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Emirates News

28 Dubai Police sites go solar cutting 26,000 tonnes of carbon emissions a year
11.09.2026

28 Dubai Police sites go solar cutting 26,000 tonnes of carbon emissions a year

DUBAI, 11th September, 2026 (WAM) -- Dubai Police has completed the first phase of an ambitious solar energy project that has transformed 28 police sites, delivering an estimated annual reduction of 26,000 tonnes of carbon emissions.The reduction represents 20% of the total carbon emissions generated by Dubai Police buildings, marking a significant step in the organisation’s long term transition towards cleaner energy, greener buildings and more efficient use of resources.The project, led by the General Department of Logistics Support, was originally launched during COP28 in 2023 and forms part of a 25 year strategy to progressively introduce solar energy solutions across Dubai Police buildings and facilities.The first phase covered 28 locations, including police stations, general departments and other police buildings and facilities.Rather than applying a single solution across every site, the project considers the age, design and operational requirements of individual buildings to ensure that sustainable technologies can be introduced without affecting police operations or services.Engineer Maryam Rashid Bonfour, Director of the Energy Efficiency Projects Portfolio at the Environment, Health and Safety Department of the General Department of Logistics Support, said the initiative goes beyond simply installing solar energy systems.She explained that it forms part of a broader vision to improve the efficiency of police buildings and facilities, optimise resource consumption, reduce carbon emissions and accelerate the transition towards environmentally friendly green buildings.According to Bonfour, the first phase has succeeded in preparing 28 sites to contribute to an annual reduction of 26,000 tonnes of carbon emissions.This is equivalent to around 20% of the total carbon emissions associated with Dubai Police buildings.The achievement supports wider national and Dubai strategies for clean energy, carbon reduction and the green transformation of buildings, as well as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.The solar project is designed as a long term transformation rather than a one off initiative.“The project extends over 25 years and is being implemented through carefully planned phases that take into consideration the nature, age, design and operational requirements of police buildings,” Bonfour said.This includes both existing facilities and new buildings developed according to Dubai Police operational requirements.She said the approach is intended to ensure that sustainable solutions remain efficient and viable over the long term without compromising the efficiency of police services and operations.Dubai Police is now preparing to begin the second phase during the final quarter of 2026, progressively extending solar energy solutions to additional buildings and facilities.The project supports the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and Dubai’s strategy to reduce carbon emissions, with the aim of helping double the reduction in carbon emissions to 50% by the end of 2030.It also reinforces Dubai Police’s wider commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management.Dubai Police previously became the first police organisation in the world to officially join the United Nations Global Compact, adopting its ten principles covering human rights, decent labour standards, anti-corruption and environmental responsibility.

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UAE President to begin state visit to Germany on 9 September
07.09.2026

UAE President to begin state visit to Germany on 9 September

ABU DHABI, 7th September, 2026 (WAM) -- UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan will begin a state visit to the Federal Republic of Germany on Wednesday 9 September.During the visit, His Highness will meet with German President His Excellency Frank-Walter Steinmeier and German Chancellor His Excellency Friedrich Merz to discuss the strong and enduring ties between the two countries and explore opportunities to deepen cooperation, particularly in the economic and development sectors, in support of their shared interests.The discussions will take place within the framework of the strategic partnership between the UAE and Germany.The talks will also address regional and international developments and issues of mutual concern.

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Mansour bin Zayed issues resolution approving family charter to safeguard children’s best interests
07.09.2026

Mansour bin Zayed issues resolution approving family charter to safeguard children’s best interests

