Latest news with #AlBlooshi
Zawya
17-04-2025
- Health
- Zawya
53% of Abu Dhabi residents meet WHO's physical activity levels: DCD
The third edition of the Abu Dhabi Sports and Physical Activity Survey, conducted annually by the Department of Community Development (DCD) in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi, has revealed a significant increase in physical activity levels across the emirate. The survey saw participation from more than 28,000 community members, marking a 45 per cent increase compared to the previous cycle, which monitors community trends in sports and physical activity, provides essential data to guide policies and initiatives aimed at promoting a healthier and more active society. The latest findings show that 53 percent of Abu Dhabi residents now meet the World Health Organisation's recommended physical activity levels, marking a steady increase from 50 percent in the previous edition and 36 percent in the first survey. The study also highlights progress in youth engagement, with the percentage of children and adolescents participating in at least 60 minutes of daily exercise rising from 11 percent to 12.5 percent. In addition to individual participation, community engagement in sports events has also grown. Throughout 2024, Abu Dhabi hosted 145 sports and community events, attracting participants from 122 nationalities. The number of people participating in these events increased by 33 percent, reaching 481,300 compared to 362,000 in 2023. Mohammed Al Blooshi, Executive Director of the Community Engagement and Sports Sector at DCD, emphasised that these results reflect Abu Dhabi's progress in fostering a culture of physical activity. He credited the ongoing collaboration between government and private entities in creating an environment that encourages movement and wellbeing. He noted that expanding sports infrastructure, increasing the number of public walking and cycling paths, and strengthening partnerships with the private sector have all contributed to this growth. The focus on inclusive sports programmes has also played a role, ensuring that People of Determination and senior citizens have access to physical activities that support their wellbeing. Al Blooshi highlighted the emirate's growing status as a hub for sports and community engagement. He stated that the increase in event participation is a testament to the effectiveness of Abu Dhabi's strategies in encouraging an active lifestyle. He also noted that the variety of sports initiatives, coupled with enhanced facilities, has made it easier for residents to incorporate exercise into their daily routines. Ahmed Al Hosani, Executive Director of the Strategic Affairs Sector at the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, confirmed that the Sports and Physical Activity Survey, now in its third edition, continued its role in measuring and analysing physical activity patterns in Abu Dhabi. He noted that the results reflected a significant improvement in individuals' interest in sports and health. Al Hosani explained that the survey editions have contributed to providing valuable insights into the level of physical activity in the community, helping to develop sports initiatives and programs aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle among community members. He added that the third edition came to further strengthen these efforts and provide more accurate data on the impact of sports events and community tournaments organised in various regions of Abu Dhabi. He pointed out that the results confirm the increase in the rate of physical activity among individuals in the emirate, reflecting the success of sports initiatives in encouraging the community to adopt healthier lifestyles, in line with the vision of the Abu Dhabi Government and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council to build an active and sustainable sports community. As part of its long-term vision, Abu Dhabi continues to align with the World Health Organisation's global health recommendations, which encourage adults to engage in at least 75 minutes of vigorous exercise or 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week. With consistent efforts to enhance public engagement in fitness and wellness, Abu Dhabi is well on its way to surpassing these benchmarks, reinforcing its position as a leader in promoting community health and wellbeing.
