The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has approved a US-backed resolution outlining President Donald Trump’s vision for Gaza’s future, including a contentious reference to the possibility of a Palestinian state. The resolution, UNSC 2803, passed with 13 votes in favor and abstentions from Russia and China. Israel, though present at the meeting, was not eligible to vote. The resolution suggests that Palestinian self-determination and statehood could be achievable if the Palestinian Authority (PA) implements reforms and Gaza’s redevelopment progresses. Despite Israel’s last-minute efforts to remove references to Palestinian statehood, the US maintained the language, signaling its commitment to maintaining ties with key Muslim allies. The resolution also proposes the creation of an ‘International Stabilisation Force’ for Gaza, modeled after the UN-backed force in Haiti. However, the plan has faced criticism for excluding Palestinian participation and imposing foreign governance. Russia had proposed an alternative resolution, emphasizing the formation of a Palestinian state encompassing Gaza and the West Bank. The US resolution builds on Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza, with a ‘Board of Peace’ chaired by Trump overseeing the security force. Critics argue that the resolution perpetuates occupation rather than fostering self-governance. The adoption of the resolution marks a significant shift for the Trump administration, which has historically been hostile toward the UN. Arab and Muslim states view this as a victory, as they seek to avoid being seen as occupiers on Israel’s behalf. The resolution’s implementation remains uncertain, with Israel already accused of breaching the ceasefire over 250 times.
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Naomi Osaka withdraws from the Auckland WTA event to play for Japan at the United Cup
Tennis star Naomi Osaka has announced her withdrawal from the ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand, scheduled for January 2026. The four-time Grand Slam champion, who had previously committed to the event in September, has decided to represent Japan in the United Cup instead. Osaka informed Auckland tournament director Nicolas Lamperin of her change in plans, opting to begin her preparations for the Australian Open in Australia. Osaka, a former world No. 1, will team up with Shintaro Mochizuki for Japan in the United Cup, which runs from January 2 to 11 in Perth. Japan is set to face Britain and Greece in the group stage. The Australian Open, the year’s first Grand Slam tournament, will commence on January 18 at Melbourne Park. Osaka’s decision marks a strategic shift in her early-season schedule as she aims to balance national representation and Grand Slam preparation.
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Dubai’s land market skyrockets 403% as strategic planning redefines urban growth
Dubai’s real estate sector has undergone a transformative surge, with land transaction values skyrocketing by 403.6% between 2019 and 2024, according to JLL’s latest report, *Beyond the Skyline: Dubai’s Land Market Transformation Story*. This unprecedented growth, driven by strategic urban planning, infrastructure investment, and regulatory reforms, has positioned Dubai as a global model for sustainable urban development. From Dh13.7 billion in 2019, land transaction values soared to Dh68.8 billion in 2024, with volumes nearly tripling from 691 to 1,991 deals. The momentum continued into 2025, with Dh43 billion worth of transactions in the first half alone, marking a 42.9% year-on-year increase. Freehold areas have emerged as the standout performers, with transaction volumes growing by 495.8%, compared to 240.7% in non-freehold zones. This trend reflects investor preference for unrestricted ownership rights and validates Dubai’s strategic expansion of freehold zones, including recent conversions along Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf. Tim Millard, Head of Value and Risk Advisory – Mena at JLL, emphasized that Dubai’s real estate transformation has global implications, offering a blueprint for markets seeking international investment. Dubai’s population has surged from 2.3 million in 2014 to over 4 million in 2025, with projections reaching 5.8 million by 2040. This demographic growth has been leveraged through strategic urban planning, with large-scale projects such as Dubai South and communities along Dubai-Al Ain Road activating peripheral zones. Prime districts like Business Bay, Downtown Dubai, and Dubai Marina continue to command premium valuations. Infrastructure spending remains a cornerstone of Dubai’s growth, with Dh39 billion allocated in 2025—nearly 46% of its annual budget—to infrastructure and construction. Regulatory innovations, including mandatory escrow accounts, blockchain-enabled property transactions, and Transit-Oriented Development rezoning, have enhanced transparency and investor confidence. Residential prices have soared, with apartments up 63.5% and villas up 116.3% since 2019, supported by a 518.5% rise in transaction activity. Commercial real estate is equally buoyant, with prime office rents jumping 76.8% and Grade A rents rising 69.9%. Mixed-use developments dominate investor interest, accounting for 27.6% of total land transaction value (Dh70.3 billion). Geographically, Business Bay (Dh11.6 billion) and Dubai Islands (Dh11.4 billion) lead the pack, while emerging corridors like Reem and Dubai South show growing traction. Premium pricing is evident in Dubai Marina (Dh1,092 per sq. ft.) and Business Bay (Dh687 per sq. ft.), while up-and-coming areas such as Arjan and Dubai Creek Harbour have seen land values surge by 379.6% and 81.4% respectively since 2019. JLL analysts assert that Dubai’s real estate boom is not cyclical but the result of deliberate, forward-looking strategies, offering both immediate opportunities and long-term lessons in value creation through integrated urban planning.
