Israel secures Gaza border: what next? Locally: Dubai businesses surge in September and more, Gulf News Editors comment on October 10 trending news

ISRAEL FORTIFIES GAZA BORDER: In a bid to regain control over the Gaza border, Israel has undertaken efforts to fortify the area, including the placement of mines where the barrier was breached by Hamas militants during a recent violent confrontation. However, concerns persist regarding the possibility of an impending Israeli offensive against the enclave. These apprehensions have been exacerbated by a series of continuous Israeli air raids on Gaza, contributing to escalating tensions in the region. As events unfold, what happens next remains to be seen, underscoring the urgency of a call for peace. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

DUBAI BUSINESSES SURGE IN SEPTEMBER: In September, the commercial landscape in Dubai businesses recorded fastest rise in sales, marking the most significant surge in over four years. The PMI (Purchasing Managers Index) reading for the period was 56.1, up from 55 in August, signaling the 'robust improvement in non-oil operating conditions across Dubai. According to S&P Global, this boost was fueled by the acquisition of new clientele and enhanced economic circumstances. However, the pace of job generation slowed due to a focus on cost control within a high-interest rate environment, reaching its lowest point since February. The future outlook remains uncertain due to recent tensions in the Israel-Gaza region, which briefly led to a downturn in the stock market. (By Nivetha Dayanand, Web Editor)

PROACTIVE MOVE: In a move to address entry, residency, and labour violations, the UAE is embarking on a comprehensive awareness campaign spanning four languages. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) have jointly initiated the three-month campaign, which kicked off on Tuesday (October 10). This multi-agency effort involves government entities, free zones, and media outlets, demonstrating a united front to tackle these issues. The campaign's primary aim is to acquaint individuals with entry, residency, and labour laws, as well as the associated regulations and penalties for violations. By underlining the legal consequences for violators, it seeks to encourage compliance, safeguarding the rights of both employers and employees. This proactive move helps regulate and enhance the labour market's competitiveness and efficiency, while promoting adherence to the law and fostering a culture of respect for the rule of law in society. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

SHUBMAN GILL UNLUCKY TO MISS OUT ON WORLD CUP MATCHES: In sports, luck often plays a significant role alongside skill, temperament, and dedication. This luck factor becomes even more crucial in major events like the World Cup or Olympics, where the margin for error is minimal. Shubman Gill, the top-scorer in One-Day Internationals, was eagerly anticipating the World Cup, but unfortunately, he contracted dengue, sidelining him during the crucial matches. Such unforeseen events are part and parcel of the sport, reminding us of luck's influence on success and failure in both sports and life. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)

CELEBRITY HUMOUR LOST IN TRANSLATION? Oscar-winning Hollywood actress Gwyneth Paltrow was in a playful mood in one of her earlier interviews where she joked that she used her golden statuette as a doorstop. It works well, she added. However, that seemingly harmless quip ignited debates and nasty comments, so much so that the actress’ spokesperson had to now issue a clarification. They underlined that Paltrow stores her trophy in a separate room in her New York home. But this new development makes you wonder if the world and movie-mad fans have lost their sense of humour. Is it fair that Paltrow is being penalised for her impromptu disclosure? Perhaps, this is a useful lesson that sometimes humour and its nuances get lost in translation, triggering an avalanche of unexpected frenzy. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)