A protest outside a Dublin hotel housing asylum seekers turned violent as Irish police officers were targeted with missiles and fireworks. The incident, which unfolded in the heart of the Irish capital, highlights the growing tensions surrounding the accommodation of asylum seekers in the country. Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as demonstrators clashed with law enforcement, raising concerns about public safety and the broader implications for Ireland’s immigration policies. Authorities have condemned the violence, emphasizing the need for peaceful dialogue to address the complex issues at hand. The hotel, which has been repurposed to provide temporary shelter for asylum seekers, has become a focal point of public debate, reflecting wider societal divisions on immigration and humanitarian responsibilities.
分类： society
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MERED and Herzog & de Meuron unveil architectural masterpiece on Abu Dhabi’s waterfront
In a groundbreaking collaboration, MERED, the internationally acclaimed developer, has joined forces with Pritzker Prize-winning architects Herzog & de Meuron to unveil Riviera Residences, a landmark waterfront development on Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi. This project marks a fusion of innovative design and cultural heritage, set to redefine luxury living in the region. Scheduled for launch in November 2025, Riviera Residences promises to be a testament to architectural excellence and thoughtful urban planning. The development will feature over 400 meticulously designed apartments, 12 exclusive villas, and a penthouse, all inspired by Abu Dhabi’s pearl-diving legacy. The shimmering mother-of-pearl façades, designed to capture natural light, pay homage to the city’s coastal heritage while offering a contemporary aesthetic. Herzog & de Meuron, renowned for iconic projects like the Tate Modern in London and the Beijing National Stadium, have brought their signature precision and sustainability to this venture. The interiors and amenities, crafted with elegance and functionality, include landscaped gardens, four swimming pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, wellness spaces, and a luxurious promenade lined with cafés and boutiques. Olga Bolshanina, Partner at Herzog & de Meuron, emphasized the project’s ambition to create a vertical neighborhood that balances individuality and collective life. Michael Belton, CEO of MERED, highlighted the development’s ability to blend heritage with bold architectural design, offering residents a unique waterfront living experience. Al Reem Island, part of the Abu Dhabi Global Market, continues to attract investors, with off-plan property prices rising by 38% year-on-year in Q2 2025. Riviera Residences is poised to set a new standard for luxury living in the capital, combining innovative architecture with a vibrant community spirit.
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Watch: UAE wadis overflow, roads turn into rivers as heavy rains hit mountains
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) experienced another day of intense rainfall on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, as a persistent low-pressure system continued to affect the region. The relentless downpour transformed mountain roads and wadis into rushing rivers, with videos circulating online showcasing the dramatic scenes. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) had earlier forecasted increased cloud cover and rainfall in the eastern and southeastern parts of the country, with the low-pressure system expected to bring cooler temperatures months before the official start of winter. The heavy rains caused water to cascade off cliffs and rocks, forming pools and mini waterfalls, while also raising concerns about potential rockfalls. Authorities have repeatedly warned motorists and pedestrians to avoid mountainous areas during such unstable weather conditions, emphasizing the risks of property damage, injuries, and even fatalities. The UAE’s mountainous regions, typically arid, have been significantly impacted by the unseasonal weather, highlighting the need for caution and preparedness.
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Data show rising labor, business disputes
China’s judicial system has witnessed a significant shift in case dynamics over the first nine months of 2025, with a notable decline in criminal cases but a sharp rise in labor and business disputes. According to data released by the Supreme People’s Court, first-instance criminal cases dropped by 11.61% year-on-year to 804,000, reflecting the judiciary’s focus on maintaining social stability and safeguarding national security. Concurrently, labor-related disputes surged by 37.5% to 648,000 cases, while business-related cases jumped by 70.21% to 147,000. The data also highlighted a rise in securities-related cases (63.22%) and intellectual property lawsuits (33.78%), underscoring the growing complexity of civil litigation in China. To address these trends, courts have intensified efforts against fraud, resolved 71,000 such cases, and issued judicial interpretations. Additionally, Chinese courts handled 35,000 civil and commercial disputes involving foreign parties, marking a 60% increase, as part of efforts to support high-level opening-up and promote international commercial court development.
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Police attacked at protest outside asylum seeker hotel
Violence erupted in Dublin as Irish police faced aggressive protests outside the Citywest Hotel, a facility currently housing asylum seekers. Dramatic footage from the scene captured a police vehicle engulfed in flames, highlighting the intensity of the unrest. According to reports from RTÉ, Ireland’s state broadcaster, several thousand demonstrators had gathered outside the hotel, creating a volatile atmosphere. Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan condemned the violence, stating unequivocally that there is “no excuse” for such behavior. The incident underscores the growing tensions surrounding immigration policies in Ireland, with the Citywest Hotel becoming a focal point for public dissent. Authorities are now investigating the cause of the protest and assessing the broader implications for public safety and social cohesion.
