UAE – Page 4 – Site Title

Mohammed bin Rashid launches AED100 million Great Arab Minds fund to identify, support 1000 leading ChangeMakers

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, today launched the Great Arab Minds initiative. The initiative will be driven by and headquartered at the Museum of the Future, the Emirates’ new global scientific landmark.

Great Arab Minds is the Arab world’s largest movement designed to search for exceptional talents among Arab scientists, thinkers, and innovators across key fields

Great Arab Minds is the Arab world’s largest movement designed to search for exceptional talents among Arab scientists, thinkers, and innovators across key fields, aiming to highlight and celebrate leading thinkers in the region and inspire young people with their example. It will work with regional and global partners to develop and maximise the positive impact of their ideas and work. The five-year initiative will focus on fields including physics and mathematics, software and data science, economics and higher education and research.

The initiative is backed by an AED100 million fund and will be administered from the Museum of the Future, with a committee of four Emirati Ministers who will develop a system to identify and highlight the extraordinary thinkers and talents that the initiative will support. The fund will support local and global partnerships in fostering research, development and innovation.

The initiative is backed by an AED100 million fund and will be administered from the Museum of the Future

In a series of tweets, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said, “Today we launch a new project to search for 1,000 Great Arab Minds in the fields of physics and mathematics, software and data science, economics and higher education and research. Great minds built Arab civilization – today I believe we have the talent to build a better world.”

He added, “We will accelerate the Emirates’ role as an incubator for fostering Arab and global talent. We built the Museum of the Future as a global hub for scientists, thinkers and innovators – it is the ideal headquarters for a fund to develop the potential of our region’s finest minds.”

We will accelerate the Emirates’ role as an incubator for fostering Arab and global talent. We built the Museum of the Future as a global hub for scientists, thinkers and innovators

The Committee leading Great Arab Minds is chaired by Mohammad Al Gergawi, President of the Museum of the Future, and the membership of Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Youth Affairs; Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of State for Advanced Technology and Chairwoman of the UAE Space Agency; and Omar Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications.

Great Arab Minds aims to search for leading Arab minds and creative talents, shed light on their achievements, and invest in their capabilities and ideas. It aims to celebrate their work and inspire young people with their example.
The fields of focus of Great Arab minds are selected based on the potential for future development in key areas of innovation to drive development and economic growth.
More details about the Great Arab Minds project will be announced over coming weeks, including information about each of the paths as well as processes for nomination and registration.

ameerul.hasan@thechangemakers.news

Sri Lanka highlights its heritage and export potential during Expo 2020 National Day celebrations

DUBAI, 3 January 2022 – The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka celebrated its National Day at Expo 2020 on Monday with a visit from Foreign Minister Hon Professor Gamini Lakshman Peiris, who highlighted the country’s export potential and opened a series of cultural festivities, including a beautifully-choreographed show that presented the history of Sri Lanka from its beginnings to the present day.

The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka celebrated its National Day at Expo 2020

The Minister was welcomed by His Excellency Ahmed Al Sayegh, Minister of State; His Excellency Khalid Nasser Sulaiman Al Ameri, Director of West Asia Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and Najeeb Al Ali, Executive Director, Office of the Commissioner General, Expo 2020 Dubai.

DUBAI, 03 January 2022. His Excellency Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh (R2), Minister of State, His Excellency the Honourable Professor Gamini Lakshman Peiris (C), Foreign Minister of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, Najeeb Mohammed Al-Ali (R), Executive Director Commissioner General Office Expo 2020 Dubai during the Sri Lanka National Day Ceremony at Al Wasl, Expo 2020 Dubai. (Photo by Christopher Edralin/Expo 2020 Dubai)

HE Al Sayegh said: “By adopting the theme ‘Opportunities beyond waters’, one that is quite fitting for a country that has the highest waterfall density in the world, the Sri Lanka Pavilion highlights how this friendly nation innovatively transforms challenges into opportunities, along with its tremendous capacity for entrepreneurship.

