News

UAE's Embassy in London welcomed over 500 friends from the UK, UAE, and internationally to a grand reception at London’s famed Natural History Museum in South Kensington to commemorate 51 years since the founding of the UAE.

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan sent a message of congratulations to Rishi Sunak on the occasion of his election as UK new Prime Minister.

The two sides reviewed the latest regional and international developments, including the crisis in Ukraine, and the significance of reaching a political settlement and enhancing the response to its humanitarian repercussions.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, today met His Majesty King Charles III of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland at Buckingham Palace in London

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent a message of congratulations to King Charles III of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, on his ascension to the throne after the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, today discussed with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson bilateral relations and ways to enhance them in various domains.

President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent a message of congratulations to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on the occasion of Her Majesty's birthday.

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed reviewed the prospects of growing cooperation ties in investment and commercial fields, building on the ambitious economic agreements and partnerships signed recently between the two countries.

Over the next five years, the UAE-UK SIP will drive a significant increase in investment across a further three sectors: technology, infrastructure, and energy transition, as well as build on the existing programme of life sciences investment.

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Johnson also tackled several regional and international issues of mutual interest.

The United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom have issued a joint communiqué on the visit to London of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

Sheikh Mohamed, currently on an official visit to the UK, exchanged views with the UK top diplomat, over a number of issues of interest in addition to discussing the latest regional and international developments.

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, will start an official visit to the United Kingdom, Thursday.

President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent a message of condolences to Boris Johnson, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, on the death of his mother.

Mansour Abdullah Khalfan Belhoul, the UAE Ambassador to the United Kingdom (UK), visited the Department of Meteorology at the University of Reading.

Ras Al Khaimah, 22 December 2019, WAM - H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, today received, at his palace in the Saqr bin Mohammed City, a group of employees participating in a government exchange programme between Ras Al Khaimah and the city of Bristol, UK. The programme was organised by the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research. During the reception, Sheikh Saud highlighted the importance of such strategic partnerships and the benefits they bring to their participants, through providing them with expertise and knowledge that will help them to carry out their work effectively, as well as enable them to learn about best practices in government work. Sheikh Saud also praised the diversity of the programme, which includes various areas of government work, in light of Ras Al Khaimah's keenness to follow best modern governance systems to support its overall development. He also wished the employees future success in their efforts to enrich and improve the emirate’s government work, while calling on them to apply their knowledge throughout the programme and pass on to their peers the positive experiences they acquired. The programme, which began under the guidance and patronage of Sheikh Saud, is a knowledge platform that aims to prepare future leaders and provide employees of various local departments and government agencies with practical experience. This objective will be achieved through joint training with their counterparts in the UK, to learn about advanced technologies and the latest methods used to manage and implement government work in an effective and accurate manner, which will ensure the implementation of government agenda and policies and support the emirate's ability to achieve its short and long-term strategic goals and development plans. - Emirates News Agency, WAM - See more at: https://sp.mofa.gov.ae/EN/DiplomaticMissions/Embassies/London/AboutMission/Pages/RAK-Ruler-receives-participants-of-government-exchange-programme-between-RAK,-Bristol-.aspx#sthash.ZboA2piV.dpuf

London, 18 December 2019, The National - The UAE embassy in London has appointed the UK’s former Middle East minister as honorary chairman of the Emirates Society. Alistair Burt worked on the Middle East portfolio for more than five years during two stints after 2010 and was known for his frequent travel to the region. The society, which was established last year, intends to bolster business and social ties between the UAE and the UK. “I am delighted to have been asked to take up the role of honorary chairman of the Emirates Society in the UK,” Mr Burt told The National. “Our relationship is deep, across the years and across many different facets of life, from culture and tourism to our common commercial interests. “But, above all, I have found it is about the many people who move between our two states and wish to encourage a wider understanding and knowledge of each other. “I will do my best to ensure the society fulfils such a role.” Mr Burt will deliver the first of a series of talks for the society, and will discuss his experiences as a Middle East minister. Highly regarded during his time in office, Mr Burt built a deep knowledge of the region as undersecretary at the UK's Foreign and Commonwealth Office. A programme of talks will follow, covering cultural, political and historical topics. - The National - See more at: https://sp.mofa.gov.ae/EN/DiplomaticMissions/Embassies/London/AboutMission/Pages/UAE-embassy-appoints-former-British-envoy-Alistair-Burt-as-Emirates-Society-chairman-.aspx#sthash.IuWyKNOu.dpuf

