Philippines toughens rules for maids in UAE

New contracts must include minimum wage of Dh1,500 and allowing maids to keep passports

The Philippines has told employers in the UAE they must pay its domestic workers at least Dh1,500 a month and ensure they keep their passports with them all the time before it allows them to work in the country.

The Asian nation, one of the main domestic workers suppliers to the oil-rich Gulf, has told employment offices in the UAE and the Philippines that it would not allow its citizens to work as housemaids in the Emirates unless these conditions are met, the Dubai-based 'Emarat Al Youm' Arabic language daily said.

The new terms also include the need for the employer to provide the maid with a separate living room and to report to the Philippine embassy in the UAE at its request.

The employer must also provide the embassy with all details of the family, its members and ages before hiring a Philippine domestic worker.

“Recruitment offices in the UAE said they have been made to sign these contracts and are held responsible according to Philippine laws,” the paper said. “They considered the new measures as an improper interference in their business as no Philippine domestic worker will be allowed to come to the UAE unless these offices sign those contracts.”

The paper quoted Mahmoud Mohammed, manager of Bin Awas domestic workers hiring office in the UAE, as saying they were told by the Philippine embassy these contracts are binding and that all domestic workers would not be permitted to leave that country unless the contracts are signed.

“We have suffered losses of nearly $18,000 after the Philippine embassy stopped some contracts,” said Isam Qiyami, head of Alamana domestic services office.

''Emarat Al Youm' quoted a senior official at the UAE ministry of interior as saying the ministry does not recognise these contracts.“What we have here is a unified domestic worker contract which is handed to the employer when issuing a visa for a maid…it has to be signed by the employer and the worker and it includes all rights and duties for both the employer and the employee, including the salary, break and other rights,” said Major General Nassir Al Awadi Al Minhali, the ministry’s assistant undersecretary for naturalisation and residence.

The paper also quoted a Philippine embassy official as confirming the introduction of the new contracts, which he said include a minimum monthly wage of $400 (Dh1,462) plus health care, free food and other benefits. He said these benefits are reasonable on the grounds housemaids in the UAE work an average 18 hours a day.“The new measures taken by the authorities in the Philippines strictly ban any Filipina from leaving her country unless through authorised employment offices, which must ensure the new contracts are signed,” he said.

Source: http://www.emirates247.com/

Loud and proud

Forget rock and pop- Filipino folk is in the air at The Fridge

 

With Metallica and Janet Jackson concerts still fresh in the memory and Paul McCartney and Britney Spears set to play in the next couple of weeks, it’s a good time to be a music fan living in the UAE. But forget the megastars. There’s a real treat in store at The Fridge tonight for those looking to discover something a little different. As part of the eighth Fridge Concert Series, the Dubai Vocal Ensemble will be belting out some great tunes at the hidden gem in Al Quoz.

A passionate all-Filipino choir, the 30-strong group have been going since 2004 and are dedicated to

educating audiences about the rich musical culture of their homeland. It will literally be music to the ears of the large Filipino expat community living in the UAE. And Dubai’s multicultural music club will learn something new as the ensemble sing traditional folk songs from their country.

The recital will also feature pop songs and contemporary ballads, but the folk section is hugely important to the singers. Sharon Elaurza, one of the pioneering members of the group, says: “These folk songs are from the north to the south of the Philippines, so they are very diverse, and also unique because they depict life of all these different people, living by the sea, or worshipping the sun so the rain will stop because it is harvest time.

“It is all about the lifestyle, the everyday life of  fishing, farming and all the traditional livelihoods. These are well-loved songs taught to us by our grandparents, so we need to keep these alive.”

It’s not all old favourites from back home however. The 30-strong crew will also be performing their own dazzling take on Lady Gaga’s ‘Poker Face’ and serving up gospel/choral version of ‘Let It Be’ by the Beatles, as well as many more pop classics.

Joyce Santos, the musical director of the group, is just one of the voices trying to be heard when it comes to putting together a set-list for the recital. Joyce, who works as a music teacher in Dubai, explains: “A committee decides the final set - I suggest some and so do others. We then decide which songs we can use, but we know we need some popular and contemporary, familiar songs as well as the folk ones. We practise three times a week, for two hours a day to get it right for a one-hour performance. It sounds like hard work but we’re used to it and we know how to take care of ourselves.”

The ensemble have come a long way since starting off as a seven-strong choir. Now numbering 30, they are made up from a diverse section of the expat population, with engineers, architects, admin support and artists putting in the hours to get their sound just right. It’s a real labour of love. Sharon explains: “The training is rigorous, we all have to get up at around 4am every Friday, and we meet for vocal warm-up at 5.30am. We also have rehearsals from 730-930pm, every week.

“We sing at functions as well so it can be a long day. But there is a great support network. We are like a family to each other. Living away from our homes, singing is a coping mechanism and we can express ourselves through the music - it inspires us to do well in our jobs and lives too.”

Check http://www.thefridgedubai.com/ for timings and details.

Souce: http://www.7days.ae/

Our world's '7 billionth' baby is born in?

Danica Camacho is cuddled by her mother Camille as they are wheeled out of the delivery room of the Government's Fabella Hospital moments after she was born Monday Oct.31, 2011 in Manila, Philippines.

The Philippines, ranked 12th as the most populated country in the world, joins the rest of the world as it welcomes its symbolic 7 billionth baby. (AP)

The Philippines welcomed one of the world's symbolic "seven billionth" babies Monday, after she arrived to a celebratory cheer at a packed government-run hospital.

Weighing 2.5 kilos (5.5 pounds), Danica May Camacho was delivered just before midnight Sunday amid an explosion of media flash bulbs in the delivery room at Manila's Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital.

"She looks so lovely," the mother, Camille Dalura, whispered softly as she cradled her tiny baby.

(AP)

"I can't believe she is the world's seventh billion."

The baby is the second child for Dalura and her partner, Florante Camacho, who quietly stood in a corner wearing a white hospital gown as television crews and photographers crowded to get a shot of his daughter.

(AP)

The parents and the baby were met by top United Nations officials in the Philippines, who presented the child with a small cake.

