General

UAE hotel rates ‘out of sync’ with global prices, says Dubai Properties

Hotels in the UAE will no longer be able to charge guests $1,000 a night for a ‘mediocre room’ according to the vice president of hospitality asset management at Dubai Properties Hotels in the UAE have been overcharging guests as local rates have been ‘out of sync’ with global room prices, leading to increased discounts in the market, according to the vice president of hospitality asset management at Dubai Properties Group.

Speaking to Arabian Business at the Gulf and Indian Ocean Hotel Investors’ Summit (GIOHIS), Stuart Etherington said hotels in the UAE will no longer be able to charge guests $1,000 a night for a ‘mediocre room’ as the market matures and discounts decrease. “If we look at the UAE as a business marketplace, we’ve seen a discount culture in the last 3, 4 years primarily because we’ve been out of sync with what the market is paying globally. If we start to look at the maturity of our industry, and the maturity of the guests coming in, we won’t discount,” Etherington said. “We just need to price accordingly.

No longer will you be able to charge $1,000 a night to stay in a mediocre room in a B-grade location just because we’re the UAE.” While new hotels with various price points have generally lowered market rates, Etherington said some hotels have maintained their rates. “What we’re seeing is diversification in our market.

The market itself is maturing. What we’re seeing is diversification within multiple channels, with 3-star, 4-star and 5-star hotels coming. This is statistically driving our rates down because of the blend, however, it’s not all doom and gloom out there,” he said. “A 5-star hotel on a beach is still a 5-star hotel on a beach, and is still achieving similar rates it was achieving 5 years ago,” he added.

Dubai Properties Group is part of the Dubai Holding Company, a global investment conglomerate which operates across 12 countries and includes the Jumeirah Group, which is known for iconic projects such as the Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah and Jumeirah Al Naseem.

Pearl of Sharjah Project in Sir Bu Nair Island launched

SHARJAH, 6th January, 2019 — Sharjah’s Environment and Protected Areas Authority, EPAA, Emirates Nature-WWF, and the Emirates Marine Environmental Group, EMEG, have launched the Pearl of Sharjah project on Sir Bu Nair Island, a three-year project aimed at preserving the island’s marine ecosystems, a natural biodiversity reserve to raise awareness about the environmental, cultural and heritage of the island.

This came during a community launch for Sir Bu Nair Project, and was well-attended, as it raised awareness about Sir Bu Nair’s environmental, cultural and traditional significance.

Regarding the project, Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, EPAA Chairperson, said, “H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, declared Sir Bu Nair Island a protected nature reserve in 2000. Formerly a haven for pearl divers and fishermen, this island is of ecological, historical, cultural and political significance.

“The goal is to use Sir Bu Nair Island as a model for the management of the UAE’s Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). We also plan to emphasise the socio-economic and ecological benefits of conserving marine environments. This project will benefit the environment, society and future generations of Emiratis,” explained Mrs. Al Suwaidi.

At the launch, the public was invited to upload images to Instagram using the hashtag #pearlofsharjah. These images were then used to create a digital mosaic of the pearl-shaped island. One of the participants was given an opportunity to win 2 tickets to Sir Bu Nair Festival to witness the natural legacy of the Pearl of Sharjah. The attendees thanked EPAA, Emirates Nature-WWF and EMEG for organising the event, which gave them an opportunity to learn about Sir Bu Nair Island and its ecosystems.

Laila Mostafa Abdullatif, Director General of Emirates Nature-WWF, who was present on the day of the event, said, “We are thrilled to have joined the Sharjah community with EPAA and EMEG on Friday to shine the spotlight on Sir Bu Nair island and share details of our exciting new expedition. Our research in the field will commence in early 2019 with exploration and surveying of critical marine species and habitats, including sharks, rays, fish, birds and corals. Our aim is that our efforts on Sir Bu Nair will be showcased as a national blueprint for Marine Protected Area Management in the UAE”.

Recognised as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention, SBN Island has rich and diverse habitats and species, including turtles, birds and coral reefs.

Dubai shoppers guide for 2019 events

The calendar showcases 18 events spread over 247 days, versus 12 events over 178 days in 2018.

The Department of Economic Development and Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment have jointly announced the 2019 Retail Calendar. Featuring more city-wide events, activities and experiences throughout 2019, the calendar showcases 18 events spread over 247 days, versus 12 events over 178 days in 2018.  These events also offer broader and more diverse range of product categories and brand segments, while raising competitiveness in the global retail market. So, it’s time to get the pen or open your app and mark your calendar.

