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Emirates News

PureHealth launches Emirati reproductive medicine fellowship
08.10.2026

PureHealth launches Emirati reproductive medicine fellowship

ABU DHABI, 8th October, 2026 (WAM) -- PureHealth has launched the SEHA National Fellowship Programme in Reproductive Medicine and Surgery at the SEHA Tawam Fertility Centre in Al Ain and the SEHA Corniche Fertility Centre in Abu Dhabi. The structured programme provides intensive, hands-on training within SEHA fertility centres' integrated clinical model, covering clinical practice, surgical training, research, and leadership development in assisted reproductive technologies.The three-year, board-recognised programme is designed exclusively to train Emirati physicians in advanced reproductive medicine and fertility surgery, equipping them to serve the UAE community with world-class, culturally grounded fertility care. Fellows will also engage in research initiatives that support emerging precision medicine approaches, including the application of population-specific genomic insights relevant to the UAE. Graduates will be licensed as specialists in reproductive medicine and infertility in the UAE.Accredited by both the National Institute for Health Specialties and the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi, it is the UAE's first fellowship programme in reproductive medicine for Emirati physicians to receive joint accreditation.The initiative reflects PureHealth's long-term commitment to strengthening national workforce capability and developing locally trained, globally competitive Emirati specialists, further reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a leading destination in reproductive medicine and assisted reproduction. It provides a clear pathway for ambitious Emirati physicians to lead the future of fertility care in the UAE, supporting knowledge retention within the UAE healthcare system.Saeed Jaber Mohd Al Kuwaiti, Group Chief Executive Officer at SEHA, said: "National healthcare resilience depends on strong clinical capability. This fellowship reflects our commitment to developing subspecialty expertise among Emirati physicians and building the country's long-term specialist workforce. By embedding reproductive medicine training within SEHA fertility centres, we are raising standards of care in response to the growing global challenge of infertility while supporting Abu Dhabi's ambition to be recognised as a destination for advanced fertility treatment, research and specialist training."The fellowship accreditation was initiated by Dr Fatima Al Shalabi, an alumna of the Emirati Women Chapter, PureHealth's national leadership platform established in collaboration with the General Women's Union under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation. The UAE's Mother of the Nation 50:50 Vision emphasises enhancing fertility outcomes and promoting healthy maternal and neonatal development as part of its long-term national vision for sustainable population growth and wellbeing.Dr. Salma Salem Al Ameri, Acting Chief Medical Officer and Consultant Physician, SEHA fertility centres, said: "This National Fellowship Programme ensures specialist education evolves alongside patient care. Fellows train within a system that spans genetics, assisted reproduction, maternity and neonatal services, equipping them with both technical expertise and the judgement required to lead in this complex field. Fertility care is deeply personal and through this programme, Emirati specialists will be prepared to deliver advanced clinical treatment and support couples navigating the emotional and psychological complexities that often accompany infertility."SEHA fertility centres bring more than 35 years of reproductive medicine expertise and a track record of over 7,000 births. The patient-centred model aligns with Abu Dhabi's Family Wellbeing Strategy and the National Family Growth Agenda 2031.The fellowship contributes to that vision by building a resilient pipeline of UAE-trained Emirati reproductive medicine specialists, while strengthening PureHealth's role as a national centre for advanced medical education and specialist training in critical medical fields.

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UAE supports Gaza water supplies through desalination, well-drilling projects
08.10.2026

UAE supports Gaza water supplies through desalination, well-drilling projects

ABU DHABI, 8th October, 2026 (WAM) -- The UAE continues to provide water to Palestinians in the Gaza Strip under Operation Chivalrous Knight 3 through desalination projects, well drilling and the provision of water tankers and storage tanks to help ease shortages and meet the needs of residents and displaced people.In December 2023, UAE water pipelines connected to desalination plants on the Egyptian side began supplying water to around one million displaced people in Rafah, southern Gaza. Six desalination plants were established under Operation Chivalrous Knight 3 to address water shortages in the Strip.In August 2025, a 7.5-kilometre pipeline was extended to Khan Younis in southern Gaza, supplying five million litres of water daily to around 700,000 people.Field teams are also working on extending water pipelines, preparing distribution points and maintaining infrastructure to ensure water reaches residents and meets their daily needs.Operation Chivalrous Knight 3 has continued its efforts to alleviate Gaza's water crisis by delivering 37 water tankers, most recently in September 2026, and drilling 121 wells, benefiting around 600,000 people.The operation has also provided 20,000 gallons of water and 270 storage tanks to support water storage and distribution in targeted areas, making it easier for families to access water.The projects are part of the UAE's ongoing humanitarian efforts to support Palestinians, meet their basic needs and ensure the continuity of vital services in the Gaza Strip.