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Comfort food and clean eating drive UAE’s dining trends
The UAE’s culinary scene is undergoing a significant transformation as consumers increasingly seek a balance between indulgent comfort food and health-conscious, clean eating. This dual demand is reshaping dining habits across the region, with pizza emerging as a standout beneficiary of this trend. Industry experts attribute this shift to the pandemic, which heightened the appeal of affordable, shareable meals that are easy to transport. High-quality comfort food is now seen as a resilient category in the dining landscape. Simultaneously, the growing emphasis on health and wellness is driving restaurants to prioritize ingredient purity and transparency. From pesticide-free produce to seed-oil-free cooking, clean eating has transitioned from a niche preference to a mainstream expectation. Restaurants are responding by sourcing premium ingredients, such as Italian tomatoes free of pesticides and herbicides, and opting for olive oil over processed alternatives. Dubai, with its diverse population of residents and tourists, is at the forefront of these trends. The city’s cosmopolitan audience demands authenticity and quality, whether in traditional Middle Eastern dishes or global favorites like pizza. This dynamic environment has attracted international brands like Grimaldi’s Pizzeria, which recently made its Dubai debut. Known for its coal-fired ovens and century-old legacy, Grimaldi’s is expanding its presence in the UAE after two successful years in Abu Dhabi. The brand differentiates itself through its use of anthracite coal, which imparts a unique flavor to its dough, and its commitment to health-conscious practices, such as seed-oil-free recipes and high-quality ingredients. Grimaldi’s expansion strategy includes plans to open more outlets in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with Saudi Arabia also on the horizon. Beyond physical locations, the brand is innovating with a new line of pasta sauces made from premium ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and extra virgin olive oil, soon to be available in Lulu Hypermarkets. For Grimaldi’s CEO Joseph Ciolli, the timeless appeal of pizza lies in its universal accessibility, making it a perfect fit for a market where comfort food meets clean eating.
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Oil prices steady after loadings resume at Russian export hub
Oil prices remained relatively stable on Monday following the resumption of loadings at Russia’s Novorossiysk export hub, which had been temporarily halted due to a Ukrainian attack. Brent crude saw a marginal decline of 8 cents, settling at $64.31 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude dipped by 10 cents to $59.99. The Novorossiysk port, a critical Black Sea facility, resumed operations on Sunday after a two-day suspension that disrupted approximately 2% of global oil supply. The pause had initially caused a 2% surge in oil prices on Friday, but the market quickly adjusted as operations normalized. However, concerns persist over Ukraine’s continued targeting of Russian oil infrastructure, including recent strikes on the Ryazan and Novokuibyshevsk refineries. Analysts are closely monitoring the long-term impact of these attacks on Russia’s crude exports, alongside the effects of Western sanctions. The U.S. has imposed sanctions on Russian oil companies Lukoil and Rosneft, effective November 21, aiming to pressure Moscow into peace negotiations. Additionally, OPEC+ has maintained its December output target increase of 137,000 barrels per day, consistent with October and November levels, while pausing further increases in the first quarter of 2026. Despite these developments, the oil market faces ongoing volatility due to geopolitical risks and fluctuating global supply. Speculators have increased net long positions in ICE Brent, reflecting cautious optimism amid supply uncertainties. Analysts predict that oil prices will remain supported, with potential dips in the near term but a more positive outlook for the latter half of 2026.