26 Dec 2018 – 2 Feb 2019

DUBAI SHOPPING FESTIVAL (DSF)

The Dubai Shopping Festival was launched in 1996 and is a global attraction today, offering an unbeatable combination of shopping, winning and family entertainment to visitors from all over the world.  Celebrating its 24^thanniversary, DSF 2019 will offer Dubai’s residents and visitors rewarding shopping experiences including the opportunity to win mega prizes and watch concerts, musicals and shows.

4 – 12 January

RUSSIAN HOLIDAY

This is a new retail initiative with the objective of increasing spend and driving visitation from Russians and the resident community. It is the perfect opportunity for Russians to avail of timely shopping savings for the festive & holiday season.

3 – 13 February

CHINESE NEW YEAR (CNY)

Dubai is a fantastic place to celebrate the Chinese New Year. The celebration includes activities such as launching Union-credit discounts targeting Chinese visitors in partnership with key retailers, hosting events targeted at Chinese visitors, concentrating offers on high valueadded luxury deals that are highly appealing to Chinese visitors.

21 February – 9 March

DUBAI FOOD FESTIVAL

Dubai Food Festival is the only truly citywide food festival in the Middle East. Held every year, it celebrates Dubai’s emergence as a gastronomic destination. The festival offers a calendar of exciting food-related events and promotions, highlighting Dubai’s unique food scene, its personalities, world-class dining experiences, F&B outlets, plus exclusive deals on kitchen and dining segments.

28 Feb-16 Mar / 8-24 Sep

COLLECTION LAUNCHES

The Collection Launches are inspired by fashion trends. This period of activation is to position Dubai as the destination that offers the most ‘up-to-date’ shopping proposition, where consumers are likely to see the most exclusive products and have the opportunity to be the first ones in the region to own looks that are fresh ‘off-the-runway’. Spring/Summer collection is from Feb. 28 to March 16, while fall/ winter is from September 8-24.

18 April – 1 May

HOME FESTIVAL

This Home Festival will provide a great platform to offer fantastic savings on a range of home furnishing products, as well as boost the overall home ware retail category. The home wares segment will be activated through engaging with home stores in the city who will create special promotions.

5 May – 8 June

RAMADAN AND EID IN DUBAI

Ramadan in Dubai is a time of enlightenment and reflection. This special period calls for cultural activities, family gatherings as well as gifts for the near and dear. While Eid in Dubai which follows the holy month brings a great deal of buzz and excitement, featuring retail promotions at malls and souks, as well as special holiday packages offered by hotels across the city.

(Eid Al Fitr – From 1^st Day of Eid till 8 June)

(Eid Al Adha – 12 – 15 August)

 21 June – 3 August

DUBAI SUMMER SURPRISES (DSS)

In the summer season, Dubai Summer Surprises presents wonderful experiences for residents and visitors alike with amazing bargains and incredible entertainment throughout the city. This summer shopping extravaganza offers everything from spend-and-win promotions to exciting competitions, plus daily deals featuring world-famous brands at unbeatable prices, entertainment and much more.

16 Aug – 7 Sep

BACK TO SCHOOL

Back to School is an exciting time of year, and parents can share in their children’s enthusiasm. This season positions Dubai as the best place to do back to school shopping and also encourages parents to spend time with kids while teaching them smart shopping habits.

18 Oct – 2 Nov

DIWALI

The Indian Festival of Lights, Diwali, is a time for celebration, family and positivity. The festival is a period for gift giving and shopping, with many of Dubai’s top retailers offering exciting shopping promotions on gold & jewelry, bridal wear, fashion accessories and home décor.  The city’s shopping malls and entertainment destinations put on an array of festive themed events and activities.

18 Oct – 16 Nov

DUBAI FITNESS CHALLENGE

The Dubai Fitness Challenge is a city movement towards health and happiness for all with an action-packed public engagement programme that includes fitness events, classes, sporting activities, plus exciting deals and promotions across a wide range of retail, sports and fitness providers, and healthy F&B concepts.

18 Oct – 2 Nov

DIWALI

The Indian Festival of Lights, Diwali, is a time for celebration, family and positivity. The festival is a period for gift giving and shopping, with many of Dubai’s top retailers offering exciting shopping promotions on gold & jewelry, bridal wear, fashion accessories and home décor.

The city’s shopping malls and entertainment destinations put on an array of festive themed events and activities.

12-14 December

GIFTING WEEKEND

Gifting weekend is a pre-festive event aimed at increasing spend as well as the footfall across Dubai and allowing the visitors as well as the resident community to have a wide range of gifts at special promotions.

