Egypt is poised to unveil its monumental cultural achievement, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), with a grand opening ceremony on November 1, 2025. This event, attended by global dignitaries, will precede the museum’s public debut on November 4. Situated on the Giza Plateau, just two kilometers from the Great Pyramids, GEM spans over 500,000 square meters and houses more than 100,000 artifacts, offering an unparalleled journey through Ancient Egypt’s history from prehistoric times to the Roman era. The museum, dubbed the largest dedicated to a single civilization, features 12 exhibition galleries, including the complete collection of King Tutankhamun’s treasures, King Khufu’s Solar Boats, and a 20-meter-high hanging obelisk. Visitors will be greeted by an 11-meter-tall statue of King Ramses II and can explore the Grand Staircase adorned with statues of ancient kings, providing breathtaking views of the Pyramids. GEM’s opening is expected to revitalize Egypt’s tourism sector, which has faced challenges in recent years. Practical details for visitors include accessible transportation options, varied ticket prices, and guided tours in Arabic and English. The museum’s complex also offers dining options, and photography is permitted for personal use. With its rich exhibits and strategic location, GEM is set to become a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts worldwide.
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UAE: Inside Dubai’s racing club where horses train for million-dollar glory
In a life-changing moment, an Indian expatriate residing in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has struck gold by winning the Dh25-million grand prize in the latest Big Ticket draw. This remarkable win not only highlights the dreams of millions of expats in the region but also underscores the allure of such high-stakes lotteries. Meanwhile, Dubai has announced the launch of its Education Expo, a significant event featuring participation from over 60 private schools and early learning centers. The expo aims to showcase educational opportunities and innovations, catering to the diverse needs of families in the emirate. These two developments reflect the UAE’s dynamic landscape, where opportunities for personal success and educational advancement continue to thrive.
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Serbia marks anniversary of deadly train station disaster with large rally
NOVI SAD, Serbia — Tens of thousands of Serbians gathered in Novi Sad on Saturday to mark the first anniversary of a devastating railway station disaster that claimed 16 lives. The commemoration also served as a powerful platform for widespread discontent with the government of President Aleksandar Vucic, whose autocratic rule has faced increasing scrutiny since the tragedy. The collapse of a concrete canopy at the Novi Sad train station on November 1, 2022, sparked youth-led protests and a nationwide movement demanding political change, significantly challenging Vucic’s grip on power. Protesters attribute the disaster to rampant corruption and nepotism in state infrastructure projects, particularly those involving Chinese partnerships, which allegedly led to a fatal disregard for safety standards. Despite 13 individuals being charged, no one has been held accountable. The ceremony began with 16 minutes of silence at 11:52 a.m., the exact time of the collapse, followed by wreath-laying and candlelight tributes outside the station. Attendees, including Vera Jaramazovic from Subotica, expressed profound grief and frustration, reflecting a society in turmoil. Vucic, who recently apologized to student protesters after previously threatening mass arrests, attended a church service in Belgrade while the government declared a day of mourning. However, protesters dismissed his apology, continuing to demand early parliamentary elections to oust his populist regime. Serbia’s EU accession process has stalled under Vucic’s leadership, as his close ties with Russia and China and crackdown on democratic freedoms have drawn criticism. EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos noted that the tragedy has galvanized calls for accountability and democracy, values essential for Serbia’s EU integration. The event also highlighted the resilience of the protest movement, with thousands of young people marching hundreds of kilometers to Novi Sad, where they were met with emotional support from the community.
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UAE weather: Fair skies ahead; Abu Dhabi, Dubai temperatures to hit 35ºC
Residents of the UAE can look forward to pleasant weather conditions this weekend, as the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) forecasts fair to partly cloudy skies across the country. On Saturday, November 1, 2025, temperatures are expected to remain comfortable, with highs of 33ºC in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. In the latter, certain areas like Mezaira may experience cooler temperatures, dropping to as low as 19ºC, while mountainous regions could see mercury levels dip to 17ºC. Overnight and into Sunday morning, humidity is anticipated to increase in some coastal and internal areas. Light to moderate winds, occasionally freshening, will sweep across the nation. Sea conditions are predicted to be slight to moderate in the Arabian Gulf and slight in the Oman Sea. This mild weather offers an ideal opportunity for outdoor activities and exploration.
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UN Security Council backs Morocco’s plan for Western Sahara autonomy
The United Nations Security Council has adopted a resolution supporting Morocco’s proposal for autonomy in Western Sahara, marking a significant step in resolving the decades-long territorial dispute. The resolution, drafted by the United States, emphasizes that genuine autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty could be the most viable solution to the conflict between Morocco and the Algeria-backed Polisario Front, which seeks independence for the region. Western Sahara, a vast desert territory comparable in size to Britain, has been a flashpoint of contention since Spain’s withdrawal in 1975. The UN Security Council’s resolution calls for renewed negotiations based on Morocco’s 2007 autonomy plan, which envisions local governance while retaining Moroccan control over defense, foreign affairs, and religious matters. The resolution also extended the mandate of the UN peacekeeping mission in Western Sahara, MINURSO, for another year. While 11 council members voted in favor, Russia, China, and Pakistan abstained, and Algeria did not participate in the vote. Algeria’s UN Ambassador Amar Bendjama criticized the resolution, stating that it disregarded the Polisario Front’s proposals and emphasized that the future of Western Sahara should be determined by its people. Morocco’s King Mohammed VI hailed the resolution as a ‘new chapter’ in asserting the ‘Moroccanness of the Sahara’ and called for dialogue with Algeria. Meanwhile, the Polisario Front rejected the resolution, vowing not to engage in any process that legitimizes Moroccan control. The resolution also requested UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to conduct a strategic review of MINURSO’s mandate within six months. The move aligns with growing international support for Morocco’s position, including backing from the US, France, Britain, and Spain, signaling a shift in global diplomatic perspectives on the issue.
