UAE Prime Minister

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a dinner banquet at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) today.

The banquet was hosted by Haj Ahmed Saeed Ahmed Lootah to celebrate the marriage of his son Rashid to the daughter of Director General of Dubai Municipality Hussain Nasser Lootah.

The reception was also attended by Dubai Deputy Ruler and Finance Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and his sons, Ajman Crown Prince Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Speaker of the Federal National Council Abdul Aziz al Ghurair, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, other ministers, dignitaries and officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the opening of the iconic Meydan Racecourse, the world's largest in term of area today.

Sheikh Mohammed accompanied by Dubai Crown Prince, Dubai Deputy Ruler and Minister of Finance Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Chairman and members of the Meydan Board, toured the different facilities of Meydan.

The opening meeting saw the holding of the 2010 Dubai International Racing Carnival and will continue until 27 March, the date of the US$ 10 million Dubai World Cup.

Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of Al Shabab Club Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, other sheikhs and senior officials were also present at the opening meeting.

UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received General Electric's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Immelt at Zaabeel Palace today.

They discussed the situation of the global markets in the light of the current global financial crisis which brought about global recession last year.

Immelt expressed confidence over the global economy and markets’ rebound during the current year, pointing to the company’s performance and considerable profits it has achieved over the past short period of time.

Immelt said that he is optimistic that the 2010 heralds good news, pointing to volume of deals signed by General Electric at the Arab Health Exhibition 2010. He added that General Electric regional office in Dubai is doing well and working in full capacity.

He expressed desire to expand his company’s operations in the region by establishing investment and strategic partnership with Dubai, which , he said, has great respect for and trust in its expertise and human potential thanks to Sheikh Mohammed’s directives and wise vision.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Director of Dubai Ruler's Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani and a number of senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to Governor General of Australia Quentin Bryce on her country’s national day.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent another congratulatory cable to President Pratibha Patil of India on her country’s Republic Day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has inaugurated the 35th Arab Health Exhibition, the Middle East’s biggest gathering of medical and healthcare professionals.

After cutting the traditional ribbon announcing the exhibition’s official opening in the presence of Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mohammed toured the different sections of the exhibition.

Over 2100 companies from 70 countries are taking part in the exhibition, being held over the next four days at Dubai International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

Sheikh Mohammed began his tour with a visit to Zaabeel Hall where giant German companies, General Electric, Dubai Health care City and other renowned companies are exhibiting their latest medical equipment and technology. He was briefed by exhibitors at different stands about their exhibits.

At the Health Ministry stand, Sheikh Mohammed was briefed on the new information system being adopted by the ministry as part of its strategy until 2015 in implementation of the Federal Government Strategy.

Sheikh Mohammed’s second stop was at the Mubadalah stand where he saw designs for the new Al Ain Hospital and another for the new Al Mafraq Hospital.

Sheikh Mohammed also visited stands for British, American, Chinese, Korean, Hungarian and other companies.

Sheikh Mohammed went on his tour to visit Dubai Healthcare Authority where he was briefed by the Authority’s Director General Qadhi Saeed Al Marshoud on the latest medical technology being used by the Authority’s hospitals. He also reviewed a design for Sheikha Al Jalilah bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s Paediatric Hospital.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed satisfaction and pleasure over the huge participation of Arab and world participation.

Pointing to the numerous exhibitions hosted by the UAE, Sheikh Mohammed said that the UAE continues to command the trust of companies and countries, which reflects the great faith the international community has in the UAE’s financial and economic sectors.

The opening was attended by several sheikhs, ministers, dignitaries, senior officials and healthcare professionals from all over the world.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum chaired a meeting of the cabinet at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi today.

The meeting was held with the attendance of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The Cabinet approved the formation of a high ministerial committee to be headed by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development, with Minister of Social Affairs as Deputy Chairman and the membership of Ministers of Education, Health, Labour, State Minister Maitha Al Shamsi and Chairman of National Media Council.

The committee will be tasked with the implementation of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan's call for boosting national and communal solidarity in the UAE community, which he stressed in his speech on the 38th National Day.

Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the importance of President’s call which reflects the leadership’s integrated vision that is based on achieving sustainable development in the UAE, ordering that the call be considered as a main document and a reference to be adopted in all development and communal schemes in the next stage.

The Cabinet’s decision also specified 2010- 2012 to enable the committee streamline general framework of its plan, programme and communications to submit it to the Cabinet to take appropriate resolutions.

The Cabinet also agreed the Federal National Council will discuss policies of Health Ministry and the Emirates Identity Authority (EIDA) in its next meeting.

It also ratified a number of agreements signed between the UAE and Spain on extradition of criminals and mutual legal assistance in criminal issues, as well as transfer of the convicts.

Concluding the meeting, the cabinet endorsed a number of federal government appointments and discussed other issues on its agenda, and took appropriate decisions.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has received the first copy of the book titled “India and the UAE: In Celebration of a Legendary Friendship.”

The outgoing Consul General of India in Dubai Venu Rajamony, author of the book, presented the book to Sheikh Mohammed on the India’s 60th Republic Day.

The book recounts the history of the bilateral relations between the UAE and India, especially in terms of trade exchange.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a lecture on the UAE's competitiveness, which was organised by the Emirates Competitiveness Council at Yas Hotel in Abu Dhabi today.

Professor Michael Porter from the Emirates Competitiveness Council delivered the lecture which was also attended by Cabinet members and more than 350 employees from the first, second and third tiers.

Sheikh Mohammed stressed the need for the council to have better presence locally and abroad, in order to achieve the federal government's objectives while focusing on how best to develop national capacities to employ them in the service of the country.

The lecture highlighted a number of factors that affect the nation's competitiveness, in addition to providing methods to use the concept in public institutions, countries and among individuals.

Secretary General of the Emirates Competitiveness Council Abdullah Nasser Lootah, said that the aim of holding such a forum was to highlight the role of public institutions in the country.

He added that it was necessary to preserve achievements in light of regional and international competition, while brainstorming over the best methods to further develop future competitive strategy to boost UAE's position on the world map.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan paid a visit to Chairman of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince's Court Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on his safe return to the UAE after successfully receiving treatment abroad.

Sheikh Hamed expressed his sincere thanks and gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed for their visit.

A number of other sheikhs and senior officials were also present.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the 90-km Sheikha Fatima bint Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan Endurance Cup for Ladies ride, which was held at the Emirates International Endurance Village today.

The race, which was held as per the directives of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, was sponsored by Bonyan International Investment Group LLC, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Al Medmar magazine and Wathba Stud Farm.

Saudi Arabia’s Latifa Al Sheikha won the race. She finished ahead of Morocco’s Maha Khalid on Princess Diana TE. Estonia’s Kaja Tuist on Chazar Queen of Hearts came third.

After the race, Sheikha Fatima bint Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan awarded the winners.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan received Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at Al Rawdha Palace this afternoon, in the presence of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

During their meeting, Sheikh Khalifa was briefed by Sheikh Mohammed on the results of his recent talks with international leaders, taking part in the three-day World Future Energy Summit, which concludes in Abu Dhabi today.

Sheikh Khalifa was informed that this, the third meeting of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) to be held in the UAE, proved to be a massive success in terms of management and organisation. The achievement comes as further evidence of the UAE's ability to stage large international events, as delegations from 142 IRENA-member-states and observers from 15 countries were hosted at the summit.

Highlighting the importance of safeguarding the UAE's environment and wildlife, Sheikh Khalifa stressed the need for developing green technology, as well as renewable energy sources to reduce the country's dependence on petroleum and oil-based products.

Following the meeting, Sheikh Khalifa hosted a luncheon banquet in honour of his guests.

Also present at the meeting were Abu Dhabi Ruler's Representative in the Eastern Region Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Zayed Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Khalifa's Military Escort Sheikh Omar bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Finance Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Minister Of Presidential Affairs Ahmed Juma Al Zaabi, Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim, other sheikhs and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a graduation ceremony for the 39th batch of air force cadets at the Khalifa Bin Zayed Air College in Al Ain today.

Shortly after his arrival Sheikh Mohammed, accompanied by the Commander of the Zayed Air Force College, Brigadier Saeed Ghanem Al Falasi, inspected the graduates parading in formation. Among the graduating class were five Emirati ladies, in addition to several pilots representing Arab countries in the region.

Following the parade the newly qualified air cadets took the oath of allegiance before Sheikh Mohammed, swearing loyalty to the country, its leadership and the UAE flag.

Al Falasi then delivered a speech, in which he paid tribute to President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, pledging that in the hands of Sheikh Mohammed, the country's borders and territory would remain protected.

During the speech he informed those present that the Khalifa Bin Zayed Air College had successfully applied to Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, to become part of their Academic Accreditation Programme. Starting with the 41st batch of air force cadets, graduating pilots will receive a Bachelor of Science degree in aviation.

Sheikh Mohammed presented merit awards to distinguished officers, with the sword of honour going to top-placed student Khamis Salem Al Ziudy.

After standing for photos alongside senior officers, faculty staff and the graduating class, Sheikh Mohammed congratulated the new cadets, urging them to continue on the path of excellence by undertaking to do more study and training, to prepare themselves to become the country's future leaders.

Sheikh Mohammed went on to commend the top quality training methods employed at the college, which bring honour and contribute to the reputation of the UAE Armed Forces.

Concluding his remarks, he expressed his great joy that a number of Emirati ladies were among the graduates, stressing his support for females to actively engage in their national duty alongside their male peers.

Also present at the ceremony were Abu Dhabi Ruler's Representative in the Eastern Region Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Undersecretary of the Ruler's Court in the Eastern Provence Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development Abdul Rahman Mohammed Nassir Al Owais, Minister of Justice Dr. Hadif Ju'an Al Dhaheri, other sheikhs, senior military and civilian officials and members of the diplomatic corps, as well as a large gathering of the graduates' families.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended ceremonies marking the graduation of medical and pharmacology students, held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Dubai this evening.

The ceremonies for students graduating from Dubai Medical College and Dubai Pharmacy College were also attended by Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Following a rendition of the national anthem, the chairman of both colleges, Hajj Saeed Ahmed Lootah, kicked of the celebrations by delivering excerpts from poems in praise of Sheikh Mohammed, his leadership and his support for science and education in the country.

Graduates from the faculty of medicine then stood before Sheikh Mohammed and took the Hippocratic Oath.

Sheikh Mohammed distributed awards to distinguished graduates and congratulated the 115 students from both faculties on their achievements, wishing them success in their upcoming careers and studies. He went on to call on all graduates to work harder and look forward to the future with confidence.

Towards the end of the ceremony Sheikh Mohammed stood for photos with the college president and faculty members, alongside the graduates.

The graduation ceremonies were also attended by Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Minister of Health Dr. Hanif Hassan, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development Abdul Rahman Mohammed Nassir Al Owais, Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi, dignitaries, educational leaders and heads of government institutions, in addition to the graduates' families.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received a number of international leaders and heads of government at Al Mushrif Palace in Abu Dhabi this morning.

The leaders are in the UAE to participate in the World Future Energy Summit, which is currently underway in the nation's capital.

Sheikh Mohammed first met with Prime Minister Dato' Sri Mohammed Najib bin Tun Abdul Razak of Malaysia and his accompanying delegation. The visiting Prime Minister expressed his gratitude for the invitation to take part in the summit, which he described as a turning point for Arab and Islamic countries on the path to finding alternative energy sources.

After commending the top-class organisation and management of the energy summit, the Malaysian leader complimented the fine Arab hospitality enjoyed by all delegations attending the event.

Sheikh Mohammed welcomed Mr. Abdul Razak's attendance at the summit and spoke of his hope that decision makers from participating countries would come up with resolutions and recommendations that reflect the great international interest in energy. Renewable energy has many applications, especially in the UAE and the region, he added, stressing that sunny weather can be exploited to generate solar power and reduce the consumption of petroleum products.

Sheikh Mohammed next met with President Karolos Papoulias of Greece, who is heading his country's delegation at the energy summit.

The two leaders discussed the functions and desired outcomes of the energy forum, with the Greek premier asserting that his country shares similar aspirations to the UAE in the search for alternative energy sources. After expressing his wish to boost cooperation with the UAE in various fields, Papoulias extended an invitation to Sheikh Mohammed to visit Athens in the near future.

During the course of their meeting Sheikh Mohammed welcomed Greece's participation in the summit, as well as their support in finding alternative, cost-effective ways to generate electricity, while reducing environmental pollution.

Icelandic President Olafur Ragnar Grimsson and his wife were next to be received by Sheikh Mohammed, who welcomed Iceland's participation as an important addition to the energy summit. The leader from Iceland invited Sheikh Mohammed to visit his nation's capital, Reykjavík, which he accepted with gratitude.

Sheikh Mohammed subsequently met with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Dr. Mohammed Sabah Al Salem Al Sabah of Kuwait, who is heading his country's delegation at the energy summit.

The Deputy Prime Minister conveyed the greetings of the Emir of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmed Al Sabah, as well as his best wishes for success and progress for the UAE President, government and people.

Sheikh Mohammed asked his guest to convey a similar message on his behalf to the Emir and people of Kuwait.

Also sitting in on the meetings were Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Director of Sheikh Mohammed's Office Lt. General Musabbah Rashid Al Fattan, other sheikhs, ministers and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the first test race at the newly built Meydan Racecourse in Dubai today.

The world class sports venue is scheduled to be officially opened later this month on the 28th January.

Sheikh Mohammed toured the racecourse and its surrounding facilities, including the paddock, the grandstand and the jockeys' changing rooms.

The trial run featured some of the world’s leading riders, such as Frankie Dettori, Kieren Fallon, Richard Hills, Ted Durcan and Patrick Dobbs.

Also present were Ahmed Al Sheikh, Media Escort to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Saeed Humaid Al Tayer, Chairman and CEO of Meydan.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Al Hariri and his accompanying delegation, in the presence of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, at Al Mushrif Palace in Abu Dhabi today.

During the meeting they discussed fraternal relations between the UAE and Lebanon, in addition to ways to expand the channels of communication between their leaders and governments to serve the common interests of their two peoples.

Sheikh Mohammed welcomed the Lebanese Prime Minister's participation in the Future Energy Summit, which is taking place from the 18th to the 21st of January at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

After describing the formation of the Lebanese government, headed by Saad Al Hariri, as the culmination of hard work and a reflection of consensus among the country's political parties, Sheikh Mohammed expressed his wishes for lasting prosperity, progress and stability in Lebanon.

Hariri spoke of the high value he attaches to the position taken by the UAE's leadership, government and people towards Lebanon, adding that his people hold the UAE in high regard and close to their hearts.

The meeting was also attended by National Security Advisor Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Public Works Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, a number of sheikhs and ministers, as well as Director of Sheikh Mohammed's Office Lt. General Musabbah Rashid Al Fattan.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his accompanying delegation, in the presence of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, at Al Mushrif Palace in Abu Dhabi today.

Sheikh Mohammed welcomed the Turkish Prime Minister and praised him for leading a senior Turkish delegation taking part in the opening of the Future Energy Summit, which got underway in Abu Dhabi today. This participation, he said, would give a boost to the summit in their search for alternative energy solutions.

During the course of the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed said that although the UAE has large oil reserves, it is pursuing alternative energy sources to safeguard the environment and protect peoples' health. The UAE is also seeking access to energy products priced lower than the current cost of oil and gas, he added.

After commending the top-class organisation and management of the energy summit, the visiting Turkish leader drew attention to the fine Arab hospitality enjoyed by all delegations attending the event. He went on to declare that the UAE's inaugural hosting of the summit as the official headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) was a great success and a victory for Arab and Muslim countries.

Erdogan concluded by expressing his hope that bilateral relations between the UAE and Turkey will grow in a positive direction, especially in the fields of culture, tourism, investment and energy.

The meeting was also attended by National Security Advisor Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Public Works Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, a number of sheikhs and ministers, as well as Director of Sheikh Mohammed's Office Lt. General Musabbah Rashid Al Fattan. The meeting was also attended by National Security Advisor Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received President Mohammed Nasheed of the Maldives at Al Mushrif Palace in Abu Dhabi today.

After greeting the Maldivian President, Sheikh Mohammed stressed that the UAE, under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is keen to reach out to friendly nations, so that the country may learn from other cultures and civilisations to bring about peace and justice in the world.

The visiting leader from the Maldives thanked Sheikh Mohammed for the warm welcome he received and expressed his hope that the meeting would further strengthen the channels of communication between their two countries, especially in the fields of tourism, trade and investment.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum took part in the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup, held at Dubai International Endurance City today.

Organised by the Dubai Equestrian Club in cooperation with the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), the 160Km race also saw the participation of Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Defending champion Ali Khalfan Al Jahouri delivered a stunning performance to win the cup for the second year in succession, in a race contested by some of the world's leading endurance riders.

Among the crowd cheering on the riders were Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler and Finance Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan Al Maktoum, Sheikh Maktoum bin Hamdan Al Maktoum, Sheikh Saeed Maktoum Al Maktoum, Sheikh Duaij bin Salman Al Khalifa, a number of sheikhs and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a ceremony at Zayed II Military College in Al Ain today, to mark the graduation of its 34th batch of officer cadets.

On arrival Sheikh Mohammed, accompanied by the Commander of Zayed Military College, Brigadier General Salem Ali bin Salem Al Ghafli, performed an inspection of the graduating cadets as they paraded in front of the main stage.

The Brigadier General then delivered a speech in which described the history of the college, founded in 1972 under the guidance of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who also lent his name to the training academy. After expressing his loyalty to the UAE President and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Al Ghafli conveyed his deep gratitude for Sheikh Mohammed's patronage of the graduation ceremony.

He also thanked Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, in recognition of their continuous support and backing for the educational and training programmes in place at the college.

Following the speech, Sheikh Mohammed distributed merit awards to eight distinguished graduates, congratulating them on their success and their pursuit of excellence in serving the armed forces.

Sheikh Mohammed then led the graduates in taking an oath of allegiance to the country, its leadership and its constitution, by pledging to work hard to safeguard the homeland, its boarders and its achievements.

Subsequently Sheikh Mohammed and Abu Dhabi Ruler's Representative in the Eastern Region Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan sat in on a group photo with the graduating class and the college's high-ranking officers.

Towards the end of the ceremony, Sheikh Mohammed advised the graduates on the importance of patience and Arab and Islamic values, as well as loyalty to the country and its leadership.

He concluded by calling on the new graduates to continue to develop their abilities and skills, stressing that Sheikh Khalifa is keen to provide all possible manner of support and opportunity to build a robust and secure army.

Also present at the ceremony were Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Defence Lt. General Obaid Al Kaabi, Armed Forces Chief of Staff Lt. General Hamad Mohammed Thani Al Rumaithi, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Interior Lt. General Saif Abdullah Al Shafar, Director of Sheikh Mohammed's Office Lt. General Musabbah Rashid Al Fattan, a number of sheikhs, ministers, dignitaries, military and police officers, senior officials, heads of diplomatic missions and a large gathering of the cadets' families.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a luncheon banquet, hosted in his honour by Abu Dhabi Ruler's Representative in the Eastern Region, Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan at his palace in Al Ain today.

Also present at the banquet were Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Sheikh Dr. Mansour bin Tahnoun, Ruler's Court Representative in the Eastern Region Sheikh Hazza bin Tahnoun, Sheikh Colonel Mohammed bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Sheikh Mohammed bin Nahyan bin Mubarak, a number of sheikhs and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the opening session of the second Arab Women's Leadership Forum at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Dubai today.

The forum is being organised by the Dubai Women's Establishment (DWE), under the supervision of wife of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and DWE President Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Sheikh Mohammed was welcomed by Chairperson of the DWE Mona Al Marri to the event, which sees the participation of over 400 Arab women from wide-ranging backgrounds, including the academic, economic and health sectors.

Delivering the opening address on behalf of the DWE members and board of directors, Al Marri expressed her deep gratitude for Sheikh Mohammed's support of women in the UAE and beyond. She went on to speak about his various initiatives to encourage women to participate in national decision-making, noting that women constitute more than a quarter of the workforce at government institutions.

Throughout the opening session, Sheikh Mohammed listened to the problems women face in the Arab world, in addition to proposed solutions to advance female causes and activate their role in the community. Among the strategies to bring about social and economic stability for women, was an initiative to introduce child-care facilities at various government organisations and ministries.

Towards the end of the session, Sheikh Mohammed expressed his pleasure with the large and diversified female assembly, calling on governments and decision-makers in Arab countries to support their goals. He also praised Sheikha Manal's efforts to make progress for women in the UAE and other Arab countries.

After giving his full backing to the establishment's programmes and initiatives, Sheikh Mohammed praised the efforts of the board of directors and members, and urged them to translate their ideas into concrete action on the ground.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a wedding banquet hosted by Major General Saeed Eid Al Ghafli, celebrating the wedding of his son, Mohammed, to the daughter of Retired Major General Hussein Mohammed Mutlok Al Ghafli.

The reception, which was held at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, was attended by Supreme Council member and Ruler of Umm Al Quwain His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, National Security Advisor Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, other dignitaries, ministers and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended an awards ceremony for the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for the Development of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs), held at the Dubai World Trade Centre today.

On his arrival at Al Maktoum Hall, Sheikh Mohammed listened to a speech delivered by the establishment's CEO, Mr. Abdul Baset Al Janahi, in which he expressed his deep gratitude for Sheikh Mohammed's continuous support of the country's youth. Sheikh Mohammed's encouragement and vision, he said, had made it possible to harness young peoples' creativity and ideas, to strengthen the national economy and cultivate the business leaders of tomorrow.

Al Janahi described how over 9,000 of the country's youth had benefited from loans and facilities provided by the establishment, with around Dh720 million allocated to them since the establishment was founded in 2002.

Speaking next, FNC Chairman and CEO of Mashreq Bank Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair, explained how his bank supported SMEs, while highlighting their role as a major contributor to the national economy. He stressed that the federal strategic plan would incorporate policies to foster a youth-orientated business community, and remarked that its success will require careful planning, the practical application of law and above all the vision of leadership.

Following the speeches, the awards were distributed by Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for the Development of SMEs, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He congratulated the winners and wished them success in achieving their national goals, while advising them to continue to acquire knowledge and experience to support their future plans.

Sheikh Hamdan described the important role played by both young men and women in developing the country, and went on to express his loyalty and gratitude to UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed for their unending support.

Towards the close of the ceremony Sheikh Mohammed took to the stage, where he congratulated the winners, and stood for photos alongside them. He concluded by encouraging the award winners to always follow the path of excellence.

The awards ceremony was also attended by Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development Abdul Rahman Mohammed Nassir Al Owais, Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim, Director of Dubai Ruler's Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani, Dubai Attorney General Essam Al Humaidan, a number of business leaders and senior officials.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued Law No. 2 of 2010, establishing the Government of Dubai Media Office, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the channels of communication in the emirate.

In addition to improving coordination between local media organisations, the office will be tasked with effectively conveying an accurate picture of events in Dubai, with full transparency and objectivity, in accordance with best international standards and practices.

Bringing the Dubai Press Club, Falcon & Associates and the Dubai Office for Media Affairs (Brand Dubai) together under one umbrella, the new bureau will serve as a focal point for local, regional and international media organisations to source accurate information on the Ruler and Government of Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued a decree appointing Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed, Ahmed Abdullah Al Sheikh, as Managing Director of the new office, which will be attached to Dubai Ruler's Court.

Both the law and the decree are effective from their date of issuance and will be published in the official gazette.

The new legislation outlines the functions and responsibilities of the new media office, which extend to arranging interviews and briefings given by the Ruler and Crown Prince of Dubai, in addition to overseeing and organising government press conferences.

The office will also monitor stories published and broadcast in the local and international media. Items of interest will be summarised, archived and subjected to rigorous analysis, prior to being compiled into specialised reports and submitted to the Ruler's Office.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum shared top place in the second round of the Giants Endurance Challenge with Bahrain's Royal Endurance Team captain Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa today.

Sheikh Mohammed and Sheikh Nasser finished the 120km, five-stage race side-by-side in front of a delighted crowd, led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain and Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Following the race King Hamad presented the 'Golden Sword' to the worthy winners, with a further award given to Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who finished in third place.

The third and final round of the Giants Endurance Challenge will be held in Dubai later this month, with points accumulated over all three rounds deciding the series' overall champion.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum arrived in Bahrain today, on a fraternal visit to the kingdom.

Upon his arrival at Al Manama International Airport, Sheikh Mohammed was received by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain, as well as a number of sheikhs and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a wedding reception hosted by Sunni Varkey, celebrating the marriage of his son Jay at the Madinat Jumeirah this evening.

The reception was also attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Sheikh Mohammed congratulated the groom's parents and wished the newlyweds a stable and peaceful married life in the future.

The Varkey family, who hail from India originally, have developed a network of private hospitals in the UAE, as well as numerous schools scattered throughout the country.

Sheikh Mohammed praised the Varkey family's great contribution to the national economy through their many investments.

The wedding was also attended by a number of sheikhs, ministers and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has approved the Government of Dubai's budget for the 2010 fiscal year.

As per the directives of Sheikh Mohammed, the budget operates within the framework of government policy and is designed to promote economic growth, while addressing the fallout from the global financial crisis.

Commander General of Dubai Police and Head of Dubai Government's Budget Committee, Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim, said that the new budget was based on Sheikh Mohammed's vision of encouraging socio-economic prosperity for citizens and residents of Dubai, with particular focus on the continued development of the emirate's infrastructure.

The budget also reflects the recommendations of the Supreme Committee for Fiscal Policy, chaired by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, to continue the work of stimulating Dubai's economy through following expansionary fiscal policies. These policies are in accordance with international standards to control government expenditure and serve to realise the emirate's economic and strategic goals.

Director General of the Department of Finance Abdul Rahman Al Saleh said that the budget seeks to optimise the management of public funds, while implementing programmes to ensure efficiency and effectiveness, as well as increasing awareness amongst government officials about fiscal prudence.

''The budget strikes a balance between supporting and stimulating economic activity on the one hand and adhering to sound principles for the management of public funds on the other hand,'' added Al Saleh.

Government income is expected to be Dh29.4 billion in 2010, with expenditures amounting to Dh35.4 billion. This leaves a budget deficit of Dh6 billion, which at less than 3% of Dubai's GDP, is well within international standards for fiscal policy.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Creative Sports Awards at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai today.

To the surprise of those present, Sheikh Mohammed took to the stage just prior to the closing ceremony and posed for photos with the award's board of trustees and the award winners. Those honoured included Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nayhan, who won the Local Sports Personality of the Year Award for his patronage of sports in the UAE and the Head of the Kuwaiti Olympic Committee and President of the Asian Olympic Council Sheikh Ahmed Al Fahd Al Sabah, who took the Arab Sports Personality of the Year Award.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his pleasure with the role played by sports in the UAE and Arab societies, in addition to his appreciation for the deserving award winners in the various categories. He went on to stress that sports and athletes carry the message of friendship and bridge the gaps between nations and peoples around the world.

Nineteen awards for creativity in sports were presented in three categories - for individuals, groups and sporting institutions - by Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of Dubai Sports Council Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Citing his satisfaction with the attendance of Sheikh Mohammed, Sheikh Hamdan described his kind gesture as a great boost for the winners and athletes in the UAE and the Arab world. Sheikh Hamdan concluded by congratulating those honoured at the ceremony and wished them further success.

The awards ceremony was also attended by National Security Advisor, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and Honorary President of the UAE Football Association Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation, Chairman of the National Olympic Committee and President of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Awards for Sports Innovation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of UAE Motorsport Sheikh Marwan bin Rashid Al Mualla, Vice President of Dubai Sports Council Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed and Managing Director of Dubai Media Incorporated Ahmed Abdullah Al Sheikh, Chairman of Al Ahli Club Khalifa Saeed Suleiman, Director General of the Federal Youth and Sports Authority Ibrahim Abdul Malik, youth and sports leaders and other senior officials.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a decree exempting companies and institutions in the emirate of Dubai, from all fines imposed as a result of their non-renewal of licences during the date schedule specified in the legislation. Article I of the decree states that the amnesty extends to all entities operating in Dubai, including those based in free zones, with article II stipulating that the exemption is limited to companies and institutions rectifying their licence status before the end of June, 2010.

The move comes as part of Sheikh Mohammed's continuous support for Dubai's business sector, and reflects his eagerness to find effective solutions to promote good business practices.

The decree is effective from its date of issuance and will be published in the official gazette.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurated the newly renamed Burj Khalifa this evening, the tallest man-made structure ever built on earth.

Sheikh Mohammed unveiled a commemorative plaque at the site, engraved with the name 'Burj Khalifa', to the applause and cheers of the assembled crowd, who congratulated him on a great national achievement on the country's march of progress.

To the surprise of all those present and watching around the world, the 828 meter tower, built at a cost of over $1.5 billion, was named after UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

After unveiling the plaque, Sheikh Mohammed announced that the UAE had added a new landmark to the world map.

"The summit of the world should be associated with a great name, and so today I announce the opening of Burj Khalifa bin Zayed," he declared.

Subsequently Sheikh Mohammed and his guests moved on to the ceremony's main platform, where they watched a documentary film detailing the various stages of the tower’s construction over the past five years.

The opening, which was broadcast live on over 160 television stations around the globe, also coincided with the fourth Anniversary of the accession of Sheikh Mohammed as the Ruler of the emirate of Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed went on to describe Burj Khalifa's launch as proof that UAE is a strong country, thanks to its leadership, people, economy and infrastructure.

Responding to questions about the financial crisis, Sheikh Mohammed said that while there was economic turmoil all around the world, it was not created by the UAE.

"As an integrated part of the global economy, we couldn't escape the impact of the crisis," he added.

Sheikh Mohammed further noted that the world's economic superpowers were affected more than the UAE by the crisis, and that significant projects were still being developed in the country, particularly in Abu Dhabi.

After describing how the UAE was capable of overcoming all challenges with determination and confidence, Sheikh Mohammed said that true leaders prove themselves in times of crises.

"Thanks to Allah," he proclaimed, "we have the willpower, the wise leadership, a strong belief in God the Almighty, faith in our peoples' capabilities and the patience to keep working when things get hard."

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Abu Dhabi Ruler's Representative in the Eastern Region Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Fujairah Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Ajman Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Deputy Ruler of Umm Al Quwain Sheikh Abdullah bin Rashid Al Mualla, National Security Advisor Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police & Public Security Major General Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Member of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council Dr. Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Sheikh Saeed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, other sheikhs, senior officials and dignitaries.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a poetry symposium organised by The Media Office of Sheikh Mohammed to mark the 4th anniversary of his accession as the Ruler of Dubai this evening.

Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the event featured recitals by three prominent Nabati and contemporary poets, Ali Salim Al Ka'abi, Abdul Rahman Rafea and Ibrahim Mohammed Bu Melha, who delivered poems praising Sheikh Mohammed and extolling his achievements.

The soirée was also attended by Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Education Minister Humaid Mohammed Obeid Al Qattami, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development Abdul Rahman Mohammed Al Owais, a number of Sheikhs and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum participated in a parade marking his 4th anniversary as the Ruler of Dubai in the Al Mamzar area of Dubai today.

Sheikh Mohammed met with the nation's sons and daughters gathered at Mamzar Beach since early morning, many of whom were bearing flags and pictures of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed.

Mounted police officers and the Dubai Police marching band led the parade, which saw the attendance of over 12,000 students from public and private schools, in addition to representatives from the armed forces and centers for people with special needs.

Accompanying Sheikh Mohammed during the parade were Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed and Chairman of Dubai Media Incorporated Ahmad Abdullah Al Sheikh, Dubai Police's Deputy Commandant General, Major General Khamis Mattar Al Mazeina, a number of sheikhs and senior officials.

Throughout the parade Sheikh Mohammed greeted and waved to citizens and residents, who paid tribute to him in recognition of his great achievements and wise vision. He went on to thank them for displaying their passionate patriotism all along their journey towards learning and excellence.

During the celebrations, parade participants expressed their love and loyalty to the country's leadership, homeland and constitution as the national anthem was sung and the UAE's flag raised high.

Across the city at Dubai Marina, staff from the Emirates Diving Center marked the occasion by floating a huge image of Sheikh Mohammed in the surrounding waters, much to the delight of surprised onlookers.

As per the directives of Ahmad Abdullah Al Sheikh an exhibition showing images of national and social events, meetings and official visits, as well as photos taken of Sheikh Mohammed from his childhood to the present day will be open to the public at the Dubai International Convention Center for two days. The images depict Sheikh Mohammed's many accomplishments in the fields of education, economics and sports amongst others that have brought prosperity and stability to Dubai and the country beyond.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Omar Hassan Al Bashir on his country's national day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, attended the opening ceremony of the 4th Dubai International Sports Conference, which is being held at The Address Hotel, Downtown Burj Dubai, under the patronage of Dubai Crown Prince, Chairman of Dubai Executive Council and Chairman of Dubai Sports Council, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Held under the banner, ''Meeting challenges in professional sport'', the conference, which is being organised by the Dubai Sports Council, will discuss the challenges of professionalism and the development of sports academies as part of efforts to raise the profile of football and boost attendance at stadiums.

Sheikh Mohammed was briefed by Mattar Al Tayer, Deputy Chairman of Dubai Sports Council, about the conference and its expected outcomes.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent congratulatory cables to presidents and kings around the world to mark the New Year celebrations.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a decree setting up a special judicial panel to resolve disputes related to Amlak Finance PJSC and Tamweel PJSC.

