Latest news with #Emiratis
CairoScene
18 hours ago
- Business
- CairoScene
Dubai Grants 10 Days of Paid Marriage Leave for Government Employees
Employees must be UAE nationals, have completed their probation period, and be married to an Emirati national after December 31st, 2024. Jul 19, 2025 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has approved a decree granting 10 working days of fully paid marriage leave to Emirati employees across Dubai's government sector, beginning January 1st, 2025. The policy applies to staff in government departments, judicial authorities, free-zone bodies, and military personnel - excluding trainees and candidates. To be eligible, employees must be UAE nationals, have completed their probation period, and be marrying another Emirati national after December 31st, 2024. A certified marriage contract must also be submitted as part of the application process. The leave can be taken as a single block or split into two periods, provided both are used within one year of the marriage date. With supervisor approval, unused leave days may be carried over. Employees will receive their full gross salary, including all allowances, during the leave period. Government entities are not permitted to recall employees during their marriage leave, except in the case of active-duty military personnel. The decree aims to support family life among Emiratis and standardise marriage-related leave across public sector institutions in Dubai.
Sharjah 24
19 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah panel explores directing styles in Emirati theatre
Opening remarks: celebrating a dedicated critic Magdy Mahfouz introduced Said Ahmed as one of the most dedicated observers of Emirati theatre, known for his consistent presence at festivals and performances. He noted that Said Ahmed's longstanding involvement in theatrical critique has given him deep insight into the evolution of theatre in the UAE, particularly in the field of directing, which Mahfouz described as the foundation of any successful performance. Early stages of Emirati theatre directing Mahfouz outlined that theatrical direction in the UAE began in the 1970s with the founding of clubs and theatre troupes. In its early days, Arab directors and trainers played a key role in developing the local scene by training young Emiratis and guiding them from amateur productions to professional theatre. Defining a directing style Mohamed Said Ahmed began his talk by defining a director's style as a personal, recognisable approach that emerges through experience. He explained that such a style is shaped by a fusion of influences from various directing schools and methodologies. The challenge, he added, lies in synthesising these influences into a cohesive artistic language that balances inspiration with originality. Pioneers and early contributors Said Ahmed paid tribute to Arab theatre pioneers who laid the foundation for directing in the UAE, including Saqr Al-Rashoud, Ibrahim Jallal, Yahya Al-Hajj, Youssef Eidabi, Abdelilah Fouad Al-Shatti, Youssef Khalil, Al-Moncef Al-Souissi, and Zaki Tulaimat. Abdullah Al Mannaei and the 'theatre of image' He highlighted Abdullah Al Mannaei as a founding figure in Emirati theatre directing, known for his 'theatre of image' style. Al Mannaei prioritised non-verbal storytelling through gesture, movement, and visual composition. His legacy paved the way for his students and younger directors to explore new artistic directions. Three leading Emirati directors Mohammed Al Ameri: visual imagination and collaborative writing Said Ahmed described Mohammed Al Ameri's directing style as visually driven, where the director imagines scenes as individual images and then weaves them together through the story. Al Ameri places strong emphasis on scenography, group dynamics, and actor performance. He often develops scripts through a workshop approach, working closely with playwrights to shape both the text and the visual concept before staging. Naji Al Hai: human-centred and minimalist direction Naji Al Hai, a distinguished playwright and director, is known for his emotionally resonant, socially rooted works such as A Grain of Sand, Zacharia My Love, and Bab Al Baraha. His minimalist aesthetic focuses on the actor as the central element, supported by simple sets and costumes. Despite the local themes, his work carries a broader humanist message. He was the first Emirati director to present plays in Europe, including in France and Spain. Hassan Rajab: academic discipline and visual appeal The third director profiled was Hassan Rajab, whose academic training at the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts in Kuwait influenced his structured and visually rich directing style. His productions, such as Red Dust, Father for Sale or Rent, and Ashoofak, show a blend of directorial schools, a controlled rhythm, and a strong sense of visual design. Rajab often employs innovative staging devices and integrates humour drawn from the Emirati dialect. Experimentation and innovation in stagecraft Said Ahmed praised Rajab's inventive techniques, such as using spotlights to signal scenes before they begin, or seating an actor on a fixed chair to represent theatre within theatre. In Hamiha Haramiha, he placed actors in symbolic wooden boxes representing social hierarchy, illustrating his creative approach to stage composition. Closing reflections and tributes Mohammed Al Ameri concluded the session with a heartfelt message of thanks to His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, for his unwavering support of theatre and the arts. He also confirmed many of the observations made by Said Ahmed about his own directing approach—particularly his focus on image, scenography, and integration of digital and natural elements. Al Ameri paid tribute to the Arab directors who helped lay the foundations for theatre in the UAE, including Al-Moncef Al-Souissi, Saqr Al-Rashoud, Fouad Al-Shatti, Yahya Al-Hajj, Ahmed Abdel Halim, and Qasim Mohammed, acknowledging their lasting influence on the local scene.
