, Territory Manager, UAE, LinkedIn; Caroline Faraj, Chief Operations Director, CNN Arabic; Abdulilah Wazni, Regional Marketing Manager, Nissan; Heba AlSamt, Digital Media Director, DMI and other prominent figures from the media, publishing, advertising, marketing, science and technology sectors.

"Social media is changing the very fabric of our personal, community and business interactions at an unprecedented pace.

“The objective of the Summit is to help executives successfully integrate social media strategies into their organisation’s framework to expand the scope of their business, and employ practical solutions that effectively serve their bottom line," said Ayman Irshaid, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, AreebaAreeba. 
 

Social Media has emerged as the ‘New Majlis’ of the UAE, according to Mona Al Marri, Director General of the Dubai Government Media Office (DGMO).

“In its early years, there were very few means of communication in the UAE. The ‘majlis’, which is one of the key emblems of Emirati culture, was the main gathering point where general public and the country’s leaders came to discuss important topics related to their daily lives,” she explained while presenting the keynote address at the inaugural edition of the Social Media Summit at Armani Hotel in Dubai.

“Though the majlis still stands today in its traditional form, the advent of technology has given birth to a new majlis - a platform we call Social Media,” Al Marri pointed out.

The Director General of the Dubai Government Media Office outlined the rapid development of the UAE and its people.

“I would like to share with you a brief story about my country - the UAE. Throughout the past 42 years, the people in our country have undergone massive changes: starting with a journey to seek simple needs such as food, education, health and peace and ending with impressive cultural diversity, transforming from a very basic society to a remarkably sophisticated community adopting the most advanced technologies which we all live with today,” she pointed out.  

“With full support from our leadership, the UAE has arrived to a narrative that is its own,” she said while referring to the Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government’s Arab Social Media Outlook 2014 report, which ranked the UAE as first in the Middle East in Facebook penetration with users exceeding 54 per cent of the population. “More than 900,000 users were added in 2013 alone.” 

Vision of Dubai

Al Marri said the Social Media Summit is in full agreement with the vision of the Government of Dubai, which is to leverage advanced technologies to the benefit of all societies across the Arab world.

“As never before, the world is moving faster and coming closer. People in every corner of the globe feel an increasing need to be more informed and to remain connected with each other. Rapid advancement in information technology and the birth of some powerful social media has made this modern marvel possible. Even a decade ago, how many of us could have recognized the world-changing power inherent in social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube?” Al Marri said.

“His Highness Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, was, in fact, among the first world leaders to recognise social media’s vast potential to influence positive change. He believes (and I quote him): “Social media influencers are important change-makers in society. Those who bring wisdom, creativity and positivity are a powerful force for good, because social media are powerful tools for development and progress.” (End quote).

The DGMO Director General pointed out that this strong belief expressed by Sheikh Mohammed is rooted in Dubai’s history. “For hundreds of years, Dubai has played the part of being an important hub for people from the East and the West, a vital connecting point for cultures. It is no surprise that Dubai’s forward-looking leadership and government were the first to embrace social media and the latest digital initiatives for the good of its residents.”

World leader in social media

Al Marri pointed out that Sheikh Mohammed himself was an early adopter of social media and is well-known for frequent innovations online. “He joined Twitter in June 2009 to become one of the first global leaders to endorse social media as a primary channel to communicate with the public in the UAE and beyond. He was the first world leader to announce a cabinet change on Twitter. Today, he numbers among the Top 10 World Leaders on Social Media.”

“Earlier this year, Sheikh Mohammed introduced the concept of Twitter brainstorming sessions to include the public in decisions related to the future of the nation,” she said.

Al Marri stated it is clear that we all need to keep up with the pace of advancement of technology.

“When I take pictures with my three-year-old daughter and she asks me if we can post it on Instagram, or when my five-year old girl suggests that I download a certain app, I realise that the coming generation is not the same as it used to be. There’s no room for lagging behind, we all need to keep up,” she added.

Changing face of news
 
Samir Rifai, former Prime Minister of Jordan, who was also one of the opening speakers at the social media summit, spoke of the changing face of news in today’s times, especially from a government perspective.
 
He said: “Social media today plays a significant role in exchanging key messages by the government with a level of transparency that could perhaps be diluted in traditional media. Politicians can now directly reach their constituents.”
 
