Global Pulse

分类： society

  • UAE: New rules to regulate veterinary work, fines for unlicensed activity

    UAE: New rules to regulate veterinary work, fines for unlicensed activity

    Abu Dhabi has enacted sweeping regulatory measures to standardize veterinary medicine and enhance animal health protections throughout the emirate. The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has formally issued a comprehensive resolution establishing stringent licensing requirements for all veterinary facilities and practitioners.

    The new framework mandates that veterinary establishments must secure official ADAFSA authorization before employing any veterinary professionals or allied staff. Furthermore, all facilities must obtain operational licenses prior to conducting any veterinary activities within Abu Dhabi. The resolution introduces a system of administrative penalties for violations, with fines subject to doubling for repeat offenses occurring within one year of initial infractions.

    This regulatory initiative aims to achieve multiple objectives: elevating the efficiency of veterinary services, ensuring proper professional qualifications, regulating the veterinary workforce, and ultimately strengthening biosecurity measures across the emirate. By implementing these standards, authorities seek to build greater confidence among livestock breeders and the general public in the quality and safety of animal healthcare services.

    ADAFSA will complement these enforcement measures with an extensive awareness campaign targeting veterinary clinics, their personnel, livestock owners, and the broader community. This educational initiative is designed to promote thorough understanding of and compliance with the new regulations, facilitating a smooth transition to the enhanced regulatory environment.

  • Dubai issues warnings to winter camps against using drones, subleasing sites

    Dubai issues warnings to winter camps against using drones, subleasing sites

    Dubai Municipality has launched enhanced inspection operations and public awareness initiatives targeting temporary winter camps throughout the city. This comprehensive safety campaign addresses multiple violations that could compromise public safety during the popular winter camping season.

    Recent enforcement actions have resulted in official warnings being issued for several infractions. Authorities documented three separate violations for illegal tent subleasing operations, one case involving unauthorized drone usage, and three additional warnings for creating public disturbances within camp premises.

    Beyond enforcement, the municipality maintains an ongoing educational program for camp owners, providing essential guidance on proper setup procedures and regulatory compliance. The safety initiative involves coordinated efforts with multiple government entities including Civil Defense teams conducting field awareness campaigns, Dubai Ambulance services providing 24/7 emergency medical support, and Dubai Police implementing compliance verification operations.

    Additional measures include targeted operations against unauthorized street vendors, particularly those selling hookah products, to ensure optimal safety and comfort for camp residents and visitors. These multi-agency efforts represent a proactive approach to maintaining Dubai’s high safety standards while preserving the enjoyable winter camping experience that attracts both residents and tourists to the region.

  • 2 months to Ramadan: Rajab crescent spotted in UAE skies

    2 months to Ramadan: Rajab crescent spotted in UAE skies

    ABU DHABI – The celestial skies above the United Arab Emirates presented a significant astronomical and religious event on December 20, 2025, as the crescent moon marking the commencement of Rajab 1447 AH was officially sighted at 4:30 PM local time. The observation was conducted by the Khattam Astronomical Observatory under the International Astronomy Centre, confirming the moon’s position at 6.7 degrees separation from the sun.

    This celestial phenomenon carries profound religious significance for Muslim communities worldwide, as Rajab represents the seventh month in the Islamic Hijri calendar and stands among the four sacred months in Islamic tradition. The sighting initiates a three-month spiritual progression toward Ramadan, the holiest period in the Islamic faith dedicated to fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection.

    The transition between these sacred months follows precise lunar observations, with each month commencing only upon visual confirmation of the new crescent moon. Following the conclusion of Rajab, the month of Shaban begins through similar astronomical verification, ultimately culminating in the arrival of Ramadan approximately two lunar months after the initial Rajab sighting.

    The International Astronomy Centre’s confirmation provides Muslim communities across the UAE and globally with a definitive timeline for spiritual preparation. This astronomical event enables faithful observers to anticipate the approaching holy month while honoring the traditional lunar-based calendar that governs Islamic religious observances.

    Such sightings demonstrate the continuing harmony between scientific astronomical observation and religious tradition, maintaining ancient practices through modern scientific methodology. The UAE’s advanced astronomical capabilities continue to support religious observances by providing accurate celestial data to Muslim communities worldwide.

