Latest news with #theUAE
Hi Dubai
3 days ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE Launches Future 50 Initiative to Boost Innovation and Economic Growth
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, has launched the 'UAE Future 50' initiative, spotlighting 50 cutting-edge Emirati startups driving the country's innovation and economic diversification efforts. The initiative, developed by the Government Development and the Future Office in collaboration with the Ministry of Economy, is part of the broader Riyada entrepreneurship ecosystem. It highlights ventures across 15 strategic sectors including fintech, healthtech, edtech, space, sustainability, smart mobility, and the creative industries. Sheikh Hamdan reaffirmed the UAE leadership's commitment to supporting national entrepreneurs and fostering a startup-friendly environment. He emphasized the role of Emirati innovators in shaping future industries and enhancing the UAE's global competitiveness, aligning with the long-term 'We the UAE 2031' vision. The launch event gathered government officials, business leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs, showcasing the selected startups and their contributions to the future economy. Emirati entrepreneur Faisal Belhoul delivered a keynote speech, underlining the importance of ambition, resilience, and innovation in entrepreneurship. Minister of State for Government Development and the Future Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi called the initiative a testament to the UAE's global leadership in future readiness. She highlighted its role in positioning national talent at the forefront of transformative sectors. Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy Abdullah Al Saleh added that the initiative will accelerate sustainable economic growth by empowering local talent and supporting ventures with high potential. Building on the success of the Future 100 programme, UAE Future 50 aims to nurture a thriving innovation ecosystem and inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs, reinforcing the nation's vision for a diversified and future-ready economy. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Web Release
21-05-2025
- Business
- Web Release
UAE highlights innovative use of technology in intellectual property protection at the International Trademark Association meeting
The UAE participated in the General Assembly meeting of the International Trademark Association (INTA), held in San Diego, USA. The discussions centered on the future of intellectual property (IP) amid rapid technological progress, particularly the role of modern innovations in reshaping IP rights protection. Key topics included the need to advance legal and regulatory frameworks to keep pace with ongoing developments in innovation and creativity landscapes. H.E. Abdelrahman Almuaini, Assistant Undersecretary for the Intellectual Property Rights Sector at the UAE Ministry of Economy, reaffirmed the UAE's strategic and proactive approach to enhancing IP protection systems through the adoption of latest technology. These efforts are in line with the nation's digital transformation vision and its ambition to become a global hub for innovation and talent. Dr. Al Muaini highlighted the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 as a milestone in the country's journey to leadership in AI field, boosting efficiency, performance, and sustainability in alignment with the 'We the UAE 2031' vision. He highlighted the Ministry of Economy's success in streamlining trademark and patent examination processes, accelerating procedures, and improving decision-making. Additionally, the UAE has developed a comprehensive system to strengthen IP rights protection, reduce violations, resolve disputes, and enhance services for trademark registration – supporting businesses in boosting their competitiveness locally, regionally, and globally. Dr. Al Muaini pointed out that 33,852 national and international trademark applications were filed in the UAE in 2024, marking a seven per cent increase compared to that of 2023. From 2020 to 2024, the total number of applications reached 135,932, demonstrating growing demand for IP protection in the country. The UAE has fostered strong partnerships with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and its regional offices, in addition to being a signatory to multiple international IP treaties. The Assistant Undersecretary emphasized the Ministry of Economy's continued collaboration with local, regional, and international entities to integrate AI technologies in managing patents, trademarks, industrial designs, and copyrights. Specialized training programs are also being conducted to equip professionals with AI-driven IP management tools. In his closing remarks, Dr. Al Muaini stressed the importance of advancing legal and ethical frameworks to match AI's rapid evolution, with a focus on transparency and data privacy. This ensures fairness and inclusivity in the global IP protection system. The International Trademark Association meeting serves as a vital forum for constructive dialogue among policymakers, legal experts, and industry leaders, aiming to build an equitable global system that fosters innovation while safeguarding creators' rights. Notably, the UAE will host the INTA General Assembly in 2029, becoming the first Middle Eastern country to do so. Additionally, the first INTA regional office will open in the UAE, underscoring the nation's leading role in shaping the future of IP globally.
