Latest news with #AlAmeri
Al Etihad
4 days ago
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi sends 25 sea turtles home to Arabian Gulf
30 May 2025 00:20 MAYS IBRAHIM(ABU DHABI)The Arabian Gulf welcomed 25 old friends on Thursday, as rescued sea turtles swam back into their natural habitat, capping months of expert care and were released by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) at the beach of the Jumeirah Hotel on Saadiyat Island, in partnership with The National Aquarium and the Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue marks the latest chapter in EAD's ongoing Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Release Programme, launched in 2016. To date, the initiative has successfully rehabilitated and returned over 1,500 sea turtles to their natural habitat.'This year alone, we've rescued 287 turtles, including green turtles, hawksbills, and loggerheads,' Hind Al Ameri, Section Head of Marine Biodiversity Assessment and Conservation at EAD, told Aletihad. 'Twenty-five were released [on Thursday], and another 25 will follow [on Friday].' Following the Turtles' Journey Al Ameri explained that 15 of the rescued turtles have been fitted with satellite tags to monitor their movements post-release. 'Tagging allows us to track their migratory paths and behaviour after rehabilitation, helping us understand where they feed, nest, and how they adapt back in the wild,' she Dhabi is home to four sea turtle species, the most common of which are Hawksbill and Green turtles. Loggerheads and the rarer Kemp's Ridley also occasionally appear in UAE waters. 'This year, we came across a few loggerheads, which are rarely seen in our waters, and we're tagging them to learn more about the species,' Al Ameri satellite tags are attached to the turtles' shells and activated when the animals surface to breathe, pinging their location to researchers via satellite. This non-invasive technology provides critical insights into turtle ecology and helps shape marine protection strategies, Al Ameri said. What is Cold Stunning? Speaking with Aletihad, Scott McCoy, Zoological Director at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, highlighted the seasonal aspect of turtle rescues. 'Cold stunning is a major threat here. Juvenile turtles, unable to regulate their body temperature, sometimes get caught in cooler waters, becoming immobile and covered in barnacles,' he stunning occurs when sea turtles are exposed to a sudden or prolonged drop in water temperatures, causing their metabolism to slow down dramatically. Unable to swim or feed properly, these stunned turtles often float near the surface or wash ashore. Rescue efforts typically involve warming and rehydrating the turtles until they regain enough strength to survive in the Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue Center plays a vital role in addressing such emergencies. 'This year, we've rescued 137 sea turtles and over 200 marine animals in total, including sea snakes, birds, and even dugongs and dolphins,' McCoy centre offers immediate and comprehensive care, leveraging over 25 rescue pools, an advanced water filtration system, and a dedicated animal hospital. 'We have a marine life ambulance and a response team that jumps into action when called by the EAD or the public,' McCoy added. 'Once stabilised, turtles are monitored for weeks to months before being cleared for release.'The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi is also lending its expertise to support injured and stranded marine animals. 'We often receive turtles suffering from cold exposure, boat strikes, entanglement, or plastic ingestion,' Head Curator Lewis Cocks told Aletihad. 'Our team provides round-the-clock care, starting with a freshwater bath to remove barnacles, followed by diagnostics and, in some cases, surgical procedures such as fin amputations.'Cocks noted that even turtles with permanent injuries are given the chance to return to the sea. 'For example, turtles that become entangled in fishing lines may require amputation. In some cases, we do release turtles that are missing one or even two flippers, once they've fully recovered and can survive independently in the wild,' he explained. Rescue Meets Community Effort Al Ameri credited much of this year's turtle rescues to public reports. 'If you spot any marine animal in distress, whether a turtle, dugong, or dolphin, call the EAD hotline at 800-555,' she second release on Friday will see UAE schoolchildren actively involved in returning turtles to sea. Ten winning classes, selected through a quirky competition involving otters at the National Aquarium, were given the chance to name turtles and will help release serves as an opportunity to instil conservation values early on and shape the next generation of environment stewards, said Cocks. 'It's important to educate the younger generation by involving children and schools in these efforts,' he added. 'By doing so, we can teach them why we save turtles, why rehabilitation is necessary, and most importantly, what they can do to help prevent harm. One simple but powerful message is to reduce plastic waste by reusing and recycling. Teaching kids these habits early on helps protect the marine environment.' Abu Dhabi's waters support a population of over 6,000 sea turtles. EAD has been actively researching and monitoring these marine animals since 1999 to ensure their conservation and recovery in the region.
