Former Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani, who fled Kabul as the Taliban took over the country, is now settled in UAE. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said that the country has welcomed President Ashraf Ghani and his family on humanitarian grounds.

UAE foreign ministry announces Ashraf Ghani in country

Former Defence Minister of Afghanistan Bismillah Khan Mohammadi demanded that president Ashraf Ghani, who abdicated and departed Afghanistan, be arrested for "selling away the homeland."&nbsp;

"Those trading and selling out their motherland should be punished and arrested," Mohammadi wrote on Twitter, adding hashtag #InterpolArrestGhani.

On Wednesday, the Afghan embassy in Tajikistan also requested Interpol to detain Ghani on embezzlement charges.

At a news conference in Dushanbe, Afghan ambassador to Tajikistan Mohammad Zahir Aghbar accused Ghani of embezzling $169 million and acknowledged Amrullah Saleh, Ghani's vice president, as the rightful ruler of the Afghan state.&nbsp;

By conquering Kabul on Sunday, the Taliban finalised their control of Afghanistan.

According to the report, Ghani resigned and went overseas, accompanied by&nbsp;cars loaded with cash.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Defence Minister of Afghanistan Bismillah Khan Mohammadi demanded that president Ashraf Ghani, who abdicated and departed Afghanistan, be arrested for "selling away the homeland.

Former Defence Minister of Afghanistan Bismillah Khan Mohammadi demanded that president Ashraf Ghani, who abdicated and departed Afghanistan, be arrested for "selling away the homeland." "Those trading and selling out their motherland should be punished and arrested," Mohammadi wrote on Twitter, adding hashtag #InterpolArrestGhani. On Wednesday, the Afghan embassy in Tajikistan also requested Interpol to detain Ghani on embezzlement charges. At a news conference in Dushanbe, Afghan ambassador to Tajikistan Mohammad Zahir Aghbar accused Ghani of embezzling $169 million and acknowledged Amrullah Saleh, Ghani's vice president, as the rightful ruler of the Afghan state. By conquering Kabul on Sunday, the Taliban finalised their control of Afghanistan. According to the report, Ghani resigned and went overseas, accompanied by cars loaded with cash. (With inputs from agencies)

'Selling out the motherland': Afghan defence minister demands Ghani's arrest

Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani addressed the world on his official Facebook page on Wednesday after fleeing the country.

Ghani, who is currently in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on 'humanitarian grounds,' left the nation shortly after surrendering to the Taliban as the Taliban advanced on Kabul, the capital city, to 'avoid more carnage.'&nbsp;

In a video message delivered in Pashto, Ghani stated that he had placed security in the hands of the country's troops and that the Taliban were looking for him.

He said he was obliged to escape to avoid a major tragedy.&nbsp;

"They were looking for me. What happened in Afghanistan 25 years ago was going to happen again. That was something that needed to be avoided. A shameful development like that needed to be avoided, "he said.

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Ghani also dismissed rumours that he had taken money with him. According to previous reports, Ghani escaped with two cars and a cash-laden chopper.&nbsp;

"I wanted to transfer power to the Taliban peacefully. But I was evicted from Afghanistan against my will. The allegation that I took money from Afghanistan is baseless. You can verify this with UAE Customs. I did not have time to change my shoes. My security asked me to leave as it was imminent to me as head of state, "said Ghani.

"The Taliban, I was told, were in Kabul. Even though we had agreed that the Taliban would not enter Kabul, they did it nonetheless. I didn't want to be hanged since I am the honour of Afghanistan as president. Death does not frighten me," he added.

He stated that he left the nation without his books, which he described as his "primary assets."

He went on to say that certain secret documents had been left at the Presidential Palace in Kabul.

"They (secret documents) are in the hands of others; I left with nothing except a salwar kameez and a waistcoat; I did not take anything," Ghani explained.&nbsp;

Ghani said that he is in the United Arab Emirates, where he is meeting with others to continue his "efforts to bring peace to Afghans."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani addressed the world on his official Facebook page on Wednesday after fleeing the country. Ghani, who is currently in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on 'humanitarian grounds,' left the nation shortly after surrendering to the Taliban as the Taliban advanced on Kabul, the capital city, to 'avoid more carnage.

Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani addressed the world on his official Facebook page on Wednesday after fleeing the country. Ghani, who is currently in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on 'humanitarian grounds,' left the nation shortly after surrendering to the Taliban as the Taliban advanced on Kabul, the capital city, to 'avoid more carnage.' In a video message delivered in Pashto, Ghani stated that he had placed security in the hands of the country's troops and that the Taliban were looking for him. He said he was obliged to escape to avoid a major tragedy. "They were looking for me. What happened in Afghanistan 25 years ago was going to happen again. That was something that needed to be avoided. A shameful development like that needed to be avoided, "he said. × Ghani also dismissed rumours that he had taken money with him. According to previous reports, Ghani escaped with two cars and a cash-laden chopper. "I wanted to transfer power to the Taliban peacefully. But I was evicted from Afghanistan against my will. The allegation that I took money from Afghanistan is baseless. You can verify this with UAE Customs. I did not have time to change my shoes. My security asked me to leave as it was imminent to me as head of state, "said Ghani. "The Taliban, I was told, were in Kabul. Even though we had agreed that the Taliban would not enter Kabul, they did it nonetheless. I didn't want to be hanged since I am the honour of Afghanistan as president. Death does not frighten me," he added. He stated that he left the nation without his books, which he described as his "primary assets." He went on to say that certain secret documents had been left at the Presidential Palace in Kabul. "They (secret documents) are in the hands of others; I left with nothing except a salwar kameez and a waistcoat; I did not take anything," Ghani explained. Ghani said that he is in the United Arab Emirates, where he is meeting with others to continue his "efforts to bring peace to Afghans." (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | 'I was evicted, money rumours false': Ashraf Ghani defends decisions

UAE: Welcome Ghani, family on humanitarian grounds

Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani is in the UAE. This was confirmed by UAE in a brief statement. It said that the country is hosting Ghani on "humanitarian grounds". Ghani fled Afghanistan amid a Taliban takeover.

"The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation can confirm that the UAE has welcomed President Ashraf Ghani and his family into the country on humanitarian grounds," said UAE in a brief statement.

On Sunday (August 15), as Taliban closed in on Kabul, Ghani fled Afghanistan. The insurgent shortly walked into the Afghan capital without any resistance from Afghan National Army.

In a Facebook post, Ghani said the "Taliban have won" and that he fled to avoid a "flood of bloodshed".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-3-killed-dozens-injured-after-militants-open-fire-on-anti-taliban-protesters-406627">Watch: 3 killed, dozens injured after militants open fire on anti-Taliban protesters</a>

Till today, his whereabouts were unknown. There were speculations that he had fled to Tajikistan, Uzbekistan or Oman.

This would not be the first time that the oil-rich Gulf country opens its arms to former leaders and their relatives, now persona non grata in their country.

In 2017, the emirate of Dubai hosted former Thai prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra, who was sentenced in absentia to five years in prison.

Spain's king Juan Carlos went into self-exile in the UAE in August last year as questions mounted over the origins of his fortune, and the UAE was Pakistani opposition leader Benazir Bhutto's home during her eight years in exile before she was assassinated in her home country in 2007.

The UAE is one of three nations, including Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, which recognised the previous Taliban regime, which ruled from 1996 to 2001.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani is in the UAE. This was confirmed by UAE in a brief statement. It said that the country is hosting Ghani on "humanitarian grounds".

Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani is in the UAE. This was confirmed by UAE in a brief statement. It said that the country is hosting Ghani on "humanitarian grounds". Ghani fled Afghanistan amid a Taliban takeover. "The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation can confirm that the UAE has welcomed President Ashraf Ghani and his family into the country on humanitarian grounds," said UAE in a brief statement. On Sunday (August 15), as Taliban closed in on Kabul, Ghani fled Afghanistan. The insurgent shortly walked into the Afghan capital without any resistance from Afghan National Army. In a Facebook post, Ghani said the "Taliban have won" and that he fled to avoid a "flood of bloodshed". Also Read | Watch: 3 killed, dozens injured after militants open fire on anti-Taliban protesters Till today, his whereabouts were unknown. There were speculations that he had fled to Tajikistan, Uzbekistan or Oman. This would not be the first time that the oil-rich Gulf country opens its arms to former leaders and their relatives, now persona non grata in their country. In 2017, the emirate of Dubai hosted former Thai prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra, who was sentenced in absentia to five years in prison. Spain's king Juan Carlos went into self-exile in the UAE in August last year as questions mounted over the origins of his fortune, and the UAE was Pakistani opposition leader Benazir Bhutto's home during her eight years in exile before she was assassinated in her home country in 2007. The UAE is one of three nations, including Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, which recognised the previous Taliban regime, which ruled from 1996 to 2001. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan ex-president Ashraf Ghani is in UAE

India's unicorns and e-commerce firms are expanding overseas in a big way. CARS 24, an e-commerce platform for pre-owned vehicles is betting big on the overseas markets and has entered the UAE with heavy investment in technology framework. Vehicle transactions are increasingly getting done online globally and e-commerce platforms are seeing a jump in markets for used or pre-owned cars. CARS 24 is looking at encashing the boom as the demand for used cars is moving to the fast lane especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. WION speaks to Gajendra Jangid, Co-founder of CARS 24.

