Dubai: No school inspections for next year; how it will impact fees, ratings, quality checks
Private schools in Dubai will not be subject to full inspections during the 2024-25 academic year except for new schools entering their third year of operations.
This directive was issued by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) after releasing the full report of its latest inspection. Here’s a breakdown of what this means for various stakeholders in the Dubai school community.
No quality checks during this period?
The Dubai Schools Inspection Bureau (DSIB) will conduct visits targeting specific focus areas and ongoing monitoring activities. Institutions will be notified of the focus areas and priorities for the next academic year.
Schools must also routinely update the Self-Evaluation Form and the online school profile throughout the next academic year.
Additionally, schools can submit a request for a full inspection to the DSIB, which will be subject to review and approval at KHDA’s discretion. Schools must submit their requests by July 5, 2024. Those whose requests are approved will be notified during Term 2 of the 2024-25 academic year.
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How will the school set fees?
The rate by which schools in Dubai can adjust their fees is tied to each institute’s most recent inspection rating. Any fee adjustment by schools must be approved by KHDA. Depending on the school’s performance, the institutions have traditionally been rated ‘outstanding’, ‘very good’, ‘good’, ‘acceptable’, or ‘weak’. Henceforth, it is unclear how fee increases will be decided and managed.
In early April 2024, the KHDA announced an Education Cost Index (ECI) of 2.6 per cent, based on which schools could adjust their fees for the 2024-25 academic year. In Dubai, private schools were authorised to raise a maximum of 5.2 per cent of tuition fees.
Dubai schools have typically undergone annual inspections and received new ratings, except during the pandemic when inspections couldn’t be conducted.
According to a Principal who spoke to Khaleej Times, one possibility is a uniform percentage increase next year across all schools, based on the Education Cost Index (ECI).
It’s worth noting there has yet to be an official confirmation regarding the resumption of inspections for the 2025-26 academic year. However, the announcement about an inspection pause pertains solely to the 2024-25 academic year.
Will it benefit schools?
The temporary halt in school inspections provides several benefits, including increased stability, decreased administrative burden, and improved data collection quality. Headteachers reiterate that it strikes a balance between maintaining stability and ensuring timely interventions and feedback.
This decision further aims to support students’ teaching and learning process and allows schools to implement changes to support their development and improvement plans.
What it means for parents?
School ratings based on the inspection outcomes assist parents in making decisions should they be considering transferring their children to different schools for the upcoming academic year.
In the interim, parents are encouraged to read the latest and past reports and gain insights about the quality of education in their children’s schools. Following this announcement, the education regulator also reaffirmed its commitment to working with the education community to raise the quality of education in Dubai and align with the future goals of the emirate.
Key outcomes of this year’s inspections?
During the academic year 2023-24, inspectors in Dubai evaluated 209 private schools, including 10 schools inspected for the first time. The KHDA conducted 19,782 classroom visits and engaged in 4,407 hours of dialogue with students, parents, and school leaders.
A total of 23 schools were rated ‘Outstanding’, 48 were rated ‘Very Good’, 85 ‘Good’, and 51 ‘Acceptable’, while two were rated ‘Weak’ with no schools rated as ‘Very Weak’.
Overall ratings improved for 26 schools, while three schools saw a decline in their ratings.
In another demonstration of the continuous improvement in the quality of education, 81 per cent of Dubai students now attend private schools rated ‘Good’ or higher compared to 77 per cent during last year’s inspection cycle. This means nearly 49,500 students have benefitted from this improvement.
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source: khaleejtimes
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Even as rents in Dubai increased around 10 per cent in the first half of this year, another similar percentage jump is expected in the second half of this year, industry executives said.
Rents have been steadily rising in Dubai after the pandemic on the back of an increase in population, inflow of high-net-worth individuals and expansion of the economy creating new jobs in the market.
“With a 10 per cent increase at the beginning of 2024, there is no reason to think that we won’t see a similar growth for the remainder of the year. With more handovers due in third and fourth quarters, we anticipate continued supply and steady growth of 5-10 per cent over the next six months,” said Jacob Bramley, senior leasing manager at Betterhomes.
