The Source Family Magazine issue 262 February 2023

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EDITOR IN CHIEF

Mohammed Al Neyadi

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Wendy Peach

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28. Al AAin Book Festival

30. Al Ain GAA RoundUp

REGULARS

32. How to save AED 3500 this festive season

JOIN OUR EARLY YEARS STAY & PLAY ADMISSION SESSIONS

MARCH - APRIL 2023

Brighton College Al Ain is hosting fun, interactive ‘Stay & Play’ sessions in March and April, for FS1 and FS2 admissions for September 2023. Join us to meet our vibrant, family-orientated community, learn about our innovative Curiosity Approach in the Early Years, see our stimulating facilities and discover how we ensure the best possible start for our pupils.

At Brighton College Al Ain, we nurture education centred on kindness, curiosity and confidence. We celebrate the uniqueness of every individual, fostering a respect for diversity and recognition of the efforts and achievements of all. We encourage pupils to be true to themselves and kind to one another.

Our innovative British Early Years Curriculum is taught in ways that build on a child’s curiosity and interests. Our world-class educators create stimulating, challenging and inspiring learning environments where children's passions are unearthed. They learn by playing and exploring through a mixture of planned and open-ended play activities in our creative, nature-inspired learning spaces both indoors and outdoors.

Brighton College Al Ain is part of one of the most academically successful school groups in the UAE, together with its sister schools

The only school in Al Ain rated ‘Outstanding’ by ADEK

Lord of the Dance comes to Global Village

Global Village to host Michael Flatley’s internationally acclaimed Lord of the Dance spectacular

Global Village, the UAE and wider region’s leading multicultural family destination for culture, shopping, and entertainment, is delighted to announce it will be welcoming the world-renowned Lord of the Dance musical extravaganza, starting March 2, 2023.

For close to three decades, Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance has dazzled audiences around the world with its unique combination of high-energy Irish dancing, original music, and storytelling. The beloved Irish dance show transcends culture and language, soaring into the soul through astounding aerial moves, unparalleled precision dancing and state-of-the art theatrical effects.

Shaun Cornell, Director of Entertainment, Global Village, said: “When you think of dance performers who have changed the game, Michael Flatley is right up there, even being referenced in TV shows like

Friends! We’re beyond delighted to be hosting Lord of the Dance with a specially curated show for Global Village guests, who’ll have front-row seats to a performance that has been astonishing audiences for the past 27 years.”

The Global Village debut of the Lord of the Dance will include 23 artists performing signature dance numbers from the full 90-minute show, merged into a special one-off 25-minute high energy showpiece.

James Keegan, Creative Manager, Lord of the Dance, said: “The Lord of The Dance cast and team are so excited to be bringing our hit show to Dubai to perform at Global Village. Many of our cast members have visited as tourists and cannot wait to perform in such beautiful surroundings. We are proud to share our culture and heritage, through song and dance, in a region full of its own vibrant culture and rich heritage.”

Michael Flatley has been pioneering creativity and innovation in Irish dance around the world for over 25 years and this will be the group’s first time back to the UAE since 2014.

Promising an unforgettable experience, guests can watch the show every day except Tuesday, until March 21, 2023. Guests can experience this incredible show as part of their Global Village entry ticket.

Follow the Global Village social media channels for the latest updates:

Instagram: @GlobalVillageUAE

Twitter: @GlobalVillageAE

Facebook: @GlobalVillageAE

Snapchat: @GlobalVillageME

TikTok: @GlobalVillageAE

For more information:

www.globalvillage.ae or the Global Village App

CUSTOM GIFTS

SHIRTS HOODIES BAGS

WATERBOTTLES MUGS

NOTEBOOKS & MORE

CORPORATE & PRIVATE ORDERS

LAYALI HAFEET OUD NIGHT AT JEBEL HAFIT DESERT PARK PURA ECO RETREAT

Jebel Hafit Desert Park Pura Eco Retreat invites you to their exciting new ‘Layali Hafeet Oud Night’ launching 1st February 2023 at Hafit Foothills Lounge beneath the majestic Jebel Hafeet Mountain. Listen to the incredible melodies of live Oud music as you savour a 3-course set menu of delicious Arabic gastronomy and revel in a night like no other in Al Ain complementing the stunning landscape.

The memorable line-up features live Oud music by Hisham Mostafa on 25th January followed by Mohamed February 1st, 2023, confirmed so far. Let the melodious sound of traditional musical instruments take you away from

everyday life whilst guests delight in a 3-course set menu specially prepared by the culinary team highlighting popular dishes from across the region.

A perfect opportunity for gathering with friends and family to bask in live entertainment whilst you dine out at the renowned Jebel Hafit Desert Park Pura Eco Retreat, a UNESCO heritage site home to 5,000-year-old Jebel Hafit Tombs.

With serene mountainous surroundings, it is truly an unforgettable evening. The perfect way to spend a night out in Al Ain; don't miss out on an opportunity to enjoy time with loved ones at this unique weekly event happening every Wednesday 6pm onwards!

Layali Hafeet Oud Night

Restaurant: Hafit Foothills Lounge

Location:

Jebel Hafit Desert Park Pura Eco Retreat

Date: Weekly Wednesdays Time: 6pm onwards

Price: Packages from AED 129 (3-Course Set Menu with Soft Beverages)

Reservations: +971 50 774 1639 or visit www.jhdp.ae

8 year old AlDhabi AlMheiri from Abu Dhabi interviews Vint Cerf at the World Government Summit in Dubai

a first interview of its kind was shown during the World Government Summit in Dubai. Eight-year old AlDhabi AlMheiri from the UAE is the youngest person in the world to interview Vint Cerf, Google’s Chief Internet Evangelist, also dubbed as “one of fathers of the internet”. The interview was about the internet, how children can make the best use of it, how to mind its risks and challenges and how people of determination can better access it. The interview was aired today during the annual World Government Summit in Dubai, which brings together leaders in government and the private sector to discuss how they can

harness technology and AI for the future.

During the fifteen minute interview, AlDhabi AlMheiri asked Vint Cerf about the creation of the internet and how it has evolved until today. int talked about his journey which as a research project in 1973. He also discussed his love for mathematics and chemistry during his school years, before moving to computer science, the subject of his PhD. He highlighted the role of education and how online tools like Google Search can empower learning.

AlDhabi asked Vint how children can stay safe to which

Vint talked about the importance of critical thinking when using the internet, especially at a young age and how parents have a significant role to play.

AlDhabi AlMheiri posed a question around how the internet can help people of determination and what children can do to help. In response, Vint explained how the internet enables the lives of people of determination by amplifying their ability to overcome challenges and how AI can play a role.

You can find the full video interview below

AlMeheiri is the youngest person to interview one of the "fathers of the internet"

AL AIN ENGLISH SPEAKING SCHOOL

The importance of International Day in the school calendar should never be underestimated. This most awaited and colourful event of the year provided the perfect opportunity for the AAESS community to come together and celebrate its global diversity, traditions, cultures and cuisines.

With over 70 different nationalities in the school collaborating together, the site was transformed into a mini Global Village! Individual stall setups and exhibitions enabled each country to showcase crafts, artefacts and information, while also providing students and visitors with a chance to sample traditional foods and experience authentic ethnic music.