DUBAI, 15 December 2019, WAM - The Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government, MBRSG, organised the third station of the third edition of its 'Future Trip' programme, in the form of a field trip to London, bringing together leaders of the first and second tiers from the federal and local governments, as well as the private sector. Held from 11th-15th November, the five-day visit sought to facilitate the exchange of expertise and showcase the latest international trends in government. Commenting on the field trip, MBRSG’s Executive President, Dr. Ali Sebaa Al Marri, said, "The London trip reflects MBRSG’s openness to exploring the best government experiences and practices. It is a platform for us to relay our own knowledge and expertise, showcase innovative government systems, and find solutions to relevant challenges by collaborating with our partners." The third station drew 23 participants from various entities, including the Ministry of Defence; Ministry of Health and Prevention; Ministry of Climate Change and Environment; Dubai Civil Defence; National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority; Dubai Health Authority; Roads and Transport Authority; Dubai Government Human Resources Department; Community Development Authority; Emirates International Accreditation Centre; General Authority of Ports, Borders, and Free Zones Security; Dubai Courts; General Sport Authority; Dubai Media Inc.; Dubai Culture; Al Khaleej Newspaper; and Al Kaitoob Advocates law firm. The third station’s five-day agenda kicked off its activities with an introduction of Britain’s government and civil service operations. Participants visited the UK’s central government ministries, exploring the practices of the UK’s executive authorities, the organisational structures of each department, and relevant operational policies. Upon the conclusion of the programme, Mansoor Abulhoul, UAE Ambassador to the UK, honoured participants in the Future Trip programme in the presence of Professor Raed Awamleh, Dean of MBRSG, and Sonny Leong CBE, CEO of Civil Service College. - Emirates News Agency, WAM - See more at: https://sp.mofa.gov.ae/EN/DiplomaticMissions/Embassies/London/AboutMission/Pages/MBRSG-holds-%E2%80%98Future-Trip-3%E2%80%99-programme-in-London-.aspx#sthash.dikcAtm2.dpuf

LONDON, 15 December 2019 - WAM - The Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination, ZHO, has announced the launch of the Bee The Change - London 2020 global campaign in coordination with its strategic partner, Growing Happy. Bee The Change - a move which is part of ZHO's efforts to empower the People of Determination - is a social awareness campaign aimed at changing perceptions relating to the abilities of People of Determination, highlighting the important role they play in developing and creating a global movement. The campaign emerged following the remarkable success of the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019, in parallel with the various initiatives launched to celebrate the Year of Tolerance. The launch ceremony was held on 13th December at the Pump House Gallery in Battersea Park, London. The event was attended by Mansoor Abulhoul, UAE Ambassador to the UK; Rawdha Al Otaiba, Deputy Head of Mission at the UAE Embassy in London; Abdullah Abdulali Al Humaidan, ZHO Secretary-General; Abdullah Al Kamali, ZHO Acting Head of Special Needs Sector; Mohamed Saif Al Qubaisi; the ZHO work team; as well as a number of other representatives and People of Determination (people with disabilities). Commenting on the launch of the "Bee The Change" campaign, ZHO Secretary-General - who described the campaign as an invitation from the UAE to the world in line with the Emirati Government’s vision - said, "It carries a social message on a global scale and invites everyone to look at what People of Determination are achieving and at the abilities they have to work in various field of employment and skilled labour. It seeks to create a global movement for change under the title of Bee the Change," he added. He emphasised that the visionary leadership of the UAE was providing all types of support and assistance to People of Determination, an example that should be followed around the world. He added that such efforts led to positive outcomes and achievements that everyone can benefit from, especially those government entities committed to continuing ZHO’s efforts to empower and integrate People of Determination in the community, facilitating their effective contribution to the country’s development. Al Humaidan voiced his great appreciation and thanks to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, for his endless support of People of Determination and of ZHO’s projects and initiatives. He also praised the positive and influential roles of People of Determination across the UAE, noting that many have been able to demonstrate their special abilities and be productive as full-time employees. He described them as one of the key pillars of the community as they equally contribute to the overall development and sustainability that the country is witnessing across various sectors. The ZHO Secretary General thanked the UAE Ambassador to the UK and the diplomatic mission and all the employees of the UAE embassy, the organisation’s strategic partner in London, Growing Happy, Be Military Fitness, Special Olympics Great Britain, and all ZHO partners for their participation in the London campaign. He then thanked the global adventurer Bear Grylls and the Be Military Fitness board of directors for their support and engagement in the London campaign. For his part, Belhoul commented, "We are pleased with our involvement in launching the "Bee the Change" campaign, which has been developed by Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination. To be part of the change, we value the roles of our British partners, Growing Happy, Be Military Fit, and Bear Grylls for their roles in supporting this initiative. As part of the ceremony, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between ZHO and Growing Happy Limited, regarding cooperation and involvement in the "Bee the Change" campaign as a strategic partner for the campaign and the adoption of its goals and vision in the United Kingdom. Children and young people from local schools and Special Olympics Great Britain also participated in the launch of the Bee the Change, London 2020 campaign. The event’s programme included fitness activities and various activities held in collaboration with the world famous adventurer Bear Grylls, to foster learning among children and youth, and promote their personal development. Bee The Change is a global invitation extended to all individuals and entities to become part of the change that benefits People of Determination across the globe. The campaign works toward achieving its vision of a more comprehensive, tolerant and equal world wherePeople of Determination can invest their full abilities in the community. The campaign wants to empower People of Determination to become leaders of change, including social, environmental and economic sustainability in the community. It seeks to provide them with increased training and employment opportunities in various sectors, foster their abilities and sustain the positive impact of their empowerment across global community. Furthermore, Bee the Change seeks to celebrate the talents of people of determination and help them become leaders of change themselves. It should be noted that Bee the Change campaign was launched in Abu Dhabi on the 4th of November 2019 in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Khalid bin Zayed Al Nahyan, ZHO Chairman of the Board, and the participation of strategic partners, supporting entities, and guests. - Emirates News Agency, WAM - See more at: https://sp.mofa.gov.ae/EN/DiplomaticMissions/Embassies/London/AboutMission/Pages/ZHO-announces-'Bee-The-Change---London-2020-Global-Campaign'-.aspx#sthash.Ia5qEXwI.dpuf

