* Mary Robinson and Martti Ahtisaari present study of young people across the Arab world
* Call to listen to “voices on the ground” as events show that reliance on GDP measures insufficient
* Countries experiencing unrest have witnessed decline in thriving measure among young people

(BUSINESS WIRE)– Leading international figures are calling for renewed impetus for finding ways to unlock the potential of young people in the Arab world.

Former President of Ireland Mary Robinson and the Nobel Peace Prize Winner and Former President of Finland Martti Ahtisaari are today presenting an in-depth study of the views of young people from across the Arab World which focuses on the need to more effectively integrate the group into their economies and communities.

The release of the 4th edition of The Silatech Index: Voices of Young Arabs – which covers 20 countries including Bahrain, Egypt, Libya and Tunisia – comes at a crucial time for the region.

The Index, created by The Gallup Centre for Muslim Studies, reveals fresh insight on the views of young Arabs in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The political upheaval in recent months has been symbolic of young people’s attitudes towards their future development and wellbeing. Young men and women in the Arab world are feeling disconnected from the opportunity to effectively integrate economically in their societies.

Traditional economic measures such as GDP have indicated steady economic growth in some parts of the region. But looking at just this can be misleading, as MENA has one of the highest rates of young people’s unemployment and underemployment in the world.

“Reports of a booming economy do not always reflect the proper dynamics in the countries. To understand this we have to do more than scratch the surface – we need to look at what the younger generation thinks and understand how important it is to get them economically engaged ,” says Martti Ahtisaari.

Even though they are one of the healthiest and best-educated generations in the region, young Arabs still have difficulties obtaining access to employment and enterprise opportunities. The slight improvement of the region’s economies after the downturn has led to increases in living costs rather than job creation. Despite this they are also full of aspirations and optimism.

“The dramatic events in recent months offer the chance to do what should have been done long ago. Young Arabs feel that this is the time to invest in and listen to them and their needs. This group has huge potential and strong entrepreneurial aspirations and they can definitely contribute to bolstering their countries’ economies,” says senior analyst Ahmed Younis from the Gallup Centre for Muslim Studies. “The events in the Middle East have not come as surprise if you look at the disengagement of young people.”

A growing willingness of the majority of young people (61%) to re-train for a different career if unemployed for at least six months and their strong ambitions to work underscore their insistence on being part of the solution to the challenges their countries face.

Furthermore, a greater mobile phone penetration (87%) and access to the Internet (62%) create as yet untouched, opportunities to engage with this group as well as broadening possible business opportunities.

Despite being more optimistic about the direction of their local economies, with 43 per cent saying economic conditions in their communities are improving, young Arabs feel that the current circumstances in their societies are not enabling them to reach their full potential. The group’s attitudes towards their standard of living, especially regarding affordable housing, changed negatively in 2010 compared with 2009. Also their satisfaction with public transportation systems declined (11%). Moreover, young people expressed their disappointment with efforts to tackle poverty issues in their countries.

Other key findings:

* Young Arabs’ reported cellular phone access has increased significantly
* Only 27 per cent of young Egyptians have access to internet at home putting the perception of online social networks igniting the recent events in the country in a different light
* Eighty-six percent of young Arabs in high-income countries in MENA say their leaders maximize on youth potential, up by 19 points
* Young Bahrainis place importance on education and the status of children. They are far more likely to express satisfaction with their schools, more than any other
* Young Bahrainis are also more likely to say that they have voiced their opinion to a public official in the past month
* Increasing religious attendance and strong social support may offset negative perceptions about Syria’s economic prospects and influence young Syrians’ desires to remain in their country.

NOTES TO EDITORS

The Research

Gallup conducted two separate waves of data collection between February and December in 2009 and 2010 in 20 countries in the League of Arab States and the Somaliland region of Somalia. Gallup surveyed more than 36,000 nationals, including more than 16,000 country nationals aged 15 to 29. Similarly, Gallup conducted two waves of data collection in 2009, which also included surveying more than 36,000 nationals, including more than 16,000 young people between the ages of 15 and 29.

The Silatech Index is endorsed by the Silatech Knowledge Consortium, lead by the American University of Beirut, the Dubai School of Government, and the International Labour Organization.

