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    UAE to launch new tech-driven Emirati passport next month

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    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    The UAE will introduce a new generation of Emirati passports from next month.
    With innovation at the forefront, the new version of passports, which will launch on September 1, 2022, will feature technical specifications to promote security and safety for international travel.
    Launched as part of the national ID card project that began in June 2021, this change is all set to enhance the UAE’s international competitiveness on a global scale and reduce the attempts of forgery with its detail-oriented identification page.
    Per the state news agency WAM, these changes are in line with the directions of the wise leadership to consolidate the movement toward a smart government in the UAE.
    The latest features include a fine security thread, decorative carvings with highly complicated spectrums, photographs printed with advanced security features, a holographic logo for authenticity, a refined three-dimensional intaglio showcasing the date of birth and a watermark with the UAE emblem.
    To reduce any external damages, polycarbonate is used instead of paper due to its thickness and increased quality for specialised printing.

    The new generation of the UAE Passport.@MoFAICUAE____#IdentityCitizenshipCustomsAndPortSecurity #UAEPassport pic.twitter.com/TSg6X4gnUw
    — Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security UAE (@UAEICP) August 11, 2022

    “The project aims to enhance the flexibility of doing business related to individuals in various institutions of the UAE, in order to improve the quality of life and provide a travel experience that strengthens the leading position of the UAE,” the chairman of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security, Ali Muhammad Al Shamsi, said.
    With the UAE’s strong ranking on the global map, per the Henley Passport Index for 2022, making it the highest in the Arab world, such changes are a step further to strengthen its position on the list.
    All Emirati passport holders will also need to verify the validity of their documents for a period of no less than six months before they travel with the possibility of issuing passports while being abroad through the UAE.
    Passports for holders of the previous generations are still considered valid until their next expiry date approaches for renewal. The new generation passport can be applied for once there is a six months validity left on the current passport.
    The Emirati passport can be renewed through the website or the UAEICP smart application.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      ‘Your time to flourish’: Sheikh Mohammed’s uplifting words to young Emiratis

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, issued an inspiring message to the future generations of the UAE.
      To mark International Youth Day on August 12, 2022, the Dubai Ruler shared a video across his official social media platforms, celebrating the achievements of the young people of the emirates.
      “I was young once like you and my dreams did come true,” His Highness said. “After the hardships, good days followed. Our country has become a heaven. May it always thrive.
      “It’s now your time to flourish with ease.”

      Sheikh Mohammed went on to outline the “biggest success” in the UAE’s history of achievements, the “youth”.
      “They are the future,” he added.
      He also referred to the country’s youth as the “hope and treasure” of the nation, and urged them to take the future into their hands and carve their own path.
      By championing young people of the UAE following different career paths, the video highlights a chef, triathlete, a camel owner, a horse rider, an engineer and a pilot.
      From robotics engineer, Maryam Buhumaid to chief cultural guide Fatma Khalid, inspiring leaders diligently pursuing their careers from the next generation were presented in the clip.
      Furthermore, he advised the young generation to take the future into their hands and strive for academic excellence, which will contribute to the UAE’s growth.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Instgram @faz3 More

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      Update: 5 new UAE visas available from September 2022

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      As the UAE continues to bring in new changes post the COVID-19 pandemic, visas are a major topic of discussion.
      Back in April, the UAE Cabinet approved a number of new visas, as the country continues to welcome expats from around the globe.
      “The new system of entry and residence is aimed at attracting and retaining global talents and skilled workers,” the cabinet said via a statement from the media office.
      With a host of new visas being granted from next month onwards, below is everything you need to know.
      Business visa
       For those who wish to start their own company or invest in other companies, a business visa can be granted without a sponsor.
      Temporary work visa
      For any project-based work or temporary work assignments, candidates can receive a temporary work visa after submitting a temporary work contract or a letter from the employer and a valid health certificate, per the government website.
      Visa for studying/training
      This visa is required for internship programmes, study courses and training purposes. The requirements for such a visa include the details of the study or the internship and its overall duration. It can be sponsored by public and private sector educational and research institutes.
      Family visa
      Families now have the option of sponsoring male children until the age of 25, where it was previously 18 years old only. Sponsorship can also be granted to disabled children and unmarried daughters for an indefinite time.

