Latest news with #AbuDhabiPolice
Al Etihad
9 hours ago
- General
- Al Etihad
Inside Museum 1185: Keepsakes from a life of honour and service to UAE
1 Aug 2025 00:07 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)What began as a simple effort to gather keepsakes from a distinguished career in public service — medals, certificates, gifts, and souvenirs — soon evolved into something greater. As he retraced his journey, Dr. Obaid Al Ketbi realised it was no longer just his story, but part of the nation's. All the mementos from Dr. Al Ketbi's 43-year career - spanning the UAE Armed Forces, the Abu Dhabi Police, and diplomatic posts - are now preserved in Museum 1185, situated right within his home in the UAE capital. 'The idea of establishing Museum 1185 stemmed from my conviction that every human experience has value and deserves to be preserved and narrated,' Dr. Al Ketbi told Aletihad . The museum's name itself holds deep emotional significance for Dr. Al Ketbi. 'The number 1185 has been my travelling companion from the very start. It has been my military ID number since 1977, and it has lived with me and in me as a number of belonging,' he said. 'After a very long process, I find that naming the museum by this number is the least we can offer in gratitude and in loyalty for a journey that started on support of the state and concluded also with a message of love and gratitude.' Inside, more than 15,000 items are on display. These include a Guinness-verified world record medal; more than 150 official awards and medals, such as the Stevie Awards from the US, the General Secretariat of the GCC, and the Golden Lion Award from Italy; and memorabilia from more than 160 countries. The museum features rare and meaningful artefacts - from military documents and communication tools to medals, photos, and official gifts. 'It also features communication tools, documents, and images that chronicle pivotal moments in the UAE's history and the journey of its leaders,' he 1185 is a reflection of Dr. Al Ketbi's illustrious career. Dr. Al Ketbi's journey began in 1977 when he graduated from Zayed II Military College and started a journey of public service spanning 43 years. He climbed the ranks of the UAE Armed Forces to attain the rank of Major General, occupied key positions as Chief of Logistics Staff, and commanded humanitarian operations in Iraq, Kosovo, and Lebanon. His leadership role was also reflected in the police hierarchy as Deputy Chief of Police Officer at Abu Dhabi Police and member of the Executive Council, and later in the diplomatic spectrum as UAE Ambassador to Australia as well as non-resident Ambassador to a number of Pacific states. In 2019, he was named an Assistant Minister for Military and Security Affairs. A Certificate From Sheikh Zayed Among the many meaningful artefacts on display, one holds the most profound emotional value: a princely certificate presented by the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. 'It is not only a document of honour; it is a symbol of a profound personal and spiritual relationship with the Founding Father of the nation and my spiritual father, who instilled in us the values of loyalty, belonging, and sacrifice.' In order to involve the community, especially the youth, in the museum's activities, it holds workshops, field trips, and events. It works with schools and universities, including NYU Abu Dhabi, and collaborates with the National Library and Archives. 'We place great importance on effective community engagement, particularly with the youth, believing that museums not only serve a documentary role but also play an educational and developmental role,' he said. An Open Invitation to All For Dr. Al Ketbi, the mission of the museum is greater than mere preservation. It is an open door for citizens and visitors from around the world to seek inspiration in the nation and in a man's sense of duty. 'From this point of view, I always try to share this experience with museum visitors ... to let them know that standing on the top only comes from painstaking efforts, toil and loyalty to one's country,' he said. 'The museum is more than a repository of memory; it is an open invitation to all who believe that the experience of one can become a resource for the many,' he added. As one of the few personal and private museums in the UAE, 1185 has a distinctive place in telling the story of the UAE. 'Private museums such as the Museum 1185 help play an important complementary role, a role that tells the story of the nation, the country, and the personal, human side of individuals, supplying a more comprehensive view of national history,' Dr. Al Ketbi said. 'Visitors can experience history through captivating personal stories that are linked to the spirit of the nation.' He noted that the museum is a cultural oasis that seeks to advance national pride and national values. 'Museum 1185 equally embodies a living testament to cultural diplomacy, showcasing to its cross-visiting audiences from all over the world the fundamental legacy upon which the UAE was established: Tolerance, giving and cultural openness towards the rest of the world,' Dr. Al Ketbi said. Going Smart, Going Global Dr. Al Ketbi hopes to increase the accessibility and dynamism of the museum with the use of technology. Plans include a dedicated mobile app, holographic displays, 360° virtual tours, as well as a mobile exhibition that will bring the museum's message to schools and international cultural events. 