News

UAE calls on residents to observe Shawwal crescent tomorrow evening

Published

1 month ago

March 28, 2025

The UAE Council for Fatwa has invited specialists, experts, and members of the community — both citizens and residents — to participate in the observation of the Shawwal 1446 AH crescent on the evening of Saturday, March 29, 2025, which corresponds to the 29th of Ramadan.

The Shawwal Moon-Sighting Committee, formed under the Council’s authority and responsible for confirming the sighting of the new moon in the UAE, has urged anyone who spots the crescent to report their observation. Witnesses can contact the committee by phone at 027774647 or submit their report via the designated online portal.

This annual moon sighting plays a crucial role in determining the start of Eid Al Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan and the beginning of the Islamic month of Shawwal. The sighting of the crescent moon signifies the conclusion of fasting and the start of celebrations, during which families and friends come together to exchange greetings, share festive meals, and participate in community prayers.

Residents across eagerly anticipate the Eid Al Fitr holiday, which is a time of joy, generosity, and reflection. The occasion is marked by special morning prayers, charitable giving (Zakat Al Fitr), and family gatherings.

The UAE government and private sector have announced public holidays to give residents ample time to celebrate Eid Al Fitr 2025.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has confirmed that private-sector employees will have a holiday from Sunday, March 30, to Tuesday, April 1. If Ramadan lasts 30 days, the break will extend to Wednesday, April 2.

For federal government employees, the holiday will be observed from 1st to 3rd Shawwal 1446 AH, with work resuming on 4th Shawwal. If Ramadan extends to 30 days, the 30th of Ramadan will be an additional public holiday, further extending the Eid break.

With the approach of the crescent sighting on March 29, Islamic scholars and astronomers will be closely monitoring the skies. If the moon is spotted, Eid Al Fitr will be celebrated the following day on Sunday, March 30. If not, Ramadan will continue for one more day, and Eid will fall on Monday, March 31.

(Source: Wam)

Related Topics:crescent eidalfitr fatwa holidays moonsighting Ramadan Shawwal

Michael Gomes

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.

Crime

UAE warns of fake QR codes in public places that steal personal data

Published

1 hour ago

May 2, 2025

Michael Gomes

The UAE Cybersecurity Council has issued a warning about a rise in scams involving fake QR codes placed in public areas to steal personal and banking information.

These scams involve fraudsters placing fake QR code stickers on signboards or digital service areas to trick people into scanning them. Once scanned, the codes redirect users to fake websites that may ask for personal details, banking information, or even install malware on devices.

What to Watch Out For

The Council urges the public to stay alert when using QR codes, especially those found in public spaces like transport stops, parks, or notice boards.

Warning signs include:

Multiple layers of stickers in one location
Suspicious links after scanning
Websites with spelling errors or strange requests for data

Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, explained that scammers use QR codes to install “redirect links” that can lead to phishing websites. He said that while QR codes offer convenience, they also pose cybersecurity risks if not used carefully.

How to Avoid QR Code Scams

Dr Al Kuwaiti shared a few important safety tips:

Only scan codes from trusted locations
Check the link before opening it – avoid those not starting with “https”
Use link-checking or QR code scanner apps with security features
Enable phone protection settings
Never scan random QR codes from unknown sources

What To Do If You Fall for a Scam

If you believe you’ve been scammed:

Contact your bank immediately to freeze the cards
Scan your device for malware
Change all passwords
Report the incident to the authorities

Real-Life Scam Examples in the UAE

Public Transport: A commuter scans a QR code at a bus stop labelled “Check your route.” Instead of the RTA website, it links to a fake login page asking for personal data.
Public Park: A visitor scans a sticker, thinking it provides park info. They’re redirected to a site that asks for a bank card photo and other personal details.

Authorities such as Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) have previously warned about similar scams.

National Cybersecurity Efforts

The Cybersecurity Council is actively working with digital service providers to:

Secure QR code use
Enforce stricter security standards
Run awareness campaigns
Monitor threats and respond quickly

News

Motorist alert: Dubai RTA announces weekend road closures on Emirates Road

Published

2 hours ago

May 2, 2025

Michael Gomes

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced temporary road closures from Friday, May 2, due to ongoing maintenance and rehabilitation works.

Drivers are also being warned about weekend traffic delays on Emirates Road towards Sharjah. The affected area is between Dubai-Al Ain Road and the Al Amardhi–Al Awir Road intersection.

The delays are expected every weekend from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, and will continue until August 30, 2025.

Motorists are advised to plan their routes in advance and allow extra travel time to avoid getting stuck in traffic. The RTA also encourages road users to stay updated through its official channels for any changes.

News

Tax-free salary, travel and other perks: Emirates is hiring 1,500 flying crew

Published

3 hours ago

May 2, 2025

Michael Gomes

On World Pilots’ Day, Emirates celebrated the strength and dedication of its pilots while announcing major recruitment plans as part of its global growth strategy.

The Dubai-based airline reaffirmed its commitment to hire over 1,500 new pilots in the next two years, expanding its 4,600-strong flight crew team.

As part of this expansion, Emirates is actively seeking experienced aviators across four key programmes: Direct Entry Captains, Accelerated Command, First Officers Type Rated, and First Officers Non-Type Rated.

The airline’s Accelerated Command Programme, which fast-tracks First Officers to Captain roles, is already proving successful. More than 80 pilots are currently on track for the upgrade.

Its global recruitment roadshow is visiting over 40 cities, with upcoming stops in Norway, Finland, and Sweden this May, following recent sessions in Italy.

Pilots joining Emirates will fly one of the world’s youngest and most modern fleets, including the Airbus A380, Boeing 777, and the new A350. With a network covering 148 destinations across six continents, Emirates pilots enjoy some of the most scenic flight routes in the industry, from cityscapes like San Francisco and Sydney to natural wonders like the Himalayas and the aurora borealis.

In addition to tax-free salaries, Emirates offers profit sharing, a world-class provident fund, life and health insurance, and retirement benefits.