Emirates record profit, Sheikh Hamdan’s viral ‘365 days’ video, No clear winners or losers in third Republican debate, and more, Gulf News Editors comment on November 9 top news

EMIRATES POSTS HIGHEST EVER HALF-YEAR PROFIT: Emirates Group, the holding company of Dubai’s flagship airline Emirates, has posted a record half-year profit at Dh10.1 billion ($2.7 billion), up by a substantial 138 per cent from last year. Surge in international travel from across regions and its near full return to operating capacity has helped. Group revenue was Dh67.3 billion (US$ 18.3 billion) for the first six months of 2023-24, up 20 per cent from Dh56.3 billion (US$ 15.3 billion) last year. The airline’s revenue was by 19 per cent to Dh59.5 billion (US$ 16.2 billion), with profit of Dh9.4 billion (US$ 2.6 billion), up 134 per cent compared to the same period last year. Overall, the Dubai airline’s performance reflects its ability to serve strong demand across regions with capacity ramp up. After a challenging two years amid the pandemic, Emirates has managed to successfully win customers with ongoing investments in products and services. (By Dhanusha Gokulan, Chief Reporter – Business)

YEAR OF REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENTS: In a captivating video that quickly garnered over tens of thousands of likes within a few hours, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, shed light on the UAE's extraordinary accomplishments over the past 365 days. The video, titled "What can a country achieve in 365 days?" goes beyond the conventional boundaries, showcasing the nation's prowess in various domains. It highlights overcoming challenges, challenging architectural and engineering norms, spreading humanitarian action, boosting trade, hitting unprecedented tourism numbers, topping 186 global indicators, setting and enabling UAE citizens to have the world's strongest passport. It comes with a powerful message, emphasising the remarkable spirit of the UAE in 2023 — a leadership that knows no bounds and a nation actively shaping its future, rather than merely waiting for it. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Web Editor)

NO CLEAR WINNERS OR LOSERS IN THIRD REPUBLICAN DEBATE: The Republican presidential debate in Miami showcased a clash of titans, highlighting distinct winners and losers. Ron DeSantis' aggressive offensive, targeting both absent front-runner Donald Trump and the broader field pointed at a more assertive strategy. Nikki Haley's softer stance on abortion positioned her as a standout figure, while Chris Christie's emphasis on global affairs set him apart. In contrast, Vivek Ramaswamy's embroilment in bitter clashes and Donald Trump's conspicuous absence, coupled with direct criticisms from rivals, potentially impacted his standing. The debate unveiled a shifting landscape within the Republican Party, setting the stage for a compelling lead-up to the 2024 primaries. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

BEN STOKES IS A VITAL ASSET FOR ENGLAND: England all-rounder Ben Stokes must have been extremely happy to score his maiden World Cup century, in what could be his last appearance in the 50-over showpiece. The 32-year-old has been the central figure in defending champions winning their first title in 2019 and subsequently helped the Three Lions win their first Twenty20 World Cup in Australia. However, due to a knee injury, Stokes has had a subdued World Cup in India, which resulted in England moving down to the bottom of the table with a five-game losing streak. With a spot in the Champions Trophy 2025 at stake, as only the top eight get an automatic qualification, Stokes produced his trademark innings against the Netherlands to give England a 160-run win and take his team to seventh spot. Stokes has been a vital asset for England, which will be hard to replace. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)

KATRINA KAIF TO SHATTER STEREOTYPES IN ‘TIGER 3’? Espionage and spy thrillers are notorious for being male-driven and testosterone-heavy, but Indian actress Katrina Kaif who shares screen space with Bollywood’s troubled superstar Salman Khan in new release ‘Tiger 3’ claims she isn’t just an ornament in this project. In an interview with Gulf News, Kaif who is been a constant in its previous two instalments claims that this movie will see her break bones and stereotypes. “Tiger 3 shows that there is nothing that a woman can’t do when it comes to saving her family or a nation or humanity. A character like Zoya is important and necessary to tell people that girls can be nurturers as well as fierce protectors. Zoya is one of the most cherished roles of my career,” said Kaif. As we wait for this Diwali release in the UAE cinemas tomorrow evening, here’s hoping that Kaif keeps her promise of doing the heavy-lifting too. We need spy thrillers that shift the skewed gender dynamics. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)