About Silatech

Silatech is a social enterprise addressing the critical and growing need to create jobs and economic opportunities for young people. The initiative promotes large-scale job creation, entrepreneurship, and access to capital and markets for young people, starting first in the Arab world, where the highest rate of youth unemployment exists. Silatech was founded in January 2008 by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, the First Lady of Qatar, with broad support from other regional and international leaders. More information can be found at www.silatech.com

About the Gallup Center for Muslim Studies

The Gallup Center for Muslim Studies is a nonpartisan research center dedicated to providing data-driven analysis, advice, and education on the views of Muslim populations around the world. It draws upon Gallup’s unprecedented global research initiative, the Gallup World Poll and the Gallup Poll of the Muslim World, to enable global leaders, institutions, and the public to make more informed decisions. For more information please visit www.gallupmuslimstudies.com

Gallup has studied human nature and behavior for more than 70 years. Gallup’s reputation for delivering relevant, timely, and visionary research on what people around the world think and feel is the cornerstone of the organization. Gallup employs many of the world’s leading scientists in management, economics, psychology, and sociology, and our consultants assist leaders in identifying and monitoring behavioral economic indicators worldwide. For more information please visit www.gallup.com

For press enquiries, interview requests and filming opportunities please email Edelman at gallupcms@edelman.com

Contacts

Edelman

gallupcms@edelman.com

The culmination of months of careful planning and hard work, the eagerly anticipated Global City 2011, Abu Dhabi, opens today at Emirates Palace.

Under the Patronage of HH General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi government, Global City 2011 is expected to usher in a new era of thinking on urban sustainability.The Abu Dhabi Council for Economic Development, Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council, Department of Transport, Municipality of Abu Dhabi City, Western Region Development Authority and the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry have collaborated to bring this essential and timely forum to the city.

Over the past several months, organizers and key members of the Abu Dhabi government have been hard at work preparing for what is to be one of the most important meeting points for the world’s top city leaders, thinkers and experts on sustainable solutions for growing cities. While the forum’s invited international speakers have been preparing their contributions, an impressive line-up of industry figures have been blogging on key topics integral to urban development and sustainability.

Sustainability being at the foundation of any new development in Abu Dhabi, and capitalizing on Estidama’s efforts in transforming the capital into a model sustainable city, His Excellency Falah Al Ahbabi, General Manager of Urban Planning Council will be welcoming attendees to the forum. A keynote address on Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 will be given by an elite panel including Amer Al Hammadi, Planning Policy & TIES Director, Humaid Al Marzouq, Senior Associate Planner with Planning Policies, Aysha Abu Shahab and Yousif Al Fahim, Associate Planners at Estidama and Planning Policy respectively, Talal Al Ansari and Ibrahim Al Hmoudi, Senior Urban Designers at Urban Design Studio.

A forum of “firsts,” Global City 2011, Abu Dhabi, with a focus on Visionary Values, will mark the first time that Dr. Jacques Attali will share his vision of sustainability with the Middle East. A Leaders Panel on City Identity, chaired by Greg Clark, Global Advisor on the Development and Investment of Cities and Regions, UK, will examine how leaders can develop integrated city strategies combining a distinctive city identity with sustainable values. Distinguished panelists will include prominent city leaders, including HH Prince Abdulaziz bin Mohammad bin Ayyaf, Mayor of Riyadh Region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Hon. James Orengo, Minister of Lands, Kenya; Mayor Jussi Ilmari Pajunen, Helsinki, Finland; Senator Jean-Marie Bockel, President, Mulhouse Alsace Urban Agglomeration, France; and Alan Frost, Director, Masdar City, Abu Dhabi.

This forum will also be the first to include culture and local values as part of the program, and will also offer the first Global City master classes on culture and city branding. Other topics on the agenda are city identity, financing sustainable growth, migration, mobility, city transformation and green growth.

“The research and planning that takes place during the preparation of a forum of this magnitude is critical to the success of the event,” said Fahad Saeed Al Raqbani, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Council for Economic Development. “We anticipate a record level of participation, and expect solid progress to be made to pave the way to a sustainable future for our cities.”

– Ends –

About Global City 2011, Abu Dhabi:

Global City is the only international forum where public and private leaders meet to exchange best practice and share sustainable urban strategies.

On March 15 – 17 2011, the 5th edition of this unique international networking platform dedicated to mayors, urban planners and city leaders, will be held at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi. Under the Patronage of H.H. General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and sponsored by the Abu Dhabi Council for Economic Development, Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council, Department of Transport, Municipality of Abu Dhabi City, Western Region Development Authority and the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the focus for the 2011 edition of this prestigious event is City Identity & Values.