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Mohammed bin Rashid issues Decree on Board of Directors of Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment
08.10.2026

Mohammed bin Rashid issues Decree on Board of Directors of Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment

DUBAI, 8th October, 2026 (WAM) -- In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister, has issued Decree No. (32) of 2026 on the Board of Directors of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment, chaired by Omar Hamad Abdullah Bu Shehab.According to the Decree, Mohammed Abdullah Al Tawhidi will serve as Vice Chairman. Other members of the Board include Nasser Abdullah bin Kharbash, Ali Mohammed Al Mutawa, Hamdan Khalifa Al Shaer, Jumaa Saeed Khalaf Al Ghaith, Hind Obaid Al Marri, and Abdulaziz Mohammed bin Shafar Al Marri, in addition to the Chief Executive Officer of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment.The Decree is effective from the date of its issuance and will be published in the Official Gazette.

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National Human Rights Institution assesses workers' conditions at Al Rayyan Workers' City in Abu Dhabi, reviews emergency preparedness
08.10.2026

National Human Rights Institution assesses workers' conditions at Al Rayyan Workers' City in Abu Dhabi, reviews emergency preparedness

ABU DHABI, 7th October, 2026 (WAM) -- A delegation from the National Human Rights Institution (NHRI), headed by Dr. Salem Suhail Al Neyadi, Chairperson of the NHRI, visited Al Rayyan Workers' Residential City in Al Mafraq, Abu Dhabi, to conduct a field assessment of workers' living conditions and the services and facilities provided to them, as well as to assess safety standards, preparedness, and emergency response capabilities.The visit forms part of the mandate vested in the NHRI under Federal Law No. (12) of 2021 and reflects its commitment to direct field observation and monitoring of the availability of safe and healthy living conditions for workers, thereby supporting their enjoyment of the rights guaranteed to them under national legislation and international human rights instruments and conventions.The visit also featured the active participation of representatives from the Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Centre and the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority as part of the NHRI's official delegation. Their participation was aimed at strengthening institutional coordination and complementarity of roles, while providing a specialised technical assessment of fire prevention and safety requirements, evacuation systems, and the readiness of workers' residential facilities to respond to and manage emergencies.Dr. Al Neyadi commended the leading role played by Al Rayyan Workers' Residential City and the comprehensive services it provides in accordance with the highest international standards. He noted that the city reflects the UAE's strong commitment to safeguarding workers' rights and providing them with a suitable living environment that contributes positively to their quality of work and life.At the conclusion of the visit, the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Institution expressed his sincere appreciation to the Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Centre, the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, and the management of Al Rayyan Workers' City for their fruitful cooperation and support for the NHRI's national human rights mandate.The visit forms part of the NHRI's National Field Visits Programme, which seeks to monitor workers' conditions, working environments, and access to decent housing; engage directly with workers and listen to their views and observations; and assess matters relating to their safety, health, and dignity. Through such field engagement, the NHRI seeks to strengthen the protection and promotion of workers' rights.The UAE places particular emphasis on the welfare of workers and the conditions of their accommodation, supported by an advanced legislative framework and proactive measures aimed at safeguarding workers' dignity and rights. The country has established and developed integrated workers' cities that provide high-quality residential environments in line with leading international standards. These efforts have contributed to strengthening the UAE's position as an investment destination at both the regional and global levels, while supporting the attraction of further investment and the workforce required to advance the country's sustainable development.

