In a landmark initiative to strengthen the UAE’s digital infrastructure, Microsoft and Abu Dhabi-based technology conglomerate G42 have unveiled a significant expansion of data centre capacity in the region. Announced on November 5, 2025, the project is part of Microsoft’s broader $15.2 billion investment in the UAE and will add 200 megawatts (MW) of new capacity through Khazna Data Centres, a subsidiary of G42. The new facilities are slated to become operational by the end of 2026. This expansion underscores the deepening strategic partnership between the two companies, aimed at accelerating the UAE’s digital transformation and doubling the digital economy’s contribution to the nation’s GDP over the next decade. Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President of Microsoft, highlighted the initiative’s broader significance, stating, “This expansion is more than data centres. It’s about powering the UAE’s future.” The enhanced infrastructure will bolster Microsoft Azure’s cloud services, offering advanced AI capabilities and GPU-powered computing to support public sector organisations, regulated industries, and enterprises. The collaboration emphasises trust, cybersecurity, and ethical AI development. Peng Xiao, Group CEO of G42, described the partnership as a step toward building the “Intelligence Grid,” a globally interconnected infrastructure designed to empower industries and individuals in the AI era. The initiative also includes a commitment to developing local talent, with Microsoft pledging to skill one million people in the UAE by 2027. Previous joint efforts, such as the establishment of the Responsible AI Future Foundation, further solidify the UAE’s position as a regional leader in digital innovation.
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Mamdani thinks Trump threats are ‘inevitable’, but it won’t stop his plans to lower cost of living
In his first press conference since winning the New York City mayoral race, Zohran Mamdani, the 34-year-old mayor-elect, pledged to confront the challenges posed by the Trump administration while addressing the city’s affordability crisis. Speaking in Queens on Wednesday, Mamdani outlined his transition team and emphasized his commitment to standing up to what he described as an ‘authoritarian administration.’ Trump, who has labeled Mamdani a ‘communist,’ hinted at withholding federal funding from New York City if Mamdani’s policies were implemented. On Election Night, Trump posted ‘AND SO IT BEGINS!’ on his Truth Social account, signaling the start of a new political rivalry. Mamdani, a self-proclaimed democratic socialist, has promised to tax millionaires to fund expanded social programs, including free buses and rent stabilization. Despite the tension, Mamdani expressed a willingness to engage with the Trump administration on issues like reducing the cost of living. His transition team includes notable figures such as Lina Khan, former Federal Trade Commission chair, and Maria Torres-Springer, a former deputy mayor. Mamdani also confirmed he would retain Jessica Tisch as NYPD commissioner, addressing concerns about public safety. As he prepares for his January 2026 inauguration, Mamdani’s dynamic with Trump is expected to shape his early administration, particularly regarding immigration enforcement. ‘I’m looking forward to showing the power of an example here in New York City,’ Mamdani told ABC News, contrasting his approach with Trump’s policies.
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Pope Leo offers his strongest criticism of Trump yet
Pope Leo XIV, the first American Pope in history, has issued a strong critique of the United States’ immigration policies under President Donald Trump. Speaking from his papal retreat at Castel Gandolfo, the Pope called for ‘deep reflection’ on the treatment of migrants, particularly those affected by mass deportations. He emphasized the Catholic belief that Christians will be judged by how they welcome ‘the foreigner.’ This marks some of his most direct criticism of the Trump administration to date. The Pope also expressed concern over the U.S. bombing of Venezuelan ships suspected of carrying drugs, warning that such actions risk escalating regional tensions. Born in Chicago and having spent much of his life as a missionary in Peru, Pope Leo’s personal experiences have deeply influenced his stance on migration and poverty, which he has made central to his papacy. He has urged U.S. authorities to allow pastoral workers to attend to the spiritual needs of detainees, many of whom are Catholic. The Pope’s approach reflects a continuation of church teachings on migration, emphasizing the rights of families and the need for dialogue over violence.
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NIP Group expands global bitcoin mining capacity, becoming largest in Mena
Abu Dhabi-based NIP Group, a prominent player in the global digital entertainment sector, has significantly expanded its Bitcoin mining and high-performance computing operations. The company’s total capacity has now reached approximately 11.3 EH/s, solidifying its position as the largest Bitcoin-mining entity in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region. This expansion enables NIP Group to produce around 160 Bitcoins monthly, contingent on network conditions, while reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s growing stature as a global hub for digital infrastructure.