3-DAY SUPER SALE

Dubai aspires to retain its top position and ranking as an important international shopping destination. Among the many initiatives that supports this endeavor is the Super Sale weekend. This aims to increase spend and boost tourism from shopping oriented segment with discounts from 25 to 90 per cent on an array of items.

New UAE visa rules ease the transi entry and 6 months visa

The Cabinet, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, adopted a number of visa facilitations for visitors, residents, families and people overstaying their visa to cater for a wider segment of the society.

The Cabinet approved a new legislative package, including a review of the current residency system to allow a two-year extension of the residency period for the dependents of their parents after finishing their university studies.

Transit visa

1. A new decision has also been approved to exempt transit passengers from all entry fees for the first 48 hours.

2. Transit visa can be extended for up to 96 hours for a fee of only Dh50.

3. Obtaining transit visa will be facilitated by a number of express counter at the passport-control hall across UAE airports.

Visa for overstayed job seekers

In the same context, the Cabinet adopted a decision to grant people overstaying their visa a chance to leave the country voluntarily without a “no entry” passport stamp.

. A new 6-month visa will be introduced for job seekers who overstayed their visa but wish to work in the country.

. The temporary visa enhances the UAE’s position as a land of opportunities and a destination for talents and professionals.

. As for Individuals who entered the UAE illegally, they will have the chance to leave voluntarily with a “no entry” stamp for two years given that they provide a valid return ticket.

. In a step aimed at simplifying the process and easing the financial burden on individuals wishing to adjust or renew their visa, they can now do so for a fee without having to leave and re-enter the country.

Close Sharjah Light Festival shines brilliantly

The annual Sharjah Light Festival (SLF) 2018 is wowing visitors once again showcasing 24 artists from 10 different countries hosting the most beautiful displays under the direction of the French director Mathieu Felix

Al Qasimia University receives delegation of international balloon pilots

SHARJAH, 20th September, 2017 – Al Qasimia University of Sharjah received Captain Pilot Abdulaziz Nasser Al Mansouri, President of the UAE Hot Air Ballooning, with a delegation of international pilots who will operate Hot Air Balloon of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, which is expected to be launched on the 46th UAE National Day.

The balloon will fly over several countries during its first international mission, with the aim of promoting Sharjah’s social and scientific stature that was established by Sheikh Sultan, which has enabled it to compete with major international scientific institutions.

The visiting delegation, which was accompanied by Dr. Rashad Salem, Director of Al Qasimia University, and several other officials, toured the university and viewed its main sections, including the Islamic Manuscripts House that was recently inaugurated, which houses a collection of rare and valuable Islamic manuscripts.

Dr. Salem stated that officials from the university, which was founded in 2014, briefed the visiting delegation, which includes pilots from many countries, about its vision, mission and international goals, as well as its achievements in promoting the values of moderate Islam, such as brotherhood and tolerance, which were achieved through the considerable support of Sheikh Sultan.

Al Mansouri stressed that the national balloon mission is a realisation of the wise directives of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, as well as the efforts and sacrifices of the UAE’s founders. He also highlighted the obvious contributions of Sheikh Sultan in placing the UAE among the most advanced countries in the world.

Al Mansouri added that the inauguration and launch of the balloon of Sheikh Sultan, who is loved by all UAE nationals and residents, will witness a large international turnout during its first launch on the 46th UAE National Day.

The balloon of Sheikh Sultan, which carries his image along with the UAE flag, is equipped with various technical equipment from the United Kingdom, enabling it to ascend and fly over high mountains, including the Alps.

Camel-racing, modern art in UAE Ambassador in Singapore

Favourite destination: For many, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is synonymous with oil, iconic skyscrapers, mega malls and beach resorts.

However, there are many surprises to be discovered in the seven emirates forming the country, and Abu Dhabi, the capital, is a city of culture, heritage and more for people who want to escape the stresses of life, enjoy the beauty of nature and have a relaxing and exciting break.

SEE

Heritage and culture are central to the UAE’s national identity and there is a deep awareness of the need to preserve the indigenous culture on which Emirati society is based.

Take a tour of historical landmarks such as Qasr Al Hosn (www.qasralhosn.ae/en), or White Palace, which dates back to 1760 and is the oldest stone structure in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. It housed the ruling Al Nahyan family for generations and is the spiritual symbol of the UAE. It is now home to a permanent museum and an annual cultural festival.

Another highlight of the city is the wonderful Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (www.szgmc.ae/en), also known as the Grand Mosque – the largest mosque in the UAE and the eighth largest in the world.

It can accommodate more than 40,000 people and you will be astonished by the spectacular domes and minarets of its vast white marble edifice. Inside, the mosque offers an awe-inspiring display of Arabic and Islamic architecture and art.