Hi Dubai
20-05-2025
- Science
- Hi Dubai
FANR Advances Nuclear Safety and Emergency Readiness in UAE with Major 2024 Milestones
The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) has released its 2024 Annual Report, highlighting major strides in nuclear safety, emergency preparedness, and regulatory innovation across the United Arab Emirates. Aligned with the national 'We the UAE 2031' vision, FANR introduced two key initiatives: the Intelligent Operational Nuclear Safety (IONS) system, designed to bolster nuclear plant safety amid climate challenges, and TAHYAA, a nationwide programme to train nearly 3,000 first responders for nuclear and radiological emergencies. Throughout 2024, FANR reinforced its regulatory oversight at the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, conducting 20 safety inspections and certifying reactor operators. All four units of the plant are now fully operational, supplying 25% of the country's electricity. The authority also maintained rigorous control over radioactive sources and materials, completing over 250 security and safeguards inspections across medical, industrial, and transport sectors. Its Emergency Operations Centre participated in 18 national and international drills, including a joint nuclear emergency response exercise with Saudi Arabia. In a first for the GCC, FANR's Radiation Protection Committee launched a white paper on radiological research and development, underscoring the UAE's regional leadership in radiation safety and innovation. FANR continued to modernise its services under the Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme, appointed a Chief AI Officer to drive digital transformation, and prioritised Emirati talent development through training, scholarships, and leadership initiatives. Emiratis now make up 76% of its workforce, with women representing 45%. Internationally, FANR secured key roles with the IAEA and the United Nations Scientific Committee, while also receiving accolades for employee wellbeing and internal quality. The report reflects FANR's ongoing commitment to ensuring the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technology in the UAE. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Mid East Info
13-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Grandweld Shipyards to underline maritime innovation at ‘Make It In The Emirates Forum 2025' - Middle East Business News and Information
The company marks over 40 years of successful operations in the UAE The UAE's shipbuilding output is expected to reach USD 423.01 million in 2025, with a robust CAGR of 3.47 per cent from 2025 to 2029. The UAE's Offshore and Commercial Ship Repair market is estimated to reach USD 802.3 million by 2031. Grandweld Shipyards, a leading fully integrated shipyard within the maritime and offshore industries, will highlight cutting-edge ship design, shipbuilding, repair and conversion capabilities, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and technological advancement, at the ' Make It In The Emirates Forum 2025 ', taking place from May 19 to 22 at ADNEC, Abu Dhabi. This comes in response to the growing maritime activity and the increasing need for advanced local capabilities, as the UAE's strategic location and pivotal role in global trade continue to drive demand across the sector. According to industry forecasts, the UAE's shipbuilding output is expected to amount to USD 423.01 million in 2025, with a robust CAGR of 3.47 per cent from 2025 to 2029, while the country's Offshore and Commercial Ship Repair market is estimated to reach USD 802.3 million by 2031, reflecting the immense growth and value creation potential within the sector. Grandweld's continued investment in innovation and sustainability positions it as a key contributor to the UAE's ambition of becoming a global maritime powerhouse. The company aims to support and strengthen the UAE's growing maritime infrastructure by delivering future-ready ship design, shipbuilding, and repair solutions, in line with its steadfast commitment to the 'We the UAE 2031' vision. At the forum, a diverse portfolio of vessels across key sectors such as Oil and Gas, Military, Tugs, Ports and Harbours, Autonomous Vessels, Passenger Transportation, and Crew Boats will be showcased by the company. Jamal Al Abki, General Manager of Grandweld Shipyards, said: 'We are eager to engage with industry leaders at the Make It In The Emirates Forum . The event will enable us to highlight the UAE's position of not just as a manufacturing hub, but as a centre of innovation, particularly in complex, performance-driven industries like shipbuilding.' 'The UAE government's continued investment in expanding ports, shipyards and maritime infrastructure has been a key catalyst in the growth of the country's shipbuilding and repair industry. Major ports like Jebel Ali and Khalifa Port have undergone significant transformation to handle larger vessels and enhance trade efficiency. At Grandweld, our shipyard is designed to address these dynamic demands of the global maritime sector, with a strong focus on adopting advanced technologies and sustainable solutions', he added With detailed models, immersive videos and interactive displays, visitors will gain valuable insights into Grandweld's legacy in world-class shipbuilding, maintenance and conversion for regional and international clients. Grandweld Shipyards also marks over 40 years of successful operations in the UAE, and the company continues to shape the future of maritime excellence through its focus on local manufacturing, cutting-edge technology and