Queen Rania Al Abdullah of Jordan shared a powerful video from 2009, where she addressed the challenges faced by the people of Gaza.
In her Instagram post, she expressed deep sorrow that little has changed in the 14 years since. She emphasized that the world cannot remain silent and called for an end to the ongoing situation.
The recent attack on Gaza’s Al-Ahli al-Arabi hospital, which resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives, has sparked outrage and condemnation worldwide. Various world leaders and organizations have expressed their concerns and condolences.
Additionally, humanitarian efforts are underway, with the UAE launching a nationwide drive to collect relief for the vulnerable population of Gaza, particularly the children.
The UAE strongly condemns the Israeli missile strike on a Gaza hospital, where over 500 people lost their lives. The facility was crowded with wounded individuals and displaced residents seeking shelter. The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep regret for the loss of life and held Israel responsible.
They called for an immediate halt to hostilities and emphasized the protection of civilians and civilian institutions in line with international humanitarian law. The UAE urged the international community to work towards an immediate ceasefire and to strive for a comprehensive and just peace to prevent further violence and instability in the region.
Dr. Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the UAE President, stressed the importance of safeguarding innocent lives in times of conflict. Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey also joined the UAE in condemning Israel for the incident. The death toll in Gaza has now reached 3,000, with over 12,500 injured since the conflict began.
Several hospitals in Gaza are serving as shelters for those trying to evade bombardment after Israel ordered evacuations. The Israeli military denied responsibility for the strike, which has garnered condemnation from international organizations and nations worldwide.
The World Health Organization strongly condemns the attack and insists that healthcare should never be targeted according to international humanitarian law.
The UAE has initiated a nationwide humanitarian effort to collect and distribute relief for the vulnerable population in Gaza, particularly the over one million children. Donations, both monetary and in-kind, are being accepted through licensed humanitarian organizations like Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) and Unicef Gulf.
For monetary donations:
ERC offers various options, including Apple Pay, card, text message, or bank transfer. You can donate through this link: Emirates Red Crescent Gaza Donation.
Unicef Gulf accepts one-time and monthly donations. You can find more information at this link: Unicef Gulf Urgent Appeal.
For in-kind donations, ERC has provided lists of items needed in three categories: food basket, children’s basket, and women’s basket. The specified items and quantities for each category are listed in the article.
To drop off your donations, you can visit Emirates Red Crescent branches located across the UAE, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Al Dhafra, and Umm Al Quwain.
Additionally, several UAE businesses, including restaurants and baby shops, are contributing to the cause by donating a portion or all of their sales for a specified period. Some of the participating businesses are Mama Rita, Maiz, Mamaesh, Burro Blanco, The Palestinian Bakery, Rascals Deli, Koala Picks, Lullabae, Babies Basic, and Monkibox.
Al Ghurair Centre, one of Dubai’s oldest malls, is set for a major expansion. The mall, which opened in Deira in 1981, will introduce 25 new stores including popular brands like Nike, Pandora, Under Armour, and Levi’s.
These additions are scheduled to open this year, with more renowned brands slated for 2024. Additionally, the indoor theme park, Glitch, will undergo upgrades, including a laser tag space and a high-speed karting attraction, expected to be completed by 2024.
The mall will also feature a new food hall named Flayva, boasting 23 food and beverage units offering a mix of local and international cuisine. Further exciting developments are anticipated in the coming year.
Dubai is set to host its first eco-conscious music festival, EarthSoul, at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre from December 8 to 10.
The event will feature 20 international and local headliners, including Brit popstar Anne-Marie. The festival aims to unite music, art, and sustainability, putting green initiatives at the forefront. Each day will offer engaging workshops, discussions, and classes focused on education and inspiration.
Tickets are available on platinumlist.net, with single-day admission at AED157.50 and three-day access passes at AED414.75. VIP passes are also available for AED525 per day. The festival promises a blend of music, art, and environmental awareness.
Dubai’s most anticipated fitness event, the Dubai Fitness Challenge, is back and ready to kickstart a healthier November. Among the myriad of activities lined up, the Dubai Run, presented by Mai Dubai, stands out as the ultimate 30-day challenge. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or new to the city, this is your chance to be a part of the world’s largest fun run, set to take over Sheikh Zayed Road at sunrise on November 26, 2023.
