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Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- Politics
- Khaleej Times
Fears of escalation after Israel hits Houthi-held Yemen port
Israel pounded Yemen's Houthi-held port of Hodeida with air strikes on Monday for the second time in a month, stoking fears of escalation as it warned Yemen could face the same fate as Iran. Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen have come under repeated Israeli strikes since the Iran-backed rebels began launching missile and drone attacks on Israel, declaring they act in solidarity with Palestinians over the Gaza war. In its latest raids, Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israel struck "targets of the Houthi terror regime at the port of Hodeida" and aimed to prevent any attempt to restore infrastructure previously hit. The renewed strikes on Yemen are part of a year-long Israeli bombing campaign against the Houthis, but the latest threats have raised fears of a wider conflict in the poverty-stricken Arabian Peninsula country. "Yemen's fate will be the same as Tehran's," Katz said. His warning was a reference to the wave of suprise strikes Israel launched on Iran on June 13, targeting key military and nuclear facilities. During the 12-day war, the United States carried out its own attacks on Iran's nuclear programme on June 22, striking facilities at Fordo, Isfahan and Natanz. A Gulf official told AFP there were "serious concerns in Riyadh... that the Israeli strikes on the Houthis could turn into a large, sustained campaign to oust the movement's leaders". Any Israeli escalation could "plunge the region into utter chaos", said the official, requesting anonymity because he cannot brief the media. 'Heavy equipment' The Houthis' Al Masirah television reported "a series of Israeli air strikes on the Hodeida port". A Houthi security official, requesting anonymity to discuss sensitive matters, told AFP that "the bombing destroyed the port's dock, which had been rebuilt following previous strikes". On July 7, Israeli strikes hit Hodeida and two nearby locations on the coast, with targets including the Galaxy Leader cargo ship, captured in November 2023, which the Israelis said had been outfitted with a radar system to track shipping in the Red Sea. A Yemeni port employee in Hodeida said the strikes targeted "heavy equipment brought in for construction and repair work after Israeli airstrikes on July 7... and areas around the port and fishing boats". An Israeli military statement said that the targets included "engineering vehicles... fuel containers, naval vessels used for military activities" against Israel and "additional terror infrastructure used by the Houthi terrorist regime". It said the port had been used to transfer weapons from Iran, which were then used by the Houthi rebels against Israel. The statement added that Israel had identified efforts by the Iran-backed rebels to "re-establish terrorist infrastructure at the port". The Houthis recently resumed deadly attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, targeting ships they accuse of having links to Israel.
France 24
2 days ago
- Politics
- France 24
Fears of escalation after Israel hits Huthi-held Yemen port
Huthi-controlled areas of Yemen have come under repeated Israeli strikes since the Iran-backed rebels began launching missile and drone attacks on Israel, declaring they act in solidarity with Palestinians over the Gaza war. In its latest raids, Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israel struck "targets of the Huthi terror regime at the port of Hodeida" and aimed to prevent any attempt to restore infrastructure previously hit. The renewed strikes on Yemen are part of a year-long Israeli bombing campaign against the Huthis, but the latest threats have raised fears of a wider conflict in the poverty-stricken Arabian Peninsula country. "Yemen's fate will be the same as Tehran's," Katz said. His warning was a reference to the wave of suprise strikes Israel launched on Iran on June 13, targeting key military and nuclear facilities. During the 12-day war, the United States carried out its own attacks on Iran's nuclear programme on June 22, striking facilities at Fordo, Isfahan and Natanz. A Gulf official told AFP there were "serious concerns in Riyadh... that the Israeli strikes on the Huthis could turn into a large, sustained campaign to oust the movement's leaders". The Huthis withstood more a decade of war against a well-armed, Saudi-led international coalition, though fighting has died down in the past few years. Any Israeli escalation could "plunge the region into utter chaos", said the official, requesting anonymity because he cannot brief the media. 'Heavy equipment' The Huthis' Al-Masirah television reported "a series of Israeli air strikes on the Hodeida port". A Huthi security official, requesting anonymity to discuss sensitive matters, told AFP that "the bombing destroyed the port's dock, which had been rebuilt following previous strikes." On July 7, Israeli strikes hit Hodeida and two nearby locations on the coast, with targets including the Galaxy Leader cargo ship, captured in November 2023, which the Israelis said had been outfitted with a radar system to track shipping in the Red Sea. A Yemeni port employee in Hodeida said the strikes targeted "heavy equipment brought in for construction and repair work after Israeli airstrikes on July 7... and areas around the port and fishing boats". An Israeli military statement said that the targets included "engineering vehicles... fuel containers, naval vessels used for military activities" against Israel and "additional terror infrastructure used by the Huthi terrorist regime". It said the port had been used to transfer weapons from Iran, which were then used by the Huthi rebels against Israel. The statement added that Israel had identified efforts by the Iran-backed rebels to "re-establish terrorist infrastructure at the port". The Huthis recently resumed deadly attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, targeting ships they accuse of having links to Israel. © 2025 AFP
Khaleej Times
5 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE's perfume industry to hit $1.7 billion by 2033
