<p>The first Foreign Direct Investment project of building a mall in Srinagar was kick-started on Sunday, March 19, by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha.</p>

<p>The foundation stone was laid for “Mall of Srinagar” which is to be built by UAE-based construction company EMAAR Group at Sempora area on the outskirts of Srinagar. The Rs 250-crore project will be built on 1 million square feet of area and be ready by 2026.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-swords-indian-jewelry-trump-failed-to-disclose-300000-foreign-gifts-says-house-democrats-report-573515">Saudi swords, Indian jewellery: Trump failed to disclose $300,000 foreign gifts, says House Democrats' report</a></p>

<p>The Mall of Srinagar and allied projects with the government in Dubai are expected to fuel the economic growth of J&amp;K and help achieve the shared vision of strengthening bilateral trade and investment ties between India and UAE.</p>

<p>The mega-mall is the first significant FDI investment in Jammu and Kashmir to facilitate marquee projects as per the MoU signed between the governments of the UAE and India. Launched by Emaar and Magna Waves Buildtech, the mall is set to become operational by 2026.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A new dawn of limitless possibilities. Taking forward Hon'ble PM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji's vision for development of J&amp;K, laid the foundation stone of Mall of Srinagar by Emaar. It will have transformative impact on UT &amp; boost infrastructure, employment generation &amp; ease of living. <a href="https://t.co/2GrYHvBUts">pic.twitter.com/2GrYHvBUts</a></p>
— Office of LG J&amp;K (@OfficeOfLGJandK) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficeOfLGJandK/status/1637357818612264961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Soon after the inauguration, LG Manoj Sinha said this is a new dawn of limitless possibilities. “We are taking forward Hon'ble PM Shri Narendra Modi ji’s vision for development of J&amp;K. Mall of Srinagar will have transformative impact on UT &amp; boost infrastructure, employment generation and ease of living, said the Lt Governor."</p>

<p>The Lt Governor highlighted the progressive reforms introduced under the guidance of the prime minister to create a favourable environment for industries and businesses to flourish in J&amp;K.</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mumbais-air-pollution-aqi-continues-to-remain-poor-indian-city-witnesses-most-polluted-winters-573472">Mumbai's air pollution: AQI continues to remain poor, Indian city witnesses most polluted winters</a></p>

<p>“Unprecedented industrial investment &amp; economic growth of J&amp;K is laying the foundation for a stronger and more prosperous future for the people of Union Territory. Within 22 months of implementation of New Industrial Policy, we have received investment proposals from more than 5000 domestic and foreign companies. Every day, eight companies have expressed their willingness to invest in J&amp;K. A new industry is becoming operational in the UT every day. Last month, 45 industries started their operations,"&nbsp;said the Lt Governor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In January 2022, during the investor meet at Dubai, J&amp;K Government entered into a bilateral agreement with various stakeholders and Government of UAE to deliver over a billion dollars' worth of projects in the valley. These projects include the development of industrial parks, a medical college, a specialty hospital, logistics centres, IT towers, and multipurpose towers, in addition to the Mall of Srinagar by Emaar.<br />
<br />
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The first Foreign Direct Investment project of building a mall in Srinagar was kick-started on Sunday, March 19, by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha.

The first Foreign Direct Investment project of building a mall in Srinagar was kick-started on Sunday, March 19, by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha. The foundation stone was laid for “Mall of Srinagar” which is to be built by UAE-based construction company EMAAR Group at Sempora area on the outskirts of Srinagar. The Rs 250-crore project will be built on 1 million square feet of area and be ready by 2026. Also Read | Saudi swords, Indian jewellery: Trump failed to disclose $300,000 foreign gifts, says House Democrats' report The Mall of Srinagar and allied projects with the government in Dubai are expected to fuel the economic growth of J&K and help achieve the shared vision of strengthening bilateral trade and investment ties between India and UAE. The mega-mall is the first significant FDI investment in Jammu and Kashmir to facilitate marquee projects as per the MoU signed between the governments of the UAE and India. Launched by Emaar and Magna Waves Buildtech, the mall is set to become operational by 2026. A new dawn of limitless possibilities. Taking forward Hon'ble PM Shri @narendramodi ji's vision for development of J&K, laid the foundation stone of Mall of Srinagar by Emaar. It will have transformative impact on UT & boost infrastructure, employment generation & ease of living. pic.twitter.com/2GrYHvBUts — Office of LG J&K (@OfficeOfLGJandK) March 19, 2023 × Soon after the inauguration, LG Manoj Sinha said this is a new dawn of limitless possibilities. “We are taking forward Hon'ble PM Shri Narendra Modi ji’s vision for development of J&K. Mall of Srinagar will have transformative impact on UT & boost infrastructure, employment generation and ease of living, said the Lt Governor." The Lt Governor highlighted the progressive reforms introduced under the guidance of the prime minister to create a favourable environment for industries and businesses to flourish in J&K. Watch | Mumbai's air pollution: AQI continues to remain poor, Indian city witnesses most polluted winters “Unprecedented industrial investment & economic growth of J&K is laying the foundation for a stronger and more prosperous future for the people of Union Territory. Within 22 months of implementation of New Industrial Policy, we have received investment proposals from more than 5000 domestic and foreign companies. Every day, eight companies have expressed their willingness to invest in J&K. A new industry is becoming operational in the UT every day. Last month, 45 industries started their operations," said the Lt Governor. In January 2022, during the investor meet at Dubai, J&K Government entered into a bilateral agreement with various stakeholders and Government of UAE to deliver over a billion dollars' worth of projects in the valley. These projects include the development of industrial parks, a medical college, a specialty hospital, logistics centres, IT towers, and multipurpose towers, in addition to the Mall of Srinagar by Emaar. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Foundation stone of J&K’s first foreign investment project laid, ‘Mall of Srinagar’ to be built by UAE's EMAAR

<p>United Arab Emirates authorities have arbitrarily detained up to 2,700 Afghans for over 15 months in the “Emirates Humanitarian City,” a humanitarian logistics hub in Abu Dhabi, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said in its report Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Responding to the accusations made in the HRW report, a&nbsp;UAE official acknowledged that there was a delay in helping remaining Afghan evacuees resettle as per the&nbsp;original agreement with the&nbsp;US and other international partners, and assured that they are&nbsp;committed to ensuring the safety, security and dignity of the refugees.</p>

<p>"We understand that there are frustrations and this has taken longer than intended to complete," the official told Reuters news agency.</p>

<p>In the report, HRW urged UAE to "urgently" release those arbitrarily detained and provide access to fair and efficient processes for determining their status and protection needs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Emirati authorities have kept thousands of Afghan asylum seekers locked up for over 15 months in cramped, miserable conditions with no hope of progress on their cases,” said United Arab Emirates researcher at Human Rights Watch Joey Shea. “After enduring significant trauma fleeing Afghanistan, they are facing further trauma now, after spending well over a year in limbo in the UAE.”</p>

<p>In the aftermath of the Taliban's takeover of Kabul, the reports said UAE government took thousands of Afghans on private chartered flights to Abu Dhabi, and then transferred them to the Emirates Humanitarian City and Tasameem Workers City (TWC), another housing facility.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Human Rights Watch interviewed many Afghans detained in the UAE in October and November last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Afghans interviewed reported constraints on their freedom of movement, lack of access to fair and effective refugee status determination and safe and legal pathways for onward movement, lack of adequate access to legal counsel, and inadequate education services for children. With no psychosocial support, many adults and children are suffering from depression and other mental health conditions," the report stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It elaborated that the living conditions have also deteriorated significantly as detainees are kept under overcrowded conditions where there is poor infrastructure and risk of insect infestations.</p>

<p>“The camp is exactly like a prison,” one Afghan told HRW. Another Afghan expressed concerns saying they don’t know about "our future and we don’t know our destination.”</p>

<p>The UAE should ensure that Afghans have access to counsel and legal services, Human Rights Watch said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bsf-protecting-borders-ready-to-give-befitting-reply-to-any-infiltration-attempt-572259">India: BSF protecting borders, ready to give befitting reply to any infiltration attempt</a></p>

<p>The report revealed that those who are trying to apply for US resettlement are not getting fair and effective opportunities for onward movement. They said they had severely limited access to UAE or US consulate officials or other officials, it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ola-electric-offers-free-upgrade-of-front-fork-in-s1-s1-pro-scooters-amid-controversy-572281">Ola Electric offers free upgrade of front fork in S1, S1 pro scooters amid controversy</a></p>

<p>Moreover, the Human Right Watch wrote to the United Arab Emirates Ministries of Interior and Foreign Affairs and the US Department of State seeking comment about the findings. The United Arab Emirates Ministries of Interior and Foreign Affairs have not responded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Human Rights Watch said immigration detention should be an exceptional measure of last resort, for the shortest period, and only if justified by a legitimate purpose.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/48-teams-104-matches-has-fifa-devalued-the-football-world-cup-572274">48 teams, 104 matches: Has FIFA devalued the football World Cup?</a></p>

<p>“Governments should not ignore the shocking plight of these Afghans stranded in limbo in the UAE,” Shea said. “The US government in particular, which coordinated the 2021 evacuations and with whom many evacuees worked before the Taliban takeover, should immediately step up and intervene to provide support and protection for these asylum seekers.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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United Arab Emirates authorities have arbitrarily detained up to 2,700 Afghans for over 15 months in the “Emirates Humanitarian City,” a humanitarian logistics hub in Abu Dhabi, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said in its report Wednesday.