Why UAE residents are buying more used cars

According to the National Emergency and Crisis Management Authority (NCEMA), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/flights-suspension-from-india-pak-bangladesh-and-lanka-to-uae-extended-till-aug-7-402535">UAE </a>will lift a ban on transit passenger traffic from India, Pakistan, Nigeria and other countries from August 5.

Passengers from Sri Lanka, Uganda and Nepal will also be allowed, NCEMA and &nbsp;General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) said. Etihad Airways had earlier said restrictions will continue till August 7 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NCEMA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NCEMA</a> and Civil Aviation: Entry to the UAE will be allowed for some categories of passengers from countries, from where inbound flights to the Emirates have been banned. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TogetherWeRecover?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TogetherWeRecover</a> <a href="https://t.co/uvqhZXyKLy">https://t.co/uvqhZXyKLy</a> <a href="https://t.co/I5cgoDbrrC">pic.twitter.com/I5cgoDbrrC</a>
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The UAE said only those passengers will be allowed who have residency visas and have&nbsp;received the two doses of vaccine with the condition that 14 days have passed since receiving the second dose.

The agency said vaccination certificates approved by official authorities in the country will also be needed at the airport, however, medical personnel working in the country will be exempted, including doctors, nurses and&nbsp;technicians, whether vaccinated or not.

Exemption from vaccination has also been provided for the education&nbsp;sector for those who teach in universities, colleges, schools and institutes.

"Travel will also resume for transit passengers from all countries from which transit passengers were previously banned, provided that the traveller’s last destination is accepted and a laboratory PCR test is submitted within 72 hours from the time of departure," it said.

The directive added that "exempted groups will be obligated to submit a prior PCR test within 48 hours from the date of departure" and follow precautionary and preventive measures should be followed including quarantine and PCR checks.

The agency declared that airports will allocate special lounges for transit passengers while taking all COVID-19 precautionary and preventive measures.

The GCAA had earlier exempted official delegations and businessmen as well as golden and silver residency holders, with foreign aircraft crews also allowed in subject to the person carrying negative PCR test&nbsp;obtained within 48 hours of departure and upon arrival.

(With inputs from Agencies)

According to the National Emergency and Crisis Management Authority (NCEMA), UAE will lift a ban on transit passenger traffic from India, Pakistan, Nigeria and other countries from August 5.

According to the National Emergency and Crisis Management Authority (NCEMA), UAE will lift a ban on transit passenger traffic from India, Pakistan, Nigeria and other countries from August 5. Passengers from Sri Lanka, Uganda and Nepal will also be allowed, NCEMA and General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) said. Etihad Airways had earlier said restrictions will continue till August 7 due to the coronavirus pandemic. #NCEMA and Civil Aviation: Entry to the UAE will be allowed for some categories of passengers from countries, from where inbound flights to the Emirates have been banned. #TogetherWeRecover https://t.co/uvqhZXyKLy pic.twitter.com/I5cgoDbrrC — NCEMA UAE (@NCEMAUAE) August 3, 2021 × The UAE said only those passengers will be allowed who have residency visas and have received the two doses of vaccine with the condition that 14 days have passed since receiving the second dose. The agency said vaccination certificates approved by official authorities in the country will also be needed at the airport, however, medical personnel working in the country will be exempted, including doctors, nurses and technicians, whether vaccinated or not. Exemption from vaccination has also been provided for the education sector for those who teach in universities, colleges, schools and institutes. "Travel will also resume for transit passengers from all countries from which transit passengers were previously banned, provided that the traveller’s last destination is accepted and a laboratory PCR test is submitted within 72 hours from the time of departure," it said. The directive added that "exempted groups will be obligated to submit a prior PCR test within 48 hours from the date of departure" and follow precautionary and preventive measures should be followed including quarantine and PCR checks. The agency declared that airports will allocate special lounges for transit passengers while taking all COVID-19 precautionary and preventive measures. The GCAA had earlier exempted official delegations and businessmen as well as golden and silver residency holders, with foreign aircraft crews also allowed in subject to the person carrying negative PCR test obtained within 48 hours of departure and upon arrival. (With inputs from Agencies)

UAE lifts ban on flights from India, Pak & other countries from August 5

Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Eoin Morgan will be accessible for the rest of IPL 2021. The decision comes following the deferment of England's white-ball series against Bangladesh to 2023.&nbsp;

The England Cricket Board and Bangladesh Cricket Board commonly chose to postpone the tour including three ODIs and three T20Is.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-looking-forward-to-playing-against-virat-kohli-again-says-james-anderson-402728" hreflang="en">Cricket: Looking forward to playing against Virat Kohli again, says James Anderson</a>

Eoin Morgan just affirmed his participation in the second phase of the IPL in UAE and guaranteed that the choice to take part is his individual decision. The skipper said that it was a mutually beneficial decision since T20 World Cup is the primary plan.&nbsp;

"It's a completely individual decision," Morgan said. "I think it was a win-win either way. If we went to Bangladesh we'd play in conditions that are foreign to us," he said.

"If some guys go to the IPL, they'll play in similar conditions, or for guys that need a rest, they take a rest," he added.

With their tour through Bangladesh being rearranged, England will play two T20Is before the initiation of the T20 World Cup in the not-so-distant future.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, the two matches against Pakistan likewise accompany their own difficulties as the second T20I conflict with the IPL last on October 15. As of now, both the ECB and PCB are certain to go ahead with the short visit.&nbsp;

Eoin Morgan added that it is totally dependent upon the players to either address their franchise in the IPL or utilize an opportunity to rest and recuperate.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-i-dont-think-i-will-go-for-the-ipl-says-kkr-speedster-pat-cummins-402731" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'I don’t think I will go for the IPL,' says KKR speedster Pat Cummins</a>

"We have a lot of cricket to play between now and then. We've planned on the tour going ahead that's been part of our planning for a long time now but equally, given the nature in which we now compete and live our lives," he said.

"It's not a bad thing for guys to either take time off or go to the IPL if they feel refreshed and have enough energy," he added

KKR are right now grieving in the seventh spot in the IPL points table with just two successes in the first phase of the tournament.&nbsp;

Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Eoin Morgan will be accessible for the rest of IPL 2021. The decision comes following the deferment of England's white-ball series against Bangladesh to 2023.

Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Eoin Morgan will be accessible for the rest of IPL 2021. The decision comes following the deferment of England's white-ball series against Bangladesh to 2023. The England Cricket Board and Bangladesh Cricket Board commonly chose to postpone the tour including three ODIs and three T20Is. ALSO READ: Cricket: Looking forward to playing against Virat Kohli again, says James Anderson Eoin Morgan just affirmed his participation in the second phase of the IPL in UAE and guaranteed that the choice to take part is his individual decision. The skipper said that it was a mutually beneficial decision since T20 World Cup is the primary plan. "It's a completely individual decision," Morgan said. "I think it was a win-win either way. If we went to Bangladesh we'd play in conditions that are foreign to us," he said. "If some guys go to the IPL, they'll play in similar conditions, or for guys that need a rest, they take a rest," he added. With their tour through Bangladesh being rearranged, England will play two T20Is before the initiation of the T20 World Cup in the not-so-distant future. Nonetheless, the two matches against Pakistan likewise accompany their own difficulties as the second T20I conflict with the IPL last on October 15. As of now, both the ECB and PCB are certain to go ahead with the short visit. Eoin Morgan added that it is totally dependent upon the players to either address their franchise in the IPL or utilize an opportunity to rest and recuperate. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'I don’t think I will go for the IPL,' says KKR speedster Pat Cummins "We have a lot of cricket to play between now and then. We've planned on the tour going ahead that's been part of our planning for a long time now but equally, given the nature in which we now compete and live our lives," he said. "It's not a bad thing for guys to either take time off or go to the IPL if they feel refreshed and have enough energy," he added KKR are right now grieving in the seventh spot in the IPL points table with just two successes in the first phase of the tournament.

IPL 2021: KKR skipper Eoin Morgan confirms availability for second phase in UAE

Iranian-backed forces are believed to have seized an oil tanker in the Gulf off the coast of the UAE. Two of the maritime sources identified the seized vessel as the Panama-flagged asphalt/bitumen tanker Asphalt Princess in an area in the Arabian Sea leading to the Strait of Hormuz, the conduit for about a fifth of the world's seaborne oil exports.

