DUBAI // Civil Defence plans to extend its jurisdiction to include free zones across the country.
At the emergency service's Customer Service Conference on Sunday, Maj Gen Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi, the director general of the federal body, said one of its plans for early next year was to take a closer look at safety in free zones. "There is no place out of our jurisdiction when safety is concerned," Maj Gen Al Matrooshi said.
He added that they were cooperating with the Ministry of Labour to ensure all those applying for visas as building security personnel would receive training and certification from Civil Defence.
It will also become mandatory for all companies to ensure that at least 5 per cent of their staff have completed fire-safety training, he added. "Any plan has to start with an inspection to determine the problem and this is the right way to start," said Thomas Bell-Wright, the chief technical officer for an international consultancy that conducts independent quality assurance on exterior walls of large buildings and tests fire resistant materials and fire containment systems.
"Each building will be different and if they can identify the buildings at a greater risk, then they can start to address the problem. We are 100 per cent supportive of these initiatives."
rtalwar@thenational.ae
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What is a credit score?
In the UAE your credit score is a number generated by the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB), which represents your credit worthiness – in other words, your risk of defaulting on any debt repayments. In this country, the number is between 300 and 900. A low score indicates a higher risk of default, while a high score indicates you are a lower risk.
Why is it important?
Financial institutions will use it to decide whether or not you are a credit risk. Those with better scores may also receive preferential interest rates or terms on products such as loans, credit cards and mortgages.
How is it calculated?
The AECB collects information on your payment behaviour from banks as well as utilitiy and telecoms providers.
How can I improve my score?
By paying your bills on time and not missing any repayments, particularly your loan, credit card and mortgage payments. It is also wise to limit the number of credit card and loan applications you make and to reduce your outstanding balances.
How do I know if my score is low or high?
By checking it. Visit one of AECB’s Customer Happiness Centres with an original and valid Emirates ID, passport copy and valid email address. Liv. customers can also access the score directly from the banking app.
How much does it cost?
A credit report costs Dh100 while a report with the score included costs Dh150. Those only wanting the credit score pay Dh60. VAT is payable on top.
How much do leading UAE’s UK curriculum schools charge for Year 6?
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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.
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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.
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