Issue (485) May 2011
In the eye of the storm What are the best ways to protect children from molesting? form_en_form-1- 12/28/10 10:05 AM Page 1
SSocietyociety aandnd SSecurityecurity MMonthlyonthly CONTENTSCONTENTS Issue (478) October 2010 999 2011 999 Issue (485) May 18 16
MMinistryinistry ooff IInteriornterior UUnitednited AArabrab EEmiratesmirates 20 CConsultativeonsultative BBoardoard MMaj.Gen.aj.Gen. KKhalilhalil BBadranadran 20 Lt.Col.Col. T hThaniani A Al-Shamsil-Shamsi 42 26
EEditor-in-Chiefditor-in-Chief LMajort.Col. AwadAwad Al-KindiAl-Kindi
EEditorditor IIssamssam AAll SSheikhheikh AAssociatessociate EEditorsditors 32 BBasselassel SSourayaouraya OOmarmar HHamzaamza AArtrt DDirectorsirectors MMuhannaduhannad SSalemalem 28 32 HHishamesham AbdulAbdul HameedHameed Cover story...... 20 InCoverternat iStory...... onal accolade for police service...... 20.. 12 Contacts Fatal distraction...... Contacts E-crime lab in Abu Dhabi...... 14.. 16 Flavourful installments!...... TTel.:el.: ++971971 2 44194488194488 Prevention is better than cure...... 18.. 18 Fax: +971 2 4194499 Convulsive life...... Fax: +971 2 4194499 Reckless on the road...... 24.. 26 PP.O.Box.O.Box ::3899938999 Broadening the scope...... 36 Time to pay up...... 32 AAbubu DDhabihabi - UUAE.AE. Investigating the earth...... Policeman’s courage...... 38. eemail:[email protected]:[email protected] 38 TTolloll FFreeree 88009009009009 Novel inside out...... 44 EDITOR’S NOTE raffic safety campaigns in the UAE have ceased to be seasonal; the effort to inculcate the principles of safe driving in the minds of motorists continues throughout the year and in all the emirates, utilising all media outlets to deliver the message. A main focus in recent weeks has been on means to prevent distractedT driving. You will read in this issue of 999 about the ‘Fatal Distraction’ that results from the failure by motorists to abide by do's and don'ts while driving. Distracted driving is anything that takes your eyes or mind off the road or your hands off the steering wheel – especially the use of mobile phone (whether hands-free or handheld) and texting. The article focuses on the use of hands-free kits to make and receive phone calls and stresses that a hands-free kit does guarantee accident-free rides. The law in the UAE prohibits you from holding and using any mobile device while driving, that includes texting or holding a mobile phone. The violation carries a fine of Dh200 and four black points according to the demerit point system adopted in the country. But there are other distractions that motorists should avoid, not for the sake of avoiding penalty but rather to prevent accidents. Eating in the car is one of the distractions that cause accidents. Television or video screens must not be visible to the driver. Other distractions like putting on make-up while driving could earn women-drivers a reckless driving ticket if they drift into another lane. The article you will read in this issue tells us that talking on a mobile phone, even with the use of a hands-free kit, can give the motorist "inattention blindness," where his or her brain isn't seeing what's right in the front. If one thinks they can handle both driving and talking on a mobile phone or texting, they are actually endangering their lives and those of other road users. With the availability of many smart phones in the UAE markets these days, advanced applications are actually becoming a two- edged sword. Traffic authorities in all the emirates underline the need for drivers to eliminate all kinds of distractions. When you get behind the steering wheel, focus on driving and remove all distractions. Traffic safety is a collective effort, but it will starts with one’s own driving behaviour that reduces the risk of accidents.
News
President holds meeting with the King of Bahrain
President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al stand beside Bahrain, contributing to strengthening its Nahyan held a meeting with the King of Bahrain His security and stability. The President also expressed hope Majesty Hamad Bin Eissa Al Khalifa, who was on a visit to that Bahrain will witness more progress and prosperity. the UAE last month. The Bahraini monarch expressed happiness over the Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of opportunity in visiting his second home country and Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al meeting President Sheikh Khalifa. He also expressed Maktoum and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy pride and gratitude for the UAE's stance and its continuing Supreme Commander of the UAE armed forces General support to Bahrain for achieving stability and development His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan for the prosperity of the people. attended the meeting. During the meeting they reviewed the fraternal ties between At the beginning, the President welcomed the Bahraini UAE and Bahrain, and pondered over ways to strengthen monarch and wished him and his accompanying delegation, the relations on various fronts. They also exchanged views a pleasant stay in the UAE. on a number of issues and current developments on the The President reiterated that the UAE will continue to regional and the international levels.
Orders supply of 2.5mgpd of water to Al Madam area
President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al in all districts of Al Madam. The network, to be built at a total Nahyan has ordered provision 2.5 million gallon per day of cost of AED 180 million, will be ready in two years. water supplies to Al Madam area in Sharjah from the main The project also entails construction of a 4 million gallon Fujairah-Al Ain water pipeline, which belongs to the Abu water tank, 300-400 millimeter and 80 -kilometer water Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority (ADWEA). transport lines and 150 - kilometer distribution lines. According to Federal Electricity and Water Authority The project will see ADWEA completing the provision (FEWA) estimations, there are 900 residential units in Al of water supplies to all areas in the central region. The Madam, distributed over 42 local districts and inhabited by Authority is already supplying water to Al Fili, Al Dhaid, 10,000 people. Kadra, Al Huwailat, Maliha, Hamda, Falaj Al Mualla, Idhn FEWA was instructed to establish water distribution networks and all villages there.
Issue (485) May 2011 6 Mohammed Bin Rashid opens 59th UITP Congress
Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of The UITP Congress is the pinnacle of transportation and Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al public transport events worldwide, and the UAE won the Maktoum opened in Dubai the 59th UITP (International privilege of hosting the Congress, thus becoming the first Association of Public Transport) Congress and Mobility country in the Middle East and North Africa to win the and City Transport Exhibition. right of hosting this Congress since the UITP was founded Dubai Crown Prince HH Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed more than a century ago. Bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Dubai Deputy Ruler HH The exhibition area spans 30,000 square meters i.e. Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum 12% more than the exhibition area of the last edition of were present at the inauguration of the event being held the Congress held in the Austrian capital Vienna. The for the first time in the Middle East and North African Exhibition encompasses about around 54 seminars, panel Region. discussions, forums and workshops in addition to technical Over 2000 delegates from 80 countries participated in the visits to the Bus Operations Control Center, Water Taxi, five-day congress and the exhibition held at the Dubai and Dubai Metro as well as introductory tours of Dubai city World Trade Centre. and cultural soirees.
Orders promotion of three outstanding policemen Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General Dahi Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Khalfan said the three policemen are Ismael Mohammed has ordered promotion of three police personnel - for Abdullah Al Saadi, Mohammed Ali Nasser Al Omary and fastest response to the calls on emergency phone number Ahmed Abadi Mohammed Al Burkani. They all work in 999 and for their dedication and endeavour to provide the Command '&' Control Room of Dubai Police. excellent services to the public - to their respective next Lt. General Dahi Khalfan thanked Sheikh Mohammed ranks. and congratulated the promoted personnel.
Issue (485) May 2011
7 News
Mohammed bin Zayed visits Saudi King
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia, received at his Palace in Riyadh His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. During the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed conveyed the best wishes and respect of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan to King Abdullah, who in turn, asked Sheikh Mohammed to pass his greetings and esteem to Sheikh Khalifa. The meeting discussed a number of topics concerning the two countries. The meeting was attended by H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Prince's Court,H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Al Nahyan, National Security Advisor,H.H. Sheikh Saeed Foreign Minister, and Mohammed Saeed Al Dhahiri, UAE bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabu Ruler's Representative, Ambassador To Saudi Arabia. H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime On the Saudi side, it was attended by Saudi Intelligence Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, H.H. Sheikh chief Prince Moqren bin Abdul Aziz and a number of Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chief of Abu Dhabi Crown senior Saudi officials.
Witnesses agreements to build houses for Emirati families His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al all resources in order to increase development and service Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme projects for the benefit of all UAE citizens. Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, reaffirmed that Following the signing of the agreements, H.H. the Crown providing appropriate housing for citizens has been a top Prince of Abu Dhabi toured the pavilions of the various real priority in the development policies and plans of the UAE estate companies taking part in these projects as well as in under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh other local and regional development projects showcased Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. UAE development policies at Cityscape Abu Dhabi 2011, which kick-started in its 5th and plans essentially aim at upgrading the services and edition at ADNEC. welfare levels for the UAE citizen in order to contribute to The contracts involve delivery of additional 7,500 new creating stable families and enable citizens to realize their homes for Emirati families across all three regions of the full potential. Emirate: Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Gharbia. The new This statement came as H.H. attended Abu Dhabi Urban communities will be designed and built by reputable, local Planning Council's (UPC) pavilion at Cityscape 2011, developers: Sorouh Real Estate, Tamouh Investments, where he witnessed the signing of seven agreements by Royal Development Company, and Al Qudra Real Estate H.E Falah Al Ahbabi, UPC General Manager, to deliver to meet the requirements of Vision 2030. The Emirati 7,500 luxury houses for Emirati families in Abu Dhabi, Al communities will include neighborhood infrastructure and Ain and the Western Region, which aims to provide better facilities and will be built to the highest standards of quality welfare levels and achieving family stability for UAE and sustainability, building on the success of the UPC's citizens. Estidama sustainability program. The projects announced H.H. further reaffirmed that the UAE's leadership is bring the total number of new villas being built in the committed to the path started by the founder of the UAE Emirate through the Emirati Family Housing Programme late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan which utilizes to over 13,000.
