Onjo Simson

  The Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence recently hosted a lively celebration for the 2024 International Workers' Day at Saadiyat Housing Village in Abu Dhabi. Led by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, the event aimed to recognize the invaluable contributions of UAE workers to the nation's progress and prosperity. Sheikh Nahyan underscored the UAE's commitment to prioritizing the welfare of its workers, emphasizing the importance of unity and social cohesion embodied in the spirit of "Together in the Emirates of Zayed." The festivities, attended by over 5,000 UAE workers representing diverse backgrounds, featured various activities and performances. From documentaries showcasing workers' social, health, and sports initiatives to cultural presentations and entertainment shows, the event underscored the integral role of workers in shaping the nation's cultural landscape. As a symbolic gesture of appreciation, food

  In a significant development, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Ukraine have solidified the terms of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), marking a pivotal moment in their bilateral relations. Signed by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE's Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and Yulia Svyrydenko, Ukraine’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development and Trade, the CEPA aims to enhance trade ties and promote economic cooperation between the two nations. With a focus on removing tariffs, reducing trade barriers, and fostering fair market access, the agreement holds immense potential to bolster economic growth and prosperity for both countries. Benefits and Implications of the UAE-Ukraine CEPA The UAE-Ukraine CEPA is poised to bring about a myriad of benefits, ranging from facilitating smoother trade operations to supporting Ukraine’s economic recovery and infrastructure rebuilding efforts. By eliminating or reducing tariffs on key product l

  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is making significant strides in its nuclear energy sector, with plans underway to construct a second nuclear power plant. Sources familiar with the matter reveal that the UAE will soon tender for the construction of this new facility, doubling the country's existing nuclear reactor capacity. This ambitious project follows the successful operation of the Barakah nuclear power plant in Abu Dhabi, which made the UAE the first Arab state to utilize nuclear energy for power generation. The UAE aims to initiate the tender process this year, inviting bids for the construction of four new reactors. The timeline is geared towards having the new plant operational by 2032, aligning with projected energy needs. Notably, the tender will be open to international bidders, including companies from the United States, China, and Russia. South Korea, which constructed the Barakah facility, will not receive preferential treatment in the bidding process. While plans fo

  In a significant display of humanitarian commitment, the UAE has allocated USD 15 million to support the "Amalthea Fund" for humanitarian response in Gaza, following the directives of UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This fund aims to coordinate and facilitate aid delivery effectively into Gaza, ensuring swift and widespread relief efforts. Emphasizing the urgency of addressing the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza, the UAE underscores its dedication to providing critical aid and supplies to the Palestinian people. Central to the UAE's humanitarian efforts is its robust medical response, exemplified by the "Gallant Knight 3" operation. With the establishment of a 200-bed field hospital in Gaza, alongside a floating hospital, the UAE demonstrates its unwavering support in providing medical treatment to those in need. Additionally, the UAE's commitment extends beyond medical aid, with crucial infrastructure projects

  President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced a groundbreaking contribution of $40 million to the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund (MBZ Fund). Established in 2009, the MBZ Fund has been instrumental in supporting grassroots conservation efforts across 170 countries. With this latest pledge, the Fund's endowment will exceed $70 million by 2028, reaffirming the UAE's steadfast commitment to preserving biodiversity on a global scale. The announcement was made by Razan Al Mubarak, Managing Director of the MBZ Fund, at the Asian Venture Philanthropy Forum (AVPN) Global Conference 2024 in Abu Dhabi. As species face unprecedented threats from habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and other factors, the urgency of conservation efforts has never been greater. Recognizing the critical need to protect endangered and critically endangered species, the MBZ Fund has prioritized targeted support for conservationists working on the

  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) economy has showcased remarkable resilience and growth in the first nine months of 2023, with a notable 3.3% increase in GDP, as reported by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre. This expansion, fueled by robust performance across various sectors, underscores the nation's steadfast commitment to economic diversification and development. Particularly noteworthy is the surge in non-oil GDP by 5.9%, which now constitutes a significant 74% of the overall GDP contribution. This surge reflects the UAE's strategic vision to pivot away from reliance on hydrocarbons, positioning itself as a global hub for investment and innovation. Sectors such as financial services, construction, and transport and storage have emerged as key drivers of growth, showcasing strong performance during this period. The impressive growth in non-oil sectors underscores the success of the UAE's economic diversification efforts, attracting foreign investment and

Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have taken a significant step forward in combating marine pollution by signing a Memorandum of Mutual Understanding (MSP) to address plastic waste leakage into the sea. The agreement, signed by representatives from both countries, underscores their shared commitment to environmental conservation and management. This collaboration marks a crucial milestone in the ongoing efforts to safeguard marine ecosystems and mitigate the detrimental impact of plastic pollution on aquatic life. The signing ceremony occurred during the Asian Venture Philanthropy Network (AVPN) Global Conference held in Abu Dhabi from April 23 to 25, 2024. This partnership signifies a strategic alliance between Indonesia and the UAE in tackling one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. By joining forces, the two nations aim to implement effective measures to reduce plastic waste leakage into the sea, demonstrating their dedication to sustainable environ

  The recent initiation of negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and Ecuador signals a significant milestone in the UAE's growing engagement with Latin America. Since the creation of the Summit of South American-Arab Countries in 2005, the UAE's involvement in the region has expanded, driven by efforts to diversify its economy and bolster international trade and investment. Trade between South America and the Arab states has seen substantial growth, with the GCC states investing significantly in Latin America. Brazil has emerged as a key trading partner, with UAE-Brazil non-oil trade alone reaching $4.3 billion in 2022. The UAE aims to establish trade hubs in the region and enhance Emirati investments in South American companies, particularly in sectors like iron ore, oil, and gold. Moreover, the UAE's engagement extends beyond economic interests to security and food security initiatives. Some South and Central American state

  The UAE government's revamped digital procurement strategy is yielding remarkable results, significantly reducing lead times for suppliers from days to mere minutes. With the implementation of new practices such as e-signatures and online contracts, the overall process for suppliers to sign up has been slashed from a daunting 60 days to a swift six minutes. This transformation underscores the government's commitment to streamlining processes, enhancing efficiency, and embracing digitalization to propel economic growth and development. Furthermore, the Federal Suppliers Register, a pivotal component of the Digital Procurement Platform, has witnessed substantial growth, with 24,789 names recorded in Q1-2024. This exponential increase from 19,669 suppliers in 2021 to 24,418 by the end of 2023 reflects the platform's effectiveness in attracting and facilitating supplier participation. By providing a user-friendly registration service and simplifying procedures, the Ministry o

  In a testament to the enduring friendship between Oman and the UAE, Sultan Haitham bin Tarik is embarking on a state visit to the UAE starting Monday, April 22, 2024. The visit underscores the deep-rooted bonds and the spirit of goodwill shared between the two nations. Both countries are committed to strengthening their ties and expanding cooperation across various fronts, reflecting the mutual desire for progress and prosperity. During the visit, Sultan Haitham will meet with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss and bolster existing collaborations between Oman and the UAE. The discussions will cover a wide range of areas, including economic, cultural, and strategic partnerships, with the aim of benefiting citizens from both countries. This visit highlights the shared vision of Omani and Emirati leaderships to elevate bilateral relations and explore new avenues for cooperation. Accompanying Sultan Haitham will be a high-level delegation comprising key official

  The recent phone call between UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the two nations. Discussions centered on bilateral relations and key global developments, including the situation in the Middle East. Stressing the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in addressing regional crises, both leaders affirmed their commitment to fostering peace and stability on the international stage. A significant aspect of their conversation involved a review of the outcomes of the International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan, hosted in Paris. The conference aimed to intensify international and regional efforts towards achieving a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Sudan. Both leaders emphasized the urgent need for a diplomatic approach to secure an immediate and lasting ceasefire, ensuring the safety and prosperity of the Sudanese people. During the conference, the UAE pledged USD 100 million in humani

  The signing of a comprehensive economic cooperation agreement between Colombia and the United Arab Emirates is an important step toward strengthening trade links internationally. Heralding the historic agreement, President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed emphasized how it may bring forth a new age of collaboration and reciprocal economic progress. The news, which follows closely on the heels of a comparable deal between the UAE and Costa Rica, demonstrates the Emirates' dedication to leveraging strategic relationships to increase its worldwide economic influence. The agreement, as detailed by UAE's state news agency, holds promises of substantial benefits for both nations. By slashing tariffs, removing trade barriers, and fostering investments across key sectors such as energy, tourism, and infrastructure, the pact aims to amplify bilateral trade flows. This bold step underscores a shared commitment to harnessing economic synergies and tapping into new opportunities for prosperity

