Global Pulse

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  • UAE flights: Air Arabia starts daily flights between Sharjah, Krabi

    UAE flights: Air Arabia starts daily flights between Sharjah, Krabi

    Sharjah-based carrier Air Arabia has officially launched daily nonstop flights between Sharjah International Airport and Krabi, Thailand, marking a significant expansion of its Southeast Asian network. The inaugural flight departed on November 28, 2025, receiving an official welcome in Krabi attended by Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Phipat Ratchakitprakarn alongside senior aviation officials.

    This new route establishes the third Thai destination in Air Arabia’s expanding network from Sharjah, complementing existing services to Bangkok and Phuket. The daily direct connection enhances travel convenience while strengthening economic and tourism ties between the United Arab Emirates and Thailand’s southern coastal region.

    Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, characterized the Krabi launch as a strategic milestone that provides customers with increased accessibility to Thailand’s most popular destinations. “This new daily service offers our customers greater convenience and strengthens the growing travel and trade links between the UAE and Thailand,” Al Ali stated.

    The Krabi initiative coincides with Air Arabia’s broader network expansion strategy, which recently included the announcement of new twice-daily services connecting Sharjah to London Gatwick commencing March 29, 2026. These developments collectively represent the airline’s concerted effort to enhance its global footprint while reinforcing Sharjah International Airport’s position as a growing aviation hub.

  • Hrithik Roshan praises Farhan Akhtar’s war drama ‘120 Bahadur’

    Hrithik Roshan praises Farhan Akhtar’s war drama ‘120 Bahadur’

    Bollywood luminary Hrithik Roshan has delivered a resounding endorsement of Farhan Akhtar’s latest cinematic venture, the war drama ‘120 Bahadur,’ through an enthusiastic social media tribute. On his official Instagram account, Roshan celebrated the film as a “beautifully crafted” masterpiece distinguished by “incredible aesthetics” and outstanding performances.

    Roshan specifically commended Akhtar’s portrayal in the film while praising director Razneesh Ghai’s “flawless” artistic direction. The actor’s post emphasized the collective achievement, noting that “every department deserves a pat on their backs” for their contribution to the production.

    The historical drama depicts the heroic actions of Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, who was posthumously awarded India’s highest military honor, the Param Vir Chakra, for his leadership during the 1962 Battle of Rezang La. The film focuses on the valor demonstrated by Singh’s unit, composed primarily of soldiers from Rewari and surrounding regions, who defended the strategically crucial Rezang La Pass along the India-China border.

    In previous interviews with ANI, Akhtar reflected on the particular challenges inherent in bringing such historically significant stories to the screen. The actor-producer emphasized the additional responsibility of ensuring accurate and respectful depiction of military sacrifice, noting the importance of creating a narrative that would inspire pride among the families of those represented.

    The ensemble cast features Raashii Khanna, Sparsh Walia, Vivan Bhatena, and Dhanveer Singh in significant roles, contributing to what industry observers are calling a landmark in Indian war cinema.

  • 2.83 million people sit China’s civil service exam

    2.83 million people sit China’s civil service exam

    A staggering 2.83 million candidates participated in China’s highly competitive civil service examination for central government institutions on Sunday, November 30, 2025, according to official data released by the State Administration of Civil Service. This massive turnout represents one of the largest concentrations of applicants for government positions worldwide, highlighting the enduring appeal of public sector careers among Chinese youth.

    The examination, administered nationwide, comes as China continues to implement policy reforms including the recently raised eligibility age cap, which has expanded opportunities for older applicants seeking government service. The record participation rate demonstrates the sustained prestige associated with civil service positions despite growing opportunities in China’s private sector.

    This year’s examination cycle follows significant developments in China’s public employment landscape, including increased digitalization of examination procedures and enhanced transparency measures in the recruitment process. The testing coincided with several other national developments, including rising influenza cases across the country and ongoing recovery efforts from the tragic Hong Kong residential fire that claimed 146 lives.

    The civil service examination system remains a cornerstone of China’s governance structure, ensuring a continuous pipeline of qualified personnel for government institutions. The overwhelming response underscores the competitive nature of public sector employment in the world’s second-largest economy, where government positions are traditionally viewed as offering stability, prestige, and opportunities for national service.