This strategic move marks a critical milestone in NIP Group’s broader vision to integrate gaming, entertainment, blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and high-performance computing into a unified ecosystem. Hicham Chahine, co-CEO of NIP Group, emphasized the significance of this expansion, stating, ‘This transaction underscores the rapid progress of our digital infrastructure strategy. By building large-scale computing power, we are better positioned to explore opportunities in high-performance computing, crypto mining, and AI applications within gaming and entertainment.’
Carl Argen, COO of NIPG Mining and Digital Assets, added, ‘We will deploy these assets with precision, ensuring immediate stable output while preparing for more advanced applications in the future.’
Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a global leader in AI, blockchain, and data-driven infrastructure has been instrumental in this development. Over the past two years, the Emirate has attracted billions in investments to establish AI-optimized data centers, supercomputing hubs, and blockchain-ready ecosystems. NIP Group’s expansion aligns with the UAE’s national strategy to become a frontrunner in AI, Web3, and high-performance computing.
The Emirate’s favorable regulatory environment, reliable energy supply, and government-backed innovation initiatives have made it a magnet for next-generation infrastructure development. For NIP Group, Abu Dhabi serves not only as an operational base but also as a platform to merge computing power with creativity, enabling the company to pioneer advancements in gaming, blockchain, and AI convergence.
This expansion signifies a transformative moment for NIP Group as it evolves from a digital entertainment company into a technology-driven infrastructure leader. By anchoring its operations in Abu Dhabi, NIP Group is positioning itself at the intersection of gaming, entertainment, blockchain innovation, digital asset infrastructure, and AI. The UAE’s progressive regulatory framework, world-class digital connectivity, and ambition to become an AI-native economy by 2030 provide an ideal environment for this evolution.
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Mexico president to seek charges after being groped on street
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has announced her decision to press charges against a man who groped her during a public appearance in Mexico City. The incident, captured on mobile phone footage, occurred on Tuesday near the National Palace. In the video, a man is seen approaching Sheinbaum from behind, attempting to kiss her neck and place his hands on her body. Sheinbaum swiftly moved away, and a member of her security team intervened. The offender was subsequently arrested. At a news conference on Wednesday, Sheinbaum emphasized the importance of her decision, stating, ‘If I don’t file a complaint, what will happen to other Mexican women? If they do this to the president, what will happen to all women in our country?’ She recounted her personal experiences with harassment, both as a student and as a public figure, and highlighted that the suspect had allegedly harassed other women in the crowd. ‘A line must be drawn,’ she declared. The incident has sparked discussions about the pervasive issue of machismo in Mexican society and the broader challenges of gender-based violence. Despite Sheinbaum’s campaign promises to address femicide and violent crime, progress has been slow. The event also raises questions about presidential security and the safety of politicians, particularly in light of the recent murder of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo. Sheinbaum has affirmed her commitment to maintaining close contact with her supporters, despite the risks. Her administration has made strides in combating fentanyl trafficking, a key concern for U.S. President Trump, but the fight against sexual harassment and gender-based violence remains a critical issue.
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212 Off-Road Vehicle Co ties up with Legend Motors, enters UAE market
In a significant move for the UAE’s automotive sector, Legend Motors, a subsidiary of the Legend Holding Group, has partnered with China’s renowned 212 Off-Road Vehicle Co., Ltd. This collaboration introduces 212’s iconic off-road vehicles to the UAE, marking a new chapter in the region’s adventure-driven automotive culture. The partnership leverages 212’s 60-year legacy of rugged engineering and cutting-edge technology, epitomized by its debut model, the 212 T01. This vehicle boasts a retro design, a robust 2.0T engine, and exceptional off-road capabilities, having undergone over one million kilometers of endurance testing in extreme conditions. Backed by the Shandong Weiqiao Pioneering Group, a Fortune Global 500 company, 212 aims to expand its footprint across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Legend Motors will serve as the official dealer for 212 in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, emphasizing a shared commitment to quality, innovation, and adventure. Lu Yunran, CEO of 212 Off-Road Vehicles Co., Ltd., highlighted the UAE’s vibrant off-road market and the partnership’s goal to inspire exploration and redefine adventure. Together, Legend Motors and 212 are poised to deliver a new era of off-road experiences tailored to the UAE’s unique landscapes and adventurous lifestyle.
