Latest news with #Emiratis
Al Etihad
4 hours ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
ACTVET to host Skills Camp programme to enhance national capabilities
28 June 2025 13:09 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)The Abu Dhabi Centre for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (ACTVET) is launching the Skills Camp programme, which will take place from June 30 to July 24 in Abu Dhabi, Al Dhafra, and Al initiative aims to enhance and develop technical and vocational skills among UAE Nationals across different age Skills Camp offers a wide range of courses and workshops across 19 technical and vocational skill areas. The programme is designed for Emiratis, targeting school and university students, along with various other segments of the camp will be held at ACTVET's educational institutions and will be conducted under the guidance of experts in technical and vocational education and training, ensuring a dynamic and enriching learning initiative reflects the centre's commitment to developing national capabilities and strengthening citizens' skills in line with global standards, thereby supporting the country's sustainable economic development programme is held during both summer and winter breaks, offering participants a valuable opportunity to acquire new skills and enhance their professional capabilities in an inspiring educational programme will be held from June 30 to July 24 across four locations including Abu Dhabi – Applied Technology Schools, Mohammed Bin Zayed Campus, Abu Dhabi – Applied Technology Schools, Baniyas Campus, Al Ain Region – Applied Technology Schools, Al Aqabiya Campus, and Al Dhafra Region – Applied Technology Schools, Baynounah programme will be open to juniors enrolled in Grades 6 to 9, seniors enrolled in Grades 10 to 12, university students, and to adults aged 24 years and line with the Year of Community, the programme has been expanded to include elementary-level children enrolled in Grades 3 to 5 across three skill areas. Skills options will include Health & Social Care, Industrial Control, Industrial Design Technology, IT Software, Solutions for Business, Mechanical Engineering CAD, Painting & Decorating, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, Renewable Energy, Website Technologies, Welding, 3D Designing & Printing, Automobile Technology, Autonomous Mobile Robotics, Car Painting, CNC Milling, CNC Turning, Smart Home Automation, Electronics and Graphic Design Technology. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Time of India
19 hours ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Who are the ‘Justice and Dignity' and Al Islah groups the UAE just sentenced to life?
The UAE Supreme Court has confirmed the verdict in the Justice and Dignity case. Twenty-four individuals are sentenced to life. They are guilty of working with the Justice and Dignity group. They also funded the Al Islah group. Both groups are banned in the UAE. Authorities are seizing assets linked to these offences. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Who are the Justice and Dignity Group? About the Al Islah (Reform) Group Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads The UAE Supreme Court on June 26 issued a ruling in the high-profile 'Justice and Dignity Terrorist Organisation' case, partially overturning a previous verdict by the Abu Dhabi Federal Court of Appeals. The court found 24 individuals guilty and sentenced them to life defendants were convicted of collaborating with the terrorist group "Justice and Dignity" and of financing the outlawed "Al Islah (Reform) Group," which Emirati authorities associate with the Muslim organisations are banned in the UAE for attempting to destabilise the addition to the prison sentences, the court ordered the seizure of all funds, assets, and materials connected to the two offences. Authorities said these actions are part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terror funding networks within the latest decision follows a previous July 10, 2023, ruling in which the Abu Dhabi Federal Court of Appeals' State Security Division convicted six companies and 53 individuals tied to the same case. That verdict included punishments ranging from fines of up to Dh20 million to life 'Justice and Dignity' group is considered a terrorist organisation by the Emirati authorities. It has been linked to the 2013 mass trial of 94 Emiratis accused of forming a secret organisation aimed at undermining state 2023, the group reappeared in legal proceedings as part of a broader case targeting individuals allegedly involved in subversive activities. According to the UAE government, this group sought to revive networks tied to political Islam and promote agendas aligned with extremist rights organisations, however, have criticised the trials involving this group for lacking due process and 'Al Islah (Reform) Group' is the Emirati branch of the Muslim Brotherhood, a transnational Islamist organisation banned in the UAE and several other Arab in the 1970s, Al Islah initially operated openly, focusing on education and religious outreach. However, by the 1990s, UAE authorities dissolved the group's formal presence, and in 2014, it was officially designated a terrorist government has accused Al Islah of attempting to seize power, promote extremist ideas, and maintain ties with foreign Brotherhood of its members have faced long prison terms for allegedly plotting against the state and accepting foreign funding to support their activities.
