The flight, 6E 1452, was carrying 194 passengers when the crew reportedly noticed smoke in the cargo hold area and alerted air traffic control.

Following the alert, Rajkot airport declared a full emergency to facilitate a safe landing.

The aircraft landed safely at Rajkot airport, and all 194 passengers disembarked without any injuries.

Rajkot Airport Director Diganta Borah reportedly said an IndiGo flight operating from Mumbai to Dubai made an emergency landing after smoke was detected in the cargo hold area. He added that the aircraft landed safely and all passengers were safe.

Airport emergency services were placed on standby as part of standard operating procedures after the full emergency was declared.

The cause of the smoke was not immediately known, and further investigation is expected to determine what triggered the incident. The airline did not issue any statement yet.

IndiGo is India’s largest airline by market share and operates flights to more than 80 domestic destinations and over 30 international destinations.

Its fleet primarily comprises Airbus A320 and A321 family aircraft, along with ATR 72-600 turboprop planes used on regional routes.

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The explosion just after midnight, which resulted in no casualties, and the discovery of the second suspected bomb came hours before Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos was due to give an annual State of the Nation address.

National police chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr told reporters on Monday there was a "big possibility or probability that the two (incidents) are related".

He said that, while police had contingency plans for "bomb threats, actual bombings and other (things)... something got past us and exploded in front of the Department of Justice".

It was not immediately clear how large the early morning blast had been.

"We are still investigating, so we cannot give you details on how massive or small the explosion was," Manila police spokesman Philipp Ines told AFP. 

Images posted by Philippine media showed what appeared to be a vehicle windshield cracked by the blast and a small amount of debris.

Police said in one report that the device at the Senate had been spotted on a street abutting the building just before 8:30am (0030 GMT) by a tow truck driver, who alerted security staff.

Personnel trained in handling explosive ordnance removed material from the scene that included a blasting cap, clock and a jar containing a "brown powder" for testing. 

Regional police spokeswoman Hazel Asilo declined to estimate the size of the explosion the device could have produced.

Marcos's speech on Monday comes at a time of heightened political tensions, with Vice President Sara Duterte in the middle of an impeachment trial, while voters have also been roiled by a corruption scandal tied to bogus flood control projects. 

The opening marks another milestone in Hashim Group’s continued expansion across the UAE. Established in 1979 as Hashim General Trading and Flour Mill, the Group has grown steadily over more than four decades while maintaining its focus on product quality, customer service and long-standing relationships with local and expatriate communities.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by distinguished dignitaries, including members of Hashim Group's leadership team, Chairman Mayankutty, Managing Directors Abdul Razak C. and Abdul Rauf C., and Director Hamza C. Also in attendance was the Manufacturing Director of Malabar Gold & Diamonds Group, Faizal A.K., along with Mohammed Shareef, Shameem, Nissar Thalangara, Chacko Oolakkadan, other members of the management team, employees, and customers.

The new Al Yarmook branch has been designed as a comprehensive shopping destination for residents of Sharjah and surrounding areas, offering freshly ground spices and pulses, an extensive selection of roastery products, fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh seafood, a dedicated butchery section, a hot food section, electronics, garments and a live bakery, all under one roof. The hypermarket also includes dedicated sections for premium herbal products and rare spices sourced from the Arab region and international markets, alongside Hashim Group’s established range of customised curry masalas, traditional spice blends, grain powders and signature coffee blends.

“Hashim Group has grown over the years because of the trust and support of our customers,” said Mayankutty, Chairman of Hashim Group. “The opening of our seventh branch in Al Yarmook is a proud moment for all of us. We remain committed to serving the Sharjah community with quality products, genuine value and the dependable service that has defined our journey since 1979. Looking ahead, we also plan to continue expanding our presence and serving more communities across the UAE.”

Hashim Group currently operates across several business divisions, including hypermarkets, supermarkets, flour mills, general trading, department stores and specialised nuts and spices outlets. Its flour milling operations offer more than 300 varieties of spices and rare herbs, along with customised blends developed for household, hospitality and commercial requirements.

The inauguration of the Al Yarmook hypermarket further reinforces Hashim Group’s commitment to expanding its retail network and serving communities across the UAE with quality, convenience and trusted service.

The Israeli military said it intercepted on Monday two drones near the Jordanian border and was investigating where they had been launched from.

Earlier this month, the military said Israeli and Jordanian forces had intercepted an Iranian missile fired towards the Jordanian city of Aqaba.

"A short while ago, the IDF intercepted two UAVs identified in the area of the Jordan border," the military said on Monday.

"The UAVs did not cross into Israeli territory. The origin of the launch is under review."

The Jordanian army later said that "the Royal Jordanian Air Force aircraft intercepted and shot down, on Monday morning, two drones that had targeted the Kingdom's territory".

It added that "the interception and downing operation did not result in any human casualties or material damage".

Jordan has been repeatedly targeted since war resumed between Iran and the United States earlier this month.

Israel has not taken part in the latest round of fighting.

Iran foreign ministry says no current negotiations with United States

Iran's foreign ministry on Monday said it was not currently involved in negotiations with the United States, despite a halt in recent fighting between the two sides.

"At present, we are not engaged in any negotiations with the United States," said the ministry's spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei at a weekly press briefing, denying reports that Iran had requested talks.

Iran says summoned French envoy over 'interference' in internal affairs

Iran's foreign ministry said it had summoned the French ambassador to Tehran to protest the conduct of two diplomats who were briefly detained earlier this month.

"Yesterday, the French ambassador in Tehran was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where it was stressed that the French government must cease such actions and such interference in Iran's internal affairs under misleading labels," said the ministry's spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei in a weekly press briefing.

He said the diplomats had "interfered in Iran's internal affairs under the pretext of engaging with civil society".

Their actions, Baqaei said, were "in no way justified under the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations".

On July 20, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said two French diplomats in Iran were targeted by Iranian officials the day before and suffered "an extremely serious act of intimidation" by the Islamic republic's security services.

Both were "detained for several hours without reason, interrogated, and one of them was physically abused" before they were able to return to the embassy, he said.

Iranian army vows ‘more severe’ response to future attacks

Iran’s army has warned that it will respond “more severely” to any future attacks by its adversaries.

In a statement marking the anniversary of Operation Mersad, a key battle during the final phase of the Iran-Iraq War, the military said it remained “more vigilant than ever” and was prepared to counter “any threat and conspiracy of the enemies”.

The army said it would continue to defend Iran’s “independence and territorial integrity” and would deliver a stronger response to any future aggression, according to a statement carried by Tasnim news agency.

Iran says Hormuz remains closed as Oman talks continue

Negotiations between Iran and Oman over managing shipping through the Strait of Hormuz were held on Friday and Saturday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said.

Baghaei said the discussions focused on ways to manage maritime traffic through the key waterway.

“There were useful discussions on how to manage shipping in the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.

He added that the status of the strait had not changed and that it remained closed, stressing that the talks were unrelated to the United States.

Iran says US returns to talks whenever energy prices rise

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei has accused the United States of turning to negotiations whenever global energy prices increase.

Speaking to reporters in Tehran, Baghaei claimed Washington had initially believed Iran would “collapse in three days and surrender” after the start of the US-Israeli war.

“Now, months later, America is stuck in this place and they are proud of its crimes,” he said.

Baghaei said Tehran had observed the US returning to the negotiating table whenever energy markets faced pressure.

Iran calls Ukrainian strike on Caspian ship ‘illegal’

Iran has condemned a Ukrainian attack on a ship in the Caspian Sea as “illegal”, warning that it reserves the right to respond.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said the strike violated international law and described it as a “dangerous manoeuvre”.

“We will have the right to reply,” Baghaei said, without providing further details.

He added that Tehran had maintained a policy of non-intervention since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war.

Iran Guards turn back six vessels in Hormuz

Iran's Revolutionary Guards navy stopped six vessels attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz through routes not approved by Iranian authorities, state television reported on Monday.

"Last night, six vessels that attempted to transit through a route other than the designated one were stopped by the IRGC Navy with warning shots and turned back," a state television correspondent reported from the Gulf.

Earlier state TV said one vessel was involved in an "incident", without elaborating.

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Netanyahu heads to US as Trump meeting awaits

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has departed for Washington, DC, where he is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump, according to Israel’s Arabic-language account on X.

The visit is taking place at Trump’s invitation, with the two leaders expected to discuss “issues of concern to both countries”, the post said.

Netanyahu’s trip comes despite an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC), adding international scrutiny to his visit to the US.

Iran vows retaliation after Ukraine reportedly attacks vessel in Caspian Sea

Iran on Monday condemned what it described as a Ukrainian attack on an Iranian vessel in the Caspian Sea, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warning that the incident “cannot go unanswered.”

Araghchi said Tehran viewed the reported strike as a serious escalation and pledged that Iran would respond, though he did not specify what measures the government was considering.

Singapore tightens monetary policy as Iran war drags

Singapore tightened monetary policy on Monday for the second time in three months, as the fallout from the US war against Iran keeps global energy markets volatile and inflation risks elevated.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) said it would increase the rate of appreciation of the local dollar's trade-weighted value.

The move comes as oil prices remain elevated owing to tensions in the Middle East, sparked by the US-Israel attacks on Iran that began on February 28, and continue to cast a shadow.

Because the city-state imports most of its needs, higher global prices for food and energy directly drive up local living costs.

Unlike many central banks, the MAS manages inflation by adjusting the Singapore dollar against a basket of currencies of its main trading partners within an undisclosed band, rather than setting interest rates.

A strong Singapore dollar eases the effects of rising import costs.

"Singapore's imported costs are likely to rise in the quarters ahead," the MAS said, adding that core inflation "is forecast to step up in July and remain elevated into early next year."

It warned that "inflation could pick up more strongly than anticipated if energy prices spike anew" as "fuel reserves have been drawn down significantly and renewed supply disruptions in the Middle East could cause sharp surges in oil prices".

Abbas urges global action over West Bank violence

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has appealed to world leaders and international bodies for urgent action to halt what he described as escalating Israeli military operations and settler violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem.

In letters sent Sunday and uploaded early on Monday (July 27), Abbas urged Arab and friendly nations, the European Union, the Arab League and the UN Security Council president to intervene amid what the Palestinian Authority calls a “dangerous escalation”.

Netanyahu says he will attend UN despite arrest threat

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he plans to attend the UN General Assembly in New York this autumn, dismissing previous threats by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani to have him arrested over an International Criminal Court warrant.

In an interview with US media, Netanyahu said he was "not concerned" about Mamdani's earlier comments, noting that the mayor has since acknowledged he lacks the legal authority to arrest a foreign head of government.

The Israeli leader accused Mamdani of fueling divisions in the city.

"He's supposed to be the mayor of all New Yorkers — Jews, Christians, Muslims, everyone — but he's trying to turn one group against the other," Netanyahu said.

Pentagon removes US troops from Iran war casualty count 

The Pentagon has removed four US service members killed during the recent escalation with Iran from the official war casualty count, according to an Associated Press report.

The Defense Casualty Analysis System (DCAS), previously cited by military officials as the main record for casualties linked to the conflict, no longer includes the four deaths and dozens of injuries in its primary tally.

The AP reported that the casualties have instead been moved under a separate category titled “Overseas Operations”, which lists the names of the four fallen troops along with 207 injured personnel.

It remains unclear whether all the reported injuries were directly linked to the fighting between the US and Iran.

Iran warns Ukraine ship attack ‘cannot go unanswered’

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on said Ukraine's attack on an Iranian commercial ship in the Caspian Sea "cannot go unanswered."

In a post on the social media platform X, Araghchi accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of ordering "a blatant UN Charter violation done at Israel's behest to drag Europe into its war."

He said he had "made clear that what the freeloader in Kyiv did CANNOT GO UNANSWERED" in phone calls with European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Saturday and Sunday respectively, Xinhua news agency reported.

He made the remarks on Saturday in a phone call with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, in which the two sides discussed the latest regional developments, according to a statement by the Iranian Foreign Ministry.

Araghchi condemned the Ukrainian attack, urging the EU, UN Security Council, and international community to hold its "perpetrators" and supporters to account, according to the statement.

The two sides also addressed developments in the Strait of Hormuz, stressing the need for diplomatic initiatives to manage regional tensions, it added.

In a separate statement, the ministry said it summoned Ukraine's charge d'affaires in Tehran on Saturday over the attack, formally delivering a note of protest condemning the "hostile and criminal" act

Oil prices tumble nearly 6% on renewed hopes for deal

Global oil prices fell sharply in early Asian trading on Monday, with benchmark crude surrendering much of last week's war-driven gains as investors shifted focus from geopolitical fears to signs that military escalation between the United States and Iran may be easing.

A market snapshot at 7:32 am Monday (July 27) on OilPrice.com in Tokyo showed:

• WTI crude: $84.02 a barrel, down $5.29 or 5.92%

• Brent crude: $90.88 a barrel, down $5.90 or 6.10%

• Murban crude: $97.05 a barrel, down $10.12 or 9.44%

• Natural gas: $2.805, down 2.3%

The declines follow a week of extreme volatility in energy markets, during which oil prices briefly surged toward multi-month highs amid fears that fighting involving Iran, the US and Houthi militants could disrupt crude exports through the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea.

Trump rejects munitions concerns: ‘We have far more than we need’

US President Donald Trump dismissed growing concerns that military stockpiles are reaching dangerously low levels, directly refuting reports that interceptor shortages are constraining American military strategy in the ongoing conflict with Iran.

In a statement to The Wall Street Journal, Trump rejected claims that dwindling munitions pose a problem for US defence capabilities, asserting, "we have far more munitions than anyone in the world, and far more than we need."

The President's remarks come in response to a report by The New York Times regarding internal administration deliberations where Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Dan Caine expressed concerns that interceptor reserves could be exhausted if military operations escalate further.

According to officials cited by The Wall Street Journal, US Central Command chief Adm. Brad Cooper believes American forces can manage the constrained inventory of Patriot and other air defence interceptors.

The strategy relies on expanding US strikes, pending approval from Trump, to neutralise Iran's launching capacity before large-scale missile volleys can be initiated.

Iran says exchange of messages with US continues through mediators

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said the United States is exchanging messages with Iran through mediators, including Pakistan and Qatar, according to Iranian media reports, citing his remarks in an interview with Austrian broadcaster ORF.

Baghaei stressed in the interview that for any dialogue to be formed, the "proper ground" must be prepared, noting that the United States has destroyed such a ground, Xinhua news agency reported quoting Iranian media.

He accused Washington of violating "all its provisions" in practice under the memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Iran and the United States.

The spokesman said Iran's current priority "is to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity and protect its people against the war crimes that are being perpetrated by the United States."

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Iran's Depy FM slams US for intending to act against ICC

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi on Sunday (local time) sharply criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the United States, responding to remarks by the Israeli leader welcoming the removal of International Criminal Court (ICC) Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan.

In a post on X, the Deputy Foreign Minister also condemned the US' for attempting to act against the court after the Israeli PM noted commitments by Washington to oppose the International Criminal Court.

"The Prime Minister of the Zionist regime, the accused with an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court, brazenly declares that the US Secretary of State has pledged to act against the Court pursuing him," the official stated. "They call the Court 'corrupt' because it dared to pursue Washington's wanted criminal."

Iran’s new supreme leader reaffirms Hezbollah support

Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has reaffirmed Tehran’s support for the Lebanese group Hezbollah in a letter addressed to its leader Naim Qassem, commanders and fighters, according to a CNN report.

In the letter, Khamenei praised Hezbollah’s “perseverance and steadfastness”, describing the group as being at the forefront of resistance against Israel and its allies. He also credited communities in southern Lebanon for supporting Hezbollah.

Khamenei said backing Hezbollah remains a key strategic policy of the Islamic Republic. He added that protecting Lebanon’s territorial integrity and securing a “complete and unconditional” end to Israeli attacks were Iran’s main conditions for any agreement to end the conflict.

The letter accused the United States and Israel of oppression and said “jihad and resistance” remained the only path forward.

'Guardians of the World': Trump shows AI images

US President Donald Trump shared a series of AI-generated images to project American military supremacy, particularly against Iran, and advance political themes surrounding the 2028 election campaign.

The digital artwork, shared by the President on his Truth Social account, spans direct depictions of armed conflict and maritime seizures, futuristic defence visuals, historical comparisons, and domestic political symbolism.

The first group of images focuses on military strikes, sea patrols, and direct action in the Middle East.

