Emirates International School – Meadows, a beacon of international education, is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, personal development, and community involvement, the school has established itself as a leader in future-focused education. With a diverse student body representing over 88 nationalities, the institution fosters a multicultural environment that embraces global perspectives as a cornerstone of its educational philosophy. Recognized as an IB World School and accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS), the school has consistently achieved ‘Very Good’ ratings from the KHDA. To commemorate this milestone, Emirates International School – Meadows is offering 20 exclusive scholarships to outstanding students, underscoring its dedication to nurturing the next generation of global leaders. School Principal Ian Ward emphasized the dual focus of the anniversary celebrations: reflecting on the school’s journey and investing in the future. Graduates of the school have consistently outperformed global averages in the IB Diploma Programme, securing placements at prestigious universities such as Stanford, Oxford, King’s College London, and the University of Toronto. Admissions for the 2026-27 academic year are now open, and interested families can contact the school for more information on scholarships or to schedule a tour.
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Kurdish PKK militants withdraw from Turkey as part of disarmament
In a significant development, the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a militant group engaged in a decades-long insurgency against the Turkish state, has announced its withdrawal from Turkey as part of a comprehensive disarmament process. This decision follows a call from the group’s imprisoned leader, Abdullah Ocalan, in May 2025, urging an end to armed struggle. The conflict, which began in 1984, has claimed over 40,000 lives. The PKK, designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US, and the European Union, has been based in northern Iraq in recent years, with Turkey conducting regular military strikes against its bases. In July 2025, the group symbolically burned some weapons as a gesture of goodwill. During a recent event in the Qandil Mountains, the PKK’s stronghold, a statement was read declaring the group’s commitment to laying the foundations for a ‘free, democratic, and brotherly life.’ The PKK emphasized the need for Turkey to facilitate its transition into democratic politics through integration laws. President Tayyip Erdogan’s communications director, Burhanettin Duran, welcomed the withdrawal, describing it as a positive step toward lasting peace. The PKK’s shift from seeking an independent state to advocating for greater Kurdish rights and limited autonomy marks a significant evolution in its objectives. The resolution of this conflict could have far-reaching implications for the region, including neighboring Syria, where the US supports Syrian Kurdish forces that Turkey considers a PKK offshoot.
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British Prime Minister Starmer arrives in Turkey to discuss Eurofighter jet deal
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Ankara, Turkey, on Monday to advance negotiations on a multi-billion-dollar deal for the sale of Eurofighter Typhoon jets, aimed at bolstering Turkey’s air defense capabilities. The visit underscores the UK’s strategic efforts to strengthen bilateral ties with Turkey, a key NATO ally, while navigating complex regional dynamics. Starmer is set to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to discuss both regional and bilateral issues, including the potential sale of the advanced fighter jets. The Eurofighter Typhoon, developed by a consortium led by Britain’s BAE Systems, has been a focal point of discussions since a preliminary agreement was signed in July, following Germany’s decision to lift its opposition to the deal. Turkey views the acquisition of Eurofighters as an interim solution until its domestically developed KAAN fighter jet becomes operational, expected no earlier than 2028. Additionally, Turkey seeks reentry into the U.S.-led F-35 program, from which it was excluded in 2019 due to its purchase of Russian S-400 missile systems. During his visit, Starmer toured the Turkish Aerospace Industries facility, receiving a briefing on the KAAN project. The trip, however, is set against a backdrop of political tensions, as Turkish prosecutors recently filed new espionage charges against Istanbul’s jailed mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, a prominent opposition figure. The UK has expressed concerns over Turkey’s human rights record, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law and fair trials. Despite these challenges, Starmer remains optimistic about finalizing the defense deal, highlighting the coexistence of economic partnership and candid dialogue on contentious issues.
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Dubai Heights Academy reaches new heights with world-class new secondary building
Dubai Heights Academy, a British Curriculum school in Al Barsha South rated ‘Very Good’ by the KHDA, has taken a significant leap forward in educational excellence with the inauguration of its world-class secondary building in August 2025. Designed to foster the next generation of innovators and leaders, the facility boasts cutting-edge laboratories and studios for science, computer science, food technology, music, and drama. Additionally, it features a 380-seat auditorium, design and technology spaces for product design, electronics, textiles, graphics, and robotics, as well as top-tier sports and recreational amenities, including a multi-purpose indoor sports hall, rooftop court, outdoor sports field, and a 25-metre swimming pool. The school’s philosophy, ‘Every Child, Every Mind, Everybody Matters,’ is embedded in every aspect of the building’s design. Beyond academics, Dubai Heights Academy is renowned for its exceptional wellbeing programs and unique opportunities, such as partnerships with MIT and the Tommy Fleetwood Academy. School Principal Alison Lamb expressed pride in the transformative milestone, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to enriching the student experience. With discounted fees starting at Dh30,000, the academy continues to be a leading affordable British curriculum school in Dubai. Prospective families are encouraged to book a tour at www.dubaiheightsacademy.com.
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Czech president asks populist leader Andrej Babiš to form a new government
In a significant political development, Czech President Petr Pavel has formally requested former Prime Minister Andrej Babiš to establish a new government following his party’s triumph in the recent parliamentary elections. Babiš, a populist billionaire and leader of the ANO (YES) party, staged a remarkable comeback in the October 3-4 ballot, securing 34.51% of the vote and outperforming the pro-Western conservative coalition led by outgoing Prime Minister Petr Fiala.
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Ukraine mourns two journalists after a deadly Russian drone strike claimed their lives
In a solemn gathering at a Kyiv church on Monday, approximately 100 mourners paid tribute to two Ukrainian journalists who lost their lives in a Russian drone attack in the Donetsk region. Olena Hubanova, a 43-year-old war correspondent known by her pseudonym Alyona Gramova, and Yevhen Karmazin, a 33-year-old cameraman, were killed on October 23 when a Russian Lancet drone struck their vehicle near Kramatorsk, just 20 kilometers from the front lines. This incident marks the latest in a series of deadly assaults on journalists covering the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Earlier this month, French photojournalist Antoni Lallican and Ukrainian reporter Grigoriy Ivanchenko were injured in a similar attack, with Ivanchenko later undergoing a leg amputation. The increasing range of drone strikes, now extending over 20 kilometers from the front, has significantly heightened the risks for journalists and civilians alike. Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, at least 135 media workers have been killed, according to Ukraine’s National Union of Journalists. Gramova and Karmazin, both employed by the state-run FreeDom TV channel, were known for their courageous reporting from the most perilous areas of Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk regions. Vadym Filashkin, the regional governor, praised their dedication to uncovering the truth about Russian atrocities and the plight of Ukrainian defenders. Gramova, originally from Yenakiieve, a city under Russian occupation since 2014, and Karmazin, a native of Kramatorsk, leave behind a legacy of fearless journalism in the face of grave danger.
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Kremlin says its test of a nuclear-powered missile reflects security concerns
In a bold move underscoring its commitment to national security, Russia has conducted a test of a nuclear-powered missile, which it claims is impervious to existing air defense systems. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized on Monday that this development reflects Moscow’s unwavering focus on safeguarding its interests, particularly in light of increasing pressure from the United States and European nations urging President Vladimir Putin to negotiate an end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The missile, known as Burevestnik and code-named Skyfall by NATO, reportedly covered an impressive 14,000 kilometers (8,700 miles) during the test, as announced by Russia’s chief of general staff in a video featuring Putin in camouflage fatigues. This test follows a week of heightened tensions, marked by stringent U.S. sanctions targeting Russia’s vital oil and gas sector and renewed European commitments to bolster Ukraine’s military capabilities. Former U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Putin’s focus on missile testing, urging him instead to prioritize peace negotiations. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused the Trump administration of shifting its stance on the conflict, highlighting a recent pivot towards demanding an immediate ceasefire. As diplomatic efforts falter, both Russia and Ukraine are actively seeking support from allies. Lavrov hosted North Korea’s Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui in Moscow, while Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced additional military aid from France and the United Kingdom. In a separate development, Russia’s Defense Ministry reported intercepting 193 Ukrainian drones, including 34 aimed at Moscow, with no reported casualties or damage. Ukraine’s air force, however, stated that 26 of the 100 drones fired by Russia reached their targets, prompting emergency power outages in several regions.