Iranian-backed forces seize oil tanker in Gulf off coast of UAE

The suspension of flights from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka to UAE has been extended till August 7 and may get further extended, depending on the government’s directions.&nbsp;

In a statement, Etihad said, “Following the latest UAE Government directives, passenger travel from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka to the UAE and Etihad's network has been suspended until August 7, 2021.” &nbsp;

On its website, Abu Dhabi-based airline said, “This is an evolving situation, and this date may have to be extended in line with government mandates.”&nbsp;

Although official delegations, diplomatic missions, UAE nationals and Golden residence holders are exempted from the UAE entry restriction, these passengers may have to quarantine themselves. &nbsp;

Currently, Etihad is operating normal commercial flights to all four countries. The airline said cargo will continue to operate in both directions without any impact.&nbsp;

Earlier, national carrier Etihad Airways informed that flights from India to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will remain suspended till August 2.&nbsp;

"We've just received confirmation that flights from India are suspended till the 2nd August, and we are not entirely sure if this will be extended as it depends on the authorities," Etihad Airways Guest Relations said in a tweet.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The suspension of flights from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka to UAE has been extended till August 7 and may get further extended, depending on the government’s directions.

The suspension of flights from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka to UAE has been extended till August 7 and may get further extended, depending on the government’s directions. In a statement, Etihad said, “Following the latest UAE Government directives, passenger travel from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka to the UAE and Etihad's network has been suspended until August 7, 2021.” On its website, Abu Dhabi-based airline said, “This is an evolving situation, and this date may have to be extended in line with government mandates.” Although official delegations, diplomatic missions, UAE nationals and Golden residence holders are exempted from the UAE entry restriction, these passengers may have to quarantine themselves. Currently, Etihad is operating normal commercial flights to all four countries. The airline said cargo will continue to operate in both directions without any impact. Earlier, national carrier Etihad Airways informed that flights from India to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will remain suspended till August 2. "We've just received confirmation that flights from India are suspended till the 2nd August, and we are not entirely sure if this will be extended as it depends on the authorities," Etihad Airways Guest Relations said in a tweet. (With inputs from agencies)

Flights’ suspension from India, Pak, Bangladesh and Lanka to UAE extended till Aug 7 

Israel’s Environmental Protection Ministry said that it was delaying the implementation of a proposed oil transport deal with the United Arab Emirates, freezing a project that has angered environmentalists.

Israel postpones execution of UAE oil pipeline deal over environmental concerns

We have heard of billionaires heading to space. But UAE's Nora Al-Matrooshi is shattering the glass ceiling in space! The first Arab woman astronaut speaks exclusively to WION.

UAE's first female astronaut Nora Al-Matrooshi speaks to WION

The United Arab Emirates on Wednesday become the first Gulf state to open an embassy in Israel, as its envoy hailed the trade and investment opportunities that closer ties would bring at a flag-raising ceremony also attended by Israel's president. 
 
Brought together by shared unease about Iran, the UAE and Bahrain normalised relations with Israel last year under the "Abraham Accords" crafted by the administration of then-US&nbsp;President Donald Trump 
 
Sudan and Morocco have since also moved to establish ties with Israel.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-officials-say-cargo-ship-possibly-attacked-en-route-to-uae-395707">Israeli officials say cargo ship possibly attacked en route to UAE</a>

The opening of the UAE embassy, which is situated in the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, followed the inauguration of Israel's embassy in the UAE last month. 
 
"Since the normalisation of ties ...we have seen for the first time discussions on trade and investment opportunities," UAE ambassador Mohamed Al Khaja said, after raising his country's flag outside the building. 
 
"We signed major agreements across various fields, including economy, air travel, technology and culture." 
 
Israeli President Isaac Herzog called the opening of the embassy "an important milestone in our journey towards the future, peace prosperity and security" for the Middle East. 
 
"Seeing the Emirati flag flying proudly in Tel Aviv might have seemed like a far-fetched dream about a year ago," he said. "In many ways nothing could be more natural and normal." 
 
In the UAE last month to inaugurate Israel`s temporary embassy in Abu Dhabi and consulate in Dubai, Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid said bilateral trade since normalisation exceeded $675 million and he expected more deals. 
 
The regional rapprochement has been deplored by the Palestinians, who want their demands for statehood free of Israeli occupation addressed first. 
 
The UAE has said last year's US-brokered accords, which challenged a decades-old allegiance to Palestinian ambitions as a major driver of Arab policy, would ultimately benefit the Palestinians.

The United Arab Emirates on Wednesday become the first Gulf state to open an embassy in Israel, as its envoy hailed the trade and investment opportunities that closer ties would bring at a flag-raising ceremony also attended by Israel's president.

The United Arab Emirates on Wednesday become the first Gulf state to open an embassy in Israel, as its envoy hailed the trade and investment opportunities that closer ties would bring at a flag-raising ceremony also attended by Israel's president. Brought together by shared unease about Iran, the UAE and Bahrain normalised relations with Israel last year under the "Abraham Accords" crafted by the administration of then-US President Donald Trump Sudan and Morocco have since also moved to establish ties with Israel. Also Read: Israeli officials say cargo ship possibly attacked en route to UAE The opening of the UAE embassy, which is situated in the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, followed the inauguration of Israel's embassy in the UAE last month. "Since the normalisation of ties ...we have seen for the first time discussions on trade and investment opportunities," UAE ambassador Mohamed Al Khaja said, after raising his country's flag outside the building. "We signed major agreements across various fields, including economy, air travel, technology and culture." Israeli President Isaac Herzog called the opening of the embassy "an important milestone in our journey towards the future, peace prosperity and security" for the Middle East. "Seeing the Emirati flag flying proudly in Tel Aviv might have seemed like a far-fetched dream about a year ago," he said. "In many ways nothing could be more natural and normal." In the UAE last month to inaugurate Israel`s temporary embassy in Abu Dhabi and consulate in Dubai, Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid said bilateral trade since normalisation exceeded $675 million and he expected more deals. The regional rapprochement has been deplored by the Palestinians, who want their demands for statehood free of Israeli occupation addressed first. The UAE has said last year's US-brokered accords, which challenged a decades-old allegiance to Palestinian ambitions as a major driver of Arab policy, would ultimately benefit the Palestinians.

In a first for Gulf, UAE opens embassy in Israel, hails trade ties

The 28-year-old mechanical engineer from Sharjah -- one of the seven emirates that make up the UAE -- has dreamt about space since she was a girl, learning about planets and stars at school.

First Arab woman astronaut Nora al-Matrooshi in training

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to present a significant change in the fifteenth edition of the league, beginning with the mega auction.&nbsp;The IPL 2022 is probably going to return to the 74 matches format which was first utilized in&nbsp;2011 when two new teams were included along with the blend to make it a 10-team tournament. The same is expected to be done when two new teams will be added from the following year onwards.

IPL has had an upside-down ride since last year. To begin with, the IPL 2020 season was delayed, and moved out of the country. Then, at that point, the IPL 2021 season was mostly held in India and will currently be finished in the UAE. The BCCI had even thought about an extension of a 10-group IPL after the 2020 season however the Covid-19 pandemic smothered the plans.&nbsp;

IPL presently is held in a round-robin league format with each group playing against the other seven groups twice in the league stage. The tournament then, at that point enters the end of the season games with two Qualifiers and one Eliminator before the final. But, now the round-robin league format would be changed into a group format with 10 teams being segregated into two groups of five.&nbsp;

The following version of the Indian Premier League is probably going to observe a 74-match competition in extension to 10 teams in 2022. The format got extreme criticism back in 2011, however, a BCCI official affirmed to the Hindustan Times that they are not prepared for a 94-match competition.&nbsp;

The BCCI isn't continuing with the league format as that will mean more matches, which the coordinators aren't prepared for right now comprising of worldwide responsibilities, especially the Future Tours Program.&nbsp;

“We are not ready for 94 matches yet. Our broadcasters are not ready. There are issues around overseas player availability and finding a suitable window. We will consider a bigger window in future years,” a BCCI official told Hindustan Times.

<h2>Format changes in IPL 2022</h2>

Mega auction with the conceivable alternative of retaining a total of 4 players&nbsp;

74-match format with two groups rather than a 94-match league format

The 54-day season extends to a 60-day season&nbsp;

Increase in salary cap by franchise&nbsp;

The new format will likewise result in the BCCI, franchises, players acquiring more as the general benefits would increment because of the greater number of matches. It additionally must be noticed that the incomes would additionally shoot up when broadcast deals&nbsp;advance beyond IPL 2023 season. Star India has the media rights right now yet the 5-year-deal would reach a conclusion after the following season.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to present a significant change in the fifteenth edition of the league, beginning with the mega auction. The IPL 2022 is probably going to return to the 74 matches format which was first utilized in 2011 when two new teams were included along with the blend to make it a 10-team tournament.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to present a significant change in the fifteenth edition of the league, beginning with the mega auction. The IPL 2022 is probably going to return to the 74 matches format which was first utilized in 2011 when two new teams were included along with the blend to make it a 10-team tournament. The same is expected to be done when two new teams will be added from the following year onwards. IPL has had an upside-down ride since last year. To begin with, the IPL 2020 season was delayed, and moved out of the country. Then, at that point, the IPL 2021 season was mostly held in India and will currently be finished in the UAE. The BCCI had even thought about an extension of a 10-group IPL after the 2020 season however the Covid-19 pandemic smothered the plans. IPL presently is held in a round-robin league format with each group playing against the other seven groups twice in the league stage. The tournament then, at that point enters the end of the season games with two Qualifiers and one Eliminator before the final. But, now the round-robin league format would be changed into a group format with 10 teams being segregated into two groups of five. The following version of the Indian Premier League is probably going to observe a 74-match competition in extension to 10 teams in 2022. The format got extreme criticism back in 2011, however, a BCCI official affirmed to the Hindustan Times that they are not prepared for a 94-match competition. The BCCI isn't continuing with the league format as that will mean more matches, which the coordinators aren't prepared for right now comprising of worldwide responsibilities, especially the Future Tours Program. “We are not ready for 94 matches yet. Our broadcasters are not ready. There are issues around overseas player availability and finding a suitable window. We will consider a bigger window in future years,” a BCCI official told Hindustan Times. Format changes in IPL 2022 Mega auction with the conceivable alternative of retaining a total of 4 players 74-match format with two groups rather than a 94-match league format The 54-day season extends to a 60-day season Increase in salary cap by franchise The new format will likewise result in the BCCI, franchises, players acquiring more as the general benefits would increment because of the greater number of matches. It additionally must be noticed that the incomes would additionally shoot up when broadcast deals advance beyond IPL 2023 season. Star India has the media rights right now yet the 5-year-deal would reach a conclusion after the following season.

