Sky is the limit as UAE mega-projects cement Emirates’ position as top destination

Arab News
August 1, 2018

Dubai, Aug 1: With the construction and opening of a number of mega-projects across the UAE, expectations are running high that the Emirates will continue to be a top tourist destination well beyond 2020.

From the recently opened Dubai Opera, Warner Bros. World and Louvre Abu Dhabi to the upcoming completion of Dubai Creek Tower and Dubai Square, the Emirates is taking the lead in global tourism. The Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry last week predicted positive years ahead for the UAE economy.

“The quality of UAE tourism and infrastructure is quite high already,” said Dr. Nasser Saidi, a former chief economist and head of external relations of Dubai International Financial Center.

“If you compare it with other countries in the region, it has the most developed and integrated infrastructure, especially from a transport and logistics point of view, from air, roads, ports, airports, metro and rail.”

Saidi said that high-quality infrastructure in hotels and conference centers made the UAE a leader in the region.

“Adding to the infrastructure always helps, but it will have a marginal impact given the existing infrastructure,” said Saidi, who was Lebanon’s minister of economy and trade and minister of industry between 1998 and 2000. “What is important is to diversify the nature of the activities for tourists.

“If you have new types of activities, that will attract more visitors.”

Although falling oil prices since mid-2014 have affected GCC economies, mega-projects will ensure the UAE continues to be a leading destination for tourists, according to the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry report.

The report, based on data from international research institutions, including Haver Analytics, Fox Economics, the UN Conference on Trade and Development and the International Monetary Fund, says that the country’s solid and diversified economy has overcome the effects of lower oil prices and weakened global trade.

“Foreign direct investment inflows to the UAE increased by 7.8 percent, making it the largest FDI (foreign direct investment) recipient in the Middle East and North Africa region and the GCC,” it read. “The UAE economic outlook is buoyed by an upswing in government spending on infrastructure projects as part of the preparations for Expo 2020.”

It predicted that the UAE economy would return to long-term growth in 2018 and beyond, thanks to a diversification of the government’s sources of income.

“I see tourism in the UAE contributing a great deal to the economy in the future,” said Asim Rahman, managing director at Saifco Travel and Tourism in Dubai.

“Middle Eastern countries were mainly depending on oil in the past and they wanted to shift their dependency on other sectors such as tourism. The region is a tourism hub, and visitors from all over the world come here due to different opportunities — it also has good security, which affects a lot of customers.”

The Dubai Creek Tower, expected to be a notch higher than Burj Khalifa in the Dubai Creek Harbor, is planned to be the tallest tower in the city, with Emaar completing the concrete placement for its pile cap two months ahead of schedule.

Rahman said that new attractions, theme parks and shopping malls would boost tourism in the future and pave the way for the country to potentially host international events, including the World Cup and the Olympics.

“The number of tourists is increasing, and it will continue,” he said. “Tourism is important because the UAE is emerging as a services industry now. It’s supporting businesses, and tourism is vital to help the economy grow further.”

Dubai Square, a new retail area in Dubai Creek Harbor, aims to reach almost more than twice the size of Dubai Mall, at 8.07 million square feet of gross floor retail space.

“There is huge potential in tourism in the UAE, which is why I work in the business,” said Mohammed Shah, general manager at Regal Tours Worldwide in Dubai.

“I see billions coming in, and it is better than we think — the government wants to promote tourism as another source of income instead of relying on traditional sources and maintaining its reputation as a tourism hub. They’re always focused on building what people around the world want, while keeping safety high on the agenda.”

He said that the government is at the forefront of tourism. “When tourists spend a dollar here, they feel they received five dollars of value,” he added. “If you look at the history of World Expos, each country which hosted an Expo has grown, developed and flourished, whether it’s China, Italy or France — if it happened with all these countries, why can’t it happen with the UAE?”