Al Etihad
6 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
DoE, ADAFSA agree to share data for Agriculture and Food Security Data Platform
28 May 2025 12:26 ABU DHABI (WAM)The Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE) and the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) have signed a Service Level Agreement (SLA) on cooperation and data sharing for the Agriculture and Food Security Data Platform in the signing ceremony was witnessed by Dr. Abdulla Humaid Al Jawan, Chairman of the DoE. It was signed by Engineer Ahmed Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Undersecretary of the DoE, and Dr. Tariq Ahmed Al Ameri, Acting Director-General of this occasion, Al Rumaithi stated, "Collaboration with ADAFSA is a significant step toward building a robust data ecosystem that supports future policies in the fields of energy and agriculture. It also enables us to leverage artificial intelligence technologies to anticipate future developments and achieve sustainability."Al Ameri said, "This partnership with the Department of Energy reaffirms our shared commitment to realising Abu Dhabi's vision of building a sustainable and resilient food system that can address future challenges and enhance the emirate's food security."He added that the authority, through this agreement, aims to strengthen strategic cooperation—particularly in artificial intelligence and analytics—based on the critical role of integrated data in supporting decision-making and advancing food security and agricultural sustainability in Abu Dhabi. Al Ameri noted, "The platform developed by the authority is a key pillar of this partnership. It provides accurate and comprehensive data that enables us to analyse challenges and develop innovative solutions. It also contributes to enhancing transparency and operational efficiency, thereby improving the quality of policies and services provided to farmers and investors in the agricultural sector."
Sharjah 24
26-05-2025
- Sport
- Sharjah 24
SWS wins UAE Women's Basketball Cup with a perfect season
A season of total dominance The team demonstrated tactical discipline and high concentration, maintaining control from the opening whistle to the final buzzer. The win capped an exceptional season in which Sharjah Women's Sports Club clinched all three official tournaments they competed in: The Women's General Basketball League, the UAE Women's Federation Cup – 3x3, and the UAE Women's Basketball Cup. With this clean sweep, the team achieved a perfect season, confirming its dominance in UAE women's basketball and reflecting the development efforts led by the club. Club leadership praises strategy and teamwork Mai Al Ameri, Deputy Director of Sharjah Women's Sports Club, highlighted that the success stems from a clear strategy laid out at the season's start. She noted the team's consistency, competitiveness, and dedication to high-level representation. Al Ameri praised both technical and administrative staff for their commitment and reaffirmed Sharjah's successful investment in women's sports. Coach commends defensive prowess and youth integration Team coach Captain Walid Al Hajri celebrated the players' dedication and strong team spirit throughout the season. He described the season as 'exceptional by all standards,' noting the team's undefeated run in both official and friendly tournaments. In the Emirates Cup final, Shabab Al Ahli started strong, leading 17-10 after the first quarter and 32-18 at halftime through defensive pressure and effective rebounding. Although the third quarter saw a brief challenge from the opponents, the team regained momentum in the final quarter to seal the 54-38 win. A key moment in the final was the inclusion of U-18 players, a move aimed at building confidence and preparing them for future integration with the senior team. A reflection of Sharjah's sports vision This achievement aligns with the strategy of the Sharjah Women's Sports Foundation, under which the club operates. It reflects ongoing efforts to empower Emirati women in sports and position Sharjah as a leading sports destination regionally. The Foundation remains committed to nurturing talent and building a strong, integrated sports system for women across the emirate.
Al Etihad
21-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
From healthy chocolate to furniture: Female founders aim to go global top-notch UAE-made products
21 May 2025 03:39 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)Women have been making a mark in the UAE's industrial landscape - and, with the support of the government, some have started their own ventures, built their facilities, and now on their way to global this year's Make it in the Emirates (MIITE) forum, the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development showcases more than 15 innovative Emirati-led projects, including those led by female entrepreneurs. Among them is Khadija Al Ameri, who has established a UAE-made keto chocolate brand called idea, she said, was to produce a healthy, tasty treat that is "sugar-free, diabetic-friendly, and made with clean ingredients that reflect the UAE's commitment to quality and innovation"."We produce locally, use responsible packaging, and reduce reliance on imports-all while promoting healthier lifestyles," Al Ameri told Aletihad. With support from Khalifa Fund, Al Ameri was able secure a certified factory partner in Dubai and navigate regulatory challenges, she said. "We aim to lead the UAE's healthy chocolate segment and contribute to national goals for economic diversification and industrial innovation," she her participation in MIITE, she now hopes to find partners that will help the brand grow beyond the UAE. Manufacturing Bakery EquipmentAnother entrepreneur, Khadija Abdullah, has built a factory that now produces high-quality bakery tools and equipment - from ovens, dough sheeters and bread cutters to automated systems tailored to their clients' needs. "We are the first UAE and Gulf-based factory in this sector. Our designs are tailored for local needs and built entirely in the UAE using high-quality materials and Emirati talent," said Abdullah, who founded the Bawabat Al Sharq Factory with the backing of Khalifa Fund. She admitted that the starting the venture wasn't easy, adding that financing and technology access were among the major hurdles. With Khalifa Fund's support, however, Bawabat Al Sharq Factory was able to move forward. Now, the company seeks to "expand its exports, build technical partnerships, and showcase what 'Made in the UAE' truly means", Abdullah said. Through the solutions they create, they seek to help boost food security while supporting the UAE's vision for a knowledge-based industrial economy. Making Furniture Widad Alhammadi, an entrepreneur in the furniture and interior design sector, makes sure her work reflects the UAE identity. Widad Al Hammadi Furniture & Decoration, a full-service interior design firm, offers environmentally responsible design solutions that blend with modern trends and cultural authenticity. "Everything is manufactured here - not just assembled. We use quality materials and Emirati-inspired designs," Alhammadi said. Her approach goes beyond aesthetics, focusing on sustainability and local innovation. Make it in the Emirates Continue full coverage "We develop raw materials from our environment and use them in furniture-making. This reduces import reliance and supports the national economy." Alhammadi currently collaborates with factories to deliver her designs but she has big plans for the future. "I aim to move into direct manufacturing-to gain more control, respond faster to market needs, and deepen my impact on local industry," she said. Highlighting the crucial role Khalifa Fund played in the growth of her company, Alhammadi said: "They helped us join exhibitions at discounted rates and supported us with letters that secured fee exemptions on government projects-boosting our market presence and competitiveness." In the long run, Alhammadi aims to "create a fully integrated design and manufacturing business that honours Emirati identity - and reaches global markets".