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Sultan bin Ahmed opens Sir Bu Nair Festival 2026 at Al Heera Beach
08.10.2026

Sultan bin Ahmed opens Sir Bu Nair Festival 2026 at Al Heera Beach

Sharjah, 8th October, 2026 (WAM) -- H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the Sir Bu Nair Festival 2026 at Al Heera Beach in Sharjah, held by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA).Running from 7th to 18th October at Al Heera Beach, the festival offers a diverse programme that combines environmental education, knowledge-sharing, community engagement and entertainment. It highlights the ecological significance of Sir Bu Nair Island and showcases its rich biodiversity and unique marine ecosystem.The opening featured a maritime-themed performance by the Zeina Al Sharjah troupe of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, celebrating a relationship between the UAE people and the ocean.Visitors also enjoyed an innovative visual presentation that brought the story of Sir Bu Nair Island to life, exploring its history, natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The show highlighted the island's pristine beaches, distinctive landscapes and rich environmental heritage.During the ceremony, H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Ahmed honoured strategic partners, supporting organisations and collaborating entities in recognition of their contributions to the festival's success. He expressed his appreciation for their efforts before watching a series of accompanying performances presented by traditional folk groups.H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan toured several sections of the festival, starting with the educational workshops area, where His Highness was briefed on the interactive activities designed to make environmental concepts more accessible to visitors and to strengthen public awareness of the importance of protecting natural resources and supporting conservation efforts.H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan also visited the "Discover Sir Bu Nair Island Reserve" exhibition, which offers an immersive experience through photographs, specimens and informative displays about the island's history and natural environment; the exhibition also introduces coral reefs and coral restoration initiatives, aiming to raise awareness about marine ecosystems importance.H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan then visited the Sir Bu Nair Festival Village, where he looked around at the different pavilions and activities offered by the participating organisations. The village also has a food and beverage area, together with a variety of other experiences which enhance the festival atmosphere.The 2026 edition gives particular attention to coral reefs and the important part they play in supporting biodiversity and in keeping the balance of marine ecosystems; it also highlights the environmental and natural value of Sir Bu Nair Island, which reflects the Environment and Protected Areas Authority's dedication to promoting awareness of the need to protect marine habitats and to strengthen the community's ties to Sharjah's natural heritage.The festival programme includes workshops, interactive activities, mini exhibitions, hands-on environmental experiences, and a variety of sporting and maritime events. Together, these activities provide visitors with an engaging mix of learning, recreation and community participation, while offering a closer look at the island's natural and marine characteristics and the ongoing efforts to preserve its biodiversity and habitats. The programme aligns with Sharjah's vision of promoting environmental responsibility and fostering a stronger connection between people and nature.Also attending the opening ceremony were Sheikh Majid bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Districts Affairs Department; Ali Salem Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah International Airport Authority; Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority and Chairman of the Sharjah International Marine Sports Club; Aisha Rashid Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority; Khaled Al Huraimel, Group CEO of BEEAH; Majid Salem Al Junaid, Chairman of Sharjah Co-operative Society; and several other senior officials.

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Xposure Awards 2026-2027 draw over 22,000 entries from 108 countries
08.10.2026