In the main performance area, audiences enjoyed a full programme of energetic choreographed student dances representing the dif-

ferent regions of the world and entertaining musical interludes from the professional artists in attendance. Pop-up performances throughout the day, in the different zones and additional performance spaces, added to the vibrant atmosphere of the day.

Community art projects have become regular features of recent AAESS events and International Day was no exception. In addition to the art exhibition on display highlighting students’ artistic achievements to date, visitors were able to add their own mark to a specially created canvas which will be on display and serve as a lasting memory of the day.

Executive Principal, Andrew Thomas, shared his sincere thanks to the parents, students and staff at Al Ain English Speaking School for creating such a wonderful and

memorable International Day 2023. “This was the best International Day we’ve ever had and truly shows what AAESS can do as a community when we come together.”

BRIGHTON COLLEGE AL AIN

At Brighton College Al Ain we are rightfully proud of the diverse backgrounds and heritages of our pupils, parents and teachers. Our community is grounded in the rich history and culture of the UAE, yet Brighton College is also host to a community made up of families with backgrounds stretching across the globe.

Each year, we celebrate International Day, as it affords us the opportunity to learn about the cultures and traditions of everybody in our community. On Friday, 27th January, a range of activities took place at the College to highlight just how important and enriching it is to be a part of an international community.

The day began with an opening assembly led by our pupils discussing the myriad ways in which we all benefit from and are proud of internationalism, not only at Brighton College, but in the UAE and the wider world. Pupils were then able to visit a variety of stalls around the College, each assigned a particular country representing our community.

At each stall, cultural artefacts and information were shared, along with a range of delicious food and drink, all prepared and served by a selection of parental volunteers. Seeing the input and interaction of our parents and pupils, learning and having fun together, was a real highlight of the year.

International Day concluded with

a parade in the Theatre, where pupils were encouraged to ‘walk the catwalk’ wearing clothes typical of their home country, while waving their respective national flags. Again, our older pupils planned and led the culmination of our National Day celebrations, demonstrating to our wider pupil body that all of our children are seen, heard and respected for who they are, where they come from and the richness of what they offer to our community.

The day, as always, was a huge success and will continue to feature prominently in illustrating what it means to be immersed in a Brighton education.

i n t o t h e c o m m u n i t y . N o u r a A l N u a i m i , M a r k e t i n g C o o r d i n a t o r a t K a n a d H o s p i t a l , r e c e i v e d t h e a w a r d w i t h L i l y a t t h e e v e n t “ E v e r y t h i n g s t a r t e d i n t h e p a n d e m i c , " L i l y s a i d " I f e l t s o i s o l a t e d a s a m o m t h a t I d e c i d e d t o d o s o m e t h i n g t o b l e s s o t h e r m o m s w h o m a y h a v e b e e n f e e l i n g t h e s a m e w a y . " S h e h a d r e c e n t l y s t a r t e d o f f e r i n g Z u m b i n i c l a s s e s a t K a n a d , a n d o n e d a y , a n o t h e r m o m i n v i t e d h e r t o g o w i t h h e r t o Z a y e d C e n t r a l L i b r a r y S h e i m m e d i a t e l y f e l l i n l o v e w i t h t h e p l a c e a n d f o u n d f a v o r w i t h M r s . M o u z a S a e e d A l A m e r i , h e a d o f t h e c h i l d r e n ' s s e c t i o n o f t h e l i b r a r y . T h e y s c h e d u l e d t h e f i r s t p l a y d a t e f o r S e p t e m b e r 2 0 2

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B R I N G I N G K I D S A N D P A R E N T S T O G E T H E R The Source FAMILY 26

W h a t i s Z u m b i n i ?

C r e a t e d b y Z u m b a ® , t h e g l o b a l l e a d e r i n d a n c e f i t n e s s , a n d

B a b y F i r s t , t h e g l o b a l l e a d e r i n e d u c a t i o n a l p r o g r a m m i n g f o r b a b i e s a n d t o d d l e r s , Z u m b i n i ® i s a n A m e r i c a n e a r l y c h i l d h o o d e d u c a t i o n p r o g r a m t h a t u s e s

o r i g i n a l m u s i c a n d p r o m o t e b o n d i n g a n d t h e i r c a r e g i v e c o g n i t i v e , s o c i a l m o t o r s k i l l s , a n d e v e l o p m e n t f o r 0 - 4 . Z u m b i n i ® i s f u n , i n t e r a c t i v e , y m u s i c p r o g r a m e n g a g e c h i l d r e n m o v e m e n t , a n d b i n s t r u m e n t s . M m o v e m e n t t a p i n t c h i l d , s o t h e l e a r n i n g w i t h o u t g o a l s a n d w i t h o t h e y a r e l e a r n i n g L i l y o f f e r s Z u m b i n w e e k l y b a s i s i n t h R o o m a t K a n a l o c a t e d i n t h e K e n n

Abrahamic Family House welcomes first worshippers to the mosque, church and synagogue

The Abrahamic Family House welcomed its first worshippers to the mosque, the church and the synagogue over the weekend.

The inaugural Friday prayer was held at His Eminence Ahmed ElTayeb Mosque on 17 February, marking the first time the community was welcomed inside one of the three houses of worship to practice faith.

On Sunday, 19 February, the Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue held its first service, which began with the hanging of the Mezuzah fol-

lowed by Mincha, the afternoon prayer.

The same day, a service was held at His Holiness Francis Church, presided over by His Eminence Cardinal Michael Fitzgerald, featuring prayers and hymns sung by a choir. The service concluded with a message from Bishop Paolo Martinelli, the Apostolic Vicar for Southern Arabia.

The Abrahamic Family House was inaugurated last week by H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minis-

ter and Minister of Interior, and Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence on 16 February 2023.

Located on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, the Abrahamic Family House is now welcoming worshippers, with access to the forum and guided tours available to visitors from 1 March 2023. Regular service and prayer timings for the respective places of worship can be found on the Abrahamic Family House website.

First service at the church

ANGER ISSUES? SMASH THEM AWAY!

The Smash Room Celebrates 5 Years of Success in Providing Alternative Entertainment in the UAE

The Smash Room, a first of its kind concept in the UAE that provides a therapeutic and safe space for customers to blow off steam is proud to celebrate 5 years of being in business in the UAE. With its unique approach to leisure and entertainment, The Smash Room has proved that alternative entertainment concepts can be viable in the UAE.

The idea behind the concept was inspired by difficult times in co-founders Hiba and Ibrahim’s lives. Hiba was dealing with the loss of her grandmother, and Ibrahim was going through a divorce.

Traditional peaceful coping mechanisms weren’t cutting it, and so Hiba took old junk into the backyard and smashed it to bits. This made her feel massively better, and then came that lightbulb moment. She teamed up with Ibrahim, her best friend and partner in crime, to bring people a version of a spa day that involved smashing everything in sight.

The Smash Room has been successful over the past five years, consistently achieving

healthy profit margins, and maintaining 15-20% yearover-year growth in revenue.

In the past five years, The Smash Room has achieved some impressive feats. Despite the challenges that came with the pandemic, they have managed to survive and have smashed and recycled over 70,000 pieces of electronics and appliances.