“We are proud to say that our two countries have enjoyed strong and friendly relations for decades, with the UAE being the largest trading partner of Sri Lanka in the Middle East, and collaboration extending across a diverse number of sectors, such as trade and investment, environmental cooperation, as well as mutual support on the international stage.

Hon Professor Peiris said: “Expo 2020 is a wonderful opportunity for Sri Lanka to showcase our unique offerings.

“Through Sri Lanka’s strong participation at Expo 2020 and beyond, we aim to further fortify our relations and foster new opportunities for collaboration that will lead to the mutual benefit of our nations.”

In an interview, Hon Professor Peiris said: “Expo 2020 is a wonderful opportunity for Sri Lanka to showcase our unique offerings. We have many inherent strengths: the warmth and hospitality of our people in the tourism sector; the scenic beauty of the island and its cultural heritage; our value-added exports of Ceylon tea; world-famous sapphires; and spices, of which we produce 85 per cent of the world’s cinnamon.

DUBAI, 03 January 2022. Music in the Garden, cultural performance during Sri Lanka National Day at Al Wasl, Expo 2020 Dubai. (Photo by Isaac Lawrence/Expo 2020 Dubai)

“We have 300,000 Sri Lankans living and working in the UAE. They contribute to the economy here and send valuable foreign exchange back to their home country. Not only does the UAE and Sri Lanka have excellent bilateral relations but our people-to-people relations are robust as well, which adds a strong dimension to our relationship.”

Later, at a media briefing, Hon Prasanna Ranatunga, Sri Lanka’s Minister of Tourism, described Expo 2020 as an opportunity for Sri Lanka to market itself to the world, and thanked the UAE for “giving the opportunity to the world to come together under one umbrella.”

The Sri Lanka Pavilion, which on Monday unveiled a flawless, vivid yellow sapphire to showcase the country’s natural resources

‘The Pearl of the Indian Ocean’, staged during the ceremony, was a colourful choreographed presentation of the heritage of Sri Lanka, portraying phases of agriculture, medicine and healing, Mother Nature and astrology, and blending traditional dancing with entertainment and drumming.

The Sri Lanka Pavilion, which on Monday unveiled a flawless, vivid yellow sapphire to showcase the country’s natural resources, highlights the country’s best tourist attractions, its investment and business opportunities, as well as its timeless ruins, rail network, world-class culinary scene, preserved ecosystems and stunning spiritual monuments.

National and Honour Days at Expo 2020 Dubai are moments to celebrate each of our 200-plus International Participants, shining a light on their culture and achievements, and showcasing their pavilions and programming.

Running until 31 March 2022, Expo 2020 has invited visitors from across the planet to join the making of a new world in a six-month celebration of human creativity, innovation, progress and culture.

ameerul.hasan@thechangemakers.news

Emirates delivers premium lounge experience with re-opening of over 20 dedicated airport lounges across its network

Dubai, UAE – 21 December 2021: In line with the restoration of Emirates’ network and upsurge in travel demand, passengers traveling in premium cabins as well as Skywards members in select membership tiers will have access to more than 120 lounges by February.

First Class, Business Class and Platinum and Gold Skywards members to have access to more than 120 Emirates Lounges and partner facilities at destinations where operations have resumed

Emirates, which has resumed operations to over 90 percent of its pre-pandemic network, currently flies to more than 120 destinations worldwide via its hub in Dubai. Customers travelling in First Class and Business Class will be able to complement their travel experience with Emirates’ signature premium lounge service at over 20 airports in its network, comprising popular destinations across Europe, Africa, US and Asia.

By late December, Emirates lounges at a host of airports in the UK will have re-opened their doors for customers to immerse themselves in the pre-flight premium experience, including London Heathrow, Birmingham, and Manchester while the lounges in London Gatwick and Glasgow will welcome customers in January 2022.

