22 days of free screenings for breast cancer across the UAE
The Pink Caravan Ride provides free testing facilities in six emirates
The Pink Caravan Ride (PCR) has dedicated 9 fixed clinics across six emirates that will offer
free breast cancer screenings and aid in increasing community awareness of the disease. The
facilities will operate from 4pm to 10pm between January 20 th to February 10 th and give the
public the opportunity to receive hassle-free testing free of charge.
The pan-UAE breast cancer awareness ride organised by the Friends of Cancer Patients
(FOCP), will be offering these free medical screenings at the fixed clinics with the intention to
cater to a broader segment of the community. The medical clinics will be opened to the public
around the UAE prior to the launch of the 11th edition of the annual Pink Caravan Ride, taking
place between February 4 th and 10 th .
PCR will also be offering sessions at the clinics to raise awareness and teach people how to
self-examine in efforts to detect breast cancer early, ensuring prompt treatment and a speedy
recovery. The screenings will be available to both women and men and be available at the
following locations:
Sharjah will be home to three clinics located at Al Majaz Waterfront, Mega Mall, and Lulu
hypermarket in Al Butina.
In Dubai, citizens and residents can head to Lulu Hypermarket in Al Barsha, and Mirdif City
Centre to take advantage of the free medical screening, while in Ajman, the fixed clinic will be
providing early detection for both men and women in China Mall.
Free screenings will also be available at Lulu Hypermarket for Umm Al Quwain in Mall of UAQ,
Fujairah in LULU Mall and Ras Al Khaimah in Mall of RAK, providing citizens and residents this
important service in aid of early breast cancer detection.
Shurooq takes adventure to new heights with launch of ‘Sky Adventures’ in Sharjah’s Central Region
First official paragliding licensed centre in the UAE is open to the public next Monday, offering three
packages and several membership options
● Sheikh Khalid Bin Isam Al Qassimi: We introduced legislation, systems, and criteria that
ensure that the centre meets the highest paragliding safety standards
● Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer: The centre provides a unique experience for adventure seekers
and promotes growth and investment in the tourism and adventure sector
● Eisa Hilal Al Hazami: We look forward to increasing the number of paragliders and fostering a
sport-culture in Sharjah through this centre
● Nasser Hamouda Al Neyadi: The centre is latest paragliding destination for all amateur
and professional aerosports seekers
● Khalid Al Midfa: Sharjah has elevated tourist attractions through bolstering cultural tourism,
ecotourism, and sports and adventure tourism
The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), have launched ‘Sky
Adventures’, the first official paragliding licensed centre in the UAE, and Shurooq’s latest
investment in sports, leisure and adventure tourism in Sharjah’s central region. The centre will
be open to the audience next Monday, offering aerosports enthusiasts an unforgettable
opportunity to experience the picturesque desert landscapes of Sharjah’s Central Region area
from the skies, as well as attract investment and provide new locations for local businesses.
The ‘Sky Adventures’ offers three exciting packages and membership options that appeal to different
kinds of adventure seekers. These include tandem paragliding with experienced professionals, a
comprehensive, expert-led course to learn how to paraglide on your own and get international
paragliding licence, and guided flights for licensed paragliders who want to experience the majesty
of floating above the desert landscape while accumulating flight time.
The new adventure was announced, yesterday (Thursday) at the central Region of Sharjah, in the
presence of HE Sheikh Khalid Bin Isam Al Qassimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation in
Sharjah (DCA); HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Mualla; HE Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, Acting Chief
Executive Officer of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq); HE Mohammed
Yousuf Abdul Rahman, General Secretary of EAF; HE Nasser Hamouda Al Neyadi, President of
EAF; HE Yousef Hassan Al Hammadi, Vice-President of EAF; HE Khalid Al Midfa, Chairman of
Sharjah Tourism and Commerce Development Authority (SCTDA); and HE Eisa Hilal Al Hazami,
Chairman Of Sharjah Sports Council.
