The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is positioning itself as a regional leader in digital sovereignty, leveraging open-source technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to build secure, scalable, and locally governed digital infrastructure. This strategic shift was prominently showcased at GITEX Global 2025, where global open-source software provider SUSE played a pivotal role in highlighting the UAE’s ambitions. SUSE introduced its SUSE Rancher Prime platform, designed to enable organizations to manage AI workloads across hybrid and multi-cloud environments while adhering to national data regulations. The company also collaborated with industry giants such as Dell Technologies, Intel, Cisco, Pure Storage, and e& to demonstrate scalable AI adoption using open-source infrastructure. Ismail Ibrahim, SUSE’s Sales Director and General Manager for CEMEA, emphasized the importance of infrastructure that is ‘sovereign by design,’ ensuring transparency, security, and national control. The UAE’s focus on digital sovereignty aligns with its broader goal of becoming the Middle East’s AI hub. SUSE is actively working with local partners to develop reference architectures and best practices, facilitating the transition from pilot projects to full-scale deployments. Security remains a top priority, with SUSE offering tools to monitor performance, protect data, and defend against AI-driven cyber threats. As the UAE and Saudi Arabia emerge as priority markets, SUSE is aligning its open-source platforms with national digital agendas, underscoring the importance of open collaboration and trusted technology in building resilient, future-ready infrastructure.
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PTCL Group’s ‘Dil Se’ campaign wins gold for tackling water scarcity in Pakistan
PTCL Group’s ‘Dil Se’ campaign has been awarded the Gold Dragon Award at the Dragons of Asia awards in the Digital Campaigns category, recognizing its efforts to combat water scarcity in Pakistan. This accolade underscores the increasing importance of corporate-driven social impact initiatives in addressing critical issues like access to clean drinking water. In Pakistan, where water scarcity is a pressing concern, particularly in regions such as Thar and Southern Punjab, the ‘Dil Se’ campaign has been instrumental in providing sustainable water solutions to underserved communities. The campaign’s first phase, in collaboration with Shifa Foundation, involved the installation of water pumps in Thar, significantly improving the daily lives of nearly 15,000 residents. Many of these individuals, especially women and children, previously had to walk long distances to fetch water, which adversely affected their health, education, and livelihoods. Building on this success, PTCL Group has partnered with the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) to launch Phase Two of the initiative. This phase aims to benefit approximately 200,000 people in water-stressed areas of Southern Punjab and Thar, making it one of the largest corporate-led clean water efforts in the country. Syed Atif Raza, Group Chief Commercial Officer at PTCL & Ufone 4G, expressed pride in the campaign’s impact, stating, ‘This platform represents our heartfelt commitment, just like its name, ‘Dil Se’. We’re proud of the difference it has made so far, but our journey doesn’t end here.’ The Dragons of Asia awards have been honoring marketing and CSR excellence across the Asia Pacific for over two decades. PTCL Group’s win not only marks a significant milestone for the company but also highlights Pakistan’s growing influence in regional social impact leadership.
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How Abu Dhabi drivers can reduce 8 black points, get licences reinstated
Abu Dhabi authorities have introduced a new initiative aimed at assisting drivers in reducing traffic black points and reinstating their driving licences. The programme, which runs from October 20 to November 20, 2025, offers motorists the opportunity to remove up to eight black points from their records, provided they have accumulated fewer than 24 points. Drivers who have exceeded this threshold can reinstate their licences by enrolling in educational courses after paying the requisite fees. The workshops and courses will be held at the Abu Dhabi Police platform located on the first floor of Mushrif Mall Centre, operating daily from 4 pm to 10 pm. Black points are penalties issued for serious traffic violations, with the number of points reflecting the severity of the offence. Accumulating 24 points within a year typically results in licence suspension. This initiative follows a similar programme launched earlier this year during the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX). The move underscores the authorities’ commitment to promoting road safety and encouraging responsible driving behaviour among motorists.
