logo
UAE leaders perform Eid Al Adha prayers across the country

UAE leaders perform Eid Al Adha prayers across the country

TAG 91.106-06-2025

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nayhan offered the Eid prayer alongside worshipers at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in the UAE capital.
He was joined by a number of royals, including His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court and His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.
The Eid sermon focused on the theme of devotion and highlighted its importance in faith, national service and community life.
Sheikh Mohamed also joined the royals in reciting a prayer for UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
In Sharjah, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, performed the Eid prayer at the Sharjah mosque.
سلطان القاسمي يؤدي صلاة عيد الأضحى المبارك في مسجد الشارقة pic.twitter.com/4m2k12haWH
— sharjahmedia (@sharjahmedia) June 6, 2025
In Fujairah, His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah, performed the Eid prayer at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, while His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu'alla, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Umm Al Qaiwain, offered Eid prayer at the Ahmed bin Rashid Al Mualla Mosque.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

UAE, Serbian Presidents discuss strengthening bilateral ties
UAE, Serbian Presidents discuss strengthening bilateral ties

Al Etihad

time4 days ago

  • Al Etihad

UAE, Serbian Presidents discuss strengthening bilateral ties

18 June 2025 16:30 ABU DHABI (WAM)UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Excellency Aleksandar Vučić, President of the Republic of Serbia, met today in Abu Dhabi to explore ways to further strengthen bilateral Highness welcomed President Vučić – who is on a working visit to the UAE – at Qasr Al Watan, expressing his hope that the visit would help advance the ongoing development of relations between the two two leaders reviewed various aspects of UAE-Serbia cooperation and discussed opportunities for further collaboration, particularly in the fields of the economy, investment, development, renewable energy, food security, and other key sectors that contribute to accelerating growth and prosperity in both Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and the Serbian President also exchanged views on a number of regional and international issues of mutual concern, particularly the latest developments in the Middle this context, they emphasised the importance of intensifying efforts to restore security and stability in the region, promote dialogue and diplomatic solutions, and support peace, stability and development at both regional and global the conclusion of the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to further strengthening UAE–Serbia relations and building sustainable economic partnerships that support development priorities and meet the aspirations of both nations and their peoples. This aligns with the objectives of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which came into effect in May 2025 and seeks to boost trade volumes and foster economic growth in both meeting was attended by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Advisor to the UAE President; Ali bin Hammad Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for National Security; Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of State; Dr. Ahmed Mubarak Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the President's Office for Strategic Affairs and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Office; Ahmed Al Menhali, UAE Ambassador to Serbia; Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Eagle Hills Abu Dhabi, along with the delegation accompanying the Serbian President. The President of Serbia arrived in the UAE last night for a working visit.

Mohammed bin Rashid: UAE 5th in 2025 IMD Competitiveness Index
Mohammed bin Rashid: UAE 5th in 2025 IMD Competitiveness Index