Issue (485) May 2011 8 Saif bin Zayed awards Community Service Medals to 14 VGT Board of Management
HH Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Sheikh Saif welcomed the delegations that attended the Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior awarded VGT Board of Management meetings in the United Arab Community Service Medals to 14 VGT Board of Emirates and said that the UAE leadership aspires to see Management members in recognition of their contribution the UAE become a leading international center in the field to humanitarian and community services related to policing of child protection among other fields. and security activities. The medals also recognised their He added that the UAE is intending to adopt the best effort to establish and develop an effective international practices in the field of child protection all over the world; partnership with the aim of achieving the desired goals hence it is important for us to be an effective VGT member. to make the Internet safer as well as identify, locate, and H.H. further expressed thanks and gratitude to the VGT safeguard children at risk and bring offenders to justice. for enabling the UAE to benefit from the best practices Among the awardees was Major General Nasser Lakhraibani followed in the various countries of the world. H.H. Al Nuaimi the Secretary-General for the Office of the congratulated the VGT Board members and representatives Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Chairman on the massive effort given in the quest to protect children, of the Higher Child Protection Committee at the UAE explaining that the award of Community Service Medal is Ministry of Interior & UAE Representative to the Virtual a token of recognition for their distinguished contribution Global Taskforce (VGT), as well as Neil Cogan – Australia; to serve the community, establish and develop an effective Peter Davies - United Kingdom; Luis Alvarez - United international partnership. States; John Belinski – Canada; Dr. Antonio Abrozisi – H.H. decorated the awardees with the Community Service Italy; Jonathan Eijerz – Australia; Rob Bob - New Zealand; Medal and granted them certificates of appreciation Jenny Ironside, Gabriela Salib, Maria Freilengos, Odette for their huge and distinct contribution to boost child Meli, Michael Ainsworth, Rob Crisp - Australia. protection. Honours a policeman who foils theft Lt. General HH Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior honoured at his office First Sergeant Faisal Al Hammadi, from Abu Dhabi Police Security Information Department. Al Hammadi earlier managed to arrest a suspect who tried to rob a bank customer in Abu Dhabi. HH Sheikh Saif emphasized keenness of higher leadership on encouraging those working in customer service field and in other fields. He laid special emphasis on heroic deeds which help preserve security and public safety. HH Sheikh Saif praised the efforts of Al Hammadi urging all personnel in police organization to deliver their best efforts and show diligence in the service of the country and its people to prevent them from any potential threats.
Issue (485) May 2011
9 Police News
Al Khaili receives Singapore official Acting Undersecretary of Min- istry of Interior Major General Khalifa Hareb Al Khaili received recently HE Tai Wi Shyoung, Undersecretary of Ministry of Home Affairs in Singapore and the accompanying delegation. The two sides discussed ways of boosting cooperation and coordi- nation and exchange of informa- tion in various Police fields. Top- ics of mutual interest were also reviewed. The meeting was attended by a number of senior officers.
Cooperation with diplomatic missions discussed A top Ministry of Interior official met recently with a number of diplomats to discuss cooperation with the ministry. HE Major General Naser Al Awadhi Al Menhali, Assistant Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior for Naturalisation, Residency and Ports, met separately with Their Excellencies Farah Al Khatib, Charge D’affaires at the Lebanese embassy and Adelio Cruz, Charge D’affaires at the Philippines embassy. Meanwhile, Brigadier Mohammed Gharir Al Rumaithi, General Coordinator for Naturalisation, Residency and Ports at the Ministry of Interior, received Rafa Baflik, second secretary at the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in the UAE. They discussed means of enhancing cooperation between the embassy and the ministry.
Al Nuaimi lauds UAE hosting of VGT meeting The UAE hosted the recent meeting of the Virtual Global The UAE joined the VGT in March last year and is represented Taskforce, which is an international alliance of law enforcement by the Ministry of Interior Higher Committee for Child agencies working together to prevent and deter online child Protection. abuse. It convened for the first time in the Middle East at a The committee is also forming partnerships with other three-day conference at Yas Hotel in Abu Dhabi. international institutions that implement child protection laws The event, themed "Youth and the VGT - Together Forward", in an effort to join the fight on a global front. discussed the task force's plan for further expansion, the Lt Col Faisal al Shimary, liaison officer with the VGT and addition of new members and the implementation of new media coordinator, said the membership in the VGT enables strategies to fight child abuse. the UAE to obtain best practices and to know the latest Major General Naser Salem Lakhraibani Al Nuaimi, technologies in fighting child exploitation. Secretary General of the Office of His Highness the Deputy The VGT was established in 2003 to combat online child Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, and Chairman of the abuse. Its objective is to dismantle global paedophile networks, Permanent Higher Committee for the Protection of Children coordinate covert internet investigations, share and develop a the Ministry of Interior, said: “The committee is keen on intelligence and target sex offenders. The task force includes enhancing international cooperation to protect children against agencies in the US, UK, Canada and Australia, as well as exploitation in all its form, particularly through the Internet”. Interpol.
Issue (485) May 2011 10 Badran chairs Finance and Assets meeting, decorates officers
The Supreme Committee of Finance and Assets at the and developing revenues at all organisational units, as well Ministry of Interior held a meeting recently, chaired by as the preparation of feasibility studies for various projects Major General Khalil Dawood Badran, Director General at the ministry in order to assess the importance of these of Finance and Services at Abu Dhabi Police and Head of projects and the impact on costs, as well as to review best the committee. practices and utilisation of resources efficiently”, said Maj The meeting discussed a study to rationalise expenses and Gen Badran. develop revenues, prepared by a team in the light of the The police official also decorated a number of officers, government strategy and the strategy of the Ministry of including three police women, with their new ranks. They Interior aimed at the best utilisation of financial and human have been promoted from the rank of first lieutenant to resources, the improvement of productivity, reduction of captain. costs and maintaining high quality standards. He wished the new officers all success in their “We have to spread the culture of rationalising expenses assignments.
Khalfan examines new warning system on foggy days A new warning system designed and developed by a “The system warns drivers and instructs them to keep a UAE engineer was examined recently by His Excellency safe distance between their cars and the cars ahead. It can Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Commander in also warn motorists when there is a road accident in front of Chief of Dubai Police. them resulting from low visibility”, Al Hamadi said. Traffic The police chief said Dubai Police is ready to adopt state- accidents caused by foggy conditions repeated occurred in of-the-art projects that contribute towards the development the UAE in recent years. of technologies at technical workshops. He said such Lt Gen Dhahi gave some tips on how to best utilise the initiatives serve society in many respects. device and make it less costly. He gave his instructions to The new warning system was created by engineer Saeed create a prototype of the device and test it in cooperation Khalaf Al Hamadi utilising solar energy. He used some with Dubai Police engineers. electronic parts in the device that serves as a warning “I am very happy to see UAE nationals designing and system against low visibility on foggy days and fluctuating developing advanced devices to enhance traffic safety in weather conditions. the country”, he said.
Issue (485) May 2011
11 Al Merri inspects Hatta border post
HE Major General Moham- med Al Merri, Director of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners’ Affairs in Dubai, inspected the Hatta border post. He was accompanied by a number of senior officers. Al Merri lauded the fruitful cooperation among police, municipal authority, the Civil Defence and Dubai Customs to facilitate the movement of passengers. “All authori- ties work as one team, and that reflects positively on the quality of the services”, he said. On his recent inspect visit, Al Merri honoured 24 male and female employees for their excellent performance.
Schools honoured by Sharjah Police Schools in Sharjah, which took part in a competition extended by the Sharjah Educational Zone with Sharjah organised by the ‘Young Policeman’ magazine of Sharjah Police initiatives. “The interest in police initiatives comes Police, were honoured recently for their active involvement as part of efforts to enhance the stability of society and in the activity. security awareness levels”, said Maj Gen Al Hadidi. The honouring ceremony was attended by Major General The police chief said the youths reading security Humaid Mohammed Al Hadidi, Director General of publications and take part in competitions organised by Sharjah Police, and HE Saeed Musbeh Al Kaabi, Director these publications have a more proactive role in solving of Sharjah Educational Zone. the problems of society and are more capable of expressing Maj Gen Al Hadidi lauded the constructive cooperation their vision about security challenges.
Traffic coordination committee meets in Ras Al Khaimah The Traffic Coordination Committee in Ras Al Khaimah met recently. A main topic on the agenda was traffic safety. The meeting was attended by Brigadier Mohammed Al Nobi Mohammed, Deputy Director of Ras Al Khaimah Police, Brigadier Ghaith Hasan Al Zaabi, Director General of Traffic Coordination at the Ministry of Interior, all traffic police directors in the country and the Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai, RTA. During the meeting, the RTA presented its proposal to enhance surveillance on heavy vehicles, utilising advanced technology. Dubai Police presented another proposal regarding the registration of quad bikes. Ras Al Khaimah Police, meanwhile, discussed its proposal to issue unified permits for transportation by trucks, and another proposal pertaining to speed monitoring devices’ traffic signs.
Issue (485) May 2011 12 Ajman officers promoted
Four police officers, including a policewoman, were decorated by Brigadier Ali Abdullah Alwan, Director General of Ajman Police, after being promoted by the police headquarters. The officers are: Major Abdullah Juma Al Shamsi, Major Mohammed Salem Ibrahim Al Muhairi, First Lieutenant Mohammed Muain Al Hosani and First Lieutenant Noura Sultan Al Shamsi. Brig. Alwan congratulated the promoted officers and said: “I hope that this promotion will serve as an impetus for you to exert more efforts in developing work standards”. He lauded the officers’ effective role in upgrading the performance of Ajman Police.
Strategic plan discussed at Fujairah Police
The strategic plan of the Ministry of Interior regarding the Higher leadership Committee of Fujairah Police. the naturalization and residency sector between 2011 The attendants of the meeting focused on methods to and 2013 was discussed at Fujairah Police. reduce the number of illegal residents in the country. The discussion meeting was presided over by Brigadier They also discussed traffic issues, including the problem Mohammed Ahmed bin Ghanim Al Kaabi, Director of stray animals being the cause of many accidents in General of Fuhairah Police. It was the fourth meeting of the emirate.
