Latest news with #SultanBinMohammedAlQasimi
Gulf Today
6 days ago
- General
- Gulf Today
Refugee needs extend beyond survival: TBHF
On the eve of World Refugee Day, marked on June 20, Alya Al Musaiebi, Director of The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF) said, ' the essentials of a dignified life today are widely accepted to include food, shelter, education, healthcare, and safety.' These are considered the basis for human survival. Yet what we often overlook is that 'essentials' are not fixed; they shift depending on where we are, and sometimes, who we are. This becomes clear when we compare stable societies with refugee communities. In the former, necessities are often taken for granted. Over time, needs evolve—towards freedom of expression, creativity, personal growth, and fulfillment. In refugee communities, however, needs multiply in proportion to loss. Refugees long for a home, memories, school, protection, and the dream of a future, a need that only genuine human solidarity can fulfill, restoring a sense of reassurance to the spirit. This reality reminds us of a core principle in humanitarian work: the distinction between meeting basic needs and rebuilding the human spirit. Dignity, respect, and self-determination can take precedence over food or shelter. The need is not just to survive, but to feel alive. Without dignity, even food and medicine lose meaning. Aid must preserve self-respect and empower people as active participants in rebuilding their solidarity is not measured solely by what we provide, but by what we help keep alive within the individual. What keeps someone truly alive is not just bread and water, but passion, decision-making, expression, and the ability to dream. That's why at The Big Heart Foundation, we affirm that refugees are not a 'special case.' Our mission goes beyond physical needs—we must support to keep their spirit alive and their future is theirs to shape. We must move past viewing refugees solely as victims. Their needs extend beyond survival to all that gives life meaning. When dignity is restored, aid becomes partnership. Shelter becomes a home. The refugee becomes the architect of their future. Guided by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, and supported by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi,Chairperson of The Big Heart Foundation, we put dignity at the heart of our work. We ask ourselves: Have we listened? Have we preserved dignity? Have we made space for individuals to lead?
Gulf Today
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Sharjah honours four prominent figures of Mauritanian literature
Under the patronage of His Highness Dr Sheikh Dr Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the Mauritanian capital, Nouakchott, witnessed a formal and cultural celebration that reinforced the values of loyalty to creative figures and affirmed their status. The event was held as part of the 23rd edition of the Sharjah Cultural Honouring Forum, organised by the Sharjah Department of Culture in cooperation with the Mauritanian Ministry of Culture, Arts, Communication and Relations with Parliament. Four prominent figures of Mauritanian literature were honoured in recognition of their contributions to enriching cultural life: poet Mohamed Fall Abdel Latif, linguistics academic Dr Yahya Al Hashemi, language researcher Dr Mohamedou Ameen, and poet Mohamed Al Hafiz Ould Ahmedou. The forum reflects the directives of the Ruler of Sharjah to honour literary figures who have contributed to contemporary Arab culture. This marks the fourth time the forum is held in Mauritania, where it has previously recognised 12 Mauritanian creatives over past editions. The award ceremony took place at the Conference Hall in Nouakchott, in the presence of Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Culture; El Houssein Ould Meddou, Minister of Culture, Arts, Communication and Relations with Parliament in Mauritania; Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qaseer, Director of Cultural Affairs at the department; the Governor of Nouakchott-West on behalf of the Mayor of Tevragh-Zeina Municipality; as well as a large audience of Mauritanian intellectuals, academics, writers, and the honourees' families. In his speech, Abdullah Al Owais highlighted the significance of the sustained cultural collaboration between Sharjah and Mauritania, saying, "We are pleased to meet today at this distinguished cultural event, which continues the journey of cooperation between the Sharjah Department of Culture and the Ministry of Culture, Arts, Communication and Relations with Parliament. This partnership has led to numerous cultural activities that support Arab culture and reinforce the role of thought and creativity in our Arab societies.' El Houssein Ould Meddou welcomed the attendees and expressed his sincere thanks and deep gratitude to His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, saying, "I am honoured to be with you today at this distinguished cultural gathering, celebrating this radiant forum and noble initiative. At the outset, I am pleased to extend my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah - this cultured leader who has dedicated his efforts, intellect, and time to serving the Arabic language and its literature, and to supporting the cause of culture and intellectuals throughout our Arab world.' The honourees expressed their deep gratitude for the recognition, which they considered a badge of pride and an acknowledgment of their cultural and creative journeys. They noted that the Sharjah Cultural Honouring Forum represents a civilised model for celebrating Arab intellectuals and affirms the Emirate's unwavering commitment to supporting thought and creativity across the Arab world. They praised the vision of the Ruler of Sharjah in establishing culture as a pillar of development and identity. They emphasised that this recognition is not merely a personal honour, but a celebration of Arab culture and its creative figures across various fields. WAM
Gulf Today
11-06-2025
- General
- Gulf Today
Sharjah selected as first MENA host for 'Inclusion International's World Congress'