The decree establishes the new panel as the sole judicial body in Dubai authorised to consider applications and review legal claims connected to the financial affairs of the two companies, including their subsidiaries. The move also provides that the panel will have exclusive jurisdiction over all cases filed at Dubai Courts prior to the decree's issuance, while simultaneously ensuring the full protection of creditors' rights.

Under the decree Judge Mohammed Khamis Basyouni has been appointed as chairman of the panel, with Judge Jihad Mohammed Khasawneh and Judge Abdullateef Mohammed Al Ulama serving as members.

The panel shall issue orders and decisions in the name of the Ruler of Dubai, all of which will be considered final and complete.

The new decree is effective immediately and will be published in the official gazette.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a decree governing increases in rental prices in the emirate of Dubai.

The decree reflects Sheikh Mohammed's eagerness to ensure stability in the emirate's real estate market, while simultaneously improving legislation to boost clarity between landlords and tenants. The decree applies to UAE nationals and foreign residents equally.

The new regulations prevent increases in rents during 2010 for tenants who are renewing rental contracts signed in 2009, except under clearly defined circumstances defined and specified by the Real Estate Regulatory Authority's (RERA's) index.

The maximum allowed rental increases in 2010 shall be as follows:

- A 5% increase in rent is permitted if the rental value is 26% to 35% less than the average rent of properties with similar specifications as defined by RERA.

- A 10% increase in rent is permitted if the rental value is 36% to 45% less than the average rent of properties with similar specifications as defined by RERA.

- A 15% increase in rent is permitted if the rental value is 46% to 55% less than the average rent of properties with similar specifications as defined by RERA.

- A 20% increase in rent is permitted if the rental value is more than 55% lower than the average rent of properties with similar specifications as defined by RERA.

The new decree is effective immediately and will be published in the official gazette.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has received greetings from Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey, in a message that also highlighted the depth of the friendly and historical relations between Turkey and the UAE.

In a letter delivered to Sheikh Mohammed by the Turkish Minister of State for Foreign Trade, Zafer Caglayan, Mr. Erdogan expressed his desire to build new bridges of cooperation with the UAE to promote economic, trade, investment and cultural partnerships in the common interests of both their countries and peoples.

After giving the Minister of State a warm welcome at Al Marmoum yesterday, Sheikh Mohammed asked him to convey greetings on his behalf to the Turkish Prime Minister. He went on to say that the UAE people, including the government and its leadership, welcome all forms of constructive cooperation between their two countries.

Sheikh Mohammed noted that the volume of commercial exchange between their countries had already risen to $9 billion per annum, adding that he is optimistic about the future prosperity of relations between the UAE and Turkey.

The meeting was also attended by Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Director of Sheikh Mohammed's Office Lt. General Musabbah Rashid Al Fattan, Dubai Director of Protocol and Hospitality Khalifa Saeed Suleiman, the Turkish Ambassador to the UAE Feral Al Thai and the delegation accompanying the Turkish Minister of State.

Mohammed issues law safeguarding funds in Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a law imposing tough penalties aimed at safeguarding public and private funds in Dubai.

Designed to protect Dubai's economic interests and preserve the financial rights of individuals, the new law comes in line with Dubai's ongoing efforts to eradicate all forms of fraud, thus enhancing the emirate's position as a leading global business hub.

The law facilitates the redemption of funds fraudulently seized by individuals from either public or private money. Under the new legislation, convicted persons will face 5 to 20 years imprisonment. The law permits the immediate release of convicts once they have returned all money in full to entitled parties or through settlement agreements negotiated with their debtors.

Imprisoned convicts will be granted access to conduct all necessary external communications that guarantee the timely redemption of funds. The law is effective immediately and will be published in the official gazette.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan held talks with Sultan Qaboos bin Saeed of Oman in the presence of UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, at Al Rawdha Palace in Al Ain today.

Sheikh Khalifa welcomed the Omani leader who is heading a high-ranking delegation on a three-day visit to the UAE, as part of continuous efforts to boost cooperation and coordination between the leaders of both countries.

After reviewing ways to enhance relations between their countries, the two leaders exchanged views the latest regional and international developments, with Sultan Qaboos expressing his great pleasure on visiting the UAE.

Sultan Qaboos had earlier arrived at Al Al Rawdha Palace, where he was welcomed by Sheikh Khalifa, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed. Other sheikhs and senior officials were also present at the reception.

Following the meeting, Sheikh Khalifa hosted a luncheon banquet in honour of Sultan Qaboos and his accompanying delegation.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has attended part of the Government Creativity Workshop organised by the Sheikh Khalifa Government Excellence Programme in cooperation with INSEAD University.

Around 80 employees from various UAE foundations participated in the four-day workshop, which was held at the Emirates Towers today.

Sheikh Mohammed was briefed by the programme's general coordinator, Hessa Isa Bu Humaid, about the content and information available on the programme's new website.

Sheikh Mohammed also participated in a dialogue session between the lecturer and the participants in the programme, which was launched as per the directives Sheikh Mohammed earlier this year to proliferate and reinforce the culture and practice of excellence in the federal government.

The debate session also focused on education, learning and the development of organisational excellence.

Sheikh Mohammed stressed that the Government Excellence Programme has his full support, and announced that he had decided to award Prime Minister's Medals to distinguished employees for creativity and other achievements. He went on to urge the participants to translate words into tangible actions and innovative initiatives.

The workshop was attended by Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Health Dr. Hanif Hassan, Ohood Al Roumi, Director General of the Prime Minister's Office and a number of government leaders.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan held talks with Egyptian President Mohammed Hosni Mubarak, in the presence of UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, at Al Mushrif Palace today.

After reviewing ways to enhance the distinguished fraternal relations between their two countries, the leaders exchanged views on the current situation in the Arab world, as well as other regional and international issues of mutual interest.

Sheikh Khalifa expressed his desire to boost bilateral ties, and praised Egypt's efforts concerning major Arab issues, especially in achieving national reconciliation with the Palestinians. He went on to affirm the UAE's support for these efforts, and underlined the importance of moving the peace process forward to achieve sustainable and comprehensive peace in the region.

President Mubarak hailed the UAE's wise policies under the leadership of Sheikh Khalifa, pointing out that the meeting comes as part of consultations to foster mutual cooperation, to serve the interests of their two countries and peoples.

President Mubarak had earlier arrived at Al Mushrif Palace, where he was welcomed by Sheikh Khalifa, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed. Other sheikhs and senior officials were also present at the reception.

Following the meeting, Sheikh Khalifa hosted a luncheon banquet in honour of President Mubarak and his accompanying delegation.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a workshop for the Leadership Development Programme, which was held at the Ministry of Health today.

The programme is being run as per Sheikh Mohammed's directives to develop the skills of second and third tier leaders, so as to prepare them to assume positions of leadership in the future.

Sheikh Mohammed exchanged views with the workshop participants, who expressed their great pride over the support given by the country's wise leadership in building a highly-trained national work force.

Following a briefing on the programme's goals, expected results and achievements, Sheikh Mohammed expressed satisfaction with the active participation of the select group of UAE citizens in the programme. He stressed the need for all programme objectives to be met, and called on each participant to expend their efforts and employ their knowledge in serving the country and its institutions.

Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the large number of government policies and incentives put in place to provide opportunities to young citizens by encouraging them to cultivate their talents, so that they may achieve their goals.

He also described how upcoming legislation and policies will concentrate on the Ministry of Health and the Federal Healthcare Authority, a new body, which will be launched in the near future. The authority will be tasked with managing the country's hospitals in accordance with the highest international standards, to meet the needs of UAE society, thus mirroring the government's expectations and plans.

Minister of Health Dr. Hanif Hassan expressed his gratitude for the great support given by Sheikh Mohammed to UAE youth, and went on to pledge that his ministry's performance will rise up to meet the aspirations and ambitions of Sheikh Mohammed's directives.

The workshop was also attended by Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed President Mohammed Hosni Mubarak of Egypt and his accompanying delegation to the UAE this afternoon. President Mubarak is touring a number of Gulf Cooperation Council states.

Also present at the reception were UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, other sheikhs and senior officials.

After welcoming President Mubarak, Sheikh Khalifa wished him a pleasant stay in his second home, the UAE.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum chaired the first meeting of the National Security Council, headed by UAE President and Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi today.

The council reviewed a number of ideas and proposals as part of efforts to outline its policy framework, thus enabling the body to achieve its national goals with clearly defined priorities and sound decision-making mechanisms to be implemented across the country.

The council stressed the need to translate its goals and mission into a tangible reality, as represented by efforts to consolidate a sense of unity at a national level and safeguard the country's achievements. The meeting also highlighted the importance of promoting a spirit of national decision-making, while deepening the sense of belonging and loyalty to the homeland and its wise leadership amongst UAE society and its institutions.

During discussions Sheikh Mohammed called for more constructive cooperation and coordination between the council and other institutions in the country at both the federal and local levels. He called on concerned parties to work to overcome all obstacles that hinder the council in its mission, so that it can fulfill its duty and achieve the supreme interests of the country.

Concluding the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed wished council members success in serving the UAE, expressing his complete confidence in the sincerity and efficiency of its membership.

Also present at the meeting were National Security Advisor Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi and Secretary General of the Council Saif Sultan Al Aryani.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum chaired a meeting of the cabinet at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi today.

The meeting was held with the attendance of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The cabinet approved a draft law concerning the monetary value of prizes and decorations awarded at the Interior Ministry under Federal Law No.19 of 1995.

Moving on, they reviewed policies at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Community Development, as well as a Federal National Council recommendation concerning price hikes.

The cabinet ratified the UAE’s joining of a revised version of the Kyoto Convention as part of their efforts to standardise customs practices and procedures in line with international norms. The amended agreement seeks to bring about simplified, efficient and expected customs procedures, while bridging differences between all parties involved. The accord also aims to facilitate international trade movement and boost commercial exchange.

The cabinet endorsed the final accounts off the Marriage Fund and the Emirates Marketing and Promotion Authority for the year ending December 31, 2008.

The meeting concluded following the approval of a number of issues related to Federal Government employees.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a luncheon banquet hosted by Saeed Bal Hab Al Ameri to celebrate the wedding of his two sons, Rashid and Mohammed, to the daughters of Kamedish Al Ameri today.

Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Police Chief Lt. General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, senior officials and dignitaries also attended the ceremony.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum issued a law ordering government-linked companies to transfer surplus revenues to the emirate's treasury and requires better control of public spending and transparency.

The law requires government departments which enjoy fiscal independence as well as government-related companies to transfer surplus revenues to the public treasury as public revenues. The law also aims to regulate government departments' public spending and control government revenues, as well as to provide an accurate database for revenues and expenditures.

The law states that government entities are required to abide by a number of controls, criteria, and procedures that seek to rein in public spending and control government income and provide an accurate database about their income and spending.

Government entities have to transfer their income to the government's public treasury account, and they are prohibited from retaining any part of their income or spending it on their activities or investments or utilizing it, according to the new legislation.

The new law, No. 35 of 2009, replacing law No. 18 of 2006, requires all government entities to provide the government with their annual budget, which must be approved by the Supreme Fiscal Committee.

The law also forces financially-independent government companies to transfer their surpluses to the public treasury.

The new law allows the companies re-invest profits and revenue surplus before transferring them to the public treasury, with the approval of the Supreme Fiscal Committee, in consultation with Investment Corporation of Dubai, which oversees the emirate's investment portfolio.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended part of a workshop organised by the Ministry of Education at Bab Al Shams resort in Dubai today. The two-day seminar is focused on setting a long-term education strategy in the country.

Sheikh Mohammed exchanged views with a number of the participants, including the Minister of Education Humaid Mohammed Obeid Al Qattami, second and third tier UAE leaders and Arab and foreign educationalists.

Calling on academic professionals to move away from rote learning practices, Sheikh Mohammed argued that they should concentrate on designing student-centred classes, as the former method limits learners' potential and drains them of their energy and abilities.

Sheikh Mohammed described the importance of offering students the opportunity to express themselves freely in class, thus limiting teacher-talk-time and allowing educators to get feedback and gauge lesson comprehension.

After urging those present to break away from outdated teaching practices, Sheikh Mohammed advised the concerned authorities to lean towards modern, scientific methods, adding that learners prosper more through dialogue.

By giving students the opportunity to actively engage in class, Sheikh Mohammed remarked, teachers will come to a greater understanding of their talents and abilities, which will allow for even more educational development.

Al Qattami briefed His Highness on various aspects of the ministry's education strategy, previously made a top priority by the UAE Government as led by Sheikh Mohammed, who has placed learning at the core of the country's overall development plan.

The minister said that the new strategy, which is due to be launched by Sheikh Mohammed in 2010, defines educational priorities and concentrates on teacher selection, developing UAE national identity and giving equal learning opportunity to all students so that they may contribute to the country's growth.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani of Qatar on his country's national day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum made a field tour to a number of schools, health centres and community service projects in the Central and Eastern Region today.

Sheikh Mohammed began his tour with a visit to Al Maseer Elementary and Secondary School for Girls in the Al Shoaib area of the Eastern Region, where, accompanied by the school principal, he inspected a number of classrooms and looked in on lessons taking place there.

During his second stop at Sharjah's Al Mudam Health Centre, Sheikh Mohammed met with staff and reviewed medical equipment in use at the health facility. This was followed by a visit to Al Mudam Secondary School for Boys, where he inspected classrooms and met with pupils studying there.

After passing by the new Dubai-Fujairah Road, currently being built by the Ministry of Works at a cost of Dh1.4 billion, Sheikh Mohammed paid inspection visits to Al Dhaid Hospital, the offices of the Ministry of Environment and Water in the Central Region and Al Burdi Elementary School for Girls in Al Dhaid.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his pleasure with the status of the strategic service projects being implemented in the Eastern Region, stressing that his government's strategy prioritises the education and health sectors. He also remarked that the wise directives of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan are being translated into action on the ground to secure citizens' welfare and future.

Sheikh Mohammed concluded his field tour by stopping at Zayed Housing Programme in Falaj Al Mualla, where he reviewed residential units which were earlier delivered to UAE citizens.

During his tour Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied by Minister of Public Works Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Education Humaid Mohammed Obeid Al Qattami, Minister of Health Dr. Hanif Hassan and Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the closing ceremony of the 2009 Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) at the Madinat Arena this evening.

Sheikh Mohammed welcomed a select group of Arab entertainers to the UAE, praising their creative drama productions, which have played a large role in enriching the cultural output of the Arab world.

The event also saw the presentation of the Mohammed bin Rashid Arab Drama Awards with a total prize fund of $1 million given out to local television networks in various categories, including best Arabic drama production during the holy month of Ramadan.

Distributing the awards were Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed and Chairman of Dubai Media Incorporated Ahmad Abdullah Al Sheikh, with the Syrian drama 'Time of Disgrace' bagging first prize. More than 160 films were screened during the week-long DIFF 2009.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent congratulatory cables to presidents, kings and leaders of Arab and Islamic countries on the occasion of the Hijri (Islamic) New Year.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his best wishes for more prosperity, progress and glory for the peoples of Arab and Islamic countries.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain on his country's national day.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent similar cables to President Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan and to President Zillur Rahman of Bangladesh on their respective countries' Independence Day and Victory Day.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan returned to the UAE this evening, where he was given a warm welcome by Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Sheikh Khalifa was returning from Kuwait, where he led the UAE delegation taking part in the 30th Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) summit that concluded earlier today.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a decree forming a tribunal to resolve disputes related to Dubai World and its affiliates.

The decree reflects the Government of Dubai's keenness to preserve the rights of Dubai World's creditors, as well as its dedication to enhancing the emirate's role in the global economy by honouring all contractual commitments with creditors.

The move confirms the government's ability to meet all outstanding obligations, and underlines its position as a robust economy, capable of absorbing the fallout from the global financial crisis with complete transparency.

Dubai Government announced a comprehensive legal framework that will govern the possible bankruptcy or liquidation of Dubai World, in case it defaults in meeting its debt obligations.

A statement issued through the Legal Affairs Department said: ''Today the Government of Dubai, through its Legal Affairs Department, announces a comprehensive legal framework consistent with international standards of transparency and creditor protection that will govern any future formal reorganisation and restructuring of Dubai World and any of its subsidiaries.''

The latest move comes a few hours after the Government had announced it would repay $4.1 billion to the Nakheel sukuk holders maturing today, following a $10 billion support from Abu Dhabi Government.

The Tribunal has jurisdiction to hear and decide any demand or claim submitted against Dubai World, including hearing and deciding any demand to dissolve or liquidate the corporation; and any person related to the settlement of the financial obligations of the Corporation, including the Chairman and members of the Board of Directors, as well as all the employees and workers of the Corporation and issue the interim and interlocutory orders and decisions, including injunctions to any person to act or not to act, or other order as the tribunal considers appropriate.

''The tribunal may, as it considers appropriate, assign or appoint as experts persons having expertise and competence in the matters submitted to it,'' it says.

This legal framework has been established by Ruler's Decree No. 57 of 2009. The Decree establishes a tribunal of three to five internationally recognised judges, which will be empowered if necessary to supervise the financial reorganisation of Dubai World and its subsidiaries and which will be authorised to adjudicate disputes relating to restructuring of the debt of Dubai World and any of its subsidiaries.

The tribunal is initially composed of three senior international judges from the Dubai International Finance Centre Courts including Sir Anthony Evans, Chief Justice of the DIFC Courts, Michael Hwang, SC, Deputy Chief Justice of the DIFC Courts and Justice Sir John Murray Chadwick, Judge of the DIFC Courts.

Q&A on the new legal framework:

1. What is the Decree?
UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has established a Tribunal and reorganisation code to decide the disputes related to the settlement of the financial position of Dubai World and its subsidiaries.

2. When is the Decree effective?
The Decree No. 57 of 2009 is effective as of 13 December 2009, the date on which it was signed by the Ruler of Dubai.

3. What does the Decree do?
The Decree establishes a three-judge tribunal which is empowered to supervise the financial reorganisation of Dubai World and its subsidiaries. In addition, the Decree establishes a transparent legal code, based on internationally accepted standards, to govern the reorganisation of Dubai World and its subsidiaries.

4. Why is the Decree necessary?
Dubai World is a decree corporation, meaning it was established through a decree of the Ruler of Dubai, and consequently has a unique legal status. Among other matters, the obligations of Dubai World are not guaranteed by the Government.

Due to its status as a decree corporation, Dubai World does not have the ability to seek protection under the provisions of the UAE Commercial Code that govern bankruptcy and insolvency (see Part 5 (Bankruptcy and Composition) of Law No. 18 of 1993 (UAE Commercial Transactions Law).

Because of the absence of a reorganisation law applicable to Dubai World, the Government of Dubai developed the Decree, which provides a legal framework for the restructuring of the obligations of Dubai World and its subsidiaries. The Government's intention was to develop a law that would permit a restructuring of the obligations of Dubai World and its subsidiaries in accordance with international best practices following a fair, equitable and transparent legal process.

5. Who sits on the Tribunal?
The Tribunal is composed of:
Sir Anthony Evans, Chief Justice of the DIFC Courts. Sir Evans is a former High Court Judge of England and Wales. Michael Hwang, SC, Deputy Chief Justice of the DIFC Courts. Judge Hwang is a former Judicial Commissioner of the Supreme Court of Singapore and partner at the law firm of Allen & Gledhill.

Justice Sir John Murray Chadwick, Judge of the DIFC Courts. Judge Chadwick is a former Judge of the Court of Appeal of England and Wales and is a world renowned bankruptcy and insolvency specialist.

In addition, the Decree permits the Chief Justice of the DIFC Courts to recommend to the Ruler of Dubai additional judges to be included in the Tribunal. These additional appointments would seek to further broaden the experience base and international stature of the Tribunal.


6. What law will the Tribunal apply?
The Tribunal will be governed by the law set forth in the Schedule to the Decree. The Schedule is based upon the following:

DIFC Law No (3) of 2009 Concerning the law of Insolvency, according to the amendments stated in the Schedule to the Decree; The Regulations Issued by the Board of Directors of the DIFCA Concerning DIFC Insolvency Regulation, according to the amendments stated in the Schedule to the Decree; DIFC Law No (10) of 2004 Concerning the Court of DIFC, according to the amendments stated in the Schedule to the Decree; Legislation in force in the Emirate; Commercial custom; and Principles of justice, and rules of righteousness and equity.

7. What is the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)?
The DIFC, which was opened in September 2004, is an international financial centre located in Dubai. Most of the world's leading international investment and commercial banks are licensed to operate in the DIFC.

Financial services in the DIFC are regulated to international standards by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA).

NASDAQ Dubai (formerly known as the Dubai International Financial Exchange or DIFX), opened in the DIFC in September 2005.

Companies licensed to operate in the DIFC are subject to the laws of the DIFC and the DIFC has its own court system, called DIFC Courts, to adjudicate disputes relating to DIFC-licensed firms.

8. Why did the Decree choose to base its law on the DIFC law, rules and regulations?
The Government decided to base the law of the Decree on the insolvency laws, rules and regulations of the DIFC because it determined that such such laws, rules and regulations were comprehensive and reflected international standards. In addition, such laws, rules and regulations were in English rather than Arabic, which the Government determined would facilitate a complex financial reorganisation involving investors and professionals from all over the world.

However, the Government determined that the existing DIFC laws, rules and regulations needed additional modifications to allow them to work effectively for a reorganisation involving an enterprise as large and complex as Dubai World. The modifications included provisions to provide for an automatic stay or moratorium, provisions to allow the Tribunal to approve priority financing during the course of a reorganisation, provisions enabling Dubai World and its subsidiaries to continue to benefit from existing contracts, and provisions enabling the formation of appropriate classes of creditors and provisions specifying the approvals required for a voluntary company arrangement.

9. Where will the Tribunal hold hearings?
The Tribunal will hold its hearings in the courtroom of the DIFC Courts of the Dubai International Financial Centre.

10. Will Proceedings be public?
All proceedings before the Tribunal will be open to the public and the press, except that upon application and hearing, the Tribunal may order that certain proceedings be conducted on a private basis.

11. What is the jurisdiction of the Tribunal?
The Tribunal has jurisdiction to hear and decide any proceedings commenced against Dubai World, any of its subsidiaries or any person relating to the settlement of the financial obligations of Dubai World and/or any of its subsidiaries.

12. Which Dubai World subsidiaries will be subject to the Tribunal?
The Decree will be available to Dubai World and any of its subsidiaries. However, it is expected that only entities that require protection from creditors or require the assistance of the Tribunal to restructure their debts will actually file under the Decree.

13. How are judgments of the Tribunal made?
The Tribunal will issue its judgments by the majority votes of its Judges.

14. What is the status of the judgments of the Tribunal?
The judgments of the Tribunal are final, irrevocable and not subject to any appeal. All judgments may be executed and enforced by a competent courts in the Emirate of Dubai and wherever else necessary.

15. How will the Tribunal be administered?
The Registrar of the Court of the Dubai International Financial Centre will act as the registrar for the Tribunal. The Registrar will maintain a publicly available register of all pleadings filed under the Decree.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan departed to Kuwait from Abu Dhabi International Airport this morning, where he was seen off by Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The president is leading the UAE delegation attending the two-day 30th Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) summit beginning in Kuwait City today.

Sheikh Khalifa is being accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising of Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Energy Mohammed bin Dhaen Al Hameli, Minister of State for Financial Affairs Obaid Humaid Al Tayer, Deputy Minister of Presidential Affairs Ahmed Juma Al Zaabi and the UAE Ambassador to Kuwait Hassan Salem Obaid Al Khayal.

Also seeing off Sheikh Khalifa at the airport were Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, other sheikhs, ministers and senior military and civilian officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a cable of condolences to President Bashar Al Assad of Syria on the death of his brother Majid.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Mwai Kibaki of Kenya on his country's Independence Day

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum participated in round one of the Giants Endurance Challenge, which was held at Emirates International Endurance Village, at Al Wathba in Abu Dhabi today.

Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler and Minister of Finance Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and other sheikhs watched the 120km race, which was run over five stages.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has ordered that all those who committed traffic violations during the National day celebrations be pardoned.

Dubai police had impounded 129 of the 1,350 cars culpable of traffic infractions that caused traffic jams and stoppages during the first and second days of the celebrations, on December 2 and 3.

Dubai police will begin immediately to apply the order by contacting vehicle owners so that they may collect their confiscated vehicles.

The violators will be obliged to sign a pledge saying that they will not repeat their offences in the future.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received the Sudanese Finance and Economic Minister Awad Ahmed Al Jaz and his accompanying delegation at Al Marmoum today.

During the meeting, which was held in the presence of Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Al Jaz passed on a message from Sudanese President Omar Hassan Al Bashir concerning fraternal relations between their countries and ways of enhancing bilateral cooperation in all fields.

The finance minister also conveyed the Sudanese President's greetings and best wishes for good health and happiness to Sheikh Mohammed, in addition to his hopes that UAE people continue progress and develop under their wise leadership.

The meeting was attended by Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Minister of State for Financial Affairs Obaid Humaid Al Tayer, Director of Dubai Ruler's Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani and the Sudanese Ambassador to the UAE Ahmed Al Seddiq Abdul Hai.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a wedding banquet hosted by Sheikh Faisal bin Sultan Al Qasimi today, to celebrate the marriage of his son Mohammed to the daughter of Director General of Dubai Department of Information Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum Al Maktoum.

The ceremony, which was held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, was also attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler and Finance Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ras Al Khaimah Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Fujairah Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Umm Al Quwain Crown Prince Sheikh Rashid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Saeed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, other sheikhs, dignitaries and senior civilian and military officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent congratulatory cables to King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand on his birthday and to President Tarja Halonen of Finland on her country's Independence Day.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent congratulatory cables to President Blaise Compaore of Burkina Faso and to President Traian Basescu of Romania on their countries' national days.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has inspected work underway at the new Meydan Racecourse in Nad Al Sheba, which is set to host the $10 million Dubai World Cup in March.

Sheikh Mohammed began his visit at the racecourse's 1,300 square metre parking facility, which is designed in the shape of a falcon and can accommodate up to 10,000 cars.

He was briefed by the project's engineers and designers on the various features and amenities at the new racetrack, which will house up to 80,000 race-going fans.

Next he stopped at the venue's five-star hotel, the first of its kind to be located at a racecourse, where he inspected the interior to ensure the hotel's readiness to welcome guests to the Dubai World Cup. The hotel houses 290 rooms and suites and allows for breathtaking views of the racetrack from its rooftop.

Sheikh Mohammed toured the course's grandstand, the main feature of the new facility, and he also went on to inspect the track's surface, the big screen and underground tunnels for horses in place there.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his satisfaction with the work in progress at the site, and said that he is confident that the development will be completed on schedule.

Almost Dh10billion has been earmarked for the project, with the first phase of development due to be completed by March 2010. The project's final stage is expected to be built by March 2012.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has met with journalists and media professionals during celebrations to mark the UAE's 38th National Day.

Sheikh Mohammed congratulated the journalists on the special occasion and discussed his views about the much hyped ''Dubai World crisis''. He said that media reports surrounding the issue were exaggerated and confused in many respects, but that this did not overly concern him.

After describing the firm resolve and determination with which Dubai has always faced challenges in the past, Sheikh Mohammed said that he had anticipated the media's overreaction to the restructuring of Dubai World, adding that it's a reflection of Dubai's pivotal position in the global economy.

He spoke about how the tree bearing the most fruit always commands the most attention, and called on the media to be more cautious, transparent and credible in their reporting. Concluding his remarks, Sheikh Mohammed explained that only by using their conscience can the media earn the public's trust and respect.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reaffirmed that the UAE economy remains robust and stable due to its diversity, strategic planning and firm foundations today. These qualities, he added, enable it to react to the ups and downs of the global economy and overcome all challenges.

In an address to the nation printed in Dira Al Watan (National Shield) magazine to mark the 38th UAE National Day celebrations, Sheikh Mohammed spoke about the country's achievements, which he described as having changed the region's political landscape through the emergence of a new state.

''The seven emirates are united by mutual consent and free choice,'' he said.

Sheikh Mohammed reasoned about how the country's formation altered the region's social topography and paved the way for the emergence of a new society with a new identity. He went on to say that under the wise leadership of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE is entering a new era of prosperity and that it's currently building the road into a solid future.

''His leadership,'' he said, ''will guide the country from success to success, from achievement to achievement and from excellence to excellence.''

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan received rulers, crown princes and deputy rulers of the emirates at Al Rawdha Palace in Al Ain today, where they exchanged greetings and best wishes to mark the occasion of Eid Al Adha and the 38th UAE National Day.

There to congratulate Sheikh Khalifa on the Islamic and national holidays were Their Highnesses and Supreme Council Members - UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi Ruler of Sharjah, His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi Ruler of Fujairah, His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla Ruler of Umm Al Quwain and His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Ruler of Ajman.

The greetings were exchanged in the presence of Abu Dhabi Ruler's Representative in the western region Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Also present at the reception were Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler and Finance Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sharjah Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Ras Al Khaimah Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Fujairah Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Umm Al Quwain Crown Prince Sheikh Rashid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, Ajman Crown Prince Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi and Deputy Ruler of Umm Al Quwain Sheikh Abdullah bin Rashid Al Mualla.

The rulers exchanged heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for more progress and prosperity for UAE citizens under the country's wise leadership. They also prayed to God almighty for good health and happiness and further success for the nation and its people.

Additionally, the gathering saw the attendance of other sheikhs, ministers, dignitaries, senior officials and a large group of UAE citizens.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum met with a team from Watani, a social development programme headed by Ahmed Al Mansouri, at Za'abeel Palace today.

Al Mansouri and the members were there to brief Sheikh Mohammed on the objectives of the Al Mutahida campaign, an initiative to highlight the concept of unification among UAE citizens, as represented by UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

As a symbol of his allegiance to the country’s leadership, Sheikh Mohammed placed an imprint of his thumb on a loyalty card, in the presence of Dubai Deputy Ruler and Finance Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Director of Dubai Ruler's Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani.

Sheikh Mohammed praised the campaigns' concept, which encourages patriotism among younger generations and encapsulates the ambitions and achievements of the UAE's citizens. The initiative, he said, establishes the idea of national participation in the community to uphold the values of citizenship and is strongly backed by the UAE’s leadership.

The country's leaders support all social and cultural activities that promote a sense of belonging, as well as loyalty to the homeland, its leadership and its institutions, he added.

The Watani team expressed their deep gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed for his support, encouragement and patronage of their initiatives.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received guests and well-wishers, who congratulated him on the advent of Eid Al Adha, at Za'abeel Palace today.

The visitors wished Sheikh Mohammed good health, progress and prosperity in the presence of Dubai Deputy Ruler and Finance Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The well-wishers included sheikhs, ministers, senior military and civilian officials and large number of citizens and residents.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent congratulatory cables to leaders, presidents and heads of Arab and Islamic countries on the occasion of Eid Al Adha.

He wished them good health and happiness, as well as further progress and prosperity for their peoples, so that they may achieve pride, glory and greatness for Arab and Islamic nations.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has ordered the release of 427 inmates from various prisons in Dubai to mark the occasion of Eid Al Adha and UAE National Day.

Dubai Attorney General Issam Al Humaidan said that Dubai Public Prosecution has already started coordinating with Dubai Police to implement the order.

Al Humaidan thanked Sheikh Mohammed for his humanitarian gesture and congratulated the families of the soon-to-be-released prisoners.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited the British Museum in London today, where he toured the exhibition's various sections, including one dedicated to rare Islamic artefacts.

Sheikh Mohammed viewed the historic pieces on display, and was briefed by the museum's curator on the background, origin and era to which each relic belongs. Such fine works, Sheikh Mohammed said, illustrate the richness and importance of Islamic civilisation.

During his briefing, Sheikh Mohammed learned how all the Islamic exhibits had been collected between 1977 and 1983 by former museum board member, Sir John Addis, who also freed up space to accommodate the artefacts in 1983.

Towards the end of his museum tour, Sheikh Mohammed praised the Sir John's initiative, which he said reflects the importance of Islamic civilisation and its role in bridging gaps between cultures around the world.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed pride as an Arab Muslim with Islam's artistic, scientific and cultural legacy, which, he said, greatly contributed to modern-day industrial and scientific innovations.

After espousing the high value which he attaches to the ancient relics and Islamic heritage, Sheikh Mohammed called on all Muslims, especially the young, to study and research their cultural legacy to enhance the standing of Islamic civilisation.

Accompanying Sheikh Maktoum on his tour were Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and a number of other delegation members.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a ceremony hosted by the Arab-British Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) to mark his official visit to London today.

Sheikh Mohammed was given a warm reception on arrival by the UAE, Arab and English businessmen, who make up the membership of the ABCC in London.

The chamber is a trade organisation committed to bridging relations between the UK and Arab World through the establishment of joint ventures and strategic partnerships to the mutual benefit of both business communities.

In her opening address, Secretary General and Chief Executive of the ABCC, Dr. Afnan Al Shuaibi, welcomed Sheikh Mohammed's visit, saying that it not only assists the chamber in attaining its goals of serving Arab and British business interests, but it also contributes to re-energising and developing the global economy.

Attributing the great strides taken by the UAE economy to its leadership's wise vision, the secretary general said that the government's policies are an example for all to follow in the region and around the world.

