الوسم: skyline

  • NYC joins UN health network after US exit from WHO

    NYC joins UN health network after US exit from WHO

    The New York City Health Department announced on Wednesday that it has joined the World Health Organization’s global outbreak response network after the United States withdrew from the UN health agency under President Donald Trump’s administration.

    In response to Trump’s decision to exit the WHO, several Democratic-led regions have chosen to remain connected by joining the organization’s Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN), which comprises over 360 technical institutions worldwide. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani criticized the president’s policies, advocating for continued international cooperation. Similarly, California Governor Gavin Newsom and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker have declared their states’ intentions to align with GOARN. This network plays a crucial role in managing global health emergencies such as pandemics and outbreaks by mobilizing staff and resources to affected areas.

    The NYC Health Department emphasized the importance of global collaboration, stating, “By joining GOARN, New York City gains access to a worldwide network of over 360 institutions and organizations that respond promptly to urgent public health incidents.” Acting Health Commissioner Michelle Morse added, “Infectious diseases don’t respect borders, and neither should the information and resources that help us safeguard New Yorkers.”

    The United States officially exited the WHO last month after completing a mandatory one-year waiting period following an executive order Trump signed in January 2025. Since taking office, Trump’s administration has withdrawn from numerous international and UN organizations, claiming they do not serve U.S. interests. These actions have faced widespread criticism from health and human rights experts worldwide.

  • Dubai unveils innovative floating arts museum

    Dubai unveils innovative floating arts museum

    Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reviews scale model of the Dubai Arts Museum (DUMA). — Dubai government

    Dubai is gearing up to introduce another iconic feature to its skyline—an attraction that will float on water.

    The Dubai Arts Museum (DUMA), announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE’s vice president and prime minister, and Dubai’s ruler, is planned to be built on an island at the center of Dubai Creek.

    Unlike traditional museums fixed on land, DUMA’s design integrates the creek’s waters into its architecture. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando, the project seeks to blend sleek modernism with Dubai’s lively cultural scene.

    Sheikh Mohammed called the project “a reflection of Dubai’s artistic soul and cultural spirit,” underscoring its importance in fostering the city’s creative scene.

    Positioned on the creek, DUMA isn’t just a museum; it’s a bold statement of Dubai’s desire to redefine how art interacts with urban environments.

    The development is a joint effort between the government and private enterprise, with Emirati businessman Abdullah Al Futtaim and his son Omar leading the initiative. Sheikh Mohammed highlighted their role as “a shining example of how private business can significantly contribute to Dubai’s cultural and creative economy.”

    The museum will feature both modern and classic artworks, with architecture designed to function as a welcoming public space, a scenic promenade, and a cultural hub where residents and visitors can enjoy unique views of Dubai Creek.

    Construction is expected to start later this year, with a timeline to complete the project within three years.