A devastating 5.5 magnitude earthquake has struck Bangladesh, resulting in the tragic loss of at least five lives, including one child, and leaving more than 450 people injured. The epicenter of the quake was located near the Narsingdi district, approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) from the capital city of Dhaka. The tremors caused widespread panic, with residents fleeing their homes as buildings shook and makeshift structures collapsed. A stampede at Dhaka University injured at least 10 students as they attempted to evacuate. Syeda Rizwana Hasan, the country’s environmental adviser, remarked, ‘We have never experienced an earthquake this powerful in the last five years.’ In Dhaka’s Armanitola area, three fatalities occurred when a railing and debris fell from a five-story building, according to deputy police commissioner Mallik Ahsan Uddin Sami. Nitai Chandra De Sarkar, director of the monitoring division, reported 461 injuries nationwide, with 252 in the Gazipur district north of Dhaka. Sarkar emphasized the immediate focus on assessing casualties and damage, noting that rescue operations and debris management were not yet significant challenges. Witnesses described the terrifying experience, with Bengali Sadman Sakib stating, ‘I have never felt such a tremor in my 30 years of life.’ The earthquake also disrupted Ireland’s second cricket test match in Bangladesh, causing a brief pause in play. Heinrich Malan, Ireland’s head coach, expressed concern for those affected, stating, ‘We’re thinking of everyone and hoping there wasn’t too much damage done.’ Tremors were felt in eastern Indian states bordering Bangladesh, but no major damage was reported.
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IQ Global Education Fair 2025 celebrates remarkable success in Dubai
The 14th annual IQ Global Education Fair, held on November 8, 2025, at the Mövenpick Hotel in Dubai, has been celebrated as a resounding success. This prestigious event drew an exceptional turnout of students and parents, offering a vibrant platform for direct interaction with representatives from leading universities worldwide. Attendees had the unique opportunity to explore a diverse array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, engage in one-on-one discussions with admissions officers, and acquire crucial insights to inform their academic choices. The fair served as an essential resource for students seeking expert advice on university applications, scholarship opportunities, and admission processes. For those unable to attend, IQ Education Consultants continues to provide expert guidance and dedicated support to help students gain admission to top-tier global universities. Embark on your academic journey with IQ Education Consultants — your trusted partner in achieving global success.
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Dubai Shopping Festival to begin on December 5; prizes up to Dh400,000
The much-anticipated Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is set to return for its 31st edition, running from December 5, 2025, to January 11, 2026. This year’s festival promises to transform Dubai into a vibrant winter wonderland, offering an array of shopping, entertainment, culinary delights, and cultural experiences. Spanning 38 days, the festival will feature a series of events, competitions, and giveaways designed to captivate both residents and visitors alike. Shoppers spending Dh200 or more will have the opportunity to win daily prizes, including a brand-new Nissan and Dh100,000 in cash. The grand finale will see one lucky winner take home a staggering Dh400,000. Additionally, weekly draws will distribute over Dh2.6 million worth of gold, adding to the festival’s allure. The DSF has become a hallmark of Dubai’s festive season, drawing millions of participants each year. This edition aims to surpass previous years in scale and excitement, reinforcing Dubai’s reputation as a global hub for shopping and entertainment. With its blend of luxury, culture, and community spirit, the Dubai Shopping Festival continues to be a must-attend event on the international calendar.
