Dubai's vital MICE sector, How Sharjah works towards climate neutrality, and Serbia-Kosovo must resume dialogue, Gulf News Editors comment on the top stories on May 30

MICE AGAIN PROVES CENTRAL TO DUBAI’S ECONOMY: Each event, exhibition and trade show matters, and even a casual search of what they have contributed to the Dubai economy in 2022 show how substantial they have been. The Dubai World Trade Centre on Tuesday gave an insight into what those numbers mean – but a particular one stands out. The 48,000 jobs that were created directly or indirectly from the events that the city hosted during 2022. And whereby those numbers put in an additional billion or two into spending – and savings. The MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions) sector’s importance cannot be better magnified. Those food and hospitality sector shows, tech and electronics retail consumer events, and healthcare conferences matter. And will give further impetus to Dubai’s drive to be among the Top 3 destinations in the world for business and travel. Work and pleasure. (By Manoj Nair, Business Editor)

PROJECT WORTH EMULATING: The Sharjah Waste-to-Energy Project (WTE), launched a year ago, has ramped up its rate of waste diversion away from landfills, from 76 per cent to 90 per cent. The $200 million plant processes waste at high temperatures, the resulting heat is recovered by a boiler, which then produces steam that drives a turbine. The plant has generated electricity enough to power 2,000 homes in Sharjah and has also displaced 150,000 tonnes of harmful carbon dioxide emissions. Other emirates and countries are looking to have a similar project. This solution is in line with the UAE's goal of attaining climate neutrality by 2050 and diversifying the country’s energy mix. It’s an investment in the future of humanity that’s worth emulating. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

SERBIA AND KOSOVO NEED TO DE-ESCALATE, RESUME DIALOGUE: Tensions between Serbia and Kosovo have escalated in recent weeks. This situation has raised concerns about a potential resurgence of the conflict that occurred in Kosovo from 1998 to 1999, resulting in numerous casualties and a significant displacement of people. Recent clashes between Serbs, Kosovo peacekeepers, and local police have created a tense standoff. It is crucial to de-escalate the situation, resume dialogue, and adhere to international law. Both Serbia and Kosovo should recommit to the European Union-facilitated dialogue and the implementation of the agreement reached in Brussels in February, as well as the agreed-upon road map in Ohrid, North Macedonia. These steps are essential to achieve peace and prosperity for the people of Serbia, Kosovo, and the entire region. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

DHONI COULD PLAY ANOTHER IPL AFTER LEADING CHENNAI TO HISTORIC TITLE: M.S. Dhoni has expressed his intention to make a comeback in the next season of the IPL after leading Chennai to a historic fifth championship title against Gujarat. Many believed that this match would be his last, but Dhoni’s outstanding leadership and the performance of his team may have inspired the 41-year-old to continue playing. In a rain-affected final, Chennai successfully chased down a revised target of 171 runs in 15 overs with five wickets in hand, thanks to Ravindra Jadeja’s remarkable six and four off the final two balls. Dhoni acknowledged that retiring would be the easier choice, but says he wants to work hard for another nine months and participate in another IPL season as a gift to his fans. (By Imran Malik, Assistant Sports Editor)

ACTOR CALLS OUT INTRUSIVE MEDIA: Bollywood actor Athiya Shetty believes that she and her cricketer husband, KL Rahul, have been unfairly targeted for enjoying themselves during their weekend. The couple found themselves in controversy when it was reported that Rahul was seen at a risqué nightclub in London. The video clip, featuring scantily dressed women dancing on tables, didn't sit well with his fans, who were already disappointed with his withdrawal from the upcoming World Test Championship 2023 final due to an alleged injury. However, Shetty refused to remain silent. She stood up against trolls and reprimanded journalists for not fact-checking and taking things out of context. She asserted that as a couple, they were simply unwinding with friends, and being shamed for it is unjust. While we cannot comment on the specifics of that night, Shetty has raised an important point. Celebrities, often seen as role models, are expected to adhere to high moral standards and are vulnerable to intrusive opinions. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)