The three-day program will feature high-level discussion, knowledge sharing and insights from city leaders and expert advisers from Asia, Europe, the Middle East and the Americas, complemented by site visits to the most striking and innovative projects of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

Contacts

Tanya Kassab

Senior PR Executive

Euro RSCG Corporate Communications ME

+9714 366-4193

Tanya.Kassab@eurorscgme.com

“PPP initiatives that concern the environment and the sustainable management of built facilities are particularly important in light of present realities in the socioeconomic landscape. In this regard, facilities management providers will play a crucially important role in realising the strategic objectives of such PPP initiatives by providing the required expertise, know-how and specialised skills in facilities management,” said Jamal Abdulla Lootah, CEO, Imdaad.

The call for greater attention towards sustainable PPP initiatives was made in line with a UAE-wide environmental clean-up drive, which was supported by over 300 Imdaad employees, including senior managers. Around 7-8 tons of wastes were collected by the Imdaad volunteers during the clean-up drive held at the Jebel Ali Free Zone, in partnership with Economic Zones World (EZW). The activity was part of the Clean Up UAE campaign, an initiative organised by the Emirates Environmental Group that provides a venue for cooperation between government and the business community to positively demonstrate their care and concern for the environment.

The site of the clean-up campaign was facilitated by the management of Economic Zones World, and all waste collected during the activity was transported to recycling facilities and dump yards using Imdaad’s waste disposal trucks.

“Imdaad’s business model and its vision for the future are built around our passionate commitment to help protect and conserve the environment. It is therefore important for us to cultivate a genuine concern for the environment among all members of our business organisation through meaningful activities such as the Clean Up UAE campaign. This is an activity that is driven not by commercial motives, but by our sense of responsibility and accountability. In this regard, we are extremely pleased with the enthusiastic response of our employees and management executives to the campaign and we hope to further cultivate such positive sentiment through similar activities in the future,” said Jamal Abdulla Lootah.

Dr. Hamad Al Hashemi, Managing Director of Dubai Institute of Technology, the R&D arm of Economic Zones World, said: “Today, Economic Zones World took an initiative towards our social responsibility, our environment, our homes, our nation and our country and we are very proud commencing the response of the people who have put in the time and effort for the Clean UP UAE Campaign 2010 and convey their contribution and responsibility towards their environment. EZW is always keen to collaborate with its partners for the better development of its people and the UAE.”

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Sunday, October 10th 2010 [ME NewsWire]:

Dubai Customs launched its new firstling system of the radioactive scanning for mobile vehicles along with launching the latest system of its kind worldwide for detecting trucks and containers and completing inspection and customs works without failure striking the balance in connection with protecting the security of the country from entry of banned, prohibited and detrimental materials.

Such move comes as part of the ongoing reform and modernization processes being made by Dubai Customs.

HE Ahmed Butti Ahmed, the Executive Chairman of Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation and Director General of Dubai Customs launched on Monday 4 October 2010 at Jebel Ali Port the IP6500 system, an integrated system for scanning and examining mobile containers and trucks through the radioactive detection of their contents.

The launching ceremony was attended by a high level USA delegation headed by Commissioner of USA Customs and Border Protection, Mr. Alan Bersin and the USA Consul General, in Dubai, Mr. Justin Siberell. The ceremony was attended as well by Mr. Mohammed Al Mualim, Vice- Chairman and Director General of Dubai World.

“Dubai Customs seeks to install four extra radioactive systems at its customs ports, which, experience intensive traffic of trucks with objective of accelerating customs inspection operations, reinforce Dubai borders security capabilities and control entry of prohibited and banned goods. The new system is capable for scanning 150 trucks per hour while moving at a speed of 8 and 15 km coming to one truck every 24 seconds”, Mr. Butti said.

“The new inspection systems project comes in line with Dubai Government Strategic plan in respect to the security perspective through enhancing borders and ports control and develop the supporting systems and equipment keeping Dubai one of the most secured cities worldwide”, he said.

“It is a great stride towards underlining the organizational vision as to be the leading customs administration in the world supporting the legitimate trade”, he maintained.

“Such systems are the latest of their kind in the world with a high transpiercing capability for detecting containers and trucks contents and identifying banned and prohibited materials without affecting the contents of goods and food stuff,” he affirmed.

“Dubai Customs being the emirate’s gateway, undertakes the responsibility for preventing Dubai’s strategic location between West and East from any utilization or benefiting from the enormous re-export operations in the emirate for smuggling illegitimate goods, nuclear and radioactive substances and dangerous and internationally prohibited materials, a process consolidates Dubai position as a secured international trade hub”, he said.