They have also donated to charities with the sale of electronics, including the #shutterhunger campaign for Syrian refugees and Salma Humanitarian Relief Program by Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre (DIEDC).

More than 18,000 Smashers have visited The Smash Room since its inception, and 60% of them are females. The concept has also hosted various group therapy sessions for psychologists and has hosted more than 150 team building exercises. They even hosted a group smash for senior citizens above the age of 60 with The Dubai Community Development Authority.

Co-founder Ibrahim Abudyak expressed his pride in The

Smash Room’s success, “We are thrilled to be turning five and are so grateful to our customers for supporting us over the years. The Smash Room is not just a business for us; it’s a way to help people release stress and anxiety in a fun and safe environment. It has been an incredible journey, and we are proud of the impact we have made in the community. We created this space as a way for people to let loose, have fun, and let go of their stress, and it’s great to see that it has resonated with so many people.

We are excited to continue growing and expanding our concept, including our expansion to Abu Dhabi later this year.”

With its out-of-the-box ideas such as the bubble wrap experience, ice smash, and car smash experiences, The Smash Room has proven that alternative entertainment and leisure concepts are viable in the UAE and that they can be successful. For more information, please visit The Smash Room’s website at

www.thesmashroom.ae

MAKE 2023 YOUR HEALTHIEST YET WITH ABU

DHABI 360

FOR EVERY 2,000 STEPS A DAY, HEART DISEASE AND PREMATURE DEATHS COULD DECREASE BY 10%, PEAKING AT 10,000 STEPS EACH DAY, NEW STUDY SHOWS

Whether you’re already committed to a daily walk or looking to get started, when it comes to being fit and healthy, we’re often reminded to aim to walk 10,000 steps per day. But how set in stone is this figure?

Recent studies found that the health benefits of walking can be achieved through maintaining a certain frequency, taking a specific number of steps each day, and increasing the intensity of your daily walk. According to research published in the JAMA Neurology and JAMA Internal Medicine late last year, for every 2,000 steps, the risk of heart disease, cancer, and premature death can decrease by 10%, peaking at 10,000 steps each day.

Michelle Champlin, Chief Podiatrist of Dubai Podiatry Centre said, ‘Walking is such a simple way to stay active and healthy. The heart and lungs pump oxygenated blood around the body and this significantly increases when we walk. The calf muscles in our legs demand oxygenated blood from the heart and lungs

while walking, so this demand for blood also helps other organs function better. The longer we walk, the better the blood flow for the entire body.’’

The report also revealed how walking at a faster pace, or upping the intensity of your walk, such as power walking, was found to have health benefits too. Brisk walkers (between 80100 steps per minute) had a 35 percent lower risk of dying, a 25 percent lower chance of developing heart disease or cancer, and a 30 percent lower risk of developing dementia, compared with those whose average pace was slower.

Commenting on pace and intensity, Michelle Champlin said, ‘‘Whether you are walking for health, fitness or even weight loss, the pace of your walk will be determined by individual capabilities. For example, a brisk walking pace can range from 10 to 15 minutes per kilometer, or from 5km/hr to 7.5km/hr. At this pace, breathing should be noticeably harder, but you should still

be able to speak in full sentences. If your cardiovascular is at a good level, then a 15-minute pace might be considered a light-intensity exercise. It may take only ten minutes to walk one kilometer at a quicker pace.’’

‘‘It’s important to track progress,’’ says Michelle Champlin. ‘‘Look at the time when you start your walk. When you get to the 1000-meter mark (1km) on the walking track, check the time again. This will tell you how many minutes it took you to walk 1km. As you get more accustomed to walking you may notice the same distance will take less time to complete, so you may want to increase the walking distance by 500-1000 meters. I recommend walking the same distance 5 times in a row before increasing the distance. This will allow the muscles and tendons to adjust to the added activity as well as the skin on the feet.’’

So, what does this mean for the

UAE?

Taking 10,000 steps a day (roughly seven to eight kilometers, de-

pending on a person’s stride) has become a common health and fitness goal, but many individuals in the UAE tend to lead sedentary lifestyles, making it a challenge for individuals to meet the daily recommended steps count. This is down to a higher number of desk jobs as well as urbanization and the infrastructure of some communities.

But there is hope. Inactive individuals can still take smaller steps towards good health, to gradually increase their step count. The recent research explains how fewer steps can still help towards decreasing health risks. For example, 9,800 steps can lower the risk of dementia by 50 percent and taking 3,800 steps a day lowers it by 25 percent.

Michelle Champlin said: ‘‘Carving out time to walk for exercise can be limited but a few small tweaks to your social and family life can make a huge difference. For example, next time you invite your friends over for a coffee, suggest ‘walking and talking’, as opposed to sitting and talking for an hour or so. Before you know it, you would have hit your daily step count without even realizing it – and you will find that your friends will take inspiration from you.

‘‘Try to include your family. Make yourself a good role model by going for a long, family walk before dinner. After a time, this will naturally become part of your daily family routine, and everyone will feel better for it.’’

Michelle also recommends that people discover their local walks and implement longer walks on the weekend when they have more time.

‘‘Abu Dhabi and the UAE have taken the brilliant initiative to incorporate health and fitness areas into our neighborhoods for the health and wellbeing of all communities. We have a plethora of safe walking areas perfect for beginners, intermediate, and more advanced walkers. These visually beautiful and interesting walks are great ways to increase our step counts, such as the Abu Dhabi Corniche, Al Maryah Island, and Al Zahiyah to Yas Marina Circuit.’’

With great walks just on our doorstep, the experts from Abu Dhabi 360, the new community-wide wellness program launched by Abu Dhabi Sports Council, are encouraging everyone in the emirate to walk at least 30 minutes per day and kickstart their journey towards whole-person wellness.

Participants can look forward to several upcoming events, all of which will be available on the app. Download the Abu Dhabi 360 app at www.MyAbuDhabi360.aeto find your 360 today.

Experience Abu Dhabi with new Self-Guided Audio Tours

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has launched two new self-guided audio tours on the VoiceMap app to highlight some of the emirate’s amazing natural landscapes and unique urban treasures. Available on Google Play and the App Store, VoiceMap now features tours of the Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Reserve and the long-standing dining spots of the Al Zahiyah neighbourhood.

The VoiceMap app already features five audio tours dedicated to Abu Dhabi that were launched last year, including the Abu Dhabi Skyline Tour, Modern Heritage Tour of Downtown Abu Dhabi, Al Hosn Site Architecture Tour, Al Ain Nature and History Tour, and Liwa Forts Tour.

The latest additions to VoiceMap’s Abu Dhabi library reflect the increased interest among residents and visitors to explore the diverse natural assets and cultural experiences of the emirate by themselves at their own pace.

Developed with the support of Environment Agency – Abu

Dhabi (EAD), the Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Reserve Tour takes inquisitive travellers on a fascinating journey into the past, enlightening them about fossil formations that are more than 120,000 years old, spread over seven square kilometres.

The conservation area offers visitors a unique opportunity to stroll along an illuminated three-kilometre trail and enjoy the scenic views of the incredible eco-tourism site. Visitors can also enjoy music and light shows which take place throughout opening hours and can be viewed from the amphitheatre, which holds up to 200 visitors. The site also features various food and beverage trucks in dedicated areas.

