2018 in review: UAE’s ambitions scale new heights

The UAE passport was declared the most powerful in December

Last updated: December 30, 2018 | 22:01

2 MIN READ

On August 1, the UAE launched an amnesty scheme for illegal residents to correct their status or leave the country. Initially set for three months, it was extended to November 30 and then December 31. It also provided a six-month visa for amnesty-seekers to find a job.

Abdul Rahman/Gulf News

It was an eventful year for UAE’s space programme with KhalifaSat’s launch and the selection of the first Emirati astronauts.

An unprecedented amnesty scheme and a long-term visa system for students and professionals underlined the country’s ambition to become the world’s best country to work and live in.

It was also a year of records and awards. The UAE passport being declared the world’s most powerful was the icing on the cake in December.

First liver and lung transplant

Record-breaking zipline

New visa system

World’s top passport

Holy Quran award

UAE’s first homegrown satellite

Unique camel

Emirati astronauts

Egyptian declared Arab Hope Maker

Briton wins Global Teacher Prize

Largest cup of hot tea

Dh170,000 speeding fines in four hours

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