Global Pulse

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  • Canadian University Dubai concludes Entrepreneur Mentorship Series with high-impact pitch showcases

    Canadian University Dubai concludes Entrepreneur Mentorship Series with high-impact pitch showcases

    Canadian University Dubai has successfully concluded its groundbreaking Entrepreneur Mentorship Series, marking a significant milestone in bridging academic theory with practical entrepreneurial execution. This cross-campus initiative, designed to foster purpose-driven ventures with tangible real-world impact, aligns with the UAE’s national ambition to maintain its top global ranking as an entrepreneurship and innovation hub.

    Under the leadership of President and Vice Chancellor Professor Karim Chelli, the program embodied CUD’s position as a downtown university integrated within Dubai’s innovation ecosystem. The series supported ongoing efforts by the UAE’s Ministry of Economy and Ministry of Investment to advance entrepreneurship through strategic national partnerships and innovation frameworks.

    The comprehensive program featured four intensive sessions where students engaged with distinguished industry leaders. The inaugural session welcomed Mohamed Jassim Al Rais, Executive Director of Al Rais Group, and Rayan Chelli, former CSO of Zip Trust FZCO and McGill University PhD candidate, who shared invaluable perspectives on innovation and business success.

    Subsequent sessions addressed critical entrepreneurial fundamentals: legal foundations for UAE startup establishment with experts from Dubai Economic Department and Habib Al Mulla & Partners; customer behavior and brand storytelling insights from Moaza Buti Alyouha, VP of Brand and Event Marketing Operations at Dubai Economic Department & Tourism, and Mahmoud Bartawi, founder of Under500; and financial strategy guidance from Amer Al Ahbabi, Group Chairman of Vertix Holdings, and business strategist Jad Jubaili.

    The series culminated in two prestigious pitch competitions. At the Brand Me Summit, students presented their concepts before an elite jury including Dr. Mohammed Naji (MonaJi Group founder), Matthias Mende (Bonuz Market founder), Jeremy Schneider (musician and creative entrepreneur), and Ghazy Al Yaman (Brand Me Summit CEO). Team EVENTA secured the AED 3,000 CUD Prize for their outstanding concept and presentation.

    A separate ENT 242 Final Pitch Competition saw shortlisted teams demonstrating innovative ideas developed through weeks of applied learning, with AR Robot claiming an additional AED 3,000 prize for their creative and feasible entrepreneurial solution.

    Chancellor Buti Saeed Al Ghandi emphasized: “Dubai moves at the speed of the future, and so do we. Our downtown incubator prepares students to think boldly, act entrepreneurially, and lead with the same unstoppable energy that defines Dubai’s success.”

    Professor Chelli highlighted the university’s role in cultivating founders: “By bringing industry directly into the classroom, we’ve helped students build the aptitude, mindset, and networks to transform ideas into ventures with real-world impact.”

    Dr. Khulood Shebib Khansaheb, Assistant Professor and Incubator Manager, noted the program’s alignment with UAE’s vision to establish the Emirates as the region’s entrepreneurship capital, providing students direct engagement with founders and industry leaders throughout the entire startup journey.

  • Dubai’s RTA halts intercity bus services to and from Ajman, Sharjah until further notice

    Dubai’s RTA halts intercity bus services to and from Ajman, Sharjah until further notice

    Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has implemented an immediate suspension of all intercity bus services connecting Dubai with the neighboring emirates of Ajman and Sharjah. This precautionary measure responds to developing unstable weather conditions affecting the region.

    The transportation authority confirmed the suspension will remain effective indefinitely as safety officials continue monitoring meteorological developments. The decision prioritizes passenger safety amid forecasts predicting intermittent rainfall of varying intensity across scattered areas of Dubai.

    Despite the bus service interruption, Dubai Metro operations continue unaffected with all trains maintaining regular schedules throughout the network. Commuters relying on intercity bus transportation are advised to seek alternative arrangements and monitor official RTA communication channels for service restoration updates.

