Miscellaneous

Transguard, British Embassy renew security services agreement

Business solutions provider Transguard Group said that it has once again been selected to provide security services to the British Embassy Abu Dhabi and the British Embassy Dubai, following the renewal of a contract that was signed in 2019, and now extended for five years.

The renewal speaks a lot about the continued professionalism of the team and its dedication to achieving the highest possible standards for our clients, said Nick Beer, Chief Financial Officer, Transguard Group.

“Our first contract with the British diplomatic mission began in 2019 and since then the world has undergone significant changes.

“Our team’s ability to respond and adapt to this dynamic environment is just one of the catalysts for the renewal and we look forward to the continued strengthening of our relationship with the embassies.”

“The Transguard Security team set a very high standard from the moment our first contract began in 2019. Since then, the team has performed well and dealt with multiple emergency scenarios, including the Covid-19 crisis,” said British Ambassador Edward Hobart CMB.

“Their extraordinary efforts have enabled our embassy and consulate to maintain business continuity.”

During the signing ceremony, appreciation certificates were awarded to the team in Abu Dhabi for their efforts, as well as for their dedication and exemplary services during the storms in April 2024; a separate appreciation ceremony soon take place for the Security team in Dubai.

As with the original contract, in addition to the provision of daily Security services, Transguard will also provide protective support for diplomatic events at both locations, including garden parties and national celebrations.

Miscellaneous

18th Ras Al Khaimah half marathon set to feature elite runners

The 18th Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, is set to take place on February 1.
 
This event, hosted by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), has become renowned as a gathering for elite distance runners since its inception in 2007.
 
The half marathon is celebrated for its fast course, featuring a stunning seaside route on iconic Al Marjan Island.
 
Over the years, it has attracted world champions, record holders, and Olympic winners, including notable athletes like Tamirat Tola and Peres Chepchirchir.
 
The race will also host thousands of participants in the accompanying 10km, 5km, and 2km runs, showcasing a vibrant community of runners.
 
This year, the event will feature former multiple world record holder Joyciline Jepkosgei, who is expected to lead a strong women's field.
 
Jepkosgei has made headlines for her incredible achievements, including breaking four world records in a single race at the Prague Half Marathon in 2017.
 
Her participation continues the tradition of the RAK Half Marathon being a 'Who's Who' of world distance running, following in the footsteps of legendary athletes like Sammy Wanjiru.
 
Since its inaugural race, the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon has built a reputation for speed and excellence, making it one of the fastest half marathons on the international circuit.
 
The 2025 Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon is also sponsored by adidas, Channel 4 Radio Network. ITP Media Group and Bisleri.-TradeArabia News Service

Miscellaneous

Global population hits 8.083 billion

The global population in 2024 reached approximately 8.156 billion, marking an increase of around 82 million people compared to last year’s 8.083 billion, according to estimates by the German Foundation for World Population.
 
The world population surpassed the 8-billion mark in November 2022. The United Nations projects it will exceed 9 billion by 2037, with the possibility of reaching 10 billion in the second half of the century.
 
The foundation noted that while the global population continues to grow, the rate of increase has slowed considerably, with the current global fertility rate averaging 2.2 children per woman.
 
Population growth remains particularly rapid in Africa, where the population is expected to double over the next two decades.