Global Pulse

分类： society

  • Govt employees in Umm Al Quwain to get 3-day weekend for Ramadan 2026

    Govt employees in Umm Al Quwain to get 3-day weekend for Ramadan 2026

    In a significant policy shift, the Emirate of Umm Al Quwain has officially instituted a three-day weekend for all government personnel throughout the upcoming holy month of Ramadan in 2026. The directive, formally issued by the Amiri Diwan, establishes a revised operational schedule from Monday to Thursday, with Friday, Saturday, and Sunday constituting the new weekend.

    This strategic decision, enacted under the direct instruction of H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Umm Al Quwain, is designed to enhance flexibility and promote a healthier work-life equilibrium for employees observing the period of fasting and spiritual reflection. The policy aligns with the United Arab Emirates’ established practice of adapting public sector operations during Ramadan, facilitating greater opportunity for worship, family engagement, and community involvement without disrupting essential government services.

    Concurrently, the UAE Fatwa Council has confirmed the formation of the Moon-Sighting Committee, slated to convene on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, following the Maghrib prayer. The committee’s mandate involves scrutinizing observational reports from dedicated field teams and accredited astronomical centers nationwide to officially declare the commencement of Ramadan. The Council has further encouraged public participation in the crescent sighting process, inviting citizens to submit verified observations through its official digital channels to revive this traditional practice.

    Based on astronomical projections from the Abu Dhabi-based International Astronomical Centre, the onset of Ramadan 2026 is anticipated for February 19. Expert analysis indicates that visual sighting of the crescent moon on February 17 is astronomically unfeasible across most Islamic regions.

  • Sharjah Ruler directs free home nursing for seniors, monthly support raised to Dh17,500

    Sharjah Ruler directs free home nursing for seniors, monthly support raised to Dh17,500

    In a landmark social welfare expansion, the Emirate of Sharjah has unveiled a transformative support package for senior citizens under the direct directives of its Ruler. The comprehensive initiative eliminates all deductions for home nursing services while substantially increasing monthly financial assistance to AED 17,500 per individual.

    The previously implemented nursing care program, which could cost up to AED 18,000 annually, had been deducting approximately AED 3,000 from seniors’ monthly support. The new mandate ensures that all nursing services will now be provided completely free of charge, with beneficiaries receiving their full financial allocation without any reductions.

    Sulaiman Al Naqbi, Director of Sharjah’s Department of Social Services, elaborated on the multifaceted approach to elderly care. Beyond financial support, the program includes complete health and dental insurance coverage, complimentary physiotherapy sessions at departmental facilities, and specialized transportation services for medical appointments and recreational activities.

    The initiative introduces several innovative components, including a mobile salon service that delivers grooming and personal care directly to homebound seniors. Community engagement is fostered through ‘Asala Clubs’ that provide educational, social, and recreational programming specifically designed for elderly residents.

    Transportation solutions form another critical element, with the ‘Mishwar’ service facilitating leisure excursions and the ‘Ijaba’ service ensuring reliable transportation for government-related appointments. Additional mobility support, including airport transfers, can be arranged based on individual needs.

    This holistic approach represents one of the most comprehensive elder care programs in the region, demonstrating Sharjah’s commitment to ensuring dignity, comfort, and social inclusion for its aging population. The integrated services address financial, medical, social, and personal care needs through a coordinated network of support mechanisms.

  • Indian student found dead in US took his life, says roommate at UC Berkeley

    Indian student found dead in US took his life, says roommate at UC Berkeley

    The University of California, Berkeley community is grappling with the tragic loss of Saketh Sreenivasaiah, a 22-year-old postgraduate student from Karnataka, India, whose apparent suicide has revealed troubling signs of mental health deterioration among international students.

    According to close friend and roommate Baneet Singh, Sreenivasaiah exhibited concerning behavioral changes in his final weeks, dramatically reducing food intake to survive primarily on chips and cookies while withdrawing from social engagement. Singh’s poignant LinkedIn testimony, subsequently made private, described how Sreenivasaiah had reached a state of profound indifference, exemplified by attending classes in a red bathrobe while expressing complete apathy toward his appearance and surroundings.

