logo
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan begins official visit to India

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan begins official visit to India

TAG 91.108-04-2025

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and the UAE's Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, has landed in India for an official visit.
Sheikh Hamdan and his accompanying delegation were welcomed by Indian minister Suresh Gopi upon touch down and accorded a ceremonial guard of honour.
According to Dubai Media Office, Sheikh Hamdan will hold high-level discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and top government officials.
It's aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation across vital sectors.
The visit underscores the UAE leadership's strategy of building strategic alliances with key international partners to foster growth, drive innovation and enhance collaboration in vital sectors.
حمدان بن محمد يستعرض ثُلة من حرس الشرف الذين اصطفوا لتحية سموه لدى وصوله إلى العاصمة الهندية pic.twitter.com/HgmuJYQchV
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 8, 2025
Hamdan bin Mohammed arrives in New Delhi on official visit to India pic.twitter.com/UqA7I4d84y
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 8, 2025
Dubai and India have shared strong trade relations, touching $45.4 billion (AED 165 billion) in 2023, and non-oil trade volume at $54.2 billion (AED 199 billion) the same year.
Over the past five years, Indian investments in Dubai has reached AED15 billion, while Dubai's investments in India touched AED17.2 billion.
In 2024 alone, 16,623 new Indian companies joined the Dubai Chamber of Commerce bringing the total to over 70,000 Indian companies
DP World has operated in India for over 20 years. In January 2024, it signed a $3 billion (AED 11 billion) agreement to expand operations in Gujarat.
In the tourism sector, Dubai welcomed 3.14 million visitors from South Asia with India accounting for the largest share in 2024.
Emirates Airline has served India since 1985. Currently, it operates 167 weekly flights, connecting Dubai to nine Indian cities.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Global Nominees of ICC Development Awards 2024 announced
Global Nominees of ICC Development Awards 2024 announced

