RAS AL KHAIMAH, 6th June, 2024 (WAM) — Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) to enhance business opportunities and foster economic growth between the UAE and India.

The MoU was signed by RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad and ICC Regional Director Ratheesh Nair. The partnership facilitates mutual access and opportunities, connecting RAKEZ to the expansive Indian business community through the ICC’s network, while also providing ICC members with valuable opportunities to engage with and grow in the UAE market.

Commenting on the partnership Jallad said, “This collaboration with the Indian Chamber of Commerce represents a strategic milestone for RAKEZ as we continue to support and facilitate the growth of Indian businesses in the UAE. Our active efforts in promoting the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with India through roadshows, investor meets, and regular exchanges, have laid a strong and reliable foundation for developing and maintaining partnerships with more Indian business groups.”

ICC is a key player in promoting trade, industry, and commerce within India, particularly in the Eastern and North-Eastern regions. It has also established a cooperative framework with the UAE-India CEPA Council, further solidifying its role in bilateral trade facilitation.

Highlighting the significance of the partnership, ICC Director-General Dr. Rajeev Singh said, “The UAE and India have long enjoyed a dynamic trade relationship. This MoU with RAKEZ opens new doors for our members and Indian entrepreneurs to explore and establish their presence in one of the fastest-growing economic zones in the region. We are excited about the prospects this partnership holds for Indian enterprises.”

Significantly, the UAE is ranked as India’s third-largest trading partner and second-largest export destination. Within RAKEZ, approximately 6,000 Indian companies are thriving, contributing to a diverse industrial landscape that includes leading firms like Ashok Leyland, Dabur, Mahindra, Royal Gulf Industries, Sejal Glass, Motherson, and Bosco Aluminium.

As part of its continuous mission to support the economic partnership with India, RAKEZ recently hosted a business delegation from the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Ras Al Khaimah. The delegation, which included representatives from various sectors such as healthcare, agri-food processing, leather, information technology, and AI, explored business opportunities and toured significant locations in the emirate, including Marjan and the facilities of some key businesses in the economic zone.

DUBAI, 6th June, 2024 (WAM) — In a significant milestone that underscores the UAE’s dedication to sustainability during the Year of Sustainability and its ongoing commitment to preserving nature and protecting endangered species, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has announced the designation of nine globally significant key biodiversity areas (KBA) in the UAE. Approved by the ‘Key Biodiversity Areas Secretariat’ these areas are of strategic biological importance globally and are home to numerous endangered plants and animals.

The project identifying the nine KBAs in the UAE was reviewed by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, yesterday during a meeting on the occasion of World Environment Day. His Highness met with a group of young people, entrepreneurs and leaders in the field of environment who presented pioneering initiatives and ideas aligned with the UAE’s approach to supporting sustainability through innovation.

The nine newly appointed KBAs include the Arabian Oryx Protected Area in Abu Dhabi; the Marawah Marine Area in Abu Dhabi; Al Yasat Marine Area in Abu Dhabi; Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve in Dubai; the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve; Wadi Al-Helo in Sharjah; Khor Fakan and Shark Island in Sharjah; Wadi Al-Bih in Ras Al Khaimah; and Siniyah Island and Khor Al Beidah in Umm Al Qaiwain.

This achievement highlights the UAE’s global position in identifying practical solutions to enhance biodiversity by implementing nature-based solutions, thus effectively addressing a range of environmental and climatic challenges. It is the result of a collaboration between the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

This milestone also underscores the active participation of competent authorities from the UAE’s government and private sectors, along with the dedicated efforts of a team comprising 75 male and female national and resident personnel. The teams attended training sessions conducted by international experts and were guided by the Ministry to execute the project effectively.

The designation of the nine KBAs was completed last year, following the global standard for identifying such areas. These sites have been officially published on the World Database of Key Biodiversity Areas.

Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak Al Shamsi, Minister of Climate Change and the Environment, said that the UAE, under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is committed to advancing progress and prosperity by playing a significant role in safeguarding our planet and ensuring its sustainability. This approach aligns with the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who placed significant emphasis on environmental conservation.

Dr. Al Dahak said, “The designation of nine globally significant key biodiversity areas in the UAE is the result of the nation’s initiatives during the Year of Sustainability and its commitment to biodiversity conservation and nature protection. The UAE has demonstrated exceptional endeavours in protecting living creatures from extinction, both locally and globally.”

