The Times of India

An Abu Dhabi court has ordered a company to pay Dh159,800 to a former employee for unpaid salary and end-of-service benefits after over 11 years of service. This landmark ruling underscores the UAE's commitment to enforcing workers' rights and ensuring employers fulfill their statutory obligations, offering a strong message to the workforce.

The UAE is strengthening its wildlife protection laws from early 2026. A new federal decree replaces old legislation, aiming to stop wildlife traffickers. Stricter rules will regulate trade in endangered species and prevent illegal imports. Penalties are significantly increased, including hefty fines and prison sentences. This move aligns the UAE with international conservation efforts.

Brace for the UAE's chilliest period, running January 10-22, as forecasts predict an intense cold spell. This traditional phase, known as 'Der Al Sittin', combines ancient folklore with atmospheric science for a genuine winter experience. Expect significantly colder mornings and nights, with potential frost, even as daytime remains mild. The 'Wolf Moon' supermoon will also grace the skies.

UAE and other Gulf employees now prioritise job security over pay rises, fearing AI's impact. Despite rapid AI adoption and upskilling efforts, professionals are increasingly concerned about job displacement. Many are willing to accept pay cuts for AI training, signalling a significant shift in workforce priorities towards adaptability and long-term career resilience.

UAE companies now officially hold 'citizenship' status, recognizing them as Emirati entities under a new Commercial Companies Law. This move, applicable to mainland and free-zone businesses, enhances global credibility and trade access. It clarifies that this status applies solely to the legal entity, not individual owners, bolstering the UAE's appeal for international business growth and investment.

The UAE has implemented a new mandatory exit permit system for students, requiring parental in-person sign-offs to ensure accountability and safety during school dismissal. Additionally, stricter attendance policies are in effect, with severe consequences for unexcused absences, including a Friday Trap rule that doubles penalties for absences on Fridays or before/after holidays.

Residents of the UAE can anticipate a spectacular celestial showcase in 2026, featuring multiple supermoons, including the closest and brightest since 2019. The year will also host prominent meteor showers like the Perseids and Geminids, alongside planetary alignments and a total lunar eclipse. These events offer engaging opportunities for sky observation.

Federal investigators say Claudio Neves Valente planned the Brown University shooting for at least six semesters before killing two students and later an MIT professor. After his death was confirmed, the Justice Department released video transcripts in which he expressed no remorse, rejected apologies, and described acting deliberately. Authorities recovered the recordings from a New Hampshire storage unit facility officials.

Former US President Donald Trump addressed House GOP members. He spoke about his administration's achievements and made notable remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, and French President Emmanuel Macron. Trump discussed military operations, weapon production, and international trade agreements. His comments on drug pricing and tariffs involving Macron have drawn significant attention.

The photograph of 13-year-old Omayra Snchez Garzn, trapped in volcanic mud after the 1985 Nevado del Ruiz eruption, became the defining image of Colombias deadliest natural disaster. As she spent nearly 60 hours pinned beneath debris, cameras captured her final moments. The photographer later said rescue was impossible, and the image exposed failures in evacuation, leadership and disaster preparedness that cost thousands of lives.

Spanish police are investigating the death of 37-year-old streamer Sergio Jimnez, who died during a private New Years Eve livestream after allegedly downing whisky and taking cocaine for paying viewers. He was found dead at his family home while the stream continued. Family accounts, police inquiries and parallels with other fatal online challenges have raised questions about responsibility and incitement.

Jamie-Lee Arrow, daughter of Swedens Skara Cannibal Isakin Drabbad, speaks about loving her father after he murdered and ate his girlfriend, Helle Christensen. Drawing on interviews and the series Evil Lives Here: The Killer Speaks, she recounts childhood psychological abuse, a final warning before the killing, and her decision to sever contact while rebuilding her own life with resilience intact.

Jamie-Lee Arrow, daughter of Swedens Skara Cannibal Isakin Drabbad, speaks about loving her father after he murdered and ate his girlfriend, Helle Christensen. Drawing on interviews and the series Evil Lives Here: The Killer Speaks, she recounts childhood psychological abuse, a final warning before the killing, and her decision to sever contact while rebuilding her own life with resilience intact.

Over 456 bags of human remains were discovered in clandestine graves near Guadalajara's Estadio Akron, a 2026 World Cup venue. These findings, made by civilian search groups and authorities between 2022 and late 2025, highlight Mexico's ongoing crisis of disappearances and violence linked to organized crime, with Jalisco being a particularly affected state.