Creating Investment Opportunities and Promoting Sharjah as a Global Destination
HE Sheikh Khalid Bin Isam Al Qassimi, Chairman of the DCA, said: “At the DCA, we were keen to
introduce legislation, systems, and criteria to ensure the centre meets the highest paragliding safety
standards that align with our belief in security and quality in all of our operations and strategies that
seek to achieve ideal investment opportunities, drive the sustainable development process and
protect people in line with the directives of the wise Leadership. We are confident that “Shurooq” will
be dedicated to offering a unique experience in which aerosports enthusiasts, paragliding in
particular, will enjoy this thrilling adventure.”
His Excellency Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, Acting Chief Executive Officer of “Shurooq” remarked
on the newly announced licensed training centre, saying: “Our portfolio of destinations and
activities continues to expand as we aim to drive investment in various sectors of Sharjah. The
new ‘Sky Adventures’, which will be open to the public next Monday, is one among them,
providing a thrilling and unique experience for adventure seekers. Visitors will have the chance
to see Sharjah from an entirely different perspective. It represents a great opportunity to
promote growth and investment in the tourism and adventure sector.”
“We would like to thank the DCA in Sharjah for their efforts in enacting legislation that ensures the
centre meets the highest safety standards. At “Shurooq”, we are dedicated to developing diverse
projects and experiences in all of Sharjah’s regions, and we chose Al Faya Mountain in the
central region, given its importance in attracting paragliders. It will appeal to both local and
international visitors, while supporting the growth of local businesses and promoting the
Emirate’s tourism landscape.” HE added.
HE Eisa Hilal Al Hazami, Chairman Of Sharjah Sports Council, commended the inauguration of the
Sky Adventures, which is a remarkable achievement by “Shurooq”, stating: “The centre will enable
adventure and aerosports seekers to paraglide and get official international licences. Besides, it will
host paragliding championships and tournaments from the UAE and the region, which cements
Sharjah’s position at the international level and supports the sports and adventure tourism sector in
the emirate. It will encourage the public to play sports and at the same time explore those stunning
regions, and we look forward to increasing the number of paragliders and fostering a sport-culture in
Sharjah through this centre.”
HE Nasser Hamouda Al Neyadi, President of EAF, said: “We are delighted to announce the first
official paragliding licenced centre in the UAE, at Al Faya Mountain in Sharjah’s central region,
because it is one of the most ideal destinations for paragliding, and I would like to thank all
entities that contributed to the success of this centre, namely, the sharjah investment and
Development Authority (Shurooq), Department of Civil Aviation in Sharjah, and Sharjah Tourism
and Commerce Development Authority.”
For his part, HE Khalid Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, said: “Under the vision and directives of His
Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed AlQasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of
Sharjah, the emirate has elevated tourist attractions through bolstering cultural tourism, ecotourism,
and sports and adventure tourism. Sharjah has been successful in furthering its remarkable
achievements and significant milestones, bolstering its leading status among world’s cities.
Moreover, it has contributed to driving the inclusive development process that plays a key role in
sustaining vibrant key sectors and supporting the national economy. Today, we are pleased to see
“Shurooq” launch the “Sky Adventures”, which will nurture sports and adventure tourism, and attract
paragliders from around the world through offering an exceptional tourist experience.”
Unforgettable Tandem Paragliding for One and All
The tandem paragliding package is ideal for adrenaline seekers who are looking for an exciting
new way to experience the thrill of flying, as a highly experienced professional paraglider takes
visitors to the skies in this tandem paragliding adventure. For this experience, visitors will be
taken by buggy on an adventurous ride to the take-off location on the foothills of Al Faya
Mountain, before being briefed on the launch procedure and secured to their professional
paraglider via a safe but comfortable harness. They will then be taken to the skies to experience
a breathtaking paragliding adventure above the desert for 10-15 minutes and witness the beauty
of the landscapes below, through a unique perspective they have never seen before.
