Latest news with #SultanbinMuhammadAlQasimi
Time of India
6 hours ago
- Science
- Time of India
UAE: Sharjah dig uncovers 80,000-year-old tools confirming 210,000 years of human presence in Arabia
The UAE, which currently has one UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Cultural Sites of Al Ain inscribed in 2011, is now pursuing recognition for Jebel Faya as its second/ Image: Sharjah Archaelogy Authority Archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery at Jebel Faya in the Emirate of Sharjah, unearthing 80,000-year-old stone tools that fundamentally reshape our understanding of early human history in the Arabian Peninsula. This discovery provides compelling evidence that early Homo sapiens were not merely transient in Arabia, they lived, adapted, and thrived in the region over tens of thousands of years. In total, the archaeological record at Jebel Faya reveals an unbroken human presence spanning 210,000 years, an extraordinary continuity rare in the Arabian archaeological landscape. The findings were published in February 2025 in the peer-reviewed journal Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences, and reported by the state news agency WAM on Wednesday. The artifacts were excavated between 2012 and 2017, then studied, dated, and peer-reviewed before the results were made public. From Ancient Tools to Global Recognition The significance of the discovery has prompted an important administrative step: Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has issued a formal decision approving the boundaries of the Al Faya site for nomination to the UNESCO World Heritage List. According to the official decree, the location, boundaries, and area of Al Faya, as outlined in the approved map, are now formally nominated as a cultural heritage site. A final decision on the site's inclusion is expected at UNESCO's 47th session, scheduled for July 7–16, 2025, in Paris. Currently, the UAE has one UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Cultural Sites of Al Ain, which were added in 2011. What the Tools Reveal About Early Humans The tools found at Jebel Faya are not ordinary. Researchers identified an advanced technique called bidirectional reduction, a complex method requiring carefully executed strikes at both ends of a stone core to create elongated blades and flakes. 'This wasn't random knapping,' explained Dr Knut Bretzke, a lead archaeologist on the project. 'Bidirectional reduction required foresight. It's like a chef filleting a fish, each strike intentional, each angle calculated. The goal was to maximise material efficiency, preserving the raw stone for future use. It reflects deep environmental knowledge and an extraordinary level of cognitive skill.' These multipurpose tools were designed for: Hunting Butchering animals Processing plant materials Crafting other implements This diversity indicates that for these early human groups, technology was both a survival tool and a form of cultural expression. The presence of such tools during Marine Isotope Stage 5a (MIS 5a), a period of dramatic environmental change when monsoons from the Indian Ocean turned Arabia's deserts into verdant grasslands, lakes, and rivers, shows that humans not only survived but adapted successfully to the shifting climate of the region. Collaboration, Science, and Cultural Vision The excavations at Jebel Faya were part of an international research project led by the Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA) in collaboration with universities from Germany and the United Kingdom. The project was funded by the German Research Foundation and the Heidelberg Academy of Sciences. Using luminescence dating, researchers were able to establish a nearly continuous timeline of human presence at the site from 210,000 years ago to 80,000 years ago. This suggests that early humans across this 130,000-year period either remained at the site continuously or returned to it repeatedly, even as environmental conditions fluctuated. 'The discoveries at Jebel Faya show that resilience, adaptability, and innovation are among the most defining traits of humanity,' said Eisa Yousif, Director of the Sharjah Archaeology Authority. 'These tools reflect a profound relationship between people and their land. As we advance our efforts to nominate the Faya Palaeolandscape for UNESCO recognition, we are reminded of how our shared past continues to shape who we are and who we may become.'