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China records 10-year low in first marriages
China has recorded its lowest number of first marriages in a decade, with only 9.1723 million couples tying the knot in 2024, according to the latest data from the National Statistics Bureau. This marks the first time the figure has fallen below 10 million in the past ten years. The decline is part of a broader trend, with the number of first marriages decreasing annually from 2014 to 2024, except for a slight uptick in 2023. In 2024 alone, the number dropped by 2.77 million, or 23.18 percent, compared to the previous year, representing the steepest decline in a decade. Compared to 2013, the number of first marriages in 2024 plummeted by 14.69 million, a staggering 61.57 percent reduction. Marriage registrations also saw a significant drop, falling from 13.469 million in 2013 to 6.106 million in 2024, a decline of 54.7 percent. Demographics scholar He Yafu attributes this trend to two primary factors: a shrinking young population and a rising unmarried rate. Data from the Ministry of Civil Affairs reveals that the 25-34 age group, which accounts for the majority of marriages, has seen a decline in population. The seventh national population census in 2020 showed that the population aged 21-30 (born between 1990 and 1999) was only 178 million, compared to 215 million in the 31-40 age group (born between 1980 and 1989). Additionally, the unmarried rate among 30-year-olds has surged from 14.56 percent in 2013 to 29.97 percent in 2023, reflecting a significant societal shift. This trend underscores the challenges China faces in addressing demographic changes and their implications for social and economic stability.
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Toyota, Honda turn India into car production hub in pivot away from China
In a strategic move to diversify their global supply chains, Japanese automotive giants Toyota, Honda, and Suzuki are channeling billions of dollars into India, transforming the country into a pivotal manufacturing hub. This shift marks a significant pivot away from China, driven by rising costs, intense competition, and geopolitical uncertainties.
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Seven Italian climbers still missing in Nepal
A devastating avalanche in Nepal’s Himalayan region has left seven Italian climbers missing and three confirmed dead, according to Italian and Nepalese authorities. The incident occurred near the Dolma Khang peak, which stands at 6,332 meters (20,774 feet) in the Dolakha district. The Italian team was stationed at the base camp when the avalanche struck earlier this week, claiming the lives of three climbers. Among the missing are Marco Di Marcello and Markus Kircheler, who were reportedly in the Yalung Ri area, where the avalanche hit. Italian diplomat Paolo Cocco was among the seven climbers confirmed dead near the Yalung Ri base camp. The Italian foreign ministry has dispatched a senior diplomat from neighboring India to Kathmandu to coordinate with Nepalese authorities and search teams. Nepal has been grappling with severe weather conditions, including avalanches and storms, which have disrupted climbing expeditions and claimed lives. Ram Krishna Lamichhane, a Nepali tourism official, stated that five individuals, including three foreign climbers and two Nepali guides, are missing in the Dolma Khang base camp area. Conflicting reports have emerged regarding the number of casualties and missing persons, complicating rescue efforts. The Italian climbers were part of an expedition organized by a trekking agency, which is now assisting in the search. In a separate incident, the bodies of Stefano Farronato and Alessandro Caputo, who went missing while attempting to scale the Panbari peak in western Nepal, have been recovered. Autumn is typically a popular season for mountaineering in Nepal due to favorable weather conditions, but the risk of avalanches and severe weather remains high. Last week, Cyclone Montha brought heavy rain and snowfall, stranding climbers in the Himalayas.
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Experts promote raising awareness to boost HPV vaccination
Health experts are urging for heightened public awareness and the dispelling of misconceptions to improve the coverage rate of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in China. HPV, a leading cause of cervical cancer, claimed 350,000 lives globally in 2022, with China accounting for 16% of these fatalities. Starting November 10, China will integrate the HPV vaccine into its national immunization program, offering free bivalent HPV vaccines to girls aged 13 and above born after November 10, 2011. This marks a significant shift from previous policies that targeted children under six, now extending to adolescents and focusing on preventing a malignant tumor caused by chronic infection, particularly in women. Du Heng of the Gates Foundation emphasized the long-term impact of this initiative, noting that full outcomes may take 20 to 30 years to manifest. As of June, 18 provincial-level regions in China have already provided free HPV vaccinations to about 5 million girls annually, targeting those aged 9 to 14. In Beijing, for instance, girls in the 7th grade and above can receive free domestically developed bivalent vaccines, which protect against the two most common HPV strains responsible for 70-80% of cervical cancers. Despite these efforts, some parents remain hesitant, citing concerns about the necessity and safety of the vaccine. However, experts like Qiao Youlin from Peking Union Medical College believe that these challenges are temporary and will improve with increased health awareness. The World Health Organization aims for 90% of girls globally to be fully vaccinated against HPV by the age of 15 by 2030, as part of its strategy to eliminate cervical cancer. In China, the free vaccination policy has already covered many eligible girls, showcasing significant progress. Experts also stress the importance of regular cervical cancer screenings and the role of men in HPV prevention, as their infection rate is as high as 45%, often without symptoms. Eliminating cervical cancer is seen as a shared societal responsibility, achievable through enhanced scientific awareness and collective action.