Latest news with #GeneralDirectorateofIdentityandForeignersAffairsinDubai
Time Out Dubai
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Free Global Village tickets for tourists arriving at DXB
Tourists arriving in Dubai have been surprised with free tickets to one of the emirate's most popular outdoor attractions. People arriving at Dubai International Airport and the Hatta border crossing were given complimentary tickets to Global Village ahead of the final days of season 29 at the multicultural destination. The special initiative came as the result of a collaboration between the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA) and Global Village. It is part of the ongoing Year of Community in the UAE, which aims to strengthen family and community bonds by preserving cultural heritage, intergenerational ties, and create inclusive spaces that foster collaboration. The GDRFA says that the free tickets will enhance the visitor experience in Dubai as well as highlight the city's rich cultural diversity and reinforce its status as a distinguished global destination. With Global Village set to close on Sunday May 11, time is running out to visit the popular park before the summer. For those unfamiliar with Global Village, it is home to 30 pavilions representing products belonging to 90 different cultures as well as daily cultural performances and loads of high-octane funfair rides. To help as many people as possible visit Global Village, the destination has also announced free entry for all under 12s until the end of season 29. Tickets usually cost Dhs25, so it's a good opportunity to have a great family day out on a budget. Throughout the season, tickets are free for kids under the age of three, senior citizens and people of determination. Dhs25, free (kids under 12). Open daily 4pm-midnight until Sun May 11, (04 362 4114). Looking for more things to do in Dubai? These are Dubai's best restaurants: 85 incredible places to dine in 2025 All the winners of the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2024 New restaurants in Dubai that you need to visit right now From casual eats to fine dining, there's bound to be a new venue you'll want to try Top Sunday brunches to try in Dubai Your guide to fabulous feasts that round off your weekend
Gulf Today
09-03-2025
- Gulf Today
Dubai fulfils 9-year-old cancer patient's wish to visit the city
When nine-year-old Adele Shestovskaya was asked where in the world she wanted to visit the most, she had just one answer: Dubai. The Finnish child, who is battling kidney cancer, had long admired the city's awe-inspiring skyline and sun-soaked beaches on social media. But she had a dream to experience it in person. Her wish did not go unnoticed. Under the directives and close follow-up of Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the emirate's officials organised an unforgettable visit for Adele and her family. The trip was overseen by Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, who mobilised a dedicated team to welcome the family and ensure every detail of their stay was thoughtfully arranged. From the moment they arrived at Dubai International Airport, the experience was carefully crafted. Adele and her family were greeted by GDRFA officers and Dubai's travel mascots, 'Salem' and 'Salama,' figures designed to make immigration processes smoother and more engaging for young travellers. At the children's passport control counter, Adele and her family had the chance to stamp their own passports, a small but joyful touch that set the tone for the days ahead. The family was then escorted to their accommodation at Jumeirah Beach Residence, where they enjoyed the scenic beauty of the city's beaches. However, Adele's trip had just started. Dubai's authorities had designed a tour filled with unique experiences. She explored a natural reserve where she played with wildlife, marvelled at the futuristic exhibits at the Museum of the Future, one of Dubai's most iconic landmarks, and wandered through the glass tunnels of The Lost Chambers Aquarium in Atlantis, The Palm, surrounded by thousands of marine creatures. The team went the extra mile to make her experience unforgettable. Beyond the entertainment, officials ensured Adele's healthcare needs were prioritised. In collaboration with Al Jalila Children's Specialty Hospital, medical arrangements were made to guarantee her comfort. Lieutenant General Mohammed Al Marri said: 'We are honoured by the trust placed in us by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed in creating a memorable experience for this child and her family. This reflects Dubai's commitment to caring for children battling illnesses. We remain dedicated to delivering exceptional services that enhance the happiness of all visitors and residents in Dubai, in line with the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, and the guidance of Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed.' On the final evening of their visit, Al Marri and his team gathered to bid farewell to Adele and her family. The effort had been a collective one, bringing together partners such as Dubai Airports, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, the Museum of the Future, Al Jalila Children's Specialty Hospital, and Sky VIP Limousine. Al Marri expressed his gratitude to all the entities that collaborated with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs to ensure an outstanding experience for Adele. Adele's father, Vitaly Shestovsky, expressed his family's gratitude for the exceptional hospitality and care they received. 'We have never experienced such warmth and generosity before. The attention and support from Sheikh Hamdan and Al Marri had a profoundly positive impact on Adele's well-being and our family's emotional state.' He added: 'Our visit to Dubai has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We spent an incredible week here, and even now, my children keep saying, 'We don't want to leave Dubai.' However, we must return to Finland to continue Adele's treatment, but we will definitely come back to this beautiful and welcoming city.' As they prepared to depart, the family carried with them more than just souvenirs — they took with them the memories of a city that, for one special week, opened its doors to make a young girl's dream come true.
Gulf Today
03-03-2025
- General
- Gulf Today
'Al Khair Bus' initiative launched to distribute 150,000 Iftar meals to labourers across Dubai
In alignment with the principles of benevolence and communal solidarity that characterise the Holy Month of Ramadan, and in accordance with the Year of Community, which fosters a sense of social responsibility, the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai initiated the 'Al Khair Bus' programme. This initiative, in collaboration with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Foundation for Charitable and Humanitarian Works and Dubai Charity Assocaition, aims to facilitate the distribution of Iftar meals. The initiative has been devised to provide support to Dubai's labour force in recognition of their vital role in the development process, whilst also promoting a culture of social responsibility. This will be achieved by the provision of nutritious Iftar meals in an environment of compassion and brotherhood. The distribution of 150,000 Iftar meals is scheduled to take place throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan, with 5,000 meals being served daily, in key labour areas within Dubai, including Jebel Ali, Al Quoz, Dubai Investments Park and Al Muhaisnah. This initiative is designed to foster a sense of social solidarity. Major General Obaid Muhair Bin Suroor, Deputy Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai and Chairman of the Standing Committee for Labour Affairs, has stated that the initiative is an integral component of the Directorate's overarching commitment to providing support to the labour force, thereby acknowledging their indispensable role within various sectors. The 'Khair Bus' initiative, which is being launched during the month of Ramadan, is intended to promote the values of social responsibility and to provide support to workers who contribute to Dubai's growth and prosperity. The initiative is also intended to reflect the continuous efforts of the Directorate to provide a humanitarian environment that reflects the spirit of brotherhood and solidarity. Saleh Zaher Al Mazrouei, Director General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Charitable and Humanitarian Works, has expressed his conviction in the significance of collaborative endeavours in fostering social cohesion and solidarity among community members, particularly during the month of Ramadan, which is regarded as a time for unity and benevolence. He said, "We are pleased to be involved in this initiative that aims to support Dubai's labour force in recognition of their significant contributions to the development and prosperity of the emirate." Ahmed Al Suwaidi, the Executive Director of Dubai Charity, articulated his satisfaction at participating in the initiative, remarking: 'We are delighted to collaborate with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai in this humanitarian initiative that contributes to disseminating the values of mercy and brotherhood that characterise this sacred month, as part of our annual Ramadan campaign, entitled 'The Goodness Endures'. This initiative reflects our profound appreciation of the pivotal role of the labour force in the developmental process.'
