More and more people around the world are moving to cities and urban areas. Therefore, pressures on urban infrastructure will come to define the next 100 years of human existence. In the UAE, governments have been moving forward with a variety of infrastructure projects to help our emirates operate more efficiently with better public transport. One of the most successful infrastructure projects, the Dubai Metro, just celebrated its seventh anniversary.
Over the course of its lifetime, the Metro has completed more than 830 million passenger journeys. That is 830 million journeys using public transport instead of a private car. The result has been less traffic in Dubai and greater ease of movement for residents and tourists alike. The positive effect that the Metro has had on the city is not lost on urban planners and has resulted in plans to extend the Red Line by 16 kilometres from Nakheel Harbour and Tower Station to the site of the Expo 2020.
There are other places where Metro expansion could have a major effect. Connecting Dubai to Sharjah would dramatically improve traffic conditions between the two emirates. In fact, the challenges of Sharjah traffic are an example of what Dubai would be like without a metro system. With more and more people moving to Sharjah but working in Dubai, the creation of a metro link would alleviate stress on the road system – and on drivers.
Public transport infrastructure projects are also underway in Abu Dhabi. The capital’s bus system is being improved with the creation of new stops and more frequent services. Additionally, roads are being upgraded to help traffic flow more smoothly. But there is always more that can be done.
We are moving to a post-oil economy that will invariably change the way that we use cars to get from point A to point B. This gradual change will necessitate the creation of bigger public transport projects. The Dubai Metro, in just seven years, has demonstrated what a positive effect these projects can have on how our cities function.
The 12 Syrian entities delisted by UK
Ministry of Interior
Ministry of Defence
General Intelligence Directorate
Air Force Intelligence Agency
Political Security Directorate
Syrian National Security Bureau
Military Intelligence Directorate
Army Supply Bureau
General Organisation of Radio and TV
Al Watan newspaper
Cham Press TV
Sama TV
The Settlers
Director: Louis Theroux
Starring: Daniella Weiss, Ari Abramowitz
Rating: 5/5
UK's plans to cut net migration
Under the UK government’s proposals, migrants will have to spend 10 years in the UK before being able to apply for citizenship.
Skilled worker visas will require a university degree, and there will be tighter restrictions on recruitment for jobs with skills shortages.
But what are described as "high-contributing" individuals such as doctors and nurses could be fast-tracked through the system.
Language requirements will be increased for all immigration routes to ensure a higher level of English.
Rules will also be laid out for adult dependants, meaning they will have to demonstrate a basic understanding of the language.
The plans also call for stricter tests for colleges and universities offering places to foreign students and a reduction in the time graduates can remain in the UK after their studies from two years to 18 months.
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Countries offering golden visas
UK
Innovator Founder Visa is aimed at those who can demonstrate relevant experience in business and sufficient investment funds to set up and scale up a new business in the UK. It offers permanent residence after three years.
Germany
Investing or establishing a business in Germany offers you a residence permit, which eventually leads to citizenship. The investment must meet an economic need and you have to have lived in Germany for five years to become a citizen.
Italy
The scheme is designed for foreign investors committed to making a significant contribution to the economy. Requires a minimum investment of €250,000 which can rise to €2 million.
Switzerland
Residence Programme offers residence to applicants and their families through economic contributions. The applicant must agree to pay an annual lump sum in tax.
Canada
Start-Up Visa Programme allows foreign entrepreneurs the opportunity to create a business in Canada and apply for permanent residence.
