Ajman Ruler pardons 314 prisoners ahead of Ramadan


AJMAN: H.H. Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, has ordered the release of 314 prisoners from punitive and correctional institutions in Ajman ahead of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

The inmates of various nationalities were selected based on good conduct and behaviour.

The gesture is part of the Ajman Ruler’s keenness to give prisoners an opportunity to start a new life and bring joy to their families.

Major General Sheikh Sultan bin Abdullah Al Nuaimi, Commander-in-Chief of Ajman Police, expressed his thanks and appreciation to the Ruler of Ajman and hoped that this gesture would give the pardoned prisoners a chance to return to their families and reintegrate positively into society.

He added that the procedures for the prisoners’ release will be initiated immediately.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Mansour bin Zayed inaugurates first seawater desalination plant using reverse osmosis technology in Umm Al Quwain


UMM AL QAIWAIN: His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, has officially inaugurated the “NAQA’A” Seawater Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) desalination plant in the Emirate of Umm Al Qaiwain. This plant stands as one of the largest seawater desalination projects using SWRO technology in the world.

With a capacity of 150 million gallons of desalinated water per day, the plant operates according to the independent producer system.

The ceremony was attended by Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Etihad Water and Electricity, along with Yousef Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of the company, and several senior officials.

Sheikh Mansour listened to a detailed explanation from the company’s CEO and the project team about the station’s mechanism and its implementation stages. The first phase, initiated during the second half of 2021, concluded with the station operating
experimentally at a daily production capacity of 50 million gallons. The second phase was completed, and the station began operating with its full production capacity of 150 million gallons per day by the end of 2022.

This huge project was a collaboration between Etihad Water and Electricity, Mubadala, and Saudi Arabia’s Utilities developer, ACWA Power.

Expressing pride in the completion of “NAQA’A”, Sheikh Mansour said, “We are proud of the completion of ‘NAQA’A’, an embodiment of the UAE’s approach and the vision of its leadership in ensuring sustainable water resources for future generations,” explaining that the project represents an important step towards bolstering the country’s capacity to address future water sector challenges, aligning with the UAE’s proactive approach towards a sustainable future.

Sheikh Mansour added that, given the UAE leadership’s keen focus on water security and relentless efforts in addressing water sector challenges, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al
Nahyan recently announced the “Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative” to combat water scarcity.

Sheikh Mansour added that the inauguration of “NAQA’A” reaffirms the UAE’s commitment to translating its water security priorities into actionable initiatives, reflecting the leadership’s dedication to sustainability and the well-being of its citizens.

During the ceremony, Sheikh Mansour lauded the national competencies of the UAE and stressed the importance of continuous development across vital sectors, particularly in water, research, development, and innovation.

In his remarks, Al Mazrouei commended the wise leadership’s unwavering support for infrastructure development in the water sector, facilitating significant advancements and contributing to the welfare of citizens.

He highlighted that with an annual production capacity of around 50 billion gallons, “NAQA’A” significantly bolsters the UAE’s water sector infrastructure, catering to the needs of approximately 2 million inhabitants in the country’s
northern regions.

He affirmed that the new plant not only enhances water security for the UAE but also supports the achievement of national strategies towards comprehensive sustainability.

The Minister also praised the continuous efforts of the Emirates Water and Electricity company in supporting national targets in the water sector and its commitment to reducing the carbon footprint through the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies.

Al Ali underscored that the “NAQA’A” plant stands as one of the company’s paramount strategic projects, marking a proud achievement now operational at its full production capacity.

He elaborated that the company’s efforts spanned approximately 13 years, guided by a long-term plan. This plan entailed ambitious objectives aimed at progressively transitioning away from less efficient thermal technologies, with the overarching goal of reducing the carbon footprint by 75%.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Operation Smile UAE implements its 14th surgical programme at M42’s Healthpoint


ABU DHABI: Operation Smile UAE recently completed its 14th surgical programme in the UAE at Healthpoint, an M42 company, in Abu Dhabi, where 19 children of different nationalities received free and safe surgery for their cleft lip or cleft palate, marking a major milestone in their lives and giving them a new smile.

