Global Pulse

作者： admin

  • Sharjah property prices not ‘peaked’ yet, set to rise over 10% in 2026

    Sharjah property prices not ‘peaked’ yet, set to rise over 10% in 2026

    Sharjah’s property market is poised for another year of significant growth, with industry executives projecting price increases exceeding 10% throughout 2026. This optimistic outlook emerged during the ACRES 2026 exhibition at Expo Centre, where market leaders identified multiple factors driving the emirate’s sustained real estate expansion.

    The recent legislative reform allowing all nationalities to invest in Sharjah’s real estate market has created unprecedented momentum. Amer Al Zarooni, General Manager of Asas Real Estate Company, confirmed that 2025 delivered record transactions with property values appreciating between 10-12%. He anticipates similar performance this year, projecting approximately 10% capital appreciation driven by dramatically increased foreign investor participation.

    Market stability remains a key differentiator for Sharjah. Unlike more volatile markets, Sharjah’s growth pattern demonstrates logical, steady progression rather than wild fluctuations. Lamia Al Jewaied, Head of Studies and Research Bureau at Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department, emphasized that property prices haven’t yet peaked, indicating continued strong returns for investors.

    Multiple structural advantages support this growth trajectory. The emirate’s central geographic location, family-oriented environment, and inclusive investment policies create a compelling market foundation. Government support through facilitative regulations and project encouragement further strengthens real estate company performance, according to Ali Mohammed Mousa, CEO of North Coast Real Estate.

    Specific market segments show particularly strong momentum. Raymond Khouzami, Vice Chairman of Al Thuriah Group, noted waterfront properties experiencing heightened demand with 2025 price increases reaching 20% in some cases. Construction material costs contributed to these increases, though high demand remains the primary driver.

    The convergence of demographic growth, tourism expansion, and supportive government policies creates ideal conditions for sustained market development. Noreen Nasralla, Senior Vice President for Marketing Strategy and Branding at Alef Group, highlighted market stability as a central government focus that will continue attracting both residents and investors throughout the coming year.

  • Trump says Putin accepted to join his ‘Board of Peace’

    Trump says Putin accepted to join his ‘Board of Peace’

    In a significant geopolitical development, former US President Donald Trump announced at the World Economic Forum in Davos that Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to join his proposed ‘Board of Peace’ initiative. This declaration comes despite the Kremlin maintaining that it is still evaluating the invitation.

    Trump confidently stated to international media, ‘He was invited, he’s accepted. Many people have accepted,’ referencing his vaguely defined consortium of world leaders. The initiative, which has drawn skepticism from traditional U.S. allies, reportedly requires a $1 billion contribution for a permanent seat on the board.

    Contradicting Trump’s straightforward assertion, President Putin provided a more measured response during a televised government meeting in Moscow. He revealed that he has instructed the Russian Foreign Ministry to thoroughly analyze the proposal and consult with strategic partners before formulating an official reply.

    In a strategically calculated move, Putin suggested that Russia could fund the billion-dollar membership fee using assets previously frozen by the previous American administration. Furthermore, he proposed these same frozen assets could be allocated to reconstruct territories damaged by hostilities, contingent upon the successful conclusion of a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine.

    The ‘Board of Peace,’ initially conceptualized to oversee Gaza’s reconstruction, appears to have expanded its purported scope according to its charter. The initiative now seemingly positions itself as a potential rival to established international organizations like the United Nations, drawing criticism from several European nations including France.

  • Jordan using Israeli data-gathering software to track activists: Citizen Lab

    Jordan using Israeli data-gathering software to track activists: Citizen Lab

    A groundbreaking investigation by cybersecurity research group Citizen Lab has uncovered that Jordanian authorities are systematically employing digital extraction technology developed by Israeli firm Cellebrite to surveil civil society activists without consent. The report details how Jordan’s security apparatus has utilized these forensic tools to access data from mobile devices belonging to activists and civil society members, bypassing international human rights obligations.

    The research team identified specific technical indicators on both iOS and Android devices that had been seized by Jordanian authorities and subsequently returned to their owners. These digital fingerprints provided high-confidence evidence linking the data extraction to Cellebrite’s proprietary technology. According to court documents examined by Citizen Lab, the extracted data has been utilized in criminal proceedings against activists, raising serious concerns about compliance with human rights treaties that Jordan has ratified.

    Cellebrite, headquartered in Tel Aviv with majority ownership by Japan’s Sun Corporation, has previously supplied its technology to multiple governments worldwide. The company’s products have been implicated in cases targeting dissidents in Myanmar, where they were used against Reuters journalists reporting on the Rohingya crisis, and in Russia against pro-democracy advocates.

    The revelation comes amid escalating tensions in Jordan, where hundreds of citizens have been detained over the past year, many for expressing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Jordan’s General Intelligence Department (GID), commonly known as Mukhabarat, faces mounting criticism following the death of a young man in custody last year.

