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AFC Medical Conference 2025 Begins in Kuala Lumpur

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AFC Medical Conference 2025 Begins in Kuala Lumpur

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur welcomes over 700 sports medicine professionals from around the world as the 8th AFC Medical Conference 2025 begins today. Running from July 21 to 25, the conference marks 30 years of progress in football medicine since its inception in Tokyo in 1995.

Organised by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and supported by FIFA and Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital — an AFC Medical Centre of Excellence — this year’s edition is themed “Science and Medicine: Navigating through Changing Times.” The event tackles the challenges of modern football and highlights innovations in athlete care and sports science.

The conference opens with two days of pre-conference workshops and seminars, setting the stage for a packed main program focused on strategic insights, cutting-edge research, and international collaboration in sports medicine.

AFC President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa stated:

“The AFC believes that education is the cornerstone of realising our bold ambitions of being a leading Confederation. The AFC Medical Conference embodies our dedication to providing the latest knowledge and innovative practices to those who serve at the forefront of sports medicine.”

Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa

This year’s lineup features more than 120 leading experts in the field. Key speakers include Dr. Andrew Massey, FIFA Medical Director; Dr. Peiter D’Hooghe, Chief Medical Officer at Aspetar; and Dr. Ramon Cugat, President of the Medical Council of the Catalan Football Federation.

Participants

Other notable presenters are Dr. Kat Okholm Kryger, Senior Lecturer in Sports Rehabilitation at St Mary’s University, and Dr. Celeste Geertsema, Co-Chair of the IOC Medical Expert Group for the Olympic Games.

الطاقم الطبي
Launching the medical staff

Topics span artificial intelligence in injury prevention, advances in athlete health monitoring, and women’s health in football. Through lectures, panels, and symposiums, the conference aims to shape the future of football medicine in Asia and globally. The event will also include the prestigious AFC Medical Awards, honouring medical professionals for their outstanding contributions to the sport.

Frontline Heroes Office: Empowering Youth is the Foundation for Sustainable Giving in the Frontlines

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Frontline Heroes Office: Empowering Youth is the Foundation for Sustainable Giving in the Frontlines

Abu Dhabi, UAE – On the occasion of World Youth Skills Day, observed annually on July 15, the Frontline Heroes Office reaffirmed the importance of investing in the potential of young people and equipping them with essential and future-focused skills. Such efforts are considered a cornerstone for supporting and sustaining frontline sectors across various vital fields.

خط الدفاع الأول
frontline heroes

The Office highlighted that young frontline heroes represent one of the most prominent pillars of society, with their dedication, competence, and spirit of giving in health, humanitarian, and service-related fields. Emirati youth have demonstrated a remarkable presence in facing challenges, especially during times of crisis, becoming a true example of commitment, teamwork, and national spirit. This recognition aligns with the vision of the UAE’s wise leadership, which places youth empowerment as a national strategic priority, driven by a strong belief in preparing a capable generation ready to take on responsibilities and actively contribute to building a sustainable and secure future for the nation. This day serves as an opportunity to spotlight the ongoing efforts to enhance youth skills and inspire them to continue excelling in their service to both community and country, within a comprehensive framework of recognition and support.

Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure Launches Strategic Project to Develop Emirates Road

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Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure Launches Strategic Project to Develop Emirates Road
  • Implementation to begin in September 2025, with a duration of two years
  • Construction of 6 directional bridges with a total capacity of 13,200 vehicles per hour
  • 45% reduction in travel time on Emirates Road
  • 65% increase in the road’s capacity
  • Total cost of AED 750 million

Dubai, UAE – As part of a comprehensive national plan to address traffic congestion, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure has announced the launch of a project to develop and enhance the capacity of Emirates Road. This strategic project reflects the UAE’s commitment to building a smart, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure that supports economic growth objectives, enhances quality of life, and improves the efficiency of the federal road network.

The project is being implemented in collaboration with local government entities and is expected to deliver tangible outcomes that positively impact mobility, goods transport, and service flow across the country.

