Emirates

Storytellers, communication experts and advocates to convene at Dignified Storytelling Forum on Human Rights Day

DUBAI, 5th December 2021 (WAM) – Marking a key milestone in its journey to place human dignity at the heart of storytelling, Dignified Storytelling, an initiative by Dubai Cares, Expo 2020 Dubai and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFaIC), is set to host its flagship Dignified Storytelling Forum on the 10th of December, 2021 at Dubai Exhibition Center (Hall 1A) at Expo 2020 Dubai, under the theme: "A story can change the world."

Since its launch in May 2021, Dignified Storytelling has served as a powerful platform that unites the voices of content makers, editors, journalists, photographers, filmmakers, storytellers, and contributors, equipping them with the awareness and hands-on knowledge that will enable them to capture moments and tell stories without compromising human dignity. This global network of individuals and organizations today is actively advocating for a global commitment towards the Dignified Storytelling Principles and storytelling practices characterized by deep respect, full transparency, and social responsibility. These principles have been agreed upon by a diverse group of stakeholders from UN agencies, INGOs, local NGOs and civil society through a consultative process.

The one-day forum, which is part of Expo 2020 Dubai’s rich calendar of specialist programming, will bring together key stakeholders – including members of civil society organizations, governments, the private sector, and international agencies as well as advocates, activists, and storytellers – to collectively agree on a way forward in validating, adopting and integrating the Dignified Storytelling Principles.

The agenda for the forum includes six technical sessions that will take place before the main program and are co-curated with key partners of Dignified Storytelling and represent a combination of interactive workshops, talks, and discussions. Topics range from ‘Role of Media in Advancing Dignified Storytelling for a Better World’ to ‘Promoting Youth-led Storytelling for Social Change’.

The main program includes three plenary discussions featuring high-level speakers such as Maher Nasser, Commissioner-General of the UN at Expo 2020 Dubai and the Director of Outreach Division in the UN Department of Global Communications; Dr. Rebecca Swift, Senior Director and Global Head of Creative Insights, Getty Images; Chief Moomen, Ghanaian poet, playwright and creative entrepreneur; Joung-Ah Ghedini-Williams, Head of Global Communications at UNHCR; Nassib Boueri, CEO, Wunderman Thompson MENA; and Tracey Corbin-Matchett, CEO, Bus Stop Films, among others. Participating leaders and experts are set to contribute their insights to discussions focusing on topics such as ‘Dignified Storytelling in Policy and Practice’ and ‘Dignified Storytelling with Historically Marginalized Communities’.

"As the United Nations joins the world at Expo 2020 in Dubai, we, as is the case with all storytellers, have a responsibility to ensure that the stories we tell are anchored in human dignity. For us to achieve a more equal, sustainable and peaceful future for everyone, in addition to achieving the SDGs by 2030, we have to protect the integrity of the most vulnerable amongst us. In a digitally connected world, we have the tools to share stories on multiple platforms and with that ability comes a responsibility – a responsibility to ensure that stories are told with a dignified storytelling perspective – a perspective that avoids the dehumanization and marginalization of subjects intentionally or unintentionally," said Maher Nasser, Commissioner-General of the UN at Expo 2020 Dubai and the Director of Outreach Division in the UN Department of Global Communications.

"As someone who is passionate about the importance of the visual language, I have seen how the marginalized and vulnerable can be exploited in the pursuit of the visual message. I believe we all need to take conscious steps to ensure we uphold human dignity in the visual stories we tell. At the Dignified Storytelling Forum, I will be sharing my personal experiences, highlighting the gaps that still exist in visual standards and discussing how we can drive change towards more authentic and diverse representations of people," said Dr. Rebecca Swift, Global Head of Creative Insights, Getty Images.

In addition, the agenda will feature the launch of the Dignified Storytelling Handbook, which builds on the foundational Principles for Dignified Storytelling and offers ‘how-to’ guidance and concrete best practice case studies. Cross-sectoral perspectives and insights from a diverse group of storytellers and experienced stakeholders from governments, UN agencies, international and local NGOs, and civil society have informed this valuable framework and resource that storytellers around the world will benefit from when embracing dignified storytelling in their work. To define and agree on the future course of the initiative, Dignified Storytelling partners will also announce the next steps that include legacy plans to ensure its long-term impact.

