Onjo Simson

  Three years ago, on November 4th, 2020, Air Arabia took flight enthusiasts on an exciting journey with the launch of a new direct route from Sharjah to Tashkent, the captivating capital of Uzbekistan. As we celebrate this milestone, it's a perfect time to reflect on the impact this route has had on both travel and culture. The direct flight connection between Sharjah and Tashkent has not only brought two diverse regions closer but has also opened up a world of opportunities for travel enthusiasts and adventurers. It's remarkable how quickly time has passed since this route's inception. It seems like just yesterday when we were celebrating the inaugural flight, and now, it's turned three! Over the years, this route has not only become a bridge between the UAE and Uzbekistan but has also fostered cultural exchanges, tourism, and business opportunities. Travelers from both regions have been treated to a taste of the diverse cultures, histories, and landscapes they ha

  As World Cities Day approaches, we turn our spotlight to Abu Dhabi, a city that exemplifies urban excellence and is poised to host world-class events. This year, World Cities Day is particularly special, coinciding with Abu Dhabi's ascent as a global destination of choice for spectacular happenings. Let's explore why this Arabian gem stands as a true testament to the spirit of this significant day.   Abu Dhabi's reputation as a city that thrives on the global stage is personified by its hosting of the prestigious Formula 1 Grand Prix at the renowned Yas Marina Circuit. This iconic event is more than just a race; it's a breathtaking display of speed, skill, and luxury set against the stunning backdrop of the Arabian Gulf. The city's dedication to perfection in organizing world-class events continues to shine, making it a global leader in this realm.   Abu Dhabi's architectural panorama beautifully blends the traditional with the contemporary, housing treasu

  In the face of adversity, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been a consistent source of support for friendly nations. This enduring commitment was vividly demonstrated during the challenging times brought about by Storm Daniel in Libya. Triggered by severe flooding and heavy rains, the crisis left a significant toll, with countless lives lost and widespread damage. The UAE's humanitarian efforts, marked by professionalism and immediate action, were a testament to their unwavering solidarity.   In the past, as soon as the storm struck, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan swiftly directed the dispatch of urgent relief aid and search and rescue (SAR) teams to Libya. This longstanding support highlighted the UAE's unwavering commitment to the Libyan people in their times of need. The UAE's support extended to various forms of aid. This assistance included shelter, food, health supplies, and other essentials to aid those most affected by the catastro

  Food television, with its delectable dishes and culinary adventures, has enchanted audiences around the world. However, it's time to address the genre's carbon footprint. The air travel, energy-intensive kitchens, and production waste contribute to an environmental impact that's hard to digest. To make food TV more eco-friendly, there are steps that can be taken. One key shift is toward plant-based cooking. By showcasing sustainable and delicious plant-based recipes, food television can encourage viewers to make environmentally conscious choices in their own kitchens. Additionally, adopting eco-conscious production practices, such as using energy-efficient equipment, reducing food waste on set, and employing sustainable building materials for sets, can make a substantial difference. Furthermore, going electric is a vital part of this transformation. Transitioning to electric vehicles for production and travel can significantly reduce emissions, contributing to a more

  Who would've thought the UAE would make headlines in the Caspian region for renewable energy? Well, they're up to some exciting stuff! Masdar, the UAE's clean-energy powerhouse, is rolling out big plans to generate a whopping 10 gigawatts of clean energy from solar and wind plants in Azerbaijan . It's not just about going green; it's about taking a giant leap towards a cleaner, more sustainable future. Now, you might be wondering, why should we care about this partnership? Here's the deal: renewable energy is like the superhero of the environment. Solar and wind power don't just reduce carbon emissions; they're like the Avengers swooping in to save our planet from the climate crisis. By making this happen, Masdar and Azerbaijan are teaming up to save the day. This is fantastic news, as it demonstrates the UAE's dedication to clean energy and environmental preservation. The partnership between Masdar and Azerbaijan is a step in the right directi