ABCC Chairman Sir Rodger Tomkys delivered a speech, where he portrayed the UAE's business environment as prosperous, diversified and one of the leading integrated economies in the world. Describing the UAE economy as performing strongly throughout the financial crisis, the chairman ascribed credit to the prudent policies and farsighted vision of the UAE's leadership and government.

He went on to thank Sheikh Mohammed for the attention and support he gives to trade and commercial enterprise between the UAE and Britain, which has led to the strengthening of relations between the two countries, especially in the private sector.

The ceremony was also attended by Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited the Tory Party headquarters today, where he met with House of Commons member and Conservative Party leader David Cameron.

Cameron expressed his appreciation for Sheikh Mohammed's visit, describing it as an opportunity to get to know Sheikh Mohammed on a philosophical and personal level.

Describing the historic and friendly ties between the UAE and Britain as being based on mutual respect and shared interests, the two leaders exchanged views on the future direction of their countries' relationship.

Sheikh Mohammed and Cameron also discussed a number of other issues concerning the scale of investment, as well as economic and technical cooperation between their nations, with the Tory leader affirming that his party would continue to follow established policies with the UAE and the region.

Cameron pledged to work at enhancing these policies, should his party carry the 2010 general election.

Pointing to the advanced infrastructure in the UAE, as well as the high-levels of academic, technical and medical services available, the Conservative Party leader praised the country's stunning progress, and described these facilities as a strong base for the development of an international tourism industry.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and other members of the delegation accompanying Sheikh Mohammed.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and his accompanying delegation visited the Mansion House in London today, where they received a warm welcome from the city's Lord Mayor Nick Anstee.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his happiness on visiting the Lord Mayor's residence, which he described as a great historical monument embodying the nobility of the British people and their civilization, stretching back over thousands of years.

Sheikh Mohammed described the stopover, which included a luncheon banquet organised by the Mayor's Office, as a great opportunity to meet with the Lord Mayor and discuss the relations between their two countries.

Accompanying Sheikh Mohammed on his visit were Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the UAE Ambassador to Britain Abdul Rahman Al Mutaiwe'e, the UK Ambassador to the UAE Edward Oakden and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and his accompanying delegation visited the London Business School today, where they received an enthusiastic reception from the college dean, Sir Andrew Likierman, professors and students.

Sheikh Mohammed inspected the Dubai Lecture theatre at the college, and sat in on part of one of the classes taking place there, where he listened to ongoing discussions between students and the professor.

After welcoming Sheikh Mohammed in foyer of the prestigious college, the dean thanked him for his unlimited support for the school's programmes and development plans. The Dean also spoke about London Business School's branch located at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), its first branch outside of London, and described Dubai as a global hub for finance and business.

The dean then announced the establishment of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Chair for Creativity at the college. The honour, he said, was bestowed by the college administration in recognition of Sheikh Mohammed's overall support for education, and the London Business School in particular.

Presenting Sheikh Mohammed with a painting of the historic college building, Sir Andrew Likierman said that it is a token of the respect and appreciation that the faculty, administration and the more than 1,400 students have for the Ruler of Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his pleasure on visiting such a landmark of science and civilisation, and spoke of his delight on meeting professors and students at the college. He also said that he was very happy to see the college programmes in London being taught at the Dubai branch.

In response to the dean's welcome address, Sheikh Mohammed confirmed that he will stand by the college, and give it his full support and backing so that it may achieve its goals. He described these goals as cultivating numerous graduates from both the Dubai and London branches, and providing them with the necessary tools to contribute to their countries' economies.

Sheikh Mohammed concluded by congratulating all those attached to the college, and he thanked them for the warm reception afforded to him and his accompanying delegation.

Accompanying Sheikh Mohammed were Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and other members of the delegation.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum met with British Prime Minister Gordon Brown at 10 Downing Street this evening.

The Prime Minister welcomed Sheikh Mohammed's visit to the United Kingdom, where he is heading a high-level UAE delegation.

After reviewing political and economic developments both regionally and internationally, the two leaders reaffirmed the importance of achieving peace in areas of conflict, especially in the Middle East and Afghanistan.

They also explored ways of boosting cooperation between the UAE and the UK in all fields, especially in education, investment and commerce, as well as joint efforts to mitigate the effects of the global economic downturn.

In further discussions about the financial crisis, Brown said that he was impressed by the UAE economy's quick recovery, in addition to the prudent steps taken by the country's government and leadership to minimise the recession's impact and protect foreign and local investments.

Sheikh Mohammed and Brown emphasised the importance of cooperation between the two countries in the areas of medicine and peaceful nuclear technology.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and other members of the delegation accompanying Sheikh Mohammed.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum met with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom today, who received him at her residence at Winsor Castle, just outside the British capital.

They discussed ways of strengthening the historic ties between the UAE and the UK, especially in cultural and humanitarian areas. They also exchanged views on the deteriorating humanitarian situation in many parts of the world, arising as a consequence of war, famine and natural disasters.

These calamities, the two leaders agreed, increased the international community's moral and humanitarian obligations towards protecting the poor and the needy around the world.

Praising the UAE's compassionate stance and benevolent ideals, Queen Elizabeth commended the country for providing medical and food aid, as well as educational assistance to some of the poorest nations around the world.

Charities and humanitarian organisations from the UAE play a significant role in alleviating the suffering of the poor around the world, she remarked, before adding that these institutions offer a livelihood, education and medication to the most disadvantaged groups, such as children and sick people.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum met with UK Foreign Minister David Miliband at his residence in London this morning.

During their meeting, they reviewed aspects of cooperation and coordination between the UAE and Britain, especially in terms of achieving peace and justice in the Middle East and around the world. The discussions took place in light of the rising insecurity and economic instability in the region, as a result of the faltering peace process between the Palestinians and the Israelis.

The British Foreign Minister hailed the good relations between the UAE and the UK, and praised the role that the country and its wise leadership play in promoting peace, harmony and understanding, both regionally and internationally, as well as their efforts to strengthen the global economy.

Miliband also briefed Sheikh Mohammed about the ongoing dialogue and discussions between the Five Plus One group of nations regarding the Iranian nuclear programme.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the UAE Ambassador to Britain Abdul Rahman Al Mutaiwe'e and other members of Sheikh Mohammed's accompanying delegation.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum arrived in London today on an official visit to the United Kingdom.

Sheikh Mohammed is accompanied by a high-level delegation that includes, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Director of Dubai Ruler’s Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani, Governor of Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Ahmed Humaid Al Tayer and the UAE Ambassador to Britain Abdul Rahman Al Mutaiwe'e.

Sheikh Mohammed and his accompanying delegation were seen off at Dubai International Airport by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler and Finance Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Director of Sheikh Mohammed's Office Lt. General Musabbah Rashid Al Fattan, the Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry of Defence Mohammed Abdul Rahim Al Ali and a number of senior officials.

During his visit Sheikh Mohammed is due to meet with Queen Elizabeth II of England and with Prime Minister Gordon Brown to discuss ways of enhancing bilateral relations between the UAE and the UK.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum met with committees heads from the Global Agenda Summit at the Madinat Jumeirah today.

Beginning the meeting, which took place in the presence of Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mohammed gave a warm welcome to the world-renowned panel of experts and decision makers.

Sheikh Mohammed stressed that the UAE will continue to host regional and international gatherings, which support projects to bring happiness to humanity and serve sustainable development, as well as achieving justice and equality amongst all nations.

Each of the 13 committee heads briefed Sheikh Mohammed on his group's specialised focus area, in addition to future plans to be actioned in coordination with the leadership of the Global Agenda Summit. The briefings covered a wide range of topics, including economic, social, educational, health, energy, and climate change issues currently concerning people around the world.

Sheikh Mohammed's farsighted vision received collective approval from the meeting participants, especially in relation to his call for governments to monitor and shape their countries financial policies. Government regulation over financial institutions, they said, boosted confidence and credibility in investment, so that we may look to the future with optimism and hope.

Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of the World Economic Forum, Andre Schneider, thanked Sheikh Mohammed on behalf of the Global Economic Summit attendees for his concern and keen observance of the summit outcomes.

Schneider praised the attention and importance attached by Sheikh Mohammed to making use of the summit's findings and recommendations. This, he said, will intensify communication between conferences and governments and ensure that the recommendations will be submitted to the Climate Change Summit taking place in Copenhagen in early December.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurated an art exhibition comprising of paintings from his own personal collection today, organised by the Ministry of Culture to mark the 38th UAE National Day.

Accompanied by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mohammed inspected the 38 paintings on display, and was briefed by their creators on their artistic qualities and value.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his admiration for the fine artwork on show, which he described as reflecting the artists' spirit of originality and ingenuity.

He also ordered that the exhibition period be extended by 38 days so that a larger number of people may view the artwork.

The opening ceremony was attended by Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development Abdul Rahman Mohammed Nassir Al Owais, Governor of Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Ahmed Humaid Al Tayer and a host of artists.

Al Owais announced that the paintings, which were commissioned by Sheikh Mohammed, are part of His Highness' initiatives to give citizens and residents of the UAE the opportunity to view the country's valuable national treasures.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum participated in the Dubai Giants Endurance Championship, held at Dubai International Endurance City today.

The 120km race was contested by 58 riders from various countries around the world.

Sheikh Mohammed handed out awards to championship winners Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Captain of the Royal Bahraini Endurance Team Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

Finishing in a dead heat, Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Nasser shared the championship title, and were presented with the Golden Sword following the race. Emirati rider, Ali Salman Al Sabri, came in third.

Dubai Deputy Ruler and Minister of Finance Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, other sheikhs and officials were present at the race.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the opening of the second Summit on the Global Agenda this evening, being organised by the World Economic Forum in partnership with the Government of Dubai.

Over 700 leaders from academic, business, government and civil sectors have gathered for the world's biggest multi-stakeholder dialogue, to address some of the most pressing issues on the global agenda.

Welcoming the forum participants, Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum delivered a speech, in which he described current circumstances as being better than last year, when the financial crisis was at its peak.

A number of sheikhs, ministers, senior officials and businessmen were also present at the opening ceremony.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received the Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of the World Economic Forum, Andre Schneider, on the sidelines of the Global Agenda Summit today.

During the meeting they exchanged views on current developments in the global economy, in addition to the role regional and international conferences play in the recovery of economic and financial markets worldwide.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his pleasure at staging such an important event in the UAE, saying that it underlines the country's contribution to boosting optimism on the road to recovery from the financial crisis.

Schneider thanked Sheikh Mohammed for all the facilities provided to support the organisation of the Global Agenda Summit.

The meeting was attended by Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received the Secretary General of the League of Arab States Amr Moussa on the sidelines of the Global Agenda Summit today.

During the meeting they discussed a number of issues related to crises in the region and their impact on development plans aimed at raising living standards, education and healthcare in the Arab world.

Moussa praised Dubai's position as a global city that attracts decision makers, economists and investors from around the world.

The meeting was attended by Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi and other senior officials.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a decree appointing Ahmed Humaid Al Tayer as the new Governor of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

The decree is effective from its date of issuance and will be published in the official gazette.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received media professionals representing leading news agencies and publications in 46 countries at Za'abeel Palace today.

Invited by the National Media Council, the delegations will meet a number of officials to discuss national, economic, developmental and political issues, in addition to touring a number of projects in Dubai to mark the 38th National Day anniversary celebrations.

The meeting took place in the presence of Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Sheikh Mohammed welcomed the media professionals and called on them to go out and explore the country, and find out first-hand the state of development in the UAE. Urging them to look at the country's progress through the prism of trade, tourism, culture and real estate, Sheikh Mohammed asserted that the journalists will see that development hasn't stopped in the UAE, despite the fictitious stories circulated by some media publications. These reports were deceptive and they contradict the actual truth, he added.

Addressing the media representatives, Sheikh Mohammed described the robust unity that exists within the UAE, quashing rumours and speculation that Dubai was floundering alone in the face of the financial crisis.

''Dubai and Abu Dhabi have one economy,'' he said, ''that is the UAE economy.''

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his great confidence that the UAE economy will continue its recovery and leave the financial crisis behind, while looking to the future with a new optimistic vision.

He noted that the UAE economy is growing steadily, citing the civilian nuclear energy project and passenger traffic at the Dubai International Airport, which has exceeded 40 million travelers over the first 10 months this year, compared to 37 million passengers in total during 2008.

Answering questions posed by journalists, Sheikh Mohammed said "we have turned most of our dreams into reality", and pointed to the Dubai Metro Project, which has broken numerous records and being hailed as a great success since its launch.

Following the meeting Sheikh Mohammed hosted a luncheon banquet for his guests.

The meeting was attended by Minister of Labour and Chairman of the National Media Council Saqr Ghubash Saeed Ghubash, other ministers, senior officials and editors-in-chiefs of the local newspapers.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received the former CEO and co-founder of Yahoo, Mr. Jerry Yang, and his accompanying delegation at Dubai Internet City (DIC) today.

During the meeting, which took place in the presence of Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, they discussed ways of boosting cooperation between DIC and Yahoo Inc., in addition to reviewing Yahoo's investments in Dubai and the region beyond.

Yang remarked that Dubai is Yahoo's regional platform, describing it as the most suitable and cost efficient destination from companies specialising in IT and media.

Sheikh Mohammed was briefed by Mr. Yang on Yahoo's recent acquisition of Maktoob.com, which arose out of the company’s desire to develop software programmmes in Arabic. His company hopes to use Dubai and the UAE as a springboard to expand and tap into new markets in the region, Yang added.

He went on to praise the DIC's impressive technological infrastructure and noted that the UAE is the leading promoter of internet usage in the Arab world.

Sheikh Mohammed said that he welcomed all creative talent coming to the country through such companies as Yahoo, which he described as having a strong reputation in the IT sector around the world.

The meeting was attended by Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, CEO of Dubai Holdings Ahmed bin Byat, CEO of TECOM Investments Abed Al Latif Al Mulla, Dubai Director of Protocol and Hospitality Khalifa Saeed Suleiman and CEO of DIC Malik Al Malik.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued three laws and three decrees pertaining to institutions and companies regulated by the Government of Dubai.

The first law issued by Sheikh Mohammed establishes Dubai Duty Free as a publicly traded company with a full legal personality and the capacity to carry out its objectives as a commercial entity attached to Dubai Government Investments Group.

A decree was also issued placing Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum as chairman of the new company. The decree also forms the Board of Directors of the Dubai Government Investments Group under the chairmanship of Sheikh Mohammed, with Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as Deputy Chairman, and a membership of Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued a law changing the name of the 'Office of the Dubai Shopping Festival' set up under Law No. 18 of 2007 to the 'Corporation of Dubai Events and Trade Promotion'. The entity, while retaining its full legal personality, is tasked with strengthening Dubai's status as a center for regional and international events and festivals.

A third law issued by Sheikh Mohammed replaces the name of the 'Foundation for the care of women and children' with 'Dubai Establishment for the care of women and children'.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued a decree forming the 'Supreme Commission for Fiscal Policy in the Emirate of Dubai' to be headed by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum.

A subsequent decree issued by Sheikh Mohammed forms the board of directors of Dubai Aluminum Company to be chaired by Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, with Ahmed Humaid Al Tayer as deputy chairman, and a membership of Hilal Khalfan bin Zahir, Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Mohammad Abdullah Ahmed Al Ghurair, Tariq Hussain Khansaheb, Abdullah Salem Mohammed Mana and Abdul Wahid Al Fahim.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a ceremony for the 17th batch of graduates at Dubai Police Academy today.

After arriving on the ceremony's main platform accompanied by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mohammed listened to a rendition of the UAE National Anthem as sung by the UAE and Arab national graduates.

Sheikh Mohammed, alongside Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim, inspected a parade formed by the graduates, all of whom have successfully completed masters and PhD programmes.

Director General of the Academy, Major General Dr. Mohammed Ahmed bin Fahad, delivered a speech in which he renewed his loyalty to the country's wise leadership, who facilitate education for the youth, and extend aid to the poor all around the world.

On distributing awards to students graduating in the top six of their class, Sheikh Mohammed shook hands with them and commended them on their good conduct and discipline during their training.

Sheikh Mohammed also met with senior officials, heads of Arab police and security delegates, who thanked him for his patronage and care for Arab youth by giving them the opportunity to learn and train side-by-side with their peers in the UAE.

Congratulating his son Sheikh Majid, Sheikh Mohammed signed a copy of his master's thesis entitled, 'the Intelligence of Crisis Management in the Vision of Sheikh Mohammed'.

Before leaving the ceremony, Sheikh Mohammed inspected some publications from the academy's publishing house and applauded Dahi khalfan and the academy's director general on the distinguished heights that the academy has reached.

He concluded by pledging his continued support for the academy and its programmes.

The graduation ceremony was attended by a number of crown princes, sheikhs, ministers, dignitaries, senior military and civilian officials and members of the diplomatic corps in Dubai.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a message to President of the Syrian Republic, Bashar Al Assad, concerning fraternal relations between their respective countries.

The message was conveyed by Sheikh Mohammed's Media Escort, Ahmed Abdullah Al Sheikh, during a meeting with the Syrian president at the People's Palace in Damascus.

Further discussions revolved around the need for continued coordination and cooperation between institutions in both countries, as well as the exchange of expertise to serve the common interests of their two peoples.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has ordered the promotion of Captain Mohammed Abdul Aziz Abdullah Obaidullah of the Criminal Investigation Department at the Dubai Police to the rank of Major, in recognition of his efforts and high efficiency in the performance of duties and his dedication to his work.

Dubai Police Chief Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim expressed pride over Sheikh Mohammed’s decision, which reflects his keenness and follow-up of the achievements of the members of Dubai Police and the criminal investigations.

Obaidullah has extended substantial help in the arrest of members of the Mexican gang that stole gold valued at Dh6500000 from a Malaysian dealer at Dubai International Airport and fled to Hong Kong.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum toured Dubai Air Show 2009 today, where he took time out to meet with exhibitors and participants taking part in the exhibition.

As he made his way around the various sections of the thriving air expo, Sheikh Mohammed spoke with exhibitors regarding the facilities on hand, and enquired about the visitor numbers frequenting their stands this year.

The feedback from the participants was very positive, with many reporting that they were pleasantly surprised with the large turnout and the quantity of clients searching for the latest in aviation technology.

After viewing some advanced military and civilian airplanes, Sheikh Mohammed expressed his confidence that the aviation expo would achieve its goals, thanks to the efforts of the concerned authorities in Dubai and the UAE who assisted guests and provided the exhibition with all the necessary tools for success.

Subsequently, Sheikh Mohammed stopped at a number of other displays, including Abu Dhabi's Mubadala exhibit and the Boeing stand, where participants thanked him for the genuine Arab hospitality that they received around the country.

Concluding his tour Sheikh Mohammed visited the Mubadala and Emirate's reception centres, accompanied by Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation, Chief Executive of Emirates Group and Chairman of the Supreme Organising Committee of the Dubai Air Show Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Director of Sheikh Mohammed's Office Lt. General Musabbah Rashid Al Fattan and Assistant Under Secretary at the Ministry of Defence Brigadier Mohammed Abdul Rahim Al Ali.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received Ukrainian President Victor Yushchenko and his accompanying delegation at his office at the Dubai Airport Expo today.

After welcoming the Ukrainian President, Sheikh Mohammed expressed his hope that Yushchenko's UAE visit would serve to enhance relations between their two countries, in addition to boosting economic and investment cooperation.

During the meeting, which was held in the presence of Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Ukrainian President expressed his admiration for the impressive development underway in the UAE, especially in economic, social and technological fields.

He went on to praise the country's infrastructure, which he described as placing the UAE firmly on the global economic map, and pointed out that it already has a secure investment environment that enjoys high returns.

Addressing Sheikh Mohammed directly he said, ''what your Highness is doing is vast and grand, whether it be economic, social or infrastructure development, it plays a vital role in attracting companies, investors and businessmen from all over the world.''

After thanking Sheikh Mohammed for the fine facilities and hospitality enjoyed by the Ukrainian civilian and military aviation firms participating in air show, Yushchenko remarked on the exhibition's first-rate international reputation.

The President concluded by presenting Sheikh Mohammed with an outline of where their countries could build investment partnerships and proposed that delegations from both countries exchange visits to explore investment opportunities.

The meeting was attended by Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation, Chief Executive of Emirates Group and Chairman of the Supreme Organising Committee of the Dubai Air Show 2009 Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development Abdul Rahman Mohammed Nassir Al Owais, Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Director of Dubai Ruler's Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani, Director of Sheikh Mohammed's Office Lt. General Musabbah Rashid Al Fattan and Assistant Under Secretary at the Ministry of Defence Brigadier Mohammed Abdul Rahim Al Ali.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has ordered that Dubai government employees’ salaries for this month be paid next Sunday on the occasion of Eid Al Adha.

Sheikh Mohammed directed the Ruler's Court to take all necessary steps to ensure that salaries are paid on the time specified in the order.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received the Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Hamad bin Jasim bin Jaber Al Thani, at his office at the Dubai Airport Expo today.

Al Thani conveyed the greetings and best wishes for a successful air show on behalf of the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, in the presence of Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The Qatari Prime Minister praised the air show’s high quality, which he noted drew a large contingent of international participants and was evidence of the UAE’s advanced standing on the global economic map. He went on to say that the aviation exhibition plays an important part in building bridges of economic and investment cooperation between region and the industrial world beyond.

The meeting was attended by a number of sheikhs, ministers and senior officials, as well as the Qatari Ambassador to the UAE Abdullah Mohammed Al Othman.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum a congratulatory cable to Sultan Qaboos bin Saeed of Oman on his country's national day.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent a similar cable to Mohammed VI of Morocco his country's Independence Day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has praised the efforts of Dubai's attorney general and all staff at Dubai Public Prosecution who have worked hard to successfully convert the delivery of their services under an e-transformation initiative.

His remarks were given in a speech at the closing ceremony of the 6th International Association of Prosecutors in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific Regional Conference, organised by Dubai Public Prosecution.

Addressing Dubai Attorney General Issam Al Humaidan, Sheikh Mohammed applauded his efforts to serve and support the UAE's people by improving service standards to the benefit of the country and the public at large.

Sheikh Mohammed also praised the idea of hosting such conferences and international gatherings, which he explained were vital in terms of strengthening bridges of communication and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and expertise with other nations.

Describing the convention's successful hosting as a great achievement for the UAE, Sheikh Mohammed pointed out that this was the first time for an Arab country to host the conference, which saw the attendance of public prosecution professionals representing more than 60 countries.

Such a feat, he said, underlines the great efficiency and capability of the country's citizens to work hard and safeguard the supreme national interest.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum opened the 11th edition of the Dubai Air Show this morning in the presence of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, along with Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, welcomed visitors and participants to the exhibition, which is running over five days at the city's Airport Expo, and is the premier aerospace event in the Middle East and the fastest growing in the world. After greeting his guests Sheikh Mohammed wished them a pleasant stay in the UAE, which he described as their second home.

Some 890 companies from 47 countries are exhibiting at the show, an increase over the previous event in 2007 which attracted 850 exhibitors.

After cutting the ceremonial ribbon, Sheikh Mohammed along with a large delegation toured the display area, packed with the latest in high-tech civilian and military equipment and aircraft.

Following a tour of an Airbus A380, the group was briefed about the plane's features and specifications by Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum.

A similar briefing was given by Chief Executive of flydubai Ghaith Al Ghaith on aspects of the Boeing 737-800.

Moving on to the western hall, Sheikh Mohammed stopped at a number of exhibition stands and inspected the technology on display, much of which supports airport management.

The exhibitors, representing international aviation manufacturers, welcomed Sheikh Mohammed and praised the show's organisers who allowed for a 30% increase in the allotted exhibition area over previous years.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his pleasure with the large attendance and participation from international companies, saying that this great turnout proves yet again that the UAE, under the wise leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is a noted player in the global economy. He went on to thank God that the UAE's economy remains strong and vigorous, despite the recent financial turmoil.

Sheikh Mohammed said that the exhibition's success in terms of preparation, organisation and participation is a reflection of the hard work carried out by the country's sons, who proved their ability and competence in overcoming numerous challenges. Concluding the tour, Sheikh Mohammed and his accompanying delegation watched an aeronautic display performed by various military and civilian aviation groups from around the world.

Also attending the event were Sharjah Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Ras Al Khaimah Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Fujairah Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Umm Al Quwain Crown Prince Sheikh Rashid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, Ajman Crown Prince Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, FNC Speaker Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair, Abu Dhabi Ruler's Representative in the Eastern Region Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, National Security Advisor Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Director of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince's Court Sheikh Hamad bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of Ethiad Airlines Sheikh Khalid bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Director General of Dubai Department of Information Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, other sheikhs, ministers, dignitaries, members of the diplomatic corps, foreign defense ministers and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received a number of foreign defence ministers on the sidelines of 2009 Dubai Air Show today.

During a series of meetings at his office at the Airport Expo, Sheikh Mohammed received the Omani Defence Minister Bader Saud bin Hareb, the Tanzanian Defence Minister Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi and the Czech Defence Minister Martin Bartak.

The Omani minister praised the high-levels of organisation and participation at the air show and said that the event increases the stature of the UAE both regionally and globally within the exhibition industry.

After expressing his great pleasure at being invited to the exhibition, the Tanzanian minister described the show as a source of pride for the UAE, its leadership and people.

The Czech minister greeted Sheikh Mohammed and noted his country's large participation at the event.

Sheikh Mohammed also received the Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikha Hasina Wajed. They discussed bilateral relations and the success and achievements of the Dubai Air Show over the years.

The prime minister praised the event's growing reputation within the aviation industry, saying that Dubai Air Show is a meeting point for aviation exhibitors and buyers who seek the latest in civilian and military technology.

Sheikh Mohammed also met with the Sudanese Defence Minister General Abdel Rahim Mohammed Hussein, the Malaysian Defence Minister Datuk Ahmed Zahidi and the designated Algerian Minister of Defence General Abdul Malik Guenaizia.

The Sudanese minister conveyed the greetings and best wishes of his country's president Omar Al Bashir and thanked Sheikh Mohammed for the invitation to participate in event opening. He also praised the genuine Arabian hospitality shown to all the attendees.

The minister from Malaysia also thanked Sheikh Mohammed and remarked that such a well-organised and well-attended exhibition indicates the increasing trust that the UAE enjoys in trade and economic circles.

The Algerian minister also noted the high-levels of organisation on display at the show and spoke of the exhibitions growing fame and reputation.

The meetings were attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ras Al Khaimah Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Fujairah Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Umm Al Quwain Crown Prince Sheikh Rashid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim, Director of Dubai Ruler's Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani and other senior officials.

Following the meetings Sheikh Mohammed hosted a luncheon banquet in honour of his guests.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum watched as Al Reef Stables got off to a winning start with Ahmad Salem Al Beloushi on Silversprings Kabir Arwa winning the Sorouh Challenge, the season's first ride at Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba today.

Al Beloushi led in three of the five stages to complete the 120km ride in four hours 45 minutes at an average speed of 25.24 kilometres per hour, with Hassan bin Ali on Kalkadoon Vagabond finishing second to take a share of the Dh300,000 purse.

In addition to the prize money, the winner also received a brand new four wheel drive vehicle.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has affirmed that the Dubai Airshow has become a permanent fixture for leading aviation companies as it grows in stature to be one of the three major international exhibitions in the industry.

His remarks came in a statement issued to Dira'a Al Watan magazine to mark the 11th Dubai Airshow and Dubai International Aerospace Exhibition, which begins tomorrow.

The air show continues to be the fastest growing exhibition in the world through the steady growth in the number of participants, the number of visitors and the quality of exhibits representing the finest in the aviation industry, Sheikh Mohammed said.

"This continued success has made the air show a permanent event on the agenda of top corporations in the aviation industry."

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has approved a resolution for the establishment of the Federal Demographic Council under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The new body will be attached to the Emiratisation Council, which is also chaired by the interior minister, as both entities share similar goals in terms of developing the capacity and skills of the local population to serve the national interest.

Sheikh Mohammed had earlier received Sheikh Saif along with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi, where they reviewed national demographic initiatives, as well as the proposed mandate and mission of the council.

The council will work to strike a balance in the demographic structure of the country and deepen the sense of loyalty of UAE citizens to their leadership and homeland.

To this end, the body will review population policies and work to develop national strategies and initiatives through coordination with other concerned authorities. It will also gather information, conduct demographic studies and create an integrated data base as a key instrument for supporting policy making.

The move comes in line with the wise vision of the country's leadership to uphold the values of citizenship among all segments UAE society and provide them with the highest possible quality of life.

The meeting was also attended by Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi and Secretary General of the Interior Ministry Office Major General Nasser Al Nuaimi Al Kheribani.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum opened an investment conference organised by Bank of America Merrill Lynch at the Raffles Hotel in Dubai today.

Sheikh Mohammed addressed participants at the conference, which will run from November 9-11.

He began by expressing his pleasure at being chosen as the patron and key note speaker at the event, which sees the attendance of 35 investment firms and more than 135 businessmen, investors and financiers from all over the world.

After welcoming the staging of such an event in the UAE, Sheikh Mohammed confidently asserted that Dubai will continue to be the leading financial and trade capital in the region.

Speaking clearly and with great sincerity, Sheikh Mohammed stressed that the steps taken by Dubai to deal with the shrinking global economy and market downturn were not separate or exclusive from those taken by the Federal Government.

Describing Dubai as an inseparable part of the union, he emphasised that Dubai and Abu Dhabi along with the other emirates are one entity sharing the same destiny.

Sheikh Mohammed went on to illustrate how the ruling families of Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi and Al Maktoum in Dubai are as one, bound together by kinship and blood, and adding that these ties cannot be broken.

To those who refer to Abu Dhabi and Dubai as two separate units travelling in opposite directions, Sheikh Mohammed advised that they pay more heed to the truth. He spoke about how the people take great pride in their President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and their country.

Present at the event were a large number of ministers, senior local and foreign officials and heads of local newspapers.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended part of the final session of the First Exporters' Forum, which concluded in Dubai yesterday.

The event was organised by the Dubai Export Development Corporation (EDC) under the banner, 'Together to support UAE exports.'

Following a briefing on the various issues discussed at the forum, Sheikh Mohammed wished the participants success and expressed his hope that they would come up with practical ideas and solutions to support national exports and re-exports. He added that increasing exports would strengthen the role of the private sector and overall economic development in the country.

Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied by a number of senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum chaired a meeting of the cabinet at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi today, in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The cabinet appointed the Interior Minister as chairman of the Emiratisation Council, which was set up earlier this year with the responsibility of formulating policies and strategies to promote job nationalisation. Tasked with finding appropriate solutions to address the problem of unemployment in the UAE, the council supports the development of skills and competitiveness amongst the local population.

During the meeting the cabinet approved the establishment of a body to support UAE companies investing abroad as a part of the government's overall efforts to encourage foreign investment. With the aim promoting investment diversity and protecting venture capital around the world, the new body will support sound decision making politically and economically by providing information and feedback on overseas investment performance.

In a move to protect the public health and safeguard the environment, the cabinet adopted UAE specification standards relating to plastic bags and other biodegradable plastic waste. The cabinet also agreed to advance the country's diplomatic mission in Uzbekistan by upgrading the consulate there to the status of an embassy, reflecting the government's desire to strengthen friendly relations and cooperation with Uzbekistan to the benefit of both countries and peoples.

Concluding the meeting, the cabinet sanctioned funding from the federal government to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to promote aviation safety on the continent of Africa, and they also reviewed a proposal to participate in the 15th United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to be held from December 7-18.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received a number of newly appointed ambassadors to the UAE at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi today.

Sheikh Mohammed welcomed the new ambassadors representing South Africa, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Greece, Malaysia, the Comoros Islands, the Republic of Cyprus, Japan and Kenya in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The envoys had earlier presented their credentials to UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

During the meeting Sheikh Mohammed reviewed ways of enhancing bilateral relations between the UAE and their respective countries in the areas of culture, trade and technology. They also discussed future cooperation in various other fields.

Sheikh Mohammed conveyed the keen desire of the UAE's leadership, government and people to extend a hand of cooperation and friendship to countries and peoples who share a similar determination to achieve peace, justice and comprehensive economic development.

The meeting was attended by a number of sheikhs, ministers and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan on his re-election to the office of the Presidency.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan toured the Western Region of Abu Dhabi yesterday to inspect petroleum, gas, development, housing, architectural and tourism projects in the area.

Sheikh Khalifa was accompanied by UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

They visited Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort and toured its various facilities. Impressed by the original Arab architecture of the palace, Sheikh Khalifa expressed his admiration of the resort, which reflects the genuine spirit of Arab heritage and architecture.

He also expressed confidence that the Qasr Al Sarab Resort would constitute a unique addition to tourism and development projects in the region, as part of the broader development experienced across the UAE.

Concluding his tour, Sheikh Khalifa wished that the projects would contribute to the tourism activity in the region and help develop the Western Region economically, culturally and socially.

Following the tour, a luncheon banquet was held in honour of Sheikh Khalifa and his delegation at the Al Sarab Palace. President's Representative Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler's Representative in the Western Region Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, other sheikhs and senior officials were present.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a decree establishing a special judicial committee to adjudicate disputes involving cheques written for the settlement of real estate transactions.

The committee shall retain exclusive jurisdiction in cases such as those where cheques, given in consideration against a property agreement, bounce when the payee endeavours to cash them. The decree also stipulates that judgments rendered by the new judicial body will be final and not subject to appeal.

