Sheikh Salem Al Qassimi is the UAE's Minister of Culture
June 14, 2024
At Unesco’s headquarters in Paris this week, the UAE secured a seat on the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage for the next four years.
This is the second time the UAE assumes this position, highlighting our extensive expertise in the areas covered by the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Between 2019 and 2023, the Emirates served on Unesco’s executive board, helping to advance the organisation’s cultural, scientific and educational goals and initiatives. The UAE is also currently serving on Unesco’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions since our nomination in 2021.
With this successful candidacy, it is fitting that we reflect on our nation’s dedication to preserving our cultural traditions. The UAE has long recognised the importance of preserving intangible cultural heritage, which serves as a repository of knowledge, values and practices passed down through generations. From the ancient art of falconry to Arabic calligraphy, whether it is the communal spirit of the majlis, the colourful intricacy of talli embroidery, or the age-old culinary tradition of preparing harees, these elements form the bedrock of Emirati identity and contribute to our nation's cultural richness.
Arabic calligraphy is the latest addition from the UAE, among other countries, to Unesco's intangible cultural heritage lists. AFP
Falconry has been practised in the Arab region for 4,000 years, mainly by desert-dwelling Bedouins as an important form of hunting and fishing in a land with scarce natural resources. Pawan Singh / The National
Learn more about al aflaj system in Al Ain in 'Emirates from Above', a National Geographic film. The traditional irrigation network system in the UAE has been added to Unesco's list.
Camel racing, an age-old tradition in the region, is still as popular today. EPA
Date palms have been used for centuries for myriad purposes around the Gulf, including the UAE. It was added by Unesco in 2019. Antonie Robertson / The National
Al azi poetry has been offered protected status by Unesco to develop a clear national identity in the UAE.
Al rafza is a traditional art form performed by men during special occasions, from weddings to national festivals. Reem Mohammed / The National
The serving of Arabian coffee is a vital part of hospitality in the region and 'considered a ceremonial act of generosity', says the Unesco inscription. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
The majlis, a cultural and social space prevalent throughout the region, was added in 2015 on behalf of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar. Jaime Puebla / The National
Al ayyala is a cultural performance practised in north-western Oman and throughout the UAE. It was added in 2014.
Al taghrooda, traditional Bedouin chanted poetry, was added in 2012. Mona Al Marzooqi / The National
Sadu, a traditional weaving technique, is on the list twice, once for the UAE and once for Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. It was added for the UAE in 2011. Reem Mohammed / The National
Since 2011, the UAE has inscribed 15 elements on Unesco’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage with the aim of ensuring better protection and awareness of their significance. This has been made possible by the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Culture, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and Dubai Culture. These efforts have positioned the UAE as a regional leader and one of the top 10 nations globally in cultural heritage preservation within Unesco’s framework.
At the heart of our candidacy to the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage lies a three-fold commitment.
Firstly, strengthening capacity is essential to ensure the effective safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage. Through strategic investment in education, training and research initiatives, we aim to empower communities to take ownership of their cultural traditions, ensuring that the transmission of traditions to future generations remains robust and sustainable.
The Emirates has a track record of supporting both tangible and intangible heritage, and our efforts extend beyond borders. In November 2022, the Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with the UAE’s National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, signed an agreement with the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, or Icesco. This partnership aims to inscribe African heritage on the Representative Lists of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity of Icesco and Unesco. Through these initiatives, we continue to build capacity and foster a global appreciation of cultural preservation.
This is the second time the UAE assumes this position, highlighting our extensive expertise in the areas covered by the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage
Second, in today’s interconnected yet fragmented world, promoting international exchange and mutual understanding is of utmost importance. Through multinational files, we aim to facilitate dialogue and co-operation among nations for a deeper appreciation of diverse and shared cultural expressions.
In 2021, falconry was inscribed on Unesco’s list through the largest multinational submission led by the UAE, with the participation of 23 fellow member states that share this heritage. This collaborative effort signifies our commitment to fostering global connections and celebrating diversity on an international level.
Third, protecting communities and practitioners of heritage lies at the core of our commitment. Recognising the invaluable role of local communities as custodians of intangible cultural heritage, we are dedicated to supporting their efforts, ensuring that they continue to thrive and flourish.
As climate change increasingly threatens our way of life, the need to protect intangible cultural heritage becomes even more critical. Traditional knowledge and practices embedded within our heritage offer sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. By preserving these cultural elements, we not only safeguard our heritage but also improve our resilience to climate change, thereby promoting sustainable development for future generations.