DR MOHAMMED OMAR ABDULLA BALFAQEEH, AMBASSADOR OF THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES IN SINGAPORE, 52
He and his wife, Mrs Wafa Mohamed Jabran, have lived in Singapore since June last year.

Modern art can be found at the Saadiyat Cultural District Abu Dhabi (www.saadiyatculturaldistrict.ae), an island 500m off the coast of Abu Dhabi, where world-class museums and exhibition halls are located.

It was just announced last week that the Louvre Abu Dhabi museum will open its doors to the public on Nov 11.

The museum will highlight artwork curated by themes and stories that are shared across cultures – from prehistorical objects to modern commissioned artworks. It will be the first museum of its kind in the Arab world.

In addition to the galleries, it will have exhibitions, a Children’s Museum, a restaurant, a boutique and a cafe.

The Manarat Al Saadiyat artistic venue – which hosts international exhibitions and houses three major galleries, a central events gallery, a 250-seat theatre and a restaurant – has been open since 2010.

The Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, which will focus on contemporary art from across the globe, will open in a few years.

If you love water, you should visit Corniche Beach. With pristine sand and clear blue water, it is usually bustling with people, particularly on weekends.

Also enjoy the spectacular Sir Bani Yas Island (www.sirbaniyasisland.com), located 170km southwest of Abu Dhabi. The island, which has a bird sanctuary and wildlife reserve, offers activitiessuch as archery, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, snorkelling, land sailing, horse riding and falconry.

About half the island is dedicated to the Arabian Wildlife Park, where more than 13,000 animals, including the Arabian oryx, Somali ostrich, giraffes, hyenas and cheetahs, roam freely. Visitors can go on guided nature and wildlife drives or walks, do horse riding or mountain biking.

The park was founded by the late Sheikh Zayed, the founder of modern UAE, who loved the desert. He used to spend several days in the middle of the desert hunting, and the falcon was both his companion and hunting tool.

Despite the modernity of the UAE, he thought it was important to revive and protect the UAE’s heritage. Thus, the falcon is an official symbol of the country.

Sheikh Zayed also established the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital (www.falconhospital.com), the first and largest of its kind. You can tour the hospital and learn more about the magnificent birds, the history of falconry, and see some falcons up close.

EAT

Visitors from Singapore will not have to worry about missing biryani, laksa or teh tarik because you will find plenty of shops and restaurants in Abu Dhabi serving these delights and other familiar dishes.

If you want to try something local, head to Al Fanar Restaurant and Cafe (alfanarrestaurant.com/en), a chain owned by a young Emirati who wanted to offer tourists and expatriates a taste of authentic Emirati culture and cuisine. The restaurants are designed to revive memories of Dubai in the 1960s, when it was still a small town on the shore of the Arabian Gulf.

Try the machboos deyay, chicken cooked with yellow rice simmered in chicken stock, special Arabic spices and dry lemon; jesheed, crumbled baby shark cooked with onion and mixed spices served with white rice; hobool, deep-fried roe; and legaimat, golden and crisp fried dough balls coated with date syrup. A meal here costs $15 to $40 a person.

PLAY

Learn more about the UAE’s 4,000-year-old falconry and hunting traditions at the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (www.adihex.com), the only dedicated consumer and trade event in the Middle East for safari, hunting, equestrian, outdoor and marine sports, arts and antiques, and culture and heritage. It takes place in Abu Dhabi every September.

To see the UAE’s falconry traditions, attend the Fazza Championship for Falconry (hhc.gov.ae/en/championships), which typically takes place every January in Dubai. Hundreds of young and old Emirati falconers gather to show their skills in handling the attractive yet intimidating birds.

Getting there

Etihad Airways offers daily direct flights between Singapore and Abu Dhabi.

TIPS
• You will be surprised by how easily you can interact with the Emiratis. The people are friendly, generous and ready to offer their unconditional help at any time.

•Some Emirati families may invite you to their homes for lunch or dinner. Don’t hesitate. It will be an opportunity for you to experience local hospitality and delicious local dishes cooked at home.

•Try as much as you can to dress appropriately while in public places, which typically means being covered from your shoulders to your knees. Emiratis love etiquette and pay a lot of attention to their image at home and abroad.

•Visitors can use the common greeting “Assalamu alaikum”, which means “may peace be upon you”, but they can also just say “Ahlan”,’ which means “hello”.

•Avoid consumption of alcohol and drunkenness in public. Consume alcohol only in the hotels and restaurants that serve it.

•While taking pictures in public places, ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially women.

•Tipping is not an obligation in restaurants or for those who provide services. However, it is seen as a gesture of generosity.