Sharjah 24
5 days ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
SIB wins Sharjah Gulf Excellence Award 2024
This honour follows the recent inclusion of the bank in the "Top 100 Companies in the Middle East for 2024" list, according to Forbes magazine, a clear indication of its strong institutional performance and its sustainable and innovative business model. Supporting Investment in Vital Sectors Locally and Regionally, Enhancing National Economic Competitiveness, and Establishing Sharjah as a Leading Business and Innovation Hub On this occasion, His Excellency Mohamed Abdalla, CEO of Sharjah Islamic Bank, said: "We draw inspiration for all our initiatives and strategic directions from the wise vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, may God protect him, which drives us toward excellence and leadership. At Sharjah Islamic Bank, we are committed to being an active part of the economic system by supporting investment in vital sectors locally, regionally, and globally, enhancing the competitiveness of the national economy, and reinforcing Sharjah's position as a leading center for business and innovation." He added: "We will continue to reinforce a culture of innovation and responsibility at SIB, moving forward with pioneering banking initiatives that have a real impact on society and the economy. This includes empowering entrepreneurs, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, and expanding our regional partnerships to contribute to comprehensive and sustainable development. This aligns with our vision of providing a renewed banking model that supports national and Gulf aspirations." He also pointed out that this recognition reflects the trust institutions place in our message and the SIB's approach, which is based on sustainability through advanced financial solutions that meet the aspirations of various segments of society and align with the UAE's vision in the financial sector. A Financial Institution Committed to Excellence This award represents a new milestone in the continued success of Sharjah Islamic Bank, reinforcing its status as a leading financial institution committed to excellence and contributing effectively to driving the economy forward according to the highest global standards. This recognition adds to the SIB's growing portfolio of awards and achievements at the local, regional, and international levels in various sectors, including institutional innovation, banking services, sustainability, and corporate social responsibility. It is worth noting that the " Sharjah Excellence Award" is one of the most prestigious institutional awards in the region. Launched in 1990 under the umbrella of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the award aims to enhance competitiveness, foster a culture of quality and excellence, and encourage institutions to adopt best administrative and economic practices. This aligns perfectly with the approach adopted by SIB in all its operations and initiatives.
Time of India
23-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Sharjah introduces 8-day paid marriage leave for government employees under new HR reform
The new benefit, part of an HR decree by Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, supports work-life balance and is a first in Sharjah's public sector. (Image created using AI for creative & illustrative purposes) In a landmark move to modernize workplace policies and enhance employee welfare, the Government of Sharjah has introduced marriage leave for employees in government agencies, granting eight days of paid leave for those entering matrimony. This policy is part of a broader reform initiative under a new decree-law on human resources in the emirate. The decree was issued by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and represents a significant step in expanding government employee benefits. According to Abdullah Ibrahim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Sharjah Human Resources Department, who spoke on the popular radio program "Direct Line", the decree-law includes a wide range of updates aimed at improving flexibility, inclusivity, and efficiency in the public sector. Key elements include: Marriage Leave: Government employees are now entitled to eight days of paid marriage leave, a benefit introduced for the first time in the emirate. Care Leave for Mothers: Earlier this year, Sharjah approved a "care leave" provision for female government employees who give birth to a sick or disabled child requiring continuous care. This leave begins after the completion of regular maternity leave and can be extended annually for up to three years. Part-Time Work System: A new system is being implemented to support part-time employment, allowing greater flexibility for government workers. Appointment Priority: The law emphasizes priority in government job appointments for citizens and children of female citizens. Non-citizens may still be appointed, but only on contractual terms in accordance with executive regulations. Grade System (A–B): A classification system has been introduced to structure government job appointments and define roles more clearly across departments. Veterinary System: In a less-publicized but equally significant move, the decree-law includes the introduction of a new veterinary system in Sharjah, aimed at modernizing veterinary services and public health management in the emirate. The human resources reforms are part of a broader strategic vision championed by the Sharjah leadership to ensure that employee wellbeing, family support, and citizen empowerment remain at the center of public policy. The new benefits, particularly the introduction of marriage leave and extended care leave, reflect the emirate's family-first ethos and commitment to inclusive employment practices. These reforms align with similar initiatives seen in the UAE in recent years, where public sector employee welfare is increasingly recognized as a key factor in institutional efficiency and social stability.