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Japan movie releases postponed in China after Taiwan row
The release of two highly anticipated Japanese films in China has been postponed amid escalating diplomatic tensions between the two nations. The delay follows controversial remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan, which have sparked strong reactions from Beijing. The affected films include the animated comedy ‘Crayon Shin-chan the Movie: Super Hot! The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers’ and the live-action adaptation ‘Cells at Work!’, based on a popular manga series. Chinese state media CCTV reported the postponement, citing a reassessment of the overall outlook for Japanese films in China and the prevailing sentiment among Chinese audiences. While the release of the blockbuster anime ‘Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle’ remains uncertain, ticket sales have reportedly declined as the diplomatic row intensifies. Takaichi’s recent comments in the Japanese parliament, suggesting potential military action if China attacks Taiwan, have further strained bilateral relations. In response, Beijing has advised its citizens to avoid travel to Japan and reconsider studying there, citing safety concerns. The fallout has also impacted Japanese tourism, airline, and retail sectors, with stocks experiencing sharp declines. China views Taiwan as a breakaway province and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve reunification, while many Taiwanese see themselves as part of a separate nation, though most prefer maintaining the current status quo. The postponement of these films underscores the broader cultural and economic repercussions of the ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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Alphabet shares hit record after Berkshire makes rare tech bet with $4.9 billion stake
Alphabet Inc., the parent company of Google, saw its shares surge nearly 6% to a record high on Monday following Berkshire Hathaway’s announcement of a $4.93 billion stake in the tech giant. This investment, comprising 17.85 million shares, marks a rare foray into the technology sector by Berkshire, a conglomerate historically cautious about tech investments. The move is seen as a significant endorsement of Alphabet’s artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives amidst growing concerns of a potential tech bubble. Warren Buffett, Berkshire’s legendary investor, has long favored consumer-focused companies like Apple, making this investment a notable shift in strategy. Analysts suggest that Alphabet’s strong fundamentals, including its robust AI infrastructure, early adoption of AI search tools, and massive advertising revenue, align with Berkshire’s value-investing philosophy. The purchase also addresses Buffett’s regret over missing early opportunities in Google. Alphabet’s shares have risen nearly 14% in the December quarter, making it the best-performing member of the ‘Magnificent Seven’ tech stocks this year. The company’s valuation, at 25 times forward earnings, is lower than peers like Microsoft and Nvidia, further enhancing its appeal. Berkshire’s investment has sparked renewed interest in Alphabet among retail investors, with the stock trending highly on platforms like Stocktwits. Despite this move, Berkshire remains a net seller of equities, with its cash reserves reaching a record $381.7 billion, signaling Buffett’s cautious stance on current market valuations.
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Ittihad successfully prices $550 million 5-year non-call 2 144a/Reg S Sukuk
Ittihad has successfully priced a $550 million 5-year non-call 2 144A/Reg S Sukuk, marking a significant step in its strategy to enhance its capital structure and extend its debt maturity profile. The Sukuk, which carries a 7.375% coupon, was oversubscribed by more than four times, attracting a diverse range of high-quality global investors. This issuance saw 65% of the final allocation placed with international investors and 35% with regional investors, significantly broadening Ittihad’s investor base across geographies and investor types. The strong demand allowed Ittihad to tighten initial price thoughts by 50 basis points during the bookbuilding process. The transaction was further bolstered by Ittihad’s recent credit rating upgrades to BB- by both S&P and Fitch, which highlighted the company’s improving financial profile and strategic outlook. Amer Kakish, CEO of Ittihad, expressed satisfaction with the issuance, noting it reflects global confidence in the company’s direction. Stefan Weiler of JPMorgan, which acted as Joint Global Coordinator, praised the achievement as a testament to Ittihad’s growth. Proceeds from the Sukuk will be used for debt refinancing. The issuance was managed by a consortium of leading financial institutions, including Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, Emirates NBD Bank, and J.P. Morgan Securities.