Int'l Cricket Council

time4 hours ago

  • Int'l Cricket Council

Global Nominees of ICC Development Awards 2024 announced

The ICC is pleased to reveal the outstanding programmes and performances that have won regional honours in the 2024 edition of the ICC Development Awards. The ICC Development Awards were established in 2002 to celebrate the initiatives and innovative programmes leading the growth of the sport around the world, delivered by ICC Members in emerging nations. For the first time, the 2024 awards comprise seven categories after the introduction of the ICC X Rexona criiio Festival of the Year award. After a year of exceptional innovation and growth, 24 ICC Members have been honoured as Regional Winners – ranging from leading participation in countries such as Bermuda and Sierra Leone to revolutionary social impact programmes in Spain and Qatar, also featuring some exceptional on-field performances in international competition. The Regional Winners will now be put forward as contenders to claim the Global Awards, determined by a specialist and independent panel of voters consisting of Indian cricket icon VVS Laxman, former West Indies leg-spinner Samuel Badree, former White Ferns wicketkeeper-batter Katey Martin, Head of Marketing – Unilever International Nitin Agarwal and representatives from ICC partners, ICC Full Members, and the media, with the Global Winners set to be revealed on ICC channels once voting concludes. Speaking on the announcement of the Regional Winners of the ICC Development Awards, ICC Chairman, Mr. Jay Shah said: 'For the past 22 years, the ICC Development Awards have celebrated the successes of ICC Associate Members, and it is pleasing to see how much growth in innovation, creativity and inclusivity has taken place with each passing year. 'Cricket is a vehicle for change and the programmes and projects delivered both physically and digitally reflect the hard work of our passionate Members from around the world who work tirelessly to see the sport grow in their territories. 'The inclusion of a brand-new category in the ICC X Rexona criiio Festival of the Year is another step in the right direction, proving that real growth is taking place globally. 'I would like to congratulate the regional winners on their success and wish them luck as we embark on the global voting process.' More details on each of the nominated entries will be available via the ICC website. ICC Development Awards 2025 Categories ICC Development Initiative of the Year – acknowledges the outstanding development initiative delivered by an Associate Member, either through a physical participation programme or a digitally delivered game development initiative during the year. ICC Female Cricket Initiative of the Year - acknowledges the outstanding female cricket focused initiative delivered by an Associate Member to promote the game, either through a physical participation programme or a digitally delivered game development initiative during the year. ICC Associate Member Men's Team Performance of the Year - acknowledges the outstanding men's on-field performance of the year by an Associate Member team in an ICC event or bilateral cricket. ICC Associate Member Women's Team Performance of the Year – acknowledges the outstanding women's on-field performance of the year by an Associate Member team in an ICC event or bilateral cricket. ICC Digital Fan Engagement of the Year – acknowledges the outstanding innovative use of digital platforms, campaigns or technology by an Associate Member to drive engagement with fans and the wider community during the year. ICC Cricket 4 Good Social Impact Initiative of the Year - acknowledges the outstanding project where cricket is used as a vehicle for social change or development. Whether it be female empowerment, health, education, or community initiatives, the project will have used cricket as a platform to deliver and impact on wider social development issues during the year. ICC criiio Cricket Festival of the Year with Rexona - this award acknowledges an outstanding festival delivered by an ICC Associate Member that was part of the ICC criiio Cricket Festival pilot programme 2024 that has made a significant impact in promoting the women's game. The initiative should have successfully increased participation and helped create a legacy for the development of women's cricket within the country. ICC Development Initiative of the Year Africa Regional Winner – Cricket Namibia Americas Regional Winner – Brazilian Cricket Association Asia Regional Winner – Malaysian Cricket Association EAP Regional Winner – Persatuan Cricket Indonesia Europe Regional Winner – Hellenic Cricket Federation (Greece) ICC Female Cricket Initiative of the Year Africa Regional Winner – Cricket Sierra Leone Americas Regional Winner – Brazilian Cricket Association Asia Regional Winner – Bhutan Cricket Council Board EAP Regional Winner – Vanuatu Cricket Association Europe Regional Winner – Cricket España ICC Associate Member Men's Performance of the Year Africa Regional Winner – Uganda Cricket Association Americas Regional Winner – USA Cricket Asia Regional Winner – Emirates Cricket Board EAP Regional Winner – Japan Cricket Association Europe Regional Winner – Guernsey Cricket ICC Associate Member Women's Performance of the Year Africa Regional Winner – Nigeria Cricket Federation Asia Regional Winner – Emirates Cricket Board EAP Regional Winner – Persatuan Cricket Indonesia Europe Regional Winner – Cricket Scotland ICC Digital Fan Engagement of the Year Africa Regional Winner – Cricket Namibia Americas Regional Winner – Bermuda Cricket Board Asia Regional Winner – Cricket Association of Nepal EAP Regional Winner – Persatuan Cricket Indonesia Cricket 4 Good Social Impact Initiative of the Year Africa Regional Winner – Cricket Kenya Americas Regional Winner – Cricket Chile Asia Regional Winner – Qatar Cricket Association EAP Regional Winner – Persatuan Cricket Indonesia Europe Regional Winner – Cricket Switzerland ICC X Rexona criiio Festival of the Year (Global Shortlist) Tanzania Cricket Association Cricket Association of Nepal Emirates Cricket Board Persatuan Cricket Indonesia The Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation

‘Pearl Quest' gives a platform for women in Sharjah via support
‘Pearl Quest' gives a platform for women in Sharjah via support

