The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), in collaboration with the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation, has released a silver commemorative coin to mark the 100th anniversary of renowned Emirati poet Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais (1925-2025).

This initiative coincides with UNESCO’s recognition of 2025 as the centenary of Al Owais, one of the most influential poetic figures in the UAE and the Gulf region. Al Owais’ name is also synonymous with the prestigious Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Award, which has honoured Arab writers and intellectuals since 1987.

Coin design and details

• Obverse: Features a poetic verse from Al Owais:
  “My homeland is my blood, flowing between my wings, as if it and soul are the same.”
• Reverse: Displays a portrait of Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais, along with inscriptions of the CBUAE and the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation in both Arabic and English. It also includes the phrase “Centenary of Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais” (1925-2025) and the coin’s face value.
• Specifications: Each silver coin weighs 60 grams and has a nominal value of AED 100. Only 1,000 pieces will be issued.
• Availability: The coins will not be sold publicly but will be available exclusively at the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation headquarters.

Honouring a literary legacy

Saif Humaid Aldhaheri, CBUAE’s Assistant Governor, expressed pride in this tribute, stating that the initiative reflects the Central Bank’s commitment to honouring cultural pioneers who have enriched literature and intellectual thought in the UAE and beyond.

Abdul Hamid Ahmed, Secretary-General of the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation, highlighted that UNESCO’s decision to designate 2025 as the Year of Culture in honour of Al Owais was based on a thorough review of his remarkable literary contributions. He also thanked the CBUAE for its role in preserving the poet’s legacy through this historic coin issuance.

This commemorative coin stands as a symbol of Al Owais’ lasting impact on Arabic poetry and literature, celebrating his invaluable contributions to culture and creativity in the region.

(Source: WAM)

Dubai is rolling out a warm welcome for visitors this Ramadan with two special initiatives introduced by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

Upon arrival at Dubai’s air and land ports, travellers will have their passports stamped with a unique ‘Ramadan In Dubai’ logo, designed by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office.

Additionally, visitors will receive complimentary SIM cards, provided in collaboration with telecom partner du, ensuring they stay connected throughout their visit.

As part of the initiative, travelers will also be given access to the ‘Ramadan Events in Dubai’ guide through a QR code. This interactive guide offers insights into traditional celebrations, cultural events, and family-friendly activities across the city during the Holy Month.

The initiative falls under the ‘Ramadan In Dubai’ campaign, spearheaded by Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council. More than 20 entities across Dubai have collaborated to bring Ramadan’s festive spirit to life.

Lieutenant General Mohammed Al Marri, Director-General of GDRFA, highlighted that these efforts aim to enhance Dubai’s reputation as a global tourism hub by providing exceptional hospitality and memorable experiences for visitors.

The ‘Ramadan Events in Dubai’ guide is available in English and Arabic and can be accessed online at Dubai Destinations Guide.

Dubai’s Ramadan campaign showcases the city’s vibrant festive atmosphere during the holy month.

(Wam)

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is going high-tech with a brand-new AI-powered traffic signal system designed to keep the city’s traffic flowing smoothly. The upgrade, set to be completed in early 2026, promises to cut congestion on the roads by 20 per cent, making gridlock a thing of the past.

Announcing the news on X (formerly Twitter), the RTA revealed that the smart signals will predict traffic flow and adjust timings on the go, using cutting-edge digital twin technology. The system will also prioritise certain vehicles and use real-time data from road sensors to keep the city’s roads running smoothly.

Hussain Al Banna, CEO of Traffic and Roads Agency at RTA, stated: “This project aligns with RTA’s vision as The World Leader in Seamless and Sustainable Mobility by improving journey time and reducing traffic congestion at intersections by 10% to 20%. It aims to enhance the travel experience for all road users, including motorists, public transport passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists, while also prioritising emergency vehicles and public transport.”

Meanwhile, the RTA has also inked deals with nine major developers and free zone authorities to turbocharge Dubai’s road network. Big names like Emaar, DAMAC, and Majid Al Futtaim are on board, ensuring that new projects meet top-tier standards while fast-tracking infrastructure approvals.

The agreements aim to create a unified platform for approving infrastructure project requests and managing activities within the right-of-way and public roads. They also seek to enhance road safety, improve service levels, and ensure that development projects adhere to the highest standards and regulations set by the relevant authorities.

Bader Al Siri, the RTA’s top traffic boss, said the partnerships would keep Dubai’s roads world-class and make sure the city stays ahead of the game.

(Source: RTA)