Latest news with #PoD
Al Etihad
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
9th ADU Art for Autism Competition highlights power of artistic expression in fostering social inclusion
5 May 2025 19:50 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Abu Dhabi University (ADU) has hosted the 9th edition of its Art for Autism Competition at its main campus. The event, held in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) and the Emirates Autism Society (EAS), aligns with the UAE's agenda for promoting social inclusion and the National Strategy for empowering People of Determination (PoD).Held in conjunction with Autism Awareness Month and the global Light It Up Blue campaign, the competition sought to spotlight extraordinary talents of individuals on the autism spectrum, fostering a deeper public understanding through the transformative power of year's competition welcomed more than 110 artworks submitted by students from inclusive schools and specialised centres across the UAE. With no set theme, artists were encouraged to explore their creativity freely, leading to a rich tapestry of unique creations. The artworks were exhibited in ADU's main atrium and carefully reviewed by a jury panel. Winners were then selected across two age categories, 6 to 11 and 12 to 25, and honoured for their creativity, technique, and personal the 6 to 11 age category, first place was awarded to Khalil Amro Barakat, Latifa Ahmed Alqaydi, and Ahmad Loikov, from the Dubai Autism Center. Second place went to Nasek Alsabah from Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services – Khorfakkan branch. Third place was shared by Selim Sarili from Dubai Autism Center and Razan Qasem from Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services – Khorfakkan the 12 to 25 age category, first place was shared by Lance Gavin Toledo, Rawdha Al Bahrani, and Ghaith Ali Hassan, from the Dubai Autism Center. Second place was awarded to Aaliya Siddiqui Khan and Dinal Ekanayake from the Al Noor Training Centre for People of Determination, as well as Hamdan Salem Almarri from the Dubai Autism Center. Third place winners included Rohithparithi Ramokrishan, Vaideesh Vinioth from the Al Noor Training Centre, and Maha Almazroui from the Mohammed Bin Rashid Center for Special Al Khamis-Kanoo, Founder of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), said, "We are delighted to continue our partnership with ADU through launching the ninth edition of the 'Art for Autism' competition. This collaboration reflects ADU's strong commitment to social responsibility and development as we work together to support individuals with autism and enable their full integration into society within a nurturing environment."She added, "For over two decades, ADMAF has built platforms for creative and innovative thinking, guided by our deep belief in investing in people. Our work focuses on two fundamental pillars: investing in youth and appreciating and developing the capabilities of people of determination. This initiative forms part of our ongoing programme, Culture of Determination: Together for Inclusion, which features diverse artistic, community, and educational events, including the 'Stories of Inclusion' dialogue series, highlighting the integrated national system supporting the inclusion and empowerment of people of determination to contribute to the country's renaissance and leadership regionally and globally."Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University, said, "At ADU, we believe inclusion is not just a principle - it's a practice that shapes thriving communities. The Art for Autism Competition goes beyond showcasing creativity; it serves as a bridge that connects people and highlights the transformative power of art and education. Through initiatives like this, we aim to inspire and empower individuals on the autism spectrum, ensuring they are seen not only for their needs but for their strengths. As inclusive education continues to advance across the UAE, we remain dedicated to cultivating environments where every student can contribute, grow, and be celebrated. We're grateful to everyone who took part, from the young artists to the educators and families, for making this year's competition a true reflection of creativity, collaboration, and shared purpose."The competition was supported by the UAE Ministry of Education and the Emirates Autism Society, who helped expand outreach to inclusive schools and specialised centres across the UAE. Participating institutions included Dubai Autism Center, Al Noor Training Centre, Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services, Zayed Higher Organization, Mohammed Bin Rashid Center for Special Education, Rashid Center for People of Determination, and others. In continuation of Autism Awareness Month and in alignment with the UAE's broader vision for community engagement and inclusivity, ADU also hosted the 5th Autism Spectrum Disorders Symposium on 30 April. The event brought together experts and advocates to explore new frontiers in inclusive, neurodiverse education through a series of interactive and forward-thinking sessions.
Trade Arabia
04-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
DXB set to welcome 3.6m guests over Eid holiday peak
Dubai International (DXB) is bracing for a holiday surge unlike any other, with more than 3.6 million guests in total expected to pass through its terminals during the Eid travel peak from 26 March to 7 April. The busiest day of the period is forecast for Saturday, 5 April, when 309,000 guests are expected. Daily total traffic is set to average 276,000 guests, with the sharpest rise projected in the first week of April. Departures during the Eid week are anticipated to surge by 19% compared to average weekly volumes over the past month, reflecting a significant seasonal uplift. With schools breaking for spring, demand remains strong for key VFR (visiting friends and relatives) markets such as India, Pakistan, and the United Kingdom, alongside a notable rise in leisure travel, including an increase in traffic to Sri Lanka, Türkiye and Italy. To support smooth journeys during this peak period, Dubai Airports is urging guests to use the recently introduced DXB Express Maps, a smart wayfinding tool that provides real-time navigation across all terminals. By scanning a QR code displayed on any flight information screen, guests can locate their gate, browse the full array of dining and retail options, or find nearby facilities with ease. Dubai Airports is also ready with enhanced services for People of Determination (PoD) through clearly marked accessibility routes, discreet support for guests wearing Sunflower Lanyard from trained staff wearing Sunflower pins, and a dedicated Assisted Travel Lounge in Terminal 2.
Filipino Times
27-03-2025
- Filipino Times
Dubai International Airport prepares for Eid travel surge, 3.6M expected
UAE airports are gearing up for a major influx of travelers during the Eid holiday period. Dubai International (DXB) expects to have over 3.6 million passengers between now and April 7. The busiest day is projected to be April 5, when an estimated 309,000 guests will pass through its terminals. Daily passenger numbers are set to average 276,000, with the highest surge expected in the first week of April. Departures during Eid week are predicted to increase by 19% compared to recent weekly averages, reflecting heightened demand for travel during the festive break. Sharjah Airport has also announced full operational readiness to handle the surge in air traffic. The airport is set to receive over 500,000 passengers and operate 3,344 flights between March 27 and April 6, ensuring smooth operations for travelers flying in and out of the emirate. Popular destinations include India, Pakistan, and the United Kingdom, where many travelers are expected to visit family and friends. Additionally, leisure travel is seeing a notable increase, particularly to Sri Lanka, Turkey, and Italy. To help manage the high volume of passengers, Dubai Airports has introduced DXB Express Maps, a smart navigation tool that provides real-time directions. By scanning a QR code on flight information screens, passengers can easily locate gates, dining options, and other airport facilities. Special services for People of Determination (PoD) have also been enhanced, including designated accessibility routes, discreet assistance for Sunflower Lanyard wearers, and an Assisted Travel Lounge in Terminal 2. Trained staff will be available to offer additional support. Meanwhile, the Sharjah Airport Authority plans to deploy enough workers across all areas, particularly customer service departments. It will also use smart technologies that enable fast and efficient check-in procedures. Airports in the UAE are coordinating with airlines, service providers, and government authorities to ensure a smooth experience for travelers throughout the busy holiday season.
Hi Dubai
27-03-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
DXB Gears Up for Record-Breaking Eid Travel Surge
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is preparing for an unprecedented holiday rush, with over 3.6 million passengers expected to pass through its terminals during the Eid travel peak from March 26 to April 7. The airport's busiest day is forecast for Saturday, April 5, with a staggering 309,000 travelers. Daily passenger volumes are projected to average 276,000, with the sharpest spike anticipated in the first week of April. Departures during the Eid holiday are set to surge by 19% compared to the average weekly traffic over the past month, highlighting a significant seasonal uplift. The surge is driven by school breaks and heightened demand for travel to key destinations. Popular visiting friends and relatives (VFR) markets such as India, Pakistan, and the United Kingdom are seeing a rise in demand, alongside an uptick in leisure travel to Sri Lanka, Türkiye, and Italy. To ensure smooth operations, Dubai Airports is promoting the use of DXB Express Maps, a real-time smart navigation tool that helps travelers locate gates, dining options, and other facilities via a QR code scan on flight information screens. Dubai Airports is also enhancing accessibility for People of Determination (PoD) through designated routes, discreet assistance for guests wearing Sunflower Lanyards, and a dedicated Assisted Travel Lounge in Terminal 2. In collaboration with airlines, service providers, and government authorities, Dubai Airports is implementing comprehensive measures to manage the peak travel period efficiently, ensuring a seamless experience for all passengers. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Gulf Business
26-03-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Eid holidays in UAE: Dubai airport set to welcome 3.6m guests
Image credit: WAM Dubai International (DXB) is set to welcome more than 3.6 million guests in total, expected to pass through its terminals during the Eid travel peak. The peak is anticipated to last from 26 March to 7 April 2025, with the busiest day of the period forecast to be April 5, Saturday, when 309,000 guests are expected at the airport. Read- Daily traffic is expected to average 276,000 guests, with the sharpest rise projected in the first week of April. Departures during Eid week are also anticipated to increase by 19% compared to the average weekly volumes over the past month. This scenario also reflects a significant seasonal uplift. Reasons for the s urge in p assenger n umbers Strong demand is being witnessed in terms of visiting friends and relatives from countries such as India, Pakistan, and the United Kingdom, alongside a notable rise in leisure travel, including increased traffic to Sri Lanka, Turkey, and Italy. Advice from Dubai Airports Services p rovided by the a irport Dubai Airports also offers enhanced services for People of Determination (PoD) through clearly marked accessibility routes, discreet support for guests wearing the Sunflower Lanyard from trained staff wearing Sunflower pins, and a dedicated Assisted Travel Lounge in Terminal 2. Dubai Airports is taking multiple steps to ensure seamless guest flows across all touch points throughout the holiday period, working in collaboration with airlines, service and commercial partners, and government authorities.