Dubai Expo 2020 also promises a major favorable impact on the economy. “Expo 2020 Dubai will be the biggest event ever held in the Middle East, with more than 180 countries, plus multilateral organizations and businesses, expected to participate,” said an Expo 2020 Dubai spokesman.

“We expect to welcome 25 million visits, with 70 percent of visitors from outside the UAE — the highest proportion in the 167-year history of World Expos.”

He said that tourism and hospitality will be one of the industries to benefit most from the six-month event, which will open on Oct. 20, 2020, due to an increase in visitor numbers as well as opportunities on the site.

“We expect the impact on the tourism industry to continue beyond 2020, thanks to the Expo increasing the UAE’s profile as an inspiring, exciting and safe destination, as well as the iconic architecture that will continue to attract visitors,” he said.

“Post-Expo, the UAE will be in a better position to attract other events of this scale due to its enhanced hospitality, security and logistics capabilities, as well as Dubai World Trade Center’s new Co-Ex, which is being built adjacent to the Expo 2020 site.”

The Co-Ex is planned to expand to 180,000 square meters after 2021, enhancing Dubai’s reputation as the premier host of events in the region.

“The Co-Ex is one example of infrastructure projects that have been brought forward due to Expo 2020, creating additional benefit for the broader UAE economy,” he said.

“Other projects include the extension of the Dubai Metro red line, Route 2020, as well as multiple DEWA substations, major road works and hotels in Dubai South. We look forward to welcoming the world to the UAE in 2020, offering millions of people an experience that will ensure they return again and again.”

Tourism agencies report witnessing more visitors, even in the usually slow summer period. “We are getting a lot more tourists than expected, especially Indian nationals, because visitors benefit from so many activities here,” said Smarth Vij, general manager at Forever Tourism in Dubai.

In Abu Dhabi, last week’s launch of Warner Bros. World is seen as another milestone in the emirate’s quest to cement its position as a leading tourist destination.

“The park is another great addition to Yas Island’s award-winning attractions,” said Mohammed Al-Mubarak, chairman of Miral. “It gives us great pride to have partnered with Warner Bros. Consumer Products to launch the world’s largest Warner Bros. indoor theme park in Abu Dhabi. We are thrilled fans will be able to enjoy the outcome of this partnership.”

For Dr. Yousif Alobaidli, general director of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center in Abu Dhabi, tourism is the sector with the greatest potential to create jobs and develop other sectors of the economy, including transport, travel and hospitality.

“This sector is expected to grow faster than the wider economy and many other industries over the next decade, and it is anticipated to support over 370 million jobs by 2026,” he said.

“The UAE has the necessary assets to invest in tourism, in particular in cultural tourism. This sector will be a game-changer in the future.”

 

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KT
May 18,2020

May 18: As the UAE authorities have asked all residents to avoid gatherings, it is clear that - for the first time - it's going to be a #StayHome Eid. But experts say that although it will be different, the celebration will be just as meaningful.

It is important to remember that the Eid prayer can be performed at home either individually or with family members under the sane roof, said Dr Mohammed Eyada Ayoub Alkobaisi, a Grand Mufti with the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai.

Dr Alkobaisi said this prayer is a highly recommended Sunnah or practice urged by the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him).

"Eid Prayer must be performed openly, unless we are prevented for an acceptable reason, such as fear for self, wellbeing, property, etc." Under the current circumstances, prayers can be offered from home, he said.

But what the faithful will likely miss is listening to the khutbah or the sermon of Eid with a crowd. The sight of people pouring out into the streets and coming together for prayer and worship would not be unfolding this time.

Dr Sheikh Mohamed Ashmawy, an Islamic researcher, said that in this time of Covid, doing away with several Eid traditions would be necessary for everyone's safety.

"The ban is is line with the ongoing preventive measures to curb the spread of Covid-19," he said.

However, it doesn't mean people can't celebrate and exchange heartfelt greetings, he added.

"We can greet each other remotely on the phone or via social media networks."