Camel-racing is another unique part of the UAE’s heritage and the traditional lifestyle of its people. The races were mainly held to mark important social occasions such as weddings.

Nowadays, races can take place all year round, but the primary racing season is from October to April, mainly on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at the Al Wathba, Al Maqam and Al Ain camel race tracks.

Camel festivals are also held throughout the year. One of the best takes place during the annual HH Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan Heritage Festival (bit.ly/2xjAj6u), where events include camel races, camel beauty contests, camel milking and a Saluki (Persian greyhound) race.There are also traditional games, Yolla (national dance), falconry, a souk (market) and other traditional activities.

Dubai, which is 140km from Abu Dhabi, shines with its luxury, modern buildings and streets. Visit Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building at 824m. Take the high-speed elevator to the 124th-floor viewing point.

A little farther north in the Emirate of Sharjah,visit the oldest market place in the UAE, the Souk Al Arsah, and the most famous market in Sharjah, the Blue Souk. You will see colourful shops and get bargains on gold, silver, precious stones, jewellery, carpets and rugs.

Then go to the Emirate of Ajman, less than an hour’s drive from central Dubai, for white-sand beaches, rolling desert dunes, craggy mountain backdrops and thriving mangrove forests; or to the Emirate of Umm al-Quwain for its historical houses, mosques, streets and the people, who always have wonderful smiles.

SHOP

Pleasant, air-conditioned malls make it easy to enjoy shopping in most of the UAE. Especially in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah, malls housing theatres, cinemas, game zones, food courts and children’s play areas cater to every customer’s needs under one roof.

Yas Mall (www.yasmall.ae/en-us) is one of the biggest malls in Abu Dhabi. It is attached to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi (ferrariworldabudhabi.com), a Ferrari theme park with rides, games and roller coasters, and the Yas Marina circuit, where the annual Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix takes place.

Another shopping highlight is The Galleria on Al Maryah Island (www.thegalleria.ae), a mall with luxury fashion and jewellery boutiques sitting on the waterfront promenade.

STAY

Located in Abu Dhabi and only 40 minutes from the airport, Emirates Palace (www.kempinski.com/en/abudhabi/emirates-palace) is grand in both its design and offerings. With landscaped pools and a private marina overlooking a natural bay, the luxury five-star Kempinski hotel is perfect for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday.

If you do not mind being far from the city, stay at the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara (qasralsarab.anantara.com), about 300km from Abu Dhabi. There, guests can enjoy luxury and comfort surrounded by the mesmerising Rub’Al Khali, the largest uninterrupted sand desert in the world.

Date for Eid ul Adha in Dubai for 2017

Dubai: It’s never too early to plan for the next long weekend, the soonest one happening will be in September. Ebrahim Al Jarwan, an astronomy expert and general supervisor at Sharjah Planetarium, has already made his calculations, and predicts that this year’s Eid Al Adha will fall on Friday, September 1, 2017.

The Eid ul Adha celebrations will last for three days, giving residents a three-day break from work.

Al Jarwan explained that the Islamic month of Dhu Al Hijja 1438 will start on Wednesday, August 23, which means that Arafat Waqfa Day will fall on Thursday, August 31. Arafat Day takes places on the ninth of the month.

In the Islamic lunar calendar, Eid Al Adha takes place on the 10th day of the 12th month.
At the end of the Hajj – annnual pilgrimage to Makkah – Muslims throughout the world celebrate the holiday of Eid Al Adha, which is also known as the Festival of Sacrifice.

During the Hajj, Muslims remember and commemorate the trials and triumphs of the Prophet Ebrahim.
Prophet Ebrahim, the Quran said, had a revelation that Allah commanded him to sacrifice his son to Him, and he informed the son, who told his father to carry out the command of Allah.

It was while carrying out the wish of Allah that a ram was sent down to Prophet Ebrahim as a sacrifice for his son, Esmail. It is that act that Muslims celebrate till date to show submission to Allah.

Dubai Summer Surprises to begin from July

The annual Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) will run from July 1 – August 12 this year, with sales and events set to take place across the emirate.

Now in its 20th edition, the six-week DSS is organised by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).

Participating brands will offer discounts of up to 75 per cent while mall-led events including concerts and character shows will also be held in Dubai.

DSS has announced three, special one-off concerts so far including one by Walid Al Shami at Dubai Festival City mall on July 1, one on July 21 by Fouad Abdulwahed and Dalia Mubarak at City Centre Mirdif, and a third by Balqees at Mall of the Emirates on August 4.

All three concerts will start at 8pm and will be free-to-attend.

