UAE Expat Diaries

  In a significant diplomatic engagement, a high-profile meeting took place at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi, where His Highness warmly welcomed the visiting Prime Minister of India. This meeting underscored the deepening ties between the two nations and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations across multiple sectors. A Warm Welcome and Mutual Aspirations During the discussions, His Highness expressed his optimism about the visit, highlighting its potential to enhance cooperation between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and India. Both leaders emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships in trade, investment, technology, and energy. The UAE has long been a crucial partner for India, serving as one of its largest trading allies and a significant investor in various sectors. Key Areas of Collaboration 1. Economic and Trade Relations: India and the UAE share a robust economic relationship, with bilateral trade surpassing $80 billion. The leaders disc...

  In a moment of pride and recognition, Lt. General HH Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Interior, and Chairman of Baniyas Sports and Cultural Club, met with the Baniyas Women’s Team following their remarkable triumph in the Mother of the Nation Jiu-Jitsu Championship Cup. This marks their third consecutive victory, solidifying their dominance in the sport and celebrating their dedication to excellence. A Legacy of Excellence The Baniyas Women’s Jiu-Jitsu Team has consistently demonstrated unparalleled skill, discipline, and perseverance. Their recent victory in the prestigious Mother of the Nation Jiu-Jitsu Championship Cup is a testament to their hard work, rigorous training, and unwavering spirit. Their three-peat win highlights their commitment to bringing glory to the club and inspiring future generations of athletes. Sheikh Saif bin Zayed’s Encouragement During his meeting with the team, Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan commended the athletes ...

  The Electoral Committee of the UAE National Olympic Committee (NOC) has officially announced the election of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as the President of the NOC for the 2024–2028 Olympic term. This milestone decision marks a new era for the UAE's sporting landscape, reinforcing the nation's commitment to excellence in athletics and Olympic participation. A Vision for UAE’s Olympic Future Sheikh Mansoor’s election is seen as a strategic move to further elevate the UAE’s presence on the global sporting stage. With a strong background in leadership and sports administration, he is expected to bring a dynamic vision to the role, fostering the development of athletes, enhancing sports infrastructure, and strengthening international collaborations. His tenure will focus on: Expanding grassroots sports initiatives Enhancing athlete training programs Strengthening the UAE’s participation in international competitions Promoting Olympic values acr...

 UAE PASS Wins Prestigious Gold Award at the Public Sector Transformation Awards 2025 In a remarkable achievement for the UAE's digital transformation journey, Digital Dubai and The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) have announced that the UAE PASS application has secured the Gold Award in the International General Authority category at the Sixteenth Edition of the Public Sector Transformation Awards (IESE) 2025. This prestigious recognition highlights the UAE’s continued leadership in pioneering innovative digital solutions, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing public sector efficiency and streamlining government services. UAE PASS, the country’s first secure national digital identity and signature solution, has revolutionized the way citizens and residents access government and private sector services seamlessly. A Milestone in Digital Innovation UAE PASS enables individuals to access various e-services, sign documents digitally, and complet...

  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has once again demonstrated its commitment to strong diplomatic relations and international friendship by extending its heartfelt congratulations to the Greek President on the occasion of Greece's Independence Day. This important event, celebrated annually on March 25, marks Greece's liberation from Ottoman rule and is a symbol of national pride and resilience. Strengthening bilateral relations On this important day, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum sent their congratulatory messages to Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou. The UAE leadership reaffirmed its wishes for continued prosperity, peace and success for the people of Greece. Foreign relations between the UAE and Greece are steadily growing, with the two countries emphasising economic cooperation, cultural exchanges and mutual investments. The two countries share common interests in areas such...

  Innovation and upskilling are the driving forces behind modern industrial and defence advancements. To further this mission, #EDGE’s Learning and Innovation Factory (LIF) has joined hands with #QuantaSim, a premier consulting and training firm specializing in cutting-edge engineering solutions. Together, they are launching an Engineering Bootcamp Programme designed to revolutionize skills development in the manufacturing sector. A Step Towards Excellence in Engineering The collaboration aims to provide an immersive learning experience for professionals in the defence and industrial sectors. With rapid technological advancements reshaping global industries, the need for upskilling and reskilling has never been greater. This bootcamp will bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry requirements, equipping engineers with practical skills in advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies. What to Expect from the Bootcamp? The Engineering Bootcamp Programme will feature: ...