In one image labelled "Guardians of the World," a massive President Trump stands over the horizon behind American stealth fighter jets marked "U.S.A.," which fly above giant explosions tearing through ground targets labelled "IRAN" while US warships patrol the water below.

Another picture, called "Strike on Kharg," shows an air attack on Iran's main oil terminal on Kharg Island, with jets flying over huge fireballs, heavy smoke, and burning fuel tanks.

Action on the water is further highlighted in "It's Our Oil Tanker Now!," where President Trump and armed US troops stand on an Iranian ship while men in white thobes and traditional Middle Eastern kaffiyehs jump into the ocean with a US aircraft carrier in the background.

Another image, "No More Engines," shows an Iranian oil ship floating at sea with its back section totally blown up and covered in thick black smoke and flames.

Other graphics depict President Trump steering a naval warship and directing military forces like a battlefield commander, including one where he wears a hat with the phrase "FAFO."

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Netanyahu says Iran nuclear programme must end

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday said that Iran's nuclear programme "has to come to an end" regardless of whether a diplomatic agreement is reached, as he prepared to meet US President Donald Trump in Washington on Monday (local time), while US officials signalled a pause in military action to allow diplomacy where as Iran vowed to strengthen its military preparedness.

Speaking to Fox News, Netanyahu outlined what he believes would be required to end the conflict with Iran. "I think when this regime is either toppled or it's sufficiently weakened that it knows it has to end its nuclear program and has to change its course," Netanyahu said.

The Israeli Prime Minister indicated that, in his view, the war would effectively end only if Iran either undergoes a fundamental political change or abandons its nuclear programme and alters its regional policies.

"That's really what President Trump is trying to achieve. And I backed him fully... But one way or the other, they have to end their nuclear program. And with a deal or without a deal, that has to come to an end," he added.

Ahead of his departure for Washington, Netanyahu said Iran would be among the key issues during his talks with Trump.

"Tomorrow I will fly to Washington to meet, at his invitation, with President Trump, and afterwards to participate in the memorial service for a great friend of Israel, the late Senator Lindsey Graham. I will also discuss all pending issues with President Trump, including the situation in Iran," he said at the start of the weekly Cabinet meeting.

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US‑Israel war on Iran: Recent developments

Day 147: Iran says military ready as Netanyahu heads to US

Day 146: Iran says it earned $11.5b in oil sales during the war

Day 145: US-Iran war escalates as Tehran targets US bases in Gulf

Day 144: House approves bid to limit war with Tehran as oil hits $100

Day 143: US tightens Iran blockade, redirects 9 commercial ships

Day 142: Air defences roar over Tehran on 11th night of strikes

Day 141: Iran president says country in 'full-scale war' with US

Day 140: US strikes Iran, Gulf states face missile threats as war risks spread

The new technology is designed for people living with chronic heart failure and enables doctors to monitor their condition remotely, allowing earlier treatment and reducing the risk of hospital admissions.

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The device is a small wireless sensor implanted into the pulmonary artery, the blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the lungs. It continuously measures blood pressure in the artery and securely sends the information to the patient’s medical team for ongoing monitoring.

By tracking changes in pressure over time, doctors can identify signs that heart failure may be worsening and adjust medications or treatment plans before symptoms become severe.

Dr Georges-Pascal Haber, Chief Executive Officer of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, said the technology marks an important step in improving care for patients with chronic heart failure.

“Instead of waiting for symptoms to worsen and require hospitalisation, we can now monitor patients proactively and intervene earlier,” he said.

Dr Nadya Almatrooshi, Staff Physician in Cardiovascular Medicine at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, said the technology also gives patients greater confidence in managing their condition.

“For many patients, continuous cardiac remote monitoring provides reassurance and greater confidence in managing their condition day to day,” she said, adding that many patients experience better symptom control and improved quality of life.

The implant is intended for patients with moderate to severe heart failure who have been hospitalised at least once because of the condition during the previous 12 months despite receiving medical treatment.

The first two patients to receive the implant in Abu Dhabi were Emirati nationals aged 62 and 79, both of whom had a history of repeated hospital admissions due to worsening heart failure.

The procedure is carried out in the hospital’s cardiac catheterisation laboratory under local anaesthesia and mild sedation and usually takes between one and two hours. Most patients are monitored for up to 24 hours afterwards, with some able to return home the same day. Many can resume normal daily activities within one to two days.

The introduction of the technology builds on Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s cardiovascular services. The hospital is recognised as a Centre of Excellence for adult cardiac surgery by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi and was ranked the No. 1 hospital in the Middle East for cardiology in Newsweek’s Best Specialised Hospitals Middle East 2026 rankings.

Hospital officials said the latest technology reflects its commitment to expanding access to advanced heart failure care and delivering more personalised treatment for patients across the UAE.

His agent, David Foster, confirmed that Oddie passed away on Saturday. In a statement shared with British media, Foster described him as the nation's best-loved birdwatcher, adding that recognition was never what Oddie valued most about his career.

From Cambridge Footlights to The Goodies

Oddie's career began at Cambridge University, where he performed with the Footlights comedy troupe, a production popular enough to transfer to London's West End and later Broadway in 1964. He went on to write for the satirical BBC series That Was The Week That Was, before finding household fame in the 1970s as part of The Goodies, alongside Tim Brooke-Taylor and Graeme Garden. The trio's anarchic sketch show became one of British television's defining comedies of the decade.

Britain's favourite birdwatcher

It was Oddie's second career that many will remember just as fondly. He went on to become one of the BBC's most recognisable natural history presenters, fronting long-running series including Springwatch, Autumnwatch, Birding With Bill Oddie and Bill Oddie Goes Wild. Away from the screen, he was an outspoken advocate for conservation, using his public profile to campaign for the protection of British wildlife and habitats long before environmental broadcasting became mainstream.

Tributes to a close friend

Foster's statement described Oddie as a multi-talented figure: a broadcaster, comedian, writer, musician and campaigner, whose real legacy lay in conservation rather than fame. He said Oddie had spent his life encouraging others to value and protect the natural world, and that his contribution to conservation would not be forgotten. Foster, who represented Oddie for many years, called him a close friend and said he would miss him deeply.

Family and later years

Oddie is survived by his wife, Laura, and his daughters Bonnie, Kate and Rosie, who have asked to be given privacy at this time. In his later years, Oddie spoke candidly about his own struggles with mental health, using his platform to encourage similar openness in others.

No cause of death has been given.

Built to democratise access to physical precious metals, OGold enables users to invest, save, earn, and spend fully allocated, physically backed gold and silver from as little as Dh1 at live market prices with no paperwork and no storage fees. The app is fully Shariah-compliant, and every gram held on OGold is physically insured at both the individual account-level and company-level, backed by investment-grade precious metals securely stored in accredited vaults.

Earlier this year, OGold evolved beyond digital precious metals investing with the launch of its Gold & Silver-backed Super App, introducing the OGold Platinum Mastercard, which allows users to access the value of their gold and silver balances instantly for everyday transactions. OGold also introduced additional lifestyle products, including eSIM cards, a Giftcard Marketplace, a Jewellery Marketplace, and its Refer & Earn programme, which rewards users for growing the OGold community.

The milestone follows a period of significant business growth and expansion, marked by OGold securing a strategic investment from Plug and Play Ventures, the Silicon Valley-based venture capital firm whose portfolio includes PayPal, Dropbox, and Honey.

OGold has expanded its ecosystem through partnerships with Botim, bringing digital gold and silver investing to millions of users in the UAE; Aspora, extending access to the global Indian diaspora; and Valura.ai, integrating its precious metals ecosystem into AI-powered investment portfolios.

Together, these partnerships reflect OGold's strategy of embedding gold and silver into everyday financial life across a growing network of apps, positioning it as both a store of value and a liquid, investable asset class.

"Crossing 1.5 million users is a powerful validation of our vision to bring gold and silver into the digital economy," said Bandar Alothman, Founder of OGold. "We set out to fundamentally change the role of precious metals from something people store and forget to something they actively use in their financial lives. Today, gold and silver are no longer passive. They are spendable, transferable, and integrated into everyday life. This milestone proves that when you build trust and remove barriers, adoption becomes inevitable at scale."

"Reaching 1.5 million users is a testament to the trust our community has placed in OGold," added Ahmed Abdeltawab, Co-founder and CEO of OGold. "Users today are not just looking for investment products. They are looking for transparency, security, and real underlying value. At OGold, every unit is backed by physical gold and silver, fully insured, and built on strict Shariah-compliant principles. That foundation is what gives us the credibility to scale into a multi-faceted financial app.”

OGold’s continued growth reflects rising demand for gold and silver as trusted stores of value amid economic uncertainty, as well as an increasing appetite for Shariah-compliant financial solutions.

With more than 1.5 million users, OGold continues to accelerate product innovation, deepen strategic partnerships, and expand into new markets across the Middle East, Central Asia, and beyond, advancing its vision of making digital precious metals investing more accessible worldwide.

The system comprises a day balm, eye balm, night balm and face scrub, providing a 60-day skincare regimen designed to help manage common concerns associated with mature skin, including dryness, the appearance of fine lines and dullness.

According to the company, its formulations are produced without added water, fillers, parabens or synthetic fragrances. Instead, the products incorporate Arctic botanicals that grow in harsh Nordic conditions, where short summers and temperatures as low as minus 30°C are said to contribute to the plants' natural resilience.

The Complete System for Mature Women's Skin is currently the brand's bestselling offering and is backed by a 60-day money-back guarantee. The company says its approach is centred on simplifying skincare by using a carefully selected combination of botanical ingredients rather than extensive multi-step routines.

The brand takes its name from Frøya, the Norse goddess associated with beauty, and was founded by Line, a former media professional who established the business on a Nordic farm.

"Mature skin does not need ten steps; it needs the right ones," said Line, founder of Froya Organics. "We created this system for women who want a simplified routine made with potent botanical ingredients and nothing unnecessary."

The company ships its products internationally through its official website and continues to expand its reach among consumers seeking minimalist skincare solutions.

For more information about Froya Organics, visit the company's official website.

The court also fined the defendants and two companies specialising in general trading and the sale of perfumes and incense a combined KD 6.884 million. It ordered the closure of the two companies and barred them from carrying out commercial activities, while acquitting two other defendants.

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According to prosecutors, the group formed an organised criminal network that laundered proceeds obtained through fraud, forged banking documents, conducted unlicensed banking activities, transferred funds abroad through illegal channels and concealed their origin.

Investigators said the defendants lured victims through online advertisements offering food products for sale before directing them to bank payment links that charged amounts higher than those agreed. The funds were then allegedly used to purchase goods, which were resold before the proceeds were converted into cash.

The investigation found that the group deposited the funds into bank accounts in Kuwait disguised as legitimate business revenues before transferring them to accounts in several foreign countries in an attempt to conceal their illicit origin. Some of the defendants were also convicted of falsifying information related to bank deposit transactions.

Speaking on JioStar’s Believe, Samson praised the “fire” Kohli brings to his training sessions and recalled seeking advice from the former India captain on how to build a successful career at the international level.

The two were working out together during an Indian team camp when Samson asked Kohli for advice.

“He told me that lifestyle plays a huge role. If you want to become an international cricketer, you must maintain a different kind of lifestyle. He shared what works for him on his journey and told me, ‘This food will help your body recover, this would not. If you maintain this discipline for the next 10 years, you will have a great career ahead,’” Samson recalled.

Samson said he followed Kohli’s advice for around a year to 18 months but eventually struggled to maintain the same level of discipline.

“I started following it for a year, a year and a half, but after that, I could not stay on track with that anymore,” he added.

'Constant rat race'

Samson also opened up about his mindset and his decision to step away from the “constant rat race” surrounding Indian cricket. After losing his place as the preferred top-order wicketkeeper-batter to Ishan Kishan ahead of the T20 World Cup, Samson said he chose to focus on enjoying the game rather than worrying about selection battles.

“I realised that there is a constant rat race in our country, and I decided before the 2026 T20 World Cup that I would not be part of it. I just want to enjoy the game. By God’s grace, I have achieved a lot. I am 31 now, and I have a few years left. So, I have decided to play on my own terms. No one will tell me how to bat or what to do. Sanju will decide for Sanju,” he said.

“With all due respect, I will play, enjoy the game, be a good teammate, and support the group, but I will do it my way,” Samson added.

'Not looking far ahead'

The Kerala batter also admitted that he never expected to feature in the 2026 T20 World Cup after being left out of India’s squad at one stage. As a result, he is not looking too far ahead and is leaving his chances of playing in the 2028 edition to fate and his performances.

“After the 2024 World Cup, I did not even expect to play in the 2026 World Cup. I was not in the 14 or 15-man squad at one point. So how can I plan for 2028? If I’m there, if the team needs me, and if I am playing well, things will fall into place. If not, I am deeply grateful. No one can take this achievement (his T20 World Cup Player of the Tournament award) away from me,” he said.

Samson had struck three consecutive fifties during India’s successful T20 World Cup title defence before missing the Zimbabwe tour following a lean run against Ireland and England.

Pogacar joined an elite club of riders to have won the sport's greatest race five times: Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault and Miguel Indurain.

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And he could yet become the best of all in years to come.

Anyone who has followed the Slovenian rider’s career trajectory would have known even prior to this monumental achievement that this 27-year-old was marked for greatness.

Besides his 5 Tour de France titles, Pogacar has won the 2024 Giro d’Italia and 13 one-day monuments (Milan-San Remo once, Tour of Flanders three times, Liege-Bastogne-Liege four times and Giro di Lombardia five times), besides winning the World Championship Road Race twice.

And it has been a great year for Pogacar.

He won stage races at the Tour de Suisse and the Tour de Romandie, as well as stunning victories in one-day classics.

On Sunday, Pogacar finished 6 minutes, 26 seconds ahead of Belgian rider Remco Evenepoel, a time trial great, in the overall standings.

"I'm speechless. It's an incredible day, there was an incredible atmosphere," Pogacar said. "I've ridden seven Tours already and I've always finished on the podium. You might think this is a fairytale, it's incredible for me too."

Two-time Tour champion Jonas Vingegaard was Pogacar's main rival heading into the race but the Dane crashed out on the 15th stage.

"Shame that Jonas and others crashed out of this Tour," Pogacar said. "I hope we can all fight again next year."

Pogacar's UAE Team Emirates XRG teammate Isaac Del Toro, a 22-year-old Mexican making his Tour debut, was third at 9:42 back from Pogacar, who smiled and held up his hand to signify his wins. His teammates then joined him as they stood proudly on the Champs-Élysees.

"I don't know how I do it," Pogacar said. "I now have to find a new goal to chase. Which goal? Let's just not jump ahead of ourselves, and enjoy this moment."

Pogacar has not won the Spanish Vuelta, which starts on Aug. 22.

"Will I be at La Vuelta in a few weeks?" he said. "Let's see."

He's been pushing the treatment off for filming. Rather than stopping to treat the injury, he continued with Peddi's promotional run first, only stepping back to focus on recovery once the film was out and the schedule allowed.

The family rallied around him

This was very much a family affair. On Sunday, Charan was spotted flying out of Hyderabad's Begumpet Airport with his parents, Chiranjeevi and Surekha, and his wife Upasana Konidela, the whole Mega family travelling to Coimbatore to be with him through the procedure.

Early on Monday, Upasana shared images of herself praying to Ganesha and Hanuman idols for her husband's wellbeing as he went in for surgery. According to his team, the procedure went smoothly and the medical team is happy with how it went, with Charan now set to begin rehabilitation before he rejoins shooting. An update on his discharge is still awaited.

Two injuries, one film

The wrist wasn't Charan's only injury on this shoot, and he's been strikingly cheerful about all of it. Back in March, ahead of Peddi's 4 June release, he hurt his face on set, prompting rumours about an eye injury that his team moved quickly to downplay, confirming a minor left-eye injury and a small procedure, and insisting the shoot would carry on without disruption.

The wrist, though, came from the film's most physical stretch. At the trailer launch in May, with fans repeatedly asking about the brace on his right hand, Charan brushed it off with a joke, calling it "a small gift that Buchi has given me." He then explained how it happened. "During the last 25-30 days of the shoot, we were doing a kushti pehelwan shoot," he said, describing wrestling sequences where the director had brought in real wrestlers rather than trained performers. "Jab action kehte hain to zordaar pakadte hain (they held me forcefully as soon as he said 'action'). And that's what happened, so I have a cartilage tear. But it's fine, it's worth it. It's a beautiful memory of Peddi."

