Dubai’s Global Village, one of the city’s most renowned tourist destinations, has unveiled a cutting-edge smart parking system in collaboration with Salik x Parkonic. This innovative solution, introduced for the park’s 30th season, offers visitors a seamless parking experience in two designated zones: Premium and P6. While general parking remains free across six zones, the Premium parking option is priced at Dh120, and P6 costs Dh75. Both zones feature automatic payment integration through the Salik eWallet, eliminating the need for physical tickets. Additionally, visitors can check real-time parking availability via the Global Village mobile app, which also provides directions to the nearest available parking spots. For those seeking convenience, Premium and VIP parking services grant access to dedicated slots near the main entrances—The Cultural Gate and the Gate of the World. This initiative aims to enhance the overall visitor experience at the park, which has already drawn thousands of guests since its season opening on October 15. On weekends, five additional parking zones are activated to accommodate higher demand. Global Village continues to solidify its reputation as a must-visit attraction in Dubai, blending cultural experiences with modern amenities.
作者： admin
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Fire breaks out at Dhaka airport in Bangladesh; all flights suspended
A significant fire erupted at the cargo terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Saturday, October 18, 2025, leading to the suspension of all flights. The incident, reported by Bangladeshi media, has caused widespread disruption to air travel operations. Emergency services were swiftly deployed to contain the blaze, though the extent of the damage and the cause of the fire remain under investigation. Authorities have yet to confirm any casualties or injuries resulting from the incident. The airport, a critical hub for both domestic and international travel, serves as a vital gateway for Bangladesh’s economy and connectivity. The suspension of flights is expected to have a ripple effect on travel schedules, cargo deliveries, and passenger plans. This incident underscores the importance of stringent safety measures and emergency preparedness in major transportation hubs. Further updates are anticipated as officials work to restore normal operations and assess the impact of the fire.
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US will send survivors of strike on suspected drug vessel back to Ecuador and Colombia, Trump says
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that the two survivors of a U.S. military strike on a suspected drug-carrying submarine in the Caribbean will be repatriated to their home countries, Ecuador and Colombia. The operation, which took place on Thursday, marked at least the sixth such strike since early September. Trump emphasized the significance of the mission in a social media post, stating, ‘It was my great honor to destroy a very large DRUG-CARRYING SUBMARINE that was navigating towards the United States on a well-known narcotrafficking transit route.’ He added that U.S. intelligence confirmed the vessel was laden with Fentanyl and other illegal narcotics. The strike resulted in the deaths of two individuals onboard, one more than previously reported, while the survivors are being sent back to their respective countries for detention and prosecution. This move sidesteps potential legal complications regarding the survivors’ status within the U.S. justice system. With this latest action, U.S. military operations in the region have now claimed at least 29 lives. Trump has justified these strikes by framing the U.S. as being in an ‘armed conflict’ with drug cartels, invoking the same legal authority used by the George W. Bush administration in its post-9/11 war on terrorism. This approach treats suspected traffickers as enemy combatants in a conventional war.
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UAE: Premature baby survives life-threatening condition seen in 0.1% cases worldwide
In a remarkable medical triumph, a premature baby born at just 27 weeks and weighing less than a kilogram has survived an extremely rare and life-threatening condition known as Amyand’s hernia. The infant, Sid Elian Mattheus Casino, underwent a complex surgery at Burjeel Hospital in Abu Dhabi, defying the odds to recover from a condition that occurs in only 0.1% of cases worldwide. Amyand’s hernia involves a perforated appendix trapped in the inguinal canal and extending into the scrotum, a condition almost unheard of in premature infants. For first-time parents Stewart John and Isabel Mari Casiño, Sid’s early arrival was both a joyous and terrifying experience. Isabel first met her baby 12 hours after delivery in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), surrounded by machines and wires. “My heart was breaking and overflowing at the same time,” she recalled. “I wished I could just hold him and protect him.” Three weeks later, when Sid developed swelling in his belly and scrotum, doctors diagnosed the hernia. Despite initial fears, Isabel placed her trust in Professor Dr. Amulya Saxena, a consultant pediatric surgeon at Burjeel Hospital, who assured her that Sid would survive. The emergency surgery, performed by Dr. Saxena and his team, involved removing the perforated appendix and preserving the tiny testicle while ensuring no contamination or infection. Sid’s recovery in the NICU was slow but steady, and after ten weeks of intensive care, the family finally took him home. At discharge, he weighed 1.8 kilograms, and a month later, his weight nearly doubled to 3.3 kilograms. “Every day is a win for us,” said Isabel. “My baby has shown me what true strength is.” Dr. Saxena attributed Sid’s recovery to prompt diagnosis, meticulous surgical work, and coordinated care. “Seeing him healthy and thriving today is the most rewarding outcome for our entire team,” he said.