Rifai added that there was a significant cultural shift in recent times that highlighted multi-dimensional identities in Arab youth on a political, economic and social wavelength.
 
“Today, the news is not your 8pm bulletin or a state run television channel; in fact, a recent study in Jordan indicated that 30 per cent of respondents considered social media as its main news source.”
 
Osman Sultan, CEO of du telecom, reiterated the message, saying: “Content is changing today and there are new models of content integration taking centre stage.
 
“In fact, more than 50 hours of content is uploaded in a single minute on social media every day.”
 
He added: “We used to go to cafes; now we have social media.”
 
The first Social Media Summit has been organised by the organic Middle East platform, AreebaAreeba, a one-day only interactive session that discussed a variety of related subjects including marketing your brand on Twitter and Facebook, the social media age and the cultural and economic impact of this growth trend.

 

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has emphasised the importance of coordination, doubling national efforts nationwide and developing government work mechanism in accordance with national agenda to achieve the UAE's aspirations. 

Sheikh Mohammed made the remark on Monday at Emirates Towers in Dubai while reviewing the steps of implementing the national agenda which was launched last January for seven years in line with the U.A.E. Vision 2021 that coincides with the Golden Jubilee of the UAE.

Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Gargawi, Minister for Cabinet Affairs, and Khalifa Saeed Suleiman, Director- General of the Department of Protocol and Hospitality in Dubai, attended the meeting.

The national agenda includes projects in the educational, health, economic, police, housing, infrastructure and government service sectors.

Sheikh Mohammed said, " I am pleased to be familiarised with these findings, which make us closer to our objective represented in achieving our national vision. This is a good start, but the accomplishment of our goals to make our people the happiest people in the world, and to make our country among the developed countries, require hard work and double efforts with an unwavering determination towards the future."

" I have confidence in Emiratis and their role in serving the country. They are true partners who work together and under one umbrella to contribute to the UAE's success after achieving UAE Vision 2021," he said.

The Vice President also urged all public officials in government departments to implement the national agenda in the field, and follow-up work progress to achieve the goals in time.

He also emphasised that the implementation of the national agenda and development of government work will be under his follow-up.

Sheikh Mohammed added, " We affirmed while launching the national agenda of UAE Vision 2021 on the importance of working as one team to achieve the goals. And today we underscore that innovation and outstanding performance represent the way to achieve the aspirations of the UAE's leadership and people."

The team work reviewed the steps and efforts which safeguard the implementation of national agenda, including the coordination with the federal government, and local departments in the country, as well as organising preliminary workshops to attain a comprehensive and sustainable development nationwide.

Mohammed orders promotion of Deputy Director of GDRFA

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has ordered the promotion of Brigadier Obaid bin Suroor, Deputy Director of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai, GDRFA, to the rank of Major-General.

Speaking on the occasion, Major-General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director of GDRFA, said that the order of Sheikh Mohammed was implemented immediately effective Monday, expressing his deepest thanks and appreciation to the wise leadership.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has launched the ''UAE Suqia" initiative to provide clean water to five million people worldwide.

The initiative will be implemented through digging wells, provision of water pumps and water purification equipment to the needy areas. The campaign will start in the beginning of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

While launching the initiative, Sheikh Mohammed said, "As usual in the UAE, we receive this holy month with charitable initiatives to support underprivileged people. No doubt Emiratis are sons of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and always ready to support the needy people."

The Vice President added, "We will not stop launching humanitarian initiatives every year, since the UAE has an established charitable work. And we will continue following the legacy of the founding fathers."

"In our country, water is great blessing. Our ancestors had been deprived of water, thus they knew its value, and nowadays those specialised in water projects know that a huge part of our financial resources is allocated to water purposes," he added. 

Sheikh Mohammed presided over the first session of the Organising Committee of the Initiative at the Executive Office in the presence of Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai. 

Sheikh Mohammed emphasised the importance of directing the committee to work in the areas, where water is scarce in coordination with competent international organisations, the Red Crescent Authority (RCA), and the UAE Embassies abroad.

He underscored the importance of cooperation of media to reflect Emirati national and humanitarian spirit, and instill it in the hearts of the youth.

UAE Suqia Campaign aims to provide clean water to five million people worldwide in cooperation with the RCA and other charity organistaions nationwide, as well as private sector and media.

