Dubai unveils ultimate picnic spots, and Tory Lanez found guilty of shooting Megan Thee Stallion, our editors comment on the top stories of December 24

Dubai gives us another reason to enjoy nature: From mountains to lakes, there is a surprising diversity of landscapes in the emirate of Dubai. Most people only see the urban or desert views of Dubai but a new interactive digital guide by #DubaiDestinations unveils the “ultimate” picnic and camping spots in the emirate. The pleasant winter weather is the perfect time to enjoy these locations, including Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Qudra, Al Awir, Al Ruwayaah, and the Half Desert Road. Spending more time outdoors in the fresh air, surrounded by nature, is a luxury we can’t afford to miss. [COMMENT BY: Faisal Masudi, Assistant Editor]

Guardiola says Man City midfielder Phillips overweight after World Cup: Pep Guardiola, the Manchester City coach, has said Kalvin Phillips is overweight after the England midfielder reported back for training from the World Cup in Qatar. The 27-year-old was not in the City squad for Thursday’s match against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup. City won 3-2 and after the game Guardiola said the former Leeds player arrived back from the global showpiece overweight. Phillips made two appearances for the Three Lions in Qatar coming on as a substitute against Wales and Senegal. He joined City for £45 million last summer but has made just one Premier League appearance this season. In total, he has made four appearances all from the substitutes’ bench. City’s next match is against his former club on December 28 and it will be interesting to see if Guardiola believes he is fit enough for selection. [COMMENT BY: Imran Malik, Assistant Sports Editor]

Trial by social media: A Los Angeles jury has found rapper Tory Lanez guilty of shooting hip hop star Megan Thee Stallion back in 2020. Most people who have been following the case have backed Megan right from the start. However, sometimes the loudest voices aren’t the smartest ones. There has been a concerted effort on social media to discredit Megan, spread misinformation and direct hate towards her. The internet is a powerful tool and so often it is one wielded by those who have the worst intentions. This is why social media awareness and critically thinking skills are even more important these days. [COMMENT BY: Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor - Entertainment]