Sharjah 24

time5 hours ago

  • Sharjah 24

‘Pearl Quest' gives a platform for women in Sharjah via support

The competition provided an exclusive platform for eight exceptional female entrepreneurs to captivate a distinguished panel of judges and pitch their business ideas. In the hopes to secure funding and propel their ventures forward, three successful pitches emerged and The Grand Prize of AED 25,000 was awarded to 'Bulbul'; 'Creams Botanics' was named First Runner-Up and received AED 15,000; and 'House of Clay' secured the title of Second Runner-Up, also taking home AED 15,000. Their innovative concepts and compelling pitches truly embodied the spirit of the event. The event was attended by Sheikha Hind Bint Majid Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah Women's Business Council; Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA); Maryam Bin Al Shaikh, Director of SBWC; Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa); alongside other prominent figures, investors, and industry leaders. Collectively investing in Sharjah's future During her keynote speech, Maryam Bin Al Shaikh said, 'At SBWC, through the patronage and visionary guidance of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah; we understand that when women rise, economies flourish. Female-led businesses are mediums for social change, job creation, and innovation; and to empower you all is something we take with great pride and importance. Every entrepreneur participating in 'Pearl Quest' has shown exceptional promise, and their business concepts and acumen, refined through the SBWC Entrepreneurship Programme in partnership with Sheraa; will be shining examples of the value in collectively investing in our future.' Sharjah's thriving business ecosystem Grand Prize winner 'Bulbul' led by Alaa Mohamed El Gamal, empowers non-Arabs in the UAE to overcome language barriers and confidently integrate into the Arab world. Their innovative scenario-based speaking program targets expats, whether complete beginners or those struggling with spoken Arabic. Commenting on their win, El Gamal said, 'We are excited for the future, and I've learned a lot from other entrepreneurs during this experience. I'm very happy to have had this opportunity.' Through structured experiential learning rooted in real-life situations, live tutor sessions, and their AI-powered "Bulbul Friend" chatbot, Bulbul provides a comprehensive gateway to language and cultural discovery. First Runner-Up 'Creams Botanics' founded by Maysoon Al Shamsi is a sustainable Emirati wellness brand harnessing the natural power of date seed oil. Handmade in the UAE and inspired by the nation's landscape, flora, and scents, their premium range includes solid balms, soaps, and candles. Al Shamsi reflected on their achievement, saying, 'This has provided us with an invaluable opportunity to network with key supporters and proudly showcase our sustainable Emirati brand, rooted in UAE's natural heritage.' Designed for the eco-conscious consumer, Creams Botanics offers authentic, mindful self-care products deeply connected to local heritage and sustainability. Second Runner-Up 'House of Clay' managed by Madar Alsuwaidi, is an Emirati women-owned gallery and studio specializing in exclusive, elegant ceramics. They create both functional and decorative pieces, alongside sculptural artwork imbued with cultural significance. Speaking on their successful pitch Alsuwadi said, 'We are proud of what we have achieved so far and very happy to have taken part in this initiative from SBWC.' Catering to a discerning clientele including art collectors, interior designers, hospitality providers, and corporate partners, House of Clay showcases the unique artistry and craftsmanship emerging from Sharjah. Pearl Quest represented a significant investment in Sharjah's entrepreneurial future, and the finalists were shining examples from the rigorous SBWC Entrepreneurship Programme, delivered in partnership with Sheraa. Over the preceding month, this exclusive programme equipped numerous outstanding businesswomen from SBWC with critical skills, enhancing their fluency in branding, navigating legal frameworks, achieving investor readiness, and boosting economic proficiency. The Pearl Quest stage became the culmination of their journey, offering the ultimate practical environment to present refined business concepts to a discerning audience of investors, media representatives, and key members of the entrepreneurship community, all eager to witness the future of Sharjah's thriving business ecosystem. Strategic alignment and vital support For the competition, the entrepreneurs' pitches were evaluated by an expert judging panel featuring Mariam Mohammed Al Ali, Strategy and Corporate Excellence Office Manager at the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce & Industry; Hessa Abdalla, Programs Associate at Sheraa; Nasir Alowais, Project Support and Funding Department at Ruwad Establishment; and Rashed Sawaqed, Project Development Advisor at Ruwad Establishment. The success of the Pearl Quest competition was also amplified by the strategic alignment and support of key institutional partners. Expo Center Sharjah, Sharjah Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCI), and Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) served as cornerstone sponsors, demonstrating a shared commitment to strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Emirate. Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP) and Innovation Box provided additional support, reinforcing the infrastructure necessary to host Pearl Quest. The support of sponsors and partners underscores a unified vision for economic diversification and the important role women-led innovation has in driving sustainable growth.

The FACT UAE Weekend Guide: 6 to 8 June 2025
The FACT UAE Weekend Guide: 6 to 8 June 2025

