Ajman Bank Partners with Positive Zero to Significantly Cut Energy Costs and Carbon Footprint

   The 10-year deal with Positive Zero will reduce energy expenditure by an estimated 28%, with no up-front investment required from Ajman Bank

●      Project will accelerate Ajman Bank’s journey to net zero by reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 752 tons per year (equivalent to planting 11,300 trees

●      Positive Zero’s energy efficiency arm (Taka Solutions) will manage the project for Ajman Bank from financing, design and engineering to installation, operations, and maintenance, including data analytics and monitoring.

Monday 08 July 2024– Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE): Ajman Bank PJSC, a leading Islamic financial services institution in the UAE, has announced a new contract with Positive Zero, that will enable huge cost and carbon footprint savings. By implementing Positive Zero’s fully financed energy efficiency solutions at their headquarters, Ajman Bank expects to save 28% on energy costs and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 752 tons annually, equivalent to planting 11,300 trees. Positive Zero is the leader in decarbonizing businesses and communities in the Middle East through a range of on-site clean power, energy efficiency, and electric mobility solutions.

The project involves a 10-year Shared Savings Energy Performance Contract (SSEPC) delivered by Positive Zero’s energy efficiency arm (Taka Solutions), which is the leading provider of energy efficiency services in the region. It includes the implementation of eight energy efficiency measures (or EEMs) tailored to Ajman Bank’s facilities, in line with its robust commitment to environmental sustainability.

Mr. Mustafa Al Khalfawi, CEO of Ajman Bank, said: “Our strategic partnership with Positive Zero marks a significant milestone in our journey towards sustainability and operational excellence. This collaboration underscores our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship, reflecting our dedication to not only meet the financial needs of our clients but also to contribute positively to the community and environment we operate in. Leveraging on Taka Solutions’ expertise in energy management, we aim to significantly reduce our carbon footprint and operational costs, setting a new benchmark for sustainable practices in the banking industry. Our collaboration with Positive Zero and Taka Solutions is a testament to Ajman Bank’s ongoing efforts to embrace responsible banking practices that support economic growth while ensuring environmental sustainability.”

David Auriau, Co-Founder and CEO of Positive Zero, commented on the occasion: We are excited to be working with Ajman Bank in prioritizing energy efficiency to reduce the impact of their own carbon footprint. It unlocks economic opportunities within the banking industry and supports the nationwide drive towards sustainability. Energy efficiency is an imperative to meet the country’s ambitions to become over 40% more efficient by 2050. Along with our trusted partners like Ajman Bank, we are investing and driving the widespread adoption of efficient technologies and solutions to develop more sustainable built environments and smarter cities, helping businesses substantially reduce their consumption, costs and carbon emissions.”

Positive Zero’s team provide financing, implementation, long-term operations, and proactive maintenance of the project’s implemented measures. The project is based on Positive Zero’s model of providing decarbonization-as-a-service, with no up-front investment by customers. This approach is more accessible for the many organizations who are looking to switch to more sustainable practices, such as the deployment of integrated clean energy and efficient technologies.

Positive Zero’s foundational companies have already made remarkable strides in key GCC markets. Taka Solutions, operating as the company’s energy efficiency arm, has achieved energy savings exceeding 100,000 MWh across eight sectors in the United Arab Emirates, which is equivalent to planting more than one million trees.

For more information about Positive Zero, visit www.positivezero.com.

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About Positive Zero

Positive Zero is empowering a new energy economy by enabling businesses, communities, and cities in the Middle East region to take charge of their energy future. As the leading energy transition partner for the commercial, industrial, and public sectors, Positive Zero helps businesses achieve energy savings as high as 50% by removing upfront investments and operational complexities from the onset.

Positive Zero’s decarbonization-as-a-service offering combines clean technologies with data-driven solutions in distributed solar generation (SirajPower), energy efficiency (Taka Solutions) and clean mobility (fleet electrification, charging infrastructure and clean energy on-demand with HYPR Energy), reducing cost, consumption, and carbon footprint. With our financing solutions, we offer hassle-free end-to-end services,, which means we manage the entire process from engineering, design, installation, construction, maintenance, and monitoring so that businesses can focus on what they do best.

For more information about Positive Zero, visit our website www.positivezero.com and our social media handles on LinkedIn /positivezerohq, Twitter @positivezerohq, and Instagram @positivezerohq.

For media inquiries please contact:

Carine Bouery

Head of Marketing

Tel: +971-4-3893000

cbouery@creekcapital.com

Jonathan Ivan-Duke

Partner, duke+mir

Tel: +971582857333

jon@dukemir.com

Ajman Bank Announces Integration with Aani Instant Payment Platform in Collaboration with Al Etihad Payments Company

In a groundbreaking collaboration with Al Etihad Payments (AEP), a subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), Ajman Bank has announced its integration with the Aani Instant Payment Platform. This significant development positions Ajman Bank as one of the few Islamic banks in the region to become a part of the Aani platform, underscoring the bank’s commitment to banking innovation and excellence.

The Aani Instant Payment Platform revolutionizes the way transactions are conducted for Ajman Bank customers, offering real-time funds transfers between Ajman Bank and other local financial institutions within the Aani network. Ajman customers will be able to able to use Aani services through AEP’s Aani app, on both iOS and Android platforms. After a couple of months it will also be available via Ajman Bank app and channels. The app simplifies transactions by allowing transfers through mobile phone numbers, email addresses, and Emirates ID, and introduces advanced features such as ‘Send Money,’ ‘Request to Pay,’ ‘Split Bill,’ and ‘QR Code payments.’

On the occasion of the launch, Mustafa Al Khalfawi, CEO of Ajman Bank, said, “As we forge ahead with the Aani Instant Payment Platform, we are not just embracing the future of banking; we are actively creating it. Our collaboration with Al Etihad Payments Company marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards financial innovation. At Ajman Bank, we believe in the power of technology to transform lives, fostering a banking environment that is efficient and secure. Together, we are setting a new benchmark for the financial industry, ensuring our customers’ needs are met with integrity, innovation, and insight. This is more than a step forward – it’s a bold move into a future where banking is seamless, inclusive, and aligned with our vision of empowering our community.”

Jan Pilbauer, CEO of Al Etihad Payments, stated, “At Al Etihad Payments, we are committed to creating an ecosystem that promotes innovation, collaboration, and growth, benefiting the entire financial system in the UAE. Our partnership with Ajman Bank on the Aani platform enhances customer experiences and reinforces the UAE’s leadership as a digital payment hub.

With real-time payments and innovative features, we are confident that Aani, in collaboration with Ajman Bank, will deliver significant benefits to both customers and the wider financial ecosystem.”

Being one of the first Islamic bank in the region to join the Aani platform reflects Ajman Bank’s dedication to innovation and to providing customers with Shariah-compliant banking solutions. This initiative aligns with the Central Bank of UAE’s National Payment System Strategy (NPSS), aiming to modernize the nation’s payment systems, and transform the UAE’s trade and payment landscape.

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About Ajman Bank

Ajman Bank is an Islamic bank with an ambitious vision based on values of integrity, trust and transparency seeks to provide a wide range of Sharia-compliant and high-quality banking services to customers from individuals, companies and government institutions across the UAE. It is also keen to be updated with the latest technology that will ensure customers a distinctive experimental banking with the revival of human touch that is lost in the modern era of banking application.

Ajman Bank is headquartered in Ajman and enjoys the strong support of the Government of Ajman and is a key pillar in the emirate’s economic development strategy. The bank continues its tireless efforts to establish a prominent position in the banking sector as a sustainable Islamic banking institution, with an emphasis on the need to achieve an optimal balance in the community and caring staff, in order to provide real value for shareholders and customers alike. For more information visit http://www.ajmanbank.ae

Celebrate Love Aboard the Iconic Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel with the Exclusive Romantic Voyage Package

Rekindle romance and celebrate your love, anniversary, or honeymoon in an extraordinary way with the Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel’s exclusive Romantic Voyage package. Nestled aboard the only floating hotel in Dubai, this unique experience promises to create unforgettable memories for you and your loved one.

Pamper your special someone with a one-of-a-kind romantic stay that includes exceptional amenities and dining. The Romantic Voyage package offers everything you need in a magical setting with thoughtful touches for an unforgettable celebration of love.

Romantic Voyage Package is more than just a stay, it is an experience

  • One-night stay in a Captain’s Room with Balcony: Enjoy the serenity and comfort of our Captain’s Room, complete with a private balcony offering breathtaking views.
  • Breakfast in Lido Restaurant: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the renowned Lido Restaurant, offering a variety of gourmet options.
  • A 3-course dinner for two in Lido Restaurant: Savor a delightful 3-course dinner crafted by our talented chefs, ensuring a culinary experience to remember.
  • Heritage Tour for two: Discover the rich history of the Queen Elizabeth 2 with a guided heritage tour, exploring the fascinating stories of this iconic vessel.
  • Romantic room decoration: Step into a beautifully decorated room that sets the perfect ambiance for romance.
  • A bottle of sparkling alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage: Toast to your love with a bottle of sparkling wine or a non-alcoholic alternative.

