World / The Times of India
The UAE's Golden Visa programme has shifted from attracting capital to targeting specialised talent in AI, climate tech, and finance. With 158,000 visas issued in Dubai in 2023, the focus now is on long-term value creation. Experts highlight the growing demand for skilled professionals, with expanded eligibility and flexibility making the UAE a global magnet for innovation leaders.
The manosphere is gaining traction on social media, spreading misogynistic content disguised as lifestyle advice. Influencers, including Christian figures, promote traditional gender roles and male dominance, attracting young, vulnerable men. This movement rejects gender equality, fostering anger and frustration, while platforms like TikTok and YouTube amplify these harmful narratives, posing a significant societal risk.
A recent study reveals a concerning prevalence of substandard cancer drugs in several African nations, including Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, and Cameroon. Approximately 17% of tested medications had incorrect active ingredient levels, potentially hindering treatment effectiveness and leading to disease progression. Experts emphasize the urgent need for improved regulation, screening technologies, and enhanced supply chain monitoring to combat this critical issue.
UAE fuel prices will increase starting July 1, 2025, following a period of global oil volatility. The hike comes amid rising crude prices driven by escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, including U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Fuel rates in the UAE are adjusted monthly, in line with global market trends since the country's deregulation in 2015.
Starting July 2025, the UAE introduces key changes: visa-free travel to Armenia for residents, flexible and remote work policies in Dubai and Ajman, new public health laws, legalisation of tobacco-free nicotine pouches, and stricter Emiratisation targets with Dh9,000 monthly fines per unmet quota. The midday work ban and school holidays also take effect across the country.
Dubai will host the World Sports Summit from December 2930, 2025, announced by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed. Organised by the Dubai Sports Council, the event will bring together global sports leaders, athletes, and experts. With themes of innovation, unity, and economic growth, the summit reflects Dubais ambitions in global sport, driven by Sheikh Hamdans deep personal commitment to fitness and well-being.
Cristiano Ronaldo has extended his Al Nassr contract until 2027, expressing his desire to live in Saudi Arabia permanently. He cited peace, safety, and family happiness as key reasons. Turning down Club World Cup offers to focus on rest and long-term goals, Ronaldo aims to win major titles and sees Saudi Arabia as central to his future on and off the pitch.
A Chinese man unknowingly harbored a 15cm coffee spoon in his duodenum for six months after a drunken incident in Thailand where he attempted to induce vomiting. The discovery was made during a medical checkup in Shanghai, revealing the ceramic spoon's precarious location. Doctors successfully removed it endoscopically, averting potential intestinal damage.
UAE Presidential Advisor Anwar Gargash called on Iran to rebuild trust with Gulf nations following its missile strike on the U.S. Al Udeid base in Qatar. He emphasized that Gulf states had sought diplomatic solutions during the Israel-Iran conflict and condemned Irans attack as a violation of Qatars sovereignty that harmed regional stability.
In 2025, the UAE job market shows cautious hiring amid economic uncertainties, with strong demand in construction, banking, and tech. Government roles in Dubai, listed on the official portal dubaicareers.ae, offer expats stable, well-paid opportunities across sectors like urban planning, healthcare, and aviation. Salaries reach up to Dh50,000, reflecting a strategic shift toward valuing global expertise alongside Emirati talent.
Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have resulted in the deaths of 34 Palestinians, including displaced people sheltering at the Palestine Stadium. These attacks occurred amidst ongoing ceasefire negotiations, with US President Trump expressing optimism for a deal within the week. The conflict has claimed the lives of over 56,000 Palestinians, while severe shortages of food and essential supplies plague Gaza.
After Iran launched missiles at the Al Udeid US base, Qatar issued a public advisory urging residents to report any suspicious debris without handling it. The government condemned the attack, summoned the Iranian ambassador, and waived all traffic violations from that day, underscoring its focus on public safety and a prompt diplomatic response to the regional incident.
Iran held a state funeral in Tehran for approximately 60 individuals, including military commanders and 14 nuclear scientists, who died in the conflict with Israel. The ceremony commenced in Islamic Revolution Square, attended by government officials and mourners waving Iranian flags. Among the deceased were Major General Mohammad Bagheri and nuclear scientist Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi, both to be buried alongside their families.
Dubai is pioneering 20-minute cities to make daily essentials accessible within a short walk or ride, aligning with its 2040 Urban Master Plan. While Expo City experiments with climate-controlled zones and smart mobility to tackle extreme heat, experts stress regenerating older neighborhoods is equally vital. This approach aims to create inclusive, sustainable communities that balance comfort, connectivity, and environmental challenges.
Dubai has unveiled a sweeping set of reforms to transform education, environment, and governance by 2033. Approved by Sheikh Hamdan, the plans include new student visas, international scholarships, jobs for 90% of graduates, clean air targets, and a global mediation centre, positioning Dubai as a leading hub for academic excellence, innovation, legal reliability, and sustainable development.
Cabin Manager Mohsen bin Saeed Alzahrani tragically died mid-flight aboard Saudia Flight SV119 from Jeddah to London on June 26, prompting an emergency diversion to Cairo. Despite onboard medical efforts, he was pronounced dead upon landing. Saudia mourned his loss, praised the crews professionalism, and is coordinating with authorities to repatriate his body.