Latest news with #Dh900
Gulf News
05-05-2025
- Health
- Gulf News
Dh900,000 Aster nursing award: Filipino finalist from UAE wants to help kids with cancer
Dubai: If he wins the $250,000 (Dh900,000) Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025, Filipino nurse Fitz Gerald Dalina Camacho, one of the top 10 finalists announced on Monday, has a heartfelt mission in mind. "I was deeply moved by children with cancer when I worked in the paediatric ICU and paediatric oncology unit,' said Camacho, 39, nursing duty manager at Mediclinic City Hospital in Dubai. 'If I become a winner, I want to share a portion of the prize money to help support such children back home, because I know there are so many kids in countries like the Philippines who cannot afford even one day's treatment,' he told Gulf News in an interview. Camacho has been in the UAE for 11 years after his previous stints in the Philippines and Saudi Arabia and has steadily risen through the ranks from a staff nurse to a leadership role. Though nursing was not his first choice as he originally wanted to study law, peer influence and a growing passion for care led him to a path he now deeply values. Bigger role Apart from their medical duty, Camacho believes nurses have a bigger role to play in society. 'We need to be sympathetic and empathetic while dealing with patients and their families, as many of them go through immense trauma," he said. 'Beyond day-to-day clinical and leadership responsibilities, I've been actively involved in several key initiatives that aim to enhance patient safety and quality of care," he said. One of the projects he is proudest of is the implementation of the Pediatric Sepsis Bundle, which has significantly improved early identification and timely management of sepsis in critically ill children. "I was also part of the commissioning team for our Pediatric Oncology Unit, helping to build the service from the ground up—from workflows to staff training—ensuring safe, compassionate care for children undergoing cancer treatment. Additionally, I led a Quality Improvement Project focused on IV safety, which reduced complications related to intravenous therapy through evidence-based practices and frontline staff education. These initiatives reflect my commitment to raising the standard of pediatric care in our institution,' he explained. Educator and volunteer As a nurse educator, he has led several health initiatives across the region. These include founding Life Support Training Centres in two Abu Dhabi hospitals in partnership with the American Heart Association, and launching Continuous Medical Education (CME) and upskilling programmes for nurses. He was also instrumental in offering free education to several nursing assistants through the certified courses for nursing assistants.
The National
27-04-2025
- Health
- The National
From reading to running, reset retreats to try around the world
In today's world of constant connectivity and endless distractions, truly switching off can feel impossible. A reset retreat offers the ideal solution, providing the space and time to disconnect and recharge physically, mentally and energetically. In 2025, travellers are not only looking for places to digitally detox but also for experiences that fully immerse them outside of their daily routines. From soothing sleep retreats in Oman to full-body blasts in Sri Lanka, here are seven reset retreats in the Middle East and beyond. Endorsed by AC Milan, Siro One Zabeel is Dubai's 'first fully integrated fitness and recovery hotel' where footballers go to hit reset. With biohacking at its core, the five-star establishment near Downtown Dubai is the pinnacle of science and technology, with a slick 900-square-metre Fitness Lab gym and a Recovery Lab spa bursting with cutting-edge gadgets. Upstairs, each of the 132 rooms is geared towards reset and recovery, from thermoregulated mattresses to antigravity chairs for spinal decompression. Rooms are also fitted with projectors for virtual Technogym classes, while cupboards are stuffed with workout equipment and healthy snacks spill from the minibar. Guests can take on a high-voltage blast during some electrical muscle stimulation or blow the cobwebs away with a zap of detoxifying infrared light. From Dh1,233 a night, excluding taxes Slowing the signs of ageing is popular with many in the UAE, but an increasing number are now turning their focus inward. Longevity simply means living healthier for longer, and with life expectancy rising, resetting the biological effects of ageing has never been more relevant. Rosewood Abu Dhabi's 24-hour longevity and renewal retreat is a quick fix that aims to leave guests feeling centred and refreshed. The retreat starts with a 30-minute longevity consultation with a health coach, providing personalised tips for lasting vitality, followed by a 60-minute massage designed to release tension, improve circulation and enhance mobility. Guests wake up the following day to an early 45-minute session of morning yoga and breathwork, before a revitalising aromatherapy experience and a guided journaling session offering a chance to reflect and set personal intentions. From Dh900 per night, excluding taxes Sleep is the ultimate reset. Studies show that just one night of quality sleep can improve memory, boost mood and enhance overall performance. At Six Senses Zighy Bay, guests can forget counting sheep and tot up the mountain peaks of Oman's Musandam peninsula instead. The five-star hotel's programme has a sleep doctor who can use data from a personal sleep tracker to prescribe bespoke yoga practices, meditation, massage and nutrition advice designed to help guests drift off to the land of nod. The programmes range from three to seven nights, and if the holistic massage and low-intensity