Latest news with #AlQasimi
Gulf Today
3 days ago
- Science
- Gulf Today
Emirati photographer Yousef Al Qasimi captures the beauty of space
Dubai: As part of the 'Space World' programme, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library organized a specialized workshop titled 'Astronomy and Space Photography,' presented by professional Emirati photographer Yousef Al Qasimi. The workshop attracted a large audience of photography and space enthusiasts. During the session, Al Qasimi explained various types of astrophotography, highlighting the differences between wide-field imaging — such as capturing the Milky Way and star trails —and deep-sky photography, which includes shooting nebulae, distant galaxies, and planets. He also addressed critical factors that influence image quality, including light pollution, moon phases, weather stability, and more. Al Qasimi affirmed that the workshop was an inspiring opportunity for dialogue and learning, as attendees showed great enthusiasm for exploring the artistic and scientific aspects of astrophotography—an art that combines visual beauty with technical precision and strengthens the human connection with the universe. He added: "Astrophotography is an effective visual tool to promote scientific awareness. It helps embed space sciences into the cultural memory of younger generations through direct and engaging visual experiences. I also commend the vital role played by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library in equipping the community with tools for knowledge and exploration, in line with the UAE's vision of building a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation and science." Yousef Al Qasimi addresses the gathering. Participants learned essential technical principles of astrophotography, including the ideal camera settings for capturing the Milky Way: shutter speeds between 10 to 30 seconds, focal lengths from 14 to 24mm, wide apertures (F2.8 – F3.5), and high ISO settings (1000–3200) to produce clear, detailed images in low-light environments. The workshop also covered necessary astrophotography equipment, such as wide-angle lenses and tripods for wide-field shots, and star trackers and telescopes for deep-sky imaging. Al Qasimi introduced free software like SEQUATOR, used for image stacking, detail enhancement, and noise reduction, to help produce high-quality photos of stars and galaxies. Additionally, the trainer showcased a variety of telescopes, cameras, and modern astronomical tools, explaining the features and uses of each for capturing planets, nebulae, and distant celestial objects. He clarified the differences between lenses and telescopes and offered guidance on selecting the most suitable gear based on location, environmental factors, and desired subject. The workshop emphasized astrophotography as a skill that blends art with science, fostering analytical thinking, precision, and attention to detail. It also opens up new, non-traditional career and creative paths for youth, inspiring them to engage with science and space through a compelling visual perspective. This workshop aligns with Mohammed Bin Rashid Library's vision of empowering future generations and equipping them with tools to explore new horizons — such as astrophotography — in line with UAE Vision 2071 to build a knowledge-based, forward-thinking society and promote scientific curiosity.
Zawya
18-07-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
Sharjah Ruler approves new residential area in Al Dahiyat
SHARJAH: His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has approved the development of a new residential area for citizens in Al Dahiyat suburb of Kalba, comprising 190 residential plots, a main park, and a mosque. The first phase will begin with the construction of 54 residential units.
What's On
17-07-2025
- What's On
Stunning new road to Khorfakkan announced by Sharjah Ruler
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohamed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, announced the building of a new road 'over the peaks reaching Khorfakkan.' In a statement shared by UAE Barq, the Sharjah Ruler addressed a statement to 'Direct Line' and said, 'We will build a road over the peaks and foothills of the mountains, reaching Khorfakkan, and it will be a marvel like no other, and driving on it will be a true pleasure.' Al Qasimi added that the 'road will be surrounded by trees, plants, waterways, and beautiful residences.' As for its location, Al Qasimi said it will ascend from the Ghazir Tunnel to reach the highest mountain peak in Khorfakkan, at an altitude of 1,100 meters above sea level.' Sharjah News shared the news on their official social media alongside a video. It comes with a title in Arabic which translates to 'A project that no one has seen before.' What is Sharjah's Direct Line? Sharjah's Direct Line is a radio program in the UAE where citizens and expats can raise their concerns. And according to English daily newspapers, it has one keen listener – The Ruler of Sharjah. At the moment, there is no start date or a completion date, but we will share the news on as soon as we know more. About Khorfakkan Khorfakkan has become a popular spot for a day trips in the UAE, and the sleepy beach town is transforming into quite the tourist destination. While it may be too humid to truly enjoy a visit at the moment, there's so much to check out, from its sailing, fishing, or kayaking opportunities to visiting Al Suhub Rest House or just getting your Instagram photos at the Khorfakkan amphitheatre and waterfall. If you want to consider a dinner here, The View by Wave is a great pit stop at Rabi Tower, or you can now even make a weekend of it and check-in at Najd Al Meqsar a former traditional mountain village that has been transformed into a beautiful heritage hotel of just seven 'Kareen Houses', each with a bedroom each. Images: Unsplash > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Khaleej Times
