Global Pulse

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  • Tradeling and Yango Ads sign MoU to advance digital advertising and retail media innovation in the UAE

    Tradeling and Yango Ads sign MoU to advance digital advertising and retail media innovation in the UAE

    In a significant development for the Middle Eastern digital commerce sector, Tradeling, the region’s premier digital commerce ecosystem operating under Dubai’s visionary ‘Dubai 10X’ programme, has entered into a strategic partnership with Yango Ads, the advertising technology division of Yango Group. The memorandum of understanding establishes a collaborative framework to pioneer next-generation retail media and advertising technology solutions across the Middle East.

    The collaboration merges Yango Ads’ sophisticated artificial intelligence-driven advertising capabilities with Tradeling’s extensive digital commerce infrastructure, which currently serves over 50,000 buyers with access to more than 8 million stock keeping units. Owned by the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZA), Tradeling’s platform facilitates seamless sourcing for small and medium enterprises, corporate procurement teams, hospitality sectors, retailers, and e-commerce merchants throughout the region.

    This alliance enables Yango Ads to provide brands with access to high-intent, first-party retail media audiences within Tradeling’s purchasing environment, thereby enhancing supplier visibility and conversion rates throughout the customer journey. Concurrently, Tradeling will leverage Yango Ads’ AI-powered targeting, optimization, and performance technologies to empower platform suppliers and brands with improved visibility and accelerated growth.

    Evgenii Pavlov, General Manager for Yango Ads in Middle East and Africa, emphasized the transformative potential of this partnership: ‘This collaboration brings together two of the region’s most forward-thinking digital ecosystems. By combining Tradeling’s sophisticated digital commerce infrastructure with our retail media and AdTech capabilities, we aim to deliver smarter, highly targeted advertising solutions for suppliers, brands, and enterprise buyers.’

    Safvan Vali, Marketing Director at Tradeling, reinforced this sentiment: ‘Our mission has always been to simplify and digitally transform B2B trade across the region. This partnership strengthens that mission with advanced advertising, AI, and performance tools that help our sellers grow faster, reach the right audiences, and accelerate their digital transformation.’

    The timing of this collaboration is particularly strategic, given the Middle East and North Africa’s B2B trade market valuation of approximately $1 trillion, with online B2B commerce projected to reach $40-50 billion within the next five years. The partnership will explore multiple areas of mutual interest, including retail media monetization, supplier advertising solutions, AI-driven audience targeting, and the development of digital advertising opportunities across Tradeling’s marketplace and independent retailer network.

    Both organizations will additionally investigate joint go-to-market initiatives and non-binding commercial pilots under the memorandum’s framework. This alliance positions both entities to shape the forthcoming wave of AI-powered retail media and fundamentally transform how businesses discover, purchase, and expand their operations throughout the Middle Eastern market.

  • Former Philippine president Duterte to remain in detention at the Hague

    Former Philippine president Duterte to remain in detention at the Hague

    THE HAGUE – The International Criminal Court (ICC) has decisively rejected former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s petition for provisional release, ensuring his continued detention at the Scheveningen facility near The Hague. The ruling came Friday from the ICC Chamber of Appeal, presided over by Peruvian Judge Luz del Carmen Ibáñez Carranza.

    Duterte’s legal team had vigorously argued for his release based on humanitarian grounds, citing the former leader’s advanced age of 80 and allegedly deteriorating health condition. However, Judge Carranza dismissed these arguments, stating that the proposed release conditions “were not sufficient to mitigate the risks” associated with interim freedom for the accused.

    The court further rejected defense claims that Duterte should be released for humanitarian reasons, maintaining that the seriousness of the charges warranted continued detention. According to court documents, Duterte stands accused of authorizing “violent acts including murder to be committed against alleged criminals, including alleged drug dealers and users” during his presidency from 2016 to 2022.

    Duterte was apprehended in Manila on March 11 and transferred to ICC custody, where he appeared visibly frail during his initial video court appearance. The charges against him stem from his controversial anti-drug campaign that human rights organizations claim resulted in thousands of extrajudicial killings.

    The ICC has yet to determine whether Duterte is medically fit to stand trial. This latest ruling follows an October decision that rejected defense arguments challenging the court’s jurisdiction over three separate charges of crimes against humanity. These charges encompass:

    – 19 murders occurring between 2013-2016 during Duterte’s tenure as Davao City mayor
    – 14 killings of alleged drug bosses in 2016-2017 during his presidency
    – 43 killings of suspected low-level drug offenders

    Official Philippine National Police estimates place the death toll during Duterte’s drug war at over 6,000, while independent human rights organizations suggest the actual figure may reach 30,000. The case continues to draw international attention as victims’ families and human rights advocates closely monitor proceedings.

