Dubai Ladies Club Raises AED 60,000 For Charity

The second edition of the annual ‘Donate Your Bag’ Charity Sale proved to be a huge success with all the pre-loved designer bags and accessories SOLD OUT only one hour after opening the doors to the event. Dubai Ladies Club, a member of Dubai Women Establishment, a raised AED 60,000 from the sale of over 100 gently-used designer bags and accessories from a variety of luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Alexander McQueen, Givenchy, Gucci, Fendi, Dior, Chanel, Burberry and many others. The funds raised will be dedicated to Mohammed bin Rashid Charitable Humanitarian Foundation.

Muna bin Kalli, Executive Director of Dubai Ladies Club said, “We have managed to achieve remarkable success for our Charity campaign, thanks to the support of our corporate partners and most of all because of the participation of ladies from the community. It gives me great pleasure to see the great cross-community effort that has made this event a tremendous achievement. Ladies from across the UAE came forward to donate their gently-used designer bags and accessories for the final Charity Sale which was well attended by other women from the community who purchased these donated items to benefit the Mohammed bin Rashid Charitable Humanitarian Foundation. This confirms once again that women in the United Arab Emirates are keen to contribute to charitable endeavours to spread the spirit of solidarity among society."

On Saturday, hundreds of shoppers and visitors flocked to Dubai Ladies Club for a chance to purchase their favourite designer bags and accessories at only a fraction of their original prices. Organised as part of a host of Ramadan activities at Dubai Ladies Club, the ‘Donate Your Bag’ Charity Sale was the conclusion to an annual charity campaign that was launched earlier this year.

Dubai Ladies Club is keen to continue to launch programs and initiatives aimed at uniting various community groups, benefiting those in need, and spreading the spirit of solidarity in these economically tough times.

About Donate Your Bag & Accessories Charity Campaign

Launched in 2009 by Dubai Ladies Club in collaboration with Reem and Hind Beljafla of DAS Collection; the Club had invited ladies to donate their gently used designer bags and accessories - such as sunglasses, jewellery and belts for a special Charity Sale where all donations and funds raised would be dedicated to Mohammed bin Rashid Charitable Humanitarian Foundation.

Dubai Ladies Club collected over 300 bags and accessories over the course of the campaign from which 100 were selected to be displayed during the exhibition from a variety of luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Fendi, Dior, Chanel and many others.

Moreover, Louis Vuitton generously donated a BRAND NEW Alma Amarante bag to become part of the collection.
All donated were thoroughly checked for authenticity through a series of stringent tests courtesy of Toujours Chic, a UAE based boutique & website selling authentic gently-used designer handbags and accessories. A certificate guaranteeing 100% authenticity accompanied with every bag and accessory to assure all buyers that they are not knock offs.

In the build to the big Charity Sale event, Arabian Centre also hosted a special showcasing of the most unique and distinctive items from the ‘Donate Your Bag & Accessories’ Charity Collection from Monday, 16 August until Thursday, 26 August, 2010. This special exhibition will offered Fashionistas the opportunity to preview the collection prior to the sale.
 

Dubai Bank Kunooz Account Proves 7 Times Lucky For Emarati Customer

For Rashid Khalifa, an Emarati government employee in his forties, August has proved to be an extremely special month - when he was declared the winner of Dubai Bank’s million dirham draw as a valued Kunooz account holder.

Having won 10,000 dirhams each in six previous draws, Rashid was hoping that he would be lucky one more time, this hope proved well founded when he received a call from Dubai Bank that he had won the million dirham prize.

On this occasion, Rashid, a father of four children who has been a Kunooz Account holder for the last ten months, said, “This is a wonderful moment for me and I am going to use this windfall to invest in my children’s future. I have reinvested the entire million dirhams back into Kunooz as it is a flexible and Shari’a compliant savings account with the promise of winning substantial prizes through daily and monthly draws.”

Tariq Al Farsi, Head of Branches at Dubai Bank, who presented the winning cheque to Mr. Khalifa, said, “Month after month, winners like Mr. Rashid have been the recipients of a million dirhams, transforming their lives forever. The appeal of Kunooz, with its savings potential and the opportunity to generate optimal returns, has grown exponentially among customers across the UAE. The added benefit of channeling their savings in a prudent and Shari’a-compliant manner has also proved to be a big draw for customers.”

Under the Kunooz monthly cash prize promotion, each multiple of AED 1,000 deposited in the Kunooz Account qualifies the customer for multiple entries into the draw for daily cash prizes of AED 30,000. For every multiple of AED 5,000 deposited, account holders become eligible for entry into the monthly grand prize draw of AED 1 million. The programme also offers participants the possibility to win more than once.
 

Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf Advocates Moderate Religious Outlook At Dubai School Of Government Talk

The key to cultural progress and religious acceptance is interfaith dialogue, tolerance for diversity, religious understanding, bridge-building and moderation, according to Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf, Islamic religious scholar and the Founder and CEO of the American Society for Muslim Advancement (ASMA Society).

The Imam’s comments came during a talk on “Religious Tolerance and Muslim Life in America” held at the Dubai School of Government (DSG).

He said: "We are Christians and Muslims, but one of our faults is instead of worshipping God, we worship our religion and use that to cause division between us. The sense of brotherhood and unity that the prophets had for each other as servants of the true God is the primary lesson we should all learn.

“The demand is on us (Muslims) to feel a special brotherhood with the Christian and Jewish faiths and certainly our own. It is time to accept that the Laws of Moses, Jesus and Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) were never opposed to each other."

During his talk, Imam Feisal discussed the need to promote healthy dialogue and understanding between Muslims and the West. He also described the reality of Islamic life and freedom of worship in the US.

He added: “It is important to raise awareness and disseminate knowledge to minimize misconceptions or prejudice. For this purpose, it is important to augment the avenues for studying Christian or Jewish culture in the Middle Eastern universities, which is in stark contrast to the universities in the West, many of which offer courses in Islamic studies.”

The Imam is on an outreach trip spanning key countries in the Middle East organised by the US State Department. His Excellency Justin Siberell, the US Counsul-General in Dubai, as well as officials from the Consulate and the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi, were present at the lecture.

Dr. Tarik Yousef, Dean of the Dubai School of Government, said: “The need for tolerance and religious understanding is greater now than ever before. There are those who would drive the world toward a “clash of civilizations” scenario, but the vast majority of people in both the Islamic and Western worlds seek a peaceful world based on mutual respect. We are honored to host Iman Feisal Abdul Rauf, who has devoted his life to promoting a tolerant, open and confident vision of Islam which is fully at home in America, and we in the Dubai School of Government look forward to continuing our initiatives toward strengthening the bonds of understanding between the West and the Muslim world.”

Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf is the Imam of Masjid Al-Farah, a mosque in New York City. He has dedicated his life to building bridges between Muslims and the West and is a leader in the effort to foster religious pluralism and integrate Islam into the contemporary American society.

By establishing ASMA in 1997, he created the first Muslim organization committed to bringing Muslims and non-Muslims together through programmes in academia, policy, current affairs and culture. As Imam of Masjid Al-Farah, he preaches a message of peace and understanding between people, regardless of creed, nationality or political beliefs.

Established in 2005 in cooperation with the Harvard Kennedy School, the Dubai School of Government is committed to the creation of knowledge and the dissemination of global best practices in the Arab world. The institution conducts various programmes that seek to enhance the region’s capacity for effective public policies.

For more details, visit www.dsg.ae or call 04 329 3290.
 

’Eid In Dubai’ Readies To Organize Back-To-School Exhibition And Funfair At Airport Expo Dubai

Airport Expo Dubai is all set to host a back-to-school exhibition and a funfair as part of ‘Eid in Dubai’ festivities to mark Eid Al Fitr. Organised by the Dubai Events and Promotions Establishment (DEPE), ‘Eid in Dubai’ aims at bringing various resident nationalities together to celebrate Eid and the venue will be just one of many entertainment destinations planned as part of the occasion. In addition to the exhibition, DEPE is also putting up an extensive funfair featuring rides, games, and much more for children.

The back-to-school exhibition, organized by Concept Brands Trading, will be held from September 9th to September 18th between 10am and 10pm at the East Hall of the Expo. Some of the best known brands in school stationery such as Pelikan, Staedtler, 3M, and Touchmate will be part of the display. While the focus is on stationery, visitors can browse through a wide range of products such as laptops, computer accessories, uniforms, and books, with discounts of between 30 and 70%.

The Expo will also be the venue for a massive funfair at the Central Hall. Spread across a wide area, the funfair features rides, skill games, redemption games, a soft play area, an inflatable zone, and Play-Station zone. Aimed at attracting children and families and creating an exciting family experience, entrance to the funfair will be free and to celebrate the spirit of Eid, ride tickets will be priced reasonably.
 

Emirates NBD Hosts Suhour For Dubai Media

In celebration of the Holy Month of Ramadan, Emirates NBD, a leading bank in the region, held a Suhour gathering for media representatives in Dubai. The event took place at the Al Majlis Tent, Mina A’Salam Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah, and was hosted by members of Emirates NBD’s Management.

The large number of guests attending the evening event comprised of Dubai-based journalists from a range of national and international publications and broadcast channels. The Arabian style hospitality and ambience of the tent provided an ideal setting for guests to meet and network with senior management in a relaxed and informal atmosphere.
 

University Of Dubai Launches A Unique MBA Program

The University of Dubai (UD), a prestigious university in the UAE established by Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is launching a unique MBA programme accredited by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research.

The program is highly integrated and will tackle three challenging areas - Managing the Organization, Making Choices, and Making a Difference, keeping in view the unique characteristics of UAE in particular and the region in general. The UDMBA will offer double majors in four disciplines - Leadership and Human Resources Management, Operations and Logistics Management, Finance and Accounting, and International Business and Marketing.

This highly integrated international curriculum puts emphasis on applied learning and provides a holistic learning experience, drawing from a variety of organizational disciplines and theoretical perspectives. The course will help UD students establish and sustain a successful managerial or professional business careers while developing those skills that are required to think logically and plan strategically.

Dr M. Omar Hefni, President of UD said: “We are pleased to introduce this Master’s degree program that is built on substantial experience of staff who combine the Gulf-specific industry experience with a strong ability to teach and research. In addition to an immediate job placement, UD students also get the chance to be connected with the University’s Alumni Association that provides excellent networking opportunities amongst current and former students.”

The small size classes with 20-25 students offer students a great deal of individual attention and a rolling admission facility which provides students a greater flexibility to plan their studies at their own convenience. The 15-month UDMBA encourages innovation, achievement and excellence that is relevant to the needs of both regional public and private sector companies. It also gives individuals the chance to develop their full potential as business leaders of the 21st century.

Registration for the new session starts on September 12.
 

Dubai Customs Plans To Increase Number Of Customers’ Parking Lots

Dubai Customs plans to increase the parking lots designated for customers at its main building in Port Rashid to 513 instead of 258 lots to foster clients` needs and meet the growing increase in the number of customers and visitors.

The move comes in conjunction with the imminent completion of the multi-storey parking project being constructed by Dubai Customs in area of 15.7 thousand square meters accommodating 600 vehicles that intended to be designated for employees while the current 255 staff parking lots would be allotted for customers and visitors use.

Mr. Mansoor Buosaiba, Senior Manager of Administrative Affairs Department at Dubai Customs stated that the new parking building would consist of a ground floors plus four floors and roof fitted with highest safety and security standards in consistence with the green buildings.

“The idea on building parking area, which started last October, comes as part of Dubai Customs strategic plan 2007 – 2011 and was adopted following a lengthy study on clients and staff needs and producing appropriate solutions to improve customers’ services delivery standards in a way ensuring enhancement of both clients and employees` satisfaction levels.

The parking areas include 3 lifts and toilets fitted with security system, surveillance cameras and 24x7 security guarding whereas 12 parking lots have been allotted to special needs taking into consideration that parking driveways and bridges are prepared for the use of handicapped people.
 

Dubai Tea Trading Centre Registers 26 Per Cent Growth In Tea Trade During First Half Of 2010

The Dubai Tea Trading Centre (DTTC), an initiative of Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), has announced a record 6.2 million kilos of tea transacted in the first six months of 2010.

The overall tea trade through Dubai for the first six months of the year increased to 64.2 million kilos, an increase of 11.3 per cent from 58 million kilos, primarily due to favourable growing conditions resulting in higher production in most tea producing countries.

With the recent trend of higher production and favourable climatic conditions in the major producing countries, tea prices have been extremely volatile in the past few months. However, the general trend still continues to remain buoyant as carry forward stocks are low and there is good demand.

"Last year, global tea production saw a deficit of nearly 60 million kilos of tea due to drought in major tea-producing countries," said Ahmed bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman, DMCC. "However, the favourable climatic conditions in the first half of this year have led to an increased tea production by more than 107 million kilos. At DMCC, we remain committed to increasing tea trade through Dubai and strengthening the emirate’s position as a major hub for global tea trade. Through our efforts, we are confident that Dubai will play a pivotal role in the supply chain for the industry.”

Sanjay Sethi, Director, DTTC, said: "Since its inception in 2005, the Centre has grown consistently, with increased transactions and global tea producers, merchant exporters and buyers establishing their base here. As we continue to enhance our services for the trade, we have witnessed an increased demand for our value-added services such as blending, packaging of tea bags as well as loose tea in retail formats, storage facilities and office space for tea companies.”

Dubai remains the second largest export destination for both Indian and Sri Lankan tea. The DTTC presently stocks teas from 13 producing countries, including Kenya, India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Vietnam, Nepal, China and Iran. In keeping with its mandate to further increase the tea trade in and through Dubai, the DTTC also facilitates sales with buyers in the GCC countries, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Libya, Morocco, Pakistan, Afghanistan, UK and the CIS countries and has plans to expand its services to other Middle East and European markets.

Earlier this year, DTTC hosted the 3rd Global Tea Forum in Dubai, capitalising on Dubai’s longstanding position as a global trading hub. The only global event in the region specific to the tea industry, over 360 delegates participated at this event, representing the entire value chain of the tea industry.
 

Dubai Creek Marina Announces Middle East’s First Used Boat Show

The Middle East’s first and only ‘Used Boat Show’ has been officially announced by organisers Dubai Creek Marina, Dubai’s leading full service marina situated within Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club on the banks of the stunning Dubai Creek.

Set to take place over three days, 4th – 6th November 2010, the exciting event has been created to offer genuine value and choice to existing yachting enthusiasts as well as encouraging more people to get out onto the water with friends and family.

Speaking on the first boat show of its kind in the region, Mustafa Al Hashimi, Club Manager of Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, said;

“Driven by growing demand and interest from boat owners, the Dubai Used Boat Show is a response to an enormous gap in the market, bringing buyers and sellers directly together. Currently there is no event like it in the UAE.

“Any marine retailer or boat owner interested in trading up or down should make use of this ideal opportunity to showcase their vessels and equipment to the local yachting community at very affordable rates in the heart of Dubai.”

Combining great deals on over forty used vessels of all sizes from world renowned manufacturers, alongside leading marine traders covering finance, insurance, accessories, maintenance services and supplies, the Dubai Used Boat Show offers absolutely everything an aspiring or current boat owner could possibly need in one convenient location.

Al Hashimi, continued; “The Dubai Used Boat Show is a celebration of life on the water with the aim of making yachting and marine leisure more accessible. Whether only starting out or an experienced yachtsman, this is the perfect and only occasion to consider options on the used market and learn more by speaking to the local experts.
“Getting out onto the water is a very simple pleasure, yet currently yachting in the Middle East has ultra exclusive image of superyachts affordable only to the few. However, enjoying the beautiful waters off the UAE’s coast does not need to be out of reach, there are affordable options as the Used Boat Show will clearly highlight.”

Open and free of charge to the public with children welcome, the Dubai Used Boat Show will be hosted at the award winning marina at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club which currently has capacity amongst its 121 berths, providing an extra incentive to anyone interested in yachting, as Stuart Burke, Marina Manager at Dubai Creek Marina explained;

“It’s a very exciting time at Dubai Creek. Typically it is very rare for berths to become available at Dubai Creek, but with capacity currently available and the Dubai Used Boat Show taking place in November there could be no better time to get involved and sample the spirit of sailing.

“With excellent deal on quality vessels from 18ft and upwards displayed on land and water, experts on hand, leading traders showcasing their latest equipment the Dubai Used Boat show is a must-attend event.”

Far more than just a boat show, the event includes a host of fun attractions geared towards entertaining the entire family on a day out. The action on the edge of the water at Dubai Creek features everything from a kid’s zone and food village serving up fresh seafood and international cuisine to live music and daily prizes.

Managed by Dubai Golf, through parent company wasl Asset Management Group, , Dubai Creek Marina will make further announcements in coming months confirming the specific details of the vessels for sale and the traders exhibiting during the Dubai Used Boat Show.

For further information on selling or exhibiting at the Dubai Used Boat Show and available berths at Dubai Creek Marina and Yacht Club please; Telephone: +971 4 295 6000 or Email: marina@dubaigolf.com
 

RTA Ramadan Football Tournament Concludes, Dubai Taxi Grabs The Title

Belrimaitha Club saw the final of Ramadan Football Tournament organized by the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) featuring participation of all RTA agencies & sector over a week. The events were played in teams divided in two groups, each group comprises 4 teams.

Dubai Taxi Corporation team emerged as the winner having defeated Corporate Technical Support Services Sector in the final in penalty shootout (4/2) after the prescribed match time ended in a draw. RTA Security team finished second after defeating Corporate Administrative Support Services Sector (2/1).

Commenting on the Tournament, Acting Director of Administrative Corporate Support Services Sector Yousef Jawad Al Rida, said: “This Tournament is part of the sports activities organized by RTA Events Committees during the holy month of Ramadan with the aim of creating fun for RTA employees in a way compatible with the spirit and vibrant activities marking the month, particularly in the evening and after Taraweeh prayers”.

“The event was co-sponsored by Al Marai Company and Leader Sport Company. The first company distributed 150 juice cans daily to the public throughout the days of the Tournament, and the second company provided sports shirts to the participating teams along with trophies and medals to the first four finishers,” continued Jawad.

He thanked both companies for their substantial contributions which were instrumental for the success of the Tournament, and also reflected the corporate responsibilities of both companies towards various segments of the community.
 

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