The Times of India

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's official visit to New Delhi on January 19, 2026, highlighted the strong rotherhood between India and the UAE. The leaders discussed deepening cooperation, setting a goal to double bilateral trade to $200 billion by 2032 through new agreements in energy, defense, and space.

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Islamic Affairs is instructing mosque preachers to dedicate Friday sermons to encouraging marriage. The directive aims to counter narratives discouraging unions and highlight marriage as a Sunnah and social stabiliser. Preachers will warn against excessive wedding costs and online misinformation. This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, promoting traditional family values amidst social change.

Gold prices in Kuwait stabilised at $4,595 per ounce after a volatile week, closing firmly despite profit-taking. Recent gains were tempered by easing geopolitical tensions and strong US economic data, with the Federal Reserve expected to hold rates steady. Local prices mirror global trends, offering opportunities for buyers and sellers.

Saudi Arabia's moon-sighting committees confirmed the start of Shaaban 1447 AH on January 20, 2026, following the non-sighting of the crescent moon. This announcement sets the stage for Ramadan, with astronomical predictions suggesting a mid-February start and a cooler Winter Ramadan in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Abu Dhabi has launched a revolutionary Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) blood test, capable of identifying over 50 cancer types from a single sample. This advanced liquid biopsy aims to detect silent killers early, complementing traditional screenings and making early detection more accessible for residents aged 40 and above.

Dubai is revolutionizing student commutes with a pilot program replacing traditional buses with luxury SUVs. This tech-driven initiative, starting January 2026, pools students aged 14+ from the same neighborhoods, utilizing smart data for efficient, safe rides. The goal is to significantly reduce school gate congestion and offer a premium, cost-effective transport solution.

Swan Hill, Australia, is deterring vandalism and late-night hangouts at public toilets by playing classical music. The local council opted for this unusual sound-based approach, featuring pieces like Wagner's 'Ride of the Valkyries,' to make the area less inviting for disruptive behaviour. Early results indicate a noticeable drop in incidents.

Residents in West Sumatra are warned against drinking water from a new sinkhole after tests revealed E. coli contamination. Locals flocked to the site, believing the water had healing properties, but authorities emphasize it's unsafe and potentially dangerous. The sinkhole's formation is attributed to geological conditions and heavy rainfall, highlighting the risks of consuming untreated water.

SNL kicked off 2026 by hilariously imagining Stranger Things sequels, spin-offs, and absurd reboots. Highlights included Steve as a forever-teen drama teacher, Nancy covering the O.J. chase, Mike gossiping in Manhattan while writing a coming-of-age story about Eleven, and Ted Wheeler oblivious to Demogorgons. The sketch skewered franchise excess, viral fan obsessions like Conformity Gate, and the shows long-running quirks, blending cringe and comedy.

A Saturday Night Live sketch has folded Heated Rivalry into pop-culture shorthand, spoofing the HBO hockey romance through a Harry Potter parody packed with innuendo. With Finn Wolfhard, Ben Marshall and a surprise Jason Momoa cameo, the sketch reflects how quickly the series, already renewed for season two, has travelled from niche hit to mainstream reference point.

Two Indian nationals were arrested in Kuwait after leaving their deceased friend at Mubarak Hospital. Fearing legal consequences due to expired visas, the men brought the body in a wheelchair, handed it to hospital staff, and fled. Forensic tests confirmed natural death. Authorities emphasized the importance of reporting deaths through proper channels to avoid endangering investigations and public safety.

The UAE has implemented a new minimum wage per month for private-sector employees in the Emirates, effective January 1, 2026. This policy aims to bolster Emiratisation efforts and strengthen labour standards. Companies must comply by June 30, 2026 or face penalties, marking a significant shift in the nation's labour market.

Dubai Creek Tower, once stalled, is set for a revival with Emaar Properties announcing a new tender within three months. Founder Mohamed Alabbar confirmed the project's re-envisioned concept, emphasising design and environmental cohesion over sheer height. This move signals a tangible step forward for the iconic landmark, poised to anchor the Dubai Creek Harbour development.

Kuwaits Ministry of Interior has announced a nationwide test of civil defence sirens on January 19 at 10:00 am. Authorities emphasised that it is a routine drill and there is no cause for alarm. The exercise forms part of a monthly schedule to ensure the alert system is fully operational and residents are familiar with emergency signals.

Winter's cool grip continues across the UAE on January 18, 2026, with mild to cool temperatures and highs around 25C. Expect overnight lows near 18C. While widespread rain isn't forecast, early morning fog and mist are likely. Strong winds and rough seas are also a concern, with advisories in place.

Saudi Arabia has banned commercial establishments from printing or writing the names of Allah on bags, packaging, and promotional materials that could be mishandled or discarded. The Ministry of Commerce, led by Abdulrahman Al Hussain, said the move aims to protect the sanctity of the Divine Names. Chambers of commerce will ensure compliance, and legal action will follow violations.

Umrah pilgrimage costs for Ramadan 2026 are soaring, with premium packages exceeding Dh8,000 due to high hotel rates in Makkah and global demand. New Saudi visa rules mandate entry within 30 days of issuance. Early booking is crucial to secure spots and avoid inflated prices, especially for the last 10 days of Ramadan.

Global music star Travis Scott will perform at the Fanatics Flag Football Classic in Riyadh on March 21, 2026. This event marks a new sports-entertainment venture in Saudi Arabia. Elite athletes and NFL legends will participate in the flag football tournament. Travis Scott's performance will be a major highlight of the halftime show.