Issue (485) May 2011
13 Issues
Fatal distraction In seconds, the use of mobile phone by motorists, with or without a hands- free kit, could become a deadly choice
By Lara Al Zarasi
Issue (485) May 2011 14 aking or answering a phone through Bluetooth hands-free kits call from your mobile, and voice activation on driving or texting or reading text performance, and whether or not the Mmessages, could cost you your life or technology can help drivers use mobile the lives of those you love. Academics phones without distracting them to and researchers, according to a new the main task of driving, effectively study on the safety levels offered by controlling the vehicle and preventing Bluetooth hands-free kits to motorists, the dangers associated with using have been warning against mobile their hands to hold the mobile phone phone distraction. while driving. There is a common misconception “The study has concluded that that the use of hands-free kits could these technologies, despite their help prevent accidents. But Dr. Taha many features, do not fulfil safety Amir, professor of experimental objectives... the use of mobile phones psychology at the UAE University, by motorists could lead to a ‘significant says that “using the mobile phone reduction’ in driver performance, while driving, even with a hands-free reflected adversely on road safety”, kit, is a very dangerous thing”. said Dr. Amir. This conclusion, presented by Dr. The study posed the question:
Use of mobile phones by motorists could lead to significant reduction in driver performance
Amir, is surprising but did not come ‘How would hands-free kits lead without proof. It was the result of to distraction?’, and ‘how would experiments conducted over the last a mobile telephone conversation four years, covering 244 men and lead to significant reduction in women in the 19-60 age group. driver concentration, more than The research aimed at fathoming the a conversation with a passenger impact of the use of mobile phones would?’
Issue (485) May 2011
15 Experimental psychology was used to answer these questions. Dr Amir said: “The research has shown that using the mobile phone via a hands-free kit while driving also leads to weakened performance in any cognitive, dynamic task (like driving a car), represented in a significant increase in changes that are not responded to despite their Housain Alharse Sami Abu Hagla Iman Moustafa Dr. Taha Ameer importance. The reduction in required responses and in wrong responses. traffic rules and refrain from using “Some motorists deal with the road This comes as a result of the r in their mobile phones while driving. and road users with no respect. There extended attentiveness required for “Accidents happen in less than a are motorists who do not get ready the cognitive, dynamic task that goes second while talking on the mobile for their trips and ignore readying the in parallel to phone conversation”. phone... speaking on the mobile phone Bluetooth hands-free kit for operation. He said that the danger associated while driving, and without the hands- When the mobile phone rings, they with the use of mobile phones while free kit, is one of the errors that cause have to look for it in their pockets driving is not restricted to distributing accidents and traffic congestion. More or inside the car, leading to fatal ‘vision power’ between the mobile than 20,000 traffic fines were issued distraction”, said Sami Abu Hajleh, a phone and the road environment or to against driving using their mobile teacher. handling the mobile phone manually phones while driving in Abu Dhabi Iman Mustapha, a company employee, at the expense of controlling the car. last year”, he said. said: “A more dangerous thing is “A lot of driver attention is directed at Such a violation of traffic rules texting and reading messages. That deciphering the voice coming through carries a fine of Dh200 and four black reduces the motorist’s focus on driving the phone... and more attention is points. and leads to fatal accidents”. given (to the voice) depending on the “Using the mobile phone while Ismat Badawi, a teacher, is shocked at nature of the conversation... and that driving reduces driver responsiveness the recklessness of some drivers. affects performance in any cognitive, three times the normal rate, according “Some motorists get excited speaking dynamic task”, he explained. to specialised studies”, he explained. on the mobile phone while driving. Brigadier (engineer) Hussain Ahmed Motorists have been unanimous in You see them sometimes using their Al Harthy, Head of the Traffic and criticising users of mobile phone other hand in their angry conversations Patrols Directorate at Abu Dhabi while driving, calling them ‘reckless or explode in laughter. That distracts Police, said motorists should obey drivers’ who ignore simplest rules. them and leads to accidents”, he said.
Issue (485) May 2011 16
Issues
Flavourful installments! Novel ideas to tackle soaring dowries and defy poverty
By Abdullah Omar
ecessity may be the mother We have heard of some women some young men. I should make the of invention. In this instance, accepting one dinar, an iron ring, a dowry quite expensive because young the invention is purely copy of the Holy Quran or a visit to the men these days do not know the value Palestinian.N Holy Lands in Mecca to perform Haj of things unless they are expensive. Poverty-stricken Palestinians have (pilgrimage) or Omra, as dowry. But I will not accept the idea of dowry come up with a new idea in which there have been mixed reactions as to being paid in installment… cash is the bridegroom with limited financial what is and what is not acceptable. king and it should be paid on the day resources can pay the dowry to Exaggerated dowries have been a of the marriage contract”, she added. his bridegroom in installments. In major hurdle preventing young men But Suaad, a high school student, has a Arab culture, the concept of dowry and women to get married. But is different opinion. “The man should be is different from Asian and other a high dowry a source of pride and God-fearing… our dowries need not cultures; it is the money, goods, or show-off to the bride? be paid in installment… the amounts estate that a man gives to his wife in “No, it is not”, said a female university are too small, any way”, Suaad said. marriage. In other cultures, it is the student from Birzeit University. Abdul Kareem Younes, 27, from the other way round. “However, it is a kind of discipline to city of Ramallah, does not have a stable
Issue (485) May 2011 18 job. But he recently got unemployment benefits from UNRWA, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine refugees for a period of six months. He is planning to get married to a relative who is about to finish her college education. “I am not the only person who wants to get married… but in this country, there is no economy that helps us save 4,000 dinars… it is the smallest amount that could be paid as dowry to a woman, in addition to the wedding expenses, furnishing a flat or renting it, or even furnishing a room in the extended family home”, he explained. Younes said he had worked at many workplaces from dawn to sunset, and received small amounts of money. “At the same time, dowries have gone through the roof”, he said. The prices of gold, clothes and other Palestinian society. “I acknowledge tie the knot”, she said. things have also gone up, added the existence of this problem, but the Um Fathi admits that marriage Younes, who supported the idea of dowry or part of it should be paid to expenses have been soaring amid the paying the dowry in installment. the woman”, shed opined. “The man insistence of some families to keep “I agreed with the father of my bride- can pay half of the dowry when the the financial pressure of bridegrooms to-be (his uncle), to apply this plan… court papers are completed, and can to spend lavishly on weddings and He undertook to pay the rest of the pay the rest before the wedding”, she relevant expenses. dowry when he has the money”, said underlined. Younes, adding that this plan is a way Raed Ibrahim, to get things easier for young men and But Um Fathi, 52, does not view Director of women to get married. “This approach Balsam’s idea as an applicable system the National can protect society against vice”, he as it would cause embarrassment to Agency for concluded. the bridegroom’s family. Family Care in Balsam Barood, 22, from Gaza, Jericho, said does not agree with Younes on the “The main problem does not have to the agency had payment of dowry in installment. “A do with the dowry as much as it does implemented young man should do their best to with having a man with ethics and the ‘Marriage get married to the woman he loves, moderate piousness”, she said. Fund’ project, Raed Ibrahim otherwise, he would not appreciate the first of its the value of the woman. Besides, it She narrated the story of a young, kind in Palestine. He said: “Young is very hard to ascertain that the rest beautiful university graduate who people shying away from marriage of the dowry would be paid after received 1,000 dinars from her and the increase in the number of the wedding, or whether the woman husband before marriage, and he was widows as a result of the continuing would have to pay the money she gets supposed to receive the remaining Israeli aggression have been the main as expenses for herself, though that is 2,000 dinars in a year’s time. When reasons to create the fund in Jericho the responsibility of the husband”, she the young wife asked him to pay up, and a similar one in Gaza. The fund Balsam said. he threatened her with divorce! includes grants and assistance, like She added that paying the dowry marriage sponsorship, housing units before the wedding increases a Paying the dowry in installment, for the newly married, a programme woman’s confidence in her partner. Um Fathi said, is just one solution. to improve economic conditions and She, however, said one of her friends There are other solutions to tackling interest-free loans, among others”. accepted to be married to a man who marriage-related issues. “Some young is a relative and the dowry was just a men decide to get married to working The new plan to reduce marriage dinar! That woman has been married women to be able to bear living financial burdens has ushered in for the last five years and is extremely expenses. Others save money over a fresh era in the culture of the happy in her marriage. a period of time to open their own Palestinian society and the question Balsam said the existence of many old businesses, like my son, Luay, who that remains unanswered: will this maids, divorced women and widows worked for a couple of years and later ‘installment’ plan contribute to of martyrs has been a crucial issue in opened a store, before he decided to enhancing the respect of women in society?
