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World / The Times of India
Telecom giant du is showering UAE residents with a massive 54GB of free 5G data to celebrate the nation's 54th National Day. Post-paid users get it automatically for seven days, while prepaid Flexi Yearly subscribers enjoy a full year. This generous offer, starting December 1, 2025, ensures everyone stays connected during the festivities.
The Hayya Platform is Qatars official e-visa system, streamlining entry, event access, and travel documentation in one interface. It offers multiple visa types, including tourist, GCC resident, ETA, companion, and visa-free for U.S. citizens. By simplifying immigration, linking visas to event tickets, and improving visitor flow, Hayya enhances tourism, supports major events, and strengthens Qatars global connectivity.
Starting November 30, 2025, GCC residents can stay in Qatar for up to two months under the updated Hayya A2 visa. The visa allows multiple entries, enabling visitors to travel freely during their stay, attend events, and explore Qatars cultural and entertainment offerings. The updates aim to simplify visits, enhance regional connectivity, and boost tourism during a busy event season.
The UAE has waived over AED 475 million in debts for 1,435 Emirati citizens through the Defaulted Debts Settlement Fund, in collaboration with 19 banks. Targeting low-income earners, retirees, senior citizens, medical cases, and the deceased, the initiative aims to ease financial pressures, restore stability, and support family wellbeing, reflecting the leaderships commitment to social development and citizen welfare.
The UAEs Golden Visa has expanded beyond traditional investment routes to include superyacht owners and maritime professionals, reflecting the nations push to attract global wealth and specialised talent. With high financial thresholds, detailed eligibility rules, and distinct pathways in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the programme positions the UAE as a leading year-round hub for luxury yachting and long-term residency.
Abu Dhabi is offering free parking and Darb tolls for three days starting Sunday, November 30, to celebrate UAE National Day. The initiative aims to make travel and festivities across the capital easier for residents and visitors. Parking fees and tolls will resume on Wednesday, December 3, encouraging people to join national celebrations with convenience and ease.
Starting in 2026, Filipino citizens will be able to visit Oman without a visa for stays up to two weeks. Announced by the Omani Embassy during National Day celebrations in Makati, the move aims to boost tourism and strengthen ties. Plans include expanding direct flights from Manila and Cebu, offering Filipinos easier access to Omans unique landscapes and cultural experiences.
The UAEs Golden Visa program now includes humanitarian workers and volunteers, offering long-term residency of 5 to 10 years without sponsorship. Applicants must demonstrate meaningful contributions in recognized fields and secure endorsements from registered organizations. This initiative reflects the UAEs commitment to supporting humanitarian efforts both locally and globally, providing stability and recognition to those dedicated to serving communities.
Dubai Police have fined over 8,000 delivery riders since enforcing a ban on fast-lane riding on 1st November. Riders must avoid leftmost lanes on multi-lane roads to reduce accident risks. Penalties range from AED 500 fines to license suspension. The initiative, part of a five-year traffic safety plan, emphasizes speed limits, protective gear, defensive driving, and awareness campaigns to safeguard riders.
Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister, is a billionaire royal with an estimated net worth of $30 billion. Owner of Manchester City and City Football Group, his empire spans sports, finance, real estate, and luxury assets. A key political figure, he oversees major investments, sovereign wealth funds, and strengthens UAEs global influence through business and diplomacy.
Dubai's RTA announces extended Metro and Tram timings for the Eid Al Etihad holiday, November 29 to December 2, 2025. Motorists enjoy free public parking on December 1 and 2, excluding specific zones. Passengers are reminded of strict luggage rules for public transport to ensure smooth travel.
The UAEs Black Points System assigns penalties to drivers for traffic violations, with each offense adding points that remain on the license for a year. Reaching 24 points can lead to suspension, fines or retraining. Drivers can check their points through police websites, mobile apps, SMS alerts or at traffic service centres to stay aware and avoid penalties.
Emirates brings the 54th UAE National Day to travelers with a unique inflight experience. Passengers can enjoy Emirati-inspired desserts, aromatic Arabic coffee, and festive cabin lighting. The award-winning ice entertainment system offers Arabic movies, TV shows, music, and podcasts. Dubai lounges also feature traditional dishes, creating a fully immersive cultural celebration for all passengers.
In a heartwarming gesture ahead of the 54th UAE National Day, Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman have freed over a thousand prisoners. Rulers Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi and Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi's pardons, including settling financial debts for some, offer a fresh start and family reunion, embodying the UAE's values of forgiveness and community welfare.
Sharjah Police are offering drivers a traffic point waiver and fines discounts ahead of the UAEs 54th National Day. Violations before December 1, 2025, can have points cleared if dues are paid by January 10, 2026. Fines receive 35% discount if paid within 60 days, 25% within a year. The initiative promotes safer driving and compliance with traffic rules.
