Expat News

Guatemala Lawmakers' India Vision 

The Indian Embassy in Guatemala in Central America organized a significant interactive session with Congressmen from various parties of the Guatemalan Parliament on September 25, 2024. The session was organised to share India’s vision and unwavering commitment to assist Guatemala on its developmental journey. The event received an overwhelming response, with over 100 Congressmen in attendance, reflecting their keen interest in India’s remarkable developmental progress. This platform also marked a celebration of the 10 years of the Government of India’s 'Make in India' initiative, which has achieved tremendous success in transforming India into a global manufacturing hub. The Embassy has actively been involved in promoting India’s investment and influence in the Central American nation through various infrastructural initiatives. Infrastructural projects, combined with the successful visits by delegations to India, exemplify India’s dedication to fostering economic development and improving infrastructure in the region.

UAE President declares 'Emirati Day of Education'

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has announced that the 'Emirati Day for Education' will be celebrated on February 28 every year. Taking to X, he said: "In recognition of education’s essential role in our nation’s ongoing progress, and in honour of all those working in this field, 'Emirati Day for Education' will be celebrated on February 28 each year. On this day in 1982, our Founding Father the late Sheikh Zayed witnessed the graduation of the first batch of teachers from UAE University, marking a historic step on the nation's journey of development and growth.

Indian Connection at Australia's IOTA2024

At the ongoing Indian Ocean Craft Triennial 2024 (IOTA2024) at Perth, Australia, Indian artists meet global craft and celebrate tradition and innovation. Indian artists are displaying their exhibits at the IOTA2024. The three-month-long exhibition (August-October) has seen participating artists coming from around the Indian Ocean rim, including from India. Artists like Bappaditya Biswas and Brinda Dudhat of Morii Design, besides Mitra are presenting at the exhibition, which has its theme, ‘Codes in Parallel’. Their contributions reflected not only a deep engagement with traditional techniques, but also an innovative application of these forms to address contemporary issues. This year’s theme seeks to break down cultural and geographical barriers by showcasing craft as a universal language that connects artisans, viewers and communities.

Dubai CSI Church Begins Year-Long Celebrations To Mark 50 Years

The members of the Dubai Church of South India (CSI) kicked off year-long celebrations to mark their 50 years in the UAE. The CSI (Malayalam) Dubai’s Golden Jubilee Celebrations were inaugurated by Rt. Rev. Dr Malayil Sabu Koshy Cherian, Bishop of the CSI’s Madhya Kerala Diocese and Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India in Dubai in the presence of Rev. Raju Jacob, the Parish Priest, and several other senior members of the church. Hundreds of members of the parish attended the ceremony, which demonstrated the legacy of 50 years of faith. Formed in 1947, the CSI is one of the largest Protestant denominations in India, with more than 4 million members and 14,000 congregations across south India. Beyond spiritual service, the CSI has made notable contributions in social welfare, education and healthcare, operating numerous schools, colleges, and hospitals. It is also an active participant in interfaith dialogue and social justice issues. It was back in 1975 that a small but determined group of expatriates from Kerala laid the foundation in Dubai for what would become 'one of the most influential spiritual communities in the UAE', recalled Mathew Varghese, a founding member of the Parish.

Expats In Kuwait To Get Driving Licence For 3 Years 

Expatriates in Kuwait will now get a driver's licence valid for three years instead of the one-year validity. First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef issued a ministerial decision to amend the Traffic Law by making the validity of expatriates' driving licence for three years instead of one year. This 3-year validity licence will be issued in the "My Kuwait Identity" mobile application after the renewal without the need to print it on paper.