作者: admin

  • ‘No debts’: UAE’s raffle millionaires reveal how life changed after big wins

    ‘No debts’: UAE’s raffle millionaires reveal how life changed after big wins

    The UAE Lottery recently celebrated a historic milestone as a resident clinched the first-ever Dh100 million grand prize. This monumental win has sparked conversations about how such life-altering fortunes reshape lives. To delve deeper, Khaleej Times interviewed past winners to uncover their transformative experiences.

    Anish Krishnan, an Indian expat and IT engineer, won Dh10 million in the Mahzooz draw in 2022. At the time, he was living in a bed space in Ajman, struggling to make ends meet. His win allowed him to pay off a home loan, reunite with his family in Dubai, and invest in properties, including a villa in Dubai South. He also secured a Golden Visa and continues to support his relatives while contemplating future business ventures. Anish advises the latest winner to remain level-headed and avoid impulsive spending.

    Munavvar, an Al Ain resident, won Dh20 million in the Big Ticket draw in 2023. After years of working as a driver, he used his share of the winnings to start his own business, achieving financial freedom. Despite his newfound wealth, Munavvar leads a simple, debt-free life and continues to participate in the lottery with friends.

    Another winner, Charlie, who chose to remain anonymous, shared a more tumultuous experience. Winning Dh3.5 million with a group of friends brought unexpected challenges, including harassment and demands for money. Charlie used his winnings to clear debts and invest in fixed deposits, maintaining his job while securing his financial future.

    These stories highlight the profound impact of lottery wins, offering financial freedom and opportunities while underscoring the importance of prudent decision-making and resilience in the face of newfound wealth.

  • 23 Indians rescued after explosion, fire on tanker off Yemen’s coast

    23 Indians rescued after explosion, fire on tanker off Yemen’s coast

    A dramatic maritime rescue unfolded off the coast of Yemen as 23 Indian crew members were saved following an explosion and subsequent fire aboard the Cameroon-flagged LPG tanker MV Falcon. The incident occurred on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 7:00 AM UTC, approximately 113 nautical miles southeast of Aden. The vessel, en route from Oman’s Sohar Port to Djibouti, was carrying a full load of liquefied petroleum gas when the explosion took place, causing the ship to drift and ignite a fire that engulfed 15% of the vessel. Early reports indicate the explosion was accidental, though investigations are ongoing. The EU Naval Force Operation Aspides swiftly launched a search-and-rescue mission after radio communications revealed the crew was preparing to abandon ship. Of the 24 crew members who initially evacuated, 23 were successfully rescued, while two remain missing, and one was still onboard the tanker at the time of the last update. Due to the risk of further explosions, nearby vessels were advised to maintain a safe distance. A private company has since taken over the salvage operation. This incident highlights the ongoing dangers in the Red Sea corridor, where Yemen’s Houthi rebels have been targeting commercial ships in solidarity with Palestinians amid the Israel-Gaza conflict. Operation Aspides, a defensive maritime mission, continues to safeguard civilian ships and crews navigating these perilous waters.

  • BBC at scene of ‘brazen’ Louvre jewel theft

    BBC at scene of ‘brazen’ Louvre jewel theft

    In a stunning act of audacity, the Louvre Museum in Paris has become the site of a high-profile jewel theft. BBC correspondent Hugh Schofield is currently stationed outside the iconic museum, describing the incident as “extraordinary, daring, and brazen.” The robbery, which unfolded with remarkable boldness, has left authorities and the public alike in shock. Details of the stolen items and the methods employed by the thieves remain under investigation. The Louvre, renowned for its vast collection of art and historical artifacts, is now at the center of a security crisis. This event raises significant concerns about the safety of priceless treasures housed in one of the world’s most visited museums.

