Latest news with #KhalifaAlMubarak
Al Etihad
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
ALC opens nominations for 20th Sheikh Zayed Book Award until September 1
11 June 2025 14:29 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)The Sheikh Zayed Book Award (SZBA), organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), has opened nominations for its 20th edition, accepting applications from June 11 until September 1, 2025. Coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the award's establishment, this special edition reflects its pioneering journey in enriching the cultural and literary landscapes, and strengthens its presence as an international platform supporting intellectual and creative excellence, while reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a global hub for inter-civilisational dialogue and cultural as one of the most prestigious literary awards in the Arab world, the SZBA accepts submissions across 10 categories: Literature, Translation, Contribution to the Development of Nations, Arab Culture in Other Languages, Children's Literature, Editing of Arabic Manuscripts, Literary and Art Criticism, Young Author, Cultural Personality of the Year, and Publishing and announcement follows the conclusion of the award's 19th edition, which received more than 4,000 nominations from 75 countries, including 20 Arab nations. Several countries were participating in the award for the first time, including Albania, Bolivia, Colombia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Mali, which highlights the award's growing prominence on the regional and international cultural Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: 'As the Sheikh Zayed Book Award enters its 20th edition, we celebrate its remarkable journey and enduring impact on the global cultural and literary landscape. Its mission is more relevant than ever, to foster dialogue and knowledge, advance the Arabic language, and champion the exchange of ideas across boundaries. As we look to the future, the award remains a powerful force for shaping minds, enriching lives, and inspiring future generations. In the years to come, the award will continue to reflect the values that lie at the heart of our emirate's vision.'Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the ALC and Secretary-General of the SZBA, said: 'The 20th edition of the Sheikh Zayed Book Award marks a significant milestone following two decades of uninterrupted cultural work and achievements that have left their mark on the Arab and international literary and intellectual scenes." Bin Tamim added, "Under the patronage of our wise leadership, the award has established itself as a prominent platform for knowledge exchange, cementing the power of the written word to shape human civilisation and the future. Today, as we launch this new edition of the award, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting creative minds, preserving the Arabic language, and promoting culture as a cornerstone of comprehensive development."'We are proud of the tangible impact the award has made on the cultural landscape in its 19 years, during which we received over 30,000 nominations from more than 80 countries and honoured 136 winners across its various categories. These figures are not mere statistics, but a living testament to the growing confidence the award inspires among literary and intellectual circles. They assert the leadership role it plays in advancing authorship, translation, and critical studies, underlining its contributions towards promoting cultural dialogue, in line with the UAE's vision and mission to support human development.'Nomination conditions for the Sheikh Zayed Book Award stipulate that each candidate may nominate one work to one category, and the work must not have been nominated for any other prize in the same year, either directly or through a representative. Submitted works should also carry a valid International Standard Book Number (ISBN) to ensure the author's intellectual property rights are award will not be granted to any work that has previously won a major Arab or international prize, however, resubmission is allowed, provided the stipulated time gap has been met and new copies of the work are also allow authors to self-nominate or be nominated by publishers who may apply only for works they have issued, on the condition that the publisher receives written consent from the author. Nominated books need to have been published within the last two years at most, and should not have won any major international submitted works should be written in Arabic, except those submitted under the Editing of Arabic Manuscripts category, which can be in other languages, as well as the Translation category (whether translated into or from Arabic) and the Arab Culture in Other Languages category, where works published in English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Russian are the Cultural Personality of the Year award, candidates must be nominated by academic, research, or cultural institutions; literary bodies and universities; or by three prominent intellectual and/or cultural figures. Nominees for all other categories must personally fill out the nomination forms on the SZBA official its initial launch in 2006, the Sheikh Zayed Book Award has served as a prominent international platform for creativity, promoting Arab publishing, and fostering inter-civilisational dialogue, drawing inspiration from the vision of the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The award continues its mission to empower creative minds, fuel intellectual production, and elevate the global standing of the Arabic language, all in line with a strategic vision that reinforces Abu Dhabi's role as a global hub for cultural dialogue, coexistence, and tolerance. To submit a nomination to the 20th edition of the Sheikh Zayed Book Award, or for more information about the submission process and forms, visit the official SZBA website ( which offers up-to-date and comprehensive information in English and Arabic. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Al Etihad
29-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
DCT honours 15 recipients of 4th Urban Treasures initiative
29 May 2025 11:29 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced the recipients of the fourth edition of Urban Treasures Awards, an annual initiative celebrating long-running businesses that have shaped Abu Dhabi's cultural and commercial ceremony was held at Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi and Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, presented the award to 15 establishments selected from across the emirate, including Khulood Club, Gulf Pastry, Zahrat Al Khaleej Nablusia Sweets, Orchid Tailoring & Embroidery Shop, Mohammed Farooq Perfumes, Al Jumaira Studio and Stores, Al Yahar Modern Restaurant and Kitchen, Three Star Watches Shop, Shawarma Ala Alragef Cafeteria, Happy Yemen Restaurant, Ahmed Sultan Al Salami Trading and Importing, Al Ain International Medical Polyclinic, Nauras, Baqala Cheese & Pickles Centre, and Al Sidr Natural the conclusion of its fourth edition, the Urban Treasures initiative has now honoured a total of 60 beloved local gems across Abu Dhabi, each recognised for their contributions to the emirate's urban and social Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: 'The Urban Treasures initiative continues to shine a light on the longstanding businesses that have shaped Abu Dhabi's character over the decades. These establishments are enduring community pillars that reflect the spirit, resilience, and heritage of our emirate, and by celebrating them, we honour these human stories and traditions. With each successive edition, we reaffirm our commitment to preserving, protecting, and promoting the cultural identity of the UAE capital, ensuring its lasting resonance within our community and inspiring future generations to cherish and build upon its foundations.'The Urban Treasures Initiative was launched to recognise the city's landmark homegrown businesses, including restaurants, bakeries, tailors, fabric stores, perfumeries, jewellers, pharmacies, photography studios, and similar establishments, which have thrived in Abu Dhabi for 20 years or more. Seeking to further raise the profiles of these treasures and preserve them for future generations, the award aligns with DCT Abu Dhabi's Modern Heritage Initiative, which celebrates and safeguards the emirate's more recent past. Nominations for Urban Treasures 2025 were opened to the public last year, allowing them to be a part of celebrating the efforts of these establishments. These were then shortlisted and evaluated by a committee, which reviewed each establishment based on set criteria. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Al Etihad
28-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Fifteen businesses that have shaped Abu Dhabi's cultural and social landscape honoured as ‘Urban Treasures'
28 May 2025 23:38 AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced the recipients of the fourth edition of the Urban Treasures Initiative, an annual celebration of long-running businesses that have shaped Abu Dhabi's cultural and social businesses have contributed to cementing Abu Dhabi's position as one of the leading cities in the world for living and award forms part of the department's ongoing efforts to preserve the emirate's modern heritage and celebrate its rich ceremony was held at the Cultural Foundation, during which 15 establishments from across the emirate were honoured for their longstanding presence and exceptional contributions to the local Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, presented the awards to the winning institutions, which included: Khulood Club, Gulf Pastry, Zahrat Al Khaleej Nablusia Sweets, Orchid Tailoring & Embroidery Shop, Mohammed Farooq Perfumes, Al Jumaira Studio and Stores, Al Yahar Modern Restaurant and Kitchen, Three Star Watches Shop, Shawarma Ala Alragef Cafeteria, Happy Yemen Restaurant, Ahmed Sultan Al Salami Trading and Importing, Al Ain International Medical Polyclinic, Nauras, Baqala Cheese & Pickles Centre, and Al Sidr Natural Khalifa Al Mubarak said: 'The Urban Treasures initiative continues to shine a light on the longstanding businesses that have added to Abu Dhabi's character over the decades. These establishments are enduring community pillars that reflect the spirit of our emirate, and by celebrating them, we honour these human stories and traditions. With each successive edition, we celebrate businesses that are recognised for having a lasting impact within our community and inspire future generations to cherish their legacy.'Speaking at the event, Saood Al Hosani, Undersecretary at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: 'Our celebration today marks