DXB --:--
category

Emirates News

Zayed Authority for People of Determination welcomes 2,121 students as 2026/2027 academic year begins
30.08.2026

Zayed Authority for People of Determination welcomes 2,121 students as 2026/2027 academic year begins

ABU DHABI, 30th August, 2026 (WAM) -- Zayed Authority for People of Determination welcomes its students as the new 2026/2027 academic year begins across its various care and rehabilitation centres throughout the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.A total of 2,121 students with different types of disabilities are enrolled within an integrated system encompassing education, rehabilitation, care and vocational training.In the Abu Dhabi region, the Authority’s network includes the Abu Dhabi Centre for Care and Rehabilitation, the Abu Dhabi Autism Centre, and the Agricultural and Vocational Rehabilitation Department for individuals aged over 16. In the Al Ain region, the network comprises the Al Ain, Al Quaa and Al Wagan Care and Rehabilitation Centers, the Al Ain Autism Centre, and the Agricultural and Vocational Rehabilitation Department for individuals aged over 16. In the Al Dhafra region, the network includes the Care and Rehabilitation Centers in Al Sila, Ghayathi, Al Mirfa, Delma and Madinat Zayed.The Authority has completed its preparations for the new academic year by finalising maintenance and development works and equipping educational and rehabilitation facilities and environments to meet students’ needs. It has also ensured the availability of specialized and qualified professionals to provide integrated services in special education, rehabilitation, therapy and vocational training.Under the supervision and follow-up of H.H. Sheikh Khalid bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Authority, the new phase at the Zayed Authority for People of Determination continues to advance the education and rehabilitation system through the introduction of modern curricula, artificial intelligence solutions and assistive technologies. Individualized plans and programmers are also being implemented to address the needs and capabilities of each student.This integrated system aims to enhance students’ skills and independence, develop their educational, life and vocational capabilities, and prepare them for greater integration and active participation in society, in line with leading global practices and trends in the field of People of Determination.The Authority affirmed that the ongoing development of services for People of Determination is underpinned by the continuous support of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the continued follow-up of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, strengthening the Emirate’s efforts to build an advanced and sustainable system for empowering People of Determination.Abdullah Abdul Al Humaidan, Secretary-General of Zayed Authority for People of Determination, said, “The beginning of the new academic year represents another milestone in the ongoing development of the education and rehabilitation system for People of Determination. We continue to work towards providing advanced educational and rehabilitation environments that invest in each student’s capabilities and address their individual needs, while leveraging the latest curricula, technologies and artificial intelligence to enhance their skills and independence.”Throughout the 2026/2027 academic year, the Authority looks forward to further developing its educational, rehabilitation and vocational programmers and expanding the use of assistive technologies and artificial intelligence. These efforts will enhance the quality of services, support the Authority’s objectives of empowering People of Determination and improving their quality of life, while strengthening their independence and community participation.

Read News
With over 50,000 people in attendance, Nahyan bin Mubarak joins Palestinian community in celebrating their culture, heritage and success stories in UAE
30.08.2026

With over 50,000 people in attendance, Nahyan bin Mubarak joins Palestinian community in celebrating their culture, heritage and success stories in UAE