Membership of the committee will consist of a president selected from the appellate courts in Dubai, with two further members drawn from the Dubai courts of first instance and a final member representing the Dubai Department of Land and Property.

The decree, which details the specific powers and responsibilities of the judicial committee, is effective from its date of issuance and will be published in the official gazette.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a law attaching the Executive Office in Dubai to the Ruler's Court.

The move is part of the continuous efforts aimed at achieving comprehensive development in the Emirate of Dubai and comes in line with Sheikh Mohammed's vision to improve government performance.

Under the new legislation the office is mandated to conduct economic, social, political and cultural studies to support strategic decision making, and to track the implementation of resolutions and projects issued by the Ruler of Dubai. It will also prepare long-term strategic development plans, and endeavour to foresee potential future challenges in the region and around the world, as well as recommending strategies to address these challenges.

The new body will have the full legal personality to discharge all duties and responsibilities assigned to it.

Effective from its date of publication, the new legislation replaces law No. 28 of 2006, which established the executive office.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received former US President Bill Clinton at his executive office in Emirates Towers today.

During their meeting they discussed a number of educational and economic issues, as well as reviewing the overall situation in the region.

They also spoke about the importance of investment in education and technology, with both leaders stressing the need for countries to develop their citizens to bring about positive change and prosperity for their peoples.

Pointing to the development and expansion of teaching institutes and technological facilities in the UAE, the former US president praised the efforts to modernise the education sector in the country. He also noted the critical support provided by the UAE's leadership and government in enriching universities and higher education in the country.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Director of Dubai Ruler's Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani, Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed and Managing Director of Dubai Media Incorporated Ahmed Abdullah Sheikh, Dubai Director of Protocol and Hospitality Khalifa Saeed Suleiman and other senior officials.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued law No.31 of 2009 establishing the Government of Dubai Human Resources Department.

Working in tandem with Dubai Ruler's Court, the new department will be tasked with founding a government body to oversee the development of an integrated strategy to be applied to all government human resources. The department will also be responsible for setting up an administrative framework at government bodies, as well as updating their in house HR systems and practices.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued a decree appointing Amal Mohammed bin Udai as the Director General of the new department, effective as of November 1st, 2009.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a cable of condolences to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia on the death of his sister.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Ricardo Martinelli Berrocal of Panama on his country's Independence Day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended part of the working group meeting of the Dubai 2020 Organising Committee, which was held at Emirates Towers today.

The meeting was chaired by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and was attended by a large number of committee members, including Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation and Chairman of the National Olympic Committee Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development Abdul Rahman Mohammed Nassir Al Owais, along with other government department heads and senior officials.

Sheikh Mohammed spoke of the importance of teamwork, and called on the committee members to work in harmony in order to succeed in the study to bring the 2020 World Expo and the Olympic Games to Dubai and the UAE.

He described to the committee how events of this magnitude deserve and require all their attention, efforts and time, in addition to putting the necessary integrated infrastructure, logistical planning and promotional and entertainment facilities in place. He went on to say that no target is impossible to reach, as long as there is a well-thought-out action plan and a spirit of willingness and adaptability to win the bid.

After expressing his confidence in the chairman and members of the higher organising committee, Sheikh Mohammed described Dubai's rich Arab history and sublime record of achievement that enables it to gain respect from countries and companies around the world. He concluded by asserting that the UAE can reach all targets in place and, with the will of God, turn the dream of hosting the two events into reality.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed welcomed the aforementioned committee members along with Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim, Director of Dubai Ruler's Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the RTA Mattar Al Tayer, Director General of Dubai Municipality Hussein Nasser Lootah, Director General of Dubai Healthcare Authority Qadi Saeed Al Murooshid, Vice President of the National Olympic Committee Yousef Al Serkal, Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed and Managing Director of Dubai Media Incorporated Ahmed Abdullah Sheikh, Executive Chairman of Dubai World Trade Centre Hilal Saeed Al Murri, Chief Executive of Falcon and Associates Giselle Pettyfer and Vice Chairman of Falcon and Associates John Ferguson.

During the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan drew attention to the organising committee's action plan, and stressed the importance of this, the first of many meetings, where they will discuss and examine the latest ideas and suggestions to support and strengthen Dubai's bid for the 2020 World Expo and Olympic Games.

Describing Dubai as the capital of finance and business in the Middle East and Asia, Sheikh Hamdan urged the team to garner their optimism, so that they may push forward and find effective suggestions and solutions, and with them win the approval and support of countries around the world.

The meeting concluded with the formation of an executive subcommittee with a membership of Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Abdul Rahman Mohammed Nassir Al Owais, Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, Hussein Nasser Lootah, Yousef Al Serkal, Ahmed Abdullah Sheikh, Hilal Saeed Al Murri, Giselle Pettyfer and John Ferguson.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received Executive Vice President and Managing Director of CNN International Tony Maddox and his accompanying delegation at Emirates Towers today.

In the presence of Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mohammed exchanged views with delegation members on issues related to the media and the economy in the region and beyond. They also discussed the role of visual media in bringing nations closer together and shedding light on the truth with fairness and objectivity.

Sheikh Mohammed welcomed CNN's move to open a news centre in Abu Dhabi, saying that the selection of the UAE's capital as the fourth city to host the network after Atlanta, London and Hong Kong, was yet more proof of the country’s high-standing around the world.

Maddox expressed his confidence that the network, through its UAE centre, will succeed in its mission of building bridges of cultural communication between the Middle East and the rest of the world.

He described the UAE as being a safe and favoured destination for businessmen, investors and the media in particular, which enjoys the great freedom, transparency and integrity that the country offers.

The meeting was also attended by Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim, Director of Dubai Ruler's Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani, Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed and Managing Director of Dubai Media Incorporated Ahmed Abdullah Sheikh and CEO of Dubai Media Affairs Bureau May Al Marri.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan watched the 2009 Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix at the Yas Marina Circuit today, which also saw the attendance of UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Sebastian Vettel won the first Grand Prix to be held in the UAE, as Mark Webber hung on for second to give the Red Bull team a one-two finish in the final Formula One race of the season.

Brawn GP driver Jenson Button, who had already wrapped up the drivers' championship, was third after pushing Webber to the line. Rubens Barrichello and BMW Sauber driver Nick Heidfeld rounded out the top five at the new circuit.

Describing the Yas Marina Circuit as one of the most important development projects to have been implemented in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa also spoke about Saadiyat Island and other projects, which are poised to boost tourism and business in the country and in the region beyond.

Sheikh Khalifa added that Yas Island embodies the government's drive for economic diversification, and he underlined the country's interest in exploring opportunities for partnership and joint investment with the world's leading companies in the different fields.

Sheikh Khalifa went on to praise the Grand Prix organisers for staging the event according to the highest international standards within a very short space of time. He concluded by saying that the successful hosting of such an event will enhance the UAE's ambition to become a regional and international centre for business and trade.

The inaugural Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was attended by His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Umm Al Quwain, His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, the President's Representative Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Also present at the event were other crown princes and deputy rulers of the emirates, sheikhs, ministers, other world leaders and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a wedding dinner at Al Boom Village today.

The banquet was hosted by Sultan Matar bin Murkhan to celebrate the wedding of his two sons Obeid and Salem to the daughters of Suhail Al Mulaai Al Ketbi.

The ceremony was also attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s Culture and Arts Authority Chairman Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Saeed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, a host of senior officials and dignitaries.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation (MBRMF) and the US-based Charles Edison Fund today.

The agreement will lead to the establishment of the 'Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum - Edison Innovation Centre Dubai' for enhancing the region's knowledge landscape.

The MoU was signed by Deputy Chairman and Managing Director of the MBRMF Adel Al Shared and Chairman and President of the Charles Edison Fund John P. Keegan.

With the aim of encouraging knowledge-based economies and promoting region-wide development, the centre aims to nurture innovation and foster education around the Arab world.

The signing ceremony was held at the Mina Salaam Hotel in Dubai on the sidelines of the Arab Strategy Forum, and was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Chairman of the MBRMF Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the successful conclusion of the first of the seminars of the Arab Strategy Forum today, with top government officials, business leaders and academicians drawing up a roadmap for addressing some of the most important concerns confronting the Arab world.

Sheikh Mohammed was briefed by Deputy Chairman and Managing Director of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation (MBRMF) Adel Al Shared on the 'Arab Knowledge Report 2009: Towards Productive Intercommunication for Knowledge'.

The report was submitted by Chairman of the MBRMF Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, with the aim of shedding light on ways to upgrade the region's capabilities, and is the outcome of the collaborative efforts of the MBRMF and the United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Regional Bureau for Arab States.

Sheikh Mohammed praised the concept of the Arab Strategy Forum, and commended the honest efforts of those at the MBRMF who strive to promote the dissemination of knowledge and intellectual creativity in the Arab world.

He called on Arab intellectuals, scholars and academics to go find innovative solutions to the obstacles and impediments to the growth of knowledge-based societies in the Arab World, and convert knowledge potential into actual, concrete results.

The MFRMF was established to attain noble goals, he added, while calling on those involved to translate the foundation's vision into a tangible reality to support Arab youth in building a promising future.

The closing session was also attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed and Director General of DMI Ahmed Abdullah Al Sheikh, Dubai Director of Protocol and Hospitality Khalifa Saeed Suleiman and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen and his accompanying delegation at Za'abeel Palace today.

During the meeting they reviewed ways of enhancing cooperation and coordination between the UAE and NATO's Secretariat to serve peace and security in the region and beyond.

The secretary general briefed Sheikh Mohammed on issues discussed during the NATO-UAE conference held in Abu Dhabi today, with particular emphasis on the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative for regional security. This initiative focuses on ways to address present and future challenges that may affect stability and security in the region.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi, the UAE Ambassador to Belgium Mohammed Salem Al Suwaidi, other sheikhs and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received the Crown Prince of Belgium, Prince Philippe, at Za'abeel Palace today.

During the meeting they exchanged views on the shared economic and investment interests between their countries, with both leaders expressing their desire to boost bilateral trade for the benefit of their peoples.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE Ambassador to Belgium Mohammed Salem Al Suwaidi, the Belgian Ambassador to the UAE Anick Van Calster, a number of ministers and senior officials, as well as the Belgian Crown Prince's accompanying delegation.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Abdelaziz Bouteflika of Algeria on his country's Revolution Day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain at Za'abeel Palace today.

They discussed a number of issues, including boosting bilateral relations between their two peoples and the current situation in the Middle East.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Saeed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, other sheikhs, dignitaries and senior officials.

Following their meeting, Sheikh Mohammed hosted a luncheon banquet in honour of his guests.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum chaired an extraordinary meeting of the cabinet at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi today.

The Cabinet ratified a federal government draft budget of Dh43.6 billion for 2010, which represents a 3.4% increase on the 2009 federal budget, and maintains a non-deficit spending position for the 6th successive year.

With an allocation of Dh17.8 billion, the largest proportion of the 2010 budget will go to the social sector, which includes the areas of education, health, labour, Islamic affairs, housing programmes and culture, youth and community development.

The 2010 budget, which had earlier been proposed by the finance and economy committee headed by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler and Minister of Finance, will be the largest in the UAE's history despite the harsh economic conditions around the world. The budget continues a proven fiscal strategy that has allowed the UAE to develop a diversified income portfolio which in 2010 will include a total of Dh25.8 billion in revenues at the ministry and federal authority level, compared to revenues of Dh7 billion achieved in 1999.

After reviewing a report submitted by the Emirates Competitiveness Council gauging the UAE’s competitiveness internationally, the cabinet approved a motion to draft a federal law to combat begging through the imposition of fines and the application social solutions to the problem.

The cabinet also approved a countrywide fee schedule for customs services to be applied at exit and entry points throughout the UAE, and went on to endorse a cooperation agreement, signed between the UAE and the US, concerning the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

The cabinet condemned the continued Israeli aggression at Al Aqsa Mosque in occupied Jerusalem, and denounced yesterday's incursion by Israeli forces, who stormed the holy mosque and attacked worshippers within.

The cabinet also condemned the series of bombings which rocked Baghdad yesterday, causing the deaths of numerous innocent civilians and injuring many more.

Concluding the meeting, the cabinet discussed a number of other issues on its agenda and took the appropriate decisions.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received a number of newly appointed ambassadors to the UAE at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi today.

Sheikh Mohammed welcomed the new ambassadors representing Chile, Venezuela, Spain, Norway, Sudan, Egypt, the Dominican Republic, Kuwait, Australia, Ireland and Russia, all of whom had recently presented their credentials to UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

During the meeting with the new envoys, Sheikh Mohammed reviewed ways of enhancing bilateral relations between the UAE and their respective countries in the areas of culture, trade and technology. They also discussed future cooperation in various other fields.

Sheikh Mohammed conveyed the keen desire of the UAE's leadership, government and people to extend a hand of cooperation and friendship to countries and peoples who share a similar determination to achieve peace, justice and comprehensive economic development.

The meeting was attended by a number of sheikhs, ministers and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to Zine Al Abidine Ben Ali on being re-elected President of Tunisia.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent congratulatory cables to President Heinz Fischer of Austria and President Vaclav Klaus of the Czech Republic on their countries' national days.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent congratulatory cables to President Abdullah Gul of Turkey on his country's Republic Day and to President Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov of Turkmenistan on his country's Independence Day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum offered his condolences to Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim this evening on the death of his uncle, Saeed bin Dahi bin Tamim, who passed away yesterday.

Sheikh Mohammed extended his sympathies to family members and relatives of the deceased at Dahi Khalfan Tamim's home in Jumeirah.

Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied on his visit by Director of Sheikh Mohammed’s Office Lt. General Musabbah Rashid Al Fattan.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum opened the fourth ordinary session of the 14th legislative chapter of the Federal National Council (FNC) in Abu Dhabi today.

On arrival at the FNC's headquarters, Sheikh Mohammed was received by FNC Speaker Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair, after which he pronounced the session open in the presence of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Al Ghurair delivered a speech on behalf of the council in which he renewed the council's pledge to continue their active cooperation with the government, adding that the FNC would, ''serve the country and its citizens before Allah, the president, the vice president and the members of the Supreme Council of the Federation.''

The speaker highlighted the council's achievements during its previous session, and expressed both his and the FNC's gratitude for the boundless support they received from UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the members of the Supreme Council.

Their support, he said, has enabled the council to pursue the supreme national interests of the country and its citizens through discussion and constructive dialogue.

Speaking on behalf of President Khalifa, Sheikh Mohammed addressed the council and conveyed the greetings of the president and the Supreme Council. He went on to praise the FNC's role, describing it as one of the key pillars of the UAE Federation and a major component of the country's progress.

Also present at the opening ceremony were Dubai Deputy Ruler and Finance Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sharjah Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Ras Al Khaimah Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Fujairah Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Umm Al Quwain Crown Prince Sheikh Rashid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, Deputy Ruler of Umm Al Quwain Sheikh Abdullah bin Rashid Al Mualla, a number of sheikhs, ministers and members of the diplomatic corps.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum launched the FNC's website today, in the presence of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, emirates' crown princes and deputy rulers and the FNC Speaker.

Sheikh Mohammed hailed the move, describing it as a step towards electronic progress, which is necessary to keep pace with the requirements of the modern age.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurated the Abu Dhabi Cultural Centre today, in the presence of Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Sheikh Mohammed unveiled a plaque commemorating the opening of the centre, which was recently renovated and refurbished by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Community Development to meet modern cultural standards.

Sheikh Mohammed toured the centre’s exhibition halls, including the Al Burdah Award Hall, a complete section devoted to narrating the life and legacy of Prophet Muhammed PBUH. The exhibition aims to tell Prophet Muhammed’s story through the lens of a wide range artistic devices, such as poetry, calligraphy and graphic ornamentation.

Stopping at the Museum Hall, Sheikh Mohammed viewed historical items on loan from the National Museum, which will be restocked every six months, so that visitors to the cultural centre can get acquainted with the country’s national treasures and rich heritage.

After being briefed by Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development Abdul Rahman Mohammed Nassir Al Owais about the historical background of the antiques on display, Sheikh Mohammed viewed some paintings, sculptures and artwork produced by various Emirati artists, which was followed a music recital by some aspiring local musicians.

Concluding his tour Sheikh Mohammed spoke about how he supports and tracks cultural and youth movements in the country, saying that art is part of the culture that’s embedded in the national identity.

He called on the youth, both males and females, to hone their artistic talent through the opportunities provided by the UAE, as the country is seeking to build a modern cultured generation capable of sustaining a national cultural environment.

Sheikh Mohammed pointed to the new Abu Dhabi Cultural Centre as a prime supporter and sponsor of national artistic activities, as the centre will provide an opportunity for visitors to get to know the UAE’s heritage and history.

Accompanying Sheikh Mohammed were Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Director of Dubai Ruler's Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani, Mohammed Juma Al Naboodah and Dubai Director of Protocol and Hospitality Khalifa Saeed Suleiman.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued an order instructing Director General of Dubai Department of Civil Defence, Major General Rashid Thani Al Matroushi to promote eight civil defence officers to the rank of first lieutenant and 24 non-commissioned officers (NCOs) to the rank of corporal.

At a ceremony held at the Civil Defence Centre in Port Saeed, Brigadier Al Matroushi welcomed the move, saying that the promotions were well-deserved and will motivate his highly skilled team to work even harder. He also spoke about the great responsibilities that the newly-promoted officers will assume, and urged them to follow all necessary procedures when called upon in cases of emergency.

The ceremony was attended by Deputy Director General of Dubai Department of Civil Defence, Brigadier Abdul Aziz Khamis and other senior officers.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurated the 29th edition of the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition, GITEX 2009, at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) this morning.

More than 3,000 IT and telecommunications companies, representing firms from over 68 countries, are participating in the annual event, which will run from October 18 to 22.

Standing next to Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mohammed cut the ribbon announcing the exhibition’s official opening.

His Highness toured the trade fair’s various sections, where he was briefed on the latest IT, telecom and electronic developments.

Beginning his tour with a visit to the Etisalat pavilion, Sheikh Mohammed observed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the UAE Health Ministry and Etisalat, designed to boost cooperation in an effort to enhance service delivery at the ministry.

Accompanied by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, other sheikhs, ministers and senior officials, Sheikh Mohammed moved on to the Du pavilion, where he was briefed by the telecom company’s chairman, Ahmed bin Byat, on the latest technology employed at the firm.

At Za’abeel Hall Sheikh Mohammed visited a number of displays, including those of Dubai Silicon Oasis and Panasonic, where he watched cutting-edge 3-D equipment in use.

Following a tour of the new Sheikh Zayed Hall, Sheikh Mohammed moved on to Sheikh Rashid Hall, the temporary home for the pavilions of the Ministry of Public Works, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Economy and Abu Dhabi Police.

There, he was briefed on the technology utilized by the ministries and the police in carrying out their responsibilities.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his satisfaction with the large number of participants at the event, especially those representing the UAE’s public institutions, adding that GITEX 2009 is an opportunity for local agencies to exchange expertise and knowledge with telecom and IT companies from around the world.

Commenting on the event, CEO of DWTC Helal Saeed Al Marri described his pride in having Sheikh Mohammed open the GITEX Technology Week. He added that the successful launch of Windows 7 and the increased participation of high-profile industry decision-makers in the show highlights the importance of the region's information and communications technology (ICT) market, and the key role GITEX plays in the growth of this sector.

In his keynote address at the GITEX Global Conference, Steve Guggenheimer, Corporate Vice President of the OEM division at the Microsoft Corporation, said that GITEX has established itself as the platform of choice for companies wishing to introduce new products and industry knowledge, not just in the Middle East, but around the world. Following his speech, Guggenheimer presented Sheikh Mohammed with the first commercially available Windows 7 PC.

The opening ceremony was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, sheikhs, ministers and a number of senior officials.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan departed on a private visit to Kazakhstan today, and was seen off at Abu Dhabi Airport by UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the President’s Representative Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Also present at the airport to see Sheikh Khalifa off were Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, National Security Advisor Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, other sheikhs, dignitaries and senior officials.

Closing the meeting of the 6th Islamic Conference of Culture Ministers in Baku, Azerbaijan, delegates hailed UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's generous grant, which funded the establishment of an electronic library in Istanbul.

The Islamic Research Centre for Islamic History, Culture and Art (IRCICA) is based in Yildiz Palace in Istanbul and is affiliated with the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC).

Heading the UAE delegation, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development Abdul Rahman Mohammed Nassir Al Owais praised Sheikh Mohammed's contribution, saying that it's consistent with his broad support for Islamic culture and research, academic and cultural institutions across the Islamic world.

Al Owais went on to thank the conference for completing the project, considered by many to be one of the leading cultural undertakings in the Islamic world.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a decision transferring the ownership of all properties, assets, rights and obligations of Emarat Al Youm, Emirates Business 24/7, Al Masar Printing and Publishing House and Noor Dubai Radio and TV from the Arab Media Group (AMG) to Dubai Media Incorporated (DMI).

Article II of the decision instructs that all staff currently working at the aforementioned bodies shall be transferred from AMG to DMI.

The decision comes in line with Dubai Government’s desire to promote media in the emirate and beyond, through providing high quality media services and generating opportunities for media professionals to pursue their work creatively.

Following the decision, DMI has become one of the largest media corporations in the region, with media outlets such as Al Bayan, Dubai TV, Sama Dubai, Dubai One, Dubai Racing and Dubai Sport already operating under the organisation’s umbrella.

Dubai Deputy Ruler and Chairman of the Board of DMI Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum called on heads and staff at the various media outlets to be flexible and work hard to implement the decision. He added that all media employees must make a positive contribution to support media in Dubai, so that DMI can attain its strategic goals as part of Sheikh Mohammed’s vision.

Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed and Director General of DMI Ahmed Abdullah Al Sheikh hailed the decision, describing it as great boost for media in Dubai and a move that will enhance the credibility and objectivity always associated with DMI.

The decision is effective from its date of issuance and will be published in the official gazette.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a decree appointing Khaled Al Kamda as the Director General of the Dubai Community Development Authority.

Khaled Al Kamda was born in the UAE in 1960, and after completing his secondary education, he obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering from the Melbourne Institute of Technology in the USA. In 1995 he went on to earn a Masters Degree in Business Administration from Cranfield School of Management in England.

Al Kamda began his professional career at Emirates Airline in 1985, and has served there for over 20 years in senior management positions. Beginning with a two year stint as Assistant IT Manager at the airline, during which he acquired comprehensive knowledge of automation and information technology, he became the Marketing Manager of Data Systems in 1987. From 1988 - 1990 he had the responsibility of managing sales and marketing activities at the airline and from 1990-1992 he was the airline’s General Manager in the Gulf, Middle East and Africa.

Due to his dedication and competence, he served as the Senior General Manager of Emirates Airline in the Gulf, Middle East, Africa and the Commonwealth of Independent States from 1992-1994.

In November 1995 he became the Vice President of Emirates Airline, a position he held until 2006, during which he implemented a number of joint venture projects in the region.

From December 2006 to December 2007 he was Vice Chairman of Istithmar World and from December 2007 to present he has been the Group Managing Director of Dubai Islamic Bank, whose board he has sat on for the past seven years.

The decree is effective from its date of issuance and will be published in the official gazette.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt on his country's Armed Forces Day.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent similar messages to President Horst Köhler of the German Federation on his country's Unification Day and President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of Uganda on his country's Independence Day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has received the chairperson and board members of the Marriage Fund at his resort in Al Marmoum.

Sheikh Mohammed was briefed by Minister of State and chairperson of the board of directors of the Marriage Fund, Dr. Maitha Salem Al Shamsi, on the services and support provided by the fund to enable UAE youth to marry and pursue family life. She described how initiatives undertaken by the fund reinforce the fund’s overall strategy, which was adopted by the cabinet to serve the youth and society in general.

Al Shamsi spoke about directives given by Sheikh Mohammed to establish electronic services to educate young people about successful family life and how support their life partners through good behaviour.

She added that His Highness stressed the importance of coordination between the fund's management and other relevant authorities in the country to develop a database on marriage, and to utilize this tool to reduce the incidence of divorce.

The meeting was attended by Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received the Chairman and President of Bloomberg LP, Peter T. Grauer, at his office in Emirates Towers today.

During the meeting, they reviewed the company’s future expansion plans in the area of business information.

In a presentation of his firm’s activities in the region, the Bloomberg Chairman said that the UAE commands great trust and respect from international economic and financial bodies. He added that the UAE continues to be a major point of attraction for international investors, thanks to the country's enviable status as one of the world's most stable and fastest growing countries.

Grauer briefed Sheikh Mohammed on Bloomberg's development plans, saying that the regional office in Dubai will be working to expand the company's activities in business news to include the Middle East, North Africa and India. He also cited the UAE's logistic facilities as the biggest incentive for investors and companies to expand their businesses in the country and the region beyond.

Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed and Managing Director of Dubai Media Incorporated, Ahmed Al Sheikh and other officials were present at the meeting.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum chaired a meeting of the cabinet at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi today, in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The cabinet reviewed their own performance, along with the performance of the Ministerial Council for Services so far this year, based on reports submitted by the Cabinet for Presidential Affairs.

The cabinet approved a number of federal draft laws and a number of federal laws concerning the public network of the Federal Electricity and Water Authority.

The final accounts of Empost, the Federal Customs Authority and the Sheikh Zayed Housing programme were endorsed by the cabinet for the fiscal year 2008. They also went on to approve the final federal accounts and the final accounts of other independent authorities for the year ending December 2, 2008.

After approving a request from the Federal National Council (FNC) to discuss the Ministry of Finance's policies, the cabinet sanctioned a number of agreements signed between the UAE and other countries in the field of investment.

Concluding the meeting, the cabinet approved a number of government appointments and other issues on its agenda, and took appropriate decisions.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Hu Jintao of China on his country's national day.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued amendments to some provisions of Law No.8 of 1992 concerning the public prosecution.

As per the amendments, the text of article 10 is substituted with new wording stipulating that new appointments to the public prosecution will commence at the assistant level.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued a decision regarding financial assurances that should be provided by entities wishing to benefit from the Dubai Financial Support Fund. Such guarantees include, but are not limited to, transferable property, stocks and other liquid assets.

The decision is effective from July 31, 2009.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued a decree transferring the ownership of land and property to the Dubai Financial Support Fund. The decree specifies that all rights, obligations and responsibilities of these lands will be assumed by the fund from the date of the decree's implementation.

The Department of Lands in cooperation with Dubai Municipality and other related departments shall implement this decree as of August 4, 2009.

Two separate decrees issued by Sheikh Mohammed form the boards of directors of the Dubai Financial Support Fund and the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA).

The chairman of the fund's board will be Abdul Rahman Saleh Al Saleh, with Abdul Aziz Rahma Al Muhairi as vice chairman, and a membership of Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, Majid Saif Al Ghurair and Dr. Riyadh Mohammed Khalfan Belhaul. The term of office shall be three years, beginning on August 4, 2009.

Also with a tenure of three years, DEWA's new board of directors will be chaired by Mattar Humaid Al Tayer, with a membership of Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Hilal Khalfan bin Dhaher, Abdullah Al Hashemi, Khalfan Ahmed Hareb, Majid Hamad Al Shamsi, Obeid Saeed Mishar, Saeed Mohammed Al Shared and Nabeel Abdul Rahman Aref.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain at Za’abeel Palace today.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikh Saeed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in addition to a number of the Bahraini King's sons.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum ensured the UAE Football Team are well prepared for the FIFA Youth World Cup 2009, which is being held in Egypt.

In a telephone call to Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development Abdul Rahman Mohammad Al Owais, Sheikh Mohammed wished the team success.

Al Owais, who conveyed Sheikh Mohammed’s message to the members of the team, thanked Sheikh Mohammd’s keenness and support of the team. The team stressed their determination to make every possible effort to raise the UAE’s profile in this international event.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a number of laws and decrees, one of which creates a centre for the amicable settlement of?disputes in Dubai.

Law No. 16 of 2009, which establishes the centre, is among six laws and two decrees that Sheikh Mohammed issued today, all coming into effect from their date of publication in the official gazette.

Containing 16 articles, the law enables the centre to examine disputes to be defined in a statute from the chairman, whatever the nature or value involved.

Cases to which the government is a party and cases necessitating temporal order or summary proceedings will be exempted. Also exempted will be cases that do not fall under the existing jurisdiction of courts and those filed before the issuance of this law.

The law also stipulates that the disputes will be presented before the centre, where a panel of experts led by a judge will Endeavour to settle them amicably.

Any dispute coming under its ambit will not be filed before a court of law until it is tried by the centre. If an amicable settlement is not reached, it may be transferred to a court.

The centre will summon the disputing parties or their legal representatives, and will study their documents and exhibits as well as other evidence, and offer reconciliation between them in order to reach an amicable resolution of their disputes.

The centre will follow a set of procedures to be outlined by the chairman’s ordinance and will specify a period of one month for reaching a settlement.

The centre can also seek the assistance of any expert it deems eligible to submit his/her opinion of technical matters.

If a settlement is reached, it will be recorded and will be signed by both parties. If an amicable resolution fails to materialise, the centre will transfer the dispute to a competent court for trying the case and issuing an enforceable judgment.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued Law No.17 of 2009 setting up Ducab High Tension Cable Systems Co. as a private joint stock company with financial and administrative independence and full legal capacity to carry out its activities and achieve its purposes, with the emirate of Dubai as its main centre.

The law stipulates that the purpose of the company is to manufacture, market and install electrical cables with voltage exceeding 60 KV, possession, rental and management of land and buildings necessary to achieve its objectives and the establishment of corporations and other entities related to its activities. Ducab may provide these entities with funding to enable them to directly engage in any commercial or industrial activity inside or outside the UAE.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued Law No.22 of 2009 regarding the unified record of all establishments and companies in the emirate of Dubai. This record will compile all the details of the establishments and companies operating in the emirate, including those within free zones.

The Dubai Department of Economic Development will be responsible for preparing and maintaining this unified record in coordination with Dubai e-government. The department will also publish periodic statistical reports based on the information compiled in the unified record.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued Law No.23 of 2009 concerning the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Size Enterprises, recently renamed the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Young Business Leaders.

The law defines the goals of the establishment for strengthening Dubai’s position as a centre for entrepreneurship and allows for the setting up of projects which encourage entrepreneurship and the innovative ideas of youth. This move seeks to motivate youth to work, as well as to pursue economic activity, such as the development and organisation of programmes and initiatives.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued a law regarding the appointment of retired military and civilian officers at various government departments in the emirate of Dubai, under human resource regulation in place at government?institutions. The law also outlines their monthly remuneration and other employment details.

Recognising the crucial importance of free zones in building Dubai’s economy and stimulating the inward flow of foreign capital, Sheikh Mohammed issued a free zone law at Dubai International Airport.

The legislation aims to encourage businessmen to invest in business opportunities available in the zone and to benefit from its location inside the airport, with its facilities, logistical services and human and technological resources.

Sheikh Mohammed has also issued a decree formulating the public budget committee for Dubai government for the fiscal year 2010. The panel’s mandate includes reviewing proposals from Dubai government departments, recommending sources of government funding for the 2010 public budget, evaluating major government projects in the emirate of Dubai and proposing adequate instruments to financing them and supporting the department of financing in planning a zero-operational deficit budget.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued Decree No. 35 of 2009 on converting ownership of Dubai government stakes in Aswaq LLC to the Dubai Corporation for Government Investment.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia on his country's national day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum performed Eid Al Fitr prayers at the Grand Eid Musalla in Bur Dubai this morning.

Praying alongside His Highness were Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler and Finance Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, other sheikhs, senior officials and a large congregation of Muslim worshippers.

The prayers were led by Muslim cleric Omar Al Khateeb, who, in his sermon, underscored the significance of Eid Al Fitr and went on to describe the day as, "a day of happiness and joy, a day of thanksgiving and a day of positive communication with family members, relatives and friends."

He emphasised the need to visit with relatives and the importance of sharing mutual respect and love among people. He also preached the significance of ‘Zakat ul Fitr’, a small donation that Muslims are obliged to pay as charity at the end of Ramadan.

Al Khateeb prayed to God to watch over UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed, and to guide them in their leadership roles.

He also prayed for the souls of the late UAE founder and leader, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum. After prayers, Sheikh Mohammed received a large number of Eid Al Fitr well-wishers at Za’abeel Palace. The well-wishers included ministers, senior officials from the police, civil defence, armed forces, the Department of Naturalisation and Residency and a large number of Muslims. The guests expressed their desire for good health, long lasting happiness and prosperity for Sheikh Mohammed and the UAE.

Present at the reception were Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler and Finance Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and other dignitaries.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited the tomb of the late UAE founder and leader, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan this morning.

Sheikh Mohammed recited verses from the Holy Quran and invoked almighty God to show mercy on the soul of the late Sheikh Zayed.

His Highness was accompanied by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, other sheikhs, ministers and senior officials.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan received UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates at Al Mushrif Palace in Abu Dhabi today.

Sheikh Khalifa exchanged Eid greetings with Sheikh Mohammed in the presence of the President’s Representative Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Ruler's Representative in the Western Region Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi Ruler of Sharjah, His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi Ruler of Fujairah, His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla Ruler of Umm Al Quwain and His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Ruler of Ajman.