Emirates Woman
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates Woman
10 fabulous activities to experience in Dubai this weekend
Your ultimate weekend guide in Dubai, June 20 to 22, 2025. Try bkry's special menu Dubai's beloved artisanal bakery, bkry, celebrates its first anniversary with a special new menu in collaboration with Saba Sanabel Farm, a heritage-focused, sustainable initiative by Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi. Available until July 18, the menu features dishes made with Saba Sanabel's organic, high-protein wheat flour, grown in Mleiha—an area rich in archaeological and agricultural legacy. From Ancient Grain Salad to sourdough loaves and seasonal drinks, the offerings spotlight bkry's commitment to sustainability, local sourcing, and culinary craft. To mark the milestone, limited-edition merchandise, including totes, tumblers, and in-house goodies, will also be available at bkry's Alserkal Avenue location. For more information visit @ Get your XXL Matcha fix BohoX, the Downtown Dubai café celebrated for its delicious flavours, Bali-inspired interiors, and occasional social-media-viral baked goods, is launching a new summer exclusive: the Giant Iced Matcha Latte with Coconut Milk, which you can pair with one of the café's famous Freshly-Baked Giant Croissants. These shareable creations are perfect for big groups or (very) hungry solo diners. Priced at Dhs149, this visually stunning beverage is designed for sharing, offering a creamy, energising and refreshingly cool escape from the heat. Expect bright Japanese-grade matcha powder, two litres of coconut milk and plenty of giant ice cubes. Located in Downtown Dubai, this space is more than a matcha haven. For more information visit Book an elevated dining experience View this post on Instagram A post shared by @milosdubai The massive space at the prestigious Atlantis The Royal, with its travertine textures, soaring ceilings, coastal hues, and open-air terraces (one of the most coveted spots in cooler months), creates a serene dining scene that is equal parts ultra-luxe Aegean retreat and Dubai glamour. Estiatorio Milos, founded by celebrated chef and restaurateur Costas Spiliadis, known for his reverence for high-quality ingredients, delivers Mediterranean refinement dialled all the way up. The Milos Special is a must an addictive stack of fried vegetables over saganaki cheese, served with creamy tzatziki. But it's the fish, flown in daily and displayed on ice, that's the hero experience. Choose your catch, your cooking method: grilled, salt-baked, or raw. End on a sweet note and savour the signature Greek yogurt, drizzled with thyme honey and topped with caramelized walnuts to refresh the palate. For more information visit Visit this exclusive speakeasy View this post on Instagram A post shared by @opalroomdubai Tucked discreetly behind the newly opened Geisha, lies Opal Room, Dubai's most enigmatic after-dark hideaway. This invite-only sanctuary unfolds beneath a soaring glass dome, where the city's skyline refracts like a kaleidoscope of stars. Step inside and you're transported into a geode come to life: cosmic lighting glints off smoked mirrors, black marble floors ripple like a midnight sky, and every surface glows with astral allure. Velvet booths orbit the DJ platform like planets in sync, while a sculptural cocktail bar radiates with a soft celestial pulse. As night deepens, laser beams cut through the dome like shooting stars, turning the space into a galaxy in motion which is part dream, part dance floor, all illusion. For more information visit Visit a summer pop-up in Sharjah featuring regional designers Taking over Bait Elowal, a 2-storey heritage house and culinary destination in the heart of Sharjah envisioned by Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, the Naseem pop-up celebrates the best of Arab design, culture, and craftsmanship. The curated showcase offers guests to shop exclusive pieces from regional designers and labels the likes of Dima Ayad, Bil Arabi by Nadine Kanso, and L'Afshar by Lilian Afshar and also enjoy hands-on workshops and a limited-time selection of beverages such as Lavender Matcha with lavender and maple, Joy Basil Bloom with hikma ritual's Joy glycerite infused with rose, tulsi, saffron, and lemon balm, until the end of June. For more information visit Reset with a yoga session As International Day of Yoga is celebrated on June 21, 2025, it's time to book a yoga session to feel calm from the inside out. So, whether you're a beginner or an experienced yogi, there's a class for everyone to try out and feel completely rejuvenated after. From long-standing studios like Shimis to Bali-inspired pieces such as Samadhi Wellness, Dubai has a myriad of studios for the perfect weekend reset. To see our yoga studios guide visit here. Unwind at this Grecian brunch This summer, OPA Dubai brings back its much-loved Summer Brunch Series, and taking place once a month from 12 PM to 4 PM. Titled A Journey Through the Hidden Gems of Greece, the brunch offers an immersive escape into Greek culture, with each edition spotlighting a different destination through storytelling, festive traditions, and refined cuisine. Guests can expect signature mezze, standout mains like lobster orzo and grilled kontosouvli, decadent desserts such as the Baklava Sundae, and vibrant entertainment featuring live Zorba performances and joyful plate smashing. Priced from Dhs355, OPA's brunch promises an unforgettable afternoon of flavor, rhythm, and flair, capturing the true spirit of Greek hospitality. For more information visit Feel sculpted at this newly opened Pilates studio View this post on Instagram A post shared by SCULPT. (@ Bringing Pilates to new Dubai, is SCULPT, the emirate's latest wellness studio in