  Three years after the historic Abraham Accords, it's abundantly clear that the relationship between Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has blossomed into something truly remarkable. Over the past year, this partnership has reached new heights, further solidifying the profound impact of the Accords on the Middle East. One standout aspect of this burgeoning relationship is the increasing presence of Israelis in the UAE. Israelis are not only living and working in the UAE but are also actively engaged in various business ventures. This trend is most prominent in sectors such as precious metals, financial services, technology, and telecoms, signifying a broadening scope of opportunities. The Abraham Accords, signed three years ago, have undeniably paved the path toward strong and normalized relations between the UAE and Israel. This groundbreaking agreement not only ushered in diplomatic ties but also fostered an atmosphere of cooperation and friendship. It created opport

  Dubai International Chamber , a vital component of Dubai Chambers, has played a pivotal role in fostering international trade connections. The Chamber orchestrated more than 350 bilateral business meetings between food and beverage companies in Dubai and their global counterparts during the renowned Anuga Food Fair in Germany. This event, the largest trade fair for the food and beverage sector worldwide, hosted representatives from 13 Dubai-based companies. They convened in Cologne, Germany, where the fair, under the banner of "Sustainable Growth," gathered 140,000 visitors from 200 countries and featured 7,900 exhibitors from 118 nations. Dubai International Chamber's engagement in this mission aligns with the " New Horizons for External Expansion" initiative, launched with the purpose of promoting international expansion among its members and positioning Dubai as a thriving global investment hub. Mohammed Ali Rashid Lootah, Director General of Dubai Chamb

  At a UN meeting in Rome, António Guterres , the UN Secretary-General, didn't mince words about the serious food security situation we're facing. He dropped some eye-opening stats: 735 million people went hungry last year, and a staggering 3 billion couldn't afford a decent meal. Guterres expressed his deep concern that we're actually moving backward on our mission to eliminate hunger by 2030. Hunger: More Than Just Empty Stomachs Guterres didn't just talk numbers; he painted a vivid picture of the crisis. When people can't access healthy food because of costs or where they live, when hunger takes a toll on health, and parents watch their kids suffer and even die from lack of food, it's not just a problem. It's a massive human rights violation. It's a global tragedy and moral catastrophe. Investing in the Right to Food In this alarming situation, Guterres didn't hold back. He called for massive investments in the human right to food. He

  The Siba gas field, managed by Kuwait Energy and its partners, has been a valuable contributor to Iraq's energy supply. This expansion aligns with Iraq's vision to enhance its energy infrastructure and reduce dependency on imports. The increased production is expected to not only meet domestic demand but also contribute to Iraq's standing as an energy exporter in the region. As the world looks toward cleaner energy sources, this development positions Iraq to play a pivotal role in the regional energy landscape. The Siba gas field's increased production is a noteworthy step toward sustainable energy solutions and economic growth for the nation. This move to boost the production of the Siba gas field is a significant stride in Iraq's energy sector. It aligns with the nation's broader vision for energy independence and economic growth. This step not only caters to domestic energy requirements but also reinforces Iraq's role as a key player in the regional

  The United Arab Emirates has taken a strong stance by demanding a quick end to hostilities in Gaza , which is a key step toward putting an end to the continuing violence. During a peace summit conducted in Egypt, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE President, made this appeal. The UAE's forceful message emphasizes how urgent it is to put an end to the bloodshed and is an essential step in bringing about peace and stability in the region. This call for a ceasefire comes at a time when the world is deeply concerned about the escalating conflict and its toll on the people. Sheikh Mohamed's statement highlights the UAE's commitment to diplomacy and its determination to get all parties to the negotiating table. It also reinforces the nation's role as an active mediator in the Middle East, working towards resolving conflicts through discussions rather than violence. UAE's participation in the Egypt peace summit and its push for a ceasefire mark a significan

