Global Pulse

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  • UAE national themes: A decade of innovation, sustainability, and community building

    UAE national themes: A decade of innovation, sustainability, and community building

    Over the past ten years, the United Arab Emirates has pioneered a distinctive approach to national development through its annual thematic framework. Initiated in 2015 under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, this strategy has transformed from the inaugural ‘Year of Innovation’ into an integrated system guiding governmental priorities and civic engagement.

    The program’s evolution demonstrates strategic progression from foundational capacity-building to sophisticated social development. Initial themes concentrated on establishing future-ready infrastructures, with innovation (2015), reading (2016), and giving (2017) creating platforms for technological advancement, cultural enrichment, and philanthropic initiatives. The 2018 ‘Year of Zayed’ provided historical grounding by reemphasizing the foundational principles of the nation’s establishment.

    Subsequent years witnessed a deliberate shift toward social cohesion and global positioning. The 2019 ‘Year of Tolerance’ established the UAE as an international exemplar of multicultural coexistence, while the ‘Year of Preparation for the Next 50 Years’ (2020-2021) engaged citizens in envisioning the nation’s future trajectory.

    Environmental sustainability emerged as a paramount concern through consecutive thematic years in 2023 and 2024, signaling profound commitment beyond symbolic gestures. This extended focus facilitated comprehensive policy implementation ranging from renewable energy infrastructure to circular economy models, culminating in the UAE’s prominent hosting of COP28.

    The current ‘Year of Community’ (2025) emphasizes social interconnectedness and collective wellbeing through collaborative initiatives across public and private sectors. Looking forward, 2026 has been designated the ‘Year of the Family’ by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, aligning with the National Family Growth Agenda 2031. This forthcoming theme will prioritize intergenerational bonds, work-life balance, and family-centric policies as fundamental to national resilience.

    This decade-long thematic approach represents a sophisticated governance model that synchronizes long-term strategic vision with actionable annual priorities, creating both institutional alignment and civic participation in national development.

  • Suspect arrested in pipe bomb incident on eve of Jan 6, ending years-long manhunt

    Suspect arrested in pipe bomb incident on eve of Jan 6, ending years-long manhunt

    Federal authorities have apprehended a suspect in connection with the placement of two pipe bombs outside the headquarters of both major political parties on the eve of the January 6th Capitol riot, marking a significant breakthrough in a nearly five-year investigation. The arrest was confirmed by multiple sources to CBS News, with the individual expected to face federal charges in Washington D.C.

    The devices were strategically planted outside the Republican and Democratic National Committee buildings on January 5, 2021. While equipped with kitchen timers and homemade black powder, both bombs were successfully deactivated by authorities without detonation. The investigation, which included a $500,000 reward for information, culminated in this arrest after an extensive nationwide manhunt.

    The context of the bomb placement coincides with the certification process of the 2020 presidential election results. On January 6th, as lawmakers convened to formalize Joe Biden’s victory, then-President Donald Trump addressed supporters at the ‘Save America’ rally, where he repeated unsubstantiated claims of electoral fraud while encouraging a march to the Capitol.

    Subsequent riots involved thousands of participants, including members of far-right groups, who breached the Capitol building, overwhelming police forces for several hours. The pipe bombs were discovered by a passerby as these events unfolded, creating a compound security crisis that day.

    This arrest stands in contrast to recent developments in other January 6 cases. Earlier this year, during his second term, President Trump issued pardons or commutations for over 1,500 individuals convicted or charged in relation to the Capitol riot, referring to them as ‘hostages’ whose lives had been ‘destroyed.’ He additionally directed the Department of Justice to drop all pending cases against remaining suspects.

  • What to know about the long-running corruption case of former South African president Zuma

    What to know about the long-running corruption case of former South African president Zuma

    JOHANNESBURG — In a pivotal courtroom confrontation, former South African President Jacob Zuma and French defense conglomerate Thales appeared before the Pietermaritzburg High Court on Thursday seeking dismissal of corruption charges that have spanned nearly two decades. The 81-year-old liberation struggle icon, who presided over South Africa from 2008 to 2018, faces 18 counts of corruption, fraud, and money laundering tied to a controversial 1999 arms transaction.

    Prosecution authorities presented a compelling argument before Judge Nkosinathi Emmanuel Chili, contending that Zuma and Thales have systematically exploited legal appeals to postpone trial proceedings for 18 years. Advocate Trengrove, representing the National Prosecuting Authority, revealed that the defense teams have collectively filed 12 separate interlocutory applications, all ultimately dismissed yet successfully delaying judicial resolution.