  • Al Safadi marks 25 years of shaping Lebanese dining in the UAE and officially launches Al Safadi Hospitality

    Al Safadi marks 25 years of shaping Lebanese dining in the UAE and officially launches Al Safadi Hospitality

    DUBAI – Celebrating a quarter-century of defining Lebanese culinary excellence in the UAE, Al Safadi has formally established Al Safadi Hospitality as a unified corporate umbrella to oversee its expanding portfolio. This strategic restructuring preserves the original ownership and leadership while creating an integrated framework for future growth, new brand development, and sustained quality across all operations.

    The journey began in 2000 with a single family-operated restaurant that evolved into one of the nation’s most recognized Lebanese dining destinations. Known for its unwavering consistency and traditional recipes—including an unchanging family Muhammara formula and annual service of approximately 57 tonnes of hummus—the brand has become embedded in UAE daily life. Its multicultural team of over 18 nationalities, including staff with nearly three decades of service, remains central to the group’s identity.

    Al Safadi Hospitality now encompasses the flagship restaurant brand, recently launched concepts Oventine and Table 25 catering, Al Safadi Food Production, and all future ventures. The consolidation enables strengthened quality control, operational excellence, and strategic planning while maintaining the brand’s heritage and people-focused culture.

    A cornerstone of this expansion is the new 5,000-square-meter Central Production Unit in Dubai Production City. This state-of-the-art facility features advanced European kitchen technology and hygienic preparation areas, capable of producing 45,000 meals daily to support existing restaurants, catering services, and upcoming retail lines. Currently pursuing HACCP and FSSC certifications, the facility incorporates sustainable technologies including Demand Control Ventilation and Empower District Cooling integration.

    The group’s expansion pipeline includes retail launches of sauces, spices, and ready-to-cook items between 2026-2027, alongside new restaurant openings across Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi. Oventine, the oven-led quick service concept inspired by Levantine flavors, will expand across Dubai through 2026, while Table 25 continues evolving as a premium catering brand offering international cuisine and custom menus.

    The anniversary was commemorated with a private gathering at the new production facility, featuring virtual tours, documentary presentations, and a performance by Guy Manoukian. CEO Fadi Al Safadi emphasized that the milestone recognizes the collective achievement of staff and patrons alike, stating: ‘We are building for the next 25 years, expanding with care while staying true to who we are.’

  • Georgia marks a year of protests since EU talks stalled and crackdown intensified

    Georgia marks a year of protests since EU talks stalled and crackdown intensified

    TBILISI, Georgia — For 365 consecutive days, the streets of Georgia’s capital have echoed with dissent as thousands of citizens maintain unwavering demonstrations against their government’s controversial suspension of European Union accession negotiations. The sustained civic movement reached its one-year milestone on Friday with massive gatherings along Tbilisi’s central Rustaveli Avenue, where protesters brandished national flags, placards, and symbolic whistles while chanting pro-European slogans.

    The protest movement ignited immediately after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s November 28, 2024 announcement halting EU membership talks. Despite diminished crowd sizes over time, daily demonstrations have persisted both outside parliament and across other urban centers, representing what participants describe as a fundamental struggle for Georgia’s democratic future.

    In response to the enduring protests, the ruling Georgian Dream party has implemented increasingly stringent measures against dissent. New legislation has dramatically escalated penalties for protest activities, with administrative detention periods extending to 15 days for participants and 20 days for organizers. Financial penalties have skyrocketed from 500 lari ($185) to 5,000 lari ($1,850) for initial violations, with criminal charges following subsequent offenses.

    Critics argue these measures mirror Russian-style suppression tactics, noting similarities to legislation used by Vladimir Putin’s administration to stifle opposition. The government has simultaneously intensified pressure on opposition parties, petitioning the Constitutional Court to ban the country’s three primary opposition groups—the United National Movement, Akhali/Coalition for Change, and Lelo.

    Among hundreds detained under the new framework is Rusiko Kobakhidze, a researcher and mother of nine, who received multiple jail sentences for blocking streets during demonstrations. “I don’t want a country where my children cannot speak openly,” she told Associated Press, capturing the movement’s central ethos.

    Despite the suspended accession process, ruling party officials maintain their commitment to European integration. Lawmaker Mariam Lashkhi asserted that “EU integration and NATO integration remain unchanged,” while simultaneously rejecting international influence on domestic policy. This position contrasts sharply with the EU’s November 4 enlargement report, which cited “democratic backsliding” and described government actions as “fundamentally incompatible with EU values.”

