Latest news with #NoorDubaiFoundation
Zawya
6 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
UAE showcases global leadership at UN Sustainable Development Forum, commits to 2026 SDG review
New York, USA: The UAE reiterated its strong commitment to global sustainable development at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development 2025 in New York, emphasizing international partnerships and placing human progress at the center of its vision for the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and beyond. The message capped an active UAE presence at the forum, organized at the UN headquarters by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, and attended by global leaders and organizations. The UAE delegation comprised senior officials from key ministries, national committees, and leading organizations, including the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Investment, Government Experience Exchange Programme (GEEP), General Secretariat of the National Committee on SDGs, the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), Noor Dubai Foundation, and Dubai Chambers. The UAE's Pioneering Model His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, highlighted the UAE's innovative and collaborative approach to international development cooperation. He said: 'We presented models and initiatives that showcase pioneering national development initiatives and reflect the importance of strategic partnerships in accelerating SDG achievement. These included the 2045 XDGs Report that envisions development prospects for the next two decades, and GEEP. We held meetings that focused on continually enhancing multilateral collaborative action to support finding innovative solutions to challenges in health, economic growth, the future of work, biodiversity, and international stability.' He confirmed the start of intensive preparations for the 2026 Voluntary National Review (VNR), to monitor and assess progress toward the 2030 SDGs. This reflects the UAE's unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability, comprehensive analysis of challenges and opportunities, and identifying future development priorities with participation from government, private sector, and civil society to ensure effort integration and vision unification, based on the UAE's ambitious vision for building a sustainable and inclusive future based on innovation, sustainability, and human development. HE Lootah noted that preparations are underway for the UAE's 2026 Voluntary National Review, underlining the nation's commitment to transparency, cross-sector collaboration, and a sustainable, inclusive future. The UAE is also preparing to host the UN Water Conference in December 2026, advancing global water sustainability. Strengthening Global Cooperation and Shaping Tomorrow The UAE reaffirmed its commitment to international cooperation and knowledge exchange, spotlighting initiatives that drive climate action, economic growth, and human development. Through high-profile events – including the 'Shaping Tomorrow: UAE Leadership for a Sustainable Future' exhibition – the delegation showcased innovative models and fostered dialogue with global partners. A special session by GEEP expanded the UAE's partnership network to nearly 50 countries and six international organizations, reinforcing its leadership in collaborative action. The launch of the 2045 XDGs Report, which outlines global development priorities beyond 2030 and builds on the momentum of the SDGs to address emerging challenges and opportunities, along with findings from a global survey, further underscored the UAE's active role in shaping sustainable development with forward-looking recommendations for the next two decades. Driving Innovation and Partnerships for Sustainable Progress The UAE delegation, in partnership with the UAE Consulate General in New York, showcased national leadership in advancing the SDGs through innovation and collaboration. The pivotal role of the Global Councils for SDGs – launched at the World Government Summit – was highlighted as a platform uniting leaders from government, international organizations, academia, and the private sector to accelerate progress through shared expertise. Sessions organized by the General Secretariat of the National Committee on SDGs focused on promoting gender balance and child welfare, addressing the digital gender gap, and strengthening women's leadership as essential drivers of sustainable growth beyond 2030. The UAE also hosted a roundtable on reimagining economic growth for people and the planet, and led discussions on economic diplomacy and integrating social and economic objectives for global stability. Additionally, the Ministry of Interior presented successful cross-border environmental initiatives, such as the Green Shield Operation, which aims to protect biodiversity in the Amazon Basin. Throughout the forum, the UAE strengthened international cooperation by holding 48 bilateral meetings and participating in high-impact Science Day activities. The HLPF on Sustainable Development is the UN's leading platform for SDG review and progress.
Daily Tribune
20-07-2025
- Politics
- Daily Tribune
UAE Opens Groundbreaking SDG Exhibition at United Nations Headquarters
'Shaping Tomorrow' spotlights UAE's sustainable development vision beyond 2030 The United Arab Emirates has unveiled its first-ever national exhibition at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, marking a significant moment during the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development 2025. Titled "Shaping Tomorrow: UAE Leadership for a Sustainable Future", the exhibition shines a spotlight on the UAE's commitment to advancing global efforts toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and shaping a more inclusive and resilient future. Held in the presence of UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, UAE Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab, and HE Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Chair of the UAE's National Committee on SDGs, the event welcomed international officials and government delegates from around the world. A First-of-its-Kind Showcase for the UAE Organized by a coalition of key UAE institutions—including the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Investment, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), Dubai Chambers, and Noor Dubai Foundation—the exhibition offers visitors an interactive and immersive experience. It features a range of initiatives that highlight the UAE's efforts in innovation, climate action, and community empowerment. The exhibition also traces the country's long-standing engagement with sustainable development, starting with the Rio Summit in 2000, and expands on the global dialogue launched through the UAE's Government Experience Exchange Programme. Four Pillars for the Future The display outlines the UAE's post-2030 sustainable vision, built on four central pillars: HE Abdulla Lootah emphasized: 'The UAE is deeply invested in sharing its best practices with global partners. This exhibition reflects our belief in collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing as essential drivers of a more sustainable and inclusive future.' National Programs with Global Impact The exhibition showcases how UAE-led projects are influencing global development: Ministry of Interior: Presented the "Green Justice" initiative, which tackles environmental crimes in Latin America, supporting SDG 17 on partnerships. Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD): Highlighted its role in financing projects across more than 100 countries, focusing on education, renewable energy, and infrastructure. Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood: Introduced initiatives like the "National Child Empowerment Guide" and "Emirati Children's Parliament" to advance gender equality and youth engagement (SDG 5). Noor Dubai Foundation: Shared its iBSAR program, which combats visual impairment in Asia and Africa, aligning with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). A Model of Integrated Development The UAE's presence at the UN through this exhibition not only reflects its own journey toward sustainable development but also positions it as a global partner in building a better future for all. By combining innovation, policy, and partnerships, the UAE aims to contribute meaningfully to international efforts in the years beyond 2030.