  • Survivors and lawmakers voice frustration over partial Epstein file release

    Survivors and lawmakers voice frustration over partial Epstein file release

    The highly anticipated release of thousands of pages from the Jeffrey Epstein case files has generated significant disappointment and criticism regarding the extent of redactions applied to the documents. Mandated by congressional action through the Epstein Files Transparency Act, the disclosure was intended to provide comprehensive transparency about the convicted sex offender’s crimes and associates.

    Despite congressional directives, the U.S. Justice Department implemented substantial redactions, citing legal requirements to protect victim identities and sensitive materials. Deputy U.S. Attorney Todd Blanche confirmed the department had identified over 1,200 Epstein victims or their relatives, necessitating the withholding of material that could compromise their privacy. The redactions extend to personally identifiable information, materials depicting child sexual abuse, physical abuse evidence, and documents that might jeopardize active federal investigations or national security interests.

    Among the partially released materials are photographs showing Epstein confidante Ghislaine Maxwell outside Downing Street, documentation alleging Epstein introduced a 14-year-old girl to former President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago, and multiple images featuring former President Bill Clinton. The files also include interior photographs of Epstein’s residences, records of his international travels, and appearances of numerous celebrities including Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, Mick Jagger, Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, and Peter Mandelson.

    Legal experts and lawmakers have expressed profound dissatisfaction with the disclosure’s execution. Criminal defense attorney John Day noted the extensive redactions would likely fuel conspiracy theories, while Congressmen Ro Khanna (Democrat) and Thomas Massie (Republican) characterized the release as incomplete and potentially non-compliant with legal requirements. Both legislators indicated they are considering responses including impeachment proceedings, contempt charges, or referrals for prosecution.

    Epstein survivors have voiced particular frustration with the disclosure process. Survivor Liz Stein accused the Justice Department of brazenly violating the transparency act, while Baroness Helena Kennedy acknowledged the complex balance between victim protection and public transparency. The Justice Department maintains that all redactions were legally mandated and applied without regard to the prominence of individuals named in the documents.

    The department faces a 15-day deadline to provide Congress with a detailed log explaining the basis for each redaction, a requirement that lawmakers say remains unfulfilled. This development represents the latest chapter in the ongoing investigation into Epstein’s extensive sex trafficking network and the powerful individuals associated with it.

  • Independent committee starts work as HK moves to liquefy owners’ group

    Independent committee starts work as HK moves to liquefy owners’ group

    Hong Kong has initiated a comprehensive response to the catastrophic Wang Fuk Court fire that claimed 161 lives, with an independent investigation committee formally commencing its work on Friday. The nine-month probe will examine the causes and circumstances surrounding the December tragedy in Tai Po.

    Chairman David Lok presided over the inaugural meeting of the Independent Committee, established by the Chief Executive on December 12. Joined by members Chan Kin-por and Rex Auyeung, the panel outlined work priorities and preparation strategies for their complex mandate. The committee’s extensive terms of reference include investigating the fire’s origin and rapid propagation, construction safety protocols, building maintenance standards, renovation works oversight, and systemic issues in large-scale maintenance tendering processes.

    Concurrently, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government filed legal proceedings to dissolve the housing estate’s owners’ corporation management committee. The administration seeks to appoint Hop On Management Company, a Chinachem Group subsidiary, as interim administrator to handle daily operations during the transition.

    Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Alice Mak Mei-kuen emphasized that the government’s intervention aims to assist residents through complex legal and accounting procedures with professional support. ‘Our action is to help the owners of Wang Fuk Court navigate these challenging circumstances with expert assistance,’ Mak stated during a media briefing attended by senior officials including Permanent Secretary Shirley Lam Shuet-lai and Under Secretary Clarence Leung Wang-ching.

    The management company will provide services pro bono, supported by a HK$5 million contribution from the Nina Wang Charity trustees for professional costs associated with estate management. Chairman Lok confirmed the committee’s final report and recommendations will be publicly disclosed, excluding information related to ongoing judicial proceedings.

