Remembering sacrifices of UAE martyrs, and how the country became an investment hub, our editors comment on the top stories of November 30

DEEP SENSE OF PATRIOTISM, LOYALTY AND GRATITUDE ON COMMEMORATION DAY: While marking Commemoration Day today, UAE leaders have remembered the supreme sacrifices made the martyrs of the country and paid rich tributes to them. As they have expressed in their statements, November 30 is a very special day for the UAE, the sacrifices of the country’s heroes strengthening values like patriotism, loyalty and gratitude. Every citizen and resident feels genuinely thankful for all that the UAE has to offer and for the extensive efforts that go in to ensure the safety and protection of the country. (By Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor).

UAE AS A GLOBAL INVESTMENT HUB IS A THEME ON AUTO-MODE: A National Day in the offing is always a good time to take stock of progress, and on this score, UAE’s been hitting its targets spectacularly and consistently. It’s a status brought about by calibrated planning, a strategy that is tied to the longer term, some adroit maneuvering past short-term hurdles, and some favourable outcomes. Can 2023 bring on more of the same? The UAE resonates with the world’s movers-and-shakers. Could tech be the next big attraction for the global talent out there, as they see opportunities here while it recedes elsewhere? Between now and 2023’s National Day, there is so much the UAE can keep doing. (By Manoj Nair, Business Editor)

ENGLAND FACE TOUGH SENEGAL TEST NEXT: England were inspired by a brilliant performance from Marcus Rashford in their 3-0 win over Wales in Group B of the FIFA World Cup. The striker scored twice but it was despair for Wales who went out of the tournament after a disappointing campaign. They had made it to their first finals in 64 years but defeats against Iran and then England ended their tournament. The Three Lions will face Senegal in the last 16 on Sunday and know it will be a tough test. Even though the Africans are without their talisman Sadio Mane, they have still been playing very well. England will need Rashford and co to be on top form if they wish to reach the quarterfinals. But in a World Cup that has been full of shocks, anything could happen. (By Imran Malik, Assistant Sports Editor)

ARIJIT SINGH STILL DRAWING AUDIENCE: Bollywood singer Arijit Singh just announced his concert in Dubai in January 2023, and like his previous ones, it’s sure to attract massive crowds. But what’s the appeal of this star? Singh is one of the top musicians in India and has not only dominated the charts — he was Spotify’s most-streamed Indian artist of 2020 and 2021 — but his popularity can be attributed to his simplicity and humble nature. He is also very private about his personal life and doesn’t engage in the drama and controversy that can sometimes come with being a celebrity. More stars can follow his lead and focus on their craft instead of finding fame through other means. (By Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor – Entertainment)