Among those who attended the meeting were Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Gargawi, Minister for Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the UAE Suqia Initiative, Director-General of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO) Mona Ghanem Al Marri and other officials.

Mohammed endorses JBH expansion plan

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has endorsed the fifth phase of the Jumeirah Beach Hotel expansion plan, which is set for completion in 2018.

The endorsement took place in the presence of  Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Chairman of Dubai Holding, Ahmad bin Byat, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding, and Khalifa Saeed Sulaiman, Director-General of the Protocol Department in Dubai.

The project will see the addition of an ultra-luxury resort to the existing Jumeirah Beach Hotel, which will comprise 350 hotel rooms with panoramic beachfront views of Burj Al Arab,a  dedicated new beach offering private beach experiences, recreational marine facilities that encompass spas, health clubs, elevated tennis courts, a world-class sports complex and a range of ocean-facing retail, and a variety of food and beverage outlets.

The new resort will see extensive expansion of the existing yacht marina doubling its current capacity. It will also offer a variety of leisure facilities, equipped with state-of-the-art entertainment amenities.

The expansion project is in line with Sheikh Mohammed’s vision to strengthen Dubai as a global tourism hub and position the emirate as the number one tourism destination worldwide. It supports the implementation of Dubai Vision 2020 to attract 20 million tourists by 2020.

Jumeirah Group, a global luxury hotel company and a member of Dubai Holding, currently manages 22 luxury hotels in over 10 countries with plans to add ten new hotels to its Dubai portfolio over the next few years. 

Six new judges sworn in before Mohammed bin Rashid in Dubai

Six new judges of Dubai Courts on Tuesday were sworn-in before His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, at Zabeel Palace, in the presence of  Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Judicial Council.

The new judges are Bura'ee Mohammed Sayyed Ahmed, Mohammed Abdul Halim Ali Ibrahim, Saad Mohammed Saeed Robil of the Court of Cassation, Abdullah Saeed Mattar bin Lahej of the Court of Appeal, and Mohammed Ali Mohammed Al Bannai and Badr Mohammed Khaled Manea Al Semairi of the Court of First Instance.

Taking oath before Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, the judges vowed to uphold justice, respect the law, perform their duties with integrity and devotion, and to be committed to  to behaving as honest judges.

 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid gave directives to the new judges to abide by impartiality and integrity, back those who are in the right and champion human rights regardless of race, religion and nationality.

He re-affirmed that UAE is a state of law, justice and equality between all, and an institution-based state which upholds Arab, Islamic and human values, stressing that all should respect, consolidate and preserve these fixed principles.

 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid wished for success for the new judges in their assignments, and urged them to make quick decisions and resolve litigations without delay.

Also present at the judges' swearing-in ceremony were Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Emirates Group,  Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Gargawi, Minister for Cabinet Affairs, Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani , Director-General of the Dubai Ruler's Court, Essam Eisa Al Humaidan, Dubai's Attorney-General, Taresh Eid Mohammad Al Mansouri Managing Director of Dubai Courts, Major General Khamis Mattar Al Mazeina, Dubai Police Chief,  Khalifa bin Demas, Secretary-General of Dubai Judicial Council, and heads of courts of Dubai.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has launched the 'UAE Suqia' initiative to provide clean water to five million people worldwide.

The initiative will be implemented through digging wells, provision of water pumps and water purification equipment to the needy areas. The campaign will start in the beginning of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

While launching the initiative, Sheikh Mohammed said, "As usual in the UAE, we receive this holy month with charitable initiatives to support underprivileged people. No doubt Emiratis are sons of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and always ready to support the needy people."

The Vice-President added, "We will not stop launching humanitarian initiatives every year, since the UAE has an established charitable work. And we will continue following the legacy of the founding fathers."

"In our country, water is great blessing. Our ancestors had been deprived of water, thus they knew its value, and nowadays those specialised in water projects know that a huge part of our financial resources is allocated to water purposes," he added. 

Sheikh Mohammed presided over the first session of the Organising Committee of the Initiative at the Executive Office in the presence of Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai. 

Sheikh Mohammed emphasised the importance of directing the committee to work in the areas, where water is scarce in coordination with competent international organisations, the Red Crescent Authority (RCA), and the UAE Embassies abroad.

He underscored the importance of cooperation of media to reflect Emirati national and humanitarian spirit, and instill it in the hearts of the youth.

