The Times of India

An Indian family in Dubai experienced a moment of panic when the gold they owned, worth AED 50,000 was accidentally thrown away. A diligent waste worker found the valuables. Dubai Police swiftly traced the gold back to the family. The precious items were returned within three days, showcasing civic efficiency and honesty.

Bahraini rap sensation Flipperachi is set to make his India debut with a Mumbai concert on March 13, 2026, at Phoenix Marketcity. Following his massive success in India, amplified by the film 'Dhurandhar', fans can anticipate an immersive, high-energy performance featuring his global hits and signature visuals.

India and the UAE are forging a powerful AI alliance in 2026, prioritising human-centric development for social welfare and equitable growth. The strategic partnership focuses on shared values. It aims to leverage AI for societal benefit through joint infrastructure, workforce development and ethical governance frameworks to set a global precedent.

Indian citizens seeking UAE visas in 2026 face increased scrutiny, with common rejections stemming from minor errors. Wonder what the key pitfalls include? Read on as we spill the beans on incomplete applications, passport issues, incorrect visa categories, weak financial proof and insufficient ties that could be the reason behind visa rejection. Careful documentation and adherence to guidelines are crucial for a smooth approval process.

Choithrams is implementing a permanent price reduction on thousands of everyday essentials across the UAE, aiming for everyday lower pricing rather than temporary promotions. This strategic move, affecting around 10,000 products with average cuts of 15%, seeks to provide predictable savings for consumers, especially ahead of Ramadan.

The Philippines' Department of Migrant Workers is introducing major digital changes. These reforms aim to make services faster for Overseas Filipino Workers, including those in the UAE. The goal is to cut down waiting times and simplify procedures. Digital passes and streamlined travel clearances will be key. This modernisation will improve support and protection for millions of vital overseas workers.

Newly released US Justice Department emails link Emirati diplomat Hind Al-Owais to Jeffrey Epstein in 469 exchanges from 2011-2012. While no charges are filed, the messages, including references to arranging social encounters and introducing her sister, have sparked debate given Epstein's sex trafficking convictions. The files are unverified, and Al-Owais remains in her role.

Kuwait's Cabinet has declared February 25th and 26th, 2026, as public holidays to celebrate National Day and Liberation Day. This announcement grants public sector employees a four-day break, including the weekend, with work resuming on March 1st. The holidays commemorate significant historical events and foster national pride through various public celebrations.

The Holy Quran Museum in Mecca has unveiled a rare folio from the legendary Blue Quran, a 9th-century manuscript renowned for its deep blue parchment and gold ink. This significant exhibit highlights the rich history of Islamic calligraphy and manuscript art, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's role in safeguarding global religious heritage.

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Education has officially integrated electronic gaming into school curricula, encompassing both competitive and educational aspects. This landmark initiative aims to equip students with 21st-century digital skills, foster creativity and prepare them for careers in the rapidly growing gaming industry, aligning with global trends in educational innovation.

Gulf nations are prioritizing long-term residency to attract top talent. Qatar's new 10-year permit targets founders and executives, offering self-sponsorship and property ownership. The UAE's established Golden Visa caters to a wider audience, including investors and skilled professionals, with flexible residency and family sponsorship. Both signal a move towards talent retention.

Previously unseen emails reveal UAE logistics giant DP World's CEO, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, engaged in crude sexual discussions with Jeffrey Epstein for over a decade, even after his 2008 conviction. These leaked US Justice Department documents expose elite networks and raise serious questions about powerful figures' enduring ties to Epstein, impacting global business perceptions.

Global music icon Shakira is set to make her Doha debut on April 1, 2026, at Stadium 974 as part of her record-breaking Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour. Tickets are now live, with demand surging as fans eagerly anticipate her performance of career-defining hits and new tracks.

Driving in Abu Dhabi? Driver alert! The UAE emirate has lowered speed limits on three busy roads. These new rules began on February 09, 2026 after which major highways have now have reduced speeds. This move aims to cut down on high-speed accidents. Authorities are increasing enforcement and drivers must adjust their habits.

Dubai is taking bold steps to solve traffic jams. New technology like AI traffic signals is already improving flow. Major road projects are adding capacity. School zones are getting upgrades. Futuristic plans include driverless pods, air taxis and an underground loop. These efforts aim for smoother commutes and a smarter city.

Dubai's Global Village offers a playful souvenir passport, allowing visitors to collect custom stamps from over 30 international pavilions. This themed booklet transforms a park visit into a miniature world tour, serving as an affordable and engaging keepsake. It encourages exploration and captures the spirit of experiencing diverse cultures in a single evening.

Global Village announces its operating hours and Ramadan program, featuring cultural evenings, diverse food, and togetherness. The destination will be adorned with traditional decor and a new majlis-inspired seating area, Multaqa, will encourage social gatherings. Visitors can enjoy live music, cultural performances, and a wide array of dining and shopping options throughout the Holy Month.

Saudi Arabia has quietly begun selling alcohol to wealthy, non-Muslim foreign residents, a significant shift after over 70 years of prohibition. This move, linked to Vision 2030, targets affluent expats with premium residency and high incomes, signaling a cautious approach to social liberalization aimed at boosting tourism and investment. Further expansion is reportedly planned.

