The Times of India

The United Arab Emirates made history at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, marking its first-ever senior team debut. Alpine skiers Alexander Astridge and Piera Hudson proudly carried the UAE flag, showcasing the nation's growing commitment to winter sports. This milestone underscores a strategic, long-term vision for developing a sustainable winter sports ecosystem beyond traditional snowbound nations.

UAE residents should prepare for humid mornings and increasing cloud cover this week. Rain is possible, particularly over islands and coastal areas from Saturday night into Sunday, with another chance on Tuesday. Temperatures will rise until Monday before a slight dip. Light to moderate winds are expected, with occasional rough seas.

Newly released Justice Department records reveal how Jeffrey Epstein sought to distribute his fortune through a trust signed two days before his death in 2019. While the document named dozens of beneficiaries, including his girlfriend, lawyer and accountant, it made no provision for victims. Years of litigation and compensation payments have since dramatically reduced the estates value.

Newly released Justice Department files show British socialite Annabelle Neilson exchanged emails with Jeffrey Epstein from 20102012, discussing arranging girls years after his conviction. While the documents dont prove criminal conduct, their timing and language have raised concern. Officials warn the vast Epstein release contains unverified material that must be read in context and reflects records gathered during federal investigations.

The UAE and US have inked a strategic pact to bolster critical mineral and rare earth supply chains, crucial for defense and technology. This framework aims to accelerate secure supplies through policy tools and public-private investment across the entire value chain. Both nations will jointly identify projects and provide financing, enhancing economic and national security cooperation.

Oman Air announces a major Global Sale offering 20% off Business and Economy Class tickets. This promotion allows travelers to book spring and early summer 2026 getaways. The sale covers over 40 destinations across the airline's network. Tickets are available for travel between April 12 and June 24, 2026.

Dubai and UAE brace for intermittent light rain and cloudy skies, particularly in the early morning hours. Coastal areas may experience fog, impacting visibility. While northern regions anticipate more showers, Dubai's rainfall is expected to be brief. This unstable weather, influenced by pressure shifts, is typical for the winter transition.

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Education has revoked the operating licenses of 74 private schools due to repeated regulatory violations, including expired licenses and lack of safety certifications. This decisive action aims to protect student safety and uphold educational standards across the Kingdom.

Dubai has officially begun testing fully autonomous RT6 taxis on public roads, a significant stride in integrating AI into its transport system. Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum experienced a ride, showcasing the technology's readiness. This paves the way for a public launch in early 2026, with plans for over 1,000 vehicles.

Saudi Arabia has launched visa processing for the 2026 Hajj season, nearly four months ahead of schedule. This proactive measure, part of Vision 2030, aims to enhance service readiness, improve pilgrim comfort, and streamline logistics. Contracts for holy site services and Makkah accommodations are finalized, with significant pilgrim registration already underway, ensuring a more organized pilgrimage.

Brooklyn Beckham has visibly escalated his estrangement from his family by removing tattoos honoring his parents, covering Dad on his arm and replacing his mamas boy chest tattoo with a floral design. The changes, alongside his public statements about family tensions, mark a clear break from tradition, making his body art a striking symbol of his rift with Victoria and David Beckham.

A German-led wargame suggests Russia could secure key objectives in the Baltics within days by exploiting alliance hesitation and political ambiguity. A simulated incursion into southern Lithuania showed Nato members delaying military responses, allowing Moscow to establish control without major escalation. The exercise highlights how decision-making dynamics and expectations, rather than force alone, could shape outcomes in a future crisis.

Newly released US justice records reveal a 2015 draft email in which Ghislaine Maxwell set out her account of the disputed photograph linking Prince Andrew and Virginia Giuffre. The document, exchanged with Jeffrey Epstein as allegations intensified, contradicts earlier denials, fuels scrutiny of Andrews account, and has been seized on by Giuffres family as vindication after years of dispute.

Kuwaiti government employees will now work a shorter four-and-a-half-hour day during Ramadan, with flexible start times between 8:30 am and 10:30 am. This new framework, approved by the Civil Service Commission, aims to balance public service continuity with employee well-being during the fasting month. The flexible arrangement will be an annual practice.

Gulf job seekers face sophisticated scams, with fraudsters using AI and social media to lure victims. Authorities warn against upfront fees for visas or processing, unverified emails, and unrealistic offers. Always verify job offers through official government channels like MoHRE and MHRSD to avoid falling prey to these deceptive schemes.

Kuwait has introduced strict new rules for Ramadan 2026 charitable donations, prohibiting cash collections in mosques and public spaces. Fundraising is limited to approved electronic methods like K-Net, online transfers, and apps, with prior ministry approval needed for foreign donations. The ministry also added single Kuwaiti women aged 30 and above as a new beneficiary category.

