SHARJAH, 28th April, 2024 (WAM) — Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) has engaged in high-level discussions with an economic delegation from Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC) to explore potential avenues of investment cooperation between the two sides.
The discussions delved into the viable opportunities available to foster economic partnerships between the two nations, outlining strategic areas of collaboration that cater to the needs of businessmen and investors in both Sharjah and Hong Kong.
During a meeting held at the SCCI’s headquarters on the sidelines of the Hong Kong delegation’s visit, both sides also discussed ways to enhance and boost joint efforts in key potential economic sectors, with a particular focus on renewable energy, technology, real estate, and e-commerce.
The meeting was attended by HE Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director-General of SCCI, and HE Jonathan Lamport, Chairman of the Asia, Africa, and Middle East Committee at HKGCC.
Also present were Abdul Aziz Al Shamsi, Assistant Director-General for Communication and Business Sector in SCCI; Jamal Saeed Bouzanjal, Director of Corporate Communication Department at SCCI, and Hamad Al Shamsi, Regional Investment Promotion Manager at Sharjah Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Office “Invest in Sharjah”.
The gathering also welcomed a number of government officials and representatives of Sharjah government agencies and institutions, alongside a crowd of businessmen from leading commercial, food, and industrial firms in the UAE and Hong Kong.
The visiting Hong Kong delegation featured representatives from various specialised companies operating in key strategic sectors, including renewable energy, real estate, food, financial services, building materials, healthcare, e-commerce, architectural engineering, and textile manufacturing.
Al Awadi emphasised that the meeting underscores the Sharjah Chamber’s steadfast commitment to bolster economic ties and trade exchange between the Emirate of Sharjah and global markets in the Asia-Pacific region.
He noted that the Sharjah Chamber seeks to attract Hong Kong-based companies to establish operations in Sharjah, thereby contributing to the cultivation of robust bilateral relations between the UAE and Hong Kong, which have experienced significant growth in recent years.
In the first half of 2023, the trade volume between the UAE and Hong Kong reached $7.98 billion, witnessing a notable growth of 8.3% compared to the corresponding period of the preceding year (2022).
For his part, HE Jonathan Lamport lauded the Sharjah Chamber for the warm welcome and reception it extended to the Hong Kong delegation during their visit to the emirate, reinforcing Sharjah’s stature as a pivotal economic and commercial hub, both regionally and globally, and as a preferred destination for the Hong Kong business community, in particular.
He elucidated that the Asia, Africa, and Middle East Committee, which is affiliated with the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce, is entrusted with introducing programmes, information, and insights to its members who seek to develop and enhance trade relations with countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Underscoring the significance of the Sharjah Chamber meeting with the Hong Kong delegation, HE Abdul Aziz Al Shamsi pointed out that it served as a distinguished platform to enhance economic cooperation between the two nations.
It also helped businessmen and investors from both sides implement joint projects and ventures. This, in turn, would foster trade exchange between the two countries, facilitating the establishment of leading partnerships in various economic sectors.
Abdul Aziz Al Shamsi affirmed that Sharjah offers manifold strategic advantages for Hong Kong-based businesses to expand into the region’s markets. These advantages include lucrative investment incentives and promising opportunities tailored to businessmen and investors worldwide, empowering them to attain further success and progress within the emirate’s domain.
During the meeting, Hamad Al Shamsi, Regional Investment Promotion Manager at Sharjah Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Office “Invest in Sharjah”, showcased to the Hong Kong delegation and business leaders the premium investment opportunities available in the Emirate of Sharjah.
He outlined key sectors offering lucrative prospects to attract foreign investments and startups from around the world to the emirate’s markets. These sectors encompass tourism, culture, logistics, green technology, healthcare, human capital and innovation, advanced manufacturing, and agricultural technology.
Hamad Al Shamsi added that the Emirate of Sharjah, which hosts around 60,000 small and medium-sized enterprises, secured foreign investments amounting to $291.20 million in 2022.
Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry explores opportunities for investment, economic partnerships with Hong Kong
UAE, Kuwait trade ministers affirm importance of ‘Companies Investment Meet’ in accelerating trade growth
KUWAIT, 28th April, 2024 (WAM) – Abdullah Hamad Abdullah Al-Jouaan, Minister of Commerce and Industry in Kuwait and Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, have affirmed the depth of strategic relations between the UAE and Kuwait, emphasising the importance of developing joint cooperation and integrated relations to ensure thriving and comprehensive economic development for both countries.
Speaking to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) on the sidelines of the first day of the UAE Companies Investment Meet, organised by the UAE Embassy in Kuwait, Al-Jouaan affirmed the growth in trade exchange between the two nations, citing the fact that non-oil foreign trade reached US$12.2 billion during 2023, up 2% from $10.5 billion in 2019.
He pointed out the two countries’ efforts to enhance cooperation and integration in all fields in a way that contributes to strengthening trade and investment relations between the two sides.
The minister stated that the trade growth achieved during the past years confirms the strength of bilateral trade relations, highlighting the leading role played by the private sector in strengthening trade relations, describing the private sector as a fundamental pillar for the growth and development of the businesses and economies of both countries.
For his part, Al Zeyoudi told WAM that the forum is a significant opportunity to continue the momentum of growth in trade and investment relations between the two countries.
He referred to the completion of discussions on a number of tenders and investment opportunities for UAE companies to enter the Kuwaiti market, explaining that the volume of UAE investments in Kuwait amounted to more than AED3.3 billion by the end of 2022, while Kuwaiti investments in the UAE hit AED13.2 billion by the end of 2021.
“UAE maintains its position as the world’s leading recipient of Kuwait’s non-oil exports, capturing 22% of Kuwait’s total global non-oil exports. Simultaneously, the UAE ranks as the third most significant import market for Kuwait, following China and the United States,” Al Zeyoudi explained.
He concluded by saying that the UAE Companies Meet contributes to creating qualitative opportunities for increasing exports from both countries and expanding investments.
Fujairah Government participates in World Energy Congress’ roundtable in Rotterdam
ROTTERDAM, 29th April, 2024 (WAM) — A delegation from the Fujairah Government participated in a Ministerial, CEO and Mayors’ Roundtable, as part of the World Energy Leaders’ Dialogue series, which was held on the sidelines of 26th World Energy Congress in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, from 22 to 25 April.
The roundtable was chaired by Ahmed Aboutaleb, Mayor of Rotterdam, during which the delegation discussed a number of issues, including the transformations of global energy systems and how to achieve the goals of the COP28.
The participants explored opportunities to redesign ecosystems for decarbonisation in a balanced way between the environment and humans, enhancing the quality of life for about 10 billion people on Earth,
ACRES Real Estate Exhibition to kick off May 16 in Dubai
DUBAI, 29th April, 2024 (WAM) — Dubai is set to host the ACRES Real Estate Exhibition from 16th to 19th May at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Launched in strategic partnership with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) and Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department (SRERD) and sponsored by the Department of Land and Real Estate Regulation in Ajman, ACRES stands out as an exceptional event in the real estate landscape. It serves as an ideal platform supporting the development and investment endeavours of real estate companies within and beyond the UAE.
The exhibition provides property developers and investors with an opportunity to showcase and promote their projects not only domestically but also internationally. It aligns with the growth and revitalisation underway in Dubai and throughout the UAE, while also highlighting the supportive government policies and initiatives driving increased investment.
ACRES brings together key players and professionals from the real estate sector, including top-tier developers, investors, brokers, project management firms, financial institutions, technology providers, building material suppliers, and contracting companies.
Saeed Ghanem Al Suwaidi, Chairman of the Organising Committee of ACRES Dubai, underscored the committee’s mission to showcase significant real estate opportunities in the UAE on a global stage, allowing investment and development firms to unveil their latest projects. He also highlighted the varied investment opportunities amidst the ongoing growth and success in the UAE’s real estate market.