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Ivory Coast’s leader urges youth to vote in key election, touting himself as best choice
In a fervent campaign rally held in Abidjan, Ivory Coast’s President Alassane Ouattara appealed to the nation’s youth to actively participate in the forthcoming presidential election scheduled for October 25. Addressing a large crowd, the 83-year-old leader emphasized his dedication to improving the lives of young Ivorians, positioning himself as the most committed candidate to their welfare. “I have always strived to provide the best opportunities for our youth, enabling them to start businesses, work, learn, and achieve independence,” Ouattara declared. The election, which sees Ouattara contesting against four other candidates, is unfolding against a backdrop of heightened political tensions. Key opposition figures, including former President Laurent Gbagbo and former Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam, have been disqualified from running, a move that has sparked widespread protests. Authorities have attempted to quell these demonstrations, resulting in hundreds of arrests and several jail sentences. Despite the controversy, analysts predict a strong likelihood of Ouattara securing a fourth term, especially after the 2016 constitutional amendment that removed presidential term limits. While Ouattara pledges to tackle the country’s security and economic challenges, opposition leaders argue that his administration has fallen short of expectations and accuse the government of manipulating the electoral process to ensure his victory. Florine-Auxane Loukou Bledja, a youth leader within the ruling party, echoed the sentiment of many supporters, stating, “He has done a lot for young people, and we want him to continue.”
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UAE: Family given Dh250,000 after worker’s death due to employer negligence
In a landmark ruling, the Abu Dhabi Family, Civil, and Administrative Appeals Court has increased the compensation awarded to the family of a construction worker who died due to employer negligence. The court raised the compensation from Dh100,000 to Dh250,000, emphasizing the employer’s failure to implement proper safety measures. The worker tragically fell from scaffolding and died instantly, a direct result of the company’s neglect of its duty to protect employees. The court also ordered the defendants to cover all legal and court-related fees. The heirs had initially sought Dh10 million in compensation, arguing that the employer’s negligence directly caused the worker’s death and violated occupational safety laws. The court highlighted that while Islamic blood money (diya) compensates part of the loss, it does not cover the full financial, emotional, and moral damages suffered by the family. This ruling underscores the legal obligation of employers to maintain strict safety protocols, particularly in high-risk environments like construction sites. It serves as a stern warning to companies across the UAE to prioritize worker safety or face severe legal and financial consequences. The case also affirms the right of families to pursue full compensation for preventable workplace deaths, holding employers accountable for negligence that costs lives. The decision stresses the critical importance of adhering to occupational safety standards and ensuring the well-being of workers, emphasizing that tragedies caused by avoidable negligence cannot be fully rectified by diya alone.
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Six days to go: Charming Beijing, Shared with the World
With just six days remaining until a significant global event, Beijing is poised to showcase its unique charm to the world. The city, known for its rich history and modern advancements, is preparing to welcome international visitors and highlight its cultural and economic contributions on a global stage. This event underscores Beijing’s role as a hub of international cooperation and shared progress. As the countdown continues, the world eagerly anticipates the opportunity to experience Beijing’s vibrant culture, innovative spirit, and commitment to fostering global unity. The event promises to strengthen international ties and promote mutual understanding, reinforcing Beijing’s position as a key player in global affairs.
