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Sharjah Ruler saves local tourism and wildlife: New eco-friendly boats coming to Kalba lake

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In a move that’s the definition of a win-win, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has stepped in to save a local business while protecting Sharjah’s wildlife. He suspended a decision by the Department of Economic Development to shut down a tourist boat project operated by Abu Hamad from Kalba. 

What happened?

The Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) originally pulled the plug on the project because traditional boat propellers were becoming a danger to the rare turtles living in the lake. While it seemed like the end of the road for the project, Sheikh Dr Sultan went on the Direct Line radio programme to deliver some good news.

The green solution

Instead of closing the business, the Ruler ordered a total tech upgrade. Here’s how the project is being saved:

  • Propeller-free zone: The traditional boats will be replaced with specially designed, eco-friendly versions that won’t harm marine life.
  • Custom-built: If these specific boats aren’t available on the market, Sheikh Dr Sultan confirmed they will be specially manufactured for the project.
  • Full support: The owner, Abu Hamad, was personally reassured that he would be supported so he could continue his work without any financial loss.

This isn’t just about one business, it’s about how Sharjah is balancing tourism with its fragile ecosystems. Kalba’s mangroves are home to some of the region’s most unique habitats, and this intervention ensures that people can still explore the natural beauty of the emirate without putting wildlife at risk.

“We will provide boats designed for such environments, boats that do not use propellers but operate in a way that does not harm these living creatures,” said Sheikh Dr Sultan.

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.

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Will UAE petrol prices rise in August? Here’s what we know

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UAE motorists won’t have long to wait to find out whether fuel prices will increase in August, with the Fuel Price Committee set to announce the new rates on Thursday, July 31.

The revised petrol and diesel prices will take effect from August 1.

Will fuel prices go up?

After a welcome price cut in July, the outlook for August is less certain.

Global oil prices initially fell below $70 a barrel earlier this month, raising hopes of another reduction. However, prices have since rebounded sharply, clouding the picture for motorists.

Brent crude briefly climbed above $100 a barrel, while US benchmark WTI rose to nearly us$92. Abu Dhabi’s Murban crude also surged past us$105, reflecting renewed strength in global energy markets.

Because UAE fuel prices are based on average international oil prices over the month, the late-July rally could limit or even reverse last month’s cuts.

Current UAE fuel prices

Motorists are currently paying:

  • Super 98: Dh3.40 per litre
  • Special 95: Dh3.29 per litre
  • E-Plus 91: Dh3.21 per litre
  • Diesel: Dh3.60 per litre

These rates were introduced in July after global oil prices eased earlier in the summer.

How UAE fuel prices are set

The UAE reviews petrol and diesel prices every month based on average global crude oil and refined fuel prices.

The August rates will be announced on July 31 through official government channels and will come into effect the following day.

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UAE traffic fine: Why leaving your engine idling can cost you Dh500

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Abu Dhabi Police are urging motorists to switch off their engines and take their keys whenever leaving their vehicles, warning that even brief stops can increase the risk of theft, fires and other safety hazards.

The advisory applies to drivers stopping at shops, petrol stations, ATMs or mosques, where some motorists continue to leave vehicles unattended with the engine running.

Safety risks

Police said leaving a running vehicle unattended creates an opportunity for theft and could also lead to mechanical problems or fire-related incidents.

Motorists were also reminded never to leave children, especially infants, inside a running vehicle, describing the practice as a serious threat to their safety.

Traffic laws

Abu Dhabi Police also highlighted that UAE traffic laws prohibit leaving an unattended vehicle with its engine running.

Drivers who fail to comply with traffic rules and official instructions can face a Dh500fine under the Federal Traffic Law.

Authorities urged motorists to adopt safe habits by turning off the engine, removing the key and locking the vehicle every time they step away, no matter how briefly.

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Dubai Airports unveils smart gate pre-check for passengers

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Passengers travelling through Dubai International Airport (DXB) can now check if they’re eligible to use Smart Gates before reaching passport control.

Dubai Airports has introduced the new Smart Gates Pre-Eligibility Verification service in partnership with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) to make immigration faster and reduce waiting times.

How it works

Travellers can instantly verify their Smart Gate eligibility through the Pocket Flights platform or by scanning QR codes placed across airport terminals and boarding gates.

The service lets passengers know in advance whether they can use the automated passport gates, helping them avoid uncertainty at immigration.

Faster airport experience

Dubai Airports says the new feature is part of its ongoing efforts to streamline passenger journeys and improve the overall airport experience.

By allowing travellers to confirm eligibility before reaching passport control, the airport aims to speed up immigration processing and make travel through DXB more seamless for millions of passengers each year.

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