Sheikh Khalifa also exchanged Eid greetings with crown princes, deputy rulers, other sheikhs, ministers, senior officials, dignitaries, members of the diplomatic corps and a large number of citizens who were present at the reception.

Well-wishers prayed to God to protect Sheikh Khalifa and to grant him good health, prosperity and longevity.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sanctioned amendments to Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) company and insolvency laws.

The amendments cover registration requirements specified by the DIFC Registrar of Companies, while changes to insolvency laws incorporate modifications to applications and procedures for winding up Protected Cell Companies (PCCs) -- self-insurance structures that provide a simple and cost-effective solution to companies wishing to establish a captive insurance company.

The company law updates also alter procedures pertaining to the approval of articles of association by the DIFC Registrar of Companies and the requirements for recognised companies to file an annual return. It also provides clarifications on the rights of shareholders and directors to participate in meetings.

Insolvency laws have been updated to include minor amendments arising from the introduction of proposed updates to company law and the amended insolvency regulations of 2009.

DIFC Governor Dr. Omar bin Sulaiman said that the new legislation reflects the financial centre’s efforts to constantly update its legal framework to meet changing circumstances within the industry and to stimulate the growth of new sectors and niche areas in the financial services sector.

The new regulations follow the completion of a public consultation process, wherein the DIFC invited public commentary to proposed updates in the laws.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent congratulatory cables to leaders of Islamic and Arabic countries today on the advent of Eid Al Fitr.

Sheikh Mohammed wished the leaders health and happiness, as well as peace and prosperity for their people.

Sheikh Mohammed also received similar congratulatory cables from leaders of Islamic, Arab and friendly nations.

The cables were received from President Mohammed Hosni Mubarak of Egypt, President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan, President Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov of Turkmenistan, President Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti, Prime Minister Ahmed Ouyahia of Algeria and Vice President of the Kuwaiti National Guard Sheikh Mashaal Al Ahmed Al Sabah.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent congratulatory cables to President Felipe De Jesus Calderon Hinojosa of Mexico, President Michelle Bachelet of Chile and President of Serzh Sargsian of Armenia on their countries’ Independence Days.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum watched as Mastery, ridden by Ted Durcan, won the Group 1 St. Leger Classic and the half million pound race purse at Doncaster racecourse yesterday.

Sheikh Mohammed led Mastery into the winner's enclosure and applauded team Godolphin’s perseverance, even as Group 1 success was proving elusive

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued law No.11 of 2009 concerning Dubai Sports Council (DSC).

The new law defines the rights and obligations of Dubai Sports Council as an authority in developing sporting activities and promoting athletic institutions in Dubai.

The law specifies the objectives of the DSC and its mandates.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued a decree forming the board of directors of the DSC for the next four years under the chairmanship of Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

As per the decree, Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer is appointed as Deputy Chairman of the DSC.

The law and the decree are effective from their date of issuance and will be published in the official gazette.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum paid a visit to the Al Dara border checkpoint situated between the UAE and Oman, where he was received by Director General of Naturalisation and Residency at the Interior Ministry Major General Naser Balewadhi Al Minhali and a number of senior officers in Ras Al Khaimah.

Sheikh Mohammed met with staff at the checkpoint and before sharing an Iftar meal with them.

Welcoming Sheikh Mohammed and his accompanying delegation, checkpoint staff expressed their happiness about Sheikh Mohammed’s visit, describing it as a reflection of the leadership’s desire to nurture continuous communication and strengthen relations with the people of the UAE.

After touring the checkpoint’s various sections, Sheikh Mohammed listened to a presentation about a project for an automated network that links all land routes and checkpoints between the UAE and Oman. This electronic link, scheduled to open soon, will greatly facilitate overland travel between the two countries.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his satisfaction with the development of government performance at the Interior Ministry and hailed the team responsible for implementing the government’s strategy.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed pride in the leadership’s prudent guidance and policies, adding that it will instill among the people the spirit of dedication and selflessness.

Sheikh Saif said that the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, as well as the follow up provided by General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces have strengthened confidence among the border authorities in the UAE and Oman.

Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied on his visit by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Undersecretary of the Interior Ministry Lt-General Saif Abdullah Al Sha’afar and a number of senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received German Muslim Scholar Dr Murad Hofmann at his Al Marmum resort last night.

Dr. Hofmann has been selected as the Islamic Personality of the year by the 13th Dubai International Holy Quran Award.

Sheikh Mohammed congratulated Hofmann on this occasion and appreciated his efforts to boost Islam as a religion of tolerance and love through his researches, editions and ideas.

Dr. Hofmann lauded the objectives of the award and expressed his pleasure about his selection as the Islamic personality of the year.

Present at the meeting were Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mohammed’s Adviser for Cultural and Humanitarian Affairs Ibrahim Mohammed Bumelha, the Holy Quran Award Organising Committee Chairman and a number of senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has officially launched Dubai Metro’s red line, the world’s longest and the Middle East’s first fully automated, driverless rail transport system, built at a cost of Dh7.6 billion. Sheikh Mohammed announced the official opening at Mall of the Emirates Station and said that the metro would open its doors to commuters on Thursday, September 10.

Sheikh Mohammed booked the first ticket at the station, accompanied by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler and Minister of Finance Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,a number of sheikhs, ministers, dignitaries, senior officials and a host of Arab and foreign media representatives.

Sheikh Mohammed, along with his guests, boarded the metro from Mall of the Emirates Station heading for DIFC Station, where he placed a large UAE gold coin featuring his picture on one side with the image of the metro on the inverse. He was briefed by Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Mattar Al Tayer on the idea of making the UAE gold coin as a memento of the great event, the first of its kind in the region.

Next Sheikh Mohammed and his guests continued their metro journey heading for Khalid bin Waleed Station, where he unveiled a crystal plaque inscribed with a poem dedicated to him.

Sheikh Mohammed’s fourth stop was at Union Station, where he inspected a number of paintings and pictures depicting the UAE’s past and its people. There, he also signed a secret letter which was sealed and awaits Sheikh Mohammed’s order for opening.

After that, Sheikh Mohammed moved to DIA Terminal Three Station where he watched automated ticket bookings and unveiled a large picture for himself with more than 500 pictures of His Highness at different occasions.

Sheikh Mohammed’s last stop was at Al Rashidiyah Station, where he fixed the missing part of the metro model there. He inspected the various facilities at the station and expressed happiness about this achievement, describing it as a source of great pride, not only for the people of the UAE, but for all Arabs.

In a statement to the media, Sheikh Mohammed said that the UAE, under the wise leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, continues to face all challenges and is capable of achieving more progress in all development sectors, pointing to the metro project which he described as one of the biggest achievements. Sheikh Mohammed praised the RTA’s work team for their great efforts in accomplishing the project, which supports the UAE economy and enhances industry and tourism in the country.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said that the UAE economy is strong and will reach its goals quickly, likening it to the plane moving towards its destination more quickly after experiencing adverse winds abated.

Sheikh Mohammed pointed out that the UAE laws and legislation protect investors and preserve their rights, to this they continue their work in the country and did not transfer their investments abroad; the continuity of existing projects such as Dubai Metro, which was launched yesterday is an evidence, stressing that Dubai and Abu Dhabi, going in parallel line, two horses pulling the same carriage, are taking the responsibility to bring the other emirates to be in front in the face of the storm.

Sheikh Mohammed’s statements came at his meeting, at Za’abeel Palace yesterday, with the representatives of Arab media and foreign and international news agenciesinvited to cover the inauguration ceremony of the Dubai Metro in the presence of Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Director of Dubai Ruler's Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Mattar Al Tayer and Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed, Ahmed Abdullah Sheikh.

Arab and foreign media hailed Sheikh Mohammed’s statements and the transparency and clarity they carried within concerning the economic crisis which affected the whole world.

The Reuters news agency quoting Sheikh Mohammed during the meeting reiterated that the effects of the global financial crisis have begun to ease, and Dubai is in a strong position.

Commenting on the financial and economic crisis to Bloomberg News Agency, Sheikh Mohammed said that the UAE economy is strong and will reach its goals quickly likening it to the plane moving towards its destination more quickly after experiencing adverse winds abated.

Elaph website hailed the frankness of Sheikh Mohammed, quoting him as saying, “Dubai is not alone in experiencing the crisis. We are part of the economic world, but we were able to learn from this crisis a lot, most importantly challenge.

Sheikh Mohammed added, “We have postponed some projects that are on paper, but the existing projects on the go; Dubai Metro project is evidence.

He pointed out that the Dubai Metro is a new culture to the people of Dubai and the UAE and they will take time to get used to it and recognise its importance, and I would like the UAE and its people to reach the level of other developed countries.

He further added that the metro project holds great significance and is a historical turning point that reminds us of the first shipment arrived at Port Rashid and was the reason to enter Dubai in the era of development and urbanization, adding that the responsibility of Dubai is now for Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed.

Sheikh Mohammed praised UAE women and their active role in the economic, social and political life. Answering in this regard an American journalist on how to promote UAE women, Sheikh Mohamed smiled and said ," I am not concerned with the scientific and educational developments that make us forget our traditions and values; we take the best from you and leave the bad for you.” He added that the UAE recorded a rise in female literacy rates; 70% of the UAE women are literate.

Commenting on some journalists who questioned the silence of some Emirati officials concerning the crisis, Sheikh Mohammed smilingly said, “ You might have gone to the wrong officials and pointed to the Director of hid Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani, saying, “ Ask him and he will answer you.”

Answering the Chief editor of Manchester News who asked him about his intention to buy Liverpool Sports Club, Sheikh Mohammed said, “A Dubai-based company tried to enter negotiations on buying a British club, but I , myself, have nothing to do with the whole issue.”

Representatives of news agencies, newspapers and Arab and foreign websites were present at the meeting.

Following on the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan to support and bolster the youth and sports sectors across the country, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has launched the Emirates Appreciation Award for sports.

The award, which comes in line with the General Authority of Youth and Sports Welfare’s strategy, is to support national sports and youth sectors and promote organisational, technical and administrative aspects of the sports movement in the UAE.

A five-member trustee board will be formed to supervise the new award, which will be headed by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development and Chairman of the General Authority of Youth and Sports Welfare Abudul Rahman Mohammed Nassir Al Owais.

Hailing the move as a vital milestone in the history of UAE sports, Al Owais expressed great pleasure with the new award and thanked Sheikh Khalifa and Sheikh Mohammed for their support of sports. He added that the award would greatly contribute to the advancement of sports in the UAE in proportion to the leadership’s clear vision and objectives.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, welcomed leaders of youth and sports sectors, along with sports media persons in different media outlets in the country, at his Palace in Za’abeel last night.

Sheikh Mohammad welcomed his guests in the presence of Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and exchanged with them views on sports and cultural events organised by youth and sports clubs during the month of Ramadan.

Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the importance of physical and spiritual sports in Ramadan, as well as the cultural activities in sports clubs that activate the mind and creates highly cultured athletes across the UAE.

After performing Al Maghreb prayers, Sheikh Mohammed hosted an iftar banquet in honour of his guests.

The meeting and the banquet were attended by a number of sheikhs, ministers and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum toured the Higher Colleges of Technology in Ras Al Khaimah today.

He was given a warm welcome by HCT Vice Chancellor Dr. Tayeb Al Kamali, teaching staff and students.

He ordered the construction of a new building for girls at the college and instructed Emirates Real Estate Corporation to speed up construction on the project.

Sheikh Mohammed began his visit with a tour of the college’s electronic library at the HCT, where he reviewed the library’s facilities and the training methods used there to benefit students and provide them with the information they need in their research work. He toured the library’s various sections and talked with students about using its sources.

Sheikh Mohammed then visited some classrooms, listened to teachers giving lessons on various subjects and talked with students about their specialisations and aspirations. He said that the country needs to make use of its citizens’ potential, as institutional development and the provision of social and economic security could not be achieved without the help of the country’s nationals.

Sheikh Mohammed concluded his visit with a tour of the reception lobby, where he reviewed various designs and models for the HCT’s new premises and approved one of the designs.

In a discussion with some students about the college’s new design, Sheikh Mohammed pledged to students that the UAE, under the wise leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Sultan Al Nahyan, will continue development at all levels, especially in the field of human resources.

Sheikh Mohammed also toured a number of training workshops at the Industrial and Electronics Engineering Section of the HCT, where he was briefed by students on their graduation projects.

Sheikh Mohammed went on to watch an experiment for recycling paper and another about a robot submitted by one of the students as his graduation project.

He praised the students’ innovation and creativity and wished them more progress and success.

Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied on his tour by Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, HCT Vice Chancellor Dr. Tayeb Al Kamali and Dubai Director of Protocol and Hospitality Khalifa Saeed Sulaiman.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received, at his Za'abeel Palace, today a group of Muslim scholars and preachers who arrived earlier in the UAE at the invitation n of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Sheikh Mohammed hailed the role scholars and preachers play in educating Muslim populations about their religion.

The scholars and preachers said they were glad to take part in Ramadn majlis held nationwide throughout the holy month.

After performing Al Maghreb Prayer, Sheikh Mohammed hosted an ifatr banquet in honour of his guests.

Present at the meeting and the banquet were Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamemd bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohamemd bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohamemd bin Rashid Al-Maktoum and senior officials.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a decree ordering the transfer of ownership of Al-Bayan Press, Publishing and Printing Establishment to Dubai Media Incorporated (DMI).

As per the decree, all assets, properties, commitments, rights, staff and workers of Al-Bayan are to be transferred to the DMI to boost media work and unify the efforts of media practice for better services to the general public.

The decree is effective from the date of its issuance and publication in the official gazette.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received, at Za'abeel Palace, last night, a number of CEOs of Arab and foreign economic, financial and technological companies along with a group of prominent investors and businessmen who greeted him on the holy month of Ramadan. They expressed their best wishes for good health and happiness to him and more progress to the UAE.

They exchanged views on the latest economic and financial developments regionally and internationally and Sheikh Mohammed’s outlook for the local and global economy.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his optimism over the global financial crisis saying that the global financial crisis ''is a passing cloud” that will not stay longer despite pessimistic speculations and analyses by economists and financial experts.

He said he was optimistic and confident of the resilience and ability of the UAE government to join forces with the private sector to overcome the crisis.

Sheikh Mohammed has called on CEOs and owners of companies operating in the UAE to look forward toward a future that promises action, confidence and firm will of change, adding, '' Both public and private sectors must shun the will of imposing the status quo policy and adhere to the will of change for the better. Public-private sector partnership is crucial to reach this goal.”

Expressing their views on the current recession on the global economy and growth, the business community described the current situation as nothing more than ''storm in a cup'' and the business will return as usual.

They said they were confident of the sound, swift measures taken by leadership and government of the UAE to overcome the slow down and usher into a state of optimism and vibrancy. They said economic, financial and banking institutions were flashing signs of recovery at the lowest losses regionally and globally.

Sheikh Mohammed was assured of the strong financial situation of these companies.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, other ministers and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received Sharjah Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al-Qasimi and Ras Al-Khaimah Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al-Qasimi, at Za'abeel Palace, last night . They congratulated Sheikh Mohammed on the advent of the holy month of Ramadan.

Sheikh Mohammed also received a number of UAE ambassadors serving in various countries of the world and UAE representatives of a number of international organizations, who congratulate him on this occasion.

In the presence of Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Mohammed addressed the ambassadors, saying that the UAE will remain keen to keep open its channel of contact, as well as cultural, political and economic interactions with other friendly countries.

He added, "Our dear nation's progress in various areas has placed it on the map of the fastest growing countries of the world." He urged the ambassadors to be good messengers of their countries abroad, to reflect the civil face of the UAE and showcase the country's achievements in all areas.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his trust in the ambassadors’ capabilities in building successful relations with public and private sectors in countries where they serve in.

He also noted to the competence of UAE nationals who proved themselves well in order to serve the sustainable development goals adding that there is no other society better than us in education, management, and creativeness in all aspects.

Sheikh Mohammed praised Sheikh Abdullah for the great performance and development of his ministry and for his great efforts in boosting the UAE's external relations. He also commended him for organizing such a high profile meeting between the UAE's leadership and its ambassadors abroad.

Sheikh Abdullah profoundly thanked Sheikh Mohammed for his visionary directives and his sustained commitment to meet personally with UAE ambassadors worldwide to refresh their experiences and for them to benefit from his vision and wisdom.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Chairman Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, other sheikhs, ministers and senior officials.

After performing the Maghreb prayers, Sheikh Mohammed hosted Iftar banquet in honour of his guests.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received, at Za'abeel Palace, last night, a number of Emirati intellectuals, artists, poets and comedians, who came to greet him on the holy month of Ramadan, in the presence of Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Sheikh Mohammed said that such a meeting, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan, provides great opportunity for closer interaction between the leadership and all the segments of the society to share views and listen to innovative ideas and the aspirations of the people.

Sheikh Mohammed and his guests discussed ways to strengthen cultural and art works in the country by boosting their activities locally and abroad, particularly by taking part in regional and international art festivals.

Sheikh Mohammed directed the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Community Development, headed by Abdul Rahman bin Mohammed Al-Owais, to give more attention to culture and artists by motivating them more to take their creativity to the international stage.

He said artists are messengers of humanity, nationalism and ethic to refresh the memory of people through arts and culture in a civil manner that reflects the policies and approach of our nation and its leadership.

Sheikh Mohammed has also reviewed a number of publications and books authored by a number of writers, who presented to him a copy as their token gift. Sheikh Mohammed also listened to a number of poets, who recited to him some of their best works.

Present at the meeting were Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Chairman Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim, and a number of senior officials.

UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Nguyen Minh Triet of Vietnam on his country's national day.

Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum received UAE Defence Undersecretary, Interior Ministry’s Undersecretary Chief Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and senior Officers of the Armed Forces, Security and Civil Defence, at Zaabeel palace today. They all came to extend greetings on the holy month of Ramadan. They wished Sheikh Mohammed good health and the UAE more progress and prosperity under its wise leadership.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Chairman Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al maktoum.

After performing Al Maghreb prayer, Sheikh Mohammed hosted an Iftar banquet in honour of his guests

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued Law No 19 of 2009, establishing the Supreme Council for Energy.

The law stipulates the establishment of the Supreme Council of Energy with an independent legal entity to pursue its activities for achieving its goals.

The new council aims to guarantee the energy supply to the emirate of Dubai through providing the main energy sources at a reasonable cost and reducing their negative impact on the environment, as well as observing the implementation of quality standards in this regard.

The Council will have a chairman and deputy chairman and not less than five qualified members representing energy sectors in Dubai who will be appointed by Ruler’s decree.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued a decree appointing Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum as the Chairman of the Supreme Council for Energy, and the Executive Director of DEWA as Deputy Chairman.

The law and the decree are effective from their publication in the official gazette.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, issued Law No.18 of 2009 setting up the Department of Oil Affairs.

As per the new Law, the Department will be affiliated to the Diwan of the Ruler and will assume duties specified in the law.

The new Law also stipulates that the Department will assume the duties of monitoring and control of production, sale and export of crude oil in the emirate, will supervise on its regulation and licensing of activities related to oil and its derivatives in coordination with the competent government departments in the emirate, and will coordinate with various government departments in the emirate for achieving comprehensive economic development.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued a decree appointing Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum as chairman of the Department of the Oil Affairs and Abdullah Abdul Karim Al Rees as Director General of the Department of Oil Affairs.

The law and the decree are effective from the date of their issuance and will be published in the official gazette.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent cables of congratulations to President Kurmanbek Bakiyev of Kyrgyzstan and to President Islam Karimov of Uzbekistan on their countries’ Independence Days.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent congratulatory cables to King Mizan Zainal Abidin of Malaysia on his country’s national day, and to Libya's President Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, Leader of the Great Al Fateh Revolution, on the occasion of Libya's celebration of the Revolution.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has promoted 161 officers and non-commissioned officers from Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department (DNRD).

The move is in appreciation of their efforts and hard work to serve the nation and its people.

DNRD Director General Major General Mohammed Ahmed Al Merri thanked Sheikh Mohammed for the gesture, and pledged that he and all officers and employees of the department will spare no effort to serve their nation and protect its achievements.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received Supreme Council member and Ruler of Umm Al Quwain Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla at Zaabeel palace today.They exchanged greetings on the advent of the holy month of Ramadan.

Sheikh Mohammed also received Ajman's Crown Prince Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, who came to extend congratulations on the holy month of Ramadan.

The two meetings were attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Umm Al Quwain’s Crown Prince Sheikh Rashid bin Saud Al Mualla, FNC Speaker Abdul Aziz Abdullah Al Ghurair, Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Chairman Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Member of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council Dr. Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Director of Dubai's Information Department Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Sheikh Humaid bin Ahmed Al Mualla, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim, Director of the Dubai Ruler's Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani, other sheikhs, dignitaries and senior officials.

After performing Al Maghreb prayer, Sheikh Mohammed hosted an Iftar banquet in honour of his guests.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum chaired a meeting of the Cabinet at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi today, in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The Cabinet reviewed the performance indices of Federal ministries and institutions in the first half of 2009; the Social Affairs Ministry came first and the Ministry of Economy and Public Works Ministry came second and third respectively. As for the other institutions, the UAE Securities and Commodities Market came in the first position, while the Marriage Fund and the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority came in the second and third positions respectively.

Reducing the use of non-biodegradable materials, the Cabinet approved the banning of printing on plastic bags.

The Cabinet also reviewed the report submitted by the High Committee of Civil Ports Security in the UAE, and the joining of the UAE National Transportation Authority to the membership of the International Roads Federation.

The Cabinet also ratified the agreement signed between the UAE Government and the Government of South Korea concerning the peaceful use of nuclear energy and the renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the UAE and the Organisation of Economic Cooperation Development (OECD).

A number of agreements signed between the UAE and other friendly countries concerning security cooperation and coordination were also ratified.

The Cabinet also approved the closing accounts of some federal institutions and a number of appointments at some ministries. It also reviewed a number of issues and took appropriate decisions.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum will officially launch Dubai Metro on 9thSeptember 2009.

The project will start with 10 key stations on the Red Line, namely: Rashidiya,Terminal 3 (Dubai International Airport), City Center, Al Rigga, Union, Khalid bin Al Waleed, Jafliah, Financial Center, Mall of the Emirates, and Nakheel Harbour and Tower. The remaining stations on the Red Line will be opened in phases over the next few months.

In a press conference held today at the RTA headquarters, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Mattar Al Tayer said that launching Dubai Metro on September 9 is a true manifestation of the vision of Sheikh Mohammed, to uplift the infrastructure of the emirate of Dubai.

The RTA vision, which is based on the 3rd sector of the Dubai Strategic Plan 2015 (Infrastructure Sector), is now being realised. The Dubai Metro Project has been completed in a record-breaking period of less than 4 years since Sheikh Mohammed laid the foundation of the Project on March 21, 2006.

Al Tayer added that throughout the construction works of Dubai Metro project, RTA remained highly committed to the best global safety standards, and sought the services of international entities to assess metro safety throughout all phases of the project. RTA was also keen to use the latest technology in rail industry and provide all means of comfort and welfare to passengers.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum paid an inspection visit to the Emirates Institution for Advanced Science and Technology (Eiast) yesterday.

Sheikh Mohammed was briefed on progress of work in Eiast as well as its development programmes to upgrade its performance. Eiast scientists explained to Sheikh Mohammed the objectives of programmes and research on space, astronomy, energy, environment and water.

Sheikh Mohammed also stopped at the earth observation station of DubaiSat-1 and then proceeded to the room for collection, management and analysis of data and images and exchange of data.

At the lab for building satellites, Sheikh Mohammed viewed a model of DubaiSat-1 and was briefed by UAE engineers and scientists about the phases of launching the satellite into space and its mission. He also watched a footage about DubaiSat-1 while circling the earth and passing through the UAE and Dubai airspace.

Sheikh Mohammed commended efforts made by UAE scientists to achieve this historic milestone which has further established the UAE place at the world map of excellence and innovation.

Lauding the key role the UAE engineers have played in this success, Sheikh Mohammed said: '' Hopes are high on UAE youth to champion the process of scientific and technological progress.

He added: ''The greatest achievement that has been made is you, in fact you have broken the barriers and achieved what many saw as impossible. This achievement will open wide the door for sterling achievements to come. ''

Director General of Eiast Ahmed Al Mansouri said that Sheikh Mohammed's visit underlines his unwavering support for progress and development in Dubai, in particular, and the UAE, in general.

An anthology of selected poems written by UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has been brought out in German language by the Munich-based German publishing house Carl H. Verlag.

The poems were brought out at the initiative of the well-known German poet and the chairman of Berlin Literary Festivals Joachim Sartorius as part of publishing a series of poems from around the world. Two prominent German orientalists well-versed in Arabic language and literature did the translation of poems into the German language.

Literary and media circles in Germany have expressed profound interest in the poems of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received at his palace in Zaabeel today Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. They exchanged Ramadan Greetings and prayed to God to restore this occasion to our beloved country and our leadership with all good and Dignity.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Abdul Aziz Abdullah Al Ghurair, Speaker of the Federal National Council (FNC), Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Land Department Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Director of Dubai's Information Department Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,Sheikh Al Murr bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi. The meeting was attended by other Sheikhs, senior officials, and locals from all over the UAE who came to greet Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan On the occasion of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

After performing the Maghreb Prayer, Sheikh Mohammed hosted an Iftar banquet in honour of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and his guests.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum made an inspection tour to the Ministry of Health premises in Dubai, where he was received by Minister of Health Dr. Hanif Hassan, Director General of the MoH Dr Ali bin Shakar, Executive Director of MoH Nasser Al Bedour and a number of top health officials.

Sheikh Mohammed reviewed the ministry’s plan to combat the H1N1 virus, including massive awareness campaigns and preventive and precautionary measures.

Dr. Hanif Hassan affirmed that vaccine against the virus will be administered by health clinics across the country once the product is obtained by the UAE and approved by the World Health Organisation.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed satisfaction with the Ministry’s plans to contain the spread of the virus and protect health safety of both citizens and residents. Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied by Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Dubai Department of Protocol and Hospitality Director General Khalifa Saeed Sulaiman and other senior officials.

Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum today made a tour of the ministries of Social Affairs and Labour.

Sheikh Mohammed, who was welcomed by H.E. Mariam Mohammed Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of Social Affairs, viewed at the lounge of the ministry a design of the centre for training and rehabilitation of people with special needs, which is at the final stage to receive admitants. The centre aims at training this group to help them foray into the labour market and integrate into the society.

Sheikh Mohammed was briefed by the minister about Fursati, a programme specially tailored to support productive families spiritually and financially and help them improve their living standards. Sheikh Mohammed was also introduced to various social services and initiatives launched by the ministry.

Before departing the ministry premises, the Vice President visited the nursery which accommodates more than 20 children of the ministry female employees.

Sheikh Mohammed said the ministry had made a qualitative leap in the service of UAE citizens since the launch of the Federal Government Strategy.

Sheikh Mohammed then proceeded to the Ministry of Labour where he was greeted upon arrival by the Minister, HE Saqr Ghobash, and senior labour officials.

Sheikh Mohammed was detailed by the minister about the wages protection system (WPS) which was introduced recently in line with his instructions for safeguarding rights of workers.

''The novel WPS underlines the UAE's premier role worldwide as a model of firm commitment to protection of workers' wages as well as their health, financial, living and human rights. It seeks to evolve a safe, stable working environment for both the employer and employee and leverage the principles of transparency and competitiveness,' the minister stressed.

Sheikh Mohammed praised the WPS as a step in the right direction to safeguard workers' rights and enhance confidence between employers and their employees.

''The implementation of the WPS is a national and humanitarian duty and requires mobilisation of all efforts and cooperation of all stakeholders to render the vital, creative system a success,''Sheikh Mohammed said.

Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum met this evening with representatives of UAE-based local and foreign media.

Sheikh Mohammed and the pressmen exchanged best wishes on the advent of the holy month of Ramadan and took stock of the currents events locally, regionally and internationally.

The Vice President hosted an iftar banquet in honour of the media community.

The meeting and banquet were attended by H.E. Mohammed Abdullah Al Gargawi, Minister for Cabinet Affairs, H.E. Saqr Ghobash, Minister of Labour and Chairman of the National Media Council and a number of top officials and prominent media personalities.

Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received today H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, who called on him to extend Ramadan greetings.

The Crown Prince of Fujairah also exchanged best wishes for the advent of Ramadan with H. H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and H.H. Sheikh Majed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid also received a group of chairmen, directors and second and third line leaders of government departments who came to congratulate him on the advent of the fasting month.

Sheikh Mohammed hosted an iftar banquet in honour of his high profile guests and well-wishers.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Supreme Council members, His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi of Sharjah, His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi of Fujairah, His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla Ruler of Umm Al Quwain, His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi of Ajman and Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited Sheikh Mubarak bin Mohammed Al Nahyan to greet him on the holy month of Ramadan today.

Other sheikhs, crown prince’s, deputy rulers and senior officials were also present.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has ordered the release of 595 prisoners from Dubai punitive and corrective institutions to mark the occasion of Ramadan. Sixty two of those pardoned inmates were UAE nationals.

Dubai Attorney General Essam Al Humaidan expressed profound gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed for the humanitarian and social gesture which would have far-reaching good impact on the families of the released prisoners.

Al Humaidan said the public prosecution would coordinate with the Dubai Police and Dubai Punitive and Correctional Establishments to put Sheikh Mohammed's order in place.

He added that executive measures would be taken to release the prisoners who have served different periods of their jail terms.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has received a host of well-wishers on the occasion of the start of the holy month of Ramadan at Za'abeel Palace this evening.

Present at the meetings were Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, and Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum.

Sheikh Mohammed exchanged Ramadan greetings with the Sheikhs, dignitaries and senior officials who expressed their best wishes of progress and prosperity for the UAE.

They all prayed to Allah to shower his mercy and love on the leadership and people of the UAE.

After performing the Maghreb, Sheikh Mohammed and his guests had the iftar meal at his banquet.

Federal National Speaker (FNC) Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Saeed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Director of Dubai's Information Department Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, ministers and senior officials attended the prayer and the banquet.

Saudi Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence and Aviation and Inspector General of Saudi Arabia Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud received UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rahsid Al Maktoum and Deputy Prime Minister and Presidential Affairs Minister Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, at his Palace in Aghadeer, Morocco.

Sheikh Mohammed conveyed greetings from President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who wished Prince Sultan good health and progress and prosperity for the Saudi people.

Prince Sultan thanked Sheikh Khalifa and wished him good health and prosperity to the people of the UAE.

Prince Sultan hosted a luncheon banquet in hounor of Sheikh Mohammed and his accompanying delegation.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a cable of condolences to Kuwait's Emir Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmed Al Jaer Al Sabah over the victims of the fire which broke out in Al Jahra, Kuwait yesterday.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed deep sorrow for the huge loss and sympathy to the bereaved families. He also wished speedy recovery for the injured.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent cables of congratulations to President Asif Zardari of Pakistan and to President Pratibha Patil of India on their countries' Independence Days.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent a message of congratulations to South Korean President Lee Myung-bak on his country's national day.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued decree No 24 of 2009 establishing the board of directors of the Dubai Financial Support Fund, which was established last month by Royal Decree as an independent legal entity, aiming to manage the proceeds of the Dubai Government’s $20 billion bond program, or any other bond issues.

Under the decree Abdulrahman Al Saleh, Director General of Dubai’s Department of Finance has been appointed as the Chairman of the board, with Abdulaziz Rahmah Al Muhairi, Managing Director of the Investment Corporation of Dubai assuming the position of deputy chairman.

Also appointed as board members are Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai, Majid Saif Al Ghurair, Chairman of SHUAA Capital, and Riad Mohammed Khalfan Belhoul, member of the Dubai Nuclear Energy Committee.

The board will be responsible for establishing the Support Fund’s operating policies and procedures and for recommending to the SFC the criteria for assessing loan applications by government and government related entities.

HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has enacted the Dubai International Financial Centre's (DIFC) new Payment System Settlement Finality (PSSF) Law that creates the legal foundation for building a regional transaction processing hub in DIFC that will provide payment systems and other ancillary services.

The first such legislation in the GCC region, the new PSSF Law paves the way for the launch of the Real-time Automated Payments in DIFC (RAPID), a new service that will provide transaction processing services from within DIFC to banks and their customers both in DIFC and the wider Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. However, the benefits of the PSSF Law will not be restricted to RAPID and will be available for all payment systems designated under the conditions of the Law.

HE Dr. Omar Bin Sulaiman, Governor of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), said: "The enactment of the PSSF Law forms part of a comprehensive infrastructure that DIFC is creating to catalyse the development of the financial services industry in the region. This is in accordance with the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to establish Dubai as a hub for global finance." "Today, under the leadership of HH Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and President of DIFC, , the Centre will take further strides in creating a world class legal and regulatory environment for the financial services industry". He added.

In developing this law, DIFC has adopted legal best practices from Europe, Hong Kong and New Zealand, among others, to ensure finality of designated payments. Apart from the development of RAPID, the PSSF Law will assist GCC-based companies in conducting legally sound payments within the region instead of having to use infrastructures outside of the region, which often do not settle within the region's own operating hours.

The PSSF Law particularly supports payments that involve participants from multiple jurisdictions. For example, the European equivalent, the Settlement Finality Directive, was a critical law that made the European currency union possible.

