The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has released limited-edition commemorative gold and silver coins to mark the “Zayed and Rashid” campaign, celebrating the enduring legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the visionary leaders who laid the foundation of the UAE.

This special issuance aims to honour the founding fathers, reinforce national identity, and instill a sense of loyalty and pride in future generations.

Coin Details:

Gold Coin

• Weight: 40 grams
• Diameter: 40 mm
• Obverse: Portrait of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid
• Reverse: UAE national emblem with “Central Bank of the UAE” in Arabic and English
• Availability: Exclusively at the Central Bank headquarters in Abu Dhabi

Silver Coin

• Weight: 50 grams
• Diameter: 50 mm
• Obverse: Portrait of the two leaders
• Reverse: UAE national emblem, name of the Central Bank in Arabic and English, and the phrase “Commemorative Coin” in Arabic
• Availability: Online via the Central Bank’s website

Honouring a national legacy

Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the CBUAE, said: “We proudly announce the issuance of these commemorative coins, which embody the meanings of loyalty and belonging to the national legacy left by the founding leaders.

This issuance marks the Zayed and Rashid campaign, aiming to solidify the values of unity and development upon which our nation was founded, and to highlight inspiring milestones in their journeys.”

Balama added that the initiative underscores the Central Bank’s commitment to preserving UAE history and ensuring that the values of the nation’s founders are passed on to future generations.

In a major push for urban sustainability and eco-tourism, Dubai Municipality has unveiled a Dh650 million development project to transform the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, to attract 250,000 to 300,000 visitors annually,  a six-fold increase from current numbers.

The announcement, made on Monday, confirms that the first phase of the project has been awarded and will be completed by the end of 2026.

A sanctuary at the heart of the city

Nestled just minutes from Dubai’s city centre, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the region’s most important wetland reserves. It is internationally recognised as a BirdLife International Important Bird Area (IBA). It is home to more than 450 species of flora and fauna, including migratory birds, marine life, and rare vegetation.

Popular observation spots include:

• Flamingo Hide – for iconic views of greater flamingos
• Mangrove Hide – ideal for spotting grey herons, spoonbills, kingfishers, and even ospreys

First phase: Expanding ecosystems and blue spaces

Phase one of the development focuses on expanding and enhancing the sanctuary’s natural environment:

• 144% increase in water body area, growing to 74 hectares
• 10 hectares of new mudflats (salt flats) to support migratory birds
• 60% rise in carbon dioxide absorption, improving environmental resilience

What’s next in phase two?

The second phase will introduce more green spaces, native vegetation, and enhanced habitats to attract additional wildlife and further boost biodiversity. The plan also includes:

• Upgraded walkways and bird hides
• New educational signage and visitor infrastructure
• A commitment to engaging, sustainable exploration for families, tourists, and students

Why it matters

This ambitious project reflects Dubai’s broader commitment to sustainability, conservation, and eco-education, making Ras Al Khor not just a refuge for wildlife but a living classroom and green escape within the city.

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The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (Adafsa) has ordered the administrative closure of MS Food Trading for violating Law No. (2) of 2008, which governs food safety in the emirate. The establishment was found to pose a risk to public health, prompting swift regulatory action.

The closure is part of Abu Dhabi’s ongoing inspections across restaurants, food outlets, groceries, and food trading businesses to ensure compliance with food safety standards.

Is the closure permanent?

According to Adafsa, the closure will remain in effect until the violations are corrected or a final court ruling is issued. The business will only be allowed to resume operations once it receives official approval from the Authority.

What counts as a food safety violation?

Under UAE law, food is considered harmful to health if it meets any of the following conditions:

• Contains poisonous substances, banned food additives, or high levels of pesticide residues
• Is contaminated with bacteria, worms, or radioactive materials
• Includes harmful allergens, hormones, or veterinary drug residues
• Comes from a sick animal or one that died before slaughter
• Is expired, improperly stored, or exposed to cross-contamination
• Has misleading labels or is adulterated with other substances

Food safety authorities urge consumers and businesses to remain vigilant and report any suspected violations. For ongoing updates, follow official channels or visit Adafsa’s website.