ABU DHABI, 7th September, 2026 (WAM) -- In his capacity as Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, has issued Resolution No. 43 of 2026 approving the Post-Separation Charter – Year of Family.The charter aims to regulate the relationship between parents during disputes, promote children’s psychological and social stability, and reinforce their best interests as the primary consideration in all family-related decision.The charter consolidates a safe and stable family environment for children and ensures that both the father and mother continue to play an active role in their upbringing. It is based on the principle that the dissolution of marriage does not end parenthood, nor does it diminish a child’s need for shared care, safe contact and a stable environment that fosters a sense of security and belonging.The document represents an agreement based on mutual understanding and respect, seeking to shield children from parental conflict and its effects, prioritise their welfare above all else, and uphold the dignity of both parties. It reinforces that adherence to the charter is an extension of the parents’ moral and legal responsibilities, reassuring their children that their love remains unchanged and that they will continue to receive shared care in a safe environment.The charter obliges parents to co-operate in their children’s moral and religious upbringing, education, healthcare, and behavioural and educational guidance. The custodial parent is required to keep the other parent informed of academic reports, health status and school activities, while both parties must co-operate and consult on major decisions, including education, medical treatment and travel.The document sets out the parents’ obligations towards children in their custody, including each parent faithfully fulfilling their parental role, providing healthcare and education, safeguarding the child’s physical and psychological wellbeing, instilling values and virtues, and raising children in accordance with Emirati customs and traditions to deepen their sense of belonging and responsibility. It also ensures the other parent’s right to visitation and communication and requires them to be notified of any significant matter concerning the child.The charter also sets out the parents’ obligations towards each other, including refraining from disparaging the other parent in front of the children, maintaining respect for and obedience to both parents, and avoiding discussion of the reasons for the dispute or divorce in the children’s presence. It prohibits using the children’s legal rights, including visitation and maintenance, as a means of pressure, bargaining or harm.The charter is based on the rules established under the Federal Personal Status Law governing custody, maintenance, visitation and educational guardianship. It provides a framework for the parents to agree on the details of visitation, overnight stays, travel by children in custody, and agreed financial obligations.To resolve disputes arising from implementation of the charter, the document requires the parties to attempt to settle any disagreement amicably. If an amicable resolution cannot be reached, the dispute is referred to the Family Guidance Centre to facilitate reconciliation before the matter is referred to court.Under the procedural mechanism for implementation, the Family Guidance Counsellor presents the document to the parents following their separation for them to sign it in full or in part and commit to implementing its provisions.

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UAE Search and Rescue Team continues relief operations in Nepal’s Rasuwa
07.09.2026

UAE Search and Rescue Team continues relief operations in Nepal’s Rasuwa

KATHMANDU, 7th September, 2026 (WAM) -- The UAE Search and Rescue Team has continued its field operations in Rasuwa area of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, as part of the UAE’s humanitarian efforts to support the Nepalese authorities in search and rescue operations and in responding to the aftermath of the devastating floods that struck the country.Field operations are continuing in coordination with the Nepalese authorities in Rasuwa, using advanced equipment and technologies to conduct ground surveys. Drones are also being deployed for aerial imaging and surveying and to produce three-dimensional maps.These operations are helping accelerate search and rescue efforts, saving time and resources and strengthening efforts to alleviate the difficult humanitarian situation in Nepal following the floods, which have left thousands dead or missing.Hammoud Al Afari, Director of UAE Relief Operations, said the UAE team is deploying all available resources to provide humanitarian support under challenging conditions, locate missing persons in disaster-stricken areas and assess other affected sites to ensure continued assistance to those impacted.He added that these efforts underscore the UAE’s longstanding humanitarian commitment to assisting communities affected by natural disasters around the world and providing support in times of crisis and disaster.

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‘Donate Your Device’ provides more than 1,500 refurbished digital devices to students in UAE
07.09.2026

‘Donate Your Device’ provides more than 1,500 refurbished digital devices to students in UAE