  Water scarcity is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, affecting millions of people worldwide. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently participated in an international conference aimed at ensuring sustained leadership in tackling the global water crisis. The event brought together policymakers, environmentalists, and global stakeholders to discuss strategies for water conservation, management, and equitable distribution. A Unified Global Effort The conference served as a crucial platform for nations to collaborate on innovative solutions to combat water shortages. Representatives from various countries shared their experiences and best practices, emphasizing the need for a coordinated global response. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, representing its nation, showcased its commitment to addressing water scarcity through sustainable policies, advanced technologies, and strategic partnerships. Key Discussion Points During the confe...

  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to strengthen its diplomatic ties with nations across the globe. In a recent diplomatic engagement, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the UAE, held discussions with the Foreign Minister of Liberia to enhance bilateral cooperation between the two countries. During the meeting, held in Abu Dhabi, both leaders explored opportunities to deepen economic, political, and cultural ties. The discussions covered a wide range of topics, including trade partnerships, investment opportunities, and collaboration in key sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and education. His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed emphasized the UAE’s commitment to fostering meaningful relationships with African nations, recognizing Liberia’s strategic importance in the region. He reiterated the UAE’s interest in enhancing trade relations, boosting investment, and supporting sustainable development initiatives in Liberia. The ...

  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has once again demonstrated its diplomatic prowess by successfully mediating a new exchange of war captives between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Ukraine. In the latest exchange, a total of 350 captives—175 from each side—were released, marking another milestone in the ongoing efforts to ease tensions amid the prolonged conflict. This development is a testament to the UAE’s commitment to humanitarian diplomacy and conflict resolution. With this latest exchange, the overall number of captives exchanged through UAE mediation has reached an impressive 3,233. The UAE has consistently played a crucial role in facilitating dialogue and fostering cooperation between conflicting parties, reinforcing its reputation as a key global mediator. The Significance of the Exchange The Russia-Ukraine war, which began in 2022, has resulted in immense suffering for combatants and civilians alike. One of the pressing humanitarian concerns has been the treat...

  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has consistently positioned itself as a global leader in sports, and its partnership with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is a testament to its growing influence in the world of combat sports. The recent high-level meeting between UAE officials and UFC representatives focused on further strengthening this strategic collaboration, which has already played a pivotal role in hosting numerous global championships and elevating Abu Dhabi’s position on the international sports stage. A Legacy of Success The UAE’s relationship with the UFC dates back to 2010, when Abu Dhabi first hosted a UFC event. Since then, the partnership has flourished, with the region becoming a premier destination for major UFC fights. The introduction of Fight Island in 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, was a game-changing initiative that allowed the UFC to continue its events in a safe and controlled environment. This move further cemented Abu Dhabi’s reputat...

  The UAE has announced the much-anticipated Eid Al Fitr holidays for government employees. The official break will start from Monday, April 8, 2024 , and extend until Friday, April 12, 2024 . With the weekend following, public sector employees will get a six-day break to celebrate the festive occasion. Eid Al Fitr is a time of joy, gratitude, and togetherness, marking the end of Ramadan. The extended holiday will allow families to come together, enjoy special feasts, and participate in community celebrations. For those planning a getaway, this break provides an excellent opportunity to travel or explore the UAE’s top destinations. Popular places like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah will offer exciting events, fireworks, and exclusive deals at shopping malls and restaurants. While the public sector holidays are confirmed, private sector employees will need to wait for an official announcement. The UAE government often provides similar breaks, ensuring most residents get ample time t...

  Ramadan is a time of giving, unity, and support, and the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) continues to uphold these values through its humanitarian initiatives. As part of their ongoing efforts to support communities in need, the ERC has been actively distributing essential food aid across various regions. This Ramadan, their team has successfully distributed 3,130 food baskets out of a total of 8,000 planned, significantly benefiting families across Hadhramaut. Reaching Those in Need During the first half of Ramadan, over 40,000 individuals in Hadhramaut have received much-needed food aid. These efforts are a testament to the ERC’s dedication to alleviating food insecurity and ensuring that families have access to essential sustenance during the holy month. The distribution process is carefully managed to ensure that the aid reaches the most vulnerable communities efficiently and effectively. The Significance of the Initiative The ERC’s Ramadan food aid initiative is more than just a...

  Expo City Dubai has taken a significant step toward shaping the future of sustainable urban development by partnering with the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA). This collaboration is set to identify and implement cutting-edge solutions that address the pressing challenges of urbanization, climate change, and environmental sustainability. A Vision for Sustainable Cities Expo City Dubai, a legacy initiative stemming from Expo 2020 Dubai, has been at the forefront of fostering innovation and sustainable development. With a mission to create a blueprint for future cities, this partnership with UICCA will accelerate efforts to make urban spaces greener, smarter, and more resilient. The UICCA, known for its expertise in climate change strategies, will work closely with Expo City Dubai to explore technological advancements and policy frameworks that promote eco-friendly infrastructure, renewable energy integration, and efficient resource management. Focus Areas of the...