The Dubai Fitness Challenge is an annual event that encourages individuals from all walks of life to embrace an active and healthier lifestyle. With a wide range of activities and events, it aims to create a fitter and happier community.
One of the most highly anticipated events within the challenge is the Dubai Run. This exhilarating run brings together thousands of enthusiastic participants, each eager to conquer the roads of Dubai. Whether you’re a seasoned runner seeking to beat your personal best or a beginner taking your first steps towards a healthier you, the Dubai Run offers an inclusive platform for all.
Mark your calendars for November 26, 2023, as the sun rises over Sheikh Zayed Road. This iconic location will serve as the backdrop for this thrilling fitness extravaganza. Participants will have the unique opportunity to run through the heart of Dubai, taking in the city’s breathtaking skyline.
Register Now!: Securing your spot in the Dubai Run 2023 is just a click away. Visit this link to register and be a part of this unforgettable fitness challenge. Early registration is recommended, as spots tend to fill up quickly.
This year, the Dubai Run is proudly presented by Mai Dubai, a brand synonymous with health and wellness. Their support underscores the shared commitment to promoting a healthier, more active lifestyle among Dubai residents.
The Dubai Fitness Challenge, culminating in the thrilling Dubai Run, promises a month of excitement, camaraderie, and personal triumphs. Don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of something extraordinary. Lace up your running shoes, mark November 26, and join us for a morning of fitness, fun, and a stronger, healthier you!
Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 3 now offers enhanced smart gates with facial recognition technology for quick passport control.
Five updated smart gates allow residents to pass through immigration by using their optic and facial prints. To use these gates, residents need to register with their passport or Emirates ID at DXB Terminal 3. During Gitex Global, visitors can register at the GDRFA stand.
The process involves simply looking at the green light on the camera without the need to scan any identification document. However, it’s advised to have your passport or boarding pass ready just in case.
Currently, facial recognition is available at five smart gates in Terminal 3 and will soon be implemented in Terminals 1 and 2.
Dubai’s Global Village has opened for its 28th season a week earlier than usual. Entry tickets are available online with a 10% discount. There are two types of tickets:
Value tickets (Sunday to Thursday, excluding public holidays): AED25 at the gate, AED22.5 online.
Any day tickets (valid for any day of the week, including weekends and holidays): AED30 at the gate, AED27 online.
Senior citizens, children under three, and people of determination plus one companion enter for free. Tickets are valid for single entry during Season 28.
Attractions such as the Stunt Show (AED20) and Ripley’s Believe It Or Not (AED45) have separate charges. Operating hours are:
Sunday to Wednesday: 4pm to 12am
Thursday to Saturday and public holidays: 4pm to 1am
Tuesdays (except public holidays) are for families and women only.
The Global Village features 27 country-themed pavilions showcasing culture, food, clothes, and performances. Fireworks light up the sky every Friday and Saturday at 9pm. Season 28 offers over 40,000 shows and 400 performers, including AINJAA, Urban Crew, Fusion Japan, and the Dhol Foundation.
Burro Blanco, a local Mexican restaurant in Dubai, is offering a free AED75 burrito to diners who can finish a massive 1.3kg chicken or beef wrap in 15 minutes.
The challenge, known as the ‘Big Burrito Challenge’, is available at both branches in Business Bay and Motor City.
The burrito is loaded with protein, rice, beans, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and cheese. Those unable to finish within the time limit will be charged AED75 for the meal.
Additionally, Burro Blanco has introduced three healthy bowls to their menu, catering to various dietary preferences. The restaurant is open daily from 11am to midnight.
On November 12, residents and tourists in Dubai will have the opportunity to participate in a Guinness World Record attempt for the largest high-intensity interval training class on Sheikh Zayed Road.
This event, organized by adidas, Les Mills, and DFC, is open to individuals aged 16 and above. Participants will be guided through a workout led by world-class trainers against the backdrop of the Museum of the Future. The event is open to all UAE residents, regardless of fitness level, and aims to create a historical fitness achievement.
The session begins at 5 am, with Sheikh Zayed Road closing ahead of the Dubai Run. Registration is done through the adidas app, where participants can join the event after downloading the app.
The current record for the largest high-intensity interval training class is 3,804 participants.
