Latest news with #GulfToday
Gulf Today
2 days ago
- Gulf Today
Faith and dedication: Indonesian sanitation worker, wife fulfill Hajj dream after 40 years of savings
Gulf Today Report In an inspiring testament to unwavering faith and perseverance, an elderly Indonesian sanitation worker and his wife have fulfilled their lifelong aspiration of performing the Hajj pilgrimage, embarking on their momentous journey to the Holy City of Makkah from the Makkah Route Initiative terminal in Solo, Indonesia, after nearly 40 years of diligent saving. Speaking to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), Haj Legiman expressed his deep joy, saying, "The happiness is overwhelming. I never imagined I would finally see the Holy Kaaba with my own eyes. I thank Allah first, then everyone who supported us, especially those responsible for the Makkah Route Initiative, who made the journey easier than I ever imagined." Recounting their remarkable savings journey, he explained, "I began saving in 1986 with my wife's support, putting aside no more than 1,000 rupiah a day despite difficult living conditions and the hard work of collecting waste, all in pursuit of my dream to perform Hajj. Despite the challenges, we never lost hope. My wife and I kept saving steadily until we finally managed to register for this year's Hajj." Haj Legiman and his wife expressed their deep gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for providing exceptional services to Indonesian pilgrims. They highlighted the seamless, efficient, and professional completion of their travel procedures by the Saudi team at the Makkah Route Initiative lounge in Solo.
Gulf Today
3 days ago
- Gulf Today
‘Philippine Heritage Collection' of Dubai-based artist unveiled
The past is taking place at the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai, particularly in Al Qusais, where excavations, according to records, have traces to the Bronze and Iron Age. Consider these: The thoroughfare of Magallanes in the 'Queen City of the South' of the Philippines which is Cebu Province in Central Visayas. The Philippines' 'Wall Street of Asia,' Escolta, which, despite the blitzkreig for the Liberation of Manila during World War II – buildings, constructed to magnificently display the wealth gained during the 1500 to 1800 Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade, remain. Binondo, the world's oldest Chinatown, a witness to the rise of the 20th century Chinoy billionaires, away from the condescension their migrant ancestors went through, particularly during the Spanish Era when they were derogatorily labelled as the Sangleys. A total of 15, these are the 'Philippine Heritage Collection' of Cebu-born Dubai resident Edcel Cabalan, whose silently-creeping latent talent in watercolouring – that elementary art orientation schoolchildren learn to enjoy and embrace – yet arduous enough to be an expert on – was recently inaugurated. In time for the 'National Heritage Month' and only a few weeks to the 127th commemoration of the June 12, 1898 emancipation of the Filipino natives and Philippine-born Spaniards from the 300-year horrific rule of their Spanish conquistadores, the exhibition is the fifth instalment to the 'Labindalawa' or 'Twelve' cultural diplomacy programming of the consular mission. It is part of the 'Museo sa Konsulado,' which, since its January 2025 debut, has become the gateway for the novice – and the other conduit for the established Filipino artist across the UAE. Consul General in Dubai and the Northern Emirates Marford Angeles said: 'The 'Philippine Heritage Collection' of Mr. Edcel Cabalan is a tribute to the structures, places, and memories that shape our national imagination.' Commenting on the ingenuity of the architect who was able to overcome the restrictions caused by the trouble-maker Novel Coronavirus 2020, Angeles also said, 'Each piece captures the white dignity of ancestral homes, the rhythm of the colonial-era streets, and the character of churches and civic buildings that have now identified the Filipino's built-in paradigm.' 'His mastery of the watercolour, a medium difficult to handle, allows the viewer to experience heritage not as a static imagery; but, as a living memory portrayed with movement, light and atmosphere,' Angeles continued. Pointing out that as pages of the past have traditionally been locked in by way of the sepia photographs, Angeles expressed hope that with the expertise of Cabalan in breathing life into the photos of the 1800s, Filipinos would be inspired. Connecting the 'National Heritage Month and the 'Philippine Heritage Collection,' Angeles told Gulf Today: 'National Heritage Month remains to be a vital observance. Perhaps even more so in an era marked by rapid technological shifts. As humanity explores Artificial Intelligence and the cosmos, heritage offers a necessary counterbalance. It grounds us in values, traditions and identity. Far from being outdated, culture and heritage provide depth and context to progress. They remind us who we are and what we carry forward, regardless of how far we go.' 'Our heritage and technology need not be seen in opposition. On the contrary, they can strengthen each other. Honouring heritage is not a retreat into the past, but a conscious act of bringing our roots into every future we build,' he also said. Now a fulltime artist, Cabalan, whose 168 of his 210 paintings have found owners not only in the UAE but overseas as well, said: 'Through this collection, I aim to preserve the soul of Philippine heritage architecture. Those timeless structures that have witnessed our nation's rich history, cultural evolution, and enduring spirit.' 'Watercolour, with its delicate translucency and emotional softness, allows me to interpret these architectural icons not only with technical precision but with heartfelt reverence. Each stroke becomes a way of honouring the craftsmanship, history, and cultural identity embedded in these spaces,' Cabalan added.