The UAE — long recognised as a hub of perfumery in the Arab world — is poised to elevate its olfactory legacy to new heights. According to a recent report by a global management consulting firm, the UAE perfume market is expected to surge from $748.9 million (Dh2.75 billion) in 2024 to $1.72 billion (Dh6.3 billion) by 2033, at a compound annual growth rate of 9.22 per cent. IMARC Group noted this robust growth is being driven by a confluence of factors: 'The enduring popularity of oriental fragrances, a digitally savvy new generation of consumers, luxury tourism, and an increasing focus on sustainability and innovation.' But as the UAE's perfume sector strides towards a billion-dollar future, it remains grounded in the elements that first set it apart: craftsmanship, storytelling, and an unmatched sense of scent. With Dubai continuing to evolve as a global luxury capital, fragrance has become a vital expression of identity, culture, and status. 'While international brands have firmly established their presence in the Arabian Peninsula starting with the UAE, traditional oriental fragrances continue to be the heart of the region's olfactory identity — highly sought after not only by locals but also by Western consumers,' said Abdulla Ajmal, CEO of Ajmal Group. From its humble roots, beginning with Dh25 and the vision of late founder Haji Ajmal Ali, Ajmal Perfumes has grown into a regional empire and global player. The company opened its first Dubai store in 1976 and continues to innovate while holding fast to its heritage. 'The future of fragrance retail lies in balance. While nothing will ever fully replace the sensory richness of walking into our perfume stores, convenience-first consumers are rewriting how luxury is accessed,' said Ajmal, the founder's grandson. 'Digital innovation, personalised experiences, and strategic sampling have redefined how people explore and purchase perfumes, paving the way for a more accessible and experiential online fragrance market.' Ajmal pointed out that consumers still prefer in-store purchases for items like agarwood chips and Dahn Al Oud oils, but spray perfumes are increasingly bought online, especially for repeat purchases. Other scent designers also highlighted that for local perfumers today, one of the key challenges is standing out in a fast-paced, trend-driven digital landscape. 'With consumers in Dubai becoming more convenience-focused and digitally native, it's crucial to capture their attention quickly and meaningfully. But that's also where the opportunity lies — by embracing e-commerce, storytelling, and social media, local brands can build direct, authentic connections with niche audiences. Success now depends on being agile, innovative, and deeply in tune with both global trends and local cultural preferences, all while staying true to your brand's identity,' said Munira Rahman, chief marketing officer, director, and brand ambassador of Al Haramain Perfumes. Tradition and trend While global brands remain influential, UAE-based companies are innovating with distinctly local flavours. Homegrown brand Enliven Perfumes, for instance, is turning to a hybrid of tradition and trend. 'As UAE's homegrown perfume brand, we have looked into the needs of the younger GenX and their tastes. We found that they want something new that has the local Arab touch – such as Oudh-based perfumes – but it must smell modern,' said Khandaker Hashibuzzaman, managing director at Enliven Perfumes. 'We maintain a higher level of concentrate — at least three times higher than the average perfume available in the market — so that they last at least 18–24 hours,' he added. With new generations seeking not just scents, but stories behind them, social media has become the new scent strip. 'Fragrances come with stories and this needs to be communicated to the consumers loud and clear… We need more interesting stories behind perfume notes — that will go a long way in getting customer loyalty,' added Hashibuzzaman. 'Sustainability is gaining popularity in business activities. It is important to be trendy and if one could build in sustainability, then the story gets interesting to the customers.' Niche is the new normal Meanwhile, brands like Ahmed Al Maghribi Perfumes are curating unique, limited-edition offerings to cater to young, experience-driven shoppers. 'Ahmed Al Maghribi Perfumes is embracing this shift by creating modern, niche collections that reflect a fusion of Emirati heritage and contemporary taste,' said Kafeel Ahmed Gudekar, CEO and founder of the brand. 'We partner with regional influencers and reviewers to build trust and connect with digital-native audiences. We offer personalised gifting options and exclusive lines that feel bespoke and culturally relevant.' Culture meets commerce With Dubai welcoming more than 17 million visitors in 2023, the synergy between tourism, luxury retail, and perfume culture is stronger than ever. The sensory appeal of the UAE's fragrance offerings often becomes a tangible souvenir for travellers seeking an immersive experience. According to Euromonitor, the GCC region's appetite for premium and niche scents has grown significantly over the past five years, with the UAE leading the charge. The rise of experiential perfume bars, custom blending studios, and AI-powered scent consultations across the Emirates signals a new phase in fragrance retail — where legacy meets lifestyle. Dubai Duty Free recently announced that half-year sales posted a 5.34 per cent year-on-year increase, with turnover reaching Dh4.118 billion for the first six months of 2025. Perfumes, beverages, cigarettes and tobacco, gold, and confectionery retained the top five category positions. Perfume sales reached Dh744.24 million, contributing 18 per cent of total revenue and showing an increase of five per cent over the same period last year. Sharon Beecham, senior vice-president — purchasing at Dubai Duty Free, said: 'The key drivers in fragrances growth are the niche perfumes, the Dubai Duty Free or Travel Retail exclusive products and the strong new launches. We will continue to expand the offer of niche fragrances, which are already showing a double-digit growth. In partnership with the top perfume brands we have plans for the second half of this year and for 2026, to launch new exclusive products and activate tactical promotions.'