Armed robbers stormed a Manhattan Pokmon card shop, making off with rare collectibles worth over $100,000. The brazen heist, which lasted only three minutes, saw thieves smash a display case and grab high-value cards, including a first-edition Charizard. This incident highlights a growing trend of Pokmon card thefts across the US, driven by their increasing value as investments.

Anktiva, also known as nogapendekin alfa inbakicept, is a new cancer therapy that boosts the immune system to target cancer cells. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority has become the first regulatory body globally to grant conditional approval for Anktiva in advanced non-small cell lung cancer and high-risk bladder cancer, offering a new treatment option for patients with limited alternatives.

Emirates is launching daily, year-round direct flights between Dubai and Helsinki starting October 1, 2026, establishing the first non-stop air link between the UAE and Finland. This new route, operated by the Airbus A350-900, will boost tourism and trade, offering seamless connections for travellers from Asia, Africa, and Australasia to Finland.

Expats in Saudi Arabia working self-employed were reminded to comply with residency, labour, and border laws. Non-compliance can result in fines up to 50,000 riyals, six months imprisonment, and deportation. On January 12, the Ministry of Interior reminded the public of these rules and explained how breaches can be reported confidentially via 911 (major regions) or 999 (other areas)

Move over Mediterranean: The World's Best Cruise Destination for 2025 has been crowned and this is a second consecutive win for the winner city. This prestigious award highlights the city's dual-port strategy, offering both cultural city experiences and tranquil island escapes. Significant growth in cruise calls and strategic tourism planning are key drivers behind this remarkable achievement, solidifying the city's global appeal.

Air India and Saudia will launch a codeshare agreement in February 2026. This partnership will simplify travel between India and Saudi Arabia. Passengers will enjoy single-ticket bookings and seamless connections. The deal expands access to numerous domestic destinations in both countries. This makes planning trips for business, tourism and family visits much easier.

Dubai Police have warned parents and teenagers about dangerous social media challenges that involve skull breaking, choking, breath holding, and other life-threatening acts. Teens often take part seeking excitement or online attention, unaware of the severe risks. Authorities urge families to monitor online activity, speak openly about dangers, and report harmful behaviour via the Dubai Police 901 line or Police Eye app.

Riyadh Municipality has introduced a new digital system for urban planning approvals. This platform streamlines processes for developers and investors. It aims to speed up housing and real estate projects. The move enhances transparency and efficiency in city development. This initiative supports Riyadh's Vision 2030 goals for smart governance and urban growth.

Mira Murati, former OpenAI CTO and founder of the $12 billion startup Thinking Machines Lab, has become one of techs most scrutinized figures. Public fascination spans her career, education, personal life, and net worth, prompting a surge of Google searches. Muratis leadership, high-profile exits, and return of her founding team to OpenAI have intensified curiosity about her influence and decisions.

New York City has sued delivery app Motoclick for alleged wage theft while warning more than 60 platforms to comply with tougher worker protections by 26 January. Mayor Zohran Mamdanis administration says minimum pay, tipping transparency, distance limits and safety rules will be enforced, signalling a crackdown on what it calls predatory practices across the delivery economy.

Abu Dhabi Police have arrested a driver for live-streaming on social media while driving, in coordination with the Monitoring and Control Centre. Authorities described the act as reckless, posing a risk to the driver and other road users. Traffic officials emphasized that such behaviour violates traffic laws, will not be tolerated, and urged drivers to avoid distractions behind the wheel.

The interstellar object 3I/ATLAS reignited controversy after the CIA issued a rare Glomar response to a records request, refusing to confirm or deny holding information about it. While NASA insists the object is a harmless natural comet, the intelligence agencys secrecy has fuelled speculation, amplified by Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb, that the object warranted quiet scrutiny despite official reassurances.

UAE's elite pilots will showcase an ambitious aerial display on January 17, 2026, for the Day of Solidarity parade. The Al Fursan team will fly across all emirates, starting from Abu Dhabi and moving north. Spectators can witness a two-hour helicopter segment followed by a 34-minute fighter jet finale, with prime viewing spots along coastlines. Drones are prohibited for safety.

This Saturday, the UAE marks the Day of Solidarity, commemorating the 2022 Houthi attacks in Abu Dhabi. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed urged residents to observe the national anthem at 11:00 am, reflecting on unity, courage, and resilience. Air displays will follow at 3:00 pm across emirates, honouring the nations achievements and the peoples steadfast commitment to safeguarding the UAE.

The UAE offers two long-term residency visas: the Blue Visa and Golden Visa. The Blue Visa provides 10-year residency for scientists, researchers, entrepreneurs, and professionals driving environmental sustainability, with no investment required. The Golden Visa targets investors, skilled professionals, and exceptional talents, offering 5- or 10-year residency, work flexibility, and family sponsorship. Understanding differences helps choose the visa that best fits your goals.

UAE graduates now enjoy seamless degree recognition with a new automatic system from the Ministry of Higher Education. This initiative, part of the ero Government Bureaucracy program, eliminates manual verification for 34 universities, speeding up job applications and residency. Over 25,000 students have already benefited from this digital, paperless process, marking a significant leap in educational efficiency.

UAE schools adopting British, American, and IB curricula will shift their admission age cut-off to December 31 for the 2026-27 academic year, benefiting children born later in the year. This aligns with international standards, offering families greater flexibility. Indian and Japanese curriculum schools, starting in April, retain their March 31 cut-off, maintaining consistency with their home countries' systems.

Kuwait and Oman are the only Gulf countries to declare a public holiday for Isra Wal Miraj, observed this year on January 18. The holy night commemorates the miraculous journey of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Masjid Al Haram in Makkah to Masjid Al Aqsa in Jerusalem and his ascension to the heavens, marking a time of prayer, reflection, and spiritual significance for Muslims.