DUBAI, 09 December 2019, WAM - Arrivals from the UK to the GCC will increase 22% over the period 2018 to 2024, driven by new and direct flight routes, competitive air fares and a growing number of leisure travellers, according to the latest data released ahead of Arabian Travel Market, ATM, 2020, which takes place at Dubai World Trade Centre from 19th to 22nd April, 2020. According to research carried out by Colliers International, on behalf of ATM, as many as 2.8 million UK residents will travel to the GCC in 2024, an additional 500,000 travellers when compared to 2018 arrival figures. Adding to this, figures from ATM 2019 show the number of delegates, exhibitors and attendees interested in doing business with the UK increased by 5%. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said, "Historically, the UK and the GCC have enjoyed excellent travel and tourism links and this trend is set to continue over the next four years despite the economic uncertainty surrounding Brexit and the bleak pound to dollar exchange rate, in which sterling has declined 18.9% since 19th June 2015. "However, the UAE is expected to continue to be the preferred GCC destination for British tourists, welcoming a projected 2.23 million visitors by 2023. Saudi Arabia will follow with 251,000 visitors, while Oman will welcome 165,000, Bahrain 159,000 and Kuwait 5,000." UK tourists travelling to the GCC are expected to generate an estimated US$6.3 billion in travel and tourism revenue by 2024, an increase of 34% when compared with figures from 2018, according to the research data. Building on this, total tourism spend in the GCC, reached US$70.2 billion last year, with the UK travellers average spend during trips to the region, 27% higher than the average spend of any other visitor. In 2018 Bahrain witnessed the highest average spend per visit at US$3,298. Saudi Arabia followed with an average UK tourist spend per trip reaching US$2,047, very closely followed by the UAE at US$2,020 and Kuwait and Oman reaching $US1,077 and US$945 respectively. "The UK, as a consistent and key top source market for the GCC, continues to present significant growth potential for travel and tourism revenue across the region. In return the GCC, UAE and Dubai in particular, besides being a commercial hub, offers year-round sunshine, unique travel experiences, world-class hotels and resorts and fast-paced leisure facilities and amenities," added Curtis. ATM 2020 will welcome an array of UK exhibitors to the show, with names such as Visit Britain Shop, Warner Bros Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, Chelsea FC, Lancaster Landmark Hotel Group, Blenheim Palace and Historic Royal Palaces, to name a few. "But it is not just about inbound tourism to the GCC, ATM provides a perfect platform for UK destinations, hotels, attractions, tour operators and travel agents, to market their proposition to Middle East’s outbound operators and travel professionals, who continue to play a key role in the UK’s tourism industry," said Curtis. ATM, considered by industry professionals as a barometer for the Middle East and North Africa tourism sector, welcomed almost 40,000 people to its 2019 event with representation from 150 countries. With over 100 exhibitors making their debut, ATM 2019 showcased the largest ever exhibition from Asia. Adopting Events for Tourism Growth as the official show theme, ATM 2020 will build on the success of this year’s edition with a host of seminar sessions discussing the impact events have on tourism growth in the region while inspiring the travel and hospitality industry about the next generation of events. - Emirates News Agency, WAM