The Emirates Road development project includes expanding the road from three to five lanes in each direction, over a stretch of 25 kilometers, starting from Al Badee Interchange in Sharjah to the Emirate of Umm Al Quwain. This expansion will increase the road’s capacity to approximately 9,000 vehicles per hour, representing a 65% increase, and focuses primarily on enhancing one of the most congested segments of the federal road network.

The project also features a comprehensive upgrade of Interchange No. 7 on Emirates Road, with the construction of six directional bridges totalling 12.6 kilometres in length, and a combined capacity of 13,200 vehicles per hour. In addition, the development will include the creation of collector roads on both sides of Emirates Road, spanning 3.4 kilometres.

The project, with an estimated cost of AED 750 million, is scheduled to begin in September 2025 and will span two years. It aims to regulate traffic flow and achieve the highest safety standards for road users. The development will significantly reduce travel time—by up to 45%—for commuters traveling from Ras Al Khaimah, through Umm Al Quwain and Sharjah, to Dubai, and vice versa.

As one of the key solutions to traffic congestion in the UAE, the project is expected to alleviate traffic density, reduce travel times, and enhance flow on one of the most heavily used federal roads. It is being implemented according to the highest international standards in infrastructure design and execution, ensuring optimal traffic efficiency, quality, and safety.

His Excellency Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, affirmed that the project is part of the Ministry’s efforts to develop practical and sustainable solutions to traffic congestion, an issue that received considerable attention during the UAE Government Annual Meetings, where the importance of road infrastructure development was emphasized as a key enabler of smoother traffic flow and comprehensive national development.

His Excellency stated: “This project represents a significant step toward realizing the UAE’s vision of establishing an integrated road network that meets the needs of population and economic growth. Enhancing road efficiency and upgrading key interchanges will reduce daily travel times, improve community satisfaction, and support sustainable development by ensuring smooth traffic flow that enhances quality of life. It also reflects the country’s commitment to delivering innovative solutions for improving transportation, reducing congestion-related emissions, and raising overall living standards.”

شارع الإمارات
Emirates Road

His Excellency added: “This project is part of a comprehensive vision aimed at enhancing the country’s transport and road infrastructure network according to the highest engineering and technical standards, positioning the UAE among the world’s leading nations in providing sustainable infrastructure that meets future needs and supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. It will also help deliver integrated logistics services aligned with the nation’s ambitions.”

For his part, His Excellency Eng Hassan Al Mansouri, Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Transport Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, said: “The project will be implemented in accordance with the highest international standards in road and infrastructure planning, with a strong emphasis on ensuring long-term sustainability. It will significantly enhance traffic flow, particularly for transit movement between cities across the UAE.” He further noted that Emirates Road is one of the main federal roads managed by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure.

AFC Sets the Stage for Final World Cup 2026 Spots with Road to 26 Playoffs Draw

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AFC Sets the Stage for Final World Cup 2026 Spots with Road to 26 Playoffs Draw

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Asia’s remaining six contenders for the FIFA World Cup 2026 will learn their fate next week when the AFC Asian Qualifiers™ – Road to 26 Playoffs draw takes place on Thursday, July 17 at 3pm at the AFC House in Kuala Lumpur.

With six of the continent’s eight direct spots for the expanded 48-team tournament already secured after the third qualifying round, the remaining teams — Indonesia, Iraq, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates — now prepare for a last-chance showdown in October (8–14).

The upcoming draw will split the six teams into two groups of three, with only the group winners advancing directly to the World Cup. Matches will be played in a single round-robin format at centralised venues, with Qatar and Saudi Arabia confirmed as hosts.

Diverse Stakes for Six Nations

While Oman chases a first-ever appearance at football’s biggest stage, Indonesia, Iraq, and the UAE are aiming for a return after previous qualifications. Qatar and Saudi Arabia, both World Cup 2022 participants, are eyeing consecutive appearances.

Official Seedings Revealed

The AFC confirmed the teams will be divided into three seeding pots based on the FIFA Men’s World Rankings (as of June 13, 2025):

  • Pot 1: Qatar (Rank 53), Saudi Arabia (58)
  • Pot 2: Iraq (59), United Arab Emirates (66)
  • Pot 3: Oman (79), Indonesia (118)

As hosts, Qatar and Saudi Arabia will be placed in separate groups.