  In a landmark move, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Costa Rica have solidified their economic partnership through the signing of the UAE-Costa Rica Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This agreement, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties, was officially inked in a virtual ceremony attended by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves Robles. The CEPA is poised to usher in a new era of cooperation between the two nations, bolstering trade flows, fostering private-sector collaboration, and creating fresh avenues for investment across various sectors such as logistics, energy, aviation, tourism, and infrastructure development. A Step Towards Global Trade Expansion This agreement underscores the UAE's proactive approach to foreign trade, as it seeks to expand its global trade network and promote exports. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed hailed the CEPA as a milestone in the economic ties between the UAE and Costa Rica, emphasizing the

  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to demonstrate unwavering support for Sudan in its time of need, reaffirming its commitment to humanitarian efforts and peace-building initiatives. At the recent International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan in Paris, UAE Minister of State Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan pledged $100 million to support humanitarian efforts in Sudan and its neighboring countries. This pledge underscores the UAE's proactive stance in addressing the ongoing crisis and its dedication to alleviating the suffering of the Sudanese people. This recent commitment builds upon the UAE's longstanding history of providing aid to Sudan. Over the years, the UAE has consistently extended support to Sudanese communities affected by conflict, natural disasters, and humanitarian crises. The total amount of relief aid sent by the UAE to those affected by the conflict has reached $150 million, encompassing medical supplies, food assistance, and relief supplies. Add

  The United Arab Emirates Embassy in Seoul recently hosted a captivating event themed around unity and tolerance, resonating deeply with the nation's ethos of inclusivity and harmony. Held on March 31, the event was a vibrant celebration of diversity, bringing together individuals from various backgrounds to foster understanding and mutual respect. During the event, UAE Ambassador to Korea, Abdulla Saif Al Nuaimi, emphasized the UAE's commitment to breaking down barriers and promoting unity among people of different races, colors, and ethnicities. He highlighted the significance of Ramadan not only as a time for fasting but also as an opportunity to strengthen bonds and embrace the values of tolerance that define the nation's identity. The evening's program included a thought-provoking video showcasing tolerance as a fundamental value of the UAE. Attended by leaders from diverse religious groups, diplomatic representatives, NGOs, the Emirati community, and members of t

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives has initiated an extensive collaboration with the Iraqi Kurdistan Regional Government, focusing on expanding digital education through its Digital School initiative. This partnership aims to provide advanced digital educational services and methodologies to benefit 100,000 students over the next three years. Marking the beginning of this new phase, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed, with ambitions to extend the school's innovative solutions globally. Supported by Dubai Cares, the initiative includes comprehensive measures such as training for digital teachers, development of a digital education platform in Kurdish, conversion of the regional curriculum into interactive digital formats, and establishment of digital education spaces within schools. Additionally, essential digital education tools like computers and projectors will be provided to create effective learning environments. The UAE's Vision for Education: Educ

  Tech giants Microsoft and G42, a leading artificial intelligence (AI) firm from the United Arab Emirates, have inked a significant deal. Microsoft is investing a substantial $1.5 billion in G42, securing a board seat and solidifying a strategic partnership. This collaboration focuses on several key areas: Global AI Expansion:  By combining Microsoft's cutting-edge AI technology with G42's expertise, the partnership aims to deliver advanced AI solutions to businesses and governments worldwide. There's also a specific focus on bringing AI and digital infrastructure to underserved regions in the Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa. Responsible AI Development:  Safety and security are paramount. The partnership emphasizes the development and deployment of AI that adheres to the highest ethical and security standards. This is underscored by a unique intergovernmental agreement ensuring responsible AI practices. Fostering AI Talent:  The collaboration includes a $1 billion de

  The UAE's ascent to becoming one of the best countries in the world to launch a new business in 2024 is a testament to its unwavering commitment to fostering a conducive environment for entrepreneurship. Ranking 12th overall on the prestigious IMD World Competitiveness rankings, the UAE has made significant strides from its 17th position last year. This remarkable improvement underscores the country's competitive business landscape and robust economic growth, defying global challenges and uncertainties. Several factors have contributed to the UAE's high ranking on the IMD World Competitiveness index. Notably, the nation boasts low startup costs, well-developed infrastructure, and favorable tax rates, making it an attractive destination for budding entrepreneurs. Moreover, access to funding, coupled with extensive government support for entrepreneurs, has further bolstered the UAE's appeal as a business-friendly economy. Additionally, the presence of a skilled multinat

