Global Pulse

分类： society

  • Eid Al Fitr 2026: Why UAE families are choosing GCC trips over long international travel

    Eid Al Fitr 2026: Why UAE families are choosing GCC trips over long international travel

    As Eid Al Fitr 2026 approaches in mid-March, UAE families are demonstrating a distinct shift in holiday preferences, favoring regional destinations over long-haul international travel. This emerging trend sees residents capitalizing on the region’s pleasant spring weather to explore neighboring GCC countries through road trips and combined religious-leisure journeys.

    Travel industry professionals observe a substantial increase in bookings for destinations including Oman, Musandam, and various Saudi Arabian locations. Subair Thekepurathvalappil, Senior Manager at Wisefox Tourism, notes: ‘We’re witnessing a significant preference for regional travel during this Eid break. Families are opting for road trips to Oman and Musandam precisely because of the favorable climatic conditions.’

    The pattern extends beyond mere convenience, reflecting a deeper transformation in travel philosophy. UAE residents are increasingly prioritizing quality family time in natural settings over crowded urban attractions. Multi-family groups comprising four to five households are organizing collective excursions featuring outdoor activities and social games that cater to both adults and children.

    Mohammed AbuNael, an Ajman resident, exemplifies this trend: ‘We’re planning a road trip to Muscat to visit relatives. March provides ideal conditions for outdoor exploration without the intense heat, allowing us to enjoy destinations like Muttrah Corniche and Wadi Shab comfortably.’

    Simultaneously, many families are combining spiritual journeys with tourism. Abu Dhabi resident Mohammed Imran represents this blended approach: ‘We’ll perform Umrah during Ramadan’s final ten days, then extend our stay to explore Madina, Abha, and Jeddah during Eid. The timing allows us to experience both religious fulfillment and leisure in optimal weather.’

    Travel experts identify strategic planning as another factor driving this trend. Abdul Salam Khaneri, organizing a group trip to Musandam, explains: ‘We’re reserving our international travel budget and annual leave for extended summer vacations. Regional trips offer meaningful breaks without compromising our larger travel plans.’

    The industry response has been adaptive, with agencies noting increased demand for nature-based experiences and private accommodations. Pavan Poojary from Luxury Travels confirms: ‘Saudi destinations, particularly AlUla and Madina, are experiencing remarkable interest from families blending religious observance with tourism activities.’

    This regional travel surge demonstrates how UAE residents are redefining holiday priorities—emphasizing accessibility, weather-appropriate destinations, and meaningful family experiences over traditional long-distance international travel.

  • Meet Dubai businessman who helped free 20,000 prisoners, plans more releases in Ramadan

    Meet Dubai businessman who helped free 20,000 prisoners, plans more releases in Ramadan

    Dubai-based Indian philanthropist Firoz Merchant has transformed thousands of lives through his extensive humanitarian initiatives, primarily focused on releasing debt-ridden prisoners across the UAE. Since launching his mission in 2008, Merchant has secured the freedom of over 20,000 inmates who were detained primarily due to financial constraints rather than criminal behavior.

    The humanitarian effort operates year-round but gains significant momentum during Ramadan, a period Merchant describes as particularly blessed for charitable work. During the current holy month, his foundation has already facilitated the release of 497 prisoners, with additional cases being processed. The program operates in coordination with UAE authorities and in partnership with the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, ensuring structured and effective implementation.

    Merchant’s approach addresses what he identifies as victims of circumstance—individuals who encountered financial difficulties and could not repay debts rather than hardened criminals. Beyond clearing financial obligations, his initiative frequently covers repatriation costs, providing complete rehabilitation for those released.

    Expanding his philanthropic vision, Merchant is now directing significant resources toward supporting cancer patients struggling with astronomical treatment costs. Having previously contributed Dh1 million for dialysis treatments through the Dubai Charity Association, he now plans to allocate between Dh500,000 to Dh700,000 specifically for cancer care in 2026, potentially increasing to Dh1 million if necessary.

    ‘Treatment is prohibitively expensive,’ Merchant noted during an interview at his Jumeirah Lakes Towers office. ‘Many patients are elderly or children, and families often exhaust their savings before assistance can be arranged. I stand where the need is greatest, and currently that includes cancer patients who cannot afford treatment.’

    Complementing these efforts, Merchant is undertaking an ambitious project to construct mosques across all seven emirates. The initiative includes a new facility in Dubai’s Al Furjan district—already permitted and awaiting construction—and projects in Fujairah’s Mohammed Bin Zayed City and Umm Al Quwain, where an older mosque from the 1970s will be replaced with a larger structure accommodating 1,000-1,200 worshippers.