DUBAI, 7th September, 2026 (WAM) -- The Digital School, one of the initiatives of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has provided more than 1,500 refurbished digital devices through its “Donate Your Device” initiative, in partnership with the Tarahum Charity Foundation. The initiative aims to support students from the most vulnerable and underprivileged groups across the UAE as the new academic year begins, enabling them to continue their educational journeys with the digital tools they need for learning.The initiative forms part of the “Giving and Hope” Back-to-School Campaign, supporting students from low-income families, orphans and other vulnerable groups as they begin the new academic year with confidence. By providing refurbished digital devices, it helps ensure they have the tools they need to continue their education and benefit from digital learning opportunities.The Digital School is providing more than 1,500 refurbished digital devices, including 48 laptops, and 1,085 tablets, enhancing access to essential digital learning tools for students supported by Tarahum Charity Foundation.The devices were collected from various institutions and organisations across the UAE as part of the Digital School’s “Donate Your Device” initiative. They subsequently underwent specialised refurbishment and reconditioning processes in accordance with technical standards, transforming used devices into educational tools that open new horizons for learning and giving technology a new lease of life in support of students.Khalid Al Qasim, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Tarahum Charity Foundation, said, “We are proud of our partnership with the Digital School, which highlights the importance of coordinated community efforts in supporting students and advancing initiatives that make a positive impact on the lives of beneficiaries. Providing refurbished digital devices to students from beneficiary families will help them begin the new academic year with confidence and continue their educational journeys. It also reflects the values of giving, solidarity and social responsibility that characterise UAE society.”Dr. Waleed Al Ali, Secretary-General of the Digital School, said, “The ‘Donate Your Device’ initiative reflects the Digital School’s commitment to expanding its educational impact, not only globally but also within the UAE, through effective community partnerships that support students and empower them to continue their education. Our collaboration with Tarahum Charity Foundation represents a model that brings together education and sustainability by giving devices donated by institutions and organisations across the UAE a new lease of life and transforming them into educational tools that support students and reinforce the values of giving and social responsibility.”The initiative represents a model that combines education and sustainability by refurbishing electronic devices and extending their operational lifespan. This contributes to reducing electronic waste and transforming it into sustainable educational opportunities. It also reflects the culture of giving and social responsibility in the UAE, with institutions and organisations from across the country contributing by donating their digital devices so they can be refurbished and repurposed to empower students and support their educational journeys.The Digital School launched the “Donate Your Device” campaign to engage individuals and institutions across the community in providing digital learning tools to students in underserved communities. The campaign collects used electronic devices, refurbishes those suitable for reuse and makes them available to support students’ education, while other devices are recycled in accordance with appropriate environmental practices.The campaign’s second edition is being organised in partnership with the Digital School, the Emirates Red Crescent Authority (ERC) and Ecyclex, with the support of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. It aims to collect 100,000 used electronic devices, strengthening the integration of educational, humanitarian and environmental sustainability impacts.The campaign’s first edition, launched in 2023 as part of the UAE’s Year of Sustainability activities, successfully collected 50,000 electronic devices and recycled 120 tonnes of electronic waste. It also generated significant environmental benefits, including reducing carbon dioxide emissions by the equivalent of 122 tonnes, saving 170,000 litres of fuel, and protecting approximately 32,000 square feet of land from pollution caused by electronic waste.The Digital School, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, in November 2020 as part of the dissemination of education and knowledge pillar, aims to empower students through digital learning options in areas and regions where suitable conditions or the resources required to continue their education are unavailable. It also provides a high-quality option for blended and distance learning, primarily targeting underserved communities, refugees and displaced persons.Tarahum Charity Foundation is one of the leading charitable organisations in the UAE. It provides support to low-income families, orphans and the most vulnerable groups through sustainable humanitarian and community programmes and initiatives. The Foundation also focuses on building effective partnerships with government entities, the private sector and community organisations to strengthen social solidarity, empower beneficiaries and improve their quality of life, in line with the values of giving and social responsibility that characterize the UAE.

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Dubai RTA steps up night-time road maintenance, rehabilitation
07.09.2026

Dubai RTA steps up night-time road maintenance, rehabilitation

DUBAI, 6th September, 2026 (WAM) -- Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is utilising low-traffic night hours to carry out preventive and corrective road maintenance, minimising disruption and keeping infrastructure ready for morning commuters.The Authority maintains a 95 percent "excellent" rating across its network through scheduled assessments and targeted upkeep.Night operations encompass asphalt repairs, pavement rehabilitation, and maintenance of bridges, tunnels, stormwater drainage, street lighting, traffic signals, signage, and safety barriers, according to an RTA release.Under its 2026 preventive plan, RTA rehabilitated 17 kilometers of asphalt across nine major streets and six districts by early June, spanning highways, arterial corridors, residential areas, and cycling tracks. Pavement maintenance targets 90,000 square meters this year, up from 88,000 square meters in 2025.Maintenance priorities are determined using automated asset-data analysis, smart diagnostic systems, field inspections, customer reports, and traffic volume metrics. Dedicated traffic management plans, including diversions and safety measures, are implemented before work begins, ensuring all lanes reopen prior to the morning peak.Off-peak operations have accelerated infrastructure upgrades while enhancing safety and preserving overall network efficiency.

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Falcon sets world auction record at AED2.1 million in Abu Dhabi
07.09.2026

Falcon sets world auction record at AED2.1 million in Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI, 7th September, 2026 (WAM) --An Gyr Pure Ultra White falcon achieved a record-breaking sale of AED 2.1 million ($571,000) at the final falcon auction of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) 2026, making it the highest value a falcon has ever been auctioned for.Bidders competed for the prized Gyr Pure Ultra White falcon, which originated from the United States, with the winning bid setting the highest price a falcon has ever been auctioned for.The Gyr Pure Ultra White is prized for its exceptionally rare white plumage, pure lineage, and striking appearance, making it the most sought-after falcons in the ADIHEX falcon auctions this year.The ADIHEX falcon auctions have been one of the exhibition’s most anticipated events, demonstrating the prestige of falconry in Emirati heritage and the strong international demand for exceptional birds of prey.Through its dedicated programmes, competitions and exhibitions, the event continues to promote the cultural significance of falconry while supporting its preservation for future generations.ADIHEX has long served as a gathering place for falconers, breeders, collectors and enthusiasts, celebrating and preserving the ancient tradition of falconry as a cornerstone of Emirati and Gulf heritage.