While touring Jebel Ali Port, the visiting delegation learnt about the new system being manufactured by the U.S Science Application International Corporation (SAIC) with advanced specifications surpassing other systems.

The IP6500, which can be installed in a limited and small area allowing to be installed in congested locations, is featured by higher transpiercing capability for detecting trucks and containers contents.

“The new customs scanning and detection system will promote Dubai Ports advanced infrastructure by enhancing DP logistic capability, raising its compositeness advantage through rapid and enhanced containers handling ensuring smooth and swift flow of goods.

The USA delegation lauded Dubai Customs technological, technical and integrated infrastructure.

The new system would be operated by Dubai Customs inspection capability, a cadre fully comprising of UAE national officers. The five gates system would require 80 inspectors operating on shift basis round the clock throughout the week.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Majdi Ashour

Media Executive – Communication Department

Dubai Customs

Tel.: +9714 345 5555

Fax: +9714 3456010

www.dubaicustoms.gov.ae

H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), has dedicated the success culminated in scooping the Honorary Fellowship of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), one of the most reputed professional institutions in the United Kingdom, to HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, as HH is the ultimate engineer of the unique achievements and comprehensive development witnessed by Dubai Emirate in general and the massive achievements made by the RTA in a record time. Such projects are highlighted by the Dubai Metro project, the longest driverless metro line implemented as a single project worldwide, and the crossings over Dubai Creek which jumped from 19 lanes to 48 lanes in less than 4 years in addition to the bridges and flyovers constructed all over Dubai roads.

“Awarding me the ICE’s Honorary Fellowship would not have been achieved without the huge support of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to the RTA and me personally. I’m proud of being a dedicated civil servant to HH whom I consider as God Father and leader underlying all achievements made by Dubai Emirate,” said Al Tayer.

In his speech to Noor Dubai Channel, Al Tayer spoke about the procedure of awarding the Honorary Fellowship of the ICE. “The ICE is overseen by an Executive Board comprising 43 members and the Board members are elected by 55 members making up the total membership who enjoy voting rights. A key figure in the field of civil engineering is nominated for the Honorary Fellowship by the President or any board member every year. A specialized committee formed by the Board attends to vetting and reviewing the achievements, qualifications and competencies of the nominee based on a range of criteria which mainly include the profile in the community, titles held in the past, and personal competencies such charisma, eloquence skills and the convincing power in addition to the professional achievements and the contribution to the economic and social development of the home country. The Committee submits the vetting results to the Board which votes on awarding the Honorary Fellowship or otherwise and in the event of voting for the awarding of the Fellowship, the nominee is invited to join the ICE as an Honorary Companion,” he said.

“The nomination and vetting process is a time-taking exercise that ranges from several months to two years to complete. My nomination was made in April 2009, voted in July 2010 and the award ceremony took place on 28 September 2010,” he added.

In reply to a question about the Public Transport Day, Al Tayer said: “The initiative will be run on the first of November this year; which marks the fifth anniversary of the RTA, and on that day the use of the Dubai Metro, public buses and the Water Bus will be free to holders of Nol Cards. The initiative aims at boosting the role of Dubai in supporting the initiatives that contribute to the improvement of the environment, attaining sustainable development, encouraging the public to us public transport modes and promoting the modern mass transit systems of the RTA such as the metro, buses and marine transit modes. The initiative also aims at increasing the ridership of public transport, increasing multi-modal integration and enhancing the pioneer role of Dubai Emirate in general and RTA in particular in the field of upgrading public transport. It also seeks to enlighten various community segments on mass transit culture and elucidate the benefits and advantages that accrue to the individual as a result of using public transport modes such as the psychological relief and physical comfort in the smooth mobility, and reducing the costs of fuel and maintenance, let alone the fact that using public transport means effectively contributes to reducing traffic accident fatalities and curbing carbon emissions from vehicle exhausts.

“The Public Transport Day initiative illustrates that RTA is worthy of hosting the 59th UITP Congress schedule to be held in Dubai during 10-14 April 2011 under the theme: “Public Transport … Action”, as Dubai has won the privilege of hosting this event in 2007 after a tough competition with Singapore and Australia.

