Latest news with #UAEYearofCommunity
Al Etihad
2 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
Department of Municipalities and Transport launches Binaa digital platform to enhance building permit processes in Abu Dhabi
18 June 2025 15:07 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)As part of the official launch of the Binaa digital platform, powered by artificial intelligence technologies, the Department of Municipalities and Transport signed a multi-party cooperation agreement on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit at the Abu Dhabi Energy Centre, organised by the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure agreement was signed between the Department and key entities, including Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), and e&. The parties committed to streamlining procedures for issuing building permits and related services, aiming to expedite approvals and authorisations. Additionally, they agreed to coordinate the exchange of data, documents, and technical reviews, as well as other services associated with building construction processes. Binaa is the first-of-its-kind in the region, representing a fundamental shift in how construction plans are submitted, reviewed, and approved for both new and existing developments across the Emirate. This multifaceted system will reduce processing times by up to 70 percent and it identifies over-designs, such as using unnecessarily complex construction methods or heavy materials for smaller buildings like villas. This helps avoid redundancy, needless costs, and minimises environmental impacts, without compromising structural safety and on its launch, His Excellency Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the DMT, said, 'We are pleased to launch Binaa alongside our strategic partners. This platform is a transformational step forward for Abu Dhabi's construction sector, and supports our goal of providing smart, AI-enabled services that streamline the permit issuance process while setting a new global benchmark for efficiency and transparency in government services.'Binaa will be rolled out in phases to give architects, contractors, and developers ample time to adjust to its features. In line with the aspirations of the UAE Year of Community, Phase 1 will focus on new private villas, for which about 20,000 applications are received each year. It will also provide all stakeholders, including individual villa owners, their consultants, and contractors, with the ability to simultaneously monitor the project's progress through the Executive Director of the Planning and Infrastructure Sector at DMT, His Excellency Abdulla Mohamed Alblooshi, said, 'Abu Dhabi's construction and building regulatory frameworks are poised to set global standards as a result of the Binaa's rollout. We call on architects, engineers, project owners and everyone operating in the sector to embrace this development as we are all set to benefit from the considerable opportunities it provides.'The platform incorporates artificial intelligence, Building Information Modelling (BIM) — introduced in 2024 and showcased at GITEX Global that same year, along with virtual and augmented reality technologies to improve efficiency and ensure building-codes compliance. Through its advanced features, Binaa introduces an innovative approach to construction virtual interface allows users to remotely explore and navigate construction sites, while tagging areas that require additional development or attention. On-site, augmented technology enhances inspections by overlaying 3D design data onto physical structures and spaces, enabling inspectors to mark zones for closer platform incorporates an advanced AI review tool capable of analysing 2D models of current or older buildings requiring adjustments or improvements, ensuring precision, adherence to regulations, and alignment with Abu Dhabi's building all new and existing 2D building plans will continue to be reviewed manually, with AI gradually introduced into the highlighted that the system enables over 15 government entities to access blueprints and other relevant documents, creating a unified platform for contractors, project owners, and consultants to secure certifications and permissions. Binaa also offers a comprehensive view of each project's progress, from initial design to final completion, ensuring seamless coordination at every stage.
Gulf Today
6 days ago
- Science
- Gulf Today
Khalifa University a leading research institution: Khaled
Under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has attended the Khalifa University 2025 graduation ceremony, held at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. In all, 163 students received their PhD degrees, while 193 received their master's, and a total of 725 students received their bachelor's degrees, making the overall numbers 1,112, including 31 PhDs in medicine graduates. Sheikh Khaled congratulated the graduates and their families on passing this educational stage, wishing them continued success in their professional and scientific careers, and in the service of their homelands and societies in various fields. He reaffirmed that the graduation of a new cohort of students from Khalifa University, specialised in engineering, science, and medicine, reflects the UAE's commitment to preparing a generation of scientifically and academically qualified talent capable of meeting the needs of crucial sectors in advanced engineering, technology, medicine, and health sciences. Sheikh Khaled commended the role of Khalifa University as a leading academic and research institution, in developing distinguished specialists and researchers capable of creating advanced solutions in the fields of artificial intelligence, medical sciences, and future technologies. In his address, Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, expressed his gratitude to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, for his visionary leadership and support of Khalifa University and the UAE's academic and research institutions. He also extended his sincere thanks and appreciation to Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan for attending the ceremony and for his continued support of national talent and competencies across various scientific and research fields. Reflecting on the UAE Year of Community