This all-inclusive package is available for just AED 999 per night per room, making it the perfect gift for the one you love or a wonderful way to mark a special occasion.

Terms & Conditions Apply:

  • Rates are inclusive of 7% Municipality fees, 10% Service charge, 5% VAT and Tourism fees.
  • Rate is subject to availability, a cancellation policy, seasonal variations and change without notice.
  • The above offer is only for 2 persons.
  • The above benefits may not be used in conjunction with any other promotion or exchanged for any other service or cash.

For reservations or inquiries, please contact the Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel on +97145268888 or visit https://www.qe2.com

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate your love in style at the most iconic address in Dubai.

Book Now

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About Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel, Managed by Accor

Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel, managed by Accor, is a historic gem and the only floating hotel in emirates. Located in Port Rashid, in close proximity to Dubai’s main attractions and shopping malls, its 447 renovated rooms and suites are carefully decorated, offering a peaceful retreat in which to relax and unwind.

Guests can experience a culinary journey with innovative menus onboard the QE2. The hotel’s dining outlets include Lido – an all-day dining restaurant; The Golden Lion – the oldest pub in Dubai; The Pavilion – an alfresco lounge; and the Queens Grill – serving Afternoon Tea.

For those seeking an event with a difference, the iconic QE2 offers multiple one-of-a-kind venues in Dubai. Included in its facilities are unique indoor and outdoor event spaces. Whether you are planning a birthday bash, an anniversary party, a wedding celebration, or any other social or corporate functions, the QE2 provides an inspiring and impressive backdrop that will delight your guests.

For reservations & Inquiries

Call +971 4 526 8888 or email Reservations.qe2@accor.com

Or visit https://www.qe2.com

For Media Inquiries contact:

Hina Bakht

Managing Director

EVOPS Marketing & PR

Mob: 00971 50 6975146

Tel: 00971 4 566 7355

Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com

www.evops-pr.com

Sultan bin Ahmed crowns winners of Sharjah Padel Championship 2

SHARJAH, 1st July, 2024 (WAM) — Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council, on Sunday awarded the winners of the three categories in the second edition of the Sharjah Sports Padel Championship.

The championship took place at the WPA Sports Complex in the Al Rahmaniya suburb of Sharjah.

Sheikh Sultan presented awards to the winners in three categories. Issa Al Shaibani and Mohammed Al Muhairi secured the top spot in the national category, while Bahraini Ali Diwani and Spaniard Jose Arcos clinched first place in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries and foreigners category. The Egyptian pair, Youssef Hossam and George Wakim, snatched first place in the international category.

Sheikh Sultan honoured the referees, handed over the second-place shield to the teams in various categories, and recognised the sponsors, supporters, and partners who organised the Sharjah Sports Padel Championship.

He was present at the final match of the international tournament, organised by the Sharjah Sports Channel in partnership with the WPA. The match was marked by intense competition and excitement, with players delivering exceptional performances and notable improvements in their skills since the first edition.

Lasted for six days, the tournament featured intense competition among 450 players from 26 countries, divided into three categories: UAE nationals, Gulf Cooperation Council countries, and foreigners. The event attracted participants from various countries, including the UAE, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain.

Additionally, professional players from Spain, Argentina, and Portugal participated. The winning teams received AED205,000 in prizes, along with various valuable rewards given to the attending fans, totalling AED100,000. The tournament employed a knockout system for all matches leading to the final game.

The final match and coronation were attended by sheikhs, several heads of government departments, representatives of sponsoring companies, and fans.

Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund, Global Environment Facility to empower young conservationists

ABU DHABI, 1st July, 2024 (WAM) — The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund (MBZ Fund) announced the launch of the Global Field Grants as part of the Fonseca Leadership Programme, supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

With a $1.5 million commitment over three years, this partnership aims to empower young conservationists worldwide, providing essential financial support for both current and future researchers and practitioners in the field.

The GEF is a multilateral family of funds dedicated to confronting biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution and supporting land and ocean health. Its financing enables developing countries to address complex challenges and work towards international environmental goals.

In 2023, GEF initiated the Gustavo Fonseca Youth Leadership Programme to commemorate the late GEF Director of Programmes, Gustavo Fonseca.

The Fonseca Leadership Programme aims to cultivate a pipeline of young professionals in GEF countries by offering conservation fellowships, grants for biodiversity fieldwork, awards for participation in international conservation events, and a recurring global conservation symposium that unites young environmental leaders.

