Why are Dubai rents up? Plus wildlife conservation is everyone’s duty, our editors comment on the top stories of October 6

RENT GAINS IN DUBAI NEED SOME COOLING DOWN: Rents are on the up, that’s a detail many tenants in Dubai have been getting a feel of. Latest data suggest that while property value gains are starting to stabilise or drop slightly, it’s not the case with rentals, with those on homes upwards of 25 per cent. At some point, it will require the authorities to weigh in and cool the market down. Sure, there’s always the bit about demand and supply, and the fact that Dubai rents are coming off a five-year period of declines. But 25 per cent increases within 12 months needs looking into. RERA has the mechanisms in place that could help – it’s for landlords and tenants to agree to let those RERA processes in on their negotiations. (By Manoj Nair, Business Editor)

DO YOUR BIT TO CONSERVE WILDLIFE: The news that 30 per cent of the 4,000-plus animals in Al Ain Zoo belong to the endangered species is indeed a revelation. The zoo’s efforts in preserving these animals and spreading public awareness about these animals are noteworthy. Wildlife conservation is not something that can be achieved by the authorities concerned alone. Every individual on this planet has a role to play by grasping the dangers of animal extinction and doing every little thing they can to prevent exploitation and trafficking. (By Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor).

PAKISTAN NEEDS A HELPING HAND: Close to nine million people have been displaced in recent Pakistan floods. With 2 million homes destroyed and countless families forced to live in makeshift tents or shelters on roadsides, the country urgently needs assistance. Scientists have determined that the floods were due to climate breakdown. With Pakistan responsible for less than 1% of global carbon emissions, Shehbaz Sharif, the country’s Prime Minister has rightly remarked that it is the “responsibility of the developed countries, who caused these emissions, to stand by us”. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

RANVEER SINGH SHOULD BE CROWNED MR CONGENIALITY: Watching Bollywood superstar Ranveer Singh in action is undoubtedly more entertaining than watching a potboiler on the big screen. Yesterday, Singh was on call to interact with his adoring fans in Abu Dhabi and he impressed us with his overall congeniality. He swooped in like a superhero and made sure that he made his fans – who idolise him blindly – feel like the king of the world. From taking numerous selfies to commenting on who’s the best dressed among his fans during the gala, Singh was in top form. It’s so heartening and comforting to see idols without any starry tantrums. And sometimes such goodwill translates to you being kinder towards their films. Here’s hoping more actors in the public eye take a leaf from Singh’s zest for life and energy. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)