For more information about the RTA, please visit: www.rta.ae
For media enquiries, please contact:

Fiona D’Cunha – Roads & Transport Authority (RTA)

Marketing and Corporate Communications,

Tel : 00971-4-290-3698

Email: fiona.dcunha@rta.ae

Shanghai, Monday, September 27th 2010 [ME NewsWire]:

The USA Pavilion and Alcoa Foundation jointly announced today that the Pavilion has reached carbon equilibrium covering the entire six-month duration of the Shanghai Expo, including the production of key building materials used in the Pavilion. A total of 8,250 tons of carbon offset credits were purchased from three selected Gold Standard-certified projects in China to offset the Pavilion’s carbon footprint.

As the first national pavilion committed to be carbon neutral during the entire six months, the USA Pavilion fulfills a pledge to be a green pavilion, a commitment U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton made on May 22 during her visit to the Expo.

Alcoa Foundation has partnered with the Pavilion on its environmental sustainability strategy to be carbon-neutral throughout the event. ICF International, a leading US climate change, energy and environment consultancy, was designated to conduct an independent, thorough, verifiable carbon footprint study to quantify GHG emissions.

The footprint calculation results cover both the GHG emissions for the six-month duration of the Expo and the production of key building materials, including aluminum, steel, cement, glass, used in the Pavilion. The footprint will be offset through purchasing 8,250 carbon credits from three sustainable development projects in China that all registered according to the Voluntary Carbon Standard (VCS) and to the Gold Standard.

Today the USA Pavilion signed carbon credit purchase contracts at a press briefing with the three Chinese projects, namely Jiangsu landfill gas to energy conversion project, Gansu micro-scale “run of river” hydroelectric power generation project and Gansu wind farm project.

“I am proud the USA Pavilion will be supporting the Expo’s theme, ‘Better City, Better Life’, through the purchase of credits from carbon offset projects in China which fulfills our commitment to be carbon neutral for the six-month duration of Expo 2010 Shanghai, said Ambassador José H. Villarreal, U.S. Commissioner General, Expo 2010 Shanghai.

“The USA Pavilion is pleased to put into action our message of sustainability and healthy community-building by supporting three Gold Standard-certified projects across China to offset our carbon footprint. I would like to thank Alcoa Foundation for its generous contribution in helping the USA Pavilion be the best possible Expo citizen and become the first national pavilion to commit to carbon neutrality at Expo 2010 Shanghai.”

Funding the carbon footprint study is one example of Alcoa Foundation’s commitment to promoting environmental sustainability in China. Earlier this summer, Alcoa and World Resources Institute, together with Jiao Tong University, announced an initiative to evaluate industrial energy efficiency projects and connect them to sources of external financing in the Shanghai area. Alcoa Foundation also continues its partnership with The Nature Conservancy, together supporting the establishment of Pudatso National Park, the first national park in China, and other parks programs. In addition, Alcoa has worked with other nonprofit organizations and universities to support aluminum recycling programs for teachers and students throughout China and advance environmental sustainability.

Jinya Chen, President, Alcoa Asia and Pacific Region, said, “At Alcoa, we believe our sustainability endeavors make us a more competitive company, which in turn, makes us a company of choice for governments, stakeholders and communities. The USA Pavilion’s sustainability initiatives, with the support of Alcoa Foundation, will result in positive environmental and community-building benefits for China and serve as a model for other events and organizations around the world.”

Apart from the carbon footprint calculation and neutralization approaches, the USA Pavilion has also adopted comprehensive measures to minimize energy consumption and GHG emissions. Many of America’s leading companies helped build the Pavilion and their cutting-edge technologies that hold the promise of unlocking a more sustainable and prosperous future are woven into the building itself. From the photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into electricity and help power the Pavilion, to the solar water heater, the rooftop garden and the recycled bamboo flooring, the USA Pavilion is a model of both innovation and environmental responsibility.

At over 60,000 square feet (6,000 square meters), the USA Pavilion is one of the largest national pavilions at the Expo. With the theme of “Rising to the Challenge,” the United States presence showcases American culture, values, innovation, and business, in one of China’s most dynamic cities, while celebrating the friendship and cooperation between the United States, China, and the rest of the world.

About Alcoa Foundation

Alcoa Foundation is a nonprofit U.S. corporate foundation with assets of approximately US$425 million. In addition to addressing locally identified needs in communities where Alcoa operates, Alcoa Foundation is focused on unlocking solutions to critical environmental sustainability challenges, including global climate change. Alcoa Foundation has been a long-term partner in Alcoa communities worldwide for more than fifty years, investing over US$515 million since 1952. More information can be found at www.alcoa.com/foundation.