    The founder of Pure Gold Jewellers, which operates over 150 stores across 12 countries, attributes his philanthropic drive to gratitude toward the UAE. Merchant is documenting his journey from modest beginnings in Mumbai to international business success and humanitarian work in an upcoming book. His philosophy remains straightforward: ‘If someone returns home to their family because a debt was cleared, that is enough. If someone can continue treatment because we stepped in, that is enough. The rest is in Allah’s hands.’

  • Sheroes 2026 set to celebrate International Women’s Day with art, dialogue and purpose

    Sheroes 2026 set to celebrate International Women’s Day with art, dialogue and purpose

    Dubai prepares to host the fourth annual Sheroes festival from March 5-8, 2026, at Khaleej Times headquarters, celebrating International Women’s Day through an immersive program of artistic expression and leadership discourse. Organized by Funun Arts Group in partnership with Khaleej Times, the event embraces the global theme ‘Give to Gain’ by emphasizing knowledge sharing, creative collaboration, and mutual support as drivers of inclusive societal advancement.

    The four-day program will showcase a meticulously curated art exhibition, live artistic demonstrations, thought-provoking panel discussions, and wellness sessions. This convergence of creative professionals, entrepreneurs, and intellectual leaders transforms Sheroes beyond a conventional event into a thriving cultural movement that honors female leadership while fostering cross-community cooperation.

    Shiba Khan, Founder and Director of Funun Arts Group, articulated the philosophy behind the initiative: ‘Sheroes originates from the conviction that sharing knowledge, creativity, and encouragement generates an ecosystem where collective growth flourishes. The Give to Gain concept represents more than a theme—it embodies a mindset that enables individuals to elevate together.’

    This collaboration between the UAE’s creative and media sectors demonstrates the powerful synergy possible when cultural organizations join forces with media platforms. Funun Arts Group, established by Shiba Khan and Farah Khan, has risen as a significant cultural force in the region, advocating for art as a vehicle for leadership development and social transformation.

    The 2026 edition enjoys support from several prominent sponsors including 19AGH, Ahmed Al Maghribi, and The Green Revolution, further solidifying its position as a landmark event in the UAE’s cultural calendar.

  • Woman charged over abandoning dog at Las Vegas airport

    Woman charged over abandoning dog at Las Vegas airport

    A Las Vegas woman is confronting multiple criminal charges following an incident of alleged animal abandonment at Harry Reid International Airport on February 2nd. According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the unidentified woman attempted to board a flight with her two-year-old golden doodle/mini poodle mix but was denied boarding by airline staff. Officials confirmed she lacked proper documentation to travel with the animal as a service dog.

    Surveillance footage captured the moment the woman approached the Jet Blue ticket counter with her leashed dog, engaged in conversation with airline personnel, and subsequently departed the area without the animal. After leaving the dog tethered to a baggage sizer, she proceeded to a departure gate where police later located her.

    When questioned by officers, the woman reportedly claimed that the airline’s refusal to accommodate her dog justified her actions, suggesting the animal’s tracking device would enable its return. Police statements indicate she became hostile during the encounter and resisted arrest attempts.

    The abandoned dog, now nicknamed ‘Jet Blue’ by authorities, was immediately taken into custody by Animal Protective Services. Following a mandatory 10-day holding period during which the owner failed to reclaim the animal, the dog was transferred to Retriever Rescue of Las Vegas. The charity organization reports being inundated with adoption applications for the abandoned poodle mix.

    In an official Facebook statement, Las Vegas police emphasized: ‘We can’t believe we have to say this… but please don’t abandon your dog at the airport – or anywhere else.’ The woman now faces formal charges of animal abandonment and resisting arrest.

  • Carrick says Man United is proud of its culture after Ratcliffe’s comments

    Carrick says Man United is proud of its culture after Ratcliffe’s comments

    MANCHESTER, England — Manchester United’s leadership has moved to reinforce the club’s commitment to diversity following inflammatory comments about immigration from co-owner Jim Ratcliffe that sparked widespread condemnation across British society.

    The controversy emerged when Ratcliffe, billionaire owner of petrochemical conglomerate INEOS and recent minority stakeholder in Manchester United, claimed Britain had been ‘colonized’ by immigrants during a media interview. The remarks immediately drew criticism from Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office, political figures across the spectrum, and the club’s own supporters.

    Interim head coach Michael Carrick addressed the situation during his Friday press conference, carefully navigating the sensitive topic while emphasizing the club’s core values. ‘Sir Jim has made a statement, and then the club’s made a statement on the back of it so for me to add to that is not my place,’ Carrick stated, demonstrating diplomatic restraint.

    The longtime club figure instead highlighted Manchester United’s global impact and inclusive environment: ‘As I’ve been around this club many, many years, we always make a huge impact globally. We’re really proud of the environment and the culture that we’ve got at the club, and equality and diversity and respect for each other is something that we look to carry through every day.’