the fourth edition of the Urban Treasures initiative. It aligns with the principles of the Year of the Community in the UAE, fostering social cohesion and solidarity. Through this initiative, we honour places that have brought people together and upheld the values of cooperation, coexistence and shared trade.'He continued: 'Today, we recognise 15 commercial establishments chosen by the local community. So far, we have honoured 60 such institutions - a major milestone in our mission to safeguard the living heritage of Abu Dhabi. These businesses have flourished for more than 20 years and helped shape the cultural identity of the UAE.'Among this year's honourees was Elie Reaidy, representing the historic Nauras Shop, founded in 1969. He said: 'I would like to thank the Department of Culture and Tourism for this wonderful initiative. Our logo features a bird - the migratory bird - which symbolises freedom. The bird carries wheat, representing generosity and prosperity. So, our symbol is love - love that lies between freedom and giving. We hope that Abu Dhabi continues to embody these values.'Mohammed Younis, originally from Jordan and owner of a honey factory in Abu Dhabi, shared his journey: 'I've been working with bees and honey for 40 years. My love for bees and the medicinal value of honey inspired me to establish a specialised institution at a time when none existed in this field. Honey isn't just a food, but also a medicine - and our goal was to share its health benefits with society.'The Urban Treasures Initiative was launched with the aim of recognising the city's landmark homegrown businesses - including restaurants, bakeries, tailors, fabric stores, perfumeries, jewellers, pharmacies, photography studios and similar establishments - which have thrived in Abu Dhabi for 20 years or to further raise the profiles of these 'treasures' and preserve them for future generations, the award aligns with DCT Abu Dhabi's Modern Heritage Initiative, which celebrates and safeguards the emirate's more recent past. Nominations for Urban Treasures 2025 were opened to the public. Candidates were then evaluated by a specialised committee based on a set of criteria, including key elements such as place-making, urban history, community value, and physical authenticity.
Al Etihad
27-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
DCT Abu Dhabi honours 15 establishments, institutions as Urban Treasures
27 May 2025 18:16 ABU DHABI (WAM)The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced the recipients of the fourth edition of the Urban Treasures Initiative, an annual celebration of long-running businesses that have shaped Abu Dhabi's cultural and social businesses have contributed to cementing Abu Dhabi's position as one of the leading cities in the world for living and DCT award comes as part of the department's ongoing efforts to preserve the emirate's modern heritage and celebrate its rich ceremony was held at the Cultural Foundation, during which 15 establishments from across the emirate were honoured for their longstanding presence and exceptional contributions to the local Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, presented the awards to the winning institutions, which included Khulood Club, Gulf Pastry, Zahrat Al Khaleej Nablusia Sweets, Orchid Tailoring & Embroidery Shop, Mohammed Farooq Perfumes, Al Jumaira Studio and Stores, Al Yahar Modern Restaurant and Kitchen, Three Star Watches Shop, Shawarma Ala Alragef Cafeteria, Happy Yemen Restaurant, Ahmed Sultan Al Salami Trading and Importing, Al Ain International Medical Polyclinic, Nauras, Baqala Cheese & Pickles Centre, and Al Sidr Natural the conclusion of its fourth edition, the Urban Treasures initiative has now honoured a total of 60 beloved local gems across Abu Dhabi, each recognised for their contributions to the emirate's urban and social Khalifa Al Mubarak said, "The Urban Treasures initiative continues to shine a light on the longstanding businesses that have added to Abu Dhabi's character over the decades. These establishments are enduring community pillars that reflect the spirit of our emirate, and by celebrating them, we honour these human stories and traditions. With each successive edition we celebrate businesses that are recognised for having a lasting impact within our community and inspire future generations to cherish their legacy."The Urban Treasures Initiative was launched with the aim of recognising the city's landmark homegrown businesses – including restaurants, bakeries, tailors, fabric stores, perfumeries, jewellers, pharmacies, photography studios, and similar establishments – which have thrived in Abu Dhabi for 20 years or to further raise the profiles of these 'treasures' and preserve them for future generations, the award aligns with DCT Abu Dhabi's Modern Heritage Initiative, which celebrates and safeguards the emirate's more recent for Urban Treasures 2025 were opened to the public, reflecting the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi's belief in the importance of involving community members in highlighting the authentic institutions that have been serving the community for nominations were then evaluated by a specialised committee based on a set of criteria, including key elements such as placemaking, urban history, community value, physical authenticity, and other factors that highlight the significance of these establishments within Abu Dhabi.