and its impact, Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri highlighted the academic achievement of Khalifa University students and reaffirmed the institution's role in preparing future-ready talent to lead and excel in various industries, including the private sector. He emphasised that the students represent the innovation and excellence that support the UAE's long-term vision, thanking the faculty members for their instrumental role in shaping skills and competencies of the graduates of this cohort. During 2025, Khalifa University has achieved several milestones. The institution was ranked first in the UAE and 37th in Asia in the Times Higher Education (THE) Asia University Rankings 2025 and ranked top in the UAE in 10 subjects in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025. The Petroleum Engineering programme has risen to the 7th place maintaining its position in the global top 10 for three consecutive years. Earlier, Khalifa University and Green Waste Solutions Trading DMCC made significant strides in addressing water scarcity through innovative and scalable technologies. Khalifa University developed a solar-powered thermal distillation device that produces freshwater from seawater without generating brine. The system uses sunlight to generate and condense steam directly from the water's surface, reducing heat loss and enhancing energy efficiency. Tested with synthetic and real seawater in Abu Dhabi, the device demonstrated the capacity to produce 2.2 litres of freshwater per square metre per day. It has attracted interest from major national companies including ADNOC and is registered under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) in the United States. Meanwhile, Green Waste Solutions Trading DMCC, based in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, created an integrated system that converts organic waste and wastewater into usable resources, including potable water, renewable energy, and bio-fertilisers. The mobile solar-powered system includes anaerobic digesters, filtration units, power generators, and smart monitoring systems using AI and blockchain technologies. The solution has been successfully implemented in Egypt and Botswana, producing up to 100,000 litres of clean water per day and benefiting over 20,000 people in remote areas. Its flexible design makes it ideal for refugee camps and underserved communities. WAM
Sharjah 24
13-06-2025
- Science
- Sharjah 24
Khaled bin Mohamed attends Khalifa University graduation ceremony
Graduates In all, 163 students received their PhD degrees, while 193 received their master's, and a total of 725 students received their bachelor's degrees, making the overall numbers 1,112, including 31 PhDs in medicine graduates. Congratulations His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan congratulated the graduates and their families on passing this educational stage, wishing them continued success in their professional and scientific careers, and in the service of their homelands and societies in various fields. He reaffirmed that the graduation of a new cohort of students from Khalifa University, specialised in engineering, science, and medicine, reflects the UAE's commitment to preparing a generation of scientifically and academically qualified talent capable of meeting the needs of crucial sectors in advanced engineering, technology, medicine, and health sciences. Commended the role of Khalifa University as a leading academic and research institution His Highness Sheikh Khaled commended the role of Khalifa University as a leading academic and research institution, in developing distinguished specialists and researchers capable of creating advanced solutions in the fields of artificial intelligence, medical sciences, and future technologies. Gratitude In his address, Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, expressed his gratitude to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, for his visionary leadership and support of Khalifa University and the UAE's academic and research institutions. He also extended his sincere thanks and appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for attending the ceremony and for His Highness' continued support of national talent and competencies across various scientific and research fields. UAE Year of Community Reflecting on the UAE Year of Community and its impact, Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri highlighted the academic achievement of Khalifa University students and reaffirmed the institution's role in preparing future-ready talent to lead and excel in various industries, including the private sector. He emphasised that the students represent the innovation and excellence that support the UAE's long-term vision, thanking the faculty members for their instrumental role in shaping skills and competencies of the graduates of this cohort. Milestones During 2025, Khalifa University has achieved several milestones. The institution was ranked first in the UAE and 37th in Asia in the Times Higher Education (THE) Asia University Rankings 2025 and ranked top in the UAE in 10 subjects in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025. The Petroleum Engineering programme has risen to the 7th place maintaining its position in the global top 10 for three consecutive years. Khalifa University marked a milestone in its sustainable journey with the launch of Sustainability Strategy – A Pathway to Net Zero 2050, the university's first greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions report. Further enhancing Abu Dhabi's reputation as a global hub for robotics and AI innovation, the University launched a bachelor's programme in Robotics and AI. In academics, Khalifa University also developed a dual PhD programme in collaboration with KU Leuven, a first-of-its-kind dual master's programme with the Arizona State University, partnerships with Zayed Military University and the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation, and an undergraduate research programme with Mubadala Healthcare, as well as continuing its partnership with the National Service and Reserve Authority (NSRA). Also in attendance at the graduation ceremony were senior officials, members of the Khalifa University Board of Trustees, faculty and staff, the graduates, and members of their families.
