Whats is International Reply Coupons???
An international reply coupon (IRC) is a coupon that can be exchanged for one or more postage stamps representing the minimum postage for an unregistered priority airmail letter of up to twenty grams sent to another Universal Postal Union (UPU) member country. IRCs are accepted by all UPU member countries. UPU member postal services are obliged to exchange an IRC for postage, but are not obliged to sell them. The purpose of the IRC is to allow a person to send someone in another country a letter, along with the cost of postage for a reply. If the addressee is within the same country, there is no need for an IRC because a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE) will suffice; but if the addressee is in another country an IRC removes the necessity of acquiring foreign postage or sending appropriate currency. The IRC was introduced in 1906 at a Universal Postal Union congress in Rome. At the time an IRC could be exchanged for a single-rate, ordinary postage stamp for surface delivery to a foreign country, as this was before the introduction of airmail services. An IRC is exchangeable in a UPU member country for the minimum postage of a priority or unregistered airmail letter to a foreign country. The current IRC, available since July 1, 2009, is called the "Nairobi" model, and is available from post offices in more than 70 countries. IRCs are ordered from the UPU headquarters in Bern, Switzerland, by postal authorities. They are generally available at large post offices; in the U.S., they are requisitioned along with regular domestic stamps by any post office that has sufficient demand for them. A British 1 Shilling IRC issued in 1959.Prices for IRCs vary by country. In the United States in September 2011, the purchase price was $2.10[1]USD. IRCs purchased in foreign countries could be used in United States toward the purchase of postage stamps and embossed stamped envelopes at the current one-ounce First Class International rate ($0.98 USD as of January 2, 2011) per coupon.[2] IRCs are often used by amateur radio operators sending QSL cards to each other; it has traditionally been considered good practice and common courtesy to include an IRC when writing to a foreign operator and expecting a reply by mail.[3] Previous editions of the IRC, the "Beijing" model and all subsequent versions, bear an expiration date. Consequently, a new IRC will be issued every three years. The current IRC will become obsolete on 31 December 2013. Current stockpiles in the hands of users should be expended by then, or exchanged for the new issue to be introduced at that time. The current issue IRC may be exchanged until 31 December 2013 (date printed on coupon). Wikipedia
Find more about it in Universal post Union website.
New international reply coupon (IRC) ==> The UPU circulates a new international reply coupon (IRC).
Below is 2012 IRC :) Front Back
Stamps from Left to Right:
1. 2012 Puerta de Palmas. Badajoz :(self adhesive)
you can see that there is no value, as it is :Tarifa A
2. 2011 VIAS VERDE S "The green way":
The stamp Depicts two disused railway walkers by a line and the Greenways logo (Read More)
3. 2011 VALORES CÍVICOS "Civic Values" : (self adhesive)
This stamp is one of a 5 Set Stamps ( Read More )Thank you Guillermohere is the cover I sent him
On Dec, 5th Emirtes Post announced a new Personal PO Boxes Sevice (of 4 choices/Bundles),
My Home => for residents of villas to have a personal mail-box installed on villa's wall, so that mail can be delivered directly to and collected from their doorstep 3 times a week , with additional annual payment it can be six times a week. The villa resident shall signal whenever there is to be collected by activating a green light on the box + accessing and follow up mail box activity online+ weekly text message notification of the mail received & can see their mail online with details+ further to this a GPS locator + retain the PO box number even if they moved to another villa >> Cool !!!
