UAE engineering firms must work closer with educators to inspire next generation of innovators

UAE engineering firms must work closer with educators to inspire the next generation of innovators

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 20th May 2022: The engineering sector must work closer with educators if the UAE is going to inspire and enable the next generation of Emiratis to become world-class innovators of the future, according to a new report.

The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), a 151-year-old global organisation with more than 155,000 members in 148 countries, has released findings from its UAE Skills Survey report that lays bare the skills gap currently facing the emirates’ engineering industry, as well as the skills prospects for the next decade.

The IET, which has been running skills surveys for the past 17 years, joined forces with market researchers YouGov, and interviewed engineers and senior decision-makers in UAE companies that employ engineers.

The findings cast a positive light on the expansion of the industry over the past year, with almost half (48%) of engineering and technology firms seeing a growth in their business and one in five reporting a large increase in staff numbers. are not enough people interested in new positions.

Other challenges facing engineering employers include pressure on wages (34%), increased remote working (23%) and staff retention and turnover (23%).

Over the next decade the UAE’s industrial strategy, Operation 300bn, aims to develop the industrial sector and enhance its role in stimulating the national economy.

The companies which took part in the IET survey said that upskilling their staff in problem solving and leadership were amongst their most pressing training needs to meet their priorities.

Most employers are confident they can address the skills gap as their businesses diversify into new ones. Almost 90% of engineering employers are confident they will be able to access the training needed to meet their goals in the next five years, with two thirds (66%) looking to implement training to address their skills gap by turning to professional training bodies, such as the IET, to meet their needs.

However, during 2021 the majority struggled to fill vacancies with more than nine in ten (93%) UAE engineering employers finding it difficult to recruit new staff. The report also highlights the quality of new recruits who joined the sector challenged many businesses with 58% of large companies (those with over 500 employees) saying they are struggling to find applicants with the right technical skills. Engineering employers also say there are simply not enough applicants for the jobs on offer, with a quarter saying there The IET’s President, Sir Julian Young, said: “Engineering employers can gain value by encouraging the achievement of professional standards within their workforce. There are globally-recognised frameworks that exist to assess the professionalism of engineers and technicians. The attainment of such standards boosts the level of knowledge, skills, and competence, and also supports a workforce’s good ethical behaviour.” engineering talent to meet its future requirements, industry and the Government will need to work with schools to ensure children from a young age experience hands-on practical learning of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) subjects to encourage creativity, imagination and problem-solving.

David Lakin, Head of Education at the IET, said: “We need to open young people’s eyes and minds to the world of engineering at a much younger age. Not only do we need them to understand what engineering is, we want them to see that if they practically apply the STEM skills they learn in the classroom, they can improve the world for everyone.”

Unlike many other countries, the view of STEM graduates is a positive one across the UAE, with over half (54%) of those who employ entry-level employees considering university education to be very effective in preparing them for the workplace. As the UAE engineering sector diversifies in the coming years, it will be critical for employers and educators to work together to shape the skills pipeline for their industry.

Sir Julian added: “Employers should look at hosting work experience opportunities and mentor schemes, as well as encouraging the engineers and technicians they employ to act as STEM Ambassadors, so the next generation is inspired and prepared for the skills they need.”

Few who took part in the survey identified diversity as a current issue - with only 17% saying they currently see a lack of gender diversity among the workforce and 13% recognising a lack of ethnicity in their workplace. The UAE has a truly diverse population, and it is essential for the engineering sector to continue to embrace diversity, which is critical in helping to increase creativity, productivity, and profitability.

Past President of the IET, Professor Danielle George, said: “The UAE is ahead of many countries when it comes to recruiting female engineers. This is due to the efforts that have been made in the past decade to attract female graduates into the sector. We hope this trend will continue in the next ten years and would urge the UAE government to share its learning across the world.”

The Crossing Introduces Two New Menus

The Crossing, the most sought-after restaurant known for its elevated Indian cuisine, is now introducing two uniquely curated menus - Business Lunch and cocktail paired menu.

