From the Editors: UAE’s law on labour relations looks to the future

UAE’s LAW ON LABOUR RELATIONS LOOKS TO THE FUTURE: The issue of the Federal Decree-Law No 33 of 2021, regulating labour relations, augurs well for the workers in the private sector in the UAE. The update outlines a system of future laws and legislations, covering the next 50 years in the UAE, and address the requirements of the country by taking into account the concerns of all of stakeholders. From granting of paternity leave to exemption of legal fees in labour disputes, the new decree-law offers a host of benefits for employees in the private sector, which is very welcome. [COMMENT BY: Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor]

BIDEN-XI TALKS KEY TO GLOBAL STABILITY: Two of the foremost military and industrial powers of our age, who are often at loggerheads, are sitting down to iron out issues, and stabilising ties. US President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are discussing issues ranging from COVID-19 to Taiwan, and from trade to intellectual property. This step is in the interest of global stability and world peace, and must be welcomed. Expectations are not very high as differences between the two sides are significant. But Washington intends to put up what it called “guardrails” on ties with Beijing, which has said that relations are at a “critical crossroads”. The world is too integrated now for Cold War-like blocs to exist. The fact that the global superpowers are alive to this reality is encouraging. [COMMENT BY: Omar Shariff, International Editor]

ENGLAND BOOK PLACE AT QATAR 2022 IN STYLE: Harry Kane rediscovered his form in front of goal in devastating fashion as England booked their place at Qatar 2022 World Cup in style with a 10-0 demolition of San Marino. The Tottenham striker was quick to hail the whole squad as England ensured they will once again be on the biggest stage in football. Kane praised “fantastic” England after the captain scored four times in the first half after Harry Maguire’s opener and a Filippo Fabbri own goal. Emile Smith Rowe, Tyrone Mings, Tammy Abraham and Bukayo Saka completed the rout after the interval as England finished top of Group I to ensure their place at the tournament in Qatar in 12 months’ time. “We were fantastic,” Kane said. “It came to the last game and we were expected to win but we’ve done a good job. Fantastic to go through.” [COMMENT BY: Matthew Smith, Sports Editor]

LINDSAY LOHAN’S COMEBACK SHOULD BE CELEBRATED: Who doesn’t like rooting for the underdog? In the case of Hollywood actress Lindsay Lohan, her return to screen is a cause of celebration for someone whose dizzying heights were perhaps not as celebrated by the paparazzi as her fall from grace and countless bouts in rehab. Lohan found peace and herself after moving to Dubai a few years ago, but the actress, who showed bright promise in films such as ‘Mean Girls’ and ‘The Parent Trap’, couldn’t keep away from the spotlight. With a Netflix rom-com setting the stage for her comeback, one can only hope the only way is up for Lohan. [COMMENT BY: Bindu Rai, Entertainment Editor]