In Europe, Emirates lounges in Germany, namely Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Dusseldorf, in addition to lounges in Milan and Rome, have already re-opened for passengers to enjoy their premium facilities, while the lounge in Paris is scheduled to open later this month.

Premium customers and frequent flyers to benefit from lounge offering in airports worldwide

In the US, travellers on Emirates flights can access the premium lounge experience at Los Angeles International Airport, Boston Logan International Airport as well as New York JFK, with Emirates’ San Francisco lounge to re-start its services in February 2022.

An additional Emirates Lounge, to serve passengers travelling through Cairo, has resumed operations earlier, while premium class customers and eligible Skywards members will soon be able to relax and dine in its lounges in Colombo and Bangkok prior to flights.

At Emirates’ exclusive Terminal 3 at Dubai International airport, Emirates’ premium class customers and eligible Skywards members are also able to enjoy the airline’s premium lounge service at five of its dedicated lounges, which are now fully operational.

In Concourse B of Terminal 3, both Emirates’ First Class Lounge, offering a private Lounge experience for customers flying in First Class, as well as its Business Class Lounge, have re-opened with full service offerings. Customers flying in Business Class in addition to Skywards Platinum and Gold members can look forward to enjoying gourmet dining with premium beverages prior for up to four hours prior to departing on flights or utilising the complimentary wi-fi to catch up on emails, browse the internet or stay connected with family and friends. The new menus also include vegan, vegetarian and healthier options to cater to passengers’ preferences.

Emirates’ First Class and Business Class Lounges in Concourse A have also resumed operations in the East Wing and, in the West Wing, the First Class and Business Class Lounges are set to re-open for customers in the coming weeks. Furthermore, plans are underway to ensure two Lounges in Concourse C are fully operational by early next year to provide an even more rewarding experience.

Lounge operations resumed with health and safety measures in place

Emirates’ First Class passengers and Platinum Skywards members can enjoy complimentary access for the first passenger and up to three additional guests, including one adult and two children under 17 in the airline’s lounge facilities. Before flights, passengers in Concourse A can savour the unique flavours of gourmet dishes prepared by chefs in show kitchens, enjoy a drink at the Cigar Bar or let expert sommeliers guide them on the best vintages to indulge in, at Le Clos Wine Cellar. The lounges also feature spa services and shower facilities, a dedicated duty-free shopping area in First Class and a Concierge Duty-Free service in Business Class. Customers enjoying the lounge facilities will also have direct access to boarding gates at the airline’s dedicated A380 hub.

In addition to Emirates’ exclusive lounge experience in Dubai and select airports within its network, First Class and Business Class customers in addition to Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members can also enjoy access to 96 partner lounges across its network and benefit from their services before flights, with an additional 15 partner lounges to be phased in. Customers can check availability of lounges before their flights and eligibility requirements for complimentary or discounted access.

All Emirates lounges have resumed operations after stringent health and safety measures have been put in place to ensure the wellbeing of passengers. Furthermore, Emirates’ airport services teams around its network have worked closely with partner lounge service providers to ensure specific protocols are met to provide services to its premium and frequent flyer customers. Depending on specific local guidelines in each market, either buffet service or a la carte dining are offered to customers and only contactless menus are available via one’s smartphone. Special seating arrangements have been made to ensure social distancing guidelines are met.

Lounge access is one of the many perks that premium class customers enjoy when flying with Emirates. Passengers travelling in First Class and Business Class can also enjoy chauffeur drive service to the airport or on arrival at select locations within its network. Onboard, passengers travelling in premium class can enjoy exclusive services and amenities on both its flagship A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft.

ameerul.hasan@thechangemakers.news

Gori Women’s choir adds musical magic to Georgia’s National Day celebrations

DUBAI, 29 December 2021 – The beautiful voices of the Gori Women’s Choir reverberated around Al Wasl Plaza on Wednesday, as the ensemble gave an exceptional performance as part of Georgia’s National Day celebrations at Expo 2020 Dubai.

