News

Now fry and earn: Ajman launches cash-for-used-oil scheme for residents

Published

1 year ago

March 10, 2025

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Ajman authorities have rolled out an innovative initiative that turns household waste into an environmental win — offering residents cash in exchange for used cooking oil.

The programme, which aims to reduce pollution and promote biofuel production, provides an easy and rewarding way for households to recycle their oil instead of disposing of it improperly.

The initiative, spearheaded by civic authorities, allows residents to collect their used cooking oil and have it picked up by simply calling 80070.

Participants will receive a designated container to store the oil safely before collection. Once collected, the oil is converted into biofuel — an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

Authorities emphasise that the programme not only prevents clogged pipes and landfill waste but also supports sustainable energy solutions. Biofuel, derived from vegetable oils and other renewable sources, produces fewer carbon emissions compared to traditional fuels.

Apart from its environmental advantages, the initiative provides direct financial benefits to participants. Residents will be compensated for every litre of used oil they recycle, effectively turning kitchen waste into a source of income.

Authorities Urge Residents to Take Part

The campaign is part of a broader effort to enhance sustainability and waste management practices in Ajman. Officials are urging residents to take advantage of the programme by signing up for the collection service.

“By recycling your used cooking oil, you’re not only helping the environment but also contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future,” an Ajman municipal spokesperson stated.

Households interested in participating can call 80070 to receive their storage container and schedule a pickup. Authorities hope the initiative will encourage the widespread adoption of biofuel alternatives and reinforce Ajman’s commitment to sustainability.

(Source: GN)

Health

UAE to India travellers face new mandatory health declaration

Published

32 mins ago

June 30, 2026

Michael Gomes

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If you’re travelling from the UAE to India, there’s a new travel requirement you shouldn’t miss.

India has introduced Air Suvidha 2.0, a mandatory online health declaration system for all international arrivals. The form must be completed within 24 hours before your flight and is required before passengers are allowed to board.

The new system was introduced by India’s civil aviation authorities as a precautionary measure in response to the ongoing Ebola outbreak.

What is Air Suvidha 2.0?

Air Suvidha 2.0 is an online self-declaration portal where travellers must provide their recent travel and health information before flying to India.

Passengers will be asked to submit details including:

Their travel history over the past 21 days
Any possible exposure to infectious diseases
Whether they are experiencing any related symptoms

Once the form is submitted, it is automatically shared with the Airport Health Organisation (APHO) under India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Is the form mandatory?

Yes. All international passengers travelling to India are required to complete the Air Suvidha Self Declaration Form before boarding their flight.

Airlines may ask passengers to show proof that the form has been submitted before allowing them to travel.

Do you need a printed copy?

No. After submitting the form, travellers will receive a confirmation by email, which can simply be shown on a mobile phone upon arrival in India. There’s no need to carry a printed copy.

Completing the form in advance also helps speed up the arrival process by reducing paperwork at the airport.

Announcements

Good news for businesses: Sharjah slashes fees and fines

Published

1 hour ago

June 30, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Businesses in Sharjah can now benefit from a range of temporary fee reductions after Sharjah Police unveiled a new package of incentives aimed at easing costs and supporting the emirate’s business community.

The measures, introduced in line with a decision by the Sharjah Executive Council, include 50% discounts on several security-related fees, along with reduced fines and lower training costs for companies.

What discounts are available?

Under the new initiative, eligible businesses will receive:

50% off security permit renewal fees for commercial activities
50% off security system subscription fees
50% reduction on eligible violations and fines
20% off mandatory training programme fees for companies

Sharjah Police said the initiative is designed to support commercial establishments, encourage business sustainability and further strengthen the emirate’s position as an attractive destination for investment.

How long will the discounts last?

The incentives will be available for three months from the date the decision comes into effect.

Businesses seeking more information about the discounts and eligibility can contact the Sharjah Police Call Centre on 901.

India

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

Published

2 hours 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.