Emirates

Empowering Futures: Union Exhibition in Dubai Unveils Collaborative Educational Support Drive

Under the patronage of Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director-General of Community Development Authority, the “Union Exhibition” for educational support has commenced, featuring the participation of various government entities in Dubai. These include the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, Dubai Customs, the General Directorate of Residency and
Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), the Dubai Community Development Authority, and the Dubai Charity Association.
Running from December 11 to 13, 2023, at Al Barsha Hall under the Community Development Authority, the exhibition opens to the public from 10 AM to 8 PM. Its goal is to attract both global and local companies, small project owners, and producers to
support charitable and community endeavors aligned with the strategic plans of the participating entities. These community initiatives form an integral part of the institutional framework, enhancing the concept of social responsibility to be more comprehensive and effective. During the exhibition’s inauguration, Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts across the public, private, and non- profit sectors to empower the community. This involves improving educational opportunities and providing training and qualification programs to help individuals
establish and promote their emerging projects. She underscored the significance of private sector collaboration in expanding financial support for individuals from low- income families, improving their economic prospects, and fostering financial
independence. Additionally, she stressed the importance of encouraging and supporting productive Emirati families in developing their home-based production. Small and medium-sized projects play a crucial role in stabilizing the local economy and
significantly contribute to enhancing the financial independence of individuals and families.
Her Excellency expressed satisfaction in working with Dubai Customs and all partners and supporters of the Union Exhibition, viewing this initiative as a step towards laying the optimal foundation for a future stage of financial and social empowerment. This effort aims to contribute to building the capacities of families and their children,
enhancing their quality of life, and helping them achieve their future aspirations. His Excellency Major General Mohamed Ahmed Al Marri, General Director of GDRFA, praised the “Union Exhibition, initiative”organized by the Dubai Charity Association in collaboration with key partners such as the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, Dubai Customs, the Community Development Authority in Dubai, and the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities in Dubai. This
initiative is a tangible expression of values like mutual support, cooperation, and the promotion of collective efforts among various community institutions. The joint endeavor seeks to address societal issues, support education, and aid individuals in need, particularly by enabling their children to pursue education. Al Marri emphasized that Dubai’s involvement in the exhibition underscores its commitment to fulfilling social responsibilities and continuing its role in fostering community happiness and improving the overall quality of life for all residents. In his response, Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi appointed, Director-General of the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities, emphasized the department’s commitment to affirming its societal role and the associated responsibility to attain a prominent status with an inclusive Islamic approach. This dedication is evident through active participation in national charitable and humanitarian initiatives, aligned with the
strategic guidance of the wise leadership. The department views its humanitarian role as an intrinsic part of its responsibilities, following the directives set by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.
He further noted that charitable endeavors hold the key to societal happiness, the enduring presence of benevolence, and cultural progress, as imparted by His Highness. Building upon this noble perspective, collaborative efforts will persist in developing
additional humanitarian initiatives, targeting the well-being of all members of society across diverse realms.
Rashid Al Sharid, Executive Director, Administration and Finance Division at Dubai Customs, said that Dubai Customs aims to foster a sense of solidarity and compassion among diverse societal groups through its sustainable community initiatives with
strategic partners. This endeavor seeks to embody loyalty, unity, and cohesion among the citizens of the United Arab Emirates, supporting initiatives that contribute to educational and community development. Approximately 50 commercial establishments, featuring a variety of global brands, along with numerous local companies and small project owners, are participating in the
exhibition. A dedicated section is provided free of charge for productive families, and a technical support center is available to aid in product development, guide marketing strategies, and offer training on innovative methodologies.

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).