  • UAE: Will it rain during Eid Al Etihad long weekend?

    UAE: Will it rain during Eid Al Etihad long weekend?

    As the UAE approaches the final long weekend of the year marking Eid Al Etihad, residents can anticipate predominantly agreeable weather conditions characterized by cool mornings and partially overcast skies. According to the National Centre of Meteorology, certain northern, coastal, and island regions may experience intermittent cloud cover with possibilities of scattered rainfall throughout the holiday period.

    Temperatures continue their seasonal decline across the nation, with maximum readings forecasted between 24°C–30°C in coastal and inland areas, while mountainous regions will see cooler ranges of 12°C–20°C. Nighttime and early morning humidity will increase, creating potential for mist or fog formation in interior zones.

    Wind patterns are expected to remain light to moderate, shifting between southeasterly and northwesterly directions at speeds reaching 25-40 km/h, occasionally stirring dust clouds in open areas. Maritime conditions in the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea will generally be slight to moderate throughout the extended weekend.

    The detailed forecast indicates variable cloud coverage across different days:
    – November 29: Partly cloudy with rainfall potential in coastal and eastern areas
    – November 30: Generally fair skies with possible low clouds in western regions
    – December 1-2: Partly cloudy conditions prevailing with increased humidity overnight

    Residents planning outdoor activities during the holiday period are advised to monitor weather updates for potential rainfall in northern districts while enjoying the seasonably cool temperatures.

  • Afghans in US issue plea to Trump after Washington DC shooting

    Afghans in US issue plea to Trump after Washington DC shooting

    The Afghan community in the United States has united in condemnation of Wednesday’s fatal shooting in Washington DC that claimed the life of 20-year-old National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom and left her colleague Andrew Wolfe critically injured. The alleged perpetrator, 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, entered the U.S. through a special immigration program established for Afghans who collaborated with American forces during the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan.

    In response to the incident, President Donald Trump has implemented an immediate suspension of all Afghan immigration applications and ordered a comprehensive review of green cards issued to nationals from 19 countries. The administration has signaled potential broader restrictions on migration from what it characterizes as ‘third-world countries.’

    The Afghan Community Coalition of America expressed profound sympathy for the victims’ families while urging authorities not to delay or suspend Afghan immigration claims. ‘Twenty years of Afghan-US partnership must not be forgotten,’ their statement emphasized, referencing the two-decade military engagement that began in 2001.

    Multiple Afghan immigrants who spoke with media outlets on condition of anonymity due to Taliban reprisal concerns described the shooting as ‘deeply tragic’ and ‘really shocking.’ They emphasized that the suspect’s actions represented an individual criminal act rather than reflecting their community’s values. ‘Afghans in the United States are hardworking, tax-paying members of society,’ one interviewee noted, adding that many remain grateful for American evacuation efforts during the Kabul crisis.

    Lakanwal reportedly assisted U.S. forces as a guard at Kabul airport during the withdrawal operation and entered America the same year. According to official sources, his asylum application was approved earlier this year after being filed in 2024. The FBI confirms the suspect had established relationships with ‘partner forces’ during the U.S. military presence in Afghanistan.

    The political fallout has created widespread uncertainty among immigrant communities, with many expressing concern about potential policy changes that could affect their status. One Afghan resident articulated the dual challenges facing his community: ‘For us Afghans there’s problem for us in Afghanistan as well as here.’

  • Watch: ‘Lethal’ basketball player makes shot from over 100ft-high helicopter in Dubai

    Watch: ‘Lethal’ basketball player makes shot from over 100ft-high helicopter in Dubai

    In an extraordinary display of precision and nerve, professional basketball marksman Chris Matthews successfully executed a record-breaking basket from a helicopter hovering over 100 feet above Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah. The aerial spectacle, performed on November 28, 2025, demonstrated remarkable coordination between athlete and pilot under challenging atmospheric conditions.

    The daring attempt required Matthews to maintain intense focus while positioned at the helicopter’s open doorway, with legs suspended above the iconic artificial archipelago. Despite significant wind interference and aircraft vibration, the athlete delivered a perfect shot into a ground-positioned hoop after meticulous aerial positioning by pilot Captain Husam Gamal.

    Matthews immediately credited the aviation expert for the achievement, stating the pilot contributed “90 percent of the work” through continuous hover adjustments and stabilization maneuvers. The wind conditions presented particular challenges, with Matthews describing the experience as “trying to aim a paper in a storm” due to atmospheric forces affecting ball trajectory.