  • Tai Po fire death toll climbs to 161

    Tai Po fire death toll climbs to 161

    The catastrophic fifth-alarm fire that engulfed Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po last month has now claimed 161 lives, according to the latest official update from Hong Kong police. The grim milestone was confirmed on Saturday, December 20, 2025, following comprehensive DNA analysis that identified previously discovered remains as belonging to two separate victims.

    Police Commissioner Joe Chow Yat-ming addressed the media after inspecting a passing-out parade, revealing that advanced forensic testing had determined one set of remains actually belonged to a couple rather than a single individual. The identification process has now confirmed the identities of all six individuals previously reported missing—five fire victims and one person who had died in 2023.

    The devastating blaze, which broke out on November 26, 2025, raged for over 43 hours and caused extensive damage to seven of the eight residential blocks within the housing estate. The inferno represents one of Hong Kong’s deadliest building fires in recent history.

    Commissioner Chow cautioned that the death toll might still rise as DNA testing continues on additional remains recovered from the scene. The painstaking identification process involves matching genetic material from victims with samples provided by anxious family members awaiting news of their missing relatives.

    The tragedy has prompted widespread scrutiny of building safety standards and emergency response protocols in Hong Kong’s densely populated residential areas. The community of Tai Po continues to mourn the devastating loss while supporting those injured and displaced by the catastrophic fire.

  • Philippines: Nearly 1 million passengers expected at airports during Christmas rush

    Philippines: Nearly 1 million passengers expected at airports during Christmas rush

    The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap) has declared a state of heightened alert across all national airports in anticipation of approximately 960,000 passengers expected to travel during the Christmas holiday period. This operational status will remain in effect from December 20, 2025, through January 4, 2026, representing a proactive response to a projected 7% increase in air traffic compared to the previous year’s figures.

    According to aviation officials, the enhanced security and operational measures include the establishment of dedicated passenger assistance help desks, deployment of additional security personnel, and placement of medical teams on standby at key transportation hubs. The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila, which processed 4.62 million passengers in December 2024 alone, serves as the primary gateway for both international and domestic travel during this peak season.

    Director General Raul Del Rosario emphasized that ensuring passenger safety and operational efficiency remains the paramount priority for aviation authorities. ‘We are implementing comprehensive measures to guarantee that all travelers experience safe, orderly, and efficient airport operations throughout the holiday period,’ stated Rosario in an official communication released Friday.

    The annual travel surge is deeply rooted in Filipino cultural traditions, where Christmas represents a profoundly significant occasion for family reunions. Overseas Filipino workers particularly prioritize returning home during this season, often undertaking considerable financial and logistical efforts to participate in family celebrations. This cultural phenomenon consistently generates one of the most substantial annual passenger volume increases within the Southeast Asian aviation sector.

  • UAE: Garages packed after residents face minor car issues in December rains

    UAE: Garages packed after residents face minor car issues in December rains

    Automotive repair facilities across Sharjah and Dubai are experiencing unprecedented demand following recent rainfall, creating significant backlogs for vehicle inspections and minor repairs. While the December precipitation caused substantially less damage than April 2024’s historic flooding, it nonetheless resulted in numerous vehicles experiencing water-related mechanical issues.

    Residents throughout the northern emirates returned to their vehicles to discover various rain-induced problems. Masood Ali, an Al Nahda resident, found his car completely unresponsive after overnight parking in a water-affected area. “When I attempted to start the vehicle in the morning, it refused to turn over,” Ali reported. “Mechanics subsequently indicated water infiltration in the air filtration system.”

    Automotive technicians note that the most prevalent issues include moisture-compromised spark plugs, water-infiltrated air filters, temporary ignition failures, and battery complications caused by excessive dampness. Unlike the catastrophic flood damage witnessed previously, these current cases primarily affect vehicles parked for extended periods in waterlogged areas or directly exposed to heavy rainfall.

    Repair shops are managing both pre-scheduled maintenance and rain-related cases, creating waiting periods of up to one week for vehicle assessments. Ahmed Najjar, another affected motorist, stated: “My vehicle started but operated erratically. I immediately sought professional evaluation but discovered garages are completely booked throughout the week.”

