Saboor Ash's Blog

  The President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has announced a new 20 billion UAE dirham (approximately $5.4 billion USD) humanitarian and sustainability scheme. The scheme will be launched in memory and to honor the legacy of the UAE's founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.  The new initiative will support initiatives related to food, clean water, healthcare, and sustainable development in countries around the world over the next 20 years. It aims to help communities be more self-sufficient and less dependent on food imports or humanitarian aid. Priority will be given to projects in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. The UAE president said the new scheme aligns with the vision and principles of the late Sheikh Zayed, who was known for his efforts to aid developing nations and contribute to solving humanitarian issues. It will continue the legacy of the founding father in providing relief, empowering people and extending a hel

  The UAE topped the rankings in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor report for 2023-2024. It achieved the highest National Entrepreneurship Context Index score in the report's history at 7.7, cementing its position as providing the best environment globally for starting and operating new businesses. This supportive ecosystem has encouraged many entrepreneurs to pursue new opportunities in the country. The UAE also featured strongly in terms of its physical infrastructure, coming in third internationally - highlighting how business-friendly resources and facilities are being developed.  Significant efforts within the UAE have gone into nurturing entrepreneurship from a young age. The report recognized its leading entrepreneurship education programs within schools that focus on developing skills like creative thinking, problem solving and risk assessment. As a result, the UAE ranked among the top five countries in this important area out of 49 total. This emphasis on entrepreneurial

  Kuwait Hospital in Sharjah conducted free surgeries on Zayed Humanitarian Day to commemorate the legacy of UAE's founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The surgical and orthopaedic departments performed surgeries for low-income patients in need of medical care. A 70-year-old Asian man underwent a colon tumor removal surgery. A 25-year-old Asian man who met with an accident also received treatment for an open leg fracture with a metal brace.   The hospital's director, Afra Salem, said that participating in initiatives on Zayed Humanitarian Day reinforces their commitment to Sheikh Zayed's legacy of humanitarian work and helping those in need. It demonstrated the hospital's dedication to humanitarian collaboration, which is an authentic part of Emirati culture. Conducting free surgeries for low-income individuals exemplified important humanitarian values of giving back to the community and contributing to nation building. These acts help uphold the essence

  Zakat al-Fitr, also known as Sadaqat al-Fitr, is an obligation for all Muslims residing in the UAE during the month of Ramadan. It involves paying a nominal amount before Eid ul-Fitr so that poor people in society can celebrate the festivities. According to Islamic traditions, this amount should either be equivalent to a saa' (approx. 2.92 kg) of rice or dirhams 25 per person paid in cash or kind. In the UAE for 2024, the government has set the zakat al-fitr amount at 25 dirhams that can be paid either in money or rice.  The UAE authorities have also outlined guidelines for missed daily fasts or fidya amount during Ramadan. If someone was unable to fast intentionally or unintentionally, the compensation or fidya amount is set at 15 dirhams per missed day per person. Similarly, if one fails to make up for missed fasts later or breaks an oath during fasting, they must pay 15 dirhams to 10 poor people. People living in the UAE have convenient online options to fulfill their obligato

   The United Arab Emirates Ambassador to Pakistan, Hamad Obaid Alzaabi, demonstrated interfaith harmony and community spirit by participating in the "Breaking the Fast" initiative in Islamabad. On Tuesday, he joined embassy officials in distributing Iftar meals to people on the street nearing Maghrib prayer time so they could end their daylong Ramadan fasts before returning home. Over 150 meals were provided as part of this charitable program to strengthen communal bonds.  Alzaabi said the objective of the "Breaking the Fast" initiative was to contribute to fostering close ties and feelings of familiarity among all sections of society. It embodied concepts of brotherhood within communities and highlighted shared customs and values between cultures. By reaching out to people before they finished work for the day, the initiative ensured fasting individuals did not have to wait to end their fasts with families at home. This gesture of sharing Iftar meals together prom

The countries of Jordan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have substantially increased their humanitarian aid deliveries to the Gaza Strip during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. According to reports from state media in the UAE, the country conducted its 13th airdrop over inaccessible areas in northern Gaza, delivering 24 tons of essential relief supplies and food items. This is aimed at helping address the dire needs of Palestinian civilians in the blockaded coastal enclave. In addition, the third Emirati aid ship has begun its journey to the Egyptian city of Al-Arish, carrying a massive consignment of 4,630 tons of relief materials intended for Gaza.  Meanwhile, Jordan has also stepped up its efforts during Ramadan by initiating multiple aid operations. The Jordanian army carried out six humanitarian and food airdrops over northern Gaza on Sunday. These special operations involved aircraft from several friendly countries, including the Royal Jordanian Air Force as well as planes f

  Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the UAE, received Joseph Palacios the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus. During the meeting, Sheikh Abdullah appreciated the prominent role and great efforts made by Cyprus to deliver humanitarian aid to civilians in the Gaza Strip. Cyprus had launched a maritime corridor between its ports and the Gaza Strip to transport humanitarian supplies. This opened an important channel for Gaza, helping alleviate the humanitarian crisis faced by the people there.  The Foreign Ministers discussed ways to strengthen relations between their countries. They also exchanged views on regional and international issues of common interest. Sheikh Abdullah stressed the UAE's desire to enhance cooperation with Cyprus, an important European nation. This included working together in areas of trade, economics and investment. Both sides agreed on coordinating their diplomatic efforts, especially at the UN. Cyprus has taken a comme

  Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan's envoy to the United Arab Emirates, emphasized the need for unity, tolerance, and social cohesion in Pakistani society in order to successfully overcome the country's formidable economic challenges according to a report from the Associated Press of Pakistan. Speaking at a ceremony in Abu Dhabi to commemorate Pakistan Day, Ambassador Tirmizi recalled the long struggle for independence and the sacrifices made by Muslims in the subcontinent that led to the establishment of Pakistan. He underscored the importance of appreciating the value of independence and freedom.  The ambassador also reiterated Pakistan's principled stance in support of the right to self-determination of the people of Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine, who have faced decades of violence and human rights violations at the hands of occupying forces. The event, which was attended by members of the Pakistani community in the UAE including women, children

  The UAE delegation participated in the first Nuclear Energy Summit held in Brussels, Belgium on Thursday. The summit was organised by the Belgian government and the International Atomic Energy Agency. Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, led the country's delegation.  The summit aimed to bring together heads of nuclear energy companies and policymakers from countries around the world. It provided an opportunity for participants to discuss key issues relating to the development of peaceful nuclear energy. Countries could share their experiences and best practices in areas like regulating nuclear safety standards. While at the summit, the UAE delegation highlighted the country's efforts to develop a sustainable nuclear energy program. The program aims to diversify the UAE's energy sources and meet the growing demand for electricity. It will see the country operate up to 25% of its electricity needs from nuclear power by 2050. The deleg

  The United Arab Emirates has embarked on an ambitious plan to emerge as a global leader in the field of artificial intelligence. To achieve this lofty goal, the UAE is adopting a multi-pronged strategy involving substantial investments, policy initiatives, and strategic partnerships.  One of the major planks of the UAE's approach is heavy financial commitments to driving progress in AI. Billions of dollars have been set aside for AI research and development through government entities like the Advanced Technology Research Council. Significant capital is also being allocated to attract global tech giants working in AI and computing. The nation hopes to leverage its huge sovereign wealth funds to participate in ambitious projects like developing next-generation semiconductor foundries. By marshaling its deep pockets, the UAE aims to position itself at the cutting-edge of AI technologies. In addition to resources, the UAE is focusing on enabling policies and programs. Open-sourcing

  Everyone faces struggles at some point in their life. It can be a struggle with school, work, relationships, health, or finances. Struggles are not always easy to overcome and often require perseverance and determination. Facing struggles helps develop strength of character and teaches valuable life lessons. While struggling is difficult, getting through difficult times makes one stronger and wiser in the long run.   Financial struggles are all too common for many people. It can be a constant struggle to pay bills, afford food and housing, or save money. Living paycheck to paycheck without any savings causes a lot of stress. Financial struggles also limit opportunities and force tough choices. Finding ways to increase income or reduce expenses can help alleviate financial struggles over time through discipline and sacrifice. Seeking help from community resources should not be overlooked during times of financial hardship. Mental and physical health struggles can deeply impact one'

  The UAE Cabinet approved several important international agreements during its recent meeting. Two comprehensive economic partnership agreements were greenlit with Serbia and Georgia to boost trade relations. Agreements were also approved with the Czech Republic to eliminate double taxation between the countries. Further agreements regarding extradition of criminals and transfer of convicted persons were given approval with Vietnam. This shows the UAE's commitment to fostering close economic and security cooperation with partners around the world.  In addition, the Cabinet approved establishing a new embassy in Guatemala City and a consulate general in Edinburgh. Expanding the UAE's diplomatic presence globally will aid in promoting bilateral ties across many dimensions from investment to culture. It reflects the leadership's vision of an outward-facing, engaged foreign policy that cultivates strong partnerships internationally. The meeting also gave approval to host six

  The Union Association for Human Rights is a governmental organisation based in the United Arab Emirates that has consultative status with the United Nations. Established in January 2024, it aims to promote and protect human rights both within the UAE and internationally.  At the recent 55th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, the Association actively participated in the high-level segment. It was represented by its President, Dr. Fatima Khalifa Al Kaabi, as well as Vice President Maryam Al Ahmadi and a team of experts. Through this engagement with the HRC, the Association seeks to give a voice to human rights issues and contribute to the global dialogue on protecting civilians. During the session, the Association made several recommendations focused on strengthening accountability and compliance with international law. It called for transparent investigations into violations of humanitarian and human rights law. The Association also stressed the importance of coordinati

