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Global innovation enabler Plug and Play and Abu Dhabi Investment Office announce Industry 4.0 open innovation platform founding partners

ABU DHABI, 18th December, 2021 (WAM) — Committed to empowering, connecting, and investing in startups, Plug and Play Abu Dhabi, the largest innovation enabler in the world, and Abu Dhabi Investment Office, the government entity enabling investment in Abu Dhabi, have officially announced their final list of founding partners for the Industry 4.0 open innovation platform in Abu Dhabi.

Mid Q3 2021, Plug and Play Abu Dhabi and ADIO announced the launch of their first-of-its-kind Industry 4.0 open innovation platform focused on boosting Abu Dhabi’s industrial innovation capabilities and attracting high-calibre tech startups, this was followed by an announcement welcoming Abu Dhabi Ports Group (ADP), the region’s premier facilitator of logistics, industry and trade, as the first founding partner.

The strong combined efforts from Plug and Play Abu Dhabi and ADIO have led to an outstanding set of an additional 8 founding partners joining the Industry 4.0 open innovation platform.

The latest founding partners to join the first Industry 4.0 Platform are Strata Manufacturing; a wholly owned company by Mubadala Investment Company with the aim to advance the aerospace sector in Abu Dhabi; Emirates Global Aluminium, the world's largest premium aluminium producer and the largest industrial company in the United Arab Emirates; BRF, one of the largest food companies in the world; Eaton, a global technology leader in power management solutions; Red Bull Advanced Technologies, the high performance vehicle engineering division of the Red Bull Racing Formula 1 Team; Gazprom Neft, Russia’s leading oil producer; Giffin Al Jazira Industrial Group, a firm that delivers complete signage solutions for the development of Abu Dhabi and Al Dahra, a UAE-based international conglomerate, specialising in the agribusiness.

As part of the platform’s mission, Plug and Play Abu Dhabi and ADIO have worked with some of the founding partners to define key tech challenges and innovation bottlenecks that will be solved by 7 high- calibre global startups selected to be part of the open innovation platform. The tech challenges agreed upon collectively were Industrial IoT; Vehicle Electrification & Charging; Warehouse Automation; Predictive Analytics & Maintenance; Last Mile Delivery and Low Carbon Vehicle Solutions & Integrations. To ensure the success of this platform Plug and Play Abu Dhabi and ADIO will also help in accelerating the deployment of innovative pilots, tech integrations and new products that enable Abu Dhabi’s industrial revolution.

The leading array of founding partners will also support in ensuring the Industry 4.0 open innovation platform creates a unified marketplace and forum to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange across major industrial avenues and exceptional technology startups, bringing real value and solutions to Abu Dhabi whilst paving the way for Abu Dhabi to secure a leading global position in the 4th Industrial Revolution.

Monira Al-Kuttab, Executive Director, ADIO, said: "Abu Dhabi’s focus on innovation has been the driving force behind our strong progress in developing impactful, cutting-edge technologies that can be deployed globally. ADIO is partnering with a world-class enabler Plug and Play Abu Dhabi and other leading entities from around Abu Dhabi to further boost innovation by taking support for companies to another level. Our partnership will enable companies from a range of sectors to access the tools and information they need to thrive in the industries of the future."

Babak Ahmadzadeh, Managing Director, Plug and Play Abu Dhabi, said: "In addition to ADIO and Abu Abu Dhabi Ports Group (ADP), we are proud to welcome the newest 8 local and global entities joining us as founding partners of the Industry 4.0 Open Innovation Platform to help drive the UAE’s 4th Industrial Revolution. Such a platform has not yet been started in the MENA region, and we are incredibly excited about its potential. We hope to drive real innovation and prosperity in major economic drivers of the Emirates such as manufacturing, logistics, sustainability, food security and more through meaningful collaborations with exceptional tech startups and forwarding-thinking corporate and government entities here in the UAE. We have no doubt that the Emirates will one day be a world leader in the 4th Industrial Revolution – we hope that this open innovation platform will play a major role in that for many years to come."

"We are proud to be a founding partner of the first Industry 4.0 open innovation platform, which aligns with the UAE's Vision to build a knowledge-based economy. The platform provides a unique opportunity for start-ups to be provided with knowledge and innovation that will drive the change in various key sectors. We at strata already incorporated and invested in research and developing 4IR technology within our working mechanism to expand our capabilities through innovation." Ismail Ali Abdulla, CEO of Strata Manufacturing PJSC, said.

Carlo Nizam, Chief Digital Officer, Emirates Global Aluminium, said: "Together at EGA we innovate aluminium to make modern life possible, and one of our bold aspirations for the decades ahead is to help establish a thriving manufacturing innovation ecosystem here in the UAE. Our partnership with this Industry 4.0 Platform will help us achieve that, creating opportunities for new businesses in the UAE, and supporting us in our own Industry 4.0 transformation of EGA’s operations."

"We are honored to be part of this one of a kind initiative to drive Industry 4.0 in the region. As the world’s largest poultry exporter and the leading brand in the chicken category in the Middle East with its own factory in Abu Dhabi, BRF Sadia is more than ever committed to drive innovation and sustainability in the food industry." Fadi Felfeli, BRF Sadia, Commercial Director, said.

Steven Nasser, Chief Technology Officer, SABER Investment Company, said: "Giffin always has been on the forefront of technological innovation and transformational breakthrough. Since its inception in 1976, the company has always been focused on combining engineering expertise with infrastructure designs. Known for its milestone accomplishments in manufacturing wayfinding signage, steel infrastructure and other roads assets that span the UAE; today, the company is positioned to yet again, play a pivotal role in transforming the industrial innovations and capabilities of the UAE. With its investment in the 1st digitally connected advanced precision machining center, Giffin is ready to design, manufacture and deploy high precision components well targeted to growing emerging sectors. We look forward to becoming the platform through which supply chains can be further developed and enhanced."

Alexey Vashkevich, Gazprom Neft Chief Technology Officer, Upstream said: "Gazprom Neft is the first Russian oil and gas company that promotes its technologies and digital solutions internationally. Having a portfolio of 200+ hardware technologies and 100+ digital solutions we are a partner of choice for major industry players, start-ups and scale-ups worldwide. Being a part of Industry 4.0, Gazprom Neft opens opportunities of Russian innovations in order to enhance value coming from emerging tech."

Andy Damerum, Commercial Development Officer at Red Bull Advanced Technologies, commented: "Red Bull Advanced Technologies specialises in applying the same tools, techniques and methods used in the Formula 1 industry to new and exciting technical and engineering challenges across the globe. We are delighted to be involved with the Industry 4.0 innovation platform and to work with businesses in the Middle East who can benefit from our industry leading expertise and high performance technologies."

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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.”

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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.

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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).

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