Healthpoint has been a partner with Operation Smile since 2020 and this is the sixth mission performed at its facilities, which has seen the transformation of more than 73 patients of different age groups.

The two-day surgical event saw the collaboration of over 45 medical professionals, including nurses, pediatricians, surgeons, and anesthetists, come to the multi-specialty hospital and volunteer their expertise. Their commitment was complemented by the invaluable support from volunteers at Healthpoint, ensuring a well-rounded and effective medical team.

Omar Al Naqbi, Chief Executive Officer of Healthpoint, said, ‘Working alongside Operation Smile UAE has been a privilege and we take gr
eat pride in contributing to our communities and offering these simple but life-altering surgeries.

These procedures enable patients to lead healthier, happier lives. Our volunteers are dedicated to providing exceptional care, reflective of our commitment to world-class medical care.’

Morag Cromey-Hawke, Executive Director, Operation Smile UAE, commented, ‘Thanks to Operation Smile medical volunteers, Healthpoint volunteers, staff and management as well as the enormous support of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, Operation Smile UAE were able to continue their work at the weekend to treat young patients who would otherwise not have access to safe surgery.

These surgeries allow the patients to eat, drink, speak and socialise and to lead healthier, happier lives. We are honoured to have access to the excellent facilities at Healthpoint for our patients and to the generosity and care extended to them.’

The Operation Smile UAE was founded in 2011 under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Alyazia bint Sa
if bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, wife of H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the charity has assisted and screened over 300 patients with cleft conditions here in the UAE.

Thanks to the Foundation’s support,167 of these patients have received surgery followed by comprehensive care including dental, nutrition, oral health and speech therapy.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Integrated Transport Centre participates in GCC Traffic Week 2024


ABU DHABI: The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) of the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) in Abu Dhabi is participating in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Traffic Week 2024, which is being held from 3rd to 9th March 2024 under the theme of “Driving Without a Phone.”

The ITC’s participation in the GCC Traffic Week reflects its commitment to raising awareness, promoting traffic culture among community members, and enhancing the safety and security of road users.

The ITC’s participation falls within the jurisdiction of the Joint Committee for Traffic Safety, which is chaired by the Department of Municipalities and Transport and includes the Integrated Transport Centre, Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters, and the Abu Dhabi Health Department as its members.

The ITC participated in several events and activities, including setting up an interactive platform at the Arrivals Hall at Zayed International Airport to familiarise the arriving passengers with the GCC Traffic Week.

The intera
ctive platform explains traffic laws, emphasises the importance of adhering to road safety standards, and incorporates interactive surveys, videos, and awareness messages that reinforce the concept of safe driving. It also features a virtual driving experience aimed at consolidating the message of GCC Traffic Week, which advocates against using phones while driving and adhering to road safety standards.

The slogan of GCC Traffic Week was also displayed on “Darb” tariff boards at the entrances of Abu Dhabi and on digital signs throughout the road network. Furthermore, messages to raise awareness and caution drivers against using their phones or any other distractions were also displayed.

As part of the GCC Traffic Week activities, the Technical Committee for Traffic Safety held a workshop to examine the causes of accidents resulting from distractions on the road, primarily using phones.

Abdulla Al Marzouqi, Director-General of the ITC, emphasised the importance of the GCC Traffic Week in highlighting
adverse driving habits, particularly the use of phones and its negative impact on the driver’s concentration, which could potentially lead to serious traffic accidents.

The GCC Traffic Week 2024 is sponsored by the Federal Traffic Council under the theme of “Driving Without a Phone”. These initiatives and activities enhance traffic safety, realising Abu Dhabi’s vision to adopt a safe transport system, and decreasing traffic accidents and injuries by improving driving practices and reducing human errors.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Emirati Relief Team to distribute Ramadan Mir in Mraijib Al Fhood refugee camp in Jordan


MRAJEEB AL FHOOD: The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) continued its humanitarian programmes with the distribution of Ramadan Mir to Syrian refugees in the Emirati-Jordanian refugee camp in Mrajeeb Al Fhood, as well as to several underprivileged families in tents near the camp.