'We believe in the importance of integrating modern technology into the museum experience,' he said. 'We are also working on launching an app that will allow visitors to learn about the story of each piece using their personal mobile phones. We also have plans for a mobile exhibition that will carry the museum's message to schools and communities across the UAE, and even abroad.' Building Great History Dr. Al Ketbi aspires for Museum 1185 to become a leading cultural centre for telling human and national stories, and a platform for intergenerational dialogue.'I want it to inspire young Emiratis to carry their passion and identity confidently into the future,' he said. 'The legacy I hope the museum will leave behind is to stand as a testament that serving one's country is not a job, but an honour and a responsibility. And that every sincere effort, no matter how small, contributes to building a great history. I want every young Emirati who visits the museum to feel they have a role and a place in this ongoing narrative,' he said.
Arabian Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Arabian Post
Presight and Abu Dhabi Police Forge AI Partnership
Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters has entered into a landmark agreement with the AI firm Presight, aiming to revolutionise policing and public safety through the deployment of cutting-edge artificial intelligence technologies. The strategic collaboration will see Presight's AI-Policing Suite, which includes generative AI, AI agents, and advanced data analytics, integrated into the police force's existing operational systems. The initiative promises to enhance crime prevention, optimise emergency response efforts, and provide a technological foundation for the development of AI-enabled smart cities in the region. The integration of Presight's AI solutions into the day-to-day operations of the police force represents a significant leap towards the future of public safety. As part of the agreement, the AI-Policing Suite will leverage Presight's AI expertise to automate routine processes, deliver real-time data-driven insights, and provide proactive solutions to complex policing challenges. The system's modular nature will allow for tailored implementations that suit the diverse needs of law enforcement, from surveillance to predictive policing. Presight's involvement in this transformative project reflects a broader trend within the UAE towards embracing AI technologies as part of the country's ambitious smart city initiatives. The collaboration underscores the UAE's determination to lead in the development and integration of AI systems across multiple sectors, from healthcare and education to security and infrastructure. ADVERTISEMENT The AI-Policing Suite, which forms the heart of this partnership, will serve as a comprehensive tool for law enforcement agencies. By incorporating generative AI models and AI agents, the system is designed to analyse vast amounts of data swiftly and efficiently, providing actionable intelligence for officers on the ground. This capability will play a crucial role in crime prevention, as predictive algorithms will assist in identifying patterns of criminal activity, enabling authorities to deploy resources more effectively and anticipate potential risks. Beyond the immediate benefits of crime reduction, the partnership between Presight and Abu Dhabi Police is poised to bring lasting improvements to the emergency response capabilities of the police force. The AI tools will streamline communication between various departments, optimise decision-making processes, and enhance coordination during emergencies, thereby reducing response times and potentially saving lives. The ability to analyse data in real time will allow for faster identification of critical incidents, making the force more agile and responsive in dynamic situations. The AI-Policing Suite will contribute to the vision of building smart cities within the UAE. As part of the government's push for technological innovation, the integration of AI in policing aligns with broader urban planning efforts to create more efficient, secure, and sustainable cities. Presight's solutions will not only enable the police to manage day-to-day operations more effectively but also provide a model for integrating AI into other public services, ensuring that the entire ecosystem benefits from technological advancements. The collaboration also has the potential to enhance public trust in law enforcement. By utilising AI-driven solutions to tackle crime and enhance safety, the police can demonstrate a commitment to leveraging technology for the betterment of society. The transparency and accountability inherent in AI systems may increase the public's confidence in the police, knowing that advanced tools are being used to ensure their protection. As AI continues to evolve, the partnership between Presight and Abu Dhabi Police stands as a clear example of how such technologies can be harnessed to modernise policing practices and build smarter, safer communities. Both parties have emphasised that the ultimate goal of the initiative is not only to improve the