  • Trump says ceasefire still in force after Israeli bombs rain down on Gaza

    Trump says ceasefire still in force after Israeli bombs rain down on Gaza

    US President Donald Trump confirmed on Sunday that a ceasefire in Gaza remains intact, despite a series of deadly Israeli airstrikes targeting Hamas positions in southern Gaza. The strikes, which Israel claimed were in response to alleged truce violations by Hamas, resulted in at least 45 fatalities, according to Gaza’s civil defence agency. Four hospitals in Gaza corroborated the death toll, reporting an influx of casualties. Israel’s military stated it is investigating the reports but emphasized its commitment to enforcing the ceasefire, vowing to respond firmly to any breaches. Hamas denied the accusations, with one official alleging that Israel fabricated pretexts to resume hostilities. The ceasefire, brokered by Trump on October 10, aimed to halt over two years of devastating conflict between Israel and Hamas. However, its implementation has faced significant challenges, including the suspension of aid to Gaza due to alleged violations. The war has claimed over 68,000 lives in Gaza, with more than half being women and children. Meanwhile, Hamas has released 20 surviving hostages and is working to recover the bodies of those who died. Israel has returned 150 Palestinian bodies to Gaza, linking the reopening of the Rafah crossing to the recovery of all deceased. The situation remains volatile, with both sides accusing each other of undermining the fragile peace.

  • Nigerian police fire tear gas as protesters gather over separatist leader

    Nigerian police fire tear gas as protesters gather over separatist leader

    In a tense confrontation in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, police resorted to firing tear gas to disperse a crowd of protesters demanding the release of separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu. The demonstration, organized by activist Omoyele Sowore, publisher of the Sahara Reporters, began as early as 07:00 local time. Kanu, the head of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (Ipob), has been detained since 2021 on terrorism charges, which he denies. Ipob advocates for the independence of the Biafran region in southeastern Nigeria. Eyewitnesses reported that police fired multiple rounds of tear gas at the gathering crowd, while also blocking major roads, causing significant traffic disruptions and confusion across the city. Sowore, in a post on X, alleged that security forces had arrested several individuals, including Kanu’s family members and legal team. The police have yet to comment on these claims. The protest highlights ongoing tensions surrounding Kanu’s detention and the broader issue of Biafran separatism in Nigeria.

  • Chinese president appoints new ambassadors

    Chinese president appoints new ambassadors

    In a significant diplomatic reshuffle, Chinese President Xi Jinping has announced the appointment of new ambassadors to several key international posts. The decision, made in accordance with the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, China’s top legislative body, was officially disclosed on Monday. The new appointments include Yu Jinsong as ambassador to Morocco, Chen Feng to Romania, Jiang Xiaoyan to North Macedonia, Zhang Zuo to Malta, Yang Shu to Grenada, and Sun Xiangyang to Ecuador. Additionally, Li Yongjie has been named China’s permanent representative and ambassador to the World Trade Organization, as well as deputy permanent representative to the United Nations Office at Geneva and other international organizations in Switzerland. These changes reflect China’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its diplomatic presence and fostering international relations across various regions.

  • UAE weather: Week to start with rainfall as temperatures drop to 22°C

    UAE weather: Week to start with rainfall as temperatures drop to 22°C

    The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to experience a week of rainfall and cooler temperatures, according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM). The weather forecast indicates fair to partly cloudy conditions, with convective clouds forming over the eastern and northern regions, bringing potential rainfall. Temperatures are expected to drop to 22°C in the southern and internal areas, while Abu Dhabi and Dubai will see highs of 35°C and lows of 26°C. Humidity is anticipated to increase by night and into Tuesday morning, particularly in coastal and internal areas. Light to moderate winds will blow from the southeasterly to northwesterly directions, occasionally causing dust to blow. Sea conditions in the Arabian Gulf and the Oman Sea are expected to remain slight. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather developments and prepare for the changing conditions.

  • Golden autumn days draw people outdoors across China

    Golden autumn days draw people outdoors across China

    As the golden hues of autumn paint the landscapes, people across China are embracing the season by venturing outdoors. The crisp air and vibrant foliage have created an irresistible allure for nature lovers and tourists alike. In Mogao Town, Dunhuang, Northwest China’s Gansu province, visitors flocked to the populus euphratica forest on October 19, 2025, to immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery. This seasonal phenomenon is not limited to Dunhuang; from bustling cities to serene countryside, individuals are seizing the opportunity to enjoy the pleasant weather and picturesque views. The trend reflects a growing appreciation for nature and the simple joys of seasonal changes. As autumn continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder of the beauty and tranquility that the natural world offers, encouraging people to step outside and reconnect with their surroundings.