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SEWA installs 9,129 new smart water meters, replaces 9,734 from January to July
06.09.2026

SEWA installs 9,129 new smart water meters, replaces 9,734 from January to July

SHARJAH, 6th September, 2026 (WAM) -- The Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA) announced that it installed 9,129 new smart water metres and replaced 9,734 metres across various areas of the Emirate of Sharjah from January to the end of July 2026.The total number of smart water metres in the emirate has now exceeded 380,000. During the seven-month period, 39,746 metres were also tested at water metre laboratories to ensure their proper operation, as part of SEWA’s strategic plan to advance digital transformation and develop the water sector’s infrastructure.Engineer Faisal Al Serkal, Director of the Water Department at SEWA, said the project forms part of the Authority’s ongoing efforts to ensure measurement accuracy and enhance the efficiency of water services.He added that SEWA is committed to applying the highest quality standards to provide reliable services, enhance the efficiency of the water distribution network, improve service quality, protect natural resources and increase customer satisfaction.Al Serkal noted that key advantages of the new smart metres include accurate readings and the ability to detect abnormal water flows or leaks within properties, helping to prevent water wastage.He stressed that SEWA is committed to deploying the latest technologies to serve residents across the Emirate of Sharjah. Metre installation and replacement works are being carried out according to a specified schedule covering residential, commercial and industrial areas, with technical teams implementing the work in accordance with the highest quality standards.

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Make-A-Wish UAE fulfils 18 wishes for children from Gaza at Emirates Humanitarian City
06.09.2026

Make-A-Wish UAE fulfils 18 wishes for children from Gaza at Emirates Humanitarian City

ABU DHABI, 6th September, 2026 (WAM) -- Make-A-Wish UAE fulfilled the wishes of 18 children from Gaza residing in Emirates Humanitarian City during an event organised in collaboration with the city to mark the International Day of Charity.The event was attended by Mona Al Jaber, Member of the Board of Trustees of Make-A-Wish UAE, alongside a number of representatives from Emirates Humanitarian City.The event featured a variety of entertainment activities that brought joy to the hearts of the children and their families, giving them beautiful moments filled with happiness and hope.Mona Al Jaber said, “We at Make-A-Wish UAE are delighted to be here today among our children and families from Gaza at Emirates Humanitarian City, sharing their happiness and fulfilling their wishes. Since the beginning of our collaboration in 2024, we have, by the grace of God, fulfilled 110 wishes for children from Gaza, with each wish having its own story and bringing a special moment of happiness to the child and their family.“The moment a wish is fulfilled may be brief, but it carries great meaning for a child and creates a beautiful memory that remains with them and their family. God willing, we will not stop at this number. We will continue our collaboration to fulfil more wishes and always be part of their happiness and smiles.“We extend our sincere thanks to Emirates Humanitarian City and everyone involved for their continued cooperation and support for the children and their families. We would also like to express our special thanks to Counsellor Mubarak Falah Al Qahtani, Official Spokesperson for Emirates Humanitarian City, for his efforts and dedication to the children and their families.”For his part, Counsellor Mubarak Falah Al Qahtani expressed his pride in the continued collaboration with Make-A-Wish UAE, emphasising the importance of such initiatives in bringing moments of happiness and hope to children and strengthening the impact of humanitarian partnerships in supporting children and their families.He also extended his sincere thanks and appreciation to Sheikha Sheikha bint Saif bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, wife of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Advisor to the UAE President and Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Make-A-Wish Foundation UAE, for her continued commitment to supporting children and for her generous guidance to continue the collaboration with Emirates Humanitarian City, fulfil the wishes of children from Gaza residing at the city, and provide them and their families with moments of happiness and hope.This collaboration reflects Make-A-Wish UAE’s commitment to continuing its humanitarian mission of fulfilling the wishes of children facing critical illnesses that threaten their lives, while providing them with hope, strength and joy. It also highlights the importance of humanitarian and community partnerships in supporting children and their families, creating a tangible positive impact on their lives, and giving them beautiful memories that stay with them through different circumstances.

