UAE

Pray for Lebanon, Countries Light Up Lebanese Flag in Solidarity after Beirut Explosion

Pray for Lebanon, Countries Light Up Lebanese Flag in Solidarity after Beirut Explosion

Few hours after the massive blast at the port area of the Lebanese capital, the hashtags #PrayforLebanon and #PrayforBeirut trended on social media. 

And as people began to join forces together to voice out their support for the victims, and residents of Beirut and Lebanon, famous landmarks around the globe lit up with the flag of Lebanon in solidarity with the victims of the explosion.

Pray for Lebanon, Countries Light Up Lebanese Flag in Solidarity after Beirut Explosion
Credits: Twitter

Look: Famous Landmarks Light Up with Lebanese Flag in Solidarity after Beirut Blast

The blast, which obliterated almost the entire city’s port, is suspected to have been caused by seized explosives that were stored in a warehouse at the port.

The number of reported fatalities was close to 100, while around 4,000 people have been injured from the incident. And with hundreds more still missing, authorities expect that the number of fatalities and casualties will continue to rise in the following hours.

In lie with this, Lebanese Prime Minister Hassan Diab declared a national day of mourning and promised that those responsible for the “catastrophe” would be held accountable.

Iconic Monuments Light Up in Solidarity with the Victims of the Beirut Blast

Meanwhile, in Brazil, the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer was projected with the Lebanese flag in memory of those who lost their lives in the blast and show solidarity to the people in Beirut who are still suffering from its aftermath.

Few hours after the catastrophic event that hit Lebanon, the official Twitter account of Dubai’s iconic landmark, the Burj Khalifa, posted a photo as it was lit up with the colors of the Lebanese flag, captioned: “In solidarity with our brothers and sisters in #Lebanon”.

https://twitter.com/BurjKhalifa/status/1290739073359982594?s=20

On Tuesday night, the iconic pyramids of Giza in Egypt also shone bright with the colors of the Lebanon flag in solidarity with the victims of the tragic event. 

In Canada, the CN Tower displayed the colors red, white, and green, in remembrance of the victims in Beirut.

Meanwhile, the Tel Aviv municipality building also joined the light-up in solidarity with the people of Lebanon.

In Iran, Tehran’s Azadi Tower projected the Lebanese flag on its facade.

Neighboring Gulf state, Kuwait Towers in the Ras Agouza area, also lit up with the colors of the Lebanese flag.

 

And as the other iconic landmarks across the world lit up in support of the people of Lebanon, France’s Eiffel Tower went dark to join Lebanon in mourning.

The hashtags #Lebanon and #Beirut trended all over social media with many saying the explosion appeared “apocalyptic”. People also shared images from before and after the explosion to show the massive scale of devastation.

https://twitter.com/Iiferelatable/status/1290863920639430658?s=20

https://twitter.com/hansoldvernon/status/1290814296641830913?s=20

https://twitter.com/JediQureshi/status/1290880973593358337?s=20

The catastrophe comes at a time as Lebanon’s economy struggles with a financial crisis as it attempts to deal with the coronavirus pandemic.

The nation has also witnessed increasing tensions between Israel and the militant Hezbollah group along Lebanon’s southern border.

ALSO READ: Bride’s Wedding Photoshoot in Beirut Captures Horrific Explosion

Anti-Trafficking Laws in the Middle East

Anti-Trafficking Laws in the Middle East

There are millions of foreign workers living and working in the Middle East, including overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and other expats. When it comes to human trafficking, they can always turn to the embassies or diplomatic missions of their home countries.

In addition, foreign workers can also seek help from the government of the host countries themselves. Pursuant to anti-trafficking laws in each country, there are organizations, shelters, and other related agencies that work hand-in-hand in fighting against human trafficking crimes.

Anti-Trafficking Laws in the Middle East

Combating Human Trafficking in the Middle East

In today’s post, we take a look at how some countries in the Middle East — particularly the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi, and Qatar — have been combating human trafficking and related crimes.

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE has introduced several anti-trafficking laws over the years, starting with Federal Law No. 51 of 2006, which was later amended by Federal Law No. 1 of 2015. The law imposes a minimum fine of AED 100,000 at least five years in jail for perpetrators of human trafficking.

In 2007, the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking (NCCHT) was established to coordinate efforts across the seven emirates. The government has also established Ewa’a Shelters all over the country to care for women and children who are victims of sexual abuse and human trafficking.

In the emirate of Sharjah, the Women’s Protection Centre of the Social Services Department of the Government of Sharjah launched a website and toll free number (800-800-700), which anyone can call for help. The centre provides legal, social, and psychological counseling, and even family consultations for domestic abuse cases.

