On the last day of the year in Dubai, residents may experience dense cloud cover with a chance of drizzle in the evening. Eisa Al Sereidi, Head of General Meteorology at the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), indicated that the ongoing winter months in the UAE are contributing to fog formation, with a gradual reduction expected in the following days.

On New Year’s Eve, internal areas may experience probable fog, with cloud cover expected over coastal areas, particularly in the northern and eastern regions. There is a possibility of light rain or drizzle associated with the cloud cover. December has seen lower rainfall compared to the same month in previous years, with high pressure hindering rain-bearing clouds over the UAE.

The coming weekend may see an extension of high pressure, causing possible drizzling in the region. Sereidi warned of colder days in January, historically the coldest month, with temperatures likely to drop by four to five degrees.

Dubai Customs successfully thwarted a drug smuggling attempt, seizing 234.68 kilograms of narcotics, specifically hashish, in a wooden ship at the Dubai Creek and Deira Wharfage Customs Centre. The operation, named ‘Wheelhouse,’ utilized the ‘Siyaj’ task force and advanced Periscope technology for meticulous inspection of confined spaces, leading to the discovery of the illicit substances cleverly concealed within the ship’s wheelhouse.

The ‘Siyaj’ initiative employs modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, drones, canines, and electric vehicles to proactively detect and prevent the infiltration of prohibited materials, reinforcing Dubai’s position in international trade and ensuring border security. Dubai Customs plays a crucial role in combating drug-related risks and health hazards, contributing to national security efforts and safeguarding the community.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, chairman and CEO of DP World Group, and chairman of Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation, highlighted Dubai’s leadership role in combating drug-related risks and health hazards. He emphasized the pivotal role played by Dubai Customs in national security efforts, safeguarding the community from major threats like drug smuggling.

Ahmed Mahboob Musabih, director-general of Dubai Customs, CEO of Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation, underscored the priority of protecting society from hazardous and smuggled substances, while facilitating legitimate trade activities.

Rashed Alsuwaidi, acting director of Maritime Customs Centers, highlighted the role of unique devices, such as the rapid container inspection device and the world’s first X-ray scanning device for heavy and light vehicles, in detecting substances, further enhancing the capabilities of Customs officials.

Dubai Taxi Company (DTC) has introduced flexible payment options for its transport services through a strategic partnership with payment company Tabby. This collaboration, a first in the UAE’s transport sector for postpaid services, enables customers to access interest-free credit balances and short-term installment programs.

The agreement aims to redefine postpaid transport services, offering a new level of flexibility in payment solutions, including those for limousine services. DTC CEO Mansoor Rahma Al Falasi emphasized the company’s commitment to integrating innovative solutions to enhance transportation services and contribute to Dubai’s goal of becoming one of the happiest cities. This move makes Dubai Taxi the first in the UAE to introduce a postpaid model for transport services.

Tabby CEO Hosam Arab expressed excitement about extending flexible payment options through the partnership.

The UAE has urgently called for a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) meeting on December 29 to address the escalating situation in the West Bank and its potential impact on the viability of the two-state solution. The call comes amid reports of extremist settler violence and Israeli raids, posing a severe risk to the political horizon for Israel and Palestine.

The Gaza health ministry reports over 21,000 people killed and 55,603 wounded since the conflict erupted on October 7. Violence has also spread across the West Bank, with at least 314 Palestinians killed. A UN report emphasizes the rapidly deteriorating human rights situation and urges Israel to cease unlawful killings of Palestinians.

Israeli forces recently raided money exchange shops in the West Bank, alleging funding support for armed groups. The situation remains critical, prompting the UAE’s call for immediate UNSC intervention.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate Abu Dhabi’s BAPS Hindu Mandir on February 14, 2024. The opening will be marked with a ‘Festival of Harmony.’

The temple, representing the message of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (The World Is One Family), aims to be a spiritual space reflecting diverse cultures. The inauguration ceremony, led by Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj, will be invitation-only, with public access starting on February 18.

The temple, built on 27 acres, features intricate carvings depicting stories from Hindu scriptures, as well as narratives from various civilizations. The project, recognized by Modi, emphasizes India’s spiritual leadership on the global stage.

The temple is considered a “spiritual oasis for global harmony” and is expected to last over 1,000 years. Further details regarding the opening ceremony and registration can be found by downloading the app Festival of Harmony or visiting https://festivalofharmony.ae.

