As the gaming world eagerly anticipates the release of ‘Grand Theft Auto 6’ (GTA 6), now delayed until November 19, 2026, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been making headlines with a series of groundbreaking achievements. From technological advancements to cultural milestones, the UAE has accomplished a remarkable array of feats while Rockstar Games continues to perfect its highly anticipated open-world game. Here’s a look at some of the UAE’s most notable accomplishments since the release of ‘GTA 5’ in 2013. In 2017, the UAE appointed the world’s first Minister of Artificial Intelligence, Omar Sultan Al Olama, signaling its commitment to innovation. The country’s ‘Hope Probe’ successfully reached Mars in 2021, capturing stunning images of the Red Planet. Meanwhile, the world’s tallest hotel, Ciel Dubai Marina, is set to open in November 2025, boasting 1,000+ rooms and standing at 365 meters tall. The UAE has also hosted major events like COP28 and Expo 2020, while pioneering advancements in driverless and airborne taxis. Additionally, the country has seen cultural phenomena such as Coldplay’s sold-out concerts in Abu Dhabi and the global popularity of Dubai’s viral chocolates. In the sports world, Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Saudi Arabia and Lionel Messi’s World Cup victory have captivated fans. As the UAE continues to innovate and achieve, gamers worldwide are left wondering if the country will unveil even more marvels before ‘GTA 6’ finally hits the shelves.
作者： admin
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Biovac starts trials on South Africa’s first domestically developed cholera vaccine
South Africa has taken a monumental step in public health by initiating clinical trials for its first locally developed oral cholera vaccine. The vaccine, created by Cape Town-based pharmaceutical company Biovac, is currently being tested for safety in adults. Subsequent trials will compare its efficacy to existing cholera vaccines already available globally. Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi announced that, pending successful results, the vaccine could be approved and distributed across Africa by 2028. This development marks a significant milestone in enhancing vaccine accessibility and self-reliance on the continent. Motsoaledi emphasized that while South Africa has experienced relatively low cholera rates, many African nations frequently devastated by outbreaks stand to benefit immensely. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored Africa’s vulnerability to pandemics due to its reliance on imported vaccines. Cholera outbreaks in South Africa are often fueled by cross-border movements and inadequate access to clean water, particularly in regions like Hammanskraal, near Pretoria. The 2023 cholera outbreak resulted in 47 deaths and over 1,400 reported cases, with neighboring countries like Malawi, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe facing even higher tolls. Motsoaledi highlighted that local vaccine production reduces vulnerability to supply chain disruptions, geopolitical pressures, and vaccine nationalism, which were evident during the pandemic. Trials are being conducted in Gauteng, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal, areas previously affected by cholera. Biovac CEO Morena Makhoana stressed that this initiative addresses a critical global need amid recurring cholera outbreaks and vaccine shortages. Participants like Lerato Maleka and Shadrack Makutu shared their motivations for joining the trials, citing water quality issues and personal experiences with cholera outbreaks. The World Health Organization estimates that cholera affects up to 4 million people annually, causing between 21,000 and 143,000 deaths worldwide.
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‘Mellon Blue’ diamond sells for $26.6 million at Swiss auction
A stunning 9.51-carat blue diamond, known as the ‘Mellon Blue,’ was sold for 20.5 million Swiss francs ($26.6 million) at a Christie’s auction in Geneva, Switzerland. The gem, named after the late American arts patron Rachel ‘Bunny’ Mellon, had been anticipated to fetch between $20 million and $30 million. The final price included the buyer’s premium and additional fees. Previously, the diamond was sold in 2014 for $32.6 million, marking one of the highest prices ever paid for a colored diamond at auction. The ‘Mellon Blue’ had been a prized possession in Mellon’s private collection for decades. Max Fawcett, Christie’s global head of jewelry, highlighted the diamond’s exceptional quality, describing it as a ‘gem of gems’ due to its Fancy Vivid Blue color and Internally Flawless grade, as certified by the Gemological Institute of America. The auction marked the beginning of a two-day jewelry event in Geneva, with Sotheby’s set to auction the ‘Glowing Rose’ pink diamond, expected to attract bids around $20 million.