FACT

time5 hours ago

  • FACT

The FACT UAE Weekend Guide: 6 to 8 June 2025

Our picks of the hottest happenings this long weekend in Dubai. The first weekend in June is here, and whilst the mercury is rising, there's still plenty of time for fun in the sun. We're recommending Eid brunches, stunning staycations and Sunday soirées, so read on for our picks of the best things to do during the long weekend in Dubai. Friday 6 June Book an Eid staycation Make your way to The Lana – Dorchester Collection this Eid Al Adha for a truly luxurious getaway. The Summer in Dubai packages include a guaranteed double upgrade at the time of booking, daily Lana breakfast by Jean Imbert or Middle Eastern breakfast, which you can enjoy in your room or at Riviera by Jean Imbert. With tons of dining options, an infinity pool and the region's first Dior Spa, it's the ideal place to spend Eid. Rooms are priced from AED 1,500, while Junior Suites are from AED 3,500. GO: Visit for more information. Enjoy a festive feast at Palazzo Versace Dubai Gather your loved ones and head to Giardino at Palazzo Versace Dubai this Eid Al Adha for an elegant evening filled with flavour and festive spirit. This special Eid dinner promises a grand buffet experience set in a striking, jungle-inspired dining room or on the scenic outdoor terrace overlooking the pool and waterfront. Indulge in international favourites and regional delicacies designed to mark the occasion in style. Available on 6, 7 and 8 June from 6:30pm to 11pm. AED 263 (food only)or AED 275 (soft beverages). GO: Visit for more information. Try a fancy French brunch at FRNDS Grand Café Designed to be shared, the 'entre amis' (French for 'among friends') brunch from Secret Parties offers a menu of showstopping signatures such as Caviar-topped Dorade, 24-month aged Parmigiano Risotto, Josper-grilled Lamb Chops, Wagyu Tataki with Black Truffle, and the indulgent Grand Seafood Tower. Crave-worthy highlights also include Lobster Spaghetti, Truffle Pizza, and Yellowtail Crudo, rounded off with a playful dessert selection including Chocolate Wasabi. Available on Fridays from 7pm. AED 300 (house beverages only), AED 400 (food and house beverages), and AED 450 (premium beverages). GO: Visit for more information. Saturday 7 June Tuck into the summer brunch at Nahaam Brunch season is heating up at Nahaam as the popular poolside spot at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers rolls out its refreshed summer edition. Expect a vibrant culinary journey with live stations serving handmade pasta, poke bowls, smoked meats, sushi, and fresh produce from the hotel's hydroponic farm. Tailored beverages are crafted to complement every bite, while DJ Kristina brings the vibes with upbeat live music. Available on Saturday from 1pm to 4pm. AED 345 (soft beverages), AED 495 (house beverages) and AED 625 (French bubbles). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Witness the wonder of La Perle La Perle is a one-of-a-kind live entertainment show located in Al Habtoor City. Created by Franco Dragone, the mastermind behind Cirque du Soleil, it combines acrobatics, aerial stunts, water effects, and captivating storytelling to create a visually stunning and immersive theatrical experience. The attraction will be running special ticket promotions during the Eid Al Adha long weekend. Visit for tickets and more information. Sleep in the rainforest The Green Planet isn't simply home to over 3,000 plants and animals. It's also a go-to destination for unexpected experiences offered amidst an indoor ecosystem. Now, it's gearing up for the return of the region's only rainforest camping experience. After a buffet dinner – complete with roasting marshmallows and a nature documentary – you'll discover the rainforest's enchantments by learning about the biodome's most mysterious little friends in a nocturnal tour before falling asleep under the stars to the soft coos and songs of the rainforest's exotic birds. Prices start from AED 900 for two adults in the regular tent, while group bookings can be made at AED 1,700 for a party of four in the large tent. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Sunday 8 June Enjoy family fun at Yalumba Gather the whole family for a lively Sunday brunch at Yalumba, where global flavours meet feel-good fun. From interactive pizza-making and magic shows to a vibrant buffet spread, there's something for everyone. Available on Sundays from 1pm to 4pm. AED 225 (soft beverages), AED 325 (house beverages), AED 395 (premium beverages), and AED 115 (for children aged six to 12 years). GO: WhatsApp 050 289 7728 for more information. Tuck into a superb Sunday roast Sunday lunch gets the Heston treatment at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal at Atlantis The Royal. Start with signature dishes like Meat Fruit (c.1500) or new additions such as Smoked Salmon Tartare (c.1847) and Roast Beetroot Salad (c.1830). Mains include Black Angus Sirloin with ox cheek-filled Yorkshire pudding, Roast Chicken with morel and brioche stuffing, and a Truffle Roast Cauliflower. For dessert, choose from a Trifle, Bakewell Tart, or the indulgent Chocolate Bar, accompanied by the playful Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream Trolley as a sweet finale. Available on Sundays from 12pm to 3pm. AED 345 per adult and AED 195 per child. GO: Visit for more information. Experience Italian dining with a view at Farina Bringing the soul of Italy to the shores of JBR, Farina serves bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and coastal charm at Address Beach Resort. Expect hand-tossed pizzas straight from a traditional stone oven, rich house-made pastas, and seafood crafted with flair. Set against the sparkling backdrop of Ain Dubai and Bluewaters Island, Farina's chic setting is ideal for golden hour aperitivos, relaxed dinners, or late-night bites by the sea. GO: Visit for more information.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store