Islamic researcher Sheikh Mohamed Wasfi said audio-visual smart apps have made communication much easier, even bringing people closer than before.

"Of course, families and friends wish to hug, shake hands and see each other personally, but this will be a big risk these days," he said.

Sheikh Asadullah Del Mohamed, an imam, reminded that banquets, parties and visits are discouraged to avoid crowds and gathering.

Recently, 30 people from two families tested positive for the virus after breaking social distancing rules and holding a gathering.

Faithful's sentiments

Ibrahim Abdelkader, an Egyptian auditor, said that while it would be sad to spend Eid Al Fitr at home, he understood that it is for everyone's safety.

"Better to stay home than be sorry," said Ahmad Jamil, a Syrian resident.

Rashid Saeed, an Emirati national, said people are advised to just check on each other by phone or video and voice call apps.

"While Eid prayers is banned in congregation, it's not acceptable at all for some people to carelessly gather and exchange visits," he said.

Abdullah Al Saleh, an Emirati national, said he and all his relatives used to gather for breakfast after the Eid prayer - but this time, they are ready to do it in their own homes.

Mohamed Ibrahim, another Emirati, said he would surely miss seeing his kids happily prancing around with their new clothes and enjoying the outdoors like every year.

"But, I agree as it is for their health, safety and wellbeing," he said.

THINGS TO REMEMBER IN CELEBRATING EID THIS YEAR

>Perform the Eid prayer at home, individually or with family members living with you

>Exchange greetings with loved ones and friends via phone calls or online

>No hugs

>No handshakes

>No gatherings

>No visits to other homes

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News Network
April 16,2020

Dubai, Apr 16: Most of the patients who have fully recovered from Covid-19 in the UAE followed healthy behaviours that helped strengthen their immune systems, said Dr Farida Al Hosani, Official Spokesperson for the UAE Health Sector.

Dr Al Hosani made the remarks during the UAE Government's regular briefing on the latest developments related to the spread of coronavirus in the country, which was held on Wednesday in Abu Dhabi.

During the briefing, Dr Al Hosani spoke about the precautionary measures that aimed to prevent the spread of the virus.

Ammar Al Muaini, Official Spokesperson of the National Programme for Happiness and Quality of Life, also explained the outcomes of the National Mental Health Programme.

During the briefing, Dr Al Hosani affirmed that recorded cases in the country, especially recoveries, were related to key factors and reasons.

"In most cases of recoveries, we noticed that they have followed several daily health behaviours, such as doing exercise, eating a healthy diet, strengthening the immune system, and maintaining an ideal weight, as well as abstaining from bad habits, such as smoking and unhealthy eating. The psychological aspect is also important, and it is necessary to support the mental health of individuals, along with their physical health," she said.

"These practices, which we always emphasise and promote, will help raise a person's immunity and resistance to diseases, in addition to medicines, and can speed up the process of recovering from disease," she added.

Dr Al Hosani also talked about the importance of not being complacent if one's temperature rises. "We highlight the importance of periodic temperature checks for family members at home. This step is one of the health measures that we are encouraging.

"Everyone who has a high temperature must contact the nearest health centre or hospital or go to a drive-through testing centre because personal health is linked to the health of those around us and we are responsible for it. There is no room for hesitation in protecting our families," she stressed.

Dr Al Hosani highlighted the importance of covering the nose and mouth, whether by wearing surgical, paper or cloth masks, or any other covering or clothing.

"This procedure is important for everyone leaving home to avoiding the transmission of any infection and preserving the safety of everyone, along with leaving a safe physical distance between people in public places, markets and workplaces, and following the precautions," she explained.

Regarding high temperatures and their relationship to the coronavirus, Dr. Al Hosani said: "All studies that attempt to understand the relationship between the virus and climate have not been able to confirm that higher temperatures will help kill the virus. We are continuing to monitor the results of these studies."

Al Muaini explained the details and developments of the national campaign, titled, 'Don't Worry,' which aims to support the mental health of community members.