    Zuma maintains his innocence, characterizing the prosecution as a politically motivated “witch hunt.” His legal team has raised multiple objections, including challenges to lead prosecutor Advocate Billy Downer’s impartiality and claims that the deaths of two key Thales executives—former directors Pierre Moynot and Alain Thetard—have compromised their ability to mount an effective defense.

    The former president’s extensive legal troubles extend beyond this case. In 2021, he served a 15-month prison sentence for contempt of court after refusing to testify before the Zondo Commission investigating corruption allegations. Although released on medical parole, his freedom was temporarily jeopardized when the parole was declared unlawful. Most recently, Zuma was ordered to reimburse the state $1.6 million plus interest for illegally funded legal fees from his personal corruption defense—a judgment he continues to contest through appeals.

    This week’s proceedings represent a critical juncture in one of South Africa’s most protracted legal battles, with prosecutors now seeking to prevent further delays and compel the case to trial.

  • From 35 to 184: UAE passport strength reflects nation’s rising influence

    From 35 to 184: UAE passport strength reflects nation’s rising influence

    The United Arab Emirates has achieved a remarkable diplomatic milestone, with its passport evolving from a regional travel document into one of the world’s most powerful instruments of global mobility. Current indices reveal the extraordinary transformation: the UAE passport now offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 184 global destinations, positioning it among the top ten globally and earning the top spot on Arton Capital’s ranking with a mobility score of 179.

    This ascent represents the most significant improvement recorded in the two-decade history of the Henley Passport Index. The journey from just 35 visa-free destinations in 2015 to the current 184 marks a dramatic 34-position leap that reflects the nation’s growing international stature. The UAE stands as the first Arab nation to secure visa-free access to all 34 European Union countries and remains the only Middle Eastern presence in the global top ten, now ranking alongside established passport powerhouses like Canada and Estonia.

    The transformation stems from strategic diplomatic efforts initiated through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ UAE Passport Force initiative in 2017. This comprehensive program focused on establishing new partnerships across political, economic, commercial, and cultural spheres. Through sustained diplomacy, high-level exchanges, and negotiated visa-waiver agreements particularly with European, Asian, and Latin American nations, the UAE systematically enhanced its global connectivity.

    Beyond benefiting Emirati citizens, this diplomatic achievement improves mobility for the country’s substantial expatriate population. With over 80% of the UAE’s 11 million residents being expats representing 190 nationalities, the strengthened passport facilitates smoother international travel procedures, business mobility, and enhanced access to global hubs. The nation’s reputation as a diplomatic and economic center often translates into easier entry procedures and visa-on-arrival options for residents traveling internationally.

    This passport evolution mirrors the UAE’s broader emergence as a regional powerhouse driven by economic diversification, foreign investment, major infrastructure projects, and notable security stability. The enhanced global mobility symbolizes the country’s mature international standing and its successful integration into the global community through strategic relationship-building and diplomatic excellence.

  • US Senator proposes ending dual citizenship, says Americans ‘have to choose’

    US Senator proposes ending dual citizenship, says Americans ‘have to choose’

    In a significant legislative move, US Republican Senator Bernie Moreno of Ohio has announced plans to introduce the “Exclusive Citizenship Act of 2025,” which would fundamentally alter America’s approach to dual nationality. The proposed legislation would compel all US citizens currently holding foreign citizenship to make a definitive choice between retaining their American status or maintaining their alternative nationality.

    The bill, scheduled for introduction on Monday, represents one of the most comprehensive challenges to dual citizenship in recent American history. Under its provisions, current dual citizens would have exactly one year from enactment to formally renounce either their US citizenship or their foreign nationality. Those failing to comply within the designated timeframe would automatically be considered to have relinquished their American citizenship status.

    Senator Moreno, who himself renounced his Colombian citizenship upon naturalizing as an American at age 18, articulated his rationale in a statement to Fox News: “One of the greatest honors of my life was when I became an American citizen. It was an honor to pledge an Oath of Allegiance to the United States of America and only to the United States of America. Being an American citizen is an honor and a privilege—and if you want to be an American—it’s all or nothing.”

    The proposed legislation would mandate the State Department and Department of Homeland Security to establish comprehensive databases and enforcement mechanisms to implement these changes. Individuals who voluntarily or involuntarily relinquish their US citizenship would be systematically recorded in federal systems and thereafter treated as aliens under immigration laws.

    This initiative aligns with broader immigration policy shifts observed during the Trump administration, though the administration has not previously taken an official stance on dual citizenship specifically. The proposal faces significant legal hurdles, as Supreme Court precedents from the 1950s have consistently upheld the legality of dual citizenship. Previous attempts to eliminate dual citizenship, including recent moves in the House to restrict dual citizens from serving in Congress, have encountered substantial opposition and legal challenges.