DUBAI, 29th August, 2026 (WAM) -- In the presence of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, and Abeer AlRamahi, Ambassador of the State of Palestine to the UAE, the “Emirates Loves Palestine” page organised the first edition of its community event celebrating the Palestinian community in the UAE.Held at Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai, “Emirates Loves Palestine” was organised in partnership with the UAE-Palestinian Friendship Club and the Palestinian Business Council in Dubai and the Northern Emirates.The event attracted more than 50,000 people from the Palestinian community, the Emirati community and UAE residents, in an atmosphere that celebrated Palestinian culture and heritage and reflected the bonds of affection and connection between the Emirati and Palestinian peoples.Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak said: "It gives me great pleasure to be with you at this wonderful fraternal gathering, which represents the largest gathering of the Palestinian community in the world, and which clearly embodies the sincere feelings of affection that the United Arab Emirates holds for Palestine and its brotherly people."He added: "In this gathering, which expresses the UAE's love for Palestine, we send together a message of pure support and affection.The 'UAE Loves Palestine' event also embodies the UAE's approach to promoting the values of tolerance, coexistence, and cultural openness, and its keenness to provide a welcoming community environment for the various communities residing on its soil… For decades, the UAE has hosted a Palestinian community that has always been an active and giving part of the fabric of its society, and its sons and daughters have contributed effectively to the march of development and progress across various sectors."He said: "The UAE has always stood by you, and the UAE remains firmly committed to continuing its humanitarian efforts to support the Palestinian people, placing support for our brothers and the relief of their suffering at the forefront of its priorities, and at the heart of its diplomatic and humanitarian actions."He affirmed: "The UAE has emerged as the largest donor of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, and has set a distinguished example of solidarity and mutual support, reflecting its historic and steadfast commitment to standing by the Palestinian people and supporting them at various levels."He added: “On this occasion, I also extend my thanks to the Embassy of the State of Palestine in the United Arab Emirates, to the Emirati Palestinian Friendship Club, and to the Palestinian Business Council in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, for their sponsorship of this celebration and their efforts in making it a success.”He said: “This gathering confirms that the relations between the United Arab Emirates and Palestine are deeply rooted and ever renewing relations, resting on firm fraternal bonds between the two peoples, and on a shared belief in the values of peace, coexistence, and human solidarity… We are certain that today's gathering represents a new link in a continuous chain of meetings and events that strengthen these bonds, and that embody the love, mutual support, and solidarity that unite the two brotherly peoples.”The event featured a diverse cultural, artistic and heritage programme, including songs, music, folk performances and traditional showcases that reflected the richness of Palestinian heritage and the diversity of its cultural and artistic expression.A number of Palestinian artists took part in the event, including Mohammed Assaf and comedian Imad Farajin, alongside a distinguished group of cultural and community figures. Together, they shared with the audience a vibrant celebration of Palestinian culture and its deep civilisational and human legacy.Visitors also had the opportunity to explore different aspects of Palestinian heritage through dedicated sections for traditional food, heritage displays, crafts and home-based projects by members of the community, as well as a range of community activities and artistic performances designed for families and individuals.The event embodied the deep-rooted social and human ties between the Emirati and Palestinian peoples. It also provided a community platform for Palestinians in the UAE to introduce their culture, heritage and contributions within a society that celebrates cultural diversity and upholds the values of tolerance, coexistence and human connection.The event was organised in cooperation with the UAE-Palestinian Friendship Club, which works to strengthen community and cultural engagement between the two peoples and support initiatives that showcase Palestinian culture and heritage. The Palestinian Business Council in Dubai and the Northern Emirates also supported the event as part of its role in strengthening connections among Palestinian business leaders and entrepreneurs in the UAE, and highlighting their economic and social contributions.The event also honoured a number of prominent Palestinian figures in recognition of their contributions, achievements and role in serving the community, while highlighting the success stories of members of the Palestinian community in the UAE.The honourees included Dr. Nader Darwich,Founder, Knee & Sports Medicine Center & Consultant Orthopaedic and Knee Surgeon, Qusay Mohamed Ahmed Al Ghusain, Businessman & Board Member, Emirati-Palestinian Friendship Club, Dr. Abeer Ismail Mohamed Al-Najjar, Professor of Media & Journalism, American University of Sharjah, Eng. Ahmad Adnan Zaki Saffarini, Chairman, Adnan Saffarini Engineering Consultants, Eng. Fares Moh'd Said Mustafa Abubaker, Engineer – SEE Institute, Eng. Fouad Abdulhadi Mohammed Mashal, CEO, Al Barakah International Investment Group, Salam Ezzat Hussein Abu Shihab, Journalist & Media Professional, Al Khaleej, and Farouk Khalil Hafez Toukan, Chairman, Target Jordan Palestine Securities.Coinciding with “Emirates Loves Palestine” in Dubai, the Gaza Strip hosted “Palestine Loves the UAE” in cooperation with Operation Chivalrous Knight 3, celebrating the humanitarian ties between the two peoples and Palestinian culture and heritage.The Dubai event featured a live broadcast from Gaza, connecting attendees at Dubai Exhibition Centre with Palestinians in the Strip in a scene that reflected the depth of the human bonds between the Emirati and Palestinian peoples.Members of the Palestinian community are an active part of the UAE’s diverse social fabric, contributing across economic, cultural and social fields and strengthening the ties of friendship, cooperation and communication between the Emirati and Palestinian peoples.“Emirates Loves Palestine” reflects the UAE’s approach to celebrating the communities that live on its land, recognising their cultures and contributions, and reinforcing a society built on tolerance, openness and respect for cultural diversity. It further strengthens the UAE’s position as a global model for coexistence and communication among peoples and cultures.