Al Etihad
13-06-2025
- Science
- Al Etihad
Under the patronage of the UAE President, Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed attends Khalifa University 2025 graduation ceremony
13 June 2025 16:14 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has attended the Khalifa University 2025 graduation ceremony, held at ADNEC Centre Abu all, 163 students received their PhD degrees, while 193 received their master's, and a total of 725 students received their bachelor's degrees, making the overall numbers 1,112, including 31 PhDs in medicine Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan congratulated the graduates and their families on passing this educational stage, wishing them continued success in their professional and scientific careers, and in the service of their homelands and societies in various Highness reaffirmed that the graduation of a new cohort of students from Khalifa University, specialised in engineering, science, and medicine, reflects the UAE's commitment to preparing a generation of scientifically and academically qualified talent capable of meeting the needs of crucial sectors in advanced engineering, technology, medicine, and health Highness commended the role of Khalifa University as a leading academic and research institution, in developing distinguished specialists and researchers capable of creating advanced solutions in the fields of artificial intelligence, medical sciences, and future his address, His Excellency Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, expressed his gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, for his visionary leadership and support of Khalifa University and the UAE's academic and research Excellency also extended his sincere thanks and appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for attending the ceremony and for His Highness' continued support of national talent and competencies across various scientific and research on the UAE Year of Community and its impact, His Excellency Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri highlighted the academic achievement of Khalifa University students and reaffirmed the institution's role in preparing future-ready talent to lead and excel in various industries, including the private Excellency emphasised that the students represent the innovation and excellence that support the UAE's long-term vision, thanking the faculty members for their instrumental role in shaping skills and competencies of the graduates of this 2025, Khalifa University has achieved several milestones. The institution was ranked first in the UAE and 37th in Asia in the Times Higher Education (THE) Asia University Rankings 2025 and ranked top in the UAE in 10 subjects in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025. The Petroleum Engineering programme has risen to the 7th place maintaining its position in the global top 10 for three consecutive University marked a milestone in its sustainable journey with the launch of Sustainability Strategy – A Pathway to Net Zero 2050, the university's first greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions report. Further enhancing Abu Dhabi's reputation as a global hub for robotics and AI innovation, the University launched a bachelor's programme in Robotics and academics, Khalifa University also developed a dual PhD programme in collaboration with KU Leuven, a first-of-its-kind dual master's programme with the Arizona State University, partnerships with Zayed Military University and the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation, and an undergraduate research programme with Mubadala Healthcare, as well as continuing its partnership with the National Service and Reserve Authority (NSRA). Also in attendance at the graduation ceremony were senior officials, members of the Khalifa University Board of Trustees, faculty and staff, the graduates, and members of their families.
Gulf Today
11-06-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Dubai to reinforce collaborative approach to its tourism growth
The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) hosted its first City Briefing of 2025, a key bi-annual stakeholder engagement platform that further reinforces Dubai's collaborative approach to tourism growth. Held at the Coca-Cola Arena, the briefing brought together more than 1,300 industry leaders and professionals from across the hospitality, aviation, retail and F&B sectors, along with representatives from government entities. Reflecting the UAE Year of Community's focus on building a connected society grounded in belonging and shared purpose, the briefing highlighted the critical role that partners across the public and private sectors are playing in Dubai's continued tourism performance. The event was more interactive than ever, with stakeholders providing insights and expertise that is poised to feed into DET's strategy and initiatives going forward, and further elevate the city's appeal to global leisure and business audiences. In the presence of Helal Saeed Almarri, Director-General of DET, the latest edition provided a comprehensive update on the city's tourism performance, campaigns, festivals and events, and strategic priorities for the year ahead. Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said, 'Building on yet another record-breaking performance in 2024, the exceptional results achieved by the industry so far in 2025 is a testament to the resilience and steadfast support of our stakeholders and partners.' He added, 'In advancing the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, our focus remains on strengthening the spirit of partnerships, embracing innovation, and creating future-ready experiences that enhance Dubai's position as the world's best city to visit, live and work in. 'As we look ahead to the second half of this year and beyond, we will harness the key elements that have driven the industry's steady growth - a robust and diversified market strategy, a solid collaboration model between the government and private sectors, and global campaigns showcasing the ever-evolving diverse destination offering.' Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said, 'Dubai's vibrant calendar of festivals and events reflects our city's bold vision and boundless ambition - a testament to our commitment to innovation, excellence, and global leadership. These world-class experiences are not only a key driver of visitation but also vital to nurturing the pillars of our economy, from retail and hospitality to aviation and business events.' Key industry updates included Dubai welcoming 7.15 million international overnight visitors between January and April 2025, a 7 per cent YoY increase. This builds on the 18.72 million people who visited in 2024, the second consecutive year of record-setting growth for the city. The event highlighted key initiatives that reinforce Dubai's contribution to community, accessibility and sustainability. Central to these efforts is the city's achievement in becoming the first Certified Autism Destination in the Eastern Hemisphere. Under DET's leadership, in collaboration with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), the initiative has already trained more than 70,000 individuals through the Dubai College of Tourism's autism and sensory awareness course. Meanwhile, over 300 hotels have actively engaged in the certification process to deliver accessible experiences to all visitors. Another significant project that was highlighted at the event was the launch of the 'MyDubai Communities' digital platform in April. It is designed to strengthen community bonds and promote the values of tolerance and coexistence, offering access to more than 100 interest-based communities. During the City Briefing, the new 'Dubai. That's How You Summer' campaign was presented, promoted across various media channels and told through the stories of a wide range of advocates. The campaign positions Dubai as a must-visit summer destination. Another major global campaign launched by DET in 2025 was 'Find Your Story', starring Millie Bobby Brown and Jake Bongiovi. In the captivating brand film, the story reveals the exciting adventures that travellers can enjoy in the city, even during a brief stopover, and highlights Dubai's desert landscapes and futuristic architecture. The return of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) - the city's much-anticipated summer festival - was announced at the briefing. Taking place from 27th June to 31st August 2025, DSS will deliver a vibrant calendar of sales, prize draws, entertainment and cultural experiences for residents and visitors of all ages. This year's DSS will also be structured into three retail periods - Summer Holiday Offers, The Great Summer Sale, and Back to School - to drive consumer engagement and maintain momentum. WAM
