Global Pulse

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  • Top winter destinations for UAE residents: From quick getaways to extended holiday adventures

    Top winter destinations for UAE residents: From quick getaways to extended holiday adventures

    As the winter season approaches, UAE residents are actively planning their holiday travels, creating one of the busiest periods for international departures. Leading visa processing platform Atlys has identified key destinations that are capturing the interest of the Emirates’ diverse population during the December-January period.

    According to Mohak Nahta, Founder and CEO of Atlys, the company’s mission aligns with the seasonal travel surge. “The UAE’s population represents one of the world’s most diverse communities, and travel aspirations are equally varied,” Nahta stated. “Winter is a meaningful season when people seek connection, exploration, and celebration. We’re honored to facilitate these moments seamlessly.”

    For shorter getaways, three regional destinations dominate travel preferences. Egypt remains a perennial favorite, offering its iconic Pyramids, ancient temples in Luxor, and Red Sea resorts that provide ideal winter warmth. Georgia has established itself as a winter destination with Tbilisi’s charming old town, cozy cafés, and mountain escapes in Gudauri that deliver authentic winter ambiance without extensive travel time. Morocco completes the regional selection with its cooler climate, featuring Marrakech’s bustling souks, the majestic Atlas Mountains, and expansive desert trails.

    For extended holiday adventures, European destinations lead preferences. The United Kingdom attracts travelers seeking authentic European winter experiences, from London’s illuminated streets and premium shopping to Edinburgh’s festive celebrations and the English countryside’s quintessential charm. The Schengen Zone serves as a comprehensive gateway to winter experiences across 27 countries, enabling access to Christmas markets in France and Germany, alpine slopes in Switzerland and Austria, and cultural experiences throughout Italy.

    Atlys addresses the complex visa requirements facing the UAE’s predominantly expatriate population, which represents over 200 nationalities. The platform streamlines travel planning by providing a unified system for eligibility verification, document submission, and application tracking, reducing administrative barriers for travelers.

  • UAE jobs: Your salary isn’t rising? This could be the reason

    UAE jobs: Your salary isn’t rising? This could be the reason

    A significant demographic shift in the United Arab Emirates is fundamentally altering the nation’s employment landscape, with recruitment experts identifying population growth as the primary driver behind widespread salary stagnation. According to analyses by leading firms Cooper Fitch and Genie Recruitment, the rapid expansion of the UAE’s resident base has created an employer-favorable market where supply and demand are moving toward equilibrium, particularly in non-specialized positions.

    Dr. Trefor Murphy, Founder and CEO of Cooper Fitch, revealed that Dubai alone welcomed approximately 18,000 new residents last month, a pace that the job market cannot match. This influx has contributed substantially to what he describes as ‘the flattening of salaries’ across multiple sectors. Current statistics from worldometers indicate the UAE’s total population has reached 11.47 million in November 2025, marking a noticeable increase from last year’s 11.02 million. Similarly, Dubai’s population has grown from four million in April to 4.04 million this month.

    The market transformation has created what experts term ‘micro oversupply pockets’ specifically affecting administrative, office support, and human resources positions. Nicki Wilson, Managing Director of Genie Recruitment, clarified that while the UAE maintains its global attractiveness, the talent pool has evolved more rapidly than job creation in certain categories. This disparity has resulted in concentrated oversupply rather than widespread market pressure.

    Roles experiencing the most significant salary pressure include administrative assistants, HR executives, and office managers—positions where skill sets are easily replicated or lack specialization. Fresh graduates without niche qualifications or industry exposure face particularly intense competition. Wilson noted that employers have become increasingly selective, prioritizing cultural alignment, adaptability, and multi-functional capabilities, especially within lean organizational structures.

    The recruitment specialist advised job seekers to focus on personal branding and continuous skill development to remain competitive. Meanwhile, specialized positions and roles requiring in-demand technical expertise continue to maintain stable compensation packages, indicating a bifurcated job market where specific skills command premium value while generalized roles face downward salary pressure.

  • Trump says he’s barring South Africa from participating in next year’s G20 summit in Miami

    Trump says he’s barring South Africa from participating in next year’s G20 summit in Miami

    In a decisive move, President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that South Africa would be excluded from participating in the 2026 Group of 20 (G20) summit, scheduled to be held in Miami, Florida. Trump also declared an immediate halt to all U.S. payments and subsidies to the country. The decision stems from allegations that South Africa mishandled a U.S. government representative during the recent G20 summit it hosted. Trump claimed that South Africa refused to transfer its hosting responsibilities to a senior U.S. Embassy official after the summit concluded over the weekend. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, ‘Therefore, at my direction, South Africa will NOT be receiving an invitation to the 2026 G20, which will be hosted in the Great City of Miami, Florida next year.’ He further criticized South Africa, asserting, ‘South Africa has demonstrated to the World they are not a country worthy of Membership anywhere.’ The U.S. president also accused South Africa of violently persecuting white Afrikaners, a claim that the South African government has dismissed as unfounded. This move marks a significant escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two nations.

  • Chinese autonomous driving company launches robotaxi service in Abu Dhabi

    Chinese autonomous driving company launches robotaxi service in Abu Dhabi

    Chinese autonomous driving company WeRide has introduced its fully driverless commercial robotaxi service in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant milestone as the first city in the Middle East to adopt this advanced transportation solution. The service, which operates without an on-board safety supervisor, utilizes WeRide’s van-type Robotaxi GXR, equipped with Level 4 autonomy. Passengers can hail the robotaxi via the Uber app, with routes primarily serving Yas Island, a popular tourist destination. The launch was supported by Abu Dhabi’s Integrated Transport Centre, which granted the world’s first city-level permit for fully driverless robotaxi operations. WeRide currently operates nearly 150 robotaxis in the Middle East and plans to expand the service to more core areas in Abu Dhabi by the end of the year. This initiative follows a federal permit obtained in October, allowing WeRide to conduct fully driverless commercial operations in the UAE. The partnership between WeRide and Uber, which began in December 2024, has already expanded to cover about half of Abu Dhabi’s core areas, including Al Reem and Al Maryah.

  • Israel launches major assault in West Bank city as helicopters shoot at homes

    Israel launches major assault in West Bank city as helicopters shoot at homes

    Israeli forces initiated a large-scale military operation in the northern occupied West Bank city of Tubas on Wednesday, marking a significant escalation in the region. The assault began in the early hours, with troops forcibly entering Palestinian homes in Tammun, Tayasir, and Aqaba, converting several residences into temporary military barracks. Residents were evicted from their homes, and roads were sealed off with earth mounds, severely restricting movement across the area. Local media reported the presence of Apache helicopters overhead, allegedly firing indiscriminately at civilian properties. Videos circulating online depicted Israeli forces setting up equipment on rooftops and obstructing ambulance crews attempting to aid injured Palestinians. The Tubas Governorate responded by suspending operations in all governmental and private institutions, including schools, which transitioned to online activities for the day. Tubas’ governor refuted Israeli claims that the operation targeted wanted individuals, asserting that no such persons were present. The Israeli military, collaborating with the Shin Bet intelligence agency and Border Guard forces, justified the campaign as a necessary measure to combat ‘terrorist activities’ in the occupied territory. Hamas and the Islamic Jihad movement condemned the incursion, accusing Israel of systematic aggression aimed at displacing Palestinians and seizing their land. Similar military raids were reported in Tulkarm, Nablus, and Hebron, part of a broader escalation since October 2023. Over the past two years, Israeli forces have killed over 1,000 Palestinians and arrested thousands more, with human rights groups documenting arbitrary arrests and civilian casualties. The recent operation echoes earlier large-scale incursions, such as the 2025 attacks on Jenin and Tulkarm, which displaced approximately 30,000 people and caused extensive destruction.

