Serena Spring Newsletter - Q1 2025

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SERENA

From the Chief Community Management Officer's Desk

Dear Resident,

Welcome to the first 2025 edition of your community newsletter. This year, we celebrate the Year of Community, reinforcing the strong connections that make our neighbourhoods feel like home. With the UAE ranked among the world’s happiest countries, we take pride in fostering an inclusive and vibrant living environment.

Thank you for being an essential part of our growing, thriving community. Wishing you a wonderful year ahead.

Stay connected, Francis Giani

What’s New in the Community

We are always working to make your neighbourhood better and the first few months of 2025 have been no exception. From upgrades to improvements, here’s a quick look at everything that’s been happening in and around your community from January to March.

How to use the machine?

• Download the RECAPP app and login.

• Fill up your recyclables in the RECAPP purple bag (available at this machine).

• Scan the bag’s QR code to open the machine door and follow instructions on the screen.

• Once done, click on ‘Recycle’ on your app and choose ‘Drop off’ to reap the rewards of your contribution.

Make household recycling a fun achievement

Recycling: Smarter & Rewarding

The ultimate smart recycling station has come to stay at Serena. Don’t miss the brand-new Reverse Smart Deposit Machine (RSDM) standing tall at Serena Casa Dora to support your community’s sustainability efforts.

What’s in it for you?

Based on the weight and validation process completion, you will receive your rewards via Careem Pay. This incentivisation of recycling helps you keep up with a good practice that helps you, your community and the environment.

What can be recycled?

1. Encourage every household member – toddler, nanny, driver, grandparents, mums and dads to participate in this green initiative.

2. Assign a hero for each kind of recyclable commonly used in your house and create a healthy competition between your resident Plastic Power Ranger and Tin Man for the most collections.

3. Place RECAPP recycling bags in bins right next to your household waste bin (for metal cans and tins, aluminium cans and oil and liquid plastic bottles) and bathrooms (for shampoo bottles, cleaning material and detergent liquid containers) for easy access.

Remember, making a difference starts right at home.

Plastic bottles Metal tins
Aluminium Cans

Movie Under the Stars

From the twinkling stars above to the heartwarming moments shared, the outdoor movie night on Sunday, 09 February at the lawn of Sadaf Plaza was an incredible success, blending cinema, community and a little bit of Disney magic into one unforgettable evening.

Mums, dads and little ones settled in for an enchanting screening of The Little Mermaid. The event was more than just a film screening - it was a celebration of togetherness, where neighbours connected and the joy of storytelling brought everyone closer.

Ramadan Table

On Sunday, 16 March 2025, residents of the community came together for a truly heartwarming Iftar gathering, embracing the spirit of Ramadan with an evening filled with unity, culture and connection. As the call to Maghrib echoed, residents gathered around a beautifully set communal table, sharing their favourite homemade dishes and enjoying an atmosphere brimming with warmth and hospitality.

Beyond the feast, the evening was buzzing with engaging activities that brought joy to all ages. From captivating storytelling and friendly board games to pottery painting and mesmerising live calligraphy, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and we look forward to many more moments of togetherness in the future.

Ramadan Reflections: A Month of Meaningful Impact

In the spirit of giving, Dubai Holding Community Management partnered with Beit Al Khair Society to bring comfort and nourishment to low-income workers in Al Quoz. Our dedicated volunteers alongside senior leadership, came together to distribute more than 1,166 Iftar meals, ensuring those in need could break their fast with a warm, fulfilling meal.

Upcoming Events and Activations

June

E-waste Collection Drive

October

Kids' Science Fair

Farmer’s Market

Pink October Caravan

December

Festival of Lights Halloween Fright Night

UAE National Day Celebrations

Winter Festive Event

Reliving Ramadan Traditions

This year, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Hala Fahmy, a resident of The Executive Towers, as she welcomed us into her home to share her family's Ramadan traditions and the special moments that make this month so meaningful.

Your earliest Ramadan memories that come to mind One of my earliest memories is my parents waking me up for Suhoor when I first started fasting. I found it so exciting and it was such a bonding experience with my family. Plus, I always enjoyed the delicious treats I got to enjoy so early in the day.

The feeling of gratitude and importance of helping others was deeply embedded during Ramadan as I was growing up and the beauty of this remains eternal.