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South African women stage lie-down protest against gender-based violence ahead of G20 summit
In a poignant demonstration against gender-based violence, hundreds of women clad in black gathered at a Johannesburg park on Friday, just one day before the commencement of the G20 summit. The 15-minute lie-down protest symbolized the tragic reality that 15 women lose their lives daily to gender-based violence in South Africa. Organized by the nonprofit Women for Change, the event aimed to draw global attention to the crisis, which has plagued the nation for decades. Despite South Africa’s progressive stance on gender issues during its G20 presidency, the country’s femicide rate remains alarmingly high, five times the global average, according to U.N. Women. Protest coordinator Courtney Gelderblom, 19, described the act as ‘a minute of silence for every woman that could have fallen within the day,’ emphasizing the need to mourn and honor the victims. The protest saw participation from ordinary citizens, activists, and survivors of gender violence, some of whom wept while lying down. Placards bearing messages like ‘Why do you hate us?’ and ‘My body is not your crime scene’ underscored the urgency of the issue. The demonstration was part of a month-long campaign by Women for Change, which garnered over a million signatures on a petition urging the government to act. In response, the South African government declared gender-based violence a national disaster, mandating authorities to allocate resources and take decisive action. President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged the crisis during a G20 sideline summit, calling it a ‘national crisis.’ Gender violence expert Professor Corné Davis-Buitendag highlighted the global implications of the issue, noting its significant economic and societal costs. Despite legal reforms aimed at supporting victims, the rates of gender-based violence continue to rise. The Women for Change petition calls for stricter measures, including denying bail in severe cases, imposing life sentences for offenders, and holding officials accountable for negligence.
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Steve Rosenberg: Kremlin tight-lipped on leaked plan – but advises Kyiv to accept
In a striking juxtaposition of diplomatic and military postures, the United States and Russia presented divergent approaches to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine on Thursday. While a US Pentagon delegation engaged in discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding a draft peace plan, Russian President Vladimir Putin, clad in military attire, reaffirmed his commitment to continuing the war during a meeting with army chiefs. Putin emphasized the ‘unconditional achievement’ of Russia’s objectives in what he termed the ‘special military operation.’
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Safeguarding life on the Roof of the World
In the majestic expanse of the Himalayas, often referred to as the ‘Roof of the World,’ a unique initiative is unfolding. The multi-ethnic team known as the Friends of Himalayan Creatures has joined forces with local communities to protect this sacred landscape. Their mission is not only to safeguard the region’s rich biodiversity but also to share its story with the world through the compelling power of imagery. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of preserving the delicate ecosystems of the Himalayas, which are home to a myriad of species, including the iconic black-necked cranes. By documenting their conservation work, the team aims to raise global awareness and inspire collective action towards environmental stewardship. The initiative underscores the critical role of local engagement and the use of visual storytelling in fostering a deeper connection between humanity and nature.
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UAE to invest up to $50 billion in Canada in industries such as AI, energy
In a landmark move to bolster economic ties, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has unveiled plans to invest up to $50 billion in Canada across key sectors, including artificial intelligence (AI), energy, logistics, and mining. This strategic initiative, approved by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering global partnerships and driving mutual prosperity. The announcement came during Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent visit to the UAE, where both nations signed an agreement to enhance investment protection and promotion, further solidifying their economic collaboration. The UAE’s foreign direct investment stock in Canada stood at approximately $8.8 billion in 2024, significantly outpacing Canada’s $242 million in direct investments in the UAE during the same period. This new framework reflects the UAE’s position as a leading global investor and its dedication to supporting shared development goals with Canada.
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SRK gets his own tower in Dubai: Danube launches ‘SHAHRUKHZ by Danube’
In a historic move, Danube Properties has unveiled ‘SHAHRUKHZ by Danube’, a state-of-the-art commercial tower named after Bollywood legend Shah Rukh Khan. This 55-storey marvel, located on Dubai’s prestigious Sheikh Zayed Road, commemorates 33 years of excellence for both Khan and Danube Group, symbolizing their shared ethos of resilience, innovation, and relentless ambition. The tower, designed for visionaries and empire builders, is set to redefine Dubai’s skyline as a beacon of luxury and success. The announcement was made at a grand gala event at the Grand Hyatt Mumbai, attended by Khan and Danube’s founder, Rizwan Sajan, alongside prominent influencers, business leaders, and media personalities. Khan expressed his gratitude, stating, ‘Dubai has always been a city of dreams, and this tower is a testament to the power of belief and hard work.’ Sajan echoed this sentiment, highlighting their shared journey of humble beginnings and global impact. Spanning over 1 million sqft, SHAHRUKHZ by Danube offers world-class amenities, including a sky pool, helipad, and exclusive business lounges, with prices starting at $475,000. Its strategic location near landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai International Airport further enhances its appeal. Danube’s innovative 1% monthly payment plan continues to make premium real estate accessible, reinforcing its commitment to value-driven investments.