As part of this programme, the Global Field Grants partnership with the MBZ Fund will channel $500,000 annually through the Fund’s online application and review system to support young conservationists in developing nations. The MBZ Fund will focus on enabling field conservation projects globally, ensuring impactful support for emerging conservationists.

The MBZ Fund, operational in over 170 countries and with a track record of supporting more than 2,800 conservation projects globally since its inception, is an ideal partner for this initiative.

“Recognising that people drive these conservation efforts, our commitment goes beyond funding. We focus on supporting early-career or budding conservationists at the start of their journey. Over the past 15 years, we have supported 63% first-time recipients, representing the next generation of conservationists,” said Nicolas Heard, Acting Director-General of the MBZ Fund.

“This partnership aims to empower young people from developing countries, amplifying their voices and enhancing their participation in environmental research and policy. The GEF is dedicated to investing in the next generation, who will play pivotal roles in environmental governance and stewardship”, said Carlos Manuel Rodríguez, CEO and Chairperson of the GEF.

JAFZA, Eaton to build new sustainable facility for advanced manufacturing, R&D

DUBAI, 1st July, 2024 (WAM) — Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) and Eaton, a global intelligent power management company, today signed an agreement to build a new sustainable campus, bringing together Eaton’s Dubai-based commercial, manufacturing, and support functions while providing capacity for growth in the future.

The project will extend Eaton’s research, engineering, and manufacturing capacity and aim to significantly boost Dubai’s capabilities in the advanced manufacturing of electrical and electronic components required to deliver safe and efficient power for several industries, including data centres, buildings, and solar energy.

The construction of the facility, covering more than 500,000 square feet, will begin in 2025 and is expected to be completed in 2026.

The manufacturing capability will be complemented by a new research and development (R&D) facility to house a state-of-the-art centre dedicated to sustainable manufacturing, power management, machine learning, AI, and other related fields.

The project will create approximately 700 jobs, ranging from high-skilled engineering roles to advanced manufacturing positions.

The campus will leverage sustainable technology and demonstrate how commercial and industrial buildings can play an important role in the energy transition. The manufacturing centre will be fully digitally enabled, using automation, analytics, and advanced robotics to enhance production processes, fully embracing Industry 4.0 principles. It will set a benchmark for sustainable buildings and advanced manufacturing in the region.

The signing ceremony took place at Jafza in Dubai, attended by Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World; Craig Arnold, Chairman and CEO of Eaton, and senior management from both companies.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Bin Sulayem said that this strategic partnership with Eaton is a significant advancement in developing smart manufacturing facilities in Jafza, directly supporting Dubai’s D33 strategy.

“We aim to further strengthen Dubai’s standing as a global leader in high-tech and automated manufacturing. Once fully operational, the plant is expected to generate a substantial impact on the UAE’s economy, contribute towards the transition to sustainable energy and provide valuable opportunities for young Emiratis,” he added.

Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi attends Ajman University Gala

AJMAN, 28th June, 2024 (WAM) — Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Municipality and Planning Department and Vice Chairman of Ajman University’s Board of Trustees, attended Ajman University Gala celebrating the University’s recent local and international achievements.

The event, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman, Chairman of Ajman Executive Council, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ajman University at Sheikh Zayed Hall for Conferences and Exhibitions on campus, was graced by the presence of distinguished guests. These included Prof. Dr. Mohammed Yousef Baniyas, Higher Education Advisor and Director of the Academic Accreditation Commission at the UAE Ministry of Education, and Dr. Ashwin Fernandez, Executive Director of QS in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. The gala also saw the attendance of several prominent figures, alumni, faculty members, and administrative staff.

Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi expressed his pride in the University’s accomplishments, stating, “We are proud of Ajman University’s achievements, realised through the vision and support of His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi and His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, along with the dedication of our faculty and staff who have prioritised academic and research excellence. We have always committed to providing high-quality educational programs that foster an inspiring learning environment aligned with global developments.”

He added, “With support from the Ministry of Education, Ajman University has developed diverse programs that implement best global practices, contributing to our rise to the 477th position globally. This marks a new milestone for us. We aim to continue providing inclusive and high-quality education, enhancing our status as a leading educational institution.”

In his opening remarks, Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University, underscored the University’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and innovation.

He stated, “This gala is a testament to our continuous efforts and relentless pursuit of excellence and leadership. The trust of our partners and community members is the driving force behind our achievements, and their unwavering support helps us realise our vision.”

He added, “Notable achievements this year include our transformation into a non-profit institution and our advanced ranking in the QS classification, reflecting our commitment to academic excellence and innovation. We are dedicated to enhancing scientific research and supporting our students’ professional journeys to achieve further successes and elevate the standard of higher education in our region.”