  During a speech at the 2023 Arctic Circle Assembly, the COP28 President  delivered some tough news: the Arctic is heating up at a mind-boggling rate, almost four times faster than the global average. This revelation paints a pretty grim picture of what's happening due to climate change. The Arctic's fragile ecosystems are undergoing profound transformations due to rising temperatures. Melting ice caps, vanishing glaciers, and shifting ocean currents threaten not only the unique biodiversity of the region but also have global implications. The accelerated warming of the Arctic amplifies sea-level rise, disrupts weather patterns, and impacts communities that rely on the delicate balance of this pristine environment. One significant and immediate impact of Arctic warming is on the global food supply . As sea ice melts and ocean temperatures rise, the delicate ecosystems that support fish populations and other marine life are disrupted. This not only threatens the livelihoods o

  As the conflict in Gaza continues to unfold, Iraq is making a powerful statement of solidarity with the besieged Palestinian people. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani, in a meeting with the Shiite Coordination Framework coalition, directed the collection and dispatch of donations to Gaza. The gathering strongly condemned the ongoing Zionist attacks on the occupied territories and the harsh siege enforced by Israeli authorities in Gaza, which has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis faced by Palestinians. The Iraqi government's resolute stance in defense of the Palestinian people has received widespread appreciation. The country is not only expressing its solidarity through donations but also by calling for international accountability. In addition to the government's actions, the Iraqi armed forces are actively involved, receiving direct donations and humanitarian aid for the Palestinian people, which will be delivered to Gaza. This initiative by Iraq also highlights t

  UAE have joined forces, calling for a quick sit-down with the United Nations Security Council. The hospital, a crucial healthcare lifeline for Gaza's people, took a heavy hit in the attack, causing outrage and an immediate cry for international intervention. The UAE's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdullah bin Zayed, and his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, have emphasized the urgent need for a UN Security Council meeting to discuss the situation. The hospital bombing is seen as a grave violation of international humanitarian law, and its consequences have further intensified the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. The proposed meeting aims to bring international attention to the issue, seek a ceasefire, and promote a peaceful resolution to the crisis. As the world keeps a close eye on this situation, diplomatic efforts are revving up. The hope is that this UN Security Council powwow will be the catalyst for de-escalation, offering a lifeline to civilians ca

  Did you hear about Iraqi President Barham Salih's recent trip to the World Food Forum in Rome? He was there to talk about the challenges facing Iraq in terms of food security and agriculture. During his speech, President Salih talked about the importance of investing in Iraq's agricultural sector and improving food security for the country's citizens. He also discussed the impact of climate change on agriculture and the need for international cooperation to address this issue. Iraqis' reactions to the President's participation in the discussion were generally mixed. Others voiced doubt about how his participation would affect the current difficulties in Iraq's agricultural industry, while some applauded his emphasis on international cooperation and his attempts to promote sustainable agriculture. But hey, it's great to see world leaders coming together to address global food challenges and promote sustainable agriculture, right? And who knows, maybe

The Russian energy behemoth Gazprom is in talks with Iraq about possible joint oil and gas projects. Iraq, one of the top oil producers in the world, wants to strengthen its energy industry and increase production capacity. These conversations show a determination to use Gazprom's resources and experience to boost Iraq's standing on the world energy market. The collaboration occurs at a critical juncture for Iraq, which wants to increase its energy capacity and lessen gas flaring related to oil extraction. Iraq wants to work with Gazprom to improve electricity generation, eliminate waste, and make better use of its natural gas resources. This is consistent with Iraq's overall initiatives to solve environmental issues and develop its energy sector for economic prosperity. The possible agreement between Iraq and Gazprom is very promising and demonstrates both nations' dedication to a long-lasting and advantageous energy alliance. It emphasizes the value of international

