The Middle East’s residential property management sector is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the integration of smart facility management (FM) technologies and a growing emphasis on sustainability. Owners’ associations, particularly in the UAE, are increasingly adopting data-driven solutions to streamline operations, control service charges, and enhance property value. This shift is fueled by rising resident expectations, regulatory pressures, and the need for cost efficiency. The transition from reactive maintenance to predictive management is gaining traction across the region, with digital platforms and energy optimization strategies becoming central to FM operations. A 2024 Frost & Sullivan report projects the GCC FM market to reach $71 billion by 2026, with residential services playing a significant role due to urban expansion and smart city initiatives. Engie Solutions, a leading player in the region’s FM landscape, is at the forefront of this evolution. The company’s Smart O&M platform, a cloud-based solution powered by AI, enables real-time monitoring of assets such as HVAC systems and elevators. This proactive approach not only reduces emergency callouts but also delivers energy savings of 5–15%. A notable example is Engie’s work on the DMCC Uptown Tower in Dubai, where the company achieved a 10% reduction in energy consumption while supporting LEED Gold certification. Engie’s energy management programs, which include occupancy-based HVAC optimization and automated controls, help residential owners’ associations reduce utility expenses and lower service charges. With over 3,000 employees in the region and global expertise from 30 countries, Engie is uniquely positioned to address both international standards and local market needs. Graham Easton, Managing Director of Engie Solutions IFM GCC, emphasizes that digital transformation and sustainability are essential for the future of property management. “Properties with strong environmental credentials will command premium values,” he states, highlighting the importance of optimizing performance and enhancing asset value.
作者： admin
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Ariana Grande: Going brunette is not about saying goodbye to Glinda
Ariana Grande has recently made headlines with her dramatic hair transformation, swapping her signature blonde locks for a darker brunette tone. The 32-year-old singer and actress clarified that the change is not a farewell to her beloved character Glinda from ‘Wicked,’ but rather a fresh twist for the sequel, ‘Wicked: For Good.’ Grande explained that the new look aligns with the film’s darker themes and her desire to explore different styles. The premiere of the highly anticipated sequel took place in London’s Leicester Square, which was transformed into the magical Land of Oz, complete with a yellow brick road and vibrant pink and green decorations. Fans arrived in full costume, some dressed as witches and others channeling Glinda in sparkling gowns. Grande and her co-star Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba, expressed their emotional connection to the project, with Grande stating, ‘This project will always be part of our lives.’ The sequel continues the story of Elphaba and Glinda, exploring their lives after their decision to part ways. Elphaba is now an enemy of Oz, while Glinda has become a public figure controlled by the Wizard. The film features returning cast members Michelle Yeoh, Jonathan Bailey, and Jeff Goldblum, with Bailey making history as People’s first openly gay ‘Sexiest Man Alive.’ The sequel introduces two new songs, which reportedly moved Grande and Erivo to tears during their first listen. ‘Wicked: For Good’ is set to hit cinemas on November 21, promising to captivate audiences with its enchanting narrative and stunning visuals.
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India all-rounder Ghosh eyes T20 glory after World Cup heroics
Indian all-rounder Richa Ghosh is setting her sights on Twenty20 World Cup glory following her pivotal role in India’s historic one-day international victory. Despite battling a hairline fracture, the 22-year-old from Siliguri, West Bengal, remains confident that her participation in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) will be instrumental in preparing for the shortest format of the game ahead of the T20 World Cup in England next year. Representing Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the WPL, Ghosh is determined to leverage the league to sharpen her skills and contribute to her team’s success. ‘The T20 World Cup is going to be very important for me. We have ticked the one-day World Cup off our list, but we have to tick the T20 World Cup as well,’ Ghosh stated in a recent interview. She emphasized her focus on helping RCB win, regardless of the tournament or format. Ghosh, who has been retained by RCB alongside seasoned players like Smriti Mandhana and Ellyse Perry, is optimistic about repeating their 2024 title success. ‘I can’t disclose all the things as of now, but our main focus is to bring the second trophy home,’ she added. Ghosh’s remarkable performance during India’s ODI World Cup win, where she equalled Deandra Dottin’s record for most sixes (12) in a women’s World Cup edition, has solidified her reputation as a power-hitter. Her contributions were crucial in the knockout stages, including a 26 off 16 balls in the semifinal against Australia and a 24-ball 34 in the final against South Africa. Reflecting on her journey, Ghosh acknowledged the challenges of managing injuries but credited her mindset and the support of physios for her resilience. ‘Each and every player faces ups and downs, but how you tackle those lows is the real test of a player,’ she said. With a trophy cabinet that includes the 2023 Under-19 World Cup, the 2022 Asian Games gold, and the 2022 Commonwealth Games silver, Ghosh also expressed her aspirations for success in Test cricket. ‘There is a different feeling while playing Test cricket because as a batter you get many balls to bat. So, I want to score more and do much better in the red-ball format,’ she concluded.
