Global Pulse

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  • Financial support with a festive upside as CashNow launches rewards campaign

    Financial support with a festive upside as CashNow launches rewards campaign

    In response to shifting financial patterns during Ramadan, digital lending platform CashNow has launched a limited-time promotional campaign combining short-term liquidity solutions with festive incentives. The initiative addresses the seasonal compression of expenses that characterizes this period, when multiple financial obligations converge despite regular income schedules.

    The Festive Rewards program automatically enrolls loan applicants in a raffle system offering potential multipliers on borrowed amounts. Participants can receive refunds of 2x, 4x, or even 10x their loan value through a transparent drawing mechanism. This supplementary incentive attaches to CashNow’s core service of providing immediate digital loans up to Dh5,000 with minimal documentation requirements.

    Financial experts note that Ramadan typically creates distinctive cash flow challenges for households, characterized not by long-term affordability issues but by temporary timing mismatches between income and expense cycles. The digital micro-loan model specifically targets these short-term liquidity gaps without positioning itself as a long-term financing solution.

    The platform maintains its operational framework of transferring approved amounts directly to users’ digital wallets, emphasizing both accessibility and security. The raffle structure is explicitly designed as opportunity-based rather than guaranteed, maintaining realistic expectations while adding potential value for users already considering short-term financial support.

    This dual approach of addressing immediate liquidity needs while incorporating seasonal rewards reflects evolving trends in digital financial services during periodsof increased financial activity. The campaign runs throughout the Ramadan season, aligning with traditional patterns of elevated household spending and financial transfers.

  • Destination Dubai Expo strengthens Study Dubai momentum across India through successful roadshow

    Destination Dubai Expo strengthens Study Dubai momentum across India through successful roadshow

    Dubai has significantly advanced its educational diplomacy efforts across India with the successful completion of its second multi-city Destination Dubai Expo roadshow in February 2026. The initiative, part of the Study Dubai government program, strategically engaged prospective students and families in Kolkata (February 2), Pune (February 4), and Bhopal (February 8), showcasing the emirate’s rapidly expanding higher education ecosystem.

    The government-backed initiative represents a collaborative effort between the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), TECOM Group, and Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET). Curated by Dubai-based Brand Grayscale, the roadshow provided a strategic platform connecting Dubai’s internationally recognized universities with Indian students, parents, and education counselors.

    Dr. Wafi Dawood, CEO of the Strategic Development Sector at KHDA, emphasized Dubai’s unique educational value proposition: ‘Dubai offers international students more than a degree – it offers opportunity. Through globally recognized universities, strong industry connections, and a safe, diverse, and future-focused environment, students can pursue education aligned with their ambitions while building skills that contribute to Dubai’s economy and long-term growth.’

    The participating institutions—including the American University in Dubai, University of Birmingham, Middlesex University, University of Wollongong, and several other prestigious universities—highlighted Dubai’s advantages: globally accredited programs, robust industry linkages, post-study career opportunities, and a vibrant multicultural student experience. Dubai’s geographic proximity to India and student-friendly visa ecosystem further positions it as an attractive international education destination close to home for Indian students.

    The event featured curated one-to-one interactions, structured discussions, and focused information sessions that provided comprehensive insights into academic opportunities and student life in Dubai. This initiative aligns with Dubai’s Education 33 strategy, which aims to create an integrated ecosystem where learning, innovation, and real-world experience converge to prepare students for evolving global challenges.

  • Venezuela’s National Assembly set to resume tense debate on a sweeping amnesty bill

    Venezuela’s National Assembly set to resume tense debate on a sweeping amnesty bill

    CARACAS, Venezuela — Venezuela’s National Assembly reconvened Thursday to deliberate a landmark amnesty bill that could liberate hundreds detained for political activities, marking a significant policy shift in the wake of former President Nicolás Maduro’s dramatic capture by U.S. forces. The proposed legislation offers potential relief to opposition figures, activists, human rights defenders, and journalists targeted during the ruling party’s 27-year tenure. Last week’s debate stalled over contentious eligibility criteria, particularly regarding exiled individuals who fled to evade detention, revealing substantial resistance from government loyalists toward granting opposition members reprieve. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez introduced the measure weeks after U.S. military operatives apprehended Maduro in a January 3 raid in Caracas, extraditing him to New York to confront drug trafficking allegations. This amnesty initiative represents Venezuela’s most substantial policy reversal since commencing compliance with Trump administration directives, including last month’s comprehensive overhaul of national oil industry regulations. The bill explicitly acknowledges Venezuela’s political prisoner crisis—a reality long denied by authorities—by proposing “general and full amnesty for crimes or offenses” during politically turbulent periods since 1999, including events surrounding the 2024 presidential election that triggered widespread protests and over 2,000 arrests. While lawmakers approved the measure’s foundational purpose, they suspended proceedings over coverage disputes, including whether government-accused individuals living in exile or hiding domestically should qualify. Ruling party legislators, including Maduro’s son, argued during debates that beneficiaries must first submit to Venezuela’s justice system, citing legal prohibitions against trials in absentia. This position disregards documented judicial irregularities where defendants frequently face fabricated charges, lack legal representation, and are denied access to incriminating evidence within a system dominated by ruling-party-aligned judges. Prisoners’ rights organization Foro Penal estimates over 600 individuals remain incarcerated for political reasons. Although Rodríguez’s administration pledged significant prisoner releases following Maduro’s capture, human rights monitors and families have criticized the slow implementation pace, with only 448 documented releases. Relatives awaiting loved ones’ freedom have maintained vigils outside detention facilities, with some initiating hunger strikes last Saturday.