The beautiful voices of the Gori Women’s Choir reverberated around Al Wasl Plaza

Almost orchestral, the repertoire spanned ancient and contemporary pieces, showcasing the choir’s distinctive, resonant voices, as well as Georgia’s rich musical heritage.

DUBAI, 29 December 2021. Cultural Performers during the Georgia National Day Ceremony at Al Wasl, Expo 2020 Dubai. (Photo by Christophe Viseux/Expo 2020 Dubai)

The Gori Women’s Choir was founded in 1970 at Gori’s School of Music in Georgia, and originally included schoolgirls and teachers from the city. The choir creates its own rhythms through tonal sounds and hand clapping that shapes the enchanting vocal style of its members, transforming it into a precision instrument made up of human voices.

ameerul.hasan@thechangemakers.news

Morocco celebrates its National Day at Expo 2020 Dubai with a visit by the Prime Minister

DUBAI, 26 December 2021 – Morocco celebrated its National Day at Expo 2020 on Sunday with a visit by His Excellency Aziz Akhannouch, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Morocco, an impressive aerobatic display by the Green March Moroccan Patrol, and a performance by one of the nation’s most eminent pianists, Marouan Benabdallah.

Morocco celebrated its National Day at Expo 2020 on Sunday with a visit by His Excellency Aziz Akhannouch, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Morocco

His Excellency Aziz Akhannouch, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Morocco, accompanied by Nadia Fettah Alaoui, Minister of Economy and Finance in Morocco, was welcomed by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, President of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, and Chairman of the Expo 2020 Dubai Higher Committee, and His Excellency Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology.

DUBAI, 26 December 2021. His Excellency Aziz Akhannouch (L), Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Morocco, His Highness Sheikh Ahmad Bin Saeed AlMaktoum (C), President, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, and Chairman of the Expo 2020 Dubai Higher Committee and Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy (R), UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director General of Expo 2020 Dubai during Morocco National Day Ceremony at Al Wasl, Expo 2020 Dubai. (Photo by Christopher Edralin/Expo 2020 Dubai)

His Excellency Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch said: “I am sincerely grateful for the warm reception accorded to the Moroccan delegation, and I congratulate the United Arab Emirates for their wonderful organisation of this World Expo. Our presence at Expo 2020 Dubai allows us to introduce our ancient heritage, plus our tourism, cultural and scientific achievements to the world.

“Morocco’s participation in Expo 2020 Dubai showcases the Kingdom’s commitment to actively contribute to an enriching dialogue at both regional and international levels for a safer and more stable future for all, while our pavilion is a platform to announce our new identity, ‘Morocco Now’, highlighting Morocco’s investment and industrial opportunities, particularly for foreign investment.”

His Excellency Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber said: “We share with the Kingdom of Morocco a common history, strong relations, as well as a common framework and active presence in the Arab and Islamic Worlds

His Excellency Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber said: “We share with the Kingdom of Morocco a common history, strong relations, as well as a common framework and active presence in the Arab and Islamic Worlds; which all serve as a strong base to expand partnerships and constructive collaboration for the benefit of our nations.”

“The UAE continues to work on strengthening its relations with the Kingdom of Morocco, and intensifying cooperation in various sectors of mutual interest, such as energy, agriculture, industry, mining, tourism, and others,” he added

DUBAI, 26 December 2021. His Excellency Aziz Akhannouch (L), Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Morocco and His Highness Sheikh Ahmad Bin Saeed AlMaktoum (R), President, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, and Chairman of the Expo 2020 Dubai Higher Committee during Morocco National Day Ceremony at Al Wasl, Expo 2020 Dubai. (Photo by Christopher Edralin/Expo 2020 Dubai)

The Moroccan-Hungarian pianist Marouan Benabdallah’s repertoire ranges from classical music to tunes from the Middle East and North Africa. He often performs remarkable finds from composers from Syria, Algeria, Lebanon, United Arab Emirates, Egypt and his native Morocco.