Learn to Fly Solo and Take to the Skies
The solo paragliding package of ‘Sky Adventures’ is for those with even more adventure in their
heart and who want to learn how to paraglide on their own. This 4-day comprehensive course
divided into 3-hour sessions will have professional and experienced paragliders teach enrolled
visitors everything they need to know to be able to confidently and safely take to the skies,
giving them the skills and knowledge to quench their thrill-seeking spirits for years to come.
After learning from a professional expert the newly qualified visitors will be able to experience
the exhilarating time of their lives with 5 solo flights and all necessary equipment and checks to
give them the confidence to soar above the desert and feel the unforgettable freedom and thrill
of flight. Successful participants can apply for a paragliding licence which is recognised
internationally.
Be Guided Through the Skies and Witness the Majesty of Sharjah
The pilot paraglider’s package will offer licensed paragliders the chance to soar 5000 feet in the
air over Sharjah’s Central Region area with full ground support, weather observation, and
equipment checking, providing experienced flyers with an unforgettable experience of Sharjah
that is hard to top. Licensed pilot paragliders will be able to accumulate their flight time while
taking in the pristine views and appeal to their sense of adventure.
Frequent Flyers and Membership Options
Skilled and licensed paragliders can explore the membership program with multiple options that
include 1-month, 3-month, 6-month, and 1-year packages, offering the opportunity to experience
the beauty and majesty of Sharjah’s skies and landscapes more frequently. Membership
includes paragliding flight support and ground handling assistance, giving members the
confidence to experience this unique paragliding destination again and again, making it a prime
destination for experienced paragliders to create unforgettable memories.
All those who are interested in this thrilling adventure experience, whether they are first-time
flyers or aspiring paragliders looking for breath-taking scenery, or they wish to get an
international licence, or veterans seeking a prime paragliding location or membership, can
obtain more information and register for the Sky Adventures at https://sky-adventures.ae/.
10 Leading Private and Public Sector Entities Join Forces for the Sharjah Investment Forum
The Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah), has revealed the partnerships for its
upcoming sixth edition of the Sharjah Investment Forum (SIF). The Forum has
partnered with ten private, public, and semi-governmental entities that will present
visions for their sectors to government officials, CEOs, local and international
speakers, and economic experts.
The Sharjah Investment Forum 2023 is set to take place on February 8th and 9th at
the Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre in Sharjah.
The Forum’s diverse lineup of partners for its 2023 edition, represents both the
public and private sectors. SIF’s governmental partners include the Sharjah
Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Sharjah Economic Development
Department, and the Sharjah Private Education Authority. Sustainability partner
Bee’ah Group, Investment partner Invest Bank and Platinum partner Hamriyah Free
Zone, Gold partners Arada Group and Sharjah Asset Management, and Silver
partners Emirates Development Bank and National Paints will also be participating in
the event. Together, these partners will provide valuable insights and perspectives
on the economic development in the region.
The event will feature a special exhibition dedicated to showcasing the latest
international trends and innovations in various sectors, including a green economy,
healthcare, education, virtual and digital economy, and fintech. The forum’s partners
will also present reports and visions for the future of these industries, providing
valuable insights and perspectives for attendees.
“Partnership with private, public, and semi-governmental entities is a key factor in
driving success for both local and international investments,” said Mohammed
Juma’a Al Musharrakh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah. “Economic recovery and
substantial growth in domestic or foreign investments cannot be achieved without
cooperation with the concerned authorities and a nurturing environment,” he added.
The sixth edition theme is “Redefining economies: making significant strides for a
better future.” The event will bring together regional and global business leaders,
economists, and financial experts to discuss strategies and mechanisms that will
empower business communities in the region and beyond to adapt to current and
future economic trends guided by sustainability and human capital development. The
forum will also provide an opportunity to explore entrepreneurial opportunities in
sustainable sectors.
Those interested in attending the two-day event can register via the following link:
https://bit.ly/SIF2023.
The region’s first hyper-immersive gaming experience is coming to Magic Planet on 20 January
Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment is excited to announce the launch of seven fully-interactive ‘Gameboxes’ in Magic Planet – City Centre Mirdif, Dubai and Magic Planet City – Centre Al Zahia, Sharjah. In partnership with leading gaming company Immersive Gamebox (IGB, formerly known as Electric Gamebox), the region’s first hyper-immersive gaming experience will give guests access to a completely new genre of group entertainment starting from 20 January.