One Final Shot

Following the group stage in October, the runners-up from each group will face off in a two-legged playoff on November 13 and 18. The winner of this knockout tie will advance to the FIFA Intercontinental Play-Off Tournament, representing Asia for a final chance at qualification.

A draw to determine the host nation for each leg of the knockout round will be held after the conclusion of the group stage draw. The draw ceremony will be streamed live on July 17. Stay tuned to the AFC Asian Qualifiers™ – Road to 26 channels for full coverage and updates.

“Frontline Heroes Office”: The UAE is at the forefront of the world in humanitarian support for Gaza.

Local Desk
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“Frontline Heroes Office”: The UAE is at the forefront of the world in humanitarian support for Gaza.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: The Front Heroes Office commended the UAE’s ongoing humanitarian efforts in the Gaza Strip, as the country completed 580 days of continuous charitable support, positioning itself as the world’s largest humanitarian donor to Gaza.

The office affirmed that this ongoing giving embodies the UAE’s deeply rooted humanitarian approach, based on the values ​​of brotherhood and solidarity established by the founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God rest his soul in peace. Today, the wise leadership continues to follow in his footsteps.

ريادة الإمارات في العمل الإنساني العالمي
The UAE’s leadership in global humanitarian work

Through Operation Chivalrous Knight 3, UAE aid during this period varied between relief, medical, and food supplies, meeting the needs of thousands of Palestinian families and contributing to alleviating the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, particularly in light of the worsening challenges facing the health and service systems there. These efforts included sending urgent medical and food shipments via air, land, and sea, as well as field hospitals, with thousands of injured people being treated in UAE hospitals.

The Frontline Heroes Office praised the role of the heroes on the front lines of defense, including the Emirati medical and relief personnel working in the field, who embody the most wonderful images of sacrifice and giving. He stressed that the frontline heroes continue to perform their duties with courage and dedication, providing health and psychological support to the wounded and sick in Gaza. This humanitarian commitment is an extension of the UAE’s steadfast policy that places people at the heart of its priorities, and confirms through every stance and initiative that the UAE will always stand with those in need, carrying a message of goodness and peace to all those exhausted by crises. In doing so, the UAE consolidates its position as a pioneer in the fields of international giving and a reference in charitable work based on efficiency, sustainability, and compassion.

Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure Launches Initiative to Support Senior Citizens

Local Desk
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Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure Launches Initiative to Support Senior Citizens

Implemented in cooperation with the Central Bank of the UAE and a group of national insurance companies, the initiative:

  • Provides special insurance coverage for housing loans to senior citizens to enhance the stability of Emirati families.
  • Offers life insurance that covers the full value of the housing loan, applicable in cases of death or total permanent disability.
  • Raises the maximum loan coverage age from 70 to 95 years, facilitating homeownership for senior citizens.
  • Covers both current and future loans at a low cost.

As part of the Year of Community initiatives and with the aim of providing a comprehensive insurance umbrella, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, represented by the Sheikh Zayed Housing Program, announced the launch of an initiative to secure funding for housing support decisions for citizens benefiting from housing loans, with a particular focus on senior citizens.

The ministry indicated that the initiative is being implemented in cooperation with the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates, financing partners, and Takaful service providers, in addition to a large group of national insurance companies, including Sukoon Takaful and Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company.

Sustainable partnerships that support social and economic development

The wise leadership places the comfort and happiness of citizens at the forefront of its priorities… The initiative reflects the UAE’s unwavering commitment to providing adequate housing as a fundamental pillar of comprehensive development, as it represents a qualitative step in the journey to support senior citizens.

His Excellency Suhail bin Mohammed Faraj Faris Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, emphasized that the initiative aligns with the leadership’s directives to enhance the stability of Emirati families and provide a decent life for all segments of society. His Excellency said: “The wise leadership places the comfort and happiness of citizens at the forefront of its priorities… The initiative reflects the UAE’s unwavering commitment to providing adequate housing as a fundamental pillar of comprehensive development, as it represents a qualitative step in the journey to support senior citizens. It was designed to address the challenges associated with housing financing for this category, enhancing their quality of life and contributing to achieving family stability.