Located at the H Dubai, the restaurant with a patio offers a perfect venue and a relaxed atmosphere when heading out for lunch with colleagues, having a business meeting, or entertaining guests. Guests can enjoy a lavish weekday lunch (noon until 4pm) for AED 95 per person for a 2-course menu and AED 125 for a three-course menu (includes dessert). Both menus include dal/ salad and rice or a choice of bread. Diners can also select a glass of grape for an extra AED 29.

In addition, the restaurant is also offering a unique menu curated by experienced sommelier that is expertly paired with a select list of grape drinks to complement a perfect Indian meal. The menu starts at AED 299 with 3 courses, going up to AED 499, with 6 courses - Diners can experience a selection of grape drinks with each course, further enhancing the flavours of each dish.

Jarret D’Abreo, Managing Partner said, “The Crossing has firmly positioned itself as an elevated Indian restaurant in Dubai, and we are passionate about the experience we offer our guests. We are delighted to introduce two new menus that revolve around having a relaxed conversation over lunch or cocktails with colleagues, family, or friends.”

The Crossing’s philosophy is rooted in the blending of cultures and shared food experiences from the Indian subcontinent. The Crossing’s highly researched menu is all about reviving lost recipes, exploring the diversity of regional cuisines, and finding dishes that have been influenced by immigrants and travellers. It features fewer curries but relies more on shared plates that are expressive of the classic Indian comfort food that generations of Indians have grown up with.

Sumo Sushi & Bento opens in Mirdif Hills Avenue Mall, Dubai

UAE, 8th June 2022: Sumo Sushi & Bento, one of UAE’s Japanese restaurant chains opens its 14th franchised location in Mirdif Hills Avenue Mall, Dubai at Shop 20 & 22. This also marks its 18th outlet in the Middle East and Southern Europe. Ms. Julianne Holt-Kailihiwa, CEO, Sumo International Inc. LLC said, “Sumo Sushi & Bento continues to expand its business and franchise in the region. This is an exciting and proud moment for the brand to open its 14th outlet in the UAE. Japanese cuisine is growing in its popularity around the Middle East, and we would like to think that Sumo’s formula of personal service, affordable cuisine and fresh ingredients have gone a long way towards making it the favored choice across all nationalities.”

“The ‘Japanese food wave’ is here to stay and the developing residential area of Mirdif Hills was the prime location to expand the new branch outlet strategically and align with our vision to provide a happy and fun dining experience to its residents.”

Japanese cuisine has become a favorite of many because it is very suitable to those with specific dietary preferences and restrictions. The clean flavors and generous use of vegetables provides ample of options for vegetarians and vegans while non-vegetarians can delight in high quality varieties of seafood, meat, and spices. In UAE, Japanese eateries continues to grow in popularity because there is no lack of people who enjoy unique flavorful ingredients and delicious healthy fine dining in the city. The opening hours of Sumo’s Mirdif Hills Avenue Mall outlet is from Monday -Thursday 10 AM-11 PM and Friday-Sunday 10 AM-11:30 PM

Embrace your passion and turn it into a business

Lavesh Jagasia is an art collector and expert headquartered in Dubai, with over 30 years of knowledge in South Asian art. He founded The Serigraph Studio, an art publishing company. His aesthetic perspective on life propels him to success as he combines art with investing. His intellect does work artistically.

From August 2012 to July 2015, he was an art advisor and the proprietor of The Fine Art Advisory. Lavesh is also the proprietor of The Serigraph Studio and the founder and Managing Director of ARTIANA.

Out of curiosity, he would attend numerous galleries and art events during his undergraduate years. He had little direct influence on art collecting, and no one in his family or circle of acquaintances was interested.

“I became an art collector by accident.” I plan to acquire artwork to adorn my rental units one day.

“And before I knew it, I had enough paintings to construct a museum,” he explained. Lavesh considers himself an art enthusiast. He recalled spending time reading books, watching documentaries, and meeting artists to understand more about the topic of art. He always makes sure that the picture he is about to purchase has meaning to him.

“I get to learn more about a particular work or artist and improve my social life by owning it. I’d run with collectors like myself most of the time,” he continued.