Al Etihad
08-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Mubadala Investment Company reports 2024 financial results
8 May 2025 12:42 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Mubadala Investment Company, the Abu Dhabi–based sovereign investor, on Thursday reported strong performance in its 2024 financial results, reinforcing the focus and resilience of its strategy. Assets under management grew 9.1 percent year-on-year to Dh1.2 trillion, with annualised returns of 10.1 percent over five Khalifa Al Mubarak, Managing Director and Group CEO, said, "This year marked two decades of disciplined financial performance as an investor central to the UAE's long-term competitiveness. Our 2024 results and portfolio growth reflect Mubadala's focused and resilient strategy, with risk-adjusted returns in sectors where we have conviction.""Our portfolio has been constructed to navigate market cycles and scale future-focused sectors—from AI and clean energy to life sciences, semiconductors, and advanced manufacturing—all aligned with our national priorities," he Mubarak further commented, 'A highlight of 2024 was the creation of MGX by the Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council - the new AI investment champion for Abu Dhabi - with G42 and Mubadala as co-founding partners," Al Mubarak said."A growing number of best-in-class investors also continued to partner with Mubadala across key geographies and sectors, reflecting confidence in our approach and long-term strategy. We will work to deepen these partnerships, invest in advancing innovation, and create new entities in Abu Dhabi and around the world," the top official financial highlights from Mubadala's 2024 results underscored its continued success as a trusted guardian of the nation's company delivered a five-year rate of return of 10.1 percent. Assets under management grew by 9.1 percent year-over-year to Dh1.2 trillion, while capital deployed increased by 33.7 percent to Dh119 billion. Proceeds, including monetisations, rose by 10 percent year-over-year to Dh109 portfolio mix remained broadly consistent year-over-year, with 40 percent in private equity, 23 percent in public markets, and 17 percent in infrastructure and real raised Dh30.5 billion through a range of capital market instruments. These included the world's first AA-rated sovereign Sukuk, a bond with the tightest credit spread ever issued in emerging markets, Mubadala's first dirham-denominated global Sukuk, and the first Euro-denominated 6- and 7-year corporate facilities in the EMEA region."Mubadala's 10.1 percent return over the last five years reflects our disciplined capital allocation strategy, resilient execution and consistent focus on long-term value creation," said Carlos Obeid, Group Chief Financial Officer."We continue to grow and diversify across sectors and geographies, supported by a strong balance sheet, a low cost of debt, and a conservative gearing ratio of 7.8 percent, which positions us well for future investments," Obeid added. Mubadala focuses on long-term value creation and, in line with its sovereign investment mandate, reports multi-year performance metrics that reflect the nature of its strategy. Since 2021, the company has not disclosed annual financial figures such as revenue or net income but has disclosed its rolling 5-year IRR, and has begun publishing its 10-year rolling IRR, which was 8.7 percent in 2024 .