Sharjah 24
a day ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Mohammed bin Rashid: UAE in top 7 for tourist spending
GDP The sector contributed AED257.3 billion (US$70.1 billion) to the national GDP, accounting for 13% of the economy. This marks a 3.2% increase from 2023 and a remarkable 26% growth compared to 2019, one of the highest growth rates globally and regionally in terms of tourism's contribution to economic development. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, praised the sector's achievements, stating, 'In a new indicator of the strength and diversity of our national economy, the WTTC report highlights the exceptional achievements of the UAE tourism sector. International visitor spending exceeded AED217 billion last year, with domestic tourism expenditure reaching AED57 billion. The UAE ranks among the world's top seven destinations for international tourist spending, surpassing countries that have been in this industry for centuries.' He added, 'We welcome tourists, delight in attracting investors, embrace talent, and build the best environment for living, tourism, and visitation. Welcome to the world.' Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council, emphasised that the UAE has placed tourism at the heart of its strategy to drive economic diversification and sustainable growth. He credited the nation's success to proactive initiatives and strategic tourism plans that have positioned the UAE as a unique and attractive global destination. These efforts include strengthening infrastructure across the seven emirates, enhancing the appeal of tourism-related investments, and showcasing the country's rich cultural and experiential diversity. Significant improvements in airport and travel infrastructure have also contributed to the country's elevated standing in global travel and tourism. UAE achieved a historic milestone in the tourism sector Al Marri also noted, 'Just days ago, the UAE achieved a historic milestone in the tourism sector with the election of Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). Today's WTTC results reaffirm the wisdom of our leadership's vision in enhancing the competitiveness of our tourism sector, creating employment opportunities for Emiratis, and further cementing our position as a global tourism powerhouse.' 'These achievements underscore that the UAE tourism sector is confidently progressing toward the goals set out in the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031. The strategy aims to increase the sector's contribution to the national GDP to AED450 billion and raise the number of hotel guests to 40 million annually by the next decade.' He noted that national efforts are ongoing to develop a fully integrated tourism ecosystem, guided by international best practices. These efforts include strengthening engagement with key regional and international tourism markets, expanding the range of tourism offerings, and enhancing service quality to provide comprehensive and enriching experiences for visitors from around the world. 'These initiatives are in line with the UAE vision We the UAE 2031, and they aim to elevate the country's status as one of the world's leading tourism destinations in the coming decade,' he concluded. UAE continues to assert its position as one of the world's leading travel destinations Regarding international tourism, the WTTC report highlighted that the UAE continues to assert its position as one of the world's leading travel destinations. In 2024, the country welcomed international visitors from a diverse range of key markets, including India: 14%, United Kingdom: 8%, Russia: 8%, China: 5%, Saudi Arabia: 5%, and rest of the world: 60%. This broad geographical distribution reflects the UAE's growing global appeal and the effectiveness of its flexible and inclusive tourism policies in attracting a wide array of visitors. UAE reached AED217.3 billion (US$59.2 billion) in 2024 The report further revealed that international visitor spending in the UAE reached AED217.3 billion (US$59.2 billion) in 2024, marking a 5.8% increase from 2023 and a 30.4% rise compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Meanwhile, domestic tourism spending also witnessed strong growth, reaching AED57.6 billion (US$15.7 billion) in 2024, an increase of 2.4% over 2023 and a remarkable 41% rise compared to 2019. These figures underscore both the resilience and upward momentum of the UAE's tourism sector across international and domestic fronts, further solidifying its position as a premier global destination. The WTTC report projects that international visitor spending in the UAE will rise by 5.2% in 2025, reaching approximately AED228.5 billion. Meanwhile, domestic tourism spending is expected to grow by 4.3%, hitting AED60 billion by the end of the year. The report also highlighted that leisure tourism accounted for 84.7% of total tourism expenditure in the UAE in 2024, while business tourism represented 15.3%. This demonstrates the sector's adaptability and its ability to balance both recreational and commercial tourism demands. Moreover, the breakdown of spending showed that 79% of total tourism expenditure came from international visitors, while 21% was attributed to domestic tourists. The report further emphasised that despite the UAE's rapid tourism sector growth, the country has remained firmly committed to environmental standards and sustainability goals. In 2023, carbon emissions linked to tourism activities accounted for only 13.3% of the nation's total emissions, reflecting the UAE's strategic focus on integrating sustainability across its tourism landscape. Aligns with the UAE's broader vision to promote sustainable practices across all sectors This performance aligns with the UAE's broader vision to promote sustainable practices across all sectors — ensuring that tourism growth goes hand-in-hand with environmental responsibility and long-term ecological balance. On the social front, the report highlighted that women accounted for 16.3% of the direct workforce in the UAE's travel and tourism sector in 2023. Additionally, youth aged 15–24 years made up 9.7% of the total employment in the sector, reflecting its growing role in empowering both women and younger generations within the national labour market. From a fiscal perspective, the tourism and travel sector generated US$8.6 billion in tax revenues in 2023, representing 5.4% of total government revenues. This underscores the sector's increasing financial significance and its vital contribution to the country's public treasury. On the global level, the report stated that the travel and tourism sector contributed US$10.9 trillion to the global GDP in 2024, representing 10% of the world economy. This reflects an 8.5% increase compared to 2023 and a 6% rise compared 2019. Looking ahead, the sector's contribution is projected to reach US$11.7 trillion in 2025, which would mark a 6.7% increase over 2024 and a 13% growth over 2019, underscoring the sustained recovery and expansion of global tourism. The report also highlighted the sector's robust role in job creation, with 356.6 million jobs generated worldwide in 2024, accounting for 10.6% of total global employment. This represents a 6.2% increase from 2023 and a 5.6% increase from 2019.
