From the Editors: Sharjah gives green signal for holiday home rentals

SHARJAH JOINS HOLIDAY HOMES BANDWAGON: Sharjah’s announcement that it will be greenlighting holiday home rentals and supporting them with a well-thought-out regulatory framework adds a key element to the business of short-stays in the UAE. With that, Sharjah joins Dubai and Abu Dhabi in tapping into the high-growth chances that holiday homes offer as an alternative to hotels or serviced apartments. These moves will help give landlords a degree of assurance on income and yields. Tight rules that safeguard the interests of guests and landlords should be paramount; there should be add-ons if necessary. (By Manoj Nair, Business Editor)

PUBLIC TRANSPORT USE RISES IN DUBAI: The rise in public transport ridership in Dubai is a testament to the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and an increase in sustainable transport means. This year, more than 304.6 million people used Dubai Metro, public buses, marine transport and taxis, which include hybrid vehicles. The first half of 2022 saw a three per cent growth in ridership compared to the same period in 2019, before the pandemic began. It means residents and visitors are increasingly using public transport instead of private vehicles — a growing trend that is beneficial for the environment as fewer car emissions. (By Faisal Masudi, Assistant Editor)

BOLLYWOOD STARS WEAR PATRIOTISM ON THEIR SLEEVES: Entertainment heavyweights, including Shah Rukh Khan, Rajinikanth, and Salman Khan, have stepped forward to participate in the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign this Indian Independence Day. Shah Rukh hoisted the tricolour on his mansion, while Salman chose to mingle with the Indian navy personnel. The collective exercise hasn’t gone unnoticed, but history and patriotism can’t be stirred in a day. As Shah Rukh Khan said: “Teaching the young ones at home the essence and sacrifice of our Freedom Fighters for our country India, will still take a few more sittings. But getting the flag hoisted by the little one made us all FEEL the pride, love and happiness instantly.” We couldn’t agree more. (By Manjusha Radhakrishan, Assistant Editor – Features)

MAN UNITED FLOPS NEED MORE THAN JUST EXTRA TRAINING: Following their humiliating 4-0 defeat against Brentford, Manchester United coach Erik ten Hag cancelled a planned day off for his players. Instead, the Dutchman ordered the squad to report to training, putting them through a severe session. United have started the season appallingly by losing their first two games —the first time since 1921. They play against Liverpool next, and the coach knows it could get ugly against Jurgen Klopp’s troops if his side is not fit and ready. Ten Hag will need more than just an extra training session to rectify the issues in the team, but he has to try something to stop the rot. (By Imran Malik, Assistant Sports Editor)