Touted as the World’s Smartest Rooms, ‘Gameboxes’ are interactive digital smart rooms featuring cutting-edge technologies, including patented touch screens, 3D motion tracking, and surround sound to deliver a shared gaming experience like no other. Each ‘Gamebox’ can cater to groups of two to six players, making them the perfect new entertainment destination for dates, mates, and the whole family.
Players can choose from 12 different experiences in IGB’s growing library of licensed and original IP games created by its in-house studio. All titles will be available at Magic Planet including Alien Aptitude Test, Ticket to Mars, Psychedelic Mansion, James Bunny: Casino Tropicale, and Squid Game lasting 60 minutes each, as well as Temple of Coins, Angry Birds, Block Smash Mania, Trivia Mash-up, lasting 15-30 minutes each, and kids’ games including Temple of Coins Junior, Tip Tap Memory Challenge and Shaun the Sheep: Championsheeps, lasting 15-30 minutes each. IGB will also be providing localised versions of these games in Arabic.
IGB was co-founded by Chief Executive Officer Will Dean and Chief Financial Officer David Spindler in 2019. It currently has 16 locations across Europe and the US with locations in London, New York, Chicago, Houston, Berlin, and many more, providing guests with unparalleled entertainment experiences. Immersive Gamebox is among Tripadvisor’s Top 10% Worldwide Attractions and has recently been featured in The Guardian’s Culture 2023 picks.
Be the first to experience the region’s first hyper-immersive gaming experience! Visit Immersive Gamebox at Magic Planet – City Centre Mirdif, Dubai and City Centre Al Zahia, Sharjah or book your tickets online at https://www.magicplanetmena.com/en-ae/immersive-games starting from 20 January.
Bodour Al Qasimi strengthened publishing industry’s role in achieving sustainable development during her term
During Bodour Al Qasimi’s two-year term as President of the International Publishers
Association (IPA), and the two years preceding her term as the vice-president of the IPA
between 2019-2020, she succeeded in executing a great number of commendable
achievements including bringing many new publishers’ associations to the organisation,
numerous impressive initiatives being launched, inspiring the vision of diversity and
inclusivity to be adopted, expanding the scope of work being conducted as well as
promoting the publishing industry as one of the main pillars of sustainable development
in low-income countries.
Throughout her presidency of the IPA, Bodour Al Qasimi served as a role model,
leading the global publishing sector during a very challenging period during the
pandemic and shaping the IPA’s future. Her efforts have brought about a paradigm shift
in the publishing industry world as she engaged many marginalised communities and
countries, allowing them to be key players in the industry globally.
Increased women’s participation and promoted their empowerment globally
Bodour Al Qasimi’s role as president represented a precedent in itself, as she was the
first Arab woman and the second woman in history to assume the presidency of the IPA
since it was established in 1869. Not only did she help to bring about change at the
association, but also in the world and the publishing industry as a whole, combating the
prevailing culture and stereotypes about women, particularly that of Arab women.
She also empowered women in the industry, launching the ‘PublisHer’ initiative, which is
a platform for promoting and assisting female publishers. The impact she has made
during her reign will echo into the future as the next two terms of presidents will also be
women, namely, Karine Pansa and Gvantsa Jobava.
Moreover, Bodour Al Qasimi had a strong role in women’s empowerment across the
globe by being an excellent example of a leader during difficult times. While
participating in international conferences and book fairs, she promoted gender equality
and equal opportunity, calling for more cooperation among female publishers to
exchange expertise and ensure a successful career for themselves and their peers.
Developed a rescue plan for publishing associations worldwide
Bodour Al Qasimi transformed the challenges posed by the pandemic on the publishing
sector, which hindered its growth, into great opportunities to shape the future of the
industry, as she instilled the concept of partnership between publishers from different
cultures.