operational effectiveness of law enforcement but also to support the UAE's broader vision of creating a fully integrated AI ecosystem that touches all aspects of life. ADVERTISEMENT This collaboration also highlights the growing role of AI companies in shaping public sector services. Presight, by aligning itself with law enforcement agencies, is positioning itself as a key player in the development of AI solutions that cater to public safety. The firm's expertise will be pivotal in refining the AI-Policing Suite over time, ensuring that the system evolves in line with the latest developments in artificial intelligence and remains adaptable to the changing needs of law enforcement. For Abu Dhabi Police, this partnership marks a significant step towards becoming a global leader in the use of AI within law enforcement. The UAE has long been a pioneer in technological innovation, and the agreement with Presight strengthens the country's reputation as a forward-thinking, AI-driven state. By integrating the AI-Policing Suite, the police force is not only advancing its capabilities but also contributing to the broader vision of a smart, safe, and connected future.
Al Etihad
3 days ago
- Sport
- Al Etihad
Meet Theban Al Mheiri, a champion for UAE's athletes of determination
29 July 2025 01:07 MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)Theban Al Mheiri was on his way to the airport that day in 1994. With dreams tucked in his pocket, the then 23-year-old Emirati was supposed to travel to the US to study an English course — but fate had other plans. Al Mheiri went through a devastating car accident that left him partially paralysed with a spinal injury. His personal journey of recovery eventually turned into a lifelong commitment to empowering people of determination. Today, Al Mheiri uses his voice, experience, and influence to help others overcome challenges he once faced alone. 'After the car accident, I faced some of the biggest challenges of my life, mainly learning how to live with and overcome my disability,' he told Aletihad in a recent interview. 'It was incredibly difficult at first. But someone r eached out and helped me, and it changed everything. From that moment, I realised I needed to do the same for others in similar situations.'In the wake of his accident, Al Mheiri turned to sports not only as a path to physical recovery but as a source of purpose and empowerment. He was one of the first Emiratis to actively participate in sports for people of athletic achievements were paralleled by a rise in leadership, culminating in his role as Secretary General of the UAE Disabled Sports Federation, a position he has held for the past eight taking on that title, he served in various capacities, including an administrative role at the Abu Dhabi Police and as a driving force in the Al Ain Club for the Disabled from 1999 to 2010. Through every role, his mission remained the same: to create opportunities and recognition for athletes of determination and to help society see their true potential.'I overcame my disability by embracing challenges with determination. Along the way, I've been able to help many others in the community,' he said. 'Often, they were simply waiting for someone to believe in them and extend a hand.'Al Mheiri believes it is his shared experience with people of determination that makes his support more meaningful. He understands that trust - when it comes from someone who has walked the same path - opens hearts.'People of determination are often more open to advice and support when it comes from someone who truly understands, someone who's lived a similar experience,' he explained.'There are physical and emotional challenges to adapting to life with a disability that you can't fully understand unless you've experienced them firsthand.'Supporting the Champions of TomorrowEarly on, Al Mheiri met others like himself in hospital waiting rooms and gymnasiums. He struck up conversations, built trust, and slowly began guiding others toward recovery and reinvention. His work has had a ripple effect throughout the UAE. He was instrumental in launching national programmes that enabled athletes of determination to represent the UAE on the global stage. He is determined to ensure that young athletes of determination have the needed resources, support, and belief to thrive.'We invest in our youth because they're the champions of tomorrow. It's our job to give them the opportunities they deserve,' he said. Al Mheiri believes that inclusion is a shared community responsibility.'People of determination are just like anyone else. When you give them trust and confidence, they'll show you they have so much to offer and can be a real asset to any community,' he said. 'To me, this is the true meaning of life – making someone else's life a little easier, a little brighter. That's what brings me peace.'In 2017, Al Mheiri received the prestigious Abu Dhabi Award in recognition of his contributions. He draws inspiration from the legacy of the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who turned desert landscapes into lush greens through extensive environmental initiatives. Al Mheiri's daughter, Thabia, looks up to him with the same admiration. 'My father is my biggest hero,' she told Aletihad . 'I feel inspired by everything he does every day.'