There were also gifts from local benefactors including a scholarship grant for the child's study, and a livelihood package to enable the parents to start a general store.

Also on hand to witness the landmark event was 12-year-old Lorrize Mae Guevarra, who was declared the world's symbolic six billionth baby in 1999 and is now in the sixth grade.

"I am very happy to see this cute baby. I hope like me she will grow up to become healthy and well loved by everyone," Guevarra said.

The child is one of several in countries around the world being declared a symbolic seven billionth human.

(REUTERS)

It was hoped she would arrive at exactly midnight, but she was delivered two minutes early.

Health Secretary Enrique Ona said the arrival of the world's seven billionth baby also presented the Philippines with an opportunity to assess population related issues.

According to the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) State of the World Population Report, the Philippines is the 12th most populous country in the world with 94.9 million people.

China continues to have the biggest share of the population at 1.35 billion, followed by India at 1.24 billion.

The report noted that in many parts of the developing world, where population growth outpaces economic growth, reproductive health care remains a crucial issue.

UNFPA representative Ugochi Daniels said that while the Philippine population remains young, with people under 25 making up 54 percent of the total, they needed to be taught proper "life skills" and about sexual issues.

She said that while women were having fewer children globally, the overall population continued to go up.

"While our world of seven billion represents a complex picture of trends and paradoxes, there are some essential global truths we observe," she said.

"Conversely, there is no one global population outlook."

The UNFPA said 10 percent of Filipino girls aged 15 to 19 have started child bearing, with many of the young also increasingly vulnerable to HIV.

Source: http://www.emirates247.com/

Global Village opens Nov 1; Free entry on first day

28 pavilions from over 40 countries will participate

Global Village, the largest outdoor family entertainment venue in the region and member of Tecom Investments, will open its doors to visitors on Tuesday, November 1, 2011. 

The 16th season of Global Village will be different as it has prepared new and exciting surprises, including free access on the first day. Around 28 pavilions representing over 40 countries will participate with a variety of shows and performances in Global Village. Spain and Tunisia will participate for the first time this season and many more surprises are expected in addition to the developments on the facades of most of the pavilions.

This year is exceptional for Global Village as it coincides with the 40th UAE National Day celebrations. Many festivals and concerts will be presented to commensurate with this occasion.  Furthermore, this season will witness the longest duration since Global Village began in 1996.

Spanning 124 days, this move aims to attract more visitors from different nationalities to come and watch the distinguished shows from around the world.

Global Villageis always keen to provide an unconventional range of shows, including a Dancing Fountain which is located at the centre of the Global Villagelake. The Dancing Fountain is operated by advanced technologies and will be presented on Global Village’s online live streaming channel. Another feature is the World Tent with a capacity of more than 600 people. Furthermore, the Global Village website has undergone a complete transformation to enable it to cater to the needs of all media personnel and the general audience.The Global Village events will be covered round the clock via the website, social media as well as Blackberry Messenger.

Saeed Ali Bin Redha, Chief Executive Officer of Global Village, said: this season Global Village will be part of the 40th UAE National Day celebrations. We will hold special events and a big ceremony in line with this historic occasion, which means a lot to everyone on this country”. 

Bin Redha added: “we decided this year to extend the duration of the events in Global Village to 124 days, starting from November 1, 2011 till March 3, 2012, which gives the opportunity to the largest number of visitors to witness an array of distinguished shows and learn more about the cultures and traditions of the world. We always strive to be part of the Dubai vision, which focuses on ongoingdevelopment and improving the services delivered to its visitors and the different nationalities that become, without a doubt, a prominent feature in Dubai. I’m confident that we will see an increase in the number of visitors to Global Village this year in comparison with the previous years, as we prepared special shows and events”.

Since the inauguration in 1997, Global Village has become the key entertainment and shopping destination in the region. It includes rich diverse cultures and civilizations and offers a diverse range of restaurants and shops from across the world. In fact, Global Village is the main entertainment, culture and family fun destination in the region.

Source: http://www.emirates247.com/

Eid Al Adha holiday in the UAE announced

Public sector holiday from November 5 to 8, while private sector gets holiday from November 5 to 7

Abu Dhabi: The public sector will get a four-day holiday to mark Eid Al Adha, while the private sector will get a three-day holiday, it was announced on Monday. 

According to a circular issued by Humaid Mohammad Obaid Al Qutami, Minister of Education and Chairman of the Federal Authority of Human Resources, federal bodies and ministries will remain closed from November 5 to 8 for the public sector.

Private sector companies will remain closed from November 5 to 7, according to a circular issued by Saqr Gobash, Minister of Labour.

The ministers seized this opportunity to congratulate President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and members of the Supreme Council and Rulers of the Emirates, and the UAE people and government. 

Source: Gulf News

Philippines welcomes symbolic '7 billionth baby'

Manila: The Philippines welcomed one of the world's symbolic "seven billionth" babies on Monday, after she arrived to a celebratory cheer at a packed government-run hospital.
Weighing 2.5 kilos, Danica May Camacho was delivered just before midnight on Sunday amid an explosion of camera flashes in the delivery room at Manila's Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital.

"She looks so lovely," the mother, Camille Dalura, whispered softly as she cradled her tiny baby. "I can't believe she is the world's seventh billion."

The baby is the second child for Dalura and her partner, Florante Camacho, who quietly stood in a corner wearing a white hospital gown as television crews and photographers crowded to get a shot of his daughter.

The parents and the baby were met by top United Nations officials in the Philippines, who presented the child with a cake. There were also gifts from local benefactors including a scholarship grant for the child's study, and a livelihood package to enable the parents to start a general store.

Also on hand to witness the event was 12-year-old Lorrize Mae Guevarra, who the Philippines declared as its own symbolic six billionth baby in 1999 when the world reached that demographic landmark.

"I am very happy to see this cute baby. I hope like me she will grow up to become healthy and well loved by everyone," said Guevarra, who is now in the sixth grade.

The United Nations named a Bosnian baby, Adnan Mevic, as the Earth's six billionth inhabitant on October 12, 1999. The secretary general at the time, Kofi Annan, was pictured in a Sarajevo hospital with Mevic in his arms.

