Global Pulse

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  • Ramadan 2026: How to pay Zakat in UAE as national platform launched

    Ramadan 2026: How to pay Zakat in UAE as national platform launched

    The United Arab Emirates has inaugurated a groundbreaking National Zakat Platform, establishing a unified digital system that transforms how Muslims fulfill their religious obligation of zakat during Ramadan 2026 and beyond. This comprehensive initiative serves as an official national gateway, electronically connecting donors with verified beneficiaries while ensuring full compliance with Islamic Shariah principles and legal requirements.

    The platform standardizes the entire zakat process—from calculation and collection to distribution—bringing unprecedented transparency and efficiency to charitable giving. Donors can now contribute through multiple payment options including credit cards, bank transfers, Apple Pay, and Google Pay, making the process accessible and convenient for all residents.

    Zakat, a fundamental pillar of Islam, requires Muslims to donate 2.5% of their qualifying wealth and savings held for a full lunar year. The platform simplifies this calculation by accounting for various assets including cash balances, gold, silver, investment income, and business assets, while appropriately deducting liabilities and necessary expenses.

    The innovative system channels contributions toward critical social programs including healthcare projects, chronic disease treatment, educational support, and debt relief for struggling individuals. Donors can support specific campaigns targeting school students, people of determination, orphans, widows, and low-income families through either single donations or collective payments for multiple causes.

    Rather than replacing existing charitable organizations, the platform coordinates their efforts under a unified framework that prevents duplication, enhances accountability, and maximizes social impact. The system utilizes official databases and advanced verification mechanisms to confirm beneficiary eligibility, track fund distribution, monitor expenditure, and measure outcomes.

    Future developments will incorporate artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies to further streamline zakat calculation processes and improve targeting of beneficiaries, representing a significant advancement in digital philanthropy within the Islamic world.

  • Watches: MB&F reinvents the chronograph with the LM Sequential Flyback EVO

    Watches: MB&F reinvents the chronograph with the LM Sequential Flyback EVO

    In a bold departure from traditional watchmaking conventions, MB&F has unveiled the LM Sequential Flyback EVO, representing a fundamental reengineering of chronograph technology. Rather than iterating on existing designs, Maximilian Büsser’s horological concept laboratory has completely rethought the chronograph from first principles, creating what may be the most significant advancement in timing complications in recent history.

    The LM Sequential Flyback EVO builds upon the groundbreaking foundation established by its 2022 predecessor, which earned the prestigious GPHG Aiguille d’Or award for its innovative approach. This latest evolution introduces the flyback function to the EVO family for the first time, crafted in grade 5 titanium with a striking aquamarine dial plate.

    At the heart of this technological marvel is Stephen McDonnell’s mechanical genius, previously demonstrated in the LM Perpetual. The timepiece features two fully independent chronographs, each with dedicated seconds and minutes displays and separate pushers. The revolutionary Twinverter mechanism at the nine o’clock position operates as a binary switch that can simultaneously control both chronographs—starting, stopping, or alternating between them with a single press.

    This architecture enables unprecedented timing capabilities, from split-second comparisons to cumulative tracking across multiple simultaneous events. The integrated flyback function allows for instantaneous resetting and restarting of running chronographs, significantly enhancing practical usability.

    The mechanical sophistication required to make this complex system reliable is extraordinary. McDonnell’s solution incorporates internally jewelled vertical clutches combined with specially developed jewelled rollers within the flyback system, minimizing friction and energy loss despite two chronographs sharing the same movement.

    Visually, the timepiece maintains the distinctive EVO aesthetic with its bezel-free design that opens the dial beneath the domed sapphire crystal. The inclined time display at six o’clock improves legibility while creating a more intimate connection between the watch and wearer.

    Priced at CHF 168,000, the LM Sequential Flyback EVO represents not just technical achievement but a philosophical statement about the future of high-complication watchmaking—demonstrating that true innovation lies not in adding complexity but in making complexity feel intuitive and human-centered.

  • Driver killed and motorway collapses as storms hit France, Portugal and Spain

    Driver killed and motorway collapses as storms hit France, Portugal and Spain

    Western Europe is grappling with severe consequences following the onslaught of Storm Nils, which has unleashed a trail of destruction across France, Portugal, and Spain. The extreme weather event has resulted in fatalities, critical infrastructure damage, and massive disruptions to daily life.

    In a tragic incident in western France, a lorry driver lost his life after a tree, felled by ferocious winds, crashed through his vehicle’s windscreen. The storm’s fury left approximately 900,000 households without power. Southern regions of France were placed on red alert as wind gusts reached a devastating 162 km/h (100 mph) near the south-west coast. The threat extended to the Alps, where several ski resorts, including La Plagne, preemptively closed due to an extreme risk of avalanches.