  The UAE strongly condemned the alarming rise of Islamophobia around the world at the UN General Assembly High-level event in commemoration of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia. Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab highlighted how public acts of religious hatred targeting Muslims were proliferating. He noted reports that terrorist groups were exploiting incidents like the burning of the Holy Quran to inspire terror attacks in Europe. The ambassador stressed that intolerance in any form should be rejected as it threatens international peace and security.  The UAE believes robust action is needed to address Islamophobia on all fronts. Ambassador Abushahab called on governments to work with all parts of society to tackle hate speech, misinformation and disinformation both online and offline. He emphasized the crucial role of technology companies and urged them to prevent social media platforms from being used to spread hate. The adoption of the UN General Assembly resolution on measur

  Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment has donated AED20 million to support the 'Mothers' Endowment' campaign.  This was done under the directive of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai. The donation aims to provide assistance to mothers in the UAE through the important campaign. The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment is a leading charitable organization in the UAE that works to provide humanitarian aid to various communities.  The significant donation of AED20 million demonstrates the Establishment's strong commitment to empowering women and supporting mothers in the country.  It will help families and mothers facing financial difficulties to meet their basic needs. The 'Mothers' Endowment' campaign aligns with the UAE's efforts to promote compassion and welfare services for citizens and residents.

 The weather in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is characterized by its extreme heat, especially during the summer months. From May to September, temperatures can soar well above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), with occasional peaks reaching even higher. This scorching heat is accompanied by very low humidity, making the air feel dry and arid. However, during the winter months, from November to March, the weather becomes more pleasant, with temperatures dropping to a more comfortable range between 15 to 30 degrees Celsius (59 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). This milder weather attracts tourists and residents alike, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and events. The UAE experiences minimal rainfall throughout the year, with the majority of precipitation occurring between December and March. Even during these months, rainfall is sporadic and typically short-lived, often manifesting as brief, intense showers. The country's desert climate contributes to its limited ra

 The UAE's progressive initiatives towards gender equality serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for other nations striving to achieve similar goals. By prioritizing women's empowerment and actively implementing policies that support their advancement, the UAE is fostering a culture of inclusivity and progress. This commitment extends beyond mere rhetoric, with concrete actions being taken to ensure that women have equal access to opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Moreover, the UAE's emphasis on women's entrepreneurship and leadership not only benefits individual women but also contributes to the overall economic growth and stability of the nation. By tapping into the full potential of its female population, the UAE is unlocking new avenues for innovation, creativity, and economic development. This approach not only strengthens the fabric of society but also reinforces the UAE's position as a global leader in promoting gender equality and wom

  Ramadan Kareem is an auspicious and highly anticipated time of the year in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is a month-long Islamic observance during which Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, abstaining from food and drink. This period is a time of reflection, increased devotion, and acts of charity for the Muslim community in the UAE. During Ramadan Kareem, the UAE transforms into a vibrant and spiritual atmosphere. The streets come alive with colorful decorations and the sound of the call to prayer fills the air. Muslims gather in mosques for Taraweeh prayers, which are special evening prayers performed throughout the month. Families and friends come together to break their fasts with Iftar, the evening meal, which is often a lavish spread of traditional Emirati and Arabic dishes. The spirit of Ramadan Kareem is also seen through acts of charity and giving back to the community. Many individuals and organizations in the UAE organize initiatives to provide food and essentials to

  The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) has embarked on a significant humanitarian endeavor with the launch of a Dh37.6 million Ramadan campaign. This campaign aims to provide vital support to needy families around the world during the holy month. With a focus on assisting 1.8 million individuals in the UAE and 44 countries across Asia, Europe, and South America, the ERC's initiative will have a far-reaching impact. Through the provision of essential resources such as Eid clothing, Ramadan food parcels, and iftar meals, the campaign seeks to alleviate suffering, combat poverty, and uphold human dignity. One notable aspect of the ERC's Ramadan campaign is the introduction of women-only Ramadan and iftar tents. This groundbreaking initiative will create safe and inclusive spaces for women to engage in worship and communal activities during the holy month. The tents will be strategically located in various sites across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Ajman, ensuring accessibility to those in need

