Latest news with #Emiri
Gulf Today
a day ago
- Gulf Today
Mleiha National Park records over 100 species of flora, fauna
Mleiha National Park has conducted an ecological assessment, recording the presence of 100+ distinct species within its protected desert landscape. These include 20+ bird species, 10+ reptile species, 11 mammal species, 39 insect and arachnid species, and 20+ native plant species solidifying Mleiha's position as one of the most ecologically rich and diverse environments in the Arabian Peninsula. Mleiha National Park, an ecological, ecotourism, and conservation destination in the heart of Sharjah's central region, spans 34.2 square kilometres of protected desert terrain and is operated by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). Established by Emiri decree, Mleiha has become a living desert museum, home to rare fossils, ancient artefacts, and thriving biodiversity. These findings affirm its role as a cornerstone of Sharjah's long-term strategy for conservation, eco-tourism, and sustainable development. Mleiha National Park Ecological engineers of the desert With 20+ documented native plant species, Mleiha's flora is not only diverse but essential to the park's ecosystem. These plants have evolved to withstand extreme arid conditions, playing critical roles in desert resilience. Key species such as the Ghaf Tree (Prosopis cineraria), Umbrella Thorn Acacia (Vachellia tortilis), and Sodom's Apple (Calotropis procera) contribute to soil stabilisation, regulate moisture retention, and create microhabitats for smaller species. Other important flora like Dune Grass and Arfaj help anchor sand dunes and provide seasonal fodder for herbivores. Mammals, reptiles and birds The fauna of Mleiha includes 11+ species of mammals adapted to desert conditions, including the Arabian Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes arabica) and Sand Gazelle (Gazella marica). Among its 10 reptile species are elusive desert dwellers like the Sandfish Skink (Scincus mitranus) and the Arabian Horned Viper (Cerastes gasperettii). The biodiversity of Mleiha National Park is a natural capital that drives tourism. Birdwatchers can observe 20+ species of birds year-round, including Bonelli's Eagle (Aquila fasciata), Purple Sunbird (Cinnyris asiaticus), Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), and migratory visitors that use Mleiha as a seasonal stopover. Insects and arachnids With 39+ identified species, the park's insect and arachnid population includes key contributors to pollination, soil health, and natural pest control. These invertebrates form the foundation of many food chains within the park. The fauna of Mleiha includes over 11 species of mammals, including the Arabian Red Fox. Highlights include the Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa pubescens), one of the largest native bees and a vital pollinator; the venomous Arabian Fat-Tailed Scorpion (Androctonus crassicauda), a desert predator; and the Blue Pansy Butterfly (Junonia orithya), which plays a seasonal role in pollination. Lesser-known species like antlions, ground mantises, and camel spiders also contribute to the delicate ecological balance. Public engagement and education Visitors to Mleiha can experience this biodiversity through curated activities such as nature trails, fossil and flora walks, and wildlife observation. These programmes are central to the park's mission to promote environmental awareness and support the UAE's long-term sustainability goals. Biodiversity as a growth asset 'What makes Mleiha exceptional is its ability to merge ecological significance with economic value,' said Omar Jasim Al Ali, Manager, Mleiha and Strategic Projects. 'The biodiversity of this landscape is a natural capital that drives tourism, supports conservation-linked livelihoods, and enhances Sharjah's reputation as a regional leader in sustainable development. Protecting and showcasing these species responsibly is both an environmental responsibility and a long-term economic strategy.' Mleiha National Park remains open year-round, welcoming nature lovers, researchers, students, and travellers to discover the rich biodiversity of the UAE's inland desert.