She added, “The identification of these key biodiversity areas, alongside other nationwide initiatives, strengthen the UAE’s position as a global leader in sustainability. It also underscores the importance of collaborative efforts with local and international partners to enhance the establishment and expansion of reserves that serve as an effective nature-based solution to address climate change. Such endeavours contribute to the development of sustainable societies and will enable future generations to understand the importance of nature in our lives.”

Dr. Al Dahak concluded, “Such conservation projects in the UAE play a crucial role in raising public awareness about the importance of biodiversity and mitigating the adverse impacts of its depletion. These projects are instrumental in informing and shaping policies that align with the UAE’s economic objectives. With growing awareness and dedication, the UAE remains at the forefront of biodiversity protection efforts and is actively working to improve and rehabilitate natural habitats for a wide range of species, benefiting both current and future generations.”

The UAE minister expressed her gratitude to the local and international stakeholders involved in the successful project to designate nine globally significant key biodiversity areas in the UAE. She emphasised that this achievement serves as a catalyst for ongoing endeavours to enhance conservation programmes aimed at safeguarding nature and preventing the extinction of rare species. This initiative represents a pioneering Emirati global experience in biodiversity conservation.

Global and Regional Excellence

The nine KBAs have several features that have positioned them among some of the most significant biodiversity sites regionally and globally. Two of these biodiversity sites have been identified for the Arabian Gazelle, the Arabian Sand Gazelle, and the Arabian Oryx. These are the first KBAs for these mammals in the world.

The UAE is home to the largest number of Arabian oryx in the world, after being on the brink of extinction in the 1970s. The Arabian Oryx is found in both Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve in Dubai and the Arabian Oryx Protected Area in Abu Dhabi.

Additionally, two globally significant KBAs have been identified for the Dugong (sea cows). These sites are the first globally significant KBAs for sea cows in the Middle East. The UAE hosts the second-largest gathering of sea cows in the world, found in both Al Yasat Marine and Marawah Marine areas.

Furthermore, three KBAs for three endemic species of Geckos (Asaccus caudivolvulus, Asaccus margaritae and Ptyodactylus Ruusaljibalicus) were identified and these are the first KBAs for Reptiles in the UAE.

Five of these key sites are fully protected, accounting for an average of 98 percent of the KBA area coverage by Protected Areas in the UAE.”

The designation of KBAs contributes to raising the mean area that is protected in terrestrial sites important to biodiversity indicator from 51.55 to 98.08 percent, the mean area that is protected in marine sites important to biodiversity indicator from 48.61 to 98.17 percent, and average proportion of key biodiversity areas covered by protected areas, from 37.59 to 98.13 percent.

The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is the world’s leading environmental organisation and the largest global institution in terms of natural information. The IUCN operates in more than 160 countries and includes over 1,400 members, including governments, governmental and non-governmental organisations, scientific bodies, and indigenous peoples’ organisations.

Key biodiversity areas play a crucial role in contributing to the protection of biodiversity from extinction and maintaining its stability. These sites provide a safe environment for many plant and animal species and support ecological balance by sustaining ecosystems and providing essential natural resources. Additionally, they offer natural environmental conservation such as air and water purification, soil quality improvement, and carbon storage, and serve as a genetic resource for plants and animals.

ABU DHABI, 6th June, 2024 (WAM) — EDGE entity, Milrem Robotics, the world-leading robotics and autonomous systems developer, has announced the establishment of its Abu Dhabi office, strategically positioned to support local customers and capitalise on the growing tech landscape of the region.
The new office in Abu Dhabi will serve as a centre of excellence in the UAE, providing a central location for R&D, product development and strategic collaborations with government entities, academic institutions and local businesses.