Located in the Opportunity District, the Morocco Pavilion gives visitors an immersive experience through a continuous ramp that reflects Moroccan streets, and its Wast Eddar, ‘heart of the home’, patio. The pavilion’s theme, ‘Legacies for the future – from inspiring origins… to sustainable progress’, invites visitors to (re)discover the Kingdom, along with its history, identity, tangible achievements and vision for the future. It includes a climb to the top of the vertical earthen village for spectacular views of Expo 2020.

The pavilion’s theme, ‘Legacies for the future – from inspiring origins… to sustainable progress’, invites visitors to (re)discover the Kingdom

National and Honour Days at Expo 2020 Dubai are moments to celebrate each of our 200-plus International Participants, shining a light on their culture and achievements and showcasing their pavilions and programming.

Running until 31 March 2022, Expo 2020 has invited visitors from across the planet to join the making of a new world in a six-month celebration of human creativity, innovation, progress and culture.

ameerul.hasan@thechangemakers.news

A.R. Rahman’s all-women Firdaus Orchestra perform at Expo 2020

DUBAI, 15 November 2021 – Firdaus Orchestra, the pioneering all-women musical ensemble led by Academy and Grammy Award-winning composer A.R. Rahman, has added two more performances to its schedule at Expo 2020 Dubai.

the pioneering all-women musical ensemble led by Academy and Grammy Award-winning composer A.R. Rahman

To honour International Day of Tolerance on Tuesday, 16 November and World Children’s Day on Saturday, 20 November, Firdaus Orchestra, led by conductor Yasmina Sabbah, will bring its magical repertoire to Expo 2020’s Jubilee Park.

DUBAI, 23 October 2021. Firdaus Orchestra with Indian film composer AR Rahman, Expo 2020 Dubai. (Photo by Mahmoud Khaled/Expo 2020 Dubai)

Starting at 1900, songs from the world of cinema will be given an original twist, with regional instruments and arrangements included in the International Day of Tolerance performance, which will also feature children of the GEMS Legacy School Choir.

The performance will feature pieces from some of the most loved films and series from around the globe, highlighting inclusivity through music from a diverse set of composers. These will include the Bombay Theme, Ana Albi Dalili; Jai Ho from Slumdog Millionaire; and music from Cinema Paradiso.

A.R. Rahman said: “Tolerance and inclusivity are the binding threads of society

A.R. Rahman said: “Tolerance and inclusivity are the binding threads of society. When we celebrate our diversity, we are united in our power.”

From 1500 on World Children’s Day, Firdaus Orchestra is teaming up with singer Khatija Rahman, A.R. Rahman’s daughter, and 16-year-old pianist Lydian Nadhaswaram, and will strike a nostalgic note with performances including Disney classics such as Beauty and the Beast, and Little Mermaid.

Expo ticket-holders who want to attend the orchestra’s performances are advised to arrive early. Due to limited capacity at the venue, access will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Expo tickets can be purchased online at www.expo2020.com.

ameerul.hasan@thechangemakers.news

Mubadala and Mumtalakat Sign MoU to Explore Worldwide Co-investment Opportunities

Abu Dhabi, UAE/Manama, Bahrain:
Mubadala Investment Company (Mubadala), an Abu Dhabi-based sovereign investor with US $243 billion assets under management, and Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company (Mumtalakat), the sovereign wealth fund of the Kingdom of Bahrain, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate strategic cooperation between the two institutions.

MoU will see the two institutions exchange knowledge and best practices to enhance their investment and operational capabilities

As part of the MoU, Mubadala and Mumtalakat will explore worldwide co-investment opportunities. They will also exchange knowledge and best practices to enhance their respective investment and operational capabilities.