Gulf Today
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Italy's Milan hosts festival of Arabic Language and Culture
Milan is serving as a crossroads for Arabic language and culture as the Italian city hosts the 8th edition of the International Festival of Arabic Language and Culture, sponsored by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA). Held under the theme 'The migrating tongue: Arabic without borders,' the four-day event showcases the language's worldwide influence, uniting 30 scholars, authors, and intellectuals from 18 nations to celebrate its role as a cultural bridge and a medium fostering cross-border dialogue. Organised by the Arabic Cultural Institute at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, in collaboration with the Arabic Language Research Center, the 2025 edition of the festival launched with key figures including Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the SBA; Professor Giovanni Gobber, Dean of Linguistic Sciences and Foreign Literatures; and Professor Wael Farouq, the Institute's Director and the event's academic coordinator. Bringing together a distinguished group of literary and cultural figures from the Arab diaspora, the guests include Libyan author Ibrahim Al-Koni; Iraqi writers Sinan Antoon and Inaam Kachachi; Egyptian authors Ezzat El Kamhawi and May Telmissany; and Yemeni novelist Ali Al-Muqri. It also features leading experts in Arabic linguistics and language education, including Dr Mohamed Safi Al Mosteghanemi, Secretary-General of the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah; and Zeinab Taha, Professor and Chairperson of the Arabic Language and Linguistics at the American University in Cairo. Adding further depth to the programme are acclaimed theatre directors and playwrights, including Ahmed Fawzi Saleh and Saleh Zamanan, as well as prominent literary critics and academics, including Francesca Corrao, Professor of Arabic Culture and Language at Luiss University Rome, and renowned literary critic, Subhi Hadidi. During his keynote speech, Al Ameri delivered greetings from His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to the attendees. He noted that the festival's theme underscores Arabic's timeless journey as a language anchored in its origins yet fundamental in shaping global civilisation, channelling knowledge and scientific thought from East to West, and from the Arabian Peninsula across Europe. 'As we gather today, we are reminded of a journey that began more than a thousand years ago, when the physician Constantine the African travelled to Italy carrying Arabic medical texts. This marked the beginning of a new chapter, where Arabic became a gateway to previously unknown sciences. That legacy continues to this day, embodied in the vision of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, who consistently affirms that language is not just a means of communication, but a vessel of culture and a bridge to mutual understanding,' Al Ameri stated. 'His Highness's commitment to Arabic is a firmly held belief, reflected in ongoing cultural projects that promote both the language and global engagement. SBA's festival sponsorship continues that vision, which sees cultural exchange as essential to progress. In Sharjah, we believe that civilisation is not the product of one language or one place, but a collective human achievement, shaped and sustained by diverse peoples, languages, and ideas,' the SBA CEO noted. For his part, Dr. Wael Farouq said: 'We are witnessing a new phase in the journey of the Arabic language as it moves beyond its traditional geographic and cultural boundaries. This development merits thoughtful examination, which is why the Institute of Arabic Culture has dedicated this year's conference to bringing together a distinguished group of Arab and Western intellectuals and academics to explore the phenomenon.' He continued by saying, 'Over the past two decades, rising migration from the Arab world to the West has reshaped the relationship between the two cultures. Arabic language and literature occupy a more central role, with millions of migrants becoming bilingual and many Arab writers in the diaspora producing works in European languages. This has given rise to a new wave of diaspora literature, reminiscent of the early 20th century. At the same time, we are seeing significant growth in teaching modern Arabic and studying its contemporary literature at universities across the West.'