Dubai is revolutionising air travel with its City Terminal Project, allowing passengers to check in and drop off luggage at city locations before being transported directly to their departure gates. This ambitious initiative aims to slash airport congestion and significantly enhance passenger experience, building on Dubai's status as a global aviation hub.

Abu Dhabi has launched Nutri-Mark, a pioneering front-of-pack nutrition labelling system using A-E grades to guide consumers and encourage healthier food products. This initiative, now mandatory for key categories, aims to combat rising obesity by simplifying nutritional information and promoting informed choices. Manufacturers are already reformulating products to achieve higher grades, fostering a healthier food environment.

Kuwait's Ministry of Interior has launched a new digital service via the Sahel app for expatriates to update passport details. This initiative eliminates the need for in-person visits to service centers, streamlining administrative processes and enhancing digital government efficiency for residents.

Travellers will soon experience easier journeys across Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman. A unified tourist visa is set to launch in 2026. This single permit will allow visitors to explore all six Gulf nations without applying for individual visas. The initiative aims to boost tourism and economic integration.

Sheikh Hamad bin Hamdan al Nahyan earned the nickname Rainbow Sheikh after commissioning Mercedes-Benz to build seven W126 S-Class saloons, each finished in a different colour and fully colour-matched inside. The order, widely reported to have disrupted factory production, set the tone for a collection defined by extreme customisation and scale rather than conventional luxury.

Abu Dhabi has launched a new marine programme, 'Hamdan bin Zayed: The Worlds Richest Seas,' aiming for one of the highest fish densities globally by 2030. This initiative combines regulatory oversight, habitat restoration including artificial reefs and mangrove planting, and technology-led monitoring to rebuild fish populations and enhance marine ecosystem sustainability.

Saudi Arabia's Public Security Directorate celebrated a significant milestone with 328 women graduating from basic security training. This marks a crucial step in integrating females into frontline roles, aligning with Vision 2030's reform agenda. The recruits are now equipped for diverse security assignments, enhancing the nation's operational capacity and promoting gender inclusion in national service.

Saudi Arabia has launched a new digital Camel Passport initiative to bring order and traceability to its camel sector. This system creates official identities for registered camels, linking ownership, health records, and breed information to enhance regulation, veterinary services, and market confidence.

UAE residents and workers are excited for Ramadan 2026, with mandatory reduced working hours for private and government sectors. Employees can expect at least two fewer hours daily in private firms, while government offices will operate from 9 am to 2:30 pm on weekdays. These adjustments aim to balance work with fasting and spiritual observance.

Doha hosts the inaugural Art Basel Qatar, a unique art fair designed for the MENASA region. Instead of a traditional format, it emphasizes thematic structure and deep engagement with local artistic narratives. With over half its artists from the region, the event fosters dialogue and showcases emerging talent, positioning Doha as a vital cultural bridge.

Dubai has partnered with Elon Musk's The Boring Company to construct the Dubai Loop, an underground transport system designed to significantly reduce commute times. The initial phase will feature a 6.4-kilometer pilot route connecting key districts, with the full network aiming to span over 22 kilometers and include 19 stations, transforming urban mobility.

The National Center for Meteorology issued an urgent alert for Makkah, forecasting intense winter storms with moderate to heavy thunderstorms, hail, and 60 km/h winds. Flash flood risks are high in valleys and low-lying areas, with rough seas expected along the Red Sea coast. Authorities urge extreme caution, especially for pilgrims and motorists.

Saudi Arabias oil giant Saudi Aramco has successfully raised $4 billion through a bond issuance. The move highlights strong investor trust in the company's financial stability. The issuance, part of a global program, was priced in January 2026 and completed in early February 2026. Proceeds will fund capital expenditures and diversification efforts. This strengthens Aramco's financial position and boosts confidence in Saudi Arabia's economy.

India has updated its duty-free allowance for returning residents and Indian-origin travelers to 75,000, including one laptop. New weight-based rules for jewelry and digitized customs processes aim to simplify travel. Passengers are advised to declare items exceeding the allowance to avoid penalties.

India's new customs baggage rules, effective February 02, 2026, significantly benefit international travellers, especially UAE residents and Indian expats. The duty-free allowance has been raised to 75,000 and value caps on gold jewellery are removed, replaced by weight limits. These modernised regulations aim to simplify procedures and enhance passenger convenience.

Ramadan 2026 sees UAE schools adopt a unique schedule, with students attending full in-person classes for only about eight days. The Ministry of Education and KHDA have prioritized spiritual reflection and family time, incorporating shorter weeks, remote learning options, and extended holidays. This approach aims to balance academic continuity with cultural observance, ensuring students can fully embrace the holy month.

Kuwait is undertaking extensive preparations for Ramadan 2026, readying approximately 1,700 mosques nationwide. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs is ensuring thorough maintenance, safety checks and infrastructure servicing to facilitate comfortable and secure worship for congregations. This holistic approach, involving cross-agency coordination, prioritises community well-being and the spiritual observance of the holy month.

