SCC closes a session with 17 meetings reflecting strong engagement
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A total of 10 draft laws were discussed and approved, covering a range of vital sectors. In addition, the Council addressed four key public issues related to various government departments and authorities. These discussions reflected pressing community concerns and included topics such as the Sharjah Ports, Customs and Free Zones Authority, the Sharjah Health Authority, the Department of Economic Development, and the Sharjah International Airport Authority. These topics were thoroughly discussed in the presence of the relevant government entities. During the public issue sessions, members raised 194 direct questions, reflecting their commitment to delving into the details of government policies and closely monitoring how well the concerned authorities are implementing the Council's recommendations
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A total of 93 members requested to speak or submitted formal inquiries during the sessions. The meetings saw 205 parliamentary interventions, reflecting active and direct engagement in the discussions. These contributions played a key role in shaping the Council's direction and formulating its final recommendations
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As part of its oversight role, the Council addressed two parliamentary questions. The first, raised by member Rashid Abdullah bin Huwaiden, focused on Emiratisation in the private sector. The second, brought forward by member Hamad Abdulwahab Al Qouadi, addressed the promotion of officers within the Sharjah Police and Security Force. These efforts culminated in the issuance of 25 comprehensive recommendations, reflecting the Council's commitment to supporting Sharjah's ongoing development and modernization journey, and to enhancing the quality of life for everyone living in the emirate.
On the internal committee front, the Council's various committees, including the Legislative, Legal Affairs, Appeals, Suggestions and Complaints Committee; the Financial, Economic and Industrial Affairs Committee; the Education, Youth, Culture and Media Committee; the Health, Labor and Social Affairs Committee; the Islamic Affairs, Endowments, Municipalities, Security and Public Utilities Committee; the Family Affairs Committee; and the Recommendations Drafting Committee—held a total of 43 intensive meetings. These meetings focused on in-depth and specialized topics. In addition, the committees carried out 41 field visits to various departments and entities across the emirate, both central and decentralized, to gain a deeper, firsthand understanding of services, gather accurate information, and assess on-the-ground realities
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In the same context, the Office of the Council, chaired by His Excellency the Council President and composed of the heads of the Council's committees, held four meetings to coordinate the parliamentary and legislative agenda and to guide the overall direction of the Council's parliamentary work.
At the close of the session, His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council, expressed his pride in the accomplishments achieved. He emphasized that the Council, throughout this session, reflected a strong model of collaboration between the legislative and executive branches. He stated, 'What has been accomplished is the result of constructive cooperation and active engagement among Council members, committees, and the wider community. This approach is a hallmark of Sharjah under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, whose vision places people at the heart of development
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For his part, His Excellency Ahmed Saeed Al Jarwan, Secretary-General of the Council, affirmed that the success of this parliamentary session was the result of strategic planning and a collaborative effort by the General Secretariat, the committees, and all Council members. He noted that the numbers speak to the scale of work accomplished and highlight the Council's strong institutional spirit in fulfilling its national and local responsibilities. Al Jarwan also emphasized that the General Secretariat will continue providing full support to the Council's work and closely follow up on the implementation of its recommendations, ensuring they align with the vision of the wise leadership and serve the best interests of the Sharjah community
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Sharjah 24
12 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
Arab Parliament for the Child holds session on cultural identity
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Omani child chairs session to promote youth leadership The session was chaired by Elias Al-Maani from the Sultanate of Oman, President of the Arab Parliament for the Child, reaffirming the Parliament's approach to enabling children to assume leadership responsibilities during parliamentary sessions, and to refine their discussion and expression skills while promoting initiative and participation. Secretary-General stresses urgency of identity dialogue The session began with a speech by Ayman Othman Al-Barout, Secretary-General of the Arab Parliament for the Child, who welcomed the attendees and emphasised the importance of raising the issue of cultural identity during this critical stage of Arab childhood awareness. He said: 'The question of identity is no longer a cultural luxury; it has become an existential necessity to protect the self from dissolution in a fast-changing world. We