These partnerships resulted in issuing the report, ‘From Response to Recovery 2020-
2021.’ It included surveys and case studies, gathering the opinions of a number of
representatives from the book industry. IPA’s team, led by Bodour Al Qasimi
communicated with more than 33 publishing associations around the world,
representing 70% of the global publishing market, worth around $90 billion annually.
Surveys and communications were geographically distributed in the following manner:
Asia 40%, Africa 27%, and Europe and the Americas 17% each.
Bodour Al Qasimi wanted the report to be a reference for IPA’s exerted efforts, aiming
to enhance the adaptability and sustainability of the publishing sector, as well as to
learn from the difficulties that publishers went through globally. As a result, the
‘International Sustainable Publishing and Industry Resilience’ (InSPIRe) initiative was
launched based on these survey reports.
Made 40 on-site visits to identify with the challenges that face publishers
In order to ensure that the findings and proposed solutions through the IPA’s report
synchronised with local frameworks of publishing associations worldwide, Bodour Al
Qasimi conducted 40 on-site visits around Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Europe,
where she met with publishers in their own countries, especially those societies that had
long been isolated from the publishing sector and cultural scene.
Established the first educational academy in the history of IPA
These continuous visits made by Bodour Al Qasimi became a step towards establishing
the pioneering ‘International Publishers Association Academy’ initiative, where over 150
leading officials and executives in the publishing industry, from more than 40 countries,
were enrolled. Those that benefited from the initiative included publishing houses,
distributors, authors, teachers, book fairs, culture and free speech advocates.
Work through the academy now provides dialogues, lectures, and scientific analyses on
modern publishing strategies, market trends, and the readers’ preferences for more than
15,000 publishers in over 70 countries.
Launched IPA Africa Publishing Innovation Fund
Al Qasimi continued her efforts by establishing the ‘IPA Africa Publishing Innovation
Fund,’ where she helped to distribute these grants to support the development of
publishing practices, including educational publishing and initiatives that provide
sources of knowledge for low-income communities, in order to increase access to
books, strengthening knowledge and culture, as well as empowering intellectuals and
creatives.
Publishing associations from 11 Arab countries joined the IPA
Arab publishers were widely supported and encouraged by the IPA President as they
represent huge publishing markets that had a great influence in shaping the culture of
about 430 million Arabs around the world. These efforts have attracted the attention of
foreign publishers towards Arabic literature, as its readers start showing more interest in
the translated works from Arabic writers.
Even before Bodour Al Qasimi assumed her roles as Vice-President and President of
the IPA, she made every effort to increase the Arab publishers’ presence in the industry
and continued to do so through her reign. Her valiant efforts opened the doors for a
number of associations in the region including the ‘Emirates Publishers Association’ in
2009, ‘The Saudi Publishers Association’ and the ‘Tunisian Publishers Association’ in
2015, the ‘Jordanian Publishers Association’ in 2017, associations of Iraq, Mauritania
and Morocco who joined in 2018, Somalia in 2020, and most recently, Libya and Sudan
in 2021. Additionally Syria was also welcomed to join as an observer member in 2022.
Bodour Al Qasimi was adamant to open the doors of the IPA to new members, its
concepts and cultures, empowering the societies whose voices had long been ignored
to effectively contribute to the progress of the publishing sector and promote their
cultures worldwide. This was in line with her goals of sustainable development and
common values.
Bodour Al Qasimi’s extensive experience and years of dedication to the book industry
all accumulated through her time at the IPA and her many achievements before
becoming president are a testament to that. Her continuous efforts to enhance
Sharjah’s status as a global cultural centre resulted in the emirate being named,
‘Sharjah World Book Capital 2019’ by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Cultural Organization (UNESCO). She is also founder and CEO of the internationally
renowned ‘Kalimat Group’, and founder of the ‘Emirates Publishers Association’, where
she was able to link the Emirati publishing community to the global counterpart,
attracting more attention to Emirati literature and culture.