He called himself a passionate art investor. “I am thankful for the opportunity to meet with Indian art legends such as S.H. Raza, Ram Kumar, and Jehangir Sabavala,” he said. He stated that he is inspired when he hears about the pleasures and hardships of artists. This increases his appreciation for the work.

“Collecting art is a way for me to pay gratitude to those I greatly like,” Lavesh explained.

Lavesh was driven by the desire to develop an

economical and accessible media for Fine Art. For this purpose, he built his art studio, The Serigraph Studio, where art enthusiasts can obtain a Serigraph.

Lavesh’s ordinary day might be stressful, yet he never complains about it. He claims that there are currently more purchasers than available artworks on the market. In this regard, he has just established the Artiana auction house, where individuals can see and purchase worldclass, lavish artworks.

“My success is due to a combination of good fortune and strenuous effort. Everything is a chance that presents itself by chance. I make the most of every opportunity, “he added.

He has a deep appreciation for handcrafted items and enjoys collecting them. Therefore, he was named Dubai Vibes Eminent Art Curator of the Year 2022 for representing the pinnacle of wisdom and understanding.

Nitin Jain: Finding the silver lining in the dark is the secret to success.

“Success in Dubai requires self-satisfaction and fulfillment. It means living a prosperous and fulfilling life.” Nitin Jain is the director of Affordables, the leading garment manufacturer in the UAE (UAE). He is a citizen of India who was born and raised in Delhi. He is not just a businessman but also an advocate for health and sustainability. His assistance in developing a clothing business for expats in the UAE enables him to be prosperous and contented.

He has wanted to be an entrepreneur since he was a youngster. He continues to work and inspire others with his unique works and vision even today. He is now a married man with two beautiful children.

Nitin stated: “I’ve lived in the UAE for 20 years and had no work when I first arrived. So the only alternative I have is to try my luck. After several months of effort and adversity, I got work at a textile firm and stayed for nearly two years.”

“I established Affordables in 2003. I started my business in Ajman, and the journey has not been simple, but it has been worth it because of what is happening in my business now.”

Nitin’s company concept arose amid the 2008 recession in Dubai, where the expat population around them was suffering greatly. Despite the recession hype, that event becomes a watershed moment for him to establish a firm. He kept on looking for the silver lining amid adversity.

“This idea occurred to me since I’ve noticed that expats can’t afford to buy as many clothes at the mall because of the high pricing. Spending so much money on apparel and accessories in the mall is not reasonable. That is why my wife and I decided to start a business called Affordables.”

“We established the firm for the first time in September 2009 and currently manage 15 different stores. This year, we want to develop two additional locations so that more people may enjoy high-quality apparel at the most affordable prices,” he said.

Success and learnings

For Nitin, success in Dubai is self-fulfillment, contentment, and enjoying a rich and decent life. On the other side, Nitin argues that financial success is not the main criterion. Instead, living in peace and safety is much more significant.

“I am a person who sees achievement in the face of difficulties and challenges. It makes me more robust, more confident, and more hopeful.”

According to him, the fashion industry fascinates him, and it is inevitable and constant changes provide him with a great scope of innovation and a continuous search for new ideas in vogue. “I truly believe that the fashion industry not only dresses people but defines the character.”

Conquering adversities positively

“We do not leave behind just wealth and inheritance - what we impart are legacy and inspiration.”

Nitin shared that the constant challenges he usually encounters are when he is about to import from various countries, adopting new laws, price war, handling the needs of 250 nationalities, leasing situations, and Human Resources.

He added that they need to make decisions about buying thousands of new articles, colors, and styles daily in the fashion industry, which happens to be the highest level of decision fatigue.

“Like any other entrepreneur, I had to face many odds while starting my business. Capital mobilization was the biggest hurdle to begin with. It was followed by other aspects like cost of operations, working capital, extensive paperwork, and minimal support from other business enterprises,” he added.

Nitin Jain was awarded Dubai Vibes Eminent Businessman of the Year 2022 for Clothing and Accessories.