  A rush of recent immigrants from Hong Kong has sparked a delicious Cantonese culinary rebirth in the center of the United Kingdom. With their classic noodle and rice dishes, pineapple buns, and other delicacies, these culinary pioneers are introducing a brand-new flash of authenticity to the British dining scene. The UK is undergoing a savory makeover as Hong Kong expatriates share their cherished family recipes, with restaurants, street vendors, and home cooks rekindling the authentic essence of Cantonese food. Diners can embark on a global culinary tour by indulging in Cantonese BBQ, sizzling woks, and dim sum, all of which have rich and savory flavors. This renaissance of Cantonese cuisine is a celebration of culture and heritage in addition to being a delicious feast for the senses. It illustrates the ability of food to cross cultural and generational barriers and serves as a reminder that wherever we are, we can always reproduce and spread the flavours of home. Read more>>

  Amidst the challenges faced by the people of Gaza, the Emirates of Charity have steppedforward as a symbol of hope and unwavering support . I've rarely witnessed such an immense and swift response as the one demonstrated by the Emirates of Charity The acts of the Emirates of Charity, on a larger scale, show the significant power that organized philanthropy wields in tackling pressing international concerns. Their assistance highlights the crucial part local and international charities play in promoting positive change. The Emirates of Charity show the amazing influence that communities can have when they work together in a world where compassion and unity are of utmost significance. The Emirates of Charity's continuous support for Gaza is truly touching. It goes to show how even a small act of kindness can make a significant impact on the lives of those in need. Their dedication serves as a powerful reminder of the positive change that can be achieved through collective

  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the world's leader in humanitarian aid, giving billions of dollars to impoverished nations like Afghanistan. The UAE has recently given Afghanistan billions of dollars in humanitarian aid, which has helped to address the needs of millions of people who have been impacted by war, poverty, and natural disasters. In order to quickly bring supplies to the nation in the wake of the disastrous earthquake that struck Herat Province in October 2023 , the UAE set up an air bridge. Millions of Afghans in need received nearly 100 tons of food, medical supplies, and other necessities via the air bridge. The humanitarian aid provided by the UAE to Afghanistan is a manifestation of the nation's fundamental ideals of compassion and togetherness. The UAE is dedicated to assisting those who are less fortunate because it believes that everyone deserves to enjoy a life filled with respect and opportunity. In Afghanistan, the UAE is a compassionate and humanit

  In a heartening development, the United Arab Emirates (UAE)has reached out to Nigeria with a promise of assistance in dealing with the country's humanitarian and poverty-related challenges. The UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed Al Shamsi, expressed his country's eagerness to collaborate with the Nigerian government in critical areas. During a meeting at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in Abuja, Ambassador Al Shamsi stressed the strong and mutually beneficial relationship between the two nations. He outlined the key areas of partnership, which include humanitarian aid, job creation, nutrition, healthcare development, and poverty alleviation. In response to this generous offer, Dr. Betta Edu, the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, conveyed her heartfelt appreciation to the UAE for their timely interventions in essential sectors across Nigeria. She expressed gratitude to Ambassador Al Shamsi and his team for their willi

  Iraq and France have embarked on a path of enhanced military cooperation, marking a significant development in their diplomatic relations. As the two nations seek to address shared security challenges and regional stability, this partnership could lead to deeper collaboration on various fronts. The discussions held between Iraqi officials and their French counterparts signify a growing interest in fostering joint efforts to ensure peace and security in the region. Iraq's geographical location in a complex and turbulent neighborhood has made it imperative for the nation to bolster its military capabilities. French support in the form of training, equipment, and strategic cooperation could greatly enhance Iraq's ability to manage security concerns. France, with its vast military experience and global outreach, is well-positioned to assist Iraq in addressing both domestic and regional security matters. The deepening military cooperation between Iraq and France underscores the