  • Diplomats, business leaders in Hong Kong explore Xinjiang’s beauty, eye collaboration

    Diplomats, business leaders in Hong Kong explore Xinjiang’s beauty, eye collaboration

    A delegation of diplomats and business leaders from Hong Kong recently concluded a visit to China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, organized by the Commissioner’s Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). The trip aimed to foster exchanges between Hong Kong and Xinjiang, offering participants a firsthand experience of the region’s cultural, economic, and natural allure. Delegates expressed surprise at Xinjiang’s vibrancy, describing it as more dynamic than anticipated. They emphasized the potential for enhanced cooperation between the two regions, particularly in trade, tourism, and clean energy. The delegation visited key cities, including Urumqi, Kashgar, and Yining, each offering unique cultural and economic characteristics. At Tianchi Lake, a glacial basin surrounded by snow-capped mountains, delegates marveled at the region’s natural beauty. In Kashgar’s ancient city, they immersed themselves in its rich history and lively atmosphere. The trip also highlighted Xinjiang’s strategic role as a transport and trade hub along the Silk Road Economic Belt, with the Horgos Port serving as a critical node for cross-border commerce. Delegates discussed potential collaborations, such as leveraging Hong Kong’s expertise in logistics and cold chain transportation to connect Xinjiang with global markets. The visit underscored the growing ties between Hong Kong and Xinjiang, with Cathay Pacific launching direct flights between the two regions in April 2025. Participants left with a deeper appreciation of Xinjiang’s opportunities and a commitment to fostering partnerships that benefit both regions.

  • Zelensky ready to join Trump-Putin talks after ‘frank’ White House meeting

    Zelensky ready to join Trump-Putin talks after ‘frank’ White House meeting

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed willingness to participate in a proposed summit involving US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hungary, provided he receives an invitation. The announcement of the planned talks, aimed at addressing the ongoing war in Ukraine, was made by Trump and Putin on Thursday, with Budapest as the potential venue in the coming weeks. Zelensky, in comments released on Monday, indicated his readiness to engage in a three-way dialogue or shuttle diplomacy format, emphasizing his commitment to a just peace rather than a hasty resolution.

    However, recent reports suggest that Zelensky’s meeting with Trump at the White House last Friday was far from cordial, with accounts of a heated exchange. The US reportedly urged Ukraine to accept Russia’s terms to end the conflict, a stance Zelensky firmly opposes. During his first press briefing since the talks, Zelensky described the meeting as frank but highlighted significant disagreements between the two sides. He criticized Hungary as the location for the Trump-Putin talks, questioning Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s ability to contribute positively to Ukraine’s interests.

    Trump, when asked about Zelensky’s involvement in the Budapest meeting, stated his intention to make the talks ‘comfortable for everybody,’ suggesting a possible separation of discussions. Zelensky had hoped to secure US Tomahawk missiles during the talks but left empty-handed as Trump remained non-committal. Media reports on Monday revealed that the atmosphere during the US-Ukraine leaders’ meeting was more acrimonious than previously understood, with Trump allegedly warning Zelensky that Putin would ‘destroy’ Ukraine if it did not agree to Russia’s terms.

    Trump’s shifting stance on the war has added complexity to the situation. Last month, he suggested that Ukraine could ‘win all of Ukraine back in its original form,’ a departure from his earlier position that Ukraine might need to cede territory. Trump has also been pressuring NATO nations, China, and India to halt purchases of Russian oil to increase economic pressure on Moscow. Despite threats of tougher sanctions, he has not followed through on these measures.

    The relationship between Trump and Zelensky has seen ups and downs, with a notable improvement since a contentious Oval Office meeting in February. During his re-election campaign, Trump claimed he could end the war in Ukraine within days but has since acknowledged the conflict’s complexity, describing it as one of the most challenging issues he has faced since returning to office.