The Mevic family is now struggling in poverty at their Sarajevo home, which is partly why no baby will be put in the global spotlight this time.

Danica May Camacho is one of several children in countries around the world being declared a symbolic seven billionth human. It was hoped she would arrive at exactly midnight, but she was delivered two minutes early.

Health Secretary Enrique Ona said the arrival of the world's seven billionth baby also presented the Philippines with an opportunity to assess population related issues.

According to the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) State of the World Population Report, the Philippines is the 12th most populous country in the world with 94.9 million people.

China continues to have the biggest share of the population at 1.35 billion, followed by India at 1.24 billion. The report noted that in many parts of the developing world, where population growth outpaces economic growth, reproductive health care remains a crucial issue.

UNFPA representative Ugochi Daniels said that while the Philippine population remains young, with people under 25 making up 54 percent of the total, they needed to be taught proper "life skills" and about sexual issues.

She said that while women were having fewer children globally, the overall population continued to increase. "While our world of seven billion represents a complex picture of trends and paradoxes, there are some essential global truths we observe," she said. "Conversely, there is no one global population outlook."

The UNFPA said 10 percent of girls in the Philippines aged 15 to 19 have started child bearing, with many of the young also increasingly vulnerable to HIV.

Source: Gulf News

Manila to set guidelines for immigration bureau's role

Abu Dhabi: The Philippine Bureau of Immigration's (BI) absolute discretion in "offloading" or preventing Filipino visit or tourist visa holders from flying to the UAE and other countries may soon be defined and limited, Philippine Vice-President Jejomar Binay told Gulf News during his brief visit to Abu Dhabi on Friday.

Binay, who is also the chairman emeritus of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT), said that such discretion could be the main reason why reports of extortion and unclear offloading practices abound at Philippine airports.

The IACAT recently met to form a technical working group to review the offloading policy and other extortion complaints lodged against immigration officials. The working group is expected to come up with its recommendations on the BI's policy next month.

Binay said that the 11-member council had agreed to join BI officials in the "offloading room" where suspected victims of human trafficking are held for questioning. This, the vice-president said, will help minimise abuse tendencies.

"We have agreed to come up with a set of clear-cut guidelines, a checklist of the questions that will be asked and documents to be presented. Other IACAT member agencies will accompany BI officials in interviewing [travellers]," Binay said.

Manila's Departments of Justice, Foreign Affairs, Labour and Employment, Social Welfare and Development, and the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration, and the BI, among others, make up the IACAT.

Additional closed-circuit television or CCTV will be placed in ‘hot spot' areas to monitor the immigration's screening process.

Advocacy group

Migrante-UAE, a Filipino workers' advocacy group, meanwhile said that the move is yet another process of discrimination.

"There will be more people or agencies discriminating against Filipinos who want to travel. What we would like to do is to do away with that selective process," Nhel Morona, secretary-general of Migrante-UAE, told Gulf News. "It will just lengthen the whole process altogether."

Earlier this month, an alliance of Filipino organisations led by Migrante-UAE symbolically binned copies of the affidavit of support and guarantee (AOS) to dramatise their campaign to scrap the travel document saying it was "unnecessary and has bred corruption among some BI officials".

The AOS is one of the documents presented by Filipinos before BI officials to prove that a relative or friend is financing his trip. The AOS is attested by the Philippine embassy in Abu Dhabi and consulate in Dubai for Dh100.

But a number of passengers had been barred from boarding their flights even with an AOS as they were suspected to be victims of human trafficking or tourist workers. Some have reportedly resorted to bribing immigration officials.

"Many claim that they are tourists but they are actually going to look for jobs abroad. This is a big problem because many end up being duped by recruiters," Binay said. "It is better to go through proper government agencies and to be documented [before heading for work abroad]."

Binay arrived in the UAE on Friday following his trip to Saudi Arabia earlier last week.

Source: Gulf News

Get to know Bu Tinah Island

Off the coastline of Abu Dhabi lies a unique wonder of Nature, wild and undisturbed by human activity, Bu Tinah Island. Not many people in the UAE are familiar with this natural treasure. It is now one of the 28 official finalists for the New7Wonders of Nature, a worldwide campaign where people can nominate and vote for the seven most remarkable, awe-inspiring natural locations and features on our planet.

Bu Tinah is host to critical marine habitats. Seabirds, such as the flamingo and osprey, diverse species of dolphins and critically endangered turtles like the hawksbill, can all be found in and around the island.

The island's waters are also home to the planet's second largest population of dugongs, a large marine mammal which is globally threatened.

It is rich in biodiversity and lies within the Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve, the region's first and largest Unesco-designated marine biosphere reserve. Fishing and the collection of turtle eggs are prohibited on the island, which is closed to visitors, to ensure its continued survival and protection.

A special campaign to make Bu Tinah one of the new seven wonders of nature has been initiated by the Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi (EAD). People may visit www.vote7.com and use the "vote now" option to choose their seven wonders.

They have also organised an exhibition, which is held daily at the Abu Dhabi Corniche to create awareness about the campaign.

It is extremely interesting and informative for children and adults alike. Visitors can also vote in designated kiosks set up inside a dome-shaped replica of this natural wonder.

Source: Gulf News

First day of Eid Al Adha to fall on November 6

The Islamic Crescent Observation Project (ICOP), in its forecast, has said that Friday, October 28th will be the first day of Dhu Al Hijjah month, and Sunday, November 6th will be the first day of Eid Al Adha.

Emirates 24|7 Staff adds that our calculations show that the UAE could enjoy a nine-day holiday break, including weekends.

November 6 is a Sunday, and as has been the case previously, five days of public holidays may well be declared – till Thursday November 10. This would include schools as well.

Count the weekend (Nov 4-5) before and the one after (Nov 11-12) and the Emirates could be on holiday for nine days.

While the private sector may get three days, that is only till Tuesday, November 8, many people are likely to take two extra days of leave to avail of the full nine day break.

Dhu Al Hijja, the 12th month of the lunar Islamic calendar that marks the beginning of the Haj season and Eid Al Adha, is expected to fall on October 28.

Eid is celebrated on the 10th of this month.

Eid Al Adha, like Ramadan, must be confirmed by moon sighting, as per Islamic tradition.

The moon will emerge on October 26 at 11.56pm.

Source: www.emirates247.com

Six sites make preliminary list for world heritage bid

More areas can be added later to portfolio for Unesco submission

Dubai: Historic parts of Dubai along the Creek, including Al Shindagha, old souks and Al Bastakia, will be included in the preliminary list that will be submitted to Unesco for recognition as world heritage sites, a senior official told Gulf News.

Some other heritage sites including the Maliha archaeological site in Sharjah, Al Dour in Umm Al Quwain that goes back to the Hellenistic era, and a site with old barracks of the British army in Ras Al Khaimah also feature in the preliminary list, said Rashad Mohammad Bukhash, director of the Architectural Heritage Department at Dubai Municipality.

"We are currently working on submitting the list of six sites. These are in the preliminary tentative list and we can add more sites in later stages. These are being included mainly because of their cultural value," said Bukhash who is also chairman of the UAE Architectural Heritage Society.

December time-frame

 

The list will be submitted by December this year after which files for individual sites will be submitted.

"More sites can be added later. We have more than 20 sites which we plan to include at later stages. Like, in Jumeirah, we have an archaeological site that dates back to the 2nd Islamic century that we are thinking of registering and also Hatta village, which represents a typical traditional village."

Every emirate has identified the preservation of culture and heritage as a priority area. Dubai spends Dh5 million on the preservation and restoration of its historic sites.

Meanwhile, the municipality has announced that Dubai will host the 3rd International Architectural Conservation Conference and Exhibition from December 17 to 19. "The theme of the conference this year is ‘Architectural conservation: Present and future', and will gather international experts in the field of conservation-restoration to exchange expertise and new strategies for conserving historical zones and buildings, protecting heritage sites and developing the urban landscape in a sustainable manner," said Obaid Salem Al Shamsi, assistant director-general, Dubai Municipality.

Running alongside the conference will be an exhibition and the UAE Building Heritage Week — a new initiative featuring activities and competitions to honour heritage sites and buildings across all the emirates.

"The purpose behind the conference is to serve the professional conservation community involved in scientific research, education and training, architectural design, construction and field projects by providing them a platform to unify their energies for the cause."

Main criteria

Any building in Dubai that is 40 years old is evaluated by the Architectural Heritage Department after which the building is categorised.

The categorisation is based on the architectural and cultural value besides other aspects. A building that falls in category A, for instance, will have its original shape maintained and bear minimal changes.

Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest building in Dubai, falls under category A.

"In Dubai 45 of the 492 buildings that are listed as historic fall under this category," said Rashad Mohammad Bukhash, director of the Architectural Heritage Department at Dubai Municipality.

In category ‘B' buildings, the exteriors remain unchanged while the interiors may be changed. Several restaurants and hotels in Dubai are housed in buildings that fall under this category.

Not only is the UAE actively pursuing restoration and preservation of heritage buildings, they are also being used as models for new ones. Dubai, in fact, is planning to develop some districts with only traditional houses.

Speeding cases top list of traffic offences

 

Dubai: Speeding topped the list of traffic violations in the first nine months of 2011, with over one million offences, according to Dubai Police.

Of the total 1,758,492 tickets issued in this period, speeding offences accounted for 1,128,610, said Major General Mohammad Saif Al Zafein, Director of Dubai Police's Traffic Department.

Read more reports on the Make It Safe campaign

The department is studying the reasons for the alarming increase in speeding violations, which account for 85 per cent of all violations, Al Zafein said, adding that the department was implementing awareness campaigns to inform the public about the repercussions of speeding.

 

"The figures show that some motorists have a passion for speed, combined with carelessness for their safety and that of other drivers," he said. The traffic department will step up its fight against speed and no leniency will be shown to offenders, he added.

Blocking traffic was the second most common offence with 78,931 tickets, followed by not fastening seat belts with 63,931 violations. Tickets issued for stopping in prohibited places reached 60,250, while lane discipline offences by light vehicles totalled 40,038, not leaving a safe distance accounted for 36,344 offences, and tickets issued for reckless driving were 2,053.

A serious violation that saw a drop this year was jumping of red lights, with 12,888 registered, compared to 13,604 in the same period last year, while jaywalking offences reached 32,606 incidents.

Other offences included overtaking on the hard shoulder (2,864, compared to 3,897 last year), while 4,870 people failed to show their driving licences when asked for by police, compared to 4,161 in the same period last year.

Decrease in fatalities

The death and injury index in the first nine months of this year fell compared to the same period last year, with 95 fatalities and 1,381 injuries compared to 122 fatalities and 1,442 injuries last year.

Of the road fatalities, 26 were caused by failure to respect other road users, 12 by sudden swerving, 11 by driving under the influence of alcohol, nine by lane discipline violations, nine by jumping red lights, seven by failure to leave a safe distance and six by speeding.

Source: Gulf News

More car licensing rules unified among emirates

The UAE has completed the second phase of a landmark project to unify its vehicle licensing rules and ensure drivers can be served in any emirate no matter where they live, a police officer was reported on Monday as saying.

Motorists seeking to renew their driving licences or car registration, buy a new car or export vehicles can now do so electronically in any emirate as part of the project that ended a long-standing tormenting process in traffic services.

The ministry of interior said it had just completed the second phase of the traffic merger project involving offering seven different licensing services electronically in any emirate regardless of the driver’s current residence visa.

The services include export of vehicle, car write-off or acquisition of a car, issuance of driving licences or vehicle registration to replace an expired, lost or damaged one and amending statement of car specifications.

“The services that are covered in the first and second phases will allow applicants to be served electronically without the need to refer to the original licensing source in the UAE,” said Colonel Anwar Abdullah Al Mulla, director of the data and communications division at Abu Dhabi Police.

“This project will largely save time and effort to all applicants and traffic staff members…there will be three phases in the project which is being executed in collaboration with the ministry of interior and Dubai’s Roads and Communications Authority,” Mulla, who heads a committee entrusted with unifying the UAE’s traffic licensing rules, told the Arabic language daily 'Al Ittihad'.