Dubai Media City. With Reformer Pilates at its core. It's a space where people can connect, through a common love of yoga & Pilates. The packages are priced at Dhs700 for any 5 classes, Dhs1,300 valid for 3 months for the 10 classes package. It's located in the stunning Arjaan by Rotana Hotel. For more information visit Unwind at this moonlight swim As the sun dips below the horizon, Al Janoub Pool at The Palace shimmers to life, setting the stage for Moonlight Swim—a sultry, starlit escape held every Friday and Saturday from 7PM to 11PM at One&Only Royal Mirage. This adults-only affair transforms the infinity pool into a twilight sanctuary, where summer beats echo through the night and the views stretch endlessly across Dubai Harbour Marina and Palm Island Bay. Guests can sip handcrafted cocktails in plush private cabanas, float under a canopy of stars, or sink into loungers surrounded by lush gardens and curated soundscapes. With its dreamy setting and effortless elegance, Moonlight Swim offers a chic new way to soak in summer—where the vibe is cool, the water warm, and the night full of possibility. The minimum spend is Dhs250 for poolside access and Dhs500 for private cabanas. For more information visit Dine with this exclusive show DREAM Dubai unveils its highly anticipated 8th season, Le Cirque—a dazzling dinner show that fuses gravity-defying performances, opulent costumes, and Mediterranean fine dining in a theatrical celebration of circus grandeur. Inspired by the enchantment of La Belle Époque, the show features eccentric characters, 3D mapping acts, and magical storytelling brought to life by Creative Director Pierre Khadra. With a newly redesigned floor plan and elevated ambiance curated by Executive Chef Rifky, Le Cirque transforms DREAM into a luxurious, immersive dreamscape—promising an unforgettable sensory journey that blends artistry, glamour, and gourmet excellence. Priced at Dhs1,000 per person, it takes place from 8pm until 3am. Located at Address Beach Resort, JBR, this concept is a must-visit. For more information visit Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @
Mid East Info
20-06-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
BEEAH Unveils Khalid Bin Sultan City, the group's first real estate development: A Landmark in Smart Sustainable Living
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, BEEAH has unveiled Khalid Bin Sultan City at its iconic headquarters. The launch took place in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, underscoring the importance of this landmark development in the emirate. Khalid Bin Sultan City, a groundbreaking masterplan designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, exemplifies BEEAH's diversification into real estate as a new line of business – building on its legacy as a world-class leader in sustainability and innovation. Sharjah, UAE, June 2025 – BEEAH, a sustainability pioneer driven by its expertise across environment, energy, technology, real estate, and healthcare, has announced the launch of Khalid Bin Sultan City, its first real estate development – a groundbreaking urban project that redefines sustainable living in the region. Officially unveiled at an event held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, the city stands as a tribute to BEEAH's commitment to sustainable, smart, and community-centric urban development. This project is inspired by the legacy of the late Sheikh Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, one of the pioneers in the field of design and urban planning, who had a clear impact on the architectural identity of Sharjah. Designed by the world-renowned Zaha Hadid Architects, Khalid Bin Sultan City is a master-planned, mixed-use development that integrates residential, commercial, cultural, and recreational spaces. Spanning a 1.5-kilometre-long plot and encompassing BEEAH's iconic LEED Platinum-certified headquarters in Sharjah, the city offers 1,500 freehold residential units. More than just a development, Khalid Bin Sultan City is a chance to be part of something truly meaningful – a community envisioned for those who seek more than just a place to live. It is an invitation to belong to a city that celebrates human connection, purpose-driven design, and a deeper harmony with the environment. Spanning seven distinct residential neighbourhoods, Khalid Bin Sultan City is master planned to foster a cohesive, people-first community. Each neighbourhood is structured around a central plaza – a vibrant public space within a five-minute walking distance – designed to serve as a social and wellbeing anchor. From children's hubs and wellness clinics to sports facilities and outdoor cafés, every amenity is thoughtfully placed to support daily life and human connection. Redefining Urban Living Through Sustainability: Following the directive of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Supreme Council of Family Affairs and Chairperson of the Board of Directors of BEEAH, Khalid Bin Sultan City was designed with sustainability embedded in every aspect of design and operation, making it a climate-smart, zero-waste city. Built on four core pillars – sustainability, technology, culture, and people – the city integrates net-zero ready smart infrastructure, renewable energy systems, recycled water infrastructure, and sustainable mobility solutions. Smart technology powers AI-driven infrastructure, digital services, and decentralized digital identities, ensuring seamless urban living. Cultural and design elements celebrate heritage, featuring public art spaces, a cultural center, and architecture that reflects local identity. Prioritizing people, the city offers walkable neighborhoods, health-focused amenities, and a vibrant community atmosphere that fosters connection and