  • Netanyahu formally asks for pardon from Israeli president

    Netanyahu formally asks for pardon from Israeli president

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally submitted a request for presidential clemency to President Isaac Herzog as he confronts ongoing corruption allegations. The unprecedented appeal argues that a pardon would serve the nation’s broader interests by alleviating social tensions exacerbated by his prolonged legal proceedings.

    Netanyahu articulated in his petition that concluding the judicial process would ‘reduce the intensity of the flames’ in public discourse, emphasizing his commitment to national reconciliation during a period of significant security challenges. The Prime Minister stated his dedication to healing societal divisions and restoring institutional trust, while calling for unified support from all government branches.

    The corruption charges against Netanyahu include serious allegations of fraud, bribery, and breach of trust, all of which he has vehemently denied. Specific accusations involve the alleged acceptance of luxury items exceeding $260,000 from wealthy benefactors in exchange for political favors, along with purported attempts to influence media coverage through backchannel negotiations with Israeli news organizations.

    The timeline of Netanyahu’s court proceedings has experienced multiple postponements, attributed variously to Israel’s military engagements in Gaza, Syria, and Iran. Concurrently, the Prime Minister’s controversial judicial reform initiatives—which opponents argued would undermine judicial independence—sparked widespread protests that subsided following the outbreak of the Gaza conflict in October 2023.

    International support for Netanyahu’s pardon has emerged from notable figures including former U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently communicated directly with President Herzog. Trump’s endorsement highlighted Netanyahu’s diplomatic achievements in normalizing relations with Arab nations, characterizing these developments as historic breakthroughs pursued for millennia.

  • ‘Is this the start of Liverpool’s life without Salah?’

    ‘Is this the start of Liverpool’s life without Salah?’

    In a strategic masterstroke that signals potential transition, Liverpool secured a vital 2-0 Premier League victory against West Ham United while legendary forward Mohamed Salah watched from the substitutes’ bench for the first time since April 2024. Manager Arne Slot’s bold lineup decision on November 30, 2025, proved transformative as the Reds ended their concerning slump of nine defeats in twelve matches.

    The tactical reshuffle saw record-signing Alexander Isak break his league goal drought since his £125 million transfer from Newcastle United, while creative maestro Florian Wirtz demonstrated why Liverpool invested £116 million in his services. The Dutch manager’s reconstruction included deploying Joe Gomez at right-back for his first league start in eleven months, which simultaneously solidified Liverpool’s previously leaky defense and liberated Dominik Szoboszlai from defensive duties to focus on attacking contributions.

    Cody Gakpo delivered a standout performance, providing the assist for Isak’s opener before sealing the victory with a powerful stoppage-time finish. The clean sheet marked a significant defensive improvement after conceding ten goals across their previous three matches.

    While Salah’s benching dominated pre-match discussions, Slot emphasized the Egyptian’s continued importance to the club, noting his recent contract extension and ‘special player’ status. However, with Liverpool’s dramatic dip in form and Salah’s upcoming participation in the Africa Cup of Nations, the manager’s selection suggests strategic planning for the future.

    The victory provides crucial breathing space for Slot amid mounting pressure, demonstrating that his ambitious £450 million summer rebuild might finally be showing promising signs of cohesion and effectiveness.

  • UAE’s scientific talent strategy earns global praise at Hong Kong forum

    UAE’s scientific talent strategy earns global praise at Hong Kong forum

    The United Arab Emirates has received significant international recognition for its comprehensive approach to cultivating scientific leadership, with officials at the recent Hong Kong Laureate Forum praising the nation’s strategic investment in research talent development. Speaking at the four-day gathering that concluded November 8th, 2025, HKLF representatives highlighted how the UAE’s government-led initiatives establish a remarkable regional benchmark in preparing future generations of scientific innovators.

    The UAE’s multifaceted strategy encompasses several pioneering programs including the National R&D Leadership Programme, which provides specialized training in research management and evidence-based policymaking for professionals across government, academic, and private sectors. The Mohammed bin Rashid Government Fellowships extend this effort through international partnerships with prestigious institutions like Oxford and MIT, developing national expertise in artificial intelligence, economics, and global policy.

    Infrastructure development plays a crucial role in the Emirates’ scientific vision, exemplified by the Open Labs platform—the country’s first national database connecting researchers with more than 150 advanced scientific instruments. This initiative aims to democratize access to cutting-edge equipment and accelerate progress in biotechnology, materials science, and related fields.