Peddi the movie, is a Telugu-language sports action drama directed by Buchi Babu Sana, whose debut Uppena won the National Film Award for best Telugu-language film. Alongside Charan in the title role, the film features Janhvi Kapoor, Shiva Rajkumar, Jagapathi Babu and Divyenndu, with music by Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman. Despite mixed reviews and some backlash over the portrayal of Janhvi Kapoor's character, the film grossed over ₹340 crore worldwide.

What it is and who it's for

If your evenings involve scrolling on a phone, answering emails on a laptop or watching television before bed, your lighting habits may be worth a closer look. The goal is not to avoid screens entirely. Instead, it is to make the transition from day to night gentler by reducing bright, blue enriched light and keeping a regular bedtime routine. Features such as Night Shift or similar warm display modes can help reduce short wavelength light, while dimming room lighting signals that bedtime is approaching. Blue light blocking glasses may also help some people, although systematic reviews find the evidence is mixed and benefits appear modest rather than dramatic. Anyone with persistent sleep difficulties should speak with a doctor rather than relying on consumer products alone

What to look for

Focus on products that reduce overall evening light exposure instead of promising miracle results. Warm white lighting, dimmable lamps and consistent bedtime cues have clearer practical value than exaggerated marketing claims. If choosing blue-light glasses, look for clear information about the wavelengths they filter, but remember that lowering screen brightness and putting devices away before bed are likely to have a greater effect than glasses alone.

Horus X Blue Light Blocking Glasses

Horus X glasses are designed to reduce exposure to part of the blue light spectrum emitted by digital screens. These glasses filter 100% of blue light from 380–400 nm and 86% across 380–450 nm. According to current research, they may help some people who use screens late into the evening, but they should be viewed as one part of a broader bedtime routine rather than a standalone solution. Pairing them with reduced screen brightness and warmer room lighting makes more sense than relying on the glasses alone

Philips Warm White LED Bulb

Changing the lighting in your living room or bedroom can have a bigger impact than many people expect. This Philips LED bulb provides a warm colour temperature that feels less stimulating than cooler daylight-style lighting. Used during the final hour before bed, warm lighting supports an environment that encourages your body to recognise the day is ending, without making the room uncomfortably dark.

Dreamegg Sunrise Alarm Clock

Sleep routines do not begin only at bedtime. Waking up consistently also helps reinforce the body's internal clock. This sunrise alarm clock gradually increases light before your alarm sounds, providing a gentler start to the day than a sudden ringtone. While it does not replace healthy sleep habits, it can make a regular wake up schedule easier to maintain.

Verdict

Research shows that evening blue light can influence sleep, but it is only one piece of the puzzle. The strongest approach combines lower screen brightness, warmer lighting, a consistent bedtime and fewer bright lights before sleep. Among these recommendations, the Philips Warm White LED Bulb offers the broadest benefit because it changes the environment rather than a single device, while blue light glasses can be a useful extra for people who regularly work on screens late into the evening.

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Just two months after tunnelling works officially began, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced the completion of the first phase of excavation in July, a sign of how far construction technology has advanced since Dubai’s original Metro network was built nearly two decades ago.

The Blue Line is a key part of Dubai’s vision for future growth, designed to connect emerging residential communities, economic centres and key destinations while supporting the goals of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.

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Faster tunnelling than ever before

The launch of tunnelling works marked a major step in the development of the new line. It also highlighted how dramatically construction capabilities have evolved since the first Dubai Metro tunnels were carved beneath the city in 2007.

Back then, tunnel boring machines represented a major engineering breakthrough. Excavation progressed at an average of around 12 metres per day, with tunnelling works taking approximately seven months to complete.

Today, the Blue Line is being excavated using Al Wugeisha, a next-generation tunnel boring machine equipped with advanced digital guidance and monitoring systems. According to the RTA, the machine can excavate around 30 metres per day, more than double the rate achieved during the construction of the original Metro.

The result is significantly faster progress, with the first phase of tunnelling completed in just two months.

At 163 metres long and weighing around 2,000 tonnes, Al Wugeisha is more than a conventional tunnel boring machine. It operates as a fully integrated underground production system, capable of excavating, removing spoil and automatically installing tunnel lining segments in a continuous process. The technology enables greater precision, efficiency and safety while reducing construction time.

For Dubai, the achievement reflects how rapidly the emirate’s tunnelling expertise has advanced in less than 20 years.

Two key stations

A record-sized interchange - At Dubai International City 1, the Blue Line will connect to what's set to become the largest underground interchange station anywhere in the metro network, over 44,000 square metres, engineered to move an estimated 350,000 people through it daily. Functionally, it's the hinge point of the whole line, linking the Blue Line's two branches and knitting together travel across eastern and northern Dubai.

World’s tallest metro station - then there's Emaar Properties Station, which at 74 metres will be the tallest metro station in the world. It's been designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the firm behind Burj Khalifa, as well as New York's Olympic Tower and Chicago's Sears Tower and covers around 11,000 square metres. The brief here wasn't just function; the RTA describes it as a symbolic gateway meant to capture openness and modern identity. It'll primarily serve Dubai Creek Harbour, a waterfront community of roughly 40,000 residents, with ridership expected to cross 70,000 a day by 2040 and capacity built in for up to 160,000.

Dubai Metro Blue Line routes

The Blue Line will span 30 kilometres across two routes and is designed to improve links between several rapidly developing districts.

The first route, stretching 21 kilometres and comprising 10 stations, will begin at Creek Interchange Station on the Green Line in Al Jaddaf. It will pass through Dubai Festival City, Dubai Creek Harbour, Ras Al Khor Industrial Area, International City 1, International City 2 and 3, Dubai Silicon Oasis and Dubai Academic City.

The second route will extend nine kilometres from Centrepoint Interchange Station on the Red Line in Al Rashidiya. It will travel through Mirdif and Al Warqa’a before connecting with the International City 1 interchange station. This section will include four stations.

The road ahead

While the Blue Line is still under construction, the pace of progress offers a glimpse into the scale of Dubai’s ambitions. From faster, smarter tunnelling technology to record-breaking stations and new transport links, the project is shaping up to be one of the most transformative additions to the city’s public transport network since the Metro first opened in 2009.

Speaking at a public event on Sunday, as quoted by Indian Express, the actor said, “I agree that films like Meiyazhagan and Maharaja were among the better films than Raayan last year.”

The actor then reflected on his own career and the performances that fans had expected to earn him a National Award. He mentioned Adhu Oru Kana Kaalam, Pudhupettai, 3, Mayakkam Enna, Maryan, Raanjhanaa, Vada Chennai and Karnan.

“You all told me I’d win again, but I didn’t,” he said.

Dhanush went on to compare the reaction to his Raayan win with the response to his previous losses.

“Today, nearly 90% of people are opposing my National Award. But when several of my films missed out on National Awards they truly deserved, not even 10% of people spoke about it.”

The debate surrounding Raayan's win emerged after the announcement of the 72nd National Film Awards. Several viewers questioned the film's victory in a year that saw the release of critically acclaimed Tamil films, including Vijay Sethupathi's Maharaja and Gautham Vasudev Menon's Meiyazhagan. Supporters of Vikram also expressed disappointment that Thangalaan, in which the actor underwent significant physical and emotional transformation, did not receive recognition.

The discussion continued across social media platforms, with many arguing that Raayan was not the strongest film in the category.

Dhanush's comments also drew attention to several of his earlier performances that had been widely discussed as potential National Award contenders.

Vetrimaaran's Karnan, released in 2021, focused on a village's fight for access to a bus stop and the caste violence surrounding the conflict. The film won the National Award for Best Tamil Film at the 69th National Film Awards, although Dhanush did not win the Best Actor award.

In Maryan, directed by Bharat Bala and released in 2013, Dhanush played a diver trapped in the Sudanese desert. The same year, he made his Hindi film debut with Raanjhanaa. Both performances had led to expectations that he could receive National Award recognition.

Dhanush also defended the work that went into Raayan and urged audiences to view the award in a broader context.

“Some things do not happen even if you try. They happen naturally, and that is how this award has come to me,” he said.

He added that the team behind Raayan had made the film with sincerity.

“As a Tamilian, I have received these National Awards. Instead of tearing us down, encourage us.”

Directed by Dhanush, Raayan was a commercial success following its release in 2024. The controversy over its National Award win, particularly in the Best Tamil Film category, was fuelled by the strong competition that year, with Maharaja, Meiyazhagan and Thangalaan among the films that received significant attention from audiences and critics.

The penalties, which include administrative and financial measures, follow inspections that found breaches of the regulations governing domestic worker recruitment services across the UAE.

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Delayed refunds accounted for most violations

According to MoHRE, the most common offence involved recruitment offices failing to refund all or part of recruitment fees to employers within the period required by law.

The ministry recorded 106 violations involving delayed refunds after employers returned domestic workers to recruitment offices or reported that workers had stopped reporting for duty.

Under the Executive Regulations of the Federal Decree-Law Concerning Domestic Workers, recruitment offices must refund the amount due within two weeks from the date a domestic worker is returned to the office or their absence from work is reported.

MoHRE said compliance with the refund requirement is essential to protecting employers' rights, maintaining fairness in contractual relationships and reducing disputes.

29 offices breached recruitment rules

The ministry also recorded 29 violations involving recruitment offices that failed to comply with approved terms and procedures governing domestic worker recruitment activities.

It said the appropriate administrative penalties were imposed in accordance with the applicable regulations.

138 licensed recruitment offices operate in the UAE

The UAE has 138 licensed and active domestic worker recruitment offices, according to MoHRE.

The ministry said it monitors these offices through inspections, tracking and continuous evaluations to identify violations, encourage compliance and improve standards across the sector.

It added that the monitoring system is designed not only to detect breaches but also to promote professional practices and ensure the sector operates efficiently.

Employers urged to report violations

MoHRE said its inspection and monitoring system remains ready to investigate complaints from employers and take action against recruitment offices that violate the law.

The ministry urged customers to report suspected violations through its digital channels or by contacting the Labour Claims and Advisory Centre on 80084.

It also advised employers to deal only with licensed recruitment offices listed on its official website and to review the applicable regulations before signing contracts to help protect their rights.

It's the second-biggest item after "generation charge" on his monthly bill.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr now wants it scapped.

Each month, 26.47 million households/consumers in the country pay this charge, currently enshrined in Philippine law.

Scrubbing the "system loss charge" is one of the bold appeals made by the chief executive to Filipino lawmakers on Monday (June 27) as he delivered his State of the Nation Address (SONA), laying out his administration's accomplishments and agenda in the final stretch of his six-year term (which ends in 2028).

"The system losses are not the consumers' fault. So they should not be charged for it," President Marcos Jr told the joint assembly on Monday, even as he appealed to the nation to "revisit" nuclear energy.

System loss charges are legal under Section 43(f) of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA, which empowers the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to allow distribution utilities to "recover" power lost during transmission and distribution.

Speaking before a joint session of Congress at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City, the president highlighted the following:

• Crisis response

• Investments in agriculture

• Improvements in healthcare

• Insurance Economic resilience amid global challenges

• Energy reforms, including renewables (including amendments to EPIRA Act)

• Anti-corruption effort, boosting transparency

• Infrastructure development

• Digitalisation

• National defence

• Foreign investments

System loss is defined as the difference between the total electricity supplied to a power grids and the actual amount billed to consumers, categorised primarily into "technical losses", "non-technical losses", and "utility use".

Push for nuclear energy

Marcos, who declared a national energy emergency this year, said on Monday that nuclear power might hold answers for a country paying the highest electricity prices in the region.

"Perhaps it is time for us to revisit nuclear energy production," he told a joint session of Congress in a nationally televised speech.

"We will ensure it is safe. We will ensure the good benefits of nuclear energy will be explained properly to the public." 

The address, broadcast live by state television PTV and other networks, comes as Marcos navigates a politically charged environment that includes the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, investigations into alleged corruption in flood control projects, and public concerns over inflation and living costs.

Filipino space rocket due in 2027

He also announced that Cagayan will host the country's first space port, with the first rocket launch into space set for 2027, in partnership with a South Korean aerospace company.

Key issues he tackled include sustaining economic growth and job creation, lowering rice prices and boosting agriculture, improving education and health services, modernising defence amid South China Sea tensions, and advancing anti-corruption efforts.

The event marks the opening of the second regular session of the 20th Congress.

Analysts view this as one of Marcos' most significant SONAs, coming at a time of heightened expectations for tangible results in poverty reduction, governance and sovereignty issues.

'Simple, yet dignified'

Government officials described this year's SONA as "simple yet dignified" in line with austerity measures prompted by external economic pressures, including conflicts in the Middle East.

Marcos, who assumed office in 2022, is using the annual speech — a constitutional requirement — to report on the past year's developments and set the legislative agenda through 2028.

His previous address drew attention for a pointed remark — "Mahiya naman kayo!" (Have some shame!) — urging shame on those involved in corruption scandals.

He also tackled the development of the country's Halal industry, and mentioned the CEPA with the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

"We continue to strive for greater things in pharamaceutial, advanced manufacturing, luxury goods and technology".

"Pax Silica industrial hub will create an ecosystem that will have AI at its core, and revitalise our economy, the hub will be an logistics centre," he said.

"Filipinos are noble and kind. We are not greedy, we're not racists, we are not liars. We are respectful and we are dignified. We are Filipinos, and we do not yield," said Marcos Jr, when he mentioned the 10th anniversary of the Arbitral Award.

President says 7.5 million families to benefit as government shifts from crisis response to long-term resilience

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday unveiled one of the broadest packages of economic relief and structural reforms of his administration, promising tax cuts, subsidies, lower power costs, transport assistance and stronger food and energy security as he entered the final two years of his six-year term.

In his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA), Marcos framed the measures as an integrated response to global economic uncertainty, volatile oil prices and natural disasters, while pledging that the government would continue investing in infrastructure, agriculture, education and energy to make the economy more resilient.

"Balik-tanaw upang harapin ang epekto ng krisis," Marcos said, describing a "whole-of-government" approach that combines immediate assistance with long-term reforms.

Relief for millions

Marcos said around 7.5 million Filipino families would receive various forms of government assistance during the current crisis.

The beneficiaries include:

• 2.5 million families receiving subsidised P10-per-kilogram rice;

• about 12 million Filipinos benefiting from the low-cost rice programme;

• recipients of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps);

• transport workers, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), and vulnerable households.

He said 800 Kadiwa centres nationwide are helping connect farmers and fishermen directly with consumers while keeping food prices affordable.

The President also announced that funds recovered from corrupt officials would be redirected to public assistance programmes.

Oil shock response

With global oil prices surging amid geopolitical tensions, Marcos outlined emergency measures aimed at cushioning consumers and businesses.

The government declared a State of Energy Emergency, while assuring Filipinos that the country has secured sufficient fuel supplies through agreements with Japan, South Korea, Oman, India, Russia and China.

Among the emergency measures:

• mandated oil price rollbacks;

• three-month suspension of excise taxes on kerosene and premium gasoline;

• diesel subsidies of P10 per litre for jeepney, UV Express and other public utility vehicle operators;

• free rides and expanded service contracting for commuters;

• suspension of selected port, anchorage, terminal and toll fees;

• toll-free passage for accredited food and agricultural cargo trucks;

• reduced roll-on/roll-off (RORO) shipping charges for agricultural products.

Marcos described public transportation as "the piston" that keeps the economy moving and said drivers, operators, workers and passengers deserve government protection during periods of high fuel prices.

Relief for households and businesses

To ease financial pressure on consumers, Marcos announced that:

• banks have agreed to waive selected online transaction fees;

• GSIS, SSS, Pag-IBIG Fund and other government financial institutions will extend payment relief for borrowers;

• electricity consumers affected by recent price spikes may pay their bills in instalments for May through July;

• power utilities are prohibited from disconnecting customers during the payment relief period.

Micro and small enterprises would also receive a one-time tax abatement to help struggling businesses recover.

Push for tax reforms

Marcos appealed to Congress to approve a broad package of tax relief measures designed to benefit workers and businesses.

Among the proposals:

• raising the annual income tax exemption threshold to P350,000;

• lowering income tax rates for other income brackets;

• exempting small businesses from the minimum corporate income tax;

• granting tax amnesty covering income tax, estate tax, value-added tax and related penalties.

"We will pursue tax-relief measures that promote growth," the President said.