IPL: 2 groups, 10 teams, 74 matches: The IPL 2022 season may see significant changes - Report

With the rest of IPL 2021 SCHEDULED to occur in the UAE, franchises are at present concerned about obtaining lodgings. The second half of the tournament, scheduled between September 19 to October 15, will clash with Dubai Expo, which begins on October 1.&nbsp;

Because of demand, franchises are likewise careful about the ascent in costs of hotel bookings. The BCCI has likewise faced a huge setback as they are yet to give the IPL franchises the green sign to venture out to the UAE and finish their coordinations because of a restriction on departures from India to the UAE.&nbsp;

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Addressing ANI, an IPL establishment official affirmed that they are hoping to close the arrangements through virtual meets.&nbsp;

"We are yet to get the go-ahead from the BCCI and it is understandable with an eye on the COVID-19 situation. What we do understand is that we will get clarity from the board on the plan ahead around July 15. After that, we could be free to travel."

"But looking at how the COVID-19 situation is always changing, we might look at video calls to complete the bookings. We need to keep in mind the Dubai Expo and how it might make it difficult to get bulk rooms with every passing day," the official said.

The franchises have likewise projected reservations on the bio-bubble thinking that individuals will go to the UAE from everywhere in the world because of the Dubai Expo.&nbsp;

"We have the Dubai Expo starting October 1. Getting hotel rooms that are isolated from the rest of the guests staying in a hotel can be a real challenge. It isn't the same as last time because the number of tourists coming to UAE last time was minimal as compared to what is expected for the Expo. The sooner we can close the deal, the better because once we have locked the rooms, we have to play the bubble which needs to be foolproof," the official added.

It will be intriguing to perceive how BCCI makes a safe bio-bubble subsequent to getting extreme reactions for a breach during the first half of IPL 2021.

With the rest of IPL 2021 SCHEDULED to occur in the UAE, franchises are at present concerned about obtaining lodgings. The second half of the tournament, scheduled between September 19 to October 15, will clash with Dubai Expo, which begins on October 1.

With the rest of IPL 2021 SCHEDULED to occur in the UAE, franchises are at present concerned about obtaining lodgings. The second half of the tournament, scheduled between September 19 to October 15, will clash with Dubai Expo, which begins on October 1. Because of demand, franchises are likewise careful about the ascent in costs of hotel bookings. The BCCI has likewise faced a huge setback as they are yet to give the IPL franchises the green sign to venture out to the UAE and finish their coordinations because of a restriction on departures from India to the UAE. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'I was surprised to see Shubman Gill hid his injury', says former India wicket-keeper Addressing ANI, an IPL establishment official affirmed that they are hoping to close the arrangements through virtual meets. "We are yet to get the go-ahead from the BCCI and it is understandable with an eye on the COVID-19 situation. What we do understand is that we will get clarity from the board on the plan ahead around July 15. After that, we could be free to travel." "But looking at how the COVID-19 situation is always changing, we might look at video calls to complete the bookings. We need to keep in mind the Dubai Expo and how it might make it difficult to get bulk rooms with every passing day," the official said. The franchises have likewise projected reservations on the bio-bubble thinking that individuals will go to the UAE from everywhere in the world because of the Dubai Expo. "We have the Dubai Expo starting October 1. Getting hotel rooms that are isolated from the rest of the guests staying in a hotel can be a real challenge. It isn't the same as last time because the number of tourists coming to UAE last time was minimal as compared to what is expected for the Expo. The sooner we can close the deal, the better because once we have locked the rooms, we have to play the bubble which needs to be foolproof," the official added. It will be intriguing to perceive how BCCI makes a safe bio-bubble subsequent to getting extreme reactions for a breach during the first half of IPL 2021.

IPL 2021: Franchises sweat over hotel accommodation as league clashes with Dubai Expo

Following the expansion to its event programme in the next cycle, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has commenced the process to identify the hosts for men’s white-ball events to be held post-2023. The hosting of the ICC World Test Championship Final, the ICC women's and under-19 events in the new cycle will be determined in a separate process that will get underway later this year.

Eight men’s ODI and T20 events, comprising two ICC Men’s Cricket World Cups, four ICC Men’s T20 World Cups, and two ICC Champions Trophies, will be staged from 2024-2031 and ICC Members were invited to submit a preliminary technical proposal as a potential host. This included individual country submissions as well as joint proposals.

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Initial submissions have been received from Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, Ireland, Malaysia, Namibia, New Zealand, Oman, Pakistan, Scotland, South Africa, Sri Lanka, West Indies, UAE, USA, and Zimbabwe.

ICC Acting Chief Executive Geoff Allardice said: “We are delighted with the response from our Members to hosting ICC men’s white-ball events post 2023. This process gives us an opportunity to extend our range of hosts and grow interest in cricket worldwide reaching more fans whilst creating a long-term legacy for the sport.

“Cricket has more than a billion fans around the world and ICC events have a proven track record of bringing significant economic and social benefits for host counties. These events provide hosts with a wonderful opportunity to work closely with local communities to grow the game whilst supporting economic and social development public policy goals.

“We will now move forward to the second phase of the process where Members will provide a more detailed proposal before the ICC Board takes decisions on our future hosts later this year.”

Following the expansion to its event programme in the next cycle, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has commenced the process to identify the hosts for men’s white-ball events to be held post-2023.

Following the expansion to its event programme in the next cycle, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has commenced the process to identify the hosts for men’s white-ball events to be held post-2023. The hosting of the ICC World Test Championship Final, the ICC women's and under-19 events in the new cycle will be determined in a separate process that will get underway later this year. Eight men’s ODI and T20 events, comprising two ICC Men’s Cricket World Cups, four ICC Men’s T20 World Cups, and two ICC Champions Trophies, will be staged from 2024-2031 and ICC Members were invited to submit a preliminary technical proposal as a potential host. This included individual country submissions as well as joint proposals. ALSO READ: Cricket: Mitchell Starc unperturbed by quarantine hurdle amidst Australia’s tight scheduled Initial submissions have been received from Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, Ireland, Malaysia, Namibia, New Zealand, Oman, Pakistan, Scotland, South Africa, Sri Lanka, West Indies, UAE, USA, and Zimbabwe. ICC Acting Chief Executive Geoff Allardice said: “We are delighted with the response from our Members to hosting ICC men’s white-ball events post 2023. This process gives us an opportunity to extend our range of hosts and grow interest in cricket worldwide reaching more fans whilst creating a long-term legacy for the sport. “Cricket has more than a billion fans around the world and ICC events have a proven track record of bringing significant economic and social benefits for host counties. These events provide hosts with a wonderful opportunity to work closely with local communities to grow the game whilst supporting economic and social development public policy goals. “We will now move forward to the second phase of the process where Members will provide a more detailed proposal before the ICC Board takes decisions on our future hosts later this year.”

Cricket: India, England, Australia, among 17 countries to signal interest for future ICC events

Israeli defence officials were checking whether Iranian forces were behind a possible attack on a cargo ship under partial&nbsp;Israeli ownership on Saturday (July 3) on its way from Jeddah to the United Arab Emirates,&nbsp;Israel's N12 Television News reported.

The crew were not hurt and the ship, possibly hit by a missile, was not badly damaged and continued on its journey after the incident, N12 said, citing unnamed sources within&nbsp;Israel's defence establishment. Lebanese pro-Iranian TV channel Al Mayadeen had reported the incident earlier.

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Ship-tracking data from Refinitiv Eikon showed the CSAV Tyndall container ship, which sails under a Liberian flag, was last docked in Jeddah and was now off the coast of Dubai.

Israeli defence officials were checking whether Iranian forces were behind a possible attack on a cargo ship under partial Israeli ownership on Saturday (July 3) on its way from Jeddah to the United Arab Emirates, Israel's N12 Television News reported.