Read News
Mattar bin Lahej, eL Seed to discuss ‘The Power of Art in Storytelling’ at Arab Media Summit 2026
29.08.2026

Mattar bin Lahej, eL Seed to discuss ‘The Power of Art in Storytelling’ at Arab Media Summit 2026

DUBAI, 28th August, 2026 (WAM) -- Emirati artist and sculptor Mattar bin Lahej and internationally renowned artist and sculptor eL Seed will take part in a session titled ‘The Power of Art in Storytelling’ at the Arab Youth Media Forum, to be held during the Arab Media Summit 2026.Organised by the Dubai Press Club, the Summit will take place from 15th to 17th September at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The session will highlight the growing role of art in storytelling and in expressing human experiences, as well as its ability to transcend cultural and linguistic boundaries and build bridges between communities.Mattar bin Lahej is a prominent Emirati artist whose practice spans painting, photography, design and sculpture. Known for his distinctive use of Arabic calligraphy, his work explores identity, culture and the relationship between tradition and modernity. His major works include the ‘Power of Words’ sculptures at Qasr Al Watan and the calligraphic façade of Dubai’s Museum of the Future, both of which demonstrate his approach to using public art to engage audiences and create dialogue.eL Seed is a globally renowned contemporary artist whose work spans painting, sculpture and installation, blending the visual tradition of Arabic calligraphy with the scale and energy of urban art.His practice uses language as a bridge between people, cultures and histories, with works exploring identity, cultural memory, unity, coexistence and human connection.His projects have appeared at locations ranging from the pyramids of Giza and the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris to Rio de Janeiro and the Korean DMZ, while his works are part of major collections including The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Read News
Arab Media Summit 2026 announces GCC Secretary General as keynote speaker
29.08.2026

Arab Media Summit 2026 announces GCC Secretary General as keynote speaker

DUBAI, 28th August, 2026 (WAM) -- The Organising Committee of the Arab Media Summit 2026, announced that Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, will deliver a keynote address during this year’s edition of the Summit.Scheduled to take place from 15th to 17th September 2026, the Summit will be held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and under the directives of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council.The participation of Albudaiwi adds particular significance to the summit’s discussions, given the GCC’s central role in shaping regional cooperation amid rapidly evolving geopolitical dynamics.Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, President of the Dubai Press Club, and Chairperson of the Arab Media Summit Organising Committee, welcomed Albudaiwi’s participation, highlighting the value his diplomatic experience and broad perspective on regional and global developments would bring to the 24th edition of the Arab Media Summit.She noted that the GCC offers a strong model of regional coordination, integration and joint action, with media playing an important role in supporting these efforts.She also emphasised that engaging with a senior political and diplomatic figure of Albudaiwi’s stature would bring valuable perspectives to the summit’s discussions on the future of media and its evolving role amid a rapidly changing regional and international landscape.The Arab Media Summit 2026 will feature a diverse range of specialised events, including the Arab Media Forum, the Government Communication Forum, the Arab Youth Media Forum, the Arab Social Media Influencers Summit, the Films Forum, the Games Forum, and the Dubai PodFest, alongside several international media forums.

Read News
Abu Dhabi Department of Energy advances global efforts to strengthen water resilience during World Water Week 2026
29.08.2026

Abu Dhabi Department of Energy advances global efforts to strengthen water resilience during World Water Week 2026