During the last period, EAD implemented an integrated plan to develop the reserve, which included developing the site’s infrastructure to add more activities that visitors can enjoy during their visit to the reserve.

The Al Wathba Fossils Dunes Reserve welcomes visitors from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm from Monday to Thursday

and from 9:00 am - 12:00 midnight from Friday to Sunday.

Several longstanding establishments, including streetside cafes and bakeries, were recently awarded the ‘Urban Treasures’ status by DCT Abu Dhabi in recognition of their contribution to the social fabric of the emirate.

Using the VoiceMap app, foodies can also hop around the city on the Abu Dhabi Urban Treasures Food Tour to savour culinary delights such as Mexican-style chicken shawarmas, spicy Indian kebabs and traditional Arabic desserts.

Designed to encourage residents and visitors to explore Abu Dhabi at their own pace, these audio tours showcase how heritage and modernity co-exist in the emirate with its exciting, inspiring and restorative experiences to suit all passion points.

Perfect for travellers and those on a budget, VoiceMap’s Abu Dhabi library is available for free, with an option to download the audio files for offline use.

Mayo Clinic Health System expert shares

10 weight training tips for beginners

Years ago, weightlifting was thought to be reserved solely for bodybuilders and athletes. However, there has been significant research on the medical benefits of lifting weights. Everyone benefits from stronger bones and muscles. Plan to incorporate weight training into your routine, regardless of your age, ability or fitness level. Mackenzie Long, a Mayo Clinic Health System licensed personal trainer in sports medicine and physical therapy in La Crosse and Onalaska, Wisconsin, shares 10 tips.

Weight training is a type of strength training that uses weights for resistance. This could be weight machines or free weights, like dumbbells or barbells, at home or a gym. It stresses and strengthens your muscles over time.

“Who can benefit from weight training? It doesn’t matter if you are 19 or 90, run marathons, or struggle to climb stairs; weight training can benefit everyone,” Long says. “It helps build muscle, strengthens bones, improves balance and prevents injuries. Often, it is helpful for people

with many chronic health conditions. Overall, it helps people feel better physically and mentally.”

Weight training also has been shown to help improve blood pressure; blood sugar (diabetes); brain health; bone density; cholesterol; chronic pain; heart disease; depression; metabolism; self-confidence; thinking and learning skills; weight management; and more, Long adds.

1.

Choose your equipment:

Many options are available, such as free weights, hand weights, weight machines and bands. Some exercises only use your body weight and don’t require any equipment. The right choice depends on your budget and preference. They all work if used properly.

2. Warm up:

Cold muscles are more prone to injury, so consider warming up with a brisk walk for five to 10 minutes and dynamic stretching to start each training session.

3. Start light:

Start with light to moderate weights in the first few sessions. Starting light can prevent muscle soreness and lessen the chance of injury.

4.

Increase weight slowly:

Gradually increasing the weight amount over a period of two to four weeks. Ten to 15 reps should become difficult as muscles tire and fatigue.

5.

Pay attention to pain:

Proper weight training should reduce pain, not cause it. If you have sharp or shooting pain, stop doing that exercise. If done correctly, it also should help your bones, tendons, ligaments and muscles become stronger.

6.

Lift slowly:

When lifting weights, do not use momentum. Most weight training injuries occur from swinging the weights, improper technique or lifting too heavy an amount of weight. Take about two seconds to lift the weight and four or more seconds to lower the weight. Training slower activates more muscle fibers in the targeted muscle, which will increase the benefits of strength training in the end.

7.

Build in rest:

Work your muscles to fatigue on each exercise and then rest them for at least 48 hours. Lift weights two to three days a week for each muscle group.

8. Seek variety:

A good weight training program should include at least eight to 12 different exercises. These should target the major muscles of the legs, back, chest, abdomen, arms and shoulders.

9. Focus on one set:

Do at least one set on each exercise, paying attention to your form. Most people can get the results by doing one set of 10 to 15 reps of each exercise. Previously, researchers recommended at least two to three sets. However, recent research states that one set, done properly, can be just as effective as multiple sets. Multi-sets are OK if you have extra free time and enjoy spending time in the gym.

10.

Breathe:

Remember always to maintain your breathing while you lift. Breathe out through the hardest part of the exercise.

“If you’re new to weight training, talk with a personal trainer or another member of your health care team about the best weight training exercises for you and learn about proper form and technique to avoid injury,” Long says.

For more information, see the Mayo Clinic News Network.

Here are 10 key points to remember when considering beginning a new weight training routine:

House of Wisdom expands scope of services and resources to enrich learning of members

Members now have access to resources from international libraries, can loan electronic devices, and request research assistance services to browse the vast digital and physical collections

With more than half a million traditional and digital knowledge resources, the House of Wisdom aligns with Sharjah’s quest to develop a knowledge-based society. This immersive space for learning, sharing, and creating has been nurturing a culture of creativity and innovation in the emirate since it began welcoming visitors in December 2020.

By anchoring the community and bringing people of different cultures, interests, and aspirations

together, the iconic social and futurist hub has emerged as a destination for new-age learning, as it adapts and responds to the evolving needs of users by expanding relevant amenities and services throughout the year.

Housed within the modern architectural edifice are 92,000 volumes lining its shelves that allow readers to expand and grow their knowledge. An additional 12,000 titles comprising

rare and carefully selected publications on the history of Arab and Islamic art and architecture - including two-century-old, limited edition works - were donated last year by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. Another donation by HH include a valuable collection of 646 titles in French, some of which are rare.

Unique digital titles number

around 384,000 and over a million thesis. In addition, around 34,000 journals and 56,000 videos have been enriching the knowledge of residents and visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

The House of Wisdom also boosts multi-purpose halls for seminars, symposiums, training, and workshops. The flexible and expansive lobby doubles up as a space for events and talks, while its seven private pods can be pre-booked for individual or collaborative work.

Fulfilling its vision as a space to discover and learn, the House of Wisdom is equipped with a range of amenities and services designed to foster deep engagement with the arts, sciences, and across all disciplines.

Browsing made easy with Research Assistance

Today, members can avail of personalised one-on-one guidance – that goes beyond the normal book search and retrieval assistance - to make effective use of the vast physical and digital collections. The Research Assistance service facilitates the process of browsing and connecting with new resources and expedites the search for specialised databases or e-Resources to further one’s research or study.

Access to resources from global libraries

A unique resource-sharing service further facilitates access of patrons to a wide range of materials from libraries in the UAE and from those around the world through its Interlibrary Loan (ILL) service. Members can borrow books, articles, and multi-media resources, including hard-to-find items, for a duration specified by the loaning library.

To request access to resources

outside the House of Wisdom, users must submit a request form with specific information such as title, author, journal volume, etc. Print materials may take up to 15 days for delivery while digital resources can be accessed from anywhere between a few hours to a week.

Electronic devices on loan

With an innovative Laptop/Tablet Dispenser, the House of Wisdom makes technology available to all patrons at any time. Members can access high-value electronic devices at self-service kiosks that store laptops and tablets to ensure that users can learn and get connected to assist with research, presentations, and writing needs.