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the emirate is set to host the Inclusion International's 18th World Congress from September 15 to 17, 2025. This momentous event will take place for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa, under the theme 'We are Inclusion.' The Congress is one of the most significant international gatherings for the rights of people with intellectual disabilities and their families. Organised by the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS) in collaboration with Inclusion International, and supported by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB) as the official media and logistics partner, the congress will convene at Expo Centre Sharjah. Registration is now open with discounted rates available until June 16, through the official website: The event is expected to welcome around 850 participants, including self-advocates, family members, professionals, and representatives of local, regional, and international organisations from over 115 countries. These attendees will come from across five global regions, spanning the Middle East, Europe, Africa, the Americas, and the Asia-Pacific region. An inclusive and sustainable environment The Sharjah edition of the congress comes at a time where intellectual disability remains one of the most complex forms of disability, often involving challenges related to learning, communication, and independent living. Such events challenge these barriers by enabling this community, equipping families, and guiding institutions toward practices that ensure full societal participation. Archive photos of children and youth from Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services. In its 2025 edition, the congress aims to empower individuals to advocate for themselves and take part in decision-making processes that affect their lives. Since its inception in 1963, the World Congress has protected the rights of people with intellectual disabilities by amplifying their voices, promoting self-advocacy, and advancing policies that create supportive and sustainable environments. Sharjah was chosen as host city due to its inclusive and accessible environment, strategic location, and advanced infrastructure that caters to the needs of people with disabilities. The choice also recognises the prominent role played by SCHS, a long-time member of Inclusion International, which has been a leading advocate for their rights for decades. Her Highness Sheikha Jameela Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Director General of SCHS, stated: 'We are proud that Sharjah is hosting this global event for the first time in the MENA region, reflecting the emirate's ongoing commitment to improving the lives of people with intellectual disabilities and supporting their families.' She noted that the World Congress embodies Sharjah's vision of building communities where people with intellectual disabilities have a real voice and influence in shaping policies and decisions. Her Highness added that the emirate has consistently prioritised turning inclusion into a practical reality, emphasising active involvement and collective responsibility throughout society. A disability-friendly city Sharjah has been officially named as an 'Accessible City for the Physically Disabled,' and is widely known for its highly developed infrastructure, inclusive public spaces, and proven capacity to host international events. These attributes, Sheikha Jameela noted, make it an ideal location for a congress of this scale and importance. She stressed that Sharjah has embraced a strong rights-based approach to empower people with intellectual disabilities by supporting their access to education, employment, healthcare, and decision-making. The emirate's inclusive infrastructure is designed to meet the highest standards of accessibility across public services. Sheikha Jameela said that the congress shows the progress Sharjah has made in this field, offering a global platform to exchange experiences, highlight best practices, and work collectively toward a more inclusive and equitable future. Critical topics The three-day event will address critical topics, including inclusive education, community and family support, employment, humanitarian services, healthcare, deinstitutionalisation, legal decision-making, social protection, self-advocacy, and capacity building for organisations working in the disability sector. Thought leaders, government officials, policy experts, and advocates from around the world are expected to contribute, making the congress a strategic platform for shaping actionable recommendations that promote inclusion globally. Held every four years, the World Congress brings together self-advocates, families, and professionals to share ideas, success stories, and challenges, all of which contribute to reinforcing the global identity and collective momentum of the inclusion movement. As part of its call to action, SCHS is inviting governments, institutions, educators, healthcare providers, and social organisations to participate in this event and help build environments where dignity, inclusion, and equal opportunity are upheld for all.
Gulf Today
10-06-2025
- Politics
- Gulf Today
Sheikh Sultan promotes 49 senior and 818 junior officers
His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, issued an Emiri Decree promoting 49 senior officers to the ranks of Lieutenant Colonel, Colonel, and Brigadier. Sheikh Sultan also approved the promotion of 818 junior officers, assistant officers, non-commissioned officers, and individuals across the regular entities of Sharjah Government, including Sharjah Police, Sharjah Amiri Guard, Sharjah Civil Defence Authority, and Sharjah Police Sciences Academy. This was announced by Major General Abdullah Mubarak Bin Amer, Commander-in-Chief of Sharjah Police, during Direct Line programme hosted by Mohammed Khalaf, Director General of the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority. Bin Amer stated that the total number of promotions is 867, encompassing personnel from the Sharjah Police, Sharjah Amiri Guard, Sharjah Civil Defence Authority, and Sharjah Police Sciences Academy.
Gulf Today
09-06-2025
- Politics
- Gulf Today
Sheikh Sultan approves extra Dhs100m in compensation for Al Madam residents
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has approved an additional amount of Dhs100 million in compensation for owners of old houses in Al Madam area who had previously been granted new houses. His Highness had earlier approved an amount of Dhs250,000 per house as compensation for the owners of 200 old houses that were replaced with new houses. With the approval of the new additional amount, the total compensation for each house now rises to Dhs750,000, an added support from His Highness to families who have moved into their new houses.