Staying in the UAE beyond your visa's validity incurs fines. Wonder what is the amount per day for most visa types? Authorities offer online and in-person methods to check and pay these penalties, crucial for avoiding travel bans and future visa application issues. Tracking expiry dates and extending visas proactively are key to preventing these costs.

Newly unsealed Epstein Files reveal fragments of the sacred Kaaba cloth, the Kiswa, laid on the floor of Jeffrey Epstein's US residence. The shipment, declared as artwork, had earlier sparked global outrage and deep cultural backlash within Muslim communities. Unanswered questions persist regarding the purpose and oversight of this transfer.

The Central Bank of the UAE has released limited edition gold and silver commemorative coins to celebrate five years of Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence. The coins, featuring university landmarks and national emblems, recognize MBZUAI's growth and its alignment with the UAE's AI and knowledge-driven economy goals.

The UAE Ministry of Education is seeking qualified educators and administrators for public schools, with applications now open for teaching and specialist roles. Applicants need a bachelor's degree, two years of experience, and fluency in Arabic and English, with an IELTS score of 6.5 required.

The UAE Ministry of Education has announced a fixed registration window for public schools, running from February 9 to March 6, 2026. This period is for Emirati citizens and eligible students seeking admission from Kindergarten to Grade 12. Early registration is crucial for schools to prepare resources and ensure a smooth start to the 2026-27 academic year.

Sharjah's Ruler inaugurated the Al Dhaid Wildlife Museum, a new interactive educational hub focused on the Arabian desert's biodiversity. This initiative reinforces the emirate's commitment to environmental stewardship, scientific research and public engagement with nature. The museum aims to foster ecological awareness and support sustainable development, enhancing Al Dhaid's appeal as a cultural and natural tourism destination.

King Khalid International Airport will undergo a significant terminal reshuffle from February 16 to February 25, 2026. This extensive operation will gradually reassign flights across multiple terminals for Saudia, flynas, flyadeal, and foreign airlines. Passengers are urged to verify their terminal assignments and arrive early to navigate these changes smoothly.

Arabic perfumes are a significant expression of personal style and cultural resonance this Ramadan, blending tradition with modern trends. Women are embracing floral-oriental, warm spice, and soft sweet scents, reflecting a global shift towards personalized and textured fragrance experiences. Layering these evocative scents creates unique sensory journeys, enhancing the spiritual and social rhythms of the holy month.

UAE Islamic Affairs Council has set official rates for Ramadan 2026 charitable contributions. Zakat Al Fitr is fixed at Dh25 per person, while Fidyah for missed fasts is Dh20 daily. Kaffarah for broken vows or invalidated fasts ranges from Dh200 to Dh1,200. These figures, based on market studies, ensure transparency and fairness in charitable giving across the Emirates.

Ramadan 2026 sees fragrance taking centre stage in the Gulf. Arabic cologne trends focus on heritage notes with modern touches. Woody, oud, amber and spicy oriental scents are popular. Fresh-spice hybrids offer a modern twist. Musk and soft leather accents provide subtle sophistication. Fragrances honour moments from prayers to Eid embraces.

Shashi Tharoor captivated Dubai at the Emirates Literature Festival, sharing insights on language's power to shape thought and culture. His Wonderland of Words session, blending humour and anecdotes, highlighted linguistic connections and the importance of clear communication. Tharoor also stressed lifelong reading for children and cautioned against over-reliance on AI for writing.

Dubai's early school admissions are changing for 2026-27 with a new December 31st age cut-off for FS1 and FS2. This shift, impacting new admissions, aims for uniformity but has caused anxiety for some families. Schools are introducing transitional programs and expanding capacity to support parents through this significant policy update.

Qatar will observe an official public holiday on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, for National Sports Day. This annual observance, falling on 22 Sha'ban 1447 AH, aims to promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles nationwide. Public and private institutions will organize various sporting and wellness events to encourage community participation.

Muslims across the world are gearing up for Ramadan 2026. What do the forecasts suggest? When will the holy month of fasting commence? How long is it expected to last? When will Ramadan conclude this year, leading to Eid al-Fitr celebrations? Read on as we spill all the details including shorter fasting hours due to the winter season, making observance more manageable.

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has launched its services on ChatGPT, marking a global first for government and utility providers. This move shifts DEWA towards conversational, AI-led service delivery, allowing customers to access information and support through natural language interactions. The initiative aims to enhance customer experience and position Dubai as a leader in AI and sustainable innovation.

Saudi security agencies arrested over 20,000 individuals for violating residency, labor, and border laws during intensified enforcement operations. The crackdown, which also saw 11,656 deportations, targeted illegal residents and those aiding them. Authorities continue to warn against facilitating illegal entry, with severe penalties for offenders.

Buying off-plan property in Dubai offers strategic entry into the market with flexible payment plans and potential price appreciation. Read on as we outline the process, from developer research and DLD/RERA registration to understanding costs, signing SPAs and navigating handover. While offering benefits like lower entry prices and customisation, buyers must be aware of risks such as construction delays and market fluctuations.

Dubai is undertaking a massive coastal transformation, expanding public beaches to 105 km and enhancing facilities by 400% through the Blue and Green Spaces 2030 Roadmap. Projects like Jumeirah Beach 1, Al Mamzar Beach Corniche with its floating bridge and a Dh500 million Umm Suqeim Beach makeover are set to redefine the emirate's shores, introducing innovative features and all-season destinations.