The Source Family Issue 254 June 2022 by TheSourceOnlineME

Issue 254 | 24 `June 2022 www.thesourceonlineme.com

CLEANING YOUR INNER SPACE NEW RESIDENCE & EID Updates you need to know

Mental health check

LaBRIOCHE AL KHABISI A stunning look at the new outlet

O L L E H ER M M SU

TOP TIPS FOR TRAVELING How to save while abroad

“The Only School in Al Ain by the British Government

and Quality Assured by Ofsted”

Fam ly EDITOR IN CHIEF Mohammed Al Neyadi MANAGING DIRECTOR Wendy Peach

CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Saliha Afridi Lakmee Senadheera Alison Soltani Dr Diwakar Raju Jessica Ashford Monaz Billimoria Niranjan Gidwani Saja El Masri Jeffrey Henseler Christiana Maxion

ADVERTISING advertising@thesourceuae.com TO CONTACT US admin@thesourceuae.com www.thesourceonlineme.com Follow us on

No part of this publication or content, thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of The Source Magazine (branded as The Source Family), published by Smart Solutions Management & Consulting Services, in writing. The Source Magazine and Smart Solutions Management & Consulting Services accept no responsibility, however caused, for errors or omissions contained in this publication. Any articles and/or images included in this publication and/or views and opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of The Source Magazine and Smart Solutions Management & Consulting Services, and any of its affiliates, but remain solely those of the author(s). Such publications have been included for general reference and the purpose of fair review. Copyright © 2022 by The Source and Smart Solutions Management & Consulting Services, and its affiliates. All rights reserved.

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FEATURES 12.Cleaning your inner space 16. Zayed Central Library Part 2 18. Abu Dhabi Summer Pass 22. A beautiful smile without braces 24. Oh La La LaBrioche Al Khabisi Re-opens 26. What kind of a car passenger are you? 28. Saving for a Rainy Day

66 The Source FAMILY

CONTENTS

JUNE 2022 42

18 HEALTH & WELLBEING 12. Cleaning your inner sapce 22. A BEAUTIFUL smile without braces!! 50. Grow your own food 56. Cross Cultural Dating 58. You are what you drink

12 TRAVEL & ENVIRONMENT

SPORT & COMMUNITY 18. Summer Like You Mean It With the ‘Abu Dhabi Summer Pass’ 24. Abu Dhabi Summer Sports 26. Your favourite French Café is back! 36. Does your CHILD know who to CALL in an EMERGENCY? REGULARS 16. Zayed Central Library Resources BUSINESS & DEALS 30. Is it worth saving for a rainy day? 38. Residence Visa updates 40. Ethics And Honesty As A Behaviour Change

15. Empty Roads launches new line from recycled plactics 28. What kind of a passenger are you? 42. Summer Travel Visa Guide 61. Top tips to save when you travel GENERAL 45. du launches tag numbers 46. Engineers of the future 48. Khorfakkan launches new development plans 52. Second citizenship - which is best for you?

999 36

24 8

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WIN

Breakfast for 4 Win breakfast for a family of 4 at the newly renovated LaBrioche Al Khabisi branch. To win tell us what your favorite breakfast treat is. Send your answers to competition@thesourceuae.com by the 20th July 2022 AL AIN RESIDENTS ONLY - T’s & C’s apply.

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WELLBEING

Cleaning

Your Inner Space Dr. Saliha Afridi, a clinical psychologist and the MD and Founder of The LightHouse Arabia

We think of ‘clutter’ as unti-

dy stacks of useless items in a garage or attic. However, clutter could be anything that you are holding on to that you are not using, or in the words of the famous organizational consultant, Marie Kondo, anything that does not “spark joy” in our lives. This could be designer clothing, useful books, or beautiful decoration that do not inspire or excite and instead take up space and block energy in your home. The same concept of ‘clutter’ can be applied to your inner space. There are many emotional, mental, social, and spiritual things 12

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you hold onto simply because you have ‘always been this way,’ and you ‘cannot imagine being or doing something different.’ You eventually do not even notice this clutter, but it is taking up space, blocking energy and keeping you stuck in different areas of your life. Consciously addressing these areas, acknowledging them, and letting them go will yield an inner space that is light, energetic, and peaceful.

The different kinds of clutter that might be occupying your inner space include: •

Emotional clutter: grudges and unprocessed emotions such as resentment, grief, anger, and hurt.

•

Mental clutter: constant worrying, thinking traps, information overload, never-ending to-do lists Social clutter: people or events that we are engaging with in person or on social media that don’t add value or meaning to our lives. Spiritual clutter: collecting spiritual information from bookshops and workshops, but never committing to spiritual practice.

How to start decluttering your inner space: Emotional clutter: We all go through difficult life experiences, and most of us will either deny, project, intellectualize, or ‘rise above’ the difficult experience before we

have had a chance to feel the feeling. The unprocessed emotions remain stuck in our body and eventually result in dis-ease.

Journal: write down all the experiences of hurt that still reverberate inside you. Resentment, grudges, and vengeful thoughts and feelings take up a lot of your energetic space. The more you hold on to the past, the less energy you will have to create the future you want.

Give the earth your hurt. Instead of carrying your hurt in your heart, connect with the earth’s energy, and consciously release your pain. Earthing/grounding helps our bodies de-stress, reduce inflammation, and decrease pain. You can do this by walking barefoot on grass, sitting and breathing for a few minutes as you sit on the beach, or standing in the sea, ankle deep as you gaze at the horizon. Connect with your heart, and from that place, ask the earth to help ease your pain.

Bodywork. The combination of long hold stretches, shaking, yoga, qi gong, tai chi along with breathwork can help you move emotions through your body. Focus on the slow gentle movements, while breathing and visualize the pain of the emotional experience moving out of the body through the breath.

Mental clutter: thoughts, decisions, and constant flow of information can create a lot of mental clutter. 1.

Do a brain dump- write down everything you have

to do in your personal and professional life on paper. Once you have this, see what you can do, decide, delegate, or delete it off that list. Everything you have to do should be put in a timeslot for the upcoming week.

2. Make decisions- a lot of our men-

tal space is taken up with delayed decisions. Make time in your schedule, preferably in the morning when you have mental energy, to make decisions you have been postponing. If you need support or information to make the decision, then get assistance.

Limit the distractions- Turn off notifications, keep your desktop clean and organized, and focus on doing one thing at a time. You use a lot more mental energy, and create a lot more mental noise when you are multitasking.

Social clutter: socializing without consideration for how it is adding meaning and value to your life can be emotionally and physically draining and adds to your social clutter. 1. Consciously connect- before you

make a commitment to attend an event or follow a person’s social media account, ask yourself, ‘why am I doing this?’, ‘what do I hope to get out of this?’, and ‘what am I saying no to if I say yes to this?’

2. Clear out your social

media account- You are what you watch. Your attention is prime space and your time, a limited resource. If it is not ‘sparking joy’ or teaching you about something that will benefit you or inspire ideas, you are just gathering social clutter.

Deep connections- while being a social butterfly has its charm, it

is the deep bonds that make our life meaningful. Make an intention to spend less time with acquaintances, and more time with those you want to cultivate deep connections with. This can be done with one on one outings, or small group gatherings. Make sure to be present in the moment by putting your devices away and connecting heart to heart, and eye to eye.

Spiritual clutter: when we know a lot about well-being and spirituality but don’t practice what we know, we are adding to spiritual clutter. 1. Practice what you know: Most of us know enough to be enlightened human beings, but most of us are not practicing what we know. Before you sign up for another workshop or buy another book, spend 30 days devoted to a practice that has helped you in the past. If you don’t know where to start, start with breathing in for 4 seconds, and out for 4 seconds for a total of five minutes, three times a day.

Silence: we collect a lot of noise in our day to day lives. Many people fill their space with distractions to avoid their inner spirit. Make a practice to be in silence so that you can connect to your inner spirit.

Gratitude: There is nothing that lightens up your inner space like feeling and expressing gratitude for the people in your life. Write a gratitude letter to someone, or look at the grocery store attendant in the eyes when saying a heartfelt appreciation, or hug your loved one’s heart as you thank them for something specific they add to your life. The Source FAMILY

FAMILY / SINGLE PHOTO SHOOTS MULTIPLE LOCATIONS AVAILABLE PRICES START FROM AED 300 per session 052 578 1434

@motion_aesthetics

UAE Born Brand ‘Empty Roads’ Launches Range of Performance Cycling Apparel Made from Recycled Plastics Empty

Roads - a newly established, Dubai based creator of performance cycling wear – has announced the launch of its first range of sustainable cycling apparel. The range utilises certified Italian fabrics made from recycled polyester (RPET) with each jersey recycling the equivalent of 11 plastic water bottles for its production. The manufacturing process employs 100% renewable energy & water efficient processes while all packaging utilises recycled and recyclable materials.

the cycling apparel on the market, and in use right now, is made from virgin polyesters which are essentially new plastic-based fibres. Without change, the popularity of our sport will fuel an increase in plastic production to fuel the demand for these polyesters. As Empty Roads grows, we are committed to developing more

sustainable solutions from design and materials, through production to end of use. We believe that recycling and repurposing already existing plastics to create our clothing is a significant step in the right direction. The fabrics we use perform, look and feel exactly the same as virgin polyester-based kit, so there is little reason not to make this change right now.”

Available exclusively via the Empty Roads website all items are limited editions, with no more than 100 pieces of each garment being available to buy and featuring a low-impact care guide. This small batch ethos minimises the risk of over production while the care guide further enhances the sustainable credentials of the range Damian Lyons, Owner and Founder of Empty Roads said: “We are extremely proud and excited to be introducing our performance clothing to the UAE. The region’s commitment to further developing the cycling infrastructure, and the continuing growth of the cycling community across the UAE, is fantastic for riders of all ability and styles and mirrors the passion we have for the sport. The overwhelming majority of cyclists are aware of the environmental challenges we currently face and are understandably proud of the eco-friendly credentials of cycling. However, most of The Source FAMILY

Library. In this month’s issue, I would like to focus on the facili es and programs av How to ﬁnd the children’s unit?

Once you the main entrance of the library and walk to the back thro A closer look at come thethrough facilities for the community children’s library. The Children’s Services Unit manages a spacious and colorful spa Libraries: playat and Abu explore.Dhabi When you enter the children’s library, to your right you will ﬁnd r

from popular authors and a lovely space for reading. The indoor play area is a perfe Zayed Central Library (Part 2) play and look through big board books with their parents and siblings. The arts and

Lakmee Senadheera

With

the school holidays fast approaching, this is the perfect time to share with you the facilities available at Zayed Central Library (ZCL) for your young children. Zayed Central Library (ZCL), Al Ain’s very own public library branch of MAKTABA, is located next to Al Sulaimi Park. This library caters to children and adults and has a collection of over 120,000 printed books in Arabic, English and other languages, as well as electronic resources available via the Digital Library. In this month’s issue, I would like to focus on the facilities and programs available for children.

How to find the children’s unit? Once you come through the main entrance of the library and walk to the back through the glass doors, you will find the children’s library. The Children’s Services Unit manages a spacious and colorful space for children of all ages to read, play and explore. When you enter the children’s library, to your right you will find rows of shelves filled with book titles from popular authors and a lovely space for reading. The indoor play area is a perfect place for babies and toddlers to play and look through big board books with their parents and siblings. The arts and crafts room is also available for the children to use for reading and as a family space to sit and read together when it is not used for a scheduled workshop.

children to use for reading and as a family space to sit and read together when it is

MAKTABA Library Membership for children under 15 Step 1: 15 Sign for a can freeborrow MAKTABA account: Children or up younger booksdigital for free library from ZCL. Se ng up a library me two-step process.