Thanks to its strategic location, stable economy, advanced infrastructure, and investor-friendly environment, Dubai remains a premier destination for both local and international real estate investors.
Organised by Leader Events Management, the event aims to stimulate growth in the real estate sector and contribute to comprehensive and sustainable development in Dubai and the UAE.
ACRES Dubai aims to gain further momentum in the UAE’s real estate markets, which have witnessed significant leaps, with real estate transactions totalling approximately AED765.1 billion nationwide by the end of 2023.
ACRES Dubai 2024 offers a robust programme of training sessions, workshops, seminars, and panel discussions, available free of charge in Arabic and English languages.
These sessions cover various topics, including the latest property developments, innovations, and cutting-edge real estate technologies that captivate visitors, professionals, and enthusiasts alike.
The exhibition will be open to visitors from 10 am to 8 pm daily, except on Friday, when it will welcome visitors from 3 pm to 9 pm.
Suhail Al Mazrouei underscores UAE’s commitment to balancing economic development, environmental protection at World Economic Forum
DUBAI, 29th April, 2024 (WAM) — Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, underscored that the UAE’s approach to climate action is underpinned by striking balance between economic development and environmental protection through leveraging low-carbon energy solutions.
The Minister made this statement at the “Green Molecules and Hydrogen” session as part of the World Economic Forum, being hosted by the Saudi capital city, Riyadh, under the theme “Global Collaboration, Growth, and Energy for Development”.
He said, “In 2023, the UAE unveiled its National Hydrogen Strategy 2050 to bolster low-carbon industries, advance climate neutrality, and position the nation as a leading hydrogen producer by 2031. The UAE targets to produce 1.4 million tons of low-emission hydrogen annually by 2031 and 15 million tons annually by 2050.”
Al Mazrouei set out key enablers in the green molecules business, including global collaboration, policy and regulation, financing and investment, R&D and advanced technology, and sustainable commercial and economic models.
Moreover, the Minister participated in a session on the “Roadmap to Tripling Renewables”, where he outlined the key bottlenecks hindering rapid renewable deployment in emerging markets to be regulatory barriers, innovative financing, and digitalization and innovative solutions.
Reflecting on the UAE’s journey in deploying renewables, Al Mazrouei said, “The UAE’s approach to increasing the deployment of renewables is remarkable. Between 2019 and 2022, the UAE successfully doubled its renewables capacity, and by 2023, we witnessed a 70% growth in installed renewables capacity, which reached 6 GW.”
He added, “These achievements were made possible through the translation of our national net-zero goal into actionable policies. We are working in a bottom-up approach with the engagement of all segments of the community, private sector, academia, and youth.”
The Minister highlighted the importance of global partnership and collaboration to facilitate technology transfer, investment, and financing from developed countries and international financial institutions, provide policy support, capacity-building programmes, and infrastructure development assistance, while promoting knowledge sharing among stakeholders and helping mitigate risks associated with renewable energy projects, enhancing investor confidence and accelerating the transition to sustainable energy systems in emerging markets.
He said, “The UAE is a major global investor in renewables. It allocated AED200 billion to investments in clean energy projects locally until 2030, having invested AED160 billion so far. Moreover, the UAE invested AED185 billion in renewables projects in over 40 countries. Our flagship renewables company, Masdar, has made substantial renewable energy investments across the world, with a total capacity of 20 GW installed or under development. By 2030, Masdar aims to grow its global renewables capacity to 100 GW.”
FinTech Funding Continues to Surge as Second Edition of Dubai FinTech Summit Commences
- Dubai FinTech Summit to take place 6 – 7 May at Madinat Jumeirah.
- 2nd edition of the summit will bring together over 8,000 decision-makers, over 300 thought leaders across five stages and more than 200 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge technologies.
- FinTech landscape is booming with over 800 FinTech start-ups worth USD 15.5bn.