Xposure Awards 2026-2027 draw over 22,000 entries from 108 countries

SHARJAH, 7th October, 2026 (WAM) -- The Xposure International Photography and Film Awards 2026-2027 have received over 22,000 photography and film submissions from 108 countries, including 21,587 photographs and 543 film entries. Judging has now begun, with finalists and winners to be selected across the various categories.Photography entries covered nature, portraiture and urban environments, alongside work incorporating new technologies. Film submissions explored human, social and environmental themes in different genres.This broad participation comes ahead of the 11th edition of the Xposure International Photography Festival, organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB). Finalists and winners in photography and film will be announced during the festival, with selected works also featured in its exhibition programme.Tariq Saeed Allay, Director General of SGMB, said: "This high level of participation reflects the festival's international appeal and its ability to attract creatives from diverse cultures and backgrounds, reinforcing Xposure's standing as a global destination for visual storytelling."Allay said Xposure reflects Sharjah's wider approach to supporting creative talent, giving photographers and filmmakers opportunities to present their work while recognising projects with both artistic value and human relevance.He noted that investment in photography recognises creativity as an essential part of cultural expression and helps pass its value to future generations.He added that the Xposure Awards recognise the dedication and effort behind every creative work, whether expressed through photography or film, while supporting creators whose work can raise public awareness and create long-term impact.The photography awards feature 10 categories, including Architectural Photography, Mobile Photography, Nature & Landscape, Night Photography, Portraiture, Photomanipulation and AI, Sports Photography, Street Photography, Visual Storytelling, and the Junior category for UAE residents under the age of 18.Nature & Landscape attracted the largest share of photography entries at 23%, followed by Street Photography at 19% and Portraiture at 15%.Entries came from around the world, with China, the UAE and India leading participation, reflecting the awards' global reach among photographers and visual content creators.The film awards feature four updated categories this season comprising Narrative Short Film, Documentary Short Film, Environmental or Social Impact Film, and Action, Innovation and New Tools.An international judging panel of 37 photographers, experts and industry professionals is evaluating the entries based on originality, visual appeal and artistic impact. Shortlisted works will then go through a more detailed assessment of composition, technical quality, storytelling and relevance to the category theme.A winner and runner-up will be selected in each category, alongside an overall winner. The Awards Oversight Committee will review the judges' scores before the results are approved to ensure consistency in the evaluation process and adherence to the established criteria.

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Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi announces 2026-2027 falconry season
08.10.2026

Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi announces 2026-2027 falconry season

ABU DHABI, 7th October, 2026 (WAM) -- The Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD) has announced that the 2026-2027 traditional hunting season for falconry will run from 20 October 2026 to 31 January 2027. The season is regulated under Law No. (22) of 2005 concerning hunting in Abu Dhabi and its Executive Regulations.The season supports EAD's commitment to preserving falconry as an integral part of the UAE's cultural heritage, while protecting wildlife and natural habitats.Hunting during the 2026 - 2027 season is restricted to licensed falconers, and only captive-bred Houbara bustards may be hunted. It is permitted in open areas across Abu Dhabi, at least two kilometres away from main and secondary roads, and from restricted areas, including protected areas, forests, residential and military areas, petroleum facilities, private property.EAD issues falconry licences under Resolution No. (5) of 2021, which amended certain provisions of the Executive Regulations of the Hunting Law. Applicants must be UAE nationals aged 18 or over, and any falcon used for hunting must be registered in the national falcon registration system of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.Applications for a traditional hunting licence for falconry can be submitted through the 'TAMM' smart application or website using UAE Pass. Applicants should select "Leisure" under Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, followed by the "Issuance of Falconry Licence" service, accept the terms and conditions, and pay the seasonal fee of AED 127. The licence is then issued electronically.Falconers must comply with all environmental requirements specified in the licence. Hunting is permitted only between sunrise and sunset, and licences are valid for one season. Falconers must not hunt or disturb any other wild animals, birds or reptiles; drive over or damage vegetation; or transfer their licence to another person.Licence holders must carry their licence while hunting and present it to the relevant authorities upon request. They must also keep natural areas clean and dispose of all waste responsibly.Through its close cooperation with strategic partners, particularly the Emirates Falconers' Club, EAD continues to establish science-based controls and clear implementation measures that enable falconry to be conducted to the highest standards and in line with international best practice.

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Dubai Police's interactive platform raises cybercrime awareness among Dubai Mall visitors
07.10.2026

Dubai Police's interactive platform raises cybercrime awareness among Dubai Mall visitors