Likewise, in the emirate of Dubai, the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC) was established in 2007 as the first licensed, non-profit shelter in the country for women and children who are victims of domestic violence, abuse, and human trafficking crimes.

As for the Dubai Police, they have a General Directorate for Human Rights Protection, which provides legal, social, and psychological support to human trafficking victims. The agency also offers temporary shelter and temporary visas to victims who need support until they can return to their home countries.

The Dubai Police has also established the Human Trafficking Crime Control Centre, which accepts calls through +971 4 608 2347 and through the following contact details:

Human trafficking cases hotline: 8007283
Labour complaints hotline: 8005005
Fax number: +971 4 217 1644
Email address: [email protected].

Kingdom of Bahrain

To combat human trafficking, the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) in Bahrain has established a national trafficking hotline, centre, and shelter for victims of trafficking in persons.

Victims — as well as witnesses — of human trafficking are encouraged to call the national trafficking hotline, 995. They can also go directly to Northern Sehla, where they will find the Expat Protection Centre and Shelter.

The Expat Protection Centre and Shelter was established in 2015 by the LMRA, as part of the Bahrain government’s commitment to protecting and preserving the rights of overseas workers in the Kingdom. The functions of the centre include the following:

  • Identification, support, and follow-up of human trafficking victims and cases;
  • Provision of complete services to victims as well as potential victims of human trafficking; and
  • Provision of legal counseling, medical services, and mental health services to victims.

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Pursuant to Council of Ministers Decision No. 207 of 12th September 2005, Saudi Arabia established the Human Rights Commission (HRC), which is the government body responsible for issuing advice and opinion on human rights matters in the Kingdom.

In 2009, pursuant to Council of Ministers Decision No. 244, Saudi Arabia also established the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Committee, which is headquartered at the HRC.

More recently, in 2019, Saudi government, through the HRC and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Committee, met with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to sign a memorandum of understanding on the prevention of human trafficking. In the same year, the committee held a meeting with IOM, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and other government agencies.

During the meeting, they discussed several measures for preventing and addressing human trafficking cases. These measures include the provision of technical and administrative expertise on the part of UNODC, as well as the establishment of legal, financial, and moral support services for the victims of human trafficking.

Kingdom of Qatar

Pursuant to Decree Law No. 38 for 2002, the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) in the Kingdom of Bahrain was established. It was later re-organized in accordance to Decree Law No. 17 for 2010, thus confirming the committee as a permanent official body that addresses human trafficking crimes.

In addition, the Kingdom has introduced other related laws: Law No. 21 for 2011 on Human Trafficking; Law No. 21 for 2015, which put an end to Bahrain’s Kafala system; and Law No. 15 for 2017, which pertains to the rights and protection of domestic workers. Moreover, the National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking (NCCHT) was also established.

The NCCHT opened the Human Care Centre last year. Notably, this centre offers:

  • Help and protection for human trafficking victims;
  • Assistance in the victims’ rehabilitation and integration into society; and
  • Temporary employment until the victim is able to return to his/her home country.

Victims of human trafficking are encouraged to file complaints through the NCCHT website as well as through Qatar’s security department. The different departments work hand-in-hand, placing the victim at the Human Care Centre and providing extensive assistance including legal, financial, and moral support services.

If you are a foreign worker in the Middle East, or a job-seeker planning to work in the region, make sure that you know the anti-trafficking laws in your host or target country. By keeping them in mind, you become more aware of your rights as a person and as an employee, and you will know how to act when such rights are being violated — yours as well as those of your fellow workers.

DISCLAIMER: The above guide is presented for information-sharing purposes only. To know more about anti-trafficking laws and programs in the said countries, please visit the UAE Government Portal or the official websites of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) in Bahrain, the Human Rights Commission (HRC) in Saudi Arabia, and the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) in Qatar.

How to Inquire if You Have a Travel Ban in the UAE

How to Inquire if You Have a Travel Ban in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is known as one of the best countries for expats worldwide, and its not surprising that thousands of people go there for work and leisure purposes. As long as you have a valid visa, you shouldn’t worry about traveling in and out of the country.

ALSO READ: How to Apply for a Spousal Visa in the UAE

Just to be sure, you can always inquire whether or not you have a travel ban in the UAE. This way, you wouldn’t have to worry about getting stopped at the airport by immigration officials, for some reason or another! Do check out our step-by-step guide as presented below…

How to Inquire if You Have a Travel Ban in the UAE

Guide to Inquiring About Travel Bans in the UAE

Before anything else, see to it that you do not have any pending issues or cases that could hinder your travel plans. One way to do this would be to inquire if you have a travel ban, either through the Dubai Police or the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department.