      The new Entry and Residence Scheme offers 10 types of entry visas with simplified requirements and more benefits. New visas require no host or sponsor, offer more flexibility, multi entry, 60 days validity and one unified platform to apply at pic.twitter.com/0PsCJYaoyR
      — UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) April 18, 2022

      Job visa
      After graduating from the best 500 universities, job-seekers can avail of this latest visa that will be given to bachelor’s degree holders or its equivalent to exploring more job opportunities in the UAE. This visa can be granted to those who fall under the first, second or third skill levels category as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
      Already available in the UAE
      Multi-entry tourist visa
      If tourists wish to visit the UAE and stay for a longer time frame, that’s now possible for up to 90 days and it can be extended for another 90 days without a sponsor with this five-year multi-entry tourist visa. The requirements include a minimum bank balance of $4000 (Dhs14,700) or its equivalent in the last six months before applying.
      Green visa
      If residents wish to bring their families without a sponsor or employer, this five-year visa is granted to skilled workers, self-employers and freelancers who have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and a minimum salary of Dhs15,000.
      Golden visa
      Launched as part of a programme in 2019, however, effective in full force since 2021. The Golden visa is now offered to a host of professionals that have changed over the course of time. Golden visa holders can now sponsor their families including their wife and kids without any age limit along with domestic workers.
      For entrepreneurs
      With the UAE considered a startup hub and with an influx of innovative business, entrepreneurs are now eligible to apply under this category. The requirements are for any small and medium enterprise (SME) to generate not less than Dhs1m in revenue or the individual should be a founder of a previous project that was sold for not less than Dhs7m and it needs to be approved by the Ministry of Economy or competent local authorities.
      For real estate owners
      The visa categories included those who have a property with a minimum investment of Dhs2 million in real estate, with investors who purchase properties on a mortgage plan where the total investment is Dhs2 million or more.
      For ‘exceptional talents’
      The categories for receiving the visa have been expanded. Under this category, individuals in fields such as culture & art, sports, investors & innovators, and digital technology can now be beneficiaries of this esteemed visa scheme.
      For scientists & researchers
      Any notable scientists and those conducting intense research in their field will have an opportunity to apply, based on the recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council. The requirements for this category include a Ph.D. or master’s degree in either of the heads that include engineering, technology, life sciences and natural sciences from well-reputed universities along with proof of research and any achievements.
      For outstanding students
      Students in UAE secondary schools and exceptional graduates from UAE universities and 100 of the best situated worldwide have an opportunity to apply for this visa. The requirements include sharing their academic performance, year of graduation and university classification.
      For skilled workers
      Workers who have a Bachelor’s degree, and a valid contract of employment, are classified under the occupational level one or two as defined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and have a minimum monthly income of Dhs30,000 will be granted this visa in the UAE.
      For more information visit the UAE government website. 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @kasialukaszczuk More

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      2 striking astrological events you’ll be able to see in the UAE this week

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      15 seconds ago

      Who doesn’t love striking celestial events?
      For those who love gazing into the night sky, two special events will be taking place this week.
      So if you’re looking for something exciting to plan ahead of time, keep a watchful eye on these striking events.
      The Sturgeon moon
      The Sturgeon Moon will be the last super moon of the year and is set to appear on August 12, 2022. A supermoon is a rare occurrence, only happening three to four times a year. It refers to a time when the moon is within 90 per cent of perigee, which is its closest approach to Earth. The Sturgeon Moon’s name is given after North America’s largest fish, the sturgeon which lives in its lakes and rivers. The Sturgeon Moon will reappear next year between August 1 and August 31, 2023.
      This surreal event may outshine another event set to take place after. It’s all set to make a comeback between August 1 and August 31, 2023.
      ALSO READ: ‘The universe has your back’: Everything to know about August’s full moon
      Perseids Meteor
      There’s also another astrological event at the same time as the supermoon – the perseids meteor. As one of the most popular meteor showers of the year, this striking event is caused by the Earth passing through debris including ice and rock. The phenomena can highlight up between 50-100 meteors an hour, making it a highly-anticipated event to watch out for.
      However, given the appearance of the Sturgeon Moon at the same time, it may outshine the meteor shower.

      If you’re keen to see these phenomenal events, Dubai Astronomy Group is hosting an event on August 12 from 9pm to 2am at Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah to witness this in person. Tickets are priced at Dhs150 for children under 13 and Dhs200 for adults, with transportation available at an additional cost. For attendees who have any questions pertaining to this phenomenon, the experts present at the venue will answer any queries.
      To RSVP or find out more details about the event visit dubaiastronomy.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @yana.potter.net More

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      2 striking astronomical events you’ll be able to see in the UAE this week

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      Who doesn’t love striking celestial events?
      For those who love gazing into the night sky, two special events will be taking place this week.
      So if you’re looking for something exciting to plan ahead of time, keep a watchful eye on these striking events.
      The Sturgeon moon
      The Sturgeon Moon will be the last super moon of the year and is set to appear on August 12, 2022. A supermoon is a rare occurrence, only happening three to four times a year. It refers to a time when the moon is within 90 per cent of perigee, which is its closest approach to Earth. The Sturgeon Moon’s name is given after North America’s largest fish, the sturgeon which lives in its lakes and rivers. The Sturgeon Moon will reappear next year between August 1 and August 31, 2023.
      This surreal event may outshine another event set to take place after. It’s all set to make a comeback between August 1 and August 31, 2023.
      ALSO READ: ‘The universe has your back’: Everything to know about August’s full moon
      Perseids Meteor
      There’s also another astronomical event at the same time as the supermoon – the perseids meteor. As one of the most popular meteor showers of the year, this striking event is caused by the Earth passing through debris including ice and rock. The phenomena can highlight up between 50-100 meteors an hour, making it a highly-anticipated event to watch out for.
      However, given the appearance of the Sturgeon Moon at the same time, it may outshine the meteor shower.