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Dubai: These designers see gold in fabric waste, scrap metal, turn it into sustainable creations
Dubai Design Week 2025, now in its 11th edition, has once again positioned itself as a global hub for innovation and sustainability in design. Held under the patronage of Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, the event showcases the UAE’s growing influence in the creative industry while emphasizing the fusion of tradition and modernity. This year’s theme, ‘Community,’ underscores the importance of collaboration and empathy in shaping a sustainable future. Among the highlights is Tashkeel’s Tanween Collection 2025, featuring nine UAE-based designers who have spent nearly a year crafting functional, eco-conscious designs. From repurposed fabric waste to discarded metal, these creations blend environmental responsibility with Emirati heritage. Notable designers include Hessa Al Ghandi, Jassim Alnaqbi, and Sarah Al Dulaimi, whose works reflect a deep connection to local culture and sustainability. Al Dulaimi’s ‘Oculus’ collection, made from discarded chiffon offcuts, explores themes of identity and privacy, while Alnaqbi’s ‘Haila’ collection transforms scrap metal into sculptural pieces inspired by Emirati jewellery. Al Ghandi’s ‘Lamah’ collection, inspired by natural landscapes, embodies the spirit of gathering and memory. These projects not only highlight the UAE’s creative ambition but also aim to inspire global conversations about sustainable design and cultural preservation.
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Palestine Action prisoner absconds while sixth detainee joins hunger strike
A UK remand prisoner, Sean Middleborough, 32, has failed to return to HMP Wandsworth after being temporarily released to attend his brother’s wedding. Middleborough is part of the ‘Filton 24,’ a group of Palestine Action activists arrested in August 2024 for targeting an Elbit Systems weapons facility. Although terrorism charges were dropped, the Crown Prosecution Service maintains that their actions have a ‘terrorism connection,’ potentially leading to harsher sentences. Many in the group have been held on remand for over a year, exceeding the legal six-month pre-trial custody limit. Middleborough’s arrest in November 2024 involved a dawn raid by counterterrorism police, during which he alleges excessive force was used, resulting in physical injuries. He now faces 18 months in prison and has described harsh conditions, including 23-hour lockdowns and overcrowded cells. Middleborough has vowed to join a rolling hunger strike initiated by other remand prisoners protesting ‘systematic abuse’ by prison authorities. Kamran Ahmed, 27, recently became the sixth prisoner to join the hunger strike, demanding immediate bail and the de-proscription of Palestine Action. Ahmed, also part of the Filton 24, was arrested in a similar raid and is set for trial in June 2026. Meanwhile, an independent commission is advising UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to redefine the government’s terrorism laws, citing overly broad definitions. The commission’s report, due for release, calls for stricter criteria and enhanced judicial oversight, likely influenced by criticism of the government’s handling of Palestine Action.
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‘Cutest comeback ever’ – Jabeur announces pregnancy
Former world number two and two-time Wimbledon finalist Ons Jabeur has revealed that she is expecting her first child, marking a significant pause in her tennis career. The 31-year-old Tunisian athlete, currently ranked 79th, announced the news on Instagram, sharing her excitement about welcoming a baby boy in April. Jabeur, affectionately known as the ‘Minister of Happiness’ for her vibrant personality, explained that she decided to step away from the sport in July to prioritize her mental and physical health. She expressed that she had not felt joy on the court ‘for some time’ and needed time to ‘breathe, heal, and rediscover the joy of simply living.’ Jabeur also echoed concerns about the grueling tennis schedule, describing it as ‘killing everyone,’ a sentiment shared by other top players like Iga Swiatek. Despite her hiatus, Jabeur remains a trailblazer as the highest-ranked Arab player in WTA history, with five singles titles to her name. Fans eagerly await her eventual return to the court, but for now, she is focused on her growing family.
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French court orders early release from jail for ex-president Nicolas Sarkozy
In a significant legal development, former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has been ordered to be released from prison pending an appeal hearing. Sarkozy, who became the first former head of a European Union state to be incarcerated, entered La Sante prison in Paris on October 21, 2025, after being convicted of seeking illegal campaign funding from Libya’s former leader, Moamer Kadhafi. The lower court had sentenced him to five years in prison in September 2025, citing the “exceptional gravity” of the case. However, a judge on Monday, November 10, 2025, ruled in favor of his release, citing the need for judicial supervision and the presumption of innocence during the appeal process. The appeal hearing is scheduled for March 2026. During the court proceedings, Sarkozy appeared via video call, describing his incarceration as a “nightmare” but expressing gratitude to prison staff for their “exceptional humanity.” His release was supported by prosecutors, who argued that the risks of collusion and witness tampering could be managed through judicial oversight. Sarkozy’s wife, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, and his two sons were present in court to show their support. The case stems from allegations that Sarkozy’s aides struck a deal with Kadhafi in 2005 to secure funding for his 2007 presidential campaign, though the court did not conclude that Sarkozy personally received or used the funds. This marks the latest chapter in Sarkozy’s ongoing legal battles, which include previous convictions for graft and illegal campaign financing. Despite his release, Sarkozy’s political legacy remains overshadowed by these controversies.
