From the Editors: Masks optional from March 1 in Dubai is a sign of normality

A SIGN OF NORMALITY AGAIN: The easing of COVID-19 restrictions to make wearing of masks optional in outdoor areas at EXPO 2020 Dubai, as with the rest of the city, is welcome news. It signals a return to normality again. Residents and tourists alike must continue to act responsibly so that all the hard work that has gone into bringing the COVID-19 situation under control does not go in vain. The UAE has been exemplary in this respect and has topped the charts when it comes to being resilient amidst the pandemic. It is something we should all take great pride in. [COMMENT BY: Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor]

LIVERPOOL AND CHELSEA LIGHT UP WEMBLEY IN INCREDIBLE FINAL: Liverpool have won the first domestic trophy of the English football season after beating Chelsea on penalties in the League Cup final. The match had ended 0-0 after 90 minutes and the deadlock could not be broken in extra time either. Even though no goals were scored during the entire 120 minutes, it was one of the most exciting goalless draws ever played at Wembley stadium. The match was littered with drama and controversial moments and it had everyone on the edge of their seats. Chelsea even had 3 goals ruled out for offside and wasted several other huge chances and eventually, after an unbelievable 21 successful spot kicks had been taken it was Jurgen Klopp’s Reds that came out 11-10 winners to lift the coveted trophy. It was an incredible clash and one that will live long in the memory.[COMMENT BY: Imran Malik, Assistant Editor]

‘SQUID GAME’ WIN AT SAG IS A WIN FOR DIVERSITY: This year’s Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards is a testament in how far Hollywood has come in its push for diversity. Korean survival drama ‘Squid Game’, which took home three top honours, including Outstanding Action Performance as a Stunt Ensemble, is a win for all those who nurture a dream to find their place in the bright lights. The Sunday night ceremony also saw a big win for Korean star Lee Jung-Jae who won his first-ever SAG award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series and model-turned actor Jung Ho-Yeon, who bagged her first award in the Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series category. Lee and Jung now join fellow Korean actor Youn Yuh-jung (‘Minari’) to have won a trophy at the SAG Awards, given by actors to their peers. Here’s to more such moments where talent is all you need to win. [COMMENT BY: Bindu Rai, Entertainment Editor]