” Al Mazrouei added that the cooperation with the banking sector and national insurance companies reflects the country’s strategic vision to build sustainable partnerships that support social and economic development, commending the efforts made to develop the housing system in the UAE to become a global model.

The partnership includes a group of banks participating in financing housing support decisions within the federal housing policy. The insurance coverage has been designed to be uniform, fair, and low-cost, ensuring that all eligible citizens benefit from current and future housing loans. The insurance covers death or permanent total disability resulting from an accident or other event, with coverage extended to the age of 95, providing long-term financial protection for Emirati families.

Flexible financing solutions that meet the needs of senior citizens and retirees.

Through this initiative, the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme seeks to provide flexible financing solutions that meet the needs of senior citizens and retirees… while ensuring comprehensive insurance coverage that protects them from financial risks.

For his part, His Excellency Engineer Mohammed Ibrahim Al Mansouri, Director of the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, emphasized that the initiative embodies the leadership’s forward-looking vision to empower Emirati families and enhance their social stability. He explained that through this initiative, the programme seeks to provide flexible financing solutions that meet the needs of senior citizens, while ensuring comprehensive insurance coverage that protects them from financial risks.

Al Mansouri pointed out that raising the maximum age for insurance coverage to 95 years represents a qualitative shift in housing policy, as it provides broader opportunities to benefit from housing support, enhancing social justice and reducing rejection rates resulting from insurance or financing restrictions. The initiative aims to support various segments of society, with a focus on senior citizens, by providing life insurance that fully covers the value of the housing loan.

This initiative addresses the challenges previously faced by this segment, as the maximum age for loan repayment was limited to 70 years, which in some cases led to the rejection of financing applications. By raising this age limit to 95 years, senior citizens can now benefit from housing support more easily, enhancing opportunities for home ownership and reducing insurance or financing risks that could hinder the achievement of this goal.

برنامج الشيخ زايد للإسكان
Residential complexes affiliated with the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme

Comprehensiveness and fairness in the distribution of housing support

The Central Bank of the UAE has issued a new regulatory notice allowing banks and finance companies to adopt more flexible financing models. The notice also allows financing for citizens with existing mortgages, provided that the new property is their first actual residence. Citizens benefiting from the National Loan Program are included after their ability to repay is verified, enhancing the comprehensiveness of the initiative and ensuring fairness in the distribution of housing support.

This initiative is part of a series of achievements by the Sheikh Zayed Housing Program, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its citizens. In recent years, strategic developments have contributed to accelerating the housing support process, increasing customer happiness, and expanding partnerships with the banking sector and financing institutions.

Partnership agreements

In support of the senior citizens’ housing initiative and the provision of special insurance protection for housing loans, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, represented by the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, and Takaful service providers signed a partnership agreement with Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (ADNIC) and Sukoon Takaful. Takaful service providers ADNIC and Sukoon Takaful also signed a similar agreement with banks and financial institutions approved under the new Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme loan financing mechanism: Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), First Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (FAB), Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), Emirates NBD (ENBD), and Ajman Bank.

A Strategic Agreement Lays the Foundation for Future Initiatives in Sustainable Humanitarian Work in the UAE

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A Strategic Agreement Lays the Foundation for Future Initiatives in Sustainable Humanitarian Work in the UAE

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – DIHAD Sustainable Organisation has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Pakistan Association Dubai, marking a significant step toward establishing a strong, results-driven partnership that brings together expertise and resources to improve access to medical care and support vulnerable communities. This collaboration represents a transformative shift in the concept of humanitarian work, moving beyond emergency response and short-term aid to adopt a holistic and strategic approach that integrates relief with development, prioritizing sustainability at the core of every initiative.

Furthermore, the partnership underscores both parties’ commitment to developing sustainable healthcare and humanitarian programs that deliver long-term impact on the ground within target communities. Through this MoU, the two organizations aim to launch joint initiatives across humanitarian, educational, and capacity-building fields. The agreement outlines a broader framework for collaboration, enabling both sides to work together on developing educational and training programs, as well as providing volunteer opportunities that empower community members to support those in need actively.