The auto charging device dispenser is secure and simple to use and guarantees confidentiality of user data. Members can loan a device on presentation of membership QR code to the library staff. Devices are loaned for non-renewable 3-hour slots for a small fee.

Unlimited access to audiobooks

The growing collection of audiobooks, including fiction and nonfiction, at the House of Wisdom is accessible to members around the clock through smartphones, tablets, and computers. Both Android and iPhone users can access the audiobooks collection via http://houseofwisdom.lib.overdrive.com/.

Members can place on hold titles currently in use by others and will receive a notification when the audiobook becomes available to borrow. All audiobook titles are automatically ‘returned’ to HoW on the due date and members will not incur any late return fees.

The Batoka Hospitality Group has opened the doors of its magical Zambezi Sands River Lodge, offering visitors five-star luxury in the heart of the country’s rich natural landscape.

Just one hour from the magnificent Victoria Falls, the newly renovated resort is nestled in the stunning western end of Zambezi National Park and offers guests unrivaled luxury in one of the world’s most breathtaking natural settings.

As the first black female-owned Safari Lodge in Africa, Batoka Hospitality is reinventing the way the world views African hospitality.

“We are empowering the African dream of success through ecotourism and hospitality,” says Vimbai Masiyiwa, Executive Director of Batoka Hospitality. “At Batoka, people come first: whether it is our staff, our guests or the community surrounding us.

“As much as we enrich the lives of our guests through a truly authentic African experience, we want to create self-sustaining villages and economic growth for the communities around us.”

The opening of the property will coincide with the launch of Tesse Fund. The fund will be financed by 10% of the revenue made from each guest stay. The purpose of the fund is for staff members within the Batoka Hospitality family to come up with projects that benefit their local community.

The destination’s 10 beautiful, tented suites, six of which have a private plunge pool, have been

designed by renowned South African interior designer Yvonne O’Brien, known for creations which are understated, personal and quietly refined. For GCC travellers, a two-bedroom suite, complete with private swimming pool, lounge and dining room and deck will be available for those desiring more privacy and an opulent home away from home experience.

The natural materials and tones O’Brien and her team have brought to the Batoka Zambezi Sands River Lodge blend seamlessly into the Victoria Falls landscape, where breathtaking vistas greet guests from every suite.

Bedrooms are styled as large African style tents offering exceptional views from the huge veranda to the soundtrack of the area’s magical wildlife. The boardwalks that interlink each tent with the main dining area and bar offer protection from wandering hippos who often spend at least part of the night feeding in and around the camp.

The lodge’s elegant bar, lounge and dining area sit above the river, the stilted structure surrounded by the area’s lush wild landscapes. Decorated with

stylish teak furniture, wooden flooring, pewter ornaments and leather chairs and sofas, it is quintessential African meets luxury. Outside, an expansive deck has dining tables and a sunken fire pit where pre dinner drinks are the order of the day.

More than just a safari destination, Zambezi Sands River Lodge offers guests an array of activities without even leaving the estate. In addition to the resort’s spa and fitness centre, guests can enjoy a wide range of activities which include game drives along the river and inland, game walks with an experienced professional guide and day or sunset river boat cruises.

In 2020 Batoka Hospitality acquired 100% ownership of the former Zambezi Sands River Camp and its sister attraction, the Gorges Lodge. Sustainability and local employment are at the heart of the resort’s mission, enabling guests to experience true African culture and hospitality with as little harm to the environment as is possible.

For more information and bookings, please visit:

batokaafrica.com/properties/zambezi-sands/

In partnership with Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination and Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority

Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi

NOW OFFERS A SENSORY UNIT TO PROVIDE CHILDREN OF DETERMINATION WITH A SAFE SPACE IN-PARK

In line with the UAE’s vision to achieve social inclusion and in collaboration with Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination and Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi has introduced its first Sensory Nook. The sensory unit, which is the first to be provided within a theme park in the region, is designed to offer children on the autism spectrum with a safe and calm space accustomed to their needs and wellbeing inside a crowded area.

The initiative aligns with Zayed Higher Organization’s role to further empower and integrate people of determination in all aspects of social life and reflects Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi’s efforts to ensure that children of determination can enjoy a pleasant and enjoyable experience at the park.

The sensory unit is equipped with the latest sensory technology and aims to support children who are on the spectrum’s treatment and rehabilitation.

The Sensory Nook includes an LED color spectrum lighting, soothing UV lights, Bluetooth sounds and enhanced fiber optic tails to ensure optimal relaxation and calmness for the child. The Nook also features translucent curtains and a user-friendly application that can be integrated to control the ambiance of the room and adapt to the child’s preferences.

Don Strickler, General Manager at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi said: “We are pleased to join hands with Zayed Higher

Organization to offer children on the autism spectrum a chance to relax in a safe and quiet space. Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi is committed to providing all guests and families with a fun and immersive experience that takes into consideration their respective needs. We are keen to continue elevating our facilities to ensure a safe and memorable experience at our unique theme park.”

His Excellency Abdullah Abdulalee Al Humaidan, Secretary-General of Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, praised the fruitful efforts between both entities and the strategic partnership with Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. He also stressed the importance of the public and private sector’s cooperation to empower children of determination in the community. The sensory unit at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi marks a unique milestone in that view vis-a-vis the attraction’s leading position on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

He then added: “Zayed Higher Organization has an ambitious plan to launch six sensory units across retail venues and vital destinations in Abu Dhabi. We are working with the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority to ensure children of determination are provided with the right support be it at malls, public areas or entertainment venues. Our efforts are in line with the vision of Abu Dhabi to offer the best services possible and adopt new technologies to ensure the active involvement of children in the community across all sectors and interests.”

H.E. Abdullah Abdulalee Al Humaidan, stressed the existing cooperation between the Foundation and the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority and their efforts to launch sensory units in public areas. His Excellency also extended his thanks and gratitude to H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chief of the Crown Prince’s Court and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority for his continuous support towards purpose-driven initiatives that better the lives of people of determination.

His Excellency also extended thanks to her Highness Sheikha Maryam bint Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and her Highness Sheikha Shamsa bint Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan along with all officials who provided support towards the overall development of children and their well-being.

To access the Sensory Nook, guests are advised to speak with Guest Services at the entrance of Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi. The unit can accommodate one child at a time under the supervision of their legal guardian or parent.

Located on Yas Island, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi is the world’s largest indoor theme park. It is just minutes away from Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, home to the world’s fastest rollercoaster, Yas Waterworld, the world’s first and only Emirati-themed waterpark and CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s ultimate adventure hub.

EAD Launches All-New ‘SAHIM’ App

The first-of-its-kind app was created to encourage citizen science

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) in collaboration with Emirates Nature - WWF today announced the launch of its new SAHIM app. The firstof-its-kind app was created to encourage citizen science.

The app comes under the umbrella of the SAHIM programme – which means ‘contribute’ in Arabic – and is a comprehensive UAE-wide citizen science initiative that allows the public to partake in scientific environmental research. The programme aims to nurture a new epoch of citizen-science in the UAE, which will help support environmental conservation research, decision-making, and the development of policies and regulations.

The new app was designed to engage the community to help document singleuse plastic and waste present in marine and terrestrial environments and was launched at an event in KEZAD Musaffah in partnership with AD Ports Group’s Economic Cities and Free Zones, which provided the location as part of a larger collaboration. The corporate event was attended by key EAD stakeholders and partners, introducing them to SAHIM and encouraging them to undertake tangible environmental actions through effective citizen science clean-ups.

Available for download from Apple Store and

Google Play, SAHIM is a community-driven initiative, empowering individuals to take real-world action for a more sustainable environment, which is the main mandate of EAD. The user-friendly tool – which is accessible to people of all ages – will allow residents of the capital to support EAD by encouraging them to report any single-use plastic and waste found on beaches and terrestrial locations.

The SAHIM app helps users to categorise, record, and upload their findings. The data is then reported directly to EAD, providing detailed insights to expert researchers and policy makers. This allows the Agency’s team to make

better decisions, formulate new regulations and provide recommendations to leaders in Abu Dhabi regarding solutions to curb waste.

Ahmed Baharoon, Executive Director, Environmental Information, Science & Outreach Management at EAD, said on the occasion: “Citizen science, which involves the community in a direct role, has become a worldwide trend, allowing research on a larger scale.

At EAD it is essential for us to support this important global movement and we are proud to have

developed the SAHIM app. This contemporary tool will encourage community action and help assist us in gathering first-hand, real-time data of single-use plastics, and other waste found on the beaches and terrestrial habitats of Abu Dhabi.”

Baharoon added: “Once we receive this data we will have better knowledge of the current situation as well as community behaviour, and we will be to develop smart policies and regulations for future solutions. The data also helps us to guide the Abu Dhabi Government on best practices for a cleaner marine environment.”

Baharoon stressed that EAD will also be partnering with government organisations, NGOs, schools and universities, to maximise the app’s utilisation and to ensure that the entire community takes part in the gathering of data.

Complementing the app, EAD will also be organising beach and terrestrial clean-ups at several prime locations across Abu Dhabi as part of its efforts in making the city one of the most liveable in the world. Volunteers will be invited to join the clean-ups and share their experiences on social media to encouragement wider engagement.

EMPOWER YOUR BODY AND EXPAND YOUR MIND AMID INSPIRING DESERT SURROUNDINGS

Exclusive four-day wellness retreat by Sanctum comes to Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, a legendary oasis nestled deep within the expansive Liwa Desert, is hosting an exclusive four-day Alignment & Self Power retreat from March 30-April 2, led by Sanctum, an Amsterdam-based mindful movement concept.

The Sanctum method is a cathartic, high intensity mindful movement that empowers the body and expands the mind, through multidisciplinary forms of physical, spiritual, and mental conditioning such as kundalini yoga, martial arts, animalistic flow, breath work and modern fitness with elements of HIIT. The immersive method is curated

with music inspired by Amsterdam’s electronic scene, and elevated with orchestral pieces to compliment mindful and meditation moments.

Having gained international recognition, Sanctum can be found in the likes of British Vogue, The Sunday Times, Global Wellness Summit, and Forbes, as the latest wellness method that feels more akin to a transformative therapy session rather than a regular workout.

Guests can pause their day-today and immerse themselves into a journey of self-discovery and awakening, as they join four full days of a mindfulness-fo-

cussed program comprising of three nights at the iconic Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. The single occupancy package starts from AED 11,500, while the double occupancy package with a plus one starts from AED 18,800 and comprises of daily Sanctum classes hosted by the Founder, Luuk Melisse, Sanctum hikes and mindful desert walks, a 60- minute desert fusion massage with sound healing, healthy gourmet meals, an immersive star gazing experience, and a sound therapy and Yoga Nidra session.

With a let-go and release approach, guests are invited to unlock their inner potential through carefully curated music

combined with the most inspiring instructions from the Sanctum guides, as the desert invites the feeling of pure serenity while the resort’s fortress-like architecture provides a spectacular backdrop for this one-of-a-kind holistic wellness programme.

The retreat’s themes of questing, survival, creativity, clarity, revelations, loneliness and overcoming life’s biggest obstacles are elevated by the unique location’s vastness and unmatched atmosphere to escape the every-day and connect back to oneself.

Daily movement sessions will be hosted, amongst other exhilarating workshops which will focus around three pillars: Consciousness - going to vulnerable places to face and let go of what is found there; Awakening – creating a haven in the body through movement where it feels safe to surrender into one’s heart and listen to one’s true self; and Self Power - connecting back to one’s self and using the life force energy within you to unpack, process and heal, stepping into the greatest expression of oneself.

Day one will encourage guests to arrive within themselves, with a welcoming opening circle, followed by a traditional bakhoor cleansing ritual, a Sanctum movement session and peaceful meditation.

Day two focusses on empowering the energetic body to create insight & healing. Guests will experience the peacefulness and tranquility of the undulating desert on a sunrise dune walk, followed by a fascinating talk on epigenetics. Deep relaxation follows with a Yoga Nidra class and a sound healing session from expert guest, Linda Chambers Cochrane, a highly sought-after wellness and fitness expert whose healing meditations and sound journeys are dedicated to evoking a deep sense of relaxation and increased mental clarity.

Day three’s theme is around reconnecting with one’s true essence and self-acceptance and will start with a

Sanctum movement session, followed by a healthy brunch Under a canopy of stars, an evening concert will provide guests another opportunity to connect with one another and themselves, with a once-in-a-lifetime star gazing session to wrap up an awe-inspiring day.

The closing day is a celebration of life and starts with peaceful meditation, followed by the final Sanctum class of the retreat, and a moving gratitude ritual before a closing circle to wrap up four days of empowering self-discovery.

The four-day retreat is priced at AED 11,500 per person and includes three nights’ luxury accommodation in Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara’s rooms, with full board of healthy gourmet dining.

For bookings, please visit the hotel’s page here.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, a Mubadala Health partner, is driving awareness around keratoconus, a progressive and degenerative corneal eye disease that, if left untreated, can result in blindness. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Eye Institute and Research Department will be conducting a research study to measure the prevalence of keratoconus in the local population to help understand and treat the disease more effectively.

Keratoconus is usually detected in the teenage years or 20s but can also start in childhood. However, the exact cause of keratoconus is unknown, and there are no eye diseases or injuries that explain why the cornea’s structure weakens and changes shape. This makes the role of preventative screening and timely detection even more critical, so accurate treatment is provided to manage the extent of distortion.

Dr. David Gritz, Staff Physician, Cornea & Refractive Disorders, Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi says, “Promoting advanced research to address complex medical needs of the

Clinic Abu Dhabi experts

community is a key objective of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. Our aim is to study the prevalence and incidence of the disease in the local population, which will enable us in our efforts with the governing authorities to develop a comprehensive national screening program, and further serve our community.”

Dr. Gritz added, “Permanent vision loss from keratoconus is preventable through early detection and treatment, as we have innovative cutting-edge technologies available today. Therefore, we encourage people to take the preventive route and opt for screening tests.”