United Arab Emirates authorities have arbitrarily detained up to 2,700 Afghans for over 15 months in the “Emirates Humanitarian City,” a humanitarian logistics hub in Abu Dhabi, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said in its report Wednesday. Responding to the accusations made in the HRW report, a UAE official acknowledged that there was a delay in helping remaining Afghan evacuees resettle as per the original agreement with the US and other international partners, and assured that they are committed to ensuring the safety, security and dignity of the refugees. "We understand that there are frustrations and this has taken longer than intended to complete," the official told Reuters news agency. In the report, HRW urged UAE to "urgently" release those arbitrarily detained and provide access to fair and efficient processes for determining their status and protection needs. “Emirati authorities have kept thousands of Afghan asylum seekers locked up for over 15 months in cramped, miserable conditions with no hope of progress on their cases,” said United Arab Emirates researcher at Human Rights Watch Joey Shea. “After enduring significant trauma fleeing Afghanistan, they are facing further trauma now, after spending well over a year in limbo in the UAE.” In the aftermath of the Taliban's takeover of Kabul, the reports said UAE government took thousands of Afghans on private chartered flights to Abu Dhabi, and then transferred them to the Emirates Humanitarian City and Tasameem Workers City (TWC), another housing facility. Human Rights Watch interviewed many Afghans detained in the UAE in October and November last year. "Afghans interviewed reported constraints on their freedom of movement, lack of access to fair and effective refugee status determination and safe and legal pathways for onward movement, lack of adequate access to legal counsel, and inadequate education services for children. With no psychosocial support, many adults and children are suffering from depression and other mental health conditions," the report stated. It elaborated that the living conditions have also deteriorated significantly as detainees are kept under overcrowded conditions where there is poor infrastructure and risk of insect infestations. “The camp is exactly like a prison,” one Afghan told HRW. Another Afghan expressed concerns saying they don’t know about "our future and we don’t know our destination.” The UAE should ensure that Afghans have access to counsel and legal services, Human Rights Watch said. Also Read | India: BSF protecting borders, ready to give befitting reply to any infiltration attempt The report revealed that those who are trying to apply for US resettlement are not getting fair and effective opportunities for onward movement. They said they had severely limited access to UAE or US consulate officials or other officials, it added. Also Read | Ola Electric offers free upgrade of front fork in S1, S1 pro scooters amid controversy Moreover, the Human Right Watch wrote to the United Arab Emirates Ministries of Interior and Foreign Affairs and the US Department of State seeking comment about the findings. The United Arab Emirates Ministries of Interior and Foreign Affairs have not responded. Human Rights Watch said immigration detention should be an exceptional measure of last resort, for the shortest period, and only if justified by a legitimate purpose. Watch | 48 teams, 104 matches: Has FIFA devalued the football World Cup? “Governments should not ignore the shocking plight of these Afghans stranded in limbo in the UAE,” Shea said. “The US government in particular, which coordinated the 2021 evacuations and with whom many evacuees worked before the Taliban takeover, should immediately step up and intervene to provide support and protection for these asylum seekers.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Human Rights Watch accuses UAE of detaining Afghan evacuees for over a year, govt responds 

One of the agendas of India's G20 Presidency is mutual cooperation in cross-border payments and innovation in payment technology. The RBI has now signed the MoU, with UAE's exploration of cross-linking of two countries' CBDC's.

India takes step towards Global Rupee Trade, signs Digital Currency deal with UAE

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday said he was offered premiership by former army chief General (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa prior to 2018 general election, but he declined. Watch the video to know more.

Sharif: Refused military's 2018 offer to be PM

Vikram Chandra speaks to India's Ambassador to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, on how an extensive Indian diaspora has emerged in the UAE, and why some jokingly call Dubai 'India's best city'.

The India Story | Ambassador Sunjay Sudhir on India-UAE ties

Contact between the UAE and India has been traced back as far back as 3000 BC, and the two countries look forward to a partnership based on innovation, science, and technology. We track the UAE and India's special relationship.

The India Story | How the UAE and India built up their special relationship

The UAE-based telecoms group e& has increased its stake in Vodafone to 14 per cent, saying its rationale was unchanged from May 2022 when it bought a 9.8 per cent stake to “enhance and develop its international portfolio”.

Vodafone's biggest shareholder UAE's e& ups stake to 14%

The United Arab Emirates has expressed its plans to buy a dozen Chinese l-15 aircraft as it seeks to bolster its defenses after a series of attacks by the Yemeni rebels.

UAE seals deal with China for L-15 trainer aircraft

India-UAE's Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is going to complete one year in the next few months. It was signed last year where India-UAE have targeted over $100 billion in bilateral trade.

CEPA trade pact with India successful, says UAE | World Business Watch | WION

<p>Dubai is once more preparing for the launch of flying taxis, providing its firmest details to date on Sunday (February 13) for a projected launch by 2026.Since 2017, the United Arab Emirates' commercial capital has made promises to bring flying taxis to the city, which is already home to the tallest structure in the world as well as other architectural marvels. The World Government Summit in Dubai, whose 2018 iteration began on Monday, has seen a number of various sorts and companies go through those agreements as well.</p>

<p>Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, tweeted on Sunday about the beginning of the flying taxi service.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="ar">من القمة العالمية للحكومات .. اعتمدنا اليوم تصميم محطات التاكسي الجوي الجديدة في دبي .. والتي ستبدأ عملها خلال ٣ سنوات .. <a href="https://t.co/tGQyPFVDUD">pic.twitter.com/tGQyPFVDUD</a></p>
— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) <a href="https://twitter.com/HHShkMohd/status/1624760548100382721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Officials from the Emirati nation did not provide a reason for why Joby Aviation was included instead of the Chinese-made EHang 184 and XPeng X2 or the German-made electric Volocopter, which were all previously on exhibit in Dubai. At a stand at the World Government Summit on Monday, Joby aircraft were featured.</p>

<p>“We’re excited about the opportunity and actively exploring the possibility,” said Oliver Walker-Jones, a spokesman for Joby Aviation told the Associated Press.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The unveiling of programme details is another distinction between this year's promise and last year's involving flying taxis. The city intends to build four "vertiports" near the manmade Palm Jumeirah archipelago, Dubai Marina, downtown Dubai, and the busiest international airport in the world, Dubai International Airport. Four flying taxi charging stations and two launch pads will be located at those locations.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/saudi-arabia-tops-list-of-gulf-countries-employing-indians-in-2022-560407">Saudi Arabia tops list of Gulf countries giving employment to Indians in 2022</a></p>

<p>“We believe those are attractive areas with business hubs and tourist hubs that could generate considerable demand,”&nbsp;Ahmed Bahrozyan, an official in the emirate’s Roads and Transport Authority, who spoke to the Associated Press said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pricing for the flying taxis “will be in the range of a limousine service in Dubai, maybe slightly higher”,&nbsp;Bahrozyan said. The RTA describes limo services rates as “at least 30 per cent higher than taxi fares” in the city.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India's Operation Dost: Seventh flight to Turkey and Syria with relief materials lands</strong></p>

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<p>The RTA's decision to first use piloted flying taxis rather than autonomous ones, as previously discussed, is another departure from earlier plans. As per&nbsp;Bahrozyan, the pilot would have seats for passengers, just as Joby's electric flying taxi. The use of autonomous flying taxis would also be tested, according to Bahrozyan.</p>

<p>As the UAE is all set to&nbsp;host the forthcoming United Nations COP28 climate talks later this year, there is also a desire to move away from carbon-emitting gasoline and diesel vehicles.&nbsp;The Emirates intends to increase its crude oil production in order to achieve the desired "carbon-neutral" future by 2050.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Dubai is once more preparing for the launch of flying taxis, providing its firmest details to date on Sunday (February 13) for a projected launch by 2026.Since 2017, the United Arab Emirates' commercial capital has made promises to bring flying taxis to the city, which is already home to the tallest structure in the world as well as other architectural marvels.