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Dubai’s real estate market surges in H1 2025, powered by premium communities
Dubai’s residential real estate market has experienced significant growth in the first half of 2025, driven by the success of master-planned communities such as Dubai Hills Estate and Emirates Living. These neighborhoods, developed by Emaar, have become architectural marvels and economic powerhouses, offering a unique blend of luxury, livability, and investment potential. Dubai Hills Estate, strategically located between Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina, has emerged as a dynamic submarket with seamless connectivity to major business hubs. The community boasts an 18-hole championship golf course, Dubai Hills Mall, King’s College Hospital, and top-tier schools like GEMS Wellington Academy. Off-plan transactions surged from 1,149 in 2021 to 5,693 in 2024, while ready transactions remained steady at around 1,400 annually, reflecting strong investor confidence. Sales prices have also climbed, with off-plan homes reaching Dh2,479 per square foot and ready homes at Dh2,363 per square foot by H1 2025. The rental market is equally robust, with studio rents rising from Dh85.5K in 2021 to Dh134.9K in H1 2025. Emirates Living, spanning 52 million sq.ft, includes Emirates Hills, The Meadows, The Springs, and The Lakes, catering to distinct lifestyle and budget segments. Transaction volumes have remained consistent, averaging 760–800 annually over the past four years, with the average price per square foot more than doubling since 2021. Together, these communities are driving Dubai’s property market forward, setting benchmarks for capital growth, rental yields, and lifestyle quality.
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Pope Leo XIV will pray at the site of the 2020 Beirut port blast in his first foreign trip
Pope Leo XIV is set to embark on his first international journey as pontiff, visiting Lebanon and Turkey from November 27 to December 2. The trip, announced by the Vatican on Monday, will focus on interfaith dialogue, ecumenical relations, and addressing the challenges faced by Christians in the Middle East. A key highlight of the visit will be a prayer at the site of the 2020 Beirut port blast, which claimed over 200 lives and exacerbated Lebanon’s ongoing economic and political turmoil. This poignant moment underscores the Pope’s commitment to solidarity with those affected by the tragedy, which remains a symbol of government negligence and systemic corruption in the country. In Turkey, Pope Leo will mark the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, Christianity’s first ecumenical council, with a brief prayer at the archaeological site of the ancient Basilica of Saint Neophytos. He will also visit the Armenian Apostolic Cathedral in Istanbul, a site of historical significance given the contentious debate over the Armenian Genocide. While Pope Francis had previously labeled the events as the ‘first genocide of the 20th century,’ it remains to be seen whether Pope Leo will echo this characterization. The itinerary notably excludes visits to southern Lebanon, heavily impacted by the 2023 Israel-Hezbollah conflict, and Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, which was controversially reconverted into a mosque in 2020. Instead, the Pope will visit the nearby Blue Mosque, emphasizing a message of interfaith harmony. This trip, originally planned by Pope Francis, reflects Pope Leo’s dedication to continuing his predecessor’s legacy of fostering unity and addressing regional tensions.
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Juventus sack manager Tudor after seven months
Juventus has parted ways with manager Igor Tudor following a disappointing run of results, culminating in a defeat to Lazio on Sunday. The Croatian coach, who took over in March as a replacement for Thiago Motta, has struggled to turn the team’s fortunes around, overseeing an eight-match winless streak that has left the club languishing in eighth place in Serie A. The loss to Lazio marked Juventus’ third consecutive defeat across all competitions, prompting the club to make a decisive change. In a statement, Juventus expressed gratitude for Tudor’s professionalism and dedication during his tenure, wishing him and his staff success in their future endeavors. Massimiliano Brambilla has been appointed as the interim manager and will lead the team in their upcoming Serie A clash against Udinese on Wednesday. Currently, Juventus trails league leaders Napoli by six points and has failed to secure a victory in their last five league matches. Their struggles extend to the Champions League, where they sit 25th in the group stage table after one loss and two draws in their opening three games. The decision to sack Tudor underscores the mounting pressure on the club to regain its competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions.