In a remarkable display of endurance and professionalism, three Emirati firefighters from the Dubai Civil Defence (DCD) have etched their names in history by scaling the 159 floors of the Burj Khalifa in just 52 minutes and 30 seconds. Wearing full firefighting gear weighing 15 kilograms, the trio braved extreme heat, limited oxygen, and physical fatigue to achieve this extraordinary feat, officially recognized by Guinness World Records. The challenge, which took place on October 24, 2025, was not merely a test of physical strength but also a demonstration of Dubai’s firefighters’ readiness to tackle emergencies in skyscrapers. The final stages of the climb were particularly grueling, with gravity and the oppressive heat inside their suits adding to the difficulty. The firefighters underwent rigorous daily training, including endurance exercises and realistic simulations, to prepare for the challenge. Guinness-certified observers meticulously documented the event, ensuring compliance with official standards. No medical incidents were reported, thanks to thorough preparation and supervision. The achievement has inspired pride and motivation among DCD personnel, showcasing their ability to face any challenge at great heights. Earlier, viral social media videos of the firefighters training in full uniform had already garnered widespread admiration, with many viewing them as a source of inspiration for the UAE community.
分类： society
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‘Gym for your brain’: Why mahjong has become UAE’s new screen-free obsession
Mahjong, a centuries-old Chinese strategy game, is experiencing a renaissance in the UAE, particularly in Dubai, where it has become a popular screen-free activity. The game, which requires skill, strategy, and mental agility, is now a staple in living rooms, cafes, and private parties across the city. The Mahjong Network, a community founded earlier this year by Ria Bajaj, Ishira Kumar, and Maneka Jain Daswani, has grown to 367 members in Dubai alone, connecting players through WhatsApp and social media. The network aims to create an inclusive platform where people can interact as equals, regardless of their social status or background. Mahjong’s appeal lies in its ability to foster social connections, provide mental stimulation, and offer a digital detox. Players describe the game as a ‘gym for the brain,’ likening it to meditation and a metaphor for life, where one learns to navigate unexpected twists and adapt strategies. The Dubai chapter of the network recently hosted its first Diwali-themed mahjong meet-up, attended by 64 women dressed in traditional Indian attire. The game’s growing popularity is evident in the increasing number of private events, parties, and workshops dedicated to it. Mahjong is not just a game for older, affluent women; it attracts a diverse demographic, including professionals seeking a break from their stressful jobs. The game’s ability to improve memory, cognitive abilities, and mental health, while fostering a sense of community, has made it a beloved pastime in the UAE.
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How a German freight lift became an unexpected social media star in the Louvre heist
In a daring daylight robbery at the Louvre Museum, thieves demonstrated a surprising level of German efficiency, utilizing a German-made freight lift to execute their plan. The incident, which unfolded in less than four minutes, saw the criminals wheel the lift to the museum, ascend the façade, force open a window, and make off with priceless Napoleonic jewels before escaping on motorbikes through central Paris. Photos of the freight lift, manufactured by Böcker Maschinenwerke GmbH, quickly went viral, turning the spotlight on the company. Alexander Böcker, the managing director and third-generation owner, expressed initial shock at the misuse of their product but soon embraced the situation with a sense of humor. By Monday morning, the company had launched a social media campaign featuring the lift, highlighting its capabilities with a slogan that translates to ‘when something needs to be done quickly.’ The post emphasized the lift’s ability to transport up to 400 kilograms of ‘your treasures’ at a speed of 42 meters per minute, powered by a whisper-quiet 230 Volt E-Motor. Böcker acknowledged the overwhelming positive feedback, though he clarified that the lift is not designed to transport humans. The incident has inadvertently turned into a marketing coup for the company, showcasing the unexpected intersection of crime and commerce.
