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    Sheikh Mohammed sanctions Dhs272 billion budget for 2025 to 2027

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    35 seconds ago

    Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, officially sanctioned a record-breaking budget (Dhs272 billion), marking another milestone in the Emirate’s legacy of forward-thinking governance. Set against the backdrop of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, Dubai Plan 2030, and the Quality-of-Life Strategy 2033, this budget will focus on social, infrastructure, and technological investments aimed at making Dubai the “greatest city in the world to live, work, and invest.”

    Dubai has once again raised the bar with the approval of its largest budget in history, aimed at propelling the emirate further into the ranks of the world’s leading cities. With a staggering Dhs272 billion allocated by Sheikh Mohammed for the fiscal years 2025 to 2027, this budget reflects Dubai’s ambition to enhance quality of life, foster sustainable growth, and cement its position as an innovation hub that continues to attract the best talent, investment, and opportunities.

    Sheikh Mohammed on the three-year vision for transformation

    As announced by the Dubai Media Office on October 29, the government’s fiscal strategy projects a total revenue of Dhs302 billion, an increase that reflects the emirate’s steady economic growth and robust future planning. This three-year budget cycle will direct funds into pivotal sectors essential to Dubai’s long-term vision, creating a cohesive framework that extends beyond immediate development and into a sustainable future.

    Dubai’s projected expenditure for 2025 alone is Dhs86.26 billion, while revenues are anticipated to reach Dhs97.66 billion. With this sizeable surplus, the city’s leadership demonstrates both financial prudence and a forward-looking strategy to maintain an economic buffer. A reserve of Dhs5 billion has also been set aside to stimulate the broader economy and navigate unforeseen challenges, underscoring Dubai’s readiness to adapt and sustain its rapid evolution.

    Social Development at the Forefront

    A key feature of the 2025 budget is the emphasis on social development, with 30 percent dedicated by Sheikh Mohammed to sectors such as healthcare, education, scientific research, and social services. The significant allocation aims to foster a higher standard of living and provide essential services that support individuals and families across all demographics.

    This investment includes dedicated funding to support the needs of Dubai’s elderly population, retirees, people of determination, youth, and sports programs. Additionally, it offers backing for initiatives that benefit women, children, and vulnerable families, underscoring Dubai’s commitment to an inclusive, accessible community where everyone can thrive. By prioritizing education, healthcare, and research, the budget aligns with the city’s aspirations to build an educated, healthy, and resilient population ready to meet the future.

    Strengthening Security and Infrastructure

    To further bolster public welfare, 18 percent of the 2025 budget allocated by Sheikh Mohammed will be invested in Dubai’s security, justice, and safety sector. This investment is critical to ensuring a safe and secure environment that supports Dubai’s growing population and aligns with its status as a global business hub. Law enforcement, emergency services, and justice initiatives will receive substantial support to maintain and enhance their effectiveness.

    Dubai’s renowned infrastructure development will continue to be a top priority, receiving a significant 46 percent of total government spending. These funds will drive a host of projects, including new roads, bridges, tunnels, parks, sewage systems, and the ambitious Al Maktoum Airport expansion. The city is also focusing on sustainable and resilient infrastructure, with funds earmarked for renewable energy facilities and the ongoing development of Dubai’s rainwater drainage network. These initiatives will further solidify Dubai’s reputation as a world-class city with a robust, future-proof infrastructure that can handle both current demands and long-term growth.

    Sheikh Mohammed on building a digital-first Dubai

    In line with Dubai’s goal to be at the forefront of technology, the new budget places a strong emphasis on digitalization. One of the key initiatives within this strategy is the Dubai Cashless Strategy, which seeks to make 90 percent of all transactions cashless by 2026, spanning both public and private sectors. It will enhance transparency, efficiency, and convenience, contributing to Dubai’s evolution as a smart city.

    Dubai’s commitment to digital transformation goes beyond cashless transactions; it’s about reimagining how services are delivered and accessed. This strategy is designed to improve government performance and foster a culture of innovation and excellence. By investing in digital infrastructure, the emirate aims to create an ecosystem that supports technological innovation and meets the evolving needs of businesses and residents alike.

    Enhancing Public Services and a Culture of Innovation

    Public services will see an investment of 6 percent, a seemingly modest amount with a substantial impact on improving overall government efficiency and performance. The allocation aims to cultivate a culture of excellence across all sectors, reinforcing Dubai’s reputation for high standards and quality. By investing in public services and promoting a culture of accountability, the emirate continues to refine its public administration while remaining responsive to citizens’ needs.

