Expat News

Dubai's One-Stop Govt Services Hub 

Dubai has launched the Emirates Government Services Hub (EGSH), the country's first VIP hub that consolidates all essential government services under one roof in an effort to streamline procedures for locals and expats alike. Owned by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Maktoum Bin Juma Al Maktoum, a member of the Dubai Royal family, the centre promises to dramatically reduce processing time and simplify procedures for residents and businesses seeking government services. The EGSH, located in Al Barsha’s Art of Living Mall, represents a paradigm shift in how businesses and residents interact with government entities. It will offer a comprehensive range of services in a single location, aiming to eliminate the need for multiple visits to various government offices.

Bahrain's Indian Embassy Open House

The Embassy of India in Bahrain organized an Open House recently, which was chaired by Ambassador Vinod Kurian Jacob. The Embassy’s Community Welfare team and the Consular team, along with panel lawyers, were present on the occasion. Thirty Indian nationals participated in the Open House, which was conducted in English, Hindi, Tamil and Malayalam. The Ambassador briefed on the inaugural majlis session, which focused on the 'Working Together Campaign' organised by the Labour Market Regulatory Authority. This initiative seeks to improve awareness of the rights and duties of employers and expatriate workers in Bahrain. The Ambassador recalled the recent fire incident that occurred in Manama. He also suggested the community members abide by the directions of the General Administration of Civil Defence, due to the increase in temperature in the Island nation. The grievances or issues of the Indian community were successfully addressed. As per a report, some of them were resolved at the open house, while others will be taken up at the earliest possible. 

Saudi Citizenship To Doctors, Researchers, Entrepreneurs 

In line with the 'Saudi Vision 2030,' Saudi Arabia has approved granting of citizenship to a diverse group of professionals, including scientists, doctors, researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs, who are exceptional in their respective fields. As per Saudi government sources, citizenship will be granted to experts and exceptional global talent, with unique competencies in religious, medical, scientific, cultural, sports, and technological fields, contributing to the development of various sectors throughout the country. It is also in support of achieving the 'Saudi Vision 2030' goal of creating a conducive environment that enables attracting, investing in and retaining exceptional creative minds.

Sikh Community In Perth Unveils Mural

The Indian Consulate in Perth announced early last week the unveiling of a mural by the Sikh community  at Gurudwara Sahib, Canning Vale. The Consulate went on to praise Sikh Association of Western Australia (SAWA) and said: "Well done SAWA for presenting Sikh heritage and culture to a wider Western Australian multi-cultural society. SAWA described the mural as a unique and bold statement of a long Sikh history, its welcome and a sense of belonging to the Sikhs in Western Australia.

The symbols in the mural represent the past, present and future of Sikhs in Western Australia, along with values, all woven together with the fabric of the Sikh Dastaar (turban) and Choonni (headscarf). The flowing fabric is a constant element of the Sikh community. A Sikh who enters the Gurdwara (Sikh place of worship) is required to wear a head covering. The blue and orange are the colours of Sikhi, a report said, adding that the flow is also reminiscent of the five rivers of Punjab. The central circle is a steel Kara worn by most Sikhs as a reminder to do good and be in a constant relationship with the eternal. On the Kara is written the statement said in daily prayer by Sikhs, 'Sarbat Da Bhala,' which is a wish that all people and all creation receive the blessings of goodness.

Abu Dhabi Road Named After Indian Doctor

A road in the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi has been named after an 84-year-old doctor of Indian descent as a tribute to his significant contributions to the country's health sector. The road near Sheikh Shakbooth Medical City in Al Mafraq will now be known as George Matthew Street. The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has named the road after Dr George Matthew to recognise his contributions as part of its ‘Honouring UAE's Visionaries: Commemorative Streets’ project, which aims to honour individuals who have greatly contributed to the nation's development. 

Dr Matthew arrived in the UAE in 1967 at the age of 26. Initially preparing to move to the US, he was persuaded by a missionary friend's description of Al Ain's beauty to stay. His application for a position as Al Ain's first government doctor was successful, leading to the opening of the first clinic under Sheikh Zayed's blessing.

Reflecting on his journey, Dr Matthew said, "When I first arrived in the UAE, the infrastructure was still evolving. Inspired by the late H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Father of the Nation, I dedicated myself to helping the people. I am deeply grateful that my efforts have been recognised."