Latest news with #HamdanbinRashidAlMaktoum
Irish Times
26-04-2025
- Politics
- Irish Times
Concerns raised over alleged financial irregularities and links with extremist ideology at Dublin mosque
The United Arab Emirates -backed foundation that funds Ireland's largest mosque has sent investigators to examine alleged financial irregularities at the centre. The Al Maktoum Foundation, which provides about €2.5 million a year for the running of the Islamic Cultural Centre of Ireland (ICCI) in Clonskeagh, South Dublin , has also raised concerns about alleged links between some of the centre's members and extremist ideology. On Friday, a large security operation , involving gardaí and dozens of security guards, was in place around the centre, which also houses a national school and a creche. Gardaí have received a report that a canister containing petrol was thrown over the walls of the premises. READ MORE The Al Maktoum Foundation said it was concerned about potential attempts to 'forcibly take control of the premises'. There have been several alleged threats against officials in the centre. An altercation which took place at a meeting there last Saturday was broken up by gardaí. The controversy centres on a dispute between the board of the Al Maktoum Foundation and a group of prominent officials in the centre and their supporters. The centre was the first big project of the Al Maktoum Foundation, which was founded in 1996 by the UAE's deputy ruler Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Following the death of Mr Al Maktoum in 2021, a new board was assigned to the foundation which began examining its ongoing projects. The board, which company records show is mostly based in Dubai, has recently queried a number of matters relating to the financial running of the centre. [ Dublin Islamic cultural centre temporarily closed after gardaí called to altercation Opens in new window ] Concerns have been raised about the management of charitable donations, including funds raised for Gaza and the use of cash payments. The foundation has also raised concerns about links between officials and the Muslim Brotherhood, an international Islamist organisation which the UAE alleges is a terrorist organisation. Zahid Jamil, a Dubai-based lawyer and a member of the foundation's board, was sent to Ireland this week to examine the finances, along with an auditor. 'The board is concerned about the financial situation and, as a result, an auditor has been officially appointed,' Mr Jamil told The Irish Times. Some of the allegations relate to the administration of a Quranic school on the grounds of the centre. On Saturday, April 19th, a meeting for parents of children who attend the school ended in a physical confrontation between some members of the mosque and representatives of the board. This prompted the board's decision to close the centre until further notice and to hire extra security. The national school at the centre, which is separate to the Quranic school, is expected to reopen on Monday but with strict security and a Garda presence. 'It is the view of this board that extremism cannot be tolerated. Instead, we wish to portray the true essence of Islam. The events of April the 19th were not demonstrative of this,' Mr Jamil said. Opposing the board are a group of officials who adhere to a more hardline view of Sunni Islam. Members of this group did not respond to requests for comment. The dispute has led to a series of accusations and counteraccusations by the factions. This includes a complaint to the Data Protection Commissioner (DPC) that the foundation's board was accessing details of members of the centre and sending them to the UAE. A DPC spokesman confirmed on Friday it has received a complaint. In a statement, the centre said assertions circulating 'that any foreign party has made a request for any data are completely false and are categorically denied'. 'No such request has been received, nor has any action been taken in this regard. 'These statements are defamatory and baseless. The centre reiterates that rumours of pressure from abroad or any external actors/parties are false and without foundation,' the statement reads. In a statement, the Irish Muslim Peace & Integration Council backed the board's moves and said that for 'too long' the mosque has been controlled by people 'who fail to represent the diversity of Irish Muslims'. It criticised individuals 'who prioritised power over service, division over unity, and stagnation over progress, including elements with ties to the Muslim Brotherhood'.
Khaleej Times
09-04-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Watch: Sheikh Hamdan visits Bombay Stock Exchange, rings iconic opening bell
On Wednesday, Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). He met Sundararaman Ramamurthy, MD and CEO of BSE, rang the iconic gong and posed with the exchange's bull figure. Watch video here: Established in 1875, the BSE is Asia's oldest stock exchange and is one of the largest stock exchange in the world. There are more than 5,500 companies publicly listed on the stock exchange. Dubai entrepreneur Siddharth Balachandran, executive chairman and CEO of Buimerc Corporation Ltd in DIFC, is the largest individual shareholder of the BSE, holding around 3.46 per cent of the institution. The businessman, who also holds 0.35 per cent of National Stock Exchange of India Ltd (NSEIL), said exciting times were ahead for UAE-India partnership. 'The sounding of the legendary bell of the iconic Bombay Stock Exchange was truly a symbol of how strong the economic and strategic relationship between the two great nations of the UAE and India with India offering unparalleled volume and the UAE offering unparalleled dynamism,' he told Khaleej Times. 'It signalled the end of the visit of Sheikh Hamdan but also manifested the start of a great new era in bilateral relations between UAE and India.' Sheikh Hamdan arrived in India for his first official visit on Tuesday. During the two-day trip, he will hold talks with senior Indian officials to explore opportunities for enhancing bilateral cooperation and strengthening partnerships across various strategic sectors. In 2016, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan- then the UAE Crown Prince- conducted a similar visit to the BSE. Afterwards, he toured the stock exchange and posed for a photo in front of the bull.