Singapore Airlines is relaunching non-stop flights to Riyadh from June 2, 2026, after a 12-year absence. Operating four times weekly on Airbus A350-900s, this service aims to boost business, tourism and cultural exchange between Southeast Asia and the Middle East. The move signifies Riyadh's growing importance as a global hub and enhances connectivity for travellers.

Dubai is adopting the Sponge City model through a partnership with Shenzhen to enhance climate resilience and manage heavy rainfall. This initiative integrates permeable pavements, green roofs, and wetlands to absorb and purify rainwater, aiming to keep streets dry and functional while increasing urban greenery and reducing heat.

Dubai Mall's Fashion Avenue welcomes Daniel's Room, a unique concept by artist Daniel Arsham. This space artfully blends specialty coffee, exclusive desserts and contemporary art, offering an immersive experience. More than a caf, it is a cultural destination where design, objects and culinary delights intersect, inviting visitors to linger and explore.

Five elite wingsuit athletes from XDubai executed a daring precision flight around the world's tallest hotel, Ciel Dubai Marina, reaching speeds over 200 km/h. The stunt, including a pass through the eye of the needle, celebrated the hotel's grand opening and highlighted Dubai's strategy of fusing tourism, bold design and sky-high experiences.

A Qatar-based expat, Vinoth Anbarasan, won Dh50,000 in the Big Ticket raffle. He plans to share the winnings with friends and create a special memory for his daughter. The Big Ticket draw has been a popular event for over 30 years, offering hope and significant prizes to expatriates across the Gulf.

Dubai is launching its revolutionary underground transport system, the Dubai Loop, in partnership with Elon Musk's The Boring Company. This high-speed network aims to bypass traffic congestion, starting with a crucial link between DIFC and Dubai Mall. The project promises faster, integrated travel, with initial test runs anticipated by 2026, transforming urban mobility.

India's Union Budget 2026-27 brings welcome changes for NRIs in the UAE. Investment limits in Indian equities have doubled, making it easier to build stakes. Property sales compliance is simplified, reducing administrative hurdles. Overseas travel and education remittances see reduced taxes, lowering costs. These reforms aim to boost diaspora engagement with India's economy.

The U.S. Department of State has expanded visa restrictions for citizens of 39 countries deemed on-compliant. This policy, under Section 243(d) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, impacts visitor, student, and immigrant visas. While UAE nationals are unaffected, expats from these nations residing in the UAE will face stricter rules and potential delays for U.S. travel.

A viral tweet sparked a debate on identity and racism after some Saudis used 'Indian' as an insult towards Emiratis celebrating a Hindu temple. Emirati analyst Amjad Taha countered by highlighting India's civilisational contributions, advocating for mutual respect. The incident underscores regional perceptions and fosters dialogue on cultural pride versus xenophobia.

Dubai is set to revolutionize urban transit with Glydways, an autonomous electric pod system launching within four months. These driverless vehicles will operate on dedicated tracks, tackling the last-mile challenge and aiming to eliminate traffic congestion. This initiative is a significant step towards Dubai's goal of 25% autonomous trips by 2030.

Global K-pop sensation BTS has been spotted leaving for Dubai. The pap videos from the airport have excited fans worldwide. It marks a significant reunion for the group after their military service. Speculation is rife about their upcoming album 'Arirang' and a massive world tour. The visit also hints at potential future entertainment collaborations in the UAE.

The UAE Fatwa Council has declared the traditional Haq Al Laila celebration permissible under Islamic law, provided it aligns with core principles. This mid-Sha'ban festivity, involving children collecting sweets and community gatherings, strengthens family and social bonds. The ruling permits cultural observances and spiritual reflection, encouraging unity and joy as Ramadan nears.

UAE residents are set for a Winter Ramadan in 2026, with fasting expected to begin on February 19th. Fasting hours will be a pleasant 12 hours and 45 minutes initially, gradually increasing. The article provides a detailed daily timetable for Suhoor, Iftar, and Isha prayers, aiding in planning for this sacred period.

Official prayer timings for Tuesday, February 3, 2026, have been released by AWQAF across the UAE, with Fajr prayers commencing at 5:41 AM in Abu Dhabi and 5:37 AM in Dubai. The article also highlights post-prayer practices like Dhikr and Ayat al-Kursi recitation for spiritual clarity. Ramadan 2026 is anticipated to begin around February 18th, falling during the cooler season.

Trevor Noahs unscripted potato joke at the Grammys name-checked Polymarket and caught the attention of crypto bettors, despite no such wager existing. The line turned a niche prediction market into a live-TV reference, sparking online debate and fast clip circulation across crypto and entertainment circles during the broadcast and across social platforms within minutes.