Al Etihad
17-04-2025
- Health
- Al Etihad
Department of Community Development reveals results of 3rd round of Abu Dhabi Sports and Physical Activity Survey
17 Apr 2025 11:23 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)The third edition of the Abu Dhabi Sports and Physical Activity Survey, conducted annually by the Department of Community Development (DCD) in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi, has revealed a significant increase in physical activity levels across the emirate. The survey saw participation from more than 28,000 community members, marking a 45 percent increase compared to the previous cycle, which monitors community trends in sports and physical activity, provides essential data to guide policies and initiatives aimed at promoting a healthier and more active latest findings show that 53 percent of Abu Dhabi residents now meet the World Health Organisation's recommended physical activity levels, marking a steady increase from 50 percent in the previous edition and 36 percent in the first study also highlights progress in youth engagement, with the percentage of children and adolescents participating in at least 60 minutes of daily exercise rising from 11 per cent to 12.5 addition to individual participation, community engagement in sports events has also grown. Throughout 2024, Abu Dhabi hosted 145 sports and community events, attracting participants from 122 number of people participating in these events increased by 33 percent, reaching 481,300 compared to 362,000 in Director of the Community Engagement and Sports Sector at DCD, His Excellency Mohammed Al Blooshi, emphasised that these results reflect Abu Dhabi's progress in fostering a culture of physical activity. He credited the ongoing collaboration between government and private entities in creating an environment that encourages movement and wellbeing. He noted that expanding sports infrastructure, increasing the number of public walking and cycling paths, and strengthening partnerships with the private sector have all contributed to this focus on inclusive sports programmes has also played a role, ensuring that People of Determination and senior citizens have access to physical activities that support their Excellency Al Blooshi highlighted the emirate's growing status as a hub for sports and community engagement. He stated that the increase in event participation is a testament to the effectiveness of Abu Dhabi's strategies in encouraging an active lifestyle. He also noted that the variety of sports initiatives, coupled with enhanced facilities, has made it easier for residents to incorporate exercise into their daily Director of the Strategic Affairs Sector at the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, His Excellency Ahmed Al Hosani, confirmed that the Sports and Physical Activity Survey, now in its third edition, continued its role in measuring and analysing physical activity patterns in Abu Excellency noted that the results reflected a significant improvement in individuals' interest in sports and Excellency Al Hosani explained that the survey editions have contributed to providing valuable insights into the level of physical activity in the community, helping to develop sports initiatives and programs aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle among community Excellency added that the third edition came to further strengthen these efforts and provide more accurate data on the impact of sports events and community tournaments organised in various regions of Abu Excellency pointed out that the results confirm the increase in the rate of physical activity among individuals in the emirate, reflecting the success of sports initiatives in encouraging the community to adopt healthier lifestyles, in line with the vision of the Abu Dhabi Government and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council to build an active and sustainable sports part of its long-term vision, Abu Dhabi continues to align with the World Health Organization's global health recommendations, which encourage adults to engage in at least 75 minutes of vigorous exercise or 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week. With consistent efforts to enhance public engagement in fitness and wellness, Abu Dhabi is well on its way to surpassing these benchmarks, reinforcing its position as a leader in promoting community health and wellbeing.
Khaleej Times
09-04-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Abu Dhabi prioritised food, medicine during Covid-19 lockdown, top official recalls
Abu Dhabi prioritised the distribution of food and medicines as the world shut down to battle the Covid-19 pandemic, a top official has recalled. Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development outlined that the UAE capital navigated the challenges posed by the pandemic with a resolute focus on this guiding principle. Addressing the World Crisis and Emergency Management Summit in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, Rashed Al Blooshi emphasised the importance of a clear vision amid uncertainty during a crisis. "We faced a period of scattered data and confusion," he noted. "However, our leadership's message was unambiguous: Prioritise health and sustenance." Al Blooshi elaborated on the Department of Economic Development's dual focus during the crisis. "While the economy is vital, our primary commitment was to safeguard the health and well-being of our citizens," he stated. The swift collaboration across sectors, including tourism and municipal services, was crucial in implementing a coordinated response to the crisis. Central to Abu Dhabi's success was its flexibility in adapting to rapidly changing circumstances. Al Blooshi recounted how the emirate's robust infrastructure facilitated a seamless transition to electronic services, allowing for uninterrupted education and service delivery. "When faced with lockdowns, we quickly moved to ensure that essential services remained accessible," he explained. Community initiatives played a significant role in distributing food and medicine safely. Local councils were transformed into distribution centres, effectively addressing the needs of residents. "Our focus on 'medicine and food' allowed us to mobilise resources efficiently," Al Blooshi said. The private sector also demonstrated remarkable adaptability, shifting from traditional retail to online shopping and home delivery. "Transportation companies pivoted to deliver goods directly to homes, ensuring that our economy continued to function despite the challenges," he noted. Despite the turmoil brought on by the pandemic and accompanying natural disasters, Al Blooshi expressed gratitude for the resilience of the UAE's economy and the welfare enjoyed by its residents. The establishment of a support fund further reinforced the commitment to navigating the crisis effectively. He mentioned the strong international relations of the UAE which helped even when facing shortages in obtaining food supplies, medical supplies, and even essential or non-essential materials. The UAE had options because of its relationships, he said. "We could shift from country A to country B and then provide what we saw fit for our homes.' Also, he spoke about how the government of Abu Dhabi, during this pandemic, took advantage of it, leading to significant investments directed towards the UAE during that crisis. Dag Detter Investment Advisor and Expert in Public Commercial Assets, gave an example of a football team or an Olympic star. Most people don't react until they have had an accident then they will realise that if they had trained better, they would have managed the injuries better,' he said. He also mentioned the importance of education and better discussion between ministries and sharing knowledge about their experiences during crises.