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Lewis Allsopp, chairman of Allsopp and Allsopp, projected that the second half of 2024 and 2025 will likely see a shift towards a more steady and gradual rental growth.
“More supply will be coming into the market, with over 10,000 expected in Q2 alone. The increase in supply is crucial as we expect to see further population growth. Over 30,000 new residents moved into the city in the first five months of 2024. A new report suggests over 6,700 millionaires to enter the city, further fuelling both the population and the real estate market’s growth. As the number of residents continues to climb, we will see more units being handed over to meet the expected rising demand. Landlords are also offering flexible payment options such as multiple cheques, which would help tenants keep pace with the rising market,” added Allsopp.
H1 2024 performance
So far in H1 2024, Allsopp said average rents across the city have seen a 15.7 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2023. Apartments and townhouses both saw an average increase of just below 15 per cent while villas recorded an average increase of 18 per cent.
The average increase includes units and areas that may have been below the market average up until the updated Rera Index was implemented in March this year. The updated calculator is likely to have brought previously undervalued units closer to the market average, thus contributing to the overall rental increases.
According to data shared by property brokerage firm Betterhomes, the average price of rental contracts increased by 8 per cent in the first half of 2023 and another 8 per cent in the second half of last year.
Where rents rose Dh150,000 in a year
According to Allsopp & Allsopp data, areas that witnessed the highest increases in first half of 2024 were Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), Town Square, Dubai Production City, Dubai Healthcare City 2 and Meydan, which all saw a 21 to 22 per cent jump in rentals.
Additionally, Dubai South’s average rents increased by about 38 per cent compared to H1 last year, aligning with the expected increase in demand following the announcement of the new Al Maktoum Airport earlier this year.
“In luxury communities such as Jumeirah Islands, average rents saw a 43 per cent increase as rental prices reached Dh500,000 in H1 2024 compared to Dh350,000 last year. Similarly, Al Barari saw the average rental price increase from about Dh300,000 last year to approximately Dh400,000 in H1 this year, which is a 39 per cent increase in average rents,” said Allsopp.
Bramley said some of the strongest performers in H1 2024 were Tilal Al Ghaf where rents grew by 21 per cent, Dubai Hills Estate (14 per cent), The Villa Project (12 per cent), and Dubai Creek Harbour (11 per cent), all experiencing an increase of over 10 per cent in average rental price per square foot.
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source: khaleejtimes
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Do you have an idea that provides the solution to a challenge, and would help create a better future for humanity?
The ‘Dubai Future Solutions – Prototypes for Humanity’ initiative welcomes creative thinkers, innovators and designers all over the world to exhibit their work and convert these experimental ideas into reality.
Contributions from bright students, top universities and international institutions are welcomed. The participants’ concepts and potential solutions can be transformed into tangible projects that leave a mark on the future, and the emirate.
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The top 100 innovations will be showcased in an annual event held in Dubai Future District.
Through this platform, startups and innovators can also convert their ideas into viable companies, creating jobs, brining about investment opportunities, and aiding in market expansion.
Innovations can be patented, along with helping talent who are looking to expand from the local to global markets. These objectives will be realised in collaboration with the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Dubai Culture.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, approved the launch of the initiative, which will be led by Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture).
Watch below, a video shared by Sheikh Hamdan on X:
Sheikh Hamdan witnessed the signing of a cooperation agreement between the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) and the Hussain Sajwani – DAMAC Foundation (HSDF), which pledged Dh100 million to support innovation and technology in Dubai and across the UAE.
Signed by Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of DFF, and Hussain Sajwani, Founder and Chairman of DAMAC Properties, the agreement makes HSDF a strategic partner of the initiative.
“The objective of the ‘Dubai Future Solutions – Prototypes for Humanity’ initiative is to create a dynamic platform that attracts leading innovations, projects, and experimental ideas from across the world,” said Sheikh Hamdan.