DUBAI, 7th October, 2026 (WAM) -- The e-Crimes and Cybersecurity Department at the General Department of Criminal Investigation of Dubai Police has set up an interactive awareness platform at Dubai Mall to enhance community awareness of all types of cybercrimes, in conjunction with Cybersecurity Awareness Month, observed every October.The platform, which welcomes visitors until the 10th of this month, comes as part of the electronic crime awareness campaign launched by the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with the Dubai Police General Command and the Dubai Electronic Security Center, under the slogan "UAE is Safe With Your Digital Awareness". The campaign aims to raise public awareness of emerging cyber threats, fraud tactics and safe online practices through a series of awareness initiatives and events.The awareness platform introduces the public to various types of electronic crimes and the fraudulent methods scammers use to seize people's money. It also offers an integrated interactive experience combining educational games and artificial intelligence technologies to deliver an innovative awareness journey that reinforces the concepts of cybersecurity and safe behaviour in the digital space, along with raising awareness of deepfakes, ways to protect children from electronic crimes, and methods of protecting personal data.The platform also familiarises visitors with the official platform for reporting electronic crimes, "eCrime", which receives reports from members of the public relating to electronic crimes smoothly and easily through the website www.ecrime.ae. This platform is dedicated to receiving reports and complaints of internet-related crimes, which include electronic extortion, electronic hacking, financial fraud, and unlawful uses of credit cards.Complainants can file a report by visiting the website, selecting the relevant electronic crime category, confirming their contact number through a text message, and entering the complaint details.The platform at Dubai Mall also familiarises visitors with the eCrime Hub (https://ecrimehub.gov.ae ), which spreads awareness of cybercrimes. The bilingual platform covers all aspects of prevention and fraud detection, targeting all segments of society, including children and parents, individuals, business owners, employees, and social media and internet users.

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UAE ranks first globally in customer satisfaction with digital government services
07.10.2026

UAE ranks first globally in customer satisfaction with digital government services

DUBAI, 7th October, 2026 (WAM) -- The UAE has taken first place in the world for customer satisfaction with digital government services, with 89% of participants in the country giving these services a high rating, according to the 2026 Digital Government Citizen Survey Report issued by Boston Consulting Group (BCG). The survey covered 48,500 participants in 44 countries.The UAE also ranked first globally in the use of digital government services, at 53%, a result that reflects the continuous evolution of the country's government services system, the ease of access to these services, their efficiency, and the quality of the customer experience.His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, said: "In an international survey on digital government services conducted by BCG Group, the UAE ranked first in the world in customer satisfaction with its digital government services. Contrary to the prevailing international trend, more than 75% believe that UAE Government services outperform the digital services offered by the private sector."H.H. also said: "We are proud of our teams, proud of our journey in making people's lives easier, and proud of our country, which offers the best in the world to its citizens, visitors and everyone who lives on its land. Our best is yet to come. We announce to everyone that this coming November, the UAE Government will unveil, at a major event, the biggest change in the form of its services and the way they are delivered to the public."This progress is the result of a continuous journey of developing government services, built on redesigning them around customer needs, adopting proactive and integrated government work models, and investing in digital infrastructure, national talent and advanced technologies. It strengthens the Government's readiness for the future and its ability to meet the aspirations of society.Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, affirmed that the UAE's global lead in customer satisfaction with digital government services reflects the vision of the UAE's wise leadership in building a government that puts people first. He added that it confirms the success of a government model that places quality of life and the customer experience at the heart of designing and developing services.He said: "The leadership's vision is clear: for the UAE Government to be the world's best in its services, efficiency and readiness for the future. What is being achieved today is the result of a continuous journey of development, of redesigning services around human needs, and of investing in digital infrastructure, national talent and advanced technologies."He added: "We are entering a new phase in developing government services, led by artificial intelligence (AI) applications. Our goal is to move from digital services to services that are smarter, more proactive, easier and faster, that anticipate the customer's needs and offer an integrated government experience with the highest levels of efficiency and trust."The BCG 2026 Digital Government Citizen Survey Report showed that 76% of participants in the UAE believe that the digital government services experience outperforms their experience with private sector services. It also showed that 82% of participants in the country use AI weekly, which provides a strong foundation for developing a new generation of government services powered by AI.The report also stressed the importance of strengthening frameworks for the responsible use of AI, developing technical and procedural safeguards, and raising awareness of AI capabilities. It identified a set of pathways to maximise the impact of AI on government services, including redesigning services, promoting responsible use, developing hybrid models, expanding Agentic AI applications, and raising AI literacy.These results reflect the UAE's advanced position in developing a government model for the future that harnesses technology and AI to serve people, ties innovation to a better quality of life, and strengthens the country's leadership and global competitiveness in designing and delivering government services.

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