Global Pulse

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  • Ramadan 2026: Top tips for dressing elegantly for iftar and suhoors

    Ramadan 2026: Top tips for dressing elegantly for iftar and suhoors

    As the holy month of Ramadan approaches in 2026, fashion enthusiasts are redefining modest wear through innovative designs that harmonize tradition with contemporary aesthetics. The crescent moon not only signals spiritual reflection but also inspires a sophisticated sartorial transformation across Muslim communities worldwide.

    Design visionaries are revolutionizing traditional garments by incorporating modern cuts and premium fabrics. Flowy abayas adorned with intricate embroidery and kurta sets complemented by statement jackets exemplify this fusion. Dubai-based stylist Mohna Sharma emphasizes that ‘Ramadan fashion prioritizes comfort, modesty, and effortless elegance. Lighter pastel shades and breathable natural fabrics like linen, cotton, and silk-satin materials dominate collections, ensuring both comfort and polished appearance during fasting hours.’

    The retail landscape experiences significant transformation during Ramadan, with Shop Mulmul’s senior fashion stylist Riddhima Tewari reporting a 40% surge in demand for contemporary styles over classic pieces. Younger consumers favor longer choga-style sets with contrasting colors, while senior patrons experiment with shorter kurtas and farshi-style salwars, often completed with complementary dupattas for modest refinement.

    Comfort remains paramount in Ramadan fashion selections. Italian luxury brand Santoni’s president Giuseppe Santoni advocates for ‘natural materials and soft textures that ensure breathability.’ The brand’s capsule collection features metallic-finished footwear with crystal details that provide subtle festive character without compromising comfort.

    Celebrity style influences continue shaping Ramadan fashion trends, with flowy silhouettes like shararas and Anarkali suits gaining prominence for their sophisticated charm. Beyond personal attire, Tewari notes increased demand for intricately embroidered cotton sets suitable for gifting and formal occasions throughout the year.

    Styling techniques emphasize layered elegance during the holy month. Sharma recommends ‘pairing linen pants or straight-fit jeans with full-sleeve tops and lightweight kaftans or abayas as outer layers.’ For iftar gatherings, embroidered kaftans and statement maxi dresses in silk or satin provide subtle sheen, elevated by minimal accessories like delicate necklaces or statement bracelets.

    Men’s fashion similarly focuses on lightweight cotton or linen pants paired with soft shirts that maintain refinement while ensuring comfort. The overarching philosophy, as Santoni articulates, involves ‘curating a purposeful wardrobe focused on quality over quantity, with items that transition seamlessly across various moments while maintaining refined elegance.’

    Prevailing trends include flowy kaftans and maxis, lightweight Chikankari suits, modern ghararas with royal heritage elements, and regal Anarkali suits for evening events. The color palette favors sophisticated understated tones like ivory, beige, olive, charcoal, deep blue, and soft gold, while decorative elements feature golden and silver zari work alongside gota pattis and delicate hand-crafted threadwork. Daywear embraces dewy blues, seafoam greens, and soft lilacs, while evenings showcase vibrant fuchsia, oranges, purples, and bright reds.

  • Police complaint filed against Elbit Systems UK over Gaza atrocities

    Police complaint filed against Elbit Systems UK over Gaza atrocities

    Human rights advocates have formally requested the London Metropolitan Police to launch a criminal investigation into Elbit Systems UK Ltd, citing the company’s alleged involvement in Gaza conflict atrocities. The Public Interest Law Centre, supported by Campaign Against Arms Trade, submitted a comprehensive legal complaint to the Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command (SO15).

    The legal action targets four current and former British directors of the Israeli-owned defense contractor for potential complicity in war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide under the International Criminal Court Act 2001. The complaint argues that corporate officials could face charges for aiding and abetting international law violations through their supply chain operations.

    Elbit Systems Ltd, headquartered in Israel, has served as a primary weapons and technology supplier during Gaza hostilities that commenced in October 2023. The UK subsidiary represents a critical component of the company’s international distribution network, according to legal representatives.

    The complaint was filed on behalf of a Palestinian UK resident whose family remains in Gaza, highlighting the personal connection to the alleged crimes. The Public Interest Law Centre’s statement emphasized that the Metropolitan Police’s response would demonstrate the practical validity of international justice legislation, stating: ‘Whether the Met chooses to investigate this complaint will show whether the ICC Act 2001 is worth the paper it’s written on.’

    The legal challenge emerges alongside new research published in The Lancet Global Health indicating conflict fatalities may significantly exceed official estimates. The Gaza Mortality Survey documented approximately 75,200 violent deaths between October 2023 and January 2025—approximately 35% higher than Palestinian health ministry figures. The study corroborated that 56% of casualties were women, children, and elderly individuals.