Source: www.emirates247.com

Don’t Miss The BurJuman Pink Walkathon!

Take a few steps to beat breast cancer ! Friday, 28th October, 8 am  Venue: BurJuman Join the community to take part in the biggest breast cancer walk.  Your every step will be matched by thousands of others who have all come together to show support for breast cancer and raise funds for the cause.  About The Walk Location: start and finish at BurJuman Distance: 3.6 km How to register ? You have two ways to do so.   Pre-Walk Day Registration  At all information counters at BurJuman. Daily from 10:00 am – 10:00 pm Walk day registration Between 7 am and 8 am at the Walk registration  area, Level 1, opposite Virgin Megastore   Registration fee Dhs. 50 for adults and Dhs. 30 for children aged 8-12 years. Children below 8 years of age do not require registration and walk for free. All registered participants will receive a free Safe and Sound T-shirt . Group Registration:  For corporate or group registrations of 10 people and above, our Pink Team will come to your premises to collect the completed registration forms, registration amount and provide you with the walk T-shirts as per the sizes requested. This service is complimentary. Please contact marketing@burjuman.com. All proceeds from the walkathon go towards providing free mammograms, patient care and spreading breast cancer awareness. Fantastic events, non-stop fun for all ! • Rob Idol – UK’s biggest tribute act to Robbie Williams • Fabulous live band • Dancers & entertainers • Pink Bazaar  • Free drumming   • Free face painting • Free arts & crafts for kids • Super breakfast offers • Plus many exciting prizes… You are guaranteed a fun morning out with the family ! Exciting prizes to be won! Registered participants have the chance to win great prizes: • Dhs. 2000 gift card from Saks Fifth Avenue. • Dhs. 1000 worth of shopping vouchers from Bebe. • Three Appliance Gift Hampers from Culin’Or Kitchen Appliances worth Dhs. 1000 each. • Gift Hamper from Terraillon Health and Fitness worth Dhs.1000. • Two vouchers worth Dhs. 500 each for usage at selected Jumeirah Group Property outlets provided by Serco  Middle East. • Dhs. 900 worth of facial vouchers from eternal medspa. • Pink Ghd limited edition hair straightener worth Dhs. 1200.   Winners will be notified by 6th November, 2011 Water provided by: Medical assistance by: Fund usage monitored by:

http://www.safeandsound.ae/pink_walkathon.asp

Dubai residents sweat over spike in utility bills

Residents in Dubai are complaining about their utility bills shooting up despite the recent announcement by Dewa (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) that there would be no increase in the usage cost of water and electricity consumption and that the fixed prices would remain unchanged.

According to an Emirates 24|7 poll, a majority (93 per cent) of respondents have seen their water and electricity bills go up despite the same kind of consumption.

“In summer I was paying around Dh1,200 to Dh1,300 per month in Dewa bills for my villa in The Springs. Just a few months down the line it has gone up to Dh1,853 despite less use of the air conditioning,” lamented one respondent.

On the other hand, 4 per cent of the participants said they did not see any noticeable change in their bills, whereas, 3 per cent don’t keep a track on their monthly utility charges.
This is in sharp contrast to the announcement made by Dewa when it ruled out any increase in Dewa tariffs just last month.

A new tariff structure or slab system was first introduced on March 1, 2008 by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) aimed at encouraging consumers to conserve energy.


Effective January 1, 2011, Dewa once again increased its tariff due to the escalating gas and oil prices.

On January 1, 2011, Dewa increased electricity charges from 20 fils per kilowatt (KWh) to 23 fils for monthly consumption below 2,000 KWh and from 33 fils to 38 fils per KWh for consumption of more than 6,000 KWh per month.

Average individual electricity usage is said by Dewa to be 20,000 KWh hours per annum and 130 gallons of water daily, putting Dubai among the cities with the highest consumption per person in the world, with one of the highest carbon footprints per capita.

Source: www.emirates247.com

Low-priced gas cylinders in Sharjah from November

In line with the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the close follow up of General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company For Distribution (Adnoc-FOD) will start, as of November 15, the second phase of selling domestic gas cylinders in Sharjah at reduced prices. This will be in coordination with the relevant authorities in the emirate.

Cylinders will be distributed through six service stations of Adnoc in different areas of Sharjah, including Al Ghail, Al Dhaid, Muwailih, Al Dayjour, Al Mirqab and Maliha.

Consumers will be able to purchase gas cylinders using Rahal Card, which will be issued in 12 service stations free of charge. The company will receive applications and issue the 'E-Gas' cards in 12 stations.

UAE citizens applying for e-Gas cards should submit their applications, supported by copies of their passports and Khulasat Al Qaid (Family Book). The card should then be charged with a minimum Dh200.

Adnoc started recently selling 25-pound gas cylinders at Dh20 per unit in Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.

Source: www.emirates247.com

Fines for applying makeup while driving in Dubai

Women drivers in Dubai beware!

Applying makeup while driving can now get you pulled over and fined.

If texting, speaking on mobiles phones and reading newspapers while driving is dangerous, so is applying make-up, said a top traffic official.

Major-General Mohammed Saif Al Zaffin, Director of Dubai Traffic, said, distracted driving such as applying makeup will incur a fine of Dh200 and four black points.

However, women are free to do the same while the car is parked, he added.

He was speaking at a press conference to launch an awareness campaign on the dangers of drinking and driving.

The hazards of distracted driving are manifold, he said and added women who apply makeup while at the wheels will not be able to concentrate and react to emergencies, he added.

Al Zaffin said he issued fines to four women in Dubai for reckless driving that endangered others’ lives.

About 15 per cent of total licence holders in Dubai are women.

Meanwhile, women committed 83 traffic accidents, which is 8.6 per cent of total road mishaps.

They were responsible for eight deaths and 147 injuries.

Source: www.emirates247.com

Traffic fines issued by mistake can be reviewed

People who were issued notices of traffic violations by mistake will be able to submit a petition to the Dubai Traffic Police to check the credibility of the notice or get it lifted, according to Maj Gen Mohammed Saif Al Zaffin, director general of Dubai Traffic Police.