Dubai is once more preparing for the launch of flying taxis, providing its firmest details to date on Sunday (February 13) for a projected launch by 2026.Since 2017, the United Arab Emirates' commercial capital has made promises to bring flying taxis to the city, which is already home to the tallest structure in the world as well as other architectural marvels. The World Government Summit in Dubai, whose 2018 iteration began on Monday, has seen a number of various sorts and companies go through those agreements as well. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, tweeted on Sunday about the beginning of the flying taxi service. من القمة العالمية للحكومات .. اعتمدنا اليوم تصميم محطات التاكسي الجوي الجديدة في دبي .. والتي ستبدأ عملها خلال ٣ سنوات .. pic.twitter.com/tGQyPFVDUD — HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) February 12, 2023 × Officials from the Emirati nation did not provide a reason for why Joby Aviation was included instead of the Chinese-made EHang 184 and XPeng X2 or the German-made electric Volocopter, which were all previously on exhibit in Dubai. At a stand at the World Government Summit on Monday, Joby aircraft were featured. “We’re excited about the opportunity and actively exploring the possibility,” said Oliver Walker-Jones, a spokesman for Joby Aviation told the Associated Press. The unveiling of programme details is another distinction between this year's promise and last year's involving flying taxis. The city intends to build four "vertiports" near the manmade Palm Jumeirah archipelago, Dubai Marina, downtown Dubai, and the busiest international airport in the world, Dubai International Airport. Four flying taxi charging stations and two launch pads will be located at those locations. Also read | Saudi Arabia tops list of Gulf countries giving employment to Indians in 2022 “We believe those are attractive areas with business hubs and tourist hubs that could generate considerable demand,” Ahmed Bahrozyan, an official in the emirate’s Roads and Transport Authority, who spoke to the Associated Press said. The pricing for the flying taxis “will be in the range of a limousine service in Dubai, maybe slightly higher”, Bahrozyan said. The RTA describes limo services rates as “at least 30 per cent higher than taxi fares” in the city. Also watch | India's Operation Dost: Seventh flight to Turkey and Syria with relief materials lands The RTA's decision to first use piloted flying taxis rather than autonomous ones, as previously discussed, is another departure from earlier plans. As per Bahrozyan, the pilot would have seats for passengers, just as Joby's electric flying taxi. The use of autonomous flying taxis would also be tested, according to Bahrozyan. As the UAE is all set to host the forthcoming United Nations COP28 climate talks later this year, there is also a desire to move away from carbon-emitting gasoline and diesel vehicles. The Emirates intends to increase its crude oil production in order to achieve the desired "carbon-neutral" future by 2050. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Dubai plans to introduce flying taxis once more, this time by 2026

Among the world's biggest oil exporters, The UAE is hosting the next global climate talks. Ahead of the COP28 summit, the Emiratis are pushing for clean green energy with its latest and among the biggest solar plants. @ghadifrancis gets you the story on this week's #TheWestAsiaPost only on @wionews

The West Asia Post: UAE unveils mega solar plant

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in West Asia last week, where he held three crucial meetings with regional leaders. Did the three-day quick trip fulfill Washington's hopes? Ghadi Francis decodes the story on this week's The West Asia Post only on WION.

The West Asia Post: Blinken's crucial West Asia visit

<p>Mortal remains of former Pakistan President General Retd Pervez Musharraf were brought to Karachi, Pakistan, in a UAE jet. His last rites will be held on Tuesday, 7 February at 1:45 PM PKT in Karachi.&nbsp;The jet landed at 9:52 PM Pakistan Standard Time on 7 February.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former military ruler of Pakistan, Musharraf was an architect of the Kargil War in 1999 and Pakistan's last military ruler. He died on Sunday in Dubai after a prolonged illness.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 79-year-old retired general, who had been living in self-exile in the UAE since 2016, was receiving treatment at American Hospital Dubai for amyloidosis.&nbsp; According to reports, Musharraf's wife Saba, son Bilal, daughter, and other close relatives arrived with the body aboard the particular Airbus 319 of Malta aviation, which had been organised by the UAE government.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-witnesses-largest-healthcare-worker-strikes-in-history-of-nhs-559343">Britain witnesses largest healthcare worker strikes in history of NHS</a></p>

<p>Musharraf was born on August 11, 1943, in New Delhi, India. He was four years old when his parents joined the mass exodus to the newly created state of Pakistan. Musharraf's father served in Pakistan's foreign ministry while his mother was a teacher. &nbsp;</p>

<p>He became one of the important allies of the United States after the September 11, 2001 attacks. He allowed American security forces to operate armed drones from secret bases on Pakistani soil which killed thousands and ordered domestic troops into the country’s lawless tribal areas along the Afghanistan frontier. This helped legitimise Musharraf's rule overseas but also plunged Islamabad into a war against local extremist militant groups.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkiye-earthquake-video-captures-tv-reporter-comforting-young-girl-during-live-report-559333">Turkiye earthquake: Video captures TV reporter comforting young girl during live report</a></p>

<p>Musharraf, who got elected as Pakistan's 10th president through a referendum in 2002 after seizing power in a bloodless coup in 1999, attempted to usher in socially liberal values in the country and economic growth.&nbsp;The later years of Musharraf's presidency were overshadowed, by his increasingly authoritarian rule. In 2006, Musharraf ordered military action that killed a tribal head from the province of Balochistan.</p>

<p>In 2007, over 100 students who called for the imposition of Sharia law were killed after Musharraf shunned negotiations and ordered troops to storm a mosque in Islamabad. This led to the birth of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, which has since killed tens of thousands of civilians.&nbsp;In 2008, when Pakistan's first democratic elections in 11 years were held, Musharraf's party – Pakistan Muslim League (Q) lost and he resigned from the presidency as he faced impeachment by parliament and fled to London.</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkiye-and-syria-struck-by-powerful-earthquakes-559346">Turkiye and Syria struck by powerful earthquakes</a></p>

<p>He came back to Pakistan in 2013 to run for a seat in Parliament but was immediately disqualified. He was allowed to leave for Dubai in 2016.</p>

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Mortal remains of former Pakistan President General Retd Pervez Musharraf were brought to Karachi, Pakistan, in a UAE jet. His last rites will be held on Tuesday, 7 February at 1:45 PM PKT in Karachi.

Mortal remains of former Pakistan President General Retd Pervez Musharraf were brought to Karachi, Pakistan, in a UAE jet. His last rites will be held on Tuesday, 7 February at 1:45 PM PKT in Karachi. The jet landed at 9:52 PM Pakistan Standard Time on 7 February. Former military ruler of Pakistan, Musharraf was an architect of the Kargil War in 1999 and Pakistan's last military ruler. He died on Sunday in Dubai after a prolonged illness. The 79-year-old retired general, who had been living in self-exile in the UAE since 2016, was receiving treatment at American Hospital Dubai for amyloidosis. According to reports, Musharraf's wife Saba, son Bilal, daughter, and other close relatives arrived with the body aboard the particular Airbus 319 of Malta aviation, which had been organised by the UAE government. Also Read | Britain witnesses largest healthcare worker strikes in history of NHS Musharraf was born on August 11, 1943, in New Delhi, India. He was four years old when his parents joined the mass exodus to the newly created state of Pakistan. Musharraf's father served in Pakistan's foreign ministry while his mother was a teacher. He became one of the important allies of the United States after the September 11, 2001 attacks. He allowed American security forces to operate armed drones from secret bases on Pakistani soil which killed thousands and ordered domestic troops into the country’s lawless tribal areas along the Afghanistan frontier. This helped legitimise Musharraf's rule overseas but also plunged Islamabad into a war against local extremist militant groups. Also Read | Turkiye earthquake: Video captures TV reporter comforting young girl during live report Musharraf, who got elected as Pakistan's 10th president through a referendum in 2002 after seizing power in a bloodless coup in 1999, attempted to usher in socially liberal values in the country and economic growth. The later years of Musharraf's presidency were overshadowed, by his increasingly authoritarian rule. In 2006, Musharraf ordered military action that killed a tribal head from the province of Balochistan. In 2007, over 100 students who called for the imposition of Sharia law were killed after Musharraf shunned negotiations and ordered troops to storm a mosque in Islamabad. This led to the birth of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, which has since killed tens of thousands of civilians. In 2008, when Pakistan's first democratic elections in 11 years were held, Musharraf's party – Pakistan Muslim League (Q) lost and he resigned from the presidency as he faced impeachment by parliament and fled to London. Watch | Turkiye and Syria struck by powerful earthquakes He came back to Pakistan in 2013 to run for a seat in Parliament but was immediately disqualified. He was allowed to leave for Dubai in 2016. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pervez Musharraf’s mortal remains arrived in Karachi, last rites to be held today

