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Sheikh Mohamed gets congratulatory messages from world

Published

4 years ago

May 16, 2022

Staff Reporter

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Main image of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Credit: Tamim Hayyal Abazid/ Shutterstock.com

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Leaders from around the world have sent their congratulatory messages to Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on taking over the presidency mantle in the UAE. The change in leadership follows the death of the predecessor Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, who led the UAE through an era of change since 2004.

Sheikh Mohamed has been the de factor leader for quite some time now after Sheikh Khalifa suffered a stroke in 2014, and most of the leaders have interacted with Sheikh Mohamed in recent years.

With the relations taking a formal note, the leaders have sent their wishes while French President Emmanuel Macron has arrived in Abu Dhabi to congratulate Sheikh Mohamed in person while also bidding farewell to Sheikh Khalifa.

Leaders from the nearby countries have also reached Abu Dhabi and the perfect statesman Sheikh Mohamed has been personally meeting them at the Presidential Airport wherever possible.

Among the leaders who have arrived are:

Sultan Haitham of Oman
Abdel Fattah El Sisi, President of Egypt
King Abdullah II of Jordan
Barham Salih, President of Iraq, and Mustafa Al Kadhimi, Prime Minister of Iraq
Najib Mikati, Prime Minister of Lebanon
Kais Saied, President of Tunisia
Aymen Benabderrahmane, Prime Minister of Algeria
General Abdel Fattal Al Burhan, President of the Transitional Sovereign Council of Sudan
Mansour Azzam, Representative of the President of Syria

World hails MBZ

Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent in his congratulations along with his father, King Salman, who had a colonoscopy operation last week and is recuperating.

Lloyd Austin, US Secretary of Defence also called on Sunday to wish the President good luck and hoped for further progress under his leadership.

Others to express their messages through social media or those shared by state news agency WAM are:
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi
“I am confident that under his dynamic and visionary leadership, our Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) will continue to deepen.”

Chinese President Xi Jinping
“We are ready to work with the new president to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership for the benefit of the two countries and their peoples”.

The UK’s Queen Elizabeth II
“While it is under sorrowful circumstances, I offer my sincere and warmest congratulations on your appointment as President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi. I look forward to the continuation of the strong and historic bonds between our two countries and peoples.”

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis
“Warmest congratulations to Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, a close friend of Greece, on his election as President of the UAE. I wish him from my heart every success in his new high duties, for the benefit of his country, his people and the region.”

Pakistan’s President Arif Alvi
“Pakistan values its fraternal relations with the UAE. I hope under his leadership fraternal relations between the two countries will be further strengthened.”

Nigeria President Muhammadu Buhari
“Your predecessor made a mark in the impressive transformation of the UAE, making it a vast business and tourist attraction, building infrastructure and creating one of the best living standards in the world. I’m confident that you are going to build on this great legacy. Nigeria looks forward to greater co-operation with the UAE which has tremendously helped Nigeria.”

Italian President Sergio Mattarella
“On the occasion of your election to the Presidency of the Federation of the United Arab Emirates, I would like to convey to you, on my own behalf and on behalf of the entire Italian people, my warmest congratulations and my best wishes for your success in carrying out the high office entrusted to you. The articulate partnership between our countries is based on ancient ties, which I am sure we will continue to deepen, guided also by our common interest in peace, stability and progress in the region.”

Related Topics:#UAE #US Featured France Narendra Modi President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed

Staff Reporter

Business

Dubai’s unified car rental contract explained: What residents and tourists must know

Published

3 hours ago

March 25, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is reinforcing stricter rules for car rentals across the emirate, and it’s good news for both residents and tourists.

At the heart of this move is a mandatory unified contract that all rental companies must follow. This contract standardises how rental agreements work, clearly laying out the rights and responsibilities of both renters and rental offices in a transparent way.

“We have also organised a series of awareness workshops for companies operating in the car rental sector across the emirate to familiarise them with the contract’s provisions, obligations, and implementation procedures,” said Ahmed Mahboob, CEO of the Licensing Agency at RTA.

What this means for drivers

Same rules everywhere
Whether you rent from a big brand or a small office, the same contract applies across Dubai, no more confusing or inconsistent terms.
Stronger consumer protection
The contract ensures:
- No hidden fees (like surprise toll charges)
- No unfair charges during accident repairs
- Mandatory refund of your security deposit within a set timeframe
Digital and secure process
Rentals are handled through the Transport Activities Rental System (TARS), with:
- Identity verification
- OTP-based digital signatures
- Secure, automated contracts
Proof of vehicle condition
Photos are taken at pickup and return, protecting you from disputes over damage.
Better awareness for renters
The system is designed to reduce complaints and help users, especially tourists, fully understand their rights before signing.

This move aligns with Dubai’s push to enhance trust and transparency in services, reinforcing its reputation as a well-regulated, customer-friendly destination.

News

UAE warns drivers: Fines up to Dh2,000, 23 black points for risky driving during heavy rains

Published

22 hours ago

March 24, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Authorities across the UAE have issued a fresh warning to motorists, urging them to exercise extreme caution during ongoing unstable weather conditions. The reminder comes as part of efforts to enhance road safety and prevent accidents in high-risk areas such as valleys, flood zones, and near dams.

The UAE authorities emphasised that strict penalties are in place for violations during rainfall. Motorists found driving near valleys or flood-prone areas could face a fine of Dh1,000 along with 6 black points on their license.

More severe penalties apply to those who deliberately drive into flooded valleys, regardless of the water level or perceived danger. Offenders risk fines of up to Dh2,000, 23 black points, and a 60-day vehicle impoundment.

Additionally, authorities warned against obstructing emergency responders or traffic officials during adverse weather situations. Such actions could result in a Dh1,000 fine, 4 black points, and vehicle impoundment for up to 60 days.

Officials continue to urge drivers to prioritise safety, follow official advisories, and avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather conditions to prevent accidents and ensure smooth emergency response operations.

News

Rains in UAE: Free public parking extended in Sharjah amid unstable weather

Published

1 day ago

March 24, 2026

Michael Gomes

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In response to ongoing unstable weather conditions, Sharjah City Municipality has announced an extension of its public parking fee exemption across the emirate. The decision, effective from Monday, March 23, will remain in place until further notice, offering temporary relief to residents and visitors.

The waiver applies to all standard public parking zones, including those that typically require payment on weekdays and official holidays. These areas are identifiable by blue informational signage installed throughout the city.

However, authorities clarified that smart parking yards are excluded from the exemption and will continue to operate under regular paid parking rules.

Officials have urged the public to stay informed through official communication channels, including the municipality’s social media platforms and helpline services, as weather conditions continue to evolve.

The move reflects Sharjah’s ongoing efforts to support public safety and convenience during periods of disruption, ensuring smoother mobility across the city.