August 14, 2022

World Green Economy Summit in Dubai supports the UAE’s preparations for hosting COP28 at Expo City Dubai next year

Under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), the World Green Economy Organization (WGEO), will organise the 8th World Green Economy Summit (WGES) on 28 and 29 September 2022, in conjunction with the Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition (WETEX) and Dubai Solar Show (DSS).

Besides its leading role in promoting a green economy, WGES plays a key role in supporting the UAE’s outstanding efforts in climate action and its firm commitment to sustainability. It also reflects the UAE’s unlimited support for energy and climate change issues and developing sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. This supports the UAE’s preparations to host the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) at Expo City Dubai in 2023. This is the most important and largest international conference on climate action that brings together world leaders, underlining the UAE’s leadership and its widely recognised efforts in climate action.

Since its launch in 2014, WGES has succeeded in galvanising global efforts to promote the shift towards a green economy and has provided a strategic platform to support international cooperation to face global challenges, promote sustainable development and investments in the green economy, encourage adoption of effective policies, plans, and initiatives in this area, and discuss pressing issues including climate change and global warming. WGES helps align energy policies with the Sustainable Development Goals, exchanging views on successful sustainability strategies, systems and policies, and using available opportunities to support the transition to a green economy. WGES brings together a large number of leaders, experts and specialists in various areas related to a green economy and sustainable development.

“The UAE plays a leading role in supporting global efforts in clean and renewable energy through its strategies and investments in this area. Guided by the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to turn challenges into opportunities, WGES aims to change climate work into opportunities for development and economic diversity. The 8th WGES is especially important as the UAE is preparing to host COP28 next year at Expo City Dubai. WGES supports the efforts of the UAE as well as global efforts to adopt innovative green solutions, promote innovation for sustainable development, and achieve a balance between economic growth and sustainability of natural and environmental resources. WGES also supports the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050 for Dubai to provide 100% of Dubai’s total power capacity from clean energy sources by 2050,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, MD & CEO of DEWA and Chairman of the WGES.

“The momentum observed worldwide in recent years to accelerate the implementation of the Paris Agreement, adopted during the Conference of the Parties (COP 21), reflects the importance of establishing policies and mechanisms that guarantee sustainable development and the transition to a green economy. In line with the UAE’s plan for green development, Dubai developed the country’s vision by implementing vital projects that support renewable energy, energy efficiency and conservation. It ensured the engagement of the private sector as an essential part of implementation and financing. The role of the private sector in implementing renewable energy projects has been one of the most important ingredients for success, which reflects the reputation and position of the UAE globally in attracting the largest companies and using the latest technologies. WGES provides the ideal and unique platform for exchanging experiences and aligning efforts that support the regional and global agenda for sustainable development,” added Al Tayer.

“The UAE is one of the leading countries in the world supporting the green economy and international efforts in the field of clean energy. It has set its long-term goals in the field of energy, and has launched the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative is a national drive to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050,” said HE Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure.

“During a record period, the UAE has expanded in the field of clean energy, thanks to the legislation and laws that have kept pace with the current developments and future challenges, and set ambitious goals for the future, which in turn has strengthened the investment system in this vital sector, that is the centrepiece of the national economy. The World Green Economy Summit is a major supporter of the UAE’s efforts and endeavours to achieve a balance between energy and the environment, and to map out the features of a sustainable future capable of transforming challenges into opportunities, in line with the provisions of the Paris Agreement on climate change,” added HE Suhail Al Mazrouei.

“In line with the vision of the wise leadership to adopt a comprehensive and balanced approach to climate action through a well-thought-out transformation in the energy sector, the World Green Economy Summit supports the national efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. This is particularly important as the UAE is getting ready to host COP 28 at Expo City Dubai next year. The World Green Economy Summit is an important platform that supports the UAE’s direction and global efforts to adopt innovative green solutions that contribute to achieving a balance between economic and social growth and the sustainability of natural resources, as well as focus on renewable and clean energy solutions,” said HE Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and UAE Climate Change Special Envoy.

“For three decades, the UAE has presented a pioneering model of climate and environmental action to the world. Last October marked the landmark announcement of the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative that takes a holistic cross-sectoral collaborative approach to decarbonisation. As we gear up to host COP28 in 2023, we are keen to take meaningful steps in our climate action – most importantly, advancing the shift to a green economy. WGES is a leading global platform that drives climate and environmental action through convening decision-makers and experts to assess the progress made thus far in the transition to a green economy, explore the next steps, and expedite collective endeavours,” said HE Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment.

HE Almheiri thanked WGEO and DEWA for the impeccable organisation of the past editions of the Summit. She added that the event aligns with the UAE’s directives as well as global priorities and contributes to boosting the country’s competitiveness and reaffirming its global leadership in building a green economy.