Keratoconus occurs when the cornea, the transparent outer lens of the eye, which normally has a dome shape with a balllike appearance, is unable to maintain its round shape and extends outward in the form of a cone. While the exact cause is largely unknown, some research studies suggest that keratoconus runs in families and occurs more often in people with specific medical conditions.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s multidisciplinary, patient-first approach to complex care is key in the management of life-altering medical conditions such as keratoconus. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s focus on research and clinical studies further drives its vision to establish Abu Dhabi as a center for the life sciences industry and make world-class healthcare accessible to the UAE and wider region.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi encourages individuals between the ages of 18 and 30 years to undergo examination and consider participation in the research study. To know more about the research and register interest, please visit our website and contact: https:// www.clevelandclinicabudhabi.ae/en/institutes-and-specialties/eye-institute/pages/ screening-for-keratoconus-inthe-uae.aspx

To book an appointment at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, call 800 8 CCAD (2223) visit www. clevelandclinicabudhabi.ae or download the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Patient Portal App.

Untreated keratoconus can lead to vision loss, say Cleveland

Global Village announces international line-up of female street artists and entertainers

Global Village, the UAE and wider region’s leading multicultural family destination for culture, shopping, and entertainment, is celebrating International Women’s Day and International Day of Happiness at the Season

27 “Happiness Street FestWomen’s Edition”.

Running from March 820, this season’s festival will bring together 10 of the world’s most talented female street artists and performers from countries including Canada, Australia, Argentina, Spain, Germany and Switzerland.

Some of the artists coming to Global Village for the two-week festival include:

The High-Flying Aerial Muse:

Using aerial silk, Minerva from Australia will perform Theaker Von Ziarno, a show that will transcend audiences to a beautiful journey in the sky.

The Queen of The Bicycle:

Switzerland’s Jessica Arpin will host her entire show on a bicycle. Guests will get a chance to interact with the artist as she juggles while performing and riding! Make sure you don’t miss the upside-down rides as well!

The Sharp Shooting Sensation:

Sara Twister is one of the world’s most mind-blowing contortionists coming to Global Village all the way from Germany. Whilst balancing on her arms, Sara can fire a bow with her

feet! “Ready.Aim.Fire” is a show that has a little something for everyone, and is guaranteed to wow audiences of all ages.

This season’s Happiness Street Fest will also include unique shows and performances from magician Billy Kid from the UK, Cata Catarsis circus from Spain, the funambulist Espuma Bruma and Mona Ciro from Argentina, Julia Laflamme on the German wheel and The Farmer’s Daughter from Canada, and Kukuryku all the way from Poland.

Fun times at the Happiness Street Fest comes free with park admission tickets available via the app or online or at the gate.

KITMEK Launches the World’s First Interactive Digital School at

1 Dollar per Month in MENA

KITMEK is revolutionizing and reinventing the Future of Education by changing the way kids learn on a whole new level at the World’s First Interactive Digital School with AI teachers.

The avatar based school is built on a gaming platform to keep the child engaged and motivated to learn more. With 3 years in the making and affordable at just $1 per month, it provides a World Class Global Curriculum from Kindergarten to Grade 5 along with Extra-Curricular Interactive classes learning Phonics, Life skills, Communication skills and Financial Literacy that help in the holistic mental development of a child.

KITMEK has a Multi-lingual and Multisensory mode of teaching that provides 3D models to enhance a child’s learning experience with over 800+ exams, 18000+ questions, and 144+ unique exams designed in-house by a team of professional teachers and curriculum specialists. KITMEK is available in the MENA region, it’s a click away and can be downloaded from the Android Play Store or Apple Store. It works on a basic smartphone and once downloaded children will not need the internet to play.

KITMEK provides a barrier free self-motivating educational platform that rewards coins to kids while learning and uses them in shopping and entertainment

zones. KITMEK provides a Shopping Mall to customize a child’s Avatar, a Gaming Plaza, Music Concert to enjoy and buy dance moves and a massive Amusement Park for fun rides. There are no ads or any external influence on kids. It’s 100% safe for all age groups.

Anand Kadian, CEO, KITMEK Group said, “AI has become part of our lives as it runs social media. It has a major role in stock markets, energy, aviation, and healthcare that are heavily dependent on it. It is time education adopts it too. Today we realize primary education must be personalized. With the cur-

rent global infrastructure, we cannot give personalized focus as human intervention in the process is absolute. This is the reason conventional education has a one fit for all solution or in deprived cases literally no access to education is available to more than 263 million children. KITMEK aims to solve this by making a powerful ecosystem, a safe place where education is gamified and aids a child’s inquisitive mind. With global sponsorship by KITMEK, one can provide world class personalized education at a pocket friendly $1 and even track the child’s performance.”

“KITMEK is a 100% paradigm shift in the field of education. With the rising costs in the education industry, we foresee considerable downloads of KITMEK app from parents in the MENA region waiting to go live.”

In case a child’s parent cannot afford the $1, they can enroll for KITMEK’s free education programme service by getting listed on the website where anyone can sponsor their $1 and give the gift of education. KITMEK will give them a detailed report card of the child to ensure the money is making a difference in the child’s life. This opens immense possibilities where the platform directly connects underprivileged children to a sponsor.

“AI is the solution to teach every child in their own way, pace and at a price unimagined before this. This is a chance for the world to have children grow outside of a rigid system established more than a century ago.

Classrooms across the world look almost the same as they looked a century ago. We envision KITMEK to be that change in education by personalizing it and hope to solve the Global Educational Crisis.” said Anand.

The EdTech and smart classroom market size in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe is expected to grow from $44.623 billion in 2022 to $120.408 billion by 2027.

KITMEK has been tested among a series of children in real world scenarios. The observations turned out extremely positive and engaging especially among kids addicted to excessive screen time, as they benefitted by doing the same screen time but learning at a very advanced pace compared to what would normally happen in a school.

KITMEK is giving back the access of education by avoiding the inefficiencies, distractions or bottlenecks of the system that have plagued children over time. Parents who are stressed, busy, single, or struggling with low performing kids in school will breathe a sigh of relief knowing their children can have a cost-effective world class, personalized learning safely at home. Governments and NGO’s can collaborate to aid children who can’t afford education.

Today, KITMEK brings an opportunity to encourage children to learn better for a brighter tomorrow.

For further information, please visit https://kitmek.com

As part of its ongoing efforts to ensure the sustainability of Abu Dhabi’s groundwater reserves and to secure future water supplies and enhance sustainable water use measures, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has issued a general policy for managing, organising and protecting groundwater in the emirate. The policy not only reviews the current state of groundwater in Abu Dhabi, but states the challenges and implications of its depletion, as well as the policy’s principles and legal framework.

The policy was based on Law No. (5) of 2016 regarding the regulation of groundwater in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, and aims to: ensure its optimal use while reducing waste, further build comprehensive knowledge of groundwater resources, and promote the use of sound irrigation techniques, methods and practices that reduce consumption.

Groundwater is one of Abu Dhabi’s main natural resources. The total percentage of fresh water (which includes both surface water and fossil groundwater) used out of all available renewable water resources is one of the indicators used to measure water scarcity, taking into account non-conventional water sources, such as desalinated water and treated wastewater.

In this context, and although the water scarcity index in the emirate is one of the lowest in the world, Abu Dhabi has one of the highest water consumption rates per capita. A large amount groundwater resources are surface aquifers, which are the most common

reservoirs in terms of use and productivity. Most of the groundwater reservoirs in the emirate are non-renewable.

Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, said: “Groundwater constitutes 60 per cent of the total water resources consumed in the emirate and is mainly used to irrigate crops in the agricultural sector, and – to a lesser extent – to irrigate crops in forests and parks. Depletion is one of most significant groundwater challenges, as it exceeds normal feed rates. This depletion causes a decline in groundwater levels and a deterioration in quality in many areas, as 79 per cent of water has become highly saline, 18 per cent of it being medium brackish water, while only 3 per cent is considered fresh water.”

Her Excellency indicated: “The deterioration of groundwater quality affects its use, especially in the agricultural sector, which plays an important role in achieving food security and stimulating relevant economic activities. Resorting to other water sources such as desalinated and recycled water induces other economic effects, requiring investments for transportation and distribution. The increase in groundwater salinity means the need to maintain and replace irrigation networks – adding further costs and burdens for farmers.”

From an environmental point of view, Her Excellency pointed out

that the deterioration of groundwater quality and levels increases the agricultural sector’s dependence on small desalination plants, which in turn cause various environmental impacts such as increased greenhouse gas emissions. In response to the challenges, she stressed that this policy helps Abu Dhabi adopt and take necessary measures to ensure integrated and effective use of the emirate’s various water resources through sustainable management, regulation, management, and monitoring of groundwater.

This policy will be implemented in Abu Dhabi under EAD’s supervision, supported by consultation, coordination and cooperation with all relevant authorities in the public and private sectors. It will also be supported by analysis of the economic, social, environmental, technical, health, and organisational impacts, based on a systematic approach to help achieve its objectives.

Once implemented, the policy is expected to achieve a positive environmental impact, as it is expected to decrease groundwater extraction by up to 650 million cubic metres by 2030, in addition to improving the groundwater quality index (both locally and federally). The policy is also expected to decrease the rate of water extraction compared to the feeding average, from 24-fold to 16-fold by 2030. The use of recycled water will also enhance feeding aquifers in areas that are used for irrigation – both in terms of quality and quantity.

issues general policy for managing, organising and protecting groundwater in the emirate

EXPERIENCE

LUMINESCENT

GARDENS, RIVERS OF COLOR AND OBSERVATORIES PACKED WITH A MILLION STARS AT AYA

AYA, a next generation immersive and experiential entertainment park which opened on 17th December in Dubai, today announced that it has sold more than 345,000 tickets in its first weeks of operations, split between direct consumers and travel trade management companies.

Launched by parent company HyperSpace, a Future Forward Entertainment company that builds and operates physical parks for a digital world, AYA is a 40,000 sq ft immersive entertainment attraction that invites intrepid travellers to step foot into a huge expanse of vibrant, interactive experiences across 12 different zones, each with its own unique theme and interactive elements.

Already the backdrop of Reels, Stories and posts from many of the region’s most well-known content creators, AYA invites guests into a whole new world of vibrant experiences across 12 zones, each with its own unique theme and interactive elements.

In a world where you can dance with avatars, jump through an upside-down waterfall and lose yourself in an infinite maze of mirrored projection there are more Insta worthy moments at AYA than you could ever imagine – here are some of the top picks for the ultimate post:

FLORA

Wander through a bioluminescent garden filled with creatures of light that responds and reacts to the movement of travellers. During this nine-minute-long interactive light show, you’ll be transported into an intelligent oasis of all living things, culminating with an incredible virtual thunderstorm.

THE RIVER

Cross the deepest depths of a river of colour and light that generates storms and pools with your footsteps as you head towards THE FALLS, an audio-responsive waterfall that runs upside down.

LUNA

Travel beyond the stars in an infinite mirrored transporter filled with spheres visualizing the energy of AYA. Featuring a six-minute light show spectacular this is a backdrop like nothing ever seen before.

TIDES

Explore an infinite mirrored chamber adorned with LED totems and an interactive monolith featuring an eight-minute show compiled of four different storytelling chapters.

HARMONIA

Dance with light in a 3 minute robotic light show in an infinite mirror zone for an experience like no other.

AYA has now landed at Level One of the Main Atrium in WAFI City in Dubai with a cutting-edge experience that transports guests into an alternative world. Book your experience at www.aya-universe.com – tickets are AED 99 and children under 3 go free. For all the latest follow @ ayauniverse

Is your child at Risk?

Understanding Mouth Breathing & the risk it poses to proper development

Dr Diwakar Raju, Specialist Orthodontist - Al Ain

breathing (when a child breathes with separated lips) due to common cold etc is acceptable, but if a child is a habitual mouth breather, either when they are awake or while asleep is a matter of concern and needs immediate attention.

The upper jaw acts like a template for the position of the lower jaw (lets forget about the genetic abnormalities for a moment). If the upper jaw is not fully developed, in most cases the lower jaw will also be contained within the ‘smaller’ upper jaw.

Does it make a difference whether a child breathes through their nose or through their mouth?

Well, let me share with you what I have learnt and practiced over the years as a Specialist Orthodontist. It is extremely important that a child (and even adults ) breathe through their nose all the time. Small bouts of mouth

In order to have a balanced face, a well developed upper and lower jaw, which are well positioned in the facial structure, will create a balanced facial profile. In order for this to happen, both upper and lower jaws need to be of the right size and in the right position.

For this reason, the size and position of the upper jaw is of paramount importance. Well developed jaws will have enough space to accommodate all the teeth in the proper fashion.(You can save the money that you might have to spend on his/her dental braces later!!).

Now let’s move on to understand what actually contributes to the full genetic expression and development of the upper jaw. The two main factors are:

1. Breathing through the nose

2. Tongue resting on the palate

These two factors are interrelated. When a child breathes through their mouth, the lower jaw is moved downward to keep the mouth open, the lower jaw takes the tongue along with it and hence the tongue does not rest on the palate. Try it yourself – check out the position of the tip of your tongue when your mouth is closed, now open the mouth and see where the tip of your tongue is!

In the fight between teeth, bone and the muscle, it’s the muscle that always wins. Hence it is absolutely essential we focus on the balance between the muscle forces of the tongue acting on the upper jaw from the inside and the cheek muscles acting from the outside.

What do you do if your child is a mouth breather?

I would strongly suggest a consultation with an ENT specialist to rule out any obstruction of the nasal pathway. If there is any obstruction your ENT will be able to best advise how to correct the problem.

The earlier you correct any problems, the better it will be for your child. If there is no obstruction (I can hear a big sigh of relief!!) and the child is still a habitual mouth breather, it can easily be corrected with the help of ‘Sleep Angel’ kind of an appliance.

askdiwakar@yahoo.com

save soil from extinction, and bring the necessary policies to address the catastrophic issue facing humanity.

Save Soil is a global movement launched by Sadhguru to save soil from extinction, and bring the necessary policies to address the catastrophic issue facing humanity.

of the world’s agricultural soil has already degraded

0 - 20 (very low)

20 - 40 (low)

40 - 70 (medium)

70 - 90 (high)

> 90 (very high)

GLOBAL SOIL ORGANIC CARBON, 2019 (tonnes/ha)

Source: FAO, 2019, modified to comply with UN, 2021.