training don't do the trick, the Moroccan hammams, ice caves and stunning mountain views will certainly help. Sleep programme from Dh3,398 per person Many have sprawled out on the beach with a summer read, but a literary retreat takes the experience to an entirely new level. Typically hosted for intimate groups of up to 12, reading retreats offer book lovers the chance to escape to shared accommodations, where a mix of optional social activities and ample reading time create the perfect environment for a literary reset. It's a rare opportunity to read without distractions or guilt, embracing the joy of books without the weight of your to-do list. There's no set text. Instead, guests are free to dive into whatever captures their imagination, whether that's War and Peace or Harry Potter. The popularity of reading retreats has surged in recent years, with groups like Ladies That Lit organising trips for women from the Cotswolds to Morocco. Meanwhile, Reading Retreat, based in the UK, provides a similarly immersive experience, typically on British soil, for those looking to unwind with a book in hand. Prices vary Think of Sri Lanka, and it will probably involve being stretched out on a pristine beach. Not 7am alarms, intense boot camp sessions and freezing ice baths. But for those looking to hit reset, the island offers more than just tranquil shores. Makahiya Fitness in Unawatuna is nestled among palm trees and paddy fields where daily workouts, jungle surrounds and nutritious food are a reset for both body and mind. Top-spec facilities include a rooftop yoga shala, an infinity pool overlooking the Sri Lankan jungle and a poolside restaurant offering fresh, wholesome food. Away from boot camps, Makahiya also has a gym with top-of-the-range equipment. The boutique hotel, meanwhile, hosts a maximum of 16 guests across eight plush rooms and is just ten minutes inland from Unawatuna Beach. Retreat packages from Dh1,663 In today's stressful world, burnout is becoming increasingly common, often requiring a full reset to recover. If a few days on the sofa won't cut it, it is worth considering Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som, a dedicated retreat designed to combat those heavy feelings of exhaustion and negativity. Located in Qatar's beautiful northern coastal region, Zulal's Stress and Burnout Recovery Retreat begins with an assessment to determine stress levels, followed by a bespoke programme that includes relaxing massage, yoga and pranayama, a nutritious eating plan and an exercise regime. Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM) treatments are also available, including the Al-Batin stomach massage that aims to clear blocked energy. Offering packages over three, five or seven nights, the retreat encourages a holistic transformation that fosters a shift in mindset, daily habits and motivation. Retreat package is Dh2,772 per guest, per night Who doesn't need a break from their phone? Yoga Retreats & More allows guests to retreat like it's 1999 in a beautifully restored 1872 vicarage in Cumbria, England. Surrounded by rolling green hills, even northern England's grey skies can't dampen the spirits of the team, who organise regular tech-free getaways for the device-addled. Meticulously curated four-day detoxes involve twice-daily yoga sessions, sound baths, guided walks, cold water therapy and stargazing around the firepit. Shared meals, meanwhile, encourage like-minded guests to connect without distractions over a plant-based feast. With no Wi-Fi or social media in sight, this is the perfect place to disconnect, reset and rediscover the joy of living in the present moment. Retreats are held throughout the year, with single and double rooms available. Prices vary
Hi Dubai
19-03-2025
- Automotive
- Hi Dubai
Surge in Commute Costs: Dubai Residents Grapple with Rising Salik Tolls, Fuel Expenses, and Parking Fees
Dubai residents are feeling the financial pinch as escalating transportation costs, including higher Salik tolls, increased fuel consumption, and rising parking fees, make their daily commutes significantly more expensive. As a result, many are reassessing their monthly budgets and looking for ways to mitigate the impact of these new costs. Najeeb ul Huq, a sales executive at an insurance brokerage, shared that his daily commute has become a substantial strain on his finances. 'My commuting expenses have increased by up to Dh800 compared to February 2023,' he said. Najeeb, who frequently travels across the city for corporate sales, has noticed a sharp rise in his fuel expenses, now averaging Dh1,300 per month, up from Dh700 to Dh900 last year. Despite relatively stable fuel prices, Najeeb attributes the increase to longer travel times and the added cost of passing through multiple Salik gates. Interestingly, fuel prices have remained fairly consistent over the past year. Super 98 petrol, for instance, has only decreased slightly from Dh3.05 per liter in February 2023 to Dh2.73 per liter in March 2025. However, industry experts suggest that traffic congestion is exacerbating fuel consumption, with cars idling longer and consuming more fuel. Usman Jafari, a technician at Al Fawzan Auto Maintenance in Sharjah, explained that heavy traffic leads to frequent braking and acceleration, both of which contribute to increased fuel usage. Alongside these rising fuel costs, many residents are also seeing the financial burden of variable Salik toll rates. Mohammed AbuNail, a marketing executive residing in Al Qusais, noted that his daily Salik expenses have nearly doubled. 'Previously, I paid Dh8 to Dh12 a day; now it's over Dh24 daily,' he shared. For Mohammed, this increase has pushed his monthly toll expenses past Dh550, significantly impacting his budget. Anthony Kannupallalil, who commutes from Al Qusais to Jumeirah Lake Towers, also highlighted the surge in Salik costs. 'My daily Salik expense has jumped from Dh8 to as much as Dh24 depending on peak hours,' he said, adding that this has resulted in an additional Dh240 in monthly toll costs. The rising cost of maintaining a vehicle has added to the financial strain for some residents. MK, a media industry worker, cited increased fuel consumption due to heavy traffic, especially on routes towards Sharjah. "Traffic jams lead to idling, which burns more fuel," MK said. He also noticed a sharp increase in his vehicle insurance premiums, from Dh700 to Dh1,400, reflecting the broader trend of rising transportation costs. Parking fees, particularly during peak hours, are also becoming a concern for many. 'Next month, I'll need to allocate a larger portion of my budget for parking charges,' said Najeeb, whose client visits often take place during peak times. The cumulative effect of these rising costs has left many residents reassessing their financial plans. With transportation costs continuing to climb, residents of Dubai are finding themselves under increasing financial strain, with no immediate relief in sight. News Source: Khaleej Times
Khaleej Times
17-02-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Filipino nurse who won over Dh900,000 award plans to invest in community health initiatives
After the tragic passing of her aunt — a military nurse who died at just 27 during a hijacking incident — Maria Victoria Juan's purpose was ignited as she chose to be a nurse. Although she initially struggled to find her path, she soon discovered her calling in helping injured soldiers and improving their lives through various initiatives. Today, at the age of 57, Maria stands as a true angel of mercy, having recently won the prestigious Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2024 and being awarded a grant worth more than Dh900,000 at a prestigious award ceremony held in India. Maria's journey was influenced by personal tragedy. 'My aunt's death made me realise the sacrifices nurses make,' she told Khaleej Times. 'It pushed me to pursue a path that could honor her legacy.' Determined to make a difference, Maria pursued a career as a military nurse, joining the Philippine Army at the age of 22. Her adventurous spirit and fearless nature drove her forward, despite the shadows of her aunt's tragedy. 'I've always been an adventurous soul,' she shared. 'I didn't let fear dictate my choices. Instead, I embraced challenges head-on.' Her dedication and commitment led her to become the Army Nurse Chief at the age of 49. In her role, Maria has significantly contributed to the well-being of frontline soldiers. She has been instrumental in developing programmes that aid those injured in combat, ensuring they receive the best possible care. 'Our soldiers are heroes,' she stated. 'It's my duty to support them in their fight, both on and off the battlefield.' At 54, she pioneered the first aeromedical evacuation system within the Armed Forces, significantly enhancing survival rates by facilitating quick evacuation and prompt treatment of casualties, particularly in conflict zones. She embarked on an intensive nine-month aeromedical evacuation training programme while overcoming her fear of flying and deep water to complete over 200 hours of emergency ambulance conduction, alongside rigorous survival training. 'I knew that timely intervention could make a difference between life and death for our soldiers,' Maria stated. 'Implementing the aeromedical evacuation system was not just a project; it was a mission to save lives.' She emphasised, 'Every second counts in emergencies, and this system allows us to provide critical care when it matters most.' Receiving the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award in 2024 came as a surprise to Maria, who currently serves as a consultant at the Philippine Army Health Services and holds the rank of Colonel in the Reserve Force of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. She was selected from a pool of 78,000 nurses across 202 countries. 'When I was selected, I was truly honoured. I realised this recognition isn't just for me; it's for all the nurses in the Philippines who work tirelessly behind the scenes.' With the USD 250,000 prize in hand, Maria plans to invest in community health initiatives, emphasising that her mission is not just personal success but a collective upliftment of her community. Maria plans to use the prize to promote environmental sustainability and enhance community health through key initiatives. One major project is the 'Nursing the Environment Programme', which employs vetiver technology for soil erosion control and sustainable agriculture. Additionally, she aims to empower communities in trauma management by offering hands-on training workshops and distributing first aid kits to improve emergency preparedness. "Investing in our environment and communities isn't just a responsibility; it's an opportunity to create lasting change,' she states. Maria believes these initiatives will honor her nursing legacy and positively impact future generations. The award, launched by Aster DM Healthcare in 2021, aims to recognise and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of nurses worldwide, with the 2025 edition open for applications and closing on February 28. 'Every nurse has a unique story and impact worth sharing,' said Maria as she encouraged fellow nurses to apply for the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award, highlighting that their hard work and dedication deserve recognition. 'This award is not just for me; it's for all nurses who strive to make a difference. I hope my journey encourages others to pursue their own paths and seek the recognition they deserve.'