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Abu Dhabi’s IHC acquires majority stake in Pakistan’s First Women Bank Limited
In a historic move, Abu Dhabi-based International Holding Company (IHC) has acquired a majority stake in Pakistan’s state-owned First Women Bank Limited (FWBL), marking the first privatisation of a bank in Pakistan under a Government-to-Government (G2G) framework. The transaction, conducted under Pakistan’s Inter-Governmental Commercial Transactions Act of 2022, highlights the deepening economic ties between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Pakistan. The announcement was made in the presence of Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of 2PointZero, and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. Established in 1989, FWBL operates 42 branches nationwide, offering retail, SME, and corporate banking services. IHC’s investment underscores its commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s financial sector and supporting its reform agenda. Post-acquisition, IHC plans to modernise FWBL by integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and automation to enhance operational efficiency and expand its footprint across Pakistan. The transformation strategy also includes rebranding the bank to reflect its broader mandate of financial inclusion and societal service. Syed Basar Shueb, CEO of IHC, expressed confidence in Pakistan’s financial potential and the shared vision for sustainable economic growth. This acquisition follows IHC’s earlier joint venture with the Government of Balochistan, further solidifying UAE-Pakistan economic cooperation.
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Can Netanyahu survive peace?
As a ceasefire takes hold in Gaza, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a critical juncture in his political career. With national elections mandated within the next year, Netanyahu must strategize his campaign amidst a complex political landscape. The recent Knesset meeting on October 13 saw Netanyahu and opposition leader Yair Lapid delivering speeches that effectively launched their election campaigns. Netanyahu portrayed himself as a war victor, while Lapid underscored the liberal values enshrined in Israel’s declaration of independence. U.S. President Donald Trump, addressing Israeli lawmakers, praised Netanyahu but cautioned that Israel cannot fight the world alone. This warning followed Netanyahu’s diplomatic misstep in attacking Qatar, where Hamas representatives were discussing peace plans, leading to a forced apology and pressure to endorse Trump’s 20-point peace plan, which includes Palestinian statehood—a contentious issue for Netanyahu’s base. Middle Eastern affairs expert Shira Efron argues that the Gaza deal signifies a defeat for Netanyahu’s government, contradicting his promise of total victory over Hamas. However, Netanyahu’s political acumen, demonstrated by his ability to turn challenges into opportunities, suggests he may yet leverage the situation to his advantage. Opinion polls indicate that while Netanyahu’s Likud party remains strong, his ruling coalition may struggle to retain power. The opposition, though fragmented, has begun coordinating more effectively. The election will occur against the backdrop of post-October 7 trauma and war fatigue, with civil society movements like the Hostages and Missing Family Forum potentially influencing voter behavior. The success of Trump’s peace plan and the decommissioning of Hamas will also play pivotal roles in shaping Netanyahu’s reelection prospects.
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Zimbabwe’s ruling party moves to extend President Mnangagwa’s term until 2030
In a significant political development, Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU-PF party announced on Saturday its intention to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term by two years, potentially keeping him in office until 2030. The decision, made during the party’s annual conference in Mutare, directs the government to initiate legislative amendments to alter the constitutional term limits. Currently, the constitution mandates that Mnangagwa step down in 2028 after completing two five-year terms. Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, who also serves as ZANU-PF’s legal secretary, confirmed the resolution, which was met with enthusiastic applause from hundreds of delegates. However, legal experts, including lecturer Lovemore Madhuku, argue that such a change might necessitate two referendums, adding complexity to the process. Mnangagwa, who has previously identified as a ‘constitutionalist,’ has not publicly endorsed the extension, though factions loyal to him have actively campaigned for it. Conversely, allies of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, who played a pivotal role in the 2017 coup against former President Robert Mugabe, oppose the move. Chiwenga supporter Blessed Geza has used YouTube to criticize the campaign, garnering significant attention, though calls for protests have been subdued amid heightened police presence. The proposal echoes a broader trend in Africa, where constitutional amendments have been used to extend the rule of several leaders in recent years.