    Meteorological departments attribute the unstable conditions to a persistent low-pressure system impacting the Middle Eastern region. Weather patterns are expected to intensify with thunderstorms forecasted to move eastward from Saudi Arabia toward the UAE and Qatar.

    Authorities have reiterated emergency preparedness guidelines, urging residents to exercise caution, remain indoors when possible, and adhere to all official safety instructions during this period of meteorological uncertainty.

  • Major Developments announces launch of Dh1.7 billion “Ice Beach” landmark project on Marjan Beach

    Major Developments announces launch of Dh1.7 billion “Ice Beach” landmark project on Marjan Beach

    Ras Al Khaimah’s coastline is poised for transformation as Major Developments announces a landmark Dh1.7 billion (approximately $463 million) project titled ‘Ice Beach’ within the emerging Marjan Beach masterplan. The agreement, formally signed between Marjan Group CEO Abdulla Al Abdouli and Major Developments CEO Andrei Charapenak, represents a significant advancement in the United Arab Emirates’ ambitious coastal development strategy.

    The ‘Ice Beach’ project marks Major Developments’ third major undertaking in Ras Al Khaimah, positioned within an 85-million-square-foot coastal development zone that features 3 kilometers of pristine beachfront and 6.5 million square feet of landscaped open spaces. This luxury residential development is projected to attract over 180,000 annual visitors upon completion, capitalizing on Ras Al Khaimah’s growing status as an investment and tourism destination.

    Strategic partnerships form the cornerstone of this development, with Bayaty Architects—led by globally recognized Dr. Muthana Bayaty—spearheading the architectural design. The firm brings its signature approach of sculptural architecture and experiential interiors to create what developers describe as an ‘intentionally unconventional’ design language that will redefine the regional coastal skyline.

    Marjan Beach distinguishes itself through strategic connectivity advantages, positioned minutes from Al Marjan Island with forthcoming bridge infrastructure linking Wynn Al Marjan Island to the mainland. The development benefits from proximity to Al Hamra Village, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone, and the E11 highway, enhancing both tourism accessibility and long-term investment potential.

    The project emerges against a backdrop of remarkable growth in Ras Al Khaimah’s real estate market, where non-resident investment has multiplied between 2020 and 2024. Tourism demand continues to outpace hospitality supply projections through 2030, creating favorable conditions for luxury developments. Major Developments’ previous projects, including Manta Bay on Al Marjan Island and Colibri Views in RAK Central, have established regional benchmarks for innovation and hospitality-focused amenities.

    Andrei Charapenak emphasized the transformative vision behind the project: ‘This collaboration allows us to redefine what luxury tourism and living mean on a global stage. Our approach integrates next-generation amenities with sweeping sea views to create one of the most defining structures in the district.’

    The ‘Ice Beach’ project represents the latest evolution in Ras Al Khaimah’s strategic transformation into a global lifestyle and investment hub, combining architectural innovation with strategic location advantages to create what developers anticipate will become a benchmark for waterfront living.

  • Pope names new archbishop of Westminster as part of generational shift in English-speaking hierarchy

    Pope names new archbishop of Westminster as part of generational shift in English-speaking hierarchy

    In a significant restructuring of English-speaking Catholic leadership, Pope Leo XIV announced the appointment of Bishop Richard Moth as the new Archbishop of Westminster on Friday. The 67-year-old prelate will succeed Cardinal Vincent Nichols, who is retiring at 80 after leading the largest British diocese in terms of Catholic population and clerical numbers.

    This appointment follows closely on the heels of another major leadership change: Bishop Ronald Hicks, 58, was named yesterday to replace Cardinal Timothy Dolan as Archbishop of New York, one of America’s most prominent archdioceses. Both outgoing cardinals had held their influential positions since 2009, appointed during Pope Benedict XVI’s papacy.