    Additional components of the UAE’s scientific ecosystem include the Mohammed bin Rashid Academy of Scientists, the Dubai Science Park Leadership Network, and the Dubai Research, Development and Innovation Grant. Collectively, these programs support the nation’s ambition to transform into a global hub for advanced research and talent attraction.

    While acknowledging differences in approach—the UAE’s government-coordinated model contrasts with HKLF’s emphasis on intergenerational mentorship and global exchange—forum representatives noted both share the fundamental mission of empowering young scientists to make discoveries that benefit humanity. The 2025 Hong Kong Laureate Forum itself brought together 12 Shaw Laureates and over 200 emerging scientists from more than 20 countries, creating rare opportunities for direct interaction between established leaders and the next generation of researchers.

    Professor Timothy Tong, Chairman of the HKLF Council, emphasized the forum’s unique ability to foster meaningful personal exchanges that transcend traditional academic conferences. ‘Young scientists sit with laureates during meals and discussions,’ Tong noted. ‘They share ideas, experiences and challenges. These conversations inspire young people to stay in science and pursue bold ideas.’

    Hong Kong officials highlighted the event’s significance in the city’s innovation agenda, with Chief Secretary for Administration KK Chan noting how the forum demonstrates Hong Kong’s capacity to ‘link technology with talent and industry to build a competitive and globally connected innovation ecosystem.’ This recognition of the UAE’s scientific development strategy positions both regions as emerging nodes in the global network nurturing tomorrow’s scientific leadership.

  • Fire death toll jumps to 146 after Hong Kong police search four high-rise blocks

    Fire death toll jumps to 146 after Hong Kong police search four high-rise blocks

    Hong Kong authorities have confirmed a devastating death toll of 146 individuals following a catastrophic blaze that engulfed multiple residential towers in the city’s northern Tai Po district. The tragedy, now recognized as Hong Kong’s deadliest fire incident in over seven decades, has plunged the community into profound mourning while triggering significant public demands for accountability.

    Police officials announced that the comprehensive search operation across four severely damaged high-rise buildings at Wang Fuk Court housing complex will require approximately three to four weeks to complete. The inferno, which rapidly spread across seven residential towers undergoing exterior renovations, also left at least 79 individuals injured, with many victims remaining hospitalized in critical condition.

    Investigators have identified several critical safety failures that contributed to the scale of the disaster. The building’s fire alarm system was completely non-operational at the time of the incident, while highly flammable foam insulation materials and extensive bamboo scaffolding wrapped in green mesh facilitated the rapid spread of flames. The exact ignition source remains under active investigation by forensic teams.

    The human toll of the catastrophe has manifested in overwhelming public displays of grief. Thousands of mourners formed queues extending over a kilometer along nearby canal banks to lay white floral tributes and personal notes addressed to victims. The pervasive smell of smoke continued to linger over the area four days after the fire was extinguished.

    Among the confirmed fatalities are seven Indonesian domestic workers and one Filipino helper, with dozens of migrant workers still unaccounted for. The city’s Filipino community gathered for an outdoor prayer vigil attended by hundreds on Sunday, reflecting the international dimension of the tragedy.

    The disaster has sparked substantial public activism, with online petitions demanding independent investigations into potential corruption and construction oversight failures accumulating over 10,000 signatures before being abruptly closed. Authorities have detained Miles Kwan, a 24-year-old activist associated with the petition movement, though official charges remain unspecified.

    Beijing has issued a stern warning regarding potential protests, emphasizing that national security legislation would be enforced against any demonstrations perceived as ‘anti-China’ in nature. This statement has created additional tension amidst the community’s legitimate demands for transparency and reform of building safety regulations.

  • Hollywood icon Linda Hamilton embraces ageing, says ‘This is the face I’ve earned’

    Hollywood icon Linda Hamilton embraces ageing, says ‘This is the face I’ve earned’

    Veteran actress Linda Hamilton, renowned for her groundbreaking portrayal of Sarah Connor in the ‘Terminator’ film series, is receiving widespread acclaim for her performance in the concluding season of Netflix’s ‘Stranger Things’. At 69, Hamilton is simultaneously making a powerful statement about aging with dignity in an industry often obsessed with youth.