This announcement builds on the success achieved by the ‘Prototypes for Humanity’, an initiative of the Art Dubai Group, over the past nine years. Under the patronage of Sheikha Latifa, the initiative has showcased hundreds of innovative projects from over 10,000 applications submitted by students from more than 700 universities worldwide.
“Our objective is to spotlight a variety of future-oriented ideas and innovations that have a positive impact on society, ultimately transforming them into tangible achievements that will serve humanity,” Sheikha Latifa said.
DFF will support this initiative through various national programmes, including the Dubai Research and Development Program and the Dubai Robotics and Automation Program. Leveraging its integrated ecosystem, DFF will promote entrepreneurship through AREA 2071 and the Dubai Future Accelerators (DFA), spotlighting promising projects and talents.
The ‘Prototypes for Humanity’ initiative has been supported by its founding partners: Dubai Culture, DIFC, A.R.M Holding, and the Investment Corporation of Dubai. In the past year, the initiative received over 2,800 project submissions encompassing more than 200 research fields across diverse technological and future-oriented sectors.
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source: khaleejtimes
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Question: We had a family staycation in Dubai during the Eid Al Fitr holidays. During check-in, the receptionist informed us that I could pay the security deposit using a debit card, and the amount would be refunded to my account within three working days. I paid Dh1,000 with my debit card, but it has been over two months and the money has not yet been refunded. I have contacted the hotel multiple times, and they always have an excuse for the delay. What should I do in this case?
Answer: It is assumed that the hotel has issued a receipt for the deposit you paid to the hotel and this receipt states that the deposit is refundable. Therefore, the provisions of UAE civil transactions law are applicable.
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In the UAE, a hotel, while booking hotel rooms and hotel apartments, will issue terms and conditions related to reservation, and it may also cover the payment of a security deposit. The terms and conditions (contract) of a hotel room/hotel apartment booking will contain essential obligations of the parties to the contract. This is in accordance with Article 141 of Federal Law No. 5 of 1985 on Civil Transactions Law, which states:
“1- A contract is not formed except through the agreement of the parties on the essential elements of the obligation and on all the other legitimate conditions which the parties consider them to be essential.
2- Where the parties agree on the essential elements of the obligation and on all the other legitimate conditions which the parties consider them to be essential, reserving some details to be agreed upon at a later date and did not condition the formation of the contract on the agreement on these matters, the contract is considered formed. Should any difference arise as to these pending details, the judge shall decide thereon according to the nature of the transaction and the law provisions.”
Therefore, a contract shall be implemented based on its provisions. This is in accordance with Article 246(1) of the UAE Civil Transactions Law, which states, “The contract shall be implemented, according to the provisions contained therein and in a manner consistent with the requirements of good faith.”
If one of the parties to a bilateral contract does not perform its contractual obligations, the other party may serve notice to comply with the specific performance of a contract and may approach a court which has jurisdiction in the UAE, where a judge will decide on the matter. This is in accordance with Article 272 of the UAE Civil Transactions Law, which states:
“1-In bilateral contracts, if one of the parties does not perform his contractual obligations, the other party may, after serving a formal notification to the debtor, demand the performance of the contract or its rescission.
2-The judge may order the debtor immediate performance of the contract or grant him specified additional time, as he may order rescission with damages, in any case, if deemed justified.”
Based on the aforementioned provisions of law, if the terms and conditions of your hotel booking reservation state that the security deposit will be refunded to you and if you have any proof related to the payment of the deposit amount, you shall be entitled to refund of such security deposit from the hotel. In the event the hotel does not refund the security deposit, then you may file a complaint against such hotel with the Department of Tourism – Dubai. Alternatively, you may issue a legal notice to the hotel and thereafter approach the Dubai Court and file a civil case commencing with the Centre for Amicable Settlement of Dispute of the Dubai Court as the claim amount is less than Dh500,000.
Ashish Mehta is the founder and Managing Partner of Ashish Mehta & Associates. He is qualified to practise law in Dubai, the United Kingdom and India. Full details of his firm on: www.amalawyers.com. Readers may e-mail their questions to: news@khaleejtimes.com or send them to Legal View, Khaleej Times, PO Box 11243, Dubai.