Waleed Al Mokarrab Al Muhairi, Mubadala’s Deputy Group CEO, said: “We are excited to collaborate with a likeminded institution, such as Mumtalakat, who share our commitment to building long-term, sustainable relationships. The agreement signed today will not only create a platform to enable us to explore mutually beneficial co-investment opportunities around the globe, but it will also facilitate knowledge sharing to strengthen our respective organisations’ investment platforms.”

HE Khalid Al Rumaihi, Mumtalakat’s CEO, said: “Mumtalakat is committed to helping drive the economic transformation of the Kingdom of Bahrain by continuing to grow and add value to our portfolio. Our partnership with Mubadala not only strengthens our collective operational capacity but also bolsters historical ties, which supports our work in transforming the Bahraini economy.”

ameerul.hasan@thechangemakers.news

Palestine celebrates its National Day at Expo 2020 Dubai with a special folk band and singers

DUBAI, 24 December 2021 – Palestine celebrated its National Day at Expo 2020 on Friday in the presence of His Excellency Khaled Osaily, Minister of National Economy for the State of Palestine, a flag-raising ceremony at Al Wasl Plaza, and a concert featuring performances from Asayel band of folk art, and singers Tony Qattan and Manal Mousa.

Palestine celebrated its National Day at Expo 2020 on Friday in the presence of His Excellency Khaled Osaily, Minister of National Economy for the State of Palestine

HE Khaled Osaily, Minister of National Economy for the State of Palestine was welcomed by His Excellency Khalifa Shahin, Minister of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Najeeb Al Ali, Executive Director, Office of the Commissioner General, Expo 2020 Dubai.

DUBAI, 24 December 2021. His Excellency Khaled Osaily, Minister of National Economy speaks during Palestine National Day Ceremony at Al Wasl, Expo 2020 Dubai. (Photo by Anthony Fleyhan/Expo 2020 Dubai)

HE Khaled Osaily, said: “On behalf of His Excellency President Mahmoud Abbas, President of the State of Palestine and on behalf of the Palestinian people, I thank His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for the generous sponsorship and fraternal embrace of the Pavilion of the State of Palestine at Expo 2020 Dubai.

“We express our utmost appreciation and thanks for the efforts made by the United Arab Emirates, in particular the Emirate of Dubai and those in charge of managing Expo in building this World Expo.”

“Palestine’s Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, with its unique design and rich content, presents a truly unique story of its heritage throughout history and presents a strong reflection of its skilled and creative people.”

Najeeb Al Ali said: “Palestine’s Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, with its unique design and rich content, presents a truly unique story of its heritage throughout history and presents a strong reflection of its skilled and creative people.”

“The pavilion also showcases the business opportunities and latest developments across various sectors, as well as the products that Palestine offers, such as textiles, olive tree wood, cement, food products and more. The exhibits also shed light on the tremendous variety and progress achieved in education, arts, culture, innovation, and technology”.

DUBAI, 24 December 2021. His Excellency Khaled Osaily (R2), Minister of National Economy and His Excellency Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar (R), Minister of State of UAE during Palestine National Day Ceremony at Al Wasl, Expo 2020 Dubai. (Photo by Suneesh Sudhakaran/Expo 2020 Dubai)

Following the ceremony, guests were treated to a performance by Asayel band of folk art. Founded in 1994 in Ramallah, the band has become one of the most recognisable in the region, comprising more than 100 dancers and singers.

Located in the Opportunity District, the Palestine Pavilion represents the country’s history and highlights its growing tourism industry and busy manufacturing sector, as well as opportunities for investment. Following Palestine’s participation in previous World Expos, its participation in Expo 2020 Dubai continues efforts to familiarise the world with Palestinian heritage and identity.

Palestine Pavilion represents the country’s history and highlights its growing tourism industry and busy manufacturing sector, as well as opportunities for investment.