Khaleej Times
4 days ago
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Tree catches fire in Abu Dhabi; authorities tackle blaze
The incident took place in the Al Saad area in Al Ain during the evening A tree caught on fire in Abu Dhabi on Monday, July 28, the Abu Dhabi Police announced. The incident took place in the Al Saad area in Al Ain during the evening. The authority along with the emirate's Civil Defence are currently tackling the blaze. The police urged residents to obtain information only from official sources.
Khaleej Times
4 days ago
- Climate
- Khaleej Times
Watch: Rains, tornado-like dust devil storms hit some parts of UAE
As the summer heat intensifies, parts of the UAE have been treated to a refreshing shift in weather. Scattered showers over the past few days have brought welcome relief, particularly across the country's eastern region. Today is no different. Videos shared by Storm Centre captured showed rainfall pouring onto roads in areas such as Safi. In one video, rain lashes a car's windshield, obscuring visibility and hinting at the intensity of the downpour. Another clip shows water pooling along the roadside, forming shallow puddles that glisten under the grey skies. However, the rainfall wasn't just a gentle drizzle. In some locations, it was heavy enough to disrupt driving conditions and obscure views, prompting authorities to step in with safety advisories. #Ù�رÙ�ز_اÙ�عاصÙ�Ø© 28_7_2025 — Ù�رÙ�ز اÙ�عاصÙ�Ø© (@Storm_centre) July 28, 2025 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ù�رÙ�ز اÙ�عاصÙ�Ø© Ù�Ù�راÙ�بة اÙ�Ø·Ù�س Ù�اÙ�ذذÙ�ر اÙ�Ù�Ù�اخÙ� اÙ�Ù�ؤسس omar alnauimi (@storm_ae) Abu Dhabi Police issued a weather alert for Al Ain, urging motorists to drive cautiously in light of the rainy conditions. The authority also urged motorists to adhere to variable speed limits displayed on electronic road signs. #Ù�رÙ�ز_اÙ�عاصÙ�Ø© 28_7_2025 — Ù�رÙ�ز اÙ�عاصÙ�Ø© (@Storm_centre) July 28, 2025 But it wasn't just rain turning heads. Storm Centre also shared a striking video of a massive sandstorm. The swirling gust of sand appeared to shoot skyward in a funnel-like shape, resembling a tornado. The storm was so intense that it blanketed the affected area in a brown-ish haze. Watch the video below, as shared by Storm Centre: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ù�رÙ�ز اÙ�عاصÙ�Ø© Ù�Ù�راÙ�بة اÙ�Ø·Ù�س Ù�اÙ�ذذÙ�ر اÙ�Ù�Ù�اخÙ� اÙ�Ù�ؤسس omar alnauimi (@storm_ae) Some residents on Sunday (July 27) also observed a massive sandstorm or a gustnado — a small, short-lived whirlwind that often appears during strong thunderstorms, especially in desert climates. Unlike true tornadoes, gustnadoes are not connected to a thunderstorm cloud base. Though less destructive than full-scale tornadoes, they can still kick up sand and debris, causing visibility issues and posing risks for motorists. Summer rains in UAE While summer rain may seem surprising to some, meteorologists say it's not entirely uncommon in the UAE. But while the occasional rain during the season brings respite, residents still need to be careful and take serious precautions to prioritise their health and safety. Summer in the UAE isn't just uncomfortable — it can be dangerous. Prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can lead to serious health conditions, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses.