    Portugal faced a catastrophic infrastructure failure when a segment of its vital A1 motorway, a key artery connecting Lisbon and Porto, collapsed. The breach occurred near Coimbra after the Mondego River overflowed its banks, overwhelming the Casais do Campo dyke and washing away a 10-meter section of the road. Although the stretch was closed prior to the collapse, Infrastructure Minister Miguel Pinto Luz, who visited the site, projected repairs would take several weeks. This event is part of a broader pattern of destructive weather; the government reported that the country received 20% of its average annual rainfall in just one week, following weeks of similar conditions that have severely battered national infrastructure.

    The political fallout from the prolonged crisis has already begun, with Interior Minister Maria Lucia Amaral resigning amid criticism of her handling of the situation. The storms have caused billions of euros in damage and several fatalities. Scientists are drawing a direct line to climate change, noting that the increasing frequency and intensity of such extreme weather events on the Iberian Peninsula are linked to rising greenhouse gas emissions.

    Neighboring Spain experienced significant transport chaos. Schools were suspended in Catalonia, the Basque country was on red alert for 10-meter waves, and winds of 148 km/h were recorded in Alicante. Accidents related to the storm injured multiple people, including four workers clearing fallen trees in Barcelona and a pedestrian hit by a collapsing wall. Dozens of flights were canceled at Barcelona’s El Prat airport. In a separate incident near Cáceres, a woman required rescue after her car fell into a sudden sinkhole.

    French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot paid tribute to the deceased driver and issued a stark public appeal, urging citizens to ‘exercise utmost caution when travelling and check with their transport operator before any journey.’

  • A very focused Matt Weston of Britain has midpoint lead in Olympic skeleton, with Heraskevych out

    A very focused Matt Weston of Britain has midpoint lead in Olympic skeleton, with Heraskevych out

    CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy — British skeleton racer Matt Weston demonstrated extraordinary focus at the Olympic track on Thursday, remaining completely unaware of a major controversy unfolding around him as he secured the lead in the men’s skeleton competition. The World Cup champion and Olympic favorite posted the fastest times in both heats, finishing the day with an impressive time of 1 minute, 52.09 seconds.

    While Weston concentrated solely on his performance, Ukrainian slider Vladyslav Heraskevych was unexpectedly disqualified from the competition just before the event began. The dramatic development became the day’s biggest Olympic story, occurring trackside moments before the start. Weston remained oblivious to the situation until hours later when journalists confronted him with questions.

    “I had someone shove a mic in my face saying, ‘What about this?’” Weston revealed. “And I’m like, ‘Well, I hadn’t heard of it.’”

    Weston’s performance places him in a strong position for Friday’s final two runs, though his lead remains narrow. German competitors Axel Jungk, the reigning Olympic silver medalist, and defending champion Christopher Grotheer trail closely behind at 0.30 and 0.46 seconds respectively.

    American slider Austin Florian, who recorded the best start in the field, acknowledged awareness of Heraskevych’s disqualification since the Ukrainian was scheduled to compete immediately before him. “We’re generally pretty focused on what we’re doing. We’re aware of it,” Florian commented. “Everyone’s aware of it, obviously. And we try not to let it affect us.”

    Despite the competitive environment, Weston expressed genuine disappointment for Heraskevych, whom he considers both a friend and technical inspiration. The British slider studies the Ukrainian’s driving techniques as part of his own strategic preparation.

    “I think he’s an insane slider. He’s really, really good, very technical, very smooth,” Weston praised. “I get him on the push, but he’s always one that I look at his lines to see what he’s doing because he’s always pretty consistent. I think he could have done very well here. Another reason why I’m a bit gutted for him as a person.”

  • Manchester United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe says he’s sorry if some offended by anti-immigrant comments

    Manchester United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe says he’s sorry if some offended by anti-immigrant comments

    LONDON — Jim Ratcliffe, the billionaire co-owner of Manchester United and founder of chemical giant Ineos, has issued a public apology following widespread condemnation of his inflammatory remarks about immigration in the United Kingdom. The controversy erupted after an interview with Sky News in which Ratcliffe, one of Britain’s wealthiest individuals, claimed the nation had been “colonized” by immigrants and expressed concerns about economic challenges linked to immigration and welfare.

    The comments drew immediate and sharp criticism from across the political spectrum, including from Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who labeled the statements as “offensive and wrong.” The remarks also sparked significant backlash from football fans and the public, putting the prominent businessman under intense scrutiny.

    In a statement released on Thursday, Ratcliffe expressed regret for his choice of language. “I am sorry that my choice of language has offended some people in the U.K. and Europe,” he stated, though he stopped short of retracting the substance of his economic arguments. The apology comes amid heightened sensitivity around immigration discourse in British politics and society.

    The incident has highlighted the complex intersection of business, sports ownership, and political commentary, particularly given Ratcliffe’s status as a influential figure with considerable platform. The billionaire, who resides in the tax haven of Monaco, made the comments during a wide-ranging discussion that also covered challenges facing the European chemicals industry and weaknesses in the UK economy.

  • By The Numbers: A look at European rocket Ariane 64’s maiden launch

    By The Numbers: A look at European rocket Ariane 64’s maiden launch

    Europe’s aerospace sector reaches a pivotal milestone as the Ariane 64 rocket prepares for its inaugural commercial mission from the European Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana. This enhanced configuration marks a significant technological leap, featuring four powerful boosters that substantially increase payload capacity to low Earth orbit.

    The Thursday launch represents the sixth flight overall for the Ariane 6 program but the first deploying commercial payloads—specifically 32 internet satellites for Amazon’s burgeoning mega-constellation project. This mission positions the European launch vehicle directly against market dominator SpaceX in the increasingly competitive satellite deployment sector.

    Technical specifications reveal the Ariane 64’s formidable capabilities: standing 62 meters tall with a core stage measuring 5.4 meters in diameter, the vehicle utilizes four boosters consuming 142,000 kilograms of solid propellant within just over two minutes. This configuration enables the rocket to deliver approximately 21.6 metric tons to low Earth orbit—more than double the capacity of its two-booster variant.

    The Ariane 6 program embodies European collaboration at its finest, backed by 13 member nations of the European Space Agency and coordinated through approximately 600 subcontractors led by ArianeGroup. Manufacturing occurs across multiple European facilities, with core stage assembly in Les Mureaux, France, and upper stage production in Bremen, Germany. Each rocket comprises roughly 300,000 individual components, transported via emissions-reducing cargo ships across the Atlantic.

    Propulsion systems combine solid rocket boosters with advanced liquid propulsion: a main engine using supercooled hydrogen and oxygen, plus a versatile upper stage engine capable of multiple reignitions to precisely position satellites. The complete mission duration from liftoff to satellite separation is projected at 1 hour and 54 minutes.

    Amazon’s participation signals its serious entry into the satellite internet arena, currently dominated by SpaceX’s Starlink constellation. Founded by Jeff Bezos—who simultaneously operates rocket company Blue Origin—Amazon plans to deploy over 3,200 satellites to provide global broadband coverage.

  • Marseille is sinking and PSG has only Lens as a serious title rival in Ligue 1

    Marseille is sinking and PSG has only Lens as a serious title rival in Ligue 1

    PARIS — The French Ligue 1 championship landscape has undergone significant transformation as Marseille’s title aspirations have effectively dissolved following their devastating 5-0 defeat against Paris Saint-Germain. This crushing loss precipitated the immediate dismissal of manager Roberto De Zerbi and sparked visible fan discontent, with supporters confronting players at the airport to express their profound disappointment.

    With Marseille now trailing by twelve points and dropping to fourth position, RC Lens has emerged as the only serious contender capable of challenging PSG’s dominance. Sitting merely two points behind the league leaders, Lens demonstrates remarkable consistency and determination as the season approaches its critical phase.

    This weekend’s fixtures present compelling narratives: PSG travels to face a struggling Rennes side that has suffered four consecutive defeats while conceding twelve goals. Meanwhile, Marseille attempts to reconcile with their disillusioned fanbase during a home encounter against Strasbourg. Lens faces Paris FC, and Lyon continues their surprising ascent under coach Paulo Fonseca, seeking a thirteenth consecutive victory across all competitions against Nice.

    Individual performances have captured attention, particularly Ousmane Dembélé’s exceptional display against Marseille—featuring two goals and an assist—signaling his return to peak form after injury setbacks. Lens winger Allan Saint-Maximin also impressed with a spectacular debut goal, promising to be a valuable asset in the title pursuit.

    Beyond the pitch, PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi received recognition from FIFA’s Gianni Infantino for his instrumental role in opposing the controversial Super League project, highlighting the ongoing structural evolution within European football.

  • 18-year-old woman identified as suspect in Canada’s mass school shooting

    18-year-old woman identified as suspect in Canada’s mass school shooting

    The remote community of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, is confronting unimaginable tragedy after an 18-year-old female suspect, identified by authorities as Jesse Van Rootselaar, perpetrated one of Canada’s deadliest mass shootings. According to Royal Canadian Mounted Police Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, the assailant first killed her 39-year-old mother and 11-year-old stepbrother at their family residence before proceeding to her former school, where she opened fire on students and staff.

    The attack, which occurred Tuesday in the close-knit mining town of approximately 2,400 residents, resulted in nine fatalities including the perpetrator, who died by suicide. Police revised the initial death toll of ten after further investigation. Among the victims were a 39-year-old teacher, three 12-year-old female students, and two male students aged 12 and 13. Dozens sustained injuries, with two critically wounded victims—ages 12 and 19—remaining hospitalized.

