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Free mineral water for all: UAE startup to launch groundbreaking public hydration initiative

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Staying hydrated just got easier, and greener, thanks to Ourwatr, a homegrown UAE startup that’s launching a nationwide free mineral water programme starting June 2025. It’s a first in the region: clean, refreshing mineral water made freely available across the country, delivered through a unique model that blends sustainability, community care, and social impact.

From metro stations and shopping malls to parks and government offices, thousands of chilled bottles of mineral water, sourced locally from Dibba, Fujairah, UAE, will soon be within everyone’s reach, every day. Ourwatr’s mission is simple: hydration is a right, not a privilege.

“At Ourwatr, we believe that drinking water should be accessible to all,” says Abhinav Murali, Co-founder. 

“That’s why we’re giving away premium mineral water for free, and every bottle supports communities in need. It’s hydration with heart, proudly made right here in the UAE.”

Stamp of UAE quality
All Ourwatr bottles carry the prestigious EQM (Emirates Quality Mark) certification, guaranteeing they meet strict UAE national and international quality standards. When you grab a bottle, you’re assured of top-quality water, safe, pure, refreshing and approved by the country’s standardisation authority.

Mission in a bottle

With temperatures rising across the UAE, especially during summer, access to clean drinking water is more important than ever for workers, families, children, and the elderly alike.

“In our desert climate, hydration isn’t just healthy; it’s life-saving,” adds co-founder Bharath Mohan.
“Each bottle we provide is a small act of kindness toward our community.”

Ourwatr is more than just a startup, it’s a mission in a bottle. Launched by three young, UAE-based entrepreneurs, the idea was sparked by a simple but powerful observation: access to free, convenient hydration isn’t always a given.

Wanting to change that, the trio built a business with heart at its core. The team is also in talks with various UAE charitable organisations and government agencies to expand its reach and impact. For every bottle distributed, a portion will be donated to local charities, turning everyday hydration into a meaningful act of giving.

A Model Built on Purpose and Sustainability
Ourwatr isn’t just about water, it’s about doing good. Instead of selling to consumers, the company partners with brands and organisations that cover the production and distribution costs. In return, sponsors co-brand the bottles, using them as a platform to share positive messages and shared values, while making a real difference.

“Sustainability isn’t just about less waste,  it’s about creating lasting, meaningful change,” explains Sharat Nair, Co-founder. 

The bottles are crafted from recyclable materials, aligning with the UAE’s zero-waste goals and green agenda.

Backing UAE Vision 2030
Ourwatr’s initiative supports the UAE’s Vision 2030 goals around health, sustainability, and quality of life. The startup is already collaborating with local authorities to expand water access and reach as many people as possible.

More than just water, Ourwatr is delivering hope, equality, and care, one bottle at a time.

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.

Health

UAE authorities issue mosquito alert: Residents urged to remove standing water after rains

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As rainy weather creates ideal conditions for mosquitoes, the authorities in Sharjah and Ajman have issued fresh guidelines to help residents prevent mosquito breeding and protect public health.

The main problem: Standing water

Authorities stressed that puddles and stagnant water are the biggest contributors to mosquito spread. Even small amounts, like water collected in containers, can quickly turn into breeding grounds.

Residents are being urged to:

Avoid contact with stagnant water
Regularly inspect homes and surroundings
Remove any standing water immediately
Keep drainage systems clean and functional

Don’t overlook gardens and green spaces

Your garden could be part of the problem if not maintained properly. The municipality recommends:

  • Trimming trees and dense shrubs
  • Avoiding overwatering plants
  • Keeping swimming pools clean and covered

Humid, shaded areas with thick vegetation are perfect spots for mosquitoes to thrive.

Common breeding hotspots

Watch out for everyday items that can collect water:

  • Flower pots
  • Old tyres
  • Abandoned containers
  • Waste and debris

Even something as small as a bottle cap can hold enough water for mosquitoes to multiply.

Free pest control support

To support residents, the municipality is offering a free pest control service. You can request assistance via:

  • Official website
  • Call centre: 993

Extra Safety Measures

Authorities also highlighted:

  • Covering water tanks
  • Preventing water buildup at construction sites
  • Following general cleanliness and safety standards

Community effort matters

The municipality emphasised that controlling mosquito spread is a shared responsibility. Small actions by residents can make a big difference in keeping neighbourhoods safe and healthy.

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Education

UAE makes it easier for medical teachers and graduates to work in healthcare sector

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In a move designed to strengthen healthcare in the UAE, authorities have made it easier for medical teachers to work in healthcare sector, without compromising on safety or standards. The licensing requirements for some health graduates have also been eased.

So, what’s changing?

Doctors and professors who teach in universities can now practise in the healthcare sector more easily, bringing their knowledge directly into real-world patient care. This means students learn from professionals who are actively working in the field, not just teaching from textbooks.

Officials say this is a win-win. Patients benefit from high-level expertise, while students gain hands-on learning and exposure to real cases.

The update is part of a bigger plan to modernise the system and make it more flexible, while still keeping strict rules in place to ensure quality and patient safety.

It also helps fresh graduates in nursing and allied health fields enter the workforce faster, supporting hospitals with more skilled professionals.

Authorities say the UAE’s strong digital systems and coordination between government entities are helping make these changes smoother and quicker to implement.


This step brings education and healthcare closer together, helping build a stronger, more skilled workforce while improving patient care across the country.


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Health

UAE to abolish health card: Emirates ID to replace it at hospitals

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In a major digital shift, Emirates Health Services (EHS) has begun implementing a plan to abolish the health card, replacing it with the Emirates ID as the primary identifier for patients across its hospitals and healthcare centres.

The move is aimed at simplifying access to treatment and cutting administrative red tape.

What’s changing?

For years, patients needed a valid health card to register and receive treatment at EHS facilities, including renewals when expired.

Under the new system:

  • The Emirates ID will serve as the unified patient identifier
  • No separate health card will be required
  • Registration procedures will be streamlined
  • Administrative steps will be reduced

The aim? Faster access, shorter waiting times and smoother admissions.

Who will benefit first?

According to EHS, the rollout will happen in phases.

Phase One:

  • Emirati citizens
  • UAE residents
  • Nationals of GCCcountries

Later phases will include:

  • Children of Emirati women
  • Spouses of Emirati citizens
  • People of determination
  • Additional categories requiring coordination with other entities

Saif Abdullah Al Hassani, Head of Service Development and User Experience at EHS, said the move aligns with the UAE’s digital transformation agenda and national database integration.

In simple terms: one ID, one system, less paperwork.

EHS confirmed it is technically ready to cancel the health card for all groups immediately. However, a phased rollout is being adopted to monitor system performance and address any operational challenges before full implementation.

When will it be fully implemented?

The first group of beneficiaries has already completed technical and regulatory preparations, with a formal announcement expected soon.

Further categories will be added gradually as coordination with external entities is completed.

What this means for patients

Once fully implemented:

  • No more renewing health cards
  • Faster registration at hospitals
  • Reduced paperwork
  • Improved patient experience

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