UAE Suqia Campaign aims to provide clean water to five million people worldwide in cooperation with the RCA and other charity organistaions nationwide, as well as private sector and media.

Among those who attended the meeting were Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Gargawi, Minister for Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the UAE Suqia Initiative, Director-General of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO) Mona Ghanem Al Marri and other officials.

British Secretary of State for Defence

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum ,Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, received in Dubai British Secretary of State for Defence Philip Hammond who is visiting the UAE as part of a regional tour.

Present during the meeting was Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed and Hammond discussed ties of friendship and cooperation between the two countries and means to sustain regional security and stability.

The meeting was also attended by Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Gargawi, Minister for Cabinet Affairs, Dr. Anwar bin Mohammed Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Minister of State, Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, Director General of Dubai Ruler'sCourt, Major General Mohammed Ahmed Al Qamzi, Khalifa Sulaiman, Director General of Dubai Protocol and Hospitality Department and British Consul General Edward Hobart.

Mohammed endorses Jumeirah Beach Hotel expansion plan

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has endorsed the fifth phase of the Jumeirah Beach Hotel expansion plan, which is set for completion in 2018.

The endorsement took place in the presence of  Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Chairman of Dubai Holding, Ahmad bin Byat, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding, and Khalifa Saeed Sulaiman, Director-General of the Protocol Department in Dubai.

The project will see the addition of an ultra-luxury resort to the existing Jumeirah Beach Hotel, which will comprise 350 hotel rooms with panoramic beachfront views of Burj Al Arab,a  dedicated new beach offering private beach experiences, recreational marine facilities that encompass spas, health clubs, elevated tennis courts, a world-class sports complex and a range of ocean-facing retail, and a variety of food and beverage outlets.

The new resort will see extensive expansion of the existing yacht marina doubling its current capacity. It will also offer a variety of leisure facilities, equipped with state-of-the-art entertainment amenities.

The expansion project is in line with Sheikh Mohammed’s vision to strengthen Dubai as a global tourism hub and position the emirate as the number one tourism destination worldwide. It supports the implementation of Dubai Vision 2020 to attract 20 million tourists by 2020.

Jumeirah Group, a global luxury hotel company and a member of Dubai Holding, currently manages 22 luxury hotels in over 10 countries with plans to add ten new hotels to its Dubai portfolio over the next few years. 

Six new judges sworn in

Six new judges of Dubai Courts on Tuesday were sworn-in before His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, at Zabeel Palace, in the presence of  Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Judicial Council.

The new judges are Bura'ee Mohammed Sayyed Ahmed, Mohammed Abdul Halim Ali Ibrahim, Saad Mohammed Saeed Robil of the Court of Cassation, Abdullah Saeed Mattar bin Lahej of the Court of Appeal, and Mohammed Ali Mohammed Al Bannai and Badr Mohammed Khaled Manea Al Semairi of the Court of First Instance.

Taking oath before Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, the judges vowed to uphold justice, respect the law, perform their duties with integrity and devotion, and to be committed to  to behaving as honest judges.

 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid gave directives to the new judges to abide by impartiality and integrity, back those who are in the right and champion human rights regardless of race, religion and nationality.

He re-affirmed that UAE is a state of law, justice and equality between all, and an institution-based state which upholds Arab, Islamic and human values, stressing that all should respect, consolidate and preserve these fixed principles.

 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid wished for success for the new judges in their assignments, and urged them to make quick decisions and resolve litigations without delay.

Also present at the judges' swearing-in ceremony were Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Emirates Group, Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Gargawi, Minister for Cabinet Affairs, Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani , Director-General of the Dubai Ruler's Court, Essam Eisa Al Humaidan, Dubai's Attorney-General, Taresh Eid Mohammad Al Mansouri Managing Director of Dubai Courts, Major General Khamis Mattar Al Mazeina, Dubai Police Chief,  Khalifa bin Demas, Secretary-General of Dubai Judicial Council, and heads of courts of Dubai.

Mohammed bin Rashid releases 892 prisoners

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, in his capacity as Ruler of Dubai, has ordered the release of 892 Emirati and expatriate inmates from Dubai's correctional and punitive establishments on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan.

Essam Eisa Al Humaidan, Dubai's Attorney-General, said Dubai Public Prosecution and Dubai Police have already started the execution of Sheikh Mohammed's order to ensure the release of the prisoners, who served different periods of their jail terms, and their reunion with their families before the beginning of Ramadan.