    Elbit Systems, employing 20,000 staff with $2 billion annual revenue, frequently faces activism from pro-Palestinian groups in Britain. Recent legal developments saw prosecutors drop aggravated burglary charges against Palestine Action activists who targeted an Elbit facility near Bristol in August 2024.

  • Beijing Spring Festival temple fairs blend tradition with technology

    Beijing Spring Festival temple fairs blend tradition with technology

    Beijing’s iconic Spring Festival celebrations have entered a new era as traditional temple fairs seamlessly integrate advanced technological experiences alongside centuries-old cultural practices. Two distinct but parallel events demonstrated this fusion during the recent holiday period.

    The 13th Badachu Spring Festival Cultural Temple Fair commenced on Tuesday, presenting a vibrant tapestry of Beijing-style folk customs, contemporary Guochao (China-chic) marketplaces, and immersive theatrical performances. This event offered residents a comprehensive cultural experience deeply rooted in traditional Lunar New Year celebrations.

    Simultaneously, Haidian District launched its pioneering Spring Festival Science and Technology Temple Fair on Thursday, creating an unprecedented blend of technological innovation and international culture. The exhibition assembled more than 150 interactive installations from over 70 enterprises, transforming the conventional temple fair concept into a forward-looking technological showcase.

    Children were photographed interacting with humanoid robots at the technology-focused fair, representing the harmonious coexistence of ancient festival traditions and modern innovation. The events collectively demonstrated how Chinese cultural institutions are evolving to incorporate technological elements while preserving their historical significance, creating new experiential dimensions for festival attendees.

    The parallel celebrations highlight Beijing’s unique approach to cultural preservation through innovation, establishing a new template for how traditional festivals can remain relevant to younger generations while maintaining their cultural authenticity.

  • UAE early years admissions: What the new age rule changes mean for your child

    UAE early years admissions: What the new age rule changes mean for your child

    In a significant policy shift, the UAE Ministry of Education has introduced revised guidelines for early childhood admissions, providing enhanced flexibility for families with children born during specific periods. The updated framework specifically addresses students born between September 1 and December 31, 2022, who will now have the option to enroll in either Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) or Foundation Stage 2 (FS2) for the 2026-2027 academic year.

    This reversal from previous mandatory placement protocols has generated considerable discussion among educational institutions and families across the Emirates. School administrators have swiftly adapted their admission procedures to accommodate the revised guidelines while maintaining focus on developmental appropriateness for each child.

    Educational leaders emphasize comprehensive assessment methodologies that evaluate multiple dimensions of readiness. Lee Hole, Principal of Dubai British School, notes: “Our primary objective remains ensuring optimal placement where each child can flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. We conduct thorough evaluations to understand every applicant’s unique developmental profile.”

    Parental responses reflect both appreciation for increased flexibility and thoughtful consideration of the implications. Aisha Rahman, mother of an October 2022-born child, expressed relief: “This policy modification demonstrates governmental responsiveness to parental concerns. We can now make decisions based on developmental readiness rather than arbitrary chronological thresholds.”

    The transitional implementation for the 2026-2027 academic year applies exclusively to newly registering students not previously enrolled in the KHDA system. Existing students will continue their educational progression without disruption to their current pathways.

    School readiness assessments now incorporate structured evaluation frameworks aligned with Birth to Five Matters guidelines, focusing on emotional security, independence, curiosity, and challenge resilience alongside academic preparedness. Institutions have developed comprehensive transition programs including orientation workshops, familiarization visits, and gradual integration protocols to support successful adaptation.

    This policy adjustment represents a one-time measure for the specified birth cohort, with placement decisions to be determined through collaborative consultation between parents and educational professionals, prioritizing children’s best interests and developmental needs.

  • Where to watch ‘Chatha Pacha’ with cameos by Khalid Al Ameri, Mammootty

    Where to watch ‘Chatha Pacha’ with cameos by Khalid Al Ameri, Mammootty

    The Malayalam action drama ‘Chatha Pacha: The Ring of Rowdies’ has transitioned to digital platforms following its successful theatrical run, now available for global audiences on Netflix. Directed by Adhvaith Nayar, nephew of Malayalam cinema icon Mohanlal, and scripted by Sanoop Thykoodam, the film presents an unconventional narrative centered on three brothers establishing an amateur wrestling arena inspired by WWE spectacles in the historic setting of Fort Kochi.