  • Xinshengwei Yangtze River Bridge opens in Nanjing

    Xinshengwei Yangtze River Bridge opens in Nanjing

    The Xinshengwei Yangtze River Bridge in Nanjing, Jiangsu province, officially commenced operations on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in the region’s infrastructure development. After more than five years of meticulous construction, the bridge now drastically reduces travel time between downtown Nanjing and the Jiangbei New Area to a mere 10 minutes. Spanning approximately 13.17 kilometers, the bridge features a six-lane mainline designed for speeds of up to 80 km per hour. Its centerpiece is a single-span suspension bridge with a steel box girder, boasting a main span of 1,760 meters, making it China’s longest and the world’s third-longest in its category. Innovative double-layer reinforcement technology was employed during construction to ensure the stability of deep foundation pits, guaranteeing the bridge’s structural integrity. Beyond enhancing Nanjing’s Yangtze River crossing capacity, the bridge also significantly upgrades the regional road network, fostering economic growth and improving transportation efficiency.

  • Telescope in Chile captures stunning new picture of a cosmic butterfly

    Telescope in Chile captures stunning new picture of a cosmic butterfly

    In a remarkable display of cosmic beauty, the Gemini South telescope in Chile has unveiled a mesmerizing image of the Butterfly Nebula, a celestial phenomenon located 2,500 to 3,800 light-years away in the constellation Scorpius. The National Science Foundation’s NoirLab released the image on Wednesday, showcasing the nebula’s grand and graceful structure, which resembles the wings of a butterfly. This stunning visual was captured last month as part of a celebration marking the 25th anniversary of the International Gemini Observatory. The Butterfly Nebula, formally known as a bipolar nebula, is illuminated by a white dwarf star at its core. This aging star shed its outer layers of gas long ago, and the expelled material now forms the nebula’s expansive, glowing wings. The heat from the star causes the gas to radiate, creating the ethereal glow visible in the image. The astronomical target was chosen by schoolchildren in Chile, adding a touch of local engagement to this scientific milestone. The Gemini Observatory continues to contribute to our understanding of the universe, offering breathtaking glimpses into the cosmos.

  • Australia’s beloved weather website got a makeover – and infuriated users

    Australia’s beloved weather website got a makeover – and infuriated users

    The Bureau of Meteorology (Bom), Australia’s national weather agency, faced widespread backlash following the launch of its redesigned website on October 22. The update, which cost an astonishing A$96.5 million (US$62.3 million), was intended to enhance stability, security, and accessibility after a major cybersecurity breach in 2015. However, the changes were met with fierce criticism from users, particularly farmers and fishermen, who found the new interface less functional and harder to navigate. Complaints ranged from the altered color scheme of the rain radar to the inability to input GPS coordinates for location-specific forecasts. The hashtag #changeitback quickly went viral on social media, reflecting public dissatisfaction. Psychologist Joel Pearson likened the situation to a poorly executed home renovation, where the contractor not only made the house less functional but also charged exorbitantly. The timing of the launch, coinciding with severe weather conditions, further exacerbated frustrations. Within days, the acting head of Bom issued an apology, and parts of the old site were reinstated to appease users. Despite assurances that the community had been consulted, the overwhelming negative feedback suggested otherwise. The incident highlighted the cultural significance of Bom in Australia, where extreme weather events are increasingly common due to climate change. Sociologist Ash Watson noted that while the intentions behind the redesign were good, the public’s fatigue with constant technological changes played a role in the backlash. The controversy also reignited debates about the efficient use of taxpayer money, with government officials demanding accountability. Bom’s spokesperson acknowledged the mixed feedback but emphasized that further adjustments would be made based on user input.