  • US and Kenya sign first of what are expected to be dozens of ‘America First’ global health deals

    US and Kenya sign first of what are expected to be dozens of ‘America First’ global health deals

    The Trump administration has initiated its new ‘America First’ global health strategy by formalizing a major $2.5 billion, five-year health agreement with Kenya. Signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Kenyan President William Ruto, this pact represents the first in an anticipated series of bilateral health funding agreements designed to align U.S. foreign assistance with the administration’s broader geopolitical objectives.

    This new cooperation framework replaces previous multi-lateral health programs traditionally administered by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which was dismantled earlier this year. The move has drawn significant criticism from the global health community, as the closure of USAID resulted in the termination of hundreds of programs across the developing world, including initiatives focused on maternal and child healthcare, nutrition, and HIV/AIDS prevention.

    The Kenya agreement allocates $1.7 billion from the U.S. government, with Kenya contributing the remaining $850 million. Funding will prioritize combating infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, with an emphasis on supporting faith-based medical providers. All clinics and hospitals within Kenya’s health insurance system will be eligible for funding, provided they comply with U.S. restrictions on abortion services. State Department officials Jeremy Lewin and Brad Smith confirmed the agreement includes protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or profession.

    In parallel with the health agreement, U.S. officials praised Kenya’s leadership in international stabilization efforts, particularly its role in combating powerful gangs in Haiti. The administration plans to extend similar health agreements to other African nations aligned with its foreign policy stance, though political differences with the Trump administration may exclude major players like Nigeria and South Africa.

  • Future-ready school set to solve real-world challenges

    Future-ready school set to solve real-world challenges

    Dubai has entered a new chapter in educational excellence with the groundbreaking establishment of the School of Research and Innovation (SRI), redefining conventional learning paradigms through its integrated approach to future-focused education. As the region’s first institution specifically designed to prepare students for rapidly evolving global challenges, SRI converges technology, industry partnerships, and innovation under a single comprehensive ecosystem.

    Under the enhanced British curriculum framework, SRI introduces the distinctive ‘Trailblazer’ program, enabling students to explore diverse passions spanning sports, technology, performing arts, and academic disciplines. This initiative provides dedicated time for hands-on, career-oriented projects that facilitate self-discovery and strength identification. According to Dino Varkey, Group CEO at GEMS Education, the program fundamentally connects theoretical learning to practical real-world applications while simultaneously developing essential communication skills through public speaking and debating platforms.

    The school’s creation responds directly to the UAE’s transformation into a global innovation hub, marking a strategic shift from importing human capital to cultivating homegrown talent. SRI’s philosophy centers on empowering young minds to think boldly, experiment fearlessly, and engage meaningfully with global challenges through university-grade laboratories, innovation studios, and cutting-edge facilities rarely seen in K-12 education.

    Despite being categorized among Dubai’s premium educational institutions, SRI’s value proposition extends beyond conventional metrics. The investment translates into unparalleled opportunities: students build functional mini-Teslas, program self-driving vehicles, train with cognitive tools utilized by Manchester United, and receive instruction from robotics specialists at Boston Dynamics and Kawasaki.

    The institution embeds research and innovation principles throughout daily learning experiences, prioritizing future-essential skills including creativity, problem-solving, adaptability, and technological fluency. By exposing students to diverse professional fields early in their academic journey, SRI ensures graduates enter university or workplace environments with clarified direction, confidence, and practical capabilities that transcend traditional academic preparation.

  • Luxury fashion firms asked for documents as part of Italian labor abuse probe

    Luxury fashion firms asked for documents as part of Italian labor abuse probe

    Italian judicial authorities have launched a significant investigation into labor practices within the luxury fashion sector, with Milan prosecutors formally requesting comprehensive documentation from 13 prestigious fashion houses. The probe centers on allegations of severe worker exploitation at Chinese-operated subcontractor workshops that manufacture products for these luxury brands.

    According to judicial documents obtained by The Associated Press, prosecutors are examining instances of what they describe as “heavy exploitations” of Chinese workers within the supply chain. The investigation seeks to determine the extent of the brands’ awareness and involvement in these alleged labor violations through detailed analysis of corporate governance structures, internal control mechanisms, and audit procedures.

    The prominent fashion companies under scrutiny include Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Prada, Adidas Italy, Missoni, Ferragamo, Givenchy Italia, Alexander McQueen Italia, Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent Manifatture, Pinko, Coccinelle, and Off-White Operating. None of these firms have issued immediate public statements regarding the prosecutors’ requests or the underlying allegations.

    This investigation represents the latest development in an ongoing series of law enforcement actions targeting labor abuses within Italy’s high-end fashion manufacturing sector. The Milan prosecutor’s office will utilize the collected documentation to assess corporate accountability and determine appropriate legal measures regarding the alleged worker exploitation.