  Moscow, Russia - Iraqi Prime Minister participated in the prestigious Russian Energy Week , which was hosted in Moscow, in an important step toward fostering global energy cooperation. The gathering of global energy leaders provided a distinctive forum for talks on crucial energy-related topics. In order to strengthen Iraq's energy infrastructure and further establish his country's place on the world energy scene, the Iraqi Prime Minister wanted to forge stronger ties with Russia during his visit. Iraq, one of the major oil producers in the world, understands the value of developing its energy industry. In addition to meeting with worldwide energy specialists and exchanging knowledge and ideas with them, the Prime Minister's participation in Russian Energy Week gave him the possibility to consider partnering with Russia, a major participant in the world energy scene. Iraq aspires to take advantage of Russia's extensive knowledge and expertise in the industry as it wor

  In the wake of the recent earthquakes in the Herat province of Afghanistan, the Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Charitable & Humanitarian Foundation has provided emergency aid to the victims, including food, medical supplies, and other essential items. This is just one example of the UAE's consistent support to Afghanistan over the years. The UAE has been a major donor of humanitarian aid to Afghanistan for decades. In 2021 alone, the UAE provided over $1 billion in humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, making it the largest donor of humanitarian aid to the country. The UAE's aid has helped to provide food, water, shelter, and medical care to millions of Afghans in need. The UAE provides more than just humanitarian aid to Afghanistan. A significant investor in Afghanistan's growth has also been the UAE. In Afghanistan, the UAE has made investments in a variety of fields, including infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Millions of Afghans now live better lives as a result o

  Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Sudani met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, which was an important diplomatic breakthrough. The summit takes place at a crucial juncture in both countries' foreign policies, as they work to deepen their bilateral ties and resolve urgent regional issues. Al-Sudani and Putin's conversations are anticipated to have significant effects on the Middle East and beyond. The presidents covered a wide range of issues at the meeting, including energy cooperation, military support, and regional stability. Iraq is a significant producer and exporter of oil, and this meeting might result in further energy cooperation between the two nations. Additionally, Iraq is looking to Russia for assistance in the form of military aid and counterterrorism techniques as the country struggles with security issues and the continuous war against terrorism. Both leaders will have the chance to discuss current regional problems, such as the one in Syria and t

  The first wind farms in the United Arab Emirates have been triumphantly displayed by Masdar, the global leader in renewable energy with headquarters in Abu Dhabi. This historic accomplishment neatly ties in with the UAE hosting the UN climate summit later this year, demonstrating the country's dedication to battling climate change. These cutting-edge wind farms, together referred to as the UAE Wind Program , are dispersed over different areas and each play a vital part in diversifying the nation's energy mix. The greatest of these is a 45MW wind farm on Sir Bani Yas Island that is cleverly combined with a 14MW solar farm to show a comprehensive approach to the production of sustainable energy. Another 27MW wind farm is located on Delma Island, and there are another 27MW and 4.5MW wind farms located in Abu Dhabi and Al Halah, Fujairah, respectively. This admirable endeavor has generated interest both domestically and internationally. It highlights the nation's commitment

  India and the United Arab Emirates have signed an agreement to interlink their payment systems . This will allow users of India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) to make payments to merchants in the UAE, and vice versa. The agreement also includes interlinking the RuPay and UAESWITCH card switches. The agreement to interlink the payment systems of India and the UAE is a significant development for both countries. It will make it easier for businesses and consumers to make payments between the two countries, and it is expected to boost trade and investment. The agreement has been welcomed by both governments and businesses in both countries. This agreement is a sign of the growing economic and strategic ties between India and the UAE. The two countries have been working closely on a number of issues, including trade, investment, and security. The interlinking of their payment systems is a further step in strengthening their relationship. This agreement is also a positive

  An important development recently highlighted the growing significance of energy cooperation in the region when the Prime Minister of Iraq met at a high level with the Minister of State for Gas Affairs of Turkmenistan . The summit, which was held in Baghdad, the capital city, was centered on fostering bilateral connections and examining possibilities for working together in the energy industry. This diplomatic exchange demonstrates the two countries' common commitment to utilizing their energy resources for mutual gain. Iraq, with its vast oil and gas reserves, is actively seeking to expand its energy partnerships and diversify its sources of natural gas. Turkmenistan, on the other hand, boasts substantial natural gas reserves and is keen to explore new export avenues. This meeting serves as a platform for the two countries to explore potential projects that could facilitate the transfer of Turkmenistan's gas resources to Iraq, thereby addressing Iraq's energy needs and