Dubai, 24 April 2024: For the second consecutive year, Dubai will remain in the spotlight as it hosts the second edition of Dubai FinTech Summit, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance of the UAE and President of DIFC, which is set to take place on 6-7 May at Madinat Jumeirah.
Organised by Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading global financial hub in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, the Summit will bring together 8,000 decision-makers, over 300 thought leaders and more than 200 exhibitors to discuss the latest innovations and challenges and showcase cutting-edge technologies.
The global FinTech sector is rapidly growing and is predicted to be valued at USD 608bn globally by 2029, according to Mordor Intelligence, a market intelligence and advisory firm. Bucking the downward global market trend, the MENA FinTech market is expected to register a CAGR of over eight per cent during the period 2024 to 2029.
Dubai FinTech Summit will offer a platform for start-ups, investors and industry leaders to connect and capitalise on the growing FinTech market in the region and beyond. The MENA region’s FinTech start-up and venture capital landscape is booming, with over 800 FinTech start-ups worth USD15.5 bn, according to data by dealroom.co. Reflecting the ongoing transformation in the financial sector driven by Innovation, Inclusion, and Impact, the key themes this year will be Finance Renaissance, Ecofinance and Impact, Investment Vanguard, Regulatory Frameworks, Global Financial Dynamics and FinTech 2.0.
Mohammad Alblooshi, CEO at DIFC Innovation Hub, said: “Nearly 60 per cent of all FinTech companies in the GCC are currently based in Dubai. With the industry growing at an unprecedented rate, it is crucial for stakeholders to gather and discuss the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The Dubai FinTech Summit will bring together the most prominent figures in the industry, with an agenda that is aimed at driving innovation, inclusivity, and growth for all.”
With an impressive line-up of distinguished local and international speakers, the Dubai FinTech Summit will host a series of panel discussions and fireside chats. More than 20 governors of financial institutions will attend the summit this year, amongst them, H.E. Essa Kazim, Governor, DIFC, UAE; H.E. Fahad M. Alturki, Ph.D. Director General Chairman of the Board, Arab Monetary Fund, H.E. Dr. György H Matolcsy, Governor, Magyar Nemzeti Bank, The Central Bank of Hungary; will participate in discussions during the two-day event. Nic Dreckman, CEO of Bank Julius Baer & Co.; Yie-Hsin Hung, President & CEO of State Street Global Advisors, along with many other global industry leaders will also be participating in the various sessions planned for the Summit. Notable local speakers include H.E. Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Cabinet Member & UAE Minister of Economy; H.E. Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General, Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai; H.E. Salem Humaid Al Marri, Director General, Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, UAE; and H.E. Faisal Belhoul, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Chamber, Chairman of J&F Holding.
A key highlight of the Dubai FinTech Summit will be the Grand Finale of the FinTech World Cup (FWC). The champions of the FinTech World Cup will be announced on Day 2 of the summit with the winners securing an investment of up to USD 1 million. The competition is a growth-enabling initiative by DFS designed to encourage cross-border collaboration and stellar innovation, pivotal to transforming the global FinTech sector.
In line with the D33 Agenda to position Dubai as the top four global financial hub by 2033, the 2nd edition of the Dubai FinTech Summit is designed to encourage cross-border collaboration and innovation, pivotal to transforming the global FinTech sector. It presents a unique opportunity to explore emerging FinTech trends and their potential to drive financial progress in the MEASA region.
The inaugural Dubai FinTech Summit attracted over 5,000 C-suite leaders from over 90 countries including north of 1,000 investors and more than 150 speakers. Over 20 Memorandum of Understandings were signed with global financial leaders during the Summit.
