National ICV Programme supports sustainable economic growth: Officials


ABU DHABI: Several officials affirmed that the National ICV Programme has continued, since its launch within ‘Projects of the 50’ under the umbrella of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), to achieve qualitative milestones that have contributed to the UAE’s industrial development, attracting local and foreign investments, and supporting the sustainable growth of the national economy.

This came in statements on the occasion of the adoption of a new logo for the National In-Country Value (ICV) Programme through collaboration between MoIAT and strategic partners in both the public and private sectors.

Dr. Saleh Al Hashmi, Head of Commercial Affairs and In-Country Value Promotion at ADNOC, said, ‘ADNOC is proud to be a key enabler of the National In-Country Value Programme. Since 2018, we have driven AED187 billion back into the UAE economy and created 11,500 jobs for UAE Nationals in the private sector. We are also supporting the Make it in the Emirates initiative and creating a wealth of
local manufacturing opportunities for the private sector, as we work towards our target to manufacture AED70 billion of industrial products in the UAE by 2027. We will continue collaborating with MoIAT to empower local industries and enhance the UAE’s industrial base.’

Ghannam Al Mazrouei, Secretary-General of the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (Nafis), said, ‘The council is committed to enhancing cooperation with its strategic partners to support and enable the National ICV Programme’s objectives, especially increasing the amount of Emirati talent working in private sector companies. In March 2023, the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology and Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation to create 500 training and job opportunities for local talent as part of the Industrialist Programme. Under the agreement, the three entities will align the skills of Emiratis with factories’ requirements, enabling them to t
hrive in the industrial and advanced technology sector.’

Al Mazrouei also highlighted the council’s participation in the Make it in the Emirates Forum to support initiatives that empower local talent, developing capabilities and skills to drive the vital sector’s growth and expansion.

Shaista Asif, Group Chief Executive Officer of PureHealth, said, ‘As a partner to the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology and a key player in the ICV programme, we take pride in the significant milestones achieved by this national initiative. We firmly believe that the ICV programme is a key catalyst driving growth and value across sectors especially healthcare. The only way we can fulfil our shared ambition of positioning the UAE as a global healthcare capital is by bolstering local industries, increasing internal resilience, and future-proofing our healthcare systems.

“Recognising that we are already a part of the 4th Industrial Revolution, we are future-proofing our healthcare system for a world of Technological S
ingularity. This involves enhancing the self-sufficiency of domestic products and establishing infrastructure through the adoption of advanced technologies, enabling us to lead the way to global competitiveness. PureHealth is dedicated to contributing to the enhancement of the sector, and we extend our commitment to actively support local healthcare manufacturing capabilities.’

Source: Emirates News Agency

Bahrain Grand Prix wins F1 award for Innovation


MANAMA: The 2023 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix has won ‘The Event Innovation Award’ at the F1 Promoter Awards in London, according to the Bahrain News Agency (BNA).

The ceremony recognises key achievements of F1 venues across the world, with Bahrain picking up the award for several industry-leading innovations over the last 12 months. These included key sustainability initiatives as well as technology developments in areas including race control and traffic management.

The awards themselves are arranged and judged by Formula 1, the commercial rights holder of the sport. Categories are open to all Formula 1 venues from around the world, with a shortlist of three circuits announced before the awards ceremony.

The Event Innovation Award was presented to the F1 venue that demonstrated the most significant innovation in their event delivery, commercial product offering, or infrastructure.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Dubai records over AED9.8 billion in weeklong real estate transactions


DUBAI: A total of 3,543 real estate transactions worth over AED9.8 billion were conducted during the week ending 9th February 2024, according to data released by the Dubai Land Department (DLD).

The DLD report showed that 197 plots were sold for AED1.61 billion, while 2,572 apartments and villas were purchased for AED5.68 billion.

The top three transactions were a land in Warsan Fourth sold for AED120.32 million, a land sold for AED78.86 million in Al Barshaa South Third, and another in Wadi Al Safa 3 sold for AED54 million.