  • Pakistan to pay over $700,000 to compensate families of victims in mosque attack

    Pakistan to pay over $700,000 to compensate families of victims in mosque attack

    The Pakistani government has initiated substantial compensation payments totaling over $700,000 to families affected by the devastating suicide bombing that targeted a Shiite mosque in Islamabad earlier this month. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s office confirmed Thursday that relief checks have been distributed to the heirs of 36 victims from the capital region, with additional payments being processed for four families residing outside Islamabad.

    The February 6 attack, which occurred during Friday prayers when mosques typically experience peak attendance, represents the deadliest assault on the capital since the 2008 Marriott Hotel bombing that claimed 60 lives. The Islamic State (Daesh) has claimed responsibility for the latest tragedy, which marks the first official acknowledgment of 40 fatalities despite previous uncertainty surrounding the final death toll.

    Each victim’s family is receiving approximately $17,800 (5 million Pakistani rupees) in government compensation. This attack underscores the persistent security challenges facing Pakistan’s religious minorities, particularly the Shiite community that constitutes 10-15% of the predominantly Sunni nation’s population.

    The bombing occurs against a backdrop of escalating militant violence across Pakistan’s border regions with Afghanistan. Official statistics reveal that 2025 witnessed 1,235 fatalities from militant assaults, including 825 security personnel and 400 civilians, with 27 suicide attacks reported nationwide. This incident follows a November suicide blast outside an Islamabad court that killed 12 people, ending a nearly three-year period of relative calm in the capital.

  • Ramadan 2026: Saudi’s Prophet Mosque announces new timings for visiting Rawdah

    Ramadan 2026: Saudi’s Prophet Mosque announces new timings for visiting Rawdah

    Saudi authorities have unveiled specialized visitation schedules for the spiritually significant Rawdah area within Medina’s Prophet Mosque during Ramadan 2026. The sacred space, alternatively known as Riyazul Jannah (Gardens of Paradise), occupies the historical ground between the final resting place of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the minbar from which he delivered sermons.

    This hallowed ground features six pillars marking the exact locations where original date palm trunk columns stood during the Prophet’s lifetime. Due to its profound spiritual importance and consistent visitor congestion, mosque management has implemented strict crowd control measures and time-specific access periods throughout the holy month.

    The visitation schedule operates in two distinct phases: the first twenty days of Ramadan and the final ten days. During the initial period, men may access the Rawdah from 11:00 PM to 1:40 AM and again from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM, while women have allocated times from 11:20 AM to 8:00 PM and 2:00 AM to 5:00 AM.

    For the concluding ten days, women’s access shifts to mornings from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Men receive three visitation windows: 11:20 AM to 8:00 PM, 11:00 PM to midnight, and 2:00 AM to 5:00 AM.

    All visitors must secure advance appointments through the official Nusuk application platform. These measures aim to facilitate spiritual observance while ensuring visitor safety and preserving the sanctity of one of Islam’s most revered sites during Ramadan’s heightened devotional activities.

  • Philippine VP Sara Duterte faces fourth impeachment amid 2028 presidential bid

    Philippine VP Sara Duterte faces fourth impeachment amid 2028 presidential bid

    Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte confronts her fourth impeachment complaint this year, marking a significant escalation in political challenges following her announcement to pursue the presidency in 2028. The allegations center on the purported mishandling of 612.5 million Philippine pesos (approximately $39 million USD) in confidential funds during her initial 18 months in office commencing July 2022.