<p>A landmark legislation came into effect in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on February&nbsp;1 which will fasten up the process of marriage for non-Muslim expatriates or non-Muslims living in the Middle East country. This legislation overhaul in the UAE's judicial system holds extreme significance as the old laws required non-Muslim couples to marry and divorce by following the country's Sharia law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, under the new Personal Status Law for non-Muslims, family matters like marriage, divorce, inheritance, will, child custody and paternity will be covered without following the Sharia law.&nbsp;Expatriates earlier had to go through the UAE's Sharia law to get married or divorce, even if it differed from the laws in their own home country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrat-ilhan-omar-ousted-from-house-foreign-affairs-committee-for-her-anti-semitic-comments-558401">Democrat Ilhan Omar ousted from House Foreign Affairs Committee for her anti-Semitic comments</a></p>

<p>The reforms were first approved by the late UAE president Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan on 27 November 2021. Out of the seven emirates, only Abu Dhabi adopted the new reforms in November last year but now the law will be extended to all the seven emirates including Dubai, Fujairah, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-parliament-lifts-waives-immunity-from-prosecution-of-two-lawmakers-in-graft-probe-558350">EU Parliament waives immunity from prosecution of two lawmakers in bribery scam probe</a></p>

<p>Under the new law, which Abu Dhabi has already implemented, more than 6,000 couples from 127 nations tied the knot. According to Khaleej Times, the majority of those who tied the knot were Filipinos. As many as 2,300 Filipino couples, 830 Indian couples and many Americans, Russians, Lebanese, Nigerians, and Europeans have tied the knot under the new civil law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharing the experience under the new legislation, Immaculate Twebaze, a&nbsp;Ugandan,&nbsp;told Khaleej Times, “The process was quick, easy and affordable. For real, we had remarkable and beautiful moments which will never fade away from our minds.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-operation-miracle-save-the-oceans-rarest-marine-mammal-wion-climate-tracker-558397">Will 'Operation Miracle' save the ocean's rarest marine mammal?&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>“The hospitality shown right from the main entrance, the blissfulness, smiles from all court staff, make you feel that marriage is a blessing from God and it's a right path to be taken.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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A landmark legislation came into effect in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on February 1 which will fasten up the process of marriage for non-Muslim expatriates or non-Muslims living in the Middle East country.

A landmark legislation came into effect in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on February 1 which will fasten up the process of marriage for non-Muslim expatriates or non-Muslims living in the Middle East country. This legislation overhaul in the UAE's judicial system holds extreme significance as the old laws required non-Muslim couples to marry and divorce by following the country's Sharia law. However, under the new Personal Status Law for non-Muslims, family matters like marriage, divorce, inheritance, will, child custody and paternity will be covered without following the Sharia law. Expatriates earlier had to go through the UAE's Sharia law to get married or divorce, even if it differed from the laws in their own home country. Also Read | Democrat Ilhan Omar ousted from House Foreign Affairs Committee for her anti-Semitic comments The reforms were first approved by the late UAE president Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan on 27 November 2021. Out of the seven emirates, only Abu Dhabi adopted the new reforms in November last year but now the law will be extended to all the seven emirates including Dubai, Fujairah, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah. Also Read | EU Parliament waives immunity from prosecution of two lawmakers in bribery scam probe Under the new law, which Abu Dhabi has already implemented, more than 6,000 couples from 127 nations tied the knot. According to Khaleej Times, the majority of those who tied the knot were Filipinos. As many as 2,300 Filipino couples, 830 Indian couples and many Americans, Russians, Lebanese, Nigerians, and Europeans have tied the knot under the new civil law. Sharing the experience under the new legislation, Immaculate Twebaze, a Ugandan, told Khaleej Times, “The process was quick, easy and affordable. For real, we had remarkable and beautiful moments which will never fade away from our minds.” Watch | Will 'Operation Miracle' save the ocean's rarest marine mammal? “The hospitality shown right from the main entrance, the blissfulness, smiles from all court staff, make you feel that marriage is a blessing from God and it's a right path to be taken.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

More non-Muslim expats tie knot in UAE since adoption of new law on civil marriage

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed arrived in crisis-ridden Pakistan for a two-day visit to meet with the country’s Prime Minister Rahim Shehbaz Sharif, as the country plunges into an economic mess.

UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed visits Pakistan as its economy crumbles

<p>South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol arrived in Abu Dhabi, UAE, as part of his official visit where he is expected to expand the sale of his country’s military equipment here.</p>

<p>On Sunday, Suk Yeol received an honour of guard welcome at Qasr Al Watan palace, where he was greeted by Emirati leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who assumed office in May after serving as the country's de facto ruler for years.</p>

<p>South Korea and UAE’s trade deals are worth billions of dollars, and the Asian country’s special forces troops have been stationed in UAE, an arrangement that drew criticism under his liberal predecessor.</p>

<p>It is believed that the South Korean leader’s visit is more focused towards the trade deals as the country’s military links with UAE have been sharply criticised.</p>

<p>South Korea's Yonhap news agency quoted Sheikh Mohammed as saying that the UAE is looking to invest $30 billion in South Korea.</p>

<p>“We decided to make the investment with confidence in the Republic of Korea that keeps its promises under all circumstances,” he said.</p>

<p>However, the report did not elaborate on the details of the investment.</p>

<p>Before Yoon's trip began, South Korean officials described the visit as seeking to solidify the ties between the two countries.</p>

<p>“This visit will strengthen strategic co-operation with our brother country UAE in the four core cooperative sectors of nuclear power, energy, investment and defence,” Kim Sung-han, director of national security in Yoon’s government, said</p>

<p>Yonhap quoted an anonymous presidency official on Saturday saying that an arms deal was planned.</p>

<p>"The atmosphere is extremely ripe for security or military co-operation between South Korea and the UAE involving the arms industry,” the official reportedly said.</p>

<p>&nbsp;(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol arrived in Abu Dhabi, UAE, as part of his official visit where he is expected to expand the sale of his country’s military equipment here.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol arrived in Abu Dhabi, UAE, as part of his official visit where he is expected to expand the sale of his country’s military equipment here. On Sunday, Suk Yeol received an honour of guard welcome at Qasr Al Watan palace, where he was greeted by Emirati leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who assumed office in May after serving as the country's de facto ruler for years. South Korea and UAE’s trade deals are worth billions of dollars, and the Asian country’s special forces troops have been stationed in UAE, an arrangement that drew criticism under his liberal predecessor. It is believed that the South Korean leader’s visit is more focused towards the trade deals as the country’s military links with UAE have been sharply criticised. South Korea's Yonhap news agency quoted Sheikh Mohammed as saying that the UAE is looking to invest $30 billion in South Korea. “We decided to make the investment with confidence in the Republic of Korea that keeps its promises under all circumstances,” he said. However, the report did not elaborate on the details of the investment. Before Yoon's trip began, South Korean officials described the visit as seeking to solidify the ties between the two countries. “This visit will strengthen strategic co-operation with our brother country UAE in the four core cooperative sectors of nuclear power, energy, investment and defence,” Kim Sung-han, director of national security in Yoon’s government, said Yonhap quoted an anonymous presidency official on Saturday saying that an arms deal was planned. "The atmosphere is extremely ripe for security or military co-operation between South Korea and the UAE involving the arms industry,” the official reportedly said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

