'Momentum from Trump-Putin meeting gone': Russia on Alaska summit; blames 'Europeans' October 08, 2025 at 02:26AM

UAE to provide students with free Google Gemini Pro subscription for one year starting October 2025 October 08, 2025 at 01:09AM

University students in the UAE can now access Google Gemini Pro for free for one year, a cutting-edge AI platform designed to enhance learning and research. This initiative, part of the UAE's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, empowers students with advanced tools like Gemini 2.5 Pro and NotebookLM. Registration is open until December 9, 2025, requiring verification through SheerID.

Qatar to grant QAR 12,000 marriage allowance, up to 150% pay raises for top-performing employees under new law October 08, 2025 at 12:42AM

Qatar's new Law No. 25 of 2025 introduces significant reforms for government employees, effective January 1, 2026. Key changes include an annual QAR 12,000 marriage allowance for Qatari couples, performance-based salary raises up to 150% of grade allowance, and enhanced family benefits like increased emergency leave and extended maternity leave.

UAE to witness rare Hunter Supermoon tonight: When and where to catch the best views October 07, 2025 at 02:12AM

On October 7, 2025, the UAE will witness the rare Hunter Supermoon, appearing 14% larger and 30% brighter than usual. From deserts to mountains and beaches, prime viewing spots across the country offer stunning experiences. Organized events and natural locations provide opportunities to enjoy this spectacular celestial event in clear, dark skies under expert guidance.

Who is Khaled El-Enany, the Egyptian nominee set to become UNESCO’s first Arab Director-General? October 07, 2025 at 02:05AM

Egypt's former Tourism Minister, Dr. Khaled El-Enany, is poised to make history as the first Arab candidate nominated for UNESCO Director-General. His strong nomination by the Executive Board now awaits a final vote from member states in November. El-Enany, an Egyptologist and heritage expert, aims to champion global heritage and intercultural understanding.

Saudi Arabia: King Salman orders 24-hour access to Madinah’s historic Masjid Al-Qiblatain for worshippers October 07, 2025 at 12:23AM

King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has issued a royal directive opening Masjid Al-Qiblatain in Madinah 24 hours a day, effective October 6, 2025. This landmark decision ensures continuous access for Muslims to pray and reflect at the historic mosque, highlighting the Kingdom's commitment to spiritual devotion and accessibility for all.

Dubai: Emirates unveils $8 million state-of-the-art training centre; set to train 10,000+ cabin crew by year-end October 06, 2025 at 11:43PM

Emirates has launched a state-of-the-art, $8 million Hospitality Training Centre in Dubai to elevate cabin crew service to Michelin-inspired standards. Designed to train over 10,000 crew by year-end, the facility features fine dining simulations, wine training, and immersive service courses. It reflects Emirates’ commitment to delivering world-class luxury and personalized experiences to passengers worldwide.

UAE to tax drinks by sugar level from January 2026: Here’s what you’ll pay under the new system October 06, 2025 at 01:45AM

Starting January 1, 2026, the UAE will replace its flat 50% soft drink tax with a tiered system based on sugar content per 100ml. This aims to promote healthier choices, making high-sugar drinks pricier and potentially lowering costs for low or zero-sugar alternatives. Consumers and businesses must prepare for these significant price and registration changes.

World’s 10 tallest bridges 2025: Stunning heights, scenic views, and China’s modern engineering feats October 06, 2025 at 01:09AM

China dominates the global list of the world's tallest bridges, showcasing remarkable engineering and innovation. These towering structures, measured by deck height, are crucial transport links that significantly reduce travel times and stimulate regional economic growth. With several new bridges scheduled for completion, China continues to redefine the limits of civil engineering achievement.

UAE launches cyber safety video contest for kids: Dh30,000 in prizes up for grabs October 06, 2025 at 01:09AM

The UAE Cybersecurity Council launched the Nebras Contest on October 6, 2025, inviting children and youth up to 16 to promote digital safety through creative video clips. Offering Dh30,000 in prizes, this initiative aims to empower young minds, enhance digital skills, and build a nationwide culture of cybersecurity awareness, addressing the prevalence of social engineering in cyberattacks.

Hague Horror: How a sex scandal is threatening International Criminal Court (ICC) Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan's legacy October 05, 2025 at 11:42PM

Khan, who issued unprecedented arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes in Gaza, is facing serious allegations of sexual misconduct made by a former aide. The timing of the allegations — surfacing soon after the Israeli warrants — has fuelled claims of political sabotage and divided international opinion over whether justice or geopolitics is on trial.