This year, DSS is also launching its first ever ‘City Pass’, giving people up to 50 per cent discount on 28 attractions across Dubai including Atlantis’ Aquaventure Waterpark, Burj Khalifa, city tour, theme parks and desert safari.

The pass is priced at Dhs449 per person (for a standard three-attraction package) and reaches Dhs940 per person for an unlimited package.

The passes can be bought at the DSS website and at hotel concierge services and are valid from July 1.

Some of the highlights of this year’s DSS include –

Six week sale

Shoppers will be given discounts ranging between 30 to 75 per cent throughout the six-week DSS period at participating retailers.

72 hour sale

As part of DSS, 72 hour-sales will be held from Monday until Wednesday each week during DSS. Brands across sectors including fashion, homeware and toys will offer the discounts.

Details of the deals will only be revealed 24 hours ahead of the sale on the DSS website and its social channels.

Friday surprise

Fashion, beauty and luxury homeware retailers will have offers on exclusive retail products at a specified shopping location each week on Fridays, starting on July 7. The deals will again be revealed only 24 hours ahead of the sale on the DSS website and its social channels.

Grand finale sale

The grand finale sale will run from August 10-12 and will feature the very last price cuts of summer.

Eid Ul Fitr in Dubai will be celebrated from Sunday 25th June 2017

The Shawwal moon-sighting committee in the UAE has announced that Sunday, June 25 207 will be the first day of the month of Shawwal and the first day of Eid Al Fitr.

Sultan Bin Saeed Al Badi, Minister of Justice and chair of the committee, said in a statement following at meeting at Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, that after exhausting all legitimate methods and making contacts with neighbouring countries, the Shawwal moon was sighted and therefore Sunday, June 25, 2017 will be the first day of Shawwal 1438 H.

The minister seized the occasion to send Eid greetings to President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates.

He also greeted the people of the UAE and Muslims across the world on the occasion.
He prayed to Allah Almighty to bless President with continued good health and well-being for the Arab and Muslim Nations.

Guide to getting UAE residence visa for your parents in Dubai

Exp0ats working in Dubai may also invite their parents in Dubai to live with them under certain conditions, here is a brief guide to bringing parents to Dubai

Who can sponsor parents?

UAE expatriates, holding valid resident visas having a minimum salary of Dh20,000 or a monthly pay of Dh19,000 plus a two-bedroom accommodation can get one year renewable resident visas for their parents or parents-in-law.

Both or none

As per new regulations, you have to sponsor both your mother and father together and show proof that you are their sole provider and that there is no one to take care of them in your home country.
However, if your parents are divorced or one is deceased, you should carry documentary proof, when visiting Department of Naturalisation and Residency Dubai (DNRD) to obtain the entry permit visa, which is the first step before you can apply for a residence visa.
Getting the entry visa

Your parents have to enter the country on this visa and you should ideally get the residency visa sorted within 60 days from their date of entry.

Documents required

Typed application form from registered typing centres
Original passport of sponsor and parent/s
One photo each of the parent/s
Proof of relationship from your embassy or consulate attesting relationship and that you are the sole provider and care taker for your parent/s
Copy of job contract for the sponsor or salary certificate from employer.

Steps

Take the listed documents and go to General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai. Submit them along with a letter from your side appealing on humanitarian grounds for entry visa for your parent/s. Also, enclose copies of all above documents along with your contact numbers. The Approval Committee will either confirm or reject your application within two weeks.
Have a registered typist complete the form after paying the fees.
Go to the residency section of DNRD and hand in the documents.
Entry Permit will be sent by Empost usually within 48 hours, or if you have applied for urgent visa, then you should receive it from the counter in a few minutes.

Fees

Dh2,000 refundable deposit (keep receipt safely for renewal or reimbursement, as this is paid back only when the visa is cancelled or in case your parent dies)
Dh110 application fee + typing centre fee (or pay Dh100 for urgent application)
Here’s our guide to the mandatory health insurance scheme for dependants and domestic help.

Getting the residency visa

Once you receive the entry permit, get started on the visa procedures to be completed within 60 days from date of entry.
Documents required for residence visa
Application form and 3 photos of parent/s
Original passport of parent/s and sponsor
Original entry permit
Health card of parent/s
Refundable deposit receipt
Original job contract or salary certificate of the sponsor

Steps

Do a health checkup and obtain a medical card.
Take the documents and go to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai.
Have one of the typists there complete the form for you after paying the fees.
Go to the residency section and hand in the documents.
The passport/s with the residency visa stamp will be sent to you through Empost.
Get a basic mandatory insurance policy for your parent/s starting at Dh600.