Issue (485) May 2011
19 Cover Story
In the eye of the storm
Calls to incorporate sex education in school curriculums fall on deaf ears
By Nawal Salem
onths after a school boy was reactions regarding this approach. sexually abused and killed Umm Iyad, 36, blamed the media for by a bus driver, the painful not doing enough to teach children. Mmemories linger. The case sent shock “Our satellite television channels waves in our society, and the criminal lack ‘guidance’ content… there was tried and executed for his heinous are too many bad programmes and act. serials, but no educational content. But it was not the end of such cases; The undesirable content creates our daily newspapers report similar juvenile delinquents. I support the incidents every now and then. There idea of incorporating sex education in have been called to take stringent curriculums as it represents the ideal actions to curb this alien event in our solution to the phenomenon of sexual society. abuse”, she said. At a nursery in Dubai, children under Saleha Al Hafeeti, an elementary four years of age look at colourful school teacher, 30, said: “I am against shapes a teacher carries with her, sexual education in schools. We are showing them how they can protect in a society that has taboos, and this their bodies, including sensitive parts issue is a red line. Families can play by keeping them covered, clean and this educational role in a simplistic safe. manner without having to make it It is an initiative undertaken by Dubai Modern High School, aimed at increasing awareness and inculcating the principles of safety habits among children through various interactive I’m against sexual education in sessions. The scheme was adopted to provide schools, this issue is a red line sexual education to children in order to protect them against sexual abuse. However, there have been mixed
Issue (485) May 2011 20 look like a disaster”. Experts, however, consider sex education as an important component of school curriculums. Widad Lootah, a family counselor, said that authorities have to take the necessary actions to curb the phenomenon of sexual abuse. “We should start with educating children in a well-studied scientific manner incorporating sexual education in school curriculums… I really hope that a simplified form of sexual education is taught. I called on the authorities concerned to take that step, and to propose separate contents for different school levels”. Lootah said she had studied the experiences of Canada, Austria and Sweden which adopted three levels to facilitate the delivery of the desired messages to school children. Contents for school children from grade one to grade five include photos and drawings showing what is right and what is wrong in each behaviour. In preparatory school level, story- telling represents the main method to deliver the required messages, while in high school, detailed explanation of various issues is given to students. Lootah said she’s disappointed with the response of the authorities concerned to her suggestion. “I am still trying… but my idea has Investigating child abuse cases
The Social Support Centre of the Ministry of Interior has launched an ‘Investigation Initiative’ in child-related cases. Captain Yasser Al Alawi, Director of Domestic Violence Investigation Division at the Social Support Centre in Al Ain, said that the mechanism of the initiative does not involve bringing the child to the police station. Instead, the investigation is conducted by well- trained specialists dealing with the child and his or her family.
Issue (485) May 2011
21 The psychological side plays a very medical examination, police would significant role in the treatment of take action against the suspect. Then child victims of sexual abuse. we start our role in supporting the Psychiatrist Moza Mohammed Al child and the family”. Sharifi said: “Spreading awareness is a The centre records the statements of prerequisite to curb the phenomenon. the victim in an audio-visual form in We have to teach children in a simple coordination with the police, and the way on not going with any stranger. tape is then watched by the Public When we tell children what to do, Prosecution. Ibrahim Al Ahmed Widad Lootah we have to know terribly well how to After the completion of legal start the conversation in order to avoid procedures, the centre implements creating any negative ideas. a scheme to bring the child back to been rejected”, she underlined. “Our role (at the Social Support normal life through two main phases Ibrahim Al Ahmed, Director of Centre) starts with the complaint of treatment; the first includes sessions Abu Dhabi Channel, said the media lodged by the family of the victim. with the family of the victim, and the should play a crucial role in educating After validating the case through second focuses on the child. the public about the phenomenon. However, he said collective efforts are needed to achieve results. “It is a joint responsibility How do I know that my child has been sexually abused? incorporating the media, the family and society as a whole. The media The child sexually abused shows some signs of his predicament: plays a very vital role as it sends out Become an introvert. quick messages. The media is also a Appears depressed or complains of hard-to-explain body pain. positive as well as a negative means Shows unexpected fears towards adults. of persuasion; positive in the sense Tries to tell parents about the incident in an indirect way. that it has contents on how to tackle Behaves aggressively or shows poor sleep patterns. the situation… and negative in other Refuses to go to school or loses his or her attention. contents like violence, destruction Shows inappropriate sexual behaviour. and sex”, he said. In addition to the media, there are What do we do when we know that the child has been specialised centres that provide sexually abused? psychological and social support. Mariam Al Ghaithi, social worker It is natural that you feel angry, but reaction should be controlled. at the Social Support Centre in Al The child should know that he or she is not to blame. Ain, said: “Our role is big in solving Express strong confidence that you do not doubt the child’s claims. problems. As to sexual abuse, we Allow the child to tell you what happened. organise awareness campaigns Tell the child that he or she did the right thing by telling you. and lectures… we also conduct The child may need some show of love. visits to some families. We have Do not face the abuser. constant cooperation with all media Get help from the experts at specialised social centre organisations to increase the impact of our campaigns and find solutions”.
Issue (485) May 2011 22
Issues
Convulsive life Constructive dialogue is the key to deal with adolescent grumbles
By Amira Al Raisi
Issue (485) May 2011 24 or adults, adolescence is and ending with the teenage stage. associated with rebellion and Dr. Abdul Latif Al Azazi, human confusion. But this is not how development and family affairs Fadolescents view themselves. expert at the Centre “Though I am the eldest member of Excellence for among my siblings, but my father still Family Consultancy, regards me as a small child who is not said that each stage capable of doing things independently. of a human being’s What I need from my parents is to life has different treat me well as an adult and to trust biological and me”, said 17-year-old Sheikha. psychological “I could tell my younger sister about characteristics. my secrets and what happens with “Adolescence is a critical me in my daily life. It is impossible stage and we always receive that I would tell my secrets to my complaints from parents about the parents… this is because of the awkward behaviour of their sons barriers separating me from them”, and daughters. Many parents fail she added. to realise the psychological state of For 14-year-old Maryam, life has their young sons and daughters… we been difficult with her parents. educate parents on the importance of “They reprimand me for the most dealing with various issues including trivial of things… they beat me what biological, emotional, mental and I commit small mistakes, even those social changes that happen in the made unintentionally. I’d like them to adolescence stage”. use nice words with me to show that From the age of 12 to 21, young boys they love me. I do not tell my secrets to and girls contract adults in many my mother; she is always busy. I also respects, said Dr. Al Azazi. fear her reactions. I tell my secrets to “The adolescent person would my closet friend who shares the same feel relative instability, anxiety, feelings and gives me solutions”, she disappointment and awkward said. moods… in this stage, he or she rejects Shaza, 14, said: “I tell some of my adults and their ideas”, he said. secrets to my mother. But there are Amal Abdul Jalil, preacher at the some secrets that cannot be told to her. Community Policing at Abu Dhabi we are different Police, said parents should be alert in thinking and to the psychological and biological perspective. changes in their children to enable My father them to pass this stage peacefully. treats me well. She said Islam has teachings that deal He also discusses with the treatment of adolescents. many matters with Social worker Abdullah Khamis me including clothes Mohammed of Abu Ayub Al Ansari and how I select my School in Kalba, said young boys and friends”. girls show signs of rebellion in many Noura, 17, said: “Understanding forms to prove themselves. “The signs prevails in my home. My parents include rebellion against parental always give me the opportunity to authority, smoking, aggressive express my opinion on everything behaviour, flawed love affairs and and that gives me self-confidence and juvenile delinquency. There are also the feeling that I am a very important differences in the behaviour between person in the family”. boys and girls”, he said. Adolescence is the most dangerous He added that an adolescent creates his stage in a human being’s life. or her own world. “The dangerous thing Adolescence is a transitional stage is that parents sometimes commit major of physical and mental human blunders as a result of their failure to development generally occurring understand the behaviour of their sons between puberty and legal adulthood. and daughters and to start a constructive It is largely characterised as beginning dialogue with them”, he explained.
Issue (485) May 2011
25 Types of adolescence
There are four types of adolescence as explained in an Egyptian study:
Adaptive adolescence: likes. The male adolescent indulges emotional shock pushing him to It tends towards relative calm and in excessive masturbation to get rid pessimism most of the time. emotional balance, where relations of his bad feelings and suppression as Negligence by the family. with others are good and there is he fails to absorb the odium through Cruelty. no rebellion against parents or the sports or social activity. Excessive care and pampering. school. The life of the adolescent is Bad company. rich with experiences and interest in Aggressive and rebellious There are also growth demands in expanded scientific fields in which he adolescence: the age from 12 to 21 years that can or she fulfills ambitions and achieves In this type of adolescence, be summed up in the following: outstanding performance in school. aggressive and rebellious behaviour Understanding biological changes. Dar dreams are not exaggerated and against the family, the school and Confidence in acting wisely and are not negative, generally. all kinds of authority represent the controlling desires. norm. Adolescents attempt to show Training on being independent. Withdrawal, introvert adolescence: themselves as adults and adopt deceit Preparations for specialised study / It is characterised by the adolescent to achieve their will. professional specialisation. being introvert, depressed, isolated and Accepting social responsibilities a feeling of inferiority. The adolescent’s Delinquent adolescence: gradually. activities focus on personal matters, It takes the form of ethical degradation Getting to know other cultures, writing memoirs, full occupation with or complete emotional breakdown. peoples, religions and ethical codes. own problems, criticism of social Creation of value systems. systems and rebellion against parental There are many factors leading to Winning the respect of others as an authority. Many obsessions and day the formation of the last three types independent person. dreaming occupy the adolescent’s of adolescence: Getting rid of the feeling of parental mind and centre on his perceptions The adolescent experiencing an emotional bonds whose restrictions of deprivation of the things he or she awkward or bitter experience or an are imposed.
Issue (485) May 2011 26
“YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR STRENGTH”
WWW.HYDRATRADING.COM P O Box 27297 Abu Dhabi UAE
One-on-one
The influx impasse
Security agencies in North African Arab countries work at ‘full capacity’ to stop the influx of illegal immigrants’ into Europe
By Fawzi Qishta
A prominent university professor conditions in the lack of freedoms; of immigrants come from Egypt and has criticised the stance of some local and regional conflicts and the Morocco: according to estimates by European countries towards North absence of political and social stability. the Egyptian Foreign Ministry, there African Arab countries regarding Youths have also been influenced by are some 6.5 million Egyptians who the waves of illegal immigrants. Dr. success stories in the media of illegal live and work outside Egypt, while Mohammad Al Khashani, professor immigrants in Europe, encouraged by the United Nations put the figure at at the Mohammed VI University geographical proximity and the low 2.4 million. From Morocco, there are in Morocco and Chairman of the cost of transportation. some 4.5 million immigrants, while Moroccan Association of Studies and Q. Would you specify the Arab European statistics estimate the figure Research, told 999 in an interview countries ‘exporting’ immigrants at over two million. Some countries that security agencies in the North and the countries receiving them? have big immigrant populations; African Arab countries work at ‘full A. There are three Arab countries immigrants represent some 20 per capacity’ monitoring and protecting classified among the first 20 countries cent of the population in 41 countries their borders and beaches to stop in the world receiving immigrants; including the AGCC, Hong Kong, infiltrators on their way to Europe. He Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Jordan. Jordan. Singapore, Luxembourg and said Spain, with all its huge capabilities However, the Arab world is still an Switzerland. The highest rates are in and resources that it receives from experimenting ground of immigration the AGCC states; immigrants make the European Union (EU), has not waves; some countries receive up 78.3 per cent of the population in been able to prevent infiltrators immigrants, others export them and Qatar, 71.4 per cent in the UAE, 62.1 from entering the country despite its a third category of nations play the per cent in Kuwait, 40.7 per cent in small size compared to Morocco. He role of transit points. Between 1998 Bahrain, 25.9 per cent in Saudi Arabia wondered how Spain could demand and 2008, some two million Arabs and 24.4 per cent in Oman. from Morocco watertight monitoring migrated to other countries and settled Q. To what extent have the security of the latter’s 6,500 km-long beaches. in them, including new destinations agencies in North African Arab like Spain, Italy and Canada. countries been successful in curbing : Excerpts Traditional destinations include France human trafficking by ‘death boat’ Q. What are the reasons pushing and the United States. A large number gangs to Europe? Arab youths to immigrate, especially young people from North African Arab countries? A. Economic conditions represent the main reason -- that is the difference in economic standards between North Security agencies have been working Africa and Europe. Another reason full capacity in monitoring borders to is that there is a high unemployment rate in North Africa, in addition, to the stop immigrants difference in wages as the incomes in North Africa cannot cover basic needs. Other reasons include political
Issue (485) May 2011 28 A. Security agencies have been working at ‘full capacity’ in monitoring borders and coasts to stop the influx of immigrants. Practically, however, Spain cannot ask Morocco to monitor waves of immigrants; Spain, with its small size (comparatively speaking), cannot monitor the area from Tarifa to Marina despite all big resources, so how can Spain ask Morocco to watch monitor its 6,500 km coast ? The ‘death boats’ set sail from occupied Melilla to Qunaitera, and in the South from El Aioun to Agadir. There is another factor which is that we cannot reject visas for Senegalese or Mauritanians on grounds of suspicions. With little resources, Morocco cannot
Number of illegal immigrants dying on their way to Europe is increasing
allocate substantial funds to play the policeman’s role for the European Union. That is unreasonable. Q. Have you been warning against the influx of illegal immigrants, especially after the incidents in which many immigrants perished? A. Since the 1990s, the number of illegal immigrants dying on their way to Europe has been on the increase. These immigrants live real nightmare; we encourage our youths not to pursue their ‘adventures’… they can live better in their home countries if they utilise their resources and mental capabilities. Q. Do you expect the current events unfolding in some Arab countries to increase the influx, or would these events minimise it? A. In the short run, like in Tunisia and Egypt, the events will increase the influx of immigrants. However, the situation later will depend on what measures the authorities in North African Arab states consider, including economic development steps, social justice and other actions that would prevent the influx or convince people already in Europe to return to their
Issue (485) May 2011
29 home countries. The hard stance by some Europeans Q. What are the adverse effects faced by North African Arab states is not a solution to the problem caused by the departure of talent? A. The Organisation for Economic Co- operation and Development (OECD) said that 20 million immigrant talents in 2009 worked in these (European) performance achieved by these around the world? countries, compared to 12 million countries. The improvement has led A. This trend shows that some in 1990. This has boosted economic to legal models for the import of talent European governments have been in Germany in 2005… the effects on riding the waves of extremist right countries ‘exporting’ immigrants wing to win votes and stay in power. include the shortage of talent, high Islamophobia has spread as a result, cost of creating human resources and extremist religious parties and resorting to foreign manpower to were formed in 14 countries that meet the requirements of economic officially entered Parliament. The projects. racist environment that was brought Q. How do you view the stiffening about has facilitated practices against of rules against immigrants from immigrants. North Africa in some European countries, and have you sought to begin a serious dialogue to deal Profile with this issue? A. The hard stance by some European Obtained Ph. D. degree in countries cannot be an agreed-upon economics from University solution to the problem, which should Lumière Lyon in 1992 and from be tackled through dialogue and the Grenoble University in France in provision of assistance. Security 1980, in addition to other degrees. plans cannot eliminate the problem… He is professor at the Law School there is also a big human loss in the of Mohammad VI University in implementation of security plans. Morocco. Estimates in Spain show that victims Member of the Morocco-Spain among those trying to reach Spain University Committee and an from Morocco were 8,000 to 10,000 expert on immigration for various people between 1989 and 2002… Moroccan and international there are solutions as such to stop organisations. immigration completely. However, Member of the executive office the solution should be a management of the International Association of of the issue between the two shores of Demographics. the Mediterranean. Has authored several books and Q. How do you evaluate the ‘racist research papers in Arabic and tendency’ against Arab and Muslim French. immigrants in some countries
Issue (485) May 2011 30 My luck is red
ave you ever stood in front of your private bookshelves, wondering what to read when your reading appetite is enormous? You would pick one book and then return it to choose another, telling yourself you would later come back Hto read the ignored book. You are not alone in this hesitation. Many people leave their books on the shelves and fail to read a whole page, for months or years. These abandoned books are not bad books. On the contrary, some of them are masterpieces. Perspectives
More than six years ago, during the 1st Emirates Festival organised by the Culture and Science Forum in Dubai, I had a conversation with renowned writer Mahfouz Abdul Rahman, who had just completed reading a novel by Turkish writer Orhan Pamuk, entitled ‘My Name Is Red’. I found it odd that he was late in reading this novel which was issued in Turkish in 1998 and translated into Arabic in 2000. However, I excused him as Mahfouz Abdul Rahman was busy with the writing of a movie ‘Haleem’ of the late actor Ahmed Zikki.
I started looking for a copy of the novel ‘My Name Is Red’ in UAE bookstores, but could not find one. I sought the help of my friend, a poet, Hussein Darwish, to find a copy for me, as the Arabic version was brought out by Dar Al Mada owned by our common friend, Fakhri Kareem, the founder of Al Mada Festival in the Syrian capital, Damascus. Hussein had returned to his home country, Iraq, to launch his newspaper and television station. Ali Obaid
My friend sent me the Arabic version pretty fast. I was keen on reading it right now. [email protected] But unfortunately, the novel remained on the bookshelf for six years since I received it. Whenever I decided to read it, I found myself moving to another corner of the bookshelf to take another book or a novel. On many occasions, I took ‘My Name Is Red’ with me during my travels to be able to read it during my holidays or business trips, but ‘My Name Is Red’ remained on the waiting list.
Do not get me wrong. My Name Is Red’ is not a bad novel; it is one of the most famous novels in Turkey’s literary history and its author, Orhan Pamuk, won the 2006 Nobel Literature Prize.
I would say that I was not lucky to read it… I wanted to say: ‘my luck is red’, but I feared being misunderstood in associating the red colour to carpets laid for presidents during official ceremonies or for actors and actresses at film festivals, and in thinking that my intelligence had betrayed me to the extent that I gave the wrong expression at a time when mistrust is thought to be a sort of aptitude.
Issue (485) May 2011
31 Issues The secret of
Opinions continue to differ on cosmetic procedures beauty! and the elusive notion of beauty
By Amira Al Raisi
Issue (485) May 2011 32 acial and body features of acceptable. But what I disagree with many women, and even men, is the surgery involving parts of started to take new twists in the body that could cause harm to Fthe last few years: cosmetic surgery human health in the future”. has changed the shape and size of Fatima Al Hosani had a personal noses and lips, and altered body experience with cosmetic surgery. lines to the liking of beauty seekers. She said: “I had a cosmetic surgery But this has led, in many instances, to the emergence of similar facial Plastic Surgery Boosts and body features in people as Salem Al Swade Ahmed Rashed cosmetic surgeons use almost the With Economy same techniques and measurements on their patients, or ‘customers’. regarding cosmetic surgery and Plastic surgery procedures are Some people opt for botox injections, what actors and actresses do have increasing as the economy liposuction, liposculpture or any led to this phenomenon assuming improves, reports Long Island forms of cosmetic enhancement large proportions”. Business News. and cosmetic procedures to For Ahmed Rashid, the availability Plastic surgery rates increased by 9 improve their looks. There have of wealth and luxury lifestyles percent up 1.6 million, according to been mixed opinions regarding the encourages some people to have the American Society for Aesthetic phenomenon. cosmetic procedure. “It is a Plastic Surgery. In 2010, nearly beauty! “Cosmetic surgery, in general, could phenomenon that has been assuming 9.5 million plastic surgeries were be a necessity for some people after large proportions in recent years. For performed. their involvement in accidents that some women, cosmetic procedures Business News notes that the led to deformations, like traffic have become part of life”, he prevalence of plastic surgery accidents and fires. In those cases, added. coincides with the ups and downs plastic surgery is important and is not Aeysha Ibrahim, a university of the economy, as most who seek a luxury. However, people who have student, said advertisements of cosmetic alterations pay for their no problems do not have any reason cosmetic surgeons can be seen in all own surgeries rather than use their to opt for cosmetic procedures”, media. Some surgeries are necessary insurance. said Haidar Khalouf, a clerk. but others are not… the optional “Plastic surgery was down in 2009. Ashraf Yehiya, another clerk working plastic surgeries actually deform The economy had taken a real in the UAE, said: “Obsession with God’s creation”, she said. hit,” said Dr. Frederick Lukash to plastic surgery increased in recent Salem Al Suwaidi said: “Some the Long Island Business News. years, particularly among women. surgeries like dental cosmetic “Cosmetic plastic surgery tends Programmes on satellite TV channels surgeries as well as liposuction are to follow economic trends. When there’s more discretionary money, people are feeling optimistic, they’ll do it.” In 2010, nearly $10.7 billion was spent on cosmetic procedures, including injections, skin rejuvenations, and other nonsurgical alterations. “Everybody does it to look better. The motivations vary. Some feel good, but don’t look good. Their chronological age exceeds the way they feel about themselves,” Lukash says. “Some people try to stay competitive in the job market. It’s a younger world. They figure if they can revitalize themselves, they stand a better chance.” Some people do it because they are at a new phase of their lives, he added. “They’re widowed or divorced and looking for a fresh start.”
