UAE medical breakthrough and Dubai’s hospitality sector growth, Gulf News Editors comment on September 19 trending news

UAE MEDICAL BREAKTHROUGH: The successful production of the UAE's first CAR-T Cell by experts at the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center (ADSCC), a subsidiary of PureHealth, marks a milestone in medical innovation. This is not only a testament to the UAE's commitment to advancing healthcare but also offers a ray of hope for patients facing formidable health challenges, as exemplified by 11-year-old Murad's battle against leukaemia. CAR-T Cell Therapy, long dominated by foreign pharmaceutical companies, is now available in the UAE due to ADSCC's efforts. The therapy, utilising genetically-modified immune cells, signifies a leap in cancer treatment. The achievement reflects Abu Dhabi's dedication to becoming a global healthcare hub. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

MORE HOTEL ROOMS IN DUBAI: Dubai's hospitality sector is set to expand with 9,200 new hotel rooms by the end of 2023. This will bring the total number of hotel rooms in Dubai to 154,000, representing a 6.4 per cent increase from 2022, according to a recent report by Knight Frank. The new rooms are expected to be quickly occupied due to the consistently high demand, even during summer. Key players contributing to the expansion include Accor, Marriott International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Hilton Worldwide. Dubai welcomed 8.6 million tourists in the first half of 2023, a 20 per cent increase from the previous year. This growth reflects Dubai's enduring appeal as a global tourist hotspot, with internationally branded hotels constituting 67 per cent of the city's existing supply. (By Dhanusha Gokulan, Chief Reporter)

AUSTRALIA FIGHTS EL NINO: Just when we thought Europe had beaten the wildfires that caused massive damage, in another part of the world an El Nino weather pattern has been underway. Australia is fighting an intense spring heat wave that has raised the risk of bushfires and prompted authorities to issue a total fire ban for Sydney. The dry weather could hit wheat production and push temperatures well above the average. Freak weather patterns across the world are becoming the norm. Once again the focus turns to climate change and how we are responsible for making matters worse. (By Alex Abraham, Senior Associate Editor)

RUSSELL BRAND UNDER FIRE: Comedian and influencer Russell Brand, 48, is under scrutiny following allegations of sexual assault by multiple women, with YouTube taking a drastic step to sever all ties. Despite having a subscriber base of 6.6 million, the platform has declared it will no longer generate income due to "serious allegations against the creator." This suspension extends to all channels associated with Brand. The Briton, who has vehemently denied the allegations, has also postponed his scheduled live performances. The YouTube move will impact his income and reputation. While we cannot pass judgment, such developments may deter potential wrongdoers. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)

INDIAN CRICKET TOUR SCHEDULE: The announcement of the Indian team for the Australia series has sent mixed signals. While it is an important series ahead of the World Cup, players could become weary or pick up injuries. Hence, the selectors named a second-string team for two of the first three One-Day Internationals while bringing back the stars for the final one. A logical move, but if the Indian board are worried about players’ health, why have the series at all? The series is a chance for players like Ravichandran Ashwin and Washington Sundar to reclaim their place. However, the Indian board needs to be more meticulous in planning a bilateral series, especially before major events like the World Cup. (By A.K.S. Satish, Sports Editor)