We look forward to continuing to work with our partners and fellow member states to advance the objectives of the 2003 Convention, provide guidance on best practices and offer recommendations for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. Most importantly, we remain dedicated to protecting and celebrating the UAE’s diverse cultural heritage.
Micro-retirement is not a recognised concept or employment status under Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations (as amended) (UAE Labour Law). As such, it reflects a voluntary work-life balance practice, rather than a recognised legal employment category, according to Dilini Loku, senior associate for law firm Gateley Middle East.
“Some companies may offer formal sabbatical policies or career break programmes; however, beyond such arrangements, there is no automatic right or statutory entitlement to extended breaks,” she explains.
“Any leave taken beyond statutory entitlements, such as annual leave, is typically regarded as unpaid leave in accordance with Article 33 of the UAE Labour Law. While employees may legally take unpaid leave, such requests are subject to the employer’s discretion and require approval.”
If an employee resigns to pursue micro-retirement, the employment contract is terminated, and the employer is under no legal obligation to rehire the employee in the future unless specific contractual agreements are in place (such as return-to-work arrangements), which are generally uncommon, Ms Loku adds.
ASHES SCHEDULE
First Test
November 23-27 (The Gabba, Brisbane) Second Test
December 2-6 (Adelaide Oval, Adelaide) Third Test
December 14-18 (Waca Ground, Perth) Fourth Test
December 26-30 (Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne) Fifth Test
January 4-8, 2018 (Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney)
Blockchain is a form of distributed ledger technology, a digital system in which data is recorded across multiple places at the same time. Unlike traditional databases, DLTs have no central administrator or centralised data storage. They are transparent because the data is visible and, because they are automatically replicated and impossible to be tampered with, they are secure.
The main difference between blockchain and other forms of DLT is the way data is stored as ‘blocks’ – new transactions are added to the existing ‘chain’ of past transactions, hence the name ‘blockchain’. It is impossible to delete or modify information on the chain due to the replication of blocks across various locations.
Blockchain is mostly associated with cryptocurrency Bitcoin. Due to the inability to tamper with transactions, advocates say this makes the currency more secure and safer than traditional systems. It is maintained by a network of people referred to as ‘miners’, who receive rewards for solving complex mathematical equations that enable transactions to go through.
However, one of the major problems that has come to light has been the presence of illicit material buried in the Bitcoin blockchain, linking it to the dark web.
Other blockchain platforms can offer things like smart contracts, which are automatically implemented when specific conditions from all interested parties are reached, cutting the time involved and the risk of mistakes. Another use could be storing medical records, as patients can be confident their information cannot be changed. The technology can also be used in supply chains, voting and has the potential to used for storing property records.
At Eternity’s Gate
Director: Julian Schnabel
Starring: Willem Dafoe, Oscar Isaacs, Mads Mikkelsen
Three stars
Other workplace saving schemes
The UAE government announced a retirement savings plan for private and free zone sector employees in 2023.
National Bonds unveiled a Golden Pension Scheme in 2022 to help private-sector foreign employees with their financial planning.
In April 2021, Hayah Insurance unveiled a workplace savings plan to help UAE employees save for their retirement.
Lunate, an Abu Dhabi-based investment manager, has launched a fund that will allow UAE private companies to offer employees investment returns on end-of-service benefits.
Why it pays to compare
A comparison of sending Dh20,000 from the UAE using two different routes at the same time - the first direct from a UAE bank to a bank in Germany, and the second from the same UAE bank via an online platform to Germany - found key differences in cost and speed. The transfers were both initiated on January 30.
Route 1: bank transfer
The UAE bank charged Dh152.25 for the Dh20,000 transfer. On top of that, their exchange rate margin added a difference of around Dh415, compared with the mid-market rate.
Total cost: Dh567.25 - around 2.9 per cent of the total amount
Total received: €4,670.30
Route 2: online platform
The UAE bank’s charge for sending Dh20,000 to a UK dirham-denominated account was Dh2.10. The exchange rate margin cost was Dh60, plus a Dh12 fee.
Total cost: Dh74.10, around 0.4 per cent of the transaction
Total received: €4,756
The UAE bank transfer was far quicker – around two to three working days, while the online platform took around four to five days, but was considerably cheaper. In the online platform transfer, the funds were also exposed to currency risk during the period it took for them to arrive.
In 2016, the Shaded Dome was awarded with the 'De Vernufteling' people's choice award, an annual prize by the Dutch Association of Consulting Engineers and the Royal Netherlands Society of Engineers for the most innovative project by a Dutch engineering firm.