Israeli defence officials were checking whether Iranian forces were behind a possible attack on a cargo ship under partial Israeli ownership on Saturday (July 3) on its way from Jeddah to the United Arab Emirates, Israel's N12 Television News reported. The crew were not hurt and the ship, possibly hit by a missile, was not badly damaged and continued on its journey after the incident, N12 said, citing unnamed sources within Israel's defence establishment. Lebanese pro-Iranian TV channel Al Mayadeen had reported the incident earlier. Also read | Philippine military plane carrying 92 people crashes; 40 rescued, 17 dead Ship-tracking data from Refinitiv Eikon showed the CSAV Tyndall container ship, which sails under a Liberian flag, was last docked in Jeddah and was now off the coast of Dubai.

Israeli officials say cargo ship possibly attacked en route to UAE

OPEC+ will resume talks on Monday after failing to reach a deal on oil output policy for a second day running on Friday because the United Arab Emirates blocked some aspects of the pact. 
 
The standoff could delay plans to pump more oil through to the end of the year to cool oil prices that have soared to 2-1/2 year highs. 
 
Without a deal, the OPEC+ alliance could keep tighter restraints on output with oil prices now trading around $75 a barrel, more than 40% up this year. Consumers want more crude to aid a global recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. 
 
The rise in oil prices is contributing to global inflation, slowing the economic recovery from the coronavirus crisis. 
 
OPEC+, which groups the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, Russia and their allies, voted on Friday to increase output by around 2 million barrels per day (bpd) from August to December 2021 and to extend remaining cuts to the end of 2022, instead of ending in April 2022, OPEC+ sources said. 
 
The UAE agreed to releasing more oil into the market but refused to support the extension of the cuts. 
 
Talks resume on Monday, OPEC+ said in a statement. 
 
Responding to oil demand destruction caused by the COVID crisis, OPEC+ agreed last year to cut output by almost 10 million bpd from May 2020, with plans to phase out the curbs by the end of April 2022. Cuts now stand at about 5.8 million bpd. 
 
If the UAE blocks a deal, the remaining cuts would likely stay in place, although there is a slim chance the pact could fall apart and all countries could pump as much as they wanted. 
 
Alternatively, the group could agree to increase output to the end of 2021 but postpone discussion about extending the deal beyond April 2022. OPEC+ sources said UAE had proposed this. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

OPEC+ will resume talks on Monday after failing to reach a deal on oil output policy for a second day running on Friday because the United Arab Emirates blocked some aspects of the pact.

OPEC+ will resume talks on Monday after failing to reach a deal on oil output policy for a second day running on Friday because the United Arab Emirates blocked some aspects of the pact. The standoff could delay plans to pump more oil through to the end of the year to cool oil prices that have soared to 2-1/2 year highs. Without a deal, the OPEC+ alliance could keep tighter restraints on output with oil prices now trading around $75 a barrel, more than 40% up this year. Consumers want more crude to aid a global recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The rise in oil prices is contributing to global inflation, slowing the economic recovery from the coronavirus crisis. OPEC+, which groups the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, Russia and their allies, voted on Friday to increase output by around 2 million barrels per day (bpd) from August to December 2021 and to extend remaining cuts to the end of 2022, instead of ending in April 2022, OPEC+ sources said. The UAE agreed to releasing more oil into the market but refused to support the extension of the cuts. Talks resume on Monday, OPEC+ said in a statement. Responding to oil demand destruction caused by the COVID crisis, OPEC+ agreed last year to cut output by almost 10 million bpd from May 2020, with plans to phase out the curbs by the end of April 2022. Cuts now stand at about 5.8 million bpd. If the UAE blocks a deal, the remaining cuts would likely stay in place, although there is a slim chance the pact could fall apart and all countries could pump as much as they wanted. Alternatively, the group could agree to increase output to the end of 2021 but postpone discussion about extending the deal beyond April 2022. OPEC+ sources said UAE had proposed this. (With inputs from agencies)

OPEC+ to resume oil policy talks on Monday after UAE roadblock

Saudi Arabia has suspended flights to three countries, including the neighbouring United Arab Emirates, to protect against a coronavirus variant, the interior ministry said Saturday.

The move comes seven weeks after the oil-rich kingdom permitted fully immunised citizens to travel abroad, after a ban on foreign trips that lasted more than a year.

The UAE, and especially Dubai, is a key leisure destination for Saudis.&nbsp;

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Flights to and from the UAE, alongside those to Ethiopia and Vietnam, will be suspended from Sunday, an interior ministry official said, quoted by the state news agency SPA.&nbsp;

Saudi citizens and residents returning from these countries will be required to quarantine for 14 days, it added.

Citizens would be banned "from travelling directly or indirectly, without obtaining prior permission from... authorities".

The decision was taken due to "the spread of a new mutated strain of the (COVID-19) virus", it added, without explicitly mentioning the increasingly globally emergent Delta variant.

The variant, first detected in India and now present in at least 85 countries, is the most contagious of any <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> variant yet identified.

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The UAE announced last week it had recorded cases of the Delta variant and it has suspended flights to and from India.

Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, has put major limits on the annual hajj pilgrimage. It has officially recorded more than 490,000 cases of coronavirus, including nearly 7,850 deaths.

The oil-rich Gulf state is home to a large expat workforce from Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

Saudi Arabia has suspended flights to three countries, including the neighbouring United Arab Emirates, to protect against a coronavirus variant, the interior ministry said Saturday.

Saudi Arabia has suspended flights to three countries, including the neighbouring United Arab Emirates, to protect against a coronavirus variant, the interior ministry said Saturday. The move comes seven weeks after the oil-rich kingdom permitted fully immunised citizens to travel abroad, after a ban on foreign trips that lasted more than a year. The UAE, and especially Dubai, is a key leisure destination for Saudis. Also read | Coronavirus: Saudi Arabia to ease curfew on June 21, except Mecca Flights to and from the UAE, alongside those to Ethiopia and Vietnam, will be suspended from Sunday, an interior ministry official said, quoted by the state news agency SPA. Saudi citizens and residents returning from these countries will be required to quarantine for 14 days, it added. Citizens would be banned "from travelling directly or indirectly, without obtaining prior permission from... authorities". The decision was taken due to "the spread of a new mutated strain of the (COVID-19) virus", it added, without explicitly mentioning the increasingly globally emergent Delta variant. The variant, first detected in India and now present in at least 85 countries, is the most contagious of any COVID-19 variant yet identified. The UAE announced last week it had recorded cases of the Delta variant and it has suspended flights to and from India. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, has put major limits on the annual hajj pilgrimage. It has officially recorded more than 490,000 cases of coronavirus, including nearly 7,850 deaths. The oil-rich Gulf state is home to a large expat workforce from Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

Saudi suspends UAE flights due to virus variant

UAE's Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has begun issuing work permits for Golden Visa holders.

The ministry said the permits are allowed in three cases. It is given to those who were unemployed earlier when they received their Golden Visa and now want to start working, secondly, those who are employed and want to start work with a new employer and people who want to renew the work permit and contract of Golden Visa holder.

The move was approved by a cabinet resolution. The UAE had implemented the Golden Visa scheme two years ago for long-term residence visas.

The system allowed foreigners to live, work and study in the UAE without the need of a national sponsor and with 100 per cent ownership of their business on the UAE’s mainland.

The Golden Visas are issued by the government for five or ten years and is renewed automatically. The visa is given to investors, entrepreneurs, specialised talents and researchers including bright students with promising scientific capabilities.

Doctors are also given Golden Visa provided they have a Ph. D. degree from one of the top 500 universities in the world and have contributed towards&nbsp;major scientific research. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Outstanding students with a minimum grade of 95 per cent in public and private secondary schools are also eligible for the coveted visa including university students with a distinction GPA of at least 3.75 upon graduation.

In order to get the 10-year residence visa, an investor needs to make a public investment of AED 10 million and has to ensure it is not a loaned amount among other conditions.

The UAE ministry said work permits and contracts between employers and workers who receive the Golden Visa will remain valid and the same rules will be applied for dependents registered on their parents' residency visas if they are applying for work and are Golden Visa holders, the ministry stated.

(With inputs from Agencies)

UAE's Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has begun issuing work permits for Golden Visa holders. The ministry said the permits are allowed in three cases.

UAE's Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has begun issuing work permits for Golden Visa holders. The ministry said the permits are allowed in three cases. It is given to those who were unemployed earlier when they received their Golden Visa and now want to start working, secondly, those who are employed and want to start work with a new employer and people who want to renew the work permit and contract of Golden Visa holder. The move was approved by a cabinet resolution. The UAE had implemented the Golden Visa scheme two years ago for long-term residence visas. The system allowed foreigners to live, work and study in the UAE without the need of a national sponsor and with 100 per cent ownership of their business on the UAE’s mainland. The Golden Visas are issued by the government for five or ten years and is renewed automatically. The visa is given to investors, entrepreneurs, specialised talents and researchers including bright students with promising scientific capabilities. Doctors are also given Golden Visa provided they have a Ph. D. degree from one of the top 500 universities in the world and have contributed towards major scientific research. Outstanding students with a minimum grade of 95 per cent in public and private secondary schools are also eligible for the coveted visa including university students with a distinction GPA of at least 3.75 upon graduation. In order to get the 10-year residence visa, an investor needs to make a public investment of AED 10 million and has to ensure it is not a loaned amount among other conditions. The UAE ministry said work permits and contracts between employers and workers who receive the Golden Visa will remain valid and the same rules will be applied for dependents registered on their parents' residency visas if they are applying for work and are Golden Visa holders, the ministry stated. (With inputs from Agencies)

UAE begins issuing work permits for Golden Visa holders

Israel's new foreign minister inaugurated its embassy in the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday and offered an olive branch to other former adversaries, saying: "We're here to stay." 
 