Fees

Dh110 residency fees each year, not inclusive of typing centre fees
Dh100 urgent application (optional)
Dh10 Empost fees

Source: The official portal of Dubai Government

Wild Wadi to move as two new islands will be built next to the Burj Al Arab Dubai

Just when you thought the city was slowing down for summer, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announces a huge new development unlike anything the city has seen before. And it includes the landmark relocation of Wild Wadi – Dubai’s first dedicated waterpark.

Breaking ground this June 2017, Marsa Al Arab, Dubai Holding’s new US$1.7 billion (Dhs6.3 billion) tourist destination development in the emirate, is set to be developed on two brand-new islands sitting either side of the Burj Al Arab.

One island is set to be dedicated to entertainment and family tourism, while the other will host an exclusive luxury resorts. The islands will add a combined 2.2 kilometres of beachfront to the emirate, along with three new hotels, 400 new food and beverage outlets and a number of new tourist attractions.

Dubai Frame due to open in October
Jumeirah Group (they of the Madinat Jumeirah complex, Burj Al Arab and many more of the UAE’s most instantly recognisable hotels) will introduce new leisure concepts to the family resort island, which will also house the soon-to-be-relocated Wild Wadi Waterpark, which will more than double in size at its new home.

Meanwhile, a “Marine Park” will be developed by Dubai Holding, becoming a first-of-its-kind edutainment centre for the Middle East, with a 1,000-capacity live theatre to showcase different elements of marine life.

Combined, the new Wild Wadi and Marine Park will cover 2.5 million sq ft.

Marsa Al Arab will also be home to a private yacht marina and yacht club, as well as an assortment of restaurants and cafés. No Dubai development is complete without a retail component, and a 20,000 square metre shopping centre is certain to provide just that. A 1,700-capacity theatre, which will become home to the renowned Cirque du Soleil, completes (for now) the entertainment line-up.

Dubai Holding will also develop 140 Jumeirah Group-operated luxury villas on the “exclusive private island”, featuring a marina for residents, and a boutique hotel.

The project is expected to be completed by late 2020.

Ruler of Ajman Humaid Al Nuaimi opens second edition of Ajman Orphans Festival

AJMAN, 16th April, 2017 (WAM) — H.H. Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, has said that Emiratis providing assistance to the underprivileged, both within and outside the country, remain the best role models in the field of charitable work.

He also hailed the role played by philanthropic organisations, associations, entities and businesspersons in supporting charitable work, especially by supporting orphans and helping them communicate and interact in society. This support has contributed towards engaging orphans as effective members of society, who are part of the homeland and its prudent leadership, he added.

The remarks were made at the opening ceremony of the second Ajman Orphans Festival held at the Ajman Youth Center of the General Authority of Youth and Sports Welfare.

The Ajman Ruler also commended the wise leadership’s support for orphans through its establishment of popular institutions that patronize and provide them with services they need.

H.H. Sheikh Humaid also hailed the attention given to orphans by the UAE, under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces and the Supreme Council Members, Their Highness’s the Rulers of the Emirates.

The teachings of Islam urge people to support and provide a dignified life, and psychological and social stability to orphans, he noted.

The Ajman Ruler received a gift in recognition of his support for charitable organisations, and his keenness to support charitable works in society, especially those for orphans.

Several Sheikhs, senior officials, more than 200 orphans and their families participated in activities during the event.

Pink Caravan Ride to launch 7th edition

SHARJAH, 7th February, 2017 Sharjah-based Friends of Cancer Patients’ (FoCP’s) annual cancer campaign, the Pink Caravan Ride will carry out a 10-day cancer awareness drive across the seven emirates from 7 to 17 March 2017 making it the 7th of the series of Pink Caravan.

The theme this year will be ‘7 Years.. for 7 Emirates’, and celebrates the union of the seven emirates. It also strongly upholds the ‘spirit of giving’, as it boldly continues its mission to promote breast cancer awareness, spread the importance of early detection and organise free screenings across the UAE, regardless of age, sex or nationality.

Being held under the generous patronage of Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi, wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, Founder and Royal Patron of FoCP, International Ambassador for the World Cancer Declaration of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and International Ambassador for Childhood Cancer for UICC, the itinerary of this horseback expedition, including its equine route, medical route, fundraising initiatives, and events, was announced by the Higher Organising Committee of the Pink Caravan Ride at a press conference held on Tuesday at Flag Island.