    The promising young scholar, an IIT Madras alumnus holding a patent for a “microchannel cooling system for hyperloop,” was pursuing his master’s degree in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. His professional profile revealed passions for deep-tech innovations in soft materials, semiconductors, and advanced materials, with previous research experience at Unilever India from September 2023 to June 2024.

    The tragedy has triggered cross-continental responses, with Indian authorities mobilizing support systems. The Consulate-General of India in San Francisco has extended heartfelt condolences and committed to facilitating repatriation procedures while providing comprehensive assistance to the grieving family. Meanwhile, the Karnataka government has formally requested the Indian Ministry of External Affairs to extend necessary support to Sreenivasaiah’s parents, who remain in denial about their son’s death, insisting they will only accept the reality upon seeing his body.

    This incident has reignited critical conversations about mental health support systems for international students facing academic pressure and cultural adjustment challenges. The case echoes similar mental health crises among Indian students abroad, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced psychological support mechanisms within academic institutions worldwide.

  • French police conduct searches over ex-minister Jack Lang’s links to Epstein

    French police conduct searches over ex-minister Jack Lang’s links to Epstein

    Parisian authorities have executed search operations at the prestigious Arab World Institute (IMA) as part of an expanding judicial examination into connections between the institution’s former president Jack Lang and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The investigation follows the discovery of Lang’s name appearing approximately 700 times in recently unsealed Epstein documents.

    The 86-year-old former Socialist culture minister, who resigned from his IMA leadership position just over a week ago, now faces scrutiny from French financial prosecutors for alleged “laundering of the proceeds of tax evasion.” Lang has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, characterizing the accusations as entirely unfounded.

    During a meeting with IMA staff members on Monday, Lang maintained his innocence, stating: “I am completely serene because I have nothing to conceal. This investigation will ultimately vindicate me.”

    The probe has expanded to include Lang’s daughter, Caroline Lang, 64, following revelations about their involvement with an offshore entity established jointly with Epstein in the US Virgin Islands. This company, ostensibly created for art acquisition purposes, was never declared to French tax authorities.

    Additional complications emerged with reports identifying Caroline Lang as a named beneficiary in Epstein’s will, though she has publicly denied any knowledge of such inheritance arrangements. French media also note her previous employment with Robert Maxwell, father of Epstein’s convicted associate Ghislaine Maxwell.

    Further investigation centers on a $50,000 payment Epstein allegedly made toward production costs for a documentary film chronicling Jack Lang’s political career. Lang served as culture minister under President François Mitterrand and is widely credited with establishing France’s celebrated Fête de la Musique.

    The Paris prosecutor’s office emphasizes that current proceedings represent a preliminary enquiry based on unverified information, which may not necessarily result in formal charges. French investigators continue examining multiple French connections within the Epstein documents, including deceased modeling agent Jean-Luc Brunel, who died by suicide in Paris custody in 2022 while facing allegations of procuring minors for Epstein.

    The Arab World Institute, inaugurated in 1987 as a major cultural center promoting Arab-French relations, remains operational despite the investigation into its former leadership.

  • Under the Ramadan sky: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai

    Under the Ramadan sky: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai

    As Dubai enters the holy month of Ramadan, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai has unveiled an extensive program of curated culinary and cultural experiences designed to foster community connection and spiritual reflection. The hotel’s 2026 Ramadan offerings transform its premium venues into spaces for traditional celebration and contemporary contemplation.

    The hotel’s lobby sets the tone with ‘House of Light,’ an immersive installation by Studio Morcos that creates a serene environment for reflection and spiritual contemplation. This artistic intervention captures the essence of Ramadan through light and space, offering guests an elevated experience from the moment of arrival.

    Across its dining establishments, the hotel presents diverse Iftar experiences catering to different preferences and budgets. Al Qamar Iftar takes place on The Terrace with breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa, where guests break their fast beneath the crescent moon to the accompaniment of live oud music. The international buffet spans Asian wok stations, Middle Eastern grills, Indian tandoors, and Western favorites, featuring show-stopping live cooking stations including whole lamb ouzi and traditional shawarma.

    Kitchen6 offers a warm, communal Iftar setting centered around its six interactive kitchens where chefs prepare international dishes live. The extensive buffet combines Middle Eastern specialties with global flavors and an impressive dessert display.

