From the editors: Dubai Safari all set to throw open its doors

DUBAI SAFARI SET TO OPEN DOORS: Dubai has added another feather to its cap at the region’s foremost tourism destination, with the Dubai Safari Park set to open its doors on October 5. The Park will have a number of attractions not only highlighting various animal species, but also taking active measures towards conservation of rare and threatened species. The opening comes as the scorching summer gives way to cooler times, perfectly timed to welcome tourists as the UAE opens its doors to world again. The safari is set to be another iconic additions to Dubai hotspots. [COMMENT BY: Somshankar Bandyopadhyay, Assistant Editor]

40 YEARS SINCE IRAN-IRAQ WAR, REGION STILL IN TURMOIL: Forty years ago today, Iraqi president Saddam Hussein invaded Iran, starting an eight-year war. The exact number of those killed is not known, but at least 650,000 people died, two-thirds of them Iranian. It was a titanic clash of regional powers and opposing ideologies, and set into motion a chain of events whose repercussions are being felt to this day. Strategically, Iraq didn’t meet its goals and conflict weakened both countries significantly. However, it enabled the revolutionary regime in Iran to strengthen its position domestically in the face of a foreign enemy. [COMMENT BY: Omar Shariff, International Editor]

ELEPHANT DEATHS AND CLIMATE CHANGE: The mysterious deaths of more than 300 elephants in Botswana this year have now been attributed to toxins in water produced by cyanobacteria – microscopic organisms common in water. The deaths ceased when the water sources for the elephants dried out. Some cyanobacterial blooms can harm people and other animals too. Scientists said what is also alarming is that such toxins are occurring more frequently as climate change drives up global temperatures. While there is much talk about climate change, especially in global fora, it is time that we make an effort to understand this and take small steps to help protect the planet. [COMMENT BY: Alex Abraham, Senior Associate Editor]

TRULY, A WINTER OF DISQUIET: At the end of each month, businesses in the UAE and their employees will hope that some semblance of normalcy would return – in terms of demand, principally, but also that the need for more painful decisions on jobs and costs can be averted. But each new month adds to the woes, and by all reckonings, the job losses are unlikely to end soon. Some key sectors are still trying to get a firm handle on their personnel costs and what the future operations might look like. In the absence of clarity on when demand might make a comeback, the only cost that can be cut are related to the workforce. The winter months will add to the chill. [COMMENT BY: Manoj Nair, Business Editor]

ROYAL CHALLENGERS BANGALORE IN WINNING START: The broad grin in skipper Virat Kohli’s face gave it away as his team Royal Challengers Bangalore got the right start in defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad by 10 runs in their first IPL game on Monday night. The sense of relief was evident as they won despite Kohli failing with the bat – thanks a number of strong performances. The action shifts to Sharjah today where Rajasthan Royals take on Chennai Super Kings. [COMMENT BY: Gautam Bhattacharyya, Senior Associate Editor]

Comedian Ellen DeGeneres has made an on-air apology after her TV show was hit with allegations of a toxic work environment. Apart from addressing how poorly her staff were treated, she also dismissed rumours that she is faking her cheerful and positive on screen persona. Many people have said she’s mean-spirited and high-maintenance. This drama is a lesson for those who idolise seemingly flawless and beautiful people on TV screens. It’s tempting to compare ourselves and our lives to celebrities, but it can be a dangerous thing to indulge in, especially for young people. Admire them from a distance and don’t believe everything you see. [COMMENT BY: Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor – Features]