The areas of collaboration between DIHAD Sustainable Organisation and the Pakistan Association Dubai, which is based in the United Arab Emirates, include supporting Pakistan Medical Center by providing medical supplies and essential medicines. This support will strengthen the center’s capabilities to offer free and accessible medical care services to patients of all nationalities across the UAE. The two parties will also work together to design and implement humanitarian and healthcare-focused programs targeting high-need areas and populations. In addition, they will develop joint educational and training initiatives, including awareness sessions, technical workshops, and professional training for medical, humanitarian, and operational staff.

The collaboration further encompasses knowledge exchange, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and best practices to enhance sustainable performance, along with community engagement and meaningful volunteer opportunities for members of the Pakistan Association Dubai. These opportunities will enable active participation in humanitarian and educational initiatives, contributing to a tangible and positive impact on communities in need.

Eng. Khaled Al Attar, Director General of DIHAD Sustainable Organisation, emphasized the significance of this agreement, stating: “This partnership with the Pakistan Association Dubai reflects the core of our vision at DIHAD Sustainable Organisation, a vision grounded in collaboration and the exchange of expertise to achieve long-term, sustainable humanitarian impact. Our mission goes beyond delivering aid; we focus on building integrated development systems that strengthen communities and empower them to become self-reliant. This is fully aligned with our organisation’s message of inspiring and enabling individuals and communities around the world through sustainable educational, humanitarian, and development initiatives that strive to create meaningful change and a brighter, more just future for all.”

This Memorandum of Understanding embodies DIHAD Sustainable Organisation’s commitment to its mission of delivering sustainable humanitarian aid and empowering institutions and communities with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to build a better, more sustainable future.

The Pakistan Association Dubai welcomed the partnership, which enhances the Association’s ability to expand the reach and impact of its medical and humanitarian services. Speaking on behalf of the Association, Dr. Faisel Ikram, President of the Pakistan Association Dubai, stated: “This collaboration with DIHAD reflects our shared goal to advance sustainable humanitarian efforts through strategic partnerships. We hope to expand the impact of our work in healthcare, education, and community welfare through this partnership, both locally and globally.”

This agreement reaffirms that modern humanitarian work extends beyond immediate relief; it is now grounded in a strategic approach that integrates relief with development and prioritizes sustainability at the heart of every initiative. With this step, DIHAD Sustainable Organisation and the Pakistan Association Dubai are establishing a leading model of international cooperation, one built on transparency, inclusivity, and long-term positive impact.

DIHAD Sustainable Organisation has successfully established itself as one of the leading global actors in the field of humanitarian and development work. Its initiatives have reached over 197 countries, directly supporting and assisting more than 22.9 million people worldwide. This remarkable success is attributed to its expansive network of over 967 strategic partnerships with both local and international entities. Together, they have implemented humanitarian and development projects exceeding a total value of €1.4 billion.

DIHAD’s contributions extend beyond the scale of projects and number of beneficiaries; the organisation has become a powerful catalyst for sustainable impact. It has hosted 21 international conferences, bringing together global humanitarian leaders and decision-makers to foster dialogue on key development and sustainability challenges. Its media outreach reaches more than 50 million people annually, further reinforcing its strong presence and growing influence in the global humanitarian landscape.

The organisation’s impact spans a wide range of high-need regions and has been marked by its ability to operate in diverse and complex environments while adapting to the evolving needs of communities. From supporting Syrian refugee camps in Jordan by providing healthcare and basic education, to implementing development projects in remote villages of Tajikistan, improving educational infrastructure, and expanding learning opportunities for children, DIHAD has consistently demonstrated its commitment to holistic and responsive aid.

As part of its ongoing dedication to building a brighter future, the organisation recently launched one of its latest initiatives in the Arab Republic of Egypt: the creation of a “Smart Learning Room.” This state-of-the-art educational space is equipped with the latest technology and is designed to empower children with access to modern, inspiring education that meets the demands of the future and nurtures their skills and potential.