Khaleej Times
6 days ago
- Politics
- Khaleej Times
Revealed: The untold story behind the UAE's founding moment
In 2024, the President of the UAE declared July 18 as Union Pledge Day, when the founding fathers came together to sign the declaration of the Union and of the UAE Constitution. It was then that the official name of the country, the United Arab Emirates, was announced. Historians and historical archivers tell Khaleej Times of the lead up to that historical date. The historic gathering at the Guest Palace in Jumeirah, Dubai, on July 18, 1971, marked the culmination of years of careful deliberation, consultation, and diplomatic negotiations that would forever change the landscape of the Arabian Peninsula. The long road to union Dr Hamad bin Sarai, an Emirati historian, university professor, heritage researcher, and cultural consultant, emphasised that the formation of the UAE was far from a spontaneous decision. Speaking to Khaleej Times, he revealed the extensive groundwork that preceded the historic declaration. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. 'The steps that began in 1968 with the formation of the United Arab Emirates went through many stages, during which the founding fathers, may God have mercy on them, exerted all their efforts to establish the foundations of this union,' Dr bin Sarai stated. The historian stressed that the union 'did not come out of nowhere or by chance; rather, it was the result of discussions, consultations, and listening sessions with researchers and consultants, along with numerous rounds of talks where representatives from the seven emirates, as well as Bahrain and Qatar, participated.' These extensive deliberations covered crucial aspects of the proposed federation, including the fundamental structure of the union, the administrative and political framework, border demarcations, the distribution of powers among the emirates, and the selection process for the president and vice president of the union. Constitutional foundation The UAE constitution, which was formally adopted on July 18, 1971, underwent rigorous development through various phases of discussion and refinement. Dr bin Sarai noted that 'all the institutions of the union underwent extensive discussions, with the constitution of the union being at the forefront, which also went through various phases.' The constitutional framework established on Union Pledge Day laid the groundwork for the federal structure that continues to govern the UAE today, balancing federal authority with the autonomy of individual emirates. Historic moments captured The National Archive and Library of the United Arab Emirates has preserved remarkable photographic documentation of the historic events of July 1971, providing visual testimony to the momentous occasions that shaped the nation's founding. Among the preserved images is a photograph of Ahmad Khalifa Al Suwaidi during his announcement of the statement declaring the establishment of the United Arab Emirates in Dubai on July 18, 1971, as documented by Al-Ittihad Newspaper. Another significant photograph captures Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Ahmad Khalifa Al Suwaidi during a meeting of the Conference of Rulers that led to the declaration of the United Arab Emirates at the Guest Palace in Jumeirah on July 18, 1971. The archives also document the collaborative spirit of the founding fathers, with images showing Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum during meetings of the Council of Rulers of the Emirates at the Guest Palace in Jumeirah throughout July 1971. Additional archival photographs capture the extensive consultations that preceded the historic declaration, including an image of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan speaking with Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, in the presence of Sheikh Hamid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi and Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Mualla during the meetings held among the rulers of the Emirates to discuss the establishment of the United Arab Emirates at the Guest Palace in Jumeirah between July 11-18, 1971. The National Archive also preserves moments of camaraderie among the leadership, with a photograph showing Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Sheikh Rashid bin Ahmed Al Mualla, and Khalaf bin Ahmed Al Otaiba in a friendly conversation at the Guest Palace in Jumeirah during the period of July 10-18, 1971. The significance of July Dr bin Sarai highlighted the particular importance of July 1971 in the UAE's founding narrative, describing it as the month that 'signifies the initial maturity of the union and its emergence and prosperity, marked by the raising of the union flag on the second of December". He explained that while December 2, 1971, marked 'the establishment of the foundations of the union", July represented 'the initial phase of dialogue and consultations' that made the eventual federation possible. The historian's account underscores that Union Pledge Day represents not just a single moment of declaration, but the culmination of a carefully orchestrated process of nation-building that involved extensive consultation, negotiation, and consensus-building among the emirates' leadership. A foundation for future generations The declaration of the United Arab Emirates on July 18, 1971, established more than just a political union; it created a framework