believe that cultivating this awareness must begin in childhood, as envisioned by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, who made the child's development a priority more than five decades ago.' Al-Barout added that the Parliament today serves as a unified Arab platform for promoting identity and developing children's skills through training, empowerment, and active participation. He highlighted the success of the Child Parliamentary Leadership Diploma, organised in collaboration with the University of Sharjah, as an inspiring model for participant development. President of the Parliament reaffirms Arab identity Elias Al-Maani, President of the Arab Parliament for the Child, delivered a speech expressing his pride in holding the session in 'Sharjah of Arabism.' He declared: 'We proclaim from under this dome: our identity is our banner, our compass towards progress without compromising our authenticity... Today, we carry the message of generations, stand confidently on the soil of history, and extend our hands to shape the future with our culture, language, and values.' Parliamentarians highlight language, media and education roles The session witnessed strong engagement from members, who presented diverse contributions addressing the importance of preserving the Arabic language, and the role of the family, school, and media in safeguarding cultural identity and confronting digital and foreign cultural challenges. Several speakers stressed that the Arabic language is the backbone of identity and that a child's connection to their mother tongue must be strengthened through educational curricula and cultural activities. Others pointed to the importance of developing media content tailored to children that reflects Arab values and presents positive role models in an engaging and safe environment. Joint recommendations call for pan-Arab action The members of the session affirmed that preserving the cultural identity of the Arab child can only be achieved through joint and organised Arab efforts, stemming from a shared vision aimed at safeguarding the Arabic language, culture, and collective consciousness of future generations. In this context, a set of purposeful recommendations was presented, most notably: the development of a dedicated Arab digital platform for children that offers interactive content to strengthen the Arabic language and promote cultural identity, as well as a proposal to establish an Arab National Day for Cultural Identity, followed by an annual week in schools and community centres to instil a sense of belonging in young people. Creative content and awards to support cultural values The recommendations also highlighted the importance of supporting the production of creative content such as stories, films and games that embody Arab values. They proposed launching a dedicated award for Arab childhood in the field of cultural identity, to honour individual and institutional initiatives that contribute to this vital area. 'The Arab child does not ask for much… only to see themselves in their stories, to hear their voice in their language, and to grow up proud of who they are.' Folk traditions and digital tools to strengthen heritage Speakers also stressed the need to connect children with their heritage through art, music, folktales, and national occasions, given their significant role in reinforcing a sense of belonging. They called for the creation of specialised Arabic-language digital educational platforms that align with the times and nourish identity rather than diminish it. Insight from Mauritania: heritage as a living practice Parliamentarian Sidi Mohamed from Mauritania emphasised that preserving the cultural identity of the Arab child is not a luxury of thought but an existential necessity. He warned that nations which forgo the identity of their children are essentially burying their own history. He referred to Mauritania's continued use of traditional educational tools like the wooden tablet—not due to technical limitations, but out of a deep-rooted commitment to heritage. He advocated for integrating traditional heritage into school curricula and for the enhanced role of media and theatre in fostering belonging and instilling pride in the Arabic language and history. He also stressed that Arabic should be associated with joy and creativity, rather than with heavy memorisation and exam anxiety. Libyan perspective: identity as the foundation of character Parliamentarian Faraj Omar Faraj Al-Tekko from Libya noted that identity is not merely a slogan or cultural symbol, but the essence that shapes a child's thinking, behaviour, and personality. He called for the creation of an educational and cultural environment that nurtures the child's awareness of their identity and opens creative doors through the Arabic language and authentic values. He also recommended developing contemporary, engaging Arabic media content that presents stories, heritage, and arts in an interactive way that strengthens children's connection to their identity and encourages pride in it. Qatari view: a flexible, rooted identity Parliamentarian Maryam Al-Namlan from Qatar stated that the first step in protecting cultural identity is to make it adaptable to global changes, without compromising its roots. She emphasised the need to enable Arab children to engage confidently with other cultures without losing themselves, so they can interact with the world while preserving their civilisational uniqueness. Lebanese concern: cultural erosion through globalisation Parliamentarian Joya Adel Al-Shabab from Lebanon warned of the danger Arab children face in losing their identity due