Khaleej Times
20-03-2025
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship 2025: What are the judges looking for?
Few equine creatures command the kind of reverence and admiration that the Arabian horse does. With its sculpted elegance, effortless grace, and deep historical roots, this extraordinary breed has long been a symbol of nobility and endurance. Nowhere is this passion more alive than in the United Arab Emirates, where the Arabian show horse is celebrated at the highest level. As the 22nd edition of the Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship (DIAHC) is being held on March 22, the stage is set once again for a breathtaking display of beauty, athleticism, and heritage. More than just a competition, this event represents centuries of dedication from breeders, trainers, and enthusiasts who continue to elevate the Arabian horse to new heights on the world stage. A Heritage Etched in the Desert Sands The Arabian horse's story is as old as the shifting dunes of the Arabian Peninsula. Bred by Bedouin tribes for their endurance, loyalty, and resilience in the harsh desert, these horses were more than just companions—they were lifelines. Their refined features and unparalleled stamina eventually caught the attention of royals and equestrians across the globe, shaping some of the most prestigious bloodlines in history. Today, over a million registered Arabian horses exist worldwide, with the United States alone home to more than 660,000. Yet, despite their global presence, the heart of Arabian horse breeding and competition remains firmly in the Middle East, where the legacy is upheld with unwavering devotion. DIAHC: A Stage for Excellence Founded in 2003 under the patronage of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the DIAHC has become a hallmark of prestige, ranking among the world's most elite Arabian horse shows. Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre Exhibition Centre, this event attracts the finest purebred Arabians, elite breeders, and deep-pocketed investors, all vying for recognition in one of the breed's most esteemed arenas. Sheikh Hamdan's vision was to create a championship that would not only showcase the Arabian horse's magnificence but also place it alongside the world's most celebrated equestrian events. His dedication to the sport and the breed helped raise the standards of Arabian horse competitions worldwide. The DIAHC is a spectacle in its own right—horses enter the ring with heads held high, tails flowing like silk, and a presence that commands attention. Every movement, from a graceful trot to a poised stance, is scrutinised by judges who seek the perfect balance of conformation, temperament, and charisma. The Arabian Horse: Beauty in Motion What makes the Arabian horse so captivating? It's a blend of aesthetics, athleticism, and spirit. The breed is instantly recognisable by its delicately sculpted head, large expressive eyes, arched neck, and proud tail carriage—traits that set it apart in the show ring. But beyond their beauty, Arabians are defined by their agility, intelligence, and willingness to bond with their handlers, making them prized competitors and companions alike. Judges at elite competitions assess a range of defining traits, including: Head – A refined, wedge-shaped profile with a concave forehead and expressive eyes Neck – A naturally arched, elongated neck that exudes nobility Body – A compact yet powerful frame, blending strength with elegance Tail – A high-set, flowing tail carried with effortless grace Movement – Animated, fluid gaits that showcase balance and poise These characteristics are not accidental. They are the result of centuries of selective breeding, ensuring that each generation carries forward the legacy of its ancestors. A Passion Beyond Price Owning and breeding Arabian show horses is not just an investment—it's a lifelong pursuit driven by love for the breed. The financial stakes, however, are substantial. A high-caliber Arabian show horse can command anywhere from $100,000 to several million dollars, depending on lineage, training, and competition success. Some of the most legendary sales in Arabian horse history include: NH Love Potion – Sold for a staggering $2.55 million Padron – Syndicated for an unprecedented $11 million, cementing his place as one of the most valuable Arabians ever. In the heart of the UAE, a legacy of equestrian excellence thrives, with some of the world's most renowned studs shaping the future of the Arabian horse breed. Among these, the Dubai Arabian Horse Stud stands tall, a revered institution that has produced global champions like FA EL RASHEEM, whose name echoes across international arenas. Not far behind in prominence is Ajman Stud, a beacon of Arabian horse breeding. Founded by Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Ajman Stud has earned its reputation for consistently producing top-tier show horses that captivate audiences worldwide with their grace and athleticism. Though located across the border in Qatar, Al Shaqab Stud commands just as much respect. This breeding powerhouse has played a pivotal role in setting new standards of excellence, with its horses dominating international competitions and becoming symbols of the breed's enduring beauty and strength. But these elite breeding programs are not just about producing winners; they are dedicated to preserving the storied bloodlines that have defined the Arabian horse for generations. Each horse born from these programs carries with it the rich history and noble lineage that continue to shape the future of this legendary breed. Bloodlines That Shaped a Legacy Every Arabian horse carries within it a piece of history. Over time, distinct strains have emerged, each known for specific traits: Koheilan – The powerhouses of the breed, recognised for their muscular build and strength. They have significantly influenced Polish Arabian bloodlines. Saklawi – The epitome of elegance, known for their refined features and graceful movement. Their influence extends beyond Arabians, contributing to breeds like the Lipizzan and Shagya. Preserving these bloodlines is a responsibility entrusted to the world's finest breeders—guardians of an equestrian heritage that spans millennia. Icons of the Show Ring Some Arabian horses transcend the sport, becoming legends. Marwan Al Shaqab, a bay stallion born in 2000, is one such icon. His dominance in the show ring earned him multiple world championship titles, but his legacy extends far beyond his own success. As a sire, he has shaped the future of Arabian horse breeding, with his offspring continuing to set new benchmarks for excellence. From the desert sands of ancient Arabia to the grand arenas of Dubai, the Arabian horse remains an enduring symbol of grace, power, and heritage. As the Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship prepares to welcome the world's finest, one thing is certain: the legacy of the Arabian horse is not just preserved—it is celebrated. With every poised step, every arch of the neck, and every flick of a silken tail, these magnificent horses remind us why they have captivated hearts for centuries—and why their story is far from over.
Zawya
06-03-2025
- General
- Zawya
13th Dubai Holy Quran competition for People of Determination begins with record 676 participation
DUBAI: The 13th edition of the Dubai Holy Quran competition for People of Determination was launched with a record 676 contestants participating in various categories of Quran reciting, adding piousness to the atmosphere of the holy month. Under the patronage of Sheikha Rawda bint Ahmed bin Juma Al Maktoum, wife of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Holy Quran competition will witness contestants competing in the following categories: memorising the entire Quran, 20 parts, half the Quran, 10 parts, seven parts, five parts, three parts, two parts, and one part, in addition to one of the short Surahs etc. The objective of the event is to encourage the People of Determination to embrace the Book of Allah in terms of memorisation, understanding, performance, contemplation, and to ignite the spirit of competition among participants to learn and teach the Book of Allah. Thani Juma Berregad, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Dubai Club for People of Determination, thanked Her Highness Sheikha Rawda for sponsoring the Holy Quran competition for the 13th consecutive year, indicating that it has become one of the largest competitions in the Gulf. 'The organising committee always seeks to develop the Holy Quran competition from one version to another according to the established approach to achieve the desired goals,' said Berregad who attended the second day of the Quran competitions. The Club chairman also highlighted that the increase in the number of competitors confirms the development of the Holy Quran competition in the region. For her part, Raeesa Al Falasi, Board Member of the Dubai Club for People of Determination and Head of the Organising Committee of the Holy Quran competition, described the current edition – coinciding with the Year of Society 2025 - as the largest since the launch of the competition. 'The continuation of the competition for the 13th consecutive year is the result of the care and support of Sheikha Rawda bint Ahmed bin Juma Al Maktoum, which yielded fruitful motivation to connect People of Determination to the Book of God and instill the love of the Quran in their souls. The memorisation and understanding of the Quran may become a beacon for them in life, guided by its guidance and enlightened by its light.' 'We have great confidence in all competitors for this version to achieve all the goals for which it is held. The People of Determination showed a great will to memorise the Holy Quran and contemplate its meanings in previous versions, which contributed to improving their pronunciation and developing their awareness.' Festivities kick off Ramadan Festival The Ramadan Festival of the Dubai Club for People of Determination kicked off with a large participation and various sports, cultural and community activities that will continue until March 20. Volleyball launched the sports activity competitions, where the kick-off resulted in Al-Maliya's victory over Al-Ahli 2/1, while the Al-Administrators team overcame Al-Shabab 2/0. The results of the "Football Five-a-side" resulted in Al-Hilal's victory over "Al-Emperor" 2/1 and Al-Nojoom's victory over "Al-Fursan" 5/2. The first day of cultural and community activities included the Ramadan Council and a group of various workshops and artistic segments with the participation of 12 partners and contributors to the Ramadan Council.
CairoScene
04-03-2025
- Sport
- CairoScene
Dubai Club for People of Determination Launches Ramadan Festival
The festival features 100 social, cultural, and sports activities designed to foster inclusivity and celebrate the Holy Month. Mar 04, 2025 The Dubai Club for People of Determination has kicked off its latest edition of the Ramadan festival, featuring 100 social, cultural, and sports activities designed to foster inclusivity and celebrate the spirit of the Holy Month. Running until March 21st, 2025, the festival brings together club members alongside 100 volunteers from various government and private institutions. The festival's sports programme includes five-a-side football, volleyball, basketball, table tennis, boccia, badminton, and shooting, along with recreational games. The club will also host the wheelchair basketball championship as part of the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament. On the cultural front, the festival features the 13th edition of the Dubai Holy Quran Competition for People of Determination, which continues to receive annual sponsorship from Sheikha Rawda bint Ahmed bin Juma Al Maktoum, wife of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, contributing to its continued growth and impact within the community.