Energy security and lower electricity costs

Energy security emerged as one of the central themes of the address.

Marcos said the administration is pursuing around 200 energy projects with a combined capacity of nearly 10,000 megawatts.

According to the President:

• 45 projects have already been completed;

• another 31 are expected to come online this year;

• 124 additional projects are scheduled through 2028.

Battery energy storage projects totalling 1,700 MW are expected to supply electricity to roughly three million homes.

He said the country is expanding investments in geothermal, solar, wind, hydro and biomass energy while continuing to develop indigenous natural gas resources.

Marcos announced that drilling has resumed in the Malampaya gas field for the first time in eight years.

The new discovery of about 220 billion cubic feet of natural gas, he said, could supply around 1.6 million households and extend domestic gas production through 2034.

The administration has also awarded 14 petroleum service contracts, the highest number issued during a single presidential term, while beginning projects involving hydrogen production as backup power for power plants.

Nuclear power revisited

Marcos said the country should revisit nuclear energy as part of its long-term energy strategy.

He noted that nuclear technology is already being used in medicine, agriculture and industrial applications and pledged that any move toward nuclear power generation would prioritise public safety and transparency.

"We will ensure this will be safe and clearly explained to the public," he said.

Power bill reforms

The President also called for sweeping reforms to electricity pricing.

He urged Congress to:

• pass the proposed Sariling Kuryente Act to simplify rooftop solar and battery installations;

• amend the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA);

• eliminate the "systems loss" charge and its corresponding VAT from consumers' electricity bills.

"It is not the consumers' fault," Marcos said to loud applause from lawmakers.

Agriculture and food security

Marcos said food security remains a national priority.

The government plans to:

• expand mechanisation;

• construct additional cold storage facilities;

• strengthen crop insurance;

• provide life insurance for farmers and fishermen;

• forgive certain agricultural loans;

• improve irrigation, farm roads and access to machinery.

The administration also aims to plant 100 million coconut trees, building on the 18 million already planted.

The National Food Authority will continue buying palay at higher prices while expanding grain storage facilities.

Disaster preparedness

Marcos announced a shift from a reactive disaster response to a predictive system using new technology.

The government plans to establish:

• 15 disaster logistics hubs;

• 76 regional spokes;

• 919 local distribution facilities operating around the clock.

Other initiatives include:

• mobile emergency energy systems;

• satellite-to-mobile communications during disasters;

• Ligtas Pinoy Centres designed to withstand super typhoons with winds of up to 340 kilometres per hour and earthquakes as strong as magnitude 8.4.

The President also proposed updating the National Building Code to require stronger earthquake standards for private buildings.

Transport and infrastructure

Despite the current economic challenges, Marcos said the government will continue investing in transport infrastructure.

Projects highlighted included:

• the North-South Commuter Railway extension to Clark;

• MRT-7's Sacred Heart station targeted for 2027;

• Toll Road 4 connecting Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Quezon Province;

• expanded electric vehicle adoption, including electric buses and ferries.

The government also plans to develop a domestic EV manufacturing ecosystem, including battery production, while requiring government agencies to prioritise electric vehicles.

Social protection

Marcos announced expanded protection through SSS, GSIS and Pag-IBIG.

Key initiatives include:

• wider SSS coverage for informal workers, gig workers and job-order personnel;

• increased Pag-IBIG housing loan ceilings to P10 million;

• expanded affordable housing under the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) programme;

• insurance coverage for around 7 million OFWs.

Education and jobs

Calling education the administration's "first priority," Marcos outlined reforms aimed at improving employability.

The initiatives include:

• strengthening senior high school work immersion;

• expanding TESDA training linked to industry needs;

• introducing a digital TESDA Passport;

• integrating artificial intelligence into education;

• promoting lifelong learning and entrepreneurship.

The government also announced:

• more than 300,000 job fairs, with over 6,000 applicants hired on the spot;

• promotion of 8,000 teachers and school heads;

• creation of 3,000 additional teaching positions;

• hiring of 8,000 school counsellor associates;

• expansion of school feeding programmes for young learners.

Marcos said technology—including tablets, Smart TVs, free mobile data and digital learning tools—would continue to modernise classrooms.

Looking beyond the crisis

Throughout the nearly two-hour speech, Marcos repeatedly stressed that emergency relief would be paired with structural reforms intended to make the economy more resilient.

The President said the administration's priorities remain clear: ensuring affordable food and energy, modernising transport, strengthening disaster preparedness, creating quality jobs, and protecting Filipino families against future shocks.

"Our goal is not only to uplift our fellow Filipinos," Marcos said, "but to ensure that they become self-sufficient."

With the Galaxy Z Fold 8, the company appears to be trying something slightly different: Making the foldable feel less like a phone that transforms into a tablet and more like a phone that was designed around the way people actually use screens.

The result is a shorter, wider foldable with a passport-inspired design, a 4:3 inner display and a more compact outer screen. It is a significant departure from the tall, narrow approach Samsung has used for years and early reviews suggest that the change is not just cosmetic.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is already attracting attention for its design, media experience and improved battery technology. But reviewers have also found a few familiar foldable compromises lurking beneath the shiny new hardware.

The biggest change is the shape and reviewers are into it

The Galaxy Z Fold 8's most noticeable difference is its passport-like form factor.

When closed, the phone is compact enough to use one-handed. Open it up and the 7.6-inch inner screen expands into a 4:3 display, giving it a wider, more conventional shape for watching videos, browsing social media and viewing photos.

That is a departure from the squarer interior of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, which is better suited to productivity and multitasking.

Several early impressions have focused on how much more natural the Z Fold 8 feels for everyday entertainment. TechRadar noted that the wider screen is better suited to video content, with less wasted space than the taller, squarer display on the Ultra.

PhoneArena was even more enthusiastic, calling the design the most exciting development in foldables since the original Galaxy Fold launched.

The reason is simple: Most of the internet is built around rectangles. Videos are rectangular. Social media feeds are rectangular. Photos are rectangular. The Galaxy Z Fold 8's wider inner display appears to embrace that reality rather than forcing content into an almost-square screen.

In other words, Samsung may have finally asked the question: What do people actually do on a foldable?

The cover screen is smaller, but not necessarily a deal-breaker

The 5.5-inch outer display is one of the more divisive elements of the design.

Compared with the much wider cover screen on the Z Fold 8 Ultra, the Z Fold 8's display is undeniably more compact. Typing can take up a significant amount of the screen, and some reviewers found that the smaller display takes a little getting used to.

But it may not be as restrictive as you might expect.

CNET found the cover screen surprisingly comfortable for everyday tasks such as texting and checking emails. The smaller dimensions also make the phone easier to grip and use with one hand.

The trade-off is clear: The Z Fold 8 is prioritising portability and a more comfortable inner display over giving you a traditional smartphone screen when the phone is closed.

That may not work for everyone. But for users who already expect to unfold their phone for more demanding tasks, it could be a reasonable compromise.

The crease is still there. Sorry.

Samsung's new Flex Titanium display technology appears to have made the crease less noticeable, but it has not performed a vanishing act.

Early reviewers found that the crease is harder to spot than on previous generations, particularly when the display is switched on. However, it can still become visible in certain lighting conditions, and users can still feel the dip while scrolling across the screen.

That makes the Galaxy Z Fold 8 a significant improvement rather than a crease-free revolution.

For most users, the crease may fade into the background after a while. But if you are buying a phone with a screen that folds in half and expecting the fold to disappear completely, Samsung is not quite there yet.

Battery life looks promising, but the Fold 8 is no endurance champion

The biggest question surrounding any slim foldable is battery life.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 packs a 4,800mAh battery, along with silicon-carbon technology and 45W wired charging. On paper, that sounds promising, particularly because silicon-carbon batteries can deliver greater capacity without requiring a significantly larger battery.

PhoneArena's three-day real-world battery test produced an average of around 5 hours and 44 minutes of screen time. The results varied considerably depending on usage, with heavy social media, browsing and email use draining the battery faster.

That puts the Z Fold 8 in an interesting position. It does not appear to match the endurance of a large traditional flagship, but it can still deliver a respectable day of use depending on how aggressively you push the larger screen.

The 45W charging support is also a welcome upgrade, allowing the phone to top up considerably faster than previous Fold models.

The verdict so far? Battery life appears good enough — but the foldable design still comes with compromises.

Performance is not the problem

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 uses the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, with up to 16GB of RAM depending on the storage configuration.

Early reviewers have not had enough time to conduct full performance testing, but the consensus is unsurprising: the phone is fast.

Gaming performance appears smooth, with demanding titles running at high settings without obvious stuttering or excessive heat. The Z Fold 8 also shares its core performance credentials with the more expensive Ultra model.

That means buyers are not necessarily sacrificing speed by choosing the smaller, wider foldable.

The more important question is what you are willing to sacrifice elsewhere.

The camera is where the Ultra pulls ahead

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 has a 50MP main camera and a 50MP ultra-wide camera, but it does not include the more advanced 200MP main camera and telephoto hardware found on the Z Fold 8 Ultra.

That difference is likely to matter most to people who care deeply about zoom photography and flagship-level camera performance.

Early impressions of the Ultra's camera have been broadly positive, although some reviewers found that certain close-up shots could be tricky to focus and that the telephoto camera did not always deliver the quality expected from a phone costing more than $2,000.

The Z Fold 8, meanwhile, appears to be making a clear argument: choose the wider screen for content, or choose the Ultra for cameras and productivity.

Samsung has effectively turned its foldable lineup into a choice between two very different lifestyles.

The early verdict: Samsung may have finally found its foldable identity

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is not trying to be everything to everyone. It is not the biggest foldable and it does not have the most powerful camera system in Samsung's lineup. Its cover screen is smaller, the crease has not disappeared and the battery is unlikely to compete with the biggest traditional smartphones.

But the phone appears to have a clearer identity than previous Galaxy Folds.

It is a foldable designed for people who watch videos, scroll through social media, browse the web, read and want a larger screen without carrying around a device that feels like a miniature tablet.

The clip, reportedly filmed at Boojee Cafe in Bandra West, shows Jaiswal leaving the venue while Mrunal is seen inside. While the footage does not capture any romantic interaction between the two, their presence at the same location was enough to spark speculation on social media.

Fan pages soon began circulating the video with captions suggesting that the two could be dating, turning what appeared to be a routine cafe visit into a viral talking point. The speculation also caught the attention of fans from both the cricket and Bollywood worlds, particularly because Jaiswal and Mrunal had not previously been publicly linked.

No confirmation yet

However, several social media users have urged others not to draw conclusions based solely on the video. Being spotted at the same cafe does not necessarily mean the two are romantically involved. Some users speculated that they could have been there for a professional meeting, a commercial shoot or another work-related commitment.

Neither Mrunal nor Jaiswal has commented on the rumours or confirmed that they are in a relationship.

The speculation has also led to discussions about their age difference. Mrunal is 33, while Jaiswal is 24, putting the age gap at around nine years, rather than the 11 years claimed in some social media posts. The topic has sparked debate online about how the public perceives age differences in celebrity relationships.

Earlier in 2025, Mrunal Thakur and Dhanush were linked by heavy dating and marriage rumours. However, both the actors and close insiders firmly dismissed the speculation as false

Back in 2009, when I went to watch the Cleveland Cavaliers during an NBA Eastern Conference match, I was greeted with a huge cutout of ‘King James’, as he is known to his fans, outside the Rocket Arena.

It was a season where James won the first of his four NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards.

And although his departure from Cavs to Miami Heat the following year wasn’t without controversy, with fans and ex-players accusing him of choosing to form a super team with Chris Bosh and Dwayne Wade in Miami and not trying to win a championship with Cleveland, I saw first-hand the craze around one of the greatest basketball players to have played the game.

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Interestingly, more than the game itself, it was the huge cutout of NBA’s all-time leading points-scorer that is still etched in my memory.

Then a few years later, in April 2014, I went to watch the Philadelphia 76ers in action at the Xfinity Mobile Arena. While the game itself was one to forget with the Sixers having one of their worst seasons in NBA history, I couldn’t but think of James, who at that time was plying his trade with Heat. Little did I know then that James would return to Cleveland just three months later and eventually lead them to the NBA title in 2016.

There’s always something about James and his fandom that still endures to this day, even at 41 years of age.

Back in February 2018, a businessman named Asher Raphael arranged for three billboards to be placed a few miles outside of Cleveland in a lighthearted effort to woo James to the Philadelphia 76ers. James decided later that year to leave the Cavaliers and join the Los Angeles Lakers. The billboard bit seemed futile.

Instead, maybe it was just premature. James announced last Friday that he's joining the 76ers in what he said will be the "last decision" of his playing career – and, finally, Raphael can say the billboard investment from eight years ago paid off.

"I was in the middle of a board meeting and my phone was going off like something was on fire," Raphael, the co-CEO of Power Home Remodeling, a Pennsylvania-based firm with offices around the country, told the Associated Press. "And it was people from all walks of life, employees, former employees, friends from all over the country being like: 'It worked. Process completed.' It was the coolest thing."

The original billboard idea was loosely based on the award-winning 2017 film "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri," and was simply intended to be something fun.

It wound up going viral.

Raphael ordered billboards with the messaging of "Philly Wants LeBron" and "Complete The Process" – a nod to the 76ers' infamous "process" of rebuilding, with hopes of becoming a contender. The third billboard showed where James would fit on the court with the other Sixers starters at the time: Dario Saric, Ben Simmons, Robert Covington and Joel Embiid. Of those, only Embiid remains with the 76ers.

Raphael considered ordering more billboards this summer but didn't place any orders. Turns out, he didn't need to.

"We just wanted to drop a seed that Philly wanted him," Raphael said. "I think a lot of people think of Philly as a great sports town, but opposing teams think of it as kind of an intimidating place. And we just wanted to drop a seed that he would be welcomed here and he'd love it."

Raphael's company got some name recognition from the billboard move in 2018, and he said it was a great morale boost to employees. And he fully believes James coming to Philadelphia, to play alongside Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown and VJ Edgecombe, is going to pay off for a city that hasn't seen its NBA team win a championship since 1983.

"Philly, right now, is on fire," Raphael said. "At that moment, we became an undeniable contender. And if he comes to Philadelphia and we get that title and that trophy after 44 years, the country will see what Sixers fans are about."

Having won the NBA title with Miami Heat in 2012 and 2013, with Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016 and with Los Angeles Lakers in 2020, who knows what magic King James will conjure with Philadelphia 76ers in what is likely to be his final two seasons in the NBA.

The grace period began on July 27, 2026, and is intended to help entities comply with Federal Decree-Law No. (46) of 2023 concerning the Regulation of the Space Sector before enforcement measures are introduced.

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Who needs to comply?

The agency said all businesses, public and private organisations, as well as individuals carrying out activities covered by the law, must complete the necessary registration, licensing and regulatory procedures within the deadline.

The requirement applies to both entities already operating in the UAE's space sector and those planning to launch space-related activities in the country.

Space activities require official approval

Osama Al Shehhi, Director of the Space Licensing and Permits Office at the UAE Space Agency, said the law prohibits carrying out space-related activities covered by its provisions without first obtaining the necessary permits or approvals.

"The law prohibits the practice of any space activities or other activities related to the space sector that fall under its provisions without obtaining the necessary permits or approvals from the UAE Space Agency, in accordance with the approved regulations and requirements," he said.

Al Shehhi urged companies, organisations and individuals to begin the registration and licensing process during the grace period to ensure their operations comply with the country's legal and regulatory framework.

Legal action after the 90-day deadline

The official warned that supervisory and legal measures will be taken against entities that fail to comply once the grace period expires, in accordance with applicable UAE legislation.

The agency said the licensing framework is designed to regulate the sector, support safe and sustainable space activities, and provide greater clarity for companies operating in the industry.

Entities seeking more information on licences, permits and compliance requirements have been advised to contact the UAE Space Agency through its official communication channels.

Part of the UAE's long-term space strategy

The announcement comes as the UAE continues to expand its national space sector under the National Space Strategy 2031, which aims to strengthen the country's space industry, support both emerging and established companies, encourage technology transfer, improve access to local and international markets, and foster partnerships between the public and private sectors.

The move comes as more people in Abu Dhabi shift away from the commitment of car ownership toward demand mobility solutions. SelfDrive says the rising interest in car rental Abu Dhabi services reflects a broader change in how residents, business travellers and tourists approach personal transport for the flexibility of app-based booking over the upfront costs and commitments tied to owning a car.