to globalisation, conflict, and distancing from their mother tongue. She called for the inclusion of educational subjects that introduce children to Arab heritage, art, and history, as well as the production of media content broadcast via modern platforms in a style that resonates with children's emotions and strengthens their connection to their culture. She also proposed organising cultural exchange programmes among children in Arab countries to enhance interaction and belonging. Jordanian voice: language and culture as memory and pride Parliamentarian Rabia Ibrahim Abu Rumman from Jordan asserted that identity is not merely a dialect or traditional attire, but an extension of awareness and a deep root in collective memory. She pointed out that Arab children face alienation that makes them believe their origin is backward and that their language is a barrier. From this standpoint, she recommended restoring the status of the Arabic language as a gateway to emotional expression, integrating heritage into education through theatre and music, and establishing an Arab cultural observatory to monitor the quality of content aimed at children. Challenges facing Arab identity Parliamentarian Malek Al-Iskandarani from Lebanon emphasised that Arab identity is facing serious challenges, foremost among them being the weakness of child-focused media, the negative impact of social media, and the effects of conflict and migration. He recommended enriching school curricula with content that deepens a sense of belonging, supporting child-friendly media in strong and engaging Arabic, and organising joint Arab cultural camps to promote cultural interaction among Arab children. Digital openness and rooted traditions Parliamentarian Fajr Al-Dhari from Bahrain affirmed that cultural identity is in real danger today due to digital openness and the abundance of diverse content. She highlighted the importance of embedding values and traditions in children's daily lives. She reviewed Bahrain's efforts in developing curricula and heritage-based activities and recommended leveraging social media to spread authentic Arab concepts, linking technology with heritage through Arabic educational games, and launching Arab competitions in poetry, drawing, and writing. Promoting critical awareness Parliamentarian Mohamed Alaa Al-Makssour from Morocco stated that cultural identity represents a nation's history and roots and is a source of cohesion and contribution. In the face of globalisation, he stressed the need to promote conscious openness rooted in discernment, critical thinking, and analysis rather than passive consumption. He called for a stronger role for families, schools and media in protecting identity, producing attractive Arabic-language content, and fostering critical thinking in children to make them confident in their roots and capable of presenting their culture positively to the world. Shared responsibility and national celebration Parliamentarian Sheikh Humaid bin Khalid Al Qasimi from the United Arab Emirates noted that cultural identity is not a choice but a fundamental right of every Arab child. He stressed that safeguarding it is a collective responsibility that requires coordinated Arab action. He praised Sharjah's role in supporting childhood and culture and proposed the adoption of an Arab National Day for Cultural Identity, followed by a week in schools and community centres, and the launch of a dedicated award in cultural identity to encourage outstanding initiatives and foster belonging across generations. Modern tools for heritage preservation Parliamentarian Al-Afra bint Saif Al-Awfiya from the Sultanate of Oman described Arab cultural identity as a living entity that evolves and reflects the uniqueness of each community. However, it is threatened by globalisation and media-led alienation. She asserted that defending identity does not mean isolation, but rather confident openness. She recommended integrating identity into the curriculum through a dedicated subject and launching interactive apps to introduce children to their language, customs and traditions in an engaging and contemporary way. Gratitude and commitment to the future At the end of the interventions, the President of the Arab Parliament for the Child expressed his thanks to all members for their valuable contributions. He stressed that the discussions represented a genuine step toward a shared collective awareness of the importance of protecting Arab cultural identity among children. New business The third item of the session was dedicated to new developments, including the announcement of the appointment of Riam Mohamed from the Republic of Iraq to the Activities Committee, succeeding former member Roaa Moayyad. Members were also informed that the date and theme of the next session would be determined later by the Secretariat-General. Conclusion and future vision At the conclusion of the session, the Parliament President expressed deep appreciation to the Secretariat-General for organising the session and to all participants for their engagement and constructive proposals. He reaffirmed the Parliament's commitment to supporting childhood issues and reinforcing the authentic Arab presence of children in every field, stating: 'We are the children of this nation, and we will remain loyal to its history and carry the responsibility of its future.' With this declaration, the second session of the fourth cycle of the Arab Parliament for the Child concluded, reaffirming that cultural identity is the gateway to development and the foundation for building an Arab citizen capable of contributing and competing on a global stage.
