Thriving job market in UAE tourism industry, and Abu Dhabi moves to protect nature, Gulf News Editors comment on the top stories on May 17

THE JOBS KEEP HAPPENING IN UAE TOURISM INDUSTRY: First came the job offers for the pilots and the cabin crews, that was about a year to 18 months ago. By now, the job rush that kicked off with airline staff has extended to every facet of the UAE’s travel and tourism industry. If the World Travel & Tourism Council has got the number crunching right, another 7,000 odd candidates will start getting their pay checks this year. If all the favourable factors keep aligning, there is no doubt this particular run will keep on happening for a while yet. A new skyscraper hotel in Dubai and a sumptuous destination resort in Ras Al Khaimah need personnel to take on the jobs. And there are quite a few hotels shaping up for openings between now and in the next 3 years. Keep counting the job numbers. (By Manoj Nair, Business Editor)

ABU DHABI MOVES TO PROTECT NATURE: The UAE capital is taking a proactive stance at preserving ecosystems by bringing endangered areas under threat from pollution under an expanding network of protected zones. If fact, no urban project is given the all-clear unless its potential environmental impact is first evaluated. Now, the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi has a issued a Red List of 12 ecosystems – wadis, mangrove forests, salt marshes, coral reefs – that it will prioritise for conservation. This relentless monitoring of natural habitats is the reason why Abu Dhabi is able to take timely measures to safeguard the environment. (By Faisal Masudi, Assistant Editor)

ENGLAND MISSING THE X-FACTOR WITH JOFRA ARCHER’S ABSENCE: England’s Ashes hopes suffered a big blow when pace spearhead Jofra Archer was ruled out of the Tests against Australia due to the resurgence of an elbow injury. Archer wreaked havoc during the last time around with his raw pace and even forcing the first concussion substitution when his lethal bouncer hit Steve Smith on the head. The 28-year-old’s absence will make the Australian batters breathe easy, though the England pacer had still not returned to his best after being sidelined since March 2021. Archer now hopes to be ready for England’s defence of the 50-over World Cup later this year in India. But his presence could have been the X-factor for England and made the contests even more exciting. Hope Archer, an entertainer in world cricket, returns to full fitness soon. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)

JOHNNY DEPP GAINS REDEMPTION AT CANNES? Johnny Depp has become the toast of Cannes. The controversial Hollywood actor, who has been finding his way back in Hollywood following his highly publicised trial and victory against ex-girlfriend Amber Heard, was welcomed with enthusiasm at the 76th edition of the Cannes Film Festival in France. The prestigious festival treated the once-tainted actor like a genuine rock star. Last night, the 59-year-old received an impressive standing ovation that lasted over seven minutes from the passionate movie-loving audience, known for their penchant for booing stars and films off the stage. It is undoubtedly Depp's week, as he has found redemption from one of the world's most revered festivals. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)