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Khan Younis venue, dabke: How UAE prepares for mass Gaza Eid Al Etihad wedding
In a groundbreaking initiative, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to host a historic mass wedding in Gaza, marking a significant moment of joy and unity for a community deeply scarred by two years of conflict. Scheduled for December 2, 2025, the event will celebrate the union of 54 couples, symbolizing the UAE’s 54th National Day. This initiative, part of Operation Chivalrous Knight 3, aims to alleviate the financial burdens of marriage for young Palestinians and restore a sense of hope and happiness to the region.
The mass wedding, dubbed the ‘Gown of Joy’ initiative, is the first of its kind in Gaza since the onset of the war. It represents a profound gesture of solidarity between the Emirati and Palestinian peoples. Mohammed AlShareef, spokesperson for Operation Chivalrous Knight 3, emphasized the symbolic importance of the event, stating, ‘The UAE rejoices with Palestine, and Palestine celebrates the UAE’s national occasion.’
Preparations for the event are extensive, involving logistical coordination for venue setup, stage design, and the provision of essential items such as wedding attire, furniture, and financial assistance. The UAE will cover all costs, ensuring that the couples can begin their married lives with dignity and support. The event will feature traditional performances, including dabke dancers and national folklore ensembles, creating a vibrant atmosphere of celebration.
The selection process for the couples was rigorous, with criteria including age, financial need, and priority given to those who lost family members during the war. The event will take place in Khan Younis, chosen for its logistical advantages and open spaces. Security measures have been carefully planned, with the area designated as a ‘green zone’ to ensure the safety of all participants.
This initiative not only provides immediate relief to the couples but also sets a precedent for future humanitarian efforts in Gaza. AlShareef expressed hope that the success of this event will inspire similar programs, addressing the broader challenges faced by young Palestinians in starting their families. The mass wedding is a testament to the UAE’s commitment to fostering resilience and unity in the face of adversity.
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What we know about leaked US draft plan to end Russia’s Ukraine war
A leaked draft of a US-Russia peace plan has ignited widespread debate as it outlines significant concessions to Moscow, particularly regarding Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The proposal suggests transferring control of Ukraine’s industrial eastern Donbas region, still under Ukrainian authority, to de facto Russian control. Additionally, Ukraine would be required to reduce its armed forces to 600,000 personnel, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from Kyiv. The draft, comprising 28 key points, includes provisions for Ukraine’s sovereignty to be “confirmed” and a comprehensive non-aggression agreement between Russia, Ukraine, and Europe. However, the lack of detail on security guarantees and the proposal for snap elections within 100 days have raised concerns. The plan also calls for Ukraine to constitutionally renounce NATO membership, while offering short-term EU market access. Critics argue that the draft heavily favors Russia, particularly with provisions to reintegrate Moscow into the global economy and the G8. The proposal to invest $100 billion of frozen Russian assets in Ukraine’s reconstruction, with half the profits going to the US, has also been met with skepticism. While some points aim to address Russia’s grievances, such as halting NATO expansion and ensuring equal rights for Russian-speaking populations in Ukraine, the overall slant towards Moscow’s narrative has been widely criticized. The plan’s aggressive timeline, with Ukraine reportedly given until Thanksgiving to agree, has further fueled tensions. Both the European Union and Russia have stated they have not officially seen the draft, adding to the uncertainty surrounding its legitimacy and implementation.