South Korean president arrives in UAE amidst focus on expanding arms sales

<p>Skipper Shafali Verma cracked a blistering 78 while opener Shweta Sehrawat sparkled with an unbeaten 74 as India outplayed UAE by 122 runs in the inaugural Women's U-19 T20 World Cup on Monday.</p>

<p>Shafali (78 off 34 balls) was at her destructive best and joined forces with an equally belligerent Sehrawat (74 not out off 49 deliveries) before Richa Ghosh smacked a 29-ball 49 to help India post an imposing 219 for three at Willowmoore Park.</p>

<p>The Indian bowlers then restricted UAE to 97 for five, the result showing the gulf between the two sides. With the win, India have consolidated their top spot in Group D.</p>

<p>Invited to bat, Shafali, who has already played over 70 international matches for the senior team, including 51 T20Is, and Sehrawat, stitched a 111-run stand for the first wicket.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Another day, another win for our strong young women at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U19T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U19T20WorldCup</a>. An amazing match through and through, as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> dominated <a href="https://twitter.com/EmiratesCricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmiratesCricket</a> in both innings. Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCIWomen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCIWomen</a>! <a href="https://t.co/m2lcSg3zhi">pic.twitter.com/m2lcSg3zhi</a></p>
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah/status/1614960417784332288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Sehrawat made her intentions clear from the first over, and after playing two dots, she smacked three boundaries to plunder 12 runs.</p>

<p>Shafali followed suit in the next over as she also hit three fours. The 18-year-old got the first maximum of the Indian innings in the fifth over.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shafali-verma-picked-to-lead-india-at-the-maiden-under-19-world-cup-540134"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Shafali Verma picked to lead India at the maiden Under-19 World Cup</strong></a></p>

<p>Shafali was the aggressor in the partnership as she toyed with the opposition, hitting boundaries at will. She brought up her fifty in style with a four.</p>

<p>The UAE bowlers seemed clueless as Shafali sent the ball to the fence 12 times and over it four times in her fiery 34-ball innings. After hitting three sixes and a four in a span of five balls, Shafali's blazing knock came to an end as she was caught at long-off.</p>

<p>Sehrawat, who remained unbeaten on 92 in the previous game, played the role of sheet anchor to perfection. She brought up her second successive half-century and looked in complete control.</p>

<p>Misfields and dropped catches only compounded UAE's woes as they gave as many as four reprieves to Richa, who was promoted to number three.</p>

<p>Chasing a 200-plus target, UAE openers looked up to the challenge as Theertha Satish found the boundary four times in the first over.</p>

<p>However, the charge was shortlived as Shabnam MD dismissed her in the fifth ball. Fellow opener Lavanya Keny scored a painstakingly slow 54-ball 24 but UAE never seemed in contention.</p>

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Skipper Shafali Verma cracked a blistering 78 while opener Shweta Sehrawat sparkled with an unbeaten 74 as India outplayed UAE by 122 runs in the inaugural Women's U-19 T20 World Cup on Monday.

Skipper Shafali Verma cracked a blistering 78 while opener Shweta Sehrawat sparkled with an unbeaten 74 as India outplayed UAE by 122 runs in the inaugural Women's U-19 T20 World Cup on Monday. Shafali (78 off 34 balls) was at her destructive best and joined forces with an equally belligerent Sehrawat (74 not out off 49 deliveries) before Richa Ghosh smacked a 29-ball 49 to help India post an imposing 219 for three at Willowmoore Park. The Indian bowlers then restricted UAE to 97 for five, the result showing the gulf between the two sides. With the win, India have consolidated their top spot in Group D. Invited to bat, Shafali, who has already played over 70 international matches for the senior team, including 51 T20Is, and Sehrawat, stitched a 111-run stand for the first wicket. Another day, another win for our strong young women at the #U19T20WorldCup. An amazing match through and through, as #TeamIndia dominated @EmiratesCricket in both innings. Congratulations @BCCIWomen! pic.twitter.com/m2lcSg3zhi — Jay Shah (@JayShah) January 16, 2023 × Sehrawat made her intentions clear from the first over, and after playing two dots, she smacked three boundaries to plunder 12 runs. Shafali followed suit in the next over as she also hit three fours. The 18-year-old got the first maximum of the Indian innings in the fifth over. Read more: Shafali Verma picked to lead India at the maiden Under-19 World Cup Shafali was the aggressor in the partnership as she toyed with the opposition, hitting boundaries at will. She brought up her fifty in style with a four. The UAE bowlers seemed clueless as Shafali sent the ball to the fence 12 times and over it four times in her fiery 34-ball innings. After hitting three sixes and a four in a span of five balls, Shafali's blazing knock came to an end as she was caught at long-off. Sehrawat, who remained unbeaten on 92 in the previous game, played the role of sheet anchor to perfection. She brought up her second successive half-century and looked in complete control. Misfields and dropped catches only compounded UAE's woes as they gave as many as four reprieves to Richa, who was promoted to number three. Chasing a 200-plus target, UAE openers looked up to the challenge as Theertha Satish found the boundary four times in the first over. However, the charge was shortlived as Shabnam MD dismissed her in the fifth ball. Fellow opener Lavanya Keny scored a painstakingly slow 54-ball 24 but UAE never seemed in contention. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Women's U19 T20 World Cup: India beat UAE following Verma, Sehrawat's blitzkrieg

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is on a four-day state visit to UAE. UAE will invest $30 Billion in South Korea. Watch further to know more.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol visits UAE

<p>An honour guard greeted President Yoon Suk Yeol while visiting the United Arab Emirates on Sunday to increase South Korea's military sales.</p>

<p>Yoon's visit comes when South Korea engages in multibillion-dollar commercial transactions and stationing special forces soldiers to guard the UAE. It is a plan that garnered criticism under his liberal predecessor.</p>

<p>The conservative leader, however, seems to seek to strengthen such military ties despite concerns with neighbouring Iran, which have already resulted in Tehran seizing a South Korean oil tanker in 2021.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="www.wionews.com/world/thousands-protest-in-israel-against-netanyahu-decries-government-of-shame-552831">Thousands protest in Israel against Netanyahu, decries 'government of shame'</a></p>

<p>Yoon arrived at the Qasr Al Watan mansion in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who assumed power in May after years as the nation's de facto leader, welcomed him.</p>

<p>Yoon and his wife Kim Keon Hee were received by an honour guard of Emiratis in traditional garb. They whirled replica Lee-Enfield weapons among warriors riding horses and camels. A military band played the Emirati and South Korean national anthems inside.</p>

<p>Even though the energy-starved South Korean depends on the Emirates for less than 10% of its crude oil needs, Seoul has made several agreements with this country of seven sheikhdoms that have a strong connection to Abu Dhabi and go well beyond oil. Cars, minerals, and other items worth billions of dollars are traded between South Korea and the UAE.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Tunisians march against the Saied regime</strong></p>

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<p>Officials stated before Yoon's trip that the goal of the visit was to strengthen the existing connections between the two nations.</p>

<p>Already, in 2022, South Korea and the UAE agreed to a $3.5 billion sale of the M-SAM, an advanced air defence system that can intercept missiles as low as 40 kilometres in the air (25 miles).</p>

<p>Officials in the Emirati have grown more worried about safeguarding their airspace, as a result of Houthi rebels in Yemen, who are supported by Iran, being the focus of long-range drone assaults.</p>

<p>The Emiratis have been reducing their reliance on American military assistance ever since the chaotic American withdrawal from Afghanistan, even though American forces fired Patriot missiles for the first time in combat since the 2003 invasion of Iraq to defend Abu Dhabi during those attacks.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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An honour guard greeted President Yoon Suk Yeol while visiting the United Arab Emirates on Sunday to increase South Korea's military sales. Yoon's visit comes when South Korea engages in multibillion-dollar commercial transactions and stationing special forces soldiers to guard the UAE.

