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5 MoUs and 8 Investment Intents signal strong investor interest; proposals expected to create 14,310 employment opportunities

Dubai, September 12, 2026 : ​ Odisha further strengthened its investment engagement with the United Arab Emirates on the second day of the Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi’s UAE visit, with a series of high-level meetings with UAE leadership, global investors, industry representatives and business institutions in Dubai.

The day witnessed 5 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and 8 Investment Intents (IIFs), representing a combined investment potential of US$880 million and employment potential of 14,310. The engagements covered a wide range of sectors, including information technology and IT-enabled services, real estate, logistics, food processing, agro and food processing, steel and steel downstream, rare earths, chemicals, aluminium and circular economy.

High-Level Engagement with UAE Leadership

The day commenced with a high-level meeting between Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi and H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Cabinet Member and Minister of Economy and Tourism, UAE, and Chairman, Council of International Investments.

The discussions focused on strengthening economic and investment cooperation between Odisha and the UAE and exploring new opportunities for UAE-based investors and businesses in Odisha.

The Chief Minister highlighted Odisha’s growing industrial potential, strategic location, robust infrastructure, availability of natural resources, skilled manpower and investor-friendly policy environment. He invited UAE investors and business leaders to explore Odisha as a destination for long-term investment and partnership.

Odisha Presents Investment Opportunities to Global Investors

The Chief Minister participated in the Odisha Investment Roadshow in Dubai, where the State showcased its industrial ecosystem and the wide range of investment opportunities available across sectors.

The presentation highlighted Odisha’s strengths in manufacturing, metals and downstream industries, information technology, infrastructure, logistics, food processing, chemicals, energy and other emerging sectors.

The Chief Minister emphasised that Odisha is creating an enabling ecosystem for investors through progressive policies, infrastructure development, ease of doing business and responsive governance.

He invited global businesses to partner with Odisha in its journey towards accelerated industrialisation, employment generation and sustainable economic growth.

 Focus on Aluminium Downstream and Value Addition

A dedicated roundtable with aluminium downstream industries provided an opportunity to discuss investment prospects in Odisha’s aluminium value chain.

The discussions focused on opportunities for downstream manufacturing, greater value addition, technology-driven industries and the development of globally competitive industrial capacities.

The Chief Minister highlighted Odisha’s established metals and minerals ecosystem and the State’s focus on strengthening downstream industries to generate greater economic value and employment within the State.

Strengthening Business and Professional Linkages

The Chief Minister also participated in an interaction with the Indian Business & Professional Council (IBPC) in Dubai.

The engagement focused on strengthening business linkages, facilitating investment opportunities and encouraging greater participation of the Indian business and professional community in Odisha’s growth story.

The interaction also provided an opportunity to discuss potential collaborations, market linkages and avenues for expanding economic engagement between Odisha and the UAE.

Exploring Global Aluminium and Industrial Best Practices

As part of the sectoral outreach, the Chief Minister visited a leading aluminium manufacturing facility in the UAE, Emirates Global Aluminium ( EGA)  gaining insights into advanced industrial operations, technology and global practices in the aluminium sector. The visit provided an opportunity to explore areas of potential cooperation in technology, value addition and industrial development, particularly in the context of Odisha’s strong aluminium ecosystem and its growing focus on downstream manufacturing.

Recycling and Circular Economy in Focus

An industry roundtable with the Bureau of Middle East Recycling focused on opportunities in recycling, resource efficiency and the circular economy.

The discussions explored the potential for investment, technology collaboration and sustainable industrial practices. The engagement aligns with Odisha’s emphasis on promoting sustainable industrial growth and creating new opportunities in emerging sectors linked to resource efficiency and circular economy.

Investor Interactions Generate Strong Investment Interest

The Chief Minister also held a series of one-to-one and group interactions with investors and business leaders, presenting Odisha’s investment opportunities and highlighting the State Government’s commitment to facilitating projects.

These engagements generated significant investment interest across sectors ranging from technology and real estate to logistics, food processing, chemicals, aluminium, steel downstream, rare earths and circular economy.

As a result of the day’s engagements, 5 MoUs were signed, representing an investment potential of US$586 million and employment potential of 11,500.

In addition, 8 Investment Intents (IIFs) were received, representing a proposed investment of US$295 million and employment potential of 2,810.

Together, the 5 MoUs and 8 Investment Intents account for US$880 million of proposed investment and 14,310 employment opportunities, marking a significant outcome of Odisha’s Dubai investment outreach.

Building Momentum for a Globally Connected Odisha

The second day of the UAE outreach further expanded Odisha’s engagement with international investors and business institutions, with a clear focus on converting investment interest into projects, strengthening sectoral partnerships and creating new avenues for employment and economic growth.

The engagements underscored Odisha’s growing appeal as an investment destination and its potential to serve as a strategic base for businesses seeking access to India’s eastern and wider markets.