‘UAE is very kind to expatriates.’

— Dr. Vinod Thampi Narayanan

“I have been working in the UAE for 10 consecutive years and I am very happy that the benevolent governance of this country, as well as the leadership, have a real humanitarian role in giving an insurance provider to the patient – by law or otherwise. I feel it’s a very kind gesture that is happening continuously,” says Dr. Vinod Thampi Narayanan, a neurologist who also is Chief Executive Officer of Ahalia Medical Group and ergo, simultaneously a full-time consultant in Neurology and the Director of Medical Sciences in Neurosciences in his group. “I could honestly say that the best part of my career as a medical administrator at the CEO level, which I have been holding for the last 14 years, and as a practitioner with the head of neurology that I have gain for more than a decade, is the insurance coverage for patients,” Dr. Vinod says. He said insurance coverage for patients makes it more attractive for doctors to practice in the UAE. “Back in our home countries, patients spend for their diagnosis, the radiological laboratory investigations, the doctor consultation fees, cross references and the medicines from the pharmacy, from their own pocket,” Dr. Vinod said. However, he said the situation is a lot different in the UAE where approximately 85% of the population are expatriates from over 200 countries across the world.

In the same vein, Dr. Vinod said: “I wish the screening of diseases (in the field of) oncology as well as genetic diseases also be taken seriously by the employers, the employees, the HR of organizations, the insurance companies, the third-party administrators, and finally the Department and Ministry of Health in this country, so much so that, if these things also are included among the insurance coverages, we will be able to serve a much bigger population with the same expertise and infrastructure.” Dr. Vinod comes from a family of engineers. “My grandfathers, both of them, my dad, my brother, all were engineers, and they excel in their professions. I took inspiration from the community to understand that medicine was my method. “Right from the age of 17, when I joined medical school, I have wanted to become a neurologist. So, I was very clear about choosing my specialization. I took the medical profession very seriously.”

‘Dentist of Personalities’ bringing smiles to Dubai expats

Dr. Shajahan Fazaludeen, an Indian citizen and implantologist, takes delight in restoring smiles to individuals of all backgrounds. “I think I’ve treated over 100 different nationalities - even from nations I had never idea existed,” said Dr. Shajahan Fazaludeen, implantologist and owner of Smile Essentials Dental Clinic.

Dr. Shajahan, who is originally from India, founded the clinic six years ago and has since restored pleased clients’ smiles. “I enjoy what I do. I am very enthusiastic about it. “I will continue to learn,” he added, adding that implants represent the future of dentistry. “Implants will take the place of dentures.” That is the future, according to Dr. Shajahan. The “Dentist of Personalities,” as he is called in Dubai, also stated that he considers doing all types of individuals to be his greatest success. “I would not have been able to treat as many patients of different ethnicities from all over the world if I were practicing anywhere else.” In Dubai, you can view the entire planet. “We’re all like one huge happy family,” he remarked. Dr. Shajahan, being the busy guy that he is, claims to have no time for hobbies. “I don’t have much time for anything,” he said. “In my spare time, I spend it with my wife and

children.” So, certainly, my pastime is driving my kid to school,” he laughed. Most people consider Dubai to be an expensive city. According to Dr. Shajahan, the establishment offers a pricing range for everyone. “You can stay in Karama with standard rates, or stay in Downtown. You can spend AED100,000 on something or AED10 on another thing,” he said. Dr. Shajahan said he will settle in Dubai. “I will be here. I like the place,” he said. On the other hand, this remarkable expert was named Dubai Vibes Eminent Dentist of the Year in 2022.

A beauty builder and passionate philanthropist, make waves in the Gulf region

Mohamad Madi is a Lebanese native who always advocates for teaching and assisting thousands of people who want to be the person they want to be. He is now the President of Madi International.

Mohamad began his business career at an early age. He considers himself to be a trader by nature. His love of beauty and exquisiteness prompted him to become a businessman and philanthropist.

“I am self-educated and continue to be passionate about education. I am constantly reading books and listening to business audio. I have attended many seminars. Business is deeply engraved in me,” he said.