Via Dubai Police Online Service

There’s a free online service by Dubai Police that enables residents to check if they have a travel ban. Please take note that this is limited to financial cases and criminal cases registered in Dubai Police stations only. To avail of the said service online:

  1. Visit the official website of Dubai Police.
  2. Enter your Emirates ID card number, and view your information.
  3. Alternatively, you can download the Dubai Police app from iTunes or Google Play, and use it for the same purpose.
  4. You may also contact the Dubai Police by sending an email to [email protected] or by calling their 901 hotline.

Via Abu Dhabi Judicial Department Online Service

If you are based in Abu Dhabi, there’s a similar service offered by the emirate’s Judicial Department. You can use this free of charge, to check if there are any legal issues or claims against you that could correspond to a travel ban. To avail of the service, simply:

  1. Visit the official website of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department.
  2. Enter your unified number (UID) and view your information.

Moreover, we recommend that you familiarise with the laws and customs of the UAE, to avoid any problems and legal issues. You may also get in touch with your Embassy, or browse information at UAE government websites to learn more about the country’s laws.

DISCLAIMER: The above steps are presented for information-sharing purposes only. To know more about how to verify travel bans in the UAE, please visit the country’s official government portal.

ALSO READ: Here are the Booming Job Sectors in UAE, Saudi Arabia

Social Media Usage in UAE – Penalties and Fines

social media uae

There are certain rules and policies that you should follow when using social media or doing online activities in the UAE. Just like other Middle East countries such as Qatar, Saudi, etc., the UAE has strict laws and imposes Fines and penalties if somebody complains about what you post. So please check out these rules to be aware how to behave online.

Also Read: Why it is Illegal to Work if You Have a Tourist/Visit Visa, Convert it First to an Employment Visa

Internet is indeed one of the greatest millennial invention. Because of the internet, we are able to access files and data whenever and wherever we are. We are able to communicate with our loved ones across the globe as well. In fact, some people have found the life of their lives via online. These are just few helpful things among many the technology has produced for us. Do you wonder what our life would be without the internet?

social media uae
Learn about online activities and social media policies in the UAE.

6 Major Rules of Using Social Media in UAE

Commonly, people used social media platforms in order to connect to the online world. Popular apps such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram have gained billions of user, still counting.  If you are frequent user of these apps and happened to be in United Arab Emirates, you must know that there are some rules to follow when you use social media. For better understanding, we listed 6 common rules an expat in UAE should be aware of.

  1. No to online prostitution. Online prostitution is considered illegal in UAE. So if you don’t want to be fined and serve time in jail, better use social media as conservative as you can.
  2. Respect each other’s privacy. Although the internet can be too open sometimes, privacy should still be observed. If you are caught violating this rule, you will have to pay up to AED 1,500,000.
  3. Rumors or gossips are as bad a crime. Using the social media to post rumors and gossips are not allowed in UAE, especially when it involves the security, peace, and order of the country. Avoid this so you don’t have to spend a second in jail.
  4. Get consent first before posting someone’s picture or information. The sentence is as clear as sky. Getting one’s permission post is a must. If you happen to break this rule, you are going to pay up to AED 150,000 and even spend time in prison. Better yet, just avoid posting photos of others.
  5. No sharing or posting of information that are against the Islamic moral and values. When you use the social media, use it rightly. We should be aware that anything that will hurt the Islamic moral and values is an offense and has an equivalent punishment.
  6. No to illegal online sites. There are apps that are banned in UAE, Skype and Facetime for example. If you’re caught using illegal channels or without a license to use those apps, you’re going to face at least 1 year in jail or pay fine equivalent up to AED 250,000. VPNs area also illegal in the UAE.

Be careful what you post as it can get back to you if you post something negative, demeaning and invading other’s privacy. This is done with extra caution if you are in the gulf region as there are corresponding (and sometimes ridiculously huge) fines and sanctions for violators.

Social media platforms are a big help to all of us. If users remain responsible, there won’t be any problems with its usage. You must be aware of the rules wherever you are because knowing the rules can save you. After all, you don’t want to end up in jail or pay these penalties.

12 Things to Know Before Working in UAE

working in the UAE

UAE or the United Arab Emirates is a hub for many job seekers from different places around the world. It is lucrative for many for its huge opportunities, modern and advanced lifestyle, and the rapidly growing economy. And a tax-free earning, working surroundings, and living environment are suitable.