Gulf Today
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Gulf rail projects paving the way for connected, sustainable future
The Gulf region is witnessing an unprecedented rail boom that is setting the stage for a new era of regional integration and sustainable economic growth, according to David Franks, Managing Director of Keolis MHI. He said the transformation is being powered by multi-billion-dollar investments in modern infrastructure across the GCC. Franks noted that projects such as Etihad Rail in the UAE, the Hafeet Rail connection with Oman, and Saudi Arabia's Landbridge are central to a broader vision of regional connectivity. These initiatives, he added, are designed to link cities, ports, and economic hubs through a seamless network. The 2,177-kilometre GCC Railway project, he explained, reflects the shared ambition of Gulf states to create an integrated transport ecosystem. He highlighted the role of rail in achieving environmental sustainability, calling it one of the most energy-efficient and low-emission modes of transport. Franks pointed out that the region has already begun pioneering efforts in this area, most notably with Saudi Arabia's trial of a hydrogen-powered train, the first of its kind in the Middle East. Franks stressed that the ongoing transformation in Gulf transportation is underpinned by advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, predictive maintenance systems, smart ticketing, and real-time passenger updates. These innovations, he said, are enhancing passenger experience while improving efficiency, safety, and operational excellence. He also emphasized Keolis MHI's commitment to this evolution, noting the company's global operating experience across four continents. Franks explained that Keolis MHI is actively transferring international best practices to the region, ensuring that safety, innovation, and quality are embedded into every aspect of operation. Beyond operations, Franks said Keolis MHI is also contributing to the development of smart, connected cities. This includes investing in local talent, supporting Emiratisation and localisation initiatives, and improving last-mile connectivity to enhance quality of life and foster inclusive transport systems. He underscored the importance of strong public-private partnerships in delivering long-term success for large-scale rail infrastructure. According to Franks, close collaboration between governments and operators is critical to ensure that projects are delivered efficiently, resiliently, and in line with public expectations. Franks outlined key milestones in the region's rail agenda. He noted that the second phase of Etihad Rail commenced operations in February 2023, extending the network to 900 kilometres. While freight services are operational, passenger services are still under planning. He also referenced the Hafeet Rail project—a $3 billion joint venture between Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala—which aims to link Abu Dhabi with the port city of Sohar via a 303-kilometre line. On the Saudi front, Franks said the Landbridge Project consists of a 950-kilometre freight line between Jeddah and Riyadh, and an additional 115-kilometre track connecting Dammam to Jubail. This network, he stated, will significantly boost east-west freight movement across the Kingdom. Franks also hailed Saudi Arabia's hydrogen train pilot, conducted in 2024, as a regional milestone that signals a broader shift toward clean and sustainable transport technologies. Looking ahead, he said the GCC Railway Network, slated for completion by 2030, will redefine regional mobility by streamlining trade and facilitating smooth cross-border passenger movement across Gulf nations. Franks concluded by stating that the region's rail renaissance goes beyond infrastructure development. It represents a global model for modern, sustainable, and tech-enabled transport systems built on innovation, collaboration, and a forward-looking vision. In June, Keolis MHI participated at Middle East Rail 2025, the region's premier transport event, to share its expertise in shaping the future of sustainable, intelligent, and passenger-centric urban rail. With decades of experience operating some of the world's most complex and advanced rail networks, Keolis MHI has become a trusted partner for rail authorities and owners seeking operational excellence. Its global track record in delivering safe, reliable, and innovative rail services has positioned the company as the operator of choice for urban rail projects across the Middle East and beyond. In April, Keolis MHI successfully hosted its annual Sustainability Week under the banner of the 'Keolis MHI Way', reinforcing its commitment to environmental guardianship and people engagement. The week-long initiative united employees, partners, and stakeholders through webinars, on-ground activities, and eco-conscious competitions, spotlighting the company's role as a catalyst for sustainable urban mobility in line with the UAE's 2031 Vision and Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050.
Al Etihad
a day ago
- Al Etihad
Global Council for Tolerance and Peace commends France's intent to recognise Palestine
26 July 2025 19:53 ABU DHABI (WAM) The Global Council for Tolerance and Peace has commended the announcement by French President Emmanuel Macron regarding his country's intention to officially recognise the State of bin Mohammed Al Jarwan, President of the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace, described the move as a bold and responsible step in support of justice and truth, aimed at enhancing prospects for peace in the Middle stressed that recognising the State of Palestine is the most direct path to achieving peace and stability in the region, which would reflect positively on international peace and security. He reiterated that such recognition is a legitimate right of the Palestinian people in accordance with international law and Jarwan affirmed the Council's full support for this French initiative, considering it a positive incentive for the international community to take meaningful steps toward establishing a just and lasting peace and preserving global security and stability. The Council also called on all countries to follow suit and support efforts to uphold justice, coexistence and sustainable peace among nations, noting that justice is the cornerstone of tolerance, development and stability.