    Beyond its primary cast featuring Arjun Ashokan, Roshan Mathew, and Vishak Nair, the production gained significant attention for its strategic celebrity cameos. Mammootty, another towering figure in Indian cinema, delivered a memorable supporting appearance that critics highlighted as particularly impactful. Meanwhile, the film marked the Indian cinema debut of Khalid Al Ameri, the prominent Emirati digital storyteller and social media personality renowned throughout the Arab world.

    The project carries substantial creative credentials with Cannes-winning filmmaker Shihan Shoukath serving as creative producer. Further elevating its artistic stature, the legendary musical trio Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy—celebrated for their work on Bollywood classics like ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ and ‘Rock On!!’—contributed the soundtrack, marking their inaugural venture into Malayalam cinema.

    Despite receiving mixed critical assessments upon its January 22 theatrical release, the film achieved notable commercial success, currently holding the distinction of highest-grossing Malayalam production of 2026. Its digital release now expands its accessibility to international viewers, particularly resonating with Gulf-based Malayali communities who maintain strong cultural connections to both the region’s wrestling subculture and the featured performers.

  • Elevix launch signals new push toward structured startup enablement in the GCC

    Elevix launch signals new push toward structured startup enablement in the GCC

    Dubai has become the launchpad for Elevix, a groundbreaking digital capability center designed to transform startup execution throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. The platform, which officially debuted this week, represents a significant advancement in structured startup enablement by connecting entrepreneurs with vetted partners across critical business functions including finance, compliance, legal, HR, technology, artificial intelligence, marketing, and revenue acceleration.

    Founded by Deepak Ahuja and Anishkaa Gehani, Elevix emerges as a strategic response to the fragmented service networks that have long plagued the GCC startup ecosystem. With over 50,000 startups currently operating across the region, founders have consistently faced operational delays, inefficiencies, and costly missteps due to disconnected support systems.

    The subscription-based digital ecosystem enables entrepreneurs to navigate seamlessly from incorporation to scaling operations, addressing what co-founder Deepak Ahuja identifies as ‘a clear and recurring founder pain point — access to the right support at the right time.’ Ahuja emphasizes that ‘too many startups lose momentum navigating fragmented systems,’ positioning Elevix as ‘a bridge between ambition and delivery.’

    Co-founder Anishkaa Gehani further elaborated that early-stage startups typically struggle not from lack of vision but from ‘lack of coordinated execution support.’ The platform specifically tailors its services to the MENA startup environment, combining vetted service providers, strategic advisory, and market enablement within a single digital infrastructure.

    Elevix has been developed with strategic backing and ecosystem insight from iAccel GBI, one of MENA’s leading go-to-market accelerators for technology startups, signaling strong industry confidence in the platform’s potential to reshape the regional startup landscape.

  • BBC goes inside the beach volleyball contest hours from the nearest coast

    BBC goes inside the beach volleyball contest hours from the nearest coast

    For a quarter century, the remote Australian township of Richmond, Queensland, has defied geography by transforming its arid main thoroughfare into a vibrant beach volleyball arena. Located approximately 500 kilometers from the nearest coastline, this inland community has established what locals proudly call “the beach that shouldn’t exist” through an extraordinary annual tradition.

    The transformation begins each year as hundreds of tons of pristine white sand are meticulously transported and arranged along the town’s central avenue. This man-made coastal landscape creates a surreal juxtaposition against the surrounding outback terrain, complete with net systems, boundary markers, and the distinctive atmosphere of seaside competition.

    Organizers describe the event as both a sporting spectacle and a profound community-building exercise that reinforces regional identity. The tournament has evolved from a modest local initiative into a significant attraction drawing participants and spectators from across Australia. Beyond the athletic competition, the event features live music, food festivals, and cultural activities that celebrate the community’s innovative spirit.

    Environmental considerations have been integrated into the planning, with sand recycling programs and measures to minimize ecological impact. The event’s longevity demonstrates how rural communities can create sustainable tourism models while fostering social cohesion through creative placemaking initiatives that challenge conventional expectations of inland living.

  • Shipfinex FZCO secures IPA from VARA for virtual asset Broker-Dealer Licence

    Shipfinex FZCO secures IPA from VARA for virtual asset Broker-Dealer Licence

    Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) has granted In-Principle Approval (IPA) to Shipfinex FZCO for a Broker-Dealer licence, marking a transformative development in maritime finance. The digital platform, dedicated to democratizing access to the maritime economy, has successfully met VARA’s stringent preliminary requirements for compliance, security, and operational capabilities.

    This regulatory milestone accelerates Shipfinex’s mission to revolutionize ship ownership through fractional investment opportunities. By leveraging Distributed Ledger Technology, the company tokenizes maritime assets into Maritime Asset Tokens (MAT), enabling both individual and institutional investors to purchase fractional ownership rights in vessels—an asset class historically dominated by large institutional funds.

    Capt Vikas Pandey, founder and CEO, emphasized the significance of VARA’s endorsement: “This approval validates our commitment to establishing a fully regulated, secure, and transparent ecosystem for shipping finance. Dubai’s emergence as a global virtual asset hub aligns perfectly with our operational standards and investor protection protocols.”

    Vivek Seth, Chairman of Shipfinex, highlighted the industry’s transformation: “While maritime remains a cornerstone of global commerce, its financial structures have stagnated for decades. This approval signifies the successful integration of traditional shipping reliability with digital economy efficiency.”

    CFO Dipak Karki characterized the development as “an evolutionary step for ship finance” that enhances both debt and equity markets through technological innovation. The platform will provide a transparent marketplace for shared vessel ownership, now backed by world-class regulatory validation.

    Shipfinex will now advance toward fulfilling remaining conditions to obtain full Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) licensing, promising investors a seamless, governed environment for maritime asset participation with complete security and transparency.

  • Levi’s® reframes denim for the rhythm of women’s lives in the Middle East

    Levi’s® reframes denim for the rhythm of women’s lives in the Middle East

    Levi Strauss & Co. is strategically repositioning its denim offerings to align with the evolving lifestyle demands of women across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations through its Fit for Life Season 3 initiative. This movement represents a significant departure from traditional heritage marketing toward practical, comfort-driven design philosophy that resonates with contemporary regional preferences.

    The campaign emerges in response to a noticeable transformation in Middle Eastern fashion sensibilities, where denim has transitioned into a wardrobe staple capable of adapting to multifaceted daily routines. Women increasingly prioritize garments that seamlessly transition from professional environments to social gatherings without compromising comfort or stylistic integrity. This shift toward versatile, all-day clothing has become particularly relevant during extended periods like Ramadan, where attire must remain appropriate from dawn until late-night festivities.

    Mir Zia Mahmood, General Manager for the Middle East at Levi Strauss & Co., emphasizes the campaign’s strategic direction: ‘Fit for Life Season 3 embodies our evolution from being perceived primarily as a denim heritage brand to becoming an integral part of women’s daily lives across the region. We’re focusing on designs that feel inherently natural, exceptionally comfortable, and highly adaptable to various social contexts and physical activities.’

    The collection introduces thoughtfully engineered silhouettes including the Middy Loose Boot, Loose Boot, Cinch Baggy, and Super Baggy Barrel designs that prioritize freedom of movement through hip and thigh areas while maintaining structural integrity. The Shaping Wide Leg option provides a softened contour, while the XL Skirt demonstrates denim’s expansion beyond traditional jeans into modest styling configurations prevalent throughout the region.

    Levi’s approach demonstrates sophisticated cultural intelligence by blending global brand authenticity with regional dressing conventions. The collection incorporates breathable fabrics, fluid layering options, and modest proportions that address both climatic considerations and cultural preferences without sacrificing contemporary aesthetic appeal.

    Rather than operating as a limited-term campaign, Fit for Life has evolved into an ongoing platform that strengthens the brand’s relationship with Middle Eastern consumers. This initiative underscores denim’s transformation from seasonal fashion item to foundational wardrobe element that consistently aligns with how women actually live, dress, and move through their daily routines across the GCC region.

  • Schools in India’s Noida face fresh bomb threats amid CBSE exams

    Schools in India’s Noida face fresh bomb threats amid CBSE exams

    Educational institutions across Noida and Greater Noida within India’s National Capital Region confronted renewed bomb threat incidents on Thursday, marking the latest in a series of security scares that have persisted for several weeks. The threatening emails arrived as students were actively participating in Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) board examinations, creating substantial disruption during this critical academic period.

    According to Noida police authorities, approximately twelve schools received identical threatening communications, prompting immediate implementation of emergency protocols. Students and faculty members were systematically evacuated to secure locations while specialized bomb disposal units and canine detection teams conducted comprehensive sweeps of the premises. Despite the thorough security response, no suspicious devices or materials were discovered during these operations.

    This security episode follows the recent apprehension of six individuals in Greater Noida earlier this month, who were operating an illicit online betting network utilizing sophisticated concealment methods including fabricated email accounts and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) numbers to mask their identities.

    Police representatives have confirmed the restoration of normalcy across all affected institutions, emphasizing their commitment to treating all bomb threats with utmost seriousness regardless of their likely hoax nature. Authorities have concurrently issued public advisories urging citizens to disregard unverified rumors and rely exclusively on official information channels for updates regarding security matters.

    The recurring threat pattern has raised significant concerns about the psychological impact on students during examination season and the allocation of security resources to address potentially fraudulent threats.