Milrem Robotics will lead an experimentation and trial programme aimed at integrating unmanned ground capabilities into the UAE Armed Forces’ arsenal. This initiative is a significant step towards enhancing the Armed Forces’ combat capabilities by deploying THeMIS UGVs and tracked RCVs equipped with advanced autonomy features, third-party payloads and high-quality communication solutions.
Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, EDGE Group, said: “The opening of Milrem Robotics’ office in Abu Dhabi is a significant moment for EDGE Group. By establishing a presence in the UAE, we underline our commitment to identifying and delivering top-of-the-line technology and defence capabilities to meet the evolving needs of our customers. The new office will also expand Milrem Robotics’ global footprint, strengthen ongoing collaborations and place the company in a strategic position to forge new partnerships, foster greater international collaboration and support economic growth.”
Kuldar Väärsi, Chief Executive Officer, Milrem Robotics, said: “We are thrilled to announce the opening of our newest office in Abu Dhabi, marking an exciting milestone in Milrem Robotics’ journey.”
Jüri Pajuste, Chief of Operations, Milrem Robotics, said: “As a company at the forefront of robotics innovation, we recognise the immense potential of the UAE and the broader Middle East region. Our presence in Abu Dhabi will enable us to serve our existing clients better, forge new partnerships, and drive meaningful advancements in robotics technology.”
Milrem Robotics is the world-leading robotics and autonomous systems developer and systems integrator, with offices in Estonia, Finland, Sweden, the Netherlands, and the US. The company is known for its THeMIS and Multiscope UGVs, the Type-X Robotic Combat Vehicle, and MIFIK intelligent autonomous functionalities for defence platforms.

• LONDON, 6th June, 2024 (WAM) — e& attained the highest position in Brand Finance’s inaugural Employer Brand Report 2024 with its UAE entity ranking as the Top Global Telecoms Employer.
  The group also secured the 16th spot among the Top 20 Employer Brands across measured employer brands across financial services, telco, media, and tech (TMT), oil, gas, and energy, professional services, retail, automotive, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the United States.
  Ali Al Mansoori, Group Chief People Officer, e&, said: “This recognition as an employer of choice reflects the incredible dedication and passion of our people, who are our greatest assets. It also reaffirms our commitment to cultivating a unified company culture where every employee is empowered to think differently, experiment fearlessly, and innovate continuously. In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, having a talented workforce is more critical than ever.”
  David Haigh, CEO of Brand Finance, said: “Middle Eastern telecom brands are increasingly overtaking their European and American counterparts as desirable places to work. This reflects the career opportunities and exciting technological developments created by consistent, high-quality investment in the Middle East.”
  Leading the way in employer branding and talent development in UAE, the group scored highly across several considerations, including as a ‘prestigious brand,’ an ‘inspiring vision,’ ‘enjoyable and rewarding work,’ and a ‘well-managed and governed company.’ e&’s achievement reflects the broader reputation of the UAE as a global talent hub and the preferred destination for people seeking to shape a prosperous future.
  “At e&, we are committed to equipping our team with the skills necessary to navigate and thrive in the digital age. Our vision is not just to keep pace with change, but to lead it. We are building a resilient, forward-thinking workforce capable of driving our company and our community towards greater heights. Our strategy includes comprehensive training programs, partnerships with educational institutions, and an environment that rewards creativity and bold thinking. We are dedicated to creating opportunities for professional growth and supporting our team as they develop the technological skills and mindset essential for the future,” added Al Mansoori.
  The inaugural “Employer Brand Index” report showcases the world’s top brands with global and regional league tables. The research-driven study is the first of its kind, measuring internal and external perceptions of employer brands from 16 countries. The Index is derived from responses from an anonymous survey of the public across various industries conducted via independent online panels.
  The Brand Finance 2024 Employer Brand Index follows the release in January of the global brand rankings in which e& UAE was rated the strongest telecom brand globally (AAA rating) and the strongest brand in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) across all categories.
  Brand Finance is the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy. For more than 25 years, it has been bridging the gap between marketing and finance by evaluating the strength of brands and quantifying their financial value to help organisations of all kinds make strategic decisions. Every year, Brand Finance conducts more than 5,000 brand valuations, supported by original market research, and publishes over 100 reports that rank brands across all sectors and countries.

DUBAI, 6th June, 2024 (WAM) – A recognised senior leader of city planning and transportation has commended the “remarkable developments witnessed by Dubai’s transportation networks over the past 20 years.”

Speaking on the sidelines of the 13th Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport, Richard de Cani, Director and Global Cities, Planning and Design Leader at Arup, said, “I have seen great investments in public transportation in Dubai and I believe that the metro system is the best in the world.”

There is a real focus on innovation, new technology, and a willingness to experiment and adopt new ideas, he added.

He pointed out that Dubai is at the forefront of showcasing the possibilities of sustainable transportation through innovative ideas.