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Watch: Saudi awards pure gold racket to Jannik Sinner after beating Carlos Alcaraz
In a dazzling display of tennis prowess, Jannik Sinner, the world No. 2, triumphed at the Six Kings Slam exhibition event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday. The 24-year-old Italian defeated world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz in a commanding 6-2, 6-4 victory, securing his second consecutive title at the prestigious event. The match, which lasted just 73 minutes, not only showcased Sinner’s exceptional skill but also earned him a staggering $6 million, including $4.5 million in prize money and a $1.5 million participation fee. As a crowning glory, Sinner was awarded a full-size, solid gold racket valued at $250,000, symbolizing his excellence and remarkable achievements in the sport. The golden racket, crafted from pure gold, has become a hallmark of the Six Kings Slam, with Rafael Nadal receiving a similar accolade last year in recognition of his legendary career. Organized by Turki Al Sheikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority and adviser to the Royal Court, the three-day event featured six of the world’s top male tennis players and was streamed globally on Netflix. Although the results do not count toward ATP rankings or official head-to-head records, the tournament highlighted Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the sports world. In his post-match interview, Sinner expressed his joy and gratitude, stating, ‘I wish I could play like this everywhere. It’s a huge pleasure and honor to share the court with Carlos.’ He also praised the passion of the Saudi audience and the improved facilities, expressing his eagerness to return to Riyadh in the future. Sinner’s victory underscores his rising dominance in tennis and Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a key player in the global sports arena.
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Ishaan Khatter weighs in on long work hours debate in film industry
The ongoing debate about long working hours in the film industry has gained momentum, with actor Ishaan Khatter adding his voice to the conversation. Speaking at the NDTV World Summit 2025, Khatter highlighted the importance of addressing the issue, particularly the abuse of time protocols on film sets. The ‘Homebound’ star emphasized the need for filmmakers to be more considerate of individuals and their circumstances, even as he acknowledged the passion that drives actors to extend their shifts. Khatter’s remarks come in the wake of similar concerns raised by industry veterans like filmmaker Hansal Mehta, who stressed the importance of well-being and rest for both quality and profitability in the industry. The discussion was reignited after Deepika Padukone’s exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s ‘Spirit’ due to her alleged demand for an eight-hour workday. Khatter, currently celebrating the success of ‘Homebound,’ India’s official submission for the 2026 Oscars, reflected on the film’s poignant narrative of friendship, identity, and resilience in rural India. His comments underscore a growing call for systemic change in the industry’s work culture.
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George Santos wants to use his newfound freedom to reform prisons
George Santos, the former Republican U.S. Representative from New York, has vowed to dedicate his life to prison reform following his release from federal prison. Santos was granted clemency by President Donald Trump, who commuted his seven-year sentence for wire fraud and identity theft. Santos, who was expelled from Congress in 2023 after an ethics scandal, described his prison experience as “dehumanising” and “humbling” in an interview with The Washington Post. He admitted to stealing the identities of 11 individuals, including family members, and was released on Friday night. During his 84-day incarceration, Santos authored several columns for The South Shore Press, detailing the dire conditions of the prison system. He highlighted issues such as rotting facilities, broken air conditioning, and thick black mold in the ceiling, describing the environment as unfit for long-term habitation. Santos revealed that he spoke with President Trump on Saturday, expressing his commitment to prison reform and offering his assistance to the administration. However, the specifics of his involvement remain unclear, and his lawyer has not yet commented on his plans. Santos also told CNN that he has no immediate plans to return to politics, stating, “I’m all politicked out.” The Bureau of Prisons declined to respond to media inquiries due to the ongoing government shutdown, and FCI Fairton, the New Jersey prison where Santos was held, has not addressed his allegations of poor conditions.