  Emirates is taking passenger safety to new heights with its latest partnership with Parsys Telemedicine. This innovative collaboration enables real-time medical care for travelers, ensuring they receive the best possible health support while flying. The telemedicine system features state-of-the-art medical devices that allow trained cabin crew to assess passengers' conditions and communicate with ground-based doctors. Whether it’s a minor ailment or a critical health concern, the technology ensures swift medical responses, reducing the need for emergency landings. This initiative marks a major advancement in aviation healthcare, reinforcing Emirates’ reputation for excellence. By integrating telemedicine, the airline is not only enhancing passenger confidence but also revolutionizing in-flight medical care, making air travel safer for everyone.

  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is witnessing a remarkable transformation in its entrepreneurial landscape, particularly among women. Female entrepreneurs are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance their businesses, streamline operations, and unlock new opportunities for growth. As technology continues to shape industries, these businesswomen are demonstrating confidence in AI-driven solutions to stay ahead of the competition. Empowering Women Through AI AI has emerged as a game-changer for businesses worldwide, and in the UAE, women entrepreneurs are tapping into its potential to gain a competitive edge. From automating customer service through chatbots to using AI-driven analytics for better decision-making, these leaders are integrating technology to optimize their operations. One such entrepreneur, Aisha Al Mansoori, a Dubai-based e-commerce business owner, has implemented AI-powered recommendation systems to personalize customer experiences. "AI helps us understa...

  Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), the leading entity driving sustainable energy and water solutions in Dubai, is exploring new avenues of collaboration with the US-based Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI). This potential partnership underscores DEWA’s commitment to innovation, clean energy, and the integration of advanced technologies in the power and water sectors. Strengthening Global Energy Research DEWA, known for its pioneering efforts in sustainable energy, continues to expand its global partnerships to enhance efficiency and sustainability. The discussions with EPRI revolve around joint research initiatives, knowledge sharing, and the adoption of emerging technologies to optimize electricity and water resource management. EPRI, a renowned non-profit organization dedicated to advancing energy-related scientific research, offers expertise in various domains, including smart grids, renewable energy, and digital transformation. The potential collaboration aim...

  Ras Al Khaimah, one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has successfully issued a 10-year senior unsecured sukuk worth US$1 billion at a profit rate of 5.038%. The issuance, completed on March 5, 2025, was conducted through the Investment and Development Office (IDO) of Ras Al Khaimah, marking a significant milestone in the emirate’s economic and financial strategy. A Major Step for Ras Al Khaimah’s Economic Vision The successful issuance of the sukuk underscores Ras Al Khaimah’s strong credit profile and investor confidence in its long-term economic stability. The proceeds from the sukuk are expected to be utilized for strategic investments and infrastructure projects that align with the emirate’s broader development goals. His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, has consistently emphasized the importance of sustainable growth and economic diversification. The sukuk issuance aligns with these objectives, enabling the emirate to ...

  Dubai continues to lead the way in clean energy with the expansion of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park . Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer , MD & CEO of DEWA , recently visited the site to assess the progress of the massive 1,800MW sixth phase of the project. Developed under the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model , this phase represents a significant investment of AED 5.5 billion , reinforcing Dubai’s commitment to renewable energy and sustainability. The solar park , the largest of its kind globally, is a key pillar of Dubai’s Clean Energy Strategy 2050 , which aims to achieve 100% clean energy by 2050 . With each phase, Dubai is moving closer to its goal of a greener, more sustainable future powered by the sun!

  The push towards sustainable mobility has gained significant momentum in recent years, with electric vehicles (EVs) emerging as a key component of this transformation. Recognizing the need for robust charging infrastructure, new EV charging stations are being strategically placed across prime parking sites managed by Parkin. These stations will operate on alternating current (AC) with a capacity of 22 kilowatts x 2, offering efficient and convenient charging solutions for EV users. The Growing Demand for EV Infrastructure As more people transition to electric mobility, the demand for accessible and fast-charging stations has skyrocketed. EV adoption is accelerating due to factors like environmental awareness, government incentives, and advancements in battery technology. However, one of the biggest challenges remains the availability of well-placed charging infrastructure to support this growing fleet. Strategic Placement for Maximum Convenience The latest initiative by Parkin en...