Running until 31 March 2022, Expo 2020 has invited visitors from across the planet to join the making of a new world in a six-month celebration of human creativity, innovation, progress and culture.

ameerul.hasan@thechangemakers.news

Expo 2020 Dubai Steering Committee affirms commitment to safety

DUBAI, 22 December 2021 – The Steering Committee of the College of Commissioner Generals of Expo 2020 Dubai has held its third event-time meeting, doubling down on its united commitment to continue hosting an exceptional and safe World Expo in a manner that is engaging, exciting and full of learning.

On-site COVID-19 management and mitigation; NYE, Christmas events discussed

DUBAI, 23 December 2021. Santa’s helper at Al Wasl, Expo 2020 Dubai. (Photo by David Koriako/Expo 2020 Dubai)

The meeting of the committee, which represents Expo’s 192 participating nations, was attended by Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director General, Expo 2020 Dubai, and His Excellency Dimitri Kerkentzes, Secretary General of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), the governing body of World Expos. It was chaired by Manuel Salchli, Chair of the Expo 2020 Dubai Steering Committee and Commissioner General for Switzerland at Expo 2020.

HE Reem Al Hashimy; BIE Secretary General Dimitri Kerkentzes in attendance

His Excellency Dimitri Kerkentzes said: “The UAE, Expo 2020 Dubai and all International Participants remain united in our commitment to continue delivering an exceptional experience for each and every visitor, from all corners of the world. Buoyed by Expo’s latest visitation numbers, I am delighted and reassured by the way in which this World Expo has been hosted and managed so far, with the site’s ongoing health and safety measures set to ensure the coming weeks and months hold as much promise as those since 1 October.”

Chaired by Manuel Salchli, the committee, which comprises Commissioner Generals from 34 countries, praised the UAE and event organisers for a successful opening, particularly in light of the challenges surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic – noting the millions of visitors that have safely passed through Expo’s doors as 2022 approacheshttps://mam.expo2020dubai.com/record/28208

DUBAI, 02 December 2021. Fireworks Display during UAE National Day and the Golden Jubilee Celebrations, Expo 2020 Dubai. (Photo by Suneesh Sudhakaran/Expo 2020 Dubai)

Committee members recognised the success of the cultural events of countries celebrating their National Days at Expo, as well as Expo’s spectacular UAE Golden Jubilee celebrations on 2 December, marking 50 years since the founding of the nation.

Manuel Salchli said: “During the near-three months of Expo, the outstanding commitment of International Participants and Organisers to offer a unique visitor experience has been on full display for the world to see. As we approach the halfway mark, heralding the new year with renewed optimism, I am confident such embedded international collaboration will continue to support International Participants’ national objectives, which includes addressing the global challenges shared by all.”

Countries commend Expo 2020 and UAE for stringent ongoing health measures

Clayton Kimpton, Commissioner General of New Zealand for Expo 2020 Dubai, said: “As kaitiaki (guardians), New Zealanders believe we have a responsibility to leave the world in a better place for future generations. We commend our International Participants and Expo friends and colleagues for their shared commitment, alongside New Zealand, to safely host all visitors from every corner of the world, inspiring action to preserve the planet for millennia to come.”

Albina Assis Africano, Commissioner General of Angola for Expo 2020 Dubai, said: “We commend the Expo 2020 Steering Committee for another successful meeting, raising crucial issues that affect International Participants and Organisers alike. Angola’s objectives at Expo 2020 remain unchanged, to promote the country, its people, culture, and attract investments in different areas, and we are optimistic that ongoing measures will ensure such aims are fulfilled before 31 March 2022. Dubai is the perfect platform to amplify who we are and where we want to go.”

The largest major global event to be held since the start of the pandemic, Expo 2020’s latest COVID-19 measures include the expansion of the number of on-site PCR testing facilities to four, and free testing for all Country Pavilion staff. While all frontline workers and entertainers continue to be tested on a regular basis, Dubai Expo 2020 is committed to applying the learnings of the past 18 months and move forward with partners and stakeholders to ensure a balanced and comprehensive approach forward.