The life of an expat

Mohamad Madi has lived in Dubai for the past 30 years. He saw how the emirate grew from a lonely place to an economic and historical center and the home of the brightest and most significant assets.

“I’ve seen and experienced Dubai’s rise. Dubai was considerably smaller twenty-five years ago than today, but this great metropolis had a vast vision even back then, “he stated.

What he likes best about Dubai, he says, is that its leaders have goals for the city. They are continually investing in higher levels of development and the well-being of its inhabitants and citizens.

Vision integrated into business

Mohamad has always enjoyed lending a helping hand to others. Aside from financial donations, he wants to share his skills and experience. He believes that someone should be generous.

His advocacy and beautiful acts of kindness are widely interwoven into his business as Madi International firmly promotes beauty to its consumers.

When asked about his enthusiasm for the selected field, Mohamad said, “I did not select this field. I want to think that this field selected me. It came naturally, and I have strong enthusiasm for this wonderful business, which has enormous growth potential. I see it reaching incredible heights.”

Because his enthusiasm comes easily to him, he often struggles with the industry’s dynamism and competition. Keeping the company’s structure and establishing a solid staff is challenging.

Furthermore, their enthusiasm, vision, and determination keep him grounded and motivated, which is why he was named Dubai Vibes Eminent Businessman of the Year 2022 for Lifestyle and Cosmetics.

throughout the north of the United Kingdom, so the shift to full-time DJ was a natural next step,” he added.

“My first residency came while I was at university, playing warm-up sets under a more experienced DJ headlining, and I learned a lot from these experiences. However, I am fortunate to have bunches of career highlights from playing alongside Steve Angello at his Size Matters Festival, winning the Pukka Up DJ competition, and playing in the main room in Amnesia.”

Despite being a university graduate, DJ Tom selects the most significant thing that will make him pleased. According to his acquaintances, Tom never had an actual career; as a boy, he had a paper route, a summer as a bartender at a sports bar, and a two-week stint at a pub. He’d never worked in an office before.

Bring the beat in

DJ Tom spent most of his time in Dubai in the

DJ Tom Higham:

The Economics of ‘Bring the beat in’

The day gets better and better when you listen to DJ Tom’s wonderful music. Tom Higham is a 2022 Dubai Vibes Eminent Disc Jockey who has lived in Dubai for several years, building a career and passion for creating the best beats and nicks of the time.

“Taking an audience on a journey and bringing them through songs they haven’t heard before and allowing the intensity of the music sweep them away is the most rewarding thing for me, but you need the appropriate crowd and location to achieve this.”

DJ Tom’s extraordinary musical skill has been developed since he was a child. His ambition to become a music producer is now in the works. And Dubai, the city that never sleeps, is a fantastic platform for him to network, process his passion, and create a seamless dream that will never stop him from aiming for greater heights.

In addition to being one of the top performers in town, DJ Tom studied Economics at a university in the United Kingdom. Although he was a devoted student, he could come to terms with his interest and academic life.

“While studying Economics in university, I purchased my deck. I joined and won a couple of DJ competitions. By the time I graduated from university, I was already performing in three cities Marina region, near enough to stroll into JBR and enjoy the seaside while staying out of the traffic.

He views Dubai as a city that has a lot to offer. He is grateful for all the fantastic chances the city has provided him, as well as the relationships he has made with individuals from all walks of life.

Moreover, not all the time, he is on cloud nine. According to him, “Covid has been the biggest struggle I have faced - being forced to stop working for almost a year due to lockdown, restrictions, entertainment bans were unbelievably difficult.”

“My next goal is to establish myself as a music producer, under a new alias, and then build a brand as an artist in a new musical direction. I have worked hard this season to catch up financially to where I was before Covid and after Ramadan. I will be reassessing my work-life balance to make more time to focus on my studio productions, “ he said.

A Magician from Arabia shows how charity and magic are connected to passion

Aperson who believes in magic builds his destiny in the realm of imagination and dreams. Moein Al Bastaki, an Emirati magician, illusionist, and mentalist, is 40 years old. He is also the President and CEO of MOEIN Al Bastaki Co.