Al Zaffin recently called people who were issued notices of traffic violations to review their cases.

They were issued notices for traffic violations at the Sheraton traffic signal opposite the Dubai Land Department on the grounds that they committed the offence of entering a non-designated area.

He added that the review decision was taken after it was discovered that there are no panel (signboard) to show that U-turns are banned from this signal.

Maj Gen Al Zaffin said: “This decision was taken after receiving a complaint from an Emarati stating that he passes this traffic signal opposite the Dubai Land Department every day while going to work.”

Al Zaffin added: “He received a number of notices for entering a non-designated area though there is no panel showing "No U-turn.”

Maj Gen Al Zaffin said: “After verifying the authenticity of the complaint, it was decided to lift the charge against him.”

Al Zaffin disclosed that people who were mistakenly charged twice for the same offence by the Dubai Police and RTA have to visit Dubai Traffic Police or RTA to get the charge lifted, because charging a person twice for the same offence is wrong.

Al Zaffin said: “Dubai Police believes that advice is better than issuing a notice of offence and, just as we charge errant drivers, it is our duty to remove a notice of violation issued by mistake.”

He explained that it would be difficult to get a refund of fines already paid for irregularities. Only fines mistakenly charged for irregularities and which are still unpaid, would be exempted.

Source: wwww.emirates247.com

National Day celebrations postponed for 10 days

In line with the period of official mourning announced by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the passing of Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence and Aviation and Inspector General Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the National Day Celebrations' Higher Committee, has postponed the official UAE National Day celebrations for 10 days.

The move is a mark of respect to the passing of Crown Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz of KSA.

Source: www.emirates247.com

ID deadline extended; Dh20-a-day fine target=

ID deadline extended; Dh20-a-day fine

Nationals: Oct 31; Expats in N. Emirates: Dec 1; Sharjah expats: Feb 1; AD expats: April 1; Dubai expats: Jun 1

Emirates Identity Authority (Eida) has set the final deadlines for the application of the Emirates ID by nationals and expatriate residents, after which a daily fine of Dh20 (up to a maximum of Dh1,000) will be charged, Eida said in a media statement on Wednesday.

The final deadline for UAE nationals to enrol their names in the Population Register and ID Card (PRIDC), prior to implementing the fine is October 31, 2011, while for expatriates above 15 years of age, the registration deadlines are a bit relaxed, and will be implemented in four phases:

December 1, 2011: All expatriates in the Northern Emirates (Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain and Ajman), in addition to all employees in the federal and local public sector and semi-government organisations and their families.

February 1, 2012: All expatriates in Sharjah

April 1, 2012: All expatriates in Abu Dhabi

June 1, 2012: All expatriates in Dubai

HH Lieutenant-General Sheikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Interior and Vice Chairman of EIDA's board of trustees, directed to exempt all children under 15 years of age, including nationals and expatriates, from the late fee until October 1, 2012.

However, expatriates without ID Card registration looking to renew their residence visa after December 31, 2011, will have to foot the late fee.

A meeting of the EIDA board of trustees also decided to roll out new fees for services provided by Emirates ID, as stated in the Ministerial Decision, effective September 29, 2011.

EIDA Director-General HE Dr Engineer Ali Mohamed Al Khouri, who was also present at the meeting, called upon on all UAE citizens who have not yet registered in the PRIDC to make use of the final deadline and avoid penalties by registering before October 31. Dr Al Khouri said that the total number of UAE nationals remaining to register for Emirates ID does not exceed 100,000 and expressed hope that they will make use of the new deadline and fulfil their national duty.

A working team will be constituted as directed by His Highness to co-ordinate with the Ministry of Health and the health authorities concerned with the registration of the newborns in the UAE, and link them with Emirates ID next year as part of facilitating the registration of newborns in the PRIDC programme.

EIDA's board of trustees issued clear guidelines on the time-frame and the mechanism for the application of the administrative late fees for UAE residents under the authority granted by the Federal Cabinet to the Vice-Chairman of the Board.

October 31, 2011, will be the deadline for renewing all identity cards expiring up to that date. Any cardholder across the UAE, with the exception of children under 15 years, has 30 days to renew the card from the date of expiry.

Any change in the personal data of cardholders, except children under 15 years of age, and incidents that bring changes in personal data should be reported to EIDA within 30 days from the date of such change or incident. The nature of such data and incidents will be specified later by the Emirates ID Director General shortly.

EIDA said it will determine shortly the personal data (name, marital status, date of birth, qualification, employer, address and nationality, among others) and incidents (birth, death, marriage, divorce, change in nationality or residence, and others) that fall under the new guidelines. To facilitate this, the Authority will link with all concerned Federal and local authorities electronically in phases starting mid-2012.

The Ministerial Decision No. 25 of 2011 stipulates that a penalty of Dh20 per day up to a maximum of Dh1,000 for the following offences:

· Delay in registration or issuance of identity cards, for all categories and age groups

· Delay in renewing ID cards, for all categories and ages (effective 30 days from the expiry of the card)

· Delay in reporting any change or modification in the cardholder’s personal data or incidents, for all categories and age groups (after 30 days from the date of the change)

Dr Al Khouri hailed the directives of HH Lieutenant General Sheikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan to exempt children under the age of 15 years from the late fees, which keeps their registration optional and aligned to the requirements of UAE government bodies over the next 12 months. This will allow families sufficient time to register their children with Emirates ID.

Dr Al Khouri confirmed that during the next phase, the Board of Trustees will start putting together a working team comprising representatives from the Ministry of Health, local health authorities concerned with the registration of newborns, Ministry of Education and Emirates ID to discuss mechanisms to link the registration of births with Emirates ID registration and to enroll students under the age of I5 years in the Population Register and ID Card.

The time-frame set by the Board of Trustees to implement the new fees on Emirates ID services aims to encourage all residents to register and avoid late fees. Emirates ID has also emphasised the importance of registering for the ID card due to its importance, value and benefits.

The Director General said that Emirates ID is committed to register the entire UAE population as soon as possible to achieve the objectives of enhancing individual identity, developing an accurate population data that will support decision-making, and providing e-Services based on a secure and integrated infrastructure.

"The population register and the National ID Card are major pillars supporting the UAE Vision 2021 that aspires to place the UAE among the best countries as well as the best five governments around the world," said Dr Al Khouri.

Ruling out the possibility of overcrowding at the registration centres following the Ministerial Decision No: 25 of 2011, the Director General said that the appointment system has already brought down the average time spent by applicants at the centres to five minutes from the previous 30 minutes. As per the modified registration system, application forms can be filled in any of the more than 1,000 accredited typing offices across the UAE.

The receipt issued to the customer after registering for the ID card will exempt its holder from any late fee provided he/she completes the registration by visiting the centre at the appointed time. The receipt will also allow the holder to complete any government transaction for which the national ID card is accepted as a valid proof of identity.

Dr Al Khouri also urged all expatriates in the UAE to register as early as possible for the ID card irrespective of the validity of their residence visas to avoid the late fee.

Dr Al Khouri commended the decision of the UAE Cabinet to collect the same fee from UAE nationals and citizens of Gulf Co-Operation Council countries, noting that the step was the first of its kind in the region.

The Cabinet’s decision to exempt those covered by Social Security, the disabled people and those with autism from the registration fees was also praised by the Director General. However, he reminded that the exemption is applicable only to the charges and that registration for ID card and Population Register is compulsory for all.

Regarding exemptions from late fees, Dr Al Khouri noted that the resolution of the Board of Trustees authorises the Vice Chairman to examine such cases on the basis of criteria determined by him in co-ordination with the Ministry of Finance. Emirates ID will deal with such requests on a case by case basis, he added.

EIDA has stated that the deadline set for UAE nationals to register for the ID card gives sufficient time to complete the procedure before the late fee becomes effective on November 1, 2011. The first phase of the registration is completed by filling in the registration form through the typing offices located across the UAE or through the Emirates ID website. The online service will be launched shortly.

The decision to enforce the late fee came after a series of deadlines issued by the Cabinet for the entire UAE population since 2007, the most recent of which were June 30, 2011 for nationals, and December 31, 2010 for residents.

The deadlines and the decisions taken in this regard reinforce the fact that such measures are intended to encourage registrations, and to successfully complete the Population Register and National Identity Card project.

EIDA said that that for more than two years now the Authority has been urging all Federal and local government departments, semi-government agencies, executive boards and other bodies concerned, as well as the private sector, to encourage UAE nationals to register and use the ID card for identity verification as well as link the transactions of these organisations to the ID card.

Emirates ID has also urged all expatriate residents in the UAE to comply with the schedule specified by the Board of Trustees for registering in the Population Register and ID Card programme in each emirate and avoid late fee payments.

EIDA also reminded residents of the Ministerial Decision, which bans accepting, using or treating any resident as an employee, agent, student or in any other capacity, unless he/she obtains an ID card. Emirates ID will co-ordinate with all government bodies in the UAE to implement the ban through a mechanism which will be rolled out in phases, and as per the timelines for completing the registration in the different emirates.

EIDA explained that the decision to start implementing the late fee in the Northern Emirates as the first phase was made after taking into consideration the population density and the fewer number of people to be registered in these emirates. The phased implementation will allow the registration to be completed as per schedule.

Source: www.emirates247.com

UAE likely to enjoy a 9-day holiday break for Eid Al Adha

Eid expected to fall on November 6; Private sector may get three days

Eid Al Adha is expected to fall on November 6 according to WAM.

This could mean that the UAE could enjoy a nine-day holiday break, including weekends.

November 6 is a Sunday, and as has been the case previously, five days of public holidays may well be declared – till Thursday November 10. This would include schools as well.

Count the weekend (Nov 4-5) before and the one after (Nov 11-12) and the Emirates could be on holiday for nine days.

While the private sector may get three days, that is only till Tuesday, November 8, many people are likely to take two extra days of leave to avail of the full nine day break.

Dhu Al Hijja, the 12th month of the lunar Islamic calendar that marks the beginning of the Haj season and Eid Al Adha, is expected to fall on October 28.

Eid is celebrated on the 10th of this month.

Eid Al Adha, like Ramadan, must be confirmed by moon sighting, as per Islamic tradition.

The moon will emerge on October 26 at 11.56pm.

 

Source: Emirates 24/7

Join Breast Cancer Arabia for this very special community event

World Record Attempt - Friday 21st October 2011

Meydan Grandstand

Registration opens at 8:30am - if you have previously pre-registered you will need your unique identification number with you. Keep this safe - this is how the winner of the Cape Town, South Africa holiday will be chosen. This fantastic prize of a 7 nights stay for two people including breakfast at Southern Sun The Cullinan, in Cape Town South Africa is sponsored by Southern Sun Hotels.

Please remember you also have to 'Like' our facebook page to have a chance of winning. 

There are also 8 family vouchers for Atlantis The Palm, Aquaventure - includes entry to Aquaventure, lockers, towels and lunch for a family of four - also up for grabs.

'Like' our facebook and participate in the event to have a chance of winning these fabulous prizes.    

                                                                                                   

Registration is AED30 and you will receive your t-shirt, baseball cap and certificate.

The formation of the pink ribbon will begin at 11:00am and once everyone is in place, you will need to be standing for 10 minutes only - in these minutes we will make history here in Dubai!

Younger children can enjoy the bouncy castles and soccer games on the day.

If you would like any other information please contact info@breastcancerarabia.com.

Event location map

     If you are aged 15 years and over and would like to take part in the world record attempt to make the largest human awareness ribbon REGISTER now.

    
 Registration is AED30 and you will receive a t-shirt, baseball cap and certificate on the day.

     And you will have a chance of winning a holiday to Cape Town, South Africa for 2 people!

     Come and make history! 

The record to break is 3,093 people, so please spread the word and ask your friends and family to join, they can pre-register on the website:

http://www.breastcancerarabia.com/fe/15080-world-record-attempt

Or they can come on the day, registration is AED30 and you will receive your t-shirt, baseball cap and certificate.

All proceeds will go to the Breast Cancer Arabia Foundation to help women in need of financial support for breast cancer treatments.

www.breastcancerarabia.com

Silver Nitro Oxide Warning

A warning issued by the Government of Dubai and Dubai Health Authority.

Prevention is better than cure!!!

ATTENTION!

Medical research authority of the US have found new cancer in human being caused by silver nitro oxide..

 

Whenever you buy recharge cards don’t scratch with nails as it contains silver nitro oxide coating and can cause skin cancer...

Share this msg with your loved ones ...

Free rides on public transport on November 1

Dubai: The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will offer free rides on public transport for a day to mark Public Transport Day on November 1 for the second consecutive year.

Dedicated bus and taxi lanes will also be opened on Naif and Al Ittihad roads on this day. Al Mamzar exit on the road from Sharjah to Dubai dedicated to buses and taxis will also be opened on that day.

Like last year, Metro, bus and water bus rides will be offered free of cost on the day to Nol card-holders. In addition, a complimentary credit of Dh100 will be added to 50 customers who use public transport most frequently. The day is held to commemorate the establishing of RTA six years ago, and aims to popularise the use of public transport in Dubai.

Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the RTA, announced the second edition of the Public Transport Day yesterday, under the theme 'Together We Move'.

Environment

On November 1 last year, RTA's initiative received massive public support with about 606,390 people using public transport as compared to the daily average (in 2010) of 437,000.

Over 205,965 people took the Metro compared to a daily average of 140,000, and 394,325 passengers used public buses as compared to the average of 296,000, and 6,100 passengers used the water bus against 700 passengers on normal days.

By observing Public Transport Day, RTA hopes to demonstrate the benefits of choosing public transport such as psychological and physical comfort during the journey, savings on fuel costs and maintenance of vehicles, in addition to significant reduction of traffic fatalities and carbon emissions from vehicle exhausts, Al Tayer said in a statement yesterday.

The initiative aims to raise the profile of Dubai emirate in supporting programmes that contribute to the improvement of the environment and sustainable development, he said.

"The Public Transport Day initiative comprises a host of programmes... Besides the free rides on the Metro, public buses and the water bus to Nol card-holders, RTA will also kick-start Phase II of the dedicated bus and taxi lane programme which covers part of Naif Road extending 1km from Al Musalla Road up to Al Khaleej Road, and Al Ittihad Road in a sector extending 1km in the direction from Sharjah to Dubai starting from the entry point of Dubai emirate up to Al Nahda Interchange."

On Naif Road the dedicated lane was added by removing the parking slots on the right-hand side of the road while leaving the left-hand side parking unchanged.

Clean up the world

You and your friends, colleagues, office mates or relatives are cordially invited to join us in Dubai Community Clean Up Drive 2011 which is scheduled on 28th October at Al Mamzar Beach.  Please find attached copy of eflyer and registration form, so we can allocate the distribution of FREE T-Shirt & Caps for you and your invited guests.  Sponsored refreshments will available at the site as well.

Let us participate on this worthy project that will create sustainable living for us and the next generation!

Should you require anymore queries, please do not hesitate to contact the following:



Clean up drive site and assembly place



Accounting For Non-Accountants Seminar

The Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) Dubai & Northern Emirates Chapter will be holding a 2 day AFNA Seminar. For inquiries and registration, kindly refer to the the contact details below



Dubai & Northern Emirates Chapter

Cordially invites everyone to participate in our

Accounting For Non-Accountants Seminar

14^th & 21^st October 2011

9:00am – 6:00pm (Fridays)

Movenpick Hotel Deira

Corner Abu Baker Al Siddique and Sallahuddin Road

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Are you one of these?

·Holding an administration job but doing accounting functions with minimal or no accounting background at all?

·Part of management team but has minimal understanding of basic accounting related to your decision making process?

·Owner of a business but cannot handle your books or get your business records straight?

·Bored with your current job and wish to venture into the challenging field of Accounting?

·Hungry for professional growth and want to learn new skills such as basic bookkeeping and basic financial reporting?

·Or simply, an individual confused with the role of accounts department and want to understand the complexities, relevance, and importance of basic accounting processes, controls and procedures implemented and observed in your organization?

THEN THIS SEMINAR IS FOR YOU!

          

This Two-Friday Accounting For Non-Accountants Seminar aims to provide non-accounting professionals, business owners, and professional growth seekers with the right theoretical and technical understanding of basic accounting concepts, understand the role of accounting and finance professional in business organizations, and appreciate the  significance of accounting in business operations.

Summary of AFNA Seminar:

1st Friday

1.    Forms of Business Organization. You will be able to distinguish the different kinds of business organizations, whether it is: Sole Proprietorship; Partnership; or Corporation.

2.    Types of Business Operation. You will have basic understanding of different industries where business organizations operate, whether it is: Merchandising; Manufacturing; or Service Industry.

3.    Overview of Basic Accounting. You will be introduced to the world of Accounts, the basic principles of Accounting and best practices of Bookkeeping and Financial Reporting.

4.    Accounting Process/Accounting Cycle. You will be provided with a point-by-point discussion of  different Accounting processes and cycles in regular business operations:  Revenue & Accounts Receivable Cycle; Purchasing, Accounts Payable & Inventory Cycle; and Receipts and Payments Cycles. You will learn firsthand the documentations flow of these cycles, analysis, actual accounting recording, and finalization of Financial Reports.

2^nd Friday

1.    Concepts of Accruals and Deferrals: You will examine in detail the concept of accrual accounting and the theory of deferral, and explain why they are relevant and important to accounting.

2.    Treasury Functions. You will understand basic Petty Cash Fund System and Bank Reconciliation.

3.    Comprehensive Exercises. These will give you an opportunity to apply what you learned during the Seminar. You will experience actual Bookkeeping, Bank Reconciliation exercises, and most importantly, simple Financial Statements preparation.

 SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

Register now and learn basic Accounting the easy way! To register, please email your confirmation to: picpaevents@gmail.com or contact Ms. Meliza Obrero 055 919 2304 & Mr. Enrique Aligato  055 664 7559. Hurry! Limited seats available!

  

Best regards,

Tess Taripe-Digdigan

President

The Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants

Dubai & Northern Emirates Chapter