Yair Lapid's two-day visit, in which he will open an Israeli consulate in Dubai on Wednesday, is the first to the Gulf state by an Israeli cabinet minister since the countries established ties last year. 
 
The trip is also an opportunity for the two-week-old Israeli government of Naftali Bennett, a nationalist, who heads an improbable cross-partisan coalition, to make diplomatic inroads despite long-stymied talks with the Palestinians. 
 
"Israel wants peace with its neighbours - with all its neighbours. We aren't going anywhere. The Middle East is our home," Lapid said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Abu Dhabi high-rise office serving as a temporary embassy. 
 
"We're here to stay. We call on all the countries of the region to recognise that and to come to talk to us," he said.

Brought together by shared worries about Iran and hopes for commercial boons, the UAE and Bahrain normalised relations with Israel last year under so-called 'Abraham Accords' crafted by the administration of then US-President Donald Trump. Sudan and Morocco have since also moved to establish ties with Israel. 
 
Lapid and his Emirati counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed al-Nahyan discussed building on the accords to achieve peace and strengthen security in the region, state news agency WAM said. 
 
They signed an agreement for economic and commercial cooperation, which an Israeli spokesman had earlier said would be the 12th since last year's move to forge ties. 
 
US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken, welcoming Lapid's visit, said Washington "will continue to work with Israel and the UAE as we strengthen all aspects of our partnerships and work to create a more peaceful, secure, and prosperous future for all the peoples of the Middle East", the State Department said. 
 
The regional rapprochement was deplored by the Palestinians, who want their demands for statehood free of Israeli occupation addressed first. 
 
President Mahmoud Abbas dismissed the accords as 'an illusion' and asserted that colonial powers had "implant(ed) Israel as a foreign body in this region in order to fragment it and keep it weak," according to a report on Tuesday by the official Palestinian news service WAFA.

Lapid will on Wednesday visit the site of Expo 2020 Dubai, a world fair opening in October where Israel has built a pavilion. 
 
The UAE formally opened its embassy in Israel, temporarily located in the Tel Aviv stock exchange, this month. 
 
Israel's Abu Dhabi embassy still has only three diplomats and a head of mission, Eitan Na'eh, yet to be confirmed as full ambassador. Its Dubai consulate is similarly located in temporary premises. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's new foreign minister inaugurated its embassy in the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday and offered an olive branch to other former adversaries, saying: "We're here to stay.

Israel's new foreign minister inaugurated its embassy in the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday and offered an olive branch to other former adversaries, saying: "We're here to stay." Yair Lapid's two-day visit, in which he will open an Israeli consulate in Dubai on Wednesday, is the first to the Gulf state by an Israeli cabinet minister since the countries established ties last year. The trip is also an opportunity for the two-week-old Israeli government of Naftali Bennett, a nationalist, who heads an improbable cross-partisan coalition, to make diplomatic inroads despite long-stymied talks with the Palestinians. "Israel wants peace with its neighbours - with all its neighbours. We aren't going anywhere. The Middle East is our home," Lapid said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Abu Dhabi high-rise office serving as a temporary embassy. "We're here to stay. We call on all the countries of the region to recognise that and to come to talk to us," he said. Brought together by shared worries about Iran and hopes for commercial boons, the UAE and Bahrain normalised relations with Israel last year under so-called 'Abraham Accords' crafted by the administration of then US-President Donald Trump. Sudan and Morocco have since also moved to establish ties with Israel. Lapid and his Emirati counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed al-Nahyan discussed building on the accords to achieve peace and strengthen security in the region, state news agency WAM said. They signed an agreement for economic and commercial cooperation, which an Israeli spokesman had earlier said would be the 12th since last year's move to forge ties. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, welcoming Lapid's visit, said Washington "will continue to work with Israel and the UAE as we strengthen all aspects of our partnerships and work to create a more peaceful, secure, and prosperous future for all the peoples of the Middle East", the State Department said. The regional rapprochement was deplored by the Palestinians, who want their demands for statehood free of Israeli occupation addressed first. President Mahmoud Abbas dismissed the accords as 'an illusion' and asserted that colonial powers had "implant(ed) Israel as a foreign body in this region in order to fragment it and keep it weak," according to a report on Tuesday by the official Palestinian news service WAFA. Lapid will on Wednesday visit the site of Expo 2020 Dubai, a world fair opening in October where Israel has built a pavilion. The UAE formally opened its embassy in Israel, temporarily located in the Tel Aviv stock exchange, this month. Israel's Abu Dhabi embassy still has only three diplomats and a head of mission, Eitan Na'eh, yet to be confirmed as full ambassador. Its Dubai consulate is similarly located in temporary premises. (With inputs from agencies)

Inaugurating embassy in UAE, Israel tells region: 'We're here to stay'

Israel’s new foreign minister Yair Lapid arrived in the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday for a two-day trip. This is the first-ever official visit by an Israeli minister after both countries normalised ties in September last year.

Israeli FM Yair Lapid arrives in UAE on first state visit

Kamran Akmal feels that Pakistan will have an advantage in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, which has been shifted from India to the United Arab Emirates.

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According to Akmal, Pakistan will be aware of the conditions in UAE as the Men in Green have played several games in the country.&nbsp;

“Pakistan should have the advantage in the T20 World Cup. We’ve played international cricket for 9 to 10 years in the UAE. That makes Pakistan the most experienced side under the conditions,” Akmal said.

“Not only players from India and Pakistan but from other countries will also benefit going into the T20 World Cup since a lot of them play in both PSL and IPL. Given the conditions in the UAE, Afghanistan can also prove to be a dangerous side, looking at the players that they have. So, it is difficult to pick a favourite for the T20 World Cup,” Akmal said.

Earlier today, tActing ICC CEO Geoff Allardice said: “Our priority is to deliver the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021 safely, in full, and in its current window. Whilst we are incredibly disappointed not to be hosting the event in India, the decision gives us the certainty we need to stage the event in a country that is a proven international host of multi-team events in a bio-secure environment. We will work closely with the BCCI, the Emirates Cricket Board, and Oman Cricket to ensure fans can enjoy a wonderful celebration of cricket.”

Acting ICC CEO Geoff Allardice said: “Our priority is to deliver the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021 safely, in full, and in its current window. Whilst we are incredibly disappointed not to be hosting the event in India, the decision gives us the certainty we need to stage the event in a country that is a proven international host of multi-team events in a bio-secure environment. We will work closely with the BCCI, the Emirates Cricket Board, and Oman Cricket to ensure fans can enjoy a wonderful celebration of cricket.”

Kamran Akmal feels that Pakistan will have an advantage in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, which has been shifted from India to the United Arab Emirates. ALSO READ: 'Shardul and Washington played a massive part': Australia's assistant coach recalls Gabba loss According to Akmal, Pakistan will be aware of the conditions in UAE as the Men in Green have played several games in the country.

Kamran Akmal feels that Pakistan will have an advantage in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, which has been shifted from India to the United Arab Emirates. ALSO READ: 'Shardul and Washington played a massive part': Australia's assistant coach recalls Gabba loss According to Akmal, Pakistan will be aware of the conditions in UAE as the Men in Green have played several games in the country. “Pakistan should have the advantage in the T20 World Cup. We’ve played international cricket for 9 to 10 years in the UAE. That makes Pakistan the most experienced side under the conditions,” Akmal said. “Not only players from India and Pakistan but from other countries will also benefit going into the T20 World Cup since a lot of them play in both PSL and IPL. Given the conditions in the UAE, Afghanistan can also prove to be a dangerous side, looking at the players that they have. So, it is difficult to pick a favourite for the T20 World Cup,” Akmal said. Earlier today, tActing ICC CEO Geoff Allardice said: “Our priority is to deliver the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021 safely, in full, and in its current window. Whilst we are incredibly disappointed not to be hosting the event in India, the decision gives us the certainty we need to stage the event in a country that is a proven international host of multi-team events in a bio-secure environment. We will work closely with the BCCI, the Emirates Cricket Board, and Oman Cricket to ensure fans can enjoy a wonderful celebration of cricket.” Acting ICC CEO Geoff Allardice said: “Our priority is to deliver the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021 safely, in full, and in its current window. Whilst we are incredibly disappointed not to be hosting the event in India, the decision gives us the certainty we need to stage the event in a country that is a proven international host of multi-team events in a bio-secure environment. We will work closely with the BCCI, the Emirates Cricket Board, and Oman Cricket to ensure fans can enjoy a wonderful celebration of cricket.”

'Pakistan should have the advantage in the T20 World Cup,' says Kamran Akmal

A United Arab Emirates ban on entry from India, South Africa and Nigeria remains in place, the federal aviation authority said on Sunday after Dubai had announced it would ease entry restrictions from those countries.