    The fashion industry probe follows similar recent actions, including last month’s investigation into luxury group Tod’s and three executives for suspected labor violations, which prompted prosecutors to request a six-month advertising ban. Additionally, April revelations showed Chinese workers at an unauthorized subcontractor producing accessories for Giorgio Armani, further highlighting systemic supply chain concerns within the industry.

  • Cheapest gold price in UAE: Who will gain most from 14K rate in Dubai?

    Cheapest gold price in UAE: Who will gain most from 14K rate in Dubai?

    Dubai, renowned globally as the ‘City of Gold,’ has officially introduced 14K gold pricing for the first time in its history, a strategic move aimed at revitalizing consumer interest in the jewelry market. The initiative, announced by the Dubai Jewellery Group (DJG) — the largest trade body representing approximately 600 members in the industry — comes as gold prices soared to unprecedented levels in October 2025, both in the UAE and worldwide.

    As of Thursday morning, 14K gold was trading at Dh300.25 per gram, positioning it as the most affordable variant available in the UAE. This price point is over Dh200 cheaper than 24K gold and nearly Dh85 less than 18K gold, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.

    Industry experts highlight that the introduction of 14K gold primarily targets two key segments: customers purchasing diamond-studded jewelry and those seeking more affordable, everyday ornaments. Anil Dhanak, Managing Director of Kanz Jewels, explained that 14K gold offers enhanced durability for mountings and lower entry prices without compromising aesthetic appeal, particularly for pieces where gold serves as a supporting metal rather than the core value.

    The timing of this initiative is critical. Data from the World Gold Council reveals that gold jewelry demand in the UAE plummeted to a five-year low of 6.3 tonnes in the third quarter of 2025, marking a 10% year-on-year decline and an 18% quarter-on-quarter drop. Rising prices have rendered traditional gold ornaments unaffordable for many, prompting a shift in consumer behavior.

    Chirag Vora, Managing Director of Bafleh Jewellers, noted that lower-priced options like 14K gold could attract younger buyers, first-time purchasers, and expatriates familiar with this karatage. Retailers can now offer tiered options: 22K for traditional value, 18K for luxury fashion, and 14K for accessible everyday pieces.

    Concurrently, consumer preferences are evolving. Shamlal Ahamed, Managing Director for International Operations at Malabar Gold and Diamonds, observed a growing trend toward lightweight, lifestyle jewelry driven by design sensibilities rather than mere price considerations. Millennials and Gen Z customers are leading this shift, seeking versatile, contemporary pieces that align with their daily lives.

    The introduction of 14K gold is poised to stimulate unit sales, support retailers and manufacturers, and cater to a broader demographic, ensuring Dubai’s continued prominence in the global gold market.

  • RIT Dubai hosts UAE’s youngest university student

    RIT Dubai hosts UAE’s youngest university student

    Rochester Institute of Technology Dubai has made educational history by admitting 12-year-old Leonardo Mariotti as the youngest university student ever enrolled in the United Arab Emirates. This groundbreaking initiative, developed in collaboration with Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), represents a pioneering approach to nurturing exceptional young talent through customized educational pathways.

    The young scholar’s journey to university began with early demonstrations of extraordinary spatial reasoning and innovative conceptualization abilities. Despite diagnosed neurological differences including Asperger’s, Dyslexia, Tourette’s, and ADHD, Leonardo has transformed these characteristics into assets that fuel his creative and technical capabilities. His mother, Yolanda Pohl-Mariotti, poetically describes her son as ‘carrying an entire orchestra within him,’ where each neurological trait contributes to a ‘breathtaking symphony of uniqueness.’

    Critical to his development was the supportive environment at Lycée Français International de l’AFLEC, where educators, specialists, and therapists collaboratively cultivated his potential through personalized learning strategies. This foundation of inclusive education enabled his transition to higher education at an unprecedented age.

    RIT Dubai has designed a bespoke curriculum aligned with Leonardo’s exceptional talents, incorporating advanced studies in Robotics, 3D Modeling and Printing, Engineering, Computer Coding, Artificial Intelligence, and New Media Design. Under the leadership of Dr. Yousef Al Assaf, the institution demonstrates its commitment to creating educational opportunities for students who transcend conventional academic pathways.

    This milestone reflects both RIT’s global legacy in technological education and the UAE’s national commitment to educational innovation and neurodiversity inclusion. Through coordinated efforts between the Ministry of Education and KHDA, the country continues to develop frameworks that recognize cognitive differences as strengths rather than limitations.

    Now completing his second month of university studies, Leonardo Mariotti stands as an inspiration to educational systems worldwide, challenging preconceived notions of age-appropriate learning and demonstrating that intellectual brilliance manifests in diverse forms.