Latest news with #SARAALZAABI
Al Etihad
an hour ago
- General
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority revives ‘mekhrafa' tradition through weaving workshops for UAE youth
29 July 2025 01:10 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)Young Emirati boys and girls have learnt the cherished tradition of weaving 'mekhrafa' in a special month-long programme organised by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority (ADHA) for the Nabdh Al Falah community hub. The 'mekhrafa' is a traditional Emirati basket handcrafted and woven from palm fronds. It is used to collect, carry, and present dates primarily during the harvest season. For the month of July, ADHA organised workshops that pass down this distinctive basket-weaving tradition from the seniors who know it by heart to the curious youth. ADHA's "Al Mekhrafa" programme for Nabdh Al Falah featured a line-up of engaging activities, from classic games to art sessions. Among the highlights are live demonstrations and hands-on workshops for palm frond weaving – walking participants through the making of 'mekhrafa'.At the studio, young visitors from 6 to 9 years old can explore palm-related heritage through art sessions. The programme revolves around the palm tree not only as a cultural treasure for Emirati society but as a source of daily sustenance. The remaining workshops will take place on July 29 and arts and crafts, there are educational lectures on palm farming, its environmental importance, and the date varieties found in the UAE. Family-friendly competitions are held, too. Nabdh Al Falah regularly holds programmes that bring the community together in activities designed to preserve Emirati heritage and strengthen national identity. Run by the Department of Community Development (DCD) in Abu Dhabi, the programmes are held in line with the goals of the Year of Community. The move comes as part of the leadership's vision to strengthen social cohesion, tighten bonds between generations, and create a sense of shared responsibility in the community. The ADHA's "Mekhrafa" programme was held in collaboration with DCD.
Al Etihad
a day ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
UAE leads in sustainable investment allocation as green finance momentum builds
27 July 2025 22:39 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)Reflecting the UAE's leadership in green finance, investors in the country allocate an average of 27% of their portfolios to sustainable investments — the highest among eight global markets surveyed in a new report. This share is expected to rise to 36%, underscoring a growing shift toward impact-driven figures were based on Standard Chartered's latest Sustainable Banking Report 2025, drawn on the insights of 1,600 high-net-worth investors across eight markets, including the UAE, Hong Kong, Mainland China, India, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Singapore. UAE investors' heightened interest in sustainability 'can also be seen through our conversations, especially with our ultra-high-net worth clients', said Bongiwe Gangeni, Head of Wealth and Retail Banking for Europe, Middle East and Africa at Standard Chartered.'We are seeing this momentum translating into actions, with many investors shifting capital to sustainable investments — a trend that is likely to continue,' Gangeni said in the report. Majority of high-net-worth investors in the country (85%) have expressed interest in sustainable investing, and 86% in transition investments, according to the survey. Across the globe, results show that interest in transition investing (87%) now surpasses that in sustainable investing (83%). The report defines transition investing as putting capital into companies — especially those in high-emission or hard-to-abate sectors such as shipping, agriculture, and steel — that are actively working to reduce their carbon footprint. This strategy not only facilitates the shift toward a low-carbon economy but also presents opportunities for sustainable long-term growth and returns.'Investors are primarily drawn to transition investments due to the potential for positive social and environmental impact (55%), followed by the prospect of improved financial returns (53%) and reflecting personal values (53%),' the report said, citing UAE data. Among the eco-themes that have captured the interest of UAE investors are green hydrogen (51%), carbon markets (48%), and carbon capture and storage (47%), it added. The sharper focus on green investments reflects the country's broader leadership in sustainable UAE has emerged among the leading countries in the global energy transition — targeting Net Zero by 2050 and aiming to reduce emissions by 47% from 2019 levels by 2035. Its financial sector has committed to mobilising $272 billion in sustainable finance by initiatives like the UAE Sustainable Finance Working Group — tasked with developing a unified taxonomy of sustainable activities — are set to provide greater clarity and structure for companies, banks, and investors alike. 'These developments are expected to further drive awareness and interest in the transition journey,' Gangeni said.