The Law assures participants in a designated payments system that the rules of such a payment system will be upheld in the DIFC Courts even in the event of insolvency. This helps ensure that each payment system has a well-founded legal basis, as required by the Core Principles for Systemically Important Payment Systems (CPSIPS) promulgated by the Bank for International Settlements.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent congratulatory cables to President Sellapan Ramanathan of Singapore on his country's National Day, and President Idriss Deby of Chad on his country's Independence Day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a cable of condolences to King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain on the death of his mother Sheikha Hessa bint Salman Al Khalifa.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a decree establishing a special judicial committee, tasked with liquidating the financial concerns of Abid Ramadan Abdullah Saeed Ra’ae Al Boom.

The decree sets out guidelines and procedures to be followed by the committee in accounting for all funds, property and assets held by Al Boom, and further instructs that a list be prepared detailing the names of his creditors, alongside the amounts they are due.

As per the decree, the committee will be empowered to collect all monies and obligations owed to Al Boom and hold these as security against payments due to his creditors. The decree goes on to terminate all judicial and legal proceedings currently under way against Al Boom, and stipulates that the decisions and judgments issued by the commission shall be final.

The decree is effective from its date of issuance and will be published in the official gazette.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a cable of condolences to President Gloria Arroyo of the Philippines on the death of former President Corazon Aquino.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent congratulatory cables to Benin President Thomas Yayi Boni on his country's Independence Day and President Hans-Rudolf Merz of the Swiss Confederation on his country's national day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to General Mohammed Ould Abdelaziz on winning the presidential election in Mauritania.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to King Mohammed VI of Morocco on the anniversary of his Accession Day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent congratulatory cables to President Alan Garcia Perez of Peru and President Mohammed Nasheed of the Maldives on their countries’ Independence Days.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued an amendment to Law No.3 of 2004 governing departure fees from Dubai International Airport.

Under the amendment, departure fees from the airport will rise to Dh75 for all passengers, excluding children under the age of 2 and airline crew.

The amendment is effective as of May 1st, 2009.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued an amendment to Law No.2 of 1993 regulating rental disputes within free zones in the emirate of Dubai.

As per the amendment, a rental committee shall preside over all disputes arising between lessors and lessees in free zones. However, should cases arise that cannot be resolved by the rental committee, these shall be referred under article No.7 of the law to a special judicial committee or a court with special jurisdiction.

The amendment is effective as of June 14th, 2009.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Zine Al Abidine Ben Ali on his country's national day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued Decree No.24 of 2009, establishing the Dubai Financial Support Fund.

The fund will report to Dubai’s Supreme Fiscal Committee (SFC) and will work in collaboration with the Dubai Department of Finance.

Director General of the Dubai Department of Finance Abdulrahman Al Saleh said that the support fund will be tasked with managing the $20bn Dubai Government Bond Programme, and will provide loans on a commercial basis to the government and government-related entities engaged in projects deemed to be of strategic and developmental importance to the Emirate of Dubai.

He added that all applications for support will be assessed against predetermined criteria to ensure that the funds are allocated efficiently and in accordance with Dubai's long-term growth strategy.

The support fund is authorised to invest in, hold and manage debt instruments on behalf of the Government of Dubai, to collect loan repayments and it may also re-invest these revenues. Furthermore, the Fund will provide loans and credit facilities on a commercial basis to Government and GREs which meet SFC-approved criteria in accordance with the Decree No.24 of 2009. As with all other commercial loans, the Support Fund will not disclose the names of the recipient entities. Each entity will decide whether or not to release details of its support.

The support fund can issue financial instruments, including bonds, inside and outside the emirate on behalf of the Government of Dubai, invest in commercial projects, establish investment funds and manage institutions and corporations in order to provide liquidity for strategic projects of entities applying for funds. The fund can also acquire partial or whole stakes in institutions and companies that are deemed to be in line with the overall strategic objectives of establishing it.

The support fund's financial resources are derived from a number of sources, including the first $10 Billion of the bond programme launched earlier this year, revenues generated from issuing loans and investing its capital, asset revenues generated from the issuance of bills and bonds, in addition to other resources provided by the Government to help the fund achieve its goals.

Entities that have already received funds from the first tranche distributed by the government will have their loans transferred to the support fund.

The support fund's board will be responsible for establishing general policy for the fund and its subsidiaries, defining its projects and programmes, obtaining loans and financing, establishing institutions, companies, commercial projects and subsidiaries and buying and selling assets and equities.

It will also be responsible for recommending criteria for applicants requesting loans and proposing suitable applicants in the form of strategic projects or companies and recommending them to the SFC. The criteria depend on the strategic importance of the projects and applicant entities and their role in sustaining the emirate's economy on the long term.

It will also adopt financial, administrative and technical regulations and submit them to the SFC for approval.

The SFC was established in October 2007 and has overall responsibility for overseeing Dubai's fiscal policies. The SFC will review and approve the loan criteria needed to grant the financial support to government entities, strategic projects and GRE's in the emirate.

It will also appraise applications recommended by the Fund's board, and determine the size and terms of each loan and the nature of the related securities and guarantees.

The SFC is chaired by Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, and has the following board members: Mohammed Al Shebani, Deputy Chairman of the SFC and Chief Executive Officer of the Investment Corporation of Dubai; Abdulrahman Al Saleh, Director General of the Dubai Department of Finance; Abdulaziz Al Muhairi, Managing Director of the Investment Corporation of Dubai; and Dr. Omar bin Sulaiman, Governor of Dubai International Financial Centre.

The support fund's fiscal year starts on January 1, and ends on December 31. The first fiscal year began upon the issuance of the decree and will end on 31 December 2010. The fund will be subject to external audit, following the appointment of an auditing firm by the SFC.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent congratulatory cables to King Albert II of Belgium on his country's national day and to President Álvaro Uribe Vélez of Colombia on his country’s Independence Day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received the outgoing Iranian Ambassador to the UAE Hamid Reza Asefi today.

The ambassador expressed his gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed for all the cooperation and assistance he received throughout his period of service.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim and a number of senior officials.

Following his order earlier this year, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has laid the foundation stone of a new paediatric hospital in the Al Wasl area of Dubai.

The hospital, which will be named Al Jalilah bint Mohammed bin Rashid Paediatric Hospital, after his daughter, will be the first dedicated children’s hospital of its kind in the UAE.

Accompanied to the construction site by Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mohammed watched an electronic presentation about the hospital, which is due to be completed in 2011.

In his speech at the foundation ceremony, Director General of Dubai Healthcare Authority Qadi Saeed Al Murooshid expressed deep gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed for his kind and humanitarian gift to the children of the UAE and the region beyond.

The director, who is overseeing the project, went on to say that the hospital’s construction marks a historic step on the road to the modernisation and expansion of comprehensive healthcare in the country. He added that public health and safety, especially for the country’s children, is a source of great happiness and stability in UAE society.

Al Murooshid described how on completion, the new hospital will deliver comprehensive child healthcare services and will be staffed with highly qualified doctors and medical personnel. Standing on an area of approximately 90,000 square metres, the hospital will be equipped with over 200 beds and will treat a broad spectrum of ailments including cancer and kidney disease.

Sheikh Mohammed was further briefed on the hospital’s design, which will include the latest in high-tech incubators and therapeutic facilities, and went on to give his blessings to the billion dirham project. He concluded by directing that all care be given to put the patients' needs first, regardless of their nationality, as their health and dignity is a priority for the country’s leadership.

Also present at the ceremony were Director General of Dubai Department of Information Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Environment and Water Dr. Rashid Ahmed bin Fahad, Minister of Social Affairs Mariam Mohammed Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim, other dignitaries and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent cables of condolences to President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of Iran and President Serzh Sargsyan of Armenia following the tragic plane crash in Iran today.

Sheikh Mohammed extended his deepest sympathies to the victims’ families.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Nicholas Sarkozy of France on his country’s national day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Fradique de Menezes of São Tomé and Príncipe on his country’s Independence Day.ys.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a race meeting, held in Newmarket, England yesterday.

The event saw some fine performances from the UAE participants, with two victories coming Sheikh Mohammed’s Godolphin stable and a further success by 'Awzaan', ridden by Richard Hills and owned by Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid, in the in the European Breeders' Fund Conditions Stakes.

The races were attended by Dubai Deputy Ruler and Finance Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Saeed bin Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and a large gathering of officials, owners and racing fans.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum watched as UAE horse, 'Fryvolous', took the honours in the Abu Dhabi Race for Purebred Arabians at Newmarket racecourse in England yesterday.

Owned by UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Fryvolous won the Group 2 Abu Dhabi International Stakes at a canter. The six-year-old, who won the Dubai Kahayla Classic at Nad Al Sheba on Dubai World Cup day, illustrated why he is the highest-rated Arabian in the world with a devastating turn of foot to beat El Rigoletto, owned by Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum.

The race meeting was attended by Dubai Deputy Ruler and Finance Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, wife of Sheikh Mohammed Princess Haya bint Al Hussein, Sheikh Saeed bin Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and a large gathering of racing fans.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a cable of condolences to President Abdel Aziz Bouteflika of Algeria on the death of his mother.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Ahmed Abdullah Mohammed Sambi of the Union of Comoros on his country's Independence Day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has approved a new federal government communications strategy, which aims to enhance the country’s image, while creating an integrated communications system between federal entities.

The initiative seeks to improve response times to high-priority media and information issues, and encompasses a range of strategic objectives, which will be measured against clear and transparent performance standards.

Developed by the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs’ communications office, the new plan will support the federal government’s general strategy by providing mechanisms to promote efficient decision making through communication and effective media planning.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent congratulatory cables to US President Barack Obama, President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela and President Pedro Pires of Cape Verde on their countries' Independence Days.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a decision outlining the official federal government holidays for the coming year.

The resolution, which was published in the official gazette, sets out public holidays for government ministries, agencies and civil institutions. These include the Islamic New Year, the Birthday of Prophet Mohammed, the Ascension of Prophet Mohammed, Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha. The decision also stipulates that where a holiday falls on a weekend, the day-off shall not be moved to an alternative day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a cable of condolences to President Ali Abdullah Saleh of Yemen following the tragic Air Yemen plane crash off the coast of Comoros.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent similar cables to President Nicholas Sarkozy of France and President Ahmed Abdullah Sambi of the Union of Comoros.

Sheikh Mohammed extended his deepest sympathies to the victims’ families.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus on his country’s Independence Day.

In response to a query posted on his Facebook page, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has postponed the start of the 2009/10 school year to after Ramadan, towards the end of September.

Sheikh Mohammed said that he anticipates a year filled with achievement and productivity, and encouraged high levels of preparation at all educational institutions around the UAE.

Sheikh Mohammed had earlier posted a question on his Facebook page, asking whether the school year should begin after Eid.

His query received a massive response with the majority of parents and pupils saying that it would be better to start the term after the Islamic festival.

Minister of Education Humaid Mohammed Obeid Al Qattami praised the move, adding that the postponement applies to both public and private schools. He went on to say that a meeting will be held in the coming days between the Ministry of Education and private schools to discuss the postponement.

Al Qattami also said that the ministry will publish a comprehensive academic calendar for future school years.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to Canada's Governor General Michaëlle Jean on his country’s national day.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent similar cables to President Paul Kagame of Rwanda and President Pierre Nkurunziza of Burundi on their countries' Independence Days.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a law establishing Falcon and Associates.

Falcon and Associates will be tasked with expanding knowledge, support and strategic thinking in Dubai, so that it may build on its successes to date and fulfil its long term potential. The company will focus on key markets around the world to facilitate Dubai’s objective of achieving inward and outward social, economic and trade-related progress. As per the law, Falcon and Associates will coordinate with relevant government authorities in carrying out its activities.

The new entity will work to deepen understanding and appreciation of Dubai’s vision both nationally and internationally, through the establishment of media-related business concerns. Falcon and Associates will maintain full or part ownership in these entities in collaboration with the Media Office for Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued a decree appointing Ahmed Abdullah Al Sheikh, the Media Escort of the Ruler of Dubai and Managing Director of His Highness’ Media Office, as Chairman of Falcon and Associates.

A decision appointing John Ferguson as Vice Chairman of Falcon and Associates and Giselle Davies as Chief Executive was also issued by Sheikh Mohammed.

The law, decree and decision are effective from their date of issuance and will be published in the official gazette.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum sent a cable to President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan today, congratulating him on the UAE’s selection as the new headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

In a warm message, Sheikh Mohammed expressed great pleasure with the successful bid and further extended his congratulations to Their Highnesses Members of the Supreme Council and Rulers of the Emirates, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and to the country’s citizens.

Noting that the momentous accomplishment would not have succeeded without Sheikh Khalifa’s vision, Sheikh Mohammed went on to praise his efforts to prepare the country to host the agency’s headquarters. He further commended Sheikh Khalifa on supporting the UAE’s diplomatic mission, headed by the foreign minister, and made up of the country’s elite citizens, ministers, ambassadors and diplomats.

Sheikh Mohammed continued to describe the triumph as a reflection of the UAE’s high international standing that demonstrates the country’s successful relations around the world, based on peaceful co-existence and mutual respect.

Pointing to Masdar, the world’s first hydrocarbon-producing city in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohammed said that the selection epitomizes the UAE’s dedication to renewable energy sources, which is part of a greater culture of building a future with energy as the main driving force behind global economic development.

Sheikh Mohammed spoke of his pride in IRENA’s confidence in the UAE, adding that the country will continue to be a strategic player in the renewable energy sector.

He went on to say that the achievement provides fresh impetus to unlock the potential of the country’s citizens, while stressing that the UAE must continue to focus on development in the areas of education, scientific research and competitiveness.

Concluding the cable, Sheikh Mohammed expressed his hope that the UAE would not only be home to the agency’s headquarters, but would be an effective partner in research and development and finding renewable energy solutions.

In his bid to position the UAE at the forefront of high-performing governments in the world, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has launched the Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Government Excellence Programme.

Stressing the vital role the new scheme would play in encouraging and building the machinery of excellence in the federal government, Sheikh Mohammed gave his approval in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi.

Sheikh Mohammed directed that government excellence and best practice be promoted under the programme through the introduction of creative initiatives, based on scientific methodology. He also spoke about the need to further focus on the improvement of education, government services and the exchange of expertise amongst public and private entities to encourage sustainable development.

Sheikh Mohammed went on to describe how, with support and training in creative thinking, UAE nationals would prosper and learn to shoulder the responsibilities of federal government with confidence and merit.

Among the features of the new programme, high-achieving federal employees will compete for the UAE award for government performance excellence and the Prime Minister’s prize for distinguished service.

Sheikh Mohammed concluded by calling on those overseeing the new programme to track its progress so that it may achieve its objectives.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a decree launching ‘Dubai 2020’, a new initiative that will explore Dubai’s potential to host the World Expo and the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2020.

As per the decree, a working committee will be chaired by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum with Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as deputy chairman. Other members of the committee are Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani, Abdul Rahman Mohammed Nassir Al Owais, Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim, Hussain Nasser Lootah, Matar Mohammed Al Tayer, Qadhi Saeed Al Murooshid, Ahmad Abdullah Al Sheikh, Yousuf Yacob Al Serkal, John Ferguson and Giselle Davies.

Central to this project, the committee, made up of of government and private sector representatives, will explore Dubai’s potential to host the World Expo and the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2020. Bringing together these two world events in one place - each for the first time in the Middle East - would be a unique proposition, uniting business, science and technology with sport, education and culture. This proposal reintroduces a concept that existed for earlier editions of the modern Olympics and begins a tradition of connecting these important global themes every 20 years.

Speaking about Dubai 2020, Sheikh Mohammed said, ''We need to engage our community here in Dubai and the UAE in a discussion about our vision and everyone’s role in our future. For this we need a clear, common goal that highlights shared universal human values. The Dubai 2020 initiative will look at how we can shape our environment and society for future generations. It will address, in an integrated way, the building blocks that underpin social and economic progress - sport, education, culture, business, science, technology, health and the environment. These two global events - the Olympic Games and World Expo - give us a sense of common purpose and play to our strengths. Dubai is already home to people from different nationalities and cultures who live in friendship and peace. And I believe we can deepen this respect and mutual understanding if we work together to achieve something spectacular and meaningful.''

A feasibility study will be undertaken before further decisions are taken regarding making any formal bids to the International Olympic Committee and the Bureau of International Expositions. Sheikh Mohammed has mandated Falcon and Associates to lead the Dubai 2020 project and Working Group.

The working committee, which will submit periodic progress reports to the Ruler, will be assisted by a number of sub-committees and support teams. All government departments, bodies and public institutions in Dubai have been directed to cooperate with the committee.

The decree is effective from its date of publication in the official gazette.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurated mobile units for field support of the Dubai Ambulance Services Centre today.

The two modern, well-equipped ambulance vehicles can deliver quality medical support to critically ill patients and people involved in road accidents before taking them to hospital.

Sheikh Mohammed boarded the ambulance buses and inspected their high-tech medical equipment and fittings. He was briefed by paramedics on the facilities within, such as the surgery theatre equipped with an advanced X-Ray system, centralised oxygen supplier and oxygen controllers.

He was also briefed by Qadhi Al Marooshid, Director of Dubai Health Authority and Chairman of the Centre, about a map of locations of model ambulance stations in Dubai. The Centre has ten fixed points and 54 mobile units covering all areas in Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed also inspected four-wheel drive vehicles designed for delivery of first aid in difficult terrain and viewed a model of the rapid intervention unit, which is supported by ten motorcycles.

Expressing satisfaction with the creation of the field support unit, Sheikh Mohammed described the idea as creative and said that it would greatly contribute to reducing human loss caused by traffic accidents by delivering timely medical aid before taking them to the hospital.

He also praised the paramedics for their dedication and sacrifice and urged young nationals to join the nursing profession. He went on to instruct officials at the Authority and Centre to offer incentives to those interested such a career.

He also instructed an increase in motorcycles and buses at the unit and that they be staffed with the well-trained paramedics. Al Marooshid said that project underlines Sheikh Mohammed’s determination to develop and modernise medical and primary health care services in Dubai.

Executive Director of Dubai Ambulance Services Centre Khalifa Hassan bin Darai, announced that a third mobile ambulance would be added to the field support unit.

Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied by Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Commander General of Dubai Police and Chairman of the Disaster and Crisis Management Committee Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has toured the headquarters of the Ministry of Education in Dubai, where he reviewed the ministry’s preparations for the upcoming academic year.

Accompanied by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mohammed was received on arrival at the ministry by Minister of Education Humaid Mohammed Obeid Al Qattami, as well as regional heads of education and senior ministry officials.

They exchanged views about the ministry’s strategic initiatives and the future of education in the country, with particular emphasis on building a new generation of young people equipped with knowledge of science and technology, capable of keeping pace with the requirements of modern society.

Sheikh Mohammed stressed the importance of culture, reading and research within the development process, and called on educational officials to pay attention and listen to the needs of schools and students. He further urged them to make field trips to schools, especially in rural areas, and come up with effective solutions to the problems impeding the development of educational progress in the UAE.

Sheikh Mohammed listened to a presentation given by the Minister of Education, and was briefed on his ministry’s preparations for the next academic year, including its readiness to provide textbooks, IT facilities and teaching staff at the country's educational institutes.

The minister went on to describe a new academic accreditation system to be applied to more than seventy schools and plans to put greater emphasis on sports, arts and music, with numerous competitions being organised to recognise achievement in these areas.

Also accompanying Sheikh Mohammed on his ministry tour were Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi and a number of senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has launched a pioneering initiative to develop and improve services supplied by the federal government. The project reflects the government’s desire to provide the highest quality services to citizens and patrons of ministries and federal bodies.

Sheikh Mohammed launched the project during a visit to the headquarters of the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme in Dubai, giving it the honour as the first government entity to implement the initiative. The project includes forging a new corporate identity for the federal programme and the opening of additional customer service branches, as well as the modification of working hours to accommodate client needs.

While reviewing the project to upgrade government services, Sheikh Mohammed spoke about the need for all government agencies to adopt the same model to improve customer satisfaction levels. He cited the vital role the programme is playing in providing suitable housing for nationals, attributing this to the careful execution of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s vision, which places citizens at the centre of all development plans.

Sheikh Mohammed praised the efforts of those working for the Sheikh Zayed Housing programme and congratulated them on being the first federal body to implement the government’s strategic plan.

He went on to review designs for 40,000 new villas that the programme is building for citizens, and heard how the programme has approved 20,000 applications for housing, with priority given to teaching staff and members of the judiciary.

Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied on his tour by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Minister of Public Works and Head of the Sheikh Zayed Hosing Programme Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan and Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has ordered the allocation of $1million for the best dramatic work to be featured on Dubai Media Incorporated’s (DMI) screens this year as a token of his appreciation for filmmakers, as well as local and Arab actors.

Ahmad Abdullah Al Sheikh, the Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed, said in a speech during the special ceremony held Thursday to announce the programmes and episodes to be screened this Ramadan, that DMI will conduct a poll to select the best drama work viewed by Arabs over its channels during the month.

He added that DMI will present substantial Ramadan season packages, including local and Arab drama works, which will be telecast by DMI TV channels.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum chaired a meeting of the cabinet at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi today in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The cabinet approved a federal draft law establishing the UAE Development Bank with initial capital of Dh10 billion, half of which will be provided by the government. The new bank will be tasked with developing and supporting various sectors in the country.

The cabinet also approved a Federal National Council (FNC) memorandum concerning the policies of the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority and the General Civil Aviation Authority.

After reviewing FNC recommendations pertaining to the policies of the Marriage Fund, the Public Works and Social Affairs Ministries, the cabinet took appropriate decisions.

The cabinet also ratified a number health and safety specification standards and sanctioned an increase in capital contributions for the Islamic Establishment for Private Sector Development. Also during the meeting, the final accounts and general budget of the Real Estate Bank were approved for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2008.

Concluding the session, the cabinet gave its backing to the drafting of legislation to amend the provisions of Federal Law No.1 of1979 governing the Organisation of Industrial Affairs.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the Dubai Judicial Institute graduation ceremony, held at Dubai World Trade Centre today.

Beginning the ceremony, Sheikh Mohammed watched a documentary on the institute’s history and development since its foundation in 1996.

Dubai Attorney General and chairman of the board of Dubai Judicial Institute Essam Eisa Al Humaidan delivered a speech in which he described the training programmes undertaken by the graduates throughout their studies at the institute. He went on to say that Sheikh Mohammed’s initiatives and directives act as incentives for the graduates to excel in their future careers.

Addressing the audience, Director General of the Judicial Institute Dr. Jamal Al Sumaithi further briefed Sheikh Mohammed on the development and training programmes currently being implemented by the institute in line with best international practices.

The 30 graduates, including 10 women, swore to carry out their duties faithfully and in accordance with the law before Sheikh Mohammed, after which he distributed diplomas to them.

Sheikh Mohammed congratulated the graduates and urged them to equip themselves with more knowledge, expertise and training to benefit both themselves and society. He stressed that investment in the youth and education sectors wound continue indefinitely, as this investment constitutes the nation’s wealth and is the cornorstone of progress and stability.

The ceremony was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Director General of Dubai Department of Information Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, Minister of Health Dr. Hanif Hassan, a number of senior military and civilian officials and the graduates’ families.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti on his country's Independence Day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received Prime Minister Han Seung-soo of South Korea and his accompanying delegation at Za’abeel Palace today.

Sheikh Mohammed extended a warm welcome to the prime minister in the presence of Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

During the meeting they explored ways of boosting bilateral cooperation between their countries in various fields. The discussions also focused on the global economic situation and its impacts, with both leaders stressing the importance of a coordinated approach amongst nations to move forward.

The Korean Prime Minister praised the wise policies adopted by the leadership and the Government of the UAE to deal with the crisis, describing them as objective and credible.

Concluding the discussions Sheikh Mohammed, Sheikh Hamdan and Mr. Han Seung-soo witnessed the signing of a 20 year agreement between the UAE and Korea opening the way for specialised Korean companies to supply expertise, equipment and technical support for the UAE’s peaceful nuclear programme.

The agreement was signed by UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Dr. Anwar Mohammed Gargash and Korean Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Kwon Jong-rak.

The UAE Government has previously signed similar agreements with the United States and France, as well as a memorandum of understanding with the United Kingdom. The government will also work in cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency in pursuing the peaceful energy project.

Also present at the signing ceremony were Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Economy Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi and other senior officials.

Following the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed hosted a luncheon banquet in honour of the Korean Prime Minister and his accompanying delegation. The banquet was attended by a number of sheikhs, ministers, dignitaries and senior officials.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a law governing salaries and allowances at judicial bodies in the emirate of Dubai.

The new law, effective as of May 1st, 2009, defines the grades, salaries, allowances and other benefits of judicial body staff.

As per the new law, allowances and benefits will be subject to annual reviews and amendments as recommended by the financial department’s annual budget report for the emirate of Dubai.

The new legislation rescinds a number of previous laws and their amendments regulating the salaries of national and non-national judges, prosecution staff and judicial inspectors.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued a decree transferring the ownership of Dubai Government’s shares in the Galadari Group to the Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD). All rights and obligations will be assumed by the new owners from the date of the decree’s implementation.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued another decree concerning Margham Dubai Establishment (MDE).

The decrees are effective from their date of publication in the official gazette.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani of Qatar on the anniversary of his ascension to the throne of his country.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent similar cables to President Danilo Türk of Slovenia on his country's national day and to President Armando Guebuza of Mozambique on his country's Independence Day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the Royal Ascot racing festival in England today.

The Godolphin-owned Flying Cloud, mount of Frankie Dettori and trained by Saeed bin Suroor, scored an impressive victory in the Group 2 Ribblesdale Stakes for three-year-old fillies, defeating Flame of Gibraltar by four lengths.

In a statement to the British media Sheikh Mohammad said, "Royal Ascot is always great racing, with all of these nice people here, and it is great to have a winner.''

He added, "Flying Cloud won twice for Andre Fabre and we thought that she was good enough to join Godolphin. I think the Irish Oaks could be the race for her now."

Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Dubai Deputy Ruler and Finance Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum were also present at the race.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was received as the guest of honour by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain at the official opening of the Royal Ascot racing festival today.

After receiving a warm welcome from Queen Elizabeth, Sheikh Mohammed accompanied her in the royal carriage, from where they reviewed the royal guard of honor performing drills at the racecourse.

Sheikh Mohammed has travelled to Ascot to watch the large contingent of horses from the UAE participating in the premier racing event.

The festival was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler and Finance Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, wife of Sheikh Mohammed Princess Haya bint Al Hussein, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prince Charles, Princess Anne, other royals, dignitaries, senior officials and a large gathering of racing enthusiasts.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum features prominently in the Thoroughbred Times annual “Industry Leaders: Top 20” selection that appears in the June 20 issue of the weekly racing magazine.

The special recognition comes shortly after the founding of Sheikh Mohammed’s US-based Darley operation, which has produced several noted Group 1 and classic winners.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum led the UAE team to victory at the 120km endurance trials held in the UK yesterday.

Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also participated in the race, alongside other riders representing the UAE, Arab and European countries.

The UAE riders demonstrated their readiness for upcoming endurance races, such as the European Open Championships, which will take place in Assisi, Italy in September.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued Law No.13 of 2009 establishing the Hamdan bin Mohammed e-University.

The university will incorporate a number of colleges, scientific research centres and specialised institutes offering bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate programmes in various fields, including management and quality.

The headquarters of the university will be in the emirate of Dubai, although affiliates may be opened outside Dubai following a decision by the council of trustees.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued Decree No.24 of 2009 appointing Dubai Crown Prince and Executive Council Chairman Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as Chancellor of the Hamdan bin Mohammed e-University. The decree is effective from its date of publication in the official gazette.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a cable to Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, congratulating him on winning a second term in the recent Iranian elections.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has established the Dubai Media Affairs Office, "Brand Dubai", to oversee Dubai’s strategic media affairs in the region and beyond.

The new office, to be headed by Mona Ghanem Al Marri, will be tasked with preserving and enhancing Dubai’s image as an Arab city of international spirit and sensibility. The Dubai Media Affairs Office (DMAO) will promote maximum exposure of Dubai’s continuing achievements in economic, cultural and social matters.

Under the mandate given by Sheikh Mohammed, the new entity will work closely with Dubai government departments and authorities as well as non-government stakeholders. The DMAO will facilitate greater communication and coordination amongst different organisations that are directly or non-directly responsible for Dubai’s image.

Among DMAO’s other objectives are enabling easier access for the media to accurate information on various subjects related to Dubai, and facilitating greater interaction with Dubai government officials. The office will work closely with regional and international media outlets to disseminate Dubai’s key messages of sustainable economic growth and social progress.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent cables of congratulations to President Dmitry Medvedev of Russia and President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo of the Philippines on their countries’ Independence days.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent cable of condolences to Interim President Rose Francine Rogombe of Gabon on the death of President Omar Bongo.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received Bahrain's Crown Prince and Commander-in-Chief of the Bahrain Defence Force Sheikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa at Za’abeel Palace today.

They discussed a number of issues, including boosting bilateral relations between the two peoples. Sheikh Salman conveyed greetings of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain to Sheikh Mohammed.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum , Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Federal National Council (FNC) speaker Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair, Director General of Dubai Department of Information Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum other sheikhs and senior officials.

Sheikh Mohammed hosted a luncheon banquet in honour of Sheikh Salman and his accompanying delegation. The banquet was attended by a number of sheikhs, ministers and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received Young Arab Leaders (YAL) Chairman Dr. Omar Mohammed Ahmed bin Suleiman and YAL delegation, who briefed him on the young Arab leaders’ achievements at the Arab World level over the past five years.

The meeting was also attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Anibal Cavaco Silva of Portugal on his country’s national day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued decree No.22 for 2009, governing the development of private areas in the emirate of Dubai.

The decree defines the private areas as lands, compounds and properties owned by Dubai Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFZ) and Dubai World, including lands belonging to subsidiaries and entities under their authority.

The decree also outlines the PCFZ’s responsibilities, which include infrastructure management, the provision of public services, the issuance of licensing permits and the administration and collection of service fees.

The decree authorises the PCFZ to make use of fee revenues as they see fit.

Chairman of Dubai World and CEO of PCFZ Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem expressed his gratitude for the decree and pledged that the PCFZ would spare no effort in ensuring high-quality development in private areas.

The decree will be published in the official gazette.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum met with Queen Elizabeth II of England at the Epsom Derby racing festival today.

Also present at the meeting was wife of Sheikh Mohammed Her Royal Highness Princess Haya bint Al Hussein.

They discussed horse racing and equestrian issues, in addition to the Dubai World Cup and the participation of the UAE horses in British racing.

Queen Elizabeth welcomed the strong field from the UAE taking part in the Derby and wished them more success.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has ordered that Emirati nationals, granted land by the Mohammad Bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MBRHE), will be given five more years to build houses on their properties.

Sheikh Mohammed’s order extends the construction grace period for beneficiaries, who had previously faced a deadline of February 2010.

The extension is intended to give the recipients of land more time to complete their construction, while enabling them to benefit from lower prices for building materials.

Director of Dubai Ruler's Court and Chairman of the board of MBRHE Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani thanked Sheikh Mohammed for his kind gesture.

The order is effective from its date of issuance.

The Noor Dubai Initiative, which provides medical treatment for poor people suffering from eye-related diseases, has been transformed into a foundation, thanks to the generosity and directives of UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Based on Sheikh Mohammed's directives, the ‘Noor Dubai Foundation’ will be an independent body with full financial and administrative control, and will maintain its status as charitable and humanitarian body.

During a meeting with Noor Dubai officials at Emirates Towers Hotel, Sheikh Mohammed was briefed on the programmes accomplishments, including the number of eye cases it has successfully treated in the UAE and abroad.

In the presence of Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi and Director General of Dubai Health Authority and Executive Director of the Noor Dubai Initiative Qadhi Saeed Al Murooshid, Sheikh Mohammed expressed satisfaction with achievements of the programme, which he launched last year during the Holy month of Ramadan.

He praised the Noor Dubai team for a job well done and pledged his continuous support for the foundation, in addition to ordering an expansion of the programme’s activities to reach more needy people around the world.

Al Murooshid thanked Sheikh Mohammed for his kind gesture, which, he said, has already brought hope and relief to poor and low-income groups in developing nations, without prejudice to race, religion or colour.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has expressed confidence in the abilities and efficiency of staff at Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) during a meeting with chairmen and board members of both organisations.

Sheikh Mohammed called on them to further strengthen the confidence of global firms and financial corporations in UAE markets in order to maintain the country's status as a global hub for finance and business.

At the meeting in Za'abeel Palace, Chairman of DIFC's board of directors David Eldon and Chairman of the board of DFSA Abdullah Al Saleh briefed Sheikh Mohammed on the achievements of both bodies, in addition to the regulatory services they provide for DIFC-based financial corporations and banks.

Sheikh Mohammed heard how in just four years, over 750 firms have registered with the DIFC, which is a fully-fledged capital market and an onshore hub for global finance, servicing a region with the world’s largest untapped emerging market for financial services.

DIFC supervises and regulates a total of 324 entities, including 250 authorised firms, 55 ancillary service providers, 17 registered auditors and 2 markets.

Present at the meeting were Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler and President of DIFC Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, DIFC Governor Dr. Omar bin Sulaiman, Director of Dubai Ruler's Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received the outgoing Saudi Ambassador to the UAE Dr. Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz bin Muammar at Za’abeel Palace today.