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‘Emirati Pioneers’: A gateway to understanding transformations that shaped Emirati achievements
06.09.2026

‘Emirati Pioneers’: A gateway to understanding transformations that shaped Emirati achievements

ABU DHABI, 6th September, 2026 (WAM) -- The 35th edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF 2026) will introduce the ‘Emirati Pioneers’ initiative, an annual national project dedicated to documenting the pioneering experiences of leading figures in culture and thought in the United Arab Emirates.The initiative seeks to transform their individual contributions and influence into documented knowledge and enduring cultural content, thereby reinforcing the collective national memory, preserving Emirati cultural achievements, and making them accessible to future generations.The initiative forms part of the broader vision of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), the Fair’s organiser, to build a cultural ecosystem that does not only produce and disseminate knowledge, but also preserves it, makes it available, and extends its reach. These objectives align with the role that the ADIBF’s has established role of by providing a space for local, regional and global dialogue and knowledge exchange.‘Emirati Pioneers’ is founded on a core conviction: that major cultural transformations cannot be read through institutions and achievements alone, but through the lives of those who helped bring it about, the circumstances in which their journeys took shape, the ideas they carried forward, the initiatives they launched, and the impact they left on society. Accordingly, the initiative seeks to move cultural biography beyond celebration into documentation, beyond commemoration into knowledge, and beyond individual experience into collective memory.Through this initiative, the Fair aims to build an accumulating narrative of the Emirati cultural scene, revisiting the journeys of figures who have had an influential presence in literature, media, thought, art, and cultural and institutional work. It places their experiences within the context of the transformations witnessed by the UAE since the establishment of the Union in 1971, allowing the development of Emirati cultural life to be read through its human, institutional, and intellectual trajectories.The initiative goes beyond the traditional notion of honouring cultural figures. It is based on the production of knowledge capable of enduring and circulating. To that end, it draws on documentation, publishing, and dialogue as interconnected tools to recover these experiences through knowledge materials, personal testimonies, specialised sessions, documentary publications, and visual works. This gives Fair visitors, particularly younger generations, access to multiple sources that reflecting on each experience from different angles.This direction reflects a shift in the very function of the book fair itself. In keeping with its vision, the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair serves as a platform for the publishing industry strengthening communication among publishers, authors, and intellectuals; and providing a space to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and explore developments in the sector.It also plays a part in promoting reading, disseminating knowledge, and encouraging dialogue among nations. Seen in this light, ‘Emirati Pioneers’ adds a dimension of national documentation to this function, turning the Fair into a space where knowledge is produced, preserved, and reintroduced.The initiative also reflects the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre’s commitment to opening new avenues for advancing cultural activity. In recent years, the Centre has expanded its projects to include translation, publishing, research and studies, awards, and reading programmes, alongside initiatives aimed at younger generations that encourage reading, writing, and creativity.In this context, ‘Emirati Pioneers’ becomes a natural extension of this trajectory, while adding an element connected to national cultural memory. It views individual experiences as part of the stages through which modern Emirati culture has taken shape.Furthermore, the initiative carries an important dimension related to the transfer of experience between generations. Documenting the journey of a cultural figure, writer, media professional, or institution builder reveals paths of formation, work, and experience, while offering new generations models they can read, draw inspiration from, and build upon. By doing so, the initiative turns cultural biography into learning material, a source for research, and a gateway to understanding the transformations that shaped the Emirati scene.The ‘Emirati Pioneers’ initiative gains further significance as an annual, cumulative project. Each edition adds a name, an experience, and a new layer to the record of Emirati culture, gradually building a multi-generational knowledge map that traces the transformations of literature, media, art, and cultural and intellectual institutions in the UAE.In this sense, it does not seek to retrieve the past merely to celebrate it, but to repurpose it as a reference for shaping the future. When biography becomes a book, testimony becomes a document, and individual experience becomes material available to researchers and readers, cultural heritage becomes a living part of society, rather than merely a record preserved in memory.This approach strengthens the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair’s role as a platform for producing the narratives of Emirati culture, documenting its leading figures, showcasing its achievements, and presenting its experiences to local, Arab, and international audiences.

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UAE expresses solidarity with Greece, conveys condolences over death of two pilots in plane crash
06.09.2026

UAE expresses solidarity with Greece, conveys condolences over death of two pilots in plane crash

ABU DHABI, 6th September, 2026 (WAM) -- The United Arab Emirates has expressed solidarity with the Hellenic Republic following a plane crash during an airshow at Tanagra Air Force Base north of Athens, which resulted in the deaths of two pilots.In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) expressed its sincere condolences and sympathy to the families of the pilots, and to the Hellenic Republic and its people, over this tragedy.

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