Riyadh Metro has officially been certified by Guinness World Records as the world's longest fully driverless train network, spanning 176 km across six lines and 85 stations. This significant achievement underscores the Kingdom's commitment to advanced urban mobility and positions Riyadh as a global leader in high-tech transportation infrastructure.
For UAE National Day 2025, Dubais RTA offers free public parking (excluding multi-storey lots) from November 30 to December 2, along with extended metro and tram hours. Public buses and marine transport schedules may vary, and select Smart Customer Happiness Centres remain open 24/7. These measures aim to ensure smooth travel and convenient access to services during the Eid Al Etihad holiday.
The UAE's Ministry of Economy & Tourism launched TM Market Place, the region's first digital platform for trading registered trademarks. This initiative aims to enhance the liquidity of brand assets, encourage trademark registrations, and attract global businesses by simplifying and securing trademark transactions.
Qatar's education ministry is streamlining end-of-semester exams for 2025-2026. Students can depart post-exam to curb crowding, while staff gain two hours of flexible time. New academic calendar shifts exams away from Ramadan and National Day, introducing a Test Day, Rest Day for high schoolers. These changes prioritize student well-being and operational efficiency.
Saudi Arabia is formalizing workplace attire with a new draft code. Saudi men must wear national dress, while non-Saudi men need a formal suit. Women are required to dress modestly, avoiding tight or transparent clothing. Employers must enforce these rules, facing penalties for non-compliance, aiming for a unified professional image nationwide.
Emirates is enhancing the Thanksgiving experience for international travelers with special festive menus served from November 24 to 30 on all flights to and from its 12 US gateways. The airline is also offering holiday dining in select Emirates Lounges starting November 23, ensuring a comprehensive gourmet celebration for passengers.
In celebration of Oman National Day 2025, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, lunched the book Oman Odyssey by Assouline. The publication offers an immersive journey through Omans history, culture, and landscapes, combining vivid storytelling and photography. The launch at Maison Assouline in London highlights Omans heritage on a global stage.
Ex Chief Justice of India BR Gavai stated he faced no executive pressure and defended the Collegium system's transparency. He cautioned against judicial overreach, emphasizing courts must act within constitutional limits, especially when addressing ulldozer justice and collective punishment.
In Gaya, MLA Prem Kumar passionately addresses the citys chronic traffic woes, drawing from his own frustrating encounters on the roads. His comprehensive strategy involves moving markets to less congested areas, clearing out illegal encroachments, and strategically placing traffic signals and CCTV cameras for better monitoring.
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant is considering a shift to virtual-only Supreme Court proceedings due to Delhi's severe air pollution, after personally experiencing ill effects. The proposal, which may include options for senior lawyers to appear online, will be discussed with the Bar before any decision is made.
Uber and WeRide have launched the Middle Easts first fully driverless robotaxi service in Abu Dhabi, initially operating on Yas Island. Passengers can book rides via UberX, Uber Comfort, or the new Autonomous category. The Level 4 autonomous vehicles operate without a human driver, offering on-board support, safety protocols, and plans to expand across Abu Dhabi by the end of 2025
The UAE has significantly broadened its guardianship system, Kafala, allowing non-Emiratis and single women aged 30+ to foster. Married couples, aged 25+, can also apply, with rigorous checks ensuring child welfare. These progressive amendments, supported by Wadeema's Law and recent decrees, aim to provide stable homes for children.
The Madhya Pradesh Examination Board (MPESB) has officially declared the Group 4 Recruitment 2025 results for 966 vacancies, including Assistant Grade-3, Steno-typist, and Stenographer posts. Conducted on May 3 in two shifts, the online exam featured 100 MCQs assessing general knowledge, reasoning, and administrative skills. Candidates can download results from the official portal and await the next recruitment phases.
Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Alsaud remains one of Saudi Arabias most prominent investors, known for his vast business empire, high-profile global stakes, and longstanding philanthropic work. His 2025 profile highlights his extensive real estate holdings, media interests, luxury assets, and continued influence across international markets, alongside a lifestyle shaped by wealth, travel, and major charitable commitments.
A major global study warns that everyday plastics, containing phthalates, pose hidden dangers to heart health. These chemicals, found in common household items, are linked to over a lakh heart-related deaths in India annually. Reducing plastic use and choosing safer alternatives can significantly lower exposure and protect against long-term cardiovascular risks.
Dubai's New Year's Eve celebration, centered around the Burj Khalifa, is an eight-day extravaganza. Options range from free public viewing areas requiring an early arrival to ticketed events at Burj Park and ultra-luxury dining experiences with minimum spends reaching Dh12,000 per person.
Four operatives of gangster Goldy Dhillon, linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, were apprehended by the Anti-Gangster Task Force and Mohali Police following a shootout. The group, reportedly acting on foreign handler instructions, was planning targeted attacks in the Tricity and Patiala region. Police recovered firearms and ammunition after the exchange.
Four volunteers are spending a year in NASA's 3D-printed Mars habitat, simulating life on the Red Planet. This mission, CHAPEA, tests how isolation, limited resources, and confined spaces affect human health and teamwork. Researchers are gathering crucial data on sleep, stress, and problem-solving to make future Mars missions safer and more achievable.
Royal Bengal Tiger Shakti, aged 9.6 years, died at Byculla Zoo on November 17, 2025, due to pyogranulomatous pneumonia leading to respiratory failure. The tiger, brought from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar in 2020, showed no prior illness. Post-mortem findings are being further analyzed, and the zoo has communicated the details as per regulations.
Bihar School Examination Board has released the DElEd Joint Entrance Examination 2025 results. Over 2.5 lakh candidates have passed the exam. The pass percentage stands at 79.01%. Admissions to DElEd institutions will commence soon through an online counselling system. The application window opens on November 29 and closes on December 5, 2025.
Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed has issued a new law placing Dubai Police in full charge of managing lost and abandoned property. The law sets strict reporting deadlines, defines finder and owner responsibilities, and introduces penalties reaching AED 200,000 for violations. It also outlines procedures for reclaiming property, rewards for finders, and replaces the previous 2015 legislation
Saudi Arabia is revolutionizing its beverage tax from January 1, 2026, shifting from a flat rate to a tiered system based on sugar content. This move incentivizes manufacturers to reduce sugar, promoting public health while fostering industry innovation. The new structure rewards sugar-free and low-sugar options, with higher taxes on sweeter drinks.
The Election Commission of India has expressed serious concern over the safety of poll officials in West Bengal following a security breach at the Chief Electoral Officer's office. The ECI has directed Kolkata Police to ensure immediate safety measures for officials at their offices, residences, and during travel, citing the sensitivity of upcoming elections.
The Bank of Baroda has released the Local Bank Officer (LBO) Result 2025 on its official website. Candidates who cleared the online exam conducted on September 6 can check the PDF for qualifying roll numbers. Successful candidates will advance to the Language Proficiency Test, followed by psychometric assessment and interview stages in the selection process.
The alkaline diet, popular for its cancer prevention claims, emphasizes fruits and vegetables while limiting meats and processed foods. However, scientific reviews indicate it doesn't alter blood pH or prevent cancer through acidity control. Benefits stem from increased nutrient intake and reduced processed items, not pH manipulation. Understanding this distinction is crucial for informed health choices.
Bihar Staff Selection Commission has extended the BSSC Inter Level recruitment 2025 application deadline to December 18, with fee payment due by December 15. The total vacancies have surged to 23,175. Candidates need to be 12th pass, with some roles requiring typing skills. The selection involves preliminary and main exams, plus a skill test.
The RRB Group D Examination 2025 is scheduled to begin on November 27, 2025, and will conclude on January 16, 2026. The Computer-Based Test comprises 100 objective questions across General Science, Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, and General Awareness. Candidates must carry their e-admit card and arrive on time, with electronic devices and certain personal items prohibited.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir accepted blame for India's Test series defeat, acknowledging the team's collapse against South Africa. While admitting collective failure, he highlighted past successes and stated his future rests with the BCCI. Gambhir defended his selection strategy, emphasising tough characters over flair for Test cricket.
Marco Jansen's stellar all-round performance, including a six-wicket haul and a crucial half-century, powered South Africa to a dominant 408-run victory over India in Guwahati. This win secured a historic 2-0 series sweep for the Proteas, their first Test series triumph in India since 2000, marking a significant milestone for the team.
South Africa achieved a historic 2-0 Test series victory over India, their first on Indian soil in 25 years, with a commanding 408-run win in Guwahati. Spinner Simon Harmer's exceptional bowling, taking 6/37 on the final day, was instrumental in India's collapse. Captain Temba Bavuma highlighted the team's renewed belief and collective effort as key to overcoming past struggles.
Simon Harmer delivered a masterful 6-wicket haul as South Africa secured a dominant 408-run victory over India, clinching a historic 2-0 series sweep. This marked South Africa's first Test series win in India since 2000, with Harmer calling it the most meaningful chapter of his career.
India suffered their largest-ever Test defeat, losing by 408 runs to South Africa in Guwahati, resulting in a 2-0 series whitewash for the visitors. Chasing 549, India collapsed for 140, with Simon Harmer taking 6/37. Stand-in skipper Rishabh Pant acknowledged the team's need to learn quickly from tactical and batting failures.
South Africa achieved a historic 2-0 Test series victory over India in Guwahati, capping off a remarkable year. This triumph follows their World Test Championship win, marking a new era for the nation's cricket under captain Temba Bavuma. The team's resilience and historic achievements have brought long-awaited glory and hope to South African cricket.

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