for shared prosperity, security, and development that has enabled the UAE to emerge as a global hub for commerce, innovation, and cultural exchange. The wisdom and foresight demonstrated by the founding fathers during those crucial July days in 1971 continue to guide the UAE's development trajectory, with Union Pledge Day serving as an annual reminder of the vision, determination, and collaborative spirit that brought the nation into being. As the UAE continues to evolve and expand its global influence, the principles established during those historic consultations at the Guest Palace in Jumeirah remain fundamental to the nation's identity and governance structure. Opening move Dr Saif Al Bedwawi, a professor of modern Gulf history, told Khaleej Times of how the idea for a United Arab Emirates came to be. It was January 1968, when the rulers of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, respectively, met in a gathering referred to 'Sumaih meeting'. They came to a conclusion of signing an agreement of unity between their prospective emirates and invited other emirates to join. All the others agreed, and by February, a new agreement was signed by the seven emirates, in addition to Bahrain and Qatar. However, that did not last long. 'Unfortunately, some obstacles like where the capital of the new federal state should be. Also, neighbouring countries like Iran tried to manipulate the situation by threatening to seize the Islands,' Al Bedwawi said. Three years later, in May 1971, Sheikh Zayed formed an envoy to visit all the rulers and assess their points of view. However, during the summertime, as he was spending his holidays in Switzerland, Sheikh Zayed heard the news that both Qatar and Bahrain opted out of the Union Agreement, instead choosing their own independence. Rocky beginnings In the following months, Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid met many times with other rulers who had visited Abu Dhabi. Finally, Sheikh Zayed established a cabinet, which Al Bedwawi said was a challenge to other states as '[Sheikh] Zayed was ready to launch a federation with any state.' On July 10 to 17, all the Rulers of the Trucial States came to Jumeirah and kept negotiating for eight days that ended with a final agreement of a Federation of the Emirates,' he said, adding that Ras Al Khaimah's integration had some circumstances that delayed its intervention to 10th of February, 1972. 'The announcement on 2nd of December, 1971, came as a result of the founding fathers' long processes of talks and negotiation,' he added.
Zawya
13-07-2025
- Science
- Zawya
UNESCO cements UAE's historical significance by inscribing Sharjah's Faya as the only Arab World Heritage Site inscription this year
Bodour Al Qasimi: The inscription of the Faya Palaeolandscape affirms Sharjah's contribution to the cradle of early human history and highlights the Arabian Peninsula's central role in humanity's journey out of Africa. We remain fully committed to protecting Faya and preserving our ancestors' legacy so it continues to inspire generations worldwide. Faya Palaeolandscape has achieved a monumental milestone, becoming the latest addition to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Faya Palaeolandscape bears one of the oldest and most continuous records of early human presence in arid environments for over 200,000 years, documenting the deep roots of cultural traditions in the region. UNESCO's historic recognition for Faya also highlights the Arabian Peninsula's central role in humanity's journey out of Africa. New research and archaeological discoveries conducted by Sharjah Archaeological Authority (SAA), in collaboration with global experts, prove that Faya served as a destination for early human settlement; not only a transit point for migration. As one of the earliest continuous records of human existence outside Africa, it affirms our ancestors' ingenuity and our region's contribution to the cradle of early human history. Over the past 30 years, scientists have excavated the Faya site, uncovering 18 distinct archaeological layers of earth, each representing a different period of human activity. Paris: The UAE has crossed a major milestone in heritage preservation as the 47th annual UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Paris has reached a consensus decision to inscribe Sharjah's Faya Palaeolandscape in its prestigious list. The cultural heritage property, situated in the emirate's central region in the UAE, has been recognised for its outstanding universal value (OUV) for holding one of the world's oldest and most continuous records of early human presence in arid environments over 200,000 years. The Faya Palaeolandscape 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. Under the 'Cultural Landscape' category, this year, Faya Paleolandscape was the only Arab nomination considered by the World Heritage Committee, making this achievement even more historic and meaningful for Sharjah, UAE and the wider region. Faya now stands as the second site in the UAE to receive this recognition, after The Cultural Sites of Al Ain inscribed in 2011. The inscription of Faya Palaeolandscape globally affirms Sharjah's and the UAE's place as a cradle of early human history. There are currently 96 UNESCO World Heritage Sites inscribed across the Arab States region, spanning a total of 18 different countries. Deserts represent 20% of global habitats. They are located