Madinat Hind 4 recorded the most sales transactions for this week with 77 transactions worth AED199.72 million, followed by Al Hebiah Fifth with 30 transactions worth AED136.08 million, and Jabal Ali First with 11 transactions worth AED51.65 million.

The top three apartment and villa transfers included one in Island 2 for AED140.45 million, another in Jumeirah First worth AED119 million, and an apartment in Al Safouh Second worth AED80 million.

The total value of mortgaged properties
for the week reached AED1.8 billion. Meanwhile, 135 properties were granted between first-degree relatives worth AED725 million.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Ajman Tourism to host the 2026 Asian Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships


AJMAN: The Ajman Department of Tourism Development (ADTD) announced that it will be hosting the 57th International Fitness and Bodybuilding Championships (IFBB ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS) in 2026, a move aimed at fortifying the emirate’s standing as a premier sports tourism destination. The announcement was made today at a press conference held at the Ajman Police Sports and Shooting Club.

Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the ADTD, presided over the press conference alongside key figures such as Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad bin Saif Al Sharqi, President of the UAE Federation for Body Building and Physical Strength, Dr. Rafael Santoga, President of the International Federation of Bodybuilding (IFBB), and Dr. Eng. Adel Fahim, President of the Arab and African Bodybuilding Federation, among others.

The event, organised and sponsored by the ADTD, will serve as a unique opportunity for Ajman to showcase its diversity and appeal as a sports tourism hub. The tournament is scheduled to take place in May 202
6, further solidifying Ajman’s reputation as a host of prominent international sporting events.

In addition to the main competition, the event will feature side activities that offer visitors a chance to experience the local culture and heritage of Ajman. These include folk arts, traditional cuisine, and artistic performances, enriching the overall visitor experience.

Ajman also plans to enhance its tourism services in preparation for the 2026 Asian Bodybuilding and Fitness Championship. A range of offerings, from accommodation facilities to shopping and entertainment experiences, will be tailored to meet the expectations of guests. Through these initiatives, Ajman aims to reinforce its status as a comprehensive tourist destination, seamlessly blending sports, heritage, and exceptional experiences.

Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Humaid Al Nuaimi said, ‘Hosting the Asian Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships in 2026 is a groundbreaking strategic move that underscores Ajman’s commitment to become a premier sports tou
rism destination, aligning with our future vision for comprehensive development.’

Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad AL Sharqi affirmed, ‘We are dedicated to delivering the 2026 Asian Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships with a high level of organisation and professionalism, prioritizing the satisfaction of all participants and ensuring a unique and excellent experience.’

Dr. Rafael Santoga stated, ‘The Asian Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships present a wonderful opportunity for sports interaction and cultural exchange. We eagerly anticipate a successful partnership with Ajman to achieve success in this endeavor.’

Director General of ADTD Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi emphasised, ‘Hosting the 2026 Asian Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships underscores Ajman’s commitment to attracting international sporting events, enhancing its position as a tourist and sports destination, and drawing global attention. We are proud to sponsor and organise this event, which is set to boost the local economy and increase hotel occ
upancy, bringing together players from 26 countries.’

Dr. Eng. Adel Fahim added, ‘Ajman’s hosting of this major event reflects dedication to promoting the sport of bodybuilding in the region. We will strive to make this event unique and a positive addition to sports tourism in the region.’

Source: Emirates News Agency

Aldar reports AED4.4 billion in 2023 net profit, up 40% YoY


ABU DHABI: Aldar announced today that record development sales and expanded investment portfolio drive the company’s 2023 net profit up 40% to AED4.4 billion, compared to 2022.

In a statement today, the Abu Dhabi-listed property giant, reported the highest-ever quarterly development sales of AED8.5 billion in Q4, with full-year sales hitting a record AED 27.9 billion.