    Documentation reveals an extraordinary expenditure pattern, with 500 million pesos allegedly depleted within merely 11 days in December 2022. Official reports indicate these funds were primarily allocated for rental properties designated as ‘safety houses.’ Additionally, the Department of Education’s confidential allocation of 112.5 million pesos was reportedly transferred to Duterte’s security personnel by special disbursing officer Edward Fajarda.

    The Commission on Audit has formally disallowed at least 73 million pesos from these expenditures, citing insufficient accountability measures. Investigators have identified numerous acknowledgment receipts issued to non-existent recipients, including one ‘Mary Grace Piattos’ who appears in no official government records.

    Beyond financial irregularities, the impeachment articles reference Duterte’s alleged disrespect for congressional oversight authority and connection to extrajudicial killings during her tenure as Davao City mayor under her father’s presidency. Most explosively, the complaints cite documented claims that Duterte maintained readiness to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez.

    The latest complaint, formally submitted by lawyer Nathaniel Cabrera with legislative endorsement, now awaits procedural inclusion in the plenary agenda by March 2nd. Philippines’ impeachment mechanisms require substantial political support to advance, often allowing officials with strong parliamentary alliances to avoid full trials despite serious allegations.

  • Seeking fatwa during Ramadan? UAE authority reveals methods for consultation

    Seeking fatwa during Ramadan? UAE authority reveals methods for consultation

    The United Arab Emirates has implemented a structured religious consultation system to assist Muslims in navigating complex religious questions during Ramadan. The UAE Council for Fatwa has announced specific operational hours and multiple communication channels for residents seeking authoritative Islamic rulings throughout the holy month.

    From Saturday through Thursday, religious guidance services will be available from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Friday consultations will operate during two distinct sessions: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The Council emphasizes that all religious rulings adhere to a rigorously scholarly methodology and maintain a balanced, moderate juristic approach.

    Residents can access fatwa services through four primary methods: SMS messaging to number 2535, official website consultations at fatwauae.gov.ae, WhatsApp communications at 8002422, and telephone consultations through the same number.

    Separately, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs & Endowments & Zakat operates a dedicated call center (8008222) for zakat-related inquiries. These services are available Monday through Thursday from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with Friday operations from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

    The announcement comes alongside the recent launch of the National Zakat Platform, a landmark initiative designed to systematize the collection and distribution of zakat payments. This institutional, data-driven system enhances transparency and ensures charitable funds reach appropriate beneficiaries efficiently.

    Zakat, a fundamental pillar of Islam, requires Muslims to contribute 2.5% of their qualifying annual wealth and savings held for a full lunar year. This obligation extends to various assets including savings accounts, gold, silver, investment income, and business assets.

  • Overwashing, too much Retinol: Ramadan skincare mistakes to avoid

    Overwashing, too much Retinol: Ramadan skincare mistakes to avoid

    As the holy month of Ramadan transforms daily routines with extended fasting periods and altered sleep patterns, dermatologists across the UAE are highlighting significant skincare concerns that emerge during this spiritual period. Medical experts identify dehydration-induced dryness, increased sensitivity, and circadian rhythm disruptions as primary challenges affecting skin health during this time.

    Dr. Malaz Eldirdiry, specialist dermatologist at Burjeel Medical City in Abu Dhabi, explains that reduced daytime fluid intake directly impacts skin physiology. “Dehydration can manifest as visible dryness and dullness while potentially exacerbating pre-existing conditions like eczema,” she notes. However, with proper post-iftar hydration management, fasting can yield neutral or even beneficial effects including improved oil balance and acne reduction.

    The disruption of natural sleep-wake cycles presents another significant factor. Skincare professionals emphasize that late nights and early suhoor awakenings interfere with the skin’s nocturnal repair processes, potentially leading to delayed healing, persistent inflammation, and fatigued appearance.

    Common Ramadan Skincare Missteps:

    Excessive cleansing rituals intended to maintain freshness often backfire by compromising the skin’s protective barrier. Dermatologists recommend limiting cleansing to morning and evening sessions using gentle formulations rather than harsh soaps that trigger rebound oil production.

    The temptation to combat dullness through aggressive exfoliation—particularly as Eid approaches—frequently results in heightened sensitivity and pigmentation issues. Experts advise prioritizing hydration over intensive scrubbing to restore natural radiance.

    Potent active ingredients including retinol, high-concentration acids, and alcohol-based toners may require reduced frequency during Ramadan. Rather than complete elimination, spacing applications while monitoring skin response helps prevent adverse reactions.

    Barrier repair emerges as the cornerstone of effective Ramadan skincare. A simplified routine featuring hydrating serums with hyaluronic acid, appropriate moisturization, and consistent sun protection proves most effective.

