Sharjah has inaugurated its first-ever Human Development Forum, a groundbreaking initiative designed to foster humanitarian and cultural progress in the region. Hosted at the University of Sharjah (UOS) under the theme “Humanity and Heritage in Palestine,” the forum convened leaders, academics, and students to explore strategies for preserving Palestinian culture and supporting local communities. The event was attended by prominent figures, including Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of UOS, and Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Family and Community Council. In his keynote address, Sheikh Sultan emphasized the importance of heritage preservation as a means to impart values, knowledge, and creativity to future generations. He highlighted the pivotal role of students in achieving the forum’s objectives, expressing confidence in their innovative ideas and proposals. Sheikha Jawaher announced the establishment of the Jawaher Al Qasimi Chair in Palestinian Studies and the Palestine Legacy Fund, initiatives aimed at safeguarding Palestinian heritage and providing scholarships for displaced students, particularly from Gaza. She underscored the forum’s commitment to combating efforts to erase Palestinian identity and heritage, stating that true belonging transcends geography and is rooted in values and history. The forum also featured discussions on protecting Palestinian history, arts, architecture, and social traditions, while encouraging research, student projects, and community engagement. By integrating academic research, humanitarian action, and cultural preservation, the forum has established a new model for advancing human development and reinforcing the UAE’s dedication to Palestine.
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Over Dh200,000 fees: Inside Dubai’s most costly school where students build mini Teslas
Dubai’s GEMS School of Research and Innovation (SRI) has redefined the boundaries of premium education, with annual fees exceeding Dh200,000 and a campus built on a Dh367 million investment. This institution, designed to rival university-level facilities, offers students an unparalleled learning environment where they build mini Teslas, code self-driving cars, and interact with AI avatars that transform lessons into immersive virtual worlds.
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South African women call purple protest over gender violence
South African women’s rights activists are mobilizing for nationwide protests to urge the government to declare gender-based violence (GBV) a national disaster. This call to action follows alarming statistics revealing South Africa as one of the most dangerous countries for women, with femicide rates five times higher than the global average. The movement, initiated online, has gained momentum with widespread support from celebrities, citizens, and international allies, symbolized by the adoption of purple—a color associated with GBV awareness—on social media profiles. The protests, organized by Women for Change, will culminate in a national ‘shutdown’ on Friday, coinciding with the G20 Summit in Johannesburg. Participants are encouraged to abstain from work or school, wear black as a sign of mourning, and observe a 15-minute silent tribute at noon local time. Despite the government’s 2019 declaration of GBV as a national crisis, activists argue that insufficient action has been taken. Women for Change spokesperson Cameron Kasambala criticized the lack of implementation of existing laws and called for greater transparency. Meanwhile, grassroots initiatives like Girls on Fire, founded by Lynette Oxeley, empower women through self-defense training and firearm ownership. However, the movement faces challenges, including employer backlash and systemic failures in the justice system. The protest underscores the urgent need for societal and governmental change to combat the pervasive culture of violence against women in South Africa.
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Talent, ecosystem surge push UAE into global AI elite
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has solidified its position as a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI), according to the latest Global AI Competitiveness Index by the International Finance Forum (IFF) and Deep Knowledge Group (DKG). Ranked ninth worldwide in AI enterprise density, the UAE boasts 49.5 AI firms per million people, surpassing many advanced economies. This achievement underscores the nation’s growing appeal as a hub for AI startups and scale-ups. The UAE also ranks 16th globally in AI talent share and within the top 20 in talent density, outperforming countries like Italy and Russia. This rapid ascent is attributed to the UAE’s proactive governance, including the National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 and the introduction of ethical frameworks like the non-binding AI Charter in 2024. Investment in AI startups further strengthens the UAE’s global profile, with the country ranking 11th for AI financing. The public sector has embraced AI at an unprecedented level, with federal entities achieving 97% utilization of AI tools. The UAE’s AI readiness is validated by international benchmarks, including Stanford University and Oxford Insights, which rank the country among the top performers globally. The private sector is also advancing, with UAE organizations demonstrating governance discipline that exceeds global norms. Economically, AI is projected to contribute $96 billion to the UAE’s GDP by 2030, transforming industries such as finance, retail, logistics, healthcare, and energy. Analysts highlight the UAE as a global testbed for AI innovation, driven by strong infrastructure, progressive regulation, and rapid adoption.