Dubai, a business and tourism hub, is the most populous of the UAE's seven emirates. Throughout the pandemic, the UAE's seven emirates have set some of their own <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> policies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-to-suspend-entry-from-three-countries-dubai-updates-travel-protocols-392673">UAE to suspend entry from three countries, Dubai updates travel protocols</a>

In a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) on Sunday, the UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) referenced a June 21 GCAA document stating entry from 13 countries, including Pakistan, was banned due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus pandemic</a>.

Dubai had said on June 19 that an entry ban on those who in the past 14 days had visited India, Nigeria and South Africa would ease from June 23.

Under the changes, an entry would be permitted to UAE residents in India who were fully <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccinated</a> against the coronavirus, anyone in South Africa who was fully vaccinated and those in Nigeria who had tested negative for coronavirus in the past 48 hours.

A GCAA representative on Sunday said those travelling from India were still banned from entering the UAE but deferred further comment to the Dubai government. Dubai's media office did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment.

Dubai's Emirates airline said on Twitter flights from India were available from July 7 but cautioned that could change.

"We're waiting for the exact travel protocols and guidelines before we can resume."

Indians represent one of the UAE's largest residential communities and are the biggest source market for tourists.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/private-jets-in-demand-indians-flee-the-country-fly-to-uae-to-escape-covid-surge-381327">Private jets in demand: Indians flee the country, fly to UAE to escape Covid surge</a>

Dubai reopened its borders to foreign visitors in July, while Abu Dhabi requires arrivals from most countries to quarantine.

A national ban on entry from India began in April as India faced a surge in coronavirus infections.

Certain individuals, such as UAE citizens and diplomats, have been exempted from entry bans.

A United Arab Emirates ban on entry from India, South Africa and Nigeria remains in place, the federal aviation authority said on Sunday after Dubai had announced it would ease entry restrictions from those countries.

A United Arab Emirates ban on entry from India, South Africa and Nigeria remains in place, the federal aviation authority said on Sunday after Dubai had announced it would ease entry restrictions from those countries. Dubai, a business and tourism hub, is the most populous of the UAE's seven emirates. Throughout the pandemic, the UAE's seven emirates have set some of their own COVID-19 policies. Also read | UAE to suspend entry from three countries, Dubai updates travel protocols In a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) on Sunday, the UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) referenced a June 21 GCAA document stating entry from 13 countries, including Pakistan, was banned due to the coronavirus pandemic. Dubai had said on June 19 that an entry ban on those who in the past 14 days had visited India, Nigeria and South Africa would ease from June 23. Under the changes, an entry would be permitted to UAE residents in India who were fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, anyone in South Africa who was fully vaccinated and those in Nigeria who had tested negative for coronavirus in the past 48 hours. A GCAA representative on Sunday said those travelling from India were still banned from entering the UAE but deferred further comment to the Dubai government. Dubai's media office did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment. Dubai's Emirates airline said on Twitter flights from India were available from July 7 but cautioned that could change. "We're waiting for the exact travel protocols and guidelines before we can resume." Indians represent one of the UAE's largest residential communities and are the biggest source market for tourists. Also read | Private jets in demand: Indians flee the country, fly to UAE to escape Covid surge Dubai reopened its borders to foreign visitors in July, while Abu Dhabi requires arrivals from most countries to quarantine. A national ban on entry from India began in April as India faced a surge in coronavirus infections. Certain individuals, such as UAE citizens and diplomats, have been exempted from entry bans.

UAE ban on entry from India unchanged, aviation notice says

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced that they will be shifting the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 to the United Arab Emirates. Earlier, the ICC tournament was slated to take place in India, however, the COVID-19 situation has forced the Indian cricket board to relocate the tournament.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-to-ask-ecb-to-arrange-couple-of-warm-up-games-for-team-india-reports-393976" hreflang="en">BCCI to ask ECB to arrange couple of warm-up games for Team India: Reports</a>

Speaking to news agency ANI, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah said, "We will inform the International Cricket Council today that we are shifting T20 World Cup to UAE. Dates will be decided by the ICC."

The T20 World Cup will take place after the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will be played.&nbsp;

As per ESPNCricinfo, the 16-group competition will begin after the Indian Premier League 2021 final, which is relied upon to be held on October 15.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-kusal-mendis-and-niroshan-dickwella-under-investigation-for-alleged-bio-bubble-breach-394455" hreflang="en">Cricket: Kusal Mendis and Niroshan Dickwella under investigation for alleged bio-bubble breach</a>

The hosting rights of the T20 World Cup stay with the BCCI. The first round of the T20 World Cup will see 12 matches, containing the eight groups – Netherlands, Namibia, Scotland, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Ireland, and Papua New Guinea. Four of them will advance to the Super 12s, where they will join the other eight groups. The counterparts for Round one will not be played at the significant venues.&nbsp;

The T20 World Cup's Super 12-leg will involve 30 matches.&nbsp;This leg of the World Cup is scheduled to begin on October 24. The groups will be parted into two groups, with two from each making it to the semi-finals, trailed by the finals.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced that they will be shifting the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 to the United Arab Emirates. Earlier, the ICC tournament was slated to take place in India, however, the COVID-19 situation has forced the Indian cricket board to relocate the tournament.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced that they will be shifting the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 to the United Arab Emirates. Earlier, the ICC tournament was slated to take place in India, however, the COVID-19 situation has forced the Indian cricket board to relocate the tournament. ALSO READ: BCCI to ask ECB to arrange couple of warm-up games for Team India: Reports Speaking to news agency ANI, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah said, "We will inform the International Cricket Council today that we are shifting T20 World Cup to UAE. Dates will be decided by the ICC." The T20 World Cup will take place after the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will be played. As per ESPNCricinfo, the 16-group competition will begin after the Indian Premier League 2021 final, which is relied upon to be held on October 15. ALSO READ: Cricket: Kusal Mendis and Niroshan Dickwella under investigation for alleged bio-bubble breach The hosting rights of the T20 World Cup stay with the BCCI. The first round of the T20 World Cup will see 12 matches, containing the eight groups – Netherlands, Namibia, Scotland, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Ireland, and Papua New Guinea. Four of them will advance to the Super 12s, where they will join the other eight groups. The counterparts for Round one will not be played at the significant venues. The T20 World Cup's Super 12-leg will involve 30 matches. This leg of the World Cup is scheduled to begin on October 24. The groups will be parted into two groups, with two from each making it to the semi-finals, trailed by the finals.

Cricket: ICC T20 World Cup to be shifted to UAE, confirms BCCI secretary Jay Shah

The 2021 T20 World Cup will be facilitated in the UAE from October 17, with the final planned on November 14. As per ESPNCricinfo, the 16-group competition will begin after the Indian Premier League 2021 final, which is relied upon to be held on October 15.&nbsp;

Prior, the ICC after the board meeting had affirmed that the BCCI would hold hosting privileges of the T20 World Cup regardless of whether the tournament is moved out of India: "The Board also confirmed that the BCCI will remain the hosts of the event regardless of where the event is played," the ICC said in an official release.

The hosting rights of the T20 World Cup stay with the BCCI. Albeit the Indian cricket board hasn't authoritatively affirmed the turn of events or kept in touch with the ICC, it's accepted the tournament will be played in the middle east with UAE and Oman as hosts.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-to-ask-ecb-to-arrange-couple-of-warm-up-games-for-team-india-reports-393976" hreflang="en">BCCI to ask ECB to arrange couple of warm up games for Team India: Reports</a>

The BCCI had been allowed time till June end to tell ICC where they would have the T20 World Cup. The COVID-19 pandemic saw the 2020 release of the T20 World Cup that should be held in Australia being delayed to 2022.&nbsp;

Exactly when things appeared to be marginally better in India, the IPL 2021 initiated yet was suspended unexpectedly halfway as the second influx of the pandemic unleashed ruin in the country. With the danger of a potential third wave posing a potential threat, the BCCI isn't ready to face additional challenges.&nbsp;

The first round of the T20 World Cup will see 12 matches, containing the eight groups – Netherlands, Namibia, Scotland, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Ireland, and Papua New Guinea. Four of them will advance to the Super 12s, where they will join the other eight groups. The counterparts for Round one will not be played at the significant venues.&nbsp;

The T20 World Cup's Super 12-leg will involve 30 matches and will be played at the three major UAE venues – Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. This leg of the World Cup is scheduled to begin on October 24. The groups will be parted into two groups, with two from each making it to the semi-finals, trailed by the finals.&nbsp;

With the first round being facilitated in quite a while in the UAE and Oman, the BCCI will guarantee that post-IPL, the grounds of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah will have sufficient opportunity to have new pitches for the Super 12s.

The 2021 T20 World Cup will be facilitated in the UAE from October 17, with the final planned on November 14. As per ESPNCricinfo, the 16-group competition will begin after the Indian Premier League 2021 final, which is relied upon to be held on October 15.

