UAE Expat Diaries

Hey there, expats! So, recently, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh of Mongolia on a significant working visit to the vibrant city of Abu Dhabi. Their high-level discussions sparked an exciting promise of strengthened collaboration between the UAE and Mongolia, focusing on pivotal sectors like economic growth, investments, developmental initiatives, and the pivotal realm of renewable energy. Central to their talks was the eagerly anticipated UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) set to unfold at Expo City Dubai. The leaders emphasized its crucial role in addressing global challenges concerning climate action and fostering sustainable development. This pivotal event stands as a beacon of hope, aiming to pave the way for a better, more sustainable future for humanity worldwide. Amidst this atmosphere of collaboration and forward-thinking, both leaders presided over the exchange of several memoranda of understanding. These vital agreements enc...

Hey, cricket fans! One thing you don't know about me is that I'm also a fellow cricket fan. Get set for an incredible rollercoaster of excitement because the Abu Dhabi T10's seventh season is about to kick off at the Zayed Cricket Stadium! Get ready to soak in the thrill, groove to the tunes, and witness the sheer magic of cricket's speediest format as eight powerhouse teams, led by the reigning champs, Deccan Gladiators, gear up for a jam-packed 12 days of non-stop action. This tournament isn't your run-of-the-mill cricket showdown; it's a carnival, a feast of cricketing brilliance! Picture this: teams battling it out in a double round-robin league format, all hungry for that shot at glory. The top four hustling their way into the playoffs adds to the thrill. Qualifier 1 amps up the stakes for the top contenders, while the Eliminator becomes the battleground for the third and fourth-placed teams, building up to the grand finale on December 9th - it's going ...

Hello expats! Especially FILIPINO expats in the UAE. I have some great news for you! In a significant stride toward economic synergy, a high-profile UAE delegation, spearheaded by Ministers Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh and Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, recently descended upon Manila. The aim? To fortify and expand the already flourishing bilateral trade ties between the UAE and the Philippines. The numbers speak volumes, with trade reaching an impressive $500 million in the first half of 2023, signaling a robust 19.4% surge compared to the previous year. This isn’t just a diplomatic visit; it’s a testament to the commitment both nations share towards fostering a strong economic alliance. The headline-grabber from this diplomatic foray is the discussion surrounding the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The prospect of a CEPA could inject renewed vigor into an already dynamic economic relationship. It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about laying the groundwork for sustaine...

Hey expats! Big news in town! Recently, some top-notch officials from the UAE and China came together for a major pow-wow in Abu Dhabi. Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Minister of the Interior, H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, had a sit-down with Lieutenant General Xu Ganlu, China’s Deputy Minister of Public Security and Commissioner of the National Immigration Administration. So what about it? Well, they were all about boosting the friendship vibes between our countries, especially in the police and security arenas. Think of it as a cool brainstorming session to amp up our teamwork! They were super keen on teaming up and sharing clever tricks in the world of law enforcement. You know, pooling ideas, best practices, and tackling security challenges together. It was all about working as a squad to stay on top of the game. Our very own UAE Ministry of Interior, Major General Khalifa Hareb Al Khaili, Brigadier Engineer Hussein Ahmed Al Harithi, a...

In a series of influential discussions on climate finance, Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, the designated president of COP28, emphasized pivotal aspects crucial for global climate action. His remarks within these discussions underscored the urgency and necessity for collective commitment and transformative initiatives. Dr. Al Jaber lauded initiatives like the Climate Finance Mobilisation Forum, recognizing them as pivotal avenues for progress. He highlighted the significance of the funding commitments announced by influential private sector entities and philanthropists, deeming them precisely aligned with the crucial steps required ahead of COP28. Acknowledging the vital role of leadership from the US and UK, Dr. Al Jaber stressed their crucial role in meeting climate finance pledges and further mobilizing substantial capital. While recognizing the assurance regarding the $100 billion annual climate finance pledge made in 2009, he emphasized the necessity to escalate efforts, underlining the need...

Hi expats, Dina here again with politics and human rights! So, recently, Lana Nusseibeh, the UAE’s voice at the United Nations, has spoken out against the ongoing attacks on Gaza by Israel, calling it a clear violation of international humanitarian laws. Her words highlight the urgent need for humanitarian support in the region. She’s cheered a positive step: a deal to release 50 women and children held captive by Hamas in Gaza and Palestinian women and kids detained in Israel. Plus, there’s word of more aid coming into Gaza, which is a ray of hope for many facing tough times there. Nusseibeh wants the Security Council to think outside the box and stress how important it is to keep up the flow of humanitarian help across all parts of Gaza. It’s a plea to make sure that vital supplies reach everyone who needs them in this challenging time. Her call for consistent support hits home, reminding us how crucial it is to ensure that essential aid gets to every corner of Gaza. People there are...

In a testament to the vibrant intersection of tradition and modernity, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan recently embarked on an enriching journey through the 15th edition of Abu Dhabi Art. This blog captures the essence of his visit, where the fusion of global contemporary culture and the rich tapestry of UAE’s heritage were on full display. Sheikh Khaled’s visit was marked by a captivating tour through the event’s galleries, providing him with an opportunity to engage with renowned artists such as Nujoom Al Ghanem, Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim, and Hashel Al Lamki. These artists, each with their unique perspectives, contribute to the diverse and dynamic cultural landscape that Abu Dhabi Art has become synonymous with. As Abu Dhabi Art celebrates its 15th year, Sheikh Khaled emphasized how the event has grown hand in hand with Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural scene. The city, under his patronage, has evolved into a leading hub for art and culture, where a profound appreciation for globa...

In the vibrant city of Dubai, the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-23) recently convened, marking a pivotal moment in the realm of global wireless communications. Organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), this gathering brought together over 4,500 delegates representing 193 countries, alongside 900 international organizations, universities, and corporations. At the inauguration, Eng. Majed Sultan Al Mesmar, Director-General of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), alongside key ITU officials, emphasized the monumental significance of this conference. Their focus? Shaping the future development prospects, particularly within the ICT sector, against the backdrop of the transformative changes witnessed over the past five decades. The conference spotlighted critical issues, notably the equitable distribution of spectrum resources globally. Doreen Bogdan-Martin, the Secretary-General of the ITU, underscored the imperative for ...

As an expatriate residing in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the recent events unfolding in Gaza have struck a chord close to home. Amidst the conflict, the UAE’s humanitarian efforts have stood out as a beacon of hope, particularly in the recent evacuation of 31 critically ill premature babies from Al-Shifa Hospital. Collaborating with international bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations (UN), and the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, the UAE showcased an unwavering commitment to aid. The coordinated effort orchestrated the transfer of these fragile infants to the Al Helal Emirati maternity hospital, emphasizing precision, urgency, and a profound sense of compassion. For an expatriate like myself, this act of compassion resonates deeply. It reflects not only the UAE’s values of solidarity and humanitarianism but also serves as a powerful reminder of its commitment to global welfare. In the face of turmoil, the UAE’s proactive stance in extending a helpi...

Hi expats! I have some heartwarming news for you today. Today marked a significant moment as the UAE welcomed the arrival of the first group of injured Palestinian children and women. As an expat residing in this diverse and compassionate nation, witnessing this humanitarian effort has been truly touching. The Nesma flight, carrying over 50 passengers, including injured individuals, medical professionals, and esteemed officials, landed at Abu Dhabi International Airport from El Arish International Airport in Egypt. Among them were nine children and women, some of whom required urgent medical attention, and one expectant mother. The care and attention they received upon arrival, being transferred to waiting ambulances, was heartening to witness. This initiative is part of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s directive to extend medical treatment to 1,000 Palestinian children from Gaza. It’s a testament to the UAE’s enduring commitment to global humanitarianism, a value deep...

In a celebration of cultural diversity and artistic expression, the Embassy of the State #الإمارات in #كندا recently organized the “First Arab Poetry Forum in Canada” in collaboration with the University of Waterloo - Renison and the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority. This groundbreaking event brought together a stellar lineup of poets from the Emirates and Canada, creating a platform for cross-cultural dialogue and artistic collaboration. The inaugural edition of the forum was nothing short of a triumph, attracting a diverse and engaged audience. Let’s take a closer look at some of the distinguished poets who graced the event with their presence: Zoukan Abdel Samad Lebanese-Canadian poet Zoukan Abdel Samad is celebrated for his ability to interweave diverse cultural narratives in his work. With an impressive 17 Arabic poetry collections and books to his name, he stands as a testament to the power of poetry to transcend borders. At the forum, Abdel Samad is set to recite one of his best...

Hi expats,  The recent surge in humanitarian aid efforts by Gulf countries in support of Gaza reflects a powerful commitment to alleviate the suffering of civilians amidst escalating crises. As Gaza City witnesses an exodus of civilians seeking safety, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have stepped up their aid initiatives, providing crucial support and resources during these trying times. Saudi Arabia’s enduring commitment to the Palestinian people has once again manifested in the form of aid convoys arriving in Gaza, delivering essential supplies for shelters and other humanitarian assistance. This gesture aligns with Saudi Arabia’s consistent support for Palestinians during times of crisis, underscoring the nation’s unwavering dedication to humanitarian relief efforts. Simultaneously, the UAE has extended a considerable hand by dispatching six planes laden with supplies and equipment. These resources aim to facilitate the establishment of a 150-bed field hospital in the Gaza Strip, named...

Hey expats... and travelers!  Emirates and flydubai have recently inked a momentous deal for 125 new aircraft, boasting a combined value exceeding $63 billion. This colossal investment is more than just a numerical figure; it represents a strategic leap toward the realization of the UAE’s aviation vision and solidifies its role in shaping the global economy. This deal extends far beyond the aviation industry. It serves as a resounding testament to the UAE’s unwavering dedication to becoming a global economic powerhouse. At the heart of this investment lies the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, a blueprint designed to elevate Dubai's stature by adding 400 cities to its foreign trade map and solidifying its position among the top three global cities. This massive fleet expansion is a bold stride forward in achieving these lofty aspirations. It stands as a testament to the UAE’s unwavering resolve to propel itself onto the world stage, not merely as a regional hub but as a pivotal player in ...

Hi fellow expats! As you may know, the ICONIC Dubai Air Show is nearing. Dubai is gearing up to host one of the world’s most prestigious events in the realm of aviation, air transport, defense, and space – the Dubai Air Show. As the curtains rise tomorrow, the anticipation is palpable, with 148 countries and over 1,400 entities converging to showcase their cutting-edge products. The significance of this event is not just in its scale but also in the substantial impact it has on the global aerospace industry. In the previous session, the Dubai Air Show generated deals exceeding a staggering $74 billion, setting the bar high for this year’s edition. Optimism abounds, with expectations pointing towards even greater growth, guided by providence. Dubai’s ascent as a global aviation hub is intricately woven into its growth and superiority. The city has become synonymous with innovation, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in aviation, defense, and space exploration. Its strategic locat...