11-07-2025
- General
- Khaleej Times
Sharjah's Faya added to UNESCO's World Heritage List
The UAE marked a milestone in heritage preservation as the UNESCO World Heritage Committee officially inscribed Sharjah's Faya Palaeolandscape on the World Heritage List. Recognised under the Cultural Landscape category, Faya was the only Arab site added this year and the second from the UAE after Al Ain's cultural sites were inscribed in 2011. Located in Sharjah's central region, Faya Palaeolandscape holds one of the world's oldest and most continuous records of early human habitation in arid environments, dating back over 200,000 years. It is an intact fossil desert landscape. Faya's critical role as a repeated destination for habitation has fundamentally altered our understanding of prehistoric life in Southeast Arabia, and represents a significant milestone in human evolution. This is what makes the inscription of Faya on the World Heritage List extremely significant. Until the inscription of Faya, desert Paleolithic sites were not represented in the World Heritage List. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Sharjah formally submitted the nomination in February 2024 following 12 years of dossier preparation. Faya's inclusion came after a rigorous evaluation based on UNESCO's standards of Outstanding Universal Value. The achievement reflects Sharjah's long-standing vision to integrate heritage, education and sustainable development, in line with the commitment of H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, official ambassador of the nomination file, expressed gratitude to the World Heritage Committee for recognising Faya's significance. She said the inscription affirms Sharjah's role in early human history and highlights the Arabian Peninsula's position in the story of human migration from Africa. 'The stone tools found at Faya are testimony to the ingenuity of our ancestors and the deep roots of cultural tradition in our region,' she said, adding, 'We remain fully committed to protecting this site and ensuring its legacy continues to inspire future generations.' Eisa Yousif, Director-General of the Sharjah Archaeology Authority, said the inscription reflects shared ownership of world heritage. 'Faya now belongs to all peoples of the world, just as it did over 200,000 years ago,' he said, noting that this milestone represents the culmination of scientific research, cultural preservation and international cooperation. The UAE and Sharjah have adopted a comprehensive conservation plan for 2024–2030 to protect Faya's universal value, with a continued focus on research, education and sustainable tourism. For over a decade, Faya has also been a key site in UNESCO's Human Evolution, Adaptations, Dispersals and Social Developments (HEADS) Programme, alongside world-renowned locations such as Klasies River Caves and Wonderwerk Cave. Faya's inscription brings the total number of World Heritage sites to 1,226 across 168 countries, including 955 cultural, 231 natural and 40 mixed sites. The Arab region now hosts 96 such sites across 18 countries.
UAE Moments
11-07-2025
- Science
- UAE Moments
A Sharjah Site Receives UNESCO World Heritage Status
The Faya Palaeolandscape in Sharjah has officially been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, a milestone marking international recognition of one of the world's oldest and most continuous records of early human occupation in the Middle East. Located in Sharjah's Central Region near Jebel Faya, this prehistoric site preserves a near-continuous settlement layer dating back over 210,000 years, from the Middle Palaeolithic to the Neolithic era. Excavations have uncovered 18 distinct archaeological layers, revealing how early Homo sapiens adapted to dramatic climatic changes through sophisticated tool-making and environmental adaptation. Archaeologists discovered 80,000-year-old elongated stone tools crafted using a complex technique called bidirectional reduction, showcasing remarkable cognitive skill and resourcefulness. These multipurpose tools were tailored for hunting, processing plants, and crafting, reflecting an advanced cultural and technological understanding. The nomination was evaluated during UNESCO's 47th World Heritage Committee session in Paris on Friday. Spearheaded by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, official ambassador for the nomination, along with Sheikh Dr Sultan Al Qasimi, who formally approved the site boundaries for UNESCO submission.