An honour guard greeted President Yoon Suk Yeol while visiting the United Arab Emirates on Sunday to increase South Korea's military sales. Yoon's visit comes when South Korea engages in multibillion-dollar commercial transactions and stationing special forces soldiers to guard the UAE. It is a plan that garnered criticism under his liberal predecessor. The conservative leader, however, seems to seek to strengthen such military ties despite concerns with neighbouring Iran, which have already resulted in Tehran seizing a South Korean oil tanker in 2021. Also Read | Thousands protest in Israel against Netanyahu, decries 'government of shame' Yoon arrived at the Qasr Al Watan mansion in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who assumed power in May after years as the nation's de facto leader, welcomed him. Yoon and his wife Kim Keon Hee were received by an honour guard of Emiratis in traditional garb. They whirled replica Lee-Enfield weapons among warriors riding horses and camels. A military band played the Emirati and South Korean national anthems inside. Even though the energy-starved South Korean depends on the Emirates for less than 10% of its crude oil needs, Seoul has made several agreements with this country of seven sheikhdoms that have a strong connection to Abu Dhabi and go well beyond oil. Cars, minerals, and other items worth billions of dollars are traded between South Korea and the UAE. Watch | Tunisians march against the Saied regime Officials stated before Yoon's trip that the goal of the visit was to strengthen the existing connections between the two nations. Already, in 2022, South Korea and the UAE agreed to a $3.5 billion sale of the M-SAM, an advanced air defence system that can intercept missiles as low as 40 kilometres in the air (25 miles). Officials in the Emirati have grown more worried about safeguarding their airspace, as a result of Houthi rebels in Yemen, who are supported by Iran, being the focus of long-range drone assaults. The Emiratis have been reducing their reliance on American military assistance ever since the chaotic American withdrawal from Afghanistan, even though American forces fired Patriot missiles for the first time in combat since the 2003 invasion of Iraq to defend Abu Dhabi during those attacks. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

South Korean President Yoon reaches UAE, seeks arm sales

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) agreed to extend an existing loan of $2 billion and provide an additional loan of $1 billion to help cash-strapped Pakistan tackle its economic woes, including the fast-depleting foreign exchange reserves. Watch this report to know more about Pakistan's precarious situation.

This World: UAE pledges an additional loan of $1 billion to help Pakistan

<p>The United Arab Emirates (UAE) said on Thursday (January 12) that Sultan Al Jaber, the head of the country's Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), would lead this year's COP28 climate summit. The UAE, which is a major Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) oil exporter, will be the second Arab country to host the climate summit after Egypt did last year. The summit will be held in November and December in Dubai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per a statement issued by Al Jaber's office, he will help shape the conference's agenda and intergovernmental negotiations to build consensus.&nbsp;"Today, Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber was announced to serve as COP28 UAE President. As President-Designate, Dr Al Jaber will partner with @UNFCCC Exec. Sec. Simon Stiell &amp; Egyptian COP27 President Shoukry to develop the COP28 UAE agenda," his office tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop27-major-takeaways-from-the-un-climate-summit-reactions-from-global-leaders-535830">COP27: Major takeaways from the UN climate summit; reactions from global leaders</a></strong></p>

<p>Jaber, who is serving as the UAE's minister of industry and technology, told the WAM news agency, "I sincerely believe that climate action today is an immense economic opportunity for investment in sustainable growth," and called for a pragmatic, realistic and solutions-oriented approach to limit global warming to just 1.5 degrees Celsius.</p>

<p>Jaber is the UAE's climate envoy and has participated in 10 COP meetings so far. He is also the chief executive officer (CEO) of Masdar,&nbsp;which is the UAE's renewable energy company,&nbsp;and has played an important role in shaping the country's clean energy path, news agency AFP reported on Friday (January 13) citing a statement.</p>

<p>While Jaber received congratulatory messages from several global leaders including United States' climate envoy John Kerry and COP 26 president Alok Sharma, his appointment as the president of the COP28 prompted sharp criticism from environmental activists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rachel Kyte, dean of the Fletcher School of international affairs at Tufts University in the US, told AFP that the UAE is competing to be "the most efficient and lowest-cost source of fossil fuels as global production must diminish through the energy transition".&nbsp;"It will be challenging as COP president to unite countries around more aggressive action, while at the same time suggesting that other producers stop producing because UAE has you covered," Kyte said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Harjeet Singh from the Climate Action Network International said Al Jaber's appointment posed an outrageous conflict of interest. Teresa Anderson, global lead on climate justice at ActionAid, told the news agency that the appointment goes beyond putting the fox in charge of the henhouse.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/oreo-biscuit-row-uae-ministry-clarifies-after-online-claims-about-oreo-biscuits-being-non-halal-550143">UAE ministry refutes online claims about Oreo biscuits being non-halal, containing pork, alcohol</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the United Nations said the choice of the president was a matter for the UAE. Stephane Dujarric, a spokesperson of UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres said, "It's important to note that whether it's the selection of which country hosts the COP, or which person presides over the COP, it is a matter for member states, in which the Secretary-General, or the secretariat of the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) have absolutely no involvement."</p>

<p>"Having said so, the science is extremely clear. We are losing the battle to prevent the worst impacts of the climate crisis. For his part, the Secretary-General reaffirms that there is no way to avoid such a climate catastrophe without ending our addiction to fossil fuels," Dujarric added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With agency inputs)</em></p>


The United Arab Emirates (UAE) said on Thursday (January 12) that Sultan Al Jaber, the head of the country's Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), would lead this year's COP28 climate summit.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) said on Thursday (January 12) that Sultan Al Jaber, the head of the country's Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), would lead this year's COP28 climate summit. The UAE, which is a major Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) oil exporter, will be the second Arab country to host the climate summit after Egypt did last year. The summit will be held in November and December in Dubai. As per a statement issued by Al Jaber's office, he will help shape the conference's agenda and intergovernmental negotiations to build consensus. "Today, Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber was announced to serve as COP28 UAE President. As President-Designate, Dr Al Jaber will partner with @UNFCCC Exec. Sec. Simon Stiell & Egyptian COP27 President Shoukry to develop the COP28 UAE agenda," his office tweeted. ALSO READ | COP27: Major takeaways from the UN climate summit; reactions from global leaders Jaber, who is serving as the UAE's minister of industry and technology, told the WAM news agency, "I sincerely believe that climate action today is an immense economic opportunity for investment in sustainable growth," and called for a pragmatic, realistic and solutions-oriented approach to limit global warming to just 1.5 degrees Celsius. Jaber is the UAE's climate envoy and has participated in 10 COP meetings so far. He is also the chief executive officer (CEO) of Masdar, which is the UAE's renewable energy company, and has played an important role in shaping the country's clean energy path, news agency AFP reported on Friday (January 13) citing a statement. While Jaber received congratulatory messages from several global leaders including United States' climate envoy John Kerry and COP 26 president Alok Sharma, his appointment as the president of the COP28 prompted sharp criticism from environmental activists. Rachel Kyte, dean of the Fletcher School of international affairs at Tufts University in the US, told AFP that the UAE is competing to be "the most efficient and lowest-cost source of fossil fuels as global production must diminish through the energy transition". "It will be challenging as COP president to unite countries around more aggressive action, while at the same time suggesting that other producers stop producing because UAE has you covered," Kyte said. Harjeet Singh from the Climate Action Network International said Al Jaber's appointment posed an outrageous conflict of interest. Teresa Anderson, global lead on climate justice at ActionAid, told the news agency that the appointment goes beyond putting the fox in charge of the henhouse. ALSO READ | UAE ministry refutes online claims about Oreo biscuits being non-halal, containing pork, alcohol Meanwhile, the United Nations said the choice of the president was a matter for the UAE. Stephane Dujarric, a spokesperson of UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres said, "It's important to note that whether it's the selection of which country hosts the COP, or which person presides over the COP, it is a matter for member states, in which the Secretary-General, or the secretariat of the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) have absolutely no involvement." "Having said so, the science is extremely clear. We are losing the battle to prevent the worst impacts of the climate crisis. For his part, the Secretary-General reaffirms that there is no way to avoid such a climate catastrophe without ending our addiction to fossil fuels," Dujarric added. (With agency inputs)

UAE makes oil boss Al Jaber head of COP28; activists say its worse than fox guarding the henhouse

The United Nations-mediated climate talks will take place in the UAE from November 30 through December 12. The development organisation ActionAid's global lead on climate justice, Teresa Anderson, warned that this nomination "goes beyond putting the fox in control of the henhouse."

WION Climate Tracker: UAE to host this year's COP28 UN Climate Summit in Dubai

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will seek a fresh economic package for his country from the United Arab Emirates during his two-day visit there. Sharif will also seek deferment of a $2 billion loan repayment to the UAE due in the coming weeks and hold talks for finalising a $2 billion investment in Pakistan.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif seeks to boost economies ties with UAE

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has arrived in the United Arab Emirates. With this visit, he is seeking to bolden economic relations with the Emirati nation.