      If you’re keen to see these phenomenal events, Dubai Astronomy Group is hosting an event on August 12 from 9pm to 2am at Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah to witness this in person. Tickets are priced at Dhs150 for children under 13 and Dhs200 for adults, with transportation available at an additional cost. For attendees who have any questions pertaining to this phenomenon, the experts present at the venue will answer any queries.
      To RSVP or find out more details about the event visit dubaiastronomy.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @yana.potter.net More

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      Sharjah’s 4-day workweek has had a huge positive impact on the emirate

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      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      2 hours ago

      This year marked a major shift in the working week for people across the emirate after the UAE announced it would change its working days from Sunday to Thursday to Monday to Friday, aligning with much of the rest of the world.
      Federal government employees in the UAE now work from Monday to Thursday 7.30am to 3.30pm and on Fridays for 4.5 hours with flexibility to be able to work from home.
      However, the emirate of Sharjah opted to forego the traditional five-day workweek, instead opting for a four-day workweek and recent findings have shown it’s had an incredibly positive impact on the emirate.
      Per the Khaleej Times, the Sharjah Executive Council was presented a study earlier this week showcasing the impact of the four-day workweek outlining a significant drop in traffic accidents, as well as an improvement in employees’ productivity.
      According to the report, traffic accidents and deaths in the emirate have dropped by 40 per cent and gas emissions have also significantly decreased.
      Quality of work and productivity have also increased, per the report which analysed the policing, environment, human resources and financial sectors in the emirate.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Visit Sharjah Instagram More

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      Sheikha Mahra Al Maktoum shares throwback photos with father Sheikh Mohammed

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      2 mins ago

      Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has shared a series of throwback photos with her father, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
      Having followed in the footsteps of Sheikh Mohammed, sharing his love for horses, Sheikha Mahra is also a keen rider.
      Taking a trip down memory lane, the Dubai Ruler’s daughter shared a series of photos of when she took part in horse riding competitions.
      In the first few snaps, His Highness is seen visiting his daughter at her respective stables. One photo shared by Sheikha Mahra showcases her father’s famous white G-Wagon with the ‘1’ number plate, as he visits his daughter during a riding session.
      Her Highness also shared photos from a separate riding event, where it appeared she had won a medal, along with some team members, at a competition. In the pictures, Sheikh Mohammed stood proudly next to his daughter and the other team members.
      Take a look at the sweet throwback snaps below.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Sheikha Mahra Al Maktoum Instagram  More

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      UAE fuel prices drop in August after reaching highest rates in 2022 in July

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      31 mins ago

      The UAE has announced a drop in fuel prices for August 2022.
      This comes after prices reached an all-time high in July, crossing the Dhs4 per litre mark since the fuel price deregulation in August 2015.
      However, Emarat announced the petrol rates for August which has seen a drop of up to 62 fils per litre, with 95 special and 91 E-Plus falling back below Dhs4 per litre.
      ALSO READ: This is exactly how much petrol prices have increased since January
      Throughout August 98 Super is now Dhs4.03 per litre; 95 Special is now Dhs3.92 per litre; Diesel is now Dhs4.14 per litre; and 91 E-Plus is Dhs3.84 per litre.

      ⛽ Monthly Fuel Price Announcement:August 2022 fuel prices released by the #UAE Fuel Price Follow-up Committee pic.twitter.com/HhACWarUyz
      — Emarat (امارات) (@EmaratOfficial) July 31, 2022

      The price drop will undoubtedly be welcomed by many across the country following prices increasing for two months consecutively in June and July 2022.
      It was found petrol costs had increased by a whopping 74 per cent up until July 2022, since the beginning of the year.
      The knock-on effect
      The rising petrol prices are also having a knock-on effect on big businesses too.
      In June, ride-hailing company, Uber Technologies Inc. announced price increases, announcing customers would now be charged as much as 11 per cent more for certain trips.
      With global petrol and diesel prices continuing to reach soaring highs, many parts of the UAE including Sharjah have seen a hike in taxi fares.
      To keep the low-income citizens in mind, the new allowance will provide a monthly subsidy of 85 per cent of the fuel price increase over Dhs2.1 per litre, as reported by WAM.
      Per the latest fuel subsidy scheme, the head of these families will receive a subsidy of 300 litres, while working wives will receive a subsidy of 200 litres. The announcement came as part of the UAE president’s directive to restructure its social welfare programme for low-income Emiratis, doubling its size to Dhs28 billion.
      Despite the increase in prices, the UAE continues to be the third-biggest OPEC producer followed by Kuwait.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Media: Twitter, Feature Image: Emirates Woman  More