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Winter in UAE: Dubai opens applications for temporary camps
As the winter season approaches, Dubai Municipality has officially opened applications for temporary winter camps for the 2025-2026 season. Starting Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 10 AM, residents can apply through the ‘Dubai Now’ app or the Dubai Municipality website (wintercamp.dm.gov.ae). Applicants must log in using UAE Pass to access the ‘Temporary Winter Camp Permit Application Service’ form. The permits, valid from November 1 to April 30, are exclusively for family use and cannot be rented or utilized by hotels or private companies. Camp reservations require a minimum commitment of three months, extendable up to the full six-month camping season. To complete the application, individuals must provide a copy of their passport, Family Book, and bank account details, including the International Bank Account Number (IBAN). Once approved, permit holders can access electronic services such as permit copies, extensions, and refunds through the municipality portal. Designated camping plots in Al Aweer offer a secure and well-equipped environment for families to enjoy Dubai’s desert landscape. Strict safety regulations mandate that camps be fenced and used solely for camping and family-related activities. Unauthorized structures or activities outside the permit limits are prohibited. This initiative underscores Dubai Municipality’s commitment to providing safe and enjoyable outdoor experiences during the cooler months.
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How Arab families in foreign countries keep children connected to Arabic
As the 2025 Arab Reading Challenge approaches its grand finale, the spotlight shines on Arab families living in non-Arab countries who are determined to keep their children connected to their linguistic and cultural heritage. The Community Champions category of the competition has become a vital platform for these families, showcasing their efforts to nurture Arabic proficiency and cultural pride among their children in foreign environments.
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Inside UAE shelter offering second chance to women rescued from human trafficking rings
In the United Arab Emirates, a beacon of hope shines for women who have fallen victim to human trafficking. Lured by false promises of stable jobs and a better life, many women arrive in the UAE only to find themselves trapped in exploitative situations. Stripped of their freedom and subjected to physical and emotional abuse, these women are often left traumatized and in desperate need of help. When identified through police investigations, public prosecution, or the national hotline, victims are transferred to specialized shelters like the Aman Centre for Women and Children. This facility offers comprehensive care, including medical treatment, psychological support, legal assistance, and vocational training, to help survivors recover and rebuild their lives. Many victims arrive with chronic health issues or injuries resulting from prolonged exploitation. During their stay, they receive counselling and skills training to prepare them for independent living. Once legal proceedings are complete, survivors may choose to remain in the UAE or return home with assistance from the Victim Support Fund, which helps them establish small businesses such as beauty salons, tailoring shops, or grocery stores. Several women who once lived in the shelter have since built sustainable ventures in their home countries. The director of the Aman Centre emphasizes the importance of restoring dignity and independence. “We work to ensure these women can begin new lives here or return home with the skills and confidence to start again,” she said. Beyond addressing human trafficking, the centre also tackles family-related cases involving women and young girls facing educational or social challenges. Through counselling, workshops, and partnerships with private universities, the centre helps families navigate complex issues and improve relationships. The director noted that societal challenges are constantly evolving, requiring institutions like the Aman Centre to adapt and provide relevant guidance. “Social issues change with society, and we must be ready to offer awareness, rehabilitation, and support,” she explained. The centre’s approach is rooted in addressing the root causes of problems to prevent recurrence. “We start with the family because that’s where change begins,” she added. By creating a safe and supportive environment, the Aman Centre continues to empower women and children, helping them recover, rebuild, and regain stability in their lives.
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The Louvre’s crown jewel heist is now a race against time for authorities — and the brazen thieves
In a stunning act of audacity, thieves executed a meticulously planned heist at the Louvre Museum in Paris, making off with priceless French crown jewels valued at an estimated $102 million. The stolen treasures, including an emerald necklace and earrings, two crowns, two brooches, a sapphire necklace, and a single earring, represent the zenith of 19th-century haute joaillerie. These artifacts, saved from a government auction in 1887, are not merely decorative but symbolize France’s historical wealth, power, and cultural legacy. The theft has left the nation grappling with yet another security lapse at the Louvre, which has faced criticism for overcrowding and outdated facilities. Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau revealed that over 100 investigators are now on the case, hunting for the suspects and the stolen gems. The robbers, clad in bright yellow jackets, infiltrated the Apollo Gallery at 9:34 a.m., spending just four minutes inside before fleeing on motorbikes. Among the stolen items were a crown gifted by Napoleon III to Empress Eugenie and a necklace from Napoleon Bonaparte to his wife Marie-Louise. Experts fear the jewels may be dismantled and sold piecemeal, effectively erasing them from history. The emotional toll on France is profound, with conservative lawmaker Maxime Michelet decrying the theft as a blow to national pride. The heist, reminiscent of a scene from the French TV show ‘Lupin,’ underscores the challenges of safeguarding cultural heritage in an era of sophisticated crime.
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UAE: Speed limiter devices to be installed in Ajman taxis to reduce road hazards
Ajman has taken a groundbreaking step in road safety by introducing smart speed limiter devices in all taxis and limousines operating within the emirate. This innovative system, the first of its kind in the UAE, leverages advanced technology to automatically adjust vehicle speeds based on real-time location and designated road limits. Unlike traditional speed limiters, the new devices utilize an integrated smart mapping system that identifies permitted speeds for specific areas, ensuring precise and continuous compliance. The system directly synchronizes with the vehicle’s electronic driving mechanism, offering unparalleled accuracy in speed control. Additionally, it provides instant data updates to maintain adherence to speed regulations. This initiative aims to curb hazardous driving behaviors, enhance passenger and driver safety, and set a new standard for road safety in the region. Ajman’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to leveraging technology for public welfare and reducing traffic-related risks.