STOCKHOLM, 28th August, 2026 (WAM) -- The Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE) took part in World Water Week 2026 in Stockholm, reinforcing the emirate’s role as a trusted global partner and a leader in advancing water resilience and integrated water and energy governance.Led by Dr. Abdullah Humaid Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Department of Energy, the delegation brought together senior energy-sector leaders from the UAE.Throughout the week, the delegation met with governments, regulators, international organisations, academic institutions and industry leaders to explore practical partnerships that strengthen the resilience of water and energy systems and support sustainable economic development.World Water Week is one of the world’s leading forums for water policy and international cooperation, bringing together decision-makers from across the globe to address the critical challenges shaping the future of water security.Through its participation, DoE showcased Abu Dhabi’s integrated approach to governance, regulation and long-term planning, and how these efforts are strengthening water resilience, safeguarding essential services and supporting sustainable growth.Dr. Abdullah Humaid Al Jarwan participated in the high-level ministerial panel, Shaping the Future Through Water, where he shared Abu Dhabi’s experience of more than 50 years in building a resilient water system based on source diversification, efficient resource use, governance and innovation.He said, “It is important not to equate water abundance with water security. The difference lies in water resilience. Resilience means building a system with the capabilities to make effective use of available resources and diversify them, making the system safe, sustainable and affordable.”He also participated in the session, "Water Resilience by Design: Protecting People and Enabling Progress", which explored the importance of embedding resilience across water and energy systems through integrated planning, governance and investment, strengthening system readiness and the ability to maintain essential services under different conditions.The department also presented the Abu Dhabi Water and Energy Resilience Framework. The framework integrates policy, regulation, infrastructure planning and innovation, providing a practical model for strengthening the long-term resilience of Abu Dhabi’s water and energy sectors.Commenting on the participation, Dr. Abdullah Humaid Al Jarwan said, “Abu Dhabi continues to advance an integrated, forward-looking approach to water and energy resilience, built on long-term planning, progressive regulation, innovation and high-impact international partnerships. As water challenges intensify, the priority must be to move beyond dialogue and translate resilience into practical, implementable solutions that enhance system readiness, reliability and sustainability, while safeguarding vital services and supporting sustainable economic growth.”He added, “World Water Week in Stockholm is an important platform to deepen cooperation with our international partners, exchange expertise and broaden joint action on solutions and policies that can respond to future challenges. We will carry this momentum into Abu Dhabi Water and Energy Week 2026, bringing together decision-makers, regulators, investors, technology leaders and experts to build on international dialogue through practical partnerships and initiatives that deliver tangible impact, further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s role as an active global partner in shaping a more resilient and sustainable future for water and energy.”As part of its programme in Stockholm, the department held a series of meetings, media interviews and engagements with partners to exchange expertise, explore areas of cooperation and advance dialogue on water and energy resilience and integrated planning.In collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the department also hosted a stakeholder reception at its booth, bringing together leaders, experts and partners to exchange perspectives, explore opportunities for collaboration and share Abu Dhabi’s experience in strengthening water resilience.The gathering also continued to build momentum towards the 2026 United Nations Water Conference, which Abu Dhabi will host in December.During the reception, Dr. Abdullah Humaid Al Jarwan said, “Water has no boundaries, and neither should solutions. What works should be scaled, and today we have the opportunity to expand proven solutions and turn them into reality. Partnership is the key, and innovation is what will differentiate us.”From Stockholm, Dr. Al Jarwan invited partners from around the world to come to Abu Dhabi in December to bring their toughest challenges and best solutions, and to work together to deliver tangible results, alongside the 2026 United Nations Water Conference and Abu Dhabi Water and Power Week.DoE’s participation further underscored the emirate’s growing role as a global convening platform for governments, regulators, investors, innovators and research institutions working to advance more resilient water and energy systems.The conversations and partnerships developed in Stockholm will continue at Abu Dhabi Water and Power Week later this year, creating a clear pathway from international dialogue to practical collaboration and implementation.Through sustained international engagement, the department is helping position Abu Dhabi as a global centre for regulatory excellence, policy innovation and international cooperation, while contributing to wider efforts to build more resilient and sustainable water and energy systems worldwide.