During the farewell visit, Sheikh Mohammed praised the ambassador’s efforts in strengthening fraternal ties between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, and wished him further success in serving his country.

Present at the meeting were Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Director of Dubai Ruler's Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent cables of congratulations to King Carl Gustaf of Sweden and Queen Margrethe II of Denmark on their countries' national days.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received King Abdullah II of Jordan at Za’abeel Palace today.

At the meeting they discussed ways of boosting bilateral cooperation in all fields. They also reviewed the current situation in the region and Arab and international efforts to push the Middle East peace process forward.

Following the meeting Sheikh Mohammed hosted a luncheon banquet in honour of King Abdullah and his accompanying delegation.

The banquet was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, FNC Chairman Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair, Director General of Dubai Department of Information Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, other sheikhs, ministers, dignitaries and senior officials.

Also present at the banquet were the UAE Ambassador to Jordan Ali Mohammed bin Hamad Al Shamsi and the Jordanian Ambassador to the UAE Jamal Hamed Al Shamiyla.

Later, King Abdullah departed the country concluding his two-day visit to the UAE and was seen off by Sheikh Mohammed, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed and other sheikhs and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received leaders from the second and third tiers of ministries and federal entities, as well as directors and chairmen of federal authorities at Za’abeel Palace today.

The meeting was held in the presence of Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, along with other sheikhs, ministers and senior officials.

Sheikh Mohammed greeted them and expressed great happiness with such a gathering, saying that this initial meeting would be followed by further sessions to discuss issues of national concern.

Highlighting the historic nature of the day, Sheikh Mohammed pointed out that it is his first time to openly meet with second and third level leaders away from the constraints of procedure and protocol.

Sheikh Mohammed began by saying that meeting’s purpose was not to discuss the country’s many achievements, but to exchange views and put forward suggestions so that they may face future challenges together.

By discussing upcoming obstacles and ways to overcome them, Sheikh Mohammed said that they could improve the country’s standing in the region and beyond.

Sheikh Mohammed also spoke about the need to strengthen the UAE’s global competitiveness, and drew attention to the federal government’s duty to provide its experience, financial backing and human resources to support local governments, which he described as completing federal authorities.

Ministers and high-ranking government officials were called upon by Sheikh Mohammed to give direction to lower level leaders to aid their development into first class leaders of the future.

Top leaders, he said, are required to listen and interact with their staff, and to prepare them for the future by making use of their energy and creativity.

After advising officials to treat their staff fairly, Sheikh Mohammed instructed ministers and leaders to break against routine and bureaucracy by going out into the field, as field work is the best way to serve the country and enact positive change.

Sheikh Mohammed said that he is fully aware of performance levels at ministries and federal entities and acknowledged that while the results of recent evaluations have yet to be announced, he pledged that they would be released through the media in the near future.

Speaking on the importance of transparency at all ministries and federal authorities, Sheikh Mohammed said that the prime minister’s website is open to receive all complaints and enquiries from residents.

Sheikh Mohammed went on to talk about the recently formed Emirates Competitiveness Council (ECC) and its role in boosting development and progress in the country.

The ECC, he said, was established under the directives of Sheikh Khalifa to promote the nationalisation of jobs at ministries and government authorities, and fill vacant positions at all levels with capable local youths.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed dissatisfaction with the current duration of staff training programmes at federal bodies and instructed that they be extended so that staff may benefit from the accumulation of knowledge and experience.

In order to reach their goals, Sheikh Mohammed directed the nation’s youth to study, read and be more ambitious.

Towards the end of the meeting Sheikh Mohammed listened to feedback and suggestions from the audience and engaged them in frank and open discussion. Responding positively, he promised that all suggestions and ideas would be documented and studied by a specialised team to reap maximum advantage from them.

Following the meeting Sheikh Mohammed hosted a luncheon banquet in honour of his guests.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a decree appointing Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as Chairman of Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

The move reflects Sheikh Mohammed's vision of the DIFC as a key player in the country's development process.

The decree is effective from the date of issuance and will be published in the official gazette.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has approved a general plan designating district and place names in Dubai, which was implemented by Dubai Municipality.

Director General of Dubai Municipality Hussein Nasser Lootah said that Sheikh Mohammed’s approval ensures that traditional place names will continue to be used, reflecting his commitment to documenting areas of historical significance in Dubai.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has participated in a question and answer e-session with the public on the Prime Minister's Official Website.

Fielding questions from citizens and residents, Sheikh Mohammed dealt with queries concerned with emiratisation, the country's demographic structure and government initiatives in the areas of housing, education and health.

Sheikh Mohammed said that the country's leadership, as represented by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his brothers, members of the Supreme Council and rulers of the emirates, are keen to communicate directly with citizens and expatriates.

This enthusiasm, he added, reflects the close relationship between the UAE's leadership and people, and is one of the distinguishing values handed down by the country's fathers and sisters.

Sheikh Mohammed stressed during the first e-session with the public that the federal government views the welfare of nationals as the core of its work, adding that the government's sole purpose is to serve the people.

This notion, he continued, is one that he repeats to government officials as he urges them to go out into the field to listen and meet with the people and serve their needs in the most efficient way.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Giorgio Napolitano of Italy on his country's national day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received the recent winners of the UAE League title, Al Ahli Football Club, at Za’abeel Palace today.

The reception was held in the presence of Dubai Crown Prince and President of Al Ahli Club Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Sheikh Mohammed congratulated players and staff on their achievements at the club, which will represent the UAE in the FIFA World Club Cup taking place in Abu Dhabi in December.

Citing their accomplishments as beneficial for the country as a whole, Sheikh Mohammed called on the club’s members to continue their hard work so that they may remain on the top tier.

Concluding the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed wished for more success for UAE football, which, he added, with the determination of the country’s youth, can improve its international standing.

The meeting was attended by Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Board Al Ahli Club Khalifa Saeed Suleiman, Deputy Chairman of Dubai Sports Council Matter Mohammed Al Tayer and Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed and Committee Member of Dubai Sports Council Ahmed Abdullah Sheikh.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and his accompanying delegation at Abu Dhabi Airport today.

Sheikh Khalifa, alongside a number of sheikhs and senior officials, gave the Qatari Emir a warm welcome, which was followed by discussions on how they could boost bilateral relations.

They also exchanged views on a number of issues of mutual concern at regional and international levels.

After the meeting, Sheikh Khalifa hosted a luncheon banquet in honour of Sheikh Hamad and his accompanying delegation, which was attended by a number of sheikhs and senior officials.

Concluding his visit, Sheikh Hamad departed the country, and was seen off at the airport by Sheikh Khalifa, Sheikh Mohammed, other sheikhs and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum chaired a meeting of the cabinet at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi today, in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The cabinet approved the establishment of a new emiratisation council, which will include representatives from local and federal emiratisation authorities and entities.

The new council will be responsible for formulating policies and standards to promote job nationalisation, and for supporting the development of skills and competitiveness amongst the local population.

Local authorities will assume responsibility for implementing the policies of the new council.

The cabinet also reviewed the UAE comprehensive periodic report, which was submitted to the United Nations Human Rights Council on March 19th, 2009. The report included 74 recommendations, with major focus on three basic issues - labour, freedom of expression and the implementation of the teachings of Islam.

The Human Rights Council praised the UAE’s efforts in carrying out the recommendations as part its national action plan.

The cabinet approved in principle drafting a federal law to establish the Emirates Development Bank, merging the UAE Real Estate Bank and the UAE Industrial Bank, to be tasked with supporting developmental projects in the country.

The cabinet ratified 41 Gulf specification standards related to automobiles and food products previously approved by the GCC Standardisation Authority.

The cabinet also reviewed a number of other issues on their agenda and took appropriate decisions.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a cable of condolences to Sudanese President Omar Hassan Al Bashir on the death of former Sudanese President Gaafar Al Numeiri.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has ordered a halt to government fee increases and further instructed a 20-30 percent reduction in charges for some government services.

The order reflects Sheikh Mohammed’s desire to boost Dubai’s economic competitiveness, and reinforce the government’s continuous support of the investment environment in the emirate to benefit all sectors of society.

Sheikh Mohammed’s order follows proposals from Dubai Executive Council and the Department of Finance outlining pricing mechanisms and strategies to be applied to government services.

The order rules out all fee increases under the current government regardless of circumstances, including those fees applying to administrative and non-competitive economic services offered solely by the government.

The order goes on to stipulate that rates will not be subject to increases even if the cost of providing such services exceeds their market price.

Additional fees can only be applied under the rules where new value-added benefits are offered by government service providers. In such cases, rate calculations will follow pricing mechanisms adopted by government agencies and must be accompanied by new consumer-friendly payment options in coordination with the Department of Finance.

Among the government services subject to a 20-30% reduction in fees are the issuance and renewal of commercial trade licenses, sales promotion fees, property title deed fees and property valuation fees.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the inaugural meeting of the Emirates Competitive Council (ECC) at Bab Al Shams Resort in Dubai today.

Council members at the meeting included ministers, secretary generals of emirates’ executive councils, directors of the rulers’ courts and private sector representatives.

The council reviewed strategies to enhance the UAE’s competitiveness internationally and a series of initiatives aimed at boosting performance levels in all sectors of the economy, including the formation of task forces to implement new proposals.

Sheikh Mohammed called attention to President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s vision of the UAE as one of the world’s most competitive countries, with citizens at the heart of the development process.

He added that the goal of Council is to promote great achievements at federal and local levels and build upon them. This, he said, involves strengthening coordination between the government and private sectors to accomplish the leadership’s development goals.

Sheikh Mohammed stressed the importance of teamwork in achieving prosperity and raising citizens’ standard of living through education, development and progress.

The first meeting of the council went on to review a series of initiatives to promote competitiveness in the UAE through improving education, infrastructure and human development, as well as other schemes aimed at facilitating the integration of citizens into the labor force.

The board meeting also saw the council’s website launched in Arabic and English at www.ecc.ae, which features information about the Council, its members and its primary functions. This was followed by the appointment of Abdullah Lootah as secretary general of the competitiveness council.

The meeting was attended by Minister of Foreign Trade Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi, Cabinet Affairs Minister and Chairman of the Competitiveness Council Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Economy and Deputy Chairman of the council Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, other ministers and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has ordered the construction of a specialised centre for cancer research in Dubai, with capacity for about 250 beds.

The announcement was made by Director General of Dubai Health Authority Qadhi Saeed Al Murooshid during an interview on ‘Marmas Al Noor’, which was broadcast on Noor Dubai TV.

Murooshid said that the new centre will provide a full range of diagnostic and therapeutic services for cancer patients under one roof, without the need to transfer patients from one place to another for treatment.

Operating in accordance with the highest international standards, he added that the facility will attract the world’s most skilled and experienced staff with access to the latest medical equipment.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Girma Wolde Giorgis of Ethiopia on his country's Independence Day.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent a similar cable to President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan on his country’s national day.

The organising committee of Assisi Endurance Lifestyle and Meydan FEI Open European Endurance Championship 2009 has presented UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum with the Golden Shield in recognition of his support of endurance racing in Italy and around the world.

Ali Moosa, General Manager of Dubai Equestrian Club, accepted the prize on behalf of Sheikh Mohammed at a ceremony held at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & spa in the presence of the Mayor of Assisi Claudio Ricci, the Chairman of Assisi Endurance Lifestyle Gianluca Laliscia and several senior officials.

Praising Sheikh Mohammed, Laliscia drew attention to his many contributions in various fields, especially in the development and promotion equestrian sports.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum toured the recently-opened Aswaq Shopping Mall, one of a new series of shopping centres under development, in the Al Mizhar district of Dubai this morning.

Following an inspection of the two-storey mall, Sheikh Mohammed underlined his support for the establishment of up to 22 new shopping complexes, to facilitate commerce and meet the needs of productive families seeking to hire outlets to market their merchandise as part of the ''Dakakeen'' project.

Sheikh Mohammed directed that mosques and medical centres be established at all shopping malls in Dubai to serve residents’ religious and health-care needs, with an additional order to relevant authorities to implement this decision.

CEO of Aswaq, Abdul Baset Al Janahi said that the mall is the first in a chain of malls to be opened by Aswaq LLC, which was established under an earlier decree by Sheikh Mohammed. He added that the company will offer shares publicly to UAE nationals to enable them to join the Dakakeen project.

Later, Sheikh Mohammed inaugurated the Al Arabi Shopping Centre, where he reviewed the facilities available there, which include a health clinic, a nursery and an immigration office, in addition to other amenities.

Sheikh Mohammed praised the centres for providing commercial, recreational and employment opportunities for the country’s residents and youth.

Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied on his tour by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum went on a field tour of a new Dh2.1 billion residential project designated for young UAE nationals at Aud Matina today.

During his tour, Sheikh Mohammed inspected the status of over 1,000 villas, built on an area of 127,000 hectares, scheduled to be delivered to owners registered with the Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MRHE) in the near future.

Sheikh Mohammed examined the internal features of one such villa, and expressed great satisfaction with seeing happiness and stability adorning the faces of the country’s sons and daughters.

He described how he looked forward to the coming day, when, with the care and support of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, all citizens would enjoy the freedom, dignity and stability of decent living standards with suitable housing.

Sheikh Mohammed went on to instruct that new lands be allocated for residential purposes in the Al Marmoun area, while ordering that studies be undertaken to gauge the potential to establish more housing developments for youths in other parts of Dubai.

He also directed that UAE youths, who have already taken housing loans from the MHRE, be exempt from a two percent administration fee, effective from today.

Sheikh Mohammed instructed that Mohammed Juma Al Nabooda and Hussein Khan Sahib unveil a plaque commemorating the project, in recognition of the vital role they played in serving UAE citizens through their charitable initiatives.

Sheikh Mohammed concluded by urging the MRHE to expedite the construction and delivery of houses under development, to satisfy the demand of the largest possible number of beneficiaries.

Accompanying Sheikh Mohammed on his tour were Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and a number of senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received the President of the Swiss Confederation, Hans-Rudolf Merz, and his accompanying delegation today.

They discussed bilateral ties and ways of enhancing cooperation in various fields, in addition to the latest regional developments and other issues of mutual concern.

Sheikh Mohammed welcomed the Swiss President and wished him a pleasant stay in the UAE, while also expressing his hope that the visit will strengthen relations between their countries.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, ministers and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has paid a visit to the residence of the Al Sabousi family in Al Marmoum to offer condolences on the death of Ali Al Sabousi.

Members of the family extended their sincere thanks to Sheikh Mohammed for his kind gesture.

Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied by Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to King Abdullah II of Jordan on his country's Independence Day.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent a similar cable to Argentina's President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner on her country's national day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea on his country’s Independence Day.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent a similar cable to President Ali Abdullah Saleh of Yemen on his country’s national day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a cable of condolences to Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak of on the death of his grandson Mohammed Alla Mubarak.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Paul Biya of Cameroon on his country’s national day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued Decree No. 10 for 2009, establishing the Emirates Nursing and Midwifery Council to be headed by his wife Princess Haya bint Al Hussein.

Overseen by the Ministry of Health, the new council aims to upgrade and develop nursing and midwifery in the country, in line with the highest international standards, in addition to promoting community health and safety.

Among the members of the council will be representatives from the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the Ministry of Education, nursing colleges, Abu Dhabi and Dubai Health Authorities, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Armed Forces Medical Services, Dubai Healthcare City, the UAE Nursing Society, Emirates Medical Association and the private healthcare sector.

The new council will be responsible for proposing strategies to develop nursing and midwifery in the UAE, while coordinating with relevant authorities to adopt training and education programmes that promote the highest standards of competence within the profession.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to King Harald V of Norway on his country’s national day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the American University of Dubai’s (AUD) 12th graduation ceremony at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) today.

On arrival at DWTC, Sheikh Mohammed was received by the university’s president, faculty and over 400 students bearing flags of the United Arab Emirates and the United States.

Former US Secretary of State Colin Powell addressed the graduates, and expressed great happiness on visiting the UAE and meeting with Sheikh Mohammed.

Congratulating the graduates on their success, Powell urged them to spread their knowledge and apply it to their work to affect their society positively.

The former secretary spoke about his visit to Dubai Healthcare City two years ago, and praised Sheikh Mohammed’s bold and exciting vision, which always looks to the future with optimism.

Powell also praised the numerous charitable and humanitarian projects launched by the leadership of the UAE, to help others around the world and achieve social justice for all peoples, especially the poor.

Following the secretary’s speech, Sheikh Mohammed took to the podium to distribute certificates to the graduates, and congratulated them on moving on to a new phase in their lives.

Sheikh Mohammed called on the graduates to continue their education, so that they may achieve their future goals and aspirations.

He also reiterated that investment in education, knowledge, culture, and research is the best investment for the country, as it places people at the forefront of government strategy, and enables them to positively influence society.

Towards the close of the ceremony, AUD President, Dr. Lance de Masi gave a speech in which thanked Sheikh Mohammed for his continued support and attendance.

After welcoming Colin Powell and praising his speech, he called on all the graduates to be models of ethics and behaviour, so that they may achieve a promising future.

The ceremony was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Education Humaid Mohammed Obeid Al Qattami, the American Ambassador to the UAE Richard G. Olsen, ministers, senior officials and a large gathering of the graduates’ families.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum chaired a meeting of the cabinet at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi today, in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The cabinet discussed a number of issues, and approved economic resolutions arising out of the 29th GCC Supreme Council meeting, held in Oman last December.

The cabinet also approved a federal law governing public debt, which outlines a framework and sets standards for the issuance and management of public debt.

After ratifying a number of agreements signed between the UAE and other countries, including an accord to promote and protect joint investment with Jordan, the cabinet was presented with two memorandums by the Federal National Council (FNC).

The memos dealt with policy at the Justice Ministry, and the development and protection of the country’s fish stocks, and were subsequently approved.

The Cabinet sanctioned the budget and final accounts Emirates Real Estate Corporation up to December 31, 2008, and discussed other issues raised by ministries and federal bodies.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum honoured the winners of the 8th Arab Journalism Awards at the Atlantis Hotel on Palm Jumeirah today.

The awards were distributed during the closing ceremony of the Arab Media Forum, which had been taking place at same location over the past two days.

Sheikh Mohammed presented the Media Personality of the Year Award to the editor-in-chief of As Safir newspaper, Talal Salman of Lebanon, and the Best Columnist Award to Samir Ataallah, who writes for the London-based Asharq Al Awsat newspaper.

After congratulating the award winners, Sheikh Mohammed stressed the need for Arab media to continue to strive for excellence, so that it may reach even greater heights of creativity and professionalism.

He went on to describe the Arab Media Forum, organised annually by Dubai Press Club, as a platform for all media personalities and journalists to meet in the UAE, which embraces all Arab achievements.

Other journalism award winners included:

Health Journalism Award - Saeed Mohammed from Al Wasat newspaper (Bahrain)

Investigative Journalism Award - May Al Atal from Kol Al Srah magazine (UAE)

Business Journalism Award - Dr. Mohammed Abed Al Shafia from Al Majalah magazine (Saudi Arabia)

Cultural Journalism Award - Mohammed Sh’aier from Akhbar Al Adab newspaper (Egypt)

Political Journalism Award - Ma’in Al Bayari from Al Khaleej newspaper (UAE)

Press Interviews Award - Ahmed Ali from Al Watan newspaper (Qatar)

Environmental Journalism Award - shared by Heba Abdul Hamid and Wala Nabil from Al Masry Al Youm newspaper (Egypt)

Sports Journalism Award - Marzouq Al Ajami from Al Nahar newspaper (Kuwait)

Information Technology Journalism Award - Abu Al Ajaj Mohammed Al Bashir from Loghat Al Asr newspaper (Egypt)

Cartoons Award - Abdul Nasir Al Ja’afari from Al Arab Al Youm newspaper (Jordan)

Photo Journalism Award - Ala Adin Badarneh (Palastine)

Journalism for Children Award - Lina Kilani from Basim Magazine (Saudi Arabia)

Prior to the ceremony, Sheikh Mohammed met with the chairman and board members of the Arab Journalism Awards, who he thanked for their organisation, describing it as a landmark event to recognise creativity in Arab media and journalism.

He went on to stress the importance of continuing the awards, and praised the teamwork involved in staging the event, saying that it reflects the responsible nature of UAE youth.

Chairman of the journalism awards board Mohammed Khalfan Al Roumi, expressed deep gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed on behalf of the board’s members for launching the Arab Journalism Awards, saying that they are recognized and appreciated by all Arab media.

Present at both the meeting and the subsequent awards ceremony were Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi and Chairperson of Dubai Press Club Mona Ghanem Al Muiri.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has issued a federal decree, approving a cabinet reshuffle in which Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan have been appointed as Deputy Prime Ministers, while retaining their respective portfolios at the Interior Ministry and the Ministry for Presidential Affairs.

Sheikh Khalifa approved the cabinet reshuffle, as proposed by UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, which also includes the appointment of Humaid Mohammed Obeid Al Qattami as Minister of Education, with Dr. Hanif Hassan moving to the Ministry of Health.

The following is the new cabinet line-up under the decree:

Vice President, Prime Minister, Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Defence: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior: Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs: Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan

Minister of Finance: Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Foreign Minister: Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan

Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research: Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan

Minister of Public Works: Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan

Minister of Foreign Trade: Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi

Minister of Cabinet Affairs: Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi

Minister of Energy: Mohammed bin Dhaen Al Hameli

Minister of Economy: Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri

Minister of Social Affairs: Mariam Mohammed Khalfan Al Roumi

Minister of Education: Humaid Mohammed Obeid Al Qattami

Minister of Health: Dr. Hanif Hassan

Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development: Abdul Rahman Mohammed Nassir Al Owais

Minister of Labour: Saqr Ghubash Saeed Ghubash

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs: Dr. Anwar Mohammed Gargash

Minister of Justice: Dr. Hadif Ju’an Al Dhaheri

Minister of Environment and Water: Dr. Rashid Ahmed bin Fahad

Minister of State for Financial Affairs: Obaid Humaid Al Tayer

Minister of State: Dr. Maitha Salim Al Shamsi

Minister of State: Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received editor-in-Chiefs and heads of Arab media organisations, on the sidelines of the Arab Media Forum today.

At the meeting, they discussed political, economic, cultural and media issues of concern in the Arab world.

The talks focused on the global financial crisis and its negative impact on Arab media and media around the world, as a result of sharp declines in advertising revenues, newspaper circulation and marketing.

Recent reports by western media about the UAE were also discussed, with consensus being reached that some of these reports deliberately sought to undermine progress and achievement in the Arab world.

Such negative media campaigns it was agreed, strike at the core of Arab success and seek to tarnish the great accomplishments of the UAE and other Arab countries.

Present at the meeting were Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Labour Saqr Ghubash Saeed Ghubash, Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed and Managing Director of Dubai Media Incorporated Ahmed Abdullah Sheikh, Chairperson of Dubai Press Club Mona Ghanem Al Muiri and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received the Secretary General of the League of Arab States Amr Moussa at the Atlantis Hotel today, where the Arab Media Forum is currently underway.

At the meeting, they discussed political and economic issues of concern in the Arab world, in addition to exploring ways to bring Arabs closer together.

They also discussed the concept of joint Arab coordination in regional and international arenas to protect Arab rights and promote just Arab causes.

Sheikh Mohammed stressed the need to enhance the role of the Arab League to achieve rapprochement amongst Arabs, especially in the crucial areas of security, stability, sovereignty and the defence Arab rights.

The Secretary General praised the great progress in the UAE, particularly the numerous infrastructure projects under construction, and expressed disbelief with the western media’s assessment of the economic situation in the country.

He went on to say that the great advancements in trade, tourism and property development, which he has personally witnessed, contradict reports in the western media.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Labour Saqr Ghubash Saeed Ghubash, Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi and Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed and Managing Director of Dubai Media Incorporated Ahmed Abdullah Sheikh.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurated the 8th edition of the Arab Media Forum at the Atlantis Hotel today, organised under the banner ''Arab Media: Weathering a Period of Change and Crisis.''

At the opening session, attended by some of the biggest names in Arab and international journalism, Sheikh Mohammed listened to opening remarks from the Executive Director of Dubai Press Club Mariam bint Fahad, who outlined the forum’s agenda.

After expressing deep gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed for his sponsorship of the event, she said that the forum is the premier platform, where creativity and excellence in media and journalism are honoured in the Arab world.

Prior to his taking the stage, Fahad also thanked Secretary General of the League of Arab States Amr Moussa for his continued patronage of the event.

In his commencement speech, the secretary general described the Arab Media Forum as one of the premier Arab media events, which brings together media decision and policy makers from the Arab world and beyond.

Moussa expressed his appreciation for Sheikh Mohammed’s initiative to launch the media forum, saying that it reflects his keenness to develop Arab and international media through interaction and communication.

During his address, he also explained how Arab peoples can benefit from the development democracy, education, research and the spread of knowledge, and praised Sheikh Mohammed’s $10 billion investment in the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation, which aims to disseminate knowledge in the Arab and Muslim world.

He went on to draw attention to a number of crises taking place in the Arab world, saying that the media plays an important role in covering such events. He added that the Arab world needs a competent, developed media, which makes use of technology and reflects the values of the region.

Addressing the forum, Sheikh Mohammed expressed satisfaction with the extensive participation in the event, and thanked Amr Moussa for highlighting crises and putting forward ideas to counter these problems in his speech.

Sheikh Mohammed called on the participants to intensify their efforts to come up with a unified approach in the Arab media, capable of facing external challenges in a professional manner. He added that the media is the face of the nation and the first line of defence for its just and legitimate causes.

Concluding, Sheikh Mohammed underlined his support for recommendations and findings arising out of the forum, and said that he has confidence that Arab media professionals can achieve progress and keep pace with the information age.

The opening session was attended by Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Secretary General of the League of Arab States Amr Moussa, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Labour and Chairman of the National Media Council Saqr Ghubash Saeed Ghubash, Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim, Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed and Managing Director of Dubai Media Incorporated Ahmed Abdullah Sheikh, Chairperson of Dubai Press Club Mona Ghanem Al Muiri and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a cable of condolences to Kuwait's Emir Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmed Al Jaber Al Sabah on the death of Sheikha Hyat Abdulaziz Al Humood Al Jarrah Al Sabbah.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to the new South African President Jacob Zuma on his inauguration as the President of South Africa.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurated the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai Sports City today, which is part of the new Dubailand complex.

On arrival, Sheikh Mohammed unveiled a plaque commemorating the official opening one of Asia's finest cricket stadiums, built at a cost of Dh350 million.

Sheikh Mohammed greeted the Australian and Pakistani cricket teams on the field of play, and wished them a good competitive game.

After listening to the national anthem, Sheikh Mohammed took a seat in the VIP box, and watched the opening stages of the first international cricket game to be played in the new 60,000-seater complex.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed great delight in inaugurating the stadium, saying that it places the UAE among the leading Asian countries to host regional and international cricket events.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Education Dr. Hanif Hassan, other sheikhs, senior sporting and youth officials and representatives from the diplomatic corps

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has ordered the provision of a Dh5 million grant to support plans and projects of special needs centres taking part in an exhibition, organised by Dubai Media Incorporated DMI

Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation, Chief Executive of Emirates Group and Chairman of the Board of the Rashid Pediatric Therapy Centre Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said that the gesture is a sincere reflection of Sheikh Mohammed's generosity.

He went on to point out that the gift of financial aid is but one of Sheikh Mohammed’s many good deeds and charitable good works. Earlier, Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed and Managing Director of DMI Ahmed Al Sheikh opened the exhibition on behalf of Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the Mall of the Emirates, under the theme "I shape my own future".

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited the 16th Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2009 today, currently being held at the Dubai International Convention Centre. Accompanied by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mohammed toured the various stands at the exhibition, which was organised by Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing Department (DTCM). During the tour, he was briefed on tourism in Arab countries and beyond, including projects in development to grow the industry, considered to be a vital source of national income in the region. Sheikh Mohammed welcomed the participants to the event, stressing the great attention the UAE gives the tourism industry, and the key role it plays in driving the financial and commercial sectors. He went on to say that tourism’s importance goes beyond its contribution to the national economy, as it also promotes the traditions, heritage and Islamic culture of the country. Sheikh Mohammed expressed satisfaction with the increased levels of participation in the exhibition over the years, attributing the growth to the country’s large investment in the leisure industry, and the benefits of a peaceful, secure society, with a wide array of attractions. Concluding his tour, he praised local, Arab and international participants for contributing to the success of the event, saying that it bodes well for the future of the tourism industry. Also accompanying Sheikh Mohammed on his tour were Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Director of Dubai Ruler's Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani, Director of Sheikh Mohammed’s Office Lt. General Musabbah Rashid Al Fattan, Governor of Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Omar Mohammed Ahmed bin Sulaiman, Director General of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) Khalid bin Sulayem, other senior officials and heads of departments.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum travelled to the Saudi Arabian capital Riyadh today, where he led a high-ranking delegation who participated in the 11th GCC Consultative Summit.

On arrival, Sheikh Mohammed was received at Riyadh International Airport by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia, Saudi emirs, ministers and other senior civilian and military officials.

The high-level delegation accompanying Sheikh Mohammed included Minister of Interior Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of State for Financial Affairs Obaid Humaid Al Tayer, Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Director of Sheikh Mohammed’s Office Lt. General Musabbah Rashid Al Fattan and the UAE Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Al Asri Saeed Al Dhahiri.

Earlier, Sheikh Mohammed had been seen off at Dubai International Airport by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and other senior officials.

Concluding the summit, Sheikh Mohammed departed Riyadh and returned to Dubai this evening, where he was received at Dubai International Airport by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum left for the Saudi Capital Riyadh today, leading a high-ranking UAE delegation to participate in the GCC Consultative Summit.

Sheikh Mohammed was seen off at Dubai International Airport by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum underlined UAE President and Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s commitment to providing the UAE Armed Forces with all possible means of support to fulfill its role in protecting the borders and securing the sovereignty of the country.

In a statement issued to Dira'a Al Watan to mark the 33rd anniversary of the unification of the UAE Armed Forces, Sheikh Mohammed said that the country’s leadership is building for the future through the creation of a robust economy, supported by the establishment of educational, technological and youth institutions. He added that such progress would aid the development of a people capable of bearing their national and humanitarian responsibilities with full competence.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued a decision establishing the Emirates Competitiveness Council, to be chaired by the minister of cabinet affairs, with the economic minister as deputy chairman.

Also serving as members on the new council will be the ministers of foreign trade, education, labour, health, foreign affairs and financial affairs. The ministers will be joined on the council by representatives from the seven emirates, in addition to the director generals of the Federal, Abu Dhabi and Dubai of Chambers of Commerce.

The council will be tasked with developing competitive strategies, policies and initiatives in the country, and will publish periodic reports evaluating the state of national competitiveness.

Furthermore, the council will promote dialogue and cooperation between the public and private sectors, and track progress made in competitiveness, while boosting collaboration between federal government departments and their local counterparts.

Minister of Cabinet Affairs and chairman of the new council, Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi said that the objectives of the new council adhere to UAE government strategy, as set out by Sheikh Mohammed.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the English 1,000 Guineas, which was held in Newmarket today.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s horse ‘Qanaati’, mount of Richard Hills, won the feature race by one and a half lengths.

The race was attended by Dubai Deputy Ruler and Minister of Finance Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, senior officials and a large gathering of horse racing fans.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a cable of condolences to the Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani on the death of Sheikh Fahd bin Jassem bin Mohammed Al Abdul Rahman Al Thani, Minister of Enterprise and Trade.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum held a meeting with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi today, where they discussed educational strategies in the country.

The talks focused on identifying ways to harmonise the implementation of the federal government's strategies on education through the ministry of education, local educational councils, relevant authorities and UAE educationists.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed stressed the importance of education as a key component of the country’s sustainable development strategy and the best way to build a modern coherent society.

They also called for a pooling of efforts and increased collaboration to secure a better future for education, as a strategic means to achieving the greater national goals.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid highlighted that 23 percent of the federal budget is set aside for education, reflecting the vision and directives of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the great importance he attaches to education and meaningful investment in the sector.

Describing education as an integral part of Arab values and existence, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed underlined the significance of unifying the country’s education system, as it forms the basis of human resource development, central to building a modern progressive country.

The Vice President and the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince agreed to hold periodic meetings to give educational issues further attention.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi and Minister of Education Dr. Hanif Hassan.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum chaired a meeting of the Cabinet at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi today, in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

At the meeting, they discussed a wide range of issues, including an in-depth report by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources on personnel in the federal government. The Cabinet approved the study’s suggestion that a detailed comprehensive plan be prepared on the emiratisation of government jobs at federal institutions, with financial and administrative analysis to be undertaken.

Sheikh Mohammed called attention to the high participation levels of women in the federal government, which at 53 percent reflects the leadership’s commitment to achieving gender equality in all fields, including education, employment and training.

The Cabinet also approved the restructuring of the board of the Federal Electricity and Water Authority, to be chaired by the Minister of Energy, with a membership of ten other qualified nationals.

Additionally, the Cabinet endorsed the National Media Council’s final accounts to December 31, 2007, and ratified two agreements between the UAE and Vietnam, regarding the protection and promotion of investments between their countries, as well as a dual tax agreement.

Concluding the meeting, the Cabinet sanctioned a free trade agreement between GGC countries and Singapore, and approved a number of promotions and appointments in the federal government.