About ICF International

ICF International (NASDAQ:ICFI) partners with government and commercial clients to deliver professional services and technology solutions in the energy and climate change; environment and infrastructure; health, human services, and social programs; and homeland security and defense markets. The firm combines passion for its work with industry expertise and innovative analytics to produce compelling results throughout the entire program life cycle, from research and analysis and design through implementation and improvement. Since 1969, ICF has been serving government at all levels, major corporations, and multilateral institutions. More than 3,500 employees serve these clients worldwide.

USA Pavillon Official Web site:
www.usapavilion2010.com.

USA Pavillon Official micro-blog:

http://twitter.com/MeiGuoGuan

http://t.sina.com.cn/MeiGuoGuan

USA Pavillon Photo Stream:

http://flickr.com/photos/usapavilion

For media enquiries, please contact:
Shanghai Expo contact:
Ruder Finn Public Relations, Shanghai
Mr. Francis Xu
Tel: +86 21 5383 1188 ext. 621
Email: xuf@RuderFinnAsia.com

Alcoa contact:
Alcoa China
Ms. Shauna Huang
Tel: +86 10 59215006
Mobile: 13701165791
E-mail: Shauna.Huang@alcoa.com

A new study is set to reveal recommendations on how Saudi Arabia can become a leader in knowledge and innovation in power, water and renewable energy. The study is being carried out by Al Aghar Group in partnership with the Saudi Water and Power Forum (SWPF).

Details of the study and the recommendations outlined by the report will be unveiled at the event taking place on 3-6 October in Jeddah Hilton.

Al Aghar Group is an independent non-profit think-tank in the Kingdom created to address how Saudi Arabia can transform to knowledge based economy. The Group is delighted to be working in partnership with the Saudi Water & Power Forum, an event dedicated to providing a gateway to Saudi Arabian Water & Power industries and serving as a catalyst for change and innovation.

Dr Adil Bushnak, founder of Bushnak Academy SWPF described this event as playing “…a key role in uniting Saudi and International stakeholders to discuss the policies and strategies, which will determine the future of Power and Water in Saudi Arabia”. And remarked that “At SWPF 2010 we look forward to the next generation of development and focus on how we can adapt to the changing market and achieve sustainable prosperity through knowledge, innovation and cooperation”.

SWPF is the biggest gathering for the Saudi Arabian water and power industry and unites Saudi and international stakeholders to gain the knowledge, contacts and partnerships required to develop business in one of the largest power and water markets in the world.

The event consists of a 3 day strategic Forum, International Exhibition, National Water Company Day and Technical Sessions led by the Bushnak Academy, as well as extensive opportunities of networking events including the Exhibition Opening Tour, Inauguration Ceremony, the Marafiq and GE Oil & Gas Corporate Luncheons, the new Networking Roundtable Discussions and the exclusive Gala Dinner featuring the prestigious SWPF Awards Ceremony hosted by ACWA Power International.

Also added to the program of events for forum delegates this year are two complimentary industry site visits. Delegates will have the option of visiting Shuaibah IWPP; one of the largest combined power and water plants in the world today. The site visit is being hosted by Acwa Power and will offer a presentation by the plant management and a guided tour of the plant. Alternatively delegates can visit the cutting-edge King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), where they will be treated to a VIP guided tour of the desalination plant and a visit to the academic campus of this state-of-the-art research facility.

Places on the site visit are strictly limited and for Forum delegates only therefore interested parties are being encouraged to book early in order to avoid disappointment.

-ENDS-

SWPF is organized by the CWC Group and the Bushnak Academy.

About CWC Group

The CWC Group are renowned world experts in oil, gas, power, infrastructure and investment sectors, particularly in emerging markets. We have a wealth of knowledge, offering top-level strategic events around the world.

We work closely with many governments, NOCs and international corporations to highlight the key issues and challenges facing the global energy industry. The Group operates globally and over the past 13 years, our gatherings have become widely acknowledged within the energy community for their quality, prestigious level of government officials and senior corporate delegation.