Related Post: Why it is Illegal to Work under a Visit Visa

Working in UAE can be a life and career opportunity to anyone. However, it still imperative to keep in mind that UAE is still an Arab country and the culture is completely different. So, you may need to accustom yourself gently to its culture and know precisely what you are walking into and what will you need to anticipate from the place. These are some noteworthy things you need to know before deciding to work and move in UAE.

working in the UAE
Guide to understanding the work and life set-up in the UAE before moving there for employment.

 

What You Need to Know Before Working in the UAE (or any Gulf Country)

This comprehensive list below will guide you in getting a better understanding about policies, rules and traditions in this Islamic country. Whether in the UAE, or the rest of the countries in the Middle East. Please be informed to avoid using ignorance as an excuse for breaking laws (which is really not an excuse in the first place).

1. Getting A Job

Finding a job in UAE is not as easy as what you think it is, but it is not impossible to get a job either. That is why it is essential that you learn how it works in the Emirates.

  • Companies spend an extensive amount of money in the employment process

Based on UAE Law, once you already have an employer, they will be the one who will pay for your visa and flight costs, medical insurance and housing benefits. Again, not you – it must be your employer.

  • Visa and Passport

Of course, you must bring your Passport and Visa with you. You are required to have a working visa with a minimum of 3 months to enter and work in UAE, your employer will process your visa and working permit, you just have to give the required documents.

Although a tourist visa is a good way to enter the Emirates for your job hunt, let me tell you, it is kinda critical though. It is either you will get a working visa or leave the country before your tourist visa expires. The reason for that, if you got caught working without working visa or if it’s expired you can be deported, jailed or pays the fine for overstaying.

However, once you found a job, you will worry no more about the processing of your working visa because your employer will take care of everything, the complete visa process, and your sponsorship.

  • Know Labor Laws

When you already have your work contract, you need to make sure you get the entire gratuity you should get in your field of work.

  • Working Hours

The maximum working hours is eight hours per day, 48 hours per week. And the maximum hours for those who work in hotels, restaurant and other certain industries is nine hours. Working overtime shall be paid rate at 1.25 times the regular hourly rate. And during Ramadan, working hours will be reduced by 2 hours.

Working week for both private and public sectors operates from Sunday to Thursday. Though some of the companies operate 6 days a week having only Friday rest. Know that Friday is an official rest day.

  • Vacations

For the annual leave, it is usually 22 working days or 30 calendar days.

2. Tax-free lifestyle Minimal VAT Tax, But Salary is Still Tax-Free

Minimal tax, so far. An update, Dubai and the UAE is no longer tax-free. A Value Added Tax (VAT) of 5% was introduced to commodities, services and merchandise. However, you can still earn your keep without worry because salary is still tax-free.

One of the reasons that allure people to UAE. is because of TAX-FREE lifestyle. Yes! You read it right. TAX-FREE.

Which means you don’t need to pay for tax on your salary, groceries and etc. This lifestyle can help you to save a lot of money for long-term in nature. Though you may find some hotels that add 10-15% on your bill for the service charge.

3. Living In A Flat

In UAE, houses are very rare because properties are very expensive and most people choose to live in a flat. Aside from its cheaper, it is also well developed with spacious living areas which means you can have 2 – 3 people to live with you and share with the rent. In some cases, workers tend to share accommodation and apartments can get crowded. If you have your own accommodation (flat) in the UAE, you are quite lucky.

4. The Weekends Are Different

If you enjoy parties every Saturday and Sunday, well it is time to make changes! In UAE weekend days held on Friday and Saturday. Which means you can enjoy having a nice sip of drink at the beach and you can assure that Saturday nights will never be blue.

5. Study Some Arabic Words and Phrases

Most people that you will meet in UAE will be from different parts of the world. English is widely spoken though as you work in UAE, learning few Arabic words are always going to be handy and useful. After all, it’s good to always immerse yourself in the language of the country where you are currently residing.

6. Religion And Culture

Emirati people are patriotic. They are proud of their culture and lifestyle, which is prominent.

So, take a chance to learn and understand their culture. As you work in UAE don’t forget to take part with their culture, with their occasions, there are a lot of celebrations happening in there so enjoy!

Though UAE is a predominantly Muslim country, still all religion and beliefs are welcome!

  • You can practice religion

Yes! Regardless of your religious beliefs and your faith they will respect it the same way you respect their values and beliefs. They have religious freedom when it comes to expatriate population. Also, they don’t have just mosques, they also have churches and other temples. Christmas trees are abound even in malls and public places during December as this is also celebrated by many expat nationalities.