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Esha Deol, Hema Malini deny Dharmendra’s death reports, blast media
Amid widespread rumors regarding the health of legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra, his wife Hema Malini and daughter Esha Deol have vehemently denied false reports of his demise. The family has expressed outrage over irresponsible media coverage, urging the public and press to respect their privacy during this challenging time. Hema Malini took to social media to condemn the spread of misinformation, stating, ‘What is happening is unforgivable! How can responsible channels spread false news about a person who is responding to treatment and is recovering? This is being extremely disrespectful and irresponsible.’ Esha Deol, 44, echoed her mother’s sentiments, confirming that her father is ‘stable and recovering’ and pleading with the media to refrain from disseminating baseless claims. The false reports gained traction after Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh mistakenly tweeted condolences, which were later deleted. Dharmendra, 89, is currently receiving treatment at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, where several Bollywood celebrities, including Salman Khan, Govinda, and Ameesha Patel, have visited to check on his condition. Family members, including sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, grandchildren Karan Deol and Rajveer Deol, and Hema Malini, have been by his side.
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DP World Tour launches ‘Rory McIlroy Award’ to honour Europe’s first Grand Slam winner
The DP World Tour has introduced a groundbreaking accolade, the Rory McIlroy Award, to celebrate the Northern Irish golfer’s historic Career Grand Slam achievement. Unveiled during the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai, the award will debut in 2026, recognizing the DP World Tour member who delivers the most outstanding performance across the four Major Championships in a season. McIlroy, who became the first European to complete the Career Grand Slam earlier this year, expressed deep gratitude for the honor. ‘It’s a huge privilege to have something named after me that will inspire future generations of players,’ he said. The award will be based on Race to Dubai points earned at the Masters, US PGA Championship, US Open, and The Open. McIlroy’s Masters victory in April, secured in a thrilling playoff against Justin Rose, marked the culmination of his Grand Slam journey, which began with his 2011 US Open win. DP World Tour Chief Executive Guy Kinnings emphasized the award’s significance, stating, ‘This is a permanent legacy to honor Rory’s extraordinary contributions to golf and to inspire future talents.’ The Rory McIlroy Award joins other prestigious honors named after European golf legends, including the Seve Ballesteros Award and the Harry Vardon Trophy. Notably, McIlroy will be ineligible to win the award, ensuring it remains a symbol of aspiration for emerging players.
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‘Role model’ team shares how it’s protecting juveniles in Chongqing
The Chongqing procuratorates’ juvenile protection work team, recently honored as the ‘Role Model of the Times,’ shared their inspiring journey at an event held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The event, co-organized by the Communist Party of China Central Committee’s Publicity Department, the Political and Legal Affairs Commission, the Supreme People’s Procuratorate, and the CPC Chongqing Municipal Committee, highlighted the team’s dedication to safeguarding the rights and well-being of minors. Six representatives from the team recounted their experiences, emphasizing the dual importance of legal rigor and human compassion in juvenile protection. Chen Wenqing, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, praised the team’s efforts and urged nationwide legal institutions to emulate their approach. Established in 2004, the team has evolved from a single post to a robust network of 45 posts with over 500 members, handling cases and providing comprehensive protection for minors. Guided by the principle of ‘wishing every child to grow up better,’ the team has significantly contributed to the healthy development of minors and the efficiency of child protection governance.
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Israel’s Ben Gvir hands out sweets after death penalty bill for Palestinians advances
A contentious bill proposing the death penalty for Palestinian prisoners convicted of killing Israelis on nationalistic grounds has cleared its first reading in Israel’s Knesset. The legislation, which passed with 39 votes in favor and 16 against, was celebrated by Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir, who distributed sweets in parliament. The bill, however, excludes Israelis who kill Palestinians under similar circumstances, sparking accusations of discriminatory practices. To become law, the bill must undergo two additional readings in the Knesset. The move has drawn sharp criticism from Palestinian factions, with Hamas labeling the legislation as ‘fascist and sadistic’ and calling for international sanctions against Israel. Islamic Jihad described the bill’s advancement as a ‘dangerous criminal escalation.’ Israeli security officials had initially opposed the measure, fearing it could endanger Israeli captives held by Palestinian groups. However, following the release of surviving hostages by Hamas last month, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved the bill’s progression. Critics argue that the legislation exacerbates Israel’s systemic human rights abuses against Palestinian detainees, with reports of torture, medical neglect, and starvation in Israeli prisons. Human rights organizations have condemned the bill as a ‘grave escalation’ in Israel’s apartheid regime, emphasizing its exclusive application to Palestinians. Currently, an estimated 9,250 Palestinian prisoners are held across 23 Israeli detention facilities, with additional unaccounted-for detainees in military camps.
