Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed on Saturday offered his congratulations to the UAE's Mohammed Ben Sulayem who became the first non-European president of motorsport's world governing body after being elected on Friday.
The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces wished the 60-year-old Emirati former champion rally driver “well in his new role” leading the International Automobile Federation (FIA).
“I extend my sincere congratulations to Mohammed Ben Sulayem on his historic election,” said Sheikh Mohamed.
Ben Sulayem, one of the Arab world’s leading motor sport figures, is now the most powerful man in Formula One. He replaces 75-year-old Frenchman Jean Todt, who is retiring after three terms of office.
In his first public appearance, the 14-time Middle East Rally Champion highlighted his aims for diversity and expansion of the sport.
As well as for F1, the FIA is also the governing body for the World Rally Championship, World Endurance, and Formula E among other series.
Ben Sulayem has previously been FIA vice-president and a World Motor Sport Council member.
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if you go
The flights
Air Astana flies direct from Dubai to Almaty from Dh2,440 per person return, and to Astana (via Almaty) from Dh2,930 return, both including taxes.
The hotels
Rooms at the Ritz-Carlton Almaty cost from Dh1,944 per night including taxes; and in Astana the new Ritz-Carlton Astana (www.marriott) costs from Dh1,325; alternatively, the new St Regis Astana costs from Dh1,458 per night including taxes.
When to visit
March-May and September-November
Visas
Citizens of many countries, including the UAE do not need a visa to enter Kazakhstan for up to 30 days. Contact the nearest Kazakhstan embassy or consulate.
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Producers: KRTI Productions, T-Series
Director: Sree Narayan Singh
Cast: Shahid Kapoor, Shraddha Kapoor, Divyenndu Sharma, Yami Gautam
Rating: 2/5
The specs
Engine: 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbocharged and three electric motors
Power: Combined output 920hp
Torque: 730Nm at 4,000-7,000rpm
Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
Fuel consumption: 11.2L/100km
On sale: Now, deliveries expected later in 2025
Price: expected to start at Dh1,432,000
The specs: 2018 Opel Mokka X
Price, as tested: Dh84,000
Engine: 1.4L, four-cylinder turbo
Transmission: Six-speed auto
Power: 142hp at 4,900rpm
Torque: 200Nm at 1,850rpm
Fuel economy, combined: 6.5L / 100km