My Building => for residents of apartments to rent P.O. Boxes in the premises of their building, such as in the lobby or basement, so that they need not leave their building to collect their mail+ online access the PO box +weekly text message notification of the mail they receive
My Zone=> delivers post through P.O. Box shelters set up in selected residential and commercial areas that are much closer for customers than outlying post offices. + access it online + Customers will get a prior text message notification regarding their mail
My Box => This is not new --it refers to the existing P.O. Box service where subscribers rent P.O. Boxes at post offices of their choice
This one is to Croatia sent on 11/Jan/2012
This one is to Spain Sent on 28/Jan/2012
Stamps as requested by the recipient hope he likes it (==> Click)
I had in mind to send letters on 31.Dec.2011 as last day of the year and the day was Saturday, although its weekened but they usually open at this day, I could have dropped them in the box but i wanted to mae sure the are all being stampped with the required post mark and correct date, the post office was closed :( but there was a notice on the entrance that said the tomorrow the central post office will be open ,, EVEN BETTER ! 1st January , so tried to remember as much of my friends name as possible and stamped them my self and sent them ... hope they like the surprise
The 2nd of December 2011 marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of unity between the seven founding fathers of the United Arab Emirates.
An anniversary of this prestige requires an iconic and strong brand platform to embody the achievements of the past four decades. The UAE 40 National Day logotype depicts a silhouette of the iconic image taken on 2nd of December 1971 depicting the establishment of the federation of the UAE.
This strong image captures the seven founders of the UAE, lead by the late HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who collectively believed strongly in the union. As per the original image, the UAE National flag is pivoted in the centre of the logotype. As a representative from the ruling family of Ras Al Khaimah was missing from the original picture the image was slightly modified to include Sheikh Saqr Bin Muhammed Al-Qasimi to ensure all seven emirates are illustrated. This modified image is one of the only true representations of the ruling fathers at the time, where spirit of the Union was born, and a flag was raised
The National Day Primary Colour Palette sets the tone for a strong and patriotic brand, inspired from The UAE national flag. The Secondary Colours allow for a wide range of combinations to add variety and longevity to the brand. The Secondary Colours have been inspired by the features within the seven Emirates, bringing together a palette that reflects the flavor of the UAE. Read More...visit http://en.uaenationalday.ae/here is the original picture
here is the design of the last stamp issued in 2011
Release Dated
-->02/12/2011
Denominations
-->AED 1
Size
-->35 x 45 mm in sheets of 20 stamps
Designer
-->40th National Day of UAE Celeberation Committee
Printing Method
-->Lithographic
[Pic is from WAM]
Off the coast of Abu Dhabi is a protected marine area where nature is respected and allowed to flourish. It’s through the protection of Bu Tinah unique environment, and the conservation of its habitats and inhabitants, that this important ecosystem has thrived.
Bu Tinah Island is part of the Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO recognised site and the region’s first and largest Marine Biosphere Reserve (MBR). These sites are vital for promoting more harmonious partnerships between natural and human activities and are key to the future of sustainable development.
Bu Tinah Island is a natural treasure of the UAE and the only finalist from the Arabian Gulf in the New 7 Wonders of Nature competition.
Technical Details of this issue:
Release Dated==> 30/11/2011
Denominations==> 10xV AED 1 each
Souvenir Sheet==>AED 15
Size==> 48x30 mm
Designer==> Environmnet Agency - Abu Dhabi
Printing Method==>Offset
The name says it all, She is the wife if the founder and builder of the UAERead more ..( click here)and more (click here)
Release : 24/07/2011
Denominations: AED 1
Size: 40 x 40 mm inPrinting Method: Lithographic
Release Date : 31/05/2011
Denominations: AED 1
Size 39 x 40 mm Designer
Printing Metho: Offset
The stamps depicting the leaders of GCC states were issued to mark the 31st GCC summit which was held in Abu Dhabi earlier in December 2010.