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Tunisian star Jabeur announces pregnancy, takes break from tennis
Tunisian tennis sensation Ons Jabeur, a former world number two and three-time Grand Slam finalist, has announced her pregnancy and an extended hiatus from professional tennis. The 31-year-old athlete, affectionately known as the ‘Minister of Happiness,’ revealed on Instagram that she is expecting a baby boy in April. Jabeur, currently ranked 79th, stated that she will temporarily step away from the sport to focus on her new family life.
Jabeur’s announcement comes as she reflects on her demanding tour schedule and her openness about battling depression amidst the pressures of professional tennis. With five WTA singles titles to her name, Jabeur’s decision highlights ongoing concerns about the strenuous tennis calendar and its impact on players’ mental and physical well-being.
Her Instagram post, which read, ‘I took a little break to reset and recharge … Turns out, we’ve been planning the cutest comeback ever,’ has been met with widespread support from fans and fellow athletes. Jabeur’s break from the sport marks a significant moment in her career, as she balances her professional achievements with her personal journey into motherhood.
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Hema Malini says reports of Dharmendra’s death are ‘unforgivable and disrespectul’
Amid widespread speculation about Bollywood legend Dharmendra’s health, his wife, actress and politician Hema Malini, has vehemently denounced false media reports claiming his death. In a strongly worded post on X (formerly Twitter), Malini expressed her outrage, stating, ‘What is happening is unforgivable! How can responsible channels spread false news about a person who is responding to treatment and is recovering? This is being extremely disrespectful and irresponsible.’ She further urged the public and media to respect the family’s privacy during this challenging time.
The controversy arose after several news outlets inaccurately reported Dharmendra’s demise, despite the actor being hospitalized and in stable condition. Their daughter, Esha Deol, also took to Instagram to clarify the situation, writing, ‘The media seems to be in overdrive and spreading false news. My father is stable & recovering. We request everyone to give our family privacy. Thank you for the prayers for papa’s speedy recovery.’
Dharmendra, a veteran of Indian cinema, has been under medical care at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital. His family, including sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, as well as grandchildren Karan Deol and Rajveer Deol, have been by his side. Prominent Bollywood figures such as Salman Khan, Govinda, and Ameesha Patel have also visited the hospital to check on his condition.
Sunny Deol, in an official statement, confirmed that his father remains stable and under observation. He requested the public to refrain from spreading rumors and to pray for Dharmendra’s swift recovery. The family has emphasized the importance of respecting their privacy as they navigate this sensitive period.
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UAE flying taxis: Archer to deliver additional aircraft in 2026, ahead of commercial launch
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is poised to become the global leader in urban air mobility as Archer Aviation, a US-based electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft manufacturer, prepares to deliver an additional aircraft in 2026. This milestone precedes the anticipated commercial launch of air taxi services in the UAE, marking a significant leap in futuristic transportation. Archer Aviation’s Chief Commercial Officer, Nikhil Goel, revealed these plans during an interview, highlighting the company’s partnership with Abu Dhabi Aviation and its ongoing collaboration with the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).
In July 2025, Archer conducted a landmark test flight of its Midnight aircraft in front of the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. This trial, part of a broader campaign to ensure operational efficiency in extreme heat, marked Archer’s first flight test outside the United States. Goel described the event as a pivotal moment, emphasizing its symbolic significance in the heart of the city. The company plans to continue its flight tests in the region, with the goal of certifying the aircraft and commencing passenger operations.
Goel also disclosed that Abu Dhabi Aviation has already made substantial payments, in the seven-figure range, to Archer as part of their commercial agreement. These payments will enable the company to recognize revenue starting next year. Additionally, Archer is making rapid progress in obtaining certification from both the GCAA and the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The UAE’s pioneering efforts in urban air mobility have garnered significant interest from other Middle Eastern nations, which are now exploring similar initiatives. Goel noted that regional countries are keen to replicate the UAE’s collaboration with Archer and the GCAA to bring flying taxi services to their own markets. The UAE is expected to be the first country globally to commercially launch flying taxis, solidifying its position as a hub for innovation and cutting-edge technology.