Issue (485) May 2011
33 Header Kaloof Ashraf Yehea
on my nose around a year ago. It was a necessary procedure as its shape was changing as I grew older (Fatima is 30 years old). It is much better now, but few people noticed the change. I think cosmetic surgery does not create miracles… we see a big change only in actors and stresses”. Fawzia Al Ali, 40, said: “I visited Cairo to undergo liposuction and reducing the size of the abdomen and thighs… I will go to Cairo again for some minor procedures including further liposuction. I preferred Cairo because the costs are lower, also because I would be away from curious people and their unnecessary questions”. Women giving birth to many children suffer most from flabbiness in the abdomen area. Noura Al Marzouki, a mother of nine, said: “I underwent an operation in Thailand, and it cost me half the money compared to costs here in the UAE. I will return to the same clinic after a few months and I may undergo a cosmetic surgery on the breasts”. Dr. Suleiman Al Ali, a cosmetic surgeon, said most of the ‘patients’ are women. “Men do not make Cosmetic surgery
Aesthetic plastic surgery involves increased over 50 percent since market for cosmetic procedures, techniques intended for the the start of the century. Nearly 12 cosmetic surgery is a $2.2 billion "enhancement" of appearance million cosmetic procedures were business. Cosmetic surgery is now through surgical and medical performed in 2007, with the five very common in countries such techniques, and is specifically most common surgeries being as the United Kingdom, France, concerned with maintaining breast augmentation, liposuction, and Germany. In Asia, cosmetic normal appearance, restoring it, or nasal surgery, eyelid surgery and surgery has become an accepted enhancing it beyond the average abdominoplasty. The increased practice; currently most widely level toward some aesthetic ideal. use of cosmetic procedures crosses prevalent and normal in China In 2006, nearly 11 million cosmetic racial and ethnic lines in the U.S., where it is currently Asia's biggest procedures were performed in with increases seen among African- cosmetic surgery market. Children the United States alone. The Americans and Hispanic Americans undergoing cosmetic eye surgery number of cosmetic procedures as well as Caucasian Americans. can be seen in Japan and South performed in the United States has In Europe, the second largest Korea.
Issue (485) May 2011 34 up more than 20 per cent”, he The most prevalent aesthetic/cosmetic explained. Women undergoing treatment at his procedures include: clinic are from the 16 – 70 years age group. Cosmetic treatment, he said, Abdominoplasty ("tummy tuck"): reshaping and firming of the can be surgical and nonsurgical. Laser treatments, breast enhancement and abdomen botox are now quite common. Botox Blepharoplasty ("eyelid surgery"): reshaping of the eyelids or the injections are the most popular, he application of permanent eyeliner, including Asian blepharoplasty added. Phalloplasty Dr. Al Ali said he turns down requests Mammoplasty from people asking for cosmetic Breast augmentations ("breast implant" or "boob job"): augmentation surgeries that are not needed. He of the breasts by means of fat grafting, saline, or silicone gel prosthetics, added: “I look at possible side which was initially performed to women with micromastia effects and I encourage people not Reduction mammoplasty ("breast reduction"): removal of skin to undergo such surgeries if there’s and glandular tissue, which is done to reduce back and shoulder pain in no need for them… those who need women with gigantomastiaand/or for psychological benefit men with surgeries to deal with birth defects or were involved in accidents. gynecomastia Some men also opt for cosmetic Mastopexy ("breast lift"): Lifting or reshaping of breasts to make them surgery like botox injections and less saggy, often after weight loss (after a pregnancy, for example). It hair transplant”. involves removal of breast skin as opposed to glandular tissue Generally, people opting for Buttock augmentation ("butt implant"): enhancement of the buttocks cosmetic surgery in the Arab world using silicone implants or fat grafting ("Brazilian butt lift") and transfer do so because they live luxury from other areas of the body lifestyles and are affected by the Buttock lift: lifting, and tightening of the buttocks by excision of media promoting such procedures. redundant skin “Those undergoing cosmetic surgery Chemical peel: minimizing the appearance of acne, chicken pox, and because they genuinely need them constitute some 40 per cent of the other scars as well as wrinkles (depending on concentration and type of total number”, he explained. He agent used, except for deep furrows), solar lentigines (age spots, freckles), warned that some cosmetic surgeries and photo damage in general. Chemical peels commonly involve carbolic could have side effects. He urged acid (Phenol), trichloroacetic acid (TCA),glycolic acid (AHA), or salicylic people not to seek cheaper options. acid (BHA) as the active agent. “They should consult more than Labiaplasty: surgical reduction and reshaping of the labia one doctor before they take their Lip enhancement: surgical improvement of lips' fullness through decisions”, he said. enlargement The opinions of Muslim scholars Rhinoplasty ("nose job"): reshaping of the nose differ depending on the type of Otoplasty ("ear surgery"/"ear pinning"): reshaping of the ear, most cosmetic surgery. Dr. Al Qurashi often done by pinning the protruding ear closer to the head. Abdul Raheem Al Bashir, dean of Islamic Shariah and Studies at Rhytidectomy ("face lift"): removal of wrinkles and signs of aging from Sharjah University, believes that the face cosmetic surgeries are permissible Browplasty ("brow lift" or "forehead lift"): elevates eyebrows, from Shariah point of view to treat smooths forehead skin birth defects, the separation of Midface lift ("cheek lift"): tightening of the cheeks Siamese children or deformities Suction-assisted lipectomy ("liposuction"): removal of fat from the resulting from accidents and fires. body “If there are faults in facial or body Chin augmentation ("chin implant"): augmentation of the chin with features affecting the psychology of an implant, usually silicone, by sliding genioplasty of the jawbone or by the person or social life, cosmetic suture of the soft tissue surgeries are regarded as permitted Cheek augmentation ("cheek implant"): to bring happiness and emotional implants to the cheek comfort”, he said. Orthognathic Surgery: manipulation of the facial bones through However, surgeries to make facial controlled fracturing or body changes that are not Fillers injections: collagen, fat, and other tissue filler injections, such as necessary are rejected from Shariah hyaluronic acid perspective. Laser skin resurfacing
Issue (485) May 2011
35 Focus
Broadening the scope
Al Musaffah police station is an example of how comprehensive services are offered
By Amani Al Yafei
Issue (485) May 2011 36 at reducing crime rates in the areas falling under its jurisdiction by two per cent, making our roads safer and suggesting plans and preventive ini- tiatives in line with the strategy. Maj. Al Kitbi said criminal investiga- tions represent one of the most impor- tant services offered by Al Musaffah police station. All police personnel have undergone specialised courses offering them the latest in criminal in- vestigation methods. “These courses give our staff the tools to offer their services in the best way possible”, said the official. Al Musaffah police station cooperates By Amani Al Yafei with all police administrations and stations in the emirate of Abu Dhabi as all operate as one unit in the ser- vice of society. Maj. Al Mazroui said the station has three modern halls in which training courses are held, and other stations and administrations in the emirate benefit from these cours- es. The official said Abu Dhabi Police, in line with the directives of His High- ness Lieutenant General Sheikh Saif l Musaffah police station has The station handles security, traffic bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime been serving UAE nationals and administrative issues. It operates Minister and Minister of Interior, has and expatriates and public as part of the stations of ‘Police Oper- been giving all staff the opportunity to Aand private sector institutions in the ations’ at Abu Dhabi Police. The eye acquire technical and practical knowl- areas falling under its jurisdiction, scan system has also been adopted at edge to carry out their duties. It has using a comprehensive approach that the station. also been providing the law enforce- has made it a marvelous example of The station follows the guidelines of ment agency with state-of-the-art ‘comprehensive’ police stations. the Abu Dhabi Police strategy, aimed equipment to offer their services. “We have been catching up with the pace of development of Abu Dhabi, using state-of-the-art technologies”, said Major Salem Khamis Al Kitbi, Acting Director of Al Musaffah po- lice station. “Abu Dhabi has been growing rapid- ly, and a large number of people from different nationalities and cultures have been coming to the emirate to take part in the development process “, he added. The Al Musaffah police station was established in 1982. The massive ex- pansion in Al Musaffah necessitated the setting up of the ‘comprehensive’ police station in January 2009. The police official said some areas in Al Musaffah accommodate some 60,000 people from 140 nationalities. “We have trained our staff to deal with different nationalities to enable them understand the cultures of the people living in Al Musaffah”, said Maj. Al Kitbi.