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Exhibition highlighting the ‘Two Airlines Incident’ opens in Tianjin
A new exhibition hall dedicated to the ‘Two Airlines Incident’ officially opened its doors in Tianjin on Sunday, offering a profound exploration of a pivotal moment in China’s civil aviation history. The event drew approximately 180 distinguished guests, including representatives from the Civil Aviation Administration of China, the Tianjin municipal government, Hong Kong patriotic education groups, and the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department, among others. The ceremony featured a historical short film recounting the 1949 ‘Two Airlines Uprising,’ during which staff from the China National Aviation Corporation and Central Air Transport Corporation flew 12 aircraft from Hong Kong to Tianjin and Beijing, marking a significant act of patriotism. Descendants of participants donated rare artifacts, while two surviving veterans, Wang Huide and Ding Yukang, shared their firsthand experiences. The exhibition hall, constructed and funded by China National Aviation Holding Corporation Ltd., is located at the former Zhangguizhuang Airport site. It showcases the uprising’s history through detailed accounts, scale models of domestically produced aircraft like the C909 and C919, and a C919 simulator. The venue also serves as a memorial to the establishment of civil aviation in the early years of the People’s Republic, highlighting the sector’s evolution and achievements. Designed as a platform for patriotic education and civil aviation knowledge dissemination, the hall is open to the public, offering free access for schools, universities, and community groups. The renovation of the old terminal building, which dates back to the early 1950s, integrates local historical education resources with the uprising’s narrative. Chen Shaozeng, vice-chairman of the Hong Kong two airlines association and son of a pilot who participated in the uprising, emphasized the event’s enduring legacy, stating, ‘The patriotic deeds of our parents will always inspire people in civil aviation.’ The exhibition hall is poised to become a key destination for public education, industry research, and historical study, honoring the achievements of China’s early civil aviation pioneers and inspiring future generations.
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Sharjah: Free organic wheat seeds to be given to farmers under Ruler’s grant
In a significant move to enhance food security, Sharjah has launched the fourth phase of its agricultural initiative, distributing 20 tonnes of organic, non-GMO wheat seeds to 500 local farmers. This initiative, funded by Sheikh Dr Sultan Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, is part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on foreign imports and bolster the emirate’s strategic food reserves. The distribution is taking place at the Mleiha wheat farm’s administrative building and will continue for a week. The Sharjah Department of Agriculture and Livestock is spearheading the effort, aiming to empower farmers by providing essential resources for expanding organic wheat cultivation. Khalifa Musabeh Al Teneiji, Chairman of the Department, emphasized the initiative’s strategic importance, stating that it aligns with the government’s goal to increase local production and reduce dependency on external sources. Beyond seed distribution, the program includes comprehensive support such as guidance from agricultural engineers, training in modern techniques, and the development of a smart agricultural platform to monitor farms via satellite. This platform will enhance production efficiency, promote natural resource conservation, and facilitate market access for farmers. Mohammed Obaid Al Teneiji, Director of the Central Region Branch, highlighted the holistic approach, which includes land preparation, irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and harvesting services. Sharjah’s focus on organic wheat cultivation underscores its commitment to sustainable agriculture and community participation in achieving long-term food security.
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Average life expectancy in Beijing rises to 83.93 years
Beijing has reached a new milestone in public health, with the average life expectancy of its residents climbing to 83.93 years in 2024, up from 82.51 years in 2023, according to the Beijing Municipal Health Commission. This remarkable improvement underscores the city’s commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure and services. Key maternal and infant health indicators have also achieved international standards, with maternal mortality at 0.69 per 100,000 and infant mortality at 1.35 per 1,000. Wang Jianhui, deputy director of the commission, attributed these advancements to the expansion of high-quality medical resources and the strengthening of primary healthcare services. In recent years, Beijing has strategically allocated medical resources to underserved areas, increasing hospital beds per 1,000 residents in new urban districts by 14.6% since 2021. The city has also established 62 comprehensive medical alliances and 122 specialized consortia to promote tiered diagnosis and treatment. Pediatric services are now universally available in all secondary and higher-level hospitals, while community health centers provide comprehensive children’s medical care. Additionally, 162 medical institutions offer psychological clinics, and 94 provide treatments for sleep disorders. Beijing’s focus on critical care is evident with 12 national medical centers and 23 national clinical research centers, representing nearly half of the country’s total. Over 900 community health centers have been upgraded, and 763 specialized clinics have been established, with traditional Chinese medicine services now accessible in all community centers. Under the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30), Beijing aims to further enhance community healthcare capacity, ensuring residents have access to high-quality, convenient medical services close to home.