Al Etihad
4 days ago
- Science
- Al Etihad
Liwa Date Festival 2025: Preserving the date palm through heritage and technological innovation
25 July 2025 00:51 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)Anchored in heritage and essential to survival, the date palm sits at the intersection of the UAE's identity and its vision for food this year's Liwa Date Festival 2025, the Date Palm Development Research Unit (DPDRU), part of the Khalifa Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (KCGEB), reaffirmed its vital role in safeguarding this national treasure through innovation. Speaking to Aletihad , Maryam Al Menhali, Laboratory Specialist at the Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory in Al Ain, outlined the cultural, environmental, and scientific weight of the centre's work. 'The participation of the Date Palm Development Research Unit, part of the Khalifa Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology in the Liwa Date Festival clearly reflects the centre's mission to preserve the cultural and strategic value of the palm tree by linking heritage with innovation,' she said.'Palm trees have not only been an agricultural crop; they have also been a pillar of Emirati identity and have played a pivotal role in food and environmental stability for centuries.'Al Menhali believes that the date festival is not merely a symbolic event, it is an active platform for community outreach and knowledge exchange.'We affirm our commitment to developing biological propagation techniques and improving local varieties through advanced scientific research, including safe genetic modification, genome analysis and micropropagation,' she added.'This aligns with the UAE's vision of achieving sustainable food security and enhancing agricultural sovereignty through advanced biological solutions, without compromising the cultural heritage represented by the palm tree.'The centre uses a combination of biotechnologies to enhance date palm productivity and resilience, with a focus on disease resistance and climate adaptation.'We rely on six key technologies,' Al Menhali include tissue culture for disease-free propagation, genome sequencing to identify stress-resilient genes, CRISPR gene editing, transcriptomics and proteomics for molecular understanding, microbiome engineering for soil-plant health, and high-throughput phenotyping to evaluate performance across environmental comprehensive approach ensures that while the trees' cultural significance is honoured, they are also equipped to face the challenges of changing climate and food security Menhali also outlined how KCGEB integrates artificial intelligence, data analytics and precision agriculture to improve cultivation.'We use machine learning to detect early signs of disease from drone and satellite imagery, allowing us to intervene before visible symptoms appear. Smart IoT sensors track soil health, while predictive algorithms optimise irrigation schedules. Farmers also receive real-time advice via smart applications linked to our cloud systems,' she technologies enable proactive decision-making, helping farmers reduce water use, prevent crop loss, and boost palm health; marking a shift from traditional to data-driven efforts extend beyond productivity. Al Menhali highlighted the centre's national seed bank and genetic mapping initiatives.'We are sequencing the entire genomes of local and wild date palm varieties using advanced genomics. These maps inform our breeding programmes and help reduce genetic bottlenecks. We also store seeds in tightly controlled environments to preserve biodiversity,' she centre conducts field surveys to locate and document rare Emirati date varieties, and preserves them both genetically and culturally.'This is not just science, it is a national investment in our agricultural and environmental future,' Al Menhali centre is leading efforts to promote water-saving and environmentally-friendly farming.'We develop varieties that are drought- and salinity-tolerant, use smart irrigation systems to reduce water waste, and recycle treated water safely,' Al Menhali noted.'We also replace chemical fertilisers with biofertilisers and promote organic and conservation agriculture.'These include integrated agricultural systems that combine farming with solar power and waste recycling, establishing model farms as examples for national dissemination.'Our goal is to shift agriculture in the UAE from a consumer model to a sustainable, regenerative one.'Through its initiatives, the centre places strong emphasis on education and knowledge sharing, aiming to inspire the next generation of Emirati agricultural innovators.'We run workshops and create apps that deliver best practices to farmers while engaging youth in environmental agriculture. Cultural heritage must evolve, and part of that evolution is empowering people with knowledge.' In summary, Al Menhali said the mission is clear: protect the past, innovate for the future, and cultivate a sustainable legacy for generations to come.
Al Etihad
4 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
UAE PASS evolving toward a smarter, people-first future
25 July 2025 00:48 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)With over 11 million users and 1.5 million digital transactions taking place every day, UAE PASS stands as a clear success in advancing the nation's vision for a smart government — but its development is far from over. Mira Sultan, one of the Emirati women among the project's pioneers, speaks to Aletihad about the growing significance of the nation's digital identity system and how it is evolving as a future-ready platform. 'Our digital government journey is driven by a clear ambition: to deliver seamless, secure, and proactive services that meet people's needs without friction,' said Sultan, Senior Director of the Digital Enabling Platforms Department at Digital Dubai and a National Expert in NEP Cohort 4. 