Time of India
a day ago
- Business
- Time of India
3 days left: UAE private sector must meet 1% Emirati workforce target by July 1
Starting July 1, MoHRE will check if companies have met Emiratisation targets and fine Dh9,000 per month for each Emirati position left unfilled/ (Representenational Image) Private sector companies in the UAE employing 50 or more workers have until Monday, July 1, 2025, to meet the mid-year Emiratisation targets, according to a final reminder issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). The directive urges companies to ensure that at least 1% of their skilled workforce comprises Emiratis for the first half of the year, part of the UAE's strategic national plan to increase Emirati participation in the private sector. Starting July 1, MoHRE will begin comprehensive compliance checks, verifying whether: Hired Emiratis are registered with approved pension funds Monthly contributions to those funds are being paid correctly Companies failing to meet the target will incur financial penalties of Dh9,000 per month for each Emirati not hired according to the quota. Record Progress and New Expectations The UAE has seen record-breaking progress in its Emiratisation efforts. As of end-April 2025, over 136,000 Emiratis were employed in the private sector across 28,000 companies, marking a historic milestone, the ministry noted. Farida Al Ali, Assistant Undersecretary for National Talent Empowerment at MoHRE, highlighted the strong collaboration between the private sector and Emiratisation initiatives, especially the Nafis platform, which links companies with qualified Emirati job seekers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Paras Sector 59 Gurgaon | Paras Floret Low-Rise Flats Paras The Florett Book Now Undo 'The private sector's positive response has yielded record-breaking results in this vital national file,' Farida said, reaffirming the ministry's confidence in further progress. Incentives for Compliant Companies Companies demonstrating exceptional Emiratisation performance will receive a range of government incentives, including: Membership in the Emiratisation Partners Club Up to 80% discounts on MoHRE service fees Priority in government procurement contracts These incentives are designed to further boost national workforce integration and reward firms contributing meaningfully to the Emiratisation mandate. Strict Oversight and Reporting Channels MoHRE has warned that non-compliant practices, including falsifying Emiratisation data or fake employment records, will be met with strict administrative and financial penalties. The ministry uses advanced digital tools and field inspections to monitor compliance and has already penalised several companies for violations. Companies or individuals can report violations through the MoHRE mobile app, the official MoHRE website, or by calling the contact centre at 600590000. Separate Requirement for Smaller Firms MoHRE also reminded smaller firms with 20 to 49 employees that they are required to hire at least one Emirati before December 31, 2025. This rule applies to more than 12,000 companies operating in 14 key economic sectors, including: Information and communications Financial services Healthcare Real estate Manufacturing Transportation and logistics Hospitality Education Electronic notifications have already been sent, and companies are expected to act promptly.