    Between January 2024 and June 2025, Citizen Lab forensically analyzed three iPhones and one Android device belonging to Jordanian civil society members who had been detained, arrested, or interrogated. All four devices showed clear evidence of forensic extraction using Cellebrite technology. In one particularly telling case, an activist retrieved their iPhone from Amman’s Cybercrime Unit to find their passcode written on tape affixed to the device’s back, despite never having disclosed it during interrogation.

    Cellebrite responded to inquiries by emphasizing that their software constitutes investigative technology rather than spyware, and should only be deployed with proper legal authority or consent. The company stated it strictly licenses its technology for operations conducted under valid legal frameworks, though it declined to comment on specific cases.

    The findings highlight growing concerns about the global proliferation of digital surveillance tools and their application against civil society actors, particularly in regions with fragile democratic institutions.

  • Indian expats in UAE upset over IndiGo’s plan to halt lone Dubai–Bhubaneswar flight

    Indian expats in UAE upset over IndiGo’s plan to halt lone Dubai–Bhubaneswar flight

    The Odia expatriate community in the United Arab Emirates has voiced significant distress over IndiGo Airlines’ apparent decision to terminate its exclusive direct flight connection between Dubai and Bhubaneswar. This strategic aviation link, operating tri-weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, represents the only non-stop service bridging the Gulf region with the capital of Odisha in eastern India.

    Current booking data on IndiGo’s digital platforms indicates the suspension will take effect in late March, with no reservations being accepted beyond this period. This development has generated considerable anxiety among frequent travelers, families maintaining transnational connections, and business professionals who rely on this direct routing.

    The Dubai-Bhubaneswar route, inaugurated with considerable ceremony in May 2023 after nearly a decade of community advocacy, has evolved into a vital transportation artery. It dramatically reduces travel duration between the regions while eliminating the necessity for multiple transfers through other Indian aviation hubs.

    Amiya Kumar Mishra, President of Odisha Samaj UAE, characterized the potential discontinuation as profoundly disappointing. “The launch culminated seven to eight years of persistent effort and represented a monumental achievement for our diaspora,” Mishra stated. “Its termination would adversely impact families, professionals, and commercial enterprises simultaneously.”

    Contrary to the airline’s apparent rationale, passengers report consistently high demand for the service. Dubai-based media professional Sudhashisee Dash, who recently traveled on the route, confirmed the flight operated at full capacity—a pattern she described as typical. This robust passenger load appears inconsistent with the commercial justification for route termination.

    The suspension follows the recent discontinuation of the Abu Dhabi-Bhubaneswar service last month, compounding connectivity challenges for the Odia community across the UAE. Collectively, these developments have severed direct air links between Odisha and two major Emirates.

    The issue has transcended community concerns to attract political attention within Odisha. The opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has formally urged state government intervention to protect international connectivity, while Odisha Samaj UAE has petitioned the state’s Chief Secretary for immediate action to preserve this critical aviation link.

  • Weekly quiz: How did this cow surprise scientists?

    Weekly quiz: How did this cow surprise scientists?

    The past week witnessed several notable developments across the global landscape, with prominent figures making headlines for various reasons. Former U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his expressed dissatisfaction regarding not receiving last year’s Nobel Peace Prize, marking another instance of his public commentary on international recognition. Meanwhile, Brooklyn Peltz Beckham, member of the prominent Beckham family, officially acknowledged circulating speculation about familial discord, confirming tensions within the high-profile household. In entertainment news, celebrated culinary expert Dame Prue Leith disclosed her decision to depart from the popular baking competition series, marking the end of an era for the beloved television program. These developments occurred alongside numerous other global events that captured international attention throughout the seven-day period, demonstrating the diverse nature of current affairs. News organizations continue to provide comprehensive coverage and analysis of these stories, with interactive quizzes and archival materials allowing readers to engage with and test their knowledge of contemporary events.

  • Emirati Work Bundle introduced for UAE citizens in private sector

    Emirati Work Bundle introduced for UAE citizens in private sector

    The United Arab Emirates has inaugurated a groundbreaking digital platform designed to revolutionize the employment experience for its citizens in the private sector. The ‘Emirati Work Bundle,’ unveiled by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) on January 22, 2026, represents a significant advancement in the nation’s workforce development strategy.

    This comprehensive digital ecosystem provides end-to-end services that commence with registration on the established ‘Nafis’ platform and extend through the entire employment lifecycle, culminating with enrollment in the UAE’s pension and social security frameworks. The initiative forms an integral component of the nation’s Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme, aiming to eliminate administrative obstacles and enhance operational efficiency.