Al Etihad
2 days ago
- Science
- Al Etihad
Mleiha Park records 100+ species of flora, fauna in its habitat
4 June 2025 19:43 SHARJAH (WAM) Mleiha National Park has conducted an ecological assessment, recording the presence of over 100 distinct species within its protected desert landscape. These include more than 20 bird species, over 10 reptile species, 11 mammal species, 39 insect and arachnid species, and 20+ native plant species solidifying Mleiha's position as one of the most ecologically rich and diverse environments in the Arabian National Park, an ecological, ecotourism, and conservation destination in the heart of Sharjah's central region, spans 34.2 square kilometres of protected desert terrain and is operated by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). Established by the Emiri decree, Mleiha has become a living desert museum, home to rare fossils, ancient artefacts, and thriving biodiversity. These findings affirm its role as a cornerstone of Sharjah's long-term strategy for conservation, eco-tourism, and sustainable 20+ documented native plant species, Mleiha's flora is not only diverse but essential to the park's ecosystem. These plants have evolved to withstand extreme arid conditions, playing critical roles in desert resilience. Key species such as the Ghaf Tree (Prosopis cineraria), Umbrella Thorn Acacia (Vachellia tortilis), and Sodom's Apple (Calotropis procera) contribute to soil stabilisation, regulate moisture retention, and create microhabitats for smaller species. Other important flora like Dune Grass and Arfaj help anchor dunes and provide seasonal fodder for fauna of Mleiha includes 11+ species of mammals adapted to desert conditions, including the Arabian Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes arabica) and Sand Gazelle (Gazella marica). Among its 10 reptile species are elusive desert dwellers like the Sandfish Skink (Scincus mitranus) and the Arabian Horned Viper (Cerastes gasperettii).Birdwatchers can observe 20+ species of birds year-round, including Bonelli's Eagle (Aquila fasciata), Purple Sunbird (Cinnyris asiaticus), Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), and migratory visitors that use Mleiha as a seasonal 39+ identified species, the park's insect and arachnid population includes key contributors to pollination, soil health, and natural pest control. These invertebrates form the foundation of many food chains within the park. Highlights include the Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa pubescens), one of the largest native bees and a vital pollinator; the venomous Arabian Fat-Tailed Scorpion (Androctonus crassicauda), a desert predator; and the Blue Pansy Butterfly (Junonia orithya), which plays a seasonal role in pollination. Lesser-known species like antlions, ground mantises, and camel spiders also contribute to the delicate ecological to Mleiha can experience this biodiversity through curated activities such as nature trails, fossil and flora walks, and wildlife observation. These programmes are central to the park's mission to promote environmental awareness and support the UAE's long-term sustainability goals.'What makes Mleiha exceptional is its ability to merge ecological significance with economic value,' said Omar Jasim Al Ali, Manager, of Mleiha and Strategic Projects. 'The biodiversity of this landscape is a natural capital that drives tourism, supports conservation-linked livelihoods, and enhances Sharjah's reputation as a regional leader in sustainable development. Protecting and showcasing these species responsibly is both an environmental responsibility and a long-term economic strategy.' Mleiha National Park remains open year-round, welcoming nature lovers, researchers, students, and travellers to discover the rich biodiversity of the UAE's inland desert.
Sharjah 24
2 days ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Mleiha Park recorded 100+ species of flora fauna in its habitat
Mleiha National Park, an ecological, ecotourism, and conservation destination in the heart of Sharjah's central region, spans 34.2 square kilometres of protected desert terrain and is operated by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). Established by Emiri decree, Mleiha has become a living desert museum, home to rare fossils, ancient artefacts, and thriving biodiversity. These findings affirm its role as a cornerstone of Sharjah's long-term strategy for conservation, eco-tourism, and sustainable development. Plant diversity: Ecological engineers of the desert With 20+ documented native plant species, Mleiha's flora is not only diverse but essential to the park's ecosystem. These plants have evolved to withstand extreme arid conditions, playing critical roles in desert resilience. Key species such as the Ghaf Tree (Prosopis cineraria), Umbrella Thorn Acacia (Vachellia tortilis), and Sodom's Apple (Calotropis procera) contribute to soil stabilisation, regulate moisture retention, and create microhabitats for smaller species. Other important flora like Dune Grass and Arfaj help anchor sand dunes and provide seasonal fodder for herbivores. Mammals, reptiles and birds The fauna of Mleiha includes 11+ species of mammals adapted to desert conditions, including the Arabian Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes arabica) and Sand Gazelle (Gazella marica). Among its 10 reptile species are elusive desert dwellers like the Sandfish Skink (Scincus mitranus) and the Arabian Horned Viper (Cerastes gasperettii). Birdwatchers can observe 20+ species of birds year-round, including Bonelli's Eagle (Aquila fasciata), Purple Sunbird (Cinnyris asiaticus), Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), and migratory visitors that use Mleiha as a seasonal stopover. Insects and arachnids: Small creatures with a big ecological impact With 39+ identified species, the park's insect and arachnid population includes key contributors to pollination, soil health, and natural pest control. These invertebrates form the foundation of many food chains within the park. Highlights include the Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa pubescens), one of the largest native bees and a vital pollinator; the venomous Arabian Fat-Tailed Scorpion (Androctonus crassicauda), a desert predator; and the Blue Pansy Butterfly (Junonia orithya), which plays a seasonal role in pollination. Lesser-known species like antlions, ground mantises, and camel spiders also contribute to the delicate ecological balance. Public engagement and education Visitors to Mleiha can experience this biodiversity through curated activities such as nature trails, fossil and flora walks, and wildlife observation. These programmes are central to the park's mission to promote environmental awareness and support the UAE's long-term sustainability goals. Biodiversity as a growth asset 'What makes Mleiha exceptional is its ability to merge ecological significance with economic value,' said Omar Jasim Al Ali, Manager, Mleiha and Strategic Projects. 'The biodiversity of this landscape is a natural capital that drives tourism, supports conservation-linked livelihoods, and enhances Sharjah's reputation as a regional leader in sustainable development. Protecting and showcasing these species responsibly is both an environmental responsibility and a long-term economic strategy.' Mleiha National Park remains open year-round, welcoming nature lovers, researchers, students, and travellers to discover the rich biodiversity of the UAE's inland desert.
Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Fitch: Kuwaiti banking sector to benefit from public debt and mortgage laws
Fitch Ratings-London: Key new laws in Kuwait are set to drive growth and diversification in the country's banking sector, Fitch Ratings says. These reforms, including public debt and residential mortgage laws, will create new lending opportunities and support economic expansion following a period of fairly subdued conditions. Frequent political gridlock has delayed important economic reforms until recently, contributing to real GDP reducing by 3.6% in 2023 (non-oil: -2.9%) and by an expected further 2.8% in 2024 (non-oil: +1.5%). This constrained banks' lending opportunities and pushed them towards mergers and regional expansion as avenues for growth. However, government changes since the dissolution of parliament in May 2024 are helping decision-making and supporting the implementation of strategic public plans through Emiri decrees. Credit growth in the banking sector, which was a low 2.1% in 2023, accelerated to 6.8% in 2024. Fitch expects high 8%–9% growth in 2025 if planned large government projects are awarded swiftly, following the recent approval of the public debt law. Approval of the residential mortgage law could bolster growth by unleashing substantial demand for housing loans. The public debt law, which allows the sovereign to issue up to KWD30 billion over 50 years, will support government spending on large and diversified projects while preserving foreign assets, including foreign-currency reserves. This should also offset the negative impact from reduced global real GDP growth and lower oil prices. Progress on reforms, particularly the diversification of fiscal revenue (a 15% minimum top-up tax on multinational companies came into effect on 1 January 2025, with collections expected to begin in 2027), rationalisation of expenditure and diversification away from oil, would further support the government's budget and financial flexibility. Fitch expects wholesale lending to increase by 7%–8% as the public debt reforms take hold and have a spillover effect across multiple sectors that require financing. Sovereign bonds issued under the new law will support banks' liquidity, offering high-quality liquid assets that can be traded or used in repurchase agreements with other banks and the Central Bank of Kuwait. These bonds, being 0% risk-weighted, will bolster banks' regulatory capital ratios while providing a stable interest income stream. The residential mortgage law, if approved, could significantly transform Kuwait's housing finance landscape. For the first time, banks would be allowed to offer mortgage loans, potentially up to KWD200,000 and with a tenor of up to 25 years, with state-subsidised interest for tranches above KWD70,000. Given Kuwait's population of 1.5 million, even modest uptake could generate a substantial volume of new loans, expanding the banking sector and stimulating growth in the construction industry. Potential reforms to foreign property ownership laws could further increase demand for housing loans, mostly from high-earning expatriates. Kuwaiti banks are adequately capitalised to support the likely growth in housing finance. We do not anticipate a significant build-up of asset-quality risk as over 80% of Kuwaiti citizens are civil servants with stable income sources. However, the new corporate income tax could put pressure on profitability, particularly at some of the largest multinational banks. -Ends- Matt Pearson Associate Director, Corporate Communications Fitch Group, 30 North Colonnade, London, E14 5GN E:
Zawya
17-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Neovision Wealth Management to manage The residential REIT, a major player in real estate market in the GCC
Abu Dhabi, UAE: Neovision Wealth Management has been appointed as the new fund manager of The Residential REIT (IC) Limited ('The Residential REIT' or the 'REIT'), one of the largest Shari'a-compliant residential Real Estate Investment Trusts in the region. The Residential REIT is the UAE's first Shari'a-compliant residential REIT, incorporated in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and regulated by the ADGM Financial Services Regulatory Authority. Structured exclusively for professional and institutional investors, the REIT provides exposure to a high-quality portfolio of income-generating residential real estate assets in full compliance with Islamic investment principles. The shareholders in the REIT are subsidiaries of sovereign entities within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), underscoring the institutional nature and strategic significance of the structure within the region's real estate and investment landscape. The appointment of Neovision Wealth Management as fund manager represents a major milestone for the firm, highlighting its growing capabilities in managing large-scale, regulated investment structures with assets under management in the hundreds of millions of US dollars. 'We are honored to take on the responsibility of managing one of the most significant Shari'a-compliant REITs in the region,' said Dr Ryan Lemand, Founder and CEO, Neovision Wealth Management. 'This appointment reflects our strategic focus on institutional real estate and our commitment to delivering long-term value through performance, governance, and innovation.' The Residential REIT was launched following an exclusive Emiri decree in October 2016, which permits current and future REITs and collective investment funds to invest in onshore real estate in Ras Al Khaimah unlocking a unique and strategic investment corridor for long-term, Shari'a-compliant opportunities. With this appointment, Neovision Wealth Management further strengthens its position as a leading player in the institutional investment landscape of the UAE and the broader GCC region. About Neovision Wealth Management Neovision Wealth Management is a leading Funds as a Service provider to asset managers looking to meet the investment needs of the Gulf's fast-growing community of family offices, institutions, as well as professional and retail investors by using NWM's ManCo services in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Neovision Wealth Management also offers a range of wealth management services to individuals and families, including customised investment management and financial planning services. NWM is regulated by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). Media Contact: Anastasia Nazarova Neovision Wealth Management +97122451500
