DUBAI // The British Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne is currently in the UAE on his first official state visit to the country since becoming chancellor in May 2010.
"He is here to discuss the full spectrum of bilateral issues between the UK and UAE and will be having meetings both in Abu Dhabi and Dubai," confirmed a spokeswoman for the British Embassy last night.
The conservative politician released his first bugdet last month which included a cut in certain business taxes, an increase on tobacco duty and removing exemptions for hot takeaway products and sports drinks.
On the first day of his visit he met Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed, the National Security Advisor, at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi to tackle joint relations, according to the state news agency Wam.
Trade between the two countries reached US$5.4 billion in 2010, and the UAE hosts more than a million British people every year. Half a million Emiratis also visit the UK every year, the Wam statement said.
nhanif@thenational.ae
If you go
Where to stay: Courtyard by Marriott Titusville Kennedy Space Centre has unparalleled views of the Indian River. Alligators can be spotted from hotel room balconies, as can several rocket launch sites. The hotel also boasts cool space-themed decor.
When to go: Florida is best experienced during the winter months, from November to May, before the humidity kicks in.
How to get there: Emirates currently flies from Dubai to Orlando five times a week.
Key facilities
- Olympic-size swimming pool with a split bulkhead for multi-use configurations, including water polo and 50m/25m training lanes
- Premier League-standard football pitch
- 400m Olympic running track
- NBA-spec basketball court with auditorium
- 600-seat auditorium
- Spaces for historical and cultural exploration
- An elevated football field that doubles as a helipad
- Specialist robotics and science laboratories
- AR and VR-enabled learning centres
- Disruption Lab and Research Centre for developing entrepreneurial skills
Three ways to get a gratitude glow
By committing to at least one of these daily, you can bring more gratitude into your life, says Ong.
- During your morning skincare routine, name five things you are thankful for about yourself.
- As you finish your skincare routine, look yourself in the eye and speak an affirmation, such as: “I am grateful for every part of me, including my ability to take care of my skin.”
- In the evening, take some deep breaths, notice how your skin feels, and listen for what your skin is grateful for.