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BBC faces new woes over discredited Diana interview
The BBC is once again embroiled in controversy following the release of a new book that delves into the discredited 1995 interview with Princess Diana. Titled ‘Dianarama: The Betrayal of Princess Diana,’ the book by former BBC journalist Andy Webb exposes the deceptive tactics employed by reporter Martin Bashir to secure the landmark interview. Bashir allegedly fabricated bank statements to convince Diana’s brother, Charles Spencer, that the princess was under surveillance, further asserting that her life was in danger. This manipulation led Diana to distance herself from trusted allies, including her private secretary Patrick Jephson. The interview, which drew a record 22.8 million viewers, saw Diana candidly admitting to adultery and famously stating there were ‘three people’ in her marriage to Prince Charles. While initially hailed as a journalistic triumph, the interview’s credibility unraveled when Bashir’s unethical methods came to light. The BBC has since apologized and paid damages to those affected, including Jephson and a whistleblower. The book’s release coincides with the resignation of the BBC’s director-general amid unrelated controversies, further tarnishing the broadcaster’s reputation. Webb’s work also draws a chilling connection between the interview and Diana’s tragic death in 1997, suggesting the fallout from the interview had ‘lethal’ consequences.
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Nasdaq Dubai welcomes $500m sukuk listing by Islamic Corporation for Development of private sector
Nasdaq Dubai has announced the successful listing of $500 million Trust Certificates (Sukuk) issued by ICDPS Sukuk Limited, guaranteed by the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD). The ICD, a prominent multilateral financial institution and member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, priced the five-year Reg S senior unsecured Sukuk at 65 basis points over US Treasuries, offering a profit rate of 4.391% paid semi-annually. The issuance witnessed overwhelming investor demand, with order books surpassing $2 billion, reflecting robust market confidence in ICD’s financial stability and developmental objectives. The Sukuk, set to mature in 2030, was issued under the ICDPS Sukuk Limited Trust Certificate Issuance Programme. Leading financial institutions, including Al Rayan Investment, Bank ABC, Dubai Islamic Bank, and HSBC Bank plc, served as Joint Lead Managers and Bookrunners. This marks ICD’s fourth Sukuk listing on Nasdaq Dubai, following previous issuances in 2016, 2020, and 2024. Dr. Khalid Khalafalla, Acting CEO of ICD, emphasized the significance of the oversubscribed issuance, stating that the proceeds will drive private sector growth in member countries while expanding Shariah-compliant financial solutions. Hamed Ali, CEO of Nasdaq Dubai and Dubai Financial Market (DFM), highlighted the transaction as a testament to Dubai’s leadership in Islamic capital markets and its ability to attract diverse investors. With this listing, the total value of Sukuk on Nasdaq Dubai has reached $102 billion, reinforcing its status as a global hub for Islamic finance.