An aversion towards religion and culture is maybe one of the biggest misconception in the Middle East. Take note that even if you are able to practice your religion, please make sure that you do not proselytize (influence to convert) others to you own belief. There is a certain level of tolerance in terms of practicing your beliefs but it is only to a certain extent.

  • Islamic Values Shall Be Respected

Know that the Muslims pray five times each day, people are called through their speaker system when it is time for them to go to the mosque and pray. In this time, it is very important that you will turn off all music so that their daily prayers won’t be disturbed.

Even they have religious freedom, you must still observe and value their Islamic beliefs. Generally speaking, any disrespectful whereabouts towards any religious beliefs and practices it is highly offensive. An in UAE it can result in fines or heavy punishments.

  • Dress Appropriately

I know how valuable OOTDs (Outfit Of The Day) are for those who are into fashion when they go out of your home, dressing nicely and flaunt your favorite clothes. But one thing you should consider in living or working in UAE is their dress codes. UAE still preserves the conservative dress codes.

It is essential for women that their shoulders, back and abdominal are totally covered when in public. Leave your low-cut shorts, mini-skirts and see through at the comfort of your home. As for men, they must cover their torso and their underclothing must not be seen.

However, these rules are unperturbed when it comes to hotels and beach, swimming pools that hotels owned. But topless? NO! It’s a big no in sunbathing.

Other than that, you can still wear anything that you prefer, just make sure you are maintaining modesty and be respectful in what you wear. No matter what job you got.

  • Premarital Relationships Are Forbidden

Part of their law and culture is having a sexual relationship outside marriage is forbidden. Yes, that’s correct. Which means even if you have been living with your partner for years, you are not allowed to live together while working and living in UAE. Even in hotels! So, do not try to risk because there will be severe punishments for people who break them. You can be jailed and then deported. YOU MUST CONSIDER THIS BEFORE YOUR JOB HUNT OR YOUR PLAN LIVING IN UAE, especially if you have a long-term partner that you plan to move with.

  • Public Displays of Affection Are Hardly Accepted

Along the same lines, PDA is not tolerated, hugging and kissing in public is a NO. Though, holding hands is usually okay, if you are married. It is deeply frowned upon by men to randomly speak to a woman and or take pictures of women without their consent. If you are a man looking for work in UAE, be aware of these gender expectations.

7. Shopping

If you’re working and you love shopping, welcome to shopper’s bliss! For UAE, specifically in Dubai has voluminous shopping malls, marketplaces and supermarkets to choose from that will give you a delightful shopping experience. With its real yet cheap gold and electronics, and high-quality products, UAE is the place for you!

8. Fines

One thing you must keep in mind always observed the UAE laws even in the simplest and tiniest thing like litter and spitting. This might get you in trouble and have to pay huge fines if you get caught in any act, which is not compliant with their laws, like what mentioned UAE laws are very strict.

9. Security

UAE is considered one of the safest places in the world. As for they have strict laws and norms to keep the order. So if you are anxious about safety, worry no more because stringent law enforcement has been a vital compelling aspect for the expats or who works in UAE. We cannot recall how many instances we see people leave their phones on the table inside a food court area inside a mall while they go to order from the fastfood or go to the toilet. Although still we need to practice caution wherever as there is no guarantee that crime doesn’t happen. Still, it’s important to feel safe and secure and the police are always reminding residents through official announcements that they are safe.

10. Alcohol Consumption

It is prohibited to drink alcohol in Islam, as the Qur’an stated that, “intoxicants and games of chance” were “abominations of Satan’s handiwork,” that’s why Muslims are abstaining to drink any alcoholic drink. Nevertheless, you don’t have to worry because it is allowed and legal to enjoy alcohol for non-Muslims as long as you attain a liquor license to drink.

11. Scorching Summer

Summer in UAE is not enjoyable at all. The weather is indeed scorching in summer. You can cook an egg at the road or take a taxi for a 100-meter distance because of the heat. Do expect for intense air conditioning at your work and in many establishments.

12. Islamic Holidays

There are many Islamic holidays in UAE, which is very important to Muslims. In these times, working hours are shorter and it can be days off. So you may enjoy going home early, even you don’t practice the holidays. These holidays are also based on the sighting of the moon so sometimes the dates vary. You need to keep updated with the news and wait for official announcements from public offices.

So the above points are just some of the major items we want to share and discuss with you to make your expat life a smoother transition. You are not alone in this journey as many expats before you have already adjusted to the set-up in the United Arab Emirates.

The UAE is quite welcoming to expats and you will definitely see that when you finally step foot and see the day to day experiences and life as a resident here. Good luck in your journey and we hope you find these tips useful as you set your goal in being an expat in Dubai or the rest of the emirates.