A significant share of this growth is being driven by the flexible car subscription plan from the company. Demand for monthly car rental Abu Dhabi plans has been particularly strong among visitors, relocating professionals and corporate users who need dependable access to a vehicle without any long commitment. SelfDrive's monthly plans offer lower daily rates than short term rentals to make them an increasingly popular choice for extended stays.

SelfDrive also aims to support Abu Dhabi's expanding corporate sector and steady tourist inflow with a wider range of well-maintained vehicles from budget hatchbacks to premium SUVs. The company's fully digital booking platform allows customers to select, reserve and manage their rental entirely online with options for airport pickup, zero deposit bookings and flexible plan upgrades.

The expanded Abu Dhabi fleet is now available for booking through SelfDrive's website and mobile app, alongside its existing daily, weekly and long-term leasing services across the UAE.

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The Dubai-based carrier said it will initially operate three weekly flights between Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), before increasing the service to daily flights from October 25, ahead of the busy autumn and winter travel season.

The route restores direct air links between the UAE and Hungary, offering passengers easier access to Dubai as well as onward connections to more than 120 destinations across flydubai's growing network.

The flights will also operate under the Emirates and flydubai codeshare partnership, allowing travellers to book their journey on a single ticket, check baggage through to their final destination and connect seamlessly across both airlines' networks.

Strengthening links with Hungary

flydubai first launched flights to Budapest in 2021. The airline said the resumption reflects its continued focus on expanding its presence in Central and Eastern Europe.

Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO at flydubai, said: "The resumption of our Budapest service reaffirms our long-term investment in Hungary and reflects the strong economic and cultural ties between our two nations."

He added: "Budapest remains one of our most strategic European markets. Reconnecting the Hungarian capital to Dubai enables us to offer greater choice for regional travellers while further solidifying Dubai's position as a global hub for business, trade and tourism."

More connections via Dubai

The resumed route will give travellers from Hungary direct access to Dubai, while passengers can also connect onwards through the emirate to destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Southeast Asia.

These include Kenya, the Maldives, Oman, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

Jeyhun Efendi, Divisional Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations and E-commerce at flydubai, said: "As we approach the busy autumn-winter travel season, this service creates valuable new commercial and tourism opportunities across both markets."

He added that, through the Emirates partnership, customers can benefit from "seamless connections, integrated itineraries and joint network reach across the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Southeast Asia."

The Budapest service is the latest addition to flydubai's expanding network. It follows the airline's recent launches of flights to Aleppo in Syria, Bangkok in Thailand and Benghazi in Libya.

The carrier will also begin flights to Pokhara, Nepal, from September 23.

Schedule, fares

From July 31, flydubai will operate flights to Budapest every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport.

The route will increase to daily services from October 25, 2026.

Return fares from Dubai start from:

• Dh15,585 in Business Class

• Dh2,987 in Economy Class

The flights are available under the Emirates-flydubai codeshare, with passengers also able to earn and redeem Emirates Skywards Miles across both airlines.

The cricketer made the relationship public through a heartfelt post on social media, introducing Samreen to his followers.

On Sunday, Arshdeep shared two pictures with Samreen on social media, with the couple seen embracing in the photographs. He captioned the post simply, “My Person,” marking the first time he has publicly acknowledged their relationship.

Who is Samreen Kaur?

Born on September 7, 1999, in Jammu and Kashmir, Samreen Kaur is an actor, model and social media influencer. She completed her BCom (Honours) from Symbiosis College of Arts and Commerce in Pune before pursuing a career in modelling and acting.

Her profile rose significantly after she represented Jammu and Kashmir at the Femina Miss India 2018 pageant, where she emerged as a finalist. She subsequently took on several modelling assignments before venturing into films and digital projects.

Samreen has featured in the ZEE5 web series Nail Polish and appeared in films such as 83 and Sardaar Ji 2.

She has also starred in several music videos with popular singers, including Jubin Nautiyal, Badshah and Guru Randhawa. Songs such as Baawla and Tujhe Bhoolna Toh Chaaha helped her gain wider recognition.

Beyond acting and modelling, Samreen is active on social media, where she frequently shares updates about her professional projects, travels and fashion.

Dating rumours

Speculation about Arshdeep and Samreen’s relationship gathered pace during IPL 2026. Rumours began circulating after a viral Snapchat post appeared to show the cricketer holding hands with a woman whom fans believed was Samreen.

Social media users further fuelled the speculation by comparing tattoos, accessories and outfits visible in the viral images with photographs shared by Samreen on her social media accounts.

The rumours intensified after Samreen was spotted at several Punjab Kings matches. She attended the team’s clash against Mumbai Indians at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium and was later seen supporting Punjab Kings during matches in Chandigarh.

Her repeated appearances at the team’s games, coupled with paparazzi sightings outside stadiums, further added to speculation that she and Arshdeep were dating.

Even before Arshdeep’s public confirmation, fans had been connecting the dots through the pair’s social media activity, public appearances and travel posts.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) warned against the continuous assaults by settlers, and called on the Israeli government to assume full responsibility, condemn these practices, and hold the perpetrators accountable.

The UAE stressed that failure to act will be seen as tacit approval that will only further deepen the cycle of hatred, racism, and instability.

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The Ministry called on the international community to fulfill its responsibilities to end the ongoing Israeli violations and to prevent fueling the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and the region.

The Ministry stressed the need to support all regional and international efforts to advance the peace process in the Middle East to reach comprehensive and just peace, as well as end illegal practices that undermine the two-state solution.

The Emirates Health Services (EHS) said it is expanding free medical consultations, health screenings and awareness initiatives to help reduce heat-related illnesses, particularly among outdoor workers, older adults, children and people with chronic diseases.

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Doctors warn that heat stress develops when the body is unable to cool itself after losing large amounts of fluids and salts through sweating. If left untreated, it can progress to heatstroke, a medical emergency that can lead to serious complications.

Early symptoms include fatigue, dizziness, headaches, nausea, heavy sweating and muscle cramps. More severe cases can cause high body temperature, confusion and the inability to sweat, requiring immediate medical attention.

As part of its summer campaign, EHS is conducting awareness programmes at hospitals and health centres, offering free medical advice and health checks for people at higher risk, while also sharing safety tips through digital platforms and social media.

The initiative also focuses on improving the readiness of healthcare workers to respond to heat-related emergencies and encouraging people to stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet during the hotter months.

Outdoor workers remain one of the main groups targeted by the campaign, with health officials stressing the importance of following the annual midday work ban, taking regular rest breaks, drinking enough water and wearing suitable clothing while working outdoors.

Older adults, children and people living with conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure are also more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Health experts encourage families to ensure these groups stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

Speaking to Gulf News, Dr Abdulla Kazim, Quality Consultant at Response Plus Medical, said people should not wait until they feel thirsty before drinking water.

“Thirst is already a sign that your body is becoming dehydrated. Workers should drink water regularly throughout the day rather than waiting until they feel thirsty,” he said.

He also advised people working outdoors to eat lighter meals, get enough sleep and gradually adapt to working in hot conditions, especially after returning from leave.

Dr Kazim said workers and supervisors should also pay attention to subtle changes in behaviour, such as poor concentration, irritability or unusual tiredness, as these may be early signs of heat stress.

He added that light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing can help the body stay cool, while people taking medication for conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure should speak to their healthcare provider about working in extreme heat.

For those carrying out prolonged physical activity outdoors, replacing electrolytes lost through heavy sweating alongside drinking enough water can also help reduce the risk of heat-related illness, he said.

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The airline's award-winning loyalty programme has launced a new rail booking platform that gives members access to more than 12,000 rail destinations across Europe.

Called Skywards Rail, the new service allows members to redeem Skywards Miles for train journeys operated by more than 40 rail companies across 12 European countries, making it easier to continue their travels beyond the airport.

Members can book tickets through the dedicated Skywards Rail platform using a computer or mobile device in five languages. They can pay entirely with Skywards Miles or combine Cash + Miles, while rail tickets can also be booked for family and friends. E-tickets are delivered by email after purchase.

According to Emirates Skywards, the new offering enables members to search train schedules, compare ticket types and select different cabin classes before booking.

The launch forms part of Emirates Skywards' wider strategy to expand the programme beyond flights, giving members more ways to use their Miles throughout their journey and adding greater value for travellers.

Connect seamlessly across Europe

Emirates said the new platform is designed to help travellers continue their journeys after arriving in Europe, whether travelling between major cities, connecting onwards from an Emirates or flydubai flight, or exploring destinations beyond the airline's route network.

Dr Nejib Ben Khedher, Divisional Senior Vice President, Emirates Skywards, said: "Our members are looking for more flexible ways to use their Skywards Miles, and Skywards Rail is another step in expanding the programme beyond air travel."

"By unlocking affordable access to more than 12,000 rail destinations across Europe, we're giving members the freedom to create seamless journeys using Miles, whether that's travelling between major cities, connecting onwards from an Emirates or flydubai flight, or discovering somewhere new."

He added that the initiative is part of the programme's commitment to offering "more choice, greater value and rewarding travel experiences at every stage of the journey."

Popular European rail routes

Skywards Miles can now be redeemed on services operated by major European rail companies including Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn, SNCF, Trenitalia, TGV, Renfe and ÖBB, as well as UK rail operators such as Heathrow Express, Gatwick Express, Thameslink, Great Western Railway and ScotRail.

Examples of redemption rates include:

• Heathrow Express from 4,700 Skywards Miles

• Berlin to Frankfurt from 4,100 Skywards Miles

• Barcelona to Madrid from 5,400 Skywards Miles

• Rome to Milan from 8,100 Skywards Miles

• London to Paris from 9,400 Skywards Miles

Emirates said the launch expands redemption options beyond flights as it continues to develop Emirates Skywards into a broader lifestyle loyalty programme.

The programme, which recently marked its 25th anniversary, now has more than 39 million members across 190 countries and records more than 78,000 new enrolments every week.

On paper, it sounds like a major upgrade.

But here is the more interesting question: how many of these features will you actually use?

The smartphone industry has spent years turning phones into increasingly powerful pocket computers. Cameras now offer professional-level controls. Chips are powerful enough to handle tasks that once required laptops. Screens are brighter than most people need. And every year, manufacturers promise another leap in performance.

The iPhone 18 Pro could take that trend even further.

The catch: For many users, the biggest upgrades may be the ones they never consciously notice.

The iPhone 18 Pro could be more powerful than you need

The biggest upgrade inside the iPhone 18 Pro could be Apple’s A20 chip, which is expected to be built using TSMC’s 2nm process.

The move from 3nm to 2nm should allow Apple to fit more transistors into the chip, potentially improving performance and power efficiency. The next-generation architecture could also use TSMC’s Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module technology, with analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggesting that RAM could be integrated more closely with the CPU, GPU and Neural Engine.

In technical terms, that could be a significant step forward.

But for the average iPhone user, what does that actually mean?

Opening WhatsApp, scrolling through Instagram, watching Netflix and taking photos are already tasks that current flagship iPhones handle with ease. A faster chip may make demanding games, video editing and AI-powered features smoother, but most users are unlikely to wake up one morning and think, oh dear, your phone needs more processing power.

That could be the iPhone 18 Pro’s central problem. It may become significantly more powerful without feeling significantly different.

The camera could become more versatile, but will people use the extra control?

The iPhone 18 Pro could also receive one of its most interesting camera upgrades yet: A variable-aperture system.

After reportedly upgrading all three rear cameras to 48MP, Apple may be preparing to give users greater control over how much light enters the lens. A variable aperture could allow the camera to adapt to different lighting conditions, letting in more light in darker environments and restricting it in brighter ones.

For photographers, that could be a significant improvement.

For everyone else, the experience may simply be this: point the phone, press the shutter and let the software do the work.

And that raises a bigger question about smartphone cameras. Are they becoming more capable than the people using them?

The iPhone 18 Pro could offer more control, more flexibility and more sophisticated hardware. But the majority of users may still rely on the same basic formula: open the camera, take a photo and move on.

A smaller Dynamic Island could be one upgrade everyone notices

If there is one rumoured iPhone 18 Pro feature that could make a difference every day, it may be the least dramatic one.

The Dynamic Island could reportedly become significantly smaller, with Apple potentially moving part of the Face ID system beneath the display.

The result would be simple: more screen and less interruption.

Unlike a faster chip, this is the kind of change users might actually notice every time they watch a video, read something or use an app.

The rumoured display sizes are expected to remain familiar, with the iPhone 18 Pro reportedly retaining a 6.3-inch screen and the Pro Max a 6.9-inch display. Apple is also reportedly working on more power-efficient LTPO+ display technology.

In other words, the biggest improvement to the display may not be making it bigger. It could be making the obstruction smaller.

More battery is useful — but bigger phones come with a catch

The iPhone 18 Pro Max is rumoured to receive a battery increase to around 5,200mAh, compared with approximately 5,088mAh on its predecessor. The iPhone 18 Pro could see a smaller increase, from around 4,252mAh to 4,288mAh.

Combined with the efficiency gains expected from the 2nm A20 chip and a new C2 modem, that could translate into longer battery life.

And unlike many flagship features, this is one upgrade almost everyone can appreciate.

But the Pro Max could also reportedly become slightly thicker and heavier. A phone that lasts longer but feels more substantial in your hand is not necessarily an automatic win for every user.

The question is no longer simply whether Apple can put a bigger battery inside the iPhone.

It is whether people want a bigger phone in exchange for more battery life.

The biggest change could happen before you even buy the phone

The iPhone 18 Pro could also mark a major change in the way Apple launches its phones.

According to reports, Apple may move away from its traditional four-iPhone September launch. The Pro models and the company’s first foldable iPhone could reportedly arrive in September 2026, while the more affordable iPhone 18, iPhone Air 2 and iPhone 18e may follow in spring 2027.

That would turn the iPhone launch from one major annual event into a rolling release strategy.

And suddenly, the iPhone 18 Pro would not just be competing with the phone in your pocket. It could also be competing with another iPhone launching alongside it.

The foldable could be the headline-maker. The Pro could be the familiar, powerful choice. The cheaper models could arrive later and potentially offer many of the same core capabilities.

Apple may therefore have a new problem: not making the iPhone 18 Pro good enough, but making it feel sufficiently different from everything else in its own lineup.

So, what will you actually notice?

The iPhone 18 Pro could be faster, more efficient, better at handling demanding tasks and more capable as a camera.

But the upgrades that may matter most to everyday users could be far less dramatic:

• A smaller Dynamic Island

• Longer battery life

• Better camera performance in difficult lighting

• A phone that remains fast for longer

The 2nm chip may be the biggest technical upgrade. The variable-aperture camera may be the most exciting one for photography enthusiasts. The new launch strategy may be the most disruptive for Apple.

But the feature that matters most to you could be something far simpler.

Because the next iPhone does not necessarily need to do more.

It needs to make the things you already do feel better.

And that may be the real test of the iPhone 18 Pro: not how much technology Apple can fit inside it, but how much of that technology you will actually notice.

Sreedhar started with a curious statement “the next generation of insurance companies will not compete solely on premiums or products, but they will compete on intelligence and personalisation”. In the era of Autonomous Intelligence, insurers are evolving from organizations that pay claims into enterprises that continuously predict, prevent, and protect. AI is no longer just a technology capability, but it is becoming the intelligence layer that powers every decision, interaction, and underlying business process.

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Equally important is the industry's transition from risk protection to well-being enablement. Future insurers will become trusted partners in their customers' financial, physical, and digital well-being. Personalized wellness programs, preventive healthcare insights, safe driving recommendations, cyber hygiene guidance, and financial resilience services will become integral to the customer relationship. Insurance will no longer begin when something goes wrong, instead it will continuously help customers reduce the likelihood of adverse events.

Customer engagement will be powered by hyper-personalization. Leveraging AI insurers can offer tailored products, proactive recommendations, and contextual services based on individual needs and life events. Every interaction, from purchasing a policy to filing a claim will become seamless, intelligent, and personalized across digital and human channels.

The modern insurer will also operate as part of an intelligent ecosystem. Rather than functioning as an isolated enterprise, it will collaborate with healthcare providers, automotive manufacturers, smart home platforms, financial institutions, cybersecurity providers, reinsurers, and government agencies through secure digital platforms and real time data-sharing partnerships. These ecosystems will enable faster decisions, richer insights, and new value-added services.

