What do you picture when you think of Al Ain? Perhaps selfies on Jebel Hafit or getting up close with a giraffe at the famous Al Ain Zoo or stepping back in time at the century-old Qasr Al Muwaiji. A new campaign by Experience Abu Dhabi showcases all this and more, inviting viewers on a journey to discover the rich history, exciting attractions, and enticing hidden gems of the Living Oasis city, Al Ain — a destination waiting to be explored with friends and family. 

The four-part documentary-style campaign takes viewers to the heart of Al Ain, showcasing the city and surrounding region’s rich tapestry of culture, adventure, and tradition. From exploring ancient forts and lush oases to trying thrilling outdoor activities and discovering vibrant local life, the documentary follows two Emirati friends as they discover how Al Ain seamlessly offers an unparalleled tapestry of experiences that will leave you craving more. 

The campaign stars Emirati corporate banker turned photographer Obaid AlBudoor, and Salem Al Attas, an engineer by day and the first Emirati slam poet by night. The duo travel across Al Ain, trying traditional skills such as archery and horseback riding, and dive into modern-day, white-knuckle pursuits that take them out of their comfort zone. 

Just over an hour away from both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al Ain has been inhabited for over 5,000 years. It is dotted with archaeological sites, restored forts, and early human settlements that have given rise to crafts and traditions that continue to exist till today. 

During their time in Al Ain, Obaid, and Salem find that this living oasis is a world away from the hustle of busy city life, weaving together adventure, nature, history, and culture into one incredible destination. The duo explores Al Ain’s vast oasis of lush date palms, discover secret underground rivers fed by natural mountain springs, learn about the city’s proud heritage, and spend time with welcoming locals.  

“As a photographer, traveller, and explorer, it’s very rewarding to be able to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and recharge my creative energy in such a tranquil and lush place,” said Obaid.  “There’s a unique energy to Al Ain that really made an impact on me.” 

“I thoroughly enjoyed discovering Al Ain, and I hope that those who follow our adventures—whether white-water rafting, trying local crafts, delving into Al Ain’s vibrant coffee and café culture, or immersing themselves in all it has to offer—are inspired to visit and create their own unforgettable memories in this amazing destination” added Salem.

Have Obaid and Salem inspired you to have your own Al Ain adventure? Take your friends or family to Al Ain to discover for yourself that a destination is not just about what you do, it’s how it makes you feel when you’re there. You will discover that this living oasis has a vibe of its own.

The documentary-series ‘Al Ain: A Living Oasis’ debuted on 19th August 2024, watch here https://visitalain.ae/en/campaign/al-ain-living-oasis

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In a momentous occasion for the Hindu community in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi welcomed a staggering 65,000 pilgrims and visitors on the first Sunday since its public opening. 

The faithful came in busloads and carloads with over 40,000 visiting in the morning and a further 25,000 during the evening. Despite the sizeable crowds, the visitors, grouped in batches of 2,000, queued patiently and progressed orderly into the Mandir campus. People felt blessed upon receiving darshan of the murtis as a great sense of peace and devotion marked the day.

Sumant Rai from Abu Dhabi exclaimed, “Never have I seen such amazing order in the midst of thousands of people. I was worried I would have to wait for hours and not be able to do darshan peacefully, but we had amazing darshan and were extremely satisfied. Hats off to all the BAPS volunteers and Mandir staff.”

Pravina Shah from London gave her experience of her first visit to the BAPS Hindu Mandir, stating, “I have a disability and the care given by the staff despite thousands of visitors was remarkable. I could see the crowds of people being ushered peacefully from one zone to the next.”

Balchandra from Kerala shared, “I thought I would be lost in the sea of people, but I was so surprised with how well the visit was managed. I was able to peacefully enjoy darshan. Can’t wait until my next visit.”