"The UAE Government, represented by the National Programme for Happiness and Quality of Life, has launched, under the current circumstances, the national campaign, titled, 'Don't Worry,' that aims to provide psychological support to members of society facing the repercussions of the novel coronavirus, in line with relevant national efforts," Al Muaini said.

"The campaign reflects the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, affirming that quality of life is a high priority, and health is the most important pillar of quality of human and society," Al Muaini added.

Al Muaini stated that the phrase, 'Don't Worry,' is profound in its meaning, according to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, and reassures everyone that everything will be fine. "Today, the concept of health is not limited to physical health, but it also includes mental health. During this period, and due to the social, professional, and educational changes that directly affect our lives, we need to support and enhance our mental health to overcome these challenges," he  added.

Al Muaini said that over 50 specialists, psychologists and social workers are voluntarily participating in the national campaign to serve the country, which includes three main components focusing on providing psychological support to all members of society, especially as this type of support is one of the necessary community needs during the current circumstances.

The first component, 'Let's Support Together,' aims to answer enquiries regarding psychological challenges, provide educational advice, and support individuals in facing challenges, through daily live broadcasts on the social media networks of the National Programme for Happiness and Quality of Life, @HappyUAE. Two events are broadcast every day, with the first being at 17:30 in English and the second at 20:30 in Arabic to benefit all segments of society.

Al Muaini explained that the number of live broadcasts on the programme's social media accounts has reached 30 and covers various topics, including psychological care for senior citizens, psychological care for children, psychological support for working mothers, and how to address anxiety and psychological concerns.

According to scientific studies, fear and anxiety are among the strongest influences that weaken human immunity, and, therefore, it is necessary to learn about how to deal with them. The duration of each broadcast is one hour, attracting some 250,000 views each.

Al Muaini explained that the second component of the campaign is the hosting of closed virtual sessions, entitled, 'Let's Talk Together,' which aim to provide psychosocial support to specific groups of society, to enable them to talk to each other in a safe environment to discuss the psychological challenges they are facing.

The programme has organised over eight closed psychological support sessions to maintain the privacy of participants, under the supervision of certified physicians and psychologists. Some 300 people have participated and some sessions were held for those under quarantine, including working mothers, school and university students, and doctors working in the first line of defence.

Some 300,000 people watched "Let's Reassure Each Other" programme Al Muaini noted that the third component of the campaign, titled, "Let's Reassure Each Other," focuses on raising awareness of the importance of psychological resilience and promoting its importance to society. The programme has so far posted more than 21 video clips containing messages of support and reassurance to the community.

The number of people who watched the programme reached some 300,000 viewers.

Al Muaini stressed that the campaign is an effective interactive platform available on a daily basis, to provide psychological support to all segments of society at a time when people require reassurance and psychological support to overcome the current crisis. The campaign hosted doctors working in the first line of defence and their enquiries were answered directly. A group of people under quarantine was also involved in the closed support sessions, which were also popular with participating doctors.

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News Network
April 10,2020

Dubai, Apr 10: Saudi Arabia reported 364 new coronavirus cases and three new virus-related deaths, the Ministry of Health announced on Friday.

The total number of confirmed cases in the Kingdom is 3,651, out of which 2,919 are currently active, the ministry added.

Out of the new cases, 90 were recorded in Mecca, 78 in Medina, 69 in Riyadh, and 54 in Jeddah, the ministry said.

Meanwhile, the number of fatalities rose to 47, while th number of recoveries reached 685.

The daily number of confirmed cases in Saudi Arabia has not peaked yet, and has been rapidly accelerating.

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Health had said earlier this week that four different studies showed that the number of coronavirus cases in the Kingdom could reach between 10,000 to 200,000 within weeks.

The ministry spokesman emphasized the urgent need for citizens and residents to remain at home and maintain social distancing practices to ensure that the virus does not spread further.

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