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‘I served you as mayor’: Eric Adams’s taxpayer-funded Israel trip sparks backlash
New York City’s outgoing mayor, Eric Adams, has ignited a firestorm of criticism following his taxpayer-funded trip to Israel, where he declared that he ‘served’ Israeli Jews during his tenure. The remarks, made during a stop in occupied East Jerusalem, have drawn sharp backlash online, with many questioning the implications of foreign influence on U.S. politics. Adams’ statement, ‘I wanted to come back here to Israel and let you know that I served you as the mayor,’ has been widely condemned as inappropriate and divisive. His office defended the trip as a multi-day visit to meet Israeli officials and explore religious sites, but the timing and tone of his comments have fueled accusations of prioritizing foreign interests over local concerns. The controversy is further amplified by the contrasting stance of mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, who pledged to remain in New York City to address pressing domestic issues rather than embark on symbolic international visits. Adams’ tenure has been marked by aggressive handling of pro-Palestinian protests, including NYPD crackdowns on demonstrations and student encampments. Critics argue that his actions reflect a broader effort to criminalize pro-Palestinian organizing, while supporters of Israel have reportedly urged him to take decisive measures against campus protests. The scandal surrounding Adams’ alleged acceptance of luxury travel and perks from Turkish businesspeople and government officials has further eroded his credibility, raising questions about whose interests he truly serves. As New York City grapples with record homelessness, a housing crisis, and rising costs, Adams’ decision to travel abroad in his final weeks in office has been met with widespread disapproval. His ‘I served you’ remarks, delivered not to New Yorkers but to Israeli Jews, have deepened frustrations among constituents, particularly Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim communities. The incident underscores a broader pattern of Adams aligning closely with Israel while treating pro-Palestinian voices at home with suspicion. Mamdani’s contrasting approach has highlighted the divide between leadership rooted in local accountability and one seeking symbolic alignment abroad. The federal indictment against Adams adds another layer of scrutiny, accusing him of exploiting New York City’s public matching funds program and accepting illicit benefits in exchange for political favors. As the controversy unfolds, many are left questioning the integrity and priorities of their outgoing mayor.
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Dubai’s emotional intelligence expert Dr. Taylor Elizabeth announced as Mrs UAE World 2025
Dr. Taylor Elizabeth, a globally acclaimed emotional intelligence and etiquette coach, has been officially named Mrs UAE World 2025. She will represent the UAE at the prestigious Mrs World pageant, scheduled for early next year. Dr. Taylor’s appointment was announced by Dr. Aditi Govitrikar, the newly appointed Director for Mrs UAE World 2025 and the first-ever Mrs World from India. Dr. Govitrikar praised Dr. Taylor’s multicultural understanding, conscious leadership, and global representation, emphasizing her role as a powerful ambassador for the UAE. Dr. Taylor, a Dubai-based coach with a clientele spanning 22 markets across five continents, is celebrated for her empathy-driven leadership and dedication to women’s empowerment. She believes that pageantry has evolved into a platform for identity, empowerment, and meaningful influence. ‘Mrs World is a space where possibility becomes visible,’ says Dr. Taylor. ‘When women see someone who shares their values or story standing confidently on a global stage, they see what’s possible for themselves too. My vision is to make this platform not just about beauty or competition, but about emotional intelligence, communication, and the power of authenticity.’ Dr. Taylor aims to challenge outdated narratives that expect women to soften their identity or make themselves smaller, instead championing a new language for modern womanhood—one where emotional intelligence, purpose, and self-expression coexist with grace, confidence, and conscious strength. An award-winning thought leader and UN Women Mentor, Dr. Taylor’s credentials are impressive. She has been honored under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Cabinet Minister for Tolerance and Coexistence, and recognized by The Hindustan Times and Observe Now Dubai for excellence in mentorship and leadership. She has spoken at hallmark platforms including the ETHRWorld NexTech Middle East HR Summit, the Economic Times India HR World Annual Conclave, and the Cartier Women’s Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai. A Certified Professional Coach and ICF-accredited Emotional Intelligence Coach, Dr. Taylor also holds specializations in Positive Psychology, Neurobiology Coaching, and Transformational Leadership. Her popular podcast, Success Decoded, now in its third season, features conversations with global thinkers on mindset, mastery, and authentic success. Academically, Dr. Taylor brings a global perspective with an MBA in International Business from The George Washington University and a Master’s in European, Russian, and Eurasian Studies from The Elliott School of International Affairs, complemented by a Diploma in International Etiquette and Protocol from Institut Villa Pierrefeu in Switzerland. As she prepares to carry the UAE’s name to the Mrs World stage, Dr. Taylor steps forward with a message that is unmistakably contemporary: leadership begins with emotional clarity, confidence is a form of service, and the world is ready—more than ever—for women who trust their authenticity and choose to be seen.