The 2nd edition of the Dubai FinTech Summit is supported by:
Founding Partner & Co-Host – VISA
Founding Partner & Premium Banking Partner – Emirates NBD
Founding Partner & Powered by – Etisalat and, Dyna.Ai
Founding Partner & Strategic Banking Partner – Commercial Bank of Dubai
Powered by – Etisalat and, Dyna.Ai
Lead Sponsor – Finvasia
Country Pavilion Partner – invest SEOUL
Diamond Sponsor – Mashreq
Strategic Venue Partner – SC Ventures
Platinum Sponsors – Ripple, Deloitte, Pay10, Nasdaq, Mastercard, Bitpanda
END
About Dubai FinTech Summit
Dubai FinTech Summit is an annual mega event organised by the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading global financial centre in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region. The 2nd edition of the Dubai FinTech Summit will bring together over 8,000+ global industry leaders, 1,500+ investors and policy makers, signalling increased appetite for growth opportunities in the region.
Dubai FinTech Summit signals new wave of financial innovation, opportunity, transformation, and growth for the international financial services sector. As a rising FinTech hub, Dubai is also spearheading the evolution of the financial services industry, with investments in FinTech projected to grow by 17.2 per cent CAGR to USD949 bn from 2022 to 2030. The summit aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33’s strategic goal of propelling Dubai into the ranks of the top four global financial hubs by 2033.
The expanded programme of Dubai FinTech Summit is set to exceed expectations by delving into key tracks, including the future of FinTech, embedded and Open Finance, climate finance, Web3 and digital assets. The summit stands as a thought leadership-driven platform, addressing industry challenges head-on and championing innovation.
To register for the event, visit www.dubaifintechsummit.com.
Visitors can purchase tickets for the Dubai FinTech Summit 2024.
For further enquiries, please contact:
Shadi Dawi
Director of PR & Strategic Partnerships
Trescon Global
Mobile: +971 55 498 4989
Emirates arranges Autism Familiarisation Flight and Travel Rehearsal for 30 families
Dubai, UAE, 25 April 2024: Furthering Dubai’s commitment to accessible travel and to raise awareness of autism, Emirates invited 30 UAE families with neurodiverse children to have a real check in experience and familiarisation flight on the 24 April, in Terminal 3 Dubai International Airport (DXB). The initiative was designed to help the children practice and alleviate anxieties before travelling, as well as providing a unique opportunity for Emirates to collaborate with key partners, and garner insights for improving accessible travel.
Emirates hosted Her Excellency Hessa BuHumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority of Dubai, as well as 30 neurodiverse children aged between 8 and 12 years old from Dubai Autism Centre, Safe Centre for Autism, Rashid Centre for People of Determination and the New England Centre Children Clinic to attend the flight, including their caregivers. Emirates also invited a neurodiverse child with Angelman Syndrome to join the experience, a condition which can cause delayed development, problems with speech and balance, intellectual disability and seizures. The group were joined by Adil Al Ghaith – SVP Emirates Commercial Operations in the Gulf, Middle East & Central Asia, and Mostafa Karam – SVP – Emirates Customer Affairs & Service Audit.
The group used the Autism Friendly Route through Dubai International Airport which includes access to priority lanes for check-in, passport control, security and boarding. Specially trained Emirates check in staff and cabin crew were on hand to support throughout the journey. EK2605 departed DXB at 11:20am and landed again at 12:20pm, giving children a real-life experience of a flight including inflight service, announcements from the cabin crew and Captain, and the sounds and sights of a real take-off and landing.
According to a study by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) only 13% of families with neurodiverse children surveyed take family vacations because they cite the experience of the airport and flight as too stressful and triggering for the children’s sensory sensitivities. However, 93% of families surveyed said they would take more trips if there were more autism-certified options available and support in place. The aim of the Emirates travel rehearsal initiative is to help customers with autism and sensory disorders and their families to prepare for travel, through a guided tour of the airport and aircraft cabin environment, as well as providing comprehensive training and understanding of neurodiversity to all Emirates team members. More Emirates initiatives are planned in the future, with a view to supporting neurodiverse needs and Dubai’s commitment to People of Determination.