Development revenue backlog doubled to AED 36.8 billion, providing strong income visibility over the next 2-3 years. A total of 14 new project were launched with successful entry into Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah markets complementing the company’s already dominant position in the emirate of Abu Dhabi.

The company also saw strong demand from end-users and investors, with overseas and resident expat buyers accounting for 66% (AED 16 billion) of UAE sales.

Aldar Investment recorded 40% revenue growth driven by recent acquisitions, active asset management, and strong operational performance across the business, according to the statement.

Commenti
ng on the company’s finanial results, Mohamed Kkalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Aldar, said: ‘The strength of the UAE economy, driven by a thriving business-friendly environment, continues to provide conducive conditions for the real estate market. Leveraging its unique platform, Aldar accelerated its transformative growth trajectory in 2023 to deliver remarkable earnings growth, with an intensive programme of new development launches and the enhanced performance of its recurring income portfolio.”

‘By further capitalising on secular trends and the transition to a net-zero economy, we look forward to continuing to play a central role in the UAE’s dynamic socio-economic development and the growth of its real estate sector in the coming years,” he added.

Talal AL Dhiyebi, Group CEO, added: ‘Aldar is transforming into a world-class industry heavyweight, operating at a significantly elevated scale. Over the past five years, our business has grown significantly. Development sales in 2023 surged tenfold compared to
2018, the gross asset value of our investment property portfolio grew by more than fifty percent, and net profit more than doubled, reaching AED 4.4 billion.

‘This tremendous performance over a short timeframe has been witnessed across our core businesses, where we have delivered significant geographic and sector diversification and scale and enhanced long-term resilience. The strength, agility, and scale of our platform will allow Aldar to capitalise on new opportunities to continue driving long-term sustainable growth and shareholder value.’

Source: Emirates News Agency

DoH designates Sheikh Khalifa Medical City as Centre of Excellence for Paediatric Cardiac Surgery


ABU DHABI: The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) announced Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC) as a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Paediatric Cardiac Surgery (PCS).

SKMC will provide babies and children with congenital heart diseases (CHD) and related complications with comprehensive medical care, not only within the local community but also across the region and globally. SKMC’s team of specialists will work around the clock to deliver high-quality healthcare services to patients.

SKMC was awarded the CoE plaque at the ceremony held at DoH’s headquarters and attended by Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of DoH; Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of DoH, and Rashed Al Qubaisi, Chief Corporate Officer at PureHealth, alongside Saeed Jaber Al Kuwait, Group Chief Executive Officer at SEHA; Bader Bader Al Qubaisi, Chief Executive Officer at SKMC, and Dr. Muna Al Hammadi, SKMC’s Acting Chief Medical Officer.

As a CoE for Paediatric Cardiac Surgery, SKMC is the Emirate’s leading centre in managin
g paediatric surgery, allowing patients access to a wide range of treatments and excellent cardiac healthcare services.

SKMC’s appointment as a CoE cements its position as a leading healthcare facility in Abu Dhabi, based on its patient-centred approach to healthcare focusing on evidence-based care, provision of coordinated care by a team of experts from various disciplines, integration of acute care and prevention, cooperation with other healthcare facilities, and community resources aiming to make healthcare accessible to everyone.

Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of DoH, said, ‘Designating Sheikh Khalifa Medical City as a Centre of Excellence for Paediatric Cardiac Surgery highlights DoH’s unwavering commitment to the continuous enhancement of patient access to world-class healthcare services.

Centres of Excellence play a pivotal role in fortifying and enhancing competitiveness within the healthcare ecosystem, enabling healthcare facilities to elevate their standards and enhance patient outcomes, wh
ich comes in line with our efforts to further cement Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global healthcare destination.’

Dr. Aysha Al Khoori, Executive Director Healthcare Facilities Sector at DoH, said, “At the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), we are committed to adopting excellence in healthcare services within the Emirate, while continuously enhancing the delivery of comprehensive and timely healthcare services to all members of the community.