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UAE: Firecracker restrictions for Diwali; 10 things to know ahead of Indian festival
As the Indian community in the UAE prepares to celebrate Diwali, authorities have issued a stern reminder about the strict restrictions on firecracker use. With over four million Indian expatriates in the country, the festive season is marked by vibrant celebrations, including laser shows, elaborate mall displays, and community gatherings. However, the use of fireworks remains prohibited without proper licensing, and violators face severe penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines. The legal framework, established under Federal Decree Law No. 17 of 2019, classifies fireworks as explosives, requiring licenses for their possession, import, export, manufacture, or transport. Dubai Police and Dubai Municipality have intensified enforcement campaigns to confiscate illegal fireworks and ensure public safety. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activities through official channels. Authorities have also highlighted the dangers of fireworks, citing real-life accidents that have resulted in serious injuries. Parents are advised to educate children about the risks, as they can be held accountable for their children’s actions. Only licensed businesses are permitted to host fireworks displays, and they must obtain a No-Objection Certificate from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority. The UAE’s strict measures aim to ensure that Diwali and other festive occasions are celebrated safely and responsibly.
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Israel launches attack on Gaza, say media reports
The Israeli military reportedly launched an attack on Gaza on Sunday, October 19, 2025, escalating tensions in the region. This development comes as Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas continue to exchange accusations over breaches of a US-brokered ceasefire agreement intended to bring an end to the ongoing conflict in the enclave. Israeli media outlets were the first to report the incident, though the military has yet to issue an official statement regarding the alleged strike. The attack underscores the fragility of the ceasefire and raises concerns about the potential for further violence in the already volatile region. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with many calling for restraint and a return to diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the crisis.
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Ex-Kenyan leader Raila Odinga buried after days of memorial events
Kenya laid to rest its former Prime Minister and long-standing opposition leader, Raila Odinga, in a solemn ceremony held in Bondo, western Kenya, on Sunday. The burial marked the culmination of a series of memorial events that drew thousands of mourners, including prominent politicians, family members, and devoted supporters. Odinga, who passed away at the age of 80 in an Indian hospital on Wednesday, was a towering figure in Kenyan politics, known for his unwavering commitment to democracy and justice. His son, Raila Odinga Jr., emotionally declared, ‘Now finally Baba is home,’ as the casket, draped in the Kenyan flag, was prepared for its final journey. The memorial service, held at a university in Bondo, was a poignant tribute to a man who, despite losing five presidential campaigns, remained a beloved figure in the region. Kenyan President William Ruto eulogized Odinga on Facebook, praising his ‘courage, vision, and unyielding faith in our collective destiny.’ Odinga was buried at his late father’s homestead, where a family mausoleum stands. The days leading up to the burial were marked by both reverence and turmoil. A public viewing in Kisumu on Saturday saw tens of thousands of mourners file past his open coffin, many lamenting, ‘we are orphans.’ However, the event turned chaotic, with police opening fire to disperse the crowd, resulting in at least three deaths and dozens injured. Similar incidents occurred during other memorial events, underscoring the deep emotional impact of Odinga’s passing. His legacy as a ‘true champion of democracy,’ as described by former US President Barack Obama, continues to resonate across Kenya and beyond.
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Bangladesh probes cause of massive international airport fire
Bangladesh has launched a comprehensive investigation into a devastating fire that ravaged the cargo complex of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, the country’s primary aviation hub. The inferno, which broke out late Saturday, left the facility—housing fabrics, garment accessories, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and other imports—in ruins. Firefighters, deploying 37 units, managed to control the blaze after hours of intense efforts, allowing flight operations to resume. However, the damage has sparked significant concerns over trade disruptions and financial losses, particularly for Bangladesh’s garment industry, which accounts for 80% of its exports. The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has begun assessing the extent of the damage, with business groups estimating losses in the millions of dollars. The fire also injured four individuals, though their conditions are reported as minor. Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire but are investigating potential arson, especially in light of recent major fires in Chittagong and Dhaka. The government has vowed a ‘swift and resolute response’ to any acts of sabotage, urging calm amidst growing public concern. This incident occurs against a backdrop of political instability following the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, with elections scheduled for February 2026. The government emphasized unity and determination in addressing potential threats to the nation’s democracy.