international partnerships. Having placed innovation and sustainability at the core of its operations, Grandweld's cutting-edge infrastructure and a strong emphasis on eco-friendly practices further exemplify the principles championed by the 'Make it in the Emirates' initiative. Through its participation, the shipyard reaffirms its dedication to advancing the UAE's transition toward a cleaner, smarter and more resilient industrial economy. The company will be present at the Summit at booth C3- 23 concourse to highlight and engage in conversations on sustainability and technological advancement. About Grandweld: Established in 1984, Grandweld is a leading fully integrated shipyard based in Dubai, specializing in ship design shipbuilding, repair, conversion, and engineering solutions for the offshore and marine sectors, globally. The company benefits from unparalleled connectivity and access to global markets, enabling it to serve an international clientele with excellence. The company is highly skilled in designing and constructing a diverse range of offshore vessels, including both steel and aluminium crafts. It's aluminium-hulled range primarily features crew boats, CTVs, FSIVs, Pilot Boats, Patrol Boats, security boats, and fast ferries, while the steel-hulled vessels include OSVs, AHTS, DSVs, Hybrid Seismic Support Vessels, Escort Tugs, Harbour Tugs, workboats, and Crane Workboats. Other range of offerings include – conversion projects, fabrication services, green-tech services, surface treatment services, mechanical services, machining services, propulsion services, electrical and outfitting services, interior outfitting and joinery services. In addition to fostering strategic, long-term partnerships with its customers, Grandweld leads the way in the development of a more environmentally friendly and sustainable marine sector.
Mid East Info
08-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Ministry of Economy introduces geographical indications for national products enhancing their competitiveness in global markets
Four national products included in the first phase of the initiative The Ministry of Economy announced the launch of the geographical indications (GI) system for national products – the first-of-its-kind federal initiative designed to safeguard local products with unique features and characteristics that originate from specific geographical regions in the UAE. The initiative aims to enhance the intellectual property (IP) protection framework for products with national identity and unlock new opportunities for UAE's industries in global markets. The launch event was organized by the Ministry in the presence of His Excellency Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan, Deputy Chief of Police in Dubai, and His Excellency Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, Dubai Municipality's Food Safety Department, Ras Al Khaimah Department of Economic Development, the General Women's Union, and the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi. It was attended by over 200 participants, including senior officials, experts, specialists, and representatives from government and private sector entities, along with the local community and various institutions concerned with IP protection and sustainable development in the country. Intellectual property protection & legislative development as a national priority: The UAE, guided by its wise leadership's vision, has adopted an ambitious vision to solidify its position as a global hub for the new economy based on knowledge and innovation, in line with the 'We the UAE 2031' vision. The UAE has made IP protection and development of its legislation a national priority, serving as a key enabler for a creative and sustainable economy. the launch of the GI system reflects the country's commitment to protecting the cultural identity of UAE products, promoting them globally, converting them into economic assets that contribute to developing local communities and enhancing economic diversification. The UAE continues to reinforce its IP legislative framework to enhance the competitiveness of the national economy in line with global best practices. A special chapter on geographical indications has been added to the trademark law, outlining mechanisms for their registration and protection, preserving the national identity of products and enhancing their competitiveness locally and internationally. The launch of national products with geographical indication is a new milestone in offering comprehensive protection for trademarks related to geographic environments and national products that carry cultural and local identity. It unlocks new avenues for their growth and achieves the integration of economic, knowledge-based, and heritage-driven aspects. GI tagging is an effective tool for elevating the value of UAE products in regional and global markets as it sets them apart. It also plays a key role in supporting agricultural and artisanal products, preserving traditional knowledge and boosting consumer confidence. The Ministry of Economy developed this initiative in collaboration with specialized national entities, following a comprehensive approach that enhances flexibility of implementation and ensures the participation of local communities and producers in the development process. The Ministry will continue to expand the scope of GI registrations to cover new categories of eligible artisanal and food products, boosting their value in target markets. Four products with UAE GI tag in the first phase: Four national products included in the first phase