UAE Expat Diaries

  In a shining example of international cooperation for sustainable development, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has marked a major milestone with the inauguration of a 6.3-megawatt solar power plant in the Comoros. This clean energy project, funded with AED 25.7 million (approximately US$7 million), underscores the UAE’s growing role in driving global renewable energy transformation. A Brighter Future for Comoros Nestled in the Indian Ocean, the Comoros has long faced challenges related to energy access and reliability. With this new solar power plant, the nation is set to reduce its reliance on expensive fossil fuels and move closer to energy independence. The 6.3 MW plant is expected to significantly improve the country’s electricity grid, providing clean energy to thousands of homes and businesses. The UAE's Global Commitment to Sustainability The ADFD’s investment reflects the UAE’s vision to support sustainable development in emerging economies. Over the years, ADFD...

  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is solidifying its presence in East Africa's energy sector through strategic partnerships and investments. Notably, Saudi Aramco and Alpha MBM Investments are spearheading significant oil projects in Kenya and Uganda, respectively, marking a new era of energy collaboration between the Gulf and East Africa.​ Saudi Aramco Strengthens Kenya's Fuel Supply Chain In a move to stabilize its fuel supply and economy, Kenya has extended its oil supply agreement with three Gulf state-owned energy companies: Saudi Aramco, Emirates National Oil Company, and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company. This renewed contract, effective towards the end of 2025, allows Kenya to purchase gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and jet fuel on a 180-day credit plan. The arrangement has eased the country's monthly demand for U.S. dollars for petroleum imports, stabilizing the shilling-dollar exchange rate and reducing pump prices for consumers. ​ Reuters +1 Reuters +1 Reuters The UA...

  In a significant move to promote health and well-being within the educational sector, the UAE Ministry of Education (MoE) has entered into a strategic partnership with Burjeel Holdings. This collaboration aims to provide comprehensive healthcare services to MoE employees, their families, and students across the nation.​ Key Highlights of the Partnership Comprehensive Health Checks: Under the 'IFHAS' initiative, Burjeel Holdings will offer extensive health screenings to MoE employees and their immediate families. This proactive approach focuses on the early detection and prevention of chronic diseases.​ 24/7 Helpline and Wellness Programs: A dedicated helpline will be established for MoE employees, alongside monthly health campaigns and sessions focusing on mental, physical, and overall quality of life.​ HealthCare MEA Magazine Leadership Perspectives His Excellency Eng. Mohammed Al Qasim, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education, emphasized the Ministry's commitment to...

  In a significant move towards reinforcing international cooperation and inter-parliamentary dialogue, His Excellency Dr. Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi received a distinguished delegation from the European Parliament in Abu Dhabi. The high-profile meeting marks yet another step in the UAE’s efforts to strengthen its global partnerships and emphasize its role as a hub for peace, tolerance, and diplomacy. The European delegation, composed of senior members of the European Parliament, arrived in Abu Dhabi to engage in strategic talks and mutual understanding across sectors including education, technology, counter-extremism, and sustainable development. HE Dr. Al Nuaimi, known for his proactive global outreach and leadership in promoting moderation and tolerance, emphasized the importance of continued dialogue between the UAE and European countries. He highlighted the shared values of peaceful coexistence and the importance of countering hate speech and extremism through cooperation. “Our vis...

  In a world where interconnected economies are the norm, trade agreements have long served as the backbone of international cooperation and growth. However, recent developments — particularly US President Donald Trump's sweeping announcement of blanket tariffs on over 190 countries and regions — have sent shockwaves through global markets and reignited intense debate over the future of trade. Trump's move, framed as a push to protect American industries and jobs, is being met with a mix of anxiety and defiance across the globe. Major trading partners, from the European Union to developing economies in Asia and Africa, are scrambling to assess the implications. These tariffs don’t just target rival economies; they challenge the very framework of multilateral trade agreements that have guided commerce for decades. Why It Matters The sudden imposition of such broad tariffs has implications far beyond U.S. borders. Global supply chains, painstakingly built over years, are now unde...

  In a bold move to deepen bilateral ties and stimulate cross-regional investment, Morocco and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have solidified a strategic economic partnership during the recently concluded ‘Morocco Now’ event. This high-profile gathering not only highlighted Morocco’s position as a rising economic hub in Africa but also reinforced the UAE's growing interest in expanding its footprint in North and West Africa. A New Chapter in Arab-African Economic Cooperation The partnership signifies a major leap in Arab-African cooperation, aligning with both nations’ visions for economic diversification and sustainable development. Held under the banner of ‘Morocco Now’, the event served as a dynamic platform to showcase Morocco's investment-ready infrastructure, stable political landscape, and proactive industrial policies — all of which are attracting major interest from Gulf investors. The UAE, known for its forward-thinking economic diplomacy, sees Morocco as a gateway to...