    The transitions signal a deliberate generational shift within the Church hierarchy. Pope Leo has emphasized his commitment to enforcing the standard retirement age of 75 for bishops more consistently, viewing this as essential for revitalizing Church leadership. While acknowledging possible two-year extensions in exceptional cases, the Pontiff stated last month that the Church must “constantly renew itself” to address contemporary challenges and prevent “inertia from slowing necessary change.”

    Bishop Moth brings a diverse background to his new role. Born in Chingola, Zambia, he previously served as bishop of Arundel and Brighton since 2015 and as bishop to the British armed forces. He now assumes leadership of Westminster Cathedral, considered the mother church for Catholics in England and Wales.

    In related developments, Pope Leo accepted the resignation of 75-year-old Bishop Gerald Barbarito of Palm Beach, Florida, appointing Reverend Manuel de Jesus Rodriguez as his successor. Father Rodriguez currently pastors Our Lady of Sorrows church in Queens, New York—the largest parish in the Diocese of Brooklyn with 17,000 congregants in a predominantly Hispanic community that suffered devastating losses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Cardinal Dolan’s retirement concluded his tenure shortly after he finalized a $300 million settlement fund for victims of clergy sexual abuse, addressing one of the Church’s most pressing challenges.

  • UAE weather: Orange, yellow alerts issued for heavy rains; lightning, hail likely

    UAE weather: Orange, yellow alerts issued for heavy rains; lightning, hail likely

    The United Arab Emirates is experiencing continued unstable weather conditions as a low-pressure system advances westward across the region. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued orange and yellow weather alerts warning residents of potentially hazardous conditions through Friday afternoon.

    Meteorological authorities indicate convective cloud formations are generating substantial precipitation over western and coastal areas, including Fujairah. These weather patterns are accompanied by strong winds reaching velocities up to 40 kilometers per hour, creating blowing dust and sand that significantly reduce horizontal visibility.

    The orange alert remains active until 1:40 PM local time, with the yellow alert extending until 4:00 PM. Meteorological experts warn that certain regions may experience lightning storms, thunder, and hail in addition to the precipitation.

    Temperatures across the Emirates have dropped considerably, with Abu Dhabi recording temperatures between 17°C and 22°C, Dubai experiencing 16°C to 23°C, and Sharjah ranging from 15°C to 21°C. The combination of precipitation and temperature drop creates unusually cool conditions for the region.

    Maritime conditions have also deteriorated, with the Arabian Gulf experiencing wave heights up to 6 feet until 4:00 PM. The Oman Sea is similarly affected with rough sea conditions expected to continue throughout the weather event. Residents are advised to exercise caution and stay updated through official channels as the situation develops.

  • Lionel Messi visits Vantara, immersed in sacred Indian traditions and wildlife conservation

    Lionel Messi visits Vantara, immersed in sacred Indian traditions and wildlife conservation

    In a remarkable fusion of global sports stardom and ecological philanthropy, football legend Lionel Messi embarked on an immersive journey through India’s wildlife conservation landscape during his recent visit to Vantara. The Inter Miami superstar, accompanied by teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, experienced the profound integration of traditional Indian spirituality and cutting-edge animal welfare at the sanctuary founded by Anant Ambani.

    The visit commenced with elaborate Sanatana Dharma rituals, including a ceremonial Maha Aarti featuring Ambe Mata Puja, Ganesh Puja, and Shiv Abhishek—an spiritual initiation emphasizing reverence for all living beings. Messi then explored Vantara’s expansive ecosystem, witnessing firsthand the facility’s revolutionary approach to wildlife rehabilitation.

    Throughout his tour, Messi engaged with rescued big cats, observed specialized veterinary procedures at the multi-specialty wildlife hospital, and participated in enrichment activities—including an impromptu football session with Maniklal, an elephant calf rescued from logging industry exploitation. The emotional pinnacle emerged when Anant and Radhika Ambani honored the athlete by naming a lion cub ‘Lionel’ in recognition of his inspirational legacy.