Sharjah 24

time5 days ago

  • Sharjah 24

Mohammed bin Rashid: UAE 5th in 2025 IMD Competitiveness Index

The meeting was attended by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court; His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence; His Highness. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance; and His Highness Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of the Interior. UAE's global competitiveness performance During the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the UAE's advancement in the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking, where the country secured 5th place globally, scoring 96.09 out of 100 points. This achievement places the UAE among leading nations in economic competitiveness, government efficiency, legislative strength, and business environment excellence. The UAE's ranking has improved from 28th in 2009 to 5th in 2025, reflecting significant progress over the past 14 years. Key indicators of competitiveness The IMD report assesses countries based on four main factors: economic performance, government efficiency, business efficiency, and infrastructure. The UAE excelled in several areas, ranking 1st globally in the absence of bureaucracy index, 2nd in government policies adaptability index, and 4th in government efficiency index. Additionally, the UAE led 113 global indicators, including employment rate, absence of bureaucracy, availability of global expertise, digital transformation in companies, venture capital, inbound mobility of higher education students, public-private partnerships, energy infrastructure, and female parliamentary representation. Cabinet approves housing grants The Cabinet approved housing grants for over 1,838 citizens in the first half of the current year, totaling AED 1.2 billion. This initiative aims to ensure decent housing and enhance family stability across the UAE. Emirates Council for Balanced Development initiatives The Cabinet reviewed the results and activities of the Emirates Council for Balanced Development, chaired by Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The Council continues to implement projects and forge national partnerships to develop Emirati villages economically, socially, and as tourist destinations. Its initiatives have created meaningful opportunities for families, young talent, and small business owners, ensuring that every part of the UAE benefits from the nation's developmental momentum. Digital Identity implementation The Cabinet reviewed the results of Digital Identity implementation in government transactions, which now has over 11 million registered users and has recorded more than 600 million logins. The unified integrated digital ecosystem for government services connects over 130 government entities and private sector organizations, facilitating 2.6 billion digital transactions efficiently, accurately, and swiftly. Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing measures The Cabinet approved the restructuring of the Higher Committee Overseeing the National Strategy on Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism under the chairmanship of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The Committee has made strides in advancing national policies and strengthening measures to combat money laundering and terrorism financing across the country. It will continue its work to ensure the UAE remains a global leader in combating these issues. Establishment of National Maritime Navigation Centre The Cabinet approved the establishment of the National Maritime Navigation Centre under the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. The new center will manage and operate the Integrated National Maritime System for monitoring maritime traffic, oversee the National Maritime Single Window, and enhance the safety and security of the maritime sector. It will also activate and develop mechanisms to prevent harmful practices, protect the UAE's marine life, and advance the sector through conducting scientific research and studies. Free trade agreements and foreign Trade growth The Cabinet approved the 2024 Annual Report of the Higher Commission for Free Trade Negotiations, highlighting the signing and conclusion of 27 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPA) with strategic global economies, 8 of which have already come into force. These agreements have driven the UAE's foreign trade volume to an unprecedented AED 5.23 trillion in 2024. The UAE's non-oil exports reached a historic milestone, exceeding AED 440 billion in 2023, marking a 16.3% growth compared to 2022 and a remarkable 83% increase from 2019. Re-exports also reached a record AED 684.3 billion, with a 6.3% growth compared to 2022. Additionally, the UAE attracted AED 113 billion in foreign direct investments (FDI) in 2023, reinforcing its position as a global trade hub. Cultural and community development projects The Cabinet reviewed the year 2024 achievements of the Emirates Council for Balanced Development, chaired by H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Highlights included the completion of major projects in Qidfa, such as the waterfront development, Palm Walk, and cycling tracks. Strategic projects were also initiated in Masfout, including Marble Park, a Ladies' Club, Friday Market, and restoration of Al Sharia and Al Falaj areas as cultural landmarks. The first phase of the Al Sila' Waterfront development project exceeded an 87% completion rate, while plans for Al Rams included several initiatives, such as building a community council, developing the marina and corniche, and advancing ecotourism plans. "Jothoor" initiative empowering female artisans The Council launched the "UAE Villages Councils" programme, creating ten integrated community councils and distinct digital branding for each village under the initiative "Jothoor" (Roots) to empower female artisans in the UAE. Several cultural festivals and local market initiatives were organized, attracting over 206,000 visitors, supporting 171 families, and engaging 790 volunteers. "Make it in the Emirates" platform success The Cabinet reviewed the achievements of the fourth edition of the "Make it in the Emirates" platform (2025). This initiative attracted over 122,000 visitors and participants, facilitated AED 168 billion in potential procurement agreements to localize the manufacturing of 4,800 products. Agreements worth AED 11 billion were signed for industrial projects, alongside AED 40 billion in financing solutions over five years to support SMEs. A new category, the "UAE Traditional Crafts," was introduced to recognize individuals and organizations excelling in traditional Emirati crafts. Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme The Cabinet reviewed a report on the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, which highlighted the federal government housing decisions issued during the first half of 2025. The total number of decisions issued during that period reached 1,838, with a total value exceeding AED 1.25 billion. Cultural heritage law and environmental initiatives The Cabinet approved drafting a federal law to safeguard the UAE's cultural heritage. The law will enhance awareness, support intangible heritage, and align national efforts with international best practices. The Cabinet also restructured the UAE Council for Climate Action to oversee the implementation of the UAE's Net Zero 2050 strategy and promote carbon market systems. The UAE added nine sites to the global list of biodiversity hotspots and launched a roadmap to plant 100 million mangrove trees by 2030. Protected areas were expanded by an 18% increase for mainland reserves and a 12% increase for marine reserves. International agreements and diplomatic engagements The Cabinet approved the ratification of 13 international agreements and protocols, including partnerships with Montenegro on tourism, real estate, and economic cooperation; Vietnam on a comprehensive economic partnership; Uganda on mutual visa exemptions; and New Zealand on investment promotion. Agreements were also signed with Eswatini, the Central African Republic, Kenya, Peru, Nigeria, and Jordan. Additionally, the Cabinet approved the negotiation and signing of 36 international agreements and memoranda of understanding, including agreements with Hong Kong on legal assistance, Montenegro on energy cooperation, and the Eurasian Economic Union on economic partnerships. Expansion of diplomatic presence New embassies will be established in Togo, Gabon, Cameroon, and Tajikistan, alongside a UAE Consulate General in Miami, USA. Participation in international events The Cabinet endorsed the UAE's participation in 13 international events in countries such as Malaysia and Ethiopia. The UAE will also host key summits, including the Annual Summit of the Central Banks Data Cooperation Group. Accession to international organisations Additionally, the Cabinet approved the UAE's accession to the International Competition Network, the OECD Forum on Tax Administration, and the Svalbard Treaty, alongside participation in the International Legal Forum in St. Petersburg.

Mohammed bin Rashid: UAE is ranked 5th globally by 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking
Mohammed bin Rashid: UAE is ranked 5th globally by 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking

Al Etihad

time5 days ago

  • Al Etihad

Mohammed bin Rashid: UAE is ranked 5th globally by 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking

17 June 2025 20:04 ABU DHABI (WAM)His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, has chaired a Cabinet meeting held at Qasr Al Watan in Abu meeting was attended by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, and Chairman of the Presidential Court; His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence; His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and UAE Minister of Finance; His Highness Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said, ' I chaired a Cabinet meeting at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, where we reviewed the UAE's performance in the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking. The UAE ranked 5th globally, alongside the world's leading countries in economic competitiveness, government efficiency, legislative strength, and business environment excellence."Fourteen years ago, we established a competitiveness centre, uniting the efforts of key national entities. These efforts have elevated the UAE's ranking from 28th globally in 2009 to being among the top five globally in competitiveness. In the same report, the UAE ranked 1st globally in the absence of bureaucracy index, 2nd globally in government policies adaptability index, and 4th globally in government efficiency index.""This achievement is a testament to years of consistent effort. With the vision of my brother, Mohamed bin Zayed, our future will continue to be even brighter and stronger," His Highness Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said, 'During the meeting, we approved housing grants for over 1,838 citizens in the first half of the current year, with a total value of Dh1.2 billion. This support will continue to ensure decent housing and enhance family stability across the UAE."He confirmed, 'We also approved the results and activities of the Emirates Council for Balanced Development, chaired by Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The Council continues to implement projects and forge national partnerships to develop Emirati villages, economically, socially, and as tourist destinations."Its initiatives have created meaningful opportunities for families, young talent, and small business owners. The Council's mission is to ensure that every part of the UAE, near or far, benefits from the nation's immense developmental momentum."His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum added, 'We also reviewed the results of Digital Identity implementation in government transactions, which now has over 11 million registered users and has recorded more than 600 million logins. The unified integrated digital ecosystem for government services is currently connecting over 130 government entities and private sector organisations. It has facilitated 2.6 billion digital transactions efficiently, accurately, and swiftly. Thanks and appreciation go to the team behind this outstanding national ecosystem."His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also said, 'The Cabinet approved during the meeting the restructuring of the Higher Committee Overseeing the National Strategy on Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism under the chairmanship of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. "Over the years, the Committee has made strides in advancing national policies and strengthening measures to combat money laundering and terrorism financing across the country. The Committee will continue its work to ensure the UAE remains a global leader combating money laundering and terrorism financing, an oasis of safety and security, and an ideal business environment for entrepreneurs and investors across all sectors."His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said, 'We also approved the establishment of the National Maritime Navigation Centre, which will operate under the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. The new centre will manage and operate the Integrated National Maritime System for monitoring maritime traffic, oversee the National Maritime Single Window, and enhance the safety and security of the maritime sector. It will also activate and develop mechanisms to prevent harmful practices, protect the UAE's marine life, and advance the sector through conducting scientific research and studies."His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum concluded, 'We approved the 2024 Annual Report of the Higher Commission for Free Trade Negotiations. Key achievements include the signing and conclusion of 27 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPA) with strategic global economies, eight of which have already come into force. We also reviewed ongoing efforts to finalise more agreements with additional countries. The UAE's free trade negotiation team is outstanding and has delivered remarkable results, contributing to record-breaking growth in the UAE's foreign trade in a short period."The UAE Cabinet reviewed the 2025 Global Competitiveness Ranking results, published by the IMD World Competitiveness Centre in Lausanne, Switzerland. This year, the UAE is ranked among the top five globally, scoring 96.09 out of 100 UAE advanced two positions from last year, surpassing countries such as the United States, Sweden, Germany, and Canada, while maintaining its top ranking as the regional leader for the ninth consecutive report evaluates 69 countries based on four key areas: economic performance, government efficiency, business efficiency, and infrastructure. Its findings cover 341 competitiveness indicators across economic, administrative, and social 2025 edition also introduced five new indicators: food waste, environmental performance, freely elected government, passport mobility, and media year, the UAE made significant progress in the business efficiency pillar, rising seven spots to rank third globally. It also maintained a strong standing globally in economic performance and government efficiency, ranking second and fourth, UAE's exceptional performance in key sectors contributed to its leadership in 113 global indicators across the report's main and sub-pillars. The country ranked first globally in 22 indicators, including employment rate, absence of bureaucracy, availability of global expertise, digital transformation in companies, venture capital, inbound mobility of higher education students, public-private partnerships, energy infrastructure, and female parliamentary UAE also ranked second globally in social cohesion, flexibility of residency laws, and government policy adaptability, while securing third globally in graduates in sciences, leverage of digital tools and technology, and healthcare Cabinet reviewed the 2024 report of the Higher Commission for Free Trade Negotiations. The report highlighted the signing and conclusion of negotiations for 27 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) with various countries, of which eight have already come into agreements drove the UAE's foreign trade volume to an unprecedented Dh5.23 trillion in 2024, according to the World Trade Organisation (WTO).The UAE's non-oil exports reached a historic milestone, exceeding Dh440 billion in 2023, marking a 16.3% growth compared to 2022 and a remarkable 83% increase from 2019. Re-exports also reached a record Dh684.3 billion, with a 6.3% growth compared to the UAE attracted Dh113 billion in foreign direct investments (FDI) in 2023, reinforcing its position as a global trade Cabinet reviewed the year 2024 achievements of the Emirates Council for Balanced Development, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes' Affairs and Chairman of the Emirates Council for Balanced included the completion of major projects in Qidfa, such as the waterfront development, Palm Walk, and cycling tracks. Strategic projects were also initiated in Masfout, including Marble Park, a Ladies' Club, Friday Market, and restoration of Al Sharia and Al Falaj areas as cultural first phase of the Al Sila' Waterfront development project exceeded an 87% completion rate, while plans for Al Rams included several initiatives, such as building a community council, developing the marina and corniche, and advancing ecotourism plans. The Council also launched the UAE Villages Councils programme, creating 10 integrated community councils and distinct digital branding for each village under the initiative (Roots) to empower female artisans in the UAE. Several cultural festivals and local market initiatives were organised, attracting over 206,000 visitors, supporting 171 families, and engaging 790 volunteers. The Cabinet reviewed the achievements of the fourth edition of the Make it in the Emirates platform (2025). This initiative attracted over 122,000 visitors and participants, facilitated Dh168 billion in potential procurement agreements to localise the manufacturing of 4,800 worth Dh11 billion were signed for industrial projects, alongside Dh40 billion in financing solutions over five years to support SMEs.A new category, the UAE Traditional Crafts, was introduced to recognise individuals and organisations excelling in traditional Emirati Cabinet reviewed during the meeting a report on the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, which highlighted the federal government housing decisions issued during the first half of 2025. The total number of decisions issued during that period reached 1,838, with a total value exceeding Dh1.25 Cabinet approved the establishment of the National Maritime Navigation Cente eunder the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. The Centre will manage a unified maritime database, oversee vessel tracking systems, and ensure maritime safety and environmental protection in collaboration with relevant Cabinet approved drafting a federal law to saveguard the UAE's cultural heritage. The law will enhance awareness, support intangible heritage, and align national efforts with international best Cabinet restructured the High Committee for Overseeing the National Strategy on Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing under the chairmanship of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign UAE Council for Climate Action was also restructured to oversee the implementation of the UAE's Net Zero 2050 strategy and promote carbon market UAE added nine sites to the global list of biodiversity hotspots and launched a roadmap to plant 100 million mangrove trees by 2030. Protected areas were expanded by an 18 percent increase for mainland reserves and 12 percent increase for marine reserves. The Cabinet also reviewed the results of implementing the UAE Unemployment Insurance Scheme for the year UAE Cabinet approved the ratification of 13 international agreements and protocols, including partnerships with Montenegro on tourism, real estate, and economic cooperation, Vietnam on a comprehensive economic partnership, Uganda on mutual visa exemptions, and New Zealand on investment were also signed with Eswatini, the Central African Republic, Kenya, Peru, Nigeria, and Cabinet also approved the negotiation and signing of 36 international agreements and memoranda of understanding. These included agreements with Hong Kong on legal assistance, Montenegro on energy cooperation, and the Eurasian Economic Union on economic embassies will be established in Togo, Gabon, Cameroon, and Tajikistan, alongside a UAE Consulate General in Miami, Cabinet endorsed the UAE's participation in 13 international events in countries such as Malaysia and Ethiopia. The UAE will also host key summits, including the Annual Summit of the Central Banks Data Cooperation Group. Additionally, the Cabinet approved the UAE's accession to the International Competition Network, the OECD Forum on Tax Administration, and the Svalbard Treaty, alongside participation in the International Legal Forum in St. Petersburg.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store