Hassan Salem Al-Qaidi, Head of the Emirati Relief Team in Jordan, supervised the distribution process, ensuring that 1,226 families within the camp, as well as 60 families in temporary tents outside the camp, received essential provisions ahead of the Holy Month of Ramadan. The food parcels included rice, sugar, flour, and other basic necessities.

Furthermore, the medical team of the UAE Relief Team conducted a complimentary medical campaign, offering medical examinations and distributing medicines to the families in need.

The ERC’s annual Ramadan project encompasses various initiatives, including the distribution of Ramadan Mir, organising a Ramadan sports tournament, and providing Eid clothing to refugees within the camp.

Sou
rce: Emirates News Agency

ADJD schedules virtual visitations to inmates of Correction and Rehabilitation Centres during Ramadn


ABU DHABI: – The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has set the dates for remote visitations to inmates of Correction and Rehabilitation Centres across the Emirate of Abu Dhabi via the “Nafidhaty” (My Window) visitation app from Monday to Friday during Ramadan for both men and women.

The ADJD indicated that applications to visit inmates can be registered electronically through the Abu Dhabi Government Services website (TAMM), via https://www.tamm.abudhabi/ar-ae, or www.adpolice.gov.ae.

The approval will be sent through an SMS message setting the date and the police station to conduct the visit remotely using the application.

The Judicial Department also explained that following the applicable regulations, visitations by families and relatives for male and female inmates are scheduled from the first day of Ramadan from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Thursday will be dedicated to visiting female inmates at Al Ain Correction and Rehabilitation Centres from 9:30 am to 12:00 pm.

Embassies and lawyers can conduc
t visitations on Friday from 9:30 to 11:30 am.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Noor Dubai concludes outreach programme in Samar, benefiting 1,969 individuals

SAMAR: Noor Dubai Foundation, a UAE-based foundation working under the umbrella of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), has announced the successful conclusion of its 2023 outreach programme in the Republic of the Philippines.

The foundation conducted a couple of Cataract camps in November 2023 in the Municipality of Catarman, the Capital of Northern Samar province, and in February 2024 in Borongan City, the capital of Eastern Samar province. The Foundation provided diagnostic, therapeutic, and health care services to 1,969 patients with eye diseases, performed 586 surgical operations, distributed 454 medical glasses, and distributed medication to those in need.

Dr. Manal Taryam, board member and CEO of the Noor Dubai Foundation, highlighted the impact of visual impairment and reiterated that Noor Dubai was launched with the vision of a world free from avoidable causes of blindness. She highlighted that the foundation is dedicated to provide therapeutic, preventative and educat
ional programs to treat and prevent blindness and visual impairment in developing countries on a regional and international scale.

She stated that as per statistics provided by Noor Dubai’s local partner in the Philippines – the Eye and Ear Foundation – 1.9 percent of 117.3 million people in the country are affected due to visual impairment. Moreover, Cataract, the world’s number one blinding eye disorder, affects approximately 1.06 percent of the Philippines’ population, This indicates an estimated 1,261,400 individuals are affected by cataracts, with around 441,490 awaiting cataract surgeries.

Dr. Taryam added that the numbers are concerning, especially in Catarman and Borongan, since accessibility to good quality, affordable eye care is limited due to the lack of expert ophthalmologists. In Catarman, no registered Ophthalmologists can perform Cataract surgery, while in Borongan, one Ophthalmologist covers the entire province of Eastern Samar. It is also estimated that Cataract Surgery costs around $1
000 to $1700, while the daily income in an average job does not exceed $6. ‘For these reasons, we at the Noor Dubai Foundation, were keen on conducting several outreach programs to support the community and improve accessibility to good-quality eye care,’ Dr. Taryam added.

Dr. Taryam expressed her appreciation to SRJ Holding Limited for sponsoring the eye camps. His Excellency Mr. Mohammed Al Qattam, the United Arab Emirates Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines, praised the charitable organisations’ prominent role in providing developmental and humanitarian work to those in need. These projects help strengthen cooperation and friendship between brotherly and friendly countries, develop harmony between different people and communities, and support the country’s leadership in charitable and humanitarian fields. Noor Dubai reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing collaboration with partners in the Philippines, with plans to expand its range of services in the future and to reach out to those in need and
help alleviate their suffering.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Ahly Beat Zamalek to Win Record-extending 39th Egypt Cup TitleAbu Dhabi Entertainment Company to enhance sports facilities

The two poles of Egyptian football met in the cup final on Friday 3/8/2024. Al-Ahly defeated Zamalek with two clean goals to win record-extending 39th Egypt Cup title.