Saudi Arabia anticipates widespread rainfall during the mid-year school holidays, with alerts ranging from yellow to orange for moderate to heavy downpours, wind and reduced visibility. Residents and travellers are urged to monitor forecasts and exercise caution, especially in flood-prone areas and on major routes, as unsettled weather impacts several regions.

The Royal Oman Police has announced January 8, 2026, as an official holiday for staff observing regular working hours to mark its Annual Day. While office-based personnel will enjoy the break, all police stations will continue to operate around the clock, ensuring uninterrupted public services. The Annual Day, celebrated every January 5, honors the dedication of Omans police force.

Egyptian travel agencies face a critical January 12 deadline for Hajj contract finalisation, with failure risking legal action and financial penalties. This strict timeline aligns with Saudi Arabia's preparations and Egypt's new policy ending free Hajj slots, shifting to paid packages and an electronic lottery. Compliance is now paramount for pilgrims and operators alike.

Kuwait has announced a public holiday on Sunday, January 18, 2026, in observance of Isra and Miraj for the year 1447 AH. Work will be suspended across ministries and public institutions, with essential services continuing as scheduled. Isra and Miraj commemorates Prophet Muhammads night journey and ascension, a significant religious event marked by prayer and reflection.

Kuwaits Ministry of Interior has denied claims circulating on social media about exemptions from residency fees under the new residency law. The Ministry clarified that residency procedures and fees remain unchanged, and no exemption has been approved. The only exemption in place applies to health insurance fees for the first three domestic workers sponsored by Kuwaiti families.

Egypt is ending state-funded free Hajj slots for 2026, shifting to a digital lottery for approximately 12,000 pilgrims and licensed paid packages. This move reflects economic reforms and aims for transparency in managing the pilgrimage. Ordinary Egyptians will now rely on these new systems rather than government subsidies for their spiritual journey.

A tragic road accident on the Abu DhabiDubai motorway claimed the lives of four siblings from KeralaAshaz (14), Ammar (12), Azam (8), and Ayash (5)and their 48-year-old domestic worker. The parents and 10-year-old sister, Izza, remain hospitalized. The children will be buried in the UAE, while the maid will be returned to Kerala. Welfare groups are supporting the grieving family.

Muslim athletes face a unique challenge during Ramadan, balancing faith and competition. Science reveals that strategic training, timing, and smart nutrition allow them to maintain peak performance. Adjusting workout schedules and prioritizing hydration are key. This approach ensures athletes can observe their fast while continuing to excel in their sports.

The UAE has implemented significant visa reforms for 2026, introducing new categories for tech, culture and cruise tourism. These changes also include updated sponsorship rules for residents, expanded visa-on-arrival for Indian nationals and a broader Golden Visa program. Humanitarian permits and administrative updates further streamline the immigration process, positioning the UAE as a global hub.

Oman has introduced a new fee structure for citizenship and nationality services, effective January 4, 2026. Applications for Omani citizenship, including those by foreign spouses, widows, divorced spouses, and minor children of Omani women, now cost OMR 600, while requests to withdraw or relinquish nationality are set at OMR 200. The changes aim to streamline procedures without altering eligibility rules.

A Paris court convicted 10 individuals for cyberbullying related to false claims about France's first lady, Brigitte Macron. Sentences ranged from awareness courses to jail time for spreading coordinated online content alleging she was born male. The ruling focused on the method and impact of dissemination, not political commentary.

Saudi Aramco is introducing 98-octane gasoline in Saudi Arabia, targeting high-performance and sports cars. Following guidance from the Ministry of Energy, the fuel will be initially available in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, including major highways. The new grade expands Aramcos fuel options without affecting existing products, supporting advanced engines, improving efficiency, and meeting growing demand for specialized fuels.

Abu Dhabi achieved a medical milestone on January 5, 2026, with the UAE's first gene-therapy injection for inherited blood disorders. CASGEVY, utilizing CRISPR-Cas9, corrects faulty DNA in conditions like sickle cell disease and beta thalassemia, shifting from symptom management to actual genetic correction.

The UAE anticipates a unique winter Ramadan starting February 19, 2026, with mild temperatures enhancing the spiritual experience. Reduced working hours and a new 12:45 PM Friday prayer time underscore the nation's commitment to faith. This period promises reflection, community, and charity, culminating in Eid al-Fitr around March 20.