UAE astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi will embark on a journey to space on February 26
The Crew-6 mission, which includes astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi representing the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Center, NASA astronauts Stephen Bowen and Warren Hoburg, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev, will launch on a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft named Endeavour, mated atop a Falcon 9 rocket. This six-month long mission will feature a variety of scientific experiments and research. This is Al Neyadi’s first journey to space, and he will serve as a flight engineer for Expedition 69 once on the station.
NASA has announced that the launch of the Falcon 9 rocket and the Dragon Endeavour spacecraft, as part of the SpaceX Crew-6 mission to the International Space Station (ISS), is planned for no earlier than February 26 from the Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. On January 25, a pair of news conferences will be held at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston to provide more details about this mission, which is NASA’s sixth crew rotation flight using a US commercial spacecraft to transport a science expedition to the ISS.
Abu Dhabi to host UNCTAD’s World Investment Forum in October
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has announced Abu Dhabi as the host city of its 8th World Investment Forum, to be held from 16th to 20th October 2023.
Taking place under the theme “Investing in Sustainable Development”, the forum will bring together government leaders, global CEOs and other investment stakeholders to tackle the key challenges brought about by multiple global crises, including the need to invest in food security, energy, health, supply-chain resilience, infrastructure and productive capacity growth in the least developed countries.
UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan and Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, today presented the priority themes of the forum.
The forum will take place a few weeks ahead of the annual climate summit COP28, which will also be held in the UAE. The forum will enable policymakers and other stakeholders to find solutions and reach consensus on priority issues, and its outcomes will feed into COP28 negotiations.
Important opportunity
“At a time when much of the world is struggling with contracting markets and a post-COVID recovery that has yet to fully take hold, UNCTAD’s 8th World Investment Forum is an important opportunity to take a long-term perspective,” Dr. Al Zeyoudi said.
He said the challenges the world faces, whether systemic issues such as climate change, inequality and food security or mitigating the pandemic’s impact on trade, investment and supply chain resilience, require unity of purpose and action on an unprecedented scale.
Dr. Al Zeyoudi added, “It is fitting that the event takes place in the UAE, where we are continuously reinventing and remodelling our economy to anticipate future changes. Decades of UAE innovation are now generating a level of recognition and trust in our systems and processes, while various national initiatives have helped to attract unprecedented investment and talent, transforming our nation into a truly global business hub.”
From the host city Abu Dhabi, Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, underscored the critical need to safeguard and build on the process of global reform, including the liberalisation of trade and responsible investment policies.
“Against the backdrop of a highly volatile global economic landscape, the international community shares a collective responsibility to address the challenges facing the multilateral trading and development system,” he said. “It is imperative that we continue to come together, cooperate and identify much-needed solutions and alternative ways for the prosperity of all countries and humankind.”
Al Shorafa said the UAE proudly embodies the ideals of openness, equality and sustainability, the pillars of its successful international business and trade doctrine. “We will continue to work with all countries towards alleviating poverty and supporting long-term growth for sustainable development. We have a clear vision on how to scale the solutions required to help move the world forward and achieve real progress.”
For her part, Trypans emphasised the vital role the forum plays in mobilising efforts by the international investment-development community to address global challenges, which have both multiplied and converged in recent years.
“I see how investors, firms and governments are, in increasing numbers, putting sustainability and long-term value at the core of their activities,” she said. “The World Investment Forum aims to bring them all together to make a positive contribution to addressing today’s most pressing issues, including through climate finance and investment. I sincerely thank our host country partners, the Ministry of Economy and the Government of Abu Dhabi, for offering to host the forum.”
Aspiration Inc. to expand to UAE under Abu Dhabi Investment Office support
California-based fintech company Aspiration Inc. (Aspiration), announced today that the company will be setting up offices at Abu Dhabi Global Markets.
Aspiration, which is backed by such powerhouses as Oaktree Capital Management and affiliates of former Microsoft Corp CEO Steve Balmer, in addition to environmentalists and Hollywood icons Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert Downey Jr, is being supported by Access Abu Dhabi, the business expansion programme by Maven Global Access and supported by Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), that serves as a conduit to fast-track entry to the burgeoning UAE capital.