For the first time in the history of the oldest cup in the region, the final match was held abroad, as Al Awal Garden Stadium in Riyadh hosted the match.

Source: State Information Service Egypt

ABU DHABI: Abu Dhabi Entertainment Company (ADEC) has teamed up with Sanad Strata and Solutions+ to enhance sports facilities in Abu Dhabi.

The signing ceremony, held at ACTIVE Al Maryah Island, marked the beginning of this transformative initiative. ACTIVE, managed by ADEC, is the first beneficiary of this enhancement project. Ismail Ali Abdulla, Head of UAE Clusters – Mubadala, witnessed the ceremony. Ali Alyafei, the Chairman of Abu Dhabi Entertainment Company, signed agreements with representatives of each entity, including Mansoor Janahi, Managing Director and Group CEO of Sanad, Solutions+ CEO Nasir Al Nabhani and Strata CEO Dr. Khaled Al Mazrouei.

Ali Alyafei said: ‘We are proud to establish this relationship with Mubadala’s national champions and for their trust in us to execute this sponsorship to the highest of standards. Having operated in the sport and recreation market for the past 14 years, Abu Dhabi Entertainment Company has gained expertise in community needs and venue operation. This ke
en eye will allow us to identify upgrades and improvements that will create an even better sports experience at sites around the Emirate.’

Mansoor Janahi, managing director and Group CEO of Sanad said: ‘This partnership epitomises Sanad’s dedication to enhancing the Abu Dhabi ecosystem by empowering communities through sports and recreation. We are excited to embark on this transformative journey with ADEC, contributing to the holistic development of Abu Dhabi’s vibrant community.’

Dr. Khaled Al Mazrouei, chief executive officer of Strata Manufacturing, said, ‘Strata Manufacturing is proud to support efforts and collaborate with various national entities and institutions, enhancing the quality of life for all community members. The company recognises that this extensive community involvement will add further incentives to the active lifestyles of individuals and the broader society. Moreover, it supports the local, regional, and global presence of Abu Dhabi and the United Arab Emirates, stemming from a
vision and determination for integration to elevate the characteristics of a society that embodies the goals of comprehensive development through sports and entertainment.’

Source: Emirates News Agency

Rulers of the Emirates congratulate King Hamad of Bahrain on Silver Jubilee of HM’s accession


EMIRATES: Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates have sent separate congratulatory message to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain on the occasion of the Silver Jubilee of HM’s accession.

The messages were sent by Their Highnesses Supreme Council Members, the Rulers of the Emirates, Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi of Sharjah, Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi of Ajman, Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi of Fujairah, Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla of Umm Al Qaiwain, and Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi of Ras Al Khaimah.

Their Crown Princes and Deputy Rulers also sent similar messages to the Bahraini King.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Abu Dhabi Federal Appeals Court adjourns case of terrorist ‘Justice and Dignity Committee’ Organisation to March 14 to complete hearing defence pleas


ABU DHABI: The State Security Chamber of the Abu Dhabi Federal Appeals Court has adjourned the hearing in Case No. 87 of 2023- State Security Offences, involving the terrorist ‘Justice and Dignity Committee’ Organisation to 14th March, 2024, in order to complete hearing pleas of defence.

Eighty-four defendants stand accused in this case of establishing and managing a clandestine terrorist organisation in the UAE known as the ‘Justice and Dignity Committee’. The charges against them include planning terrorist acts, fundraising for the Organisation, and concealing the source and destination of those funds.

In yesterday’s session, attended by the defendants’ families and media representatives, the court heard over five hours of defence arguments. The lawyers for the accused challenged the validity of the charges presented by the Prosecution and contested the evidence submitted. They demanded the acquittal and release of their clients. The court adjourned the case until coming Thursday to allow for the comp
letion of the defence presentation.

