Latest news with #SheikhMansour
Yahoo
10 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Man City chief accelerated transfer plan with eight signings as he makes club 'roots' vow
Manchester City chief Ferran Soriano has emphatically stated the club's commitment to its heritage amid their burgeoning global influence. With Manchester City now a key player in an international group of 12 clubs, they're aiming to boost their profile during a strong showing at the ongoing Club World Cup in the United States. Advertisement However, despite the astonishing transformation since Sheikh Mansour's 2008 takeover, Soriano has given assurances that the team's growth won't erode its historical values. READ MORE: Pep Guardiola hinted at a new Rodri plan and he showed why in Man City win READ MORE: How Man City signings have helped change the mood in Pep Guardiola's squad "We have our roots and we are proud of them," Soriano told DAZN. "But you can be local and relevant and faithful to the history of the club, and the fans that support you, but you can also be global and show what we do – which we believe is beautiful football – to the world. Advertisement "It's a combination that works very well and we are proud." City's quest in America began on Wednesday with a convincing 2-0 victory over Wydad AC from Morocco, delighting a Philadelphia crowd of 37,446. Despite facing scrutiny for various issues like timing within the season potentially impacting player welfare, expensive tickets, lacklustre attendances, inconvenient kick-off times, and venue choices, Soriano sees the value in the enlarged format of the tournament. It's witnessed a leap from a seven-team competition, last won by City in 2023, to a month-long spectacle with 32 teams vying for glory. The Spaniard said: "We are very excited by it. I think it's something that was very much needed. Soccer is a global sport and we have to make it global. Advertisement "You have to have teams like Manchester City playing teams from Morocco, Korea or wherever. That's part of the globalisation of the number one sport in the world. "I think it's a great initiative and we are very happy to be here." Manchester City have bolstered their squad with eight new signings this year, including four last week, as they bid to bounce back from a lacklustre 2024-25 campaign. He added: "The ambition for City in any competition is to win it. That's the status of the club. "Obviously it's not possible to win always, so we want to go as far as we can. Advertisement "The squad needs to be renewed. It's something that happens naturally. "We are very happy, I'm happy, with the work that we did. "Last summer we only bought one new player but this year between the winter and the summer it will be eight new ones. "It's part of the annual cycle, the renewal of the squad. We accelerated some of it and now we are very happy with the squad we have."
The Independent
13 hours ago
- Sport
- The Independent
We have our roots and we are proud of them – Manchester City CEO Ferran Soriano
Manchester City chief executive Ferran Soriano insists the club will not forget their roots as they continue to expand their global footprint. City, now part of an international network of 12 clubs, are hoping to further broaden their reach with a strong run at the ongoing Club World Cup in the United States. Yet while City have been transformed radically since being taken over by Sheikh Mansour in 2008, Soriano maintains their ambitions will not come at the cost of tradition. Soriano told DAZN: 'We have our roots and we are proud of them. 'But you can be local and relevant and faithful to the history of the club, and the fans that support you, but you can also be global and show what we do – which we believe is beautiful football – to the world. 'It's a combination that works very well and we are proud.' City began their challenge in the US with a 2-0 win over Moroccan side Wydad AC in front of a crowd of 37,446 in Philadelphia on Wednesday. The tournament has faced plenty of criticism for a variety of reasons, including its positioning in the calendar and consequent player welfare concerns, ticket prices, poor attendances, kick-off times and venue choices. Yet Soriano has no doubt of the merits of the revamped competition, which has been expanded from the seven-team event won by City in 2023 to a month-long affair featuring 32 clubs. The Spaniard said: 'We are very excited by it. I think it's something that was very much needed. Soccer is a global sport and we have to make it global. 'You have to have teams like Manchester City playing teams from Morocco, Korea or wherever. That's part of the globalisation of the number one sport in the world. 'I think it's a great initiative and we are very happy to be here.' City have set their sights on victory having refreshed the squad following an underwhelming 2024-25 season. They signed four new players last week in Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait-Nouri and Marcus Bettinelli, having also brought in Omar Marmoush, Nico Gonzalez, Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis in January. Soriano said: 'The ambition for City in any competition is to win it. That's the status of the club. 'Obviously it's not possible to win always, so we want to go as far as we can. 'The squad needs to be renewed. It's something that happens naturally. 'We are very happy, I'm happy, with the work that we did. 'Last summer we only bought one new player but this year between the winter and the summer it will be eight new ones. 'It's part of the annual cycle, the renewal of the squad. We accelerated some of it and now we are very happy with the squad we have.'