    The football icon expressed profound admiration for Vantara’s operations, noting in Spanish: ‘What Vantara does is truly beautiful… We had a wonderful time, felt completely at ease throughout, and it is an experience that stays with you.’ He further acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s national conservation efforts and highlighted the alignment between Vantara’s mission and his own Leo Messi Foundation’s humanitarian work.

    The visit concluded with traditional Nariyal Utsarg and Matka Phod rituals, symbolizing auspicious beginnings and shared commitment to compassionate conservation—bridging sporting excellence with ecological stewardship in an unprecedented cross-cultural exchange.

  • At least 9 wounded in Taipei smoke grenade and knife attack

    At least 9 wounded in Taipei smoke grenade and knife attack

    TAIPEI — A chaotic series of attacks unfolded in central Taipei on Friday when an unidentified assailant launched smoke grenades and wielded a knife at pedestrians, resulting in at least nine injuries before the suspect apparently jumped from a building to evade capture. Authorities confirmed the suspect’s death at a local hospital following the incident.

    The violence began at Taipei Main Station, the city’s major transportation hub, where the perpetrator detonated smoke grenades, triggering panic among commuters. Surveillance footage from broadcaster EBC showed the individual subsequently boarding the metro, traveling one stop, and continuing his assault by releasing additional smoke devices on street level.

    Armed with a knife, the attacker menaced pedestrians before barricading himself inside a commercial establishment, prompting terrified screams from bystanders. Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an confirmed that four victims sustained serious injuries during the ordeal.

    Taiwanese Premier Cho Jung-tai provided additional details, noting that one victim experienced cardiac arrest after being knocked to the ground during the attack. Another individual suffered respiratory complications due to smoke inhalation. Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the suspect’s background and motives while implementing heightened security measures across Taiwan’s rail and metro networks.

  • South Africa defiant after US threatens ‘consequences’ over refugee centre raid

    South Africa defiant after US threatens ‘consequences’ over refugee centre raid

    A significant diplomatic rift has emerged between the United States and South Africa following a contentious government raid on a refugee processing facility. The U.S. State Department issued a formal condemnation on Thursday, alleging that South African authorities had engaged in the harassment and intimidation of American officials during an operation targeting a center processing asylum applications for white South Africans.

    The incident occurred on Tuesday when South African immigration officials conducted a raid that resulted in the expulsion of seven Kenyan nationals accused of working illegally within the country. The U.S. government subsequently accused South African authorities of publishing passport details of American diplomatic personnel, characterizing this action as ‘unacceptable’ and warning of potential ‘severe consequences’ for bilateral relations.

    South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs has categorically denied these allegations, stating in an official response that no U.S. officials were arrested during the operation and emphasizing that the facility raided was not a diplomatic site. The department further asserted that South Africa ‘treats all matters of data security with the utmost seriousness’ and operates under ‘stringent legal and diplomatic protocols.’

    This diplomatic confrontation occurs against the backdrop of the Trump administration’s controversial policy offering refugee status to members of South Africa’s Afrikaner community, whom the U.S. claims face persecution. While the administration has dramatically reduced overall refugee admissions from 125,000 to 7,500 annually, it has designated Afrikaners—descendants primarily of Dutch and French settlers—as a priority group.

    South African authorities have expressed concern about apparent coordination between foreign officials and undocumented workers, noting that they have engaged both U.S. and Kenyan representatives to resolve the matter. The U.S. maintains that its refugee program operates within legal boundaries but has not directly addressed allegations regarding the Kenyan workers’ denied permit applications.

    The tension reflects broader deterioration in U.S.-South African relations since President Trump took office. Earlier this year, Trump claimed—without substantiating evidence—that Afrikaners face ‘genocide’ in South Africa, despite statistics showing white farmers are not disproportionately targeted compared to black counterparts. The refugee program initiative followed South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s signing of land reform legislation allowing, in limited circumstances, government land expropriation without compensation.