About the Pakistan Association Dubai (PAD):

PAD is the only officially licensed community organisation representing the Pakistani expatriate community in Dubai. It is home to the world’s largest community centre for overseas Pakistanis and hosts the first non-profit healthcare facility of its kind in the GCC region. The association plays a vital role in serving the community by providing support across multiple sectors, including healthcare, education, and the repatriation of prisoners. In addition, PAD continues to lead initiatives aimed at enhancing overall community well-being and social welfare.

Int’l Deep Space Exploration Association launched in China

International Desk
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Int’l Deep Space Exploration Association launched in China

HEFEI – The International Deep Space Exploration Association (IDSEA), an international academic organization dedicated to deep space exploration, was officially launched on Monday in Hefei, capital of east China’s Anhui Province.

The move marks a key step in global collaboration to advance space technology and build a community with a shared future for humanity in outer space.

This association was jointly initiated by the Hefei-based Deep Space Exploration Laboratory, the Lunar Exploration and Space Program Center of the China National Space Administration, the Chinese Society of Astronautics, the Chinese Society of Space Research and the French initiative “Planetary Exploration, Horizon 2061.” The founding of the IDSEA was also co-sponsored by 20 academicians from China and 31 international scientists.

Wu Weiren, chief designer of China’s lunar exploration program and an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, was elected as the association’s first chairman.

Wu said the association’s establishment holds great significance for international exchange and cooperation in China’s space program, as it is a crucial step toward collaborative innovation within the global space community.

He said the association will focus on areas including lunar exploration, planetary exploration and asteroid defense. It will conduct studies on trends in international deep space exploration, host international academic events, foster global talent in space science and technology, take part in making standards and rules concerning outer space, and advance the peaceful and sustainable use of outer space.

He extended a warm invitation to scientists and engineers worldwide to join the association and contribute to global exploration of the universe.

Despite being a latecomer to outer space exploration, China has rapidly emerged as a prominent player in this field while also demonstrating its commitment to cooperating with other nations.

In April 2025, China announced that seven institutions from six countries — France, Germany, Japan, Pakistan, the United Kingdom and the United States, have been authorized to borrow lunar samples collected by China’s Chang’e-5 mission for scientific research purposes.

China has also invited global partners to participate in its Mars missions. The country plans to launch the Tianwen-3 Mars sample-return mission around 2028, with the primary scientific goal of searching for signs of life on Mars.

Retrieval of samples from Mars, the first mission of its kind in human history, is considered the most technically challenging space exploration task since the Apollo program.

GPSSA enforces late payment penalties on GCC employees

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GPSSA enforces late payment penalties on GCC employees

ABU DHABI – The General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA) has urged employers to ensure the timely payment of contributions for GCC nationals working in the UAE.

These contributions are necessary for employees under the Unified Protection Extension System, which guarantees GCC nationals working in any GCC country to receive the same social security coverage as they would in their home country.

Effective 1st July 2025, GPSSA will begin implementing penalties on employers who delay the payment of due contributions for their GCC national employees. These penalties will be applied in accordance with the deadlines specified by federal pension laws in the UAE, and are considered a rightful entitlement of the pension authorities in the employee’s home country.

Contributions are due on the first day of the month following the period for which they are owed, with a grace period extending until the 15th of that month. For example, contributions for July 2025 must be remitted to GPSSA between 1st August and 15th August 2025. A daily penalty of 0.1 percent of the outstanding contributions will be charged for each day of delay, starting from the 16th of the month, without prior warning or notification.

This decision activates Article 12 of the Protection Extension System Law and aligns with the outcomes of the 23rd meeting of the Committee of Heads of Civil Retirement and Social Insurance Agencies in GCC countries. This article mandates the pension authority in the host country to pursue delinquent employers and take legal action to collect contributions and penalties on behalf of the employee’s home country pension authority.

The Protection Extension System is mandatory, under which employees are required to register their GCC national employees in both the government and private sectors and remit contributions according to the insurance system of the employee’s home country. The employer’s share of contributions should not exceed the employer’s contribution share in the host country, with any difference in contributions to be borne by the GCC national employee.

