through its Corporate Communication Department, has won the prestigious International Best Practice Competition (IBPC) award, earning the “Excellence Level – Five Stars” in Government Communication. This recognition highlights the department’s achievements, initiatives, innovations, and future vision. It also aligns with Dubai’s government efforts to create an innovation-driven environment, nurture talent, and institutionalize creativity. The award strengthens Dubai’s global standing, as the IBPC is a
renowned international competition, where organizations from around the world showcase their
best practices based on a framework of excellence and leadership. The winners are announced
during a special ceremony hosted by the Centre for Organizational Excellence Research (COER) in
New Zealand. This year, 72 organizations from 10 countries participated in the competition.
H.E. Dr. Abdulla Mohammed Busenad, Director General of Dubai Customs, expressed his pride in
receiving this esteemed award, noting that it reflects Dubai Customs & strategic focus on fostering
a culture of creativity and innovation. He emphasized the importance of enhancing Dubai’s
global reputation through such awards, which highlight improvements in the customs
experience, service development, and effective communication with local and international
stakeholders. He added that Dubai’s forward-looking vision aligns with the leadership’s goals of
achieving excellence in applying international standards in digital content and integrated
institutional work.
Khalil Saqer bin Gharib, Director of the Corporate Communication Department, noted that Dubai
Customs surpassed many global organizations in the 10th edition of the competition,
establishing its government communication as a global model of innovative practices. He also
highlighted that these international awards contribute to the department’s continuous success
and its strong presence in the Dubai Government Excellence Program. The Corporate
Communication Department has won numerous global and local awards, including the
International Brilliance Award for Best Marketing and PR Team at the BOC Brilliance Awards in
London, the Bronze Award for Environmental Excellence at the 14th Annual World Summit for
Corporate Social Responsibility, the Global Sustainability Peacock Award from the Institute of Directors in London, and the Best Government Communication Team Award at both local and Arab levels from the Sharjah Government Communication Awards.

The Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) hasvlaunched a special edition of its ‘Global 50’ report, exploring innovative solutions that empower youth and future generations.
Released ahead of the 2024 United Nations’ Summit’ of the Future’ the ‘Global 50: Future
Opportunities’ report complements the forthcoming UN ‘Pact for the Future’ ‘Declaration on
Future Generations’ and ‘Global Digital Compact’, which focus on addressing challenges and
opportunities of today and for years to come.
This edition features insights from both international and UAE experts, spotlighting
opportunities that drive innovation, address global challenges, and support sustainability. The
strategies outlined aim to enhance public health, advance technology, stimulate economic
growth, and promote environmental sustainability. By capitalizing on these opportunities,
societies can adapt to evolving circumstances, strengthen resilience, and ensure a thriving future
for upcoming generations.
The ‘Global 50’ report, published annually by DFF, highlights 50 opportunities for growth and
well-being across diverse sectors. This special edition focuses on areas relevant to the summit’s
theme of empowering future generations.
Contributors to this edition include Dr. Ameena Al-Sumaiti, Associate Professor at Khalifa
University, who explores how AI-powered smart homes could revolutionize urban living by
adapting to human needs. In addition, Lambert Hogenhout, Chief Data and AI Officer at the
United Nations Secretariat, reflects on the concept of ‘Public AI’, posing the question, “What if
part of AI was a public good?”