Online debates erupted after Trump shared immigrant welfare stats, with some far-right voices calling for deporting Indian-Americans. Data shows this is illogical: Indian-Americans have low welfare use, high incomes, and contribute significantly to taxes, innovation, and jobs. Despite their economic and societal contributions, they face targeted hostility from MAGA-aligned groups driven by ideological, not fiscal, concerns.

Saudi Arabia has introduced new Saudization rules to boost local employment in engineering and procurement jobs. Engineers in private and non-profit sectors will now receive a minimum wage of SAR 8,000, while companies must hire more Saudi nationals across key roles. The measures aim to improve job opportunities, strengthen workforce participation, and raise workplace standards nationwide.

Kuwait's Ministry of Education suspended two teachers for three months following serious professional misconduct. One teacher allegedly leaked exam papers via social media, while the other faced allegations of indecent behavior. These actions underscore the ministry's zero-tolerance policy against breaches of educational integrity and professional ethics.

Kuwait is bracing for a severe weather alert today, January 5, 2026, with northwesterly winds exceeding 60 km/h expected to cause significant dust storms and reduce visibility to under 1,000 meters. Mariners are warned of rough seas with waves up to 7 feet, while a subsequent cold snap could bring frost to desert areas.

A Dubai court sentenced a woman to jail, a hefty fine and deportation for orchestrating a sophisticated cryptocurrency scam. The wallet swap scheme involved replacing an investor's hardware wallet during a business meeting, leading to the theft of millions in digital assets. The case highlights the UAE's firm stance on crypto crimes as serious financial offenses.

Data from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission shows that emergency rooms across the US continue to treat thousands of cases involving foreign objects lodged in patients rectums. Drawing on federal injury reports and medical research, the article outlines how the cases are tracked, why situations escalate, and the specific items doctors documented removing in 2025.

Dubai Police has issued a warning about fake work visa offers targeting job seekers. Fraudsters promise employment and visa sponsorship with no legal basis, often asking for upfront payments. Authorities emphasize that visas should only be obtained through official government channels or licensed recruitment agencies. The public is urged to verify offers and report suspicious activity via official platforms.

A buffalo ownership dispute in Kota, Rajasthan, was settled by a veterinary medical board. Ram Lal claimed his missing buffalo and calf were found with Indrajit Kewat. Veterinarians examined the buffalo's teeth, determining its age to be four to five years, supporting Ram Lal's claim. The animals were returned to Ram Lal.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum marks 20 years as Dubais ruler, transforming the emirate into a global hub of tourism, commerce, and innovation. Under his leadership, iconic projects like Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Mall reshaped the skyline. Visionary policies, strategic initiatives, and long-term plans like Vision 2021 and 2031 have driven economic growth and global recognition.

Saudi Arabia has approved a SR217 billion borrowing plan for 2026 to meet its fiscal needs. The funds will cover an anticipated budget deficit of SR165 billion and repay around SR52 billion in maturing debt. The plan focuses on maintaining debt sustainability, diversifying funding sources through bonds, sukuk, and loans, and expanding alternative financing for projects and infrastructure.

A viral clip of Sir Percy de Courcy dramatizes a truth long forgotten: gin and tonic was once vital medicine. Quinine in tonic warded off malaria, citrus prevented scurvy, and gin made it drinkable. More than a cocktail, it was a daily imperial tool, helping Britain maintain its tropical posts and safeguard personnel where disease, more than war, threatened empire.

President Donald Trump received lavish gifts in 2025. World leaders presented him with items like a $400 million jet and a gold samurai helmet. These gifts symbolized respect and admiration. A gold Rolex desk clock and an engraved ingot were also gifted. South Korea presented a replica gold crown. Apple CEO Tim Cook gifted a glass and gold plaque.

For decades, knuckle cracking has been blamed for arthritis and joint damage. Scientists now say the sound comes from gas cavities forming inside synovial fluid, not bones or cartilage. MRI studies and long-term experiments, including a 50-year self-study, show no evidence that habitual knuckle cracking causes arthritis or enlarges joints.

The US Department of Education is reviewing Brown University's campus safety protocols. This action follows a recent campus shooting. The review will check if Brown met federal requirements under the Clery Act. The Department may impose penalties or demand policy changes if violations are found. Brown University is cooperating with the federal inquiry.