    In a candid interview with AARP’s Movies for Grownups, the Hollywood icon articulated her firm stance against pursuing a perpetually youthful appearance. She characterized the aging process as both natural and meaningful, something to be embraced rather than reversed. Hamilton explicitly stated she dedicates zero effort to attempting to look younger, declaring complete surrender to the face she has ‘earned’ through her life experiences. She finds profound value in her appearance, noting it tells a rich and personal story.

    While firmly rejecting surgical alterations to her face, Hamilton emphasized her commitment to physical wellness. During her work on ‘Stranger Things’, she maintained a rigorous fitness regimen, visiting the gym three times weekly. Her holistic approach combined Pilates, yoga, and a diverse range of weight training, focusing on what her body needed to ‘loosen up and stretch out’ each day rather than adhering to a rigid, aesthetic-driven routine.

    The final season of the hit sci-fi series has been released in two parts. Netflix debuted the first four episodes, plunging viewers into a darker and more expansive Hawkins. According to the platform’s Tudum fan site, the narrative will conclude with episodes 5, 6, and 7 arriving on December 25, culminating in the highly anticipated series finale on New Year’s Eve, December 31.

  • ‘I can’t see TV anymore’: Judi Dench opens up on worsening eyesight

    ‘I can’t see TV anymore’: Judi Dench opens up on worsening eyesight

    Dame Judi Dench, the revered Academy Award-winning actress celebrated for her iconic portrayal of ‘M’ in the James Bond series, has provided a poignant update on her deteriorating eyesight, revealing the condition has severely impacted her professional and personal life. In a candid interview with ITV News, the 90-year-old theatrical legend disclosed she can no longer recognize faces, read scripts, or watch television due to advanced macular degeneration.

    Speaking alongside her longtime friend and collaborator Sir Ian McKellen, Dench described the practical realities of her vision loss. When met with a light-hearted remark from McKellen, she responded with characteristic wit, noting she could only perceive his outline and recognized him by his distinctive scarf. The actress confirmed that the degenerative eye disease, which damages the central retina and causes progressive central vision distortion, has made continuing her acting career nearly impossible.

    Dench first publicly addressed her diagnosis with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in 2012. Over the past decade, the condition has advanced significantly, prompting her to scale back her professional commitments. She revealed in previous interviews that she relies on friends to help her learn scripts due to her inability to read them herself, despite having what she describes as a ‘photographic memory.’

    With a career spanning seven remarkable decades, Dench has accumulated an extraordinary collection of honors including an Oscar, a Tony Award, two Golden Globes, and multiple BAFTA and Olivier Awards. Her most recent appearance was a 2022 cameo in the Apple TV+ holiday film ‘Spirited.’ Her openness about her vision struggles provides a sobering look at the challenges facing performers with age-related health conditions.

  • Dubai salon shut down after 5 workers caught without valid work permits

    Dubai salon shut down after 5 workers caught without valid work permits

    Authorities in Dubai have permanently shuttered a women’s beauty salon after a coordinated inspection uncovered significant breaches of labor and residency regulations. The operation, conducted as part of ongoing compliance efforts, revealed five female employees working without valid work permits.

    Investigators determined that all five workers had originally entered the United Arab Emirates on visit visas. Two individuals had overstayed their visas without renewal or penalty payment, while three others were found to be working illegally despite holding technically valid visit documents. UAE immigration regulations explicitly prohibit employment on visit visas, requiring proper labor approval and work permits before commencing any professional duties.

    The salon owner faced separate violations, discovered to be operating the establishment while holding a work permit tied to another business entity. For approximately eighteen months, she had managed the salon independently while employing workers without proper sponsorship transfers or authorization.

    During judicial proceedings conducted via video conference, all parties admitted to the violations. The court imposed substantial penalties: fines for all workers operating without permits, one-month prison sentences or alternative fines for the two visa overstayers followed by deportation, and a significant AED 50,000 fine for the owner—multiplied by the number of unauthorized employees.

    This case occurs within the context of broader enforcement initiatives. According to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), UAE authorities apprehended over 32,000 visa violators during the first half of this year. These inspections represent sustained efforts to ensure foreign nationals comply with the country’s residence and employment legislation, particularly within sectors like beauty and fitness that directly impact public health and safety standards.