His love of magic led to several invitations to perform for royal gatherings and unique events. Despite having a master’s degree in business, he enjoys working as a performer and an architect on his trip.

Aside from being a stage magician, Moein wishes to spread joy and excitement via his humanitarian activities for those with special needs and cancer patients.

Art of Magic

Moein was introduced to the art of magic when he was six years old. According to him, his grandfather taught him his first magic, which marked the beginning of his adventure and love of fantasy.

“I battled with the Arab world’s rigid culture. I struggled with informing others about my craft since some people may regard magic as a prohibited art form, “he remarked.

Moein was first hesitant to reveal his name in the media and introduce himself to the public, but one of his friends encouraged him to have faith and see the world through the eyes of a child. Surprisingly, society appreciated his work. detractors. Years later, I am still admired for my creativity and the joy I bring to people’s lives when I perform, “ Moein spoke up.

What motivates him?

“With Magic, I make sure to execute illusions that impact people’s emotions in many ways; joy, anxiety, excitement, and anxiousness, and leave them with an experience that they could talk about for years to come,” Moein stated.

According to him, if he is given the opportunity to participate in any event that can benefit persons or charities, such as those with special needs or cancer, he will seize the opportunity and do his best for the audience.

Furthermore, he hopes to be one of the most well-known names in the history of magic. Moein Al Bastaki is currently the Dubai Vibes Eminent Media Personality of the Year 2022.

What is it like for a multifaceted doctor to become a philanthropist?

Amedical practitioner that never stops trying to help others in whatever way he can. This is how people characterized Dr. Sangeeta, the Medical Director of Abu Dhabi’s 35-year-old Al Ahalia Hospital, one of the emirate’s oldest institutions.

She was a doctor who served in the Indian air force and as a medical officer in the armed army. She also took part in BeingShe Universe, a female empowerment pageant.

This woman has been living in the UAE for six years. She began her career as a laboratory director at the hospital before being elevated to Medical Director. Serving in a leadership role motivates her to be a sound pioneer among his colleagues.

“Success is feeling content doing anything you want at the moment. Happiness is fulfillment. Small goals are achieved. And failures serve as a springboard to achievement.”

She is a pathologist as well as a philanthropist. She ensures that her interest in medicine is linked to her participation in various community projects. Dr. Sangeeta felt that her hospital needed a multi-cultural approach, with doctors from all over the world.

Dr. Sangeeta was born into a medical family. Her parents, aunts, uncles, and cousins work in the same industry. She stated that she had never reached a time when she needed to decide on new employment.

“I was captivated by them since I was young, and they gave me a lot of drive and inspiration. I couldn’t come up with anything else, “ she said.

When questioned about her children’s decision, she told Dubai Vibes Magazine that she would leave it up to them. Assume they are motivated and passionate about serving. Being a doctor is a complex and long path. Otherwise, she has their full support regardless of their interests.

“I work very hard, and there is strong competition in India. I work the hardest to achieve my dreams. And with the help of the blessings, all my hard work is paid off, and I am sitting here. I am delighted that I reached here,” she uttered.

She also said, “I worked in different government hospitals in India, and it is challenging for doctors to utilize the resources. Since India is so populated, there is always a scarcity of materials and doctors. They need to do their best despite the misery.”

Life in the UAE

When Dr. Sangeeta chose to relocate to the UAE, she openly discussed the difficulties of beginning from scratch. She stated that she needed to acquire a license and search for work at the time. Fortunately, she did a fantastic job on her first try.

“I am fortunate to have been allowed to oversee and administer the hospital. I received my MBA in hospital administration. I’m doing everything by hand, “ she revealed.

She added: “When I worked here in the UAE, I learned that it focuses on its quality. They give a lot of emphasis on quality and the patient’s safety. And if this quality is taught at every level of the healthcare field, the results are wonderful and more efficient. When I return to India, I will bring all my learnings to my country.”

Lastly, Dubai Vibes has named Dr. Sangeeta Sharma the Eminent Medical Director of the Year for 2022.