    As the Emirate progresses through the 2025-2027 budget cycle, each investment serves as a building block in the creation of a Dubai that is not only an economic powerhouse but also a place where quality of life, opportunity, and security are paramount.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram: Feature image:@hhshkmohdfan More

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    UAE urges private sector employees to work remotely amidst severe weather warning

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    2 hours ago

    As the United Arab Emirates braces for an anticipated bout of turbulent weather, the government has issued a recommendation for all private sector employees to transition to remote work arrangements.
    This proactive measure, announced by the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), aims to safeguard the workforce from potential disruptions caused by the impending adverse weather conditions.

    The national system for Emergency, Crisis, and Disaster Management emphasizes raising the alert level and readiness to deal with the weather situation, in order to ensure an effective response and provide the necessary support at both national and local levels. pic.twitter.com/6y56uEnp1U
    — NCEMA UAE (@NCEMAUAE) May 1, 2024

    In an official statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the NCEMA underscored the importance of prioritizing employee safety by advocating for remote work arrangements across the private sector. The decision to implement remote work policies rests with the leaders of local emergency, crisis, and disaster management teams in each emirate, ensuring flexibility and responsiveness to regional conditions.
    Effective Thursday, May 2nd, and Friday, May 3rd, all non-essential private sector employees and government institutions are encouraged to work from the safety of their homes. However, essential workers requiring physical presence, as well as those engaged in response and recovery efforts, are exempt from the remote work directive.
    To enhance public safety, road closures are anticipated for routes leading to valleys prone to water accumulation and dams. These preemptive measures aim to minimize risks posed by potential flooding and ensure the safety of motorists and residents alike.
    Furthermore, in alignment with the precautionary measures, all educational institutions nationwide are advised to transition to remote learning platforms. This extension of remote learning encompasses both private and government schools, aligning educational practices with the broader efforts to mitigate risks associated with the inclement weather.
    In light of these developments, the UAE government emphasizes the importance of remaining vigilant, adhering to safety guidelines, and prioritizing individual well-being amidst the evolving weather conditions.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Feature Image: Instagram @dubai_photoconceirge  More

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    4 prominent Arabs who attended the Ambani wedding

    Life by Sarah Joseph 58 mins ago As one of the most talked about pre-wedding galores, several highly-reputed Arab businessmen and government members attended the wedding in Jamnagar. This 3-day pre-wedding extravaganza, was put together to celebrate the joyous union of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant. Anant is the son of billionaire tycoon Mukesh Ambani, the richest man in Asia. No expense was spared, however, this is only just the beginning as the wedding is set to take place in July 2024. From special performances by Rihanna, Akon and the first Indian singer to perform at Coachella, Diljit Dosanjh, this star-studded affair created a buzz unlike any other. Besides the other, Royals and key figures in the Arab World, the guest list also included Mohammed Bin Jassim al Thani, the prime minister of Qatar, Stephan Harper, Former Candian prime minister and Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema. His Highness Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahyan assumed his role as Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence in October of 2017. Joining the Federal Government in 1992, His Excellency held several key positions including the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the Minister of Education and the Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development. Mohamed Al Abbar, Founder of Emaar He is a global entrepreneur with interests in real estate, retail, hospitality, e-commerce and tech. He is the founder of Emaar and Noon.com. He founded founded Emaar in Dubai on 16 June 1997. Today, the company is considered one of the world’s most valuable and admired integrated real estate development companies. Sultan Al Jaber, CEO of Adnoc Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, CBE is an Emirati politician who is the minister of industry and advanced technology of the United Arab Emirates, head of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, and chairman of Masdar. He was also Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, UAE Special Envoy for Climate Change, President for the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28). Dr. Saif Belhasa Saif Belhasa Holding Companies was established in 2001 under the patronage of Dr. Saif Ahmad Saif Belhasa, a UAE National. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @_ishaambanipiramal More

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    Are you entitled to the new 4-day work week in the UAE?