    Khalil Khoori, Undersecretary of Labour Market and Emiratisation Operations at MoHRE, emphasized the platform’s capacity to streamline procedures and minimize documentation requirements for both Emirati job seekers and private sector employers. The system leverages unprecedented data integration across multiple government entities, including the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), the General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA), and several health and digital authorities.

    Senior officials from participating institutions have welcomed the initiative. Major General Saeed Salem Balhas Al Shamsi, ICP’s acting director general, noted the platform’s potential to deliver exceptional and expedited services. Feras Al Ramahi, GPSSA director general, highlighted how the integration enables real-time tracking of citizen status updates, accelerating digital service delivery. Khalaf Abdullah Rahma Al Hammadi of the Abu Dhabi Pension Fund emphasized the critical importance of early and accurate pension registration for strengthening social protection systems and safeguarding citizens’ retirement rights.

  • Eight surprise takeaways from the Oscar nominations

    Eight surprise takeaways from the Oscar nominations

    The 2026 Oscar nominations ceremony commenced with an immediate shock as hosts Danielle Brooks and Lewis Pullman announced Elle Fanning’s unexpected Best Supporting Actress nomination for ‘Sentimental Value.’ This early surprise established the tone for an announcement filled with both startling omissions and remarkable recognitions across major categories.

    Several critically acclaimed performances failed to secure nominations, generating significant buzz. Paul Mescal was surprisingly absent from the Supporting Actor lineup for ‘Hamnet,’ while breakout star Chase Infiniti was overlooked for Best Actress despite her lauded performance in ‘One Battle After Another.’ Other notable snubs included Jesse Plemons for ‘Bugonia’ and Joel Edgerton for ‘Train Dreams,’ though both films earned Best Picture nominations.

    The biggest surprise in the Best Picture category emerged with the inclusion of Brad Pitt’s racing drama ‘F1.’ While expected to receive technical nominations, its ascent to the top category without corresponding directing or acting nods demonstrated strong support from Academy traditionalists who appreciate well-crafted, mainstream cinema.

    Ryan Coogler’s vampire horror film ‘Sinners’ achieved historic recognition with a record-breaking 16 nominations, surpassing previous record holders ‘La La Land,’ ‘Titanic,’ and ‘All About Eve.’ The film’s artistic fusion of genre horror with 1930s blues music set in the Mississippi Delta resonated powerfully with voters, maintaining remarkable momentum since its spring release. The production also made industry headlines for Coogler’s groundbreaking deal with Warner Brothers that will return the film’s ownership rights to him after 25 years.

    In a dramatic reversal of fortune, the ‘Wicked’ sequel failed to secure any nominations after its predecessor garnered 10 nods and two wins. Particularly surprising was the omission of Ariana Grande’s newly added song ‘The Girl in the Bubble’ from the Original Song category. Mainstream recognition instead appeared in the Animated Feature category with blockbusters ‘Zootopia 2’ and viral sensation ‘KPop Demon Hunters.’

    ‘Sinners’ delivered the only British acting nominations through Wunmi Mosaku (Supporting Actress) and Delroy Lindo (Supporting Actor), with Lindo’s inclusion at age 73 marking a long-overdue recognition after his previous near-miss for ‘Da 5 Bloods.’

    Several actresses carried their films as sole nominees, including Rose Byrne for ‘If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,’ Kate Hudson for ‘Song Sung Blue,’ and Amy Madigan for horror film ‘Weapons’—a particularly notable achievement given the genre’s typical Oscar aversion.

    The newly introduced Casting category generated its own controversy when ‘Sentimental Value’ failed to receive recognition despite all four lead actors—Stellan Skarsgård, Elle Fanning, Renate Reinsve, and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas—earning individual nominations, raising questions about the selection criteria for the award.

    Timothée Chalamet emerged as the clear Best Actor frontrunner for ‘Marty Supreme,’ positioning him for his first Oscar win. At 30, he becomes the youngest actor since Marlon Brando to receive three Leading Actor nominations, having previously been nominated for his portrayal of Bob Dylan in ‘A Complete Unknown.’

  • Egyptian Relief Committee and AFP slam Israeli attack that killed three journalists in Gaza

    Egyptian Relief Committee and AFP slam Israeli attack that killed three journalists in Gaza

    Israel faces mounting international criticism following a military strike that killed three Palestinian journalists in central Gaza on January 21, 2026. The journalists—Mohammad Salah Qishta, Abdul Raouf Samir Shaat (a freelancer for Agence France-Presse), and Anas Ghanem—were documenting conditions at a displaced persons camp operated by the Egyptian Relief Committee when their clearly marked vehicle was targeted.

    The Israeli military confirmed the attack, asserting it had targeted suspects allegedly operating a Hamas-affiliated drone. This justification mirrors previous unsubstantiated claims made by Israel throughout its two-year military campaign in Gaza, where journalists have frequently been accused of militant affiliations without evidence.