In more detail, the defence argued during the session that the court lacked jurisdiction due to a prior judgment in a previous case. The Prosecution, however, refuted this claim in its plea during a previous court session. Additionally, the defence challenged the evidence presented, including the investigations and technical and financial reports. They argued that these reports relied heavily on analysis, leaving room for doubt and uncertainty.

The Prosecution concluded its arguments across two sessions in February. They emphasised that this case is distinct from Case No. 79 of 2012 State Security Crimes and is not a retrial. The Prosecution based this on evidence presented in open court, including confessions and statements from the defendants that aligned with the State Security Agency’s investigations, expert witness testimonies, and reports analysing the defendants’ activities.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Abu Dhabi Federal Appeals Court adjourns case of terrorist ‘Justice and Dignity Committee’ Organisation to March 14 to complete hearing defence pleas


ABU DHABI: The State Security Chamber of the Abu Dhabi Federal Appeals Court has adjourned the hearing in Case No. 87 of 2023- State Security Offences, involving the terrorist ‘Justice and Dignity Committee’ Organisation to 14th March, 2024, in order to complete hearing pleas of defence.

Eighty-four defendants stand accused in this case of establishing and managing a clandestine terrorist organisation in the UAE known as the ‘Justice and Dignity Committee’. The charges against them include planning terrorist acts, fundraising for the Organisation, and concealing the source and destination of those funds.

In yesterday’s session, attended by the defendants’ families and media representatives, the court heard over five hours of defence arguments. The lawyers for the accused challenged the validity of the charges presented by the Prosecution and contested the evidence submitted. They demanded the acquittal and release of their clients. The court adjourned the case until coming Thursday to allow for the comp
letion of the defence presentation.

In more detail, the defence argued during the session that the court lacked jurisdiction due to a prior judgment in a previous case. The Prosecution, however, refuted this claim in its plea during a previous court session. Additionally, the defence challenged the evidence presented, including the investigations and technical and financial reports. They argued that these reports relied heavily on analysis, leaving room for doubt and uncertainty.

The Prosecution concluded its arguments across two sessions in February. They emphasised that this case is distinct from Case No. 79 of 2012 State Security Crimes and is not a retrial. The Prosecution based this on evidence presented in open court, including confessions and statements from the defendants that aligned with the State Security Agency’s investigations, expert witness testimonies, and reports analysing the defendants’ activities.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Shoukry, Blinken Discuss Gaza UpdatesFifth batch of humanitarian aid airdropped in Gaza, as part of Operation ‘Birds of Goodness’

Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Ahmed Abu Zaid said on his official account on X that Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry Friday 8/3/2024 discussed with his US counterpart Antony Blinken via phone call the latest developments in Gaza and the entry of aid into the strip.

Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry reiterated Egypt’s warning of threats of any military operation in Rafah city of the Gaza Strip, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesman said.

The spokesman Ahmed Abu Zaid added that the two ministers aim to communicate a truce in the Gaza Strip to reach a permanent ceasefire.

Source: State Information Service Egypt

ABU DHABI: The Joint Operations Command of the Ministry of Defence has announced the completion of the fifth airdrop of humanitarian and relief aid by the UAE Air Force and the Egyptian Air Force in the northern Gaza Strip, as part of the “Birds of Goodness” operation. The operation aims to alleviate the suffering of the war-ravaged Palestinian people.

Joint teams from both countries carried out the operation using aircraft carrying about 62 tonnes of food and medical aid, bringing the total to 231 tonnes since the operation’s launch.

Operation “Birds of Goodness” is part of the ‘Gallant Knight 3’ humanitarian operation, which was launched on 5th November 2023, in line with the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The number of aircraft sent to date as part of the Joint Operations Command air bridge reached 179, in addition to 2 ships, with the humanitarian aid provided totalling 16,121 tonnes.

The operation, which will run for several weeks, showcases the level
of UAE-Egypt coordination to support the people of Gaza. It also comes within the framework of Arab solidarity to help the Palestinian people in light of the dire circumstances in the Gaza Strip.

Source: Emirates News Agency