Through the Centres of Excellence (CoE), we aim to achieve this, in addition to providing medical services and procedures of exceptional quality in specific clinical fields. These Centres direct their efforts to share their experiences and best practices with healthcare facilities to ensure the highest standards of excellence for patients, supporting research efforts and enhancing and advancing national competencies, thus contributing to improving the healthcare sector and ensuring its excellence.’

Rashed Al Qubaisi, Chief Corporate Officer of PureHealth said
, ‘This recognition underscores the unwavering commitment of PureHealth and its subsidiaries, to deliver world-class healthcare services. We believe that the expertise and dedication of SKMC’s team of specialists will make a significant difference in providing comprehensive medical care for children with congenital heart diseases not just locally but across the entire region and beyond.

This achievement is a testament to our ongoing pursuit of excellence and our overarching mission to enhance health and well-being for all communities. As we celebrate this accomplishment, we remain dedicated to maintaining our track record of success and continuously striving for further milestones.’

Bader Bader Al Qubaisi, Chief Executive Office at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City said, ‘We are proud to be designated as a Centre of Excellence in Paediatric Cardiac Surgery by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, in line with our commitment to delivering excellence in this rare specialty.

We are confident that our distinguished
medical team will continue to perform these delicate heart surgeries with the highest level of care, provided with exceptional expertise and multidisciplinary resources. Our efforts are centred on delivering comprehensive, interdisciplinary treatments when managing and treating children with congenital heart disease (CHD) to achieve the best patient outcomes possible.”

CoEs are healthcare facilities that are designated by DoH to provide specialised programmes in particular medical areas, in line with best practices and highest quality standards. CoEs stand out with their world-class infrastructure, highly skilled and internationally accredited workforce, multidisciplinary resources, cutting-edge technologies and latest healthcare innovations, and clinical and scientific research while delivering best-in-class healthcare to patients in the Emirate and beyond.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Emirates Health Services organises first International Critical Care and Organ Donation and Transplant Conference


DUBAI: Emirates Health Services today kicked off the first International Critical Care and Organ Donation and Transplant Conference at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City Hotel.

The 3-days conference aims to highlight the role of artificial intelligence in critical care and the future of critical care training, organ donation, and transplant.

The conference was inaugurated by Dr. Essam Al Zarooni, Acting Executive Director of Clinical Services Sector at EHS, with the attendance of several officials and department directors, and a diverse array of doctors, specialists, and experts from around the world, who will share knowledge and latest developments in critical care, organ donation and transplantation.

The conference serves as an exceptional platform for learning, communication, and cooperation through several interactive sessions, workshops, and panel discussions aimed at raising awareness about the latest developments, research, results, technology, and equipment used in this medical field.

In thi
s regard, Dr. Sumaya Al Zarouni, Assistant Director for Medical Affairs at Al Qassimi Hospital, an EHS facility, said, “The event marks the first international conference organised by Emirates Health Services focusing on critical care and organ donation and transplantation. Due to the technological impact on medical sciences, we have ensured that the conference includes sessions on the latest applications of artificial intelligence and practical training workshops, as it is an educational event and an ideal platform aimed at gathering medical professionals from around the world to exchange knowledge and experiences through valuable sessions spread over three days.”

Sessions on the first day of the conference cover four main topics ranging from cardiovascular health, an overview of organ donation and transplantation, an ultrasound and Transcranial Doppler course, followed by discussions on respiratory diseases, the latest guidelines on acute respiratory distress syndrome, critical care, Hemodynamics, Nephrolo
gy critical care, and a course on organ donation and family approach in the United Arab Emirates.

The second day of the event covers topics such as sepsis, acute liver failure management, new guidelines on fever in intensive care units, organ donation art and multi-organ transplant art, workshops on continuous renal replacement therapy, followed by sessions on Hemodynamics, nutrition, neurocritical care, nursing, and quality and research in organ donation and transplantation.