Pakistan PM seeks to boost economic ties with UAE

Amid the depleting foreign reserves in the country, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's visit to the UAE on is delayed. Motive behind this visit is to seek an emergency cash deposit from its west Asian partner.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's visit to UAE delayed

The first Negev Forum Working Groups Meeting began today in Abu Dhabi in the presence of representatives of the six member states, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Egypt, Morocco, Israel, and the United States. Jordan stays away again from the meeting.

WION Pulse: Negev Forum convenes in UAE with Jordan absent from meet

There's been a global criticism of Israeli far-right minister Ben-Gvir's visit to Al-Aqsa compound in Jerusalem. The Western governments warned that such moves threaten the fragile status quo at Jerusalem's holy site. Ben-Gvir visited the holy compound on Tuesday.

UAE, Morocco speak out against Ben-Gvir's move; Netanyahu postpones visit to UAE

The government of UAE has a special new year's gift for its employees. Government employees wanting to start their own businesses will get a one-year-long paid leave. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: UAE govt employees get one-year leave to set up business

<p>To add to the Christmas cheer, parts of Dubai were hit by heavy rain, and further rains are predicted for the UAE on Monday. Residents in the UAE may expect cloudy skies all this week. The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has previously issued a yellow warning suggesting clouds in the country's western regions.</p>

<p>The NCM's prediction for Monday is that the clouds will progressively rise across dispersed portions of the nation along with some convective clouds linked with rainfall.&nbsp;Al Barsha and Dubai Investments Park were affected by the rain. Dubai is likely to have further rain, and the nation as a whole will have cloudy skies into the evening. Parts of Abu Dhabi had rainfall earlier in the day, including the Al Dhafra and Ghantoot region.</p>

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<p>Moreover, the clouds will dominate until Friday, with rain expected on Tuesday and Wednesday. A prior weather alert stated that the UAE is anticipated to be impacted by an air depression and that rain, thunder, and lightning are predicted in certain areas of the country.</p>

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<p>Along with your umbrellas, it's time to take out your sweaters, as the NCM predicted that temperatures will drop significantly across the nation. Maximum temperatures in the country's coastal regions will range from 22 to 26 °C. Internal areas will have temperatures of 24–28 °C, while alpine areas will experience 20–15 °C.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When it rains it just doesn’t rains, it pours in Dubai ❤️🔥 <a href="https://t.co/m3QXi2v76s">pic.twitter.com/m3QXi2v76s</a></p>
— Yashraj (@Yashrbh) <a href="https://twitter.com/Yashrbh/status/1607329316433690625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Humidity&nbsp;at its peak is predicted to be 85%. It's anticipated that winds will frequently blow between 20 and 30 km/h, occasionally gusting to 45 km/h.</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Amazing December rains in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dubai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dubai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DubaiMarina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DubaiMarina</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/dubairain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#dubairain</a> <a href="https://t.co/LJDdW36jIH">pic.twitter.com/LJDdW36jIH</a></p>
— Gaurav Gauri (@jusgaurav) <a href="https://twitter.com/jusgaurav/status/1607312013210030081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>As the amount of cloud activity rises, the winds are anticipated to grow stronger, and the sea is anticipated to occasionally be choppy.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


To add to the Christmas cheer, parts of Dubai were hit by heavy rain, and further rains are predicted for the UAE on Monday. Residents in the UAE may expect cloudy skies all this week.

To add to the Christmas cheer, parts of Dubai were hit by heavy rain, and further rains are predicted for the UAE on Monday. Residents in the UAE may expect cloudy skies all this week. The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has previously issued a yellow warning suggesting clouds in the country's western regions. The NCM's prediction for Monday is that the clouds will progressively rise across dispersed portions of the nation along with some convective clouds linked with rainfall. Al Barsha and Dubai Investments Park were affected by the rain. Dubai is likely to have further rain, and the nation as a whole will have cloudy skies into the evening. Parts of Abu Dhabi had rainfall earlier in the day, including the Al Dhafra and Ghantoot region. View this post on Instagram A post shared by المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@officialuaeweather) × Moreover, the clouds will dominate until Friday, with rain expected on Tuesday and Wednesday. A prior weather alert stated that the UAE is anticipated to be impacted by an air depression and that rain, thunder, and lightning are predicted in certain areas of the country. View this post on Instagram A post shared by المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@officialuaeweather) × Along with your umbrellas, it's time to take out your sweaters, as the NCM predicted that temperatures will drop significantly across the nation. Maximum temperatures in the country's coastal regions will range from 22 to 26 °C. Internal areas will have temperatures of 24–28 °C, while alpine areas will experience 20–15 °C. When it rains it just doesn’t rains, it pours in Dubai ❤️🔥 pic.twitter.com/m3QXi2v76s — Yashraj (@Yashrbh) December 26, 2022 × Humidity at its peak is predicted to be 85%. It's anticipated that winds will frequently blow between 20 and 30 km/h, occasionally gusting to 45 km/h. Amazing December rains in #Dubai #DubaiMarina #dubairain pic.twitter.com/LJDdW36jIH — Gaurav Gauri (@jusgaurav) December 26, 2022 × As the amount of cloud activity rises, the winds are anticipated to grow stronger, and the sea is anticipated to occasionally be choppy.

UAE Winter Weather Forecast: Dubai gets heavy rain, cloudy skies as temperatures begin to fall

<p>Over the last decade, the space sector has witnessed accelerating activity driven by technological advancements, and transforming commercial and public objectives, with a much larger number of stakeholders influencing the rapid development of the sector.</p>

<p>These developments present significant opportunities for space agencies, governments, research bodies, and businesses across the globe, with enormous potential for encouraging international collaborations and fueling innovation.</p>

<p>The rapidly evolving landscape of the sector has reached an inflection point where commercialisation is beginning to outpace governance with players forging cost-effective and smarter ways to reach and operate in space.</p>

<p>As the ‘gates’ have opened for private sector companies, interest levels are at an all-time high with cutting-edge innovation accelerating progress.</p>

<p>A steady rise in the number of applications of space technologies is evident in international and cross-sector collaboration in several areas including meteorology, energy, telecommunications, insurance, transport, maritime, aviation and urban development.</p>

<p>With this surge, the sector is set to deliver key economic benefits along with the integration of high-value services, the creation of jobs, and fostering of scientific innovation in the near future.</p>

<p>However, for the sector to succeed, there is a real need for all actors to effectively collaborate, better organise the ecosystem, address a number of key and known challenges as well as integrate the activities of the private sector with existing and upcoming national space programs.</p>

<p>It is important that all stakeholders collectively contribute to turning this into a prospering, high-growth sector. This can only be done through sharing different perspectives and quickly forming mutual agreements and lasting coalitions.</p>

<p>Furthermore, the international community must seize the far-reaching socio-economic benefits of space, so that it can remain an arena of collaboration and cooperation rather than geopolitical competition or conflicts.</p>

<p><strong>The Dawn of a New Space Age</strong></p>

<p>We believe that the world is standing at the dawn of a "New Space Age" — that from just two space-capable actors in the world in the 1960s, the USA and USSR, there are now no less than 70 nations who have space initiatives and programs.</p>

<p>Alongside this boom in actors are private sector players taking the roles as satellite funders, launch providers, and space station builders. A Citigroup report has estimated that the market for global space systems, services, engineering, and exploration will grow to $1 trillion by 2040. Some in the sector think this is a conservative estimate.</p>

<p>However, to establish a robust and sustainable space economy, a framework needs to be set up to ensure participation from large and small commercial players from diverse countries and to open up access to space in a fair and equitable manner.</p>

<p>That includes a deep commitment to addressing the issue of space debris, currently a potentially existential future threat for the popular and strategically important low earth orbit (LEO) segment.</p>

<p><strong>UAE’s Role Toward Unlocking Collaboration</strong></p>

<p>With a strong emphasis on collaborative space governance, the UAE has held the inaugural Abu Dhabi Space Debate as part of an ongoing program designed to share information and resources between the various actors who bring influence to policy and decision-making in the sector.</p>

<p>The Debate serves as a convening platform for global participation in space, bringing together global representatives from space agencies, governments, research bodies, and businesses.</p>

<p>We have conceptualised this forum to forge a path to leverage the space sector to foster entrepreneurship, encourage R&amp;D, balance private sector interests with a fair and equitable space economy, and boost diversity in high-technology industries.</p>