A favourite Iftar recipe or meal that the family enjoys I am American and my family is originally from Morocco, where we traditionally break the fast with Harira soup. It has so many nutrients and I find it to be such a wonderful and warm way to break the fast. I highly recommend it.

Any Ramadan traditions or rituals unique to your family We share three things we are grateful for before breaking our fast.

Ramadan and Eid in your community in a sentence

A time of reflection, kindness and renewal - aiming to be the best version of ourselves while promoting unity, empathy and a common humanity. This will be our first Ramadan at The Executive Towers and we are looking forward to celebrating this holy time with our new neighbours.

As the spirit of Ramadan filled our community, stories like Hala’s remind us of the universal beauty of tradition, gratitude and togetherness. Whether it’s through the warmth of a family meal, the quiet moments of reflection or the joy of sharing with others, Ramadan truly brings us all closer.

Your Guide to Hosting Private Events

Planning a special event, casual picnic or a birthday celebration is always exciting. Take note of these important tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for you and your guests while being mindful of your neighbours.

Private Home Gathering

Avoid bright outdoor lights and live music especially before 8 AM and after 10 PM, to prevent disturbances.

Private Gatherings in Community Common Areas

If you’re planning to host in a shared space, please adhere to community rules:

No alcohol or restricted items

Keep noise levels in check

Encourage guests to arrive in a staggered manner to avoid congestion at entry points.

Clean up after your gathering

Events should conclude by 10 PM

NOTE: To reserve a section of a community common area, please contact the community team at least a week in advance. While a portion of the space can be set aside for your gathering, please note that the entire venue cannot be exclusively reserved, as priority is given to community-wide events.

Let’s keep our celebrations enjoyable and respectful for everyone.

3 Step Guide to Listing Your Holiday Home Like a Pro

If you're considering listing your apartment or villa as a holiday home, please be aware that Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET) approval and the DTCM Holiday Home Permit are mandatory before proceeding. This ensures that all holiday rentals comply with regulations and meet the necessary standards.

1

Register on the Holiday Homes portal https://hh.dtcm.gov. ae/holidayhomes/ Welcome.aspx to add your unit.

2

Submit the required documents, including:

▶ Title Deed/Sales Purchase Agreement

▶ Payment completion certificate

▶ Homeowner’s signed copy of passport /Emirates ID

▶ Trade License (for companies) plus Emirates ID/ passport of authorised signatory

▶ Property Management Letter (as per template)

▶ Current DEWA bill

▶ Tenancy contract (for rented units)

3

Once approved, self-classify your property and pay the required fee.

Why this is important

This permit helps ensure that all holiday homes in the community meet safety and regulatory requirements, creating a secure and well-managed environment for both residents and visitors.

Electrical Overload: A Silent Risk!

Did you know that a majority of apartment and villa fires have been caused by electrical overloading? Plugging too many devices into a single circuit can lead to dangerous overheating and fire hazards.

Stay Safe with These Simple Tips:

▶ Follow manufacturer guidelines and avoid overloading circuits.

▶ Limit the number of appliances plugged into an extension box.

▶ Need more outlets? Always consult a licensed electrician for safe installations.

Your home's safety starts with smart electrical use. Stay cautious and prevent hazards.

Hidden Impact of Feeding Stray Cats and Birds

The immediate act of feeding stray animals or birds may feel compassionate, but over time, it creates a snowball effect of challenges.

Littering and Droppings

Birds leave behind droppings that accumulate in communal areas, creating unsanitary conditions and increasing the need for frequent maintenance and cleaning.

Hygiene Issues

Stray cats often scavenge through sand, bins and other areas, leaving behind food scraps and waste. This not only attracts pests and rodents but also leads to an unclean community environment.

Pest Infestation

Bird droppings and leftover food attract scavengers such as insects and rodents, which can lead to pest control issues and further spread of diseases.

Uncontrolled

Population Growth

Stray cats reproduce rapidly, leading to overpopulation and increased instances of noise disturbances, foul odours and hygiene concerns in common spaces.

Respiratory Concerns

Accumulated bird droppings contribute to airborne allergens, exacerbating asthma and respiratory issues among residents.

As responsible community residents, we urge your support in prioritising sustainable solutions to maintain a safe, hygienic and pestfree environment.

and let us know what you love - and what we can do better. Your experience in our community matters.

Roll Safe, Ride Smart

Approved Routes Only

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has designated specific districts, streets and lanes for e-scooter use.

Click here to view the approved routes. Please note that e-scooters are not permitted on jogging or walking tracks within communities.

Speed Limits

Residential areas & beaches:

Max 20 km/h

Designated streets

shared with vehicles:

Max 20 km/h

Stay Connected with Your Community

Never miss important updates, events or emergency notices. Ensure your contact details – email, mobile number and WhatsApp numbers are up to date.

With the growing popularity of e-scooters and mopeds in our neighbourhoods, it's essential to stay informed about mobility rules and safety guidelines.

Prohibited Vehicles

Quad bikes, dune buggies and recreational motorbikes are not allowed in residential areas.

License & Permit Requirements

Riders without a driving license must obtain an RTA permit by passing an online test before using an e-scooter in designated zones.

Safety First Riders must be 16 years or older.

Helmets and reflective jackets are mandatory.

Maintain a safe distance from pedestrians, bikes and other e-scooters.

Battery Safety

Always purchase batteries and chargers from trusted sellers.

Stop charging immediately if you notice overheating, deformation, unusual noise (hissing/cracking), a burning smell or smoke.

Use the Real Connect app for online services, permits, enquiries, modification requests and more. Stay informed, stay connected.

Need assistance? Call us at 800

or email us at community@dubaicm.ae

Renovate Right, Stay Compliant

Top 3 CCTV Must-Knows

With eyes on security 24/7, it is important to also mind one’s privacy. Residents of villa communities are urged to comply with the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) guidelines for closedcircuit television systems (CCTV) installation in their properties.

Here is a refresher of three key rules that all villa owners must follow to guarantee the privacy of their neighbours as they use the ubiquitous electronic eye to maintain the safety and security of their own premises.

Planning a home upgrade? Here’s what you need to know. In order to maintain the visual harmony of our community, any modifications to your villa’s exterior require prior approval from the community management team and relevant authorities.

What needs approval?

Before making changes, ensure you get approval for modifications such as:

▶ Exterior painting & permanent decorations

▶ Satellite dishes, TV antennae & visible wiring

▶ Sunshades, canopies & fencing

▶ Gazebos, pergolas & sheds

Compliance & Penalties

The Dubai Land Department (DLD) regularly audits all community transactions and operations for home modifications within its Mollak system to ensure compliance with regulations. Unauthorised changes such as those mentioned below can lead to penalties, including fines and potential legal action.

For a smooth approval process, ensure all modifications comply with DLD and community guidelines and check your work permit for permitted noisy works.

Camera Placement Visibility & Signage

CCTV cameras must be positioned within villa’s boundaries and must not capture neighbouring homes, windows or community common areas.

Cameras should be clearly visible, not hidden. Hidden cameras require prior approval from SIRA. Ensure proper signage is displayed to indicate CCTV monitoring.

Any non-compliance can result in penalties and legal action. Find out more details on the applicable CCTV system regulations by clicking here.

Security & Access

CCTV footage should be used strictly for security purposes and must only be accessible to authorised personnel.

From The Regulator’s Desk

Owners' Committee Registration by RERA

The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) will now be directly responsible for overseeing the review, formation and approval of Owners' Committees (OC) for jointly owned properties (JOPs), ensuring a more streamlined and transparent approach.

This change is part of the regulator’s ongoing efforts to enhance governance, transparency and the sustainability of jointly owned properties in Dubai.

What this means for you:

Direct Communication from RERA

RERA will contact and invite all property owners to join the Owner’s Committees.

Simplified Approval

Dubai Holding Community Management will no longer review OC applications; instead, will be controlled by RERA.

Company-owned Properties’ applications

Applications for properties owned by companies will still be submitted via management companies but will undergo final approval by RERA.

Corporate News

New Standards of Excellence

Dubai Holding Community Management has achieved three prestigious ISO certifications—ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 that reflect our unwavering commitment to quality management, environmental responsibility and occupational health and safety.

As we celebrate this milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to maintaining these high community standards towards safe, sustainable and high-quality living and continuously improving our processes for a better tomorrow.

DUBAI HOLDING COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT

Dubai Holding Community Management is a premium provider of community management services and an integral part of Dubai Holding. Established in 2024 with Nakheel Community Management and Dubai Community Management joining forces, Dubai Holding Community Management has quickly positioned itself as a leader in the industry, delivering exceptional services to maintain and enhance residential communities and districts across Dubai.

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Serena Spring Newsletter - Q1 2025 by DHCM - Issuu