The Chief Minister reiterated the State Government’s commitment to providing investors with policy stability, quality infrastructure, skilled human resources and institutional support for seamless project implementation.

The Dubai engagements reaffirmed Odisha’s commitment to building strong international partnerships and attracting investments that contribute to industrial diversification, value addition, employment generation and sustainable development.

The State’s continued global outreach is aligned with the vision of Samruddha Odisha, positioning Odisha as an investment-ready, globally connected and future-focused State

Dubai , September 12, 2026 : Emirati women continue to strengthen their presence on the local, regional and international sporting stage, supported by a national vision that has placed women’s empowerment at the heart of the UAE’s development.

Women’s sport in the UAE has witnessed significant progress in recent years through strategies aimed at broadening participation, developing talent and preparing athletes to compete at the highest levels.

Emirati women have also assumed decision-making positions in Arab, continental and international sports federations and organisations, reflecting growing confidence in their leadership and expertise.

The UAE National Olympic Committee and Ministry of Sports, in cooperation with sports councils, federations, clubs and specialised academies, have played a key role in supporting women’s sport through development programmes and opportunities to compete in domestic and international championships.

Jiu-jitsu stands out as one of the UAE’s major women’s sporting success stories. At the 2026 World Jiu-Jitsu Championship, Asma Al Hosani won gold in the Under-52kg division, Balqees Al Hashmi took the Under-48kg title and Shamma Al Kalbani claimed gold in the Under-63kg category.

UAE athletes also excelled at the Asian youth and junior jiu-jitsu championships in Almaty, Kazakhstan, where Dana Al Buraiki won Under-45kg gold, Al Anoud Al Harbi triumphed in the Under-48kg division and Aisha Al Junaibi claimed the Under-63kg title. Hind Al Hashmi and Kadi Suleiman added two more gold medals at the Youth MMA World Championships.

Emirati mountaineer Fatima Abdulrahman Al Awadhi, 19, also made history by becoming the youngest Arab to climb above 7,000 metres and the first Emirati to summit the 7,134-metre Lenin Peak in the Pamir Mountains of Kyrgyzstan on 18th July 2026.

In judo, the UAE Judo Federation has continued its development programmes for male and female athletes through training camps and international events.

Among the standout results was Bashirat Kharoudi’s gold medal at the 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games, the UAE’s first gold in the history of the Games. Elisa Litiyev also claimed three titles, winning gold at the 2026 Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam, the 2026 Dushanbe Grand Slam and the 2025 Zagreb Grand Prix.

In archery, UAE national team and Fujairah Martial Arts Club athlete Huda Al Ali secured a place at the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, following strong performances at youth world championships in Canada and Slovenia and the Arab championship in Tunisia.

Athletics also produced notable results, with Maryam Karim finishing fourth in the women’s 400-metre hurdles at the 2026 World Athletics U20 Championships in Oregon. She clocked 56.27 seconds, just 0.28 seconds outside the bronze-medal position, after topping both the opening round and semi-finals.

Salma Haitham Al Marri set a national junior record in the hammer throw with 58.96 metres, improving on the previous mark of 58.12 metres. She finished 13th overall, one place short of qualifying for the final.

In taekwondo, UAE national team athlete Amna Al Loghani won gold in the Under-67kg category at the fourth GCC Games in Doha.

UAE female athletes of determination, including Siham Al Rashidi, Maryam Al Matroushi, Sarah Al Junaibi, Noura Al Ketbi, Maryam Al Zeyoudi, Aisha Al Mheiri, Salama Al Khatri, Moza Al Zeyoudi and Thikra Al Kaabi, have also continued to achieve notable results at continental and international competitions.

In chess, Rouda Al Serkal became the first Emirati woman to earn the Woman Grandmaster title, adding to her 2024 Arab women’s championship title, while International Master Wafia Darwish Al Maamari won gold at the 2024 World Rapid and Blitz Team Championships in Kazakhstan.

In powerboat racing, Alia Abdul Salam set a new Formula 4 speed record of 129 kilometres per hour on Lake Songe in Norway, surpassing the previous mark of 128.7 km/h held by Britain’s John Brewer.

Dr. Omniyat Al Hajeri, Vice Chairwoman of the Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy, said Emirati women had become an inspiring model of excellence and competitiveness, supported by an empowerment drive that has strengthened their presence across the sporting landscape.

Noura Al Jasmi, President of the UAE Badminton Federation, expressed pride in the achievements of Emirati women, saying their sustained success reflected the effectiveness of national strategies to develop their capabilities and provide opportunities to compete at the highest levels.

Hanadi Khalifa Al Kabouri, President of the UAE Archery Federation, said the rapid development of women’s sport was the result of a vision that had established an integrated framework for empowering women and providing an environment conducive to continued success at regional, continental and international levels.

Dubai , September 12, 2026 : The Dubai Films and Games Commission (DFGC), an entity under the Dubai Media Council, has announced the launch of a national short film competition projecting the incredible strength, solidarity and resilience displayed by people from across the UAE amid the spectre of challenging regional events.