At the event, members of IBCCES were tasked to provide insights and notes on the inflight experience for neurodiverse customers. Emirates and IBCCES are working together to develop an official Autism-friendly inflight certification, which could be eventually used by other airlines. This certification will complement Emirates’ recent achievements, where all Dubai Check In facilities – Emirates City Check-In & Travel Store in DIFC, Emirates Cruise Check In – Port Rashid, Emirates Cruise Check In – Dubai Harbour and Emirates City Check-In Ajman and Emirates’ dedicated hub in Terminal 3 DXB were awarded the Certified Autism Center™ Designation. This also builds on the recent recognition of Dubai International Airport as the first international airport to earn the designation from IBCCES, as well as aligning with the Department of Economy and Tourism’s vision of becoming the first Certified Autism Destination™ in the Middle East.
By working together – Emirates, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, and Dubai Airports in collaboration with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs, Dubai Police and Dubai Customs, are making travel more inclusive and accessible for all, reflecting Dubai’s commitment to becoming a leading destination for travellers with diverse needs and aligning with Dubai’s Social Agenda 33, under the theme ‘Family: The Foundation of Our Nation’.
Emirates and partners support neurodivergent passengers and People of Determination in many ways:
Emirates Employee Training
More than 29,000 cabin crew and ground staff globally have completed Emirates ‘Introduction to Autism and Hidden Disabilities’ training. The online course was first launched in 2022 and covers a range of topics from the UAE National Policy for People of Determination, recognising autism, practical tips on how to assist passengers with hidden disabilities, responding with empathy, and information on the official support systems to help passengers in the airport.
Before Travel
Information in advance
Emirates supports passengers with hidden disabilities by providing as much information in advance as possible, so that families can plan, rehearse, and be reassured about their upcoming travel. Passengers can check the Accessible Travel page on Emirates.com for information and contact their Emirates local office with queries.
Free Seat Selection and Bulkhead Seat for autistic passengers and companions
Passengers who declare a hidden disability will be facilitated as much as possible in the complimentary selection of suitable seats, for example the bulkhead seats at the front and middle of the aircraft for both the autistic passenger and their companion. This can be requested via Emirates local office.
Book with ‘DPNA code’ for extra support
A DPNA is an airline industry code for special service request (SSR) for a ‘passenger with intellectual or developmental disability.’ The DPNA code can be applied to a booking made in person, via telephone or travel agent and is applied once the hidden disability is declared, so that the passenger will be supported throughout their journey with assistance from trained staff.
Study the ‘Autism Friendly Guide’ to Dubai International Airport
Emirates has collaborated with Dubai International Airport on a comprehensive pre-travel planning tool for passengers with hidden disabilities. The Autism Friendly Guide to Dubai International Airport provides a step-by-step explanation and images of every part of the journey through the airport to boarding, and details what services are available.
Pre-order meals
Some passengers may need a special meal onboard if they have a sensory sensitivity. This can be ordered a minimum of 24 hours in advance on www.Emirates.com or on the Emirates app. There are options to order gluten free meals, bland meals, vegetarian and diabetic meals. For Kids Meals, families who are travelling with an autistic passenger may contact the Emirates local office with their request in advance.
Pre plan what to watch on ice via Emirates app
Download the Emirates app, and before a flight passengers can spend time planning and pre-selecting their favourite movies, TV shows or music playlists. Once the passenger has boarded, their personally curated playlist can be synced immediately to ice, saving time and enabling them to settle into the flight quicker with the comfort of their familiar content.
Arrival to airport
Complimentary parking for 2 hours
People of Determination receive complimentary parking in all terminals in Dubai International Airport for 2 hours. People of Determination taxis can also be booked via Dubai Taxi on their toll-free number 80088088.
Collect the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a globally recognised symbol for hidden disabilities. Emirates and Dubai International Airport staff with Sunflower pins are easily identifiable and specially trained to assist travellers with hidden disabilities. Passengers are encouraged to declare their hidden disability to these staff and collect a Sunflower Lanyard to wear, allowing for support throughout the airport journey. The sunflower lanyard can be collected from the information desk in Departures, Terminal 3 and from easily identifiable collection points in Terminals 1 and 2.