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    UAE federal government employees will soon have a three-day weekend.
    Per the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources, UAE Federal government employees will be entitled to switch to a four-day work week under the latest rules.
    The official rules come into implementation on July 1, 2023, allowing government employees to choose their set weekly hours for the week. According to the latest law, they are entitled to no more than 10 hours per day or 40 hours per week, in both an employee and employer agreement.
    Last year, the UAE government moved to a four-and-a-half day workweek, working half-day on Fridays with flexible working hours and work-from-home options on Fridays.
    This law has been incorporated to ensure that government agencies are much more efficient had productive during the four-day work week. However, No rules have been laid for private sector employees.
    Following the footsteps of the UAE’s cultural capital, employees and students in Sharjah have been adjusting to the four-day work week since January 1, 2022.
    The results were reviewed in an official meeting in February 2023 by the Sharjah Executive Council (SEC), showcasing how this emirate has seen a rise of about 90 percent in job performance, happiness and mental health.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @walkovertheworld More

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    Meet the UAE’s 9 female cabinet ministers making a difference

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    The UAE’s cabinet ministers have a powerful voice to bring about change.
    Designed to handle the execution of all internal and external affairs, the UAE’s cabinet ministers play a pivotal role in shaping what lies ahead.
    Be it technology or other future-focused sectors, the female cabinet team is pushing the envelope in each sector and making a change to boost the UAE’s global competitiveness.
    The UAE’s current ministers have all taken their oaths to diligently carry out their duties and meet the people’s expectations without sparing any effort from their end.
    To delve into their roles and responsibilities, Emirates Woman sheds light on all the inspiring female ministers in the UAE making a difference.
    HE Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of Culture and Youth

    Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi is also an Emirati businesswoman alongside her role as Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development for the United Arab Emirates. She has held the position since October 2017. Previously she was the Minister of State for Federal National Council Affairs from February 2016 to October 2017. Moreover, Al Kaabi was previously appointed as a member of the Federal National Council (FNC) from Abu Dhabi.
    HE Mariam bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment

    As a leader to protect the country’s ecosystems, Her Excellency is constantly implementing effective measures, policies and initiatives to bring about environmental changes. Her role prior to this was Minister of State for Food and Water security to make decisions pertaining to channeling investments in food and water technology. She is on a mission to strengthen the UAE’s long-standing bilateral ties with nations globally and prepare for upcoming prestigious events such as COP28.
    HE Reem Bint Ebrahim Al Hashimi, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation

    Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimi was hugely instrumental in Dubai’s winning bid to host Expo 202o. As well as being Director-General for the Dubai Expo 2020, she is also the UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation. She became a cabinet minister in 2008. She is also chair of Dubai Cares, a children’s education charity established by Sheikh Mohammed in 2007.
    HE Shamma Bint Suhail bin Faris Al Mazrui, Minister of State for Youth Affairs

    After taking on the role in 2020, her tasks are focused on representing youth issues and aspirations and setting strategies to improve their capabilities and further utilize their energy in various fields. Her Excellency previously worked in. private equity and also as a public policy analyst at the UAE Mission to the United Nations after receiving a distinction from the University of Oxford in 2015.
    HE Sarah Bint Yousef Al Amiri, Minister of State for Advanced Technology

    For women in science, Her Excellency is paving the path for women to pursue a career in this field. With new scientific discoveries, Sarah is equipping future generations with the tools to take on tomorrow’s world. As the UAE continues to spearhead other such programmes including the Emirates Mars Mission as its Deputy Project Manager.
    HE Sara Mussallam, Minister of State for Early Education

    Since taking on her role in May 2022, Her Excellency supervises the Federal Authority of Early Education and has promoted digital and coding skills in the classroom to make it accessible to future generations. Her portfolio also includes her position as Chairwoman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge. With a key say in leading the region’s talent, several schools are making technological advancements in the future of education. She has previously worked as a chartered financial analyst and in the finance industry.
    HE Dr. Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi, Minister of State

    Her Excellency joined the Federal Government in 2008 as Minister of State. She has participated in several conferences globally including representing the UAE at UN organisations. With a Ph.D. in Sociology she has authored a series of books, research articles and various fields, especially development, women and education. Her previous  roles such as the president of Zayed University and presiding over the Marriage Fund have made her equipped for her role as Minister of State.
    HE Ohood Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing

    Her Excellency Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi has launched a plethora of initiatives including the 100-day happiness plan and five-month positivity training programme for local CEOs after taking up her role in 2016. She has previously held prestigious positions such as the first Arab member of the Global Entrepreneurship Council (GEC) and Director-General of the Prime Minister’s Office.
    HE Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid, Minister of Community Development

    With a key role in actively promoting family cohesion, Her Excellency empowers women through new policies and legislation that encourage a happy and sustainable marriage. By implementing the National Family Policy, National Policy for People of Determination and other such measures, she has confidently carried out her duties since 2017.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images & Feature Image: Instagram More