'The next milestones focus on accelerating full digital service delivery, deepening integration across entities, and enhancing personalisation through secure data exchange,' she said. Continuously evolving through user feedback and testing, the digital identity system is being enhanced to deliver a seamless, AI-driven experience. By expanding the use of e-signatures and paperless solutions, UAE PASS is set to fully replace outdated processes and power a smarter, more connected country.'The goal is not merely to digitise existing services, but to rethink how the government functions, removing complexity, increasing efficiency, and making services available anywhere, anytime, and on any device,' Sultan said. UAE PASS links individuals to thousands of online services with a secure, single login — eliminating the need for users to create multiple accounts or visit customer care centres. Usage and feedback are closely monitored through a combination of quantitative and qualitative channels, Sultan said. 'With over 1.5 million daily transactions and thousands of new users joining every day, the growth itself is a key indicator of satisfaction and usability.''What sets it apart and makes it truly game-changing is how it simplifies and unifies digital identity, access, and signature across both government and private sectors,' she added. With emerging AI solutions, the UAE PASS team is now looking to 'deliver more personalised experiences, enhance accessibility, and enable smarter service recommendations', Sultan said. 'Operationally, AI helps us detect patterns, predict demand, and optimise delivery. All of this is governed by robust privacy and data protection frameworks. The future of UAE PASS lies in becoming more intelligent, responsive, and deeply integrated into citizens' daily lives.'The move toward paperless governance is anchored in national infrastructure, which includes the digital ID, online payment platforms, cloud services, and secure data sharing channels, Sultan said. 'Together, they enable a frictionless government that operates 24/7, anytime, anywhere. The ultimate goal is not just digitalisation, it is elevating the quality of life for every resident.' A Shared Vision Back when the UAE PASS was just a concept, days were filled with 'bold ideas and big questions', Sultan said. They asked: Is it really possible to create such a system? 'Could we unify digital identity across a diverse ecosystem? Could we convince entities to move away from their current identity systems entirely?' she recalled. Sultan admitted that the journey was challenging — but also 'incredibly rewarding', as the team was driven by a deep sense of responsibility to shape a platform that reflects the nation's values and empowers its people.'The trust placed in me, along with the shared vision we embraced as a team inspired me to push boundaries,' she said. Her personal motivation was rooted in impact.'I have always believed that true transformation happens when technology improves everyday lives. The opportunity to contribute to a national platform that embodies this mission, by saving time, enabling secure interactions, and simplifying life, was deeply motivating,' Sultan her, it wasn't just about launching a new tool but 'reshaping how people connect with government in the digital era'.Sultan's leadership journey has been moulded by the National Experts Programme (NEP), of which she is a graduate.'NEP has played a transformative role in sharpening my strategic lens. The focus on five leadership mindsets — global, analytical, reflective, collaborative, and execution-driven — empowered me to approach digital transformation with a broader perspective,' she said. Looking ahead, Sultan sees the UAE PASS evolving beyond its role as a gateway to services. 'It should remain human-centred, inclusive, and resilient in the face of change. My hope is that UAE PASS continues to inspire other nations while always keeping people at its core.' Early this year, the UAE PASS application has won the Gold Award in the International General Authority category for the 16th Edition of the Public Sector Transformation Awards, an annual global event that celebrates innovation culture and showcases best practices in the government sector.
Al Etihad
5 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
AI71's SuperHive gives AI boost to construction industry
24 July 2025 00:15 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)Abu Dhabi-based AI71 has introduced SuperHive, a next-generation platform set to revolutionise the construction industry by streamlining every phase - from design and permitting to execution and asset by embedded AI, real-time intelligence, and automation, SuperHive accelerates project delivery, reduces risk, and enhances performance. 'Construction underpins economic growth, yet it has seen limited disruption from modern technologies. With SuperHive, we are embedding intelligence across the entire infrastructure lifecycle - transforming how nations build and operate' said Faisal Al Bannai, Chairman of AI71.'This is not just about digital transformation - it is about rethinking how we approach scale, speed, and resilience in infrastructure delivery.'A171 is a pioneering AI company founded by Abu Dhabi's Advanced Technology Research Council in collaboration with VentureOne. Speaking with Aletihad , Klemensas Mecejus, VP Advisory at AI71, described SuperHive as 'a potential game-changer for national infrastructure delivery timelines and quality'. 'It supports the UAE's ambition to lead in smart regulation and infrastructure by reducing regulatory friction, expediting permit approvals, and enabling real-time government oversight,' said sets SuperHive apart is its real-time validation of 2D CAD and 3D BIM models against UAE building codes, automatic issue flagging, AI-based document generation, and seamless integration across stakeholders, from design consultants and developers to permitting authorities. The platform also enables smart asset management through digital twins and live cost estimation, while drone-based site tracking enhances oversight and its capabilities, SuperHive boosts productivity across the entire construction lifecycle, said Chiara Marcati, Chief AI Advisory and Business Officer at AI71.'It enables up to 50% faster decision-making, reduces manual documentation by 70%, and cuts on-site rework by half. With full AI coverage across all sub-stages, it transforms how teams plan, build, and deliver at scale,' Marcati said. Another standout innovation within its suite is the AiComply Studio, which automates compliance checks - streamlining approvals and eliminating regulatory bottlenecks to support scalable infrastructure across sectors. 'By digitising and automating compliance, municipalities save cost, consultants gain speed, and developers reduce risk. It is a win across the board,' Mecejus said.