Al Humaidan expressed thanked Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid for the generous gesture which reflects his authentic and noble Arab values and his commitment to all members of the society without any discrimination.

He also congratulated the leadership on the occasion of the advent of Ramadan, and the released prisoners on their return to their families.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has ordered the appointment of Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Minister of State, as Managing Director of Higher Committee on Hosting the World Expo 2020.  Sheikh Mohammed also ordered the setting up of an office dedicated for Expo 2020 and the appointment of Minister Al Hashemi as Director-General.

In the same context, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid chaired a meeting of the Higher Committee on Hosting the World Expo 2020 in the presence of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

Also present at the meeting were Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Emirates Group, and Chairman of the Higher Committee on Hosting the World Expo 2020, Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Transport Department and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, Khalid Al Ghaith, Assistant Foreign Minister for Economic Affairs, Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, Director-General of Dubai Ruler's Court and Deputy Chairman of Higher Committee on Hosting the World Expo 2020, Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the Roads & Transport Authority, Hussain Nasser Lootah, Director-General of Dubai Municipality, Major General Khamis Mattar Al Mazeina, Dubai Police Chief, Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director-General of Dubai's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai World Central, and others.

During the meeting, Minister Al Hashemi gave a presentation on the preparations for building a headquarters for Expo 2020 in Jebel Ali, close to Al Maktoum International Airport, which design and components will reflect U.A.E.'s outstanding and sustainable heritage.

Al Tayer and  Lootah also spoke at the meeting about the preparations being made by their organisations for the Expo 2020 headquarters, the responsibilities of Dubai government departments in the construction of the mega project which is planned to be an enduring architectural and heritage icon. 

Mohammed bin Rashid releases 892 prisoners

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, in his capacity as Ruler of Dubai, has ordered the release of 892 Emirati and expatriate inmates from Dubai's correctional and punitive establishments on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan.

Essam Eisa Al Humaidan, Dubai's Attorney-General, said Dubai Public Prosecution and Dubai Police have already started the execution of Sheikh Mohammed's order to ensure the release of the prisoners, who served different periods of their jail terms, and their reunion with their families before the beginning of Ramadan.

Al Humaidan expressed thanked Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid for the generous gesture which reflects his authentic and noble Arab values and his commitment to all members of the society without any discrimination.

He also congratulated the leadership on the occasion of the advent of Ramadan, and the released prisoners on their return to their families.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai's initiative  - Suqiya Al Emarat (UAE Water Aid) - to provide clean drinking water to 5 million people in countries experiencing severe water shortages begins today and you can play a part in changing the lives of people across the world.

The initiative aims to collect funds necessary for drilling wells in areas suffering from drought or lack of clean water, and toprovide them with water filtration equipment.

Mohammed launches 'UAE Suqia': Clean water for 5 million people worldwide

Sheikh Mohammed confirmed during the launch of the initiative that the UAE is the capital of goodness and charity. He added that the beginning of the Holy month of Ramadan is always witnessing the birth of the humanitarian initiatives from the UAE to everyone in need of help all over the world.

To Help Lives... Donate Generously - you can send your donations to the below account.

Do not forget to mark 'E247S' on your Transfer Advice

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

The humanitarian initiative of His Highness reflects his keenness to provide assistance to those in need of help and opens the UAE's doors for humanitarian assistance  to those countries in need for the basic and most important source for life on earth.

Many government and private bodies are involved in the initiative of Suqiya Al Emarat. All efforts are focused on the success of the campaign, but the people of the UAE and all residents are the most effective element for the success of the initiative.

However the Emarati people and their genuine nature is always the main motive for the charity and goodness.

The initiative of Suqiya Al Emarat (UAE Water Aid) is one of the several humanitarian initiatives launched by the UAE within the past few years to improve the living conditions of millions of people in various parts of the world.

Among those initiatives are 'Noor Dubai' and the 'Mohammad Bin Rashid Initiative to Clothe One Million Children' all over the world, which were launched by Sheikh Mohammed. 

To donate to #UAEWaterAid, text the word (water) to the following etisalat or du numbers

8025 to donate Dh25

8075 to donate Dh75

8150 to donate Dh150

8250 to donate Dh250

8500 to donate Dh500

This initiative achieved its targets and surpassed one million child beneficiaries after only ten days of its launch.