The system was established under Cabinet Resolution No. 18 of 2007 to regulate social security protection for GCC nationals working outside their home country within any GCC member state. GPSSA oversees its implementation in the UAE.

UAE Infrastructure and Housing Council Holds 2nd Meeting of 2025

Local Desk
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UAE Infrastructure and Housing Council Holds 2nd Meeting of 2025

Dubai – His Excellency Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, chaired the second periodic meeting of 2025 of the UAE Infrastructure and Housing Council, which was held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Dubai. The meeting reviewed a number of strategic projects and initiatives aimed at developing the infrastructure sectors across the UAE.

The Council is an integrated national system that enhances readiness for a more efficient and sustainable future.

Why it is important?

His Excellency Al Mazrouei emphasized the importance of intensifying and unifying efforts at the national level in the fields of infrastructure and housing, in alignment with national aspirations. He highlighted the need to enhance policy coordination between the federal and local levels to achieve the highest degree of integration among relevant entities. His Excellency noted that advancing the infrastructure system and achieving high levels of efficiency and sustainability is a key pillar in strengthening the UAE’s position on the international stage. The Minister extended his appreciation to all representatives of the government entities who are members of the UAE Infrastructure and Housing Council, for their dedicated efforts that have resulted in remarkable achievements within a short period of time. He noted that these efforts have contributed to advancing integrated and collaborative work among various federal and local government entities, and to the implementation of unified national plans that support the infrastructure and housing sectors.

معالي سهيل بن محمد فرج فارس المزروعي، وزير الطاقة والبنية التحتية
His Excellency Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure

During the meeting, council members discussed updates regarding the development of policies related to traffic congestion, aimed at gradually reducing the growth of vehicle numbers and enhancing the efficiency of road networks through flexible traffic projects that support economic growth and alleviate congestion.

What was addressed?

The meeting also addressed the key findings of the national study assessing the impact of sea level rise on the UAE’s coastal infrastructure. It emphasized the importance of developing flexible and sustainable adaptation plans, reassessing transportation and drainage systems, and enhancing maintenance and early warning programs to ensure the protection of lives and property, while strengthening the country’s readiness for future climate changes. Members of the Council were briefed on the National Contractor Classification Guide initiative, which aims to unify classification standards at both the local and federal levels and facilitate business operations across the Emirates. The initiative represents a pivotal step toward enhancing transparency, encouraging investment, and improving the efficiency of the construction sector, which was valued at approximately AED 150 billion in 2024.

We work with the spirit of our leadership to achieve a smart infrastructure… and integration between entities is the key to success.

Who attended the meeting?

The meeting was attended by Council members, including His Excellency Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai, and His Excellency Eng Hassan Al Mansouri, Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Transport Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. Also in attendance were several senior officials from federal and local entities, including: His Excellency Dr Salem Al Kaabi, Director General of Operations Affairs at the Department of Municipalities and Transport in Abu Dhabi; His Excellency Consultant Eng Salah bin Butti Al Muhairi, Chairman of the Initiatives Implementation Authority in Sharjah (Mubadara); His Excellency Abdulrahman Mohammed Abdullah Al Nuaimi, Director General of the Municipality and Planning Department in Ajman; His Excellency Munther bin Shakar, Director General of the Municipality Department in Ras Al Khaimah; His Excellency Mohammed Saeed Al Dhanhani, Director of the Fujairah Emiri Diwan; His Excellency Yousef Jassim Al Mansouri, Director of the Engineering Sector at the Municipality Department in Umm Al Quwain; and Ms. Adhraa Al Mansoori, Director of the Public Policy, Sustainability, and Master Planning Department at Etihad Rail.

During its first periodic meeting of 2025, the UAE Infrastructure and Housing Council discussed the latest developments related to infrastructure and housing projects, as well as future directions and development projects aimed at creating a sustainable urban environment that enhances community well-being. The meeting also addressed the challenges and opportunities available to promote the sustainability of infrastructure projects and develop the housing sector in alignment with the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision, which aims to build an advanced and sustainable society.

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