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Andrew’s royal exit is the latest crisis for Britain’s monarchy
The British monarchy, a symbol of tradition and continuity, has once again found itself navigating turbulent waters. The recent banishment of Prince Andrew by King Charles III marks a significant moment in the institution’s history. Stripped of his princely title and residence, Andrew faces heightened scrutiny over his financial dealings and association with the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. This decisive action underscores Charles’ commitment to safeguarding the monarchy’s reputation amid ongoing controversies.
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Trump restricts reporters’ access to White House press office
The Trump administration has introduced stringent new measures limiting journalists’ access to key areas within the White House press office. Effective immediately, reporters are barred from entering the ‘Upper Press’ area, located adjacent to the Oval Office, without prior appointment. This decision, outlined in a memo from the White House National Security Council (NSC), cites the need to safeguard ‘sensitive material’ from unauthorized disclosure. The ‘Upper Press’ zone houses the office of Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt and is a critical hub for media interactions. White House Communications Director Steven Cheung defended the policy, alleging that reporters had been ‘ambushing’ cabinet secretaries and secretly recording audio and video in the area. However, no concrete evidence was provided to substantiate these claims. Journalists retain access to the ‘Lower Press’ area, situated near the White House briefing room, where junior press officers are stationed. This move is part of a broader trend of tightening media access under the Trump administration, which has also imposed new restrictions at the Pentagon and reduced access for mainstream outlets while favoring right-wing media. The policy has drawn comparisons to similar measures during the Clinton administration, which were later rescinded. Critics argue that these restrictions undermine press freedom and transparency, while supporters claim they are necessary to protect sensitive information.
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Children hospitalised after fireworks thrown at asylum accommodation
A distressing incident unfolded in Drogheda, County Louth, on Friday evening when fireworks were hurled into a building housing individuals seeking international protection. The attack, which occurred around 20:15 local time, resulted in a fire that was subsequently extinguished by emergency services. Among the evacuated occupants, four children and one adult were transported to hospital for medical evaluation, as reported by Irish broadcaster RTÉ. Ireland’s Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan condemned the act as a ‘criminal attack,’ emphasizing the peril it posed to the lives of the residents, particularly the women and children who endured the terrifying ordeal. Minister O’Callaghan assured that alternative accommodations are being arranged for the affected individuals. A comprehensive Garda investigation is currently underway, with the scene preserved for technical examination to aid in identifying the perpetrators. The Minister warned of severe consequences for those responsible, underscoring the gravity of the arson attack.
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US urges ASEAN to be firm in countering China in the South China Sea
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called on Southeast Asian nations to bolster their maritime capabilities to counter China’s increasingly aggressive actions in the South China Sea. Speaking at a meeting with Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) counterparts, Hegseth emphasized the destabilizing impact of China’s recent activities, including vessel ramming and the use of water cannons. The South China Sea remains a highly contested region, with China claiming nearly the entire area, while ASEAN members such as the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei assert overlapping claims. The Philippines, a key U.S. ally, has faced frequent confrontations with Chinese maritime forces. Hegseth criticized China’s recent designation of Scarborough Shoal, seized from the Philippines in 2012, as a ‘nature reserve,’ calling it a tactic to expand territorial claims. He urged ASEAN to accelerate the conclusion of a Code of Conduct with China and enhance joint surveillance and rapid-response mechanisms. He also proposed a ‘shared maritime domain awareness’ system to ensure collective security. Additionally, Hegseth welcomed plans for an ASEAN-U.S. maritime exercise in December, aimed at reinforcing freedom of navigation and sovereign rights. China, however, dismissed U.S. criticism, accusing Washington of provoking tensions and interfering in regional affairs. Chinese officials labeled the Philippines a ‘troublemaker’ following recent joint naval and air drills with the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand, which Beijing claimed undermined regional stability.
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Ukraine says it hit a key fuel pipeline near Moscow that supplies Russian forces
In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Ukrainian military intelligence reported on Saturday that its forces successfully targeted a crucial fuel pipeline in the Moscow region, which plays a vital role in supplying the Russian army. The operation, carried out late Friday, was announced via the Telegram messaging channel by Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR). The strike, described as a “serious blow” to Russia’s military logistics, destroyed the Koltsevoy pipeline near the Ramensky district. This pipeline, spanning 400 kilometers (250 miles), was responsible for transporting substantial quantities of gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel from refineries in Ryazan, Nizhny Novgorod, and Moscow to Russian military operations. According to HUR, the pipeline had an annual capacity of 3 million tons of jet fuel, 2.8 million tons of diesel, and 1.6 million tons of gasoline. Kyrylo Budanov, the head of HUR, emphasized the impact of the strike, stating, ‘Our strikes have had more impact than sanctions,’ referencing the international sanctions imposed on Russia following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Meanwhile, Russia continues its relentless campaign of drone and missile attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, causing widespread power outages and restrictions. On Saturday alone, Moscow launched 223 drones at Ukraine, with 206 intercepted by Ukrainian defenses. Seventeen drones struck targets across seven regions, including a ballistic missile attack in southern Ukraine that killed one civilian and injured 15 others, including a child. Additionally, a Russian strike in the central Poltava region ignited a fire at a gas plant, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The conflict shows no signs of abating, with both sides intensifying their military operations and targeting critical infrastructure.