Zawya
16 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
CBUAE organises climate forum and 'Network for Greening the Financial System' meeting in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi: Under the Patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates, the CBUAE is organising its first Climate Forum and a meeting of the Network for Greening the Financial System (NGFS) at the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resorts, Abu Dhabi, on 26 June 2025. The two-day event demonstrates the CBUAE's commitment in driving sustainable finance and leading the transition towards a more sustainable financial system, in line with the UAE's vision to achieve net zero by 2050. The Climate Forum brings together financial leaders, policymakers, international experts in sustainable finance and in climate risks, and senior officials from regulatory bodies, central banks, and international financial institutions. The aim is to exchange insights on ways to foster better integration of climate policies in risk management and investment, and to explore effective solutions for enhancing financial sector resilience in the face of future climate and environmental challenges. It will also address frameworks for activating regional and international cooperation in the areas of monetary policy, regulation and sustainable Islamic finance, thereby strengthening the complementary roles between the public and private sectors. This further underscores the UAE's growing position as a regional and international hub for leading the global dialogue on the future of sustainable finance. The NGFS meeting will be centred on 'greening' monetary policy frameworks. Discussions will focus on integrating climate change impacts into monetary policy formulation and operations, alongside reviewing the NGFS's latest work progress and future plans. Since its inception in 2017, the NGFS has become a global force, uniting over 160 central banks and financial supervisors. His Excellency Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the CBUAE, said: "The convening of the Climate Forum and the Network for Greening the Financial System meeting marks a milestone amidst the global shifts in economic policies and the growing climate challenges. In line with the wise leadership's vision for the UAE and its commitment to achieving net zero by 2050, the CBUAE continues to solidify its pivotal role in spearheading financial sustainability. This is achieved by strengthening the green finance infrastructure and developing regulatory frameworks that support the integration of climate risks within the financial sector's ecosystem, thereby enhancing its resilience, reinforcing its stability, and achieving the desired balance between economic growth and sustainability."
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Mohammed bin Rashid: UAE is ranked 5th globally by 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking
ABU DHABI: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, has chaired a Cabinet meeting held at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi. The meeting was attended by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court; H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence; H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance; H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of the Interior. H.H. 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 center, 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.' H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum added, '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 AED1.2 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." H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said, '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." H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid added, '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.: H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said, 'We also approved the establishment of the National Maritime Navigation Center, which will operate 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." H.H. 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, 8 of which have already come into force. We also reviewed ongoing efforts to finalize 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 Center in Lausanne, Switzerland. This year, the UAE is ranked among the top five globally, scoring 96.09 out of 100 points. The country 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 year. The 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 fields. The 2025 edition also introduced five new indicators: food waste, environmental performance, freely elected government, passport mobility, and media bias. This 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, respectively. The 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 representation. The 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 infrastructure. The 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 effect. These agreements drove the UAE's foreign trade volume to an unprecedented AED5.23 trillion in 2024, according to the World Trade Organisation (WTO). The UAE's non-oil exports reached a historic milestone, exceeding AED440 billion in 2023, marking a 16.3% growth compared to 2022 and a remarkable 83% increase from 2019. Re-exports also reached a record AED684.3 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. 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, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes' Affairs and Chairman of the Emirates Council for Balanced Development. 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. The Council also 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. 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. The 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 AED 1.25 billion. The Cabinet approved the establishment of the National Maritime Navigation Center under the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. The Center will manage a unified maritime database, oversee vessel tracking systems, and ensure maritime safety and environmental protection in collaboration with relevant authorities. The 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 practices. The Cabinet restructured the High Committee for Overseeing the National Strategy on Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing under the chairmanship of H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The UAE Council for Climate Action was also restructured 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 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 2024. The 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 promotion. Agreements were also signed with Eswatini, the Central African Republic, Kenya, Peru, Nigeria, and Jordan. The 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 partnerships. New embassies will be established in Togo, Gabon, Cameroon, and Tajikistan, alongside a UAE Consulate General in Miami, USA. 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. 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.
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Mohammed bin Rashid: UAE's performance in the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking
United Arab Emirates: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has chaired a Cabinet meeting held at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi. The meeting was attended by H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court; H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence; H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance; H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of the Interior. His 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 center, 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 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum added, '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 AED 1.2 billion. This support will continue to ensure decent housing and enhance family stability across the UAE. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum 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 said, '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 organizations. 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 added, '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 Center, which will operate 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. 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, 8 of which have already come into force. We also reviewed ongoing efforts to finalize 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 Center in Lausanne, Switzerland. This year, the UAE is ranked among the top five globally, scoring 96.09 out of 100 points. The country 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 year. The 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 fields. The 2025 edition also introduced five new indicators: food waste, environmental performance, freely elected government, passport mobility, and media bias. This 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, respectively. The 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 representation. The 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 infrastructure. The 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 effect. These agreements drove the UAE's foreign trade volume to an unprecedented AED 5.23 trillion in 2024, according to the World Trade Organization (WTO). 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. The 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 Development. 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. The Council also 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. 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. The Cabinet reviewed during the meeting a report on the Sheikh Zayed Housing Program, 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. The Cabinet approved the establishment of the National Maritime Navigation Center under the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. The Center will manage a unified maritime database, oversee vessel tracking systems, and ensure maritime safety and environmental protection in collaboration with relevant authorities. The 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 practices. The 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, Minister of Foreign Affairs. The UAE Council for Climate Action was also restructured 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 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 2024. The 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 promotion. Agreements were also signed with Eswatini, the Central African Republic, Kenya, Peru, Nigeria, and Jordan. The 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 partnerships. New embassies will be established in Togo, Gabon, Cameroon, and Tajikistan, alongside a UAE Consulate General in Miami, USA. 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. 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.