  Being a working mom is one of the most challenging yet rewarding roles a woman can have. Juggling the responsibilities of career and motherhood requires a tremendous amount of effort, dedication and flexibility.  Working moms wear many hats - that of an employee during work hours and primary caregiver during evenings and weekends. They often face the challenge of balancing long work schedules with children's needs like school pickups, doctor's appointments, extracurricular activities and more. It can be exhausting to divide time and energy between work and family.  However, working moms also gain a great sense of independence and fulfillment from having a career of their own. Financially contributing to the household gives them a sense of empowerment. Pursuing professional goals alongside parenting allows them to be role models for their children, especially their daughters. To succeed in their dual roles, working moms have to be extremely well-organized, prioritize tasks eff

Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation of the UAE, launching a website to promote the Sheikha Fatima Fund for Refugee Women. The fund was established in 2000 in collaboration with the Emirates Red Crescent and UNHCR to provide protection and assistance to refugee women and children worldwide. The newly launched website aims to highlight the fund's vision, mission and values of ensuring refugee women have access to resources and opportunities.  The website is available in both English and Arabic to make the information accessible. In a message posted on the site, Sheikha Fatima spoke of the increasing challenges facing people globally like conflicts, wars and climate change that have led to a rise in displaced persons who lack basic living standards. She expressed the importance of easing their suffering by providing healthcare, food, water and other necessities. Sheikha Fatima's fund strives to empower refugee women and support family stability by developing resource

 In the initial phase of the employment process, once an individual is hired as an employee, they are obligated to proceed with the completion of residence procedures. These essential steps encompass a thorough medical examination and the issuance of the Emirates ID card. Both of these processes necessitate the physical presence of the employee. This ensures that the individual undergoes the required health assessments and obtains the official identification card, crucial elements for their legal residence status within the Emirates. For those seeking the renewal of their residence services, the responsibility falls on the owner of the company to initiate the process. The owner must fill out the unified application, kickstarting the renewal procedure. Subsequently, the employee is then entrusted with completing the mandatory medical examination and acquiring the Emirates ID card. This streamlined approach ensures a systematic renewal process, with each party playing a designated role i

 In Aden, South Yemen's capital, the inaugural operation of the country's first solar electric power station commenced today, supported by funding from the UAE. Governor Ahmed Lamlas initiated the partial operation, functioning at 20-30% of its full 120-megawatt capacity. The station aims to reduce electricity generation costs, diminish reliance on fuel during daylight hours, and contribute to environmental preservation by lowering carbon emissions. The solar station, a groundbreaking clean energy model, was constructed west of Aden on approximately 1.6 million square meters of land. In December 2022, the Yemeni government and the UAE signed an agreement for the station, marking a significant step in addressing Aden's longstanding electricity crisis. The city's transition to Yemen's official capital in 2015, coupled with the influx of displaced individuals from conflict zones, has doubled its electricity demands. During summer, Aden's daily electricity requireme

 Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the esteemed Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, has recently inaugurated the groundbreaking "Mothers’ Endowment" initiative. This initiative is a testament to his dedication to recognizing and supporting the pivotal role that mothers play in society. With this forward-thinking project, Shaikh Mohammed emphasizes the profound impact that mothers have on families and communities, acknowledging their selfless contributions. The Mothers’ Endowment initiative aims to create a platform that not only honors mothers but also provides them with the support they deserve. By acknowledging the sacrifices and unwavering dedication of mothers, the UAE underscores the importance of nurturing and empowering this essential segment of society. Shaikh Mohammed's visionary leadership manifests in initiatives that go beyond conventional gestures, highlighting a commitment to creating tangible, meaningful change. In the UAE, t

  Dubai is firmly committed to transitioning to a greener economy and reducing its carbon footprint. Under the visionary leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the emirate has developed ambitious long-term plans to become carbon neutral by 2050.  A key entity leading this sustainability drive is Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). Over the coming decades, DEWA aims to expand the share of clean energy sources like solar and hydro power in Dubai's energy mix. It has several major projects underway including expanding the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. The goal is to source 100% of Dubai's electricity from renewable sources by 2050. Significant progress is already being made towards this objective, with targets of 25% clean energy by 2030 and potentially exceeding this target.   In addition to transitioning electricity generation, Dubai is also looking to power 100% of desalinated water production through renewable energy by 2030. This will be f

  The tech giant Apple has canceled its ambitious electric vehicle project dubbed "Project Titan" after over a decade of planning and development efforts. The company has reportedly shifted its strategic focus and resources from electric automobiles to artificial intelligence technology instead.  Project Titan was initiated by Apple around 10 years ago in 2014 with the goal of developing fully autonomous, driverless electric vehicles. Over the years, the endeavor faced numerous obstacles and setbacks that delayed its projected timeline. By 2019, Apple had significantly reduced the workforce dedicated to the project from over 1,000 employees to just 190 staff members.  Despite investing billions of dollars into research and development, Apple ultimately failed to achieve meaningful progress with Project Titan. This was due in part to technical challenges as well as broader headwinds in the automotive sector. With the global economy slowing and interest rates rising, consumer d