    Approximately 50 Afrikaners have reportedly relocated to the U.S. via chartered flight, though total numbers remain unclear. The land reform issue remains particularly sensitive given that most privately owned farmland remains white-owned due to apartheid’s legacy, while the government faces pressure to redistribute land to black farmers.

    Despite South Africa’s efforts to improve relations, including a high-profile delegation to the White House earlier this year, tensions escalated when Trump confronted Ramaphosa with allegedly misleading media depicting white persecution. Recent months have seen the U.S. boycott the G20 summit hosted by South Africa and exclude South African officials from meetings of the world’s largest economies.

  • Dubai calls on private schools to put staff safety first, avoid outdoor activities

    Dubai calls on private schools to put staff safety first, avoid outdoor activities

    In response to challenging weather conditions, Dubai’s educational authorities have issued a formal directive to all private schools across the emirate, emphasizing the paramount importance of staff safety and welfare. The advisory, released on Friday, December 19, 2025, specifically calls for the immediate suspension of all outdoor activities until further notice.

    The comprehensive safety measures come as part of the city’s proactive approach to risk management during periods of adverse weather. Educational institutions have been instructed to implement alternative indoor programs and ensure that all staff members are provided with appropriate protection and accommodations. The directive underscores the administration’s commitment to maintaining operational continuity while prioritizing the wellbeing of educational personnel.

    This weather-responsive protocol represents Dubai’s ongoing efforts to enhance safety standards within its educational ecosystem. Private schools have been requested to maintain constant communication with relevant authorities and promptly report any weather-related concerns that may affect normal operations or compromise safety standards.

    Educational administrators across Dubai have welcomed the clear guidelines, which provide a structured framework for decision-making during unpredictable weather patterns while ensuring minimal disruption to academic activities through appropriate contingency planning.

  • Zelenskyy signals good will to Polish president with Warsaw visit

    Zelenskyy signals good will to Polish president with Warsaw visit

    WARSAW, Poland — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Polish President Karol Nawrocki at the Presidential Palace in Warsaw on Friday, marking their first official encounter since Nawrocki’s inauguration four months prior. The strategically timed diplomatic engagement seeks to reinforce bilateral cooperation between the two nations as Poland faces potential political transitions.

    The meeting holds profound significance given the deeply interconnected security interests that have defined Polish-Ukrainian relations since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. Poland relies on Ukraine as a critical buffer against Russian expansionism, while Ukraine depends on Polish corridors for military assistance and humanitarian support. Furthermore, Poland is positioned to play an indispensable role in facilitating Western security guarantees for Ukraine should peace negotiations materialize.

    Although Poland’s current government under Prime Minister Donald Tusk remains a steadfast advocate for Ukraine, upcoming presidential elections in 2027 could see the return of the nationalist Law and Justice party. Nawrocki, who ascended to the presidency with their backing, has adopted a more assertive diplomatic stance, emphasizing national interests and demanding reciprocal gestures from Kyiv.

    In remarks reminiscent of former U.S. President Donald Trump, Nawrocki recently stated that he expects Zelenskyy to ‘express gratitude’ for Poland’s extensive military and humanitarian contributions. He has also criticized Ukraine’s delayed permission for exhumations of Polish victims from World War II-era mass graves in Volhynia—a longstanding point of contention between the nations.

    Despite a January agreement that permitted initial exhumations, uncovering remains of at least 42 individuals, Nawrocki continues to press for additional concessions. Historical tensions from the Volhynia massacres, where tens of thousands of Poles were killed amid interethnic violence, remain a sensitive issue in bilateral relations.

    As both leaders navigate complex historical legacies and contemporary geopolitical imperatives, Zelenskyy’s visit underscores Ukraine’s effort to maintain stability with a key ally amid Poland’s evolving political landscape.