Syrian Prime Minister Mohammed Naji Al Otari took delivery of a state-of-the-art television studio today, built on a grant given by UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, with technical assistance from Dubai Media Incorporated (DMI).

During a ceremony held at the Prime Minister’s office, Otari received Media Escort to Sheikh Mohammed and Managing Director of DMI Ahmed Al Sheikh, who conveyed Sheikh Mohammed’s best wishes to the Prime Minister and the Syrian people.

Providing financial backing for the high-tech studios, Sheikh Mohammed had earlier ordered their construction, and assigned Ahmed Sheikh to oversee the project’s implementation.

The Syrian Prime Minister expressed great appreciation on behalf of Syria’s leadership and people for Sheikh Mohammed’s kind gesture, saying that it is but one of Sheikh Mohammed’s numerous initiatives for Syria and other Arabs.

Otari went on to stress the depth of fraternal relations between the leadership and the people of the UAE and Syria, and praised the efforts of DMI, which he said have given a huge boost to the development of Syrian media both locally and regionally.

The meeting was attended by Syrian Information Minister Mohsin Bilal, the UAE Ambassador to Syria Salim Al Zaabi, a delegation accompanying Ahmed Sheikh and a number of Syrian ministers.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received the Lifetime Contribution Award from the International Islamic Finance Forum today, in recognition of the significant role he has played in the development of Islamic finance.

The forum, one of the most prominent events in the Islamic finance calendar, is currently taking place at the JW Marriott Hotel in Dubai.

Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum accepted the award on behalf of Sheikh Mohammed from the Global Head of Islamic Finance for Thomson Reuters Rushdi Siddiqui.

At the ceremony, Siddiqui remarked that Sheikh Mohammed’s continued support for the forum, both solidifies and enhances the UAE’s position as a leading country in Islamic finance.

The event was attended by a number of senior officials, in addition to representatives from the economic and financial community.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent congratulatory cables to President Kgalema Motlanthe of South Africa and President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete of Tanzania on their countries’ national days.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the Dubai Human Development Awards (DHDA) and the Dubai Quality Awards (DQA) ceremony, held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Dubai today.

The DQA Awards, organised by the Dubai Economic Development Department (DED), recognize companies who achieve excellence through the adoption of best practices and quality-based approaches.

In his speech at the ceremony, Director General of the DED Sami Dha’en Al Qamzi, thanked Sheikh Mohammed for patronizing the awards since their inception in 1994.

Sheikh Mohammed presented the awards to the 2008 winners representing the education, healthcare, tourism, service, construction, manufacturing and finance sectors.

He also praised the chairman and members of the judging panel for their efforts and transparency in selecting the winners.

Sheikh Mohammed congratulated the winners and called on all companies to focus on quality and excellence, as they form the base of development and competition in the private sector. He went on describe how success and prosperity could be achieved through public-private partnerships in all sectors.

Also presenting awards at the ceremony was Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who honoured companies winning the DHDA Awards for 2008.

The DHDA awards, also organised by the DED, recognize companies who provide work opportunities to UAE nationals, to develop their abilities and to emphasize their role in the future of the country through training and guidance.

Amongst those receiving the awards were the UAE Exchange Centre, Dubai Real Estate Group, DP World and DEWA.

The ceremony was attended by Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, other ministers and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received New South Wales (NSW) Premier Nathan Rees today.

At the meeting, they reviewed ways of boosting cooperation between the UAE and Australia in general, with particular emphasis on collaboration between NSW and Dubai.

Present at the meeting were Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was the guest of honour at a graduation ceremony for over 400 UAE University students, held at Al Ain Sports Club today.

In his address to the graduates, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Chancellor of UAE University, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan expressed his deep gratitude for the support afforded by Sheikh Mohammed for science and academics in the country.

After distributing certificates to the graduates, Sheikh Mohammed congratulated them, and encouraged the students to become the leaders of tomorrow by continuing their education.

Sheikh Mohammed went on to praise the efforts of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak for driving higher education forward in the country, and was presented with memento of the occasion by the education minister at the close of the ceremony.

The university’s 28th graduation ceremony was attended by a number of crown princes, deputy rulers, other sheikhs, senior military and civilian officials, heads of diplomatic missions and a large gathering of the graduates’ families.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a luncheon banquet, hosted in his honour by Abu Dhabi Ruler's Representative in the Eastern Region Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan at his farm in Al Ain today.

Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Executive Council Member Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, other sheikhs and senior officials were also in attendance.

Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, visited today Cityscape Abu Dhabi 2009, the International Property Investment '&' Development event, being held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

He was received at the arrival by UAE Interior Minister HH Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Presidential Affairs Minister HH Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chief of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince's Court HH Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and high ranking officials.

Cityscape Abu Dhabi 2009 - The International Property Investment '&' Development event is an annual networking exhibition and conference focusing on all aspects of the property development cycle. It attracts regional and international investors, property developers, leading architects and designers to an annual forum that celebrates the very best in real estate, architecture, urban planning and design.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received an economic delegation representing China’s leading banks at his executive office in Emirates Towers today.

During the meeting, they discussed the ongoing collaboration between financial institutions in both countries and ways to develop the role of China’s biggest banks in the UAE, through cooperation with the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), as well as other financial institutions in the country.

This, it is hoped, will encourage further partnership and mutual investment in the financial sectors of both countries.

Sheikh Mohammed welcomed all partnership initiatives between the financial sectors of the UAE and China, especially within the private sector.

The meeting was attended by FNC Speaker Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, the Chinese Ambassador to the UAE Gao Yusheng and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of the UK and Northern Ireland on the occasion of her birthday.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received Microsoft CEO Bill Gates at his executive office in Emirates Towers today, in the presence of Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Minister of State and Chairperson of the Dubai Cares board Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi.

At the meeting, they reviewed various charitable and humanitarian issues of mutual concern, in addition to the role played by public sector institutions in alleviating poverty all over the world, especially in third world countries.

Sheikh Mohammed bore witness as a memorandum of incorporation was signed between Dubai Cares and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, establishing joint charitable ventures to tackle poverty in underdeveloped countries, with particular focus on Africa.

Signing on behalf of his foundation, Bill Gates expressed his delight with the accord, which unifies the efforts of both charities, and will boost coordination and the exchange of expertise between them.

After signing for Dubai Cares, Reem Al Hashemi said that the Dubai-based charity will send a delegation to meet with staff from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in May, where they will attend training courses and swap skills and expertise.

Sheikh Mohammed gave his blessing to the signing, and congratulated both Bill Gates and the minister of state on this initial step.

The signing ceremony was attended by Director of Dubai Ruler's Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani, Chairman of Dubai World Sultan bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman of Dubai Holdings Ahmed bin Bayat and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum responded to questions from the media during an online e-session on the Prime Minister’s Official Website today.

The global financial crisis and its impact on the UAE dominated the discussion, which also included questions about demography, labour rights, the proposed GCC single currency, UAE President Sheikh Khalifa's recent visit to Dubai and the UAE federation.

Sheikh Mohammed thanked media for their great interest in exploring issues and matters of concern with him through the Prime Minister’s Website.

Answering questions on a platform chosen to encourage dialogue, he responded openly to all questions from local and regional newspapers.

Sheikh Mohammed attributed the success of Dubai and the UAE to the great diversity within the economy, and its ability to capture the region’s imagination through information technology, the e-government and the knowledge economy.

Dubai, he affirmed, has also raised peoples’ expectations in the region in terms of good governance, transparency, the quality of public services and state-of-the-art infrastructure.

He added that the UAE has successfully dealt with the fall-out from the global financial crisis in record time.

Responding to questions about human rights, Sheikh Mohammed said that the country’s leadership has always shown great interest in preserving dignity, and pointed out that the UAE’s religion, values and ethics accept no violation of human rights.

Sheikh Mohammed will hold a further session where he will take questions from citizens on a date to be announced later.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Bashar Al Assad of Syria on the anniversary of Evacuation Day.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent a similar cable to the Grand Duke Henri of Luxemburg on his birthday.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan toured a number of landmarks and developmental projects in Dubai today, in the presence of Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Accompanying Sheikh Khalifa and Sheikh Mohammed on their tour were Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, National Security Advisor Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Department of Finance Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan and Abu Dhabi Ruler's Representative in the Eastern Region Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan.

Sheikh Khalifa was warmly received on the approach to Dubai in the Jebal Ali area by Sheikh Mohammed, who welcomed his gracious visit, and praised the attention he gives to the country's welfare.

They kicked off their tour with stopovers at Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residences, where the two leaders inspected residential, commercial and recreational developments, including the landmark Meraas project currently under construction. Following a brief visit to the Palm Jumeirah, the presidential motorcade proceeded to Union House, site of the historic document signing, which established the UAE Federation.

After posing for photos in front of the UAE flag, the leaders continued their tour along Sheikh Zayed Road to Burj Dubai, the world's tallest man made structure.

There, they reviewed the great progress underway in the district, which features buildings, water projects and infrastructure, designed with a strong oriental influence.

Sheikh Khalifa expressed great satisfaction with the cohesive nature of development throughout the emirates, and praised the wide variety projects and programmes currently underway in Dubai. These developments, the President affirmed, provide direct support to the national economy and the country's sustainable development.

Sheikh Khalifa went on to praise Sheikh Mohammed's wise vision, describing it as not only complementary to the UAE's development strategy, but also an integral part of the leadership's comprehensive plan to raise living standards and education levels for the country's citizens, through providing stability.

Towards the end of his tour, Sheikh Khalifa described how all achievements by individual citizens or emirates are viewed as national achievements, for which the people have a right to be proud.

''All citizens should be proud of these successes,'' he said, ''in addition to our authentic Arab heritage, culture and values, which we inherited from our forefathers.''

At the end of the tour, the presidential motorcade proceeded to Za'abeel Palace, where the two leaders held fraternal talks focusing on a host of issues related to national development. At the meeting, Sheikh Khalifa was briefed by Sheikh Mohammed on Dubai's future plans, which were given a strong welcome by the President, and received his blessings.

Sheikh Khalifa concluded by explaining how the progress of one emirate is complementary to the progress of all emirates, and is part and parcel of the country's overall development. These achievements both boost the national economy and improve the UAE's standing regionally and internationally, while serving the interests of the people.

Following the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed hosted a luncheon banquet in honour of Sheikh Khalifa.

Present at the banquet were Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, FNC Speaker Abdul Aziz Abdullah Al Ghurair, Abu Dhabi Ruler's Representative in the Eastern Region Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, National Security Advisor Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Military Escort to the President Omar bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Member of the Executive Council Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Department of Finance Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Dubai Deputy Chief Commander of Police and Security Lt. General Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Director General of Dubai Department of Information Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Public Works Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan and Deputy Minister for Presidential Affairs Ahmed Juma Al Zuabi.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has received the Chief of the Pakistani Army General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani at the Burj Al Arab in Dubai.

They discussed ways to enhance military cooperation between the UAE and Pakistan, especially in the areas of military training and the exchange of military expertise.

The meeting was attended by Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and National Security Advisor Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has offered condolences to Al Yousef on the death of Yousef Habib Al Yousef at the family residence in Al Jafliah.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum presented the President’s Cup to Al Ain Football Club this evening, following their 1-0 victory over Al Shabab Football Club at the Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

After the final whistle, Sheikh Mohammed presented the trophy, the winners medals and the runners-up medals to the teams, in the presence of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. In addition to the chance to participate in the 2010 Asian Champions League, the winners will receive a total prize fund of Dh5 million, with Dh2million going to the runners-up.

During the half-time interval, Sheikh Mohammed unveiled the UAE Football Association's new logo.

Also present at the match were Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Abu Dhabi Ruler's Representative in the Eastern Region Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, National Security Advisor Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and a large gathering of fans.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited the headquarters of Dubai Police today, where he was received by Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim, Deputy Commander General Major General Khamis Matar Al Mazina and senior officers.

He toured the various departments and inspected work, planning and development programmes in place, including a scholarship programme, which sends police officers abroad to specialize in different fields.

Sheikh Mohammed showed great interest in the programme, which aims to develop officers’ skills and enhance their service to the country.

Among the 188 students currently studying higher education decrees under the programme, 64 are studying forensic science and will go on to work in a new criminal laboratory, said by Dahi Khalfan, to be the most modern in the world.

The Commander General of Dubai Police briefed Sheikh Mohammed on the new laboratory and the equipment therein, command and control room operations and the various electronic devices used by the police in carrying out their duties.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed satisfaction with the swift progress at Dubai Police and its numerous departments, praising the efforts of all headquarters staff, under the leadership of Dahi Khalfan.

He said that investment in human capital embellishes the country and is one of the great national achievements.

Dahi Khalfan thanked Sheikh Mohammed for the visit, adding that it provides them with more incentive to increase their efforts.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received a delegation from the US Senate, headed by Senate Republican Party Leader Mitch McConnell at Al Marmoum today.

They discussed bilateral relations and ways to enhance cooperation between the UAE and the US at all levels, as well as economic conditions, both regionally and internationally.

Sheikh Mohammed exchanged views with the visiting delegation on ways to promote a culture of peace, especially in areas of conflict.

McConnell praised the achievements of the UAE, thanks to the country’s wise and balanced leadership.

The meeting was attended by Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Director of Dubai Ruler’s Court Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani, senior officials and the American Ambassador to the UAE Richard G. Olson.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has visited the site of Burj Dubai, where he inspected work in progress and the latest developments there.

Following the inspection, Sheikh Mohammed watched the Formula One Renault Roadshow nearby at the Water Front Park in the centre of the Burj Dubai complex.

Mohammad bin Sulayem, Vice President of the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the world governing body for motor sport, participated in the show.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Abdel Aziz Bouteflika of Algeria on his recent victory in the presidential elections.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has met with over 100 high-performing students from various education zones across the UAE at Za’abeel Palace.

Following a warm paternal welcome, Sheikh Mohammed listened to several poems delivered by the students, reflecting their feelings of belonging and love for the country and its leadership. The poems praised Sheikh Mohammed as an equestrian, a father, a poet and as a leader to be followed.

Sheikh Mohammed asked the students about their ambitions, and listened as they described their dreams and aspirations for future work and studies.

In giving guidance to the students, Sheikh Mohammed both advised and encouraged them to specialise in a variety of diverse fields, including science and technology, so that they may seize the opportunity to serve their society through work.

Sheikh Mohammed described the establishment of the UAE Federation, and spoke about the historic steps taken by the late Sheikh Zayed and the late Sheikh Rashid, which led to unification.

He went on to articulate the importance of education in building the country and its institutions, while stressing the need to preserve the cultural heritage of their forefathers, so that it may be passed on to future generations.

He told them that his government's strategy gives top priority to the education sector and to the development of human resources, capable of addressing challenges regardless of their scale.

Sheikh Mohammed assured his young guests of the determination of the country's leaders to deepen the culture of loyalty among the younger generations to their homeland and its leadership.

At the end of the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed congratulated the top performers for their excellence and wished them further success in their future studies.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum paid a surprise visit to a group of workshops, organised by the Interior Ministry at Bab Al Shams resort today.

The workshops are focused on discussing the Interior Ministry’s strategic development plan to ensure that it is consistent within the framework of the federal strategic plan 2015.

Following a briefing about the career development plan in place at the ministry, Sheikh Mohammed and Minister of Interior Lt-General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan listened to an outline of the basic route the ministry is taking to fulfil its role in the federal strategic plan.

During his tour of the workshops, Sheikh Mohammed spoke with officials and workshop participants to gain insight into their assigned tasks and ensure that they are working towards the Interior Ministry’s unified vision, which is vital in executing the Federal Government’s overall strategy.

Sheikh Mohammed praised the efforts of the workgroups, and urged them to prove their competence and skill in carrying out the duties they are assigned by the Interior Minister. He went on to describe Sheikh Saif as a role model to be followed by the ministry’s employees, adding that by adhering to his directives, they would activate the ministry’s role in the country.

The Interior Minister expressed his great appreciation for Sheikh Mohammed’s workshop visit, saying that such a gesture provides encouragement, while giving them guidance.

Sheikh Saif concluded by pointing out Sheikh Mohammed’s passion for breaking with work routines and going out into the field, so that he may be closer to the people and learn their needs.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received the Speaker of the UK House of Commons Michael Martin at Za’abeel Palace today.

At the meeting, they discussed ways of boosting cooperation and friendly relations between their two countries and other issues of mutual interest.

They went on to review the role played by parliaments and MPs in bringing peoples and cultures closer together, and called on their respective governments to establish balanced and just relations amongst all nations.

Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the significant impact parliamentarians have in strengthening humanitarian relations between different races and cultures, which brings us closer to a world where love, justice and equality prevail.

In addition to commending the UAE’s open policies towards other countries and cultures, the speaker praised the country’s outstanding role in encouraging and supporting cultural dialogue and understanding. These wise policies, he added, have facilitated in resolving regional and international disputes, and are respected and appreciated by countries around the world.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, FNC Speaker Abdul Aziz Abdullah Al Ghurair, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received the British Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise & Regulatory Reform Peter Mandelson at Za’abeel Palace today.

At the meeting, they discussed ways of enhancing bilateral ties, as well as strengthening cooperation between their countries in the fields of economics, commerce and the exchange of administrative know-how.

They also discussed the repercussions of the global financial crisis and the practical steps, which need to be taken by governments, to overcome the turmoil. These steps include encouraging and supporting banks and financial institutions, so that they may recover and play a crucial role in getting global economy back on track.

The British secretary concluded by praising the constructive steps taken by the UAE in supporting its national economy and financial institutions.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi and other senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended an awards ceremony honouring private sector companies, held at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai today.

The Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Business Awards were organised by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry. At the ceremony, Chairman of the board of Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry Abdulrahman Al Ghurair praised Sheikh Mohammed’s vision and endless support for the private sector.

Sheikh Mohammed handed out the awards to about 18 companies and establishments, representing the industrial, financial services, construction and real estate sectors, among others.

On congratulating the winners, Sheikh Mohammed urged them to be more creative, stressing the vital role the private sector plays in boosting the national economy. He added that the private sector complements the public sector, and acts as a major tributary to the development path.

Also present at the ceremony were Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, several sheikhs and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a cable of condolences to President Giorgio Napolitano of Italy for the victims of the earthquake, which struck central Italy yesterday. The earthquake claimed hundreds of lives and left thousands more homeless.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his heartfelt condolences to the people of Italy and families of the victims. He prayed that the Almighty would spare Italy from further harm.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the emirates, crown princes and deputy rulers attended the closing ceremony of the annual Arab Pedigree Camel Contest, held at Al Wathba today.

The attendees looked on as local performers put on a display of national folklore and culture, which is deeply rooted in the UAE’s heritage.

Towards the close of the event, Sheikh Khalifa, along with the Rulers of the emirates, presented prizes to the winners of the three camel races.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended a luncheon banquet at Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi today, to celebrate the wedding of Sheikh Khalid bin Zayed Al Nahyan to the daughter of Sheikh Nayhan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

The celebration was also attended by Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the emirates, crown princes, deputy rulers and a large number of dignitaries.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum met with the chairman and members of the UAE Human Rights Committee at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi today.

At the meeting, the committee presented a report on the UAE's Universal Periodic Review (UPR), which it had earlier submitted to the Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Sheikh Mohammed praised the efforts and success of the committee, led by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Dr. Anwar Mohammed Gergash, saying that cooperation and coordination between government institutions and civil society organisations (CSOs) reflect high levels of integration in UAE society. He went on to affirm that the UAE’s leadership, government and institutions are committed to safeguarding human rights, especially those of women and children.

He asked the committee to plug any future gaps in human rights, and highlighted the UAE’s success in protecting those rights, adding that all people are entitled to enjoy freedom, dignity and respect.

Sheikh Mohammed commended those involved in preparing the report, which was submitted to the Human Rights Council in Geneva in September 2008 and approved last month. The council’s adoption of the report is considered international recognition of the UAE’s integrity and transparency regarding human rights issues.

The meeting was attended by Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Dr. Anwar Mohammed Gargash and Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum chaired a meeting of the Cabinet at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi today, in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The Cabinet approved a decision to add the existing supplementary allowance, equal to 70 percent of salary, to the basic salaries of UAE national employees working in the Federal Government. They specified the allowance amount as equal to 70 percent of the current starting salary for each grade, and ratified a minimum pension payment of Dh6,000 per month for the same group.

The decision applies to all serving employees and to those who have retired since January 1st, 2008, and reflects the great attention given by Sheikh Mohammed and the government to ensuring a stable work environment for all national staff working at the Federal Government.

The Cabinet also approved the establishment of the Emirates Competitiveness Council to be headed by Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, with a membership of the ministers of economy, foreign trade, education, labour, health and foreign affairs. The ministers will be joined on the council by a representative from the executive departments from each of the seven emirates, in addition to the Director Generals of the Federal, Abu Dhabi and Dubai of Chambers of Commerce. The council will be tasked with developing competitive strategies, policies and initiatives for the UAE, and will publish periodic reports evaluating the state of the UAE’s competitiveness.

Furthermore, the council will promote dialogue and cooperation between the public and private sectors and track progress made in competitiveness, while boosting collaboration between federal government departments and their local counterparts. The council aims to place nationals at the centre of the country’s development process, by attracting local professionals, capable of advancing innovation and development.

The Cabinet also approved the establishment of a committee to oversee the import and export of commodities, to be headed by the Foreign Ministry, with representatives from the Interior Ministry, the Armed Forces, the Ministry of Economy and the Federal Customs Authority.

While working with relevant authorities on the implementation of import and export practices, the committee will study proposals from concerned authorities to regulate and restrict certain commodities. The committee will also provide advice on the granting of import and export licenses, in addition outlining procedures for the imposition of duties on traded goods.

The Cabinet sanctioned the opening of embassies in the Republic of Ireland, Mexico, Ethiopia, Portugal, Azerbaijan and Montenegro, as well as the establishment of a UAE consulate in Los Angeles.

The Cabinet also approved a federal law to protect new crop varieties, and discussed other Federal Government issues and took appropriate decisions.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has participated in the 120km Dubai Crown Prince Endurance Cup, which was held at Dubai International Endurance City at Seih Assalam today.
Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum won the race.

Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who participated for the first time in this season, presented the Cup to Sheikh Hamdan.

Dubai Deputy Ruler and Minister of Finance Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, other sheikhs and senior officials watched the race.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan received Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at Al Rodah Palace.

Sheikh Mohammed briefed Sheikh Khalifa about his recent visit to Russia.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in the Eastern Region Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Mohammad Al Nahyan, Minister of interior Sheikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and other Sheikhs and senior Officials. Sheikh Khalifa held banquet in honour of the attendees.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Mamadou Tandja of Niger on his country's Revolution Day.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent a cable of condolence to Argentina's President Cristina Fernandez De Kirchner on the death of former Argentinean President Raúl Ricardo Alfonsín.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inspected a number of dams on a tour of the eastern region of the UAE today.

Accompanying Sheikh Mohammed on his tour were Minister of Public Works Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Environment and Water Dr. Rashid Ahmed bin Fahad, Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Khalfan Tamim, Mohammed Khalifa Naboodah, Dubai Director of Protocol and Hospitality Khalifa Saeed Suleiman and officials at the Ministry of Environment and Water.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Abdoulaye Wade of Senegal on his country's Independence Day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum held talks with Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin at the Friendship Palace in Moscow today.

In his opening address, the Russian Prime Minister extended a warm welcome to Sheikh Mohammed and his accompanying delegation, describing the visit as a success at all levels, in light of discussions held with Russian President Dmitri Medvedev yesterday.

Putin expressed confidence that the visit would strengthen friendly relations and boost cooperation between their nations, while stating that the volume of commercial exchange between the UAE and Russia has yet to reach the levels desired by their countries’ leadership.

He reiterated that bilateral relations are in constant development at all levels, especially in the spheres of politics, economics and commerce, and described both countries as having the required fundamentals to foster future cooperation.

He added that future collaboration shouldn’t be limited to the energy sector alone, but should extend to other areas, including tourism, technology, space and investment. He concluded by illustrating the efforts being made by both countries to develop such sectors, particularly at the private sector level.

In response, Sheikh Mohammed said he was pleased to "visit this great country, Russia and its friendly people", describing the relations between the two countries as historic and strategic.

Sheikh Mohammed said that there are numerous opportunities to bolster bilateral relations in all fields, adding that his talks with the Russian President and officials were fruitful, and would soon reflect positively on the relations between their two countries.

Sheikh Mohammed extended an official invitation to Prime Minister Putin, which he graciously accepted.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Interior Minister Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of State For Foreign Affairs Dr. Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi, UAE Ambassador to Russia Omar Saif Ghobash, in addition to several Russian ministers and high-ranking officials.

Following the meeting, Vladamir Putin hosted a luncheon banquet in honour of Sheikh Mohammed and his accompanying delegation at the Friendship Palace.

Sheikh Mohammed subsequently met with members of his accompanying business delegation, in the presence of Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Interior Minister Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan. In discussions about the current financial crisis, Sheikh Mohammed said that its effect on the UAE’s economy cannot be compared with the negative effect it has had on other countries.

Sheikh Mohammed advised that crises create men who rise to the challenge and respond with wisdom and innovation. He added this is how the UAE leadership, government and institutions are endeavouring to counter the situation.

Sheikh Mohammed described how the Federal Government has offered the necessary backup and support to investment institutions, as part of it efforts to promote new investment in local economy. He also went on to explain how the government is working hard to develop all the emirates to attain a unified level of development across the country.

Sheikh Mohammed spoke about previous generations of Emiratis who lived in difficult conditions, with a scarcity of water and few resources, and how despite this, they left us with a strong heritage and history that we can be proud of as a nation.

He said that we must be thankful that the country and economy are safe, and that we should not worry or be pessimistic, as these are not national virtues.

To keep the union strong and proud, Sheikh Mohammed said that we must always look forward, and that this is the lesson to be learned from the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.

The meeting was attended by Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of State For Foreign Affairs Dr. Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi, UAE Ambassador to Russia Omar Saif Ghobash, and other officials.

Following the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed visited the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Alexander Garden in Moscow, where he was received by the officer in charge of the memorial.

Sheikh Mohammed was welcomed by a guard of honour playing funeral music, and was briefed on the tomb and the lives of Soviet soldiers who fought in the Second World War.

Sheikh Mohammed listened to the UAE national anthem, after which he left a wreath at the tomb.

Accompanying Sheikh Mohammed to the memorial site, were Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Interior Minister Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan and other members of the delegation.

Later, Sheikh Mohammed concluded his two-day visit to Russia, and departed Moscow along with his delegation. Sheikh Mohammed was seen off at Moscow International Airport by several senior Russian officials, the UAE Ambassador to Russia Omar Saif Ghobash, UAE Embassy staff and a number of Arab ambassadors to Russia.

In a cable to President Medvedev, Sheikh Mohammed expressed his appreciation for the kind reception he received, and his gratitude for the opportunity to exchange views about issues of mutual interest, in addition to establishing economic, cultural and scientific partnerships.

He described the visit as a great opportunity to get acquainted with the culture and heritage of the Russian people, whose achievements receive admiration and respect around the world.

Sheikh Mohammed also sent a similar cable to Prime Minister Vladimir Putin.

Sheikh Mohammed and his delegation arrived back in Dubai this evening, where they were received at Dubai International Airport by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Deputy Ruler and Finance Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and several senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum went on a walking tour of Red Square, Russia’s most significant landmark for heritage, tourists and shoppers in the heart of Moscow. It is home to the Kremlin Wall, Kazan Cathedral and Lenin Mausoleum. He stopped at Gum, one of the world’s largest shopping centres and toured the four-story centre’s different departments.

On his tour, Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied by Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi and several other members of his delegation. Sheikh Mohammed expressed great pleasure with his tour, in addition to his admiration for Russian culture.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum held talks with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev at the Kremlin in Moscow today.

President Medvedev welcomed Sheikh Mohammed and his accompanying delegation, saying that the visit begins a new phase in their excellent relations, and will lead to a strengthening of the historical friendship between their countries and peoples.

Expressing his delight, both on visiting Moscow and meeting with the Russian President, Sheikh Mohammed said that there’s a fresh impetus driving a promising new stage of friendship between their countries.

The talks also covered the Middle East, other regional issues and ways to bring peace to conflict zones in the Middle East. Sheikh Mohammed underlined the pivotal role played by Russia in solution of the Palestinian issue, and its acknowledgment of the Palestinians’ legitimate right to establish an independent state.

The meeting was attended by Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Interior Minister Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of State For Foreign Affairs Dr. Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi, UAE Ambassador to Russia Omar Saif Ghobash, businessmen and senior officials.

Earlier, Sheikh Mohammed arrived in Moscow on the two-day visit to Russia, in response to an official invitation by Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin. He was accorded an official reception and was greeted by Russian government officials, heads of Arab diplomatic missions to Russia, the UAE Ambassador to Russia Omar Saif Ghobash and UAE Embassy staff, in addition to Emirati students based in Russia. The national anthems of the UAE and Russia were played prior to inspecting the Russian guard of honour.

Sheikh Mohammed is leading a high-level delegation that includes Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Interior Minister Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of State For Foreign Affairs Dr. Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Minister of State Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi, businessmen and senior officials.

Sheikh Mohammed was seen off at Dubai International Airport by Dubai Deputy Ruler and Minister of Finance Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and other senior officials.

In a statement to the Novosti Russian News Agency, Sheikh Mohammed expressed confidence that his visit to Moscow, where he will meet with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, will lead to new shared visions and ideas, which will strengthen their countries relations, based on mutual respect and benefits.

Visiting Moscow with such a high-level delegation, made up of ministers, officials and private sector businessmen, reflects the great emphasis placed on building new bridges of cooperation by the UAE's leadership, government and people. These new channels will lay the foundations for broader collaboration, and bolster economic and investment partnership between the UAE and Russia.

We view this visit with great hope and optimism, and are confident that it will not only produce positive tangible results, but will reflect well on both countries to the benefit of all our peoples. We intend to work hard to pump new blood into the global economy in an effort to revive it.

We are confident that this visit, where we will meet with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, will lead to new shared visions and ideas, which will strengthen our countries relations, based on mutual respect and benefits.

This will stimulate individuals and public institutions to play a central role in strengthening our historical friendship in cultural, tourism, technological and scientific spheres, among others. We rely on this friendship to pave the way for economic and investment partnership, based on cultural and humanitarian communication.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Eddie Fenech Adami of Malta on his country's Freedom Day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum will lead a high level delegation on a two-day visit to Russia tomorrow, in response to an official invitation by Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin.

Sheikh Mohammed will hold talks with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev on bilateral relations, and discuss new ways to cooperate in various fields, especially in the economic, cultural, tourism and technology sectors.

They will also discuss regional and international developments and other issues of mutual interest.

The delegation accompanying Sheikh Mohammed includes Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Interior Minister Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of State For Foreign Affairs Dr. Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Minister of State: Reem Ibrahim Al Hashemi, UAE ambassador to Russia Omar Saif Ghobash, businessmen and senior officials.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has sent a congratulatory cable to President Eddie Fenech Adami of Malta on his country's Freedom Day.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the 14th edition of the Dubai World Cup, held at Nad Al Sheba Racecourse in Dubai today.

Sheikh Mohammed presented Bill Casner, the owner of the winning horse Well Armed with the 2009 Dubai World Cup, in presence of Dubai Deputy Ruler and Finance Minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and other sheikhs. Brazilian bred Gloria de Campeao was a distant second, while the Saudi Arabian horse Paris Perfect, owned by Prince Faisal bin Khalid bin Abdul Aziz, came in third.

In a statement to the media following the race, Sheikh Mohammed said that the 14th Dubai World Cup was the last to be staged at the Nad Al Sheba track, adding that next year’s World Cup will be run at the new Meydan complex. He went on to describe the event as successful, and expressed delight with the huge crowd in attendance.

Sheikh Mohammed congratulated his son Sheikh Hamdan, owner of Eastern Anthem, who won the $5 million Dubai Sheema Classic, and his son Sheikh Mansour on the victory achieved by Gladiatorus in the Dubai Duty Free (Group 1), praising UAE jockey Ahmed Al Ketbi and trainer Mubarak bin Shafya.

Also present at the event were Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Ajman Sheikh Ammar Al Nuaimi, Minister of Presidential Affairs Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Secretary General and Deputy Chief of Dubai Police Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Foundation Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Saeed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, other sheikhs, officials, horse owners, in addition to a large gathering of horse racing fans. Mohammed's statement on the opening of the 2009 Dubai World Cup.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan received His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain at Al Rodha Palace in Al Ain today, in the presence of Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Sheikh Khalifa welcomed the king and his accompanying delegation, wishing him a pleasant stay in the UAE.

During the meeting, they discussed the fraternal relations between their countries and people, and ways of strengthening existing ties.

They also discussed issues of mutual interest, in addition to developments taking place, both regionally and internationally. Following the meeting, Sheikh Khalifa hosted a luncheon banquet in honour of his guests.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has paid a visit to the riders who participated in the Dubai Crown Prince FEI CEI 2-Star Endurance Cup, due to be run over a 130km course.

The race had to be abandoned following the first phase, as the technical committee adjudged the conditions too adverse, and decided to postpone it for few days, as a consequence of heavy rain, hail, and severe thunder storms at Dubai Endurance City in Seih Al Salam.

Sheikh Mohammed, along with his son Sheikh Hamdan and other top riders had earlier taken part in t