Issue (485) May 2011
37 Focus
Investigating the earth Earth Criminal Sciences help Abu Dhabi Police investigate complex crime
By Lara Al Zarasi - Photos: Eisa Rashid
bu Dhabi Police has been “The setting up of the division is a the Criminal Evidence Department at at the forefront in the UAE major step for police in the UAE”, said Abu Dhabi Police, said Earth Criminal and the region in setting Colonel Abdul Rahman Al Hamadi, Sciences provide precise details on Aup an integrated division to help Director of the Criminal Evidence crime, helping police investigate crime investigators and the judiciary with Department at Abu Dhabi Police. “It from the time it was committed. the advanced use of Earth Criminal is the nucleus of a centre that will help Technician Saleh Ali Al Katheeri, Sciences. These sciences are used in police departments in the AGCC and Director of the ‘Criminal Geology’ the West and have proved to be very the Middle East”, he added. project at the Criminal Evidence precise in investigating crime. The benefits of the division are Department at Abu Dhabi Police, Investigations are conducted with the enormous; experts can detect weapons said investigations based on Earth use of geophysics by analysing all caches, drugs warehouses and Criminal Sciences are sought to gather types of turf, rocks, dust, minerals, graves. It has three sections; criminal and classify physical and geological chemical elements, building material, geophysics, scrutiny and geological evidence to be presented to courts of paints, radioactive and nonradioactive examination and geological database. law as criminal evidence. material, water and pollen. Captain Ahmed Saeed Al Kaabi from “In the past, we used to search for
Issue (485) May 2011 38 The division is the nucleus of Earth Criminal Sciences investgation and a database will be established for data collected in the country
evidence under the ground and that section said Earth Criminal Sciences was a very time-consuming and are used to serve the judiciary by tiring process. Excavation works conducting geological examinations could sometimes damage evidence. of samples. That’s why the use of Earth Criminal He said many areas of investigations Sciences will save time and effort”, he are covered by the uses of Earth said. Criminal Sciences including He added: “The adoption of Earth the search for missing people Criminal Sciences as a scientific means Saleh Al Katheeri Khadoma Noeimy and bodies in the aftermath of in police work is a valuable addition to in the country”. earthquakes. Investigators can also the tools used by policemen to obtain He said Abu Dhabi Police cooperate detect environmental pollution like precise information. This division with the UAE University and the radioactive and industrial pollution, is the nucleus of Earth Criminal Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi. probe ‘biological terrorism’ cases Sciences investigation and a database Expert Khadouma Al Nuaimi of the and look into cases of trafficking in will be established for data collected scrutiny and geological examination endangered species of animals.
Issue (485) May 2011
39 People “The Word Impossible does not exist in our dictionary”
By Lt. Zainab Al Moez
olice officers face a lot of difficulties and challenges in “We received information in January of 2010 that a group their daily work. They have a noble goal to maintain of people lured their victims claiming that they will give security and stability in society and to prevent crime. them with jobs as domestic helpers, and later exploited Lt.P Omar Ahmed Barahma, an officer at the Criminal them in prostitution and ‘sold’ them in another emirate. Investigation Section of Al Mamoura police station in After strenuous efforts in surveillance and obtaining Ras Al Khaimah, has been exerting all efforts with his information on those involved, the team was able to locate colleagues to achieve highest levels of performance and the gang boss who ran away when he saw police. He was contribution. chased for around 30 minutes on roads and arteries and Lt. Barahma and his team were honoured recently for their police eventually arrested him”, said Lt. Barahma. outstanding efforts in putting an end to organised criminal The police officer, who joined the force in 1991 and activities and bringing the perpetrators to justice. He was underwent various specialised training courses, lauded honoured by Brigadier Mohammad Al Nubi Muhammad, the keenness of the wise leadership in the country to Deputy Director General of Ras Al Khaimah Police under strengthen security and stability for all members of society the directives of Major General Sheikh Talib bin Saqr Al and to provide all the requirements that help to achieve this Qasimi, Director General of Ras Al Khaimah Police. objective. Barahma said that the honouring was for the security Lt. Barahma said: “There is no place for the word ‘impossible’ operation he led with his team that culminated in the arrest in the dictionary of Ras Al Khaimah Police. No matter how of suspects who allegedly exploited housemaids and forced big the challenges are, we have the faith, determination and them to engage in the flesh trade. resolve that will overcome all challenges."
Issue (484) April 2011 40 By Lt. Zainab Al Moez Culture
A journo’s journey Nasser Al Dhahiri lashes out at poor journalistic practices in Arabic language media in the UAE
By Nawal Salem
Issue (485) May 2011 42 asser Al Dhahiri is a seasoned journalist and well-established man of letters, who has been Ntaking a very rich journey in the world of journalism and literature, continu- ing his expedition to effect a genuine transformation in UAE national me- dia. He believes that journalism in the UAE was much stronger and bolder than it is today, despite the big strides in technology. Al Dhahiri also belie- ves that UAE-based English language newspapers have been leaders in terms of scoops and high professionalism. Excerpts: Q. How do you see journalism in the UAE today compared to the past? A. Journalism in the UAE 15 or 20 years ago was much stronger than what it is today. In terms of techno- logy used in print journalism, we can see the advancement. However, in terms of professionalism, UAE-based English language newspapers have been leaders in terms of content and high professionalism. Arabic langua- ge newspapers should have achieved the same level of professionalism. I do not want to mention titles… I am speaking in general terms. Profes- sionalism is less in Arabic language newspapers, probably due to the cei- ling of the freedom of expression and the unprofessional cadres. Though we have some 50 graduates from media faculties at universities in each batch, but only five of them or so join the journalistic profession. Q. Do you think it’s the fault of UAE English newspapers have been journalism in the UAE or the aca- demic studies at our educational leaders in terms of content and pro- institutions? fessionalism A. These are factors that contribute to the problem. If I am a university graduate and cannot find a newspaper that does not help me build my career, then I won’t serve it. Our newspapers today have a cosmetic touch but do ve…. We cannot find one local tele- good journalism. We do not have stars not contribute to finding solutions to vision channel that makes us attached in the journalism world to take charge problems. to it, and we move to other channels of that, and I do not know why this Q. It’s said some journalists aban- looking for our news. Our TV chan- is the case. What saddens me more is doned the profession because of nels are detached from news and news that we do not have a paper that repre- restrictions limiting their freedom. analysis and this applies to the events sents us outside the UAE as voice of What do you think? unfolding in the Arab world today, the nation… we do not see our identi- A. There is a significant margin of save some modest and non-exclusive ty reflected in our newspapers, nor do freedom. But the question is: how stories. we find an international character. The do we deal with this freedom with a Q. What are the principles that have biggest problem is that media gradua- patriotic spirit? If no one deals with to be followed by our media? tes do not catch up with the latest in this matter because of fears he or she A. If we want genuine journalism, media and communications. would lose their position or job, then the human resources need to be its Q. You have worked with many pu- it becomes a problem difficult to sol- creators and aware of the principles of blications as editor. What ambitions
Issue (485) May 2011
43 have you realised? A. I tried to create changes in a radical manner, and that’s what these institu- tions could not digest. When I was the editor of Al Ittihad newspaper, we launched the newspaper’s website (in 1995). At that time, e-newspapers were not popular as they are today. We also created four supplements (sports, business, politics and religion). I con- sidered these supplements needed as many newspapers in the West adopted that trend, and I tried to adopt it in a way that suits our needs. In magazi- nes, there are specialised publications in Europe, while here, magazines of- fer a variety of things. That’s why we brought out a magazine for women, another for men and a third for chil- dren. The step that followed was Al Dhafra magazine which focused on heritage… I had a belief that I should make a sound and lasting change. Some people continued on the same approach, while others had different objectives. Q. Your column ‘The Eighth Co- lumn’, what has it given to the Emi- rati scene? A. I have been writing the column daily for the last 10 years it was recei- ved warmly by readers. The column played the role of an eye opener for decision-makers. What I wrote has led to decisions, though some readers ces are very limited and those working A. I have a new collection of stories disagreed with me on certain issues. for the association are volunteers. that is detached from ultra-modern They, however, always respected the Q. How do you evaluate novel evo- literature and has no affectation ‘Eighth Column’. luation in the UAE? whatsoever. They are stories written Q. ‘The Eighth Column’ has been A. Novel writing in the UAE is still in because I wanted to write a beautiful characterised by its transparency. its infancy and there are no serious ef- story… just for the purpose of joyful Have you ever been criticised by forts being undertaken to reinvigorate story-telling. some readers or authorities? it… it needs to attain maturity. Nove- A. I present my topics with enthu- lists are few and their literary works siasm but I respect the opinions of are not that many. Even my experi- Profile others… those who have a different ence in novel writing has been limited opinion can discuss any issue with with one novel… the novelist needs Graduated from the UAE Univer- me and can also try to convince me of to have a complete human experience sity with a degree in media/French their ideas. to attain maturity. A novel is a more literature, and had his higher stu- Q. How do you assess the cultural complex work compared to short sto- dies at the French Journalism Insti- scene in the UAE? ries… our novelists are young and the tute, Paris Sorbonne University. A. It is very dynamic… and the cul- nation itself is young. Worked in various posts at me- tural movement in the UAE is good Q. What is the literary form that dia organisations and took part in in poetry, prose, theatre and plastic you love most? many cultural and media conferen- arts… the UAE Writers Association A. story-telling as a literary and crea- ces around the world. has been active in supporting writers. tive work, but I also read novels. Received a number of awards. Currently, there are many institutions Most of the novels I read are written Has many literary works, some that play the role of supporting wri- by Latin Americans. I also like eassys of which have been translated into ters. The association currently has which are rich in literary style. English, Russian, French, Spanish some 150 members, but it cannot bear Q. Do you have new literary work and Hindi. all the burdens as its financial resour- in the pipeline?