    The demonstration served as a promotional highlight coinciding with Dubai’s hosting of the Red Bull Half Court World Final, an international basketball tournament featuring competitors from multiple continents. Matthews emphasized the symbolic nature of the stunt, intended to showcase basketball’s universal appeal across diverse environments and skill levels.

    Following the successful attempt, Matthews expressed particular appreciation for Dubai’s aerial landscape, describing the Palm Jumeirah as “splendid” and the city as a “visual treat” from elevation. The achievement represents one of the most remarkable basketball shots ever attempted under non-traditional conditions.

  • Iran to boycott 2026 World Cup draw after US denies delegation members visas

    Iran to boycott 2026 World Cup draw after US denies delegation members visas

    In an unprecedented move that blends sports with international diplomacy, the Iranian Football Federation has declared a formal boycott of the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw. This decisive action comes as a direct response to the United States’ refusal to grant entry visas to several key members of Iran’s delegation scheduled to attend the event in Washington, D.C.

    The Federation’s spokesperson publicly confirmed the boycott on Iranian state television, stating, ‘We have formally notified FIFA that these decisions are devoid of sporting spirit. Consequently, our delegation will not participate in the World Cup draw.’ Reports from the Iranian sports outlet Varzesh 3 earlier indicated that Federation President Mehdi Taj was among those denied visas.

    Taj condemned the US decision as overtly political, revealing he had appealed directly to FIFA President Gianni Infantino. ‘We have communicated to Mr. Infantino that this is a purely political stance. FIFA must insist that the US refrains from such conduct,’ Taj asserted. Interestingly, visas were reportedly approved for four other delegation members, including team coach Amir Ghalenoei, highlighting the selective nature of the denials.

    This incident revives the long-standing, tense history between the two nations, which has previously spilled onto the football pitch. Iran’s celebrated 2-1 victory over the US in the 1998 World Cup remains a historic moment, later avenged by the Americans with a 1-0 win in the 2022 tournament. The 2026 World Cup is set to be co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico.

    The geopolitical context adds profound complexity to the dispute. The nations have been entrenched in conflict for over four decades. High-level nuclear talks that commenced in April had offered a fragile hope for diplomacy but collapsed abruptly in mid-June following a military offensive by Israel against Iran. This conflict escalated into a 12-day war, which saw the US briefly engage with airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, further severing the already fragile relations between Tehran and Washington.

  • Cultural adventures in Confucius’ hometown

    Cultural adventures in Confucius’ hometown

    China Daily Information Co (CDIC) has issued a definitive copyright notice establishing strict protections for all content published through its platforms. The comprehensive policy applies to all textual, photographic, and multimedia materials appearing on CDIC-affiliated sites.

    According to the published guidelines, republication or utilization of any protected content in any form requires prior written authorization from CDIC. The company explicitly prohibits unauthorized use of its intellectual property, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding digital assets.

    The notice additionally provides technical recommendations for optimal user experience, suggesting browsers with 1024*768 resolution or higher for best viewing performance. This specification indicates CDIC’s dedication to maintaining high presentation standards for its digital content.

    Beyond copyright matters, the communication references several organizational aspects including registration details (Registration Number: 130349) and multimedia publishing licenses (License 0108263). The notice also directs readers to various sections of the China Daily ecosystem including advertising opportunities, contact information, employment resources, and expatriate employment services.

    The copyright statement concludes with an invitation to follow the organization’s digital channels, emphasizing ongoing engagement with its audience through various media platforms. This multifaceted approach demonstrates CDIC’s comprehensive strategy toward content protection, user experience, and audience development.

  • Dubai Police ask public for help in identifying dead body

    Dubai Police ask public for help in identifying dead body

    Dubai Police have launched a public appeal for information regarding an unidentified male individual discovered deceased in the Al Qusais area. The case presents investigative challenges as the man was found without any personal identification documents, and no missing persons reports matching his description have been filed with authorities.

    According to official statements released on Friday, November 28, 2025, the discovery was made within the operational jurisdiction of the Al Qusais Police Station. The absence of identifying materials and the lack of missing person reports have complicated standard identification procedures.

    The remains have been transferred to the Forensic Science and Criminology Department’s specialized facilities for comprehensive examination. Forensic experts will conduct detailed analysis to establish both the individual’s identity and the precise circumstances surrounding his death.

    Authorities have established dedicated communication channels for information submission. Dubai residents can contact the police call center at 901, while callers from outside the emirate should dial 04 901. Police officials emphasize that any information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, could prove valuable in resolving this case and providing closure to potential family members.

    The public appeal represents standard procedure in cases involving unidentified persons, demonstrating the Dubai Police’s comprehensive approach to investigation through community engagement and advanced forensic capabilities.