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UAE to plant approximately 800,000 mangroves for COP28 visitors

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2 years ago

September 6, 2023

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The UAE has unveiled a remarkable eco-initiative ahead of the COP28 conference, set to convene in Expo City Dubai later this year. As approximately 80,000 global delegates prepare to gather for crucial climate discussions, the UAE pledges to plant 10 mangrove trees for every attendee, potentially resulting in the planting of a staggering 800,000 mangrove trees within the nation.

This ambitious commitment aligns with the UAE’s broader mission to plant an impressive 100 million mangrove trees by 2030. Recognized as an essential component of the UAE’s ecosystem, mangroves play a pivotal role in mitigating climate change and preserving biodiversity.

As COP28 beckons, this unwavering commitment to plant mangroves symbolizes a giant leap towards a sustainable future, and aligns seamlessly with the ‘Year of Sustainability,’ ushered in by UAE President HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2023.

Under the visionary Ghars Al Emarat initiative, innovative techniques like drone-assisted planting will come to life in the final quarter of the year. The strategic focus lies on coastal havens like Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve, Al Mirfa City, and Jubail Island, providing ideal environments for mangrove proliferation.

But, why mangroves?

Mangroves are some of the most productive coastal ecosystems in the world and have a wealth of economic and ecological resources. In the race against the effects of climate change, trees play a key role in slowing them down as they absorb greenhouse gases.

The 85 per cent of the country’s reserves are also home to much of Abu Dhabi’s biodiverse wildlife, protecting them and neighbouring habitats.

All in all, the UAE’s commitment to planting mangroves for COP28 attendees represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and climate-resilient future, underlining the nation’s dedication to combating climate change.

Staff Reporter

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Dubai-India travel: Security procedures triggered for Emirates flight following bomb threat email, flight lands safely

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1 day ago

December 5, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Authorities at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport activated full emergency protocols on Friday after receiving a bomb threat email linked to Emirates flight EK526 travelling from Dubai (DXB) to Hyderabad (HYD).

According to GMR officials, the threat email landed in the airport’s customer support inbox around 7.30am on December 5. Despite the alert, the flight continued under strict monitoring and landed safely at 8.30am.

Once on the ground, the aircraft was immediately moved to an isolated bay. Passengers were safely deboarded, and security te

ams carried out standard bomb threat checks. Investigations are currently underway.

Emirates confirmed the incident in a statement to local media, saying authorities had alerted them to a “potential security threat” to EK526.
“All standard security procedures were implemented by the relevant local authorities with full co-operation from Emirates’ ground teams,” the airline said, adding that “the safety and well-being of passengers and crew remain the highest priority.”

Authorities say all threats are being investigated, and extra security measures remain in place at the airport.

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Driving through Abu Dhabi this week? Here are the road closures you need to know about

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1 day ago

December 5, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Abu Dhabi motorists can expect some delays over the next few days, with the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) announcing a series of partial road closures across key routes in the capital. Drivers are being urged to plan, allow extra travel time, and follow diversions to avoid congestion.

Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street

A major set of phased lane closures will take place near Sheikh Zayed Bridge from Tuesday, December 9 to Monday, December 22, 2025.

Three left lanes will be closed from 12am on December 9 until 10pm on December 15.
Two right lanes will then shut from 10pm on December 15 until 6am on December 22.

Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Street

Another temporary closure is scheduled on Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Street from 5pm on December 5 until 5am on December 8.

Authorities explained that these restrictions are part of ongoing road enhancement projects designed to improve traffic flow and safety across the city. Motorists are encouraged to use alternative routes wherever possible during the maintenance period.

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Sharjah Police give deadline to remove National Day stickers, or face fines

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1 day ago

December 5, 2025

Michael Gomes

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If your car is still sporting National Day decals, it’s time to take them off. Sharjah Police have announced that all vehicle owners must remove their UAE National Day celebration stickers by Saturday, December 6, and those who miss the deadline will face violations.

The reminder follows a crackdown during the 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations, where authorities impounded 106 vehicles and nine motorbikes for dangerous and irresponsible behaviour on the roads.

According to Sharjah Police, the violations included:

Creating loud noise and disturbing residents
Driving recklessly and endangering others
Operating vehicles without a valid licence

Police officials urged motorists to celebrate responsibly and avoid turning festivities into safety risks.

However, there has been a shift in decorating trends this year. Many residents opted for cleaner, simpler, more elegant designs to showcase their UAE pride ahead of the long weekend, and demand for custom decals surged.

Authorities are now urging residents to ensure all celebratory stickers and decorations are removed by the set deadline to keep roads safe and avoid penalties.