The fourth edition of the Abaya Rally lit up the Dubai Autodrome on August 24, 2024, as over 200 women came together to celebrate Emirati Women’s Day with a powerful display of unity and empowerment. Organized by Orbit Events, this all-women drive showcased the strength and resilience of
women from various nationalities, all proudly driving in their Abayas. This year’s rally stood out for its sense of community and collective strength. The Club Circuit buzzed with the energy of determined women, each making their mark on the track. Adding to the thrill was a newly introduced drift passenger experience, providing an adrenaline-filled adventure that perfectly complemented the rally’s empowering atmosphere. The rally, which highlighted the participants’ commitment to progress and a sustainable future, featured an impressive range of vehicles, from sleek supercars and sports cars to 4x4s
and superbikes. The event was more than just a drive; it was a powerful statement of empowerment, as women proudly displayed their skills and commitment to shattering barriers. ZEEKR X, the premium electric compact SUV, took the spotlight as the flagship vehicle of the Abaya Rally, dedicated to celebrating and empowering women. As the official EV automotive brand of the event, ZEEKR—a global leader in premium electric vehicles, distributed by AW Rostamani Group (AWR)—epitomizes the spirit of innovation and advancement. The all-women drive was flagged off with ZEEKR X and ZEEKR 001,
pushing forward the brand’s commitment to style and sophistication, and showcasing its position as a leader in the EV segment. Roberto Colucci, Director of ZEEKR at AW Rostamani Group, commented: “We were thrilled to be a part of the Abaya Rally, which served as a testament to and celebration of the
diverse talent, creativity, and aspirations of Emirati women. From fashion to exploration and
innovation, the event showcased their boundless potential, aligning perfectly with ZEEKR
and AWR’s mission to drive progress and inclusivity. We were particularly proud to see
Eman Al Bastaki recognized for her exceptional leadership in Emiratization and her
dedication to empowering Emirati women in the automotive industry. By continuing to
support initiatives like these, we are building a future where local talent plays a pivotal role in
shaping the nation’s progress.”
Cannon Wang, Managing Director of ZEEKR MENA Region, remarked: "Being part of the
Abaya Rally was an honor for us as this event beautifully mirrored our values at ZEEKR —
innovation, empowerment, and a forward-thinking approach. This rally was not just a
celebration of motoring but a powerful statement of the strength, creativity, and
determination of women in the UAE. At ZEEKR, we are committed to driving progress and
providing platforms that empower individuals to showcase their unique identities. The Abaya
Rally was a perfect embodiment of this commitment, and we were pleased to be part of an
initiative that is paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.”

The event celebrated Emirati Women’s Day, honoring Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak’s vision.
It featured an elite panel of accomplished Emirati women: Maitha Alblooshi, Founder of Be
You and Agile Coach; Abeer Matrooshi, Professional Coach and Radio Presenter; Alanoud
Alhashmi, Emirati Businesswoman and Consultant; and Eman Ahmed Al Bastaki, HRBP and
Group Head of Emiratisation at AWRostamani Group. The event also recognized Emirati
Women of Achievement: Ayatelrahman Al Sharawy, Narcotics Expert with Dubai Women’s
Police, and Safa Almahri, the first Emirati woman with licenses in all seven driving
categories.
“It’s an incredible privilege to celebrate and honor the achievements of Emirati women at the
Abaya Rally and Emirati Women’s Day. This event is more than just a drive; it’s a testament
to our collective strength and a beacon for future generations. Let’s continue to break barriers
and inspire each other to reach new heights.”
—Panelist, Abeer Al Matrooshi, Professional Coach and Radio Presenter
“Empowering women is about creating opportunities and leading with courage. Together,
we’re shaping a future where every woman can achieve her dreams and make a lasting
impact.” — Panelist, Alanoud Alhashmi, Emirati Businesswoman, Futurist and Consultant
The event spotlighted a distinguished panel of automotive trailblazers, including Eman Thani,
a renowned professional biker; Nahla Al Rostamani, the pioneering Emirati woman to hold a
racing license; Nora Al Jassasi, an Emirati female rally driver; and Syeda Aisha Atif, a
mechanical engineer. Honorees included Fouzia Zahoor, the youngest woman to earn a heavy
vehicle license in the UAE and a celebrated truck driver, and Rana Hayek, an accomplished
engineer, mechanic, and influencer.
The rally also showcased a modest fashion segment, highlighting the Abaya's identity as a
symbol of strength and modern elegance. This segment beautifully blended traditional
craftsmanship with contemporary designs, celebrating cultural identity with a touch of luxury
and sophistication.
The event was in Partnership with ZEEKR and AW Rostamani Group and powered by
Castrol Edge, featuring Gold sponsors Al Ain Farms, Al Haramain Perfumes, Amaron,
Awrostamani Trading, and Silver sponsor Travel Wings. Support partners included
Champion Digital, Florist Partner FNP.ae, Hydration Partner Jeema, SoCL, Royal Sea Ent. ,
Girls Mechanic Team
The Abaya Rally concluded with a powerful celebration of the strength and achievements of
women in the UAE, uniting participants from all walks of life and showcasing their capacity
to drive change. The event highlighted the vital role women play in society, marking a
historic moment of empowerment and unity.