Launched under the directives of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, the initiative titled ‘Stories of Our Determination’ will spotlight profound human experiences through film while offering a unique platform aimed at encouraging students of media to explore the medium of film and gain hands-on exposure in creative production techniques.

Curated by the DFGC, the initiative provides a platform for Emirati and UAE-based filmmakers of all nationalities, including students, emerging talent, first-time filmmakers and professionals alike to showcase their craft through stories of national unity, resolve, and triumph. Accepted formats include Fiction, Documentary, Animation, Experimental film, AI-generated or AI-assisted film, Hybrid and mobile-phone filmmaking.

The DMC and the DFGC have also envisioned the initiative as a symbolic celebration marking the 55th Eid Al Etihad, with all competition entries being narrowed down to an official selection of 55 films centred on four national themes: ‘Those Who Protected Us,’ ‘One Nation, Many Communities,’ ‘Life Continued,’ and ‘Stronger Toward the Future.’ The competition will culminate in a gala screening of films selected by the independent jury ahead of the official awards ceremony.

The theme ‘Those Who Protected Us’ salutes the UAE Armed Forces, emergency responders, frontline personnel and national institutions; ‘One Nation, Many Communities’ reflects how Emiratis and diverse nationalities stood as one through the testing times; ‘Life Continued’ highlights the collective will to tide over the crisis; and ‘Stronger Toward the Future’ spotlights unwavering ambition and determination to shape the nation’s future.

Nehal Badri, Secretary General of the Dubai Media Council, said the initiative embodies the UAE leadership’s vision to foster a community defined by its exceptional unity and shared sense of destiny. “The UAE’s story has always been shaped by the remarkable determination of its people and their strong sense of purpose in shaping the future of the country and the world at large. The initiative ‘Stories of Our Determination’ provides an opportunity to depict the oneness, solidarity and resilience of the UAE through authentic human stories and preserve them for future generations.

“The event also reflects our commitment to creating opportunities for promising young talent to share the stage with established filmmakers. By welcoming different generations and creative perspectives, we want to encourage new voices, showcase bright young talent and support storytelling that reflects the diversity and strength of our society.”

Hesham Al Olama, CEO of the Media Development Sector at Dubai Media Council, emphasised the Council’s focus on promoting the film sector and emerging talent while keeping pace with the latest advancements shaping the sector. “Film is a medium that enables us to appreciate momentous experiences and events in a unique way. ‘Stories of Our Determination’ is an effort to empower filmmakers to share their keen insights and perspectives on the UAE through documentary, fiction, animation or newer forms of digital filmmaking.

“The competition is as much about discovering talent as about creating opportunities. By opening participation to students, first-time filmmakers and professionals, we hope to showcase diverse voices and creative approaches that further strengthen the vibrant community spirit across the UAE.”

Samr Almarzooqi, Film Commissioner at the Dubai Films and Games Commission, said: “This initiative reflects the Dubai Media Council’s renewed commitment to advancing the local film production ecosystem and reinforcing Dubai’s position as a regional and global hub attracting top talent and outstanding productions. Empowering filmmakers through world-class infrastructure and an enabling environment enhances the competitiveness of local content and wins global audiences for our stories on the strength of their artistic and technical merit.”

Almarzooqi added: “With the wholesome support and encouragement of the Council, we remain committed to providing participants across various competition categories and tracks the technical resources, support and facilitation they need, ensuring that creative ideas take form in inspiring films celebrating national achievements, thus enriching the UAE’s cinematic legacy.”

Five award categories

The competition will recognise outstanding entries across five award categories, namely Grand Jury Prize, Best Fiction Film, Best Documentary Film, Best Animated Film, and Best AI Film, with a total of 10 awards.

Submissions are open until October 25, which marks the final deadline for entries. Winning entries from students will attract prizes amounting to AED10,000, while award winners from amongst the professional participants will be entitled to prizes valued at AED50,000.

All competition entries will be screened in a three-stage process. The first stage involves eligibility and technical evaluation, which will be followed by a preliminary online selection. Next is a review by an independent jury, ultimately leading to the public selection.

The competition presents a golden opportunity for aspiring filmmakers and film enthusiasts to earn wider recognition and reach new audiences spanning diverse cultures and nationalities.

Registration and entry submissions are available via: https://dfgc.ae/en/events/stories-of-our-determination/.

Dubai , September 11, 2026 : Dubai Press Club has unveiled the agenda for the Arab Media Forum, to be organised as part of the Arab Media Summit 2026 set to be held in Dubai from 15 to 17 September. The event will bring together leading political and media figures from the region and around the world for high-level discussions on geopolitical shifts, the future of news and content, technology and artificial intelligence.