With more than 90 per cent of the UAE population fully vaccinated, Expo 2020 Dubai has required mandatory vaccination and boosters of all Expo and International Participant staff, volunteers, contractors and service providers.

ameerul.hasan@thechangemakers.news

Be one of five lucky winners this Dubai Shopping Festival!

Dubai, UAE: 13 December 2021 – Emirates Skywards, the award-winning loyalty programme of Emirates and flydubai, is offering five lucky members a chance to become Skywards millionaires this Dubai Shopping Festival. For a chance to take home one million Skywards Miles every week – shop at more than 1,300 retail stores, dine at more than 200 restaurants, enjoy unique attractions at The Dubai Mall, or spend with more than 1,300 Skywards Everyday partners– an app that let’s members earn Miles on everyday spend.

Emirates Skywards is offering five lucky members a chance to become Skywards millionaires this Dubai Shopping Festival.

Become a Skywards millionaire this Dubai Shopping Festival

To enter the weekly draw, customers will need to spend AED 100 or more at The Dubai Mall or Skywards Everyday partners.* Members can also double their chances of winning by simply spending with Skywards Everyday partners at The Dubai Mall.

Every AED 100 spent will qualify as one entry into the draw. The offer is valid on all spends made between 15 December 2021 and 30 January 2022. One winner will be announced every week, starting 3rd January 2022.

Emirates Skywards Credit Card holders can also earn additional Skywards Miles with every purchase made, and 1 Tier Mile for every 4 Skywards Miles earned. The offer is applicable on all participating bank partners across the UAE, Kuwait, KSA and US.* Members can also earn even more bonus Skywards Miles on tax refunds via the utu Tax Free app.*

Travellers will have even more reason to visit the vibrant city this year with the mega-event, Expo 2020 Dubai, taking place until March 2022.

Visit Dubai
Dubai remains one of the most popular holiday hotspots and a dream shopping destination. From world-class shopping malls, fine dining experiences, and eclectic landmarks – the city has something for everyone. Travellers will have even more reason to visit the vibrant city this year with the mega-event, Expo 2020 Dubai, taking place until March 2022.

Shop, win and be entertained as Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) returns from 15 December 2021 to 30 January 2022 with incredible deals, innovative events, world-class entertainment and life-changing prizes. As the longest running event of its kind, DSF has grown over the last 27 years into a signature celebration for citizens, residents and visitors alike. Featuring the ultimate retail therapy from a wide range of home-grown and global brands as well as live concerts, nightly shows, outdoors markets, pop-up dining and more, this year’s DSF experience is not to be missed.

Offering more than 28 million members exclusive rewards
Emirates Skywards continues to offer its 28 million members worldwide unmatched rewards and privileges. Members can earn and spend Miles on an extensive range of rewards, including flight tickets on partner airlines, flight upgrades, hospitality at sporting and cultural events, and money-can’t-buy experiences.

The loyalty programme recently launched an online subscription platform, “Skywards+”, to offer members easy access to customized rewards. Registered members also have a chance to earn a mile a minute, for up to 5,000 Miles, during a stopover or holiday stay in Dubai – applicable on all Emirates and flydubai tickets purchased from 1 August 2021 until 31 March, 2022.*
For more information, visit emirates.com/skywards.
*Terms and conditions apply

Shop, win and be entertained as Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) returns from 15 December 2021 to 30 January 2022

* Applicable credit cards include: ADIB Emirates Skywards Cards, Emirates – Citibank Credit Cards, Emirates Islamic Skywards Credit Cards, Emirates NBD Skywards Credit Cards, Emirates Skywards DIB Credit Cards and RAKBANK Emirates Skywards World Elite Mastercard, ABK Emirates Visa Cards, and Emirates Skywards MasterCard®.

ameerul.hasan@thechangemakers.news