Latest news with #MAYSIBRAHIM
Al Etihad
14 hours ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
BEEAH launches multi-billion-dirham sustainable city in group's first real estate venture
20 June 2025 02:30 MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)Sharjah-based sustainability leader BEEAH Group officially entered the real estate sector with the launch of Khalid bin Sultan City, a multi-billion-dirham freehold development that promises to set new benchmarks for smart, sustainable urban located between Dhaid Road and Khorfakkan Road, this project is inspired by the legacy of the late Sheikh Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, a pioneer in the field of design and urban planning, who influenced the architectural identity of announcement took place on Wednesday at an event held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of city was designed by the world-renowned Zaha Hadid Architects as a master-planned, mixed-use development that integrates residential, commercial, cultural, and recreational spaces. It spans a 1.5-kilometre-long plot, offering 1,500 freehold residential in 2007 with a mission to drive sustainable transformation, BEEAH began by tackling landfill waste in Sharjah. Today, it boasts an over 90% landfill diversion rate, one of the highest globally. "This achievement laid the groundwork for expanding into sectors where innovation is essential for the future: environment, energy, technology, healthcare, and now real estate," Khaled Al Huraimel, Group CEO and Vice Chairman of BEEAH, told Aletihad . "We have created an ecosystem that is interconnected and aligned with our goals of making zero-waste to landfill a reality, achieving net-zero targets, disrupting industries to be more sustainable, and fostering people's wellbeing and quality of life in tomorrow's cities. By entering real estate, we can leverage this ecosystem to create resilient and sustainable urban environments, which is unlike any other." Khalid bin Sultan City will reflect BEEAH's commitment to sustainability and innovation, he said. The development is set to include smart infrastructure, emission-reducing systems, and green design principles that promote harmony with nature and enhance residents' quality of life."It's a living, breathing model for cities of the future," Al Huraimel said. "This project will represent the full integration of BEEAH's capabilities – from circularity solutions and clean energy to technology, mobility and even healthcare – creating an urban environment that is regenerative, restorative and resilient for people and nature." Green Infrastructure BEEAH's LEED Platinum-certified headquarters embodies its vision for sustainability and innovation."As an office of the future, our headquarters uses on-site solar and water recycling plants, complemented by AI-powered systems for resource efficiency, significantly cutting emissions and operational costs," Al Huraimel has influenced other BEEAH-led projects, including the Sharjah Creative Quarter and the forthcoming Jawaher Boston Medical District, being developed with world-renowned architects and healthcare leaders."These projects echo our philosophy as we formally enter the real estate sector – to build developments rooted in design excellence, integrated with technology for future-ready infrastructure, committed to sustainability from the ground up, and, ultimately, fostering the well-being of people at every level," Al Huraimel expansion into real estate is tightly aligned with the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 initiative and UAE Vision 2031, particularly the aim to make Emirati cities among the world's top 10 for quality of already pledged to achieve net-zero emissions across UAE operations by 2040, a decade ahead of national targets, BEEAH's new developments are expected to be benchmarks in energy-efficient construction and carbon-conscious urban planning."Our real estate developments will directly support this ambition, incorporating energy-efficient design, circular infrastructure, and low-impact construction materials. Just as importantly, they are designed to create lasting value for communities," said Al real estate sector is witnessing unprecedented growth, with transactions surging to Dh13.2 billion in the first quarter of 2025 alone – a 31.9% increase year-on-year, according to the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Huraimel noted that what sets BEEAH's real estate strategy apart is the full integration of its broader innovation advanced recycling facilities in Sharjah to the region's first Waste-to-Energy and Hydrogen-from-Waste plants, BEEAH is applying its cross-sector expertise to urban digital ventures, including EVOTEQ, ION, and provide smart mobility, logistics, and supply chain solutions embedded in these new communities. In healthcare, BEEAH's vision for the Jawaher Boston Medical District, with green spaces, energy-producing canopies, and net-zero design, exemplifies how the built environment can enhance wellness.
Al Etihad
2 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
S&P Global maintains UAE credit ratings
19 June 2025 00:23 MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)S&P Global Ratings has assigned the UAE a sovereign credit rating of 'AA' for long-term, and 'A-1+' for short-term foreign and local currency obligations, with a stable report cited the county's solid fiscal and external positions, prudent policymaking and resilient economic headwinds from lower oil prices and a global economic slowdown, S&P forecasts that the UAE's economy will remain resilient, growing at an average rate of about 4% annually between 2025 and will be driven primarily by buoyant non-oil sector activity, public investment, and a measured increase in oil production as OPEC+ quotas ease. S&P also projects the UAE's consolidated fiscal surpluses will average 3.2% of GDP over the forecast period, assuming Brent oil prices of $60 per barrel (bbl) in 2025 and $65/bbl through 2028. The country's consolidated net asset position is expected to rise to an estimated 177% of GDP through 2028, supported by continued fiscal surpluses and investment income on liquid assets. "The exceptional strength of the government's consolidated net asset position provides a buffer to counteract the effects of oil price swings and geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region on economic growth, government revenue, and the external account," S&P debt will remain stable at about 28% of GDP, as the federal government and individual emirates such as Abu Dhabi plan local currency debt issuances to develop domestic capital growth will be underpinned by public investment, economic diversification efforts, and increasing trade and foreign investment. The report cited major projects set to boost tourism revenue streams, such as the Saadiyat cultural district and Disney Park in Abu Dhabi, and the Wynn integrated resort in Ras Al UAE's Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) with 27 trade partners should cushion the impact of higher global trade tariffs, to some extent, according to S& added that the potential impact on the UAE from the proposed 50% US tariff on steel and aluminum will only be modest if no agreement is reached. The UAE exported around $1.4 billion (0.3% of GDP) worth of steel and aluminum products to the US in 2023 – only 4.3% of its total non-oil exports. S&P also highlighted structural measures introduced by the UAE to improve its business environment. These include a foreign direct investment law that permits foreign investors to fully own businesses in various sectors, liberalised personal and family law, and the Golden Visa Programme, which "supports talent retention by granting long-term residency to investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals.""We anticipate that these measures will increase labour market flexibility, investment, and foreign worker inflows. This will be balanced by the nationalisation of the workforce, or 'Emiratisation' policies," it stated. The sharp escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict presents potential risks to GCC sovereigns. However, S&P believes the UAE's substantial assets and record of domestic stability mitigate vulnerabilities to external shocks. "The Abu Dhabi Crude Oil Pipeline has the capacity to deliver about 50% of the emirate's oil exports directly to the Fujairah terminal on the Indian Ocean, diversifying its shipping routes. Through CEPAs, the UAE is also securing alternative trade routes to the Red Sea," it explained.
Al Etihad
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi turns down the heat with snow parks and artistic adventures
18 June 2025 00:14 MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)As temperatures climb in the UAE, Abu Dhabi is embracing summer with a refreshing wave of indoor experiences. From cutting-edge art experiences and oceanic wonders to sports havens and adrenaline-packed theme parks, the capital is brimming with places that offer cool relief and creative energy all summer long. Arts, Culture & EntertainmentAt the Cultural Foundation, visitors can immerse themselves in Malaysia's vibrant contemporary art scene through "To Know Malaysia is to Love Malaysia: Highlights from the AFK Collection", running until September 10. The exhibition offers a rich view into Malaysia's creative independence and artistic evolution. Running alongside it is "Maitha Abdalla: Between Metamorphosis and Reality", showcasing a mix of paintings and sculptures until August families, the long-running "Crafts and Play" exhibit, open until June 25, invites children aged 3 to 12 to learn about Emirati weaving traditions through hands-on games centred on Al-Sadu, Talli, and Khoos Cultural Foundation's Children's Library adds to the family-friendly lineup with daily programming that fosters literacy and imagination. Regular favourites include Storytime, Baby & Me, and Maker Mums. Entry to the library and exhibitions is free, with select workshops requiring prior Cultural Foundation also offers a wide range of paid art classes in painting, ceramics, sewing, and design that cater to the creative minds of all town at Manarat Al Saadiyat, the Middle East debut of "Harry Potter: The Exhibition" opens on July 25 and runs through September 14. The exhibition brings the beloved franchise to life with original props, costumes, and interactive experiences for fans, young and on display is "Layered Medium: We Are in Open Circuits", a landmark collaboration with the Seoul Museum of Art that explores the legacy of Korea's radical contemporary art art studio sessions also continue at Manarat Al Saadiyat, with a full schedule of workshops and drop-in classes for all age lovers can retreat into immersive spaces like teamLab Phenomena in Saadiyat Cultural District. This vast, multi-sensory art destination merges light, sound, and movement to produce artworks that shift and evolve with the Abu Dhabi is also offering plenty to keep visitors engaged - children enjoy free summer access, while general admission is 30% off online, excluding select seasonal can visit the Children's Museum's latest exhibition, "Picturing the Cosmos", a space-themed journey that explores how artists from different cultures interpret the older children and teens, the museum's ArtLab summer programme returns with multi-day workshops in July and August. Participants will explore ancient languages and symbolism, inspired by the story of the Tower of Babel, through collaborative, hands-on art July, the museum will unveil a new 30-minute virtual reality experience that allows guests to travel through time and visit historical empires, from Imperial Rome to Mughal WTC Abu Dhabi has launched a seven-month programme of weekly events and entertainment for all nights take over the public square every Tuesday evening with family-friendly screenings and free popcorn. Thursdays are for gamers, with a dedicated digital zone open from 2pm to 10pm, while Friday evenings feature live music and high-energy musical bingo. Saturdays kick off with morning fitness classes, including yoga, Zumba, and is free with a same-day shopping receipt from the mall, and all children under 13 must be accompanied by an 421 Arts Campus in Mina Zayed hosts a contemporary art space with a roster of galleries, workshops and art shows. Housed in converted warehouses, it's both a platform for emerging talent and a welcoming place for community connection over coffee and conversation. Cool Escapes & High-Energy AdventuresIf thrill is what you're after, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi guarantees high-octane fun with the world's fastest rollercoaster, the planet's tallest loop ride, and over 40 record-breaking attractions. For something a little cooler, Snow Abu Dhabi at Reem Mall brings the magic of winter to the desert. Designed as an "Enchanted Forest", the indoor snow park features over 20 rides and attractions, including a polar train, a magical carousel, and a soaring owl-themed ride, all wrapped in immersive marine-inspired magic, The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi, home to more than 46,000 creatures, offers cool encounters in its ten themed zones. Sharks, rays, and sea turtles are just the beginning, with the educational arm ready to welcome up to 50,000 students a short drive away, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi promises more aquatic adventures with eight immersive realms, 100+ animal encounters, 35 interactive rides, and roaming performances that merge education with Yas Mall launched a new Fitness & Wellness series, which runs until December. Held in the cool interiors of the Prayer Hall Corridor, classes like Pilates, Flex & Flow, Cardio & Core, and Full Body Fitness are led by local instructor Azza Al Mughairy and open to all levels with limited Sports City (ZSC) offers another summer option for indoor fitness lovers, featuring everything from boxing and futsal to tennis and early morning refreshing ice-skating rink offers the perfect escape from the summer heat, complemented by a massive 40-lane bowling centre and the city's largest billiards and snooker hall. It also caters to niche and regional interests, with spaces for hurling, camogie, and Ultimate Frisbee. And if you're in the mood for a relaxed outdoor stroll without breaking a sweat, head to the UAE's first-ever air-conditioned pedestrian walkway in Al Nahyan. Opened by the Department of Municipalities and Transport in late 2024, the path stays at a breezy 24°C year-round thanks to underground cooling systems, heat-filtering roofing, and sound-muffling walls. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Al Etihad
4 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
UAE tops global hiring outlook amid strong appetite for growth
17 June 2025 00:15 MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)The UAE ranks first globally for hiring optimism heading into the third quarter of 2025, according to the latest Employment Outlook Survey (MEOS) released by the UAE-based recruitment company a Net Employment Outlook (NEO) of +48% - double the global average of +24% - the UAE's labour market demonstrates strength, agility, and forward survey, which polled over 530 UAE employers, revealed that 56% plan to increase hiring activity in the coming months, while only 8% expect a decrease."This positions the UAE as a clear leader in global hiring sentiment, further cementing its reputation as the top destination for career opportunities in the Middle East," the report hiring confidence in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region as a whole is at 19%, according to the Rideau, Country Manager at ManpowerGroup Middle East, said in a statement: "With a Net Employment Outlook of +48%, the highest globally, our labour market is reflecting not just resilience, but a robust appetite for growth.""The transport, consumer goods, and energy sectors are driving this momentum, signalling a strong demand for skilled talent across industries."Among the top-performing sectors, transport, logistics, and automotive lead with a hiring outlook of +64% - the highest globally and 41 percentage points above the international surge is attributed to infrastructure investments, smart mobility initiatives, and strong demand for supply chain talent. The consumer goods and services sector also posted a +60% outlook, outperforming the global sector average by 27 to the report, this outlook reflects growing retail, FMCG, and tourism-related demand post-pandemic and ahead of seasonal demand the energy and utilities sector stands at +62%, outpacing the global average by 43 points, as a result of the UAE's ongoing diversification in energy investments and sustainable Q3 2025 survey ties the strong hiring activity to several strategic factors. Company expansion is the leading catalyst, cited by 38% of 32% pointed to technological advancements prompting businesses to hire talent with specialised skills, while 31% said hiring is linked to the development of new business roles aligned with emerging industries and innovation efforts. The survey also revealed trends related to workforce restructuring in the UAE. Thirty-three percent of employers are reducing roles to optimise processes, and 28% cite automation as a factor driving changes in workforce structure. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Al Etihad
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
'The piano allows me to communicate feelings that I might not be able to say out loud'
12 June 2025 22:58 MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)Diagnosed with autism, 15-year-old Ahmed Al Hashemi found his voice not in speech, but in the sound of the piano - its touch, tempo, and journey with music began at seven years old, when he surprised his mother by playing "Happy Birthday" on a piano after hearing it just instantly recognised his musical gift: perfect pitch, a rare skill that allows him to identify and reproduce any note without he's an award-winning composer, using music to articulate what words can' Emirati teen doesn't view his condition as something to overcome; instead, he embraces it as a unique lens that shapes the way he hears, feels, and composes original autistic, Al Hashemi finds it difficult to verbalise his feelings and experiences, but at the piano, his inner world comes alive. "The piano allows me to communicate feelings that I might not be able to say out loud," he told Aletihad . "Each note carries meaning, and I use music as my voice." The young musician wrote one of his earliest and most personal compositions, "A Day Without You", when his brother left for military service."Instead of telling my mother how much I missed him, I expressed it through music. That was when I truly understood the power of composition," he Hashemi's music has travelled far beyond the Emirates, earning him international accolades like the UNESCO Award and the Mother Teresa Award."These awards remind me that my music has an impact beyond just performance," he said. "It's not just about recognition – it's about proving that music can transcend barriers and bring people together."As both a composer and performer, Al Hashemi finds joy in connecting with a live audience but treasures the intimate silence of solitary creation."Composing is deeply personal – it's where I can express myself without any limitations," he shared."Sometimes a feeling triggers my creativity, and I sit at the piano to translate that emotion into sound. Other times, I hear a melody in my head and work on developing it into a full composition."Al Hashemi attributes his success to the unwavering belief of those closest to him, especially his mother."She believed in me when others doubted my abilities. Her dedication helped me find the right teachers and opportunities to grow as a musician."Looking ahead, Al Hashemi has no plans to slow down. His dream? To play piano on stages across the world and collaborate with musicians who inspire him."Every performance is a chance to share my story and connect with people through music."He hopes that his music inspires "perseverance" and "passion" in those who listen to it."Music is not just sound – it's emotion, storytelling, and connection. I want my journey to show that challenges can be overcome with dedication and belief."Al Hashemi feels a strong responsibility to represent the neurodivergent community in the arts."I want to show the world that autism is not a limitation – it's a different way of experiencing life," he said. "Through my music, I hope to inspire others to embrace their unique abilities." To young people with autism, Al Hashemi says: "Never stop believing in yourself. Your talents and passions are valuable, and with the right support, you can achieve incredible things."