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source: khaleejtimes
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Investors from Australia, the UK, Europe, North America, Turkey and Iran will lead the Dubai property market’s next growth cycle, attracted by higher returns than any major markets, a tax-free environment, rising taxes in those markets and a challenging environment in those countries.
Industry insiders say that in addition to these nationalities, investors from other traditional markets such as India, Pakistan and the Middle East will also continue to be major contributors to the fourth growth cycle of Dubai’s highly promising real estate market.
The emirate’s real estate market has seen three cycles – the pre-global financial crisis of 2009, 2014 and post-Covid. Many industry executives believe the third cycle is nearing its end after reaching a peak in 2023-24. Hence, the fourth cycle will begin soon after as the inflow of foreign funds will further increase in the next cycle.
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However, the fourth cycle will not be a boom-bust cycle but rather a slight correction before the next growth takes off.
Guillaume Giroux, CEO of Elysee Vendome Real Estate, said Dubai is about to finish its third property cycle, with a new one coming up soon and the next cycle is expected to attract buyers from different countries.
“French investors are still interested in Dubai’s properties, especially with uncertainties in Europe pushing them to look elsewhere. It’s predicted that many European nationalities will influence Dubai’s property market in the future.”
He added that high taxes and lower returns in their home countries are driving investors to seek better opportunities abroad. “Challenges like strict regulations in France are also pushing investors towards markets with higher returns and stable rules.”
Mouna Muller, client manager at Betterhomes, said as Dubai’s third property cycle draws to a close, the fourth cycle is anticipated to be fuelled by a diverse range of investors.
He added that the prospect of higher taxes in the UK, Australia, and Europe is expected to encourage investors from these regions to consider Dubai, given its tax-free environment and favourable investment climate.
“Europeans find Dubai appealing because of its attractive lifestyle, business opportunities, and favourable residency programmes. Iranians are seeking economic and political stability, along with cultural ties and proximity to Dubai. Turkish investors are attracted by the need for economic diversification, business opportunities, and the high demand for high-quality real estate in Dubai,” he said.
Muller said investors from India, China, Iran, Turkey, and other countries will also play pivotal roles, influenced by diverse economic and geopolitical factors.
Ramjee Iyer, chairman and managing director of Acube Developments, said investors from countries with comparatively high taxes such as the UK, Australia, and most of Europe, understandably look for tax-efficient investment opportunities abroad, and Dubai’s tax-free environment is hugely appealing.
Chinese replacing Russian investors?
Industry players suggest that the influx of Russian investors has slowed down and they will be replaced by Chinese investors, who will be a major player in the local property market.
Ramjee Iyer said the recent data has shown that British investors have overtaken Indians this year as they flock to the UAE for Golden Visas, tax-free benefits, high rental yields, and the emirate’s famous luxury lifestyle.
“The Chinese will also be a major Dubai market force due to the two nations’ robust economic connections and strengthened political ties. Other nationalities worth keeping an eye on include Turkey and Iran. Turkish buyers appreciate Dubai’s strong economy and innovative projects, while Iranian buyers find Dubai’s peaceful atmosphere, career opportunities, and economic stability highly appealing.”
Buying to live
Paul Christodoulou, CEO of Aqua Properties, also anticipated a stronger interest from European investors, with Germans gaining traction.
“The British presence has always been substantial, and currently, we are witnessing an even greater influx of British investors. In addition, investors from Australia, Singapore, and North Americans from the US and Canada are emerging as key players in Dubai’s property market, significantly attracted by Dubai’s zero per cent tax on investments and income tax.”
He added that European, British and Australian investors are also drawn due to long-term residency and a very attractive return on investment (RoI).
According to Christodoulou, those investors who are increasingly keen to relocate with their families through the Golden Visa and expand their Dubai property portfolios are also buying properties in Dubai.
“Having said this, many of these buyers are approaching investments intending to secure a profitable asset initially, with plans to potentially transition to living in Dubai within the next few years. These investors are effectively end-users who initially purchase with a short-term investor mindset but with a long-term living perspective in mind.”
He stressed that Dubai is evolving into more of an end-user market, with residents increasingly investing. “Recent transactions show close to 60 per cent of sales in 2024 were off-plan, indicating strong investor interest in investment. However, it’s true that a lot of foreign investors are residing in Dubai predominantly and are UAE residents.”
Foreign investors to continue dominating
International buyers are the backbone of Dubai’s property market, drawn by its strategic location, tax-free status, and inviting investment climate.
“This trend is expected to stay strong, as Dubai remains a magnet for foreign investors. However, there’s a growing interest among UAE residents in property investment, which could gradually help in stabilising the market over time,” Muller said.
Ramjee Iyer stated that foreign investors – including both expat residents and non-resident buyers – significantly influence Dubai’s property market. “Their interest in Dubai comes from factors like security, high rental yields, tax incentives, and lifestyle opportunities and I don’t see this trend changing any time soon, if anything it will get stronger.”
Guillaume Giroux of Elysee Vendome Real Estate, said the majority of investors are from outside the UAE, mainly from Europe.
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source: khaleejtimes
]]>The Perfect Proposal
Dubai is an ideal spot for proposing to the one you love, offering a mix of stunning landscapes and Instagram-worthy settings. Its romantic venues, like Love Lake in Al Qudra with its heart-shaped formations and serene atmosphere, provide the perfect backdrop. Proposing at sunset amidst this enchanting scenery ensures a memorable and magical experience. Sailing through the sky in a hot air balloon is one of the most romantic experiences imaginable. Couples can glide across the Dubai desert on a private morning balloon ride, soaking in views of the magnificent golden sands as the sun rises over the dramatic Hajar Mountains. Time your proposal perfectly, and your once-in-a-lifetime moment might even include falcons soaring past and wildlife roaming below. Let the team know your plans so the captain can help record snippets and capture photos for instant social media announcements. Hot Air Baloon
Celebrating Forever
The city is the perfect spot to celebrate love, offering an array of wedding venues that don’t compromise on elegance or charm. The city boasts stunning locations, from scenic beachside spots to glamorous ballrooms, ensuring a memorable celebration. Dubai’s diverse cultural backdrop and world-class services make it a seamless and affordable choice for Pakistani couples. With some of the best venues for an unforgettable wedding, you can choose from the expert wedding planners that are available to provide top tips and guidance, ensuring your celebration is perfectly tailored to your dreams. Whether it’s a beachside ceremony at the picturesque Jumeirah Beach Hotel with a refreshing breeze rustling through palm trees or a grand event for hundreds of guests at Address Beach Resort or Rove Dubai Marina, Dubai’s locations are perfect for hosting a dream wedding. Address Beach Resort
Honeymoon Spot
The city offers a blend of entertainment, shopping, and diverse culinary experiences for romantic couples-only places to choose from. Its vibrant attractions and world-class hospitality with topnotch wellness and spa centres, ensure a memorable and romantic getaway. The wide range of dining options ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay for Pakistani visitors. Treat your partner to an unforgettable experience aboard a luxury yacht with Xclusive Yachts, offering stunning views of Dubai’s skyline from the Arabian Gulf. From a 48-foot yacht with a dedicated crew to an 86-foot yacht equipped with a barbecue and music system, there’s an option for every romantic occasion, even if you plan to celebrate with friends. At Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, Bedouin-themed suites offer luxurious desert immersion, complete with handcrafted furnishings, private dining decks, and pools for serene relaxation. Indulge further with gourmet dining and spa experiences, seamlessly blending opulence with the natural beauty of the Arabian desert. Al Maha Resort & Spa
[email protected] source: biztoday ]]>DUBAI: Wego, the number 1 travel app and the largest online travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), is thrilled to announce a strategic partnership with Pakistan International Airlines, the national carrier of Pakistan. This collaboration aims to provide an enriched travel experience for Pakistani travelers by offering seamless access to a wide array of flight options and competitive prices.