The announcement was made today during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, where Vinoda Basnayake, President of Aspiration MENA discussed the company’s ambitious plans for the region.
Aspiration is a purpose-driven climate action company that offers large and small enterprises, governments, investors, and consumers access to a portfolio of high-quality carbon assets through innovative products, services, and investments that drive climate action.
Aspiration aims to serve as a sustainability partner for the UAE ahead of the country hosting COP28, the UN’s annual climate change summit taking place this November and December. Aspiration’s world-class carbon programme manages one of the world’s largest inventory of premium tree planting and carbon reduction portfolios that collectively accelerate global decarbonization and deliver tangible environmental and social impact at scale.
“Abu Dhabi is one of the world’s most forward-thinking and climate smart cities. We are excited about the opportunity to develop partnerships here with the support of Access Abu Dhabi and ADIO.” Vinoda Basnayake, President of Aspiration MENA, stated. “Aspiration is the sustainability partner to some of the most recognised names in the globe ranging from corporations such as Meta and Deloitte to professional sports franchises the Los Angeles Clippers and the Boston Red Sox. We are excited to expand to the UAE and are looking forward to providing similar carbon mitigation solutions at scale here as well.”
The UAE has set out an ambitious plan to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 and will invest US$163.5 billion (AED600 billion) in renewable energy to deliver sustainable economic growth. ADIO partners with innovative companies capable of accelerating the UAE’s road to net zero by developing and commercialising technology and services across a range of sectors.
In 2022, ADIO supported through its Innovation Programme Siemens Energy AG to set up its Middle East Innovation Centre in Abu Dhabi, focused on developing clean energy technologies. In the AgTech sector, Abu Dhabi has made significant headway in “turning the desert green” through ADIO’s support for innovators pioneering desert agriculture solutions.
Abdulla Abdul Aziz Al Shamsi, Acting Director-General of ADIO, said, “As the UAE gets ready to host COP28, we are focused equally on achieving our net-zero goal while developing globally relevant solutions. Aspiration Inc. offers a pioneering solution for business and individuals to achieve their climate goals and we are delighted to welcome them to our ecosystem. Abu Dhabi is a global hub for green energy, finance and technology that is ready to partner with innovation-driven companies like Aspiration Inc. to make a global impact.”
Dhaher bin Dhaher Al Mheiri, CEO of ADGM Authority, added, “ADGM is pleased to welcome Aspiration Inc. into its sustainable financial hub based in the capital of the UAE. As the international financial centre that has achieved a carbon-neutral status and has a forward-looking and innovative approach to sustainability, we always look forward to onboarding purpose-driven climate action organisations such as Aspiration Inc. that advance environmental goals through similar beliefs and strategies. The opportunities within the global carbon market are already evolving, and we are ecstatic about the value-add Aspiration Inc. will bring to businesses, investors, government, and government-affiliated bodies to strengthen the green economy of Abu Dhabi, the UAE and the MEASA region, especially with COP28 upcoming later this year.”
Established in 2008, ADSW is a global platform for accelerating the world’s sustainable development. The event brings together heads of state, policymakers, industry leaders, investors, entrepreneurs and youth in the UAE capital to discuss and engage on bold climate action and innovations that will ensure the next generation a sustainable world.
Saudi Stock Market Index ends trading higher
Riyadh, Jan.19 (BNA): The main Saudi stock index (TASI) ended trading today up, gaining 17.97 points, to close at 10682.01 points level, with deals worth SAR 3.4 billion, reports SPA
The number of shares traded – according to the daily economic bulletin of the Saudi Press Agency for the Saudi Stock Market – reached 101 million, through more than 284,000 deals, in which the shares of 93 companies advanced, while 110 others declined.
The Saudi parallel stock index (NOMU) closed higher today, gaining 159.71 points, to close at the level of 18213.17 points, with a trading amount worth SAR 67 million, and the number of shares traded reached more than 267,000, through 1805 deals.