About Bushnak Academy

Bushnak Academy organizes specialized seminars, intensive courses and workshops in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and throughout the Gulf region. We facilitate courses in professional development and continuing education in the fields of water, energy, environment, and business. We provide professional training specifically tailored to the needs of your organization. In cooperation with our partners in the region, we can arrange for quality seminars and technical workshops at your local headquarters or on the work site. Our training courses are led by instructors with extensive experience in their field. Well-qualified and possessing solid credentials, these instructors are our most valuable resource. Some have worked in the water and energy sector for many years and have a thorough knowledge of their industry and its demands. Others are recognized internationally for their achievements and scholarship.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Mahmoud Darwish
Director of Customer Service – Headline ME
Tel: +966 2 – 6678747 ext 116
Fax: +966 – 2 – 6613833 ext 105
Mobile:+966 504315772
mdarwish@headlineme.com

Saleh Fareed
Media Relations Manager – Headline ME
Tel: + 966 – 2 – 6678747 Ext 102
Fax: + 966 – 2 – 6613833 ext 105
Mobile: + 966 504611745
sfareed@headlineme.com

According to its online survey, over 90 per cent of the attendees at the Congress rated very good or excellent the developments in preventive medicine, genetics, aesthetic and cosmetic surgery and see the Gulf as a major player in the burgeoning Middle East anti-aging market, valued at *US$5.58billlion by 2010.

Supported by the Ministry of Health UAE and the Department of Health and Medical Services, DCAAAM attracted healthcare professionals from over 50 countries, with positive comments from delegates, speakers and exhibitors on the high standard of presentations, the benefits of networking and exploring expansion opportunities throughout the Middle East.

The only Middle Eastern event endorsed by the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, the three-day congress encompassed a conference, workshops, live demonstrations and an exhibition.

Scientific Committee member Dr Howard W Fisher said: “The second annual Congress demonstrated significant growth and a directional focus that encompassed the broader spectrum approach of personalising anti-aging regimens for each individual and empowering the attending physicians with the prerequisite knowledge to move from chronological aging to physiological aging.”

Kuwait-based Bader Sultan and Bros. Co. W.L.L. (BSBC), a leader in the field of medical services and supplies since 1960, and Platinum Sponsor, was delighted with the event. General Manager Emad Al Zaben said the quality of trade visitors and the programme of events was extremely encouraging given the current economic climate.

“ DCAAAM was an excellent platform for us to be at the forefront of the fastest developing Middle Eastern anti-aging medicine industry. I am very positive about our prospects for the Middle East and the region.”

Jason Sanyal from locally-based Transformbody, which was exhibiting for the second year, added: “The footfall was good and we saw a large potential in terms of leads generation.”

Speaking at one workshop was Daniella Russell, Independant Consultant for Spas and Wellness, Dubai. “This year had the latest and most comprehensive topics and viewpoints relevant to our Industry. It allowed good dialogue between speakers and audience to ensure all angles of concern were raised and covered. An excellent turnout of the industry leaders.”

Scientific Committee member and Speaker Dr Maria Khattar from Aesthetica Clinic, Dubai, said: “ A ground breaking technique was presented by Dr Jean March Guichet from France for the first time in any anti-aging congress. Worldwide.”

Feedback from the delegates was just as enthusiastic. Said Dr Ketan Marulka from India: “The entire event was well organised and conducted. The information provided by the speakers in their abstracts and case studies were extremely valuable. I liked the current trends in BiHRT and listening from the experts themselves will prove to be a valuable tool in my clinical practice.”

Dates for the 2010 Dubai Congress on Anti-Aging and Aesthetic Medicine have already been confirmed as October 26-27 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

His Excellency Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman of TDIC, said: “The remarkable interest in TDIC’s sukuk programme clearly demonstrates the confidence and trust of the international capital markets in the position of Abu Dhabi. We are pleased that we have achieved this great success during the sukuk issuance as this comes shortly after we issued our inaugural bond earlier this year. In line with Abu Dhabi’s 2030 economic plan, TDIC has a long-term strategic vision to support developing Abu Dhabi into a world-class tourism destination.”

With TDIC’s Aa2/AA/AA credit ratings from Moodys, S&P and Fitch, highly experienced management and a unique role within the Abu Dhabi 2030 plan, the TDIC sukuk transaction was extremely well received globally and generated the largest order book for a global sukuk issuance in 2009, with 210 investors placing orders in excess of US$6.7bn.

Lee Tabler, CEO of TDIC, also commented: “TDIC has made a significant impression among global investors. This further reinforces TDIC’s role as a key player in the evolution of Abu Dhabi as it becomes a leading tourism and cultural destination.”

