Emirates

Abu Dhabi leads its way in offering innovative treatment and prevention solutions during COVID-19

ABU DHABI, 29th December, 2021 (WAM) — Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Abu Dhabi has presented an exemplary model for pandemic response, recovery and mitigation. The model saw the emirate topping several lists as it was consistently named among the world's leading cities in effective pandemic response.

The emirate ensured the health and safety of its community by providing treatments that satisfy the needs of all segments. This includes providing preventive treatments for individuals who are unable to be vaccinated and those who are infected, whether they suffer from moderate, mild, or severe symptoms. The capital’s ongoing efforts remain in line with the belief in the need to unify global efforts to enhance healthcare in the emirate and the world.

Dr. Jamal Al Kaabi, Under-Secretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), said, "Thanks to the directives of our wise leadership, Abu Dhabi spared no effort to preserve the health and safety of community members during the pandemic, by providing treatments that meet everyone’s needs. We consolidated our cooperation ties with distinguished global partners to contribute to establishing the emirate as an innovation hub for a healthier Abu Dhabi; upgrade the pioneering model presented by the emirate in mitigating the pandemic’s repercussions; and continue to empower national competencies and capabilities."

As part of its ongoing efforts to ensure the health and safety of all citizens and residents, the Emirate of Abu Dhabi added AstraZeneca’s Evusheld to the existing medications that are already available in the emirate, which saw the UAE be among the first countries in the world to receive a global shipment of this medication. This partnership was forged as part of the emirate’s ongoing efforts to establish a means of cooperation with various pioneering international companies and institutions in the field of pharmaceutical industry and medical research, in order to provide the most advanced treatments in the world – ones that ensure the health and safety of all those who call Abu Dhabi home.

The long-acting antibody medication is designed to prevent severe infection and death amongst immunocompromised patients and those who are unvaccinated. Evusheld doses arrived in Abu Dhabi following a collaboration of Rafed and AstraZeneca in the presence of DoH officials, as part of a series of new partnerships that the emirate is establishing to strengthen its position as a leading destination for life sciences in the region.

Sameh El Fangary, Country President – GCC and Pakistan, AstraZeneca, said, "Abu Dhabi has been at the forefront of tackling the pandemic and its impactful response is a testament to the visionary leadership of the UAE. We are proud to collaborate with DoH to build a more resilient, sustainable and robust healthcare system to position the capital as a life sciences hub. We welcome Abu Dhabi’s decision in being among the first to procure and receive doses of our long-acting antibody combination, Evusheld, for the prevention of COVID-19."

"Our recent MoU signed with G42 to further enhance clinical research and diagnostics frameworks in the UAE along with our partnership with the UAE’s leading healthcare supply chain, Rafed, demonstrates our long-term commitment to improve patient lives in the UAE and globally. We will continue to advance scientific innovation and fast recovery to help solve some of the greatest issues facing societies today," he added.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, Abu Dhabi forged other partnerships, including a collaboration with Roche, the world’s largest biotech company, to adopt the latter’s casirivimab and imdevimab for the prevention of the virus and the treatment of mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19 patients. DoH and Roche announced a strategic partnership that contributes to the future of healthcare transformation by supporting real-world evidence generation and research guidelines, improving the process for health technology assessment as per global standards, and accelerating access to diagnostics and treatment innovations to establish the emirate as a life science hub for a healthier Abu Dhabi.

The Roche treatment is composed of two monoclonal antibodies: casirivimab and imdevimab. Together, they form a monoclonal antibody combination with the potential both to treat patients with COVID-19 and prevent disease in those who may be exposed to the virus. The treatment has been approved in the European Union and Japan, and conditionally approved in the UK and Australia. In addition, the treatment is authorised for emergency use or temporary pandemic use in the United States, India, Switzerland and Canada, and is recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Dr. Mohamed El Shaarawy, General Manager, UAE Roche Pharmaceuticals, said, "Our fight against COVID-19 needs multiple approaches to ensure that infections and associated diseases can be prevented and treated with the best outcomes for our patients. At Roche, we responded immediately to the COVID-19 pandemic by leveraging our expertise in infectious diseases and building partnerships to devise options that support the global and local response. A year on from the onset of the pandemic, the Roche Pharma COVID-19 portfolio comprised diverse treatment options with distinct Mode of actions (antivirals and immunomodulators) that may cover various stages of the COVID-19 patient journey. We are honoured to have our collaboration with DoH to support their efforts and vision as a world-class healthcare ecosystem and spearhead the latest advancements for COVID-19 prevention and treatment."

Additionally, Abu Dhabi was the first city in the world to receive Sotrovimab, following emergency use authorisation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in June 2021. Sotrovimab is a monoclonal antibody treatment delivered through intravenous therapy. Sotrovimab can be used to treat adults and children above the age of 12 who meet certain criteria and are at risk of progressing to severe COVID-19 symptoms, as per protocols that have been developed by the National Scientific Committee. This followed the signing of a Declaration of Collaboration between DoH and leading global healthcare company, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).

Gizem Akalin, PhD, Vice President and Managing Director, GSK Gulf, said, "GSK has experienced an outstanding collaboration with DoH in our efforts to defeat the pandemic in Abu Dhabi. We have worked with policymakers, senior officials and front-line healthcare providers on a daily basis to ensure that patients have had full access to our innovative, highly effective treatment. At every step of the way, DoH has demonstrated a model of nimbleness, creativity and determination to be emulated, which helped in managing the pandemic successfully. Abu Dhabi has set a new benchmark in effective pandemic response and presents a highly relevant global model of successful industry-government partnership in an emergency health situation."

In compliance with its ongoing efforts to improve healthcare in the emirate and the health and well-being of community members, DoH also cooperates with a number of international companies specialised in medical solutions, pharmaceutical industries and diagnostics, including Pfizer, one of the world’s premier biopharmaceutical companies, to enhance clinical research capacity and bolster national competencies in Abu Dhabi. Both parties announced a mutual agreement that focuses on developing clinical trials conduct and enhancing research efforts and medical processes in the emirate. Pfizer will support DoH in establishing a training curriculum that is specialised in advancing the early phase of clinical trials and drug development programmes. Through this collaboration, Pfizer seeks to train up to 150 clinical researchers within 2 year, supporting DoH aim of reaching 500 qualified clinical researchers by 2025.

Furthermore, DoH became the first healthcare regulator in the region and the second globally to adopt and develop the Population Health Model (PHM). This innovative model will help with the early detection, management and comprehensive prevention programme of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This came as part of a cooperation with the Swiss multinational pharmaceutical company, Novartis, and in line with the department’s continued efforts in positioning the emirate as a global healthcare destination and an incubator for innovation. In addition, the PHM contributes to enhancing preventive measures against CVDs and reducing the number of CVD cases and its complications among the emirate’s residents by providing data that enables healthcare professionals to deliver the necessary recommendations and preventive programmes for patients.

The capital has recently bolstered means of joint cooperation with Belgium, as a leading global centre of pharmaceutical industries, to establish a global air corridor for the distribution of vaccines and pharmaceutical products between Abu Dhabi and Brussels. This collaboration is based on the capabilities of Abu Dhabi’s healthcare sector as a leading life sciences hub and in line with the HOPE Consortium’s efforts in providing and delivering vaccine solutions to the world.

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).