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.
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.
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.
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.
Behind every safe journey in Dubai, a massive coordinated effort is underway. Safety during rainy conditions remains a top priority, says the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
The authority has been operating 24/7 on the ground during the recent spell of unstable weather, working to manage traffic flow, clear water accumulation and provide real-time alerts to motorists across the city.
RTA teams are closely monitoring conditions through a central command system in coordination with strategic partners, ensuring quick response times and minimal disruption on key roads.
Motorists have been urged to follow safety guidelines and drive cautiously during rainy conditions.
At the same time, Dubai Municipality has activated its full emergency response system, deploying more than 2,800 personnel, including engineers, supervisors and field workers, to tackle waterlogging and weather-related incidents.
The large-scale operation includes hundreds of pumps, tankers and heavy vehicles working continuously to drain flooded streets, particularly on major roads and previously affected areas. Ongoing maintenance of drainage networks is also being carried out to boost capacity and reduce water pooling.
Together, these efforts reflect a city-wide response aimed at ensuring residents remain safe and traffic continues to move smoothly despite challenging weather conditions.