TDIC was able to price the fixed rate sukuk to yield 4.949%, representing a spread of 230bps over 5 year mid-swaps and 20bps tighter than initial price guidance during the roadshow process. In line with TDIC’s strategy of tapping Islamic investors as part of its overall funding base, 60% of the sukuk were allocated to investors in the Middle East, 20% to investors in Asia and 20% to investors in Europe. The investors comprised of banks (48%), asset managers and funds (21%), central banks and agencies (15%), private banks (14%) and 2% to other investors.

Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, HSBC and Standard Chartered Bank were mandated as Joint Lead Managers/Bookrunners of the transaction and were joined by Co Managers Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, Dubai Islamic Bank, First Energy Bank, Islamic Development Bank and Qatar Islamic Bank. Allied Investment Partners acted as the General Financial Adviser to TDIC.

The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (DED) and MEED Events have announced during a press conference today (Tuesday, October 13, 2009) at the DED Headquarters, that new investment opportunities in Abu Dhabi and the critical role of the private sector in the Emirate’s economic diversification program will be the core topics of the Abu Dhabi Conference 2009 scheduled for November 10 to 11 at The Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi. Organisers have also unveiled the complete agenda and the line-up of speakers of Abu Dhabi Conference 2009, which has been tailored to support Abu Dhabi’s aim to achieve a 7 per cent economic growth through 2015 and increase the GDP share of the non-oil sector to 50 per cent.

The Abu Dhabi Conference will kick off with a pre-conference reception hosted by DED for speakers, ambassadors, government officials, local dignitaries and all delegates of the event. Key government officials led by H.E. Nasser Al Sowaidi, Chairman of Abu Dhabi DED; H.E. Mohammed Omar Abdullah, DED Undersecretary; and Fahad Al Raqbani, Deputy Director General, Abu Dhabi Council for Economic Development, will open the formal discussions with key messages focusing on Abu Dhabi’s strategies to develop essential non-oil sectors, including energy, petrochemicals, metals, transport, education, healthcare and tourism.

H.E. Nasser Al Sowaidi the Chairman said: “This year has witnessed the issuance of the new Law on the Establishment of the Department of Economic Development, which confirms our futuristic approach in the development of a knowledge-based economy, and gives the highest priority to sustainable economic development.”

“The issuance of the new law and the new tasks it mandates demonstrate the commitment of the wise leadership to achieve the Economic Vision 2030 with its broader and more comprehensive meaning across the geographical spread of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the economic spread of its various economic sectors”, he added.

He also noted that Abu Dhabi Conference will emphasise on our strategic Economic sectors according to a road map that is due to cover the next twenty years.”

“Over the next few years, the private sector will play a very important role in helping Abu Dhabi realise its economic diversification program. The ultimate goal is to achieve sustainable development and it is essential that the government and the private sector cooperate proactively to identify opportunities and synergise on various mutually beneficial development projects,” said Edmund O’Sullivan, Chairman, MEED Events.

“Abu Dhabi Conference offers an ideal platform for major stakeholders of the economic diversification initiative in Abu Dhabi to conduct networking activities, discuss pressing issues and identify fresh opportunities to further enhance the future economic landscape of the emirate. The conference agenda reflects the changing dynamics of the Abu Dhabi economy, particularly with regards to the growing investment and business opportunities for the non-oil sector. The conference will also feature a powerful line-up of speakers from different industry sectors who will offer unprecedented insights into the realities and peculiarities of the local business environment,” added O’Sullivan.

Abu Dhabi Conference will incorporate in-depth sessions that will explore critical issues related to key industry sectors, including transport, banking and finance; sports, culture and tourism; oil and gas and petroleum; real estate, education, healthcare; power, water and utilities; and investment. A VIP breakfast meeting and a gala dinner have also been organised to enable conference participants, invited guests and government officials to foster new business relationships and openly exchange ideas.

The event has already confirmed participation from the following organisations: Abu Dhabi Council for Economic Planning, Abu Dhabi National Chemicals Company, Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, Abu Dhabi Sewerage Services Company, Etisalat, Health Authority – Abu Dhabi, Higher Corporation for Specialised Economic Zones, Mubadala, Regulatory & Supervision Bureau, Securities & Commodities Authority and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority – UAE.

The Abu Dhabi Conference 2009 is supported by the Department of Economic Development – Abu Dhabi, with Abu Dhabi Water & Electricity Authority (ADWEA) as Associate Sponsor; Partnered with the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry; HSBC as Gold Sponsor; Abu Dhabi Polymers Park, Exeed Industries and Metito as Silver Sponsors; Orient Planet as PR Partner; and CNBC as Official Arabic Broadcaster.

ends –