    Ratcliffe subsequently apologized for his word choice, acknowledging that his language had ‘offended some people.’ However, the incident touched a raw nerve in Britain’s ongoing immigration debate and raised questions about hypocrisy, as Ratcliffe himself resides in Monaco for tax purposes—a fact critics were quick to highlight.

    The episode represents Ratcliffe’s first significant controversy since acquiring his stake in the storied football club, testing the relationship between new ownership and a fanbase that proudly celebrates its diverse composition.

  • Philippines suspends classes for EDSA People Power 40th anniversary

    Philippines suspends classes for EDSA People Power 40th anniversary

    Multiple prominent academic institutions across the Philippines have announced suspensions of classes and administrative operations on February 25, 2026, to mark the 40th anniversary of the historic EDSA People Power Revolution. This significant milestone commemorates the 1986 non-violent uprising that led to the overthrow of the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. and the subsequent inauguration of Corazon Aquino as president.

    Despite the official government designation of February 25 as a special working day, several universities have independently declared academic holidays to enable their communities to participate in anniversary events and reflect on this pivotal moment in Philippine history. The revolution, characterized by massive peaceful demonstrations along Epifano delos Santos Avenue (EDSA), fundamentally transformed the nation’s political landscape four decades ago.

    Institutional participation includes Ateneo de Manila University, which has established a University Holiday to facilitate involvement in EDSA commemorative activities. Similarly, De La Salle Philippines has suspended classes and work across its member institutions to support mobilization efforts connected to the anniversary observance.

    The University of Santo Tomas, University of the East (with suspensions at both Manila and Caloocan campuses), Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Mapúa University (affecting Intramuros, Makati, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay locations), and Adamson University have all implemented similar measures. These institutions have not only canceled academic sessions but also encouraged students, faculty, and staff to engage in reflection and activities honoring the revolution’s legacy of democratic change and peaceful protest.

  • Ajman to redesign neighbourhoods to cut travel time, boost walkability

    Ajman to redesign neighbourhoods to cut travel time, boost walkability

    The Emirate of Ajman is embarking on a transformative urban development strategy designed to fundamentally reshape daily life for its residents. Moving beyond traditional road expansion, the new Integrated Urban Plan places walkability, reduced commute times, and enhanced quality of life at the core of its long-term vision.

    Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman’s Municipality and Planning Department, recently reviewed the comprehensive framework. The strategy represents a significant shift from scattered outward development to a focused concentration of growth within defined neighborhood hubs. This approach aims to alleviate infrastructure strain and ensure residents have drastically improved access to essential services.

    Dr. Eng Mohammed Ahmed bin Omair Al Muhairi, Executive Director of the Infrastructure Development Sector, articulated the plan’s primary objective: to create organized centers where schools, healthcare facilities, retail outlets, and public services are all accessible within a 15-minute walk. This model directly targets the emirate’s reliance on private vehicles, seeking to reduce travel distances and foster greater community vitality.

    A key pillar of the initiative involves building a multi-modal, low-carbon transport network that prioritizes public transit, cycling, and pedestrian pathways. The plan will leverage data-driven systems and artificial intelligence to forecast traffic patterns and intelligently anticipate future infrastructure requirements, ensuring the system remains dynamic and responsive.

    The framework also includes performance benchmarks to measure the success of containing new development within approved boundaries and tracking the number of residents living within walking distance of daily amenities. Furthermore, the plan addresses older districts developed over four decades ago, introducing updated redevelopment guidelines to modernize infrastructure and public spaces while preserving Ajman’s unique cultural identity.

    As Ajman continues to attract new residents, this balanced approach seeks to harmonize expansion with sustainability, protecting green spaces and reducing unnecessary travel demand. If effectively implemented, the result will be shorter daily trips, safer pedestrian routes, and communities intentionally designed for people, not cars.

  • Watch: Queen Rania, King Abdullah join Jordan’s royals for group Ramadan iftar

    Watch: Queen Rania, King Abdullah join Jordan’s royals for group Ramadan iftar

    Jordan’s Hashemite royal family has commenced the holy month of Ramadan with a cherished family tradition, as evidenced by a recently shared intimate gathering. Queen Rania Al Abdullah, alongside King Abdullah II, hosted an exclusive iftar celebration marking the beginning of Ramadan 2026, bringing together multiple generations of the royal household.

    The commencement of Ramadan in Jordan followed the official announcement several days prior, when the crescent moon signaling the start of the holy month remained unseen across 29 nations. Consequently, Jordan joined countries including Oman, India, and Bangladesh in observing the first day of Ramadan on Thursday, February 19.