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Huge noise then I yelled to get out – Louvre attendant recalls shock of heist
In a brazen daylight robbery at the Louvre Museum in Paris, thieves made off with eight priceless crown jewels, including treasures once belonging to Empress Marie-Louise and Empress Eugenie, with an estimated total value of €88 million. The heist unfolded on Sunday morning as visitors began to arrive, leaving staff and tourists in shock. An unnamed gallery attendant recounted the moment the thieves used an angle grinder to break through a reinforced window into the Gallery of Apollo, where the historic jewelry is housed. ‘No-one could have been prepared for this,’ she said, describing the chaos that ensued. The gang, equipped with a mechanical ladder mounted on a lorry, accessed the first-floor balcony and swiftly seized the treasures within eight minutes. Two tourists reportedly fled in panic as one of the criminals brandished what appeared to be a chainsaw. The attendant and her colleagues evacuated visitors and secured neighboring galleries, but the thieves escaped on scooters, leaving behind a trail of evidence, including a damaged crown. The museum’s director, Laurence des Cars, revealed that years of underfunding and inadequate security measures, such as a single misaligned external camera, contributed to the breach. While French ministers defended the museum’s security protocols, staff expressed concerns about a declining ‘culture of security’ at the iconic institution.
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Rain respite aids fall harvest in Shandong
Recent clear skies have provided a much-needed boost to Shandong province’s autumn harvest, allowing farmers and local authorities to accelerate crop collection after unprecedented October rainfall disrupted agricultural activities. According to the Shandong Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, as of Wednesday, approximately 82.8% of the province’s autumn grain, covering around 3.63 million hectares, had been harvested. This includes 3.34 million hectares of corn, representing 85.8% of the total planting area for this key crop. The harvest was initially delayed due to rare continuous rainfall in early October, with precipitation levels soaring to 141.3 millimeters—751.2% higher than the historical average for the same period. To address the challenges posed by the prolonged wet weather, the central government allocated 484 million yuan ($68 million) for agricultural disaster relief in seven provinces, including Shandong. These funds are being used to expedite harvesting, dry damp grain, and drain waterlogged fields. Shandong’s agricultural authorities have also mobilized resources, deploying 426 mobile drying units to major grain-producing areas and providing detailed information on accessible grain drying service centers. Farmers like An Senping, who owns a crawler harvester capable of operating in wet conditions, have been instrumental in gathering crops, even assisting neighboring smallholders. However, drying the harvested corn remains a significant challenge, as improper drying can lead to mold and substantial losses. To address this, local authorities have partnered with grain enterprises to offer purchasing and drying services, with designated drying locations available to farmers. Despite the hurdles, farmers are making the most of the improved weather, coordinating efforts across harvesting, drying, storage, and planting to ensure a successful harvest. Nationwide, the autumn grain harvest has reached nearly 80%, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of China’s agricultural sector.
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Snowstorms forecast as La Nina onset nears
China is bracing for a series of snowstorms and extreme weather conditions as the La Nina climate pattern approaches. The China Meteorological Administration (CMA) has issued warnings of moderate to heavy snowfall in western regions, including Qinghai, Xizang, western Sichuan, and parts of Gansu, from Thursday to Sunday. Some areas may experience blizzard conditions, potentially disrupting agriculture, animal husbandry, and transportation. Zhang Daquan, an official from the National Climate Center, highlighted that recent oceanic and atmospheric monitoring indicates a transition to La Nina conditions, which historically brings colder winters to China. However, experts caution that La Nina does not always guarantee extreme cold, as global warming could lead to warmer winters. The interplay of Arctic sea ice, snow cover, and atmospheric circulation further complicates winter weather predictions. Additionally, the Yellow River is entering its ice jam flood season, with the Ministry of Water Resources warning of sharp temperature fluctuations and challenging flood prevention efforts. Authorities are preparing for potential impacts on production and daily life, urging vigilance against extreme weather events.
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Artificial island to begin tourism trial operation
The western artificial island of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link, a monumental cross-sea project in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, is poised to commence a month-long trial operation as a cultural and tourism destination starting this Saturday. Managed by the Guangdong Transportation Group, this initiative marks a significant step in transforming the island into a multifaceted hub for education, leisure, and innovation. The formal opening is slated for December 2025. Spanning 24 kilometers, the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link integrates bridges, islands, tunnels, and underwater interchanges, representing one of the most complex engineering feats in modern infrastructure. Completed in June 2024 after 14 years of planning and construction involving over 15,000 workers, the project has already facilitated increased traffic flow, with vehicles seamlessly transitioning between the bridge and tunnel via the western island. Covering 137,000 square meters, the island serves as a critical hub for traffic management, emergency rescue, and science education. The cultural and tourism development will unfold in phases, with the initial focus on study tours and sightseeing centered around a science and education base. During the trial period, reservations will be available for enterprises and study groups on weekdays, with public access on weekends. Visitors will provide feedback on tour routes, VR/AR interactive equipment, and supporting services. Once fully operational, ticket prices will range from 128 to 188 yuan, inclusive of transportation and a three-hour tour. Dining and other facilities are expected to launch by December. The island’s observation deck offers views of iconic landmarks like Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport and the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Bridge, while the science education base showcases the project’s development history and cutting-edge technologies like holographic projections. Outdoor exhibits include full-scale tunnel sections and engineering components, offering insights into the construction process. Long-term plans envision activities such as sea-based bridge viewing and low-altitude sightseeing flights, positioning the island as a premier technology, engineering, and cultural tourism destination in the Greater Bay Area.
