Tag Archives: dubai
Most of the expats want to continue here: Conference
Most of the expats want to continue here: Conference Ahmed Shaaban (ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com) / 21 May 2013 Most foreigners in Dubai enjoy a safe life with well-paid, tax-free careers, and want to continue in the UAE, speakers at an expatriate community conference said. The third annual ‘The UAE through its Expats’ Eye’ conference was held on Monday at the Dubai Cultural and Scientific Association (DCSA), in cooperation with the Zayed University. DCSA chairman Sultan Saqr Al Suwaidi said the UAE, the second largest economy in the Arab world, was home to over 200 different nationalities. “They constitute the majority of the UAE’s total population and are recognised as an essential pillar of the economically vibrant and socially tolerant UAE.” He said all expats — regardless of culture, religion, language or background — were welcomed by the government and Emiratis alike. “Expats are here to make a good living in a safe environment and participate in the progress of the country.” The one-day conference aimed to explore the relationship between expatriates and the UAE society, and discuss their views and contributions to the making of the UAE. Zayed University vice-president Dr Sulaiman Al Jassim said UAE people had no negative feelings towards foreign communities, citing a survey conducted in 2012. “However, they agreed that the tolerant and legal existence of the communities should never be imbalanced or be at the cost of locals who are now seeking equality with foreigners. “According to a survey conducted here on April 30 by a pan-Arab newspaper, the UAE proved to be a unique role model for tolerant coexistence and mutual respect for many reasons, on top of which is the political, economic and cultural stability, safety and security.” Another study conducted in Egypt in 2010 showed almost half the country wanted to migrate to the UAE. Zayed University Institute of Arabic Language professor Dr Afaf Bataineh believed the UAE integrated model was unprecedented in terms of politics, economy, urban development and communication among foreign communities. Dr Bataineh said Arab communities, however, were communicating more with other communities than the Emiratis. “Most of the Arab communities here are keen to preserve their own traditions, but are open to all cultures and modern life,” she said. Continue reading
Mohammed hails students’ achievements
Mohammed hails students’ achievements (Wam) / 21 May 2013 His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on Monday praised students for their scientific, technical and cultural achievements. Interacting with students after inaugurating the new headquarters of the Ras Al Khaimah Women’s College (RAKWC), part of the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), he referred to the youth’s ambitions and strong will in learning and seizing opportunities given by their leaders who provide them with all financial and moral support to help them build their future and the future of their country. He wished the students success and progress in their education so as to achieve their goals and serve their country. Earlier, Shaikh Mohammed unveiled a special plaque upon his arrival at the Dh130-million building. The opening ceremony was attended by Shaikh Hamdan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research; Mohammed Abdullah Al Gargawi, Minister for Cabinet Affairs; Mohammed Hassan Omran Al Shamsi, Chancellor of Higher Colleges of Technology and a number of senior officials, faculty members and students. Shaikh Mohammed toured the various facilities and classes of the college beginning his tour with a visit to the public library where he took part in some student activities and signed several copies of his book “Flashes of Inspiration” which he dedicated to the library. He also visited some classrooms, where he attended part of lectures and training lessons. He familiarised himself with a new programme on designing websites and electronic games created by the students; he was also briefed by one of the students about the programme, the first of its kind in the UAE. At one of the classes, Shaikh Mohammed watched an electronic a programme featuring the success story of the HCT over the past 15 years before watching a video titled ‘Positive Energy’. Before wrapping up his tour, he visited the colleges’ gym, sports hall and the restaurant after which he met with the students at the colleges’ theatre where they welcomed him and expressed pleasure at his fatherly visit. Continue reading
Hamdan bin Rashid opens International Design and Offices Exhibitions
Hamdan bin Rashid opens International Design and Offices Exhibitions (WAM) / 20 May 2013 Shaikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance, in the presence of Humaid bin Mohammed Obaid Al Qattami , Minister of Education, has opened the INDEX International Design Exhibition 2013 and The Office Exhibition at the Dubai World Trade Centre which runs until 23rd May. The two Exhibitions which come together for the first time in 2013 create an ‘Interiors Super Show’ for the Middle East and North Africa’s architect and design community to meet the increased demand across the Middle East and North Africa. INDEX Event Director Frederique Maurell commented, “I am delighted that The Office Exhibition will become part of the INDEX International Design Exhibition. The Office Exhibition has already cemented its place within the Middle East commercial design industry. By adding new profiles, developing the show and attaching the show to a larger regional design show, The Office Exhibition can only benefit and grow organically to become the region’s premier commercial design event”. Frederique Maurell expressed thanks and appreciation to the Dubai Government and stated that they were delighted with the attendance of Shaikh Hamdan and Al Qattami for opening these two Exhibitions which reflect the continuous and serious support provided by the Dubai Government for Exhibitions. Continue reading