World Green Economy Organization (WGEO)

HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, launched the World Green Economy Organization (WGEO) in collaboration with the UN Development Programme (UNDP) during the WGES 2016. WGEO contributes to enhancing the transition to a green economy and disseminating green economy projects at a global level, as well as supporting countries and organisations seeking to achieve their strategies and green plans. WGEO and the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) hosted the ‘MENA Climate Week 2022’, in collaboration with the UNDP, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), UN Climate Change, the UNFCCC, and the World Bank Group from 28 to 31 March 2022, coinciding with the conclusion of Expo 2020 Dubai.

MENA Climate Week 2022, the first of its kind in the region, brought together leaders, experts and specialists from the government and private sectors, and civil society to discuss the effects of climate change, and collaborate on swift, bold actions to address this challenge.

Source: Dubai Electricity and Water Authority

August 14, 2022

World Green Economy Summit in Dubai supports UAE’s preparations for hosting COP28 next year

DUBAI, Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), and the World Green Economy Organisation (WGEO), will organise the 8th World Green Economy Summit (WGES) on 28th and 29th September, 2022, in conjunction with the Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition (WETEX) and Dubai Solar Show (DSS).

Besides its leading role in promoting a green economy, the WGES plays a key role in supporting the UAE’s outstanding climate action efforts and its commitment to sustainability. It also reflects the UAE’s unlimited support for energy and climate change issues and developing sustainable solutions to environmental challenges.

This supports the UAE’s preparations to host the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) at Expo City Dubai in 2023. This is the most important and largest international conference on climate action that brings together world leaders, underlining the UAE’s leadership and its widely recognised efforts in climate action.

Since its launch in 2014, the WGES has succeeded in galvanising global efforts to promote the shift towards a green economy and has provided a strategic platform to support international cooperation to face global challenges, promote sustainable development and investments in the green economy, encourage adoption of effective policies, plans, and initiatives in this area, and discuss pressing issues including climate change and global warming.

The WGES helps align energy policies with the Sustainable Development Goals, exchange views on successful sustainability strategies, systems and policies, and use available opportunities to support the transition to a green economy.

The WGES brings together several leaders, experts and specialists in various areas related to the green economy and sustainable development.

“The UAE plays a leading role in supporting global efforts in clean and renewable energy through its strategies and investments in this area. Guided by the vision and directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to turn challenges into opportunities, the WGES aims to change climate work into opportunities for development and economic diversity. The 8th WGES is especially important as the UAE is preparing to host COP28 next year at Expo City Dubai. WGES supports the efforts of the UAE and global efforts to adopt innovative green solutions, promote innovation for sustainable development, and achieve a balance between economic growth and sustainability of natural and environmental resources. The WGES also supports the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050 for Dubai to provide 100 percent of Dubai’s total power capacity from clean energy sources by 2050,” said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, MD & CEO of DEWA and Chairman of the WGES.

“The momentum observed worldwide in recent years to accelerate the implementation of the Paris Agreement, adopted during the Conference of the Parties (COP 21), reflects the importance of establishing policies and mechanisms that guarantee sustainable development and the transition to a green economy. In line with the UAE’s plan for green development, Dubai developed the country’s vision by implementing vital projects that support renewable energy, energy efficiency and conservation. It ensured the engagement of the private sector as an essential part of implementation and financing. The role of the private sector in implementing renewable energy projects has been one of the most important ingredients for success, which reflects the reputation and position of the UAE globally in attracting the largest companies and using the latest technologies. The WGES provides the ideal and unique platform for exchanging experiences and aligning efforts that support the regional and global agenda for sustainable development,” Al Tayer added.

“The UAE is one of the leading countries in the world supporting the green economy and international efforts in clean energy. It has set its long-term goals in the energy field and has launched the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative, a national drive to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050,” said Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure.

“In line with the wise leadership’s vision to adopt a comprehensive and balanced approach to climate action through a well-thought-out transformation in the energy sector, the World Green Economy Summit supports the national efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. This is particularly important as the UAE is preparing to host COP 28 at Expo City Dubai next year. The World Green Economy Summit is an important platform that supports the UAE’s direction and global efforts to adopt innovative green solutions that contribute to achieving a balance between economic and social growth and the sustainability of natural resources, as well as focus on renewable and clean energy solutions,” said Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and UAE Climate Change Special Envoy.

“For three decades, the UAE has presented a pioneering model of climate and environmental action to the world. Last October marked the landmark announcement of the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative that takes a holistic cross-sectoral collaborative approach to decarbonisation. As we gear up to host COP28 in 2023, we are keen to take meaningful steps in our climate action – most importantly, advancing the shift to a green economy. WGES is a leading global platform that drives climate and environmental action through convening decision-makers and experts to assess the progress made thus far in the transition to a green economy, explore the next steps, and expedite collective endeavours,” said Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment.