However, intelligence without trust creates risk. As AI becomes embedded across underwriting, claims, pricing, fraud detection, compliance, and customer engagement, insurers must establish robust AI Governance and well-defined guard rails. Every high-impact AI-generated recommendation should be explainable, evidence-backed, monitored for bias, and subject to human accountability. Ethical AI, strong cybersecurity, privacy-by-design, regulatory compliance, and transparent decision-making will become essential competitive differentiators.

Modern insurance companies will also embrace continuous learning enterprises. Employees will work alongside AI Copilot and autonomous agents, requiring new capabilities in AI literacy, data interpretation, digital ethics, and governance. Human expertise will remain indispensable for judgment, empathy, negotiation, and strategic decision-making, while AI enhances speed, accuracy, and operational efficiency at scale.

Ultimately, the insurance company of the future will be measured not by how efficiently it generates quotes or processes claims, but by how effectively it improves customer well-being, and earns trust

In the AI era, insurance is no longer simply about transferring risk. It is about creating intelligent protection, enabling healthier and safer lives, anticipating tomorrow's challenges before they occur, and delivering confidence in an increasingly uncertain world.

Conclusion Note

The future of insurance will be defined by hyper-personalization, where every customer receives the most relevant insurance premiums, products, and service experiences based on their unique risk profile, lifestyle, and evolving needs. By combining Autonomous Intelligence, predictive analytics, trusted data platforms, and responsible AI governance, insurers can deliver highly tailored pricing for both new business and renewals, while transforming claims processing into proactive, seamless, and customer-centric experiences.

Beyond technology, success will depend on a deep understanding of the expectations and behaviours of different customer segments and generations. Insurers must establish strong AI governance, trusted data foundations, resilient operating models, and effective human-AI collaboration to ensure transparency, fairness, regulatory compliance, and customer trust. Organizations that successfully combine intelligent automation with empathy and personalization will be best positioned to build resilient, customer-centric insurance enterprises of the future.

Stay tuned for more insights from our community experts. We are also engaging with product and service vendors who can help turn this vision into reality.

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The $1.2 billion project is due to be completed in 2028 and will become Senegal’s main deep-water container gateway, expanding the country’s trade capacity and strengthening its position in West African logistics.

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More than 1,000 people are currently employed directly on the site, with construction now moving into the next phase of marine and civil works.

Major dredging phase completed

The work covered a five-kilometre navigation channel, a turning basin and a berth pocket designed to receive the world’s largest container ships.

Two large cutter suction dredgers were used to remove material from the site, more than 95 per cent of which was solid rock.

Some of the rock formations had compressive strength exceeding 100 megapascals, making them considerably harder than the material usually encountered during major port construction.

The dredging was completed without blasting, reducing the environmental impact while allowing work to continue safely.

Mohammed Akoojee, CEO and Managing Director for Africa at DP World, said the early completion would bring forward the next stage of construction.

“Completing major dredging works 13 months ahead of schedule is a significant milestone for the Port of Ndayane and a testament to the expertise, commitment and collaboration of everyone involved in delivering this project safely.”

Port designed for larger vessels

The completed access channel has been dredged to a depth of 20 metres, while the project also includes a 600-metre turning basin and an 875-metre berth pocket.

The berth will be capable of handling two Triple E-class container vessels at the same time.

Capital dredging was initially expected to be completed in September 2027, but early mobilisation in December 2024 allowed the work to finish well ahead of schedule.

Jobs and access to goods

DP World said the project would support 2.3 million jobs through trade and improve access to critical goods and staples for 7.8 million people.

The company also expects the port to improve opportunities for local businesses and support skills development in Senegal.

The project currently employs 1,043 people on site and has maintained environmental monitoring and engagement with local stakeholders throughout construction.

Dakar terminal nearing its limits

DP World has operated the Port of Dakar terminal since 2008 and has invested about $340 million in modernising the facility.

Container volumes increased from 265,000 twenty-foot equivalent units in 2008 to 850,000 units in 2025.

Vessel waiting times also fell from 35 hours to almost zero during that period.

The Port of Dakar is now operating close to its physical capacity, prompting DP World and the Senegalese government to develop Ndayane as the country’s next major gateway for international trade.

The new port is located about 50 kilometres from Dakar and has been designed to support future expansion while improving links between the port and inland logistics networks.

The Port of Dakar is currently the highest-ranked port in Sub-Saharan Africa for efficiency in the World Bank’s Container Port Performance Index.

Samer Hijazi, founder of Pinpoint Fitness, a centre dedicated to obstacle-course training and parkour for children and teenagers, has built his programme around the opposite idea, that a child's abilities should shape the training, not the other way around. He's firm that kids aren't sorted by labels. "We don't segregate kids based on certain labels about whether they're special needs or so," he said. Instead, every child is assessed first, physical ability, comprehension, how they process and respond, and the training is built to fit them from there.

That thinking is what led to a dedicated neurodiversity and autism programme. "We believe that all kids need to have access to this kind of training and need to have access to unlock their full potential," Hijazi said, describing the goal as making sure there's no "ceiling on the possibility of their progress."

Starting with communication, not exercise

For the coaches, the first challenge often isn't physical at all. It's finding a way in.

Coach Mahdi, head coach at the Al Furjan branch, described working with a child who is non-verbal and not yet walking, where the entire starting point was communication through what the child could see rather than hear. His method was patient and visual, showing the same action repeatedly and trusting the child to absorb it over time. "If I keep repeating one thing for him as many times as possible, eventually he will pick up," Mahdi explained. Only once that understanding lands does the physical teaching really begin.

It's slow, deliberate work, and it reframes what progress even means. Before a single flip or climb, the win is simply being understood.

Ambrosh, and turning energy into progress

I asked the coach for a story that stuck with him, and one name comes up.

A boy named Ambrosh arrived with significant anger issues, hitting himself, throwing himself around, difficult to settle. Rather than trying to suppress that intensity, Mahdi described using it. "He was giving me a lot of energy, so I had to use that energy to help him," he said. What followed took dedication and patience from everyone involved, but the payoff was real. "Eventually he managed to reach a certain level that we didn't even know he could go to. He surprised us."

That element of surprise runs through a lot of these accounts, kids moving past ceilings nobody was sure existed, precisely because nobody had assumed a ceiling in the first place.

What the parents are seeing

For the families, the changes often show up first in temperament and confidence rather than physical skill.

Aneesa Islam, from the UK, described her five-year-old son Osman as introverted and not especially active, particularly next to his older brother, who takes to sport easily. Osman is shy and reserved, and she'd been specifically looking for something to help him break out of his shell. Coming along, she said, has started to make a real difference in drawing him out.

Nishprabh Singh saw a similar shift in her nine-year-old daughter Irisha, though for her it was about resilience. She described a child who wanted to be adventurous but had started becoming overly delicate, making a fuss over the smallest scratch.

What she valued was how the coaching pushed her rather than letting her give up. "I like the fact that the coaches are making the mentors stronger," she said. Rather than telling kids they can't do something and should take a break, she felt the coaches did the opposite. "They motivate them that they feel that they are strong," she said.

Nearly two years in, she credits the sessions with broad change. "We've seen a lot of changes, overall growth," she said. Irisha has since been picked for both the netball and basketball teams at school, and Singh feels her daughter now handles pressure and competition in a way she didn't before.

For Rosanna Perez, mother of four-year-old Rose, the appeal was simpler but no less important, keeping her child genuinely active rather than on a screen. With her kids studying all day at school, she prefers their downtime to be spent moving, not in front of a device, exactly the kind of purposeful, engaged activity these sessions are built around. But it also builds confidence and character which is the main reason why she chose this for her daughter.

The training

The training itself is built around obstacle courses at its core, with specialty classes that each isolate one skill, strength work drawn from CrossFit-style lifting, pushing and pulling; grip and swing through climbing, monkey bars and ropes; speed through kid-versus-kid races; and flip classes teaching rolls, front flips and back flips.

That breakdown matters more than it might seem. For a neurodiverse child, a single clear focus per session, one skill, one target, no random play, can be far easier to engage with than an open, unstructured environment. Hijazi is firm that even the youngest and newest kids follow a purposeful class structure rather than just being handed free play, describing a clear pathway of skills to move through every time. The name Pinpoint itself, he noted, comes from accuracy, from doing something specific with purpose.

When the results are beyond expectations

The most striking outcomes, by Hijazi's own account, are the ones that started from the smallest hopes.

Several parents of neurodiverse children, he said, first came through the doors hoping only for a very simple level of engagement, any activity at all. What some of those kids went on to achieve outstripped that completely. With persistence from the parents, the child and the coaches together, he described kids learning skills impressive even next to their peers, going from struggling to walk in a straight line to running along walls and pulling off flips. Some of those before-and-after transformations have since drawn millions of views online, precisely because of how far the child travelled.

Underneath the viral clips, though, Hijazi's framing stays grounded. The skill itself is almost beside the point. "If you put effort, then there will be return," he said, describing the real lesson as the understanding that working hard and overcoming challenges leads to good things, something he believes reaches well past the gym floor.

The technical evaluation is intended solely to assess the platform's capabilities in a simulated setting and does not involve live customer data, production systems, or regulated financial services. Under the sandbox framework, LuLuFin will review CreataChain's core ledger, smart contract, interoperability and developer tool components to assess their technical capabilities and suitability for potential future interoperability.

The evaluation may include node deployment, wallet and SDK integration, smart contract testing, block and transaction verification, internal chain-to-chain messaging, and external network connectivity scenarios. All activities will be conducted in a controlled sandbox environment. No live customer data, production system, live payment, remittance, settlement, or customer asset movement will be involved. The review will rely only on test accounts, synthetic data, and simulated transactions.

LuLuFin will provide technical feedback on sandbox configuration, operational requirements, infrastructure suitability, and potential integration paths. CreataChain will provide blockchain infrastructure, developer tools, wallet integration support, smart contract environment, Explorer access, and technical documentation.

"Innovation in financial services requires disciplined evaluation as much as technological advancement. This MoU provides a structured framework to assess emerging blockchain infrastructure in a controlled sandbox environment, allowing us to better understand its technical capabilities,” said Joseph Cleetus, VP of Business Transformation at LuLuFin.

Jennifer Jin Kim, Chief Executive Officer of CreataChain, said: “Financial institutions do not review blockchain infrastructure only by checking whether a single chain operates. They need to see how internal systems, external networks, transaction flows, and verification layers connect. This MoU gives CreataChain a framework to present Zenith, Catena, ICP, Lunar Link, Wallet, SDK, and Explorer in that context.”

Jeremy Jung, Chief Operating Officer of CreataChain, said: “The sandbox work will focus on practical integration: node deployment, transaction creation, signing, submission, block verification, chain-to-chain messaging, and external network connectivity. The purpose is to show how CreataChain’s infrastructure can operate beyond a closed test environment.”

The MoU does not constitute the launch or commercialisation of any payment, remittance, stablecoin, tokenised deposit, virtual asset, custody, exchange, or other regulated financial service. Any future regulated activity would require separate agreements, regulatory review, compliance assessment, security review, and internal approvals by both parties.

The evaluation reflects LuLuFin's commitment to exploring emerging technologies that may shape the future of financial services.

The initiative is designed to make it easier for people to reclaim belongings reported lost and subsequently recovered by the police, eliminating the need to visit service centres to collect them.

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Announcing the service on its official account on the social media platform X, Dubai Police said customers can request delivery of recovered items to their place of residence or place of work in any of the UAE's seven emirates.

The move forms part of Dubai Police's broader strategy to expand smart and customer-centric services, streamline procedures and improve the overall customer experience by providing faster and more convenient access to police services.

Dubai Police urged customers wishing to use the service to contact its Call Centre on 901 to arrange delivery of their recovered belongings.

The force has continued to expand its portfolio of digital and proactive services in recent years as part of Dubai's wider drive to enhance government efficiency, improve public satisfaction and reinforce its position as one of the world's leading smart cities.

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The alliance will create structured routes for private clients assessing Dubai as a base for their wealth, businesses and families, while supporting the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.

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Julius Baer will draw on a network spanning more than 25 countries and 60 locations to connect clients with investment and business opportunities in Dubai.

The Swiss wealth manager had assets under management of 547 billion Swiss francs at the end of June 2026.

Turning interest into investment

DET said the agreement will help convert international interest in Dubai into business establishment and investment activity.

Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation, the economic development arm of DET, said the partnership would strengthen Dubai’s ability to support investors seeking certainty and access to global markets.

The agreement will support family offices, business owners and private clients considering long-term capital allocation in the emirate.

Family office numbers rise

Dubai’s private wealth sector has continued to expand, with the Dubai International Financial Centre reporting strong growth in family-related entities.

DIFC was home to 1,289 family-related entities at the end of 2025, an annual increase of 61 per cent.

Families based in the financial centre had also established 1,115 foundations, up 66 per cent from the previous year.

The expansion comes alongside wider economic growth in Dubai, where GDP increased by 5.4% in 2025.

Dubai has also ranked as the world’s leading destination for greenfield foreign direct investment projects for five consecutive years.

Another global banking partnership

The Julius Baer alliance follows a separate agreement between DET and Deutsche Bank aimed at attracting global investors, family offices and international businesses to Dubai.

That partnership uses Deutsche Bank’s network across private banking, corporate banking and investment banking to identify clients considering relocation, international structuring or business expansion.

DET supports introduced clients with their Dubai entry plans, including company formation, engagement with government entities and access to applicable residency pathways.

Deutsche Bank will also anchor a Wealth and Family Office Forum in Dubai and include DET in international roadshows and client events.

The milestone reinforces both the strength of the RAW District concept and the continued confidence investors place in Dubai’s real estate market. It also reflects the growing demand for thoughtfully designed mixed-use destinations that seamlessly combine residential living, hospitality, wellness, retail, dining, workspaces, and community experiences into one integrated urban environment.

RAW District 2 builds on the vision that established the original development as one of Dubai’s most successful mixed-use launches. Rather than creating a conventional real estate project, Imtiaz Developments has designed an ecosystem where every element of daily life, from where people live and work to how they connect, exercise, dine, and unwind, exists within a carefully curated destination.

Exceptional interest

The launch attracted exceptional interest from regional and international investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, and end users seeking developments that prioritise experience, flexibility, long-term value, and quality of life.

“This is much more than another successful launch,” said Masih Imtiaz, CEO of Imtiaz Developments.

“Seeing RAW District sell out on launch day was an incredible milestone. Seeing RAW District 2 achieve the same result confirms something even more meaningful. It proves that people believe in the vision behind the brand.

“Today’s buyers are no longer investing solely in apartments. They are investing in environments that enrich their lives, inspire creativity, foster community, and deliver lasting value. RAW District represents a new philosophy of urban living, and the market’s response continues to validate that direction.

“This achievement is also a reflection of Dubai itself. The emirate continues to attract global talent, entrepreneurs, businesses, and investors through visionary leadership, world-class infrastructure, and an unwavering commitment to innovation. We are proud to contribute to that vision by creating destinations that enhance the way people live, work, and connect.”

Growing ecosystem of proprietary lifestyle brands

Like its predecessor, RAW District 2 will introduce Imtiaz Developments’ growing ecosystem of proprietary lifestyle brands, including Raw Stay, Raw Theory, Distrikt Table, 6AM Coffee Club, The Design Lab, The Studio, and Raw Station. Together, these concepts create an integrated destination where hospitality, wellness, fitness, creativity, dining, work, and social interaction become part of everyday life.

The consecutive launch-day sell-outs further strengthen Imtiaz Developments’ position as one of Dubai’s fastest-growing design-led developers while establishing RAW District as one of the city’s most successful mixed-use brands. The achievement also reflects the resilience of Dubai’s property market, where long-term confidence continues to be driven by world-class infrastructure, progressive leadership, a business-friendly environment, and a growing global investor base.

Following the success of the first two developments, Imtiaz Developments has confirmed that additional projects under the RAW District brand are already in planning as part of a long-term strategy to create a portfolio of lifestyle-led destinations across Dubai.

President Prabowo Subianto has accepted the resignation of Perry Warjiyo, who had served as Bank Indonesia's governor since 2018, State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi told reporters in Jakarta.

Perry, whose second term was meant to expire in 2028, cited unspecified personal reasons for the surprise resignation, which he tendered on Saturday.

The bank's senior deputy governor, Destry Damayanti, has been appointed interim governor, said Prasetyo.

The stock market and currency remained "quite stable" in the hours after the government announced Perry's resignation, Bank Central Asia chief economist David Sumual told AFP.

But the move "may cast further policy uncertainty, which may not translate well to the rupiah and the economy in general".