The National
21-03-2025
- Automotive
- The National
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid makes Enoc worker's day with surprise praise
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, has praised the dedication of a worker at the Enoc vehicle inspection and registration centre in Al Qusais. Sheikh Mohammed had received a mystery shopper's report about 46-year-old Youssef Al Blooshi that commended his hard work and initiative, prompting the Dubai Ruler to applaud his efforts on social media. 'In a recent report I received from the mystery shopper, from the customer service centre for vehicle inspection and registration in Al Qusais, we followed Youssef Mohammed Abdullah, a hardworking, cheerful young man who takes the initiative to serve people and is keen to complete their transactions,' Sheikh Mohammed wrote in a post on X which has been viewed by over half a million people. 'Customers gather around him and thank him for his service. Greetings to Youssef. We follow you, and other young men and women who are dedicated to serving the people, and who care about Dubai's reputation.' For Mr Al Blooshi, Thursday was just another day. He arrived on time, took a deep breath and smiled, bracing himself for the influx of customers. The father of two has been working at the centre for just over a month, having transferred from the Sharjah branch. His shift is from 8pm to midnight during Ramadan. The Qusais centre is one of the busiest in Dubai, with customer tokens running out at around 9.30pm – only 90 minutes after opening. During Ramadan, the centre operates from 8am to 4pm and from 8pm to midnight, with around seven representatives assisting more than 400 people each day. Most customers come during the evening shift. 'You can imagine the pressure and the frustrations,' Mr Al Blooshi told The National. But he said he thrives under such conditions. 'I'm a father and have been through the most difficult things in life. I've seen the worst times, so I've learnt that nothing is worth losing your temper over. When I get a disgruntled customer, I smile and do my best to help them. There is no greater reward than helping people.' Reflecting on the moment he realised Sheikh Mohammed had singled him out for his efforts, he said: 'A customer came up to me holding his phone and said, 'Youssef, this you?' It took me a few minutes to believe it. Never in a million years did I imagine getting recognised for anything – and by the most important person in the world.' Mr Al Blooshi's advice to others who find work tough is: 'Be honest and diligent in your work, and recognition will follow.' He added: 'I'm living proof of that. I walk 10,000 steps a day, back and forth between customers at the centre, and I love every step and every minute of it. I didn't do it because I thought someone was watching, but because I wanted to help people and resolve their issues – and look how that turned out.' Sheikh Mohammed often sends secret shoppers to government offices to test services. In 2019, he criticised poor standards at an Emirates Post office after he was sent a picture of long queues. 'I have received a photo from a secret shopper showing the level of services in Emirates Post,' he wrote on Twitter at the time. 'This is not our level. These are not our services. And whoever continues to provide such level of services will not be among my team.' In 2020, an app that allows Emiratis and residents to rate a government service was launched by the UAE Cabinet. The UAE Mystery Shopper app is available in eight languages and asks users to input information on their experiences with a service at a government office.
Gulf News
19-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf News
Al Awasif claim a 1-3 in Sheikh Mohammed Cup for Private Stables
Al Blooshi guides Sandine Raptor during the 101km ride to gain a comfortable victory Last updated: February 19, 2025 | 19:31 2 MIN READ Dubai: Al Awasif 2 Stables clinched the His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Cup for Private Stables on the second day of the His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Festival after Ali Mohammed Qambar Al Blooshi guided Sandine Raptor with absolute consistency during the course of the 101km ride to gain a comfortable victory at Dubai International Endurance City in Seeh Al Salam on Wednesday. Riding the Australian bred eight-year-old Anglo-Arab gelding, Al Blooshi completed the four-loop ride in a time of three hours, 24 minutes and 37 seconds (3:24:37) to claim what was the biggest prize of his career so far. Finishing second were Zabeel Stables pair of Maitha Al Qubaisi and her mount Picnic Park Parisian Dawn with a time of 3:24:45, while third place was claimed by another Al Awasif 2 Stables rider Hind Albedwawi, who completed the ride aboard Schelmigra Truckstarr in a time of 3:24:53. The His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Festival is held in honour of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, a former World Endurance Champion himself and one of the world's most ardent supporters and benefactors of equestrian sport. The five-day festival comprises four rides in all and got under way on Tuesday with the Ladies Cup, which was won by Omani rider Zamzam Al Hasani. The third event on the Festival's schedule is tomorrow's 120 km Gamilati Endurance Cup for Mares. The Festival culminates on February 22, with the showpiece His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup, a 160km ride designed to test the skill and ability of both horse and rider. Sign up for the Daily Briefing Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