Almheiri thanked the WGEO and DEWA for the impeccable organisation of the past editions of the summit. She added that the event aligns with the UAE’s directives and global priorities and contributes to boosting the country’s competitiveness and reaffirming its global leadership in building a green economy.

Source: Emirates News Agency

August 14, 2022

Community Development Authority announces additional financial assistance supporting over 1100 minor prior new academic year

DUBAI, Under the directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Council, the Dubai Community Development Authority announced additional financial assistance supporting 1101 minors registered with the Authority before the start of the new academic year.

The additional financial assistance is a part of the Higher Committee for Development and Citizens Affairs, efforts to support minors with limited incomes. The financial assistance will be delivered by the end of August 2022.

Ahmad Abdulkarim Julfar, Director General of Dubai Community Development Authority, said: “The directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, reflect the keenness of Dubai’s wise leadership on providing all ways of support for citizens. The directives come before the beginning of the new academic year, aiming at supporting our minors and helping Emirati families to reduce financial burdens.”

The amounts will be disbursed to the 1101 eligible minors registered with the Authority during the month of August.

Source: Emirates News Agency

August 14, 2022

MoCD, Sharjah Centre for Learning Difficulties sign MoU to provide best proactive services

DUBAI, Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid, Minister of Community Development (MoCD), and Sheikha Jameela Bint Mohammad Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) concerning “specific services for students with learning disabilities”.

The MoU would also explore building a regulatory framework that would positively impact people with learning disabilities, by providing them with educational, rehabilitation and therapeutic intervention techniques that accommodate their needs, continuous assessment of their abilities and requirements, and enable them to receive the best proactive services.

Under the MoU, cooperation between the two parties would improve the evaluation and diagnosis of people with learning disabilities to identify the services needed for them and achieve optimal response to their educational needs. In addition, the Ministry of Community Development (MoCD) will issue people of determination cards to become members of the Sharjah Centre of Learning Difficulties (SCLD) who meet the criteria in accordance with the National Classification of Disabilities and achieve more coordination and cooperation in specialised programmes, projects and studies for people with learning disabilities.

Hessa Buhumaid emphasised that the ministry sought to enhance cooperation and partnership with various authorities to improve the wellbeing of all members of the community, launch initiatives and procedures that promote the empowerment of priority members in the community, ensure the active participation of all sectors, federal, local and private government authorities and non-benefit profit associations. She noted that the MoU paves the way to further continued support and comprehensive empowerment of community members, especially people of determination, reflecting the best images of the sustainable development process with the 50th vision.

Furthermore, Sheikha Jameela bint Mohammad Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS), praised the signing of the MoU as a real benefit for people with learning difficulties, their parents and staff.

She said, “The SCLD is a specialised centre that keeps pace with the latest and best international practices with its services provided by a group of highly-qualified professionals. But she added, “The SCLD is committed to developing and consolidating partnerships with centres, institutions, universities and authorities at the local, regional and global levels to achieve its goals, which are primarily in the interest of people with learning difficulties and their families in general.”

She elaborated that the MoU fits into this framework to serve them and continues the scientific, knowledge-based and awareness-raising role of the SCLD towards students, teachers, parents and different sections of society. She expressed her pride in the achievements of the SCLD even though it was established only six years ago. These achievements confirm the seriousness and sense of responsibility within the centre, especially knowing that the number of students who have benefited from its services since its establishment has reached 718, including 1,048 evaluation cases submitted. These include assessments in psychoeducation, learning difficulties, occupational therapy, and speech and language.

The MoU states the necessity of organising the mechanisms and conditions of the requirements for issuing people of determination cards to the centre’s members who meet the standards in the Cabinet Decision No. 3 of 2018, concerning the adoption of the National Classification of Disabilities (People of Determination) in the UAE to take advantage of the benefits and services for people of determination card holders, ensure the quality of early assessment and appropriate services by relevant authorities and respond to their educational needs that ensure their social and educational inclusion.

The MoU identified several obligations and procedures to be followed each according to its role in assessing cases and providing the necessary intervention before the final diagnosis; evaluating the response to educational intervention, delivering all specialised counselling types and training programmes in learning difficulties, in addition to studying the possibility of electronic connectivity to ensure the proactive provision of services to the people of determination card applicants including the registration and evaluation of cases, inquiry about the status of applicants, and approval of educational and psychological reports.

The MoCD issues people of determination cards for UAE citizens and residents alike by registering on the ministry’s website: www.mocd.gov.ae and attaching the required documents and reports proving the person’s eligibility for this card.

Source: Emirates News Agency

August 14, 2022

UAE leaders offer condolences to Egyptian President over victims of church fire

ABU DHABI, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent a cable of condolences to Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, over the victims of a church fire in Giza Governorate, wishing all the injured a speedy recovery.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, also sent a similar cable to the Egyptian President.

Source: Emirates News Agency