The UAE is experiencing thick fog, leading to red and yellow alerts issued by the National Centre of Meteorology.

The Abu Dhabi Police have reduced the speed limit to 80km/hr on certain roads due to poor visibility. The weather is expected to be fair to partly cloudy, with clouds in the east by afternoon. Residents are cautioned about reduced visibility until 10 am. The temperature is forecasted to drop to 7ºC in mountainous areas, while internal areas may reach a high of 29ºC.

Humidity is expected at night and Saturday morning, with a chance of fog or mist in coastal and internal areas. Light to moderate winds are anticipated, and the sea will be slight in the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea.

A family dispute over Christmas gifts in Largo, Florida, turned tragic as a 14-year-old brother fatally shot his 23-year-old sister during an argument. The incident occurred on Christmas Eve, and the conflict escalated at their grandmother’s house.

The sister, holding her 11-month-old son, attempted to intervene, but the 14-year-old shot her in the chest. The 15-year-old brother then retaliated by shooting the 14-year-old outside the home. The 14-year-old has been charged with first-degree murder, child abuse, and firearm possession, while the 15-year-old faces charges of attempted first-degree murder and tampering with evidence.

The latter has been taken to a mental health facility due to self-harm threats. Legal representation for the brothers is not yet reported.

As Dubai anticipates its grand New Year’s Eve celebrations, Dubai Police has released a detailed plan outlining road closures in key areas to ensure public safety and the smooth execution of festivities. Familiarize yourself with the following table depicting the areas and timings of road closures on this special night:

These closures are strategically implemented in Downtown Dubai, focusing on popular locations such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and surrounding areas. The restrictions are set to commence at 4:00 PM, well in advance of the anticipated rush for the annual Burj Khalifa fireworks display.

Metro and Tram Services

While the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station is slated to close at 5:00 PM or earlier if capacity is exceeded, the rest of the Metro’s Green and Red line network will operate continuously for an exceptional 40 hours, starting from 8:00 AM on New Year’s Eve. The Dubai Tram will also be in service for the same duration from 9:00 AM.

Enhanced Safety Measures

With a deployment of 10,000 officers across 32 firework display sites, Dubai Police is prioritizing public safety during the festivities. In addition to support tents equipped for lost and found reports, civil defence, ambulance services, and police staff, temporary toilets and food trucks have been strategically placed to enhance the overall visitor experience.

Urgent Reminders

To facilitate the smooth flow of events, attendees are urged to avoid carrying large bags, which may require searches and lead to delays in gaining access to events. Dubai Police emphasized adherence to laws and safety rules, requesting the public to refrain from taking pictures and videos while driving.

As Dubai transforms into a dazzling spectacle for New Year’s Eve, the outlined road closures and safety measures aim to provide residents and visitors with a secure and enjoyable celebration. Plan your routes accordingly, stay informed, and welcome the new year responsibly in the heart of Dubai’s vibrant celebrations!

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas stated that the Palestinian Authority is prepared to resume its responsibilities in Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem, forming a single Palestinian state, contingent on a comprehensive cessation of hostilities, the opening of borders for humanitarian aid, and preventing the forced displacement of Palestinians.

Abbas emphasized the need for a Palestinian state comprising the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem. His remarks come in the context of Egypt proposing a peace plan for post-war scenarios in Gaza. Abbas also reiterated that Fatah, the dominant faction in the Palestinian Authority, remains present in Gaza and is ready to assume governance.

Abbas expressed the devastating impact of the current conflict, describing it as worse than the Nakba of 1948, with extensive destruction and the need for substantial reconstruction efforts estimated in the tens of billions.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has initiated the delivery of potable water from its desalination facilities located in Rafah, Egypt, to shelters in the Gaza Strip.

This effort is part of the ‘Gallant Knight 3’ humanitarian operation, garnering positive reception from Gaza residents. The comprehensive water transfer involves pumping desalinated water from UAE’s Rafah plants to Gaza, facilitated by a newly installed 900-meter pipeline connecting the desalination facilities to the Gaza water network through the Egyptian borders.

Operating at full capacity, the three plants generate around 600,000 gallons of water daily, catering to the needs of approximately 300,000 Palestinians. Launched on November 5, 2023, the ‘Gallant Knight 3’ operation by the UAE aims to provide crucial humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza.