Global Pulse

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  • UAE: Fire erupts in Sharjah Industrial Area, eyewitnesses report

    UAE: Fire erupts in Sharjah Industrial Area, eyewitnesses report

    A significant industrial fire broke out in Sharjah’s Industrial Area 6 on Tuesday afternoon, December 16, 2025, sending massive plumes of dark smoke billowing across the commercial district. The blaze, which ignited shortly after 2:00 PM local time, rapidly engulfed a large warehouse facility, with intense flames visible from considerable distances and audible cracking sounds echoing throughout the industrial complex.

    Eyewitness accounts and video evidence captured by nearby workers revealed a scene of organized chaos as employees attempted to salvage materials and personal belongings from adjacent warehouses threatened by the spreading flames. Despite the dramatic nature of the emergency, witnesses reported maintained composure among workers, with no visible signs of panic despite the proximity of the advancing fire.

    Emergency services responded promptly to the incident, with multiple firefighting units deployed to the location. Preliminary reports indicate at least five fire trucks were dispatched to combat the blaze and prevent its spread to neighboring facilities. The rapid response from Sharjah’s civil defense teams appeared to contain the situation effectively, though official damage assessments and cause investigations remain ongoing.

    The incident occurred during peak business hours, forcing workers to abruptly abandon their regular tasks to address the emergency. Industrial operations in the immediate vicinity were temporarily suspended as safety precautions were implemented throughout the affected area. The event highlights the ongoing fire safety challenges faced by industrial zones containing combustible materials and high-density storage facilities.

  • Novartis leads effort to bring breast cancer awareness and early detection to UAE workplaces

    Novartis leads effort to bring breast cancer awareness and early detection to UAE workplaces

    In a groundbreaking public health initiative, pharmaceutical giant Novartis has partnered with the Friends of Cancer Patients’ Pink Caravan to bring breast cancer awareness and screening services directly to workplaces across the United Arab Emirates. This corporate-health sector collaboration represents a strategic shift in cancer detection approaches, moving beyond traditional healthcare settings into the daily environments of working professionals.

    The comprehensive program has already engaged major employers across telecommunications, aviation, and media sectors, providing hundreds of employees with accessible health screenings during work hours. While launched during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, the campaign maintains year-round operations, reflecting a sustained commitment to early detection rather than seasonal awareness.

    Aisha Abdulla Al Mulla, Director of Friends of Cancer Patients, emphasized the critical nature of this initiative: ‘Breast cancer constitutes over one-third of all female cancer cases in the UAE, presenting a significant healthcare challenge that demands collaborative solutions. By integrating education and screening into workplace settings, we’re breaking down barriers to early detection.’

    Medical experts note the particular urgency in the UAE context, where breast cancer manifests at younger average ages and more advanced stages compared to Western populations, with approximately 20% of cases occurring in women under 40. Dr. Aydah Al Awadhi, Consultant Medical Oncologist and Division Chair at Sheikh Shakbout Medical City, praised the initiative for addressing cultural stigmas while providing essential health resources.

    Among participating organizations, telecommunications leader e& has implemented on-site testing for its workforce. Ali Al Mansoori, Group Chief People Officer at e&, stated: ‘Employee wellbeing forms the cornerstone of our corporate culture. This collaboration eliminates access barriers and empowers our colleagues to make informed health decisions.’

    Mohamed Ezz Eldin, GCC Cluster Head at Novartis, explained the strategic vision: ‘Transformative progress requires both awareness and accessibility. By integrating detection protocols into employee wellness programs, we’re ensuring breast health receives priority alongside professional responsibilities.’

    Novartis has announced plans to expand these workplace health initiatives throughout 2026, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to fostering proactive health management across the UAE’s corporate landscape.

  • Gaza newborn dies of exposure while heavy rains cause buildings to collapse

    Gaza newborn dies of exposure while heavy rains cause buildings to collapse

    A devastating winter storm has exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, resulting in the death of a two-week-old infant from hypothermia. Mohammed Khalil Abu al-Khair succumbed to severely low body temperature despite being admitted to a hospital intensive care unit two days prior. His death marks one of at least 13 child fatalities attributed to worsening weather conditions as Storm Byron batters the Palestinian territory.

    The crisis has been intensified by Israel’s stringent restrictions on essential goods entering Gaza for over two years. Critical winter supplies including clothing, blankets, and shelter materials have been severely limited, with only minimal provisions arriving through international aid channels. This has left approximately two million residents facing extreme shortages during the coldest months.

    The UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) has issued urgent warnings that Palestinians across the territory are ‘freezing to death.’ The agency emphasized on social media platform X that aid workers are struggling to maintain pace with escalating needs amid continued limitations on importing tents and other shelter materials. UNRWA stressed that aid must be allowed ‘at scale, without delay’ to prevent further risk to displaced families.