Yemen Online
19 hours ago
- Politics
- Yemen Online
UAE seeks youth to represent nation at UN in New York
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, UAE Mission to the United Nations, and Federal Youth Authority are seeking UAE citizens aged between 20 and 26 years old who are fluent in Arabic and English to represent the country at the UN General Assembly and Ecosoc forums in New York. Registration is open for the prestigious Youth Delegate Programme that puts participants directly into international decision-making rooms. Young Emiratis have until July 28 to apply. 'The programme gives young Emiratis a voice on global platforms and directly connects them to international decision-making,' former youth delegate Eman AlSeyabi told Khaleej Times. 'The biggest opportunity this programme offers is a seat at the table — engaging with global leaders and representing UAE youth at the UN.' The programme aligns with the UAE's vision of empowering youth as global change agents, offering direct exposure to diplomacy and multilateral work. Participants gain access to professional networks and pathways for future leadership while contributing to UN discussions on youth affairs. Selected delegates will commit from three weeks to two months, beginning with UAE-based preparation before joining official UN meetings in New York. Participants will deliver speeches, engage in high-level dialogues, and prepare policy briefs alongside the UAE mission. The programme demands strong communication skills, research abilities, and deep understanding of global challenges affecting youth. AlSeyabi noted: 'It enhanced my skills in diplomacy, negotiation, and global thinking, while deepening my sense of responsibility toward youth advocacy.' Beyond personal development, the initiative strengthens the UAE's international presence. 'The programme truly showcases the UAE's commitment to youth empowerment and strengthens its soft power globally,' added AlSeyabi, underlining how delegates introduce Emirati youth success stories to the global community abroad. For potential applicants feeling overwhelmed by the diplomatic scope, AlSeyabi gave a word of encouragement: 'Don't hesitate. This programme transforms you personally and professionally. Believe in your voice.' 'For serious applicants that want to stand out, you should focus on global issues, strong communication skills, and a clear vision for youth impact,' AlSeyabi pointed out.