Distinguished participation

Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council and Chairperson of the Arab Media Summit Organising Committee, said the event reflects Dubai’s commitment to advancing meaningful dialogue on the future of the media sector. The Forum is a vital part of the Arab Media Summit’s mission to offer a platform for decision-makers, media leaders, editors, journalists and thinkers from across the region and beyond to share ideas, experiences and perspectives, she noted.

“As audiences, technologies and models of content creation continue to evolve rapidly, the Forum provides a strategic setting to assess the opportunities ahead, exchange expertise and set priorities for the continued development of Arab media. By bringing together voices from across the sector, it aims to inspire new approaches, strengthen partnerships and encourage an even more ambitious vision for the industry. The Forum also seeks to enable participants to anticipate emerging shifts, translate dialogue into practical direction and strengthen Arab media’s role in shaping the decisions that will define the global industry’s next chapter,” she added.

The Forum’s programme will feature senior political leaders, government officials, media executives, editors, journalists, writers and analysts from across the region and internationally. Discussions will examine major political and geopolitical developments and their implications for the Arab world, alongside the evolving role of media in a rapidly changing global environment.

The agenda will explore the state and future of Arab journalism, including the challenges facing news organisations, shifting audience expectations and questions of credibility and trust. It will also consider how the Arab world and the wider region are represented in international media and how global developments are reshaping perceptions and narratives.

Other discussions will focus on the Gulf region amid regional and international transformations, bringing together prominent thinkers, commentators and media professionals to assess emerging trends and their wider implications.

The programme will also address the forces transforming the media industry, including the growth of digital platforms, the evolution of Arabic content, and the increasing impact of technology and artificial intelligence on journalism, news production and audience engagement.

Over its 24-year history, the Arab Media Forum has established itself as a platform for dialogue, engagement and the exchange of perspectives, hosting heads of state and government, ministers, decision-makers and prominent media leaders from the region and around the world.

Dubai , September 11, 2026 : Dubai Police has completed the first phase of an ambitious solar energy project that has transformed 28 police sites, delivering an estimated annual reduction of 26,000 tonnes of carbon emissions.

The reduction represents 20% of the total carbon emissions generated by Dubai Police buildings, marking a significant step in the organisation’s long term transition towards cleaner energy, greener buildings and more efficient use of resources.

The project, led by the General Department of Logistics Support, was originally launched during COP28 in 2023 and forms part of a 25 year strategy to progressively introduce solar energy solutions across Dubai Police buildings and facilities.

The first phase covered 28 locations, including police stations, general departments and other police buildings and facilities.

Rather than applying a single solution across every site, the project considers the age, design and operational requirements of individual buildings to ensure that sustainable technologies can be introduced without affecting police operations or services.

Engineer Maryam Rashid Bonfour, Director of the Energy Efficiency Projects Portfolio at the Environment, Health and Safety Department of the General Department of Logistics Support, said the initiative goes beyond simply installing solar energy systems.

She explained that it forms part of a broader vision to improve the efficiency of police buildings and facilities, optimise resource consumption, reduce carbon emissions and accelerate the transition towards environmentally friendly green buildings.

According to Bonfour, the first phase has succeeded in preparing 28 sites to contribute to an annual reduction of 26,000 tonnes of carbon emissions.

This is equivalent to around 20% of the total carbon emissions associated with Dubai Police buildings.

The achievement supports wider national and Dubai strategies for clean energy, carbon reduction and the green transformation of buildings, as well as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The solar project is designed as a long term transformation rather than a one off initiative.

“The project extends over 25 years and is being implemented through carefully planned phases that take into consideration the nature, age, design and operational requirements of police buildings,” Bonfour said.

This includes both existing facilities and new buildings developed according to Dubai Police operational requirements.

She said the approach is intended to ensure that sustainable solutions remain efficient and viable over the long term without compromising the efficiency of police services and operations.

Dubai Police is now preparing to begin the second phase during the final quarter of 2026, progressively extending solar energy solutions to additional buildings and facilities.

The project supports the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and Dubai’s strategy to reduce carbon emissions, with the aim of helping double the reduction in carbon emissions to 50% by the end of 2030.

It also reinforces Dubai Police’s wider commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management.

Dubai Police previously became the first police organisation in the world to officially join the United Nations Global Compact, adopting its ten principles covering human rights, decent labour standards, anti-corruption and environmental responsibility.

UAE’s Largest National Environmental Volunteer Campaign 

Calls on Communities, Businesses and Institutions to Unite for a Cleaner and Greener Nation

Dubai, September​ 10, 2026 – The Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) officially launched the 25^th Cycle of the Clean UAE Campaign during a landmark Silver Jubilee Press Conferenceheld at Al Khoory Sky Garden Hotel, Dubai, marking a quarter-century of the United Arab Emirates’ most impactful and enduring environmental volunteer initiative.

Celebrating 25 years of environmental action, the Clean UAE Campaign has become a powerful symbol of national unity and environmental stewardship, bringing together federal and local government entities, private sector organisations, educational institutions, diplomatic missions, civil society organisations, families and volunteers from every corner of the UAE in a shared commitment to protecting the nation’s natural environment.

The 25^th Cycle continues to receive the kind Patronage of the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, furthermore, since 2022, the campaign has been officially endorsed and approved by the UAE Cabinet as one of the UAE’s National Community Action Campaigns, reaffirming its importance in advancing the country’s environmental sustainability agenda and fostering community participation in protecting the nation’s natural resources.

Since 2007, the campaign has achieved remarkable nationwide impact, mobilising 1,149,005 volunteers from across the seven Emirates, successfully removing 1,754,634 kilograms of wastefrom beaches, deserts, wadis, mangroves, parks and public spaces, while contributing to the cleaning and restoration of 1,288 km² of land. Through responsible waste collection and recycling efforts, the campaign has also contributed towards the mitigation of 186,265.02 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, demonstrating the tangible environmental benefits that collective community action can achieve.

Speaking during the launch, Dr. Habiba Al Mar’ashi, Co-Founder and Chairperson of the Emirates Environmental Group, reflected on the campaign’s remarkable journey over the past twenty-five years. She said “The Clean UAE Campaign is far more than a clean-up initiative; it is a national movement that has inspired generations of volunteers to become active custodians of our environment. Over the past twenty-five years, we have witnessed the extraordinary power of collective action, proving that when communities, businesses, government entities and educational institutions unite behind a common purpose, meaningful environmental change becomes possible.

As we celebrate this Silver Jubilee, we proudly reflect on the remarkable achievements made possible through the unwavering support of our partners, sponsors and volunteers. However, our work is far from complete. Protecting our environment is a shared responsibility that requires continuous commitment, innovation and collaboration. We warmly invite every individual, organisation and institution to join us in writing the next chapter of this inspiring journey towards a cleaner, greener and more sustainable United Arab Emirates.”

Dr. Habiba Al Mar’ashi further announced that the 25^th Cycle of the Clean UAE Campaign will once again span all seven Emirates, engaging thousands of volunteers through large-scale clean-up and environmental awareness activities.

The campaign will commence in Dubai on Saturday, 5 December 2026, before continuing to Sharjah on Monday, 7 December, Fujairah on Wednesday, 9 December, Ajman on Thursday, 10 December, Umm Al Quwain on Saturday, 12 December, Ras Al Khaimah on Monday, 14 December, and concluding in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, 15 December 2026.

Each emirate will bring together volunteers from the corporate sector, academia, government entities, diplomatic missions, community groups and families, all working side by side to protect and preserve the UAE’s natural environment.

The Emirates Environmental Group is calling upon corporations & Industries, local & federal government entities, educational institutions, diplomatic missions, community organisations, families and individuals to participate in this landmark Silver Jubilee edition of the campaign. Businesses are also encouraged to become campaign partners and sponsors, contributing towards one of the UAE’s most recognised environmental initiatives while demonstrating their commitment to sustainability, corporate social responsibility and environmental stewardship.

Through strategic partnerships, sponsors will play a vital role in enabling the campaign to continue expanding its environmental impact while engaging thousands of volunteers across the country.

As the Clean UAE Campaign enters its next chapter, EEG remains steadfast in its mission to inspire environmental responsibility, strengthen community engagement, and support the UAE’s vision for a sustainable future.

EEG extended its deepest appreciation to the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) for its unwavering support and for serving as the Patron of the Clean UAE Campaign for the seventh consecutive year, reaffirming the Ministry’s steadfast commitment to advancing environmental stewardship and sustainable community engagement across the nation.

The organisation also expressed its sincere gratitude to its valued Government Partners—Department of Municipalities and Transport Abu Dhabi City Municipality), Dubai Municipality, Fujairah Natural Resources Corporation, Government of Ajman Municipality & Planning Department, Public Services Department – Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services, and Umm Al Quwain Municipality—whose enduring collaboration continues to ensure the successful implementation of the campaign across all seven Emirates.

EEG further acknowledged its Main Sponsors, McDonald’s UAE, Salik, and Tristar GROUP, whose longstanding partnership has been instrumental in strengthening the campaign’s reach and environmental impact over the years.

The organisation also conveyed its appreciation to its Support Sponsors — Archer-Daniels-Midland (ADM), Cummins, Dubai Investments and GIG Gulf — as well as its Silver Sponsor, METRIQOm® — Future Sustain AI Solutions LTD, Masdar City, School Sponsor, CANPACK Middle East, Technical Partner, ADNOC, and Special Sponsor, wasl, whose generous support has played a pivotal role in enabling the successful delivery of the campaign throughout the UAE.

Special recognition was also extended to the campaign’s CSR Partner, Arabia CSR Network, together with its dedicated Supporting Entities—Abela & Co., Al Khoory Hotel, Ahalia Medical Group, Almarai, Aster Group, Byrne Equipment Rental, Del Monte, Fujairah Plastic Factories, ISS Relocations, Oasis Water Company, American University of Ras Al Khaimah, and Higher Colleges of Technology—for their invaluable contributions in enhancing the campaign’s impact and enriching the overall volunteer experience.

Finally, EEG expressed its heartfelt appreciation to its esteemed Media Partners—Al Murad Group, Channel 4, Gold 94.7 FM, Radio 4, Biz Today, CPI Industry, Gulf News, International Media Review Magazine, and Pan Asian Media—for their continued commitment to promoting environmental awareness and amplifying the campaign’s message. Through their extensive coverage and support, the campaign has reached millions of people, inspired widespread community participation, and further strengthened Clean UAE’s position as one of the nation’s most recognised and impactful environmental volunteer initiatives.

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Abudhabi , September 10, 2026 : Abu Dhabi-based International Holding Company (IHC) and India’s Adani Group signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Odisha for 14 project on trade and the development of a port, with an investment outlay of US$2.105 trillion (IN₹2,10,500 crore). Earlier, IHC and Adani Group signed an agreement to develop aluminium smelter and manufacturing plant with an investment outlay of US$11.5 billion.

A major outcome was the signing of an MoU between the Government of Odisha, IHC and the Adani Group to explore 14 new projects with an indicative investment of US$2.105 trillion (IN₹2,10,500 crore) and employment potential for approximately 8,68,200 people. The proposed portfolio spans metal downstream industries, slurry pipelines, critical minerals and rare earths, chemicals and petrochemical derivatives, renewable energy equipment, healthcare, industrial infrastructure, tourism, skill development and sports infrastructure.

Odisha opened the first day of substantive engagements during the Hon’ble Chief Minister’s UAE visit with progress on the integrated aluminium project, an MoU covering 14 new projects and cooperation agreements on trade and port development. Led by Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, the engagements brought together leading businesses and investment institutions to expand the State’s international investment partnerships during the visit from 8 to 12 September 2028.

IHC and Adani partnership expands to 14 new projects

The day began with a key roundtable with the business verticals and group companies of IHC. Following up on the landmark MoU signed on 2 July 2026, the meeting was attended by Mr. Syed Basar Shueb, Managing Director, CEO and Board Member of IHC; Mr. Karan Adani, Managing Director of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone; and Mr. Sagar Adani, Executive Director of Adani Green Energy. The Adani Group is the joint venture partner for the aluminium project. The roundtable also brought together senior representatives from IHC’s business verticals and group companies, including Mr. Ali Rashed AlRashdi, CEO, International Resources Holding (IRH); Ms. Samia Bouazza, CEO, 2PointZero Group; Mr. Mohamed Hesham, CEO, ePointZero; Mr. Falal Ameen, Group CEO, Ghitha Holding; Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Chairman & Founder, BurjeelHoldings; Dr. Yasser Zaghloul, Group CEO, NMDC Group; Mr. Guy Neivens, CEO, Al Seer Marine; Mr. Kayed Ali Khorma, CEO, Emirates Stallions Group; Mr. Ajay Bhatia, CEO, Sirius International Holding; Odia entrepreneur and Mr. Andrey Lazorenko, ADI Foundation.

Discussions advanced the consideration of potential sites for the integrated aluminium project, with land proposed for the alumina refinery in Kalyansinghpur Tahsil of Rayagada district and for the aluminium smelter in Sadar Sundargarh Tahsil of Sundargarh district. The engagement provided further momentum to translating the partnership into projects on the ground.

A major outcome was the signing of an MoU between the Government of Odisha, IHC and the Adani Group to explore 14 new projects with an indicative investment of US$2.105 trillion (IN₹2,10,500 crore) and employment potential for approximately 8,68,200 people. The proposed portfolio spans metal downstream industries, slurry pipelines, critical minerals and rare earths, chemicals and petrochemical derivatives, renewable energy equipment, healthcare, industrial infrastructure, tourism, skill development and sports infrastructure.

The expanded partnership positions Odisha as a potential base for a wider range of IHC businesses, building on the aluminium project. It opens opportunities to combine the State’s industrial strengths with international capital, technology and market access.

New cooperation framework to strengthen Odisha UAE trade

The Chief Minister met representatives of the Indian Business and Professional Group (IBPG), including Mr. Rajiv Shah, President, IBPG; Mr. Varun Wahi, General Secretary, IBPG; and other senior members of the Group. Discussions focused on generating investment interest and strengthening commercial links between Odisha and UAE-based businesses.

A Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between the Government of Odisha and IBPG to promote bilateral trade and explore investment opportunities in Odisha. The engagement also explored opportunities for increasing exports of Odisha’s products, including spices such as turmeric and ginger, seafood and other products, while encouraging contract manufacturing for leading UAE brands and facilitating opportunities for highly skilled manpower.

Entrepreneurs from Odisha also participated and shared their perspectives on expanding business partnerships, strengthening market linkages and enhancing access to the UAE market. The interaction provided a platform to deepen Odisha-UAE commercial cooperation and create new avenues for trade, investment and business partnerships.

Borouge invited to develop Petrochemicals downstream complex

The Chief Minister met Mr. Hazeem Sultan Al Suwaidi, CEO, Borouge (Petrochem Sector), and invited the company to explore a large scale chemicals downstream complex in Odisha, with potential feedstock linkages to Indian Oil Corporation Limited’s proposed naphtha cracker at Paradip.

Borouge produces polyethylene and polypropylene for applications including infrastructure, energy, mobility, healthcare, agriculture and advanced packaging. Borouge Plc reported revenue of US$5.85 billion for calendar year 2025. The proposed engagement seeks to bring global polymer expertise to Odisha and support greater value addition within the State’s petrochemical ecosystem.

Investment funds and port cooperation widen infrastructure opportunities

At a separate roundtable with UAE-based investment institutions, the Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi presented a range of Government projects available for development through public-private partnerships. The discussions focused on opportunities for institutional participation in Odisha’s infrastructure pipeline, project evaluation and potential avenues for long-term investment partnerships.

The roundtable brought together senior representatives from leading UAE-based investment and business institutions, including Mr. Abdulha Zeini Jafri, Divisional Director IFC, GCC, Giulio Occhuonereo, Head of Quantitative Research Development IRH Global Trending, and Francesca Maria MD of Elliptic FZ.

The opening day of Odisha’s UAE investment outreach further strengthened the State’s engagement with global investors and institutions. The discussions on infrastructure, ports, trade and investment partnerships are expected to create a stronger foundation for sustained investment, employment generation and wider market access, advancing the vision of Samruddha Odisha.

Dubai, September 10, 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) continued to develop
its monitoring and inspection system for passenger transport activities during the first half of 2026, with field inspections recording higher levels of efficiency and effectiveness. The improvement has
driven higher compliance and safety standards and curb illegal
practices across the transport sector.
Saeed Al Balooshi, Director of Passenger Transport Activities Monitoring at RTA’s Public Transport Agency, said: “RTA carries out intensive monitoring and inspection operations in collaboration with
strategic partners to ensure compliance with legislation and regulatory requirements and enhance the quality of services provided to transport users across the Emirate of Dubai.
“Results for the first half of 2026 reflect continued improvement in
the efficiency of field monitoring and the effectiveness of joint inspection campaigns, boosting compliance levels and strengthen discipline across the various transport sectors, particularly at key
locations and high-activity areas. Efforts also focused on combating unlicensed passenger transport.”
RTA carried out more than 1.6 million inspections across various passenger transport sectors during the first half of 2026, covering public transport activities and users of public transport facilities,
school transport, tourist transport, chartered buses and unlicensed transport. The corresponding figure for the same period in 2025 was 1.5 million inspections.
A total of 30,000 violations were recorded during the first half of 2026, compared with 38,000 during the same period in 2025, a decrease of approximately 21%. The decline indicates improvedcompliance and shows that inspection campaigns remain effective in detecting violations and reducing repeat offences.
Joint campaigns conducted with the General Department of Airport Security, the General Department of Criminal Investigation and the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai
resulted in 340 violations involving passenger transport in unlicensed vehicles and the promotion of illegal transport services, compared with 797 violations during the first half of 2025, a decrease of 57%.
A further 244 vehicles were impounded after their drivers fled the scene, a decrease of 48% compared with the same period last year. The reduction indicates effective coordination among the relevant
entities in curbing illegal activities.
In the school transport sector, RTA carried out more than 8,000 inspections over the two years. During the first half of 2026, the inspections resulted in 654 violations, 15% fewer than in the
previous year, while the compliance rate reached approximately 92%.
In the public transport sector, RTA carried out more than 1.2 million inspections covering public bus users, public transport facilities and bus drivers. More than 28,000 violations were recorded, with the
compliance rate reaching approximately 97.8%.
In the chartered bus, tourist transport and international transport sectors, RTA carried out more than 12,000 inspections during the first half of 2026, resulting in 602 violations and a compliance rate of 95%.
The results confirm the success of RTA’s plans to develop field monitoring and use smart data analytics to direct monitoring and inspection operations more efficiently. This contributes to the safety of passenger transport users and reinforces Dubai’s position as a global model for the efficiency and quality of transport services.

Sharjah , September 10, 2026: In implementation of the directives of His Highness Sheikh Drز Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, Sharjah Government Nurseries, affiliated with the Sharjah Education Academy, have launched the Healthy Food via Central Kitchens project to enhance nutrition in government nurseries and kindergartens.

The project aims to establish an integrated healthy nutrition system that ensures meal quality and safety, while standardising preparation and service to meet children’s needs at different developmental stages. It also seeks to make healthy nutrition part of children’s daily experience and instil healthy habits from an early age.

The initiative complements the Baba Sultan’s Healthy Food Ambassadors programme, launched by the Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA) in collaboration with the Sharjah Department of Agriculture and Livestock. While the programme promotes awareness of healthy dietary practices, the central kitchens project translates this approach into daily meals for children.

Muhadditha Yahya Al Hashimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Education Academy, said, “The Healthy Food via Central Kitchens project stems from the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. This vision places human health and quality of life at the core of development, affirming that building future generations begins with comprehensive care for their health and education from their earliest years.”

She added that the project combines food quality, safety and nutritional value with an operational and monitoring system designed to address the age-specific and health needs of each child.

The initiative brings together several Sharjah entities, using local products supplied by the Sharjah Agricultural and Livestock Production Establishment (Ektifa), with meals prepared by Sharjah National Hotels. The model links local production directly with meals served to children and supports Sharjah’s food security objectives.

Khawla Ali Al Hosani, Deputy Director of the Sharjah Education Academy, said the project’s first phase tested the system across 10 nurseries in different locations, enabling its impact on children, families and staff to be assessed.

She noted that 96 percent of parents participating in the evaluation recommended continuing the project, paving the way for the adoption of the central kitchens model.

Al Hosani said the model standardises meal preparation and monitoring according to approved benchmarks, ensuring consistent quality and efficiency in preparation, transport and service. She added that the Sharjah Government is subsidising 50 percent of meal costs, with parents covering the remainder.

Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, CEO of Ektifa, said the partnership strengthens coordination between the participating entities, maximises the use of local agricultural and livestock products and enhances supply chain efficiency.

He explained that Ektifa supplies agreed products to Sharjah National Hotels for preparation into meals tailored to the nutritional needs of children served by the Sharjah Education Academy. He added that the model supports Sharjah’s efforts to strengthen food security and sustainability while reinforcing confidence in local products.

Ian Phillips, CEO of Sharjah National Hotels, said, “At Sharjah National Hotels and its subsidiary, Sharjah National Catering, we are proud to partner with the Sharjah Education Academy to realise the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi.”

He said the programme provides healthy, organic meals for children aged one to five, relying primarily on ingredients grown or produced locally in Sharjah, while supporting children’s growth, learning and healthy eating habits.

The meal service operates under an integrated monitoring system covering menu approval, inspection of raw materials, preparation, cooking, packaging, transportation and delivery to nurseries, with specified quality and health standards applied throughout.

Digital platforms also support nutritional and health records for each child, enabling their needs to be monitored and improving communication with families.

The initiative also supports children’s learning and development, with mealtimes helping to develop fine motor skills and introduce concepts such as colours, numbers, food sources and food groups.

Its impact is intended to extend beyond nurseries by encouraging families and children to adopt healthier dietary choices at home and establish sustainable habits from an early age.

Sharjah, September 10, 2026 : Sharjah Police (SP), through its Legal Affairs Department, organised the “A Security System for a Safe Family Future” forum to mark World Law Day, focusing on family security and protecting children from online risks.

The forum was attended by Lieutenant General Abdullah Mubarak bin Amer, Commander-in-Chief of Sharjah Police; Mansour bin Nassar, Chairman of the Sharjah Government Legal Department; Hanadi Al Yafei, Director-General of the Child Safety Department; Rashid Mohammed Ali Al Zaabi, Director of the Districts Affairs Department (DAD); alongside directors-general, department heads and specialists.

Bin Amer said protecting families and strengthening their stability is a shared responsibility requiring coordinated security, legal, social, psychological and technical efforts.

He stressed the importance of preventive awareness and keeping pace with emerging challenges to protect children and reduce risks affecting families and the wider community.

A panel discussion addressed legislation governing children’s use of social media platforms, digital protection, cybersecurity and preventive measures aimed at strengthening community security.

Chief Prosecutor Salah Mohammed Al Hammadi outlined legislation related to children’s social media use, while Abdelnasir Obaid Bukhatir, Director of the Sharjah Cyber Security Center, discussed digital protection and cybersecurity.

Lieutenant Colonel Ahmed Khalifa Al Mheiri, Head of the Crime Reduction Section, highlighted SP’s preventive and field efforts, while Sheikha Abdullah Al Zaabi examined the impact of legislation on families and society. Psychiatric consultant Moaz Abdulrahman Al Zarouni addressed the psychological impact of children’s social media use on children and their families.

Participants stressed the need to raise family awareness of digital risks and crimes, strengthen supervision of children’s social media use and clarify the legal responsibilities of families and digital platforms.

They also called for greater use of technical solutions and cybersecurity tools to protect children from harmful content and online exploitation, alongside stronger cooperation among security, legal, social and health authorities.

The forum further highlighted the importance of open family dialogue, psychological support and monitoring behavioural changes in children to help build a cohesive and secure family environment.

At the conclusion, Bin Amer honoured participants and contributors in recognition of their role in enriching the discussions and supporting efforts to strengthen family security and community stability.