Autism Friendly Route
The Autism Friendly Route through Dubai International Airport ensures that People of Determination journey through the airport with a dedicated route. It includes access to priority lanes for check-in, passport control, security and boarding; and can be availed when wearing the sunflower lanyard. Specially trained staff equipped to support People of Determination will be easily identifiable wearing sunflower pins, allowing for increased visibility, communication and support throughout the airport journey.
Priority boarding or board last if preferred
People who have declared their hidden disabilities to Emirates staff will be facilitated in boarding the aircraft first if they choose, or last if this more convenient.
Emirates Inflight Experience
Families with children are seated together
Emirates makes every effort to seat families with children together, and passengers who have declared their hidden disability will be seated beside their companion or guardian.
Noise cancelling earphones
Passengers with an aural sensory need in First and Business Class will have access to noise‑cancelling headphones to block out ambient cabin sounds.
Light Sensitivity
If the customer, child or family member informs Emirates cabin crew about a light sensitivity, cabin crew can turn off the passenger’s individual light, close the window blind after take-off, and explain that the cabin lights will be dimmed as soon as the meal services are completed.
Get busy with puzzles in Fly with Me magazine
Young children onboard who need a screen break or distraction can request a copy of the Emirates ‘Fly with Me’ activity pack, with its own pack of non-toxic colouring pencils, featuring kid-friendly world maps, puzzles, drawing tutorials, colouring pages, educational activities about Dubai and protecting the environment.
Choose preferred entertainment on ice
Passengers enjoying an Emirates flight can pass the time in a world class entertainment library with more than 6,500 channels of on demand entertainment, over 1,900 movies and 1,500 hours of TV, as well as music, podcasts and audiobooks across 40 languages. Ice also has up to 100 video games, which can be played by two players in different seats if the game is a multiplayer game.
DP World Foundation delivers AED19 million charity projects in 10 countries in Ramadan
DUBAI, 25th April, 2024 (WAM) — DP World Foundation has expended over AED19 million on charity projects during the holy month of Ramadan this year in 10 countries. This was announced at the Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development (DIHAD) Exhibition, held under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.
The philanthropic arm of DP World reported that the campaign’s outcomes were warmly received by beneficiaries in the UAE and nine other countries in Africa and Asia. Nasser Abdulla Al Neyadi, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of DP World Foundation said: “We are planning more campaigns to bolster DP World Foundation’s presence and amplify its charitable impact in the upcoming year”.
Al Neyadi elaborated that a total of AED9.22 million (US$2.51 million) had been allocated for projects in the 10 countries. The largest contribution, totaling AED10 million (US$2.72 million), was allocated to the “Mother’s Endowment” campaign launched by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives. This initiative aims to honor mothers by establishing an AED1 billion endowment fund to support the education of millions worldwide.
Locally in the UAE, DP World Foundation collaborated with partners such as Al Ihsan Charity Association and the Dubai Charity Association to launch the Ramadan Amaan 10 campaign, distributing 500,000 Iftar boxes across the UAE with the help of 18,000 volunteers.
In 2023, DPWF gave an AED10 million contribution to the “1 Billion Meals Endowment” campaign launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed, to establish the largest Ramadan sustainable food aid endowment fund, in addition to contributing to other charity projects.
DIHAD 2024 convened key decision-makers from leading NGOs, UN agencies, charity organisations, government bodies, and private sector providers to address the needs of people and countries affected by crises, disasters, and natural calamities. Al Neyadi expressed satisfaction with the significant progress made since the foundation’s inception in April 2022. He underlined DPWF’s focus on supporting health, education, and food-related causes at local, regional, and international levels, in alignment with the UAE’s Fifty-Year Charter for sustainable growth in humanitarian work.
DP World Foundation’s Director General, Latifa AlQemzi, revealed plans for expanding its reach and impact in the upcoming years. She cited the positive outcomes of previous campaigns as motivating factors for this decision.