    Mohammed Mansour, spokesperson for the Egyptian Relief Committee, condemned what he described as a ‘criminal targeting’ of a humanitarian mission, noting all committee vehicles bear prominent identifying logos. A source within the committee revealed the journalists were on assignment documenting camps near the Netzarim corridor, calling the attack a ‘dangerous precedent’ undermining ceasefire negotiations.

    The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate denounced the incident as a ‘deliberate assassination’ intended to silence Palestinian voices and conceal Israeli crimes against civilians. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) had previously identified the Israeli army as ‘the worst enemy of journalists’ in its December annual report, noting that 43% of journalist killings worldwide occurred in Palestinian territories, overwhelmingly perpetrated by Israeli forces.

    Since October 2023, the Government Media Office in Gaza reports 260 journalists have been killed by Israeli forces. Despite a ceasefire agreement effective October 10, Israel has committed approximately 1,300 violations including deadly airstrikes, civilian arrests, home demolitions, and aid restrictions. The overall Palestinian death toll since October 2023 exceeds 71,500, with more than 171,300 wounded.

    AFP mourned Shaat’s death and demanded a ‘full and transparent investigation,’ highlighting that foreign journalists remain unable to enter Gaza freely while local journalists face extreme danger. Independent journalist Barry Malone summarized the situation: ‘There is no ceasefire. There never was.’

  • Radiopharmaceutical development alliance launched in Shanghai

    Radiopharmaceutical development alliance launched in Shanghai

    Shanghai has established a groundbreaking consortium to revolutionize radiopharmaceutical innovation through the newly formed Shanghai Radiopharmaceutical Concept Verification Alliance. The initiative, officially launched on January 19, 2026, at Zhangjiang High-Tech Park in Pudong New Area, represents a strategic collaboration between medical, academic, and industry stakeholders.

    Spearheaded by the Academy for Clinical Innovation and Translation of Shanghai, the alliance addresses critical challenges in early-stage radiopharmaceutical development. By consolidating fragmented verification resources and incomplete data systems that traditionally impede drug innovation, the consortium aims to create a centralized platform operating under market mechanisms.

    This innovative platform will provide comprehensive end-to-end services including target validation and production of high-quality, GMP-like samples for preclinical studies. The launch ceremony occurred during the 2026 Shanghai Radiopharmaceutical Concept Verification Ecosystem Seminar, part of the broader Zhangjiang Pharma Valley Radiopharmaceutical Industry International Exchange Conference.

    The event attracted international experts who presented on global advancements, while domestic specialists from Shanghai’s leading hospitals and research institutions contributed to panel discussions on cutting-edge areas including targeted alpha therapy and radiotheranostics—an emerging field combining diagnostic and therapeutic applications of radioactive drugs.

    Multiple project agreements were formalized during the launch, with participants establishing frameworks for concept verification services, collaborative models, and profit-sharing mechanisms to ensure sustainable development of the initiative.

  • ‘Beef’ Season 2 first look: Here’s what we know about the Oscar Issac, Charles Melton series

    ‘Beef’ Season 2 first look: Here’s what we know about the Oscar Issac, Charles Melton series

    Netflix has released the inaugural glimpse of its acclaimed anthology series ‘Beef,’ setting the stage for its highly anticipated second season premiere on April 16. The forthcoming installment transitions from the road rage narrative of Season 1 into the opulent corridors of an exclusive country club, exploring complex dynamics among its elite members.

    Headlined by Oscar Isaac and Carey Mulligan as power couple Josh and Lindsay, the new season introduces Charles Melton and Cailee Spaeny as Austin and Ashley—club employees who become entangled in their employers’ volatile relationship. The released stills depict Melton’s character weightlifting, Spaeny appearing distressed on a hospital bed, Isaac navigating a golf cart, and Mulligan contemplating cosmetic surgery while examining her reflection.

    Academy Award winner Yuh-Jung Youn assumes the role of Chairwoman Park, while ‘Parasite’ star Song Kang-ho portrays Dr. Kim, expanding the series’ Korean cultural representation. The supporting ensemble features William Fichtner as Troy, Mikaela Hoover as Ava, and BM as Woosh.

    Creator Lee Sung Jin returns as showrunner and executive producer for the eight-episode season, with each installment running approximately 30 minutes. Original stars Steven Yeun and Ali Wong continue their involvement as executive producers, maintaining creative continuity from the Emmy-winning first season.

    The narrative shift explores themes of privilege, power manipulation, and marital strife within billionaire circles, described by production notes as examining ‘chess moves of favours and coercion’ surrounding a Korean billionaire club owner. This marks a significant evolution from Season 1’s focus on class conflict following a traffic confrontation between strangers.

    The series returns after a three-year hiatus, with Netflix officially announcing: ‘Every relationship has its BEEF. Here’s your first look at Season 2, premiering April 16.’