of GI tagging were announced during the launch event. Efforts are currently underway to register and protect these products within the framework of the new system. These include: honey from the Hatta region, known for its superior quality owing to the mountainous environment and traditional production practices; ceramics from the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, known for its long legacy in craftsmanship and handcrafts as one of the emirate's most prominent exports; Dabbas dates from the Al Dhafra region, which carry an authentic agricultural character and distinguished reputation; and traditional palm frond products crafted across various emirates, reflecting the UAE's authentic artisanal heritage. The product registration service will be fully available online through the official website of the Ministry of Economy, which will begin accepting applications for GI registration from both within the country and abroad. The process will adhere to approved guidelines and standards that take into account the geographical, natural, and traditional attributes of each product. Currently, the Ministry is reviewing 25 additional products, including 13 food items and 12 handicraft products, in preparation for their registration. By the end of this year, the total number of products covered by the service is expected to reach six. The registration of national products under the new GI system opens up broader export opportunities for them. The initiative aligns with the country's efforts to promote tourism in unique destinations, achieve resource sustainability, and build a global reputation for national products, thereby reinforcing the strength and resilience of the national economy. The event featured two panel discussions: the first highlighted several leading global experiences in GI tagging national products, while the second showcased successful national models that demonstrate the quality of GI tagged products and its positive impact on promotion, export, and national reputation. The Ministry of Economy also honored the initiative's partners during the event in appreciation of their efforts and active role in the development of the system. New system supports the country's efforts in achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals: The new GI system stands out as an effective tool that advances the country's efforts to foster both individual and institutional innovation, while protecting intellectual property rights in the UAE in line with the nation's broader aspirations to achieve the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this regard, the protection of national products through GI tagging contributes to achieving Goal 8, which focuses on 'Decent Work and Economic Growth,' by stimulating local production, creating sustainable job opportunities, and increasing the economic value of products. It also supports the achievement of Goal 9 related to 'Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure,' as it enhances the development of value chains in both traditional and modern industries, promotes innovation in production methods, and contributes to building a knowledge-based and quality-driven economy. The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in its World Intellectual Property Indicators report 2024 noted that there are more than 58,600 active geographical indications worldwide as of 2023. Europe led the way, accounting for 52.5% of registered geographical indications globally, followed by Asia with 39.5%. Trademarks law provides comprehensive protection for GI in the UAE: The UAE's Trademarks Law provides comprehensive protection for geographical indications, recognizing them as a form of trademark linked to a specific geographic origin that grants the product unique characteristics and distinctive quality. The law allows the registration of geographical indications as a legal right, ensuring their IP ownership and preventing their misuse by others in ways that could mislead consumers or tarnish the reputation of original products, provided they are protected in their country of origin. The law protects registered products from imitation, counterfeiting, or any unauthorized use, including any misleading presentation or labeling that suggests a false geographic origin, as such actions negatively impact consumer awareness and the rights of producers. Additionally, the law prohibits the use of geographical indications in contexts deemed as unfair competition, in accordance with the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property and the international agreements applicable in the country, ensuring that national legislations align with global best practices in this field. According to the Trademarks Law, a GI tagged product refers to any product originating from a WTO member country or a specific area or location within that region, where the product's quality, reputation, or other characteristics are primarily attributable to its geographic origin. GI tags serve as a strategic tool to support Emirati products, help protect the nation's identity and cultural heritage and solidify the UAE's position on the global stage. They represent a link between the past and the present, contributing to economic sustainability by supporting traditional industries and local projects. GI tagging also plays a crucial role in supporting entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by providing sustainable economic opportunities, distinguishing their products in local and international markets, and contributing to the diversification of the national economy.