AlQemzi added: “We are currently planning an exciting array of international and local initiatives and campaigns for 2025, aiming to encapsulate the true essence of Ramadan and promote community spirit, generosity, and giving.” AlQemzi presented at DIHAD 2024’s Humanitarian Diplomacy and Climate Change session, introducing the DPWF’s impactful work and mission.
DP World Foundation remains committed to promoting social responsibility and providing support to those in need, regardless of nationality, race, or religion. Its upcoming initiatives will address various social issues such as poverty, hunger, and education through collaborations with local and international partners.
Hamdan bin Mohammed inaugurates landmark Dubai Reef sustainability initiative with launch of pilot modules
DUBAI, 25th April, 2024 (WAM) — His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has inaugurated the landmark Dubai Reef project with the launch of the pilot reef modules.
A sustainable initiative by Dubai Can, Dubai Reef is the world’s largest marine reef development project and marks a pioneering step in Dubai’s efforts to promote ecological sustainability. Working around a plan to deploy 20,000 purpose-built reef modules of various sizes over a four-year period, Dubai Reef marks a significant endeavour for the city that will span a staggering 600 square kilometres across Dubai’s waters. The meticulously crafted design of the reef units will see them exceed 400,000 cubic metres in volume.
In line with the directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan and The Executive Council of Dubai, the Dubai Reef project is a city-wide collaboration uniting key partners to support the wider strategic goals and ambitions of Dubai and the UAE, including the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), the UAE’s Green Agenda – 2030, and the UAE Net Zero 2050 strategy.
Sheikh Hamdan said: “The landmark Dubai Reef initiative is a testament to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. Reef ecosystems are unique life sources and vital components in the protection of marine life. Dubai Can’s Dubai Reef project will inject vitality into our coastal waters and contribute to global conservation efforts. The project’s significant long-term environmental and socio-economic impacts will serve Dubai’s commitment to ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.”
With an initial proof of concept championed by Ahmed Mohammed bin Thani and contractors HaejooX in 2021, the first modules have now been activated as part of the Dubai Reef pilot project. Working alongside the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the newly formed Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority (DECCA) will be a critical partner in ensuring successful project delivery. As Director General of DECCA, His Excellency Bin Thani will continue to play a key role in supporting the Dubai Reef project and further strengthen the emirate’s advocacy in the realm of environmental protection and climate action. DP World; Dubai Chambers; Nakheel; the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation; and Emirates join DET as strategic partners in the Dubai Reef project.
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DET, said: “Aligned with the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and guided by the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the Dubai Reef project showcases the emirate’s enduring commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. This collaboration between public and private sector entities will see each partner bring their expertise to drive Dubai’s sustainable future and contribute towards achieving the ambitious goals set forth in the D33 Agenda.”
Ahmed Mohammed bin Thani, Director General of DECCA, said: “The Dubai Reef project will provide diverse environments to attract and stimulate fish and marine life. In 2021, we partnered with leading reef developer HaejooX to launch a two-year proof of concept, analysing the effectiveness of purpose-built reefs in Dubai. The study used advanced technologies and utilised a three-dimensional scanning system to understand the quantities and types of fish present. Preliminary data showed an abundant expansion in marine life.”
The Dubai Reef initiative is a strategic investment set to leave a lasting legacy in terms of protecting marine life and environmental sustainability. The project’s key drivers include enhancing biodiversity, safeguarding Dubai’s coastal and marine habitats, supporting fish populations, and increasing ecosystem resilience. The project will also encourage environmental stewardship, strengthen socio-economic prosperity and ecotourism, and preserve Dubai’s marine heritage.
The project has won over renowned investor Ray Dalio who is involved in various philanthropic initiatives and takes a keen interest in ocean exploration and conservation. “I love this audacious Dubai Reef project because it will be a remarkable contribution to the world’s understanding of the benefits of ocean restoration and as well make the Dubai environment healthier and provide an incredible recreation park. Once again, Dubai is pursuing an ambitiously great project, this time under the visionary guidance of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan. It is an amazing project in an amazing place under amazing leadership,” he said.