Meydan cycling tunnel and Dubai’s rising rents: Gulf News Editors comment on top stories of May 3

BOON FOR CYCLISTS IN DUBAI: The opening of a new 160m tunnel in Meydan is a big boost for cycling in Dubai. Spanning 6.6m in width, the tunnel can accommodate around 800 bicycles per hour without worrying about other traffic. With no interruptions, bikers can safely use the tunnel. The new facility will surely encourage more residents and visitors to take to cycling in a safe environment. (By Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor).

NO HALT IN DUBAI’S RENTAL UPTURN: The delivery of so many new homes through 2022 and the first three months this year should have slowed down the rate of growth in Dubai’s home rentals. But the numbers from Q1-23 show hardly any signs of that happening, with 20-30 per cent year-on-year gains becoming apparent at more properties. That’s the case for the Palm, the Downtown, the Dubai Marina and JBR. But these days, there’s no holding back for International City or the Discovery Gardens, two of Dubai’s affordable housing sub-markets. What can slow down the process? More homes are the obvious answer, and quite a few will be ready by yearend. Until then, tenants should remain patient. (Manoj Nair, Business Editor)

NO GUARANTEES TO LOVE AND MARRIAGES: Hollywood actor Kevin Costner and his wife of over 18 years Christine Baumgartner have announced their separation today. Their representatives put out a statement claiming that “circumstances beyond his control have transpired which have resulted in Mr Costner having to participate in a dissolution of marriage action.” While these words don’t reveal much, there’s no denying that celebrity marriages in general are going through a rough patch. Keeping a marriage alive in today’s world – coupled with public scrutiny and access to wealth and choices if you are a public figure – is tough. While Costner’s fans are sad, this indicates that there’s no guarantee to relationships. Working constantly with each other to make their bond solid is not as easy as it sounds. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)

DJOKOVIC CAN NOW FOCUS ON MATCH POINTS: Serbian world number one men’s tennis player Novak Djokovic will play the US Open tennis for the first time in two years. That possibility emerged after the US authorities decided to lift the mandatory Covid-19 vaccine rule for international travellers. The 35-year-old’s anti-vaccine stance has kept him away from the US leg of the ATP Tour, and the easing of travel to the US will allow Djokovic to target more Grand Slam titles. (A.K.S. Satish, Sports Editor)