Suqiya Al Emarat initiative comes amid growing water scarcity in scattered places around the world in recent decades that is causing a lot of problems that threaten the lives of millions of people.

The problem of scarcity of water around the world threatens to worsen seriously if there is inaction by world countries and relevant international bodies to develop urgent plans and strategies to provide radical solutions in those threatened areas.

The UN reports indicate that number of children affected by shortage of clean water is increasing day by day - a child's life and growing up is based on clean and good quality water.

But the quality of drinking water is affected in many parts of the world due to biological and chemical contaminants that lead to a range of diseases which threaten the life of people and affect human health, particularly children.

United Nations statistics confirm that 85% of the world population lives in driest half of the planet while 783 million people are without access to clean water.

The UAE since its founding adopts a global policy in the field of humanitarian aid and charity. This policy is based on establishing the principles of helping and provide assistance to others.

This successful and effective policy has been welcomed globally and has received international recognition of the role of UAE and its contribution to improve and assist the lives of millions of people.

Between 2009 and 2013, the total external assistance provided by the State of the UAE related to water problems was worth Dh1.014 billion through the implementation of many projects in 61 countries around the world, according to a report by the Ministry of Development and international cooperation.

The Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has directed Dubai Government’s entities to participate in UAE Water Aid Campaign launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

UAE Water Aid campaign aims to provide access to fresh drinking water for 5 million persons around the world who suffer from shortage of potable water.

Sheikh Hamdan assured that UAE’s humanitarian activities initiates from the country’s found commitment to help underprivileged and reflects the genuine character of the Emirati people which are the value they learned from Sheikh Zayed.

The Crown Prince of Dubai asserted that UAE is the world’s capital of charitable work and humanitarian activities.

Sheikh Hamdan directives to engage the entities of Dubai Government in Emirates Water Aid Campaign mirrors the leadership’s enthusiasm to boost UAE’s position as a global centre for philanthropy in addition to its continuing efforts to enhance standard of living for millions of people around the world.

He said: "Government departments are an integral part of UAE’s social fabric which imposes many responsibilities and obligations on them. These departments should stand up to these responsibilities.

“All government departments must unify their efforts to serve and support UAE Water Aid Campaign. We also call on every citizen and expat to interact with this drive."

Sheikh Hamdan’s directives come in line with the campaign’s ambitious plan to help large numbers of people that lack the very basic human need and to participate in solving the global drinking water problem that threatens many countries.

Since its launching, UAE Water Aid Campaign attracted massive regional and international attention. Many foreign media establishments lauded Sheikh Mohammed’s humanitarian efforts and expressed their gratitude for the leadership and people of the United Arab Emirates for their unlimited and generous support.

To get involved and play your part in the UAE Water Aid Campaign Click here

 UPDATE: The UAE Suqia Water Aid initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai,  on the occasion of the Holy Month of Ramadan to provide clean water for five million people worldwide, on Sunday raised more than DH60,250,000.

The amount, donated by individual and corporate donors on the second day of UAE Suqia, is enough to buy clean water for around 1.07 million people in the targeted countries hit by water scarcity due to drought.

On Saturday, the campaign raised Dh33.5 million, an amount enough to provide clean water for more than 1.3 million people.

Sunday's top donors to the campaign include Investment Corporation of Dubai Dh6 million, followed by Nakheel, Wasl properties, Emirates Airline who donated Dh5 million each, Dubai's Ports Customs and Free Zone Corporation (Dh2 million), Union Co-op Dh1.25 million (to fund the digging of 50 water wells in developing countries), Sheikha Alya bint Khalifa Al Maktoum (AED1 million), Lulu Hyper Market (Dh1 million) and Dubai Land Department (Dh0.5 million).

According to World Health Organisation (WHO), 3.4 million people, mostly children, die annually from water-related diseases.

EARLIER REPORT:

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai's initiative  - Suqiya Al Emarat (UAE Water Aid) - to provide clean drinking water to 5 million people in countries experiencing severe water shortages has begun today and you can play a part in changing the lives of people across the world.

The UAE’s response has already been a wave of donations that have seen millions pour in. According to the Dubai Media Office, donations for the campaign reached Dh33.5 million yesterday (day 1).

The initiative aims to collect funds necessary for drilling wells in areas suffering from drought or lack of clean water, and toprovide them with water filtration equipment.