    Compounding the emergency, heavy rainfall has destroyed numerous already fragile structures throughout Gaza. The Palestinian Civil Defence reported multiple building collapses causing injuries and deaths across the strip. Spokesman Mahmoud Bassal confirmed that response capabilities are severely hampered by shortages of heavy equipment, pumps, and fuel.

    Visual evidence circulating online shows makeshift shelters being inundated by floodwaters, tents blown away by strong winds, and nearly fully submerged living areas. In one incident, a concrete wall collapsed onto a tent sheltering displaced Palestinians in Gaza City’s Tel al-Hawa neighborhood, representing a recurring pattern of tragic events that have claimed multiple lives in recent weeks.

    Meanwhile, Israeli military operations continue with reports of airstrikes targeting areas in southern and eastern Gaza City, as well as the eastern regions of Rafah and Khan Younis. The Israeli military has conducted extensive demolition operations affecting civilian residential buildings in Rafah.

    Civil Defence teams in cooperation with the International Committee of the Red Cross have resumed search and recovery operations for victims of Israel’s ongoing military campaign, while urgently requesting heavy machinery that Israel has not permitted into the territory.

  • EU moves to ease 2035 ban on internal combustion cars as auto industry faces headwinds

    EU moves to ease 2035 ban on internal combustion cars as auto industry faces headwinds

    FRANKFURT, Germany — In a significant policy shift, European Union officials have amended their stringent automotive emissions regulations, modifying the previously mandated total phase-out of internal combustion engines by 2035. The European Commission now proposes a 90% reduction in carbon emissions from new vehicles compared to 2021 levels, creating flexibility for automakers while maintaining climate objectives.

    This revised framework permits continued limited production of combustion engine vehicles provided manufacturers utilize carbon offset mechanisms. These include sourcing European steel manufactured through low-emission processes and incorporating climate-neutral synthetic fuels (e-fuels) produced from renewable electricity and captured CO2, alongside sustainable biofuels.

    The regulatory adjustment follows intensive lobbying from major automotive manufacturing nations including Germany and Italy, where industry representatives highlighted infrastructure challenges and economic concerns. Automakers argued that charging infrastructure development hasn’t matched the pace needed for full consumer transition to electric vehicles, compounded by subsidy reductions and premium pricing for European EVs.

    Despite the modification, EU officials maintain the amended regulations will not compromise the bloc’s 2050 climate neutrality targets. The proposal includes complementary measures to bolster European battery production and promote smaller electric vehicles.

    The policy change occurs against a competitive backdrop where Chinese manufacturers have captured 34% of their domestic EV market through state support and aggressive pricing, outpacing both European and American adoption rates. Meanwhile, the United States has similarly moved toward less stringent vehicle emissions standards under recent regulatory changes.

    Environmental group Transport & Environment criticized the decision as sending ‘a confusing signal’ that might divert investment from electrification precisely when European manufacturers need to compete with Chinese EV producers. The proposal now awaits ratification by EU member states and the European Parliament.

  • Melodica Music & Dance Academy ramps up UAE growth with multiple new locations

    Melodica Music & Dance Academy ramps up UAE growth with multiple new locations

    Melodica Music & Dance Academy has unveiled an ambitious expansion strategy across the United Arab Emirates, signaling substantial growth in the region’s arts education sector. This development follows the recent inauguration of their 27th branch in Arabian Ranches 3, representing a pivotal moment in the institution’s strategic growth trajectory.

    The academy is currently preparing multiple new facilities across Dubai, with two branches in Dubai Festival City and Town Square undergoing final fit-out phases. Additionally, a strategically positioned facility within KidZania at The Dubai Mall is approaching completion, positioning the academy to capitalize on one of the city’s most frequented family entertainment destinations.

    Further expansion plans include confirmed locations at Ibn Battuta Mall, Dubai Expo Mall, and Al Khail Avenue Mall, significantly extending the academy’s accessibility across major residential and commercial districts. This multi-location expansion demonstrates Melodica’s commitment to broadening access to comprehensive arts education throughout the UAE, particularly targeting communities with demonstrated demand for quality educational programs.

    Afshin, Founder and CEO of Melodica Music & Dance Academy, articulated the institution’s vision: ‘Our fundamental objective is to ensure every child across the UAE has convenient access to music and dance education regardless of their geographical location. These new openings represent not merely physical expansion but the creation of enhanced opportunities for young learners to explore and develop their artistic capabilities.’

    The academy distinguishes itself through several key attributes, including its extensive network of over 27 operational branches across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Al Ain, with additional locations in development. Currently serving more than 25,000 students, Melodica caters to diverse learner levels from beginners to advanced practitioners across all age groups. The institution maintains rigorous academic standards through internationally trained instructors and offers certification programs through recognized examination boards including ABRSM, Trinity, MTB, and RAD.

    This expansion initiative reflects growing market demand for structured arts education within the UAE, as increasing numbers of families seek enrichment programs that foster creative development and personal growth in children. The academy’s strategic placement in high-traffic retail and residential locations underscores its commitment to accessibility and community engagement.

  • Double-amputee food delivery rider inspires online

    Double-amputee food delivery rider inspires online

    A 39-year-old double-amputee food delivery rider has emerged as an unlikely social media phenomenon in China, inspiring thousands with his extraordinary determination and positive outlook. Gao Longyou, who lost both legs in a tragic train accident at age 12, has amassed approximately 70,000 followers on Douyin (China’s TikTok equivalent) by documenting his daily work experiences.

    His viral videos showcase remarkable adaptability as he navigates urban delivery challenges using unconventional methods. One particularly compelling clip depicts Gao making deliveries on a skateboard and manually climbing stairs to complete orders. The footage has resonated deeply with viewers, with his most popular video surpassing 148,000 likes.

    “My body may be imperfect, but my spirit remains whole,” Gao declares in one of his posts, encapsulating the philosophy that has made him an online inspiration. His content demonstrates various employment attempts and creative problem-solving approaches, all emphasizing his refusal to let physical limitations define his capabilities.

    The emotional impact on viewers has been profound. Many commenters express how Gao’s perseverance puts their own challenges into perspective. One typical response read: “Seeing you makes my problems feel insignificant. I truly admire you.” Another post bearing the caption “This is my proof of love for life” particularly moved audiences, highlighting how Gao has transformed his delivery work into a powerful testament to human resilience.

    Gao’s story emerges amid China’s growing gig economy, where food delivery riders have become ubiquitous in urban centers. His unique situation provides both inspiration and perspective on the determination required to overcome severe physical challenges while working in a demanding service industry.

  • Fifa brings in new £45 ticket for 2026 World Cup

    Fifa brings in new £45 ticket for 2026 World Cup

    In response to widespread criticism over exorbitant pricing, FIFA has announced the introduction of a limited number of affordable tickets priced at $60 (£45) for all 104 matches of the 2026 World Cup. This new ‘supporter entry tier’ category, representing 10% of each participating football association’s allocation, follows intense backlash from fan groups who condemned the original pricing structure as “scandalous” and “extortionate.

    The decision, described by a FIFA official as “unanimous” after considering feedback, specifically targets “loyal fans” of qualified nations. Each participating member association (PMA) will manage their own eligibility criteria and distribution process for these budget-friendly tickets. For England and Scotland, this translates to approximately 400 tickets available at the £45 price point for group stage matches.

    While UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer welcomed the move, he urged FIFA to further enhance affordability to prevent the tournament from losing touch with genuine supporters. The Football Association is now working urgently to establish a fair allocation system for these limited tickets, facing the challenge that demand vastly exceeds supply, with over 20 million ticket requests already recorded.

    Fan organizations including the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) and Football Supporters Europe (FSE) have dismissed the initiative as a “hollow gesture” and “cynical attempt to deflect attention.” They note that despite this concession, the majority of tickets remain prohibitively expensive, with final match tickets costing £3,119—seven times more than in Qatar 2022. Concerns also persist regarding the lack of pricing accommodations for disabled supporters.

    The 2026 World Cup, hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, represents both a unique commercial opportunity and accessibility challenge, particularly given the active secondary ticket market in North America. FIFA maintains that commercial success benefits all 211 member associations, including the poorest nations, through development funding.

  • Wes Streeting slammed for linking intifada chant to ‘terrorist action’

    Wes Streeting slammed for linking intifada chant to ‘terrorist action’

    A significant political controversy has erupted in the United Kingdom following remarks by Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who asserted that the pro-Palestine protest chant “globalise the intifada” is inherently linked to terrorism and antisemitic violence. His comments, made during a BBC interview on Monday, came in the immediate aftermath of a deadly antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach in Australia that killed 15 people and wounded 40.

    Streeting delivered a forceful condemnation of the phrase, stating, “What on earth do you think globalise the intifada means?… Can’t people see the link between that kind of rhetoric and attacks on Jewish people as Jewish people?” He characterized the slogan as being “received by and seen as support for terrorist action against Jewish people” and called for greater solidarity with the Jewish community.

    These claims have been met with fierce criticism from pro-Palestine campaigners and organizers. Ben Jamal, Director of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC), denounced the remarks as a “reprehensible” attempt to exploit a tragedy to further repress protests for Palestinian rights. Ismail Patel, Chair of Friends of Al-Aqsa, accused Streeting of cynically using the event to divert attention from the “ongoing genocide in Gaza” and silence peaceful solidarity. Both leaders clarified that within their movement, ‘intifada’—an Arabic word meaning ‘uprising’ or ‘to shake off’—is understood as a call for global solidarity to end the Israeli occupation through peaceful means, not as an incitement to violence.

    The debate occurs amidst a broader governmental push for new protest restrictions, which critics label as authoritarian and a threat to free expression, particularly concerning criticism of Israel. The opposing viewpoints highlight a deep societal fracture: one side sees certain slogans as direct incitements to hatred requiring stricter regulation, as echoed by British Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, while the other sees the conflation of such language with terrorism as a dangerous tool to criminalize legitimate dissent and justify the erosion of civil liberties.

  • ‘Lost Canadians’ citizenship bill now in place

    ‘Lost Canadians’ citizenship bill now in place

    Canada has implemented significant reforms to its citizenship laws, extending automatic citizenship eligibility to children born or adopted abroad to Canadian parents who were themselves born outside the country. The new provisions, effective immediately, address what the government acknowledges as “outdated provisions” that previously left many without citizenship status.

    The updated legislation requires Canadian parents to demonstrate a “substantial connection” to Canada by having resided in the country for at least three years prior to their child’s birth or adoption. This change stems from a landmark 2023 Ontario Superior Court of Justice decision that declared portions of the existing citizenship by descent laws unconstitutional.

    The court’s ruling addressed consequences of a 2009 law passed under former Conservative Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s government that eliminated automatic citizenship for descendants of Canadians born abroad. The current Liberal administration chose not to appeal the decision, acknowledging that the previous legislation produced “unacceptable outcomes” for children of expatriate Canadians.

    According to the Parliamentary Budget Officer’s 2024 assessment, approximately 115,000 individuals could benefit from these changes over the next five years. The reforms have not been without controversy, however. Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner, shadow minister for immigration, expressed concerns that the bill enables “unfettered citizenship by descent and create[s] untold citizens of convenience.”

    The Conservative party, with support from the Bloc Québécois, proposed amendments that would have imposed stricter requirements including language proficiency and security checks for adult applicants. These proposed measures failed to pass in the House of Commons.

    Among the immediate beneficiaries is Alfie Jones, a British-born football player recently recruited to represent Canada in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Jones qualifies through his grandmother from Alberta, illustrating how the policy changes affect real-world cases.

  • UAE: 77 pilots graduate from Emirates’ flight training academy

    UAE: 77 pilots graduate from Emirates’ flight training academy

    Dubai’s aviation sector celebrated a significant achievement as Emirates Flight Training Academy (EFTA) graduated 77 new pilots in a ceremony held on Tuesday. The event highlighted the institution’s growing role in developing aviation talent, with the latest cohort bringing the total number of EFTA graduates to over 300 certified professionals.

    The graduating class demonstrated remarkable diversity, comprising 55 Emirati nationals and 25 international students from 15 different countries. This multicultural composition reflects Emirates’ global operational footprint and commitment to inclusive training practices. Five cadets received special recognition for exceptional performance: Abdulrahman Alnuaimi, Falah Alhosani, Giada Macario, Shaheer Bhatti, and Saeed Abdulla, who was honored for his exceptional diligence.

    Emirates Airline’s Deputy President and COO Adel Al Redha announced ambitious expansion plans, revealing the airline’s target to train 5,000 pilots within the next 8-10 years. This strategic initiative addresses the growing global demand for qualified aviation professionals while supporting the UAE’s nationalization objectives in technical fields.

    The comprehensive training program combines rigorous ground school instruction with extensive flight experience across three distinct phases. Graduates will now advance to specialized training on Boeing and Airbus aircraft, preparing them for commercial aviation roles. Originally established exclusively for Emirati nationals, EFTA has evolved into an international training hub, accepting students from around the world while maintaining strong representation of UAE citizens through the Emirates Group’s National Pilot Cadet Programme.

    Graduates expressed both relief and accomplishment following the intensive three-year program. Italian cadet Giada Macario described the recognition as “the best gift that God could give me,” emphasizing that prolonged study sessions and demanding schedules proved worthwhile. Emirati graduate Yousif Al Ali challenged perceptions about the program’s difficulty, noting that while requiring significant time investment and subject mastery, the academy’s curriculum remains accessible to dedicated students.

    The ceremony featured touching moments, including Al Ali’s seven-year-old brother surprising attendees by wearing a miniature pilot uniform. The event marks another step in Emirates’ long-term strategy to develop homegrown aviation talent while contributing to global aviation workforce development.