  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has achieved a significant milestone in maternal healthcare, with its maternal mortality ratio reaching a record low in the Middle East. According to the Monitoring SDG3 report released by the Ministry of Health and Prevention, the ratio dropped from 6 per 100,000 live births in 2015 to just 3 in 2022. This achievement underscores the UAE's unwavering commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG3, which aims to ensure good health and well-being for all. In addition to its strides in maternal healthcare, the UAE has made commendable progress in reducing under-five and neonatal mortality rates over the past decade. The country's consistent investment in skilled birth attendance, maintaining a rate of 99-100%, has been instrumental in achieving these outcomes. Furthermore, the UAE leads in Universal Health Coverage (UHC), with a remarkable 78% service coverage index, the highest among Arab countries in the Eastern Medite

  Interest in space exploration is surging, with recent celestial events igniting a fascination with the cosmos. The anticipation surrounding phenomena like solar eclipses underscores humanity's enduring connection to the stars, as well as the fleeting nature of such occurrences. As space exploration evolves, so too does investment in the global space economy, projected to reach nearly USD 1.8 trillion within the next decade. The rapid expansion of humanity's extra-planetary endeavors is evident in the growing presence of astronauts aboard space stations and the flourishing space industry. Governments and private enterprises alike are investing in a diverse array of space-related ventures, from satellite communications to tourism and defence technology. The Gulf region is actively contributing to this burgeoning sector, with initiatives such as spacecraft projects and potential space tourism bases, bolstering international partnerships and fostering innovation. Amidst geopoliti

  In a significant display of humanitarian commitment, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has pledged $15 million to support the 'Amalthea Fund' for humanitarian response in Gaza. This fund, established to facilitate and coordinate the flow of aid into Gaza, aims to ensure effective delivery of essential supplies to those in need. Additionally, the fund seeks to bolster the capacity for humanitarian aid flow into Gaza by providing flexible funding modalities, enabling various stakeholders to enhance their contributions to the humanitarian response efforts. Amidst ongoing crises in Gaza, the UAE has consistently demonstrated its dedication to alleviating the suffering of its residents. Collaborating with the Jordanian Air Force, the UAE conducted aid drops, delivering a total of 66 tonnes of aid and relief materials to remote and isolated areas. Since November, the UAE has dispatched nearly 40,000 tonnes of urgent supplies to Gaza through a combination of air and land routes, showca

    Companies in the UAE are stepping up their efforts to support working parents by introducing more family-friendly policies. Fine Hygienic Holding, for instance, offers unique benefits such as one day of menstruation leave per month, leave for IVF treatments, and stillbirths. The CEO's personal experience with miscarriage led to the introduction of a miscarriage leave policy, highlighting the company's commitment to supporting employees through difficult times. Similarly, Chalhoub Group has increased paternity leave to 30 days and provides amenities like designated parking and nursing rooms for new mothers, while VFS Global has extended maternity leave to 4 months and paternity leave to 8 weeks. These extended leaves not only give parents valuable time to bond with their newborns but also provide mothers with the necessary space to recover physically and emotionally before returning to work. By prioritizing the well-being of their employees, companies are not only fostering

  The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) launched the 'Al Khair Medical Week' Camp in Mukalla, Yemen, as part of its ongoing efforts to provide essential healthcare services to communities in need. Situated at the Al Mahwar Medical Centre in Rabwat Khalaf, the camp ran until March 25 and featured a team of dedicated doctors and specialists. Under the patronage of Mabkhout Mubarak bin Madi, Governor of Hadramaut, and in coordination with the Ministry of Public Health and Population in Hadramaut Coast, the camp aimed to address the medical needs of local residents. The opening ceremony, attended by numerous healthcare professionals, marked the beginning of a crucial initiative to improve access to healthcare in Mukalla. With the ERC's investment in renovating and expanding the Al Mehwar Medical Centre, equipped with modern medical devices, citizens could receive free health services. The medical camp was expected to draw a significant number of locals seeking basic medical care, hig

  Global food prices experienced a notable shift in March, marking the first monthly increase in seven months, as reported by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). The rise, primarily driven by elevated costs of vegetable oils and dairy products, contrasts with a year-on-year decline observed during the same period. Despite this overall increase, the FAO's price index, which tracks international price fluctuations across various commodities, registered a 7.7% decrease compared to the previous year, reflecting ongoing market volatility and economic uncertainties. The surge in food prices was predominantly led by the vegetable oils segment, which witnessed an 8% increase from February, reaching a one-year high. Factors contributing to this incline include reduced outputs in leading palm oil-producing countries, robust demand from the biofuel sector, particularly in Brazil and the US, and heightened crude oil prices. Similarly, dairy prices experienced a six-month consecutive r