As for the third and final day of the conference, it begins with keynote sessions on the 7D framework of fluid stewardship, long-term care, and the benefits of multidisciplinary rehabilitation post-intensive care syndrome. This is followed by a session on “Hayat”, the National Programme for donation and transplantation of human organs and tissue, to discuss its progress and future plans. Workshops on Hemodynamics and mechanical ventilation will also be held, along with several sessions and discussions focusing on multi-organ transplant
ation.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Chinese provincial-level regions report remarkable economic performance in 2023


BEIJING: China’s provincial-level regions have recently announced their 2023 economic performance and 2024 targets, showcasing the country’s upward development trend.

According to a report by People’s Daily Online, all 31 provinces, municipalities, and autonomous regions recorded an increase in GDP last year.

Xizang and Hainan emerged as the top performers with approximately 9.5 and 9.2 percent growth respectively, closely followed by Inner Mongolia at 7.3 percent. Major manufacturing centres such as Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Guangdong provinces reported GDP growth in the range of 4-6 percent.

Guangdong became the first province to top 13 trillion yuan (US$1.83 trillion) in GDP, maintaining its top position for 35 straight years. Its government report highlighted the vitality of private enterprises, which account for over 10 million individual businesses and 7.8 million total enterprises in the province.

Jiangsu ranked second nationwide with over 12 trillion yuan GDP. Shandong crossed the 9 trillion mark for
the first time, ranking third. Zhejiang reached over 8 trillion yuan GDP, a first for the province.

The growth also reflected quality development. Shandong has China’s best business environment and over 45,000 tech SMEs. Beijing maintained the highest per capita GDP and energy efficiency. Shanghai hit record foreign investment of US$24 billion.

26 cities are now in the “trillion yuan GDP club”, with Jiangsu having the most members. New entrants include Qingdao, Jinan and Yantai.

For 2024, most provinces set 5 percent GDP targets, in line with 2023’s national growth. Xizang and Hainan aim for around 8 percent, the highest targets set. Provinces are also focusing on emerging industries and domestic consumption.

Source: Emirates News Agency

FOCP’s initiatives illuminate UAE in supporting World Cancer Day


SHARJAH: In line with recognising World Cancer Day which is marked annually on 4th of February, and the 9th Gulf Week for Cancer Awareness, taking place from 1st to 7th February, the UAE has seen a surge in efforts to educate and empower communities across the region.

As a leading advocate for cancer awareness and support, Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) played an instrumental role in this important week, with multiple initiatives that reinforce efforts to raise awareness and support patients, survivors and their families.

In collaboration with the Gulf Federation for Cancer Control (GFFCC) under the theme ‘We Are With You’, FOCP launched a series of impactful initiatives throughout the week. This included a powerful social media campaign that resonated with audiences across the Gulf region, emphasising the importance of solidarity and support for those battling cancer.

FOCP joined forces with Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi to host the ‘RideWithRixos’ event on 4th February, where 100 cyclists gathered at the Mar
ina Corniche on the morning of World Cancer Day for a 20 kilometre community ride, supporting the cause. Beyond the charity ride, FOCP also offered free breast cancer screenings at the Rixos Marina, Abu Dhabi promoting early detection and empowering individuals to take charge of their health.

To spread their message of hope and support further, FOCP launched a fundraising initiative on the YallaGive platform. The campaign encourages individuals and communities to donate directly or alternatively create their own fundraising efforts on the platform.

In an effort to uplift cancer patients and survivors FOCP collaborated with Dubai Municipality and Dubai Safari Park to provide a unique experience and a day filled with enjoyment amidst the beautiful weather and natural surroundings of the safari.

FOCP, in collaboration with NAOS Middle East Cosmetics Trading LLC, organised a heartwarming visit to children affected by cancer at Mediclinic Hospital in Dubai.

FOCP participated in a screening and diagnostic panel
session as part of the UAE-UK Business Council’s one-day knowledge-sharing summit on Cancer Care at Conrad Hotel, held on February 1st. The session focused on sharing insights and expertise in the field of cancer care, contributing to the collaborative efforts between the UAE and the UK in combating cancer.