Gulf Today
a day ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Global visitors to UAE spent Dhs217 billion in 2024, says Sheikh Mohammed
A recent report by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) revealed that the UAE's travel and tourism sector delivered an exceptional performance in 2024. The sector contributed Dhs257.3 billion ($70.1 billion) to the national GDP, accounting for 13% of the economy. This marks a 3.2% increase from 2023 and a remarkable 26% growth compared to 2019, one of the highest growth rates globally and regionally in terms of tourism's contribution to economic development. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, praised the sector's achievements, stating, "In a new indicator of the strength and diversity of our national economy, the WTTC report highlights the exceptional achievements of the UAE tourism sector. International visitor spending exceeded Dhs217 billion last year, with domestic tourism expenditure reaching Dhs57 billion. The UAE ranks among the world's top seven destinations for international tourist spending, surpassing countries that have been in this industry for centuries." He added, "We welcome tourists, delight in attracting investors, embrace talent, and build the best environment for living, tourism, and visitation. Welcome to the world." Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council, emphasised that the UAE has placed tourism at the heart of its strategy to drive economic diversification and sustainable growth. He credited the nation's success to proactive initiatives and strategic tourism plans that have positioned the UAE as a unique and attractive global destination. These efforts include strengthening infrastructure across the seven emirates, enhancing the appeal of tourism-related investments, and showcasing the country's rich cultural and experiential diversity. Significant improvements in airport and travel infrastructure have also contributed to the country's elevated standing in global travel and tourism. Al Marri also noted, "Just days ago, the UAE achieved a historic milestone in the tourism sector with the election of Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). Today's WTTC results reaffirm the wisdom of our leadership's vision in enhancing the competitiveness of our tourism sector, creating employment opportunities for Emiratis, and further cementing our position as a global tourism powerhouse." "These achievements underscore that the UAE tourism sector is confidently progressing toward the goals set out in the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031. The strategy aims to increase the sector's contribution to the national GDP to DHS450 billion and raise the number of hotel guests to 40 million annually by the next decade." He noted that national efforts are ongoing to develop a fully integrated tourism ecosystem, guided by international best practices. These efforts include strengthening engagement with key regional and international tourism markets, expanding the range of tourism offerings, and enhancing service quality to provide comprehensive and enriching experiences for visitors from around the world. "These initiatives are in line with the UAE vision We the UAE 2031, and they aim to elevate the country's status as one of the world's leading tourism destinations in the coming decade," he concluded. Regarding international tourism, the WTTC report highlighted that the UAE continues to assert its position as one of the world's leading travel destinations. In 2024, the country welcomed international visitors from a diverse range of key markets, including India: 14%, United Kingdom: 8%, Russia: 8%, China: 5%, Saudi Arabia: 5%, and rest of the world: 60%. This broad geographical distribution reflects the UAE's growing global appeal and the effectiveness of its flexible and inclusive tourism policies in attracting a wide array of visitors. The report further revealed that international visitor spending in the UAE reached Dhs217.3 billion ($59.2 billion) in 2024, marking a 5.8% increase from 2023 and a 30.4% rise compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Meanwhile, domestic tourism spending also witnessed strong growth, reaching Dhs57.6 billion ($15.7 billion) in 2024, an increase of 2.4% over 2023 and a remarkable 41% rise compared to 2019. These figures underscore both the resilience and upward momentum of the UAE's tourism sector across international and domestic fronts, further solidifying its position as a premier global destination. The WTTC report projects that international visitor spending in the UAE will rise by 5.2% in 2025, reaching approximately Dhs228.5 billion. Meanwhile, domestic tourism spending is expected to grow by 4.3%, hitting DHS60 billion by the end of the year. The report also highlighted that leisure tourism accounted for 84.7% of total tourism expenditure in the UAE in 2024, while business tourism represented 15.3%. This demonstrates the sector's adaptability and its ability to balance both recreational and commercial tourism demands. Moreover, the breakdown of spending showed that 79% of total tourism expenditure came from international visitors, while 21% was attributed to domestic tourists. The report further emphasised that despite the UAE's rapid tourism sector growth, the country has remained firmly committed to environmental standards and sustainability goals. In 2023, carbon emissions linked to tourism activities accounted for only 13.3% of the nation's total emissions, reflecting the UAE's strategic focus on integrating sustainability across its tourism landscape. This performance aligns with the UAE's broader vision to promote sustainable practices across all sectors - ensuring that tourism growth goes hand-in-hand with environmental responsibility and long-term ecological balance. On the social front, the report highlighted that women accounted for 16.3% of the direct workforce in the UAE's travel and tourism sector in 2023. Additionally, youth aged 15-24 years made up 9.7% of the total employment in the sector, reflecting its growing role in empowering both women and younger generations within the national labour market. From a fiscal perspective, the tourism and travel sector generated $8.6 billion in tax revenues in 2023, representing 5.4% of total government revenues. This underscores the sector's increasing financial significance and its vital contribution to the country's public treasury. On the global level, the report stated that the travel and tourism sector contributed $10.9 trillion to the global GDP in 2024, representing 10% of the world economy. This reflects an 8.5% increase compared to 2023 and a 6% rise compared 2019. Looking ahead, the sector's contribution is projected to reach US$11.7 trillion in 2025, which would mark a 6.7% increase over 2024 and a 13% growth over 2019, underscoring the sustained recovery and expansion of global tourism. The report also highlighted the sector's robust role in job creation, with 356.6 million jobs generated worldwide in 2024, accounting for 10.6% of total global employment. This represents a 6.2% increase from 2023 and a 5.6% increase from 2019. WAM