Visitors were able to enjoy darshan of the beautiful Mandir and offer their prayers collectively. The enthusiasm to take part in the religious rituals of the abhishek and the arti left many people feeling emotional as they experienced peace and tranquillity. Many were also in awe of the mandir’s intricate architecture. The vibrant colours of clothing worn by visitors created a sea of hues, adding to the festive atmosphere. Eagerly anticipating their visit, people travelled from far and wide, having expectations surpassed by the joy and serenity they experienced.

Neha and Pankaj, who have lived in Dubai for 40 years, exclaimed, “We have been waiting for this moment, and the Mandir has exceeded all our expectations! It’s a true marvel. We feel blessed because now we have a place to come and offer our prayers and feel the spirituality.”

Piyush from Portland, USA, said, “The opening of this Mandir is a testament to the UAE’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. It’s a beautiful representation of unity among different communities.”

Luis from Mexico remarked, “The architecture and intricate details in the stones are amazing. I really appreciate getting to see the cultural heritage of India. People, come join!”

Brahmaviharidas Swami, reflecting on the historic significance of the opening Sunday for the public, stated, “We are deeply grateful to the leaders of the UAE and the local authorities for the new bus services and their all-round support in making this day a reality. We would also like to thank the pilgrims who were so patient and so understanding during their visit. This Mandir will serve as a beacon of spirituality and a hub of harmony, bringing together people of all backgrounds and beliefs.”

The UAE government’s dedication to accessibility and inclusivity was further highlighted by the introduction of a new bus route (203) from Abu Dhabi to the Mandir, facilitating weekend visits and emphasising the country’s commitment to fostering cultural diversity and inclusivity.

The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi not only marks a significant milestone in promoting spiritual and cultural unity, but also stands as a testament to the UAE’s forward-thinking approach to diversity and inclusion. As the doors of the Mandir remain open, it continues to welcome all who seek peace, spirituality, and a sense of community.

To know more visit:  https://www.baps.org/Publications/Audios/Audio-Book/Hinduism-FAQs-1490.aspx

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The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) of the Department of Municipalities and Transport in Abu Dhabi has announced the integration of city and suburban transport services into the “Standard Service,” which will be launched on Wednesday, 28th February 2024.

The “Standard Service” fare will be set at AED2 (Boarding Fee) plus an additional 5 fils for every kilometer crossed. 

This reflects the ITC’s relentless efforts in encouraging the use of public transport services, striving to realise the increased demand on public transport services, and reinforcing integration between its journeys to provide efficient services across the emirate, which would positively influence environmental sustainability and enhance the quality of life in the Emirate.

Expanding Geographic Range of Public Transport Passes:

The Integrated Transport Centre has expanded the geographical range of public transport passes so that the “Standard Service” will include city and suburb areas in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra (excluding intercity services). Public Transport Passes are now at the following prices, and is effective as of the date of purchase:

7-day pass is worth AED35

30-day pass is worth AED95

Updated pasess will be sold as of February 28th, 2024.

Passes operating under the previous system will stop being sold as of February 27th, 2024.

All passes issued before this 28th of February will remain valid until their expiration; it will be active within the city only in Abu Dhabi, Al ain Ain and Al Dhafra; and does not cover the suburbs areas- “Standard Service” are not inclusive.

Free transfer when Switching between Public Transport Services The ITC explained that users of public transport buses can switch between services without paying an additional AED2.00 (boarding fee).

Conditions:

Tap- in to the other service within 60 minutes of the last tap-out.

Not to transfer in the opposite direction of the journey.

Maximum 2 transfers using 3 buses.

Transfer conditions apply between Abu Dhabi Link service and public transportation bus Standard Services.

Calculating the Cost of a Single journey when Switching Buses:

Fare is calculated based on distance traveled between point of boarding and alighting; it is mandatory to tap Hafilat card on the reader when boarding and alighting from each bus. 

This ensures that the journey is regarded as a single trip; failure to tap the “Hafilat” smart card when boarding and alighting using all public transport services may result in penalties of public transport, as well as deducting the cost of the entire bus route when using the card again in the event of missing to tap-out of the bus when transferring between services or using the bus again, as it is assumed that the passenger continued riding the bus until the end of the route (the maximum possible distance). 