    Professional treatment scheduling requires strategic timing, with aesthetic expert Ahmed Nhaban recommending appointments 2-3 hours post-iftar when hydration levels are restored. UAE clinics report increased evening bookings during Ramadan for this reason.

    For pre-Eid preparations, dermatologists advise advanced scheduling of cosmetic procedures, noting that Botox requires 10-14 days for optimal results before celebrations commence.

    Skincare specialists recommend adopting a two-phase daily approach: lightweight hydration with antioxidant protection and sunscreen after suhoor, followed by intensive repair formulations featuring barrier-restoring ingredients after iftar. This circadian-aware strategy helps maintain skin equilibrium throughout Ramadan’s unique demands.

  • Drained Lake D in Dubai’s JLT to make way for waterfront hub with eateries, padel courts

    Drained Lake D in Dubai’s JLT to make way for waterfront hub with eateries, padel courts

    Dubai’s Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) district is undergoing a significant transformation as Lake D, one of its iconic water features, is being partially redeveloped into BAY360—an ambitious mixed-use waterfront destination. Master developer DMCC, in partnership with real estate firm Sweid & Sweid, confirmed the project will introduce premium amenities while preserving the majority of the original lake.

    The development will feature waterfront dining establishments, lifestyle retail outlets, wellness and medical facilities, alongside innovative rooftop padel courts and family-oriented outdoor spaces. A 22,000-square-foot Spinneys supermarket will serve as the commercial anchor, complemented by cafes and essential retail services.

    Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and CEO of DMCC, emphasized that BAY360 represents strategic efforts to modernize JLT’s communal areas while maintaining the district’s distinctive character. “This initiative aims to strengthen community bonds and ensure JLT continues evolving as a premium residential and commercial destination,” he stated in exclusive comments to Khaleej Times.

    While initial drainage works raised concerns among residents about the loss of green space, developers clarified that only a portion of Lake D is being repurposed. The design intentionally integrates with existing waterfront features, enhancing lake edges with additional greenery, seating arrangements, and pedestrian walkways.

    Infrastructure improvements include a redesigned pedestrian avenue creating direct access from the Metro station to the lakeside area, plus a 300-space underground parking facility to accommodate increased visitation. The project is scheduled for completion by late 2027.

    Resident reactions reflect cautious optimism. R Mehta, a six-year JLT resident, noted: “The lakes define JLT’s identity. While we were initially surprised by the drainage, retaining most of the water body while adding thoughtful upgrades appears positive.” Another anonymous resident acknowledged reduced water surface area but expressed hope that DMCC’s track record of quality improvements would yield similar success.

    This development marks Sweid & Sweid’s third project within JLT, demonstrating continued investor confidence in the district’s growth potential and sustainable urban development.

  • Gargash Group partners with Adyen to drive next-level payment innovation

    Gargash Group partners with Adyen to drive next-level payment innovation

    In a significant move to accelerate its digital transformation journey, UAE-based conglomerate Gargash Group has entered into a strategic partnership with global financial technology leader Adyen. The collaboration was formally established during a signing ceremony at the Mercedes-Benz Brand Center in Dubai Design District, marking a pivotal step in the Group’s commitment to technological advancement and customer experience enhancement.

    The implementation phase has commenced with the deployment of Adyen’s unified payment platform across Sixt UAE operations, a key entity within the Gargash portfolio. This integrated system enables seamless payment processing through multiple channels including online, physical stores, and mobile interfaces. The comprehensive solution handles diverse transaction types from deposits and pre-authorizations to refunds, chargebacks, and toll payments within a single centralized framework.

    Early results demonstrate substantial operational improvements, particularly in reducing manual processing requirements and enhancing reconciliation accuracy. The platform’s 360-degree transaction visibility has significantly strengthened data integrity, audit controls, and organizational transparency.

    Walid Hizaoui, Group Chief Strategy Officer at Gargash Group, emphasized the strategic nature of this initiative: “Our collaboration with Adyen represents a deliberate advancement in our digital transformation agenda, focusing on operational efficiency through automation, robust systems, and scalable data integrity. This partnership accelerates our AI and digital capabilities while building future-ready operations across the organization.”

    Daumantas Grigaravicius, Head of Middle East at Adyen, highlighted the benefits: “By consolidating complex payment processes onto a unified platform, we’re reducing friction, enhancing control, and creating smoother experiences for both customers and operational teams.”

    The partnership aligns with Gargash Group’s broader commitment to governance, sustainable partnerships, Emiratisation, digital enablement, and community engagement. This technological integration supports the UAE’s national objectives for sustainable economic development, positioning the Group as a forward-looking enterprise dedicated to creating lasting value for stakeholders and the wider community.