Visit library.dctabudhabi.ae and select “Get Library Membership”. ToStep complete thefor new registration willaccount: need your child’s 1: Sign up a free MAKTABA form, digital you library Emirates ID and a valid email address. This MAKTABA membership Visit library.dctabudhabi.ae and select “Get Library Membership” . To complete the allows your children to have access to digital resources such as your child’s Emirates ID and a valid email address. This MAKTABA membership allo ebooks, audiobooks and much more! digital resources such as ebooks, audiobooks and much more! Step 2: Setup a ZCL membership to borrow books from the library Membership Children (up to 15) can join for free Requirements ● MAKTABA online library account for a parent/child ● Emirates ID + Passport photo of a parent ● Emirates ID + Passport photo of the child ● No deposit required

Borrowing up to 7 books for 3 weeks limit Renewal renewable twice for an addi onal 6 weeks period Once you have completed the online membership process, plan to visit the ZCL in-p to be able to borrow books from the ZCL library. The code of conduct when using the library is available at bit.ly/3eUlUCv

What is happening during Summer? To ﬁnd out informa on on the upcoming Summer Reading Challenge 2022, the Cre summer ac vi es, please visit: library.dctabudhabi.ae

If you have any ques ons about joining the Zayed Central Library, summer ac vi e please contact the library staﬀ on 03 711 8266

MAKTABA Library Membership for children under 15 Children 15 or younger can borrow books for free from ZCL. Setting up a library membership to borrow books is a two-step process. Book Selection

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Once you have completed the online membership process, plan to visit the ZCL in-person to setup a free membership to be able to borrow books from the ZCL library. The code of conduct when using the library is available at bit. ly/3eUlUCv

What is happening during Summer? To find out information on the upcoming Summer Reading Challenge 2022, the Creative Summer Program and other summer activities, please visit: library.dctabudhabi.ae If you have any questions about joining the Zayed Central Library, summer activities or using the MAKTABA services, please contact the library staff on 03 711 8266

Crafting Area

Baby Area

Reading Area

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Summer Like You Mean It With the ‘Abu Dhabi Summer Pass’ Following the launch of Abu Dha-

bi’s ‘Summer Like You Mean It’ campaign at Arabian Travel Market this year, the innovative Abu Dhabi Summer Pass is now live on summerpass.visitabudhabi.ae. Developed by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the pass rounds up the top sights and experiences of the UAE capital in an exclusive all-access bundle, and is valid until 31 August 2022. Offering world-class hospitality, family fun, and entertainment to residents and visitors, Abu Dhabi is making the destination even more accessible with the new Abu Dhabi Summer Pass, which is priced at AED 599 for adults and AED 499 for children between 4 and 17 years of age. The pass is complimentary for children aged 3 and below. Holders of the Abu Dhabi Summer Pass can ride the world’s fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World 18

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Abu Dhabi, meet their favourite DC Superheroes at Warner Bros. WorldTM Abu Dhabi, and enjoy more than 40 rides and slides at Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi. The pass also includes a one-day visit to Louvre Abu Dhabi, as well as discounted access to 13 cultural landmarks and institutions across Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, including Qasr Al Hosn, House of Artisans, Qasr Al Watan, Al Ain Palace Museum, Al Jahili Fort, and Qasr Al Muwaiji. The Abu Dhabi Summer Pass also covers complimentary transportation within the city on the Visit Abu Dhabi Shuttle Bus network and within Yas Island on the Yas Express. Visitors can also obtain the Abu Dhabi Summer Pass, saving up to 50 percent, when booking their stay from a selection of 40 worldclass hotels on summer.visitabudhabi.ae, that includes W Abu Dhabi

– Yas Island, The WBTM Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton and Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island.

Top unmissable sights and attractions via the Abu Dhabi Summer Pass Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: Bond with your family upside down as you ride the world’s fastest rollercoaster at a record-breaking speed of 240 kilometres per hour. Showcasing more than 20 exhilarating and educational rides and attractions, incredible shopping, and authentic Italian dining experiences, this indoor theme park is the perfect destination for an action-packed day out with your loved ones.

Warner Bros. WorldTM Abu Dhabi: Surprise your kids with their favourite movie characters and superheroes, including Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman. This 153,000-square-metre indoor theme park boasts 29 state-of-the-art rides, interactive family-friendly attrac-

tions, upbeat live entertainment, a range of dining options to suit all tastes, and exclusive shopping outlets.

Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi: Feel the rush of a looping

freefall waterslide, surf the waves of excitement, and hang on the Middle East’s longest suspended rollercoaster at the UAE’s most exciting waterpark. With more than 40 rides, slides and attractions, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi offers an unforgettable experience to visitors of all ages.

Louvre Abu Dhabi: Find cre-

ative inspiration at this universal museum that celebrates world cultures and connections and houses hundreds of the globe’s most priceless works of art in a breath-taking structure. Louvre Abu Dhabi is so spectacular that you will want to snap the structure’s enormous dome composed of 7,850 stars that filter light through their perforations, creating a dazzling display known as the ‘rain of light’.

dition that has shaped the UAE’s journey at this majestic cultural landmark which is also a working presidential palace. Boosting cultural understanding of the nation and emphasising its incredible history, Qasr Al Watan is an exquisitely crafted tribute to Arabian heritage and artistry, with its architecture and design echoing the significance and function of the impressive exhibits and iconic rooms housed within its halls.

Al Ain Palace Museum: Get a

glimpse of the 20th century Emirati way of life and learn about the life of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE at Al Ain Palace. Built in 1937, it was renovated and converted to a house museum in 2001 and features some of the architectural features typical of the Transition Period (1930s–60s). For more information on Abu Dhabi and its diverse range of summer experiences, please go to VisitAbuDhabi.ae.

Qasr Al Hosn & House of Artisans: Journey through the past at the oldest standing structure in Abu Dhabi. Built around the 1790s, this commanding Qasr Al Hosn overlooked the coastal trade routes and protected the growing settlement established on the island. Those looking for unique mementoes will love the site’s House of Artisans, where local artisans create beautiful artworks on-site, with pieces available to purchase.

Qasr Al Watan: Discover the

rich legacy of knowledge and traThe Source FAMILY

Save Soil aims to:

Increase organic content in soil to a minimum of 3-6%

To effect this change we need to: Advocate for policies across all nations towards soil restoration Raise awareness of this imminent crisis among 3.5 billion people to garner their support for these policies

Learn & Support

SaveSoil.org

Save Soil is a global movement launched by Sadhguru to

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

Soil Degradation - A Global Issue

Soil52%Degradation - soil A has Global Issue of the world’s agricultural already degraded 52% of the world’s agricultural soil has already degraded

0 - 20 (very low)

0 - -20 20 40(very (low)low) 40 20 -- 70 40(medium) (low) 70 40 -- 90 70 (high) (medium) > 90- 90 (very high) 70 (high)

> 90 (very high)

Map S.5 GLOBAL SOIL ORGANIC CARBON, 2019 (tonnes/ha) Source: FAO, 2019, modiﬁed to comply with UN, 2021.

Learn & Support

SaveSoil.org

HEALTH

A BEAUTIFUL smile without braces!! Dr Diwakar Raju, - Specialist Orthodontist - Al Ain

askdiwakar@yahoo.com

hind this awesome invention. In this article I shall try and explain the facts and myths about clear aligners.

Do aligners really work?

Is it even possible to correct

your smile without braces? Impossible, I would have told until a few years ago when Aligners were invented. I wonder how could someone come up with such a brilliant idea of moving teeth without fixing braces onto them, truly some genius minds have worked be22

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A good system of aligners like the Invisalign system certainly works, they have a good track record of more than a decade and so many documented cases in which doctors around the world have used Invisalign aligners to treat their cases as effectively as with fixed braces. So, its proven and it works.

What are clear aligners ? Clear aligners are made of plastic like material, which are clear (transparent) and hence hardly noticeable at speaking distance and are custom made as per the dimension of each individual’s set of teeth. The clear aligners have evolved a long way and there have been some significant advances over the years and today most of the cases can be treated without fixed braces, using clear aligners, with only a few exceptions.

Which age group does it suit? Invisalign aligners can be used on any age group for that matter, starting from as early as 8 years to 60+ years of age, all that it requires is motivation and a desire to correct your smile.

How does it work ? It all starts with a digital, 3 D intra oral scan of your upper and lower teeth and the scans are then sent to the Aligntech lab in the united states (Aligntech is the world leader in clear aligners, the Invisalign system and I am proud to work with them). Your digital scan is used to section each individual tooth digitally, which is then repositioned in an ideal position that will add aesthetic value to your face. This gives them the final goal in the digital format. They then make multiple images (around 30 to 40) that would have repositioned the teeth in a very small increment, say 0.5mm, than the previous image until the final goal is reached. So, they now have your initial scanned image and around 30 to 40 images of your teeth that are gradually repositioned to an ideal position until the desired final end result is achieved. Now a high-quality clear aligner is custom fabricated to each set of images that was digitally created to make a total of 30 to 40 sets of clear aligners. As a patient, you will be expected to wear the first set of

aligners for one to two weeks and then move on to wear the second set of aligners for the same duration, so an and so forth, until the desired final result is achieved.

How is it different from fixed braces? Braces are fixed onto your teeth while aligners are removable. (All that follows is primarily based on this single feature) You can continue to enjoy your favourite food without worrying whether the braces might break while eating – gives you a better quality of life. You can maintain good oral hygiene as you will remove the aligners and brush your teeth as you would normally do, while with fixed braces you will have to invest additional time to maintain good oral hygiene. Well suited for people who do active sports- you will remove the aligners while playing and hence can avoid sports injury to your lips and cheeks which is a possibility with fixed braces. (Imagine getting hit with a football over the face while having fixed braces, ouch!!).

Hardly noticeable at speaking distance as they are made of clear material and hence chosen by working adults widely.

will not pay again for the aligners as you have already paid once when you start and your new doctor can request additional aligners from Invisalign, free of cost, within the warranty period.

What’s the downside? Everything has an upside and downside, right? The only downside as far as I know is that its removable and requires a good co operation from the patient – you must wear the aligners 20 to 22 hours per day. If you don’t wear them regularly, you might not get the desired results or your treatment might get prolonged. With fixed braces, it stays attached and continues to work whether you like it or not. Invisalign aligners will cost you a little more than fixed braces but when you compare the quality of life, ability to maintain good oral hygiene etc, the additional cost is worth the investment. If you are someone who will be very regular with the aligner wear, then go for it or else go for fixed braces. Whether you opt for fixed braces or for aligners, get your smile corrected, that’s important.

Keep smiling!! Dr Diwakar Raju, Specialist Orthodontist, Shams Al Waha medical centre, Al Ain askdiwakar@yahoo.com

Say you had to relocate midway during treatment, you

0525561248

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Abu Dhabi Summer Sports, the largest

sports event of its kind in the region, launched at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre State of the art event venue spans 27,000 square meters with 25 indoor tracks and courts for various popular sports

The

long-awaited Abu Dhabi Summer Sports (ADSS) kicked off today at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, the ideal indoor summer environment for sports and physical activities. The event, organized in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Sports Council, will continue until 31 August, with the goal of encouraging people to lead a healthy lifestyle. Abu Dhabi Summer Sports was launched during an opening ceremony attended by senior officials from several government agencies in Abu Dhabi. Distinguished guests from the private and public sector included His Excellency Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Department of Community Development; His Excellency Aref Al Awani, General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Sports Council; Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC. Abu Dhabi Summer Sports is proudly supported by gold sponsors including Abu Dhabi Public Health 24

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Centre, and Drops, an advanced ecommerce platform that features all traditional retail categories. ADSS, the largest of its kind in the region, will provide an ideal environment for sports in Abu Dhabi during summer and reinforce the Emirate’s role in supporting sports through its many world-class facilities. Consolidating Abu Dhabi’s position as the sports capital of the region sports are increasingly becoming an integral part of sustainable lifestyles. Abu Dhabi Summer Sports provides exceptional venues for people to play sports with air-conditioned indoor courts, with more than 25 tracks and courts set up according to the highest standards, with an overall area covering over 27,000 square meters. The event also includes side activities for individuals, groups, families, and sports fans. Abu Dhabi Summer Sports features a diverse range of activities and courts within Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre,

with three 7-player football fields, two 5-player football courts, eight Padel tennis courts, three basketball courts, three badminton courts, three volleyball courts, one cricket court, a CrossFit track, and a 1-km running track. Visitors can enjoy walking the 1kilometre track for free throughout the event. Halls 8 to 12 have been converted into basketball, football, cricket, tennis, and badminton courts and are open to sports fans on weekdays from 1 PM until 1 AM. Anyone interested in participating in the exciting activities and sports available can make a reservation at the event’s website www.adsummersports. ae and the various social media accounts (@ADSummerSports). Participants must present a green status on Al Hosn app and a negative PCR less than 14 days old. Wearing a face mask is mandatory at all times for participants and attendees.

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FOOD

Oh La La!

Your favourite French Café is back!

Al Khabisi, Al Ain & Khalidiya Corniche, Abu Dhabi Over

a 2-month period in early 2022, the two most iconic La Brioche outlets underwent a major renovation. The legendary La Brioche Khalidiya Corniche, Abu Dhabi and Al Khabisi, Al Ain were both trend setters of its time. Khalidiya Corniche were the first La Brioche to open in UAE early 1984 in Abu Dhabi and Al Khabisi, Al Ain followed a few years later in 1987. La Brioche became an institution. The aroma of Freshly baked Croissant & aromatic Cappuccino fills the air as soon as you enter, this did not change. La Brioche did not only become a landmark, but also became the perfect meeting place. Friday mornings became famous for very generous family breakfasts. Weekdays hosted business meetings, book clubs, 26

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private student tutoring or just a quick cup of coffee with your friends to say hello. La Brioche became the neighbourhood meeting place. La Brioche is a torchbearer in the capital city and is a primary choice for pastries and bakery items. Al Khabisi boasts with an in-house Pastry Chef/Cake Artist that will add the perfect touch to your next celebration cake. With good trade practices and a renowned service philosophy, the brand has stayed humble and been very people-oriented, true to the Arabian heritage of being personal and generous of all guests. La Brioche has been true to its promise of providing genuine French products by using premium French ingredients and having its central kitchen led by credible French & French educated chefs.

With good trade practice and a renowned service philosophy, the brand has stayed humble and been very people-orientated, true to the Arabian heritage of being personal and generous of all guests. The open and conductive French Décor in the outlets exude warmth, making it welcoming and approachable. La Brioche is an offspring of the rapidly progressive parent company, Al Ahlia General Trading which was conceived and established in 1979 by a group of prominent UAE Nationals. Today, La Brioche operates in 33 locations across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain & Dubai. Dubai Hills Mall, Waters Edge and Al Falah will open in Q4 2022.

Khabisi Al Ain

Khalidiya Corniche

Khalidiya Corniche Khabisi Al Ain

Khabisi Al Ain The Source FAMILY

TRAVEL

“I said Turn Left!” What kind of car passenger are you? They can be your great mate at

the wheel of a car - or they can literally drive you to despair! New research reveals car passengers who tend to annoy you can fall into one of seven categories, with backseat drivers, snoozers and chatterboxes among the most irritating! The holiday car rental experts at StressFreeCarRental.com have researched some of motorists’ biggest pet peeves that they encounter on the road, revealing pesky car companions at the top of the list. Car companions who would describe themselves as ‘human satnavs’ or those with particularly weak bladders are described as some of the worst to be stuck 28

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with giving a lift to. No matter how irritating these people may be, experts are urging motorists to think smartly when it comes to driving with disruptive passengers to ensure safety for everyone in the vehicle at all times. A spokesperson from StressFreeCarRental.com said: “Motorists around the world will all have fallen victim to one of the seven categories of passengers at some point in their driving lives. “From the ones who can’t stay awake to those who can’t stop talking, irritating company can be one of the biggest downfalls when it comes to having a car. However there are a few things you can do to ensure as little

disruption as possible when it comes to driving around your friends and family.”

Backseat drivers Often labelled as the most annoying passengers, these motoring know-it-alls will spend the whole journey telling you what speed you should be travelling at, what gear you should be in or what lane is best. When faced with one of these pesky passengers, make sure to remind them that you have planned the route, are aware of the roads and speed limits and that you would appreciate your driving not being commented on.

Nauseous travellers If providing a lift for anyone

who suffers from travel sickness, make sure to prepare ahead by keeping a couple of sick bags in your glove compartment. This way, your car companion can reach for a bag whenever they are starting to feel nauseous.

Lead singers Those who use the passenger seat as centre stage for their one-person show, singing very loudly, missing notes and getting lyrics wrong, can cause great annoyance to drivers.

Snoozers A snoozy car companion can sometimes become an annoyance for those who are driving tired. Making sure that you are always well-rested before driving should help beat the irritation.

Any motorists who find themselves in the overwhelming position of sharing a journey with a karaoke enthusiast should consider turning off the music and instead playing a podcast or audio book.

Weak bladder Everyone has that one friend who can’t make it a whole journey without requesting a rest stop. Before allowing any friends to enter your car, clever motorists should ask all passengers to have a trip to the bathroom before entering the car.

Chatterboxes The last thing drivers need when trying to focus is a passenger who doesn’t know when to keep quiet, especially if you are trying to listen out to your satnav.

Make sure to let your passenger know that it is important you can listen out for the directions your sat nav is giving you.

Human satnavs No matter how confident on the road you may seem, there is always that one passenger who claims to know the route far better than you. They will go out of their way to let you know the best way to go and where all the shortcuts are. Irritated motorists have no other option than to reinforce that they know exactly where they are going and have planned a route ahead of time that you will absolutely stick to. StressFreeCarRental.com

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Is it worth saving for a rainy day? know what’s around the corner so you could bury your head in the sand and ignore it, or you could prepare for it. Many people don’t financially prepare for crises as they don’t know what exactly they are planning for so it can seem rather abstract when compared to saving for a Dh10,000 holiday for example.

Alison Soltani

You

have heard grandparents say it and seen it in the media: keep some money aside for a rainy day. But is it really necessary? There are so many other exciting things to do with that money after all! I could enjoy a luxurious holiday or invest it in the stock market – isn’t the sound financial advice to invest money to grow wealth? If something comes up in the meantime, I could just charge it to a credit card. The problem is that you just can’t predict the future. You don’t 30

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However, no one can escape Murphy’s Law, which states that if something can go wrong, it will, and at the worst possible time. I will never forget the week that the car broke down, I had a health issue which required me to top up my insurance and the washing machine stopped working. At the time, I didn’t have the funds to cover all the expenses and had to use a credit card. The stress was real and took a toll on my mental and physical health – to feel you don’t have enough money to cover necessities is a situation that I wouldn’t wish on

anyone. It took almost a year to recover from one bad week. Since then, I have sworn by my emergency fund. Making decisions around what to do with your money is hard, especially when it is finite. This article will outline the purpose of an emergency fund, how to decide how much you need and where to keep that stash of money as well as some bonus tips to protect it.

What is an emergency fund?

An emergency fund is a pot of money kept separate from your monthly bills, savings, and investments. It is solely for the purposes of protecting you in the event of a crisis that requires you to part with cash. This money can prevent you from going into debt or selling your investments at a poten-

tial loss to cover an essential expense. It’s important that once you decide how much you want to have saved in your emergency fund (more details on that below), that you aim to build it fairly rapidly and replenish it if you have to dip into it.

What do I use my emergency fund for? It’s crucial to outline circumstances that require use of your emergency fund before you begin building it, otherwise it can be tempting to use it for non-emergencies (a beach holiday is not an emergency!). It’s difficult to resist the impulse to spend money you have stashed away, so having a clear written purpose for the account can help you maintain discipline. The list of specifics will depend on your individual circumstances, but the general rule that I outline to my coaching clients is that this money is for unexpected events or circumstances that require you to part with cash, the key word being ‘unexpected’.

Common reasons for dipping into your emergency fund include: • • • • • •

unexpected car repairs loss of income or pay cut emergency house repairs replacing essential broken or lost items health issues or emergency vet’s bills necessary and unexpected travel

Common situations that your emergency should not be covering: • • • • •

holidays gifts car insurance and service visa costs monthly bills, such as utili-

•

ties and internet clothing

It is advisable to save for these larger planned items in another savings account – these are your ‘sinking funds’.

How much do I need to save in my emergency fund? Most financial advice stipulates that you should save 3-6 months’ worth of expenses in your emergency fund. I think that is a good springboard, but highly generalised advice. I tell my clients your emergency fund total must pass the ‘can you sleep at night?’ test. This involves evaluating whether the amount of money saved provides you with enough peace of mind to feel secure in the knowledge that you could comfortably cover most financial crises that come your way. Obviously, no one can plan for everything (ahem…Covid pandemic), but if you can pay (or at least cover the deposit) for most common emergencies, I promise you will feel better.

You also need to consider your circumstances carefully. Here is a guide to calculating how much you need in your emergency savings: 1. First, work out your current

income and expenses by tracking the last 6 months of spending. Ask yourself if you were to lose your main income source for the next 3-6 months, how much money you would need to maintain your current lifestyle. This forms your ballpark figure.

2. Then, think about your job or

income source. How reliable is it? Do you have a highly specialised role, or would it be relatively easy to find an-

other job? How likely is it that you may lose your job? How stable is your industry? Do you have other skills or qualifications that you could draw on to earn money if you lost your main source of income? This could be something to work on while building your emergency fund as further security against income loss.

3. Consider how many people or animals you have who rely on your income. Factor your dependents into your calculation – someone with 5 children and pets will need a larger emergency fund than a single individual.

4. Allow scope for your liabilities

in your emergency fund, such as vehicles and houses. Total the items that may cost you a large amount of money if they break – this should form part of the decision about how much easily-accessible cash to have on hand. For example, a person with 3 houses and 2 cars will need a larger emergency fund than an individual who has 1 house and 1 car.

5. Finally, reflect on your own

personality and financial resources. If you are risk-averse and heavily insured (perhaps you have life insurance, critical illness, and income protection), it is possible that you don’t need such a large emergency fund. Your sources of income will play a role in the total amount too – if you have passive income (income not generated by active work such as royalties or dividends) or multiple sources of income, you could keep less money in your emergency fund. It involves weighing up your entire financial picture to make the decision and balancing that with how much peace of mind money in the bank provides you.

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How do I save my emergency fund?

Where should I keep my emergency fund?

It can be tough to save an emergency fund. Even saving 3 months’ worth of expenses can take time to complete. Calculate the total amount you want to save and divide it over different time periods to see what works for your situation. For example, if you want to save Dh21,000 over one year, you will need to set aside Dh1,750 a month. To save the same amount in two years would take Dh875 per month and to reach your goal in six months will require Dh3,500 a month.

In an ideal world, your emergency fund would be housed in a high-interest savings account. It is too risky to invest this money as the stock market is unpredictable and you don’t know when you will need to draw on the fund. If you need it while the stock market is down, you could be forced to sell at a loss. However, money kept in a bank account not earning interest is being devalued by inflation, which is the rising costs of goods and services by approximately 2-3% a year. Thus, it is a balance between keeping your money in a low-risk account while growing it as much as possible. Here are a few tips to consider when you think about your emergency fund’s home:

The amount you can save will depend on your income and expenses. The ideal balance is to save your emergency fund as swiftly as possible to build financial security, without compromising your quality of life. It may take an evaluation of spending to see where you can reduce expenses to release cash to save towards your emergency fund. You may find your motivation fades as the months drag on while you build this essential financial safety net. It is hard to build an emergency fund because you’re not saving for a desirable and tangible goal, such as a holiday or a car. However, keep the peace of mind as your goal – imagine a situation where you know you have ‘financial armour’ in the face of the many arrows life will throw in your direction. It’s also motivational to use a savings tracker, whereby you colour or mark off incremental steps on the journey to your final goal. I have a free emergency fund tracker available to download from my website leapsavvysavers.com – you can track your progress visually for inspiration.

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• • •

•

Split the money between a few different accounts for added security Keep some of your emergency fund in the UAE and some in your home country or offshore Research which savings accounts provide the highest interest and house your money there – mymoneysouq.com is a good website for this service Keep your money in Government bonds or money market funds, which tend to be low risk and give a small amount of interest Save some of your money into schemes which offer the chance of winning money, such as Premium Bonds in the UK or National Bonds in the UAE

How do I stop myself from using my emergency fund? It can be tempting to dip into your emergency fund – readily available and easily accessible money?! Who wouldn’t be tempted? There are a few things you can do to resist the urge to ‘just borrow a bit’ - this can be a slippery slope and you could end up with no emergency fund left.

Don’t keep a card for the account which houses your emergency fund. If you are issued one, keep it in a safe place at home along with the account details. This will put some friction between you and potential purchases made from the account. Write an easily accessible document which lists circumstances which enable you to draw from your emergency fund. Refer to it before you make a withdrawal or purchase to ensure your reason for dipping into the account is worthwhile.

Reward yourself for reaching and maintaining your emergency fund goal with something that brings you joy. Even though it may not be the most interesting savings account, your emergency fund provides you with essential financial security which prevents you from taking on debt or selling investments to cover inevitable crises. Nobody can predict the future; in fact, the only thing we do know is that life will throw us curveballs from time to time.

If money could talk, I’d wager a bet I know what it would say: ‘save me now and I’ll save you later.’ https://leapsavvysavers.com/

999

Does your CHILD know who to CALL in an EMERGENCY?

CSD survey: ‘82 per cent of children do not know vital emergency hotline numbers’ The Child Safety Department, an affiliate of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs in Sharjah, has announced details of a survey conducted during the 13th edition of the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival in May 2022.

The results reveal that 82 per cent of children, from a random sample of 108 in the 4 – 12 age group across nationalities, are unaware of important emergency phone numbers, which are vital in reaching out for help during real-life emergencies. According to the survey, 71 per cent of children admitted to not knowing the Child Protection Centre hotline number, 74 per cent did not know the police 36

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hotline number, 94 per cent did not know the ambulance services number, and 89 per cent did not know the civil defence number. Innovative awareness campaign Commenting on the results, Hanadi Al Yafei, Director, CSD, said: “The outcome of the survey, conducted as part of CSD’s activities during SCRF, has revealed the need to intensify efforts and strengthen measures to raise children’s awareness of being prepared in a time of crisis. Teaching children to memorise important helpline numbers could save lives and keep them safe during an emergency. The survey results emphasise the vital need for a new and innovative campaign to heighten awareness

to ensure the highest levels of safety and protection for the younger generations.” The CSD Director added: “CSD is committed to raising awareness amongst all segments of society about the importance of protecting children from neglect, abuse and exploitation, and to safeguard their rights and ensure their upbringing in a safe and nurturing environment, in partnership with relevant bodies and institutions.” Positive findings Amongst some of the positive findings from the CSD survey are that 72 per cent of children from the random sample had memorised the phone number

of a parent. The same percentage of children also admitted to using seatbelts while on the road while 80 per cent refrained from sticking their heads and bodies out of the windows of moving vehicles.

Image for illustration only

The young participants in the survey also showed high levels of awareness of the safety procedures to follow in the case of a fire, notwithstanding the fact that a good percentage admitted to not knowing the civil defence hotline number. The survey served as a wake-up call for parents and society to raise awareness of safety practices amongst children from a young age to enable them to take the right actions in the eventuality of an emergency that could otherwise endanger the child’s own safety or those around him/her.

SAFETY TIPS Make sure that you child knows to call 999 in the UAE no matter what the emergency. The call will be handled as necessary. Make sure that they know the mobile number by heart of at least one parent. In case of an emergency at home, make sure that they know their address. Give your child the basic knowledge of what to do in an emergency situation such as a fire, medical emergency etc. Make sure your child knows what to do if they get lost in a mall or on the street while out.

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NEED TO KNOW

The New Residence Visa and Emirates ID updates you need to know about Jessica Ashford - COO of PRO Partner Group

Jessica

Ashford, COO at leading UAE Company Service Provider PRO Partner Group discusses the new UAE Residence Visa process, and the removal of the requirement to obtain a physical visa stamp in the passport through the new combined smart Emirates ID card. It was announced that from the 11th April all foreign nationals obtaining a UAE Residence Visa will no longer be issued with a UAE Residence Visa stamp endorsed in their passport. Instead, individuals will receive the visa electronically and then use the updated Emirates Identity card, which will replace the requirement for the visa to be issued in the passport. This change has now been implemented in some Emirates and we are seeing the changes starting to be implemented, particularly in Abu Dhabi and the free zones. At PRO Partner Group we assist with a wide variety of residence visas in the UAE and we are seeing all types of visa moving to the new process, where the passport is not required as part of the process, and both the Visa and Work permit data is now present in the Emirates Identity card (EID).

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In Abu Dhabi the processing time for obtaining a residence visa has now been reduced. Previously the passport was required to obtain the visa sticker, which was done via submission to Empost who then liaised with immigration and returned the passport with the completed stamped visa. The removal of the visa stamping in the passport will save between 3 to 5 working days, which is a significant benefit. The previous timeline was realistically 15 – 21 working days, this can now be reduced to by 3 – 5 working days if all relevant documents are in place and there are no delays for approvals from the government departments or in the issuance of health insurance. The resident visa itself can be obtained through the ICA smart app and printed off in physical form if required. We do foresee potential teething issues when dealing with other departments, and other organisations in the UAE – such as banks, utility providers, travel agencies etc. that do usually require sight of the physical Resident Visa in order to authorize transactions, and it will be important for all other organisations and

government departments to update their systems to embrace the new combined ID document and smart app printing visa process. In Dubai, once the visa is approved an electronic version has always been issued by GDRFA however, we are still witnessing the physical

visa being applied to the passport, for the visas we have processed within this week. This is not yet in line with the updated process announced by the government, but expectation is that the implementation in Dubai will come shortly.

through the passport number and Emirates ID.

Free zones, such as DMCC and RAKEZ are already adopting the new process from our first-hand experience.

Other UAE organisations such as Local Banks, Notary Publics and the DED may still request the physical Visas in the passport, but we expect these and other departments to update their systems swiftly in due course.

We are aware that the ICA has coordinated with stakeholders in the aviation industry to ensure that airlines can now verify the residency status

We expect those who fall under the new process to not experience any issues when exiting and entering the country with the electronic visa copy and EID card only.

Overall, this is a very positive

step and will make the immigration process more efficient and streamlined, it is a very welcome update from the UAE Government. For companies looking for assistance with their staff residence visas, family visas, golden visas and any other related company setup, restructuring, local partner or PRO support matter in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, the wider UAE, Oman, Qatar or Saudi Arabia then get in touch with PRO Partner Group at www. propartnergroup.com.

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ETHICS AND HONESTY AS A BEHAVIOUR CHANGE According

to various global news items and reports, money laundering transactions and acts of bribery across the world now run into a few trillion dollars per year. As per the associations of certified fraud experts, companies across the world lose between 4- 6% of their revenue each year to employee and executive fraud and data theft. In the case of some government bodies, the percentages are very high. It’s extremely important to note that lower levels of honesty also come with an emotional cost attached to them. An interesting fact is that if any organization or institution of repute loses trust 40

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NIRANJAN GIDWANI CONSULTANT DIRECTOR | MEMBER UAE SUPERBRANDS COUNCIL | CHARTER MEMBER – TIE DUBAI

among its customers, or even amongst its honest employees due to one dishonest act, the same organization needs to invest much more to demonstrate its honesty on many more occasions to convey to its customers that it has now mended its ways. If there is one key behavioral change that could bring the highest economic benefit to the entire world of geopolitics, finance and organizations, it would be to make humans more genuinely honest. Are the world’s training experts, HR heads and behavioral scientists willing to invest their time and

energy, and to come up with programs which can make this happen even incrementally better?

Easier said than done It’s a well-established fact that since the behavioral aspects are extremely complex and time consuming to train and change, the only other manner to curb dishonesty is to put stricter regulations in place. More efficient surveillance networks, using better technology continue to be installed and updated. Regular and unexpected audits and raids get done

COMMENTARY all across the globe. Robust data-monitoring tools have been installed. But despite all these efforts, no one can dispute the fact that the rate of fraud has only been going up exponentially. And the fraud cases are involving staggering amounts.

The deeper question to ask oneself is – Why? The biggest fallout of the complicated fraud-monitoring systems that are being put in place is that they are actually creating an extremely dysfunctional environment within countries and organizations. The larger percentage of honest employees end up believing that the surveillance software and fraud-countering measures are an example of the organization not trusting them. Several studies have shown that fraud behavior is considerably influenced by the culture and environment in which we live in. People who live in more corrupt societies are more likely to indulge in dishonest acts. To complicate matters further, most legal systems have been created to be punitive in nature. In this framework, strangely, the punishment is seen as an end in itself. Very few punishment systems seek to change the offender’s behavior and help him or her to a new path. To compound the problem, those who give out the punishment may not be operating

with a high level of ethics and honesty themselves. As is said frequently – Absolute power corrupts absolutely. Studies have shown that two thirds of those in the US who have been set free after serving a prison sentence are likely to be rearrested within three years. And strangely, from a behavioral perspective, the whole world seems to be moving to a system where its okay to commit fraud, as long as one is smart enough not to get caught. Today, for most wrongdoings, ranging from jumping a traffic signal to spitting in public places to driving under the influence of alcohol, the punishment is almost always an economic one - monetary fines. While this may work in some ways for the poor and less affluent, there are several at the top who are affluent enough to keep paying and carry on with their misdeeds, or influential enough to beat the system. To be very honest, all of us truly have multiple personalities. A person might have a less honest intent as far as paying tax or reducing his or her tax component. A doctor may, at times, recommend an expensive medical procedure not necessarily required. But the same person will have an honest identity as well, when it comes to being a good parent to his children, or when frequently donating to charity. In today’s world, for no fault of anyone, there is no such thing as being a hundred

percent honest or ethical. Yet, if one can work towards being in a band of ethics and honesty, which could be between 75 to 90 out of 100, and make efforts to remain in that band at all times, it would bring huge economic and health benefits to the world, without constantly looking at ways to increase productivity and non-stop monitoring. In the final analysis, can we develop punishment systems whose ultimate end is reformative, to change the behavior of the offender on a sustained basis? Something for the behavioral and HR experts and coaching consultants to think and implement. While each of ensures that we try our best to remain in the highest band of ethics and keep walking the talk daily. At least for the sake of our next generation.

Remember the caveat – If we find it okay to allow someone to regularly steal for us, the chances are very high that one day the same person will also steal from us

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MENS HEALTH

A Quick Visa Guide

To help your plan your summer travel from VFS Global

Monaz Billimoria Deputy Regional Head UAE & Qatar, VFS Global

The world is on the move again

after nearly two years of lockdowns and travel restrictions. With many countries opening international borders and easing travel restrictions, many travellers across the globe are planning international trips. 42

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VFS Global, the world’s largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions worldwide, has put together a quick visa guide for travellers planning Eid Al Adha and summer holidays.

What is VFS Global’s role in the visa process? We manage non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport and consular, identity and citizen services for governments part of our client portfolio. This allows diplomatic missions (i.e., embassies/consulates) to effectively manage their time and resources and focus on the critical task of

assessing visa applications and making decisions on whether to grant a visa or not.

What are the key visa application trends? With international borders opening up and covid restrictions reducing, we have seen a good demand from travellers. Number of visa applications have risen significantly after Q1 2022 and in Q2 & Q3 we expect around 85% of pre-pandemic counts to return. The demand for our optional Premium service, Visa at your doorstep have also doubled since pre-pandemic times due to increased convenience it brings to the applicant.

If I am travelling to the UK with stopover in EU member states, do I need Schengen airport transit visa? Yes, Schengen airport transit visa is mandatory for travellers with a stopover. This requirement has been in place for many years.

How early before my travel dates should I apply for my visa? When planning your travels, you always book flights and hotels in advance. Do the same for visas. Most countries accept visa applications up to 90 days (3 months) before your date of travel. According to the revised Schengen Visa Code, effective 02 February 2020, you can apply for a Schengen visa up to 6 months before your date of travel. Particularly this year with higher demand and limited appointment slots available, we urge applicants to apply for their visa as early as possible.

What are the typical turnaround timelines for visas? Each country has a different timeline for its visa processing, and these timelines are mentioned on VFS Global websites, providing you the information required to apply for your visa well in advance. Be aware that during peak season visa processing can take longer than anticipated, hence apply early. Each application is unique and thus the processing time may differ for each case.

What is the appointment allotment process at VFS Global? Appointment slots are offered online based on volume of demand or forecast, and in conjunction with the embassy’s own internal capacity planning. Once scheduled, we highly recommend being at the centre 15 minutes prior the appointed time to avoid missing your slot. Appointments are free, beware of fraudulent parties selling appointments in exchange of money. We urge applicants not to pay for any appointments being offered.

I am confused about documentation, which varies depending on who I ask! Which are the correct documents to submit? A checklist of the documentation required for visa applications for each country served by VFS Global is available on our website. Be sure to carry all the requisite documentation, including a printout of the checklist, to submit along with the duly filled application form. Check your passport’s and Emirates ID’s validity. Many countries require a valid passport six months beyond your return date.

How do I track the status of my application? Once your application is submitted, you can track the progress of your application online through VFS Global website. Additionally, you can opt for the SMS service, and receive timely updates on your mobile phone. The status will be updated as and

when your passport is ready for collection/delivery. Be aware that VFS Global cannot track your application during the assessment process within an embassy or consulate.

Can VFS Global offer me advice and guidance on visa categories and vaccination? VFS Global is strictly not authorised to provide advice or guidance on visa category or any other visa requirement that the customer may need. VFS Global manages the administrative and non-judgmental aspects of the visa process only, such as visa application submission and biometric enrolment. VFS Global does not comment on vaccine requirements. All travellers are requested to check the destination / transit country guidelines for the same.

Can I expedite the process? Does availing any of the value-added services guarantee a faster visa outcome? The time taken for visa processing differs with each mission. Please check the turnaround timelines before applying. Opting for any optional, value-added services (such as Prime Time Services or Form-filling, or any other service) does not guarantee a quicker or more positive decision by the concerned embassy/consulate. Optional and value-added services are available for select client governments only, as per agreed service level agreements with those governments.

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du launches personalized “#Tag” numbers for UAE customers Special #Tag numbers will be available to du customers via online auction

du,

from Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), today has launched new “#Tag” numbers where customers can link their existing mobile numbers to short and catchy hashtag codes. Currently these #Tag numbers are available for existing Postpaid Plans only, and can be purchased through an online auction in collaboration with Online Auctions from June 16. During the auction, each two or threedigit #Tag number will have its own starting bid. Once a customer has

won the bid, callers can get in touch with them by dialing their hashtag number instead of their regular numbers. Hashtag numbers can only be used nationally and cannot be used on international roaming or for customers calling from international numbers. The launch of #Tag numbers aligns with du’s objective to provide a level of personalization and exclusivity to meet customer needs. Customers can participate in the auction electronically through the website www.onlineauction.ae .

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ENGINEERS Of The Future

TO TAKE ON THE YAS IN SCHOOLS NATIONAL FINALS PRESENTED BY ADNOC Record-number of students and teams from across the UAE to showcase their final designs from the 2021/22 season Live National Finals to be held from 25 June to 27 June Following a year of re-

cord-breaking attendance, the 2022 Yas in Schools National Finals presented by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) will return to Yas Marina Circuit this month. Young innovators across the UAE will take part in an incredible finale to the academic year with record numbers set to participate in the live finals.

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The Yas in Schools programme from Yas Marina Circuit is a youth-focused initiative offering schools and students a pathway into STEM-based learning projects. Using the popularity of motorsports and Formula 1, participants develop their skills across a number of subjects, including design, science, engineering and

mathematics. Across the programme, teams will then design and manufacture small-scale race cars to compete in national school competitions to take their innovations from the classroom to the track as the ‘Engineers of the Future’. This year’s programme has seen more than 12,000 students from

over 300 schools participating across the academic year. Through its focus on social responsibility, ADNOC continues to deliver programmes in support of the UAE’s future economic development and diversification. ADNOC is developing and inspiring the next generation of skilled workers, who will be the driving force of the UAE economy, as part of its STEM-focused activities. In the national live finals, teams will showcase their final model design between Saturday 25th June and Monday 27th June inside the team garages and paddock club of the iconic Yas Marina Circuit to get the real F1 experience. This year’s winners of the 2022 event will officially be announced on Wednesday 29th June with live coverage on the Yas TV YouTube channel. The 13th edition of the competition features three categories for participation; students as young as six years old will take part in the ‘Formula Ethara’ Race Day prior to the ‘4X4 in Schools’ event and the ‘F1 in Schools’ teams conclude an exciting weekend of innovation on Yas Island. To ensure the general public can follow the action as the National Finals unfold, organisers will be live streaming every moment across the Finals this year on the Yas TV YouTube channel. For more information on this year’s competition, please visit https://www.yasmarinacircuit.com/en/yas-in-school.

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Khorfakkan

to get new luxury

hotel,

water park and over 200 residential units

Project built on 38,000 sqm is scheduled for completion in 2024

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As part of its efforts in re-

defining the leisure and travel landscape of Sharjah and the region with an exciting expansion of portfolio offerings, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), has revealed details of its upcoming integrated large-scale development project in the Eastern enclave of Khorfakkan comprising a 5-star hotel, the first waterpark in the Eastern region, and more than 200 residential units. Scheduled for completion in 2024, the luxury 5-star hospitality project, operating under the Autograph Collection by Marriott International and built on 38,000 sqm opposite the Khorfakkan port, will feature 75 deluxe units, pools, restaurants, and a ballroom for special occasions. The proposed rooms include 62 single rooms, 5 double

rooms, and 8 luxury suites offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea and offers unparalleled luxury for visitors to the tranquil eastern enclave. Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), revealed details of the project currently under development, during a phone call to (Al Khat Al Mubasher) radio show on Wednesday (June 22). The expansive project will also see the development of the first waterpark in the Eastern region of the emirate and caters to the ever-growing demand for tourism and leisure experiences in the East Coast. Ahmed Al Qaseer pointed out that the project would also include more than 200 residential units which will be serviced by retail stores, restaurants and a host of other outlets on the ground level, adding that off-plan sales would

commence with the announcement of a detailed overview of the project in the third quarter of the current year. The Acting CEO noted that the project will be completed in 2024. Shurooq’s new project follows the ongoing development of the nature-inspired LUX* Al Jabal Resort in Khorfakkan, located on the slopes of the spectacular Soueifa mountain, overlooking a beach. These projects are being developed in one of the most picturesque cities in the Eastern region to bolster the emirate’s touristic appeal and drive its future growth and urban development while also creating investment opportunities in diverse sectors including entertainment, sports, services, and retail, and will contribute to the diversified economy of the emirate.

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Grow your own food! Much of the food that we eat

can reduce the impact of climate change on the food that you eat and become less reliant on world markets, which greatly impacts your ability to feed yourself. Plus, growing your own food is also a great way to get in touch with nature and increase self-sufficiency—two things that are becoming increasingly important in today’s world.

By growing your own food, you

Click & Grow is an innovative indoor garden that

has travelled hundreds, even thousands of kilometres to reach us. The carbon emissions from transport and refrigerated storage are major contributors to climate change. Some of the alarming consequences of climate change include extreme weather, higher temperatures and increasing CO2 levels, water scarcity – and ultimately food security!

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was developed by great Estonian minds with over 12 years of experience under their belt. The ground-breaking technology helps you grow fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, salads, and flowers completely effortlessly. It incorporates full-spectrum LED grow lights, automatically measures the optimal level of water and light needed for plants, and makes sure plants have enough nutrients and oxygen via the unique patented growth-material Smart Soil, which keeps the levels of oxygen, water, pH, and

nutritional ingredients at an optimal level for each plant. With the help of Click & Grow it’s possible to grow up to three times more vitamin-rich foods and it also takes 95% less water than in traditional agriculture, all without the introduction of pesticides or other harmful chemicals. At the moment, there are 60 different plant types available. The company sees growing food at places of consumption – such as in homes and schools – as the most sustainable and economically viable solution: the textbook definition of hyperlocal and already had the opportunity to demonstrate it locally during EXPO2020. Click & Grow has put up a wall filled with 500 living plants for the duration of EXPO 2020 Dubai, in the Estonia Pavilion at EXPO 2020. With 13 different plant types ranging from dill to dwarf basil, thyme, red chard and green sorrel, most of the fresh herb supply for the Taste Estonia incredible dishes brought to life the Estonian “farm to fork experience” in the UAE. Here are the 5 benefits of growing your own food through the Click & Grow smart gardening system and the positive impact it can have on your health and the planet: Less Food Miles and CO2 Emissions When you grow your own food as a family, you’re helping to reduce the distance food must travel to reach your family’s table and cutting down on the number of miles you have

to travel to buy food from markets. Fewer car journeys mean less CO2 emissions.

opportunity to learn about nature and the ability to grow our own food.

Saving Water

Therapeutic and Fun Element

Smart gardens use 95% less water than traditional agricultural methods. Capillary precision irrigation (CPI) is used to distribute water and nutrients in regulated amounts. To help avoid overwatering, the garden’s water float indicates when the garden needs to be watered and when it’s full.

Growing your garden is a fun process that will encourage you to establish a deeper connection with plants as the silent healers of the world. Seeing your plants grow over time is a rewarding experience that has its own physical, mental and spiritual benefits which everyone is recommended to try.

Less Food Waste

Hassle-Free

When you grow food in your smart garden, you can control the amount of food you grow, helping you waste less food. You can harvest food when it’s ready to be harvested, leading to fresher tasting produce.

The zero-effort smart gardens are the perfect solution for urban and busy homes. Using specially developed Smart Soil and a simple, automated system, Click & Grow products help you grow plants quickly and easily, without any GMOs, pesticides, insecticides, or other harmful substances.

Better Nutrition The commercial agriculture system is built upon producing food to look a certain way and be genetically structured to travel long distances and arrive shelf-stable. When you grow your own garden, however, you have the ability to manage your soil with the addition of compost, minerals, and nutrients all from organic sources to support and feed your plants, giving you the most nutrition possible.

Click & Grow bridges the gap between modern life and nature, by making it possible to grow plants 365 days a year in even the busiest households. Embark in a new sustainability journey and invest in the Click & Grow smart gardens, priced at AED 899 and available at Virgin Megastores.

Learning Opportunities When you grow your own garden, you have a learning lab in your own household, providing you and your family with hours of educational access and the The Source FAMILY

Second Citizenship WHICH COUNTRY IS BEST FOR YOU?

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Jeffrey Henseler, the CEO and managing director of Passport Legacy

As an investment migra-

tion firm, Passport Legacy experts have seen clients look to gain dual citizenship for many reasons. While visa-free travel is the most common, other reasons include government stability, healthcare and good education options for their children’s future. As travel restrictions ease from the pandemic, the industry and the firm have seen a sharp increase in the number of passport applications, especially for Saint Lucia, Grenada, as well as Saint Kitts and Nevis. Passport Legacy client advisors ensure that the initial meeting is used to ask clients all the right questions about their expectations and requirements in order to propose the best countries for second citizenship. People looking to invest in a second passport

are most interested in the ability to add their family members, including children above the age of 18, as well as parents and securing a passport from a country that has a stable government and primary healthcare benefits among other various reasons. These combined benefits make a second passport very appealing to anyone looking to travel with limited visa requirements and looking to ensure their family’s safety and security. Jefferey Henseler, CEO and founder of Passport Legacy, said, “There is no ‘best country for citizenship’, and we do our best to understand the client’s needs and what country suits those needs best. For example, if a client is looking to live in the USA and set up a business, we would recommend the Grenada citizenship by investment program, allowing one to apply for the E2 visa in the USA, which is important to anyone looking to set up a business and live within any of the country’s 50 states. If a client wishes to get the most out of their investment, we recommend Saint Kitts &amp; Nevis CBI Program as it is the old-

est CBI programme in the world as well as an added benefit of being a member of the British Commonwealth country.” The most invested in passports come from the Caribbean. Countries such as Saint Kitts and Nevis, Grenada and Saint Lucia provide many attractive incentives to their citizenship by investment programs such as the ability to visit up to 160 countries visa-free as well as being exempt from paying certain taxes. Additionally, a single applicant applying for Saint Kitts and Nevis citizenship allows you to apply for adult children under 30 and parents over the age of 55 as well. Passport Legacy has seen a substantial increase when it comes to investor’s interest in Saint Lucia’s citizenship by investment program as it offers many of the same benefits as other CBI programs at a cost of only USD 100,000, which is the lowest amount for any of the citizenship or residency by investment programs available at Passport Legacy. To learn more about Passport Legacy and its citizenship by investment programmes, please visit https://passportlegacy.com/ The Source FAMILY 53

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‘Cross Cultural Dating’ CHRISTIANA MAXION - International Dating Coach

Cross cultural dating… to do

or not to do? That is the question, and here is my enthusiastic answer: YES! And, Dubai is the perfect place to explore this. Dubai is one of the few cities in the world where you can ‘date the map’! Explore dating people from different nationalities, cultures, and religions. This will help you gain more perspective on what you are actually attracted to versus maybe only being exposed to homogeneous partners if you were dating back in your home country or town.

Tips for cross cultural dating: 1. Date with an open mind and an open heart

When exploring cross cultural dating, it’s important to approach this new venture with an open mind and an open heart. I would suggest not using the dating apps and to date ‘in the wild’. This involves meeting people in person at places like the gym, events, restaurants, and more. This will allow you to come from a place of non-judgement and focus more on meeting people that you are energetically attracted to. This differs from being on a dating 56

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app where immediate physical judgment creeps in when swiping on static photos on an app. 2. Learn something new

My number one bulletproof advice for every first date is to find out what your date is an expert in. In cross cultural dating this can include learning more about their culture or country. So even if the date doesn’t continue to a second due to massive differences, it wasn’t a complete bust because you have learned something new in the process. And that something new can include finding out what you do or don’t want in a partner. 3. Try, try, try again

First dates can be daunting and may not always be the best representation of someone’s best self. Therefore, I al-

ways say to give a first date a second chance …unlessss it’s a totally terrible date, then of course, don’t waste your time! But, if there’s some connection but maybe not firework sparks, definitely see your date again. And, if the first or second date is a fail, don’t give up or stereotype all types of people just from one or a few experiences. It’s important to remember tip number one and to date with an open mind. Take everyone at face value and try not to let past experiences create prejudgements of others based on nationality, culture or background. I always say that Dubai is the the best place to date in the world because you can truly ‘date the map’—SO DO IT! https://christianamaxion.com/

EAD Issues a Guide to Help Organisations Implement the Single-Use Plastic Policy The Environment Agency - Abu

Dhabi (EAD), today organised an awareness session for government and private sector institutions, and the Green Business Network to familiarise them with the Single Use Plastic Policy (SUPP) Guide. The Agency publishes the guide in both Arabic and English to provide information on the policy to government and private institutions and their employees, was reviewed. The aim is to declare Abu Dhabi government entities free of single-use plastic and non-plastic materials, by limiting the use of these products, and transition towards multi-use alternatives with less environmental impact. The guide is a component of the SUPP which was launched by the Agency in March 2020 with the aim of gradually reducing

the consumption of single-use plastic materials throughout Abu Dhabi, while promoting more reusable products. During the session, EAD called on the government organisations to start implementing the guide’s procedures in order to be free of the targeted materials, appropriate to their own structures and activities. The guide focuses on the ban of single-use products in all government offices, and their presence at any events or activities organised by government authorities. These materials include single-use plastic and non-plastic bags, such as paper bags. This is in addition to single-use cutlery, including forks, spoons, knives, and chopsticks made of plastic, wood, bamboo or other single-use materials.

BECOMING FREE OF SINGLE-USE PRODUCTS A GUIDE FOR ABU DHABI GOVERNMENT

Other materials outlined in the guide are: disposable plastic and paper straws, plastic, cardboard or aluminium food containers, disposable cups and lids for beverages of plastic or paper, single-use plastic, cardboard and aluminium plates, and disposable chopsticks. Also mentioned are single-use plastic, glass or cardboard bottles. The guide provides examples of the use of versatile alternatives, such as cutlery made of stainless steel, cups, dishes mid-size bottles and large mugs made of glass or melamine or its equivalent. For the successful implementation of the policy, the guide urges government agencies to increase environmental awareness among their employees, fostering a positive change in their behavior and encouraging them to participate and support institutional aspirations towards change. The guide suggests this can be achieved through the dissemination of information and awareness materials via internal communication channels, and the hosting of workshops for employees to engage in discussing challenges. The guide also suggests that government organisations can benefit from the Agency’s Green Business Network, which supports environmental awareness among institutions by providing relevant materials, hosting workshops, and organising various environmental initiatives to instigate change in consumer behaviour. A copy of the guide can be downloaded from EAD’s website: https:// www.ead.gov.ae/-/media/Project/ EAD/EAD/Documents/Resources/ Gov-Guide-SUP-ENG.pdf The Source FAMILY

You are what you drink Are you drinking your calories? by Saja El Masri, Allurion Program Nutritionist, Enfield Royal Clinic

We often hear the phrase

you are what you eat, but not much thought is given to what individuals drink. Many find it easier to reach for a can of soda or processed juice before water, which can amount to almost 200 to 300 58

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calories consumed, depending on the beverage. This can be a problem considering these beverages are not nutrient-dense meals. Based on people’s requirements, this can easily count as 20% of the calories their body requires in a day. With much of the discussion focused on our eating habits, it is easy to miss that the drinks we consume also play a significant role in our health, particularly for those on weight loss or weight man-

agement journeys. I have noticed with my patients, time and again, that they believe the problem solely lies with soft drinks, and once they reduce or cut these out of their diets, they are good to go. Whilst soft drinks can account for empty calories, the problem does not stop there. Most drinks, including the daily tea and coffee options from go-to cafes, have calories that come from added sugar, such as honey, jaggery, processed sugar, and

WELLBEING more. Most of the time these will not provide any nutritional value to the body and can further contribute to increasing a person’s weight. According to a survey conducted by SUN Cohort in 2016, obesity is a major epidemic in developed countries in the 21st century, with one of the main causes of obesity being energy imbalance, which contributing factors include a sedentary lifestyle, epigenetic factors, and excessive caloric intake through food and beverages. High consumption of caloric beverages, such as alcohol or sweetened drinks, can particularly contribute to weight gain, and lower satiety has been associated with the intake of liquids instead of solid calories. Research shows that liquids do not promote the same feeling of fullness as solid foods do. When you drink something, it eliminates the act of chewing, which may impact the signals between the stomach and the brain. This means that the calories that you are drinking will not promote the same amount of fullness between meals as eating the calories might. It is important to remember, especially for those looking to lose weight, that it is not just about the number of calories consumed but also about the nutrients in those choices. For instance, broccoli is a nutrient-dense food that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients and is relatively low in calories. On the other hand, a cup of coffee with sugar is an example of a nutrient-poor, higher-calorie option.

So how do you make sure that you are not drinking too many calories? The first step would be to make a conscious effort to replace your daily sugary carbonated drink with other options like sugar-free choices, sugar-free flavoured or plain water. Water is not only free of calories but is essential for life and health. All of the tissues and organs within the human body require water to maintain their structure and function. A good idea is to buy a reusable water bottle and carry it everywhere with you so you always have it on hand. Depending on how frequently you consume sugary sodas, cutting down could be a good start. There is a significant body of research that supports the benefits of this choice, demonstrating that substituting water and other zero-calorie beverages for sugar-sweetened beverages has a positive impact on both weight and body composition.

Try some of these tips to avoid calorie-laden beverages: •

• •

•

Add fresh fruit, like slices of citrus or watermelon, to flat or sparkling water for a boost of flavor Try adding cucumber slices for a refreshing twist to the water Sparkling water (or seltzer) can be a great way to enjoy a bubbly, flavorful beverage without any calories Swap your sugar-sweetened beverages for ones that are lower in sugar or sugar-free

Furthermore, if you are on

your weight loss journey and want some support to achieve your goals, Allurion, a medical device company that employs a holistic approach to handling weight issues and eating habits, can help you on your journey. The program is the world’s first and only weight loss device that requires no surgery, endoscopy, or anaesthesia, allowing patients the chance to take a break from the feeling of hunger often associated with a weight loss program. While most weight loss diets are designed to help one lose weight, their efficiency can be affected by a variety of factors. This is why I recommend a multilayered approach when advising my patients. Successful weight loss programs should always combine researched solutions with proper guidance from healthcare professionals, such as the Allurion Program. The Allurion Program does not focus solely on weight loss but gives patients the building blocks to rehaul their lifestyle, achieve their desired results, and set them up for long-term success; this includes a customized program for nutrition and activity. So, the next time you are at a store walking through the aisles with beverages, don’t forget to read the nutrition labels on the items in your cart to see which ones have the most added sugars. Remember that you can make a healthier choice every step of the way by choosing water and other healthier, low-calorie beverages over the highly sweetened ones. The Source FAMILY 59

Tadweer and Al Ain Municipality sign agreement to develop slaughterhouse waste and fallen stock treatment services Abu Dhabi Waste Management

Center (Tadweer) has signed an agreement with Al Ain Municipality for enhancing cooperation and coordination in developing services for the transport, treatment, and proper disposal of slaughterhouse waste and fallen stock. The agreement seeks to establish an ongoing partnership between the two parties, and exchanging expertise, resources, studies, and research that would help develop and improve the services for slaughterhouse waste treatment. It aims to enhance joint action in ensuring the safe and proper disposal of animal waste produced by municipal slaughterhouses, livestock markets, and fallen stock, with the goal of transforming this waste into an economic resource that serves the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, as well as providing a safe, healthy, and sustainable environment, and maintaining the public image of Abu Dhabi. The agreement was signed by His Excellency Dr. Salem Khalfan Al Kaabi, Director General of Abu Dhabi Waste Management Center (Tadweer), and His Excellency Ali Khalifa Al Qamzi, Director General of Al Ain City Municipality, in the presence of senior officials from both sides. His Excellency Dr. Salem Khalfan Al Kaabi, Director General of Tadweer, said: “The agreement reflects the Center’s commitment to supporting joint action and building partnerships with relevant parties in order to unify efforts towards providing a healthy and safe environment in Abu Dhabi. This comes in line with Tadweer’s efforts for achieving the national objectives that seek to divert

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waste away from landfills, employ environmental and technological solutions that support the national economy, and contribute to providing a sustainable system for waste management and pest control in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.” “Through our cooperation with Al Ain City Municipality, we look forward to developing the services for transporting the waste produced by Al Ain slaughterhouses and fallen stock and disposing of them properly, in accordance with the top criteria and practices. We also aim to raise awareness about the proper methods of disposing of waste, in order to ensure the health and safety of the society and limit the impact of improper disposal of fallen stock and waste produced by slaughterhouses and livestock markets,” he added. Under the terms of the agreement, the Centre will be responsible for collecting and transporting fallen stock and slaughterhouse waste in the Municipality of Al Ain City to the its treatment plants, where they will be treated and disposed of safely. The Centre will also apply hygiene, disinfection, and sterilisation procedures to slaughterhouse containers and livestock markets, providing annual data on waste and fallen stock received at the Centre’s plants, and sharing the Centre’s studies and research on dealing with animal waste. The Centre will also hold awareness workshops for those in charge of slaughterhouse and livestock markets to ensure their commitment to applying the best practices in this field and enrol them in E-Manifest system (Bolisaty) online system, which contributes to building an integrated waste database in Abu Dhabi.

Tadweer has an incinerator plant for fallen stock in Al Ain City, which receives waste collected at and transported from municipal slaughterhouses and livestock markets in the city. The incinerator has two lines with a capacity of 650 kg per hour each. The incineration process is carried out in two stages: the first at a temperature of 850 degrees Celsius, then at around 850-900 degrees to ensure that bacteria and the threat of contagious diseases are eliminated, ensuring a healthy environment for society. The Centre warns the public of the danger posed by arbitrary disposal of fallen stock due to its negative impact on public health and its role in the transmission of contagious diseases, noting that burying fallen stock has a negative impact on the environment through contaminating groundwater with biological particles. Therefore, the Centre urges the public to adhere to instructions and contact the relevant department at the Centre to transport and dispose of fallen stock safely. Abu Dhabi Waste Management Center (Tadweer) is constantly developing its services and organising awareness campaigns in accordance with its strategic plans, as part of its efforts to provide an environment with the highest health and safety standards for the Abu Dhabi community. This reflects the Centre’s commitment to exploring new ways and adopting the latest technologies that preserve and sustain the environment.

Top Tips to save money when travelling from StressFreeCarRental.com

In this period of instability when

it comes to spending, it is vital holidaymakers prepare different ways to budget so they can enjoy a stress-free trip. Simple hacks such as pre-booking a family safari tour could save you money when booking three months in advance, for example. A spokesperson for StressFreeCarRental.com said: “Many people are worried to go on holiday this summer due to rising costs. “But there are ways people can use their saved-up cash to enjoy a relaxing break, whether it’s researching the local restaurants to compare with hotel catering options, to heading to the airport during its quieter periods. Here are StressFreeCarRental’s best ways to save money when travelling: 1. Avoid peak times Picking your flights can make a huge difference to your travelling budget. Hesitate from choosing departures around midday or on a typical hectic Saturday. Delve into alternate options such as flying on a weekday morning or find out whether there’s any

exclusive deals on different travel packages which work best in your favour. 2. Change your currency before travelling Look and compare different company’s rates and monitor the global changes for a couple of weeks to determine any changes if you need to change currency. It’s best to get it all prepared before jetting away as you could be greatly overcharged from using an ATM machine abroad. 3. Research your chosen location Flexibility is essential when travelling, if you’re open minded on destination choices then have a look at places which are the most cost-effective. Tropical locations such as the Canary Islands or Corfu are offering lowpriced but rewarding getaways to reel in tourists after the last two years of disruptive travel.

Have a look at different package deals when booking and after choosing one which suits your needs, research the variety of prices available, such as those in the local cocktail bars or the thrilling beach activities on offer.

activities available months before heading onto the plane. To save costs later down the line, pre-book these activities in the lead up to the trip in order to avoid later disappointment. You may even find better deals for the local waterpark or a pirate cruise ship in the middle of mesmerising blue seas! 5. Explore different dine-out options Analyse whether it’s more convenient to book the all-inclusive option or venture out into the local village to grab something to bite. Research the local area, think about how many people there are to food in your travel group and then allocate a spending budget. This can be one of the most expensive parts of the trips and it’s a simple solution to solve when calculated right.

StressFreeCarRental.com

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CREATIVITY

Let go of your inhibitions Experiment with colour and allow your imagination to run wild at

Splatter Rooms

The thrilling new art experience has launched at The Walk at Al Seef Village Mall, Abu Dhabi

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The UAE capital has just wel-

comed a new, thrilling and unique art experience like no other. Splatter Rooms is a one-ofa-kind concept that invites every individual, no matter their skills, talents or art, to discover the joy of art and the empowerment of creating with colour. Guests are free to get messy, express themselves and unleash their creative streak onto a blank canvas using all manner of wonderful shades of paint. Inviting guests to splatter, throw, mix and explore all the paints and materials on offer to them, the action-packed sessions give everyone the chance to take home an amazing, personal work of art and create endless special memories in the process. Exciting and engaging, Splatter Rooms encourages budding artists to paint freestyle, breakthrough any boundaries and explore their artistic potential. Suitable for adults and children, and

beginner to advanced painters, all supplies, disposable clothing and canvases are included in every experience. Perfect for unforgettable Birthday parties, teambuilding events and even just a trip out with friends or family, Splatter Rooms is an event like no other. The engaging art workshops cover a range of different techniques, including Freestyle Art, which encourages you to splatter and create to your heart’s content, Pendulum, using the power of gravity, Spinning Art and Fluid Art, which uses cutting-edge tools to create incredible effects. Meanwhile, the amazing glowin-the-dark neon painting parties create countless sensational Instagram-able spectacles, while the Thursday ladies’ Glow Night invites women and girls to glow like a firefly and bond with family and friends in total comfort and privacy.

The Founder of Splatter Rooms, says: “At Splatter Rooms, making a mess is all part of the fun. We encourage our guests to paint over the lines, think outside the box and realise that, when it comes to art, there really are no rules. Our experience is joyful, stress-relieving and a wonderful celebration of creativity in all its forms; there really is nothing else like it at all in Abu Dhabi. We want to help everyone release their inner artist and find a therapeutic escape from everyday life, whether they are a young child or already in retirement.” Splatter Rooms is found at The Walk at Al Seef Village Mall. Packages are suitable for two to 30 people, with prices starting from AED 139 per person including all supplies needed. For more information, please call or WhatsApp on +971 56 355 7251, email info@splatterrooms.com or visit www.splatterrooms.com.

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Al Ain Zoo provides endangered Rothschild’s Giraffes with the highest standards of care As part of Al Ain Zoo’s efforts

to protect rare and endangered species, it pays special attention to the safety and wellbeing of the Rothschild’s Giraffes, as they are classified as “endangered” by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due the continuous destruction of their natural habitats and illegal hunting. Native to Kenya’s and Uganda’s African desert’s savannah, the Zoo currently hosts 19 Rothschild’s Giraffes, the most senior of which is 25 years old. Al Ain Zoo started housing the Rothschild’s Giraffes back 64

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in 1974, providing them with the utmost levels of care and initiated a breeding program. Now, the Rothschild’s Giraffe family has successfully grown to 6 males and 13 females. The efforts come as part of the Zoo’s quest to preserve endangered wildlife and raise awareness on the importance of nature conservation, through research, knowledge and adopting an active role in protecting biodiversity. The Zoo has created a range of awareness-raising and fun experiences for visitors to interact with and learn about giraffes, such as the feeding experience where giraffes are called by the ringing of bells so that visitors

can offer them their favorite snacks, consisting of carrots and lettuce, in addition to the wonderful ‘breakfast with giraffes’ encounter. During these experiences, visitors get the chance to learn about the characteristics of giraffes through talks from their caregivers who explain their vulnerability to extinction and the efforts exerted to protect these beautiful animals. Visitors also get the opportunity to take selfies with giraffes so they can post them on their social media platforms while enjoying the feeding experience at the African exhibition and during the Al Ain Safari, helping to spread the message of conservation.

