Kristian Alexander, Special to Gulf News

Articles from the author

How the UAE is confronting a new wave of cyber threats

As global attacks surge, cyber resilience becomes a national security priority

Cyberattacks, unlike traditional security threats, are shapeless, anonymous, and capable of striking from any location in the world.

Why UAE has become a global hub for peace negotiations

In a fractured world, UAE offers what great powers cannot: trust, neutrality and access

The physical location of talks affects diplomatic outcomes because peace negotiations are not sterile political transactions. They are human encounters shaped by fear, suspicion, and political calculation.

Unified GCC visa and the future of regional mobility

How a single visa could reshape mobility, tourism and security across the Gulf

A major travel update is on the way for UAE residents and frequent travellers: a unified tourist visa that covers all six GCC countries is expected to launch soon — giving non-GCC nationals a simpler way to explore the region without multiple visa hassles.

Analysing convergence of global violence in late 2025

Why Bondi Beach, Germany’s markets and a US campus cannot be understood the same way

People light candles and lanterns on Manly Beach in Sydney on December 21, 2025, as part of a national day of reflection honouring the victims of the Bondi Beach terrorist attack.

Eid Al Etihad reflects UAE’s evolving national identity

How unity, tolerance and ambition shape a nation that blends heritage with vision

In many ways, National Day is a mirror reflecting what the UAE stands for: unity, tolerance, diversity, innovation, family cohesion, and gender inclusion.

How ageing populations challenge Japan, South Korea

Military careers lose appeal in both nations due to economic, cultural factors

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Potential consequences of global elections 2024

Elections reveal complex global politics with voter sentiment and external influences

A voter casts their ballot, during the French parliamentary elections at a polling station in Le Touquet-Paris-Plage, France

UAE’s soft power shines bright on the world stage

Story of how the UAE dominates Middle East in Soft Power Index, achieving historic high

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Why America needs urgent electoral reform

Spotlight continues to shine on the intricate dynamics within US electoral process

President Joe Biden, left, speaks on Aug. 10, 2023, in Salt Lake City, and former President Donald Trump speaks on June 13, 2023, in Bedminster, N.J.

The significance of German reunification

Economic gap and social differences are some effects of reunification still visible

A ceremony to celebrate of the German reunification at the Elbpharmonie in Hamburg, Germany, on October 3, 2023. The reunification is celebrated as a national holiday in Germany, marked by various events and festivities. It is generally viewed with pride and as a symbol of progress.

Why the UN has struggled to reform and stay relevant

Powerful nations resist change, and UN continues to be an ineffective global institution

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addresses the 78th United Nations General Assembly at UN headquarters in New York City on September 19, 2023. He spoke about the need to reform the world body, but numerous proposals in the past failed to make headway.

How 9/11 changed American politics and culture

Two decades on, it is a continuing journey of reflection, reckoning and resilience

More than two decades on, the impact of 9/11 still reverberates across every facet of contemporary society in the United States

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