In another panel discussion held at the Dubai Chambers in collaboration with Dubai Business Women Council, FOCP engaged in an open discussion about cancer and childhood cancer which aimed to raise awareness and provide valuable insights into the challenges and advancements in cancer care, encouraging dialogue and understanding within the community.

FOCP also commemorated the launch of the book ‘Cancer Care in the United Arab Emirates’ at a panel discussion titled ‘Closing the Care Gap.’ In the book, FOCP provided a chapter titled ‘NGO’s Role in Cancer Care’, which showcased FOCP’s role in serving the community, and emphasising the importance of non-governmental organisations in the comprehensive care of
cancer patients.

FOCP has also collaborated with the Sharjah Light Festival, The House of Wisdom and Sharjah Archeology Museum to illuminate the iconic hub of knowledge and culture in purple, symbolising cancer awareness.

Source: Emirates News Agency

FOCP’s initiatives illuminate UAE in supporting World Cancer Day


SHARJAH: In line with recognising World Cancer Day which is marked annually on 4th of February, and the 9th Gulf Week for Cancer Awareness, taking place from 1st to 7th February, the UAE has seen a surge in efforts to educate and empower communities across the region.

As a leading advocate for cancer awareness and support, Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) played an instrumental role in this important week, with multiple initiatives that reinforce efforts to raise awareness and support patients, survivors and their families.

In collaboration with the Gulf Federation for Cancer Control (GFFCC) under the theme ‘We Are With You’, FOCP launched a series of impactful initiatives throughout the week. This included a powerful social media campaign that resonated with audiences across the Gulf region, emphasising the importance of solidarity and support for those battling cancer.

FOCP joined forces with Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi to host the ‘RideWithRixos’ event on 4th February, where 100 cyclists gathered at the Mar
ina Corniche on the morning of World Cancer Day for a 20 kilometre community ride, supporting the cause. Beyond the charity ride, FOCP also offered free breast cancer screenings at the Rixos Marina, Abu Dhabi promoting early detection and empowering individuals to take charge of their health.

To spread their message of hope and support further, FOCP launched a fundraising initiative on the YallaGive platform. The campaign encourages individuals and communities to donate directly or alternatively create their own fundraising efforts on the platform.

In an effort to uplift cancer patients and survivors FOCP collaborated with Dubai Municipality and Dubai Safari Park to provide a unique experience and a day filled with enjoyment amidst the beautiful weather and natural surroundings of the safari.

FOCP, in collaboration with NAOS Middle East Cosmetics Trading LLC, organised a heartwarming visit to children affected by cancer at Mediclinic Hospital in Dubai.

FOCP participated in a screening and diagnostic panel
session as part of the UAE-UK Business Council’s one-day knowledge-sharing summit on Cancer Care at Conrad Hotel, held on February 1st. The session focused on sharing insights and expertise in the field of cancer care, contributing to the collaborative efforts between the UAE and the UK in combating cancer.

In another panel discussion held at the Dubai Chambers in collaboration with Dubai Business Women Council, FOCP engaged in an open discussion about cancer and childhood cancer which aimed to raise awareness and provide valuable insights into the challenges and advancements in cancer care, encouraging dialogue and understanding within the community.

FOCP also commemorated the launch of the book ‘Cancer Care in the United Arab Emirates’ at a panel discussion titled ‘Closing the Care Gap.’ In the book, FOCP provided a chapter titled ‘NGO’s Role in Cancer Care’, which showcased FOCP’s role in serving the community, and emphasising the importance of non-governmental organisations in the comprehensive care of
cancer patients.

FOCP has also collaborated with the Sharjah Light Festival, The House of Wisdom and Sharjah Archeology Museum to illuminate the iconic hub of knowledge and culture in purple, symbolising cancer awareness.