Flydubai updates power bank rules from October 2025 following Emirates safety measures October 05, 2025 at 12:23AM

Starting October 1, 2025, Flydubai will allow passengers to carry only one power bank with a capacity of 100Wh or less in hand baggage. Use of power banks onboard is banned, and they must be stored under the seat or in the seat pocket—not in overhead lockers or checked luggage. These rules align with Emirates’ safety measures to reduce lithium battery risks during flights.

Netflix vs Elon Musk: Streaming platform shares fall 5% in a week; here's why Tesla CEO is not watching it anymore October 05, 2025 at 12:01AM

Netflix shares have tumbled nearly 5% recently after Elon Musk urged his X followers to boycott the streaming giant. Musk criticized Netflix for alleged transgender messaging in children's shows, specifically "Dead End: Paranormal Park." This comes as Netflix prepares for strong Q3 earnings, though the boycott's impact on subscriber numbers remains unclear.

Saudi Arabia enacts new housing support regulations: Eligibility, conditions, explained October 04, 2025 at 11:48PM

Saudi Arabia has enforced new housing support regulations, introducing strict eligibility rules, a points-based priority system, and repayment terms. The framework targets low-income and special-needs groups, with clear guidelines on residency, ownership, and financial limits. Oversight includes data accuracy requirements, penalties for misinformation, and a formal appeals process, aligning with Vision 2030 goals for equitable housing access

‘It was just cologne’: Indian-origin man in Arkansas detained by ICE over perfume mistaken for 'opium'; writes letter to resolve his immigration status October 04, 2025 at 01:30AM

An Indian-origin man in Arkansas, Kapil Raghu, was detained by US immigration after police mistook his perfume bottle, labeled "Opium," for the illegal substance. Despite lab confirmation it was perfume, an alleged visa error led to 30 days in ICE custody. Charges were dropped, but his work visa is revoked, jeopardizing his US citizenship and family's livelihood.

‘Flotilla vessel blocked’: Switzerland lodges protest over Israel stopping Gaza-bound ship; demands unhindered access to citizens October 04, 2025 at 12:19AM

Switzerland announced a diplomatic protest against Israel after its security forces restricted Swiss diplomats' access to detained nationals from a Gaza aid flotilla. The flotilla, carrying activists including Greta Thunberg, was intercepted by Israel, which called the mission a "stunt" in an active combat zone. Global protests followed the incident.

Pakistan: 4 students injured in bomb explosion inside school in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa; toy bomb discovered in classroom October 03, 2025 at 11:27PM

Four students sustained injuries in a school bomb explosion in Pakistan. A fourth-grade student carried an abandoned mortar shell into his classroom. The device detonated when it fell to the floor. Injured students received medical attention at a hospital. Authorities are now searching for additional unexploded ordnance. Similar incidents occur frequently near the Afghan border.

2025 Umrah visa updates: What every pilgrim must know before the journey October 03, 2025 at 12:42AM

Saudi Arabia has rolled out major updates to the 2025 Umrah visa process, effective June 10. Pilgrims must now secure confirmed hotel and transportation bookings via the Nusuk platform before applying. Tourist visas are no longer valid for Umrah, and new rules require host's Saudi ID for family stays.

‘Possessed firearms’: Former Des Moines school superintendent detained by ICE faces federal charges; held four guns October 02, 2025 at 11:14PM

Former Des Moines superintendent Ian Roberts was detained by ICE and faces federal charges for illegal firearm possession. His work authorization expired in 2020, and he had a 2024 deportation order, despite the school district claiming he was a US citizen. Multiple firearms were found, prompting a DOJ civil rights investigation into the district.

'Gandhi statue restored': London monument repaired after vandalism; UK envoy hails it as 'fabric of India-UK friendship' October 02, 2025 at 12:05AM

The Mahatma Gandhi statue in London's Tavistock Square, recently vandalized, has been fully restored just in time for Gandhi Jayanti and the International Day of Non-Violence. Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami paid tribute, highlighting its significance for India-UK friendship and the enduring message of non-violence. The restoration symbolizes renewal after the defacement.

'Mock Taipei': China expands replica of Taiwan’s govt buildings in Mongolia; satellite images show site tripled in size since 2020 October 01, 2025 at 11:15PM

China has significantly expanded its mock Taipei government buildings at the Zhurihe Training Base, tripling its size since 2020. This includes replicas of key institutions and a symbolic tunnel, indicating intensified military preparations and urban warfare drills. Experts view this as refining invasion strategies and psychological warfare against Taiwan, demanding heightened vigilance.

How has Mark Rutte navigated his first year as Nato head? September 30, 2025 at 11:13PM

Mark Rutte, Nato's new secretary general, successfully navigated a challenging first year, particularly with a reelected US President Donald Trump. He secured increased defense spending from European allies, leading to Trump's recommitment to the alliance. Experts largely praised Rutte's diplomatic efforts in keeping the US engaged and giving Europe time to bolster its defenses.