The collaboration will integrate Pakistan International Airlines’ extensive flight network with Wego’s state-of-the-art booking platform, offering travelers an unparalleled level of convenience and choice of travel to and from Pakistan.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Pakistan International Airlines to enhance travel opportunities, serving expat Pakistanis in the GCC, inbound visitors to Pakistan, and the growing community of Wego users in Pakistan,” stated Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Business Officer of Wego. “This collaboration reaffirms our dedication to facilitating travel planning, providing an extensive range of options, and ensuring a smooth booking process, thereby making travel more accessible and enjoyable for all.”
Pakistan’s tech-savvy individuals are increasingly turning to online platforms for their travel needs. This partnership is designed to cater to this growing audience, providing easy access to domestic and international flights, competitive fares, and a user-friendly booking experience. Whether it’s for business, leisure, or visiting loved ones, Pakistani travelers can now enjoy a more efficient and enjoyable travel planning process.
This partnership not only opens up new travel opportunities but also supports Pakistan’s growing tourism sector by encouraging more inbound and outbound travel. Travelers can look forward to a smooth and hassle-free experience from the moment they start planning their trip to the time they return home.
Pakistan International Airlines is pleased to partner with Wego,” stated Mr. Nausherwan Adil, Chief Commercial Officer of Pakistan International Airlines. “This collaboration will significantly expand our reach, allowing us to connect with a wider audience and offer them outstanding travel options. We believe that this partnership will greatly improve the overall travel experience for our passengers.”
By integrating Pakistan International Airlines’ extensive network with Wego’s all-encompassing travel marketplace, travelers will have the convenience of exploring a vast array of destinations effortlessly. This synergy promises to bring enhanced flexibility, convenience, and choice to our customers, ensuring they enjoy an unparalleled travel experience.
[email protected] source: biztoday ]]>Look: Over 5,000 Dubai residents from 50 nationalities gather for International Yoga Day
As many as 5,000 residents from over 50 nationalities attended yoga sessions marking World Yoga Day at Sheikh Rashid Hall at the World Trade Centre in Dubai. The Consulate General of India in Dubai organised the event in partnership with Friends of India, highlighting yoga as a practice promoting physical and mental well-being.
The celebration saw a turnout including 1,500 school students, who joined yoga enthusiasts of all ages in performing a series of yoga positions led by experienced instructors.
Olga Ivanov, a Russian working as a realtor in Dubai has been into yoga for the last 17 years. “I have been into yoga since my childhood and the first time I practiced was in when I was in school back in St Petersburg,” said Ivanov.
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“I have attended mass yoga sessions in London and once in New Delhi. But this celebration was grand with attendees from different nationalities trying to learn and practice yoga. I feel rejuvenated and more connected to this beautiful international community we have in Dubai,” said the Russian expat who has been residing in the UAE for the last fou years. “My journey has been truly transformative.”
The event featured a series of yoga sessions led by experienced instructors, promoting physical and mental well-being among participants. Yoga enthusiasts of all ages came together to celebrate this ancient practice that embodies harmony and inner peace.
Aileen Khani, a 12-year-old Iranian came along with her mother to understand yoga. “My friends in school talk about yoga and I did not know what the ancient practice is,” said Khani.
“I learned a lot about yoga and I followed the instructor properly as they made it easy to understand. I liked the breathing exercises and how calm they made me feel. I want to practice more yoga at home now and maybe teach my cousins about it too,” said the 7th grader of GEMS school.
Another enthusiast, Priya Sharma, an Indian expat and resident of JLT said that yoga has always been a significant part of her daily routine. “Seeing it embraced by so many people from various nationalities today was heartwarming,” said Sharma.
“The mass meditation session was particularly moving, as it brought a sense of peace and unity. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a beautiful celebration and proud to see yoga making a global impact,” said Sharma.
International Yoga Day, established by the United Nations in 2014, is celebrated annually on June 21. The Consulate General of India and Friends of India expressed their gratitude to all participants for their overwhelming support and active participation in making the event a success.
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source: khaleejtimes
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Question: I flew from Dubai to South Asia with a local carrier last month. As usual, I ensured that all my bags were properly sealed before boarding. When I reached home, however, I noticed that a few of my belongings, such as shoes and shirts worth more than Dh1,000, were missing. Can I claim my stolen or lost items? Is it the airline or the airport that is responsible for the loss? Your guidance about my rights is appreciated.
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Answer: An airline which has departed from the UAE or has arrived in the UAE shall be responsible for the checked-in luggage of its passengers. This is in accordance with Article 353(2) of the Federal Decree Law No. 50 of 2022 Issuing the Commercial Transactions Law, which states, “The luggage referred to in Clause (1) hereof shall mean the objects that may be carried by the passenger in the aircraft or delivered to the carrier to be in its custody, during the travel.”
An airline shall also be responsible for the damage or loss of checked-in luggage of its passengers. This is in accordance with Article 356 (1) of the UAE Commercial Transactions Law, which states, “The air carrier shall be responsible for the damage resulting from the destruction, loss or damage of the checked luggage and cargo if an accident occurs and results in damage during the air transport.”
In the event of damage or loss of luggage of passengers during transit and thereafter prior to delivery of the luggage to a passenger, an airline should compensate up to Dh500 per kilogram of luggage. This is in accordance with Article 359(2) of the UAE Commercial Transactions Law, which states:
“In case of transport of luggage and cargo, the remedy shall not exceed Dh500 for each kilogram, unless it is agreed on a higher amount. However, if the consignor sends a special statement upon delivering the luggage or cargo indicating the special importance imparted to the delivery thereof in good condition at the destination due to its value, and pays the additional fare requested by the carrier, the carrier shall pay the remedy in the amount specified by the consignor, unless the carrier proves that such value exceeds the real value of luggage and cargo.”
For any loss or damage of luggage, a passenger may file a civil claim against the airline either (1) in the courts which has territorial jurisdiction over the arrival/departure destinations, (2) in the court under whose jurisdiction the head office of the airline is located or (3) in the court as mentioned in the travel contract (air ticket) between a passenger and an airline. This is in accordance with Article 368 of the UAE Commercial Transactions Law, which states, “The claimant shall have the option to file action before any of the following courts:
1. The court in which circuit the domicile of the carrier is located.
2. The court in which circuit the head office of the carrier’s activity is located
3. The court in which circuit the establishment or the facility that concludes a contract for him, is located.
4. The court of the destination.
Each term amends the rules of jurisdiction referred to shall be null and void if stipulated before the occurrence of damage.”
Based on the aforementioned provisions of law, you should check your air ticket to determine the terms and conditions related to the loss of checked-in luggage. Thereafter, you may file a written complaint related to the loss of your personal belongings with the relevant airline. In the event of non-cooperation, you may file a complaint with the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and thereafter if required you may consider filing a case against the airline at the Dubai Court. Alternatively, you may also look for options of filing for legal remedies in the court which has jurisdiction over the location (airport) in the South Asian destination where your personal belongings went missing.
Ashish Mehta is the founder and Managing Partner of Ashish Mehta & Associates. He is qualified to practise law in Dubai, the United Kingdom and India. Full details of his firm on: www.amalawyers.com. Readers may e-mail their questions to: news@khaleejtimes.com or send them to Legal View, Khaleej Times, PO Box 11243, Dubai.
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source: khaleejtimes
]]>Nearly 50ºC in UAE: Doctors, coaches warn against playing in sun after cricketer’s death
Doctors and sports coaches in the UAE are urging residents to reconsider engaging in outdoor sports activities as temperatures soar close to 50ºC.
On Thursday night, UAE resident and amateur cricketer Mandeep Singh passed away after playing a match. While forensic reports are yet to come in, his death has raised concerns about the health of athletes, particularly those participating in high-intensity sports like cricket and football.
Sports coaches are highlighting the risks associated with playing sports in heat and recommend postponing matches to after dusk. “Outdoor sports should be avoided during peak heat hours and activities be scheduled post 6pm when temperatures are relatively lower,” said Gopal Jaspara, a cricket coach at G Force Cricket Academy.