Therefore, passengers are kindly advised to remember to tap card on the reader when boarding and alighting from each bus.

Annual Passes for Personalised Hafilat Card Holders:

No changes will be made to the following categories: 

• free annual passes for seniors and people of determination+ 1 companion, 

• along with the annual passes for students worth AED 500. 

These passes will cover the “Standard Service” in all areas across the Emirate (excluding intercity services). 

Transport remains free for those age of 10 years and below.

It is worth mentioning that the number of passenger journeys on public buses in 2023 exceeded 83 million passenger trips. By the end of the last year, the total fleet of public buses in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi reached 825 buses, all equipped with modern and advanced specifications, operating with improved fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Public buses are witnessing increasing popularity among the public due to the quality of services, route integration, and the diversification of travel options, allowing users to reach their destinations with convenience, speed, comfort, and safety.

For more information please visit: https://itc.gov.ae/en/pb-bus-service

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Right across from the Al Ain Rotana hotel, you can find the newly restored home of the late Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan. This historic house was built in 1958 was the home of the father-in-law of the lat HH Shaikh Zayed Al Nahyan, founding father of the United Arab Emirate. During his time, the late Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan kept traditions alive by opening his home to the community. This communal approach made his house a landmark in Al Ain. Now, after being carefully restored by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa is open to the public and ready to continue its legacy as a community space for all.

Today, visitors to Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa can find an exhibition on the Life and Legacy of the late Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan. This permanent exhibition is open seven days a week and free for all visitors. The exhibition gives an overview of the historic home,  architectural details of the house, and other cultural sites of Al Ain.  As you walk through this interactive, bilingual audio and visual exhibition, you can enjoy a fascinating look into the daily life of the late Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan and learn about his interests like the management of palm trees and falconry. Visitors can also listen to the oral histories of elderly Al Ain residents about their experiences of living and working in Al Ain in the past.

The Community Center

After the renovations, several of the rooms in the House are now set up to function as community space.  Some of the rooms have been transformed into small meeting rooms, classrooms, a large studio, and a multi-purpose space. These spaces are ideal for hosting your next meeting, team-building session, bespoke art session with friends, movie night, or social gathering. Please contact the Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa staff for details on equipment & facilities available in each community room, rental costs, room bookings, and any other questions you may have.

Phone: 03 711 8335

contactus@baitmohammedbinkhalifa.ae

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 8 PM (Saturday to Thursday) and 2 PM – 10 PM (Friday)

Location: Across from Al Ain Rotana, Zayed Bin Sultan St – Al Mu›tarid – Abu Dhabi

Website: https://baitmohammedbinkhalifa.ae/

RFLCT Creative Arts Center

A visit to Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa is not complete until you stop by to explore the rest of the site. To one side of the courtyard, you will notice a newly added building structure with a café and an Art Center. 

When you walk into RFLCT Creative Art Center you are sure to find original artwork on display by prominent and up-and-coming local artists. At RFLCT they offer an impressive selection of creative art workshops for kids and adults. Their experienced instructors can deliver sessions in Arabic and English and they are keen to make your art experience as creative and relaxing as possible. All workshops take place at the RFLCT studio or in one of the community rooms at the House. 

Here are some of the workshops available in Al Ain*:

• Mixed Media Art
• Resin Art
• Acrylic Pouring 
• Collage Art
• Oil Painting
• Acrylic Painting
• Soft Pastel Color Painting
• Coffee and Saffron Painting
• Embroidery Workshop
• Arabic Calligraphy
• String Art
• Henna Art 
• Drawing for kids
• Fabric Painting
• Decoupage Art
• Art Medication
• iPhone Photography
• Basics of Digital Art
• Ceramic Flower Sculpture
• Terrarium Planting
• Bath Bomb Workshop
• Flower Arrangement
• Crochet for Beginners
• Guitar & Oud Lessons

* RFLCT Abu Dhabi Branch catalogue may vary

To find out about workshop dates, timing and prices or any new workshop request you may have, please contact RFLCT Creative Arts Center Al Ain:

WhatsApp: +97150 181 5454  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rflct.arts/?hl=en

Notes Café

Notes cafe is well situated beside the House, facing the courtyard with a nice view of Mohammed bin Khalifa’s house. There is also outside seating, a pleasant option for the winter months. They serve all-day breakfast and more, including cold drinks, a great selection of coffee, sandwiches, salads, along with main entrées and delicious desserts. 

Daily 8 am – 11pm (03 753 1517).

If you are planning a visit, please note, as with any public place in Abu Dhabi, Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa heritage complex requires Green status on your Al Hosn App to enter the site.

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Guests can choose from two distinct tiers, the first is dedicated to mountain bicycles with three unique tracks of varying length (3, 6, and 9km) located by the main gate, allowing them to explore the wonderous slopes and amazing rugged terrain beneath Hafeet mountain alongside Al Ain African Safari. The second is dedicated to tricycles and set within the premise near the Education center allowing visitors to enjoy the nature and biodiversity of Al Ain Zoo.

Omar Mohammed Al Ameri, Director Operations in Al Ain Zoo, said: “This new experience is an exciting addition to our efforts in encouraging the community to adopt an active lifestyle and enjoy the natural environment in al Ain Zoo. As well as highlighting the amazing Hafeet mountain, home to wide range of flora and fauna, explores can immerse themselves in its abundant history. Many of our guests and Al Ain visitors love to explore this area, enjoy their favorite sport activity or simply relax within its incredible natural beauty.”

All experiences at Al Ain Zoo are in line with the set precautionary measures allowing our guests to have a fun day with the family in a fun and safe environment, while also following all safety procedures to practice this exciting activity as safely as possible.

Available around the week from 10:00am-06:00pm on weekdays and from 07:00am-06:00pm on weekends for the external mountains experience, and from 01:00-07:00pm all week for the internal experience. Visitors can book this experience at the dedicated stand next to the main gate and the education center.

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The licence will be available to residents, non-residents, and citizens of UAE. Applicants must prove relevant skillset to get the licence. UAE residents should also get prior approval if employed in public or private sector firms, if their chosen activity is similar to their regular job.

Applicants can also apply for residence visas, authorities added. Office space is also not mandatory.

This new licence is expected to help companies take advantage of the broad experience and expertise available in the market while being able to eliminate employment in specialisations that are required only periodically. The licence is also expected to boost income of groups including housewives, retirees and students. It will also allow more remote working opportunities.

Enhancing business sector

Rashed Abdulkarim Al Blooshi, Undersecretary of ADDED, said that the resolution will contribute to enhancing the role of both citizens and non-citizens in boosting Abu Dhabi›s business sector. He noted that this will help stimulate the business and investment environments in the emirate and will create more job opportunities in certain fields that add value to the business sector.

Al Blooshi explained that ADDED›s decision to qualify non-citizens for freelancer licences will have a positive impact on the services sector in the emirate as the economic activities under this type of licences are mostly technical and service related. However, many residents in the UAE, especially those with adequate professional experience in Abu Dhabi›s labour market, have the technical skills to practice these activities.

Helping the unemployed

Al Blooshi added the issuance of freelancer licences will lead to various positive economic results such as harnessing the skills of unemployed people. In addition, it allows those with technical expertise to practice freelance activities after finishing their normal work hours. He also pointed out that the licence will help businesses by eliminating the need to employ labours in all specialisations that are only needed periodically, apart from allowing freelancers to provide their services remotely and round the clock. Furthermore, it will contribute to solving the unemployment problem and will increase the income of various segments such as retirees, housewives and students, among others.

When you need employer approval

The regulatory list of the new resolution specifies a number of work terms and general conditions that need to be met by the applicants. In case the applicant works for the public sector, he/she should obtain an approval from the government employer and meet the general requirements. If the applicant works with a permanent employment contract in the private sector, two cases are identified here. In the first case, if the employer’s activity is similar to or overlaps with the activity of the requested licence, the employer’s approval is a must, in addition to meeting the general requirements.

In the second case, if the employer’s activity is different from the activity of the licence to be issued, then the employer’s approval is not needed in this case, same thing applies if the applicant works in a part time contract in the private sector. the two parties’ agreement’s terms and condition will be applied in terms of work timings, leaves and other obligations.

Activities included

Under the terms of the recently issued resolution, ADDED has identified 48 economic activities that can be practiced with a freelancer licence, including fashion design, clothing, natural and aesthetic flowers arrangement, photography studio, event photography, videography, event management, gift packaging, jewellery design, web design, project design and management services, translation, calligraphy, drawing, statistical consultations, agricultural guidance and marketing operations management.

The freelancer licence also covers consultation activities in areas of computer hardware and software, real estate, legal consultancy, public relations, standardisation and quality management, pest control, project development, procurement, technical installations, green buildings, information technology, economic feasibility studies, human resources, tourism, heritage, entertainment, administrative studies, food safety, goods designs, fine art, architectural drawings, and maritime services.

In addition, consultations related to lifestyle development, marketing studies, parliamentary studies, banking and marketing services in the fields of energy, space and logistical consultations, fitness, art works, sculpting, handicrafts, printing services, photocopying, gardening and landscaping, printing on textiles or clothes, plastering, engraving, decoration and soap-making can be practiced with the licence.

GULF NEWS – With inputs from WAM

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Do not move a victim unless the situation demands so.

Be careful not to aggravate the injury. For example, moving a victim can cause more harm if they have a spinal or neck injury or are bleeding excessively.

If anyone is hurt and requires an ambulance, dial 999 and an operator will assist you.

Only administer first aid if you are qualified to do so.

Notify the police immediately, and be honest when providing accident details.

If in an accident where both vehicles can be driven, they should be moved to the side of the road to avoid holding up traffic.

The traffic police will arrive, evaluate the crash and fill out the Accident Form.

A copy of the Accident Form will be given to both individuals involved in the crash. You will need to take the form to your insurance company to proceed with vehicle repair.

When there are injuries involved please excercise extreme care.

Do not move a victim unless the situation demands so.

Be careful not to aggravate the injury. For example, moving a victim can cause more harm if they have a spinal or neck injury or are bleeding excessively.

If anyone is hurt and requires an ambulance, dial 999 and an operator will assist you.

Only administer first aid if you are qualified to do so.

Notify the police immediately, and be honest when providing accident details.

If in an accident where both vehicles can be driven, they should be moved to the side of the road to avoid holding up traffic.

The traffic police will arrive, evaluate the crash and fill out the Accident Form.

A copy of the Accident Form will be given to both individuals involved in the crash. You will need to take the form to your insurance company to proceed with vehicle repair.

Guidance in Case of Vehicle Breakdown

Road Service Patrol is a new service launched by the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport in coordination with Abu Dhabi Police. The service is free of charge and can be reached 24 hours a day on the toll free number 999. This service includes following:

Towing cars in case of auto failure from the main road and moving them to safer locations to ensure the safety of drivers and the smooth flow of traffic.

Offering services such as changing tyres, identifying flat battery, jumpstarting and topping up fuel and coolant if needed, to enable vehicles to reach the closest petrol station in the vicinity.

Providing first aid to accident victims and assisting the police and other related parties involved.

In case your vehicle breaks down you must:

Move the vehicle off the road to make sure your vehicle is not a hazard to other road users.

Turn on hazard lights to warn approaching drivers.

Get out of the vehicle and stand well away from the carriageway.

If it is dark, keep your parking lights/side lights on Call 999 to access Road Service Petrol.

You must use either spotlights or a three dimensional warning triangle when parking at night, if the road is not equipped with streetlights or the visibility is poor (Article 64, UAE Federal Traffic Law Number 21, 1995).

Reference: The Official

Road User Code

of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi

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