Emirates 24/7
29-04-2025
- Health
- Emirates 24/7
Noor Dubai completes first medical camp in Uzbekistan, expands humanitarian aid to Central Asia
Noor Dubai Foundation, a charitable initiative under the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has announced the expansion of its humanitarian health services to Central Asia with the completion of its first blindness prevention camp in the Republic of Uzbekistan. The initiative, launched in cooperation with the Uzbek government, marks the first collaboration of its kind between Uzbekistan and a UAE-based health charity. The medical camp, held from 25th March to 19th April 2025, focused on underserved areas in the capital Tashkent, as well as Samarkand and Bukhara. The effort provided diagnostic, surgical and pharmaceutical services at no cost to more than 850 patients, including 280 precise ophthalmic surgeries. The programme was implemented in coordination with the Republican Specialised Centre for Eye Microsurgery, under Uzbekistan's Ministry of Health, which operates 13 regional branches across the country The number of beneficiaries from the camp is expected to reach 1,000 patients by May 2025. Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Noor Dubai Foundation, said the initiative reflects Dubai's vision of building bridges of humanitarian cooperation with nations around the world and reinforces the UAE's position as a hub for philanthropy and sustainable development. He commended the constructive partnership with the Uzbek government, which enabled Emirati medical teams to carry out the campaign and allocate the necessary resources to ensure its success. Al Ketbi stressed that the Noor Dubai Foundation is guided by a clear vision to expand its outreach to new regions through sustainable initiatives aligned with the UAE's commitment to global health development and quality of life. He noted that the provision of free treatment camps serves as a model for integrating humanitarian principles with specialised medical practice. He extended his gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, for his ongoing support of the Noor Dubai Foundation. The Foundation was launched under His Highness's directives in 2008 and has since delivered healthcare and preventive services to over 33 million people worldwide. Al Ketbi also acknowledged the support of Sheikha Moza bint Suhail Al Kyeli for the medical camps, which began in the Philippines and have now reached Uzbekistan, as the Foundation prepares to expand its initiatives to additional countries across various continents. Dr Manal Taryam, Board Member and CEO of the Noor Dubai Foundation, highlighted the success of the medical camp held in Uzbekistan, a country with a population of 36.7 million. Of Uzbekistan's total population, 2.3 million reside in Tashkent, 600,000 in Samarkand, and 300,000 in Bukhara. Among people aged 50 and above, the prevalence of visual impairment is estimated at 5.6%, while cataract-induced blindness affects approximately 0.6%. A scientific study conducted on children in Uzbekistan found that cataracts were responsible for 35% of cases of blindness or severe visual impairment. Women account for 58% of the country's visual impairment cases, largely due to limited access to medical services. According to records from the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), Uzbekistan has around 300 licensed ophthalmologists, most of whom are concentrated in the capital. Rural areas face a shortage of eye surgeons. The cost of cataract surgery ranges from US$800 to US$900 per eye—an expense that poses a significant financial burden on low-income patients in remote regions. Dr Taryam stated that the medical camp marks the beginning of a series of health programmes that will utilise advanced technologies to deliver healthcare services to underserved rural communities. These efforts aim to improve access and support progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Gulf Today
27-03-2025
- Health
- Gulf Today
Noor Dubai's programmes benefit 33 million since 2008
Noor Dubai Foundation, a member of Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), continued to make significant strides in its mission to combat preventable blindness and visual impairment in 2024. According to its annual report, Noor Dubai has improved the lives of over 33 million people across Asia and Africa since its launch in 2008, with flagship health programmes focused on combating visual impairment and strengthening prevention. In 2024, the Foundation delivered healthcare and treatment services to 3,859,131 (3.8 million) individuals in countries across Asia and Africa—reflecting its deep commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in expanding access to quality healthcare and improving lives. The report also highlights Noor Dubai's intensified efforts to broaden its impact by implementing integrated health campaigns across multiple countries. These initiatives include comprehensive eye screenings, specialised surgical procedures, and public awareness campaigns aimed at preventing eye diseases. Over the past year, Noor Dubai also expanded its digital services by launching telemedicine programmes, enabling individuals in remote areas to access advanced medical consultations. This digital expansion underscores the Foundation's commitment to harnessing technology to enhance humanitarian outreach. The Foundation's achievements in 2024 were made possible through sustained efforts and strategic international partnerships with leading health and research institutions. Going beyond medical intervention, the organisation's work is helping develop resilient, future-ready healthcare systems. Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, Chairman of Noor Dubai Foundation's Board of Trustees, stated that the foundation's 2024 annual report underscores Dubai's leadership in advancing global healthcare, reflecting the values of generosity and giving instilled by Sheikh Mohammed. This sustainable approach enhances quality of life and empowers communities by ensuring access to comprehensive healthcare services. Al Ketbi said Noor Dubai operates with a clear vision focused on providing innovative solutions to address preventable blindness. He highlighted that Noor Dubai's annual report reflects the foundation's significant healthcare and humanitarian impact in 2024. 'Noor Dubai has successfully established a global model through its collaboration with international health organisations and entities dedicated to blindness prevention,' Al Ketbi stated. 'These efforts contribute significantly to the achievement of UN Sustainable Development Goals and reinforce the UAE's position as a leading and influential force in the global healthcare landscape.' The report highlighted that Noor Dubai's mobile treatment camps provided comprehensive healthcare services in several countries throughout 2024. The camps conducted 18,279 medical examinations in the Philippines, performed 2,596 sight-saving surgeries in Nigeria, distributed 4,846 medicines in Pakistan, and provided 3,095 prescription glasses in Bangladesh. Additionally, a large number of patients in Somalia benefited from medical screenings and treatment services. Since the programme's inception in 2010, the mobile treatment camps have delivered 828,351 medical examinations, conducted 37,320 surgeries, and distributed 85,365 prescription glasses across 19 countries. This makes it one of the world's largest field-based humanitarian initiatives dedicated to combating visual impairments. The annual report also highlighted the impact of Noor Dubai's Barishal Eye Care Programme in Bangladesh, which conducted 12,500 refractive error screenings in 2024, distributed 1,250 prescription glasses, and provided 6,708 consultations for diabetic retinopathy. Additionally, 144 patients received laser treatment for retinal conditions. The report underscored Noor Dubai's active role in the global initiative to eliminate trachoma by 2030. The foundation's efforts contributed to eradicating the disease in 29% of affected areas in Amhara, Ethiopia. However, the report also cautions that trachoma remains a significant public health threat.
Hi Dubai
27-03-2025
- Health
- Hi Dubai
Noor Dubai Foundation Transforms Millions of Lives with Pioneering Eye Care Initiatives in 2024
Noor Dubai Foundation, a key humanitarian healthcare initiative under Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), continued its mission to combat preventable blindness in 2024, reaching over 3.8 million people across Asia and Africa. The Foundation's impact underscores Dubai's vision for sustainable, accessible healthcare on a global scale. According to its annual report, Noor Dubai has transformed the lives of over 33 million people since its launch in 2008. In 2024 alone, it conducted comprehensive eye screenings, sight-saving surgeries, and public awareness campaigns while expanding its digital healthcare solutions through telemedicine initiatives. His Excellency Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, Chairman of Noor Dubai's Board of Trustees, highlighted the Foundation's commitment to providing innovative solutions for preventable blindness through modern technology and international collaboration. Noor Dubai's mobile treatment camps delivered 18,279 medical exams in the Philippines, 2,596 surgeries in Nigeria, 4,846 medicines in Pakistan, and 3,095 prescription glasses in Bangladesh. The Foundation also played a pivotal role in the global fight against trachoma, helping eliminate the disease in 29% of affected areas in Ethiopia's Amhara region. Digital Healthcare and Local Impact Noor Dubai's iBSAR Telemedicine Project in Nepal provided virtual consultations to 13,176 patients, demonstrating the transformative power of technology in remote healthcare. Meanwhile, the UAE's Mobile Eye Clinic served 4,658 patients, offering free eye care services to laborers and elderly residents. Investing in Future Generations The School Eye Health Programme in Nigeria screened 281,103 students and 2,196 teachers, providing 1,821 prescription glasses and training school staff on eye health awareness. Dr. Manal Taryam, CEO of Noor Dubai, reaffirmed the Foundation's commitment to sustainable eye care solutions, ensuring that medical assistance reaches those in need, regardless of location. Through its strategic partnerships, cutting-edge technology, and humanitarian vision, Noor Dubai continues to shape a future free of preventable blindness. News Source: Dubai Media Office