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“Playing sports in such harsh weather conditions is risky,” said Jaspara. “We advise all players to refrain from outdoor sports during the day time in summer months. It’s crucial to understand that the consequences of heat exposure can be severe,” said Jaspara.
According to doctors, heat exhaustion is a serious condition that can lead to life-threatening consequences if not addressed promptly. Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, and if not addressed promptly, it can lead to severe complications or death.
“Athletes are prone to heat exhaustion and the vital sign of it is they have difficulty continuing with exercise,” said Dr Ahmed Mohammed Abdelrazek Deabes, Specialist Internal Medicine, Burjeel Royal Hospital, Asharej, Al Ain.
“Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, and allow your body time to acclimate to hot weather before engaging in strenuous activities,” added Dr Deabes.
Grounds booked
According to a survey by Khaleej Times, cricket and football grounds are occupied from early morning until late evening on weekends and on weekdays, these grounds are booked from 6am to 11am and 4pm to 10pm.
Coaches said that a few years ago there were no slots for late afternoon, particularly from 5pm to 8pm, as there was minimal activity because of the soaring heat. “Now, slots are available from 4.30pm and a lot of youngsters are playing,” said Jaspara adding that they are shifting their coaching after 6pm now since the weather is so bad. “We will be playing indoors from July 1 onwards.”
Gustave Tarik, a Cameroonian personal trainer and fitness coach at 24 Fitness gym, said that many residents are underestimating the health risks of carrying out physical activities outside during summer.
“If you must exercise outdoors after 6pm, ensure the intensity of your activity is low; walking is fine. However, the best advice is to move all fitness activities, including sports, indoors. It’s safer and more manageable in these extreme temperatures,” said Tarik.
“People with kidney issues or cardiovascular problems should avoid working out outside at any time of the day. It’s crucial for anyone exercising to stay well-hydrated and to consume electrolyte drinks regularly,” added Tarik.
In light of the recent incident, coaches are urging for a temporary break from outdoor sports. They recommend that players shift to indoor sports facilities for the next two months to avoid the extreme summer heat. “It’s better to be safe than sorry,” said Tarik. “Indoor sports provide a safer alternative during the hotter months of the year.”
Lower price during the day
A few players who play regularly said that they rent sports grounds late in the evenings to avoid playing in the heat.
“As a regular player, I’ve noticed that renting fields during the day is significantly cheaper than at night. We usually rent the field only after sunset. For one match during the day, players pay about Dh40 per head. However, once the sun sets, the cost jumps to around Dh70 per head because of the additional expense for lighting the ground,” said Shawez (name changed), a cricketer and a resident of Al Mahatta in Sharjah.
“This price disparity is one of the main reasons why many still choose to play in the heat, despite the health risks,” added Shawez.
Address the symptoms fast
Meanwhile, another doctor, Dr Rahul Chaudhary, consultant cardiology and specialist interventional cardiologist at International Modern Hospital Dubai, spoke to Khaleej Times to raise awareness about knowing the symptoms of a possible impending heart attack.
He noted: “The symptoms of heart attack can range from just a feeling of uneasiness, chest tightness, chest heaviness, a pressure or a squeezing sensation in the chest, nausea, vomiting, unexplained cold sweats, giddiness, heartburn, any abnormal uncomfortable sensation between the angle of your mouth that is the lower jaw to above the umbilicus.
“What needs to be highlighted is the fact that if you experience any type of uneasiness which you have never experienced before in life that is a warning sign that is a red flag. Seek immediate healthcare attention,” Dr Chaudhary underscored.
The Indian expat who passed away on Thursday in Sharjah after playing cricket reportedly complained of uneasiness and shortness of breath. He then started gasping for breath and collapsed inside the car.
Dr Chaudhary noted: “Time is really very important. Addressing the earliest onset of symptom will give us the best shot to prevent fatal heart attack, as the window of opportunity may be very narrow when it actually happens.
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source: khaleejtimes
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