at critical waypoints of humanity's journey to the colonisation of the entire planet. Their settlement reflects a critical chapter of humanity's past. Unlike areas traditionally viewed as mere corridors for human migration, decades of interdisciplinary research at Faya have revealed it as a repeated destination for habitation, fundamentally altering our understanding of prehistoric life in Southeast Arabia. Over 30 years of meticulous excavations, led by the Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA) in collaboration with international institutions such as the University of Tübingen that specialises in prehistory archaeology and Oxford Brookes University's department on palaeoenvironment study, have uncovered 18 distinct archaeological layers. This historic inscription reinforces the UAE and Sharjah's consistent efforts and importance in safeguarding humanity's shared heritage and highlights the decades-long commitment of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to scientific research, cultural preservation and global collaboration. 'The inscription affirms Sharjah's contribution to the cradle of early human history' Accepting this historic recognition on behalf of the UAE and Sharjah, Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, who serves as the official ambassador for Faya's nomination file, thanked the World Heritage Committee's Chair and distinguished members for recognising that Faya's story is part of the shared story of humanity. 'On behalf of the United Arab Emirates and the Emirate of Sharjah, I extend our deepest thanks to the World Heritage Committee, the Advisory Bodies, and the World Heritage Centre for this historic recognition', she continued, adding, 'the inscription of the Faya Palaeolandscape affirms Sharjah's contribution to the cradle of early human history and highlights the Arabian Peninsula's central role in humanity's journey out of Africa. The stone tools found at Faya, over 200,000 years old, are testimony of our ancestors' ingenuity and the deep roots of human cultural tradition in our region.' 'We remain fully committed to protecting this site and honouring those who came before us by ensuring their legacy continues to inspire generations around the world,' she concluded. 'Faya now belongs to all the peoples of the world, just as it did over 200,000 years ago' According to H.E. Eisa Yousif, Director-General, Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA): 'The UAE and Sharjah resonate deeply with the UNESCO World Heritage Committee's ethos of the universal belonging of inscribed sites, and we strongly promote free cultural and humanistic exchange even in a world with borders. The human race has thrived as a result of the fluidity of movement and free exploration that the old world order allowed us. Therefore, we are equally proud and happy to bring Faya Paleolandscape into the fold of the UNESCO World Heritage List, as a result of which it now belongs to all the peoples of the world, just as it did more than 200,000 years ago.' 'This inscription is the culmination of a carefully coordinated effort combining scientific rigor, cultural stewardship, and international diplomacy - all aligned with Sharjah's broader 30-year vision to integrate heritage, education, and community development', he further noted. Sharjah formally submitted the nomination file for Faya to UNESCO in February 2024, after 12 years of preparation of the nomination dossier and the property. These preparations have been informed and enriched by more than 30 years of intensive archaeological work, environmental studies, and conservation planning. Faya Palaeolandscape has received this global recognition after undergoing a rigorous evaluation based on UNESCO's established criteria designed to ensure that only those sites with exceptional significance and future relevance are included. Sharjah shares a future plan for Faya demonstrating continued commitment to protecting global human and cultural heritage The UAE and Sharjah have established a robust management and conservation plan (2024–2030) for the Faya Palaeolandscape. This initiative aims to uphold the site's Outstanding Universal Value according to UNESCO standards, while being continually committed to promoting research, education, and sustainable tourism. It serves as a prime example of integrating heritage preservation with scientific exploration and community involvement This commitment is also demonstrated in Sharjah's past efforts in this field. For 11 years, Faya Paleolandscape has been a cornerstone site within UNESCO's Human Evolution, Adaptations, Dispersals and Social Developments (HEADS) Programme, alongside iconic sites like Klasies River Caves and Wonderwerk Cave in Africa. This long standing partnership between UNESCO and Faya Paleolandscape underscores the site's role in advancing global palaeoanthropological research, environmental studies, and international heritage cooperation. What makes the concept of World Heritage exceptional is its universal application. World Heritage sites belong to all the peoples of the world, irrespective of the territory on which they are located. The World Heritage List includes 1226 properties forming part of the cultural and natural heritage which the World Heritage Committee considers as having outstanding universal value. These include 955 cultural, 231 natural and 40 mixed properties in 168 States Parties. For more information, visit