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Continental reports 77% premium growth, makes executive appointments to lead next phase of expansion
Continental, a DIFC-licensed financial advisory firm, has announced a remarkable 77% growth in premiums, marking a significant milestone in its 30-year legacy in the Middle East. The firm is now poised for its next phase of expansion, driven by a focus on technology, transparency, and trust. To spearhead this growth, Continental has appointed Lyndon D’Silva as Senior Executive Officer (SEO) and Member of the Board. With over 35 years of leadership experience at global institutions such as IBM, Standard Chartered, AIG, Morgan Stanley, and Concentrix, D’Silva brings a unique combination of financial expertise and technological insight to the role. His appointment underscores Continental’s commitment to innovation and long-term growth within the DIFC platform. Akshay Sardana, Managing Director of CFS DIFC Ltd., emphasized the alignment of values and vision with D’Silva, stating that his leadership will drive awareness, inclusion, and innovation across the wealth and insurance sectors. In his new role, D’Silva will oversee strategic direction, client and advisor relationships, and operational excellence, while advancing Continental’s legacy of trust and transparency. D’Silva expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, highlighting his goal to build on Continental’s strong foundation and position the firm as a catalyst for regional and global progress. Looking ahead, Continental plans to enhance its digital transformation agenda, modernize internal systems, and streamline client onboarding processes. The firm is also expanding its advisory network and insurer partnerships, ensuring faster and more responsive services for its clients. With these initiatives, Continental aims to consolidate its growth and expand its impact across the region.
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Youth activist turning trauma into treatment in Lebanon
Marina El Khawand, a 24-year-old Lebanese activist, has turned personal tragedy into a global mission to provide healthcare access for vulnerable communities. Her journey began in 2020 when she witnessed the devastating Beirut port explosion, which claimed over 220 lives and left her hometown in ruins. Despite the trauma, Khawand chose to stay and help, volunteering at the blast site before eventually founding Medonations, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing free medical assistance.
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Tears, walkouts and drama: New Miss Universe to be crowned as chaotic season ends
The 74th edition of Miss Universe, held in Bangkok, Thailand, concluded amidst a whirlwind of controversies and organizational turmoil. The event, which has been a global staple since its inception in 1952, faced unprecedented challenges this year, including contestant walkouts, judge resignations, and allegations of rigging. These issues have highlighted the cultural and strategic differences between the pageant’s Thai and Mexican owners, raising questions about its future direction. The pageant, traditionally a platform for women to advocate for global causes like HIV/AIDS awareness and children’s education, has also been a launchpad for international celebrity status. This year, Thailand’s Praveenar Singh emerged as a fan favorite, with hopes of becoming the country’s third Miss Universe. However, the event was overshadowed by a series of incidents that began with Thai media mogul Nawat Itsaragrasil’s public reprimand of Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, leading to a walkout by several contestants. The Miss Universe Organisation condemned Nawat’s actions as ‘malicious,’ and international executives were brought in to oversee the competition. Further complicating matters, two judges resigned, with one accusing organizers of pre-selecting finalists. Despite these challenges, the pageant continues to evolve, transitioning from a once-a-year television spectacle to a media brand embracing social media platforms like TikTok. The leadership transition has been rocky, with former CEO Anne Jakrajutatip’s resignation and the subsequent appointment of Guatemalan diplomat Mario Bucaro. Jakrajutatip, who acquired the pageant in 2022, had made significant strides towards inclusivity, allowing transgender women, married women, and women with children to participate. However, her entertainment company JKN filed for bankruptcy in 2023, adding to the pageant’s financial woes. As the Miss Universe brand navigates these turbulent waters, former queens like Catriona Gray continue to use their platforms to promote charitable causes, underscoring the pageant’s potential for positive impact. Despite the controversies, the event remains a significant cultural phenomenon, though its future will depend on its ability to reconcile its diverse leadership and maintain its core values of empowering women.
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UAE offers condolences to Peru over victims of deadly bus crash
The United Arab Emirates has conveyed its heartfelt condolences to Peru in the wake of a tragic bus accident in the Arequipa region, located in the southern part of the country. The incident, which claimed numerous lives and left many injured, has prompted an outpouring of international sympathy. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) issued an official statement expressing profound sorrow and solidarity with the families of the victims, as well as with the Peruvian government and its citizens. Additionally, the ministry extended its wishes for a swift and full recovery to all those who were injured in the crash. This gesture underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering international solidarity during times of crisis.