    Rang Mahal presents a distinctive approach with a three-course, family-style sharing menu inspired by historic spice routes. The restaurant reinterprets India’s diverse culinary traditions through a contemporary lens, balancing heritage flavors with modern finesse.

    For the late-night Suhoor meal, Nomadia Lounge & Terrace provides a relaxed social setting where guests can extend their evening with an à la carte selection in a sophisticated atmosphere.

    The comprehensive Ramadan program demonstrates the hotel’s commitment to creating meaningful experiences that honor tradition while providing modern luxury comforts throughout the holy month.

  • 10-month-old dies in car crash, gives life to 5 becoming Kerala’s youngest donor

    10-month-old dies in car crash, gives life to 5 becoming Kerala’s youngest donor

    In a profound act of compassion amidst unimaginable tragedy, a 10-month-old infant from Kerala has become the state’s youngest organ donor following a fatal road accident. Alin Sherin Abraham sustained catastrophic injuries on February 5 when the vehicle carrying her collided with another in Kottayam district, ultimately resulting in brain death declaration.

    Despite their devastating loss, parents Arun Abraham and Sherin Ann John made the courageous decision to donate their daughter’s organs through Kerala’s State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (K-SOTTO). The infant’s medical legacy includes her liver, both kidneys, heart valves, and corneal tissues—gifts that would ultimately transform five lives.

    The complex logistical operation involved multiple medical institutions across Kerala. Alin’s heart valves were transported to Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute in Thiruvananthapuram, while her liver was allocated to KIMS Hospital. Both kidneys were designated for transplantation at Government Medical College Thiruvananthapuram, with her corneas preserved at the Eye Bank for future vision restoration procedures.

    Medical authorities revealed specific recipient details: both kidneys would benefit a 10-year-old girl undergoing treatment at Government Medical College, while a six-month-old infant from Thiruvananthapuram would receive the liver transplant. Though initial plans involved aerial transport, the organs were ultimately conveyed via road due to nighttime flight restrictions, with local police and medical teams coordinating the critical transfer.

    Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced official honors for the infant donor, stating: “Little Alin has granted a new lease of life to five others, a monumental act of compassion that reflects the true spirit of Kerala.” The Chief Minister further acknowledged healthcare professionals, police personnel, and support teams whose coordinated efforts enabled the successful transplants.

    This case represents both the heartbreaking realities of road safety challenges and the extraordinary potential of organ donation systems. Alin’s story has sparked renewed discussions about pediatric organ donation protocols and infrastructure capabilities within India’s public healthcare framework.

  • Flying oranges: Italian town celebrates carnival with historic street battle

    Flying oranges: Italian town celebrates carnival with historic street battle

    While the Ivory Coast grapples with a catastrophic collapse of its orange harvest, a starkly contrasting scene unfolds in Northern Italy where the historic town of Ivrea squanders countless tons of citrus fruit in its annual ‘Battle of the Oranges.’ This carnival tradition, which draws thousands of participants, involves teams engaging in a frenzied fruit-hurling combat in the town’s piazzas, staining the cobblestones with pulp and juice. The event, purportedly symbolizing a rebellion against a tyrannical medieval lord, has faced growing criticism for its staggering food waste amidst global shortages. Organizers defend the practice, citing the use of a specific, bitter variety of orange grown for this purpose and claiming a significant boost to local tourism and cultural preservation. However, agricultural experts highlight the profound disconnect, noting that the festival’s consumption of fruit represents a volume that could otherwise aid regions experiencing genuine food insecurity, creating a complex debate between cultural heritage and ethical resource allocation.

  • Ramadan to begin this week: What Shaban crescent looks like in UAE skies today

    Ramadan to begin this week: What Shaban crescent looks like in UAE skies today

    Astronomers in the United Arab Emirates have successfully documented the concluding lunar phase of Shaban, marking a significant celestial event preceding the holy month of Ramadan. The Khatm Astronomical Observatory, operating under the International Astronomy Center, captured the slender crescent moon from Abu Dhabi at precisely 8:15 AM UAE time on Monday, February 16.

    This astronomical observation holds profound religious significance as Islamic months transition based on lunar sightings, typically spanning 29 or 30 days. The UAE Fatwa Council has confirmed that the official crescent sighting committee will assemble on Tuesday, February 17, to determine the commencement of Ramadan 2026.