Gulf Today
4 days ago
- Health
- Gulf Today
Conjoined Filipino twin sisters arrive in Riyadh for surgery on Saudi King's invitation
Gulf Today Report Under the directives of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the Filipino conjoined twin sisters, Klea and Maurice Ann arrived at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, accompanied by their family, SPA reported. Upon arrival, the twins were transferred to King Abdullah Specialist Children's Hospital at the Ministry of National Guard for medical assessment and to evaluate the possibility of performing a separation surgery. Adviser at the Royal Court, Supervisor General of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), and head of the medical and surgical team of the Saudi Conjoined Twins Programme Dr Abdullah Al Rabeeah expressed his deepest gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Crown Prince for this humanitarian initiative. He stated that the initiative embodies the noble values and firm principles of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in extending aid to those in need, affirming its global leadership in the humanitarian and medical fields. This, he noted, has helped establish the Kingdom's position as an advanced international medical reference. Dr Al Rabeeah also pointed out that the programme is one of the most prominent humanitarian models and a cornerstone of the global relief response, reflecting the Kingdom's principles of mercy and human solidarity without discrimination, in fulfillment of its noble mission to preserve human dignity regardless of color, race, or religion. The family of the Filipino twins expressed their deep gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince for their generous care and warm reception, as well as the comprehensive medical attention they received. They appreciated the vital role of the program and the efforts of the medical and surgical team to ensure the safety of their children. The Saudi Conjoined Twins Program has performed two successful separation surgeries on conjoined twins from the Republic of the Philippines over its 35-year history.
Gulf Today
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Traditional muse, millennial views: Old and new live in Jamila Patanwala's art
Jamila Patanwala is a contemporary Islamic artist, based in Dubai. 'My work is a reflection of my roots, and I strive to create pieces that invite the viewer to explore Islamic art in a contemporary manner,' she says. She primarily works in acrylics and mixed media, using bold colours 'to evoke the regality of Islamic patterns and calligraphy.' Her work is inspired by the richness of Islamic architecture, Quranic verses in Arabic calligraphy, and Nature. Some of her works were shown in an exhibition in Dubai International Art Centre (DIAC) recently. They were commented upon for their focus on the subject, the detailing of their meaning and the expertise of their execution. From her workspace comes Mishqaat-ul-Anwar, in acrylic on canvas, inspired by the Jamea Al Anwar mosque in Cairo, Egypt. Jamila's painting depicts a mishqaat or lamp or light from the mosque. Fruits of the Holy Quran, created in mixed media (it was shown at DIAC) is a sculptural and calligraphic art series that brings to life sacred fruits mentioned in the Quran, through the medium of clay. Rehnuma in acrylic and go leaf on canvas, is influenced by the opulent history and cultural significance of calligraphy. Work titled Fruits of the Holy Quran. Shuja'at (Courage) in acrylic on canvas depicts a lion, its mane forged with swords — a crown of steel shaped by bravery, sacrifice, and divinely bestowed strength, says Jamila. Noorun-Ala-Noor or Light upon Light in acrylic is a luminous tribute to divine beauty and spiritual profundity. 'I have tried to give a contemporary look to the exterior Medallion motif on Jamea Al Anwar,' Jamila says. 'I have recreated it on a square MDF plank, trying to mimic the original's placement on the exterior wall of the mosque.' Shubbak Al Anwar in acrylic on MDF refers to the discovery of a Fatemi shubbak - a stucco grille with floral patterns - during the restoration and revival of the Jamea Al Anwar mosque. 'The painting of this window or grille evokes a sense of tranquility and spiritual elevation, symbolising the divine connection between the sacred space inside and the world beyond,' says Jamila. The Golden Armour is an illustration which portrays a woman dressed in the Rida, the traditional attire of Dawoodi Bohra women. 'This piece symbolises the strength, dignity, and beauty I find in wearing the Rida — not as a restriction, but as a radiant shield of identity and faith,' says Jamila. 'Just as armour protects a warrior, the Rida envelops me in a sense of purpose, confidence, and pride. Through this artwork, I aim to challenge the often misunderstood narrative around the hijab and abaya. They are not symbols of oppression, but of autonomy, progress, and inner strength.' The golden hue of the artwork represents empowerment, resilience and spiritual richness. Jamila Patanwala speaks more on her work to Gulf Today Why did art interest you? My interest started in childhood, seeing my older brother's sketches. Watching his pencil bringing images to life made art feel natural and achievable; so I picked up a pencil too. That early habit, which started as a sibling inspiration, grew into my own creative voice and passion for Arabic calligraphy, motifs, and Nature‑inspired pieces. What do you mean by 'Contemporary', as in contemporary artist? 'Contemporary' means 'of our time'. A contemporary artist is someone engaging with the ideas, material, technologies and culture of the present moment. I try to weave my own spiritual experience into a work; so the art reflects how faith feels now, not as it was felt centuries ago. The reinterpretations of classical motifs through contemporary lens, connects tradition with present day aesthetics. Jamila Patanwala is based in Dubai. How can Islamic art be interpreted in a contemporary way? My work begins with the foundations of Islamic art — calligraphy, geometry, and arabesque motifs — but I weave in elements of Nature and present them through today's materials and formats. You'll see paintings brought up to mural size technologically and calligraphy being projected on digital screens. So, while the vocabulary is traditional, the presentation turns it into a contemporary conversation. How has India and UAE influenced you as an artist? The India-UAE axes gave me a unique blend of deep tradition and modern aesthetics. India inspires the craft, colour, memory and devotional content; the UAE sharpens aesthetics, scale and global visibility. The dialogue between the two is what gives my pieces a cutting edge. Why do you use bold colours? In Islamic calligraphy, hues like lapis blue or radiant gold, evoke divinity and awe more powerfully than muted tones. I use bold colours because I want the message in my work to come through loud and clear. How does architecture inspire you as an artist? I am drawn to painting architecture, because buildings hold so much meaning. Islamic architecture is not just about structures - they are symbols of faith and connection to the divine. Architectural geometry and patterns provide me a sense of order and harmony. What is the role of calligraphy in your art? Calligraphy is the heart of my work. I use sacred words because they instantly give meaning to the composition. It's worship in a visual form. Is Art a profession for you or is it only a hobby? Art isn't just a hobby for me — it's my profession, my practice, and my purpose. I see art as service. Whether through conversation, workshops, or simply sharing my work, my goal is to bring art into people's lives in a meaningful way.
Gulf Today
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Gulf Today
Dubai makes vehicle inspection appointments mandatory across all testing centres
Gulf Today, Staff reporter Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has activated the Vehicle Inspection Appointment Booking service on the 'RTA Dubai' app and the website . Effective 2nd June 2025, the booking will be mandatory for all vehicle inspections at technical testing centres across the emirate. For customers who prefer to visit without a prior appointment, an optional walk-in service will be available at 19 centres, subject to an additional service fee of AED 100. The Technical Inspection services through pre-booking appointments are available at 8 other centres, without the walk-in service at these eight centres. The centres are Wasel Al Arabian Centre & Nad Al Hamar, Shamil Al Adid, Al Muhaisnah and Nad Al Hamar, Al Mumayaz Vehicle Testing Al Mizhar, and Tasjeel Al Tawar and Al Mankhool. The decision to expand the service follows the tangible success of the pilot phase, launched in October last year exclusively at the Tasjeel centres in Al Qusais and Al Barsha. The initiative proved effective in saving customers time and effort. Through this expansion, RTA aims to enhance the quality of this vital service, which benefits a broad segment of the population, and to improve customer satisfaction by reducing waiting times for vehicle inspections. The move also reflects RTA's commitment to enriching the customer experience by providing seamless access to premium services across multiple channels. The results of the six-month pilot phase revealed a notable reduction in average customer waiting times for vehicle inspection services at the Al Qusais and Al Barsha centres, by approximately 46%, alongside a 15% decrease in the occupancy rate of physical inspection transactions relative to total available capacity. The volume of vehicle testing transactions at both centres also declined by 13%. Despite this reduction, revenue levels remained unaffected. Additionally, 52% of customers chose to use the pre-booking system, 26% of transactions were completed via the optional walk-in service, and the remaining 22% were for other services that did not require prior appointments. Qais Al Farsi, Director of Vehicle Licensing at RTA's Licensing Agency, said: 'The outcomes of the pilot phase demonstrated a clear improvement and a positive shift in reducing congestion at inspection centres, particularly during peak hours, one of the most persistent challenges at these facilities.' 'The wider rollout of the initiative across vehicle testing centres is expected to yield several key benefits, most notably saving customers time and effort, reducing waiting times by around 40%, and improving occupancy rates, particularly at centres where utilisation had previously exceeded 80%,' he added. Al Farsi further noted: 'The appointment booking system has been made mandatory for all customer and vehicle categories at technical testing centres, except for vehicles registered in Dubai and owned by People of Determination and seniors, both citizens and residents. These individuals are exempt from the booking requirement for vehicle inspection services, in line with RTA's commitment to ensuring accessible and inclusive service delivery for these two key customer segments.' A total of 27 technical testing centres across Dubai now require booking for vehicle inspections via the RTA Dubai smart app or website ( ). Tasjeel Hatta centre is exempt from the appointment booking requirement.