The 2021 T20 World Cup will be facilitated in the UAE from October 17, with the final planned on November 14. As per ESPNCricinfo, the 16-group competition will begin after the Indian Premier League 2021 final, which is relied upon to be held on October 15. Prior, the ICC after the board meeting had affirmed that the BCCI would hold hosting privileges of the T20 World Cup regardless of whether the tournament is moved out of India: "The Board also confirmed that the BCCI will remain the hosts of the event regardless of where the event is played," the ICC said in an official release. The hosting rights of the T20 World Cup stay with the BCCI. Albeit the Indian cricket board hasn't authoritatively affirmed the turn of events or kept in touch with the ICC, it's accepted the tournament will be played in the middle east with UAE and Oman as hosts. ALSO READ: BCCI to ask ECB to arrange couple of warm up games for Team India: Reports The BCCI had been allowed time till June end to tell ICC where they would have the T20 World Cup. The COVID-19 pandemic saw the 2020 release of the T20 World Cup that should be held in Australia being delayed to 2022. Exactly when things appeared to be marginally better in India, the IPL 2021 initiated yet was suspended unexpectedly halfway as the second influx of the pandemic unleashed ruin in the country. With the danger of a potential third wave posing a potential threat, the BCCI isn't ready to face additional challenges. The first round of the T20 World Cup will see 12 matches, containing the eight groups – Netherlands, Namibia, Scotland, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Ireland, and Papua New Guinea. Four of them will advance to the Super 12s, where they will join the other eight groups. The counterparts for Round one will not be played at the significant venues. The T20 World Cup's Super 12-leg will involve 30 matches and will be played at the three major UAE venues – Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. This leg of the World Cup is scheduled to begin on October 24. The groups will be parted into two groups, with two from each making it to the semi-finals, trailed by the finals. With the first round being facilitated in quite a while in the UAE and Oman, the BCCI will guarantee that post-IPL, the grounds of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah will have sufficient opportunity to have new pitches for the Super 12s.

Cricket: ICC T20 World Cup set to begin on October 17 in the UAE: Reports

Nicholas Pooran believes the Windies should come together and proceed as a unit on the off chance that they need to win the impending 2021 T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

Over the course of the following month and a half, West Indies will play the T20I series against South Africa, Australia, and Pakistan prior to heading out to the UAE for the T20 World Cup in October.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-icc-t20-world-cup-set-to-begin-on-october-17-in-the-uae-reports-394064" hreflang="en">Cricket: ICC T20 World Cup set to begin on October 17 in the UAE: Reports</a>

Expressing that a tournament like the T20 World Cup will be won by a unit and not individuals, Nicholas Pooran feels that the forthcoming series will generally be about how the group bonds.&nbsp;

Nicholas Pooran addressed a virtual press conference ahead of the first T20I against South Africa: “To me, it’s not all about the cricket but it's also about how much we can look out for each other, how much we can be a team. At the end of the day, you don’t win a World Cup by one person performing or two persons performing, but by everyone playing their part, and that’s our key. Our keys are to look after each other, be as honest as we can with each other, and then you know the results on the field will take care of themselves because, at the end of the day, we all want to perform, we all want to win.”

Recently, West Indies lost the Test series against South Africa by a 2-0 edge. The Windies will presently be looking at a more grounded rebound in the most limited-overs series.&nbsp;

He accepts that with&nbsp;Kieron Pollard, Chris Gayle, Andre Russell, and Dwayne Bravo, West Indies have probably the best T20 team. Yet, the key will be to bond well collectively.

Nicholas Pooran said: “I think we picked our best 18 provisional squads. It’s important for us just to get momentum and get our fans back again. We want the full support of West Indians and the Caribbean people. I just believe that we are building towards the World Cup, and we have to function as a team. Everyone knows how good Chris Gayle is, Russell, Pollard and Dwayne Bravo, and the rest of the guys, but at the end of the day, if we can believe in each other, that is really important for us."

“I think we have three series before the World Cup. And it’s been a while since we’ve been together for a long time. So, we have a chance to mingle, we have a chance to look out for each other, we have a chance to learn about someone better” - he added 
&nbsp;

Nicholas Pooran believes the Windies should come together and proceed as a unit on the off chance that they need to win the impending 2021 T20 World Cup. Over the course of the following month and a half, West Indies will play the T20I series against South Africa, Australia, and Pakistan prior to heading out to the UAE for the T20 World Cup in October.

Nicholas Pooran believes the Windies should come together and proceed as a unit on the off chance that they need to win the impending 2021 T20 World Cup. Over the course of the following month and a half, West Indies will play the T20I series against South Africa, Australia, and Pakistan prior to heading out to the UAE for the T20 World Cup in October. ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC T20 World Cup set to begin on October 17 in the UAE: Reports Expressing that a tournament like the T20 World Cup will be won by a unit and not individuals, Nicholas Pooran feels that the forthcoming series will generally be about how the group bonds. Nicholas Pooran addressed a virtual press conference ahead of the first T20I against South Africa: “To me, it’s not all about the cricket but it's also about how much we can look out for each other, how much we can be a team. At the end of the day, you don’t win a World Cup by one person performing or two persons performing, but by everyone playing their part, and that’s our key. Our keys are to look after each other, be as honest as we can with each other, and then you know the results on the field will take care of themselves because, at the end of the day, we all want to perform, we all want to win.” Recently, West Indies lost the Test series against South Africa by a 2-0 edge. The Windies will presently be looking at a more grounded rebound in the most limited-overs series. He accepts that with Kieron Pollard, Chris Gayle, Andre Russell, and Dwayne Bravo, West Indies have probably the best T20 team. Yet, the key will be to bond well collectively. Nicholas Pooran said: “I think we picked our best 18 provisional squads. It’s important for us just to get momentum and get our fans back again. We want the full support of West Indians and the Caribbean people. I just believe that we are building towards the World Cup, and we have to function as a team. Everyone knows how good Chris Gayle is, Russell, Pollard and Dwayne Bravo, and the rest of the guys, but at the end of the day, if we can believe in each other, that is really important for us." “I think we have three series before the World Cup. And it’s been a while since we’ve been together for a long time. So, we have a chance to mingle, we have a chance to look out for each other, we have a chance to learn about someone better” - he added

Cricket: West Indies have to function as a team to win the T20 World Cup, says Nicholas Pooran

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will suspend travellers from Liberia, Sierra Leone and Namibia from entering the country on national and foreign flights, effective 23:59 pm&nbsp;on Monday, state news agency WAM reported on Saturday, citing a statement by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). 
 
The GCAA said the restrictions would also include transit passengers, with the exception of transit flights travelling to the UAE and bound for those countries. 
 
Cargo flights between those countries and the UAE will continue, as usual, the statement added. 
 
It said the restrictions were being introduced to limit the spread of COVID-19. 
 
The GCAA added that exemptions to its decision include: UAE nationals, their first-degree relatives, diplomatic missions, official delegations, business jets - after getting prior approvals - and golden and silver residency permit holders, in addition to those, who work essential jobs. 
 
Those, who are exempted, will still have to take a PCR test at the airport and enter a mandatory 10-day quarantine. 
 
Separately, Dubai's Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management said on Saturday it would allow travellers from South Africa, who have received two doses of a UAE-approved vaccine, to enter Dubai starting from June 23, WAM said. 
 
Travellers from India, who have valid residence visas and have received two doses of a UAE-approved vaccine, will also be allowed in the emirate. 
 
Meanwhile, travellers from Nigeria must only present a negative PCR test taken 48 hours prior to departure and will also undergo another PCR test on arrival in Dubai, WAM added. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will suspend travellers from Liberia, Sierra Leone and Namibia from entering the country on national and foreign flights, effective 23:59 pm on Monday, state news agency WAM reported on Saturday, citing a statement by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will suspend travellers from Liberia, Sierra Leone and Namibia from entering the country on national and foreign flights, effective 23:59 pm on Monday, state news agency WAM reported on Saturday, citing a statement by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). The GCAA said the restrictions would also include transit passengers, with the exception of transit flights travelling to the UAE and bound for those countries. Cargo flights between those countries and the UAE will continue, as usual, the statement added. It said the restrictions were being introduced to limit the spread of COVID-19. The GCAA added that exemptions to its decision include: UAE nationals, their first-degree relatives, diplomatic missions, official delegations, business jets - after getting prior approvals - and golden and silver residency permit holders, in addition to those, who work essential jobs. Those, who are exempted, will still have to take a PCR test at the airport and enter a mandatory 10-day quarantine. Separately, Dubai's Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management said on Saturday it would allow travellers from South Africa, who have received two doses of a UAE-approved vaccine, to enter Dubai starting from June 23, WAM said. Travellers from India, who have valid residence visas and have received two doses of a UAE-approved vaccine, will also be allowed in the emirate. Meanwhile, travellers from Nigeria must only present a negative PCR test taken 48 hours prior to departure and will also undergo another PCR test on arrival in Dubai, WAM added. (With inputs from agencies)

UAE to suspend entry from three countries, Dubai updates travel protocols

A turtle conservation programme at Dubai's famous Burj Al Arab hotel rescues and rehabilitates sick Hawksbill turtles that wash up on the UAE's shores during the winter.

Dubai conservation group protects endangered sea turtles

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