    Authorities revealed Van Rootselaar had extensive documented mental health struggles, having been apprehended multiple times under provincial mental health legislation for assessment. Police had previously visited the family residence numerous times over recent years addressing mental health concerns related to the suspect. Notably, firearms had been seized from the home approximately two years prior but were returned after the owner successfully appealed the decision.

    The shooting has sent shockwaves through Canada, where such incidents remain exceptionally rare compared to the United States. Prime Minister Mark Carney, visibly emotional during press statements, postponed international travel and ordered flags flown at half-mast for seven days. ‘We will get through this. We will learn from this,’ Carney assured the nation, while Parliament observed a moment of silence for the victims.

    As details emerge, grieving families have begun sharing heartbreaking tributes. Abel Mwansa memorialized his 12-year-old son who ‘loved going to school so much,’ while Shanon Dycke confirmed her 12-year-old niece, Kylie May Smith, was among those killed. The tragedy ranks among Canada’s deadliest shooting incidents, comparable to the 2020 Nova Scotia attacks that claimed 22 lives and the 1989 École Polytechnique massacre that killed 14 women.

  • How racehorses are trained for the Dubai World Cup

    How racehorses are trained for the Dubai World Cup

    At the break of dawn, Meydan Racecourse transforms into a hub of meticulous equine preparation as trainers orchestrate the rigorous conditioning of elite racehorses destined for the Dubai World Cup. Long before spectators fill the stands, the facility buzzes with activity—thoroughbreds undergo leg inspections, dietary assessments, and structured workouts under the watchful eyes of seasoned professionals.

    Veteran trainer Ed Crisford, overseeing all 30 horses at Meydan Stables, compares his role to that of a school headmaster. Each horse represents a unique pupil with distinct strengths and behavioral traits. “Some are naughty, some are well-behaved,” Crisford notes, emphasizing the tailored approach required to maximize their potential. His decade-long tenure, including prior work with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s Godolphin stable, informs a philosophy centered on individualized development.

    The training ecosystem operates as a competitive pyramid. While many horses participate in the weekly Carnival races, only the most exceptional advance to the World Cup’s $30.5 million spectacle. Selection hinges on performances during Emirates Super Saturday—a critical qualifying event held weeks before the championship.

    Daily routines begin at 5 AM with comprehensive health checks: temperature monitoring, leg examinations, and feed consumption analysis. Crisford maintains detailed digital spreadsheets for each athlete, optimizing training schedules based on surface adaptability, distance aptitude, and recovery metrics. High-tech amenities like equine treadmills and aquatic therapy pools supplement traditional training, reducing musculoskeletal stress in controlled environments.

    International contenders face additional logistical complexities. Seasonal residents acclimatize over months, while overseas arrivals jet in days before the event. Despite the operational scale, Crisford’s motivation remains rooted in passion. “There’s not many better feelings than getting a winner,” he reflects, underscoring the profound satisfaction derived from nurturing equine excellence.

  • Jailed Imran Khan loses most of his vision in right eye, says lawyer

    Jailed Imran Khan loses most of his vision in right eye, says lawyer

    Pakistan’s Supreme Court has received alarming medical reports concerning former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s deteriorating eyesight while in incarceration. According to legal counsel Salman Safdar, Khan’s right eye has suffered severe damage from an untreated blood clot, leaving him with merely 15% remaining vision.

    Safdar, who became Khan’s first external visitor in seven weeks this Tuesday, detailed how the former cricket star began experiencing blurred and hazy vision several months ago. Despite repeated complaints to prison authorities, medical response was limited to basic eye drops without addressing the underlying condition.

    The legal representative presented a comprehensive report to Chief Justice Yahya Afridi and Justice Shahid Bilal Hasan, describing Khan as “visibly perturbed and deeply distressed by the loss of vision and the absence of timely and specialized medical intervention.” The document urgently requested expert ophthalmological examination, improved prison conditions, and family access.

    In response, the court ruled that Khan should receive visits from his personal physicians at Adiala Jail and permitted telephone communication with his sons, Kasim and Sulaiman.

    The submitted report painted a contrasting picture to official statements about Khan’s detention conditions. While Interior Minister Ata Tarar previously described Khan as “the most privileged prisoner in Pakistan” with access to gym equipment and a cook, the legal document revealed a room with basic furniture, non-functional television, and problematic conditions including summer heat, humidity, and insect infestations that allegedly caused multiple episodes of food poisoning.

    Khan, who led Pakistan from 2018 to 2022 before his imprisonment in August 2023, faces over 100 charges that he maintains are politically motivated. His incarceration has sparked significant civil unrest, resulting in thousands of arrests and numerous injuries during clashes between supporters and security forces.