<p>In addition to this, the Abu Dhabi Space Debate will underscore the need for additional and revised legal and regulatory measures in the space sector.</p>

<p><strong>The Playthrough</strong></p>

<p>Through a global coalition, the space sector can also lead to solutions to counter threats posed by climate change, ensuring that the sector lends its voice as a critical stakeholder at COP28.</p>

<p>Multinational cooperation can also prove to be instrumental by providing a deep experience in providing international accountability to environmental commitments.</p>

<p>Global collaboration is important for improving and implementing global regulations and agreements to address the safety and security of all space assets.</p>

<p>One of the most enthralling aspects of space governance is how multinational alliances are converging breaking the shackles of siloed approaches to the civilian, commercial, and military utilisation of space.</p>

<p>Another point of paramount importance is to mitigate the impact of political turmoil or uncertainty on space commands and keeping safe and secure space operations as an imperative.</p>

<p>Following the success of the inaugural Abu Dhabi Space Debate, we now have outcomes to focus on, including research papers derived from the workshops held at the event as well as side gatherings intended to further the significant progress made.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It has not been a single event as much as a global signal towards a movement that will have a positive and accelerating influence on our human exploration of the opportunities lying in wait for us in space.</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong>&nbsp;</em></p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Over the last decade, the space sector has witnessed accelerating activity driven by technological advancements, and transforming commercial and public objectives, with a much larger number of stakeholders influencing the rapid development of the sector.

Over the last decade, the space sector has witnessed accelerating activity driven by technological advancements, and transforming commercial and public objectives, with a much larger number of stakeholders influencing the rapid development of the sector. These developments present significant opportunities for space agencies, governments, research bodies, and businesses across the globe, with enormous potential for encouraging international collaborations and fueling innovation. The rapidly evolving landscape of the sector has reached an inflection point where commercialisation is beginning to outpace governance with players forging cost-effective and smarter ways to reach and operate in space. As the ‘gates’ have opened for private sector companies, interest levels are at an all-time high with cutting-edge innovation accelerating progress. A steady rise in the number of applications of space technologies is evident in international and cross-sector collaboration in several areas including meteorology, energy, telecommunications, insurance, transport, maritime, aviation and urban development. With this surge, the sector is set to deliver key economic benefits along with the integration of high-value services, the creation of jobs, and fostering of scientific innovation in the near future. However, for the sector to succeed, there is a real need for all actors to effectively collaborate, better organise the ecosystem, address a number of key and known challenges as well as integrate the activities of the private sector with existing and upcoming national space programs. It is important that all stakeholders collectively contribute to turning this into a prospering, high-growth sector. This can only be done through sharing different perspectives and quickly forming mutual agreements and lasting coalitions. Furthermore, the international community must seize the far-reaching socio-economic benefits of space, so that it can remain an arena of collaboration and cooperation rather than geopolitical competition or conflicts. The Dawn of a New Space Age We believe that the world is standing at the dawn of a "New Space Age" — that from just two space-capable actors in the world in the 1960s, the USA and USSR, there are now no less than 70 nations who have space initiatives and programs. Alongside this boom in actors are private sector players taking the roles as satellite funders, launch providers, and space station builders. A Citigroup report has estimated that the market for global space systems, services, engineering, and exploration will grow to $1 trillion by 2040. Some in the sector think this is a conservative estimate. However, to establish a robust and sustainable space economy, a framework needs to be set up to ensure participation from large and small commercial players from diverse countries and to open up access to space in a fair and equitable manner. That includes a deep commitment to addressing the issue of space debris, currently a potentially existential future threat for the popular and strategically important low earth orbit (LEO) segment. UAE’s Role Toward Unlocking Collaboration With a strong emphasis on collaborative space governance, the UAE has held the inaugural Abu Dhabi Space Debate as part of an ongoing program designed to share information and resources between the various actors who bring influence to policy and decision-making in the sector. The Debate serves as a convening platform for global participation in space, bringing together global representatives from space agencies, governments, research bodies, and businesses. We have conceptualised this forum to forge a path to leverage the space sector to foster entrepreneurship, encourage R&D, balance private sector interests with a fair and equitable space economy, and boost diversity in high-technology industries. In addition to this, the Abu Dhabi Space Debate will underscore the need for additional and revised legal and regulatory measures in the space sector. The Playthrough Through a global coalition, the space sector can also lead to solutions to counter threats posed by climate change, ensuring that the sector lends its voice as a critical stakeholder at COP28. Multinational cooperation can also prove to be instrumental by providing a deep experience in providing international accountability to environmental commitments. Global collaboration is important for improving and implementing global regulations and agreements to address the safety and security of all space assets. One of the most enthralling aspects of space governance is how multinational alliances are converging breaking the shackles of siloed approaches to the civilian, commercial, and military utilisation of space. Another point of paramount importance is to mitigate the impact of political turmoil or uncertainty on space commands and keeping safe and secure space operations as an imperative. Following the success of the inaugural Abu Dhabi Space Debate, we now have outcomes to focus on, including research papers derived from the workshops held at the event as well as side gatherings intended to further the significant progress made. It has not been a single event as much as a global signal towards a movement that will have a positive and accelerating influence on our human exploration of the opportunities lying in wait for us in space. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UAE bats for collaborative space governance as the sector continues to grow rapidly

<p>New visa rules issued by UAE authorities can stop you from flying to and from the country if your passport doesn’t mention your name in the desired way. On November 21, 2022, Indian Airlines, including Spice jet, Indigo and Air India Express, notified travel agents across India about UAE’s new immigration rule. As per the new guidelines, a traveller must make sure both his/her first name and surname are mentioned in the passport. Passengers, whose passports don’t mention both first names and surnames won’t be allowed to enter the UAE. The rule only applies to those coming to UAE on tourist and on-arrival visas.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-job-exploration-visa-check-eligibility-documents-fees-and-more-522790">UAE job exploration visa: Check eligibility, documents, fees and more</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>What is the new rule issued by the UAE authorities?</strong></h2>

<p>As per instructions from UAE authorities, passengers with a single name on their passports won’t be issued visas and shall not be allowed to travel to and from the country.</p>

<p>In case, if the visa has been issued already, the passenger with a single name on the passport will be declared an inadmissible passenger (INAD) by the immigration. The rule doesn’t apply to those holding legitimate residence permission or a work visa. The new rules have already been implemented on 21st November, 2022.</p>

<h2><strong>How will the new visa rules be applied by the UAE authorities?</strong></h2>

<p>A notification issued by Air India Express has explained the UAE’s new visa rules through a suitable example. For example, if a passenger’s name mentioned in the first name section is PARVEEN, and the&nbsp;surname section is blank; or his first name section is blank and the surname section mentions PARVEEN, his visa application won’t be entertained by the authorities.</p>


New visa rules issued by UAE authorities can stop you from flying to and from the country if your passport doesn’t mention your name in the desired way. On November 21, 2022, Indian Airlines, including Spice jet, Indigo and Air India Express, notified travel agents across India about UAE’s new immigration rule.

New visa rules issued by UAE authorities can stop you from flying to and from the country if your passport doesn’t mention your name in the desired way. On November 21, 2022, Indian Airlines, including Spice jet, Indigo and Air India Express, notified travel agents across India about UAE’s new immigration rule. As per the new guidelines, a traveller must make sure both his/her first name and surname are mentioned in the passport. Passengers, whose passports don’t mention both first names and surnames won’t be allowed to enter the UAE. The rule only applies to those coming to UAE on tourist and on-arrival visas. Also Read: UAE job exploration visa: Check eligibility, documents, fees and more What is the new rule issued by the UAE authorities? As per instructions from UAE authorities, passengers with a single name on their passports won’t be issued visas and shall not be allowed to travel to and from the country. In case, if the visa has been issued already, the passenger with a single name on the passport will be declared an inadmissible passenger (INAD) by the immigration. The rule doesn’t apply to those holding legitimate residence permission or a work visa. The new rules have already been implemented on 21st November, 2022. How will the new visa rules be applied by the UAE authorities? A notification issued by Air India Express has explained the UAE’s new visa rules through a suitable example. For example, if a passenger’s name mentioned in the first name section is PARVEEN, and the surname section is blank; or his first name section is blank and the surname section mentions PARVEEN, his visa application won’t be entertained by the authorities.

UAE new visa rules: You won’t be able to fly if THIS detail is missing in your passport

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