The rupiah has taken a battering from surging energy costs, shedding about seven percent since the Middle East conflict erupted in February to become Asia's worst-performing currency, according to financial outlet Bloomberg News.

In a bid to bolster the rupiah, Bank Indonesia has lifted its key interest rate by 100 basis points this year to 5.75 percent.

Deni Friawan, a researcher at the Jakarta-based Centre for Strategic and International Studies, said Perry's surprise resignation could spook investors.

"Markets dislike surprises," he told AFP.

"When a central bank governor steps down unexpectedly, investors naturally question the future direction of monetary policy, inflation control, and exchange rate management."

'Credibility'

Analysts say the choice of Perry's permanent replacement will be closely watched.

"Given the current environment of heightened uncertainty, policymaking experience and credibility should be key in picking a successor," said Sumual.

To Deni, "if the appointment is perceived as politically driven, investors may begin to question the institution's credibility. And that is a far more serious risk than the resignation alone."

Southeast Asia's biggest economy is a net oil importer, but the government has insisted on leaving the price of heavily subsidised fuel unchanged despite mounting pressure on the public purse.

Consumer prices rose 3.34 percent in June, and growing economic strain triggered student protests demanding the government stop excessive spending, including on its billion-dollar free-meals scheme, which has since been cut back.

Critics also hit out at a government decision to raise the non-subsidised fuel price by a third.

Indonesia's stock market has lost about a third of its value in 2026, and its stock exchange has been rattled by the threat of a downgrade by stock market compiler MSCI.

For summer travellers planning international holidays, the list includes island escapes in the Maldives and Caribbean, Pacific destinations, and several countries across Asia and Africa offering easier entry options.

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Bangladesh passport ranks 97th globally

Bangladesh ranks 97th globally in the Henley Passport Index 2026, with passport holders able to access 35 destinations without obtaining a traditional visa before departure.

Henley & Partners says passport rankings are shaped by factors including diplomatic ties, international cooperation, security conditions and geopolitical developments.

The 2026 index also highlights the growing gap in global mobility. Singapore remains the world’s most powerful passport, offering access to 192 destinations, while the UAE recorded the biggest improvement in the index’s history, rising to joint second place with Japan and South Korea after adding 153 destinations over two decades.

Bangladesh passport’s 20-year journey

Bangladesh’s passport ranking has changed significantly over the past two decades.

The country ranked 68th in 2006, but gradually slipped over the following years, reaching 99th in 2015 and falling to its lowest position of 108th in 2021.

Since then, the passport has recovered:

• 2022: 103rd

• 2023: 101st

• 2024: 97th

• 2025: 100th

• 2026: 97th

The ranking changes reflect shifting visa policies, diplomatic relationships and global travel trends rather than a single factor.

Where can Bangladesh passport holders travel?

The 35 visa free destinations are spread across Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, North America and the Pacific region.

Asia: Bangladesh passport holders can visit Bhutan (VOA), Cambodia (VOA), Maldives (VOA), Nepal (VOA), Sri Lanka (ETA) and Timor-Leste (VOA).

Africa: African destinations include Burundi (VOA), Comoros (VOA), Djibouti (VOA), Guinea-Bissau (VOA), Kenya (ETA), Madagascar (VOA), Rwanda, Seychelles (ETA), Sierra Leone (VOA) and The Gambia.

Caribbean and North America: The list includes Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis (ETA), Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, The Bahamas and Trinidad and Tobago.

Oceania and Pacific Islands: Pacific destinations include Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Micronesia, Niue (VOA), Samoa (VOA), Tuvalu (VOA) and Vanuatu.

Visa-free, VOA and ETA: What do they mean?

Before booking a trip, travellers should understand the difference between entry options:

• Visa-free: No visa application is required before travel or on arrival, subject to stay limits.

• Visa on arrival (VOA): Travellers receive a visa after reaching the destination without applying beforehand.

• Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): A digital travel approval that must be obtained online before boarding, although it is not a traditional visa.

• eVisa: A digital version of a visa that requires online application and approval before travel.

Bangladesh passport travel access breakdown

• Visa-free destinations: 16

• Visa-on-arrival destinations: 15

• ETA destinations: 4

• Total accessible destinations: 35

Schengen access remains unavailable

Bangladesh passport holders do not currently have visa-free access to Europe’s Schengen Area and must apply for a Schengen visa before travelling.

E-visa destinations

Bangladesh passport holders can also apply for electronic visas (e-Visas) for several destinations, allowing travellers to complete the visa process online before departure.

Asia and the Middle East: In Asia and the Middle East, e-visa destinations include Bahrain, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia (where applicable under current rules), and Türkiye.

Europe and Central Asia: In Europe and Central Asia, e-visa destinations include Albania, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Tajikistan, Türkiye and Uzbekistan.

Africa: Across Africa, destinations offering e-Visas include Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Libya, Malawi, Mauritania, Namibia, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Americas and Caribbean: In the Americas and Caribbean, Bangladesh passport holders can access e-visa facilities for Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Bolivia, Colombia, Cuba and Suriname.

Pacific and Atlantic territories: In the Pacific and Atlantic territories, St. Helena offers an e-visa option.

Note: Some destinations may have different eligibility rules, processing times and document requirements. Travellers should check the latest official immigration requirements before booking their trip.

35 visa-free destinations for Bangladeshi passport holders 

Full list: 35 Visa-free destinations

Visa-free destinations: Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Cook Islands, Dominica, Fiji, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Kiribati, Micronesia, Montserrat, Rwanda, St Vincent and the Grenadines, The Bahamas, The Gambia, Trinidad and Tobago, Vanuatu.

Visa-on-arrival destinations: Bhutan, Burundi, Cambodia, Comoro Islands, Djibouti, Guinea-Bissau, Madagascar, Maldives, Nepal, Niue, Samoa, Sierra Leone, Timor-Leste, Tuvalu.

ETA destinations: Kenya, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, St Kitts and Nevis.

1. Barbados

2. Bhutan (VOA)

3. British Virgin Islands

4. Burundi (VOA)

5. Cambodia (VOA)

6. Comoro Islands (VOA)

7. Cook Islands

8. Djibouti (VOA)

9. Dominica

10. Fiji

11. Grenada

12. Guinea-Bissau (VOA)

13. Haiti

14. Jamaica

15. Kenya (ETA)

16. Kiribati

17. Madagascar (VOA)

18. Maldives (VOA)

19. Micronesia

20. Montserrat

21. Nepal (VOA)

22. Niue (VOA)

23. Rwanda

24. Samoa (VOA)

25. Seychelles (ETA)

26. Sierra Leone (VOA)

27. Sri Lanka (ETA)

28. St. Kitts and Nevis (ETA)

29. St. Vincent and the Grenadines

30. The Bahamas

31. The Gambia

32. Timor-Leste (VOA)

33. Trinidad and Tobago

34. Tuvalu (VOA)

35. Vanuatu

Authorities said scammers are exploiting the monthly salary period by targeting people with a range of deceptive schemes, urging the public to deal only with official and trusted entities and avoid suspicious links or offers that appear too good to be true.

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Fake property listings, job offers and investment scams

Among the scams reported are fake advertisements for villas, chalets and other properties, bogus residency visa services, fraudulent job offers, misleading labour supply services, unauthorised insurance products, and fake listings for vehicles supposedly seized by Abu Dhabi Customs.

Police also warned about online advertisements selling vehicle number plates and luxury watches at unrealistic prices, as well as investment scams promising returns in financial markets.

Other tactics include selling counterfeit event tickets, creating fake websites and links that impersonate government agencies or well-known organisations, persuading victims to install remote access software, and requesting deposits for non-existent goods, services, training courses or fake certificates.

Never share banking details or OTPs

Abu Dhabi Police urged residents never to share banking details, passwords or one-time passwords (OTPs) with anyone, regardless of who is requesting the information.

The force also advised people not to transfer money or pay deposits before verifying the legitimacy of the seller or service provider. Residents should access government services only through official websites and mobile applications rather than through search engine results or unverified links, it said.

How to report fraud in Abu Dhabi

Anyone who encounters suspected fraud or suspicious online activity is encouraged to report it through the Aman service by calling 8002626, sending a text message to 2828, or emailing aman@adpolice.gov.ae.

Police said prompt reporting helps authorities combat cybercrime and protect members of the community from financial losses.

According to reports, Besiktas are ‘confident’ of finalising a deal with Salah in the coming days. The proposed contract would run until 2027, with an option to extend it for another year.

A post on X read: “Mohamed #Salah is getting closer to #Besiktas as a free agent. Agreement in principle for a contract until 2027 (€12m/year) + option for 2028. Coach #Italiano is pushing hard to convince Salah to join Besiktas, who are confident of finalising the deal in the next days.”

Liverpool announced in March that Salah would leave Anfield after the club agreed to cut short his contract by one year, allowing the 33-year-old to pursue a new challenge.

Potential move

Salah had long been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League, where clubs were reportedly prepared to make lucrative offers for his services. A switch to Saudi Arabia or Major League Soccer was considered among the most likely options for the forward this summer.

However, reports of a potential move to Besiktas first emerged earlier this month after a journalist from claimed the club had made an offer to Salah.

Besiktas subsequently issued a strong denial, dismissing reports that they had reached an agreement with Salah. The Turkish club added that official information regarding its transfer activities would only be shared through its own communication channels.

A transfer expert later explained that Besiktas had indeed made an offer for Salah but that a final agreement had not yet been reached.

Romano also revealed that Salah had received offers from clubs in both MLS and Saudi Arabia, with Besiktas continuing to negotiate while keeping their talks private.

Now, eight days after the club’s initial denial, a latest update suggests that the Turkish side have made significant progress in their pursuit of the former Liverpool star.

If the move goes through, Salah could potentially be joined at Besiktas by another former Liverpool player Darwin Nunez according to several reports.

Nunez joined Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal in the previous transfer window, but his spell at the club has reportedly failed to live up to expectations. A loan move to Besiktas could now provide the Uruguayan striker with an opportunity to return to European football.

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This project, now awaiting regulatory approval, could help end years of chronic brownouts and inefficiencies affecting hundreds of thousands of consumers, say supporters.

The partnership, operating through IGNITE Power, received a significant boost after more than 32,000 member-consumer-owners of the South Cotabato II Electric Cooperative (known as SOCOTECO II), endorsed a proposed joint venture during the cooperative's annual membership assembly over the weekend.

121 electric cooperatives: There are 121 electric cooperatives operating across the Philippines. The biggest challenges facing these power co-ops are unreliable power service (frequent brownouts), high and uneven electricity rates, and financial or governance mismanagement.

Private-sector investment

While the vote does not finalise the agreement, it marks the strongest sign yet that cooperative members are willing to embrace private-sector investment after years of struggling with an aging distribution network, recurring outages and mounting operational challenges.

The proposed venture would inject new capital into the utility, financing the rehabilitation, expansion and modernization of distribution facilities serving General Santos City, Sarangani Province and neighbouring communities.

For Razon, whose business empire spans ports, infrastructure, property and renewables, the project represents another expansion into the country's power sector.

For Pacquiao, the former world boxing champion turned businessman and politician, it offers an opportunity to help address a persistent problem in his home region of Mindanao, where unreliable electricity has long been viewed as an obstacle to economic growth.

Joint venture

The cooperative's board formally authorised the signing of a Conditional Joint Venture Agreement, which Board President Elenito Senit said would strengthen SOCOTECO II's financial position while improving service reliability through long-overdue infrastructure upgrades, local media reported.

Supporters of the agreement argue that the cooperative cannot modernise its system without substantial outside investment.

Underinvestment

Decades of underinvestment have left portions of the distribution network vulnerable to technical losses, equipment failures and service interruptions, which weigh down on business and rural development in the Philippines.

A high generator adoption rate among commercial enterprises in the Philippines reveals the hidden regulatory and infrastructure "tax" required to do business in the country.

The Philippines portable generator market was valued at approximately $3.8 billion (₱234.6 billion) in 2024 and is projected to grow at an annual rate of 8.1%, reaching an estimated $6.2 billion by 2030, as per research firm Mobility Foresights.

The proposal, however, still faces important regulatory hurdles before it can take effect.

Under Philippine cooperative rules, the partnership must first be approved through a plebiscite of member-consumer-owners. The National Electrification Administration must also issue implementing guidelines governing the process before a vote can be scheduled.

Referendum

To prepare for that referendum, SOCOTECO II officials said they will launch an information campaign explaining the agreement's financial terms, expected investments and long-term implications for cooperative members.

The proposed partnership arrives as electric cooperatives across the Philippines face increasing pressure to improve reliability while meeting rising electricity demand.

Many operate aging infrastructure and require billions of pesos in capital expenditures that are difficult to finance under traditional cooperative structures.

If approved, the Razon-Pacquiao venture could become one of the country's most closely watched public-private partnerships in the electric distribution sector, offering a potential model for other struggling cooperatives seeking private investment without relinquishing member oversight.

For now, the project remains a promise rather than a certainty.

But after securing the backing of tens of thousands of cooperative members, the alliance between the country's wealthiest billionaire and its most famous boxer has taken a decisive step toward reshaping the power landscape of southern Philippines.

What the law says

Under Philippine law, cooperatives are allowed to collaborate and enter into business arrangements with private sector entities and investors under Philippine law.

However, cooperatives maintain their autonomous, member-driven nature.

Direct equity ownership or membership by non-member private investors is strictly restricted under Republic Act No. 9520 (The Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008) and Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) guidelines.

Permitted forms of collaboration

• Joint ventures and commercial contracts: Cooperatives can partner with private investors or corporations through joint venture agreements (JVAs), service contracts, or commercial tie-ups to upgrade facilities, bring in outside technology, or scale operations.

• Grants and financial assistance: Cooperatives are legally permitted to accept donations, subsidies, grants, and financial or technical assistance from private institutions and foundations, provided these funds are accounted for as donated capital and not converted into individual member shareholdings.

• Structural boundaries: In a joint arrangement, the private investor injects capital or expertise into a specific project or enterprise, but the cooperative itself remains independently owned and controlled by its member-consumers or members under the democratic one-man, one-vote principle.

Legal and structural restrictions

• Membership + share capital contributions: Membership and share capital contributions are restricted to qualified members.

• No open-equity trading: Private investors cannot simply buy equity shares or stock ownership in a primary cooperative the way they would in a standard stock corporation.

• Share capital limits: No individual member (other than another cooperative) may own or hold more than 10% of the cooperative's total share capital, and interest on share capital is strictly capped by law.

• CDA Regulations: Any external commercial or developmental partnership must comply with cooperative principles and regulatory frameworks issued by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) to prevent circumvention of cooperative laws.

The shelter provides a safe and humane environment for stray and loose companion animals while supporting responsible adoption and the sustainable management of stray animal populations. Animals receive comprehensive care in accordance with internationally recognised health and welfare standards before being matched with suitable adoptive families.

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The project supports the objectives of the Dubai Civility Committee by enhancing the city’s urban landscape and promoting positive community behaviour as an integral part of quality of life and the everyday experience of residents and visitors. It further contributes to strengthening Dubai’s urban and humanitarian values by promoting compassion, animal welfare, and sustainable civic practices, supporting the emirate’s vision to offer the world’s best quality of life. 

Supporting partnerships

As part of efforts to advance the project, Dubai Municipality has signed memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with Vets Fur Pets Veterinary Clinic and Phoenix Veterinary Clinic to support animal health and welfare. The partnerships aim to strengthen standards of animal care by drawing on international best practices, digital solutions and the values of compassion rooted in the UAE’s heritage and Islamic principles.

The partnerships establish a collaborative framework for the treatment of stray and loose companion animals suffering from injuries or serious illnesses, helping to stabilise their condition and support their rehabilitation. They also promote best practices in the humane management and care of community animals and support public awareness programmes on responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.

The scope of cooperation includes the humane and sustainable management of community animal populations through initiatives such as Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programmes for stray cats, alongside treatment and care programmes for stray dogs and cats.

The partnerships also cover community awareness, education and outreach activities, as well as the exchange of expertise with government entities, academic institutions, veterinary professionals, private-sector organisations and community groups. They further support training programmes, workshops and knowledge-sharing initiatives for relevant stakeholders and volunteers.

Digital Platform 

Coinciding with the opening of the shelter, Dubai Municipality has launched a dedicated digital adoption platform that enables users to browse animals available for adoption and review information about their health and behavioural profiles. The platform simplifies the adoption process and helps prospective adopters make informed decisions based on the needs of each animal.