The Zoo even asks its visitors to participate in choosing names for the animals it homes through its social media platforms where people can share their name suggestions and vote for the best name. This is how the names Zaafarana, Jumbo, Macilia, Billy and the newly born Luna were named based on ideas from Al Ain Zoo’s social media followers. Giraffes are known to be the tallest mammals on the planet, and the Rothschild’s measures up to two metres in height at birth, reaching up to 5.8 meters in adulthood. Their prehensile tongue is around 45 centimeters long in order to wrap around high branches and strip the leaves that make up the bulk of their diet, and while most giraffes have only 2 ‘horns’ (or ossicones), the Rothschild, also known as the Baringo Giraffe, has 5, and their skin is uniquely characterized by soft-toned beautiful yellow and black spots, but with no markings on the lower leg, it looks like they are wearing white socks!

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ENVIRONMENT

The Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release

Programme’s Success Continues with the

Release of 71 Falcons into the Wilds of Kazakhstan

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The

onset of rain and mild temperatures in the wild spaces of beautiful Kazakhstan provide and maintain habitats for various falcon species and their food sources, while ensuring increased wild breeding opportunities and a link to global migration routes. The Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Programme (SZFRP) continues to enhance its contribution to nature conservation by releasing 71 falcons into the wilds of Kazakhstan, reinforcing its position as one of the largest wildlife conservation programmes in the world. It is also a key element in the environmental legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, in maintaining natural balance with the best international practices under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and under the follow-up of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler›s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, and Chairman of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD). The programme is supervised by EAD in partnership with the

International Fund for the Conservation of Houbara (IFCH), which oversees the technical and field aspects, and the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital (ADFH), which provides veterinary services support. Through regular and continuous releases conducted annually, the programme has managed, since its establishment in 1995, to return 2,159 falcons back to the wild. Field studies and satellite tracking data indicates that these falcons adapt extremely well, and can migrate over distances up to 43,000 km. They also breed naturally, increasing their numbers in the wild and ensuring future generations will be able to mitigate the risks they face in their natural habitats. These include urban sprawl, agricultural expansion, environmental pollution, climate change and unsustainable practices. Among the birds recently released, 10 falcons were fitted with solar-powered satellitetracking devices, which will monitor survival, propagation rates and traditional migratory routes, and gather other

important scientific data that will help develop methods for preparation, training and release. Commenting on this new achievement of the programme, His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of EAD and the International Fund for the Conservation of Houbara, said, “Based on the directives of the leadership of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi continues to cement its pre-eminent global position in the conservation of nature and the protection of wildlife species. This includes our exceptional efforts to preserve falcons, houbara and other types of wildlife of environmental, cultural and historical importance, further increasing their opportunities for survival and enabling their prosperity in nature.” His Excellency Al Bowardi praised the successful international partnership with the Republic of Kazakhstan in this field, and expressed his sincere thanks to the Kazakh authorities, whose significant efforts contributed to the joint team’s implementation of this programme.

https://www.mediaoffice.abudhabi/en/environment/the-sheikh-zayed-falcon-release-programmes-success-continues-with-the-release-of-71-falcons-into-thewilds-of-kazakhstan/

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ENTERTAINMENT

Visit Malta and the BBC Concert Orchestra PRESENTS

CLASSIC ROCK ANTHEMS The

World Famous BBC Concert Orchestra and BBC Radio 2 proudly return to MALTA with Classic Rock Anthems – brought to you by VisitMalta After wowing audiences last year with “It’s a Kind of Magic – The Queen Story” the BBC Concert Orchestra is bringing an epic evening of the world’s classic rock and pop anthems to the spectacular Granaries in Floriana. On the 9th of July, the concert will feature an astonishing 20 number one hits and an awe-inspiring countdown to the best selling artists of all time. You will hear classic rock and pop anthems delivering feel good, fall in love, get mad, get sad, get even songs, that power us through, lift us up and bring us together. Under the direction of the renowned

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conductor Mike Dixon, the 60-piece BBC Concert Orchestra, plus dynamic rock band, and cast of outstanding star singers Gloria Onitiri, Laura Tebbut, Tim Howar, Ricardo Afonso, Annie Skates, David Combes, Emma Kershaw, Lance Ellington and Tony Vincent, will perform classics by The Rolling Stones, Queen, David Bowie, Prince, Lady Gaga, Coldplay, The Beatles, Tina Tuner, Fleetwood Mac, Cher, Elvis - and more! So many number one artists, so many hymns to love and calls to action - but there’s only one sensation who rules them all. Do you know who? Find out in ‘CLASSIC ROCK ANTHEMS’ coming to The Granaries, Floriana on 9th July 2022. “Truly encouraging that another busy entertaining summer is ahead of us. The BBC Concert Orchestra in concert has established itself as one of the

most awaited events of Malta’s culture and entertainment calendar. The Floriana Granaries will be lit up once again with another show to be remembered,” remarked Minister for Tourism Clayton Bartolo. Recently appointed VisitMalta CEO, Carlo Micallef added that “Events like this one by the BBC Concert Orchestra are another component in our long-term strategy for the enhancement of Malta’s Tourism Product. Such events help in transforming Malta and Gozo as a destination truly fit for people of any age and demographic.“ “We are delighted once again to be delivering another fantastic BBC Radio 2 concert alongside the BBC Concert Orchestra, live in Malta. Building on last year’s fantastic show in The Floriana Granaries, this year’s event is set to be another showstopper!” Says CEO of GetOnMedia, Jason Carter. visit: www.visitmalta.com

STELLA STAYS

TO EXPAND INTO EUROPE, LAUNCHING TWO TOWERS IN ISTANBUL, TURKIYE Stella Stays, a UAE proptech start-

up with a vision to create the future of living and hospitality, announces expansion into Europe, launching two towers in prime locations in Istanbul, Turkiye. Stella Stays Istanbul Etiler Tower and Stella Stays Istanbul Galata Tower will welcome guests from June and July 2022 respectively, offering tech-enabled, designer apartments with spacious living space, full kitchens and dedicated workspaces to both travellers and long-term residents. The launches in Istanbul mark the company’s first move into European markets, as part of an aggressive global expansion plan, after launching in Saudi Arabia in early June 2022. Stella Stays is actively exploring further opportunities in Turkey, as well as top destinations in Europe and globally. Mohannad Zikra, Co-founder and CEO of Stella Stays, said: “We are very excited about our expansion into Istanbul as it is one of the most visited cities in the world with north of 13 million annual visitors. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Turkiye projected about 45 million tourists and $35 billion in revenue for 2022 - a sharp recovery from the pandemic impact, with the majority of visitors coming from Europe.

We plan to continue developing Stella Stays’s portfolio in Turkiye’s top cities and the surrounding regions.” Stella Stays enters global markets through master leases or profitsharing agreements with real estate developers and property owners. The company uses proprietary algorithms that identify, evaluate, and select the most desirable properties around the world, based on location, financial projection, and trends. Mr Zikra further commented on Stella Stays’ innovation: “In traditional hotel models, hotel brands make operating commission while the property owners bear huge expenses, such as massive headcount and other operating costs. Stella Stays eliminates all the headaches for the property owner by offering hands-off management, while injecting technology and advanced data analytics into every aspect of operations. We have been able to reduce headcount by up to 70% and 50% of other operating costs compared to traditional hotels, which result in a much higher profit margin for property owners and our company.”

As the creator of the residential hospitality concept, Stella Stays offers holidaymakers, business travellers, and residents a seamless living and hospitality experience by leveraging groundbreaking technology, guestcentric interior design, and modern service. Guests and residents can use the Stella Stays app to navigate the entire journey - from booking and managing their stays, checking in, controlling smart home systems, to ordering a wide range of guest services. Payment terms are flexible and can be made through various methods, including debit, credit cards and crypto payments. Stella Stays is well recognised for its innovative and guest-centric approach. The company currently operates in the UAE, Bahrain, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and now Turkiye. Stella Stays expects to expand rapidly into major cities in the MENA region and around the world in the next 12-18 months, with flagship projects in key markets.

Istanbul is renowned for its rich culture, history, impressive architecture, a modern skyline and delightful shopping experience, which contribute to its popularity. Istanbul is also the gateway between Europe and Asia with a buzzing residential and hospitality real estate sector. These are the attributes that make Istanbul a perfect destination for Stella Stay’s global expansion.

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TOURISM

Abu Dhabi launches competitive

‘Summer Pass’ offer to inspire travellers to choose the UAE capital this summer

GOLD PLATED ICE CREAM AT EMIRATES PALACE 70

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With global tourism rebound-

ing and the Middle East offering year-round experiences, Abu Dhabi launches new destination campaign inspiring travellers to visit the UAE capital during the summer season and experience the incredible value across hotels and world-leading attractions like nowhere else in the world. The new campaign puts every traveller’s passion points front and centre, showcasing unique and memorable Abu Dhabi experiences that await visitors during the summer. This summer, Abu Dhabi has something for everyone to enjoy – at their own pace – including: RESTORING BODY AND SOUL: As the sun rises, unwind with yoga in the iconic surroundings of Louvre Abu Dhabi, or escape to a private and desert island retreat of Nurai, just 15-minutes away by boat CULTURALLY ENRICHING EXPERIENCES: Visit Qasr Al-Watan Presidential Palace, explore the rich history of Qasr Al Hosn or enjoy magical stargazing in the desert night air IF IT’S THRILLS YOU’RE AFTER: Look no further than the world’s fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi; or have a once-in-a-lifetime experience swimming with tiger sharks at the National Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the Middle East

INTRODUCING THE ABU DHABI SUMMER PASS The campaign launch marks the first step in unveiling the best of summer in Abu Dhabi. New offers including the Abu Dhabi Summer Pass will be rolled out with unbeatable promotions across experiences, cultural sites

and family entertainment attractions. Offering amazing value across a diverse range of activities, visitors will be given even more reasons to book whilst exploring a different side to the city. The Abu Dhabi Summer Pass will give travellers access to THREE leading theme parks (Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi) ALL cultural sites including Louvre Abu Dhabi, the majestic Presidential Palace Qasr Al Watan, Qasr Al Hosn (the oldest standing structure in Abu Dhabi) and FREE transportation via Yas Express and Abu Dhabi bus systems. Specific details to be unveiled in the coming weeks as the pass is rolled out.

class indoor theme parks or the race of the Yas Marina Circuit, to the rich depth of culture and activities that ensure the whole family is inspired and entertained. The UAE capital has something for everyone. We want to make those precious memories more accessible by providing competitive and compelling offers throughout the season so travellers can experience summer exactly as it can and should be enjoyed.” Officially unveiled at Arabian Travel Market 2022, Abu Dhabi’s Summer Like You Mean It campaign uncovers the unmatched experiences travellers can enjoy during the summer in Abu Dhabi, all at affordable prices. For more information on Abu Dhabi’s exciting events and attractions, go to VisitAbuDhabi.ae

To upgrade your holiday even further, prices at top hotels across the region in summer cost on average 30% less than during high season*. With a compelling pipeline of hotel discounts and promotions due to be unveiled in the coming months, there’s never been a better time to visit Abu Dhabi. H.E. Saleh Mohamed Saleh Al Geziry, the Director General for Tourism at Department of Culture & Tourism – Abu Dhabi said, “Global travellers have their eyes on the Middle East – so now is the perfect time to be sharing Abu Dhabi with the world, shining a light on just how many unique and diverse experiences are waiting to be explored affordably in and around the UAE’s capital. “This summer, we want travellers to experience the known and unknown of Abu Dhabi, uncovering the hidden gems of our destination – at their own pace, whether it’s the thrills of our world The Source FAMILY

FUN

There is a new Escape Room Consept at Abu Dhabi Mall

BOXED IN - THINK IN

‘Boxed In – Think In’ is the

unique and breath-taking new escape room adventure that is taking the UAE capital by storm. Featuring over 80 absorbing challenges and puzzles, all contained within 12 boxes, fun seekers and puzzle lovers must team up and race against the clock to try and complete as many cubes as possible. This new activity is coming in strong, brought by the same innovational minds behind award winning TEPfactor Dubai and Prison Island Abu Dhabi and following suit on success. Encouraging participants to work together and ‘think inside the box’ for a change, ‘Boxed In – Think In’ presents astonishing challenges and puzzles that cover all kinds of topics, skills and talents. Designed to surprise and delight even the most experienced and passionate puzzle enthusiast, team members of all ages will feel totally absorbed, have a brilliant time and be able to contribute towards completing every box. Teams must use all their concentration, problem-solving abilities, and logical skills to complete as many boxes as they can in just one hour and beat their rival teams. With every box that they successfully unlock and escape 72