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      11 destinations that have visa on arrival and visa-free entry for UAE residents

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      If you’re looking for a quick escape without any additional visa hassle, we’re here to help.
      While travel is very much back on everyone’s radars, sometimes certain passports require specific visas, which can quite often be a tedious process. However, for UAE residents, there are many destinations which are visa-free or have a visa-on-arrival option.
      Below, the Emirates Woman editors have curated a guide for all the countries offering visas on arrival for UAE residents.
      Georgia

      All UAE residents who have a valid visa can travel to the country and receive a visa on arrival in Georgia. Holders of other GCC countries can travel visa-free for a period of 90 days and receive an entry stamp upon arrival. From Tblisi’s nightlight to stunning mountains, there’s a long list of endless activities to do on your visit.
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Armenia

      With a rich history and picturesque ancient architecture, a visit to the country should definitely be added to your bucket list. All Indian, Lebanese, Jordanian and South African nationals with a valid UAE residency visa can receive a visit visa on arrival due to the positive relations between the UAE and Armenia leading to a special visa-waiver programme. The cost of the visa is around Dhs20 and details regarding additional requirements can be found online.
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Azerbaijan

      Known for its contemporary design, Azerbaijan is home to iconic buildings including landmarks designed by the famous Zaha Hadid. All UAE residents with a valid residency visa can present the passport at the counter after paying and receive a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa on evisa.com.az to avoid standing in long queues.
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Maldives

      For a quick idyllic getaway, a tourist visa is granted to all nationalities visiting the country. A few requirements such as a pre-paid hotel or accommodation booking, sufficient funds to last during the stay, confirmed tickets to return to their home country or country of residence and a traveller declaration form which must be filled in and submitted by all passengers going to and from the Maldives within 96 hours of travel. A visa for a maximum time period of 30 days will be granted on arrival for tourists. With an archipelago of islands to visit, travellers can experience nature at its finest.
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Seychelles

      With Seychelles being a visa-free country, Indian citizens will not require a visa on arrival or an e-visa to enter the country for a short stay. This scenic escape ensures a seamless travel experience, however, a valid passport will be required to gain entry into the country. However, certain documents such as a valid return ticket, confirmed accommodation and sufficient funds for the duration of the stay amounting to $150 (Dhs550) per day are required in case asked for.
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Nepal

      Most nationalities can receive a visa on arrival for a small price depending on the tenure of the visit. A 15-day visa costs Dhs110, a 30-day visa costs Dhs183 or a 90-day permit for Dhs460 and can be decided accordingly upon arrival. All Indian passport holders do not require any visa and can visit hassle-free.
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Serbia

      For passports with a valid Schengen, UK or US visa, a visa-free entry is granted upon arrival. For those who do not have the mentioned visas, five documents will be required including travel booking details, a negative PCR test issued prior to travel, proof of vaccine, the original passport and proof of funds to substantiate enough money for the stay and to leave.
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Indonesia

      With the perfect blend of culture, nature, culinary delights and design mastery, this haven should be on your list of destinations to travel to. Bali is now open for tourists after the pandemic, as this irresistible country offers a visit visa on arrival for a period of 30 days, which can be easily extended for another 30 days at any visa office in the country. Upon arrival in Indonesia, there is a checkpoint available for visa on arrival which is priced at $35 (Dhs128).
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Mauritius

      Known for its expansive beaches, lagoons and reefs, this country is most definitely a must-visit for all. For those who love nature, there’s a wide range of forests, waterfalls and hiking trails to experience the outdoors. The maximum duration of stay is three months and it is free for UAE citizens. Upon arrival, passengers need to visit the immigration counter and show the original passport to obtain an entry stamp.
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Sri Lanka

      All UAE residents can receive an e-visa which can be obtained from the comfort of their homes. A visa can be applied for online prior to visiting with the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) initially limited to 30 days validity from the date of arrival and extended for up to six months. All applicants require a mandatory passport to be valid for six months from the date of arrival. It is important to check the list of countries eligible for Sri Lanka ETA before applying.
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      Thailand

      All UAE residents will need to apply for a Thailand Pass which takes up to one to two hours when the application is submitted. After submitting the required documents, passengers will receive a QR entry code and a Thailand Pass ID needed for entry. With the UAE included in the Visa Exemption Scheme of Thailand, UAE citizens can stay up to a period of 30 days.
      You can check the latest visa regulations here.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @sunny_rung More