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Annual Potala Palace makeover kicks off
In the heart of Lhasa, Xizang Autonomous Region, the annual restoration of the iconic Potala Palace has commenced, drawing hundreds of dedicated volunteers to its historic walls. This cherished tradition, which began on October 22, 2025, aligns with the start of the ninth month in the Tibetan calendar and serves as both a cultural celebration and a vital act of preservation. The week-long event, deeply rooted in generations of history, sees locals and experts alike come together to refresh the palace’s striking red, white, and yellow façade. Among the volunteers is Pema Wangyal, a Lhasa resident participating for the second time, who expressed the profound honor of contributing to the upkeep of this sacred site. The restoration process involves meticulously preparing natural pigments made from lime, milk, honey, sugar, saffron, and minerals, which are then applied to the palace’s massive walls using traditional methods. Volunteers, including skilled ‘spider-men’ who work on ropes to reach high areas, ensure every inch of the structure is revitalized. Ngakwang, a seasoned participant, highlighted the efficiency of modern equipment and teamwork, reducing the project’s duration from half a month to just a week. Organized by the Potala Palace Management Office, this initiative not only enhances the palace’s aesthetic but also protects its ancient walls from weathering and erosion. Built in the 7th century and reconstructed in the 17th century, the Potala Palace stands as Xizang’s largest and best-preserved palace complex, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1994. For the community, this annual ritual is more than a physical restoration—it is a testament to their enduring connection to history and heritage.
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Australian women launch landmark sexual abuse lawsuit against military
In a groundbreaking move, four Australian servicewomen have initiated a class action lawsuit against the Australian Defence Force (ADF), accusing it of systemic sexual abuse, harassment, and discrimination. The lawsuit, filed in the Federal Court on Friday, is expected to attract thousands of women who have served between November 12, 2003, and May 25, 2025. The plaintiffs, whose identities remain confidential for legal reasons, have detailed harrowing experiences, including being forcibly groped, waking up naked and bruised after social events, and enduring hostile, sexist remarks and unsolicited explicit content. One plaintiff, an air force member, recounted being told by her sergeant that women should not earn as much as men because they are ‘not as strong.’ Another, a navy recruit, described enduring lewd comments and unwanted physical advances, including being kissed against her will while on duty abroad. The lawsuit follows a major report last year that revealed approximately 800 sexual assault cases were reported within the ADF between 2019 and 2024, with an estimated 60% under-reporting rate. The report highlighted that sexual misconduct remains a pervasive issue, with female personnel often fearing sexual violence more than the dangers of war. Lawyers representing the plaintiffs, including Josh Aylward from JGA Saddler, emphasized that these women enlisted to serve their country, not to fend off harassment from their colleagues. The ADF has acknowledged the need for improvement, stating that all personnel deserve respect and a positive workplace experience. The case underscores the urgent need for systemic reform within the military to address sexual misconduct and ensure a safe environment for all service members.
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Conservation group rescues sea turtles caught in nets at Nigerian coastal city and rewards fishermen
In a heartwarming event at a private beach in Lagos, Nigeria, three endangered sea turtles were released back into the Atlantic Ocean, marking a significant victory for wildlife conservation in the region. The turtles, rescued from local fishermen weeks earlier, were rehabilitated by the Greenfingers Wildlife Conservation Initiative, a group dedicated to protecting Nigeria’s threatened wildlife. The release, which took place last weekend, was witnessed by conservationists, students, and onlookers who cheered as the turtles made their way back to their natural habitat.