It was assigned by the Dutch Ministry of Defence to modify the Shaded Dome to make it suitable for ballistic protection. Royal HaskoningDHV, one of the companies which designed the dome, is an independent international engineering and project management consultancy, leading the way in sustainable development and innovation.
It is driving positive change through innovation and technology, helping use resources more efficiently.
It aims to minimise the impact on the environment by leading by example in its projects in sustainable development and innovation, to become part of the solution to a more sustainable society now and into the future.
1: Commit to countering all types of terrorism and extremism in all their manifestations
2: Denounce violence and the rhetoric of hatred
3: Adhere to the full compliance with the Riyadh accord of 2014 and the subsequent meeting and executive procedures approved in 2014 by the GCC
4: Comply with all recommendations of the Summit between the US and Muslim countries held in May 2017 in Saudi Arabia.
5: Refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of countries and of supporting rogue entities.
6: Carry out the responsibility of all the countries with the international community to counter all manifestations of extremism and terrorism that threaten international peace and security
1. Domestic VAT refund amendments: request your refund within five years
If a business does not apply for the refund on time, they lose their credit.
2. E-invoicing in the UAE
Businesses should continue preparing for the implementation of e-invoicing in the UAE, with 2026 a preparation and transition period ahead of phased mandatory adoption.
3. More tax audits
Tax authorities are increasingly using data already available across multiple filings to identify audit risks.
4. More beneficial VAT and excise tax penalty regime
Tax disputes are expected to become more frequent and more structured, with clearer administrative objection and appeal processes. The UAE has adopted a new penalty regime for VAT and excise disputes, which now mirrors the penalty regime for corporate tax.
5. Greater emphasis on statutory audit
There is a greater need for the accuracy of financial statements. The International Financial Reporting Standards standards need to be strictly adhered to and, as a result, the quality of the audits will need to increase.
6. Further transfer pricing enforcement
Transfer pricing enforcement, which refers to the practice of establishing prices for internal transactions between related entities, is expected to broaden in scope. The UAE will shortly open the possibility to negotiate advance pricing agreements, or essentially rulings for transfer pricing purposes.
7. Limited time periods for audits
Recent amendments also introduce a default five-year limitation period for tax audits and assessments, subject to specific statutory exceptions. While the standard audit and assessment period is five years, this may be extended to up to 15 years in cases involving fraud or tax evasion.
8. Pillar 2 implementation
Many multinational groups will begin to feel the practical effect of the Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax (DMTT), the UAE's implementation of the OECD’s global minimum tax under Pillar 2. While the rules apply for financial years starting on or after January 1, 2025, it is 2026 that marks the transition to an operational phase.
9. Reduced compliance obligations for imported goods and services
Businesses that apply the reverse-charge mechanism for VAT purposes in the UAE may benefit from reduced compliance obligations.
10. Substance and CbC reporting focus
Tax authorities are expected to continue strengthening the enforcement of economic substance and Country-by-Country (CbC) reporting frameworks. In the UAE, these regimes are increasingly being used as risk-assessment tools, providing tax authorities with a comprehensive view of multinational groups’ global footprints and enabling them to assess whether profits are aligned with real economic activity.
Contributed by Thomas Vanhee and Hend Rashwan, Aurifer
World Cup warm up matches
May 24 Pakistan v Afghanistan, Bristol; Sri Lanka v South Africa, Cardiff
May 25 England v Australia, Southampton; India v New Zealand, The Oval
May 26 South Africa v West Indies, Bristol; Pakistan v Bangladesh, Cardiff
May 27 Australia v Sri Lanka, Southampton; England v Afghanistan, The Oval
May 28 West Indies v New Zealand, Bristol; Bangladesh v India, Cardiff
This is how many recognised sects Lebanon is home to, along with about four million citizens
450,000
More than this many Palestinian refugees are registered with UNRWA in Lebanon, with about 45 per cent of them living in the country’s 12 refugee camps
1.5 million
There are just under 1 million Syrian refugees registered with the UN, although the government puts the figure upwards of 1.5m
73
The percentage of stateless people in Lebanon, who are not of Palestinian origin, born to a Lebanese mother, according to a 2012-2013 study by human rights organisation Frontiers Ruwad Association
18,000
The number of marriages recorded between Lebanese women and foreigners between the years 1995 and 2008, according to a 2009 study backed by the UN Development Programme
77,400
The number of people believed to be affected by the current nationality law, according to the 2009 UN study
4,926
This is how many Lebanese-Palestinian households there were in Lebanon in 2016, according to a census by the Lebanese-Palestinian dialogue committee
