Huda Ata

Special to Gulf News

Huda Ata is an independent writer based in the UAE.

Articles from the author

Sharjah to launch doorstep vehicle plate collection

New service will allow eligible licensing transactions to be completed digitally

Under the new system, a Noon representative will collect the vehicle plates from the customer and deliver them to the relevant traffic and licensing centre.

UAE provides $3.9b in aid to Gaza, 46% of global total

More than 25,000 school bags are planned after 60 tonnes of supplies leave Sharjah

Supporting people during times of hardship is a key part of the UAE’s humanitarian principles.

UAE school plan adds AI electives for Grades 11 and 12

Six compulsory subjects remain, while pupils can choose AI, arts or health sciences

All pupils will take six compulsory subjects: Arabic, Islamic Education, Social Studies and Moral Education, English, Mathematics, and Physical and Health Education.

Kuwait bans energy and spiritual healing practices

The ban includes several popular alternative therapies used for wellness and spirituality

Ministerial Decision No. 225 of 2026 sets out requirements for practising psychotherapy and obtaining professional licences, while introducing safeguards intended to protect patients.

Payit launches Send Now Pay Later for global transfers!

SNPL is integrated into Payit’s existing international remittance experience

Payit is addressing this everyday challenge by enabling eligible customers to complete international transfers immediately and repay the amount within 30 days.

UAE readies 10,000 school buses for the new school year

Drivers and safety supervisors complete training as UAE prepares for the new academic year

Around 10,000 school buses are equipped with safety and security systems.

Europe’s oldest monarch admitted to hospital in Norway

King Harald will take two weeks’ sick leave as Crown Prince Haakon serves as regent

Harald, who turned 89 in February, is Europe’s oldest living monarch and has reigned since 1991.

Saudi disability rights breaches face SAR500,000 fines

Private and non-profit organisations face inspections for disability rights violations

Saudi Arabia begins disability rights inspections with fines up to SAR500,000

Believe it or not: Farmers reject $26.48m AI land offer

Mother and daughter reject above-market offer for farmland held by family for generations

The decision ultimately became less about money than what would happen to land their family had farmed since the 19th century.

15 killed in India hotel blaze and temple stampede

Separate disasters struck pilgrims within hours during the Hindu holy month of Shravan

In Bihar, seven pilgrims were killed and 19 others injured when a stampede broke out at the Ashok Dham temple in Lakhisarai district, where thousands had gathered for prayers.

Iran resumes Umrah after 6 months with 18,000 pilgrims

Registration for Umrah will begin in Shahrivar, sixth month of Iran’s Solar Hijri calendar

The first phase will involve 18,000 pilgrims, while about five million holders of Umrah registration vouchers are currently waiting to make the pilgrimage.

Watch: Most expensive falcon of 2026 sells for $346,000

Bidding began at SAR200,000 before fierce competition drove the final price up to SAR1.3m

A pure gyrfalcon chick from the same Canadian farm sold for SAR150,000 after bidding opened at SAR40,000.

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