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from, they will gain one token. The aim of the game is to collect as many tokens as possible in one hour and rise to the top of the leader board ahead of every other competitor. Boasting a ground-breaking concept found nowhere else in the world, ‘Boxed In – Think In’ can be enjoyed at Abu Dhabi Mall or hired for special events. Providing the perfect engaging group activity for birthday parties, corporate events, weddings and family gatherings, the mobile game facility can easily be moved across the UAE. Ideal for families and friends, or even colleagues and corporate team building days, ‘Boxed In – Think In’ brings numerous new challenges and engaging ways for curious and adventurous individuals to test their mental dexterity. With room for up to 10 teams of two to five people to embark on the adventure every hour and complete as many of the stimulating puzzles as they can racing against the clock, the experience is suitable for both large and small groups. ‘Boxed In – Think In’ also provides options for time limits to play, teams have a choice between unlimited time to attempt all 12 boxes, and a grueling 1 hour time limit to complete as many boxes as possible. Marwan Shazali, CEO of BoxedIn Abu Dhabi, said: “Following

our successful launch of Prison Island in the UAE capital earlier this year, I am delighted to introduce the city to another incredible and one-of-a-kind activity. ‘Boxed In – Think In’ features an escape room-style concept like no other. Presenting over 80 amazing challenges, it requires teams to race against time (and each other) and ‘think inside the box’ as they try to undo as many locks as they can, and work together to escape from our ingenious boxes. “Keen puzzle addicts might wish to complete both ‘Boxed In – Think In’ and Prison Island during the same visit, and that way get even more enjoyment out of their day with us. I’m sure that people from across the city will soon be totally hooked on it.” ‘Boxed In – Think In’ is open now at Prison Island in Abu Dhabi Mall, with prices starting from AED 125 for adults and AED 105 for kids - above 8 years old - per hour. The thrilling challenge is available to be enjoyed daily from 10am to 10pm and can be ordered to enhance your events and venues. For more information, please visit the website www.boxedin.ae and instagram: @boxedin.ae Or call: +971 58 819 9176

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HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES CAN CHART A SUCCESSFUL FUTURE WITH DUBAI COLLEGE OF TOURISM DCT provides vocational education experience within the classroom and beyond

With

admissions open for the September 2022 intake at Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), part of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), students seeking to pursue higher education are encouraged to explore vocational opportunities and hands-on learning experiences beyond the classroom in order to develop successful careers within the 74

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tourism and hospitality industry. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, global travel and tourism employment is expected to grow in 2022 by 3.5%, comprising 9.1% of the total global job market, a figure which is set to increase further in 2023 and beyond. As the tourism industry rebounds, now marks a crucial time for high

school students who are carefully considering their prospects and planning a roadmap for a successful career. DCT runs the first-of-its-kind multi-disciplinary educational platform in the region with an aim to create a dynamic and forward thinking workforce of exceptional talent who will be at the forefront of the future tourism workforce

in the UAE and the wider MENA region. Providing students with vocational training in tourism, retail business, culinary arts, hospitality, and events, DCT helps to foster the talent pool within the emirate and encourage young Emiratis and expatriates to take up suitable careers within the tourism industry. In order to leverage opportunities within the growing tourism and hospitality sector, DCT is urging young people at this significant point in their lives to explore vocational education and training to be able to successfully position themselves for gainful employment in the tourism ecosystem. Essa bin Hadher, General Manager of DCT, commented: “In a few months’ time, high school leavers across Dubai will be focused on taking the next steps towards their future careers but selecting a suitable field can pose a dilemma, especially for those students who do not prefer to follow a conventional education. Dubai College of Tourism is able to support these students with alternative options for career success. The College provides talented candidates a comprehensive programme of vocational education, laying the groundwork for talented Emiratis and expatriate residents in the UAE to join the city’s rapidly evolving tourist-facing workforce, in line with the goal of our visionary leadership to position Dubai as a global hub for business, tourism and events. A career in tourism and hospitality is hugely rewarding, and students at our College can benefit from interactive, practical learning, enabling them to really understand the industry and the opportunities that lie within it. With this in mind, we encourage students to consider vocational

courses at Dubai College of Tourism. With our student focused, inclusive and innovative programmes, we hope to inspire and nurture the next generation of industry professionals.” DCT is unique in that not only do the courses offer in depth knowledge of each select subject, but also practical experience and exposure to the respective sector of the tourism ecosystem through hands-on internships, enriching volunteering work and exciting, interactive field trips. In addition to the immersive experiences given across each course, students will also be offered the opportunity to attend lectures from leaders in their given field, giving a thoughtprovoking and valuable insight into their vocation. The College’s location at One Central Building, Dubai World Trade Centre means that students will be studying right in the heart of Dubai, close to iconic Dubai landmarks including the Museum of the Future. Being located at the epicenter of one of the world’s leading tourist destination allows for an ample and engaging space for focused training in the field. The diversified course offerings begin at the certificate level and give students the opportunity to progress into different diplomas and are internationally

recognised. In recent years, students at DCT have undertaken internships at some of the world’s most respected tourism and hospitality brands including Emirates Airline, Jumeirah Group, Hilton Hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, and more. Moreover, students have engaged in exciting volunteering opportunities including Dubai Fitness Challenge, Arab Fashion Week, Dubai Food Festival, F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Gulf Food and Expo Culinare. DCT students have also been able to gain insider knowledge with guest lecturers including Chef Gregoire from The Atlantis, celebrated events professional Dan Bolton and local personality and entrepreneur, DJ Bliss. Aforementioned fieldtrips for students at the College have included famed hotel groups including Accor, Atlantis, Hilton and Mandarin Oriental to name a few, as well as Expo 2020 Dubai, the Waterfront Market Dubai, Etihad Museum, Dubai World Trade Centre, and numerous trade shows and malls across the city.

For more information on fees or scholarships, or to register for a course visit: https://www.dct.ac.ae/

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Major Breakthrough In Search To Develop And Produce “Clean Gas” Energy Source NEW DISCOVERY WILL HELP TACKLE GLOBAL ENERGY CRISIS WITH ZERO CO2 EMISSIONS AND SIGNIFICANTLY CHEAPER GAS

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As a paA disruptive technology company has today confirmed it has made a major breakthrough in its search to innovate a ground-breaking “clean gas” energy source that will not only provide an alternative supply to natural gas, but also boasts zero CO2 emissions and is estimated will be cheaper than current domestic household and business energy supplies by as much as 80%. The clean gas, which is carbon neutral with net zero emissions, will give global economies access to a cheap, endless supply of clean energy. Importantly, it will allow countries to maintain security of their gas and energy supplies whilst also meeting their carbon-neutral net zero targets. This discovery could play a major role in reversing the global energy crisis, significantly reducing energy costs to the consumer and businesses sectors at a time when the cost-of-living crisis is worsening, and inflation has reached a 40-year high. The scientific breakthrough, which is 10 years ahead of its time, has been made by a team from Voltage Enterprises, a disruptive tech company based in Abu Dhabi. The company, which has been funded by Aquarius Global, an investment company and tech incubator also based in Abu Dhabi, is also working on further innovations and disruptive technology projects. Code-named KINETIC 7™ , the scientific breakthrough is a clean gas energy source that is a stable and an efficient gas derived solely from water. Whilst creating a gas from water such as hydrogen is not new, KINETIC 7™ has a unique molecular chemistry that is way more advanced than hydrogen gas. For example, hydrogen gas is obtained through electrolysis, where pure distilled water (H2O) is broken down into (H2) and (O2) gases. Not only does this use a huge amount of energy to create the molecular process; it requires high pressure storage and has a low flash point, making it very unstable.

KINETIC 7™ patented technology reconstructs and converts water into molecular clusters, which are electrically charged to create a constant oxidisation and friction. This makes the molecules more efficient, causing them to vibrate, which in turn creates a very reactive gas, providing a clean gas and flame. Unlike hydrogen gas KINETIC 7™ is also inert, making it a safe and controllable gas for domestic and industrial supply. Most importantly, the cost savings by using KINETIC 7™ will be substantial against current gas and energy costs. The KINETIC 7™ generators which create the clean gas, will be manufactured to high standards in Europe. The current process of making the gas is both EU-approved and CE-certified. The KINETIC 7™ discovery, which has taken more than eight years of research and development, will not only enable countries and global economies to maintain their own gas independence and sovereignty, but will also ensure global energy security, with an unlimited supply of carbon neutral gas to both domestic and industrial customers. It comes at a time of global instability in the energy markets, fuelled by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has sent gas prices soaring. EU energy ministers have also held talks over recent weeks to tackle the energy crisis that has been negatively impacting 218 million households throughout the bloc. Households in the UK faced a record energy bill spike of 54% at the beginning of April and prices are set to rise again in October. Many engineering, industrial and manufacturing businesses have also been severely impacted by the energy crisis. Soaring gas costs have led to partial factory shutdowns, reductions in production and output, all of which has impacted on the supply chain. It follows an unprecedented demand for energy and a perfect storm

of war in Ukraine, a post-pandemic recovery in manufacturing and industrial production, coupled with an unusual downturn in wind power supply to national grids. Rick Parish, Founder and Executive Chairman of investment incubator Aquarius Global, which has funded the research and development of Voltage Enterprises, said: “KINETIC 7™ represents more than eight years of scientific research, development and tech innovation by a dedicated team of scientists and tech disruptors, all working to produce a clean energy source that is carbon-neutral, significantly cheaper, stable and efficient – but disruptive in every sense to the status quo. “KINETIC 7™ is a major gamechanger in the global energy market. Just as we saw with the oil boom, the technologies and science that we are innovating, developing and disrupting in the energy sector through Voltage Enterprises are truly ground-breaking – a world first for the energy sector!” Governments around the world are desperately considering other options of energy supply and security, including the highly controversial fracking for shale gas, which is not only hugely damaging to the environment and public health, but has also been known to cause earthquakes. Other options include the importing of gas from Iran and the building of further nuclear reactors, both of which carry huge risks and have inherent downsides attached. These include the geopolitical sanctions on Iran, with the US oil and gas ban and the huge cost of building nuclear reactors. Sizewell C in the United Kingdom is estimated to cost UK taxpayers £20 billion with costs set to increase. Construction time to build a nuclear reactor takes on average 10 years, coupled with the safety concerns

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and health issues that have long plagued nuclear energy. Rick Parish: “In much the same way that solar power is currently being used in domestic housing, KINETIC 7™ will allow households to produce their own clean gas energy source, using water and a small amount of electricity. The cost to create the clean gas is minimal. The KINETIC 7™ generator unit will be retrofitted into homes. The plug-n-play product, which uses a small amount of AC or DC power and water, will allow the householder to enjoy the same natural gas/LPG benefits without the high costs, supply disruptions and dramatic price increases. An external wall unit can be fitted to a domestic household and used for stove cooktops and ovens, hot water systems, ambient heating and underfloor heating.” KINETIC 7™ represents a significant breakthrough in providing an alternative and viable energy source of clean gas that has zero carbon emissions. KINETIC 7™ can then be utilised in three ways:

1. The KINETIC 7™ flame can be used for domestic energy supply in ambient heating, cooking and hot water heating.

2. KINETIC 7™ gas also has a ma-

jor role to play in providing clean energy for industrial production. Large-scale manufacturing, engineering and industry are all hugely reliant on vast amounts of energy in their production and manufacturing processes. Food production, restaurants and hotels are also gas- and energy-intensive, and KINETIC 7™ can now provide a cleaner more efficient energy source that is carbon-neutral and significantly cheaper than existing natural gas supplies.

3. KINETIC 7™ can also be used as

a clean energy gas source for heating and cooking from portable stoves in remote locations

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and developing countries which do not have access to gas or energy. Rick Parish: “With KINETIC 7™ we have the world’s first commercially viable clean gas energy source that can be used in domestic households. At the same time, KINETIC 7™ can power large-scale industrial production and manufacturing, providing clean energy that is carbon neutral from water. We anticipate KINETIC 7™ will be 80% cheaper than current energy supplies. “This will not only help solve the global gas and energy crisis, but the innovation will allow countries and global economies to maintain stability in the energy sector, reduce costs and maintain security of supply.” KINETIC 7™ will also bring efficient cooking and heating across Africa to developing nations, war-torn countries and places where poor infrastructure has inhibited or restricted access to clean energy. The company will be manufacturing miniaturised KINETIC 7™ portable cooking and heating stoves that will change the lives of millions for the better, providing low-cost energy and heat using clean or untreated water. Ultimately, in developed countries, the cost of KINETIC 7™ gas will be cheaper than current energy providers. KINETIC 7™ is low-maintenance, safe, efficient and significantly reduces household energy costs. “As an investment incubator in disruptive industries, Aquarius Global has been supporting companies like Voltage Enterprises to work on a number of disruptive technologies and innovations in energy and healthcare. Our corporate objective is to support companies using science and technology in a disruptive manner, to develop and deliver beneficial innovations for mankind and the environment. We are currently working on ground-breaking projects to capture carbon emissions and reduce CO2, whilst also creating anti-microbial and immune-boost-

ing water that can be used in a whole range of applications. “The whole ethos of Voltage Enterprises is to innovate and disrupt using technology and science to change the lives of millions of people for the better, to arrest the environmental damage that has been caused by oil and gas exploration and leave a positive legacy for future generations.” The founders of Voltage Enterprises both have a philanthropic desire to help change the world for the better. They will be donating 20% of their global profits from KINETIC 7™ to provide African nations and those in need with free clean energy. A series of “real-world” R&D trials are currently underway using KINETIC 7™ in residential properties for domestic cooking stoves, hot water systems and residential heating. A number of factories and engineering plants are also part of an R&D program to integrate the technology and use the clean gas in a number of commercial and industrial applications. It is envisaged that after further R&D trials have been completed, a programme of rolling the technology and clean gas out into domestic households and commercial premises could feasibly start within 6-12 months’ time. Voltage Enterprises has confirmed that it is around three months away from manufacturing the miniaturised portable cooking and heating stoves that it will be supplying to developing countries. Further announcements are expected from the company over the coming months as it also looks for global energy partners to work with and assist in the rapid rollout and deployment of the clean gas technology.

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