    According to astronomical projections, the likelihood of crescent visibility on February 17 remains exceptionally low. Should the committee confirm sighting on Tuesday, Ramadan would commence on Wednesday, February 18. Otherwise, the holy month will officially begin on Thursday, February 19. The final determination will be communicated through authorized channels following the committee’s deliberation.

    The photographic documentation of the Shaban crescent provides scientific validation of the lunar cycle’s progression while serving as a cultural touchstone for millions of Muslims awaiting Ramadan’s arrival. This process blends ancient tradition with modern astronomical technology, as authorities utilize both naked-eye observations and specialized equipment to make their determination.

    Neighboring nations including Saudi Arabia and Qatar have similarly called upon their citizens to participate in crescent sighting efforts on February 17, highlighting the regional significance of this astronomical and religious event. The convergence of scientific observation and religious tradition continues to define the Islamic calendar’s implementation across the Muslim world.

  • South African trio charged with Bolt driver’s murder filmed on dashcam

    South African trio charged with Bolt driver’s murder filmed on dashcam

    A Pretoria courtroom witnessed a significant development on Monday as three suspects charged with the brutal murder of e-hailing driver Isaac Satlat unexpectedly withdrew their bail applications. The accused—Dikeledi Mphala (24), Goitsione Machidi (25), and McClaren Mushwana (30)—face additional charges of robbery following a crime that has ignited national outrage.

    The case stems from last Wednesday’s incident where the perpetrators allegedly ordered a ride through Bolt platform using an unregistered number. According to National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana, Mphala and a fourth still-at-large suspect entered Satlat’s vehicle while Machidi and Mushwana followed in a separate car. The group subsequently forced the 22-year-old Nigerian national to stop his vehicle, strangled him to death, and stole his cell phone and car, which authorities later recovered.

    Disturbing dashcam footage circulating on social media shows two passengers struggling with Satlat during what appears to be a robbery attempt. The video captures the driver’s desperate resistance before one assailant apparently strangles him into unconsciousness.

    Despite South Africa’s history of xenophobic violence, Satlat’s family has explicitly stated they do not believe the attack was motivated by nationality concerns. The case highlights growing safety fears among e-hailing drivers in a nation struggling with severe crime rates and one of the world’s highest murder rates.

    The court has postponed proceedings until next Monday as police continue hunting for the fourth suspect connected to the crime that has shocked the nation and raised urgent questions about passenger safety in the digital ride-hailing industry.

  • Qatar urges faithful to sight Ramadan crescent on February 17

    Qatar urges faithful to sight Ramadan crescent on February 17

    Qatar’s Crescent Sighting Committee has officially designated Tuesday, February 17, 2026, as the observation day for the Ramadan crescent, marking the 29th of Shaban in the Islamic calendar. The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs (Awqaf) has called upon Muslim citizens to actively participate in the moon sighting effort and report any visual confirmation directly to their headquarters at Dafna Tower for testimony verification.

    The committee will convene immediately following Maghrib prayer to evaluate observational reports. This traditional approach to determining Ramadan’s commencement contrasts with Oman’s methodology, which has already declared Thursday, February 19, as the first day of Ramadan based on scientific astronomical data. Oman’s committee stated that astronomical calculations confirm the crescent’s setting before sunset on February 17, making visual observation impossible throughout the Sultanate.

    Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates has similarly encouraged public participation in crescent observation on Tuesday evening, implementing digital reporting systems through official electronic channels. The UAE Fatwa Council will commence operations after Maghrib prayer, reviewing submissions from both field observation teams and certified astronomical observatories.

    Astronomers have issued serious safety warnings regarding observation attempts on February 17 due to the moon’s proximity to the sun during a concurrent solar eclipse. The Abu Dhabi-based International Astronomy Centre emphasized that viewing through optical instruments without certified solar filters risks permanent eye damage, including blindness, urging strict adherence to professional safety protocols.

    Saudi Arabia has joined the crescent observation effort, with the Kingdom’s Supreme Court requesting citizens report sightings through judicial channels regardless of observation method. The divergent approaches across Gulf Cooperation Council nations highlight the ongoing balance between traditional religious practices and modern astronomical science in determining Islamic calendar events.