  The India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) has been a major success since it came into force in May 2022. Bilateral non-oil trade reached $50.5 billion in the first 12 months of CEPA, representing a growth of 5.8 percent. The two countries are aiming to achieve the target of $100 billion in non-oil trade by 2030. The 11th meeting of the India-UAE high level joint task force on investments, which was co-chaired by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, reviewed the progress made on the implementation of CEPA and discussed ways to further boost trade and investment between the two countries. The India-UAE economic partnership is growing stronger by the day. CEPA has been a major success, and the two countries are working together to further boost trade and investment. The India-UAE bilateral investment treaty, the Fast Track Mechanism, the India-UAE Start-Up Bridge, and th

  On the auspicious occasion of World Teachers' Day, PresidentHH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan demonstrated his deep appreciation and respect for the educators who have played an instrumental role in shaping the future of the United Arab Emirates. In a heartwarming and significant gathering, President Sheikh Mohamed convened with teachers from across the UAE to celebrate their tireless efforts in nurturing the nation's young minds. The meeting, which took place on October 5th, symbolized the nation's commitment to recognizing the crucial role teachers play in advancing society. It showcased the UAE's dedication to continually improving its educational landscape and ensuring that teachers receive the appreciation and support they deserve. President Sheikh Mohamed's presence was a testament to the government's commitment to nurturing a world-class education system in the UAE. In a world where educators are the unsung heroes, this meeting with President S

  On the occasion of Global Breast Cancer Challenge Month , the Al-Nasiriyah Teaching Hospital conducted a specialized scientific symposium on breast cancer in collaboration with the Community Development Division of the Dhi Qar Health Department. Experts from a range of disciplines, including oncology, surgery, radiology, and pathology, gathered at the conference to talk about the most recent developments in the detection and treatment of breast cancer. It is admirable that the Dhi Qar Health Department and Al-Nasiriyah Teaching Hospital are leading the charge to increase public awareness of breast cancer and offer assistance to those who are affected. Both patients and healthcare professionals can benefit from this conference. It is critical to keep informing the public on the causes of breast cancer, the value of early detection, and the most recent developments in therapy. Together, we can lessen the impact of breast cancer and enhance the lives of people who are affected.

  The Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources recently disclosed that the temporarily suspended Iraq oil pipeline is expected to resume operations within the coming week, which is a significant development for the energy sector. This announcement is great news because it would likely restore daily oil supplies to the market of 500,000 barrels. According to an Iraqi official, the shutdown of the pipeline's operations was caused by budgetary problems. It's important to remember that the resolution of these financial issues represents a significant advancement in securing the consistent supply of oil from Iraq, a critical player in the world energy landscape. The pipeline's impending reopening emphasizes both the importance of this crucial energy route and the interconnectedness of nations when it comes to the security of the world's energy supply. Experts and stakeholders will be keenly watching the situation as we eagerly await the restart of oil flow, praying

  Thailand is poised to ratify free trade agreements (FTAs) with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the upcoming year, which is an exciting development for the country's commercial environment. These projected agreements are likely to dramatically increase trade volumes, increasing Thailand's exports to these important markets by about US$31 billion (or one trillion baht) yearly. Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations Auramon Supthaweethum stated that the FTA with the UAE might be the first to be implemented, possibly even by the end of this year. The UAE is in a prime logistical location for the distribution of Thai goods throughout the Middle East thanks to the country's significant purchasing power, which is supported by its residents, foreign employees, and visitors. These upcoming FTAs are fantastic news for Thailand's trade prospects! It's impressive to see how quickly they're