Integrated Facilities 

The shelter includes a range of modern facilities designed in accordance with international best practices in animal care. These include a Customer Happiness Centre, a dedicated pre-adoption viewing area and interactive adoption rooms where prospective adopters can meet animals before completing the adoption process.

The facility also includes a fully equipped veterinary clinic, a state-of-the-art surgical operating theatre fitted with advanced veterinary technologies, and a dedicated pet grooming unit.

Additional facilities include a reception and rehabilitation area for stray and loose animals, where they receive care in accordance with scientific and humane practices, as well as a centre for reuniting lost pets with their owners following verification of identification and ownership details.

Dr. Naseem Mohammed Rafei, Acting CEO of the Environment, Health and Safety Agency at Dubai Municipality, said: “The opening of the integrated pet shelter marks an important step in the continued development of Dubai Municipality’s public health and veterinary services. The facility enhances our ability to provide sustainable, efficient and proactive services that protect animal welfare and contribute to a higher quality of life across the emirate.

“The shelter supports the ‘One Health’ approach by recognising the close relationship between human, animal and environmental health. It also encourages responsible adoption and pet ownership while reinforcing the values of compassion, humanity and civic responsibility that support Dubai’s vision to become the world’s best city to live in.”

Dubai Municipality follows a scientific and humane approach to managing stray and loose companion animals. This includes providing essential care to rescued animals and implementing the internationally recognised Trap-Neuter-Return programme and, where appropriate, the Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return programme.

Under these programmes, stray cats are humanely trapped, neutered and vaccinated where required before being returned to their original locations, provided that doing so does not pose a risk to public safety or the animals’ wellbeing.

Dubai Municipality encourages community members to use the shelter’s services and support responsible pet adoption by providing companion animals with safe and caring homes. Those interested in adopting a pet can access the dedicated digital platform at: https://hub.dm.gov.ae/link/servicesdetails?ServiceCode=4130

Earlier this year, Dubai Municipality launched the region’s first ‘Ihsan’ smart feeding stations for stray and loose companion animals. The initiative introduced 12 AI-powered feeding units across several locations in Dubai to support animal welfare and environmental sustainability while promoting compassion and responsible community behaviour.

If your employer trims your monthly pay down to just your basic salary and housing allowance during leave, is that within their rights, or are you owed more? 

The answer lies in how UAE Labour Law actually defines ‘salary’ and it may not match what many companies are practicing.

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Reader query:

According to UAE Labour Law, what salary and benefits is an employee entitled to receive during annual leave? My company pays only my basic salary and housing allowance (HRA) while I am on leave and excludes my other regular allowances. Is this compliant with UAE Labour Law, or should employees receive their full salary, including all applicable allowances, during annual leave

Statutory leave pay: Full salary required

"A common misconception among employees in the UAE is that annual leave pay consists only of the basic salary or basic salary plus housing allowance. Under UAE Labour Law, this practice is non-compliant," says Salam Pappinissery, CEO of YAB Legal Services.

Under Article 29 of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 (the UAE Labour Law), an employee taking annual leave is entitled to receive their full salary (full wage) during the leave period.

According to the law, "wage" is defined as the basic wage plus all allowances (such as housing, transport, and other regular allowances) and contractual benefits.

"Therefore, while an employee is actively taking their statutory annual leave (30 calendar days per year), the employer must pay the employee their full salary, including all regular allowances that they normally receive during a regular working month. Paying only the basic salary and housing allowance (HRA) while excluding other regular allowances during leave violates statutory requirements," Pappinissery said.

Important distinction: termination encashment

It is vital to distinguish between taking leave during employment and encashing unused leave at termination:

• While on annual leave: The employee receives their full salary (basic salary plus all regular allowances).

• Cash in lieu upon termination: Encashment for accrued, unused annual leave days at the end of employment is calculated strictly on the basic salary only, unless the employment contract provides more favourable terms.

"If an employer excludes regular allowances from monthly pay while an employee is on annual leave, the employee may raise the issue internally with HR by referencing Article 29 of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, or lodge a formal inquiry with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE)," he advised.

Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) said its oil subsidiary had signed a lease-and-lease-back agreement for the "entire domestic and export pipeline network" with the international consortium.

The investment comes as hydrocarbon-rich Gulf nations scramble to boost their output following Iranian attacks and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for energy exports.

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Under the deal, to last more than two decades, the consortium led by New York-based Blackstone, Canada's Brookfield and US investors KKR will take a 49 per cent share of Kuwait's 320 kilometre (199 mile) pipeline network, with the Kuwaiti firm retaining 51 per cent.

The joint venture "represents the largest foreign direct investment in Kuwait's history and a defining milestone for our country's economic development", the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation's chief executive, Nawaf Saud Al-Sabah, said.

The involvement of the three investment multinationals, he added, "reflects confidence in Kuwait's resilience, the quality of KPC's assets and our long-term vision for the country's energy sector".

The deal is expected to generate upfront proceeds of $7.85 billion for Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) as it seeks to expand crude oil production capacity to four million barrels per day by 2035.

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The company clarified on Tuesday that the lower investment threshold applies only to the PRYPCO MINT marketplace, where investors can buy property tokens from projects that have already been fully funded.

The minimum investment for new tokenised property offerings remains unchanged at Dh2,000.

In a message to customers on Friday, PRYPCO MINT said the reduction would make ownership of tokenised real estate more accessible while giving investors greater flexibility to build and diversify their portfolios.

The platform allows investors to purchase fractional ownership in fully funded properties with the potential to generate rental income and long-term capital appreciation. Through its secondary marketplace, investors can buy and sell property tokens without mandatory holding periods.

Spread capital

PRYPCO MINT said lowering the minimum purchase amount on the marketplace would allow investors to spread their capital across multiple properties, helping diversify risk while gaining exposure to a broader range of Dubai real estate assets.

The move is aimed at expanding participation in the secondary market for tokenised property by reducing the amount of capital required to purchase existing property tokens.

The revised threshold brings the marketplace closer to the company's other fractional investment products. While new tokenised property launches on PRYPCO MINT continue to require a minimum investment of Dh2,000, its sister platform, PRYPCO Blocks, allows investors to buy fractional interests in Dubai rental properties from Dh500. PRYPCO MINT's digital gold product enables investments from as little as Dh100.

PRYPCO MINT expanded beyond real estate in June by launching tokenised gold investments backed by PAX Gold (PAXG), allowing users to buy and sell digital gold and reinvest rental income earned from tokenised property into gold. The company said the launch made it the first platform in the region to combine tokenised real estate and gold investing.

Tokenised growth

Dubai launched its real estate tokenisation initiative in May last year, through the Dubai Land Department's Real Estate Sandbox programme. The project was developed in partnership with the Dubai Land Department, VARA, the Central Bank of the UAE and the Dubai Future Foundation, with Zand Digital Bank serving as the banking partner during the pilot phase.

Since the programme's launch, the Dubai Land Department has listed 10 tokenised properties through PRYPCO MINT. All have been fully funded within record times, with some offerings selling out in less than two minutes, reflecting strong investor demand for blockchain-based real estate investments.

The initiative forms part of Dubai's broader strategy to expand digital property ownership through blockchain technology. The Dubai Land Department has projected that tokenised real estate could account for 7% of the emirate's property market by 2033, representing an estimated market value of Dh60 billion.

Key facts

• Best for: Regular sparkling water drinkers who want fewer disposable bottles

• Bottom line: Easy to use, simple to maintain and economical over the long term for frequent use

What you get

The SodaStream Terra is a manual sparkling water maker that needs no electricity, making it easy to position almost anywhere in the kitchen. Inside the starter kit, you receive the machine itself, a reusable 1 litre BPA free bottle that is dishwasher safe, and a Quick Connect CO₂ cylinder. The cylinder clips into place without the threaded screw system used by older SodaStream machines, making installation noticeably simpler.

Preparing sparkling water takes only a few steps. Fill the bottle with cold water to the marked line, click it into the machine using the Snap Lock bottle holder, then press the carbonation button. One press creates a lighter sparkle, while additional presses increase the level of fizz. Once carbonated, the bottle is removed and any flavouring syrup can be added afterwards if desired. SodaStream recommends carbonating plain water only, then mixing flavours once the bottle is out of the machine.

The supplied CO₂ cylinder is rated to carbonate up to 60 litres of water, although actual output depends on how fizzy you like your drinks. Strong carbonation naturally uses more gas than lightly sparkling water. Replacement cylinders work on an exchange basis in many markets, while extra reusable bottles are available separately for households that like to keep chilled bottles ready in the fridge.

How it performs

The Terra focuses on simplicity rather than advanced features, and that is largely its strength. Independent reviewers consistently praise the straightforward setup, compact footprint and Quick Connect cylinder system, which removes much of the awkwardness older SodaStream models were known for. Real Homes found it capable of producing sparkling water in under 10 seconds, while also appreciating its uncomplicated daily operation.

Carbonation quality depends partly on technique. Starting with well chilled water produces stronger, longer lasting bubbles than room temperature water, something experienced users quickly learn. The manual button also lets you decide how much carbonation you prefer rather than locking you into preset levels.

Running costs are where the calculation becomes personal. The initial purchase is only part of the story. Replacement CO₂ cylinders and occasional extra bottles become the ongoing expense, although many households offset this against buying bottled sparkling water every week. Frequent sparkling water drinkers are likely to recover the investment faster than someone who only reaches for fizzy water occasionally. The cylinder exchange system also keeps waste lower than repeatedly buying single use bottles, particularly for families that consume several litres each week.

For UAE households, the convenience is easy to appreciate. Instead of storing bulky multipacks or carrying heavy bottles from the supermarket, you only need fresh water and a charged CO₂ cylinder. During long summers, when chilled sparkling water becomes part of the daily routine, that reduction in shopping volume can be as valuable as the financial savings.

What we like

• Quick Connect cylinder system makes replacement fast and straightforward.

• Manual carbonation gives good control over fizz levels.

• Dishwasher safe reusable bottle keeps maintenance simple.

• Compact design works well in apartments and smaller kitchens.

Who should buy this

The SodaStream Terra makes the most sense for households that regularly drink sparkling water, enjoy experimenting with flavoured drinks or simply want to reduce the number of disposable plastic bottles they buy each month. Families, couples and home entertainers are likely to see the greatest value because the machine gets used frequently enough to justify ongoing CO₂ refills.

People who only drink sparkling water occasionally may find supermarket bottles more convenient, since the savings build gradually rather than immediately.

Verdict

The SodaStream Terra succeeds because it keeps the process uncomplicated. It does not rely on electricity, complicated controls or expensive accessories to do its job well. Instead, it delivers fresh sparkling water in seconds with very little effort, while reducing the need to buy and transport bottled water on a regular basis.

Its real value depends less on the machine itself than on your habits. Drink sparkling water every day and the convenience, lower packaging waste and ongoing savings become increasingly attractive.

For anyone already filling their shopping trolley with bottles of sparkling water each week, the SodaStream Terra remains one of the simplest ways to bring that routine home.

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What it is and who it's for

Memory foam is a type of viscoelastic polyurethane foam. Instead of springing back immediately like conventional foam, it responds gradually to body weight and temperature, spreading pressure across a wider surface. The result is a more cradled feel rather than a bouncy one.

Density is often misunderstood. Higher density foam usually lasts longer and provides more durable support, but it is not automatically firmer because firmness depends on how the foam is formulated. Likewise, cooling gels do not chill the bed. They simply help move heat away from the body more efficiently than traditional memory foam. For many UAE homes, where bedrooms can stay warm for much of the year, breathable covers and ventilated foams can make a noticeable difference in comfort.

What to look for

A topper cannot repair a worn out mattress with deep sagging, but it can soften an overly firm surface or add a little extra cushioning. Look first at thickness and foam quality rather than marketing claims. Around 5cm suits many sleepers looking for extra comfort, while thinner models make subtler changes. If you tend to sleep warm, choose gel infused or ventilated foam with a breathable cover. Certifications such as CertiPUR US indicate the foam has been tested for low VOC emissions and certain restricted substances. A breathable mattress protector is also worthwhile because it shields the topper from spills and everyday wear without changing its feel.

Linenspa Gel Infused Memory Foam Mattress Topper

This topper is designed for shoppers who want to soften an existing mattress rather than replace it. Gel-infused memory foam combines the familiar contouring feel with cooling additives intended to reduce heat build up at the sleep surface. Available in 5 cm, 7.5 cm and 10 cm thickness and with CertiPUR US certification, the design matches the practical advice experts give for adding comfort while maintaining pressure distribution. It suits guest rooms as well as mattresses that still offer good support but feel firmer than desired.

SLEEP ZONE Mattress Protector

A topper works best when protected. This breathable fitted protector is intended to sit above the topper, helping shield it from moisture, dust and everyday spills while allowing air to circulate. It has microfiber for cooling making it more breathable. For households that want to keep bedding fresh without changing the underlying comfort of the mattress, Sleep Zone Mattress Protector is a practical companion to a memory foam topper.

Dardu Waterproof Mattress Protector

Dardu Waterproof Mattress Protector focuses on waterproof protection while maintaining a fitted sheet style design. This quality protector extends the usable life of both the mattress and any topper placed beneath it by reducing exposure to accidental spills. It is especially useful for family homes where protecting bedding can be just as important as improving comfort.

Verdict

Memory foam works because of the way it responds slowly to pressure, not because it is unusually soft. Density affects durability more than feel, while cooling gels improve heat management rather than actively cooling the bed. A topper is most effective when paired with a mattress that is still structurally sound, and a breathable protector helps preserve that investment over time. The Linenspa Gel Infused Memory Foam Mattress Topper is the strongest all round recommendation here because it directly addresses comfort while incorporating cooling features suited to warmer sleeping environments.

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What the numbers actually tell you

Most fitness trackers combine motion sensors with an optical heart rate sensor to estimate how active you are throughout the day. Step counts are best viewed as a simple measure of movement rather than a competition. If your weekly average steadily rises, that often matters more than hitting one exact daily total.

Heart rate works in a similar way. Your resting heart rate is usually most useful when compared with your own normal range over time rather than someone else's. During exercise, heart rate zones help estimate workout intensity. Optical wrist sensors are generally reliable during steady exercise but can become less accurate during rapid arm movement or high intensity intervals, so occasional variations are normal.

Sleep tracking estimates how long you spend awake and in light, deep and REM sleep using movement and heart rate patterns. These stages are estimates rather than direct measurements, making long term consistency more meaningful than a single night's result. If you have persistent sleep concerns, speak with a doctor rather than relying on a wearable alone.

What to look for

Choose a tracker with dependable heart rate monitoring, comfortable all day wear and software that presents trends clearly. Battery life also matters because more consistent wear produces more complete data, especially overnight. Treat calorie estimates and readiness scores as rough guides rather than precise measurements, since every manufacturer uses proprietary algorithms that can differ.

Google Fitbit Air

Google's screen free tracker is designed for people who prefer simple, continuous monitoring without another display demanding attention. It focuses on everyday movement, heart rate and sleep tracking while syncing everything to the Fitbit app for long term trends. Its lightweight design makes overnight wear comfortable, which is especially valuable for building consistent sleep data instead of chasing individual nightly scores.

Garmin Forerunner 165

Garmin's Forerunner 165 suits anyone who wants fitness metrics with more training context. Built in GPS, workout guidance and detailed heart rate zones make it particularly useful for runners and regular exercisers. Garmin's software excels at showing how today's activity fits into broader training patterns, helping users understand progress rather than isolated numbers.

Amazfit Helio Strap

The Helio Strap takes a minimalist approach while still collecting key activity, heart rate and recovery information. Its emphasis is continuous background tracking instead of frequent interaction. That makes it attractive for people who want wearable insights without regularly checking a watch face throughout the day.

Apple Watch Series 11 Aluminium

Apple combines smartwatch features with comprehensive fitness tracking in a familiar interface. Activity rings, workout tracking and detailed sleep reporting are presented in an easy to understand format, making trends accessible even to first time users. It is particularly well suited to people already using an iPhone who want health and fitness information alongside everyday smart features.

Verdict

Fitness trackers work best when they help you notice patterns instead of encouraging perfection. Rising activity levels, consistent sleep habits and stable long-term heart rate trends are often more informative than one unusually high or low reading. For readers wanting the strongest balance between everyday wear and meaningful fitness insight, the Garmin Forerunner 165 stands out thanks to its detailed training analysis and approachable presentation.

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