Mohammed launches 'UAE Suqia': Clean water for 5 million people worldwide

Sheikh Mohammed confirmed during the launch of the initiative that the UAE is the capital of goodness and charity. He added that the beginning of the Holy month of Ramadan is always witnessing the birth of the humanitarian initiatives from the UAE to everyone in need of help all over the world.

To Help Lives... Donate Generously - you can send your donations to the below account.

Do not forget to mark 'E247S' on your Transfer Advice

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

The humanitarian initiative of His Highness reflects his keenness to provide assistance to those in need of help and opens the UAE's doors for humanitarian assistance  to those countries in need for the basic and most important source for life on earth.

Many government and private bodies are involved in the initiative of Suqiya Al Emarat. All efforts are focused on the success of the campaign, but the people of the UAE and all residents are the most effective element for the success of the initiative.

However the Emarati people and their genuine nature is always the main motive for the charity and goodness.

The initiative of Suqiya Al Emarat (UAE Water Aid) is one of the several humanitarian initiatives launched by the UAE within the past few years to improve the living conditions of millions of people in various parts of the world.

Among those initiatives are 'Noor Dubai' and the 'Mohammad Bin Rashid Initiative to Clothe One Million Children' all over the world, which were launched by Sheikh Mohammed. 

To donate to #UAEWaterAid, text the word (water) to the following etisalat or du numbers

8025 to donate Dh25

8075 to donate Dh75

8150 to donate Dh150

8250 to donate Dh250

8500 to donate Dh500

This initiative achieved its targets and surpassed one million child beneficiaries after only ten days of its launch.

Suqiya Al Emarat initiative comes amid growing water scarcity in scattered places around the world in recent decades that is causing a lot of problems that threaten the lives of millions of people.

The problem of scarcity of water around the world threatens to worsen seriously if there is inaction by world countries and relevant international bodies to develop urgent plans and strategies to provide radical solutions in those threatened areas.

The UN reports indicate that number of children affected by shortage of clean water is increasing day by day - a child's life and growing up is based on clean and good quality water.

But the quality of drinking water is affected in many parts of the world due to biological and chemical contaminants that lead to a range of diseases which threaten the life of people and affect human health, particularly children.

United Nations statistics confirm that 85% of the world population lives in driest half of the planet while 783 million people are without access to clean water.

The UAE since its founding adopts a global policy in the field of humanitarian aid and charity. This policy is based on establishing the principles of helping and provide assistance to others.

This successful and effective policy has been welcomed globally and has received international recognition of the role of UAE and its contribution to improve and assist the lives of millions of people.

Between 2009 and 2013, the total external assistance provided by the State of the UAE related to water problems was worth Dh1.014 billion through the implementation of many projects in 61 countries around the world, according to a report by the Ministry of Development and international cooperation.

The Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has directed Dubai Government’s entities to participate in UAE Water Aid Campaign launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

UAE Water Aid campaign aims to provide access to fresh drinking water for 5 million persons around the world who suffer from shortage of potable water.

Sheikh Hamdan assured that UAE’s humanitarian activities initiates from the country’s found commitment to help underprivileged and reflects the genuine character of the Emirati people which are the value they learned from Sheikh Zayed.

The Crown Prince of Dubai asserted that UAE is the world’s capital of charitable work and humanitarian activities.

Sheikh Hamdan directives to engage the entities of Dubai Government in Emirates Water Aid Campaign mirrors the leadership’s enthusiasm to boost UAE’s position as a global centre for philanthropy in addition to its continuing efforts to enhance standard of living for millions of people around the world.

He said: "Government departments are an integral part of UAE’s social fabric which imposes many responsibilities and obligations on them. These departments should stand up to these responsibilities.

“All government departments must unify their efforts to serve and support UAE Water Aid Campaign. We also call on every citizen and expat to interact with this drive."

Sheikh Hamdan’s directives come in line with the campaign’s ambitious plan to help large numbers of people that lack the very basic human need and to participate in solving the global drinking water problem that threatens many countries.

Since its launching, UAE Water Aid Campaign attracted massive regional and international attention. Many foreign media establishments lauded Sheikh Mohammed’s humanitarian efforts and expressed their gratitude for the leadership and people of the United Arab Emirates for their unlimited and generous support.

To get involved and play your part in the UAE Water Aid Campaign: Click here