Release Dated : 05/04/2011
Denominations: 150 Fils
Souvenir Sheet Size: 35 x 50 mm
Printing Method: Offset
The ghaf (Prosopis cineraria) grows in the desert regions of south-eastern Arabia, as well as in Iran, Afghanistan, India and Pakistan. For centuries it has been an essential food source, as well as a source of fuel, shelter and medicine. Its leaves were once used instead of rice, its elongated pods provide fodder for animals which in turn supply milk, butter, cheese and meat. The ghaf woodlands also support large populations of insects, which in turn provide food for reptiles, birds and small mammals. This sturdy, evergreen tree can withstand prolonged drought and high salinity, tapping water deep in the sands. The existence of ghaf in an area indicates the presence of groundwater. But mounting developmental and demographic pressures are contributing to the tree's decline as ghaf woodlands are being cleared and groundwater over-extracted; depriving the trees of the little water they need to survive. Emirates Post have issued the followings:
Release Date: 31. Mar.2011
The stamp Denominations : AED 1
Size: 36 x 36 mm
Printing Method: Offset
Souvenir Sheet's is AED 40 "with Embroidering & Seed" 
This is m birthday cake ... @ a surprise party thrown by my sis , she later then said oh I wish I made the cake in a letter or stamp shape ! lol
so i a, going to treay my self by going to the 17 GCC Stamp Exhibition
Release Date: 4-4-2011
Denomination: 150 Fils (AED 1.5)
Size: 35 x 40 mm >>x 20 per sheet
Printing Method: Lithographic
wohoooo !! Emirates Post is back to business, first stamp of 2011 is finally out
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
"Exhibition aims to highlight the importance of philately which is no longer a minor hobby but had became the focus of VIPs & people of diferent age groups. the exhibition will also demonstrate the link between culture & the hobby of collecting stamps."
"Hosting of such an exhibition reflects the degree of cooperation among GCC countries in exchanging ideas & postal experience, as well as the latest trends. this even shall also help tp develope and encourage philately whih plays an educational role, especially among the youth and school children".
"Opportunity for stamps collectors from all GCC countires to exchange new ideas, spotlighting modern technologies used in the world of stamps, which in directly provides promotions & development of cultural and artistic capabilities."
read more
hereto mark this Emirates Post issued this stamp :)
Yas Marina Circuit is operated by Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management. It employs about 180 full-time staff, supported by up to 200 part-time workers and volunteers at peak times.
Right next door is the iconic Yas Hotel, a luxury marina, yacht club, six other hotels, the Yas Island golf links and the Ferrari World indoor theme park, set to open in late 2010. it is only 25 minutes away is the thriving city of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, largest of the seven Emirates and one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in the world.
nnovation. Beauty. Comfort. Whether a driver, a racing team or a spectator, Yas Marina Circuit has been designed to produce an unforgettable experience.
Inspired by the culture and values of Abu Dhabi combined with cutting-edge innovation and luxury features, it is a truly unique place.
Yas Marina Circuit is the perfect combination of style and function. The Formula 1™ track is 5.55km long. This track can be split in to smaller tracks at 3.1km and 2.4 km each which can operate simultaneously where desired
"Watani" Means My country but the Arabic word is used in both languages Arabic and English, it is a Community development programme aims to strengthen national identity and citizenship practices at all levels and sectors of society. This project is an extension of achievements since the UAE Federation seeks deeper patriotism through development programmes and events of all walks of life, whether social, cultural, economic, etc.
Were launched a national programme under the guidance of dignity of UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and ruler of Dubai his Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation to serve as a cover effectiveness across different from home bemnasht for all groups of society citizens and residents and visitors to confirm identity based national value constants dependent UAE culture and civilization and its social and political work to highlight the inherent values of UAE society and work to confirm their role in drafting the distinctive identity of the UAE in the world is threatened by melting more national identities
its logo is the Arabic word Watani "My Country" with a finger print
why Finger print !!
The adoption of fingerprint as a logo for the program to emphasize the importance of defining identity reflected in footprint at the same time focusing on the value of work and achievement as the home is their achievements and not merely a geographical entity. The awareness campaigns for the program to emphasize the importance of individual achievement and community building to accept differences and use a combination of the besmatna force whether red or green or black or white are UAE flag, fingerprints are home owners ' achievements, without diminution of value of any work contribute to a coherent national fabric come assembled on the diversity of its components
Set of two Stamps issued with two Denominations:
AED 1 four f.prints with the four flag colors
AED 1.50 showing the map of UAE made of people fingerprints
Date of Issue :
2-December-2010 ( National Day)