    Mechanics emphasize the importance of proper post-exposure procedures. Shameer Mohammed, an Al Quoz-based technician, advised: “Motorists should allow vehicles to dry thoroughly before attempting ignition. Forcing a start could exacerbate existing water damage. Disconnecting battery terminals prevents potential electrical short circuits in water-affected vehicles.”

    Industry professionals observe that residents have become more cautious following previous flood experiences. Garage owner Ayyub noted: “Customers demonstrate improved awareness by avoiding forced ignition attempts and seeking professional assessment. However, the volume of cases requires patience as repair facilities work through substantial backlogs.”

  • UAE: How hundreds of volunteers work to ensure ‘no one is alone’ during emergencies

    UAE: How hundreds of volunteers work to ensure ‘no one is alone’ during emergencies

    Across the United Arab Emirates, a robust network of volunteer organizations operates as a first line of defense when extreme weather disrupts daily life. These dedicated groups mobilize swiftly during emergencies, providing critical assistance that ranges from guiding stranded motorists through flooded roads to rescuing vehicles trapped in waterlogged areas.

    The recent heavy rainfall that affected various UAE regions in April 2024 demonstrated the crucial role these volunteers play. As commuters struggled and vehicles stalled across inundated roadways, teams worked tirelessly through the downpour, assisting motorists, helping workers reach safety, and ensuring no one remained stranded for extended periods.

    At the forefront stands the Model Service Society (MSS) Dubai, an organization with over three decades of community service experience. Operating across multiple fronts including emergency relief, job placement support, and welfare initiatives, MSS embodies a philosophy of consistent, organized, and compassionate service. According to Chairman Faiyaz Ahmed, their strength lies in their people: “Our volunteers do not wait for recognition. They step forward because they believe helping others is a responsibility.”

    The significance of their work has received official recognition. MSS was recently honored with the prestigious Ethraa Gold Award by Dubai’s Community Development Authority, placing it among the top-performing social service organizations in the emirate. This acknowledgment reflects the society’s transparency, accountability, and substantial community impact.

    Complementing these efforts, other organizations like the Iman Cultural Center have demonstrated similar commitment. During recent flooding in Sharjah and Dubai, approximately 50 of their volunteers mobilized to assist the public. Beyond traffic management and vehicle recovery, they distributed essential supplies including drinking water and fruits to affected workers and motorists.

    As Hameed Yasin of the Iman Cultural Center emphasized: “When people are in distress, the least we can do is stand beside them, offer help, and ensure no one feels alone during an emergency.” This sentiment captures the essence of a volunteer network that has become integral to the UAE’s emergency response infrastructure, providing both practical assistance and psychological reassurance during times of crisis.

  • Chair of leading Turkish sports club Fenerbahce questioned in a drugs probe

    Chair of leading Turkish sports club Fenerbahce questioned in a drugs probe

    ISTANBUL — Sadettin Saran, the high-profile chairman of Turkish sports giant Fenerbahce, underwent police interrogation Saturday as part of a sweeping narcotics investigation that has ensnared numerous celebrities and media personalities. The state-operated Anadolu Agency confirmed that Saran, who possesses dual Turkish-American citizenship, provided an official statement to authorities upon returning from international travel. Following his deposition, he was escorted to a medical facility for compulsory blood and hair sample collection to screen for illicit substances.

    This development represents the latest escalation in an extensive probe initiated by the Istanbul Chief Prosecutor’s Office earlier this December. The investigation has already resulted in the detention of over a dozen prominent figures from television journalism, music, acting, and social media influencing circles. Charges range from narcotics production and distribution to involvement in organized prostitution activities.

    According to judicial sources, Saran faced specific allegations related to enabling and supplying controlled substances. After completing forensic testing at the Caglayan Courthouse complex, the sports executive was released subject to ongoing judicial supervision requirements. The case continues to develop as prosecutors examine potential connections between entertainment industry elites and underground narcotics networks.

    Fenerbahce’s institutional history adds contextual significance to these developments. The club previously endured governance challenges when former president Aziz Yildirim served prison time between 2012-2013 regarding match-fixing allegations. Those convictions were ultimately overturned due to judicial corruption affecting the original proceedings. Separately, the organization remains connected to an ongoing inquiry into systemic match-fixing within Turkish professional football.