Arab Times
a day ago
- Automotive
- Arab Times
Now, 52 Countries Get Driving Privilege in UAE, But South Asians Miss Out
DUBAI, July 19: The United Arab Emirates has expanded its driving license privileges for tourists and residents, allowing nationals from over 50 countries to legally drive on UAE roads using their home-country licenses — without undergoing any theoretical or practical tests, as long as they are not UAE residents. The announcement, made by the UAE Ministry of Interior via its official social media channels, also outlines six key conditions under which residents can exchange their foreign licenses for a UAE-issued one. The ministry clarified the distinction between "license recognition" — allowing non-residents to drive in the UAE using their national license — and "license exchange," which permits legal residents to swap their foreign license for a UAE one without further testing. Who Is Exempt Under the New Law? The updated federal traffic and road law, now in effect, exempts specific groups from obtaining a UAE driving license, including: Tourists or transit visitors holding valid international driving licenses. Individuals possessing foreign temporary driving permits. Drivers of vehicles registered in countries exempt from UAE registration laws — provided their license is valid and recognized in the UAE. Non-residents permitted to stay in the country temporarily under UAE immigration rules. In addition, licensing authorities have been granted the right to exchange foreign licenses if: The license was issued by a country covered under a UAE Cabinet decision. The exchange is governed by a bilateral agreement or Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Interior. Six Conditions to Exchange a Foreign Driving License in the UAE Expats who wish to convert their foreign licenses to UAE ones must meet the following conditions: The license must be issued by a country approved for exchange. The applicant must meet the legal age requirement. The license must be valid. The applicant must hold a UAE residency visa or have a verified residential, work, or study address in the issuing emirate. The applicant must pass an eye test. In some cases, the original license must be surrendered in line with existing MoUs. Documents and Fees To process the exchange, applicants must submit: A legally translated version of the original foreign license. A copy of the original license. A license exchange fee of AED 600. The service is available via the Ministry's digital portal under the 'Muroor Khous' initiative, which also allows: Visitors to drive in the UAE using national licenses and convert them upon gaining residency. Emiratis to drive abroad and convert their UAE license in countries with reciprocal agreements. Applications can be submitted online through the ministry's smart services platform, and the new license will be issued either electronically or delivered via courier. Who Can Drive Without a UAE License? To drive in the UAE using a foreign license, two primary conditions must be met: The license must be valid. The driver must be in the country on a non-residency basis. If an expat wishes to convert their license, the following must apply: The foreign license must be from an eligible country. The applicant must have valid UAE residency. The license must be valid. The applicant must meet the legal driving age. A medical exam (usually an eye test) must be passed. Other procedural requirements as outlined by UAE authorities must be fulfilled. The exchange applies to various vehicle categories, including motorcycles and light vehicles. The 52 Nationalities Eligible for License Recognition or Exchange Citizens from the following 52 countries can drive in the UAE using their national licenses during visits, or exchange them for a UAE license if they become residents: Estonia, Albania, Portugal, China, Hungary, Greece, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Slovakia, Slovenia, Serbia, Cyprus, Latvia, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Malta, Iceland, Montenegro, Israel, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Uzbekistan, USA, France, Japan, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Ireland, Spain, Norway, New Zealand, Romania, Singapore, Hong Kong, Netherlands, Denmark, Austria, Finland, UK, Turkey, Canada, Poland, South Africa, Australia, Croatia, Texas (USA), North Macedonia, Kosovo, Kyrgyz Republic. Note: South Korean citizens may only exchange their licenses after becoming UAE residents.
Gulf Today
a day ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Pension body launches second phase of ‘Wafra' programme
The General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA) has launched the second phase of the 'Advanced Proactive Financial Planning System' project, called 'Wafra'. Developed in partnership with the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council through the NAFIS programme, 'Wafra' focuses on enhancing financial literacy among NAFIS beneficiaries who are covered by the UAE pension laws, empowering them to build a more secure financial future in the private sector. This initiative highlights GPSSA's commitment to nurturing national talent and improving the financial and social stability of UAE nationals. It is part of the third cycle of transformative projects for federal government entities for 2024-2025. It also embodies the leadership's commitment to adopting innovative, human-centric government models that enhance the UAE's global competitiveness. The project directly contributes to the UAE government's ambitious goals of cultivating a more prosperous society over the next decade, aligning seamlessly with the 'We the UAE 2031' vision. The programme equips Emiratis with essential financial knowledge through specialised training programmes and awareness campaigns available via the NAFIS digital platform. The platform ensures that a wide group of Emirati talent, including private and banking sector employees, jobseekers in the local market, and university students, can access its benefits. The second phase of the 'Wafra' programme focuses on core themes that address the needs of NAFIS beneficiaries. It aims to educate participants about GPSSA's laws and the benefits they offer, empowering them to make better retirement choices and plan for their future. The programme also provides guidance on investment options and effective wealth management strategies post-retirement, highlighting the importance of early financial planning to ensure a stable and secure future. Through the 'Wafra' project, GPSSA aims to raise financial planning awareness by 80 percent. GPSSA works in partnership with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council, leveraging the NAFIS platform and various media channels. WAM