Issue (485) May 2011 44 Government Shops Corporate Offices
Education Hotels & Restaurants Heritage Retail Branches
Sammon Contracting Limited Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed the 1st Street PO Box 113306 Abu Dhabi T: 02-658 1900 / 050-662 9231 F: 02-658 1901 E: [email protected] History
v
Dr. Faleh Hanzal An artist impression of Sheikh Shakhboot
A Bani Yas symbol The life of Sheikh Shakhboot bin Dhiyab bin Eisa, ruler of Abu Dhabi from 1793 to 1816, witnessed critical chapters in the history of the region
heikh Shakhboot bin Dhiyab was the fourth leader from the Sheikh Eisa ruled; we only know that he was bin Eisa bin Nayhan became Falah dynasty to which the noble killed over a power struggle. the ruler of the emirate of Abu family of Al Nahyan belongs. We do When Sheikh Shakhboot took over, SDhabi after his father, Sheikh Dhiyab, not have reliable sources to verify the the political conditions in the emirate was killed in 1793. Sheikh Shakhboot period in which Sheikh Dhiyab bin were not stable, but he succeeded in
Issue (485) May 2011 46 restoring security. He had the traits of a tribal leader like good behaviour, being pious and adherence to traditions. He respected the people and always had vanguard courage with no fear of death during wars. He was the symbol of the Bani Yas tribe, who derived his decisions v from the opinions of the elite of the tribe who he considered his advisors. One of the prominent advisors of his was Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed bin Sharara, the Sheikh of Al Bufalasa that belongs to Bani Yas. The first five years of Sheikh Shakhboot’s rule were characterised by internal stability. However, Al Maqta Tower the political conditions in two neighbouring regions – the Abdul Aziz bin Ghardaqa. The battle Bighal (Baghla in the local dialect emirate of Al Dareya and Oman, were was called ‘Bin Sharara’s battle’. means a large ship). The people not stable, and troubles in those areas As a result of this battle, Sheikh there called the area facing the sea could have spilled over to Abu Dhabi. Shakhboot left his capital (Al Mariya) ‘Al Dhahr’, and the area deep in the These events unfolded in 1799 when at the heart of the Liwa region, the island ‘Al Batn’. Sheikh Shakhboot the ruler of Al Dareya Prince Abdul stronghold of Bani Yas tribe in the bin Dhiyab ordered the building Aziz bin Mohammed Al Saud sent a desert of Al Dhafra forming the of a defence tower overlooking all force led by Mutlaq Al Mateeri that largest part of the emirate of Abu areas of the island. He also ordered occupied Oman’s Al Buraimi, close Dhabi. The Bani Yas tribal groups the construction of another tower in to the city of Al Ain. Some regiments extended their reach to Al Ain and Al Dhahr area. The Abu Dhabi red reached Ras Al Khaimah. the coastal areas where they worked flag was hoisted on both towers, Sheikh Shakhboot was surprised in pearl diving and fishing. They also symbolically announcing the by the Al Dareya force that passed lived near creeks that formed natural establishment of the capital of the through his lands. However, he harbours for their ships and boats. emirate of Abu Dhabi. Gradually, decided not to engage in any action Abu Dhabi has also been known as Bani Yas people moved to the coastal till the picture became clearer in the emirate of ‘gazelles’, hence the capital, forming the nucleus of the Oman where a tribal political division name (in Arabic – Abu Dhabi). The marine community with its economic took place creating two entities: gazelles, through a shallow waterway life based on pearl trade, diving and that of Hanai, on the one hand, and called ‘Al Maqta’, moved to another fishing. External trade followed with Ghafir, on the other. Hanai supported island called Maleeh, known for its the presence of Indian traders. the Al BuSaeed family, while Ghafir water wells. Maleeh later became The transformation of Abu Dhabi opposed it. Abu Dhabi supported Abu Dhabi, which became Sheikh meant that there were three pillars to Hanai, and Sheikh Shakhboot Shakhboot bin Dhiyab’s capital. the Abu Dhabi society then: the desert decided to prevent the infiltration by The island was inhabited by community (Liwa), the agricultural Al Dareya forces to his emirate. fishermen, sailing from the Creek of community and the new community He put together the plan of the resistance with Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed bin Sharara, setting a trap at the area of Abu Dhaib where Al The Abu Dhabi red flag was hoisted Dareya forces used to stop to rest and drink water on their way to Al on both towers announcing the Buraimi. Bin Sharara stationed his forces behind sand dunes at night, establishment of the capital and in the morning, Bin Sharara’s men killed the Al Dareya commander
Issue (485) May 2011
47 on January 11, 1820. The treaty stipulated that ships attacking British vessels should be handed over to the British force. The general treaty was then signed by the rest of the sheikhs of the Emirates. The sheikhs later met to put together a strategy of actions following the latest developments involving Britain in the Gulf region. They included Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, ruler of Ajman, Abdullah bin Rashid, ruler of Umm Al Quwain and Zayed bin Saif, on behalf of the ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Hazza. Sheikh Shakhboot returned to Abu Dhabi to be with his son, Tahnoun, he lived for a long time and during that time, he met a British official in 1832 and gave him valuable information on the emirate that was included in a report entitled ‘A historical brief on Bani Yas’. In 1833, the rule of the emirate was handed over to his third son, Sheikh Al Muraijib fortress in Al Qatara Khalifa bin Shakhboot, and the father agreed to that handover agreement. (the coastal areas). The latter played Najdi emirate, by an Egyptian army He stayed with his son helping him a very pivotal role in the economy of headed by Ibrahim bin Mohammed in the rule of the emirate. History the emirate thanks to the pearl trade. Ali Pasha. Prince Abdullah bin Saud, books have nothing more about this Nevertheless, the stability of the ruler of Dareya, was arrested and sent leader; in the last years of his life, he emirate was not secured fully. The to Istanbul where he was executed. retreated away from public life and conflict among the political forces The motive behind that development died in 1836. in the region continued: The Najdi was to annihilate the 1st Saudi state, emirate (Al Dareya), Oman and the and the repercussions affected the British. These conflicts made Al whole area, including the Emirates, Buraimi the axis around which events especially Al Qasimi emirate that had in the region revolved, prompting an alliance with Al Dareya emirate. Sheikh Shakhboot to be close to that The British used that situation and region at most times. In 1816, Sheikh sent a substantial force from Bombay Shakhboot handed over executive to Ras Al Khaimah comprising four powers to his eldest son, Mohammed, infantry regiments, two artillery while he retained political powers. regiments and 12 frigates. The force Sheikh Shakhboot decided at that reached Ras Al Khaimah shores time to stay in the city of Al Ain close on December 1, 1819 and fought to the hotspot, Al Buraimi. Sheikh Al Qasimi forces for three days. Shakhboot stayed at Al Qatara area British military supremacy defeated and built Al Muraijeb fortress. Al Qasimi resistance and the city A new page in the history of Abu was burnt down. The British force Dhabi was turned. But in 1818, a continued its advancement towards major development took place when other Al Qasimi centres in the area. Sheikh Tahnoun bin Shakhboot On January 1, 1820, the British overthrew his brother. This forced commander took Al Feela area as Sheikh Mohammed to emigrate his headquarters. There, he prepared to Bahrain. The father, Sheikh drafts for treaties to be signed by the Shakhboot, returned fast to the capital Sheikhs of the Emirates. Abu Dhabi to be with his son Tahnoun Sheikh Shakhboot was at Al Qatara to handle things during initial stages when a British delegation asking him in the light of other key developments to come to Al Feela headquarters to Al letter from Sheikh Shakhboot to that including the destruction of the sign the treaties. He went to Al Feela the British political agent in Qeshm city of Dareya, the capital of the and signed the preliminary treaty dated to 1821.
Issue (485) May 2011 48 Flashback
Abu Dhabi Police mounted on their motorcycles preparing to start their daily tasks. An Abu Dhabi Police vehicle during a parade on a national occasion.
Abu Dhabi Police staff during a training course
Issue (485) May 2011
49 Justice shields the UAE he Arab awakening has presented a fact that cannot be ignored; peoples in their demonstrations are not protesting against foreigners, strangers or enemies ‘from the outside’ but rather against rulers who belong to the sameT homeland who failed to be fair and deprived them of their rights at a time when the world’s conscience is absent. The talk on revolutions sweeping the Arab world and the consequent political and economic changes is prompted by the stories of ‘officials’. We hear and read about some officials in a number of our national institutions who commit abuses in the management of these officials in which they occupy senior positions, going into a topsy-turvy situation leading to financial and administrative corruption as well as lowered standards of performance and productiveness. They commit injustices against UAE nationals and expatriates with the decisions they make. Injustices may be intentionally committed by an official for reasons unrelated to professional accuracy, or by the official’s ignorance who delegates tasks to friends or to foreigners who don’t care but about their own interests. Wrong practices, whether administrative or caused by human error, leading to injustices, create corrupt, unjust and disappointing environments . They create tensions that lead eventually to the eruptions of emotions in people wanting to express their opinions in any form whether those around them like that or not. That’s what happened in Arab countries that saw various forms of angry expression creating revolutions. These revolutions have been their only way to express peoples’ rejection of the status quo and their need for change and development in societies in which corrupt individuals damaged the interests of the people. This kind of revolution is very serious in any society as it is directed at enemies from within belonging to the same tapestry of society. Maysa Rashid Mismanagement, the abuse of power and damaging the interests of individuals MemberFormer Member of the ofUAE the FederalFederal and groups create this kind of revolutions and disputes. Officials in our NationalNational Council Council (FNC) national institutions should be reminded of their rights and responsibilities so as to protect our society. Justice is the basis of everything and should be [email protected] the approach everyone has to adopt. An official who takes up a responsible position in a federal or local government must realise the fact that he or she is responsible for the satisfaction of people and their stability from a security, psychological, social and economic stability. He or she should also be responsible for peoples’ ‘revolutions’ and ‘anger’ that may surface when injustices are committed. Institutions in society should function properly and the sound functioning reflects positively on the whole society. Political turmoil taking place around us necessitates the revisiting of the way individuals and officials function to create a real change that guarantees the protection of our achievements and the minimisation of disillusionment levels that exist in some people. This is a short cut to create the most stunning revolutions against anyone who may think of causing any harm to the federation of the UAE and the security and stability of its people.