In her welcome speech, Reem BinKaram, Chairperson of the Higher Organising Committee of the Pink Caravan Ride, said: “For the first time, the Pink Caravan Ride will see the inauguration of seven stationed clinics in the seven emirates. Medical teams at these clinics will receive people who want to undergo screenings, and take up visitor queries. These clinics will be stationed at Al Majaz Waterfront in Sharjah, Dubai City Walk, Abu Dhabi Corniche, Ajman Corniche, Al Hamra Mall in Ras Al Khaimah, Al Khazzan Healthcare Clinic in Umm Al Quwain. In Fujairah, it will be located at Al Khazan Health Center.”

Bin Karam elaborated: “We are all here today – organisers and sponsors, doctors and nurses, riders and volunteers, media persons and audiences – to send a message of goodness far and wide. This is a reinforcement of our dedication to our community to help them lead a healthy life, and prepare a society fully aware of breast cancer. I would like to wholeheartedly thank all members, supporters and sponsors, who have taken us from strength to strength in helping us fulfill our vision and broaden the scope of our goals each year.”

Expressing his pride in how the Sharjah Media Corporation (SMC) has been working hand in hand with the Pink Caravan as their media partner and support sponsor, Mohamed Khalaf, Manager of Sharjah TV and Radio, said: “Pink Caravan’s invaluable contribution to society propels us to continue to provide excellent media support and sponsorship. This initiative has been able to truly make a difference to the UAE, and has helped us fulfill our social and philanthropic mission in society. Six years ago, we assisted the Pink Caravan in their first purchase of a mobile clinic, and have not looked back since.”

Praising all efforts made by the late Ameera BinKaram, former Chairperson of the Pink Caravan Organising Committee, he added: “She was the one who took the Pink Caravan from being a mere idea to making it an internationally recognised cancer awareness campaign.”

Representing another sponsorship partner, Sharjah Islamic Bank, their Head of Organisational Excellence, Jassem Al Bloushi, said: Sharjah’s strong commitment in providing a good life to human beings irrespective of gender, age, or nationality deserves our complete support. We, at Sharjah Islamic Bank, are keen to fully participate in every FoCP and Pink Caravan initiative to safeguard the comfort and happiness of all.”

“Despite dear Ameera’s passing, we will continue this march,” he added.

Dr Ayesha Suhail, Director of Primary Healthcare, Ministry of Health and Prevention, said: “I hereby declare the Ministry of Health as full partners of the Pink Caravan Ride, which will set off on 7 March. We are well prepared for the campaign, and will provide free screenings and mammograms throughout the Ride.”

Dr Sawsan Al Madhi, Director General of FoCP, and Head of Pink Caravan’s Medical Awareness Committee, along with Badr Al Juaidi, Head of Logistics Services Committee, discussed the categories of routes that PCR will undertake during the 10-day cross-emirate campaign.

Nada Askar Al Naqbi, Head of Events Committee, took stage to take the attendants through the Pink Caravan Ride’s activities and events itinerary.

“For the first time in Pink Caravan’s history, we will be hosting a ‘Pink Caravan Children’s Ride’ on Friday, 10 March at the Desert Palm Dubai from 2pm to 5pm. This Ride is aimed at teaching the nation’s youth the importance of humanitarian causes, thereby increasing their participation in the same,” Al Naqbi said.

“A new highlight this year is ‘Pink Yoga, an exclusive event for women, organised in collaboration with the Dubai ladies Club,” she added.

A special programme marking the closing ceremony of the Pink Caravan Ride will be showcased in Abu Dhabi on 17 March.

Ruler of Sharjah opens Sharjah Maritime Museum

Sharjah, Jun 07th, 2009 His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, opened the Maritime Museum, here today, in presence of HH Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi.

we are the dealer and supplier of general air conditioner in UAE.

The inauguration of the Sharjah Maritime Museum comes in line with the efforts of Sharjah emirate to focus on the marine life, which constitutes an essential part of the heritage in the region. The population used to depend on the fishing and pearling.

The move is also part of the expansion plan of the old aquarium and maritime museum at the heritage district.

Sheikh Sultan toured the new museum, which includes samples of marine life, fishing tools, pearl trade, dhow building, diving devices, samples of dhows and photos of the renowned sailors and captains.

He stressed the significance of museum, which gathers and conserves the UAE and the Gulf maritime heritage, and showcases it to public to educate them about the civilisation of the country, adding that “this will help to implant the allegiance and preserve the national heritage.

In the museum one can explore traditional wooden seafaring dhows used for fishing, trading and pearling, each designed according to their use. One can also see genuine Arabian pearls, discover how they were collected, measured and weighed. And admire the powerful wooden pulley blocks used to raise and lower sails and discover the local traditions for catching fish.

The event was also attended by Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Thani, Chairman of the Sharjah Civil Aviation Department, Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, head of the Finance and Administration Department, other Sheikhs and senior officials.