Read News
ADIHEX 2026 records strong turnout on opening day
29.08.2026

ADIHEX 2026 records strong turnout on opening day

ABU DHABI, 28th August, 2026 (WAM) -- The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) 2026 recorded strong public attendance on the opening day of its 23rd edition at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers’ Club, the exhibition is the largest edition in its history and will run until 6th September.Visitors explored products, technologies and services across hunting, equestrian sports, falconry and outdoor adventure, alongside a programme of heritage and cultural activities.ADIHEX features 15 specialised sectors, including falconry, equestrian sports, camels, hunting rifles and equipment, hunting tourism and safari, outdoor leisure vehicles and equipment, arts and crafts, and environmental and cultural heritage preservation.The Arena hosted several live shows, including the Arabian Saluki Show, which demonstrated traditional hunting practices through lure-coursing displays highlighting the breed’s speed, agility and hunting instincts.ADIHEX also introduced a performance by the African Drumming Band, combining music, dance, acrobatics and live percussion.Family and children’s activities attracted strong interest, with educational workshops, interactive experiences and heritage-focused programmes designed to introduce younger generations to Emirati traditions.National and international pavilions also drew strong engagement from visitors, specialists and business leaders, creating opportunities for networking, collaboration and new partnerships.The Knowledge Hub returned with sessions featuring experts and specialists discussing trends and developments in hunting, falconry, equestrianism, sustainability, conservation and outdoor pursuits.One session, titled “Blood-Borne Parasitic Diseases of the Dromedary Camel: A Case-Based Approach, Impact, Challenges and the Way Forward”, examined the impact of parasitic diseases on camel health, performance, productivity and reproduction.The session also highlighted the importance of advanced diagnostics, specialised treatment, research and veterinary expertise in improving disease management and supporting the long-term health of camel populations.ADIHEX will continue over the coming days with heritage, cultural and family activities, live demonstrations, interactive experiences and specialised auctions.

Read News
Women represent majority of UAE National Experts Program participants
29.08.2026

Women represent majority of UAE National Experts Program participants

ABU DHABI, 28th August, 2026 (WAM) -- The National Experts Program (NEP) has highlighted the growing contribution of Emirati women across the UAE's priority sectors, with women representing the majority of experts developed through the programme since its launch in 2019.Across four cohorts, NEP has developed 86 Emirati experts, including 44 women, representing 51 percent of participants. They contribute across science, technology, healthcare, sustainability, public policy, infrastructure, marine science, culture, family services and food systems.NEP prepares Emirati experts through sector-focused development, executive mentorship, capstone projects linked to national priorities and direct engagement with senior government leaders.Taif Al Amiri, NEP expert representing the Media sector, said, "NEP strengthened my understanding of what it means to contribute as an expert. It reinforced that expertise carries responsibility, and that every opportunity to serve the UAE is an opportunity to create lasting impact."Women from the programme have also participated in major international platforms. Professor Hoda Alkhzaimi has contributed to the United Nations, International Telecommunication Union and World Economic Forum, including its global platforms in Davos.Waheeda Alhadhrami recently completed the Oxford Cultural Leaders Programme and previously represented the UAE in culture working groups across UNESCO and G20 platforms.In March 2025, NEP women participated in the programme's first panel at the World Government Summit, bringing together experts from technology, sustainability, policy and future sectors.At COP28, 12 NEP Fellows and Alumni took part in speaking roles, including women experts contributing to discussions on sustainability, innovation and national priorities.During the Year of Sustainability 2023, NEP women also joined the Sustainability Experts Network, while at The Behavioural Exchange (BX2025), experts from the NEP 4.0 cohort presented eight behavioural policy solutions, including four projects led by women.Maitha Alkaabi, NEP expert representing the Foreign Affairs sector, said, "Representing the UAE internationally carries a deep sense of responsibility. NEP strengthened my confidence to contribute to global conversations while remaining grounded in the values and ambitions of our country."NEP women also hold roles across institutions shaping the UAE's future. Asma Al Azri contributes to family and community policy, while Aisha Harib chairs the Innovation Council at Dubai Police.Nouf Al Hamly contributes to science and advanced technology diplomacy, while Meera Al Mheiri became the first Emirati woman to serve as a Nuclear Safety Inspector at the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation and the first Emirati expert contracted by the International Atomic Energy Agency in safety culture.Maryam Al Falasi developed a system redirecting surplus food to people in need, contributing to more than five million meals since 2023.NEP continues to expand into future-growth sectors. Its specialised Artificial Intelligence track brings together 32 Emirati experts, including 12 women.Dr. Asma Fikri, NEP expert representing the Advanced Sciences and the Future Economy sector, said, "Every generation builds on the one before it. The opportunity before us is to continue strengthening expertise, supporting one another, and preparing the next generation of Emirati women to contribute to the UAE's future."

Read News