  • ‘I am devastated’: Hong Kong residents in disbelief after fire destroys blocks of flats

    ‘I am devastated’: Hong Kong residents in disbelief after fire destroys blocks of flats

    A catastrophic fire engulfed the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district on Wednesday, claiming at least 36 lives and leaving hundreds unaccounted for. The blaze, which rapidly spread across eight blocks, forced over a thousand residents to evacuate, with many seeking refuge in temporary shelters. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but it is believed to have been fueled by bamboo scaffolding surrounding the buildings, which were undergoing renovations. Witnesses described scenes of chaos and despair as flames consumed the high-rise structures, with some residents watching helplessly as their homes burned. Local councillor Mui Siu-fung reported receiving numerous distress calls from families searching for missing relatives. Among the affected was Harry Cheung, a 66-year-old resident of block two, who recounted hearing a loud noise before witnessing the fire erupt in a nearby block. “I don’t even know how I feel right now,” Cheung said, expressing uncertainty about his immediate future. Another resident, Jason Kong, shared his devastation, stating, “I am devastated. There are so many neighbours and friends. I do not know what is going on anymore.” Criticism has been directed at the government’s response, with some residents questioning the lack of immediate action. Ms. Poon, a resident in her sixties, voiced her disappointment, noting the proximity of the fire station and the rapid spread of the flames. Despite the ongoing efforts to contain the fire, officials have not provided a timeline for its complete extinguishment. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee assured that government departments are assisting affected residents, but many expressed frustration and heartbreak over the tragedy. The community has rallied to support victims, with local residents donating supplies such as blankets and heat packs. As the investigation into the fire’s cause continues, the focus remains on preventing further casualties and providing aid to those displaced by the disaster.

  • Garmin Fitness Fest UAE – Winter Chapter 2025 concludes with record-breaking participation and community spirit

    Garmin Fitness Fest UAE – Winter Chapter 2025 concludes with record-breaking participation and community spirit

    DUBAI, UAE – The Garmin Fitness Fest UAE Winter Chapter 2025 concluded triumphantly on November 15-16 at Al-Nasr Club, Dubai, setting unprecedented participation records with over 10,000 attendees. This landmark multisport festival, seamlessly integrated with the Dubai Fitness Challenge 30×30 initiative, has solidified its position as the nation’s premier fitness celebration.

    The two-day extravaganza featured seven competitive disciplines including cricket, football, badminton, basketball, volleyball, table tennis, and swimming. Beyond competitive events, the festival offered inclusive running activities, diverse fitness challenges, and a massively attended walkathon that emerged as one of the weekend’s most popular attractions.

    Participants across all fitness levels and age groups converged in a dynamic environment that promoted accessible physical activity. The festival atmosphere was electrified by entertainment offerings and prizes exceeding Dh500,000 in value, creating continuous excitement across all venues.

    Competitive events displayed exceptional athletic prowess and sportsmanship, highlighting the UAE’s growing talent pool across multiple disciplines. The signature walkathon attracted particularly strong participation, with many attendees utilizing Garmin’s specially developed event watch face to track performance metrics and enhance their experience.

    The closing ceremony culminated the weekend with spectacular festivities, bringing together athletes, families, and sponsors. The celebration featured live entertainment, an awards ceremony, and special appearances by Garmin’s international team alongside AMIT Retail representatives.

    Major sponsors including Kinza, Insurance Market, Prime Healthcare, Masafi, JIMMY, AMIT Care, fnp.ae, Fitness First, Beat Diabetes by Landmark Group, Shokz, and Vibe FM demonstrated strong corporate support for wellness initiatives.

    Manvinder Singh Chadha, General Manager of AMIT Retail LLC, expressed profound satisfaction with the event’s impact: ‘This Winter Chapter represents our most successful and engaging edition yet, reflecting our commitment to fostering a health-conscious community in the UAE.’

    Tim Spurling, General Manager for Emerging Markets at Garmin, noted the event’s significance: ‘The extraordinary energy witnessed throughout the festival underscores the UAE’s embrace of innovation and active living, reinforcing Garmin’s mission to empower individuals across the region.’

    With momentum building from this record-breaking event, Garmin anticipates expanding future offerings with enhanced sports programming, innovative challenges, and broader community engagement opportunities under its #BeatYesterday initiative.