News

Dubai opens first shelter for boys to protect them from violence and exploitation

Published

1 year ago

May 13, 2025

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Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC) has opened a new Youth Hostel to provide a safe space for boys aged 12 to 17 who have experienced violence, neglect, or exploitation. The facility, inaugurated by Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Deputy Chief of Police and Public Security in Dubai, is designed to offer comprehensive care and rehabilitation to children in need of protection.

The facility aims to help children recover from trauma and reintegrate into society in a safe and structured way.

Staffed by a team of professionals, the facility includes psychologists, social workers, nurses, and legal experts, who offer round-the-clock care. It is designed to respond quickly to cases referred by relevant authorities, ensuring that children receive immediate protection and support.

Sheikha Saeed Al Mansouri, Acting Director General of DFWAC, emphasised that the Youth Hostel is a significant step in the foundation’s mission to protect children and provide them with the care they need to heal. Long-term support extends beyond the age of 18, with a focus on vocational training and life skills as part of a transition phase.

The shelter offers a range of facilities, including bedrooms, study rooms, a kitchen, a gym, a prayer room, and areas for recreation and counselling. Boys can be referred to the shelter through community reports, the police, schools, or hospitals. The process is quick, with children being admitted within 24 hours in urgent cases. A comprehensive assessment is conducted to identify the type of harm and create a tailored protection plan for each child.

The shelter also offers essential services such as accommodation, clothing, food, transportation, healthcare, education, and legal aid to help boys recover and build stable futures.

Michael Gomes

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

India

Waiting for Indian passport service in the UAE? Here’s the latest update

Published

5 mins ago

June 30, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Indian nationals in the UAE will have to wait a little longer for regular passport, visa and attestation services to resume.

The Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai have announced that they will continue offering only emergency consular services until July 1, extending the temporary suspension of routine services by an additional day.

In a post on the missions’ official X account, the embassy said emergency requests for passports, visas, attestation and other consular services will continue to be processed during the transition period.

Why the delay?

The extension comes as the Indian missions complete the handover of outsourced passport, visa and attestation services to Alhind Tours and Travel LLC, which is set to begin operations in the UAE from July 1.

Under the transition plan, previous service providers BLS International and SGIVS Global stopped accepting new applications after June 25, while regular appointments were suspended from June 26.

The missions said the extension is due to administrative reasons.

Need urgent assistance?

Applicants with emergency requirements can contact the Indian missions through:

Toll-free: 800 46342 (800 INDIA)
WhatsApp: +971 54 309 0571
Email: pbsk.dubai@mea.gov.in

The embassy said details about the resumption of normal services from July 2 onwards will be announced separately and advised applicants to follow its official social media channels for updates.

Business

UAE fuel prices drop sharply: Here’s what you’ll pay from July 1

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1 hour ago

June 30, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Motorists across the UAE will pay significantly less at the pump from July 1 after the UAE Fuel Price Committee announced a sharp reduction in petrol and diesel prices for July 2026.

All fuel grades have become cheaper compared to June, with Super 98 falling by 55 fils per litre, while diesel has dropped by 73 fils per litre.

Fuel prices for July

Super 98: Dh3.40 per litre (down from Dh3.95)
Special 95: Dh3.29 per litre (down from Dh3.83)
E-Plus 91: Dh3.21 per litre (down from Dh3.76)
Diesel: Dh3.60 per litre (down from Dh4.33)

The new rates take effect on Tuesday, July 1, 2026.

The UAE Fuel Price Committee reviews retail fuel prices every month, with rates adjusted in line with movements in global oil and energy markets.

Announcements

Dubai to build region’s first falcon market and transform the creek into night-time destination

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1 day ago

June 29, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Dubai is set to welcome a one-of-a-kind falcon market and a spectacular new lighting experience along Dubai Creek after Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, approved a series of major development projects aimed at enhancing the city’s cultural, tourism and public spaces.

The new initiatives, announced by Dubai Municipality, include the Dubai Falcon Market, the first integrated falcon market of its kind in the region, and the Dubai Creek Lighting Project, which will transform one of the city’s oldest landmarks into a vibrant night-time destination.

Region’s first integrated falcon market

Designed to celebrate the UAE’s rich falconry heritage, the Dubai Falcon Market will combine tradition with modern architecture inspired by the wings of a falcon.

Spanning around 50,000 square feet and built at an estimated cost of Dh50 million, the market will feature specialist falcon shops, equipment stores, cultural exhibition spaces, heritage events, a dedicated veterinary clinic and visitor experiences, all within a purpose-built destination showcasing one of the country’s most treasured traditions.

The project also forms part of Dubai’s wider strategy to develop rural and desert areas while preserving Emirati heritage and creating new attractions for residents and tourists.

Dubai Creek to shine with new night-time experience

Dubai Creek, one of the emirate’s most historic waterfronts, is also set for a major makeover.

The Dubai Creek Lighting Project will introduce an innovative lighting system stretching across 8km of the creek, illuminating promenades, heritage markets, waterfront walkways, building façades and key entry points.

The aim is to transform the area into a lively evening destination while highlighting its architectural and cultural significance.

Once completed, visitors can expect enhanced pedestrian areas, interactive public spaces and a striking visual experience designed to bring new life to the historic district after sunset.

The project is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.

Commenting on the projects, Sheikh Hamdan said Dubai remains committed to developing people-focused urban spaces that combine innovation, sustainability and advanced technology while preserving the emirate’s identity and cultural heritage.

The latest initiatives form part of Dubai’s long-term vision to create world-class public spaces, strengthen the tourism and creative sectors, and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.