Latest news with #MohammedAlZarooni
The National
a day ago
- Health
- The National
Thousands of outdoor workers offered support to deal with soaring temperatures
After two months of record temperatures in the UAE, authorities in Sharjah are offering advice on how to stay safe in extreme heat. Summer has arrived early as the UAE experienced its hottest May on record, with peak daily temperatures averaging higher than 40°C, with the mercury rising to 51.6°C in the Sweihan area. It followed the hottest April since records began in the early 2000s. The Ministry of Health and Prevention has now stepped in with targeted health campaigns to protect those most at risk. Outdoor workers, the elderly and infirm are most likely to suffer from the effects of exposure to heat, and the ministry is working alongside the Sharjah Supreme Council for Family Affairs to launch the 14th Heat Exhaustion and Disease Prevention Campaign. It aims to coincide with the midday work ban period that comes into force throughout July and August, to reduce exposure of construction workers during the hottest time of day. 'Let me be clear, protecting workers from heat-related illnesses isn't just a health issue,' said Mohammed Al Zarooni, director of the ministry's Representative Office in Sharjah. 'It's a national duty, a moral responsibility and a shared commitment that calls for all of us to work together. Through this campaign, we're emphasising the importance of early preparation and timely action. "It shows how prevention is not just a policy goal; it's a shared national responsibility. And more importantly, it sends a clear message of support and solidarity to our labour communities, who are a vital part of our society.' Support on site Education will be delivered on site for workers, to focus on risks and symptoms of heat exhaustion. It will also offer advice on first-aid practices and prevention methods to avoid heat-related illness that range from a rash or cramps to exhaustion and heat stroke in extreme cases. Medically, hyperthermia is classified when someone's temperature rises above their baseline average, usually 37°C. The government campaign will target 10,000 workers with free medical check-ups, including blood pressure and glucose testing, eye exams and blood donation drives. Meanwhile, inspection campaigns by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation will be stepped up across work sites in Sharjah to ensure compliance with the midday work ban. Workers will also be offered protective equipment, food and drinking water. "This campaign reaffirms Sharjah's deep and ongoing commitment to public health, especially during the summer months, when high temperatures pose serious challenges to one of the most important segments of our society: our field workers,' said Mona Al Hawai, of the ministry's Health Promotion Department. 'Protecting the health of our community, especially those who may not always have direct access to services, is at the core of what we do. Through this campaign, we're going to deliver health lectures directly at work sites, offer basic medical check-ups and distribute protective supplies in multiple languages so that health information is not only available but accessible to everyone who needs it.' Data from the World Health Organisation showed that of about 489,000 heat-related deaths each year, most are in Asia and Europe. Last year, there were 269 deaths in India thought to be related to high temperatures. A further 161 recorded deaths were directly linked to heatstroke, as reported by India's National Centre for Disease Control. In Europe, the WHO estimates the current annual death toll of 175,000 related to extreme heat will climb in the years ahead. Vulnerable workers Delivery riders in the UAE are often exposed to extreme summer heat. Employers are stepping up support by increasing the number of shaded rest areas and introducing other packages to protect riders from heatstroke. Through its corporate responsibility programme, Careem is offering delivery captains flexible shifts to avoid peak heat hours and has introduced air-conditioned mobile rest areas, hydration kits and free health check-ups for those choosing to work during the hottest hours. "Summer in the UAE presents significant challenges for delivery work,' said Mudassir Sheikha, chief executive and co-founder of Careem. 'To ensure our captains feel supported during the hottest months of the year, we regularly host workshops to understand their needs and how we can help. This year we've extended these services to more than 60,000 delivery captains across the UAE – not just those working with Careem." Food delivery firm Deliveroo provides riders with cooling vests to help reduce body temperature and also has rest areas located in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The company also has what it calls a Roo Bus, which acts as a pitstop area. The firm says "cooled buses are accessible to riders throughout the week, allowing riders to take a break from the weather" in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Ajman, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah. "Rider safety and wellbeing is a top priority for Deliveroo and we have been working and continue to work with the authorities, our rider agencies and partners on ways to support riders, especially over the summer season," said a Deliveroo spokesperson.
Zawya
28-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
UAE participates in the 27th meeting of the Executive Committee for Digital Government in GCC countries
United Arab Emirates – The United Arab Emirates, represented by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), participated in the 27th meeting of the Executive Committee for Digital Government in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The meeting was held in Kuwait, with the presence of Their Excellencies, heads of digital government authorities and programs in GCC countries, representatives of the General Secretariat, and several executive officials from Gulf digital entities. The UAE delegation was headed by H.E. Eng. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Deputy Director General for the Information and Digital Government Sector at TDRA. The committee discussed several important agenda items, including the follow-up on decisions from the previous (26th) meeting and reviewed progress on initiatives under the GCC Digital Government Guiding Strategy. The committee was also briefed on reports from technical working groups, including the Joint Digital Services Working Group, the Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies Working Group, and the Digital Trust Services Working Group. Commenting on the meeting, H.E. Eng. Mohammed Al Zarooni DDG for Information and DGOV sector stated: "Our participation in the 27th meeting of the Executive Committee for Digital Government in GCC countries marks a significant milestone in enhancing regional cooperation in digital transformation. The meeting featured productive discussions on developing unified strategies, particularly in the areas of artificial intelligence and shared digital services. This reflects a growing awareness of the need for continuous modernization of government systems and services in light of rapid technological advancements. In the UAE, we believe the future of governance lies in comprehensive digital transformation. Therefore, we are committed to actively contributing to the formulation of Gulf initiatives and policies that support sustainable development goals and foster regional integration. We look forward to continued constructive collaboration, especially in light of the future plans reviewed during the meeting.' The committee placed special focus on artificial intelligence initiatives, approving the development of a Gulf Guiding Strategy for Artificial Intelligence within the broader framework of the Digital Government Guiding Strategy. The meeting concluded with discussions on preparations for the 9th Ministerial Committee Meeting on Digital Transformation, including a review of the minutes and strategic recommendations from the 8th meeting. The UAE's participation in this meeting underscores its commitment to supporting joint Gulf efforts, enhancing digital infrastructure, and developing government services by adopting cutting-edge technologies—contributing to a comprehensive and sustainable digital future for the peoples of the Gulf. About TDRA : The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) is responsible for regulating and developing the telecommunications and information technology sector in the United Arab Emirates, while also driving digital transformation at the national level. TDRA works to provide an advanced regulatory environment that supports innovation, stimulates investment, and ensures the delivery of cutting-edge and sustainable telecommunications services. The authority plays a pivotal role in leading the digital transformation journey by developing digital infrastructure, empowering the telecommunications sector, and enhancing the ecosystem of digital government services. TDRA is committed to improving the quality and continuity of digital services by establishing legislative and regulatory frameworks that foster innovation and strengthen the country's readiness to keep pace with rapid digital advancements. Its responsibilities include regulating the telecommunications sector to ensure competitiveness, protecting consumer rights, and maintaining a balance between service providers. Additionally, TDRA leads the national digital government strategy, manages the radio frequency spectrum, and regulates the use of wireless frequencies to support various sectors, including telecommunications and smart services. With a visionary approach, TDRA aims to position the UAE as a global hub for digital innovation and enhance its readiness for the digital future, in alignment with the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 and the UAE Centennial 2071 Agenda.
Arabian Business
24-04-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
DIEZ's AI strategy attracts 700 specialised companies to its economic zones
Over 700 companies specialising in artificial intelligence and its applications are now operating within the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority's (DIEZ) three economic zones – Dubai Airport Freezone, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Dubai CommerCity. This milestone was revealed by Dr Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, during Dubai AI Week, which is being hosted at the Museum of the Future and Area 2071 at Emirates Towers, and concludes on 25 April. AI sector thrives at DIEZ Saying that the achievement reflects the effectiveness of DIEZ's AI strategy, Dr Al Zarooni commented: 'The artificial intelligence strategy adopted by DIEZ reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which aims to solidify the UAE's global leadership in AI and create agile and smart business environments that enhance the competitiveness of the national economy. 'The success of this strategy is reflected in the growth of AI-focused companies within DIEZ's economic free zones, underscoring our commitment to leading in this space by staying ahead of change and leveraging advanced technologies across all areas of operation. 'This reaffirms that artificial intelligence today stands as a foundational pillar in Dubai's economic transformation journey, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth.' The AI companies within DIEZ vary in size, ranging from startups and small and medium enterprises to multinational corporations, and offer a wide array of specialised services in the area. Many of these are also focused on developing AI-related technologies and applications. Three core pillars DIEZ's AI strategy is built around three core pillars – people, customers, and technology management. These pillars aim to empower human capital through AI tools by enhancing skills and productivity as part of the first pillar; elevate customer experience through smart, data-driven solutions under the second pillar; and establish advanced digital infrastructure to ensure quality, compliance, robust governance, and the effective and sustainable deployment of AI models through the third pillar. The strategy comprises 12 high-impact initiatives, covering a broad range of critical AI applications. These include autonomous service delivery, customer experience enhancement, employee efficiency, and big data analytics, along with several innovative use cases that support decision-making, and the development of digital infrastructure across all DIEZ free zones. Among some of the ongoing projects within DIEZ companies are development of an AI-powered tool for reviewing and auditing documents related to daily operations and company formation; a specialised cybersecurity solution to address risks and cyberattacks, and platforms for handling customer complaints and requests, training and recruitment, and fraud detection.
Zawya
23-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
DIEZ reaffirms impact of its AI strategy with over 700 AI specialized companies operating across its economic zones
Mohammed Al Zarooni: 'The growing number of AI-specialized companies reflects the success of DIEZ's AI strategy and its leading role in the field.' Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) has announced that over 700 companies specializing in artificial intelligence and its applications are now operating within its three economic zones, including Dubai Airport Freezone, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Dubai CommerCity. This milestone underscores the effectiveness of DIEZ's AI strategy, which focuses on future-readiness and accelerating the adoption of AI technologies. The announcement was made during Dubai AI Week, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. The event was organized by the Dubai Center for Artificial Intelligence and hosted at the Museum of the Future and Area 2071 at Emirates Towers, from April 21 to 25, 2025. The AI companies within DIEZ vary in size, ranging from startups and small and medium enterprises to multinational corporations, and offer a wide array of specialized services in artificial intelligence. Many of these companies are also focused on developing AI-related technologies and applications, aligning with DIEZ's strategic objectives in this space and reinforcing its role in advancing the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 and the Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence, designed to accelerate the adoption of AI applications. Staying Ahead of Change His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, said, " The artificial intelligence strategy adopted by DIEZ reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which aims to solidify the UAE's global leadership in AI and create agile and smart business environments that enhance the competitiveness of the national economy." Al Zarooni added, 'The success of this strategy is reflected in the growth of AI-focused companies within DIEZ's economic free zones, underscoring our commitment to leading in this space by staying ahead of change and leveraging advanced technologies across all areas of operation. This reaffirms that artificial intelligence today stands as a foundational pillar in Dubai's economic transformation journey, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth.' 3 Core Pillars DIEZ's Artificial Intelligence Strategy is built around three core pillars that form the foundation of its smart transformation efforts: people, customers, and technology management. These pillars aim to empower human capital through AI tools by enhancing skills and productivity as part of the first pillar; elevate customer experience through smart, data-driven solutions under the second pillar; and establish advanced digital infrastructure to ensure quality, compliance, robust governance, and the effective and sustainable deployment of AI models through the third pillar. 12 Initiatives Through its AI strategy, DIEZ seeks to drive tangible improvements in organizational performance and solidify its position as a key player in Dubai's digital transformation, aligned with the emirate's vision of building a knowledge-based, technology-driven future. The strategy comprises 12 high-impact initiatives, covering a broad range of critical AI applications. These include autonomous service delivery, customer experience enhancement, employee efficiency, and big data analytics, along with several innovative use cases that support decision-making, and the development of digital infrastructure across all DIEZ free zones. The ongoing projects include the development of an AI-powered tool for reviewing and auditing documents related to daily operations and company formation, a specialized cybersecurity solution to address risks and cyberattacks, as well as platforms for handling customer complaints and requests, training and recruitment, and fraud detection.
Hi Dubai
23-04-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
DIEZ Highlights AI Growth with 700+ Specialized Companies Across Its Economic Zones
The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) has announced a major milestone: over 700 companies specializing in artificial intelligence are now operating across its three zones—Dubai Airport Freezone, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Dubai CommerCity. The announcement, made during Dubai AI Week (April 21–25), highlights the success of DIEZ's AI strategy, which focuses on future-readiness and accelerating AI adoption. The event was held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and organized by the Dubai Center for Artificial Intelligence at the Museum of the Future and Area 2071. The companies operating within DIEZ range from startups and SMEs to global players, working on AI-driven services and technologies that align with the UAE's National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 and Dubai's Universal Blueprint for AI. H.E. Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, stated, 'The growth of AI-focused companies in our zones reflects our strategic commitment to staying ahead of change and enhancing national competitiveness through smart, agile ecosystems.' DIEZ's AI strategy is anchored in three pillars: empowering people through upskilling and productivity tools, enhancing customer experiences with smart solutions, and establishing advanced digital infrastructure to ensure governance and sustainability in AI deployment. The strategy includes 12 initiatives focused on AI-driven transformation—from autonomous services and big data analytics to fraud detection and cybersecurity. Active projects include an AI-powered document audit tool, advanced training platforms, and smart complaint handling systems. DIEZ's rapid progress reinforces Dubai's position as a regional leader in AI, driving sustainable economic growth and digital innovation across the emirate. News Source: Dubai Media Office