Source: Emirates News Agency

National systems foil attempted cyberattacks by terrorist groups: UAE Cyber Security Council


ABU DHABI: The UAE Cyber Security Council has confirmed the success of national cyber systems in thwarting cyberattacks carried out by terrorist organisations that targeted a number of vital and strategic sectors in the country.

The Council said that cyber emergency systems had been activated nationwide in cooperation with all relevant authorities.

These systems were able to professionally, efficiently, and proactively repel these terrorist cyberattacks and deter anyone who thinks of tampering with the security of the country and its capabilities.

The Council noted that the identities of these terrorist organisations and the location of their cyberattacks have been identified and dealt with in accordance with protection systems and cybersecurity policies.

The Council stressed that all national teams continue to work on fortifying the country’s digital ecosystem in accordance with the best practices and international standards in this regard.

The UAE has a highly developed digital infrastructure capable o
f dealing flexibly and quickly with all cyberattacks, the Council added.

The Council called on all government and private institutions and individuals to be cautious and vigilant to avoid being affected by potential cyberattacks.

The Council urged institutions and individuals to be wary of constantly evolving hacking and electronic fraud tools to avoid cyberattacks that could cause harm and breaches.

The Council emphasised the importance of safeguarding personal data; avoiding disclosing such data through unverified links or unknown messages; utilising only official channels for communication; exercise caution when handling emails; and refraining from opening links unless their legitimacy is confirmed.

The Council strongly emphasised the paramount necessity for vital sectors to engage in active mitigation of cyberattacks through the expeditious deployment of robust protection systems, the rigorous enforcement of established cybersecurity policies, and the timely reporting of any suspicious electronic acti
vity with the potential to cause harm to their systems and electronic environments to the designated authorities.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Abu Dhabi’s February 2024 event calendar: A tapestry of global interaction and innovation


ABU DHABI: As the month unfolds, the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), a key division in the ADNEC Group, is set to unfold a vibrant series of events, weaving together culture, innovation, and international collaboration in the heart of Abu Dhabi. The February lineup, curated by ADNEC, highlights Abu Dhabi’s flourishing role in uniting global thought leaders and industry sectors, reflecting its vibrant tourism and conference landscape.

As we step into February, the Waad Design Events that are taking place between February 4 to 7 have transformed ADNEC into a bustling fashion arena, where creativity meets craftsmanship. Designers from every corner of the world converge here, setting the stage for a celebration of style and innovation.

February 9 to 11 brings a splash of pop culture with the Middle East Film and Comic Con and Games Con 2024. Here, fantasy and reality blur, inviting fans and industry maestros to celebrate the magic of movies, comics, and games.

ADNEC next hosts the Internation
al Search and Rescue Conference and Exhibition, scheduled from 12 to 14 bringing a beacon of hope and innovation; a gathering of minds dedicated to saving lives, showcasing the latest in rescue operations and technology.

Simultaneously, from February 13 to 15, the UNESCO World Conference on Culture and Arts Education paints a future where culture and arts are the cornerstones of learning, shaping a world rich in heritage and knowledge.

The tapestry of events continues with the International Scientific Conference on the Dialogue of Civilisation and Tolerance, weaving together threads of dialogue and understanding between February 20 and 21.

In late February, the Al Thuraya Exhibition, held from the 22 to 26 unfolds a world of luxury and elegance, showcasing the finest in fashion, jewellery, and lavish lifestyle, narrating tales of beauty and craftsmanship from over 90 esteemed brands.

As the month nears its end, in the spirit of global collaboration, the World Trade Organisation assembles from February 2
6-29. This gathering is more than a meeting; it’s a melting pot of ideas, fostering international trade and reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s stature on the world economic stage.

This February, ADNEC not only showcases its versatility in hosting a myriad of events but also cements its role as a catalyst for economic, cultural, and intellectual prosperity in the UAE. With each event, ADNEC weaves a richer narrative, adding to Abu Dhabi’s illustrious tapestry of global influence and collaboration.

Source: Emirates News Agency