well-being. At the heart of the development lies a two-kilometre shaded linear oasis, which is a continuous central park that winds through the city. Designed to encourage curiosity and exploration, the oasis features running and cycling tracks, sculpture gardens, wellness areas, and shaded courtyards that offer both serenity and social interaction. Informed by Sharjah's desert climate and natural landscape, the city's pedestrian pathways are shaded by native trees, colonnades, and recessed façades. This design approach has been engineered to reduce ground temperatures, ensuring thermal comfort throughout the year while promoting walkability and environmental cohesion. Commenting on the launch, HE Khaled Al Huraimel, Group CEO and Vice Chairman of BEEAH, stated: 'BEEAH's journey in real estate marks a transformative milestone with Khalid Bin Sultan City, a flagship real estate project that brings our principles of sustainability, technology, culture, and community to an urban scale. The city builds directly upon lessons learned from creating one of the world's most advanced office buildings – demonstrating how technology can scale sustainable impact across entire communities rather than just individual structures. Our experience as a world-class visionary developer of landmark projects has led to today's announcement of Khalid Bin Sultan City, and the formalization of BEEAH's wider expansion into real estate. This is a natural progression of our determination to build tomorrow's smart and sustainable cities. Inspired by our earlier achievements, we are now applying these same principles on an urban scale – demonstrating how technology can scale sustainable impact across entire communities rather than just individual structures. This city is a testament to the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Muhammad Al Qasimi and Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, whose unwavering commitment to sustainable development has guided BEEAH's journey.' The city will provide a design and business district which will serve as a vital new urban hub for Sharjah. This area will include incubator spaces for the UAE's growing creative economy, along with cultural venues that foster entrepreneurship and circular design. Seamlessly linked to residential, retail, and entertainment zones, this district underscores the city's role as a driver for innovation and economic development within Sharjah. BEEAH's diversification into real estate is a natural extension of its broader commitment to sustainable innovation across its five strategic verticals: Environment, Energy, Technology, Healthcare, and now Real Estate. This new line of business builds on BEEAH's proven track record in creating future-ready, impactful developments. For years, BEEAH has developed large-scale infrastructure projects that support sustainable development, including advanced recycling facilities, environmental complexes, and next-generation utilities. These projects laid the foundation for BEEAH's entry into real estate. The journey in this new vertical began with its iconic LEED Platinum-certified headquarters in Sharjah, a model of sustainable design by Zaha Hadid Architects, followed by Jawaher Boston Medical District (JBMD), a world-class healthcare development integrating medical expertise with urban planning. The project, designed by Renzo Piano Building Workshop, marks the renowned architect's first project in the Middle East, further elevating its architectural and cultural significance. Another flagship project is Sharjah Creative Quarter, a project entrusted to BEEAH by the Government of Sharjah, designed by award-winning architectural firm Taller de Arquitectura – Mauricio Rocha in collaboration with Daniel Rosselló, and envisioned as an innovative cultural hub fostering creativity and innovation. Khalid Bin Sultan City now marks the next chapter, bringing BEEAH's principles of sustainability, technology, culture, and community to an urban scale. Nada Taryam, CEO of Real Estate at BEEAH, added: 'We have designed Khalid Bin Sultan City as a dynamic ecosystem where diverse perspectives and talents converge, sparking new ideas and solutions for a sustainable future. We believe that building a better future starts with how we live today. This is why the city's design goes beyond utility – celebrating heritage, art, and identity through vibrant public spaces and cultural landmarks. The master plan and signature architecture by Zaha Hadid Architects bring this vision to life, blending innovation and beauty to create an environment that inspires, invites, and endures. It is a city where people can thrive, connect, and experience the best of sustainable living – all within a walkable, vibrant, and culturally rich environment.' Residential units, including villas, townhouses, and apartments, will be introduced in phases, offering a range of thoughtfully designed living spaces that prioritize sustainability, comfort, and modern amenities. As a freehold development, Khalid Bin Sultan City is open to buyers of all nationalities and further details on the available units and services for residents will be shared in upcoming announcements. A Real Estate Opportunity Amid Sharjah's Market Boom: Sharjah's real estate sector is witnessing unprecedented growth, with transactions surging to AED 13.2 billion in the first quarter of 2025 alone – a 31.9% increase year-on-year, according to the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department. This surge reflects growing investor confidence, robust infrastructure development, and strategic support from the Government of Sharjah. In this dynamic environment, Khalid Bin Sultan City stands out as a unique opportunity, aligned with the emirate's vision for sustainable and smart urban expansion.