    Through her substantial social media platform reaching 10.9 million Instagram followers, Queen Rania disseminated heartfelt Ramadan greetings: “May this holy month fill our homes with the warmth of family and loved ones. Ramadan Mubarak to all.” The accompanying video footage provided glimpses into the royal family’s personal observance traditions.

    The gathering showcased both regal elegance and familial warmth. Queen Rania, renowned as an Arab fashion icon, appeared radiant in a sophisticated crimson dress accentuated with a distinctive waist belt. Her daughter-in-law, Princess Rajwa, complemented the occasion in an exquisitely embroidered black ensemble. The attendance of Crown Prince Hussein, Princess Iman, and her spouse Jameel Alexander Thermiotis further emphasized the significance of family unity during this sacred period.

    As the Maghrib prayer commenced, the ceremonial breaking of fast unfolded with traditional soup service while children contributed an atmosphere of joyful spontaneity. The evening progressed with a heartfelt birthday celebration for an elder family member, during which the entire assembly, including the monarchs, enthusiastically participated in Arabic birthday renditions.

    Demonstrating thoughtful consideration for younger attendees, Queen Rania distributed prayer mats as Ramadan gifts, creating enduring memories for the children present. The viral video documentation of this royal iftar has generated substantial engagement across social platforms, accumulating thousands of comments and over 23,000 shares, with admirers worldwide expressing affection and extending Ramadan blessings to the Jordanian royal family.

  • Italian authorities accuse man of training dog to illegally dump his rubbish

    Italian authorities accuse man of training dog to illegally dump his rubbish

    Authorities in the Sicilian city of Catania have uncovered an unconventional attempt to circumvent municipal surveillance systems: a man allegedly trained his small dog to act as an accomplice in illegal waste disposal. The incident occurred in the San Giorgio district, where local police obtained video evidence showing the canine transporting a bag of rubbish in its mouth before depositing it roadside.

    The footage, captured over two consecutive days, depicts the dog carrying out what officials describe as a carefully orchestrated deception. City representatives stated the evidence ‘leaves little room for doubt’ that the animal was deliberately trained to discard waste on behalf of its owner, thereby avoiding detection by CCTV cameras specifically installed to combat fly-tipping.

    In an official statement released through its Facebook platform, the City of Catania condemned the act as ‘cunning’ and ‘doubly wrong,’ emphasizing that ‘ingenuity can never become an alibi for incivility.’ The administration further criticized the owner for ‘exploiting an unwitting four-legged friend’ and reiterated that ‘respect for decorum and the environment is everyone’s duty.’

    While the statement did not specify whether legal action has been initiated against the dog’s owner, it highlights ongoing challenges Italian municipalities face combating illegal waste disposal. Despite national laws prohibiting fly-tipping, the practice remains persistent, prompting cities like Catania to implement technological solutions including surveillance cameras to identify offenders.

    The case represents a novel approach to evading environmental regulations while demonstrating the lengths to which some individuals will go to avoid responsibility for proper waste management.

  • French soldier dies after being shot in head during ‘game’ with other soldiers

    French soldier dies after being shot in head during ‘game’ with other soldiers

    A somber cloud hangs over the French military community following the tragic death of 20-year-old Brigadier Alexandre Lanckbeen, who succumbed to injuries sustained from an accidental shooting during what was described as a military game. The fatal incident occurred last Saturday during an alcohol-involved gathering at the Percy Military Teaching Hospital in Clamart, west of Paris.

    According to judicial authorities, the tragedy unfolded when four soldiers stationed at the hospital engaged in a military training exercise repurposed as recreational activity. The game typically involves participants attempting to disarm colleagues and neutralize their weapons, conventionally performed with unloaded firearms. However, in this devastating instance, the handgun used was loaded, resulting in a single shot striking Brigadier Lanckbeen in the head.

    Paris Military Governor Loïc Mizon expressed profound sorrow upon confirming the young soldier’s passing last Friday, extending deepest condolences to Lanckbeen’s family and affirming the armed forces’ full support. The brigadier had been serving with the distinguished 35th Parachute Artillery Regiment based in Tarbes and was actively deployed as part of Operation Sentinelle, France’s enduring domestic security initiative.

    Three fellow soldiers now face serious legal consequences following judicial proceedings. One has been charged with ‘violence with a weapon resulting in permanent disability and breaching orders by consuming alcohol,’ while two others confront charges of ‘involuntary bodily harm resulting in work incapacity exceeding three months through deliberate violation of safety protocols.’ Additional charges include tampering with a crime scene to obstruct justice. With Lanckbeen’s tragic death, these charges are expected to be elevated in severity.

    The criminal investigation service of Hauts-de-Seine has assumed control of the inquiry as the military community grapples with this preventable tragedy that highlights critical concerns regarding weapon safety protocols and alcohol consumption during informal military gatherings.