"Stories, bereft of human dignity are weapons to maim and destroy, but when centered around human dignity, are tools to mend and build. As a storyteller interested in the interconnectedness of the human experience across time, places, and cultures, the 10 principles of Dignified Storytelling are the essential bedrock on which one must treat the stories of others with truth and respect. My poetry at the forum will seek to immerse audiences in experiences of how stories can be weapons or tools depending on how dignified the storytelling is. I am really excited about this and I look forward to an engaging and inspiring forum that would strengthen our resolve to tell stories with dignity and respect," said Chief Moomen, Ghanaian poet, playwright and creative entrepreneur.

Human Rights Day, which is celebrated each year on December 10th, was particularly chosen as the date to host the Dignified Storytelling Forum as a reminder of the equal rights that all individuals are entitled to regardless of their race, ethnicity, religion, or gender. This also includes their right to have their stories told in a manner that upholds their dignity.

Emirates

Hamriyah and Deira ports record AED 12.133b in customs declaration value for first nine months of 2023

Dubai Customs plays a crucial role as the frontline defense for community security, consistently advancing its customs centers to safeguard and facilitate maritime trade. H.E. Ahmed Mahboob Musabih, Director General of Dubai Customs, CEO of
Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, recently visited Creek Customs Center, Deira Port, and Hamriyah Port Customs Center to evaluate progress and oversee ongoing efforts for continuous customs service development. During this visit, several executive directors, department heads, and customs center managers were present.

Ahmed Mahboob Musabih, accompanied by Rashid Al Dhabah Al Suwaidi, Acting Director of Seae Customs Centers Management, conducted inspections at Khor Customs Center, Deira Port, and Hamriyah Port Customs Center. Managers Abdulaziz Ibrahim Al Salman and Majid Salem Al Tawilah provided insights into workflow progress and accomplishments. Over the first nine months of this year, 62,454 customs declarations were processed, totaling AED 12.133 billion, with 19 seizures recorded during the same period. A visit to Hamriyah Port Customs Center showcased an advanced container X-ray inspection device, supporting increased inspection operations.

Subsequently, visits to Khor Customs Center and Deira Port highlighted achievements, including a notable seizure called the “Wheelhouse,” which successfully prevented an attempt to smuggle 243 kilograms of narcotics into the country. Commending customs employees, Ahmed Mahboob Musabih emphasized the pivotal role of maritime customs centers in ensuring community security and facilitating trade. The department collaborates for efficient goods clearance and acknowledges employee efforts
during the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing to the department’s support for global efforts to revive maritime navigation and international trade.

Musabih clarified that the department’s advanced capabilities in monitoring and inspection enable it to keep pace with the UAE’s rapid foreign trade growth. Supporting Dubai’s economic agenda D33, the department aims to double foreign trade and enhance economic partnerships with key global markets. Efforts to boost customs inspector efficiency continue through training courses, ensuring their ability to thwart smuggling attempts. Continuous development of X-ray scanning
devices and the K9 customs dog unit further enhances contraband control achievements. Rasheed Al-Dabah explained that the forthcoming period will witness the advancement of new initiatives and mechanisms in the realm of inspection and examination. These initiatives are grounded in a forward-looking perspective to introduce cutting-edge technologies utilized in examining maritime transport vessels, wooden ships, and ships engaged in fish trade.

He remarked, “Our endeavors are harmonized to enhance performance in sea customs centers, concurrently focusing on bolstering monitoring, tracking, and technical support activities to yield optimal outcomes through continuous and productive collaboration among all specialized teams within the department. The Customs centers in Deira, Al Khor, and
Hamriyah Port Customs Center shoulder their vital responsibilities in safeguarding society and facilitating maritime trade through Dubai Creek and Hamriyah Port, supporting the ongoing growth of the national economy.”

Emirates

Dubai Customs Hosts Sharjah Housing Delegation to Strengthen Government Communication Ties

Dubai Customs, represented by the Corporate Communication Department, warmly welcomed a delegation from the Sharjah Housing Department. The purpose of the visit was to familiarize the delegation with the duties and responsibilities of the
Corporate Communication Department and its affiliated divisions. The delegation also aimed to explore the awards received by the department, notably the recognition as the Best Government Communication Team in the Sharjah Government Communication Award for 2023.

Khalil Saqer bin Gharib, Director of Corporate Communication Department, along with department managers, extended a cordial reception to the Sharjah Housing delegation, which included Dr. Ahmed Rashid Al Nuaimi, Director of Government Communication, Nada Sivan, Head of the Public Relations and Events Department, and Hamad Saleh Al Hamadi, Head of
the New Media Department. Bin Gharib highlighted the department’s commitment to strengthening communication with government entities to exchange practical experiences and knowledge. The delegation was briefed on Dubai Customs exceptional performance in customs operations and other facets.

The meeting delved into discussions on potential avenues for collaboration, with the Sharjah Housing delegation. Emphasis was placed on the crucial role played by Dubai Customs’ Corporate Communication Department, customs administrations, and centers in ensuring security and safeguarding society. The delegation was presented with an overview of the department’s working mechanisms, awareness campaigns, events, and activities conducted internally and externally, aligning with Dubai Customs esteemed reputation.

Furthermore, the Sharjah Housing delegation acquired an understanding of the best media practices adopted by the Corporate Communication Department, showcasing its outstanding performance in enhancing knowledge and media dissemination to all partners. This has resulted in the department establishing and fortifying relationships with local and international media
entities. The presentation also encompassed the factors contributing to the department’s receipt of the award for the Best Government Communication Team in the Sharjah Government Communication Award.

Dr. Ahmed Rashid Al Nuaimi, Director of Government Communication at Sharjah Housing, expressed appreciation for the efforts of Dubai Customs Corporate Communication Department, acknowledging its excellence and significant contribution to enhancing the department’s standing. Dr. Al Nuaimi affirmed Sharjah Housing’s commitment to fostering ongoing visits and meetings with Dubai Customs, aiming to achieve the highest level of coordination and benefit from the Corporate Communication Departmen’s experience in securing numerous local and international awards.

Emirates

Zayed Sustainability Prize opens submissions for 2025 cycle

The Zayed Sustainability Prize, the UAE’s pioneering global sustainability and humanitarian award, has officially announced that the 2025 cycle is now open for submissions. Submissions will be accepted until 23 June 2024 through the Prize’s online portal. Small to medium enterprises (SMEs), nonprofit organisations (NPOs) and high schools with sustainable solutions are invited to submit an entry for consideration in one of the six categories of Heath, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action and Global High Schools. Commenting on the launch of the 2025 submissions cycle, H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Director General of the Zayed Sustainability Prize, and COP28 President, said: “Since 2008, the
Zayed Sustainability Prize has honoured the legacy of Sheikh Zayed by fostering inclusive sustainable and humanitarian development around the world. In this decisive decade for climate change, these values are more important than ever. I am optimistic that the Prize will contribute to global climate action in line with the UAE Consensus, which will pave the
way toward an effective response to the Global Stocktake decision.” In response to the pressing climate crisis, and to further support the UAE’s efforts to accelerate practical solutions needed to drive climate action and uplift vulnerable communities around the world, the Prize has increased its funds from US $3.6 million to US $5.9 million. The Prize will reward US $1 million to each winner in the organisational categories of Health, Food, Energy, Water and Climate Action. Within the Global High Schools category, which is split into six world regions, each school can claim up to US $150,000 to start or further expand their project. The six world regions of the Global High Schools category are The Americas, Europe and Central Asia, Middle East and North Africa, Sub- Saharan Africa, South Asia, and East Asia and Pacific. The most recent Zayed Sustainability Prize winners were recognised at an Awards Ceremony held during COP28 UAE. To encourage a broader range of organisations and high schools to participate, the Prize will be accepting submissions in multiple languages, including Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish, and Portuguese. This will ensure that innovative solutions from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds can be recognised. For the Health, Food, Energy, Water and Climate Action categories, organisations should prove that they are improving access to essential products or services in their targeted communities and are able to implement a long-term vision for better living and working conditions. For the Global High Schools category, projects should be led by students, and must demonstrate innovative approaches to address sustainability challenges. The evaluation of each submission to the Prize consists of a rigorous, three-stage process. First, due diligence is conducted on all submissions to ensure that they meet the Prize’s evaluation criteria of Impact, Innovation, and Inspiration. This identifies the qualified entries and results in the selection of eligible candidates. Following this, evaluations are undertaken by a Selection Committee consisting of category-specific panels of independent international experts. From this shortlist of candidates, the finalists are chosen and then sent to the Prize Jury who unanimously elect the winners across all six categories. Winners of the Zayed Sustainability Prize will be announced at an Awards Ceremony during the 2025 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW).