Latest news with #WAM
Al Etihad
25 minutes ago
- Politics
- Al Etihad
New casualties in Gaza's Khan Younis amid UN warnings of child crisis
31 May 2025 09:14 GAZA (WAM)At least 13 Palestinians, including children and women, were killed on Friday in an Israeli attack on Khan Younis in the southern Gaza reported that Israeli drones targeted a tent sheltering displaced people in the Al-Mawasi area of northern Khan Younis, resulting in the deaths of 13 civilians, including at least three children and several women. Another woman was reportedly shot dead in the to Palestinian medical sources, the ongoing Israeli offensive on the Gaza Strip has raised the total death toll to 54,321, with 123,770 injured since October 7, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) revealed that more than 50,000 Palestinian children have been killed or injured since October 2023, averaging one child every 20 a statement, UNICEF said that since the end of the ceasefire on March 18, 1,309 children have been killed and 3,738 organisation renewed its call to end the violence, protect civilians—including children—uphold international humanitarian and human rights law, ensure the immediate delivery of humanitarian aid, and release all the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) warned that Gaza is in urgent need of continuous humanitarian assistance. It confirmed that its warehouses in Amman hold enough supplies to feed more than 200,000 people for a criticised the current US-backed aid distribution system, describing it as deeply flawed and forcing residents to travel long distances, thereby risking what it called a 'second Nakba' due to potential forced displacement. UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini described the system as 'a waste of resources and a distraction from the atrocities', calling for unrestricted access for humanitarian organisations to operate freely.
Al Etihad
10 hours ago
- Politics
- Al Etihad
UAE President receives phone call from Azerbaijani President
30 May 2025 23:33 ABU DHABI (WAM) President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Friday received a phone call from His Excellency Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of the call, the two leaders discussed bilateral relations and explored opportunities to enhance cooperation, particularly in economic, investment and development sectors, as well as other areas aligned with their shared development emphasised the importance of expanding joint efforts to serve the mutual interests of both countries and their call also addressed a number of regional and international issues of common concern, with both sides exchanging views on the latest Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed extended his congratulations to President Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of Azerbaijan's National Day, wishing the country and its people continued progress and prosperity. President Aliyev thanked His Highness for the kind gesture and reaffirmed the strong ties between the two countries, expressing his commitment to further deepening cooperation across all fields.
Al Etihad
13 hours ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
Seamless departure in 12 minutes: UAE airports set global benchmark in digital efficiency
ABU DHABI (WAM) Selim Bouri, President for the Middle East and Africa (MEA) at SITA, a global leader in air transport IT and communications, has confirmed that airports in the UAE, particularly those in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have established new global benchmarks in innovation, efficiency and passenger experience. He noted the country's clear commitment to digitalisation and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, particularly in light of the increasing challenge of managing growing passenger volumes. In remarks to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Bouri explained that SITA works closely with UAE airports to understand their unique needs and opportunities, providing tailored technology solutions, pointing to the implementation of the Smart Travel system at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi—a fully integrated platform for biometric identity processing. This system, he noted, reduces congestion and waiting times while enhancing airport capacity to handle the rising number of international flights. Zayed International Airport experienced strong growth in flight traffic in 2024, making it essential to adopt digital solutions to meet this surge. Bouri described the airport's experience as a testament to the value of advanced biometric processing, highlighting that since the opening of its new terminal in November 2023, the airport has processed over one million passengers using facial recognition. This has created a unique digital identity for each traveller, enabling a seamless journey from check-in to departure—including border control—in under 12 minutes. The success of the Smart Travel system at Zayed International Airport, he added, paves the way for its adoption at other airports across the UAE. On future technologies passengers can expect at UAE airports, Bouri said that the country's travel experience is increasingly powered by smart solutions that provide efficiency and convenience. He revealed plans to expand biometric processing across airport checkpoints, delivering a fully contactless passenger experience. Self-service technologies, he said, will be a core focus area in the coming years. These include self-check-in kiosks, automated baggage drop services, and smart boarding gates, all aimed at reducing congestion and streamlining travel procedures. Cybersecurity also remains a top priority within the UAE's airport digital strategies. Bouri emphasised that smart innovations will play a key role in boosting efficiency, minimising waiting times, enhancing safety and reinforcing the UAE's status as a leader in smart, integrated airport systems. He added that the coming decade will witness a significant increase in the deployment of next-generation communication technologies within airports. This will create a highly integrated smart airport ecosystem and flight operation network. Bouri discussed the impact of 5G networks on enabling seamless device-to-device communication, benefitting passengers, systems and operations through improved ground connectivity. He also pointed to future support for sixth-generation network technologies and advanced wireless internet services. Airports, airlines and governments in the Middle East, known for their leadership in innovation, are investing heavily in the latest technologies to enhance passenger experience and streamline airport operations. These include biometric processing systems and e-gates backed by strategic initiatives and major investments. Addressing the role of artificial intelligence and big data in improving flight management and reducing delays, Bouri explained that although airports, airlines and partners generate vast amounts of data, it is not always fully understood or leveraged. Over the next decade, he said, future-ready airports will increasingly rely on big data, predictive analytics and advanced platforms to achieve peak operational efficiency. The growing role of AI and robotics, he clarified, does not eliminate the human factor but rather fosters smart collaboration between people and technology. Bouri concluded that the next decade will see AI extend to more sectors, enhancing flight scheduling, personalised communication with passengers, operations centre support, predictive maintenance, multilingual assistance, automated baggage handling and reduced fuel consumption for autonomous vehicles. AI will also be used by airports and governments to improve security screening and increase the accuracy of threat detection.
Khaleej Times
13 hours ago
- General
- Khaleej Times
UAE waives residency, tourist visa fines for Sudanese until end of 2025
Sudanese in the UAE will be exempt from all fines related to residence and entry permits, starting May 19, 2025, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced. According to the ICP, the exemption will remain in effect until December 31, 2025. Sudanese expats with outstanding fines are encouraged to regularise their status by submitting renewal applications through the authority's digital platforms. The procedures will be made flexible to facilitate the process. The decision comes as part of the UAE's efforts to ease the humanitarian impact of the ongoing crisis in Sudan and reflects the country's commitment to supporting affected communities. ICP noted that it aligns with national efforts to strengthen social and humanitarian well-being for UAE residents. The UAE has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting a civilian-led political solution in Sudan, aimed at protecting innocent lives and preventing further humanitarian suffering. Over the past two years, the UAE has made sincere efforts to promote peace in the country. In contrast, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have repeatedly obstructed these initiatives and have now severed diplomatic ties with the UAE — despite the International Court of Justice recently dismissing their "fabricated accusations," according WAM. The UAE reiterated its firm stance in favour of Sudan's people and their right to civilian governance, stressing that it does not support or contribute to the killing or displacement of civilians. Furthermore, the UAE rejected the legitimacy of decisions made by authorities in Port Sudan, asserting they do not represent the Sudanese people or a legitimate government. It also stated that the remarks by the so-called Security and Defence Council would not impact the deep and historic ties between the UAE and the Sudanese people.
Al Etihad
14 hours ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
UAE wins presidency of General Assembly of UN-Habitat
30 May 2025 19:52 ABU DHABI (WAM)The UAE has achieved a new diplomatic milestone by winning, for the first time, the presidency of the General Assembly of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and securing membership in its Executive unprecedented achievement was shared with the Republic of Malaysia, following a highly competitive election during the Assembly meetings being held in Nairobi, international recognition reaffirms the UAE's leading role in supporting sustainable urban development, housing initiatives, and advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).The UN-Habitat General Assembly, composed of 193 member states, is the programme's highest decision-making body. It is responsible for guiding global policies aimed at improving living conditions in cities and enhancing the quality of life in urban this occasion, Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, expressed his pride and honour in this international achievement, which adds to the UAE's distinguished record of emphasised that the UAE's election as President of the UN-Habitat General Assembly is a recognition of its significant efforts, guided by the vision of its wise leadership, in establishing the nation as a comprehensive model for adequate housing and sustainable urban Mazrouei said, 'This remarkable achievement reflects the vision and directives of the UAE's wise leadership, which has made housing and urban development a strategic priority, recognising it as a fundamental pillar for social stability and quality of life. The leadership has directed efforts toward providing an integrated housing environment that ensures well-being and dignity for all citizens and residents. It has also launched numerous national initiatives and programs that have contributed to developing a modern housing system and offering innovative and sustainable solutions to meet the needs of various segments of society.'He added, 'The Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme stands as a prominent example of this integrated national vision. Since its establishment in 1999, the programme has successfully enhanced family stability, met the demand for government housing, and provided decent housing for Emirati citizens. Through this victory, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to continue contributing to global housing and urban planning efforts. The country will work to deepen cooperation with all 193 member states of the General Assembly, with the goal of developing sustainable, inclusive cities that are capable of meeting future challenges.'He affirmed that the UAE will leverage this leadership role to support the implementation of Goal 11 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which focuses on 'making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.'He also pointed out that the joint presidency with Malaysia and membership in the UN-Habitat Executive Board will open new avenues for strengthening dialogue among member states and for exchanging the best international experiences and practices. He stressed that the UAE will lead joint efforts to promote innovation in urban housing and to present pioneering models for addressing the challenges of rapid urban growth and climate Minister continued, 'We will continue working with member states, civil society organisations, and the private sector to develop clear visions and innovative action plans that meet the needs of global communities and provide adequate and safe housing for all people. We consider this responsibility a great honour and an opportunity to further enhance the UAE's international record.'He added, 'We will work hand in hand with all international partners to embed the principles of sustainable urban development and lead global efforts toward urban transformation, aiming to create a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable living environment for all.'For his part, Eng Mohamed Al Mansouri, Director-General of Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, said, 'This achievement is a true reflection of the UAE's dedicated efforts in developing a sustainable and smart urban housing system. The Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme remains one of the most vital national pillars that has strengthened the UAE's global standing in this field by offering innovative housing solutions that meet the highest standards of quality and environmental and social sustainability.'Al Mansouri also extended his appreciation to the national team from the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy in Nairobi, for their outstanding efforts over the past three and a half years, which began with the candidacy file and culminated in successfully securing international support for key UN-Habitat leadership added, 'We are fully geared to enhance cooperation with member states and share the UAE's pioneering experience in building integrated urban communities characterised by diversity and innovation, in line with our leadership's vision for achieving sustainable development.' He further noted that the UAE's presidency of the UN-Habitat General Assembly will bolster its status as an influential international partner in shaping future urban policies and support the country's drive to maintain momentum in sustainable development efforts both regionally and globally.
