Abu Dhabi upgrades app for government services, and BNPLs come under UAE Central Bank: Gulf News Editors comment on top news of Dec 28

SIGNIFICANT APP UPGRADE: Abu Dhabi's Tamm app has undergone a transformative update, providing users access to a staggering 33 services related to visas, residency, identification, and citizenship. The initiative of the Department of Government Enablement (DGE) streamlines interactions with over 30 government entities and private firms on a unified digital platform. Beyond government services, strategic partnerships extend Tamm's reach, incorporating offerings from major entities such as Etisalat, du, DARB, Salik, and ADNOC. The UAE's commitment to digital transformation is evident in Tamm's evolution, reflecting a broader vision for the future. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

UAE CENTRAL BANK PUTS IN CONTROL OVER BNPLS: The UAE’s Buy Now Pay Later fintech platforms have been riding a massive wave for three years, helped by consumers wanting zero interest rate buying options. It only helped their growth prospects when interest rates shot up and which meant carrying balances on credit card payments came at a higher cost for shoppers. These BNPL portals in turn raised significant funding support from venture capital and private equity funds. But the time was ripe for an oversight of the burgeoning industry — and that’s what the Central Bank of the UAE has stepped in to do. The regulator has imposed new licensing requirements that BNPLs should follow, and with adequate financial resources to back them up. In doing so, the chances of consumers getting shorted lessens — and that’s how it should be. (Manoj Nair, Business Editor)

AVERT HUNGER DEATHS IN GAZA: The Palestinians in Gaza are facing acute hunger and desperation with no end in sight to Israeli bombardment, according to WHO. Nearly all the enclave’s 2.3 million people have been driven from their homes several times. Last week’s Security Council resolution called for the “safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance at scale.” But witness accounts say the resolution is tragically yet to have an impact. There needs to be an urgent ceasefire to spare civilians from further violence and starvation. More than 21,110 people have been killed in the Israeli attacks, and the soon we may hear of starvation deaths. (By Stephen N.R., Senior Associate Editor)

RIVALRY MAKES FOR LIVELY TENNIS: Rivalry generally generates animosity, but the rivalry among the Fab Four in men’s tennis is something to appreciate, enjoy and emulate. Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray fought hard on the court, but off it they have huge respect for each other. It’s a healthy rivalry. These sub-plots make the make the tennis story even more interesting and lively. (By A.K.S. Satish, Sports Editor)