Dubai is set to host a spectacular celebration of Indian culture with the ‘Emirates Loves India’ event, scheduled for October 26, 2025, at Zabeel Park. This grand cultural extravaganza, organized in collaboration with the UAE Government Media Office, aims to bring the vibrant energy and rich traditions of India to the heart of Dubai. The event will feature live performances by renowned Indian artists, including Neha Kakkar, Mika Singh, and Neeraj Madhav, alongside a colorful cultural parade by IPF, delectable Indian cuisine, and engaging exhibitions. Additionally, a dedicated kids’ zone will ensure entertainment for all age groups. Cultural stalls representing various Indian states will showcase over 30 regional cuisines, offering a culinary journey across India. Entry to the event is free, but attendees must register in advance via a WhatsApp link available on the event’s Instagram profile. The celebration also includes an evening of panel discussions and networking with prominent Indian influencers, further strengthening the cultural ties between India and the UAE. With over 4.36 million Indians residing in the UAE, this event underscores the deep-rooted relationship between the two nations, built on trust, shared vision, and mutual growth.
分类： society
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UAE gears up for Diwali : Major retailers roll out festive offers
The United Arab Emirates is ablaze with the vibrant spirit of Diwali, the ‘Festival of Lights,’ as the nation prepares for one of the most cherished celebrations in the Indian calendar. From dazzling rangoli displays to aisles overflowing with traditional sweets, ethnic attire, and festive decorations, the UAE’s retail landscape has transformed into a Diwali wonderland. Major retailers, including hypermarket giant Lulu, have rolled out an array of exclusive offers, catering to every aspect of the celebration. Shoppers can explore a diverse range of Indian delicacies, decorative diyas, home décor essentials, and ethnic fashion collections, all designed to enhance the festive experience. Beyond traditional items, categories such as home appliances, electronics, and mobile phones are also illuminated with attractive deals. For those seeking convenience, Lulu’s Diwali-themed gift cards offer a thoughtful and flexible gifting solution. Salim M A, Lulu’s global operations director, emphasized the retailer’s commitment to making festive shopping seamless and joyful, highlighting the expanded Diwali range across food, fashion, home essentials, and gifting. Beyond retail, Indian associations across the UAE are hosting cultural events and community programmes, fostering unity and adding to the festive atmosphere. As Diwali brings communities together in a celebration of light, joy, and tradition, the UAE’s vibrant retail and cultural scene ensures that everyone can partake in the festivities with style and enthusiasm.
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Why the ultra-wealthy are paying fortunes for longevity
In a world where luxury once meant owning the rarest handbags, fastest cars, or largest yachts, the ultra-wealthy have shifted their focus to a new, intangible asset: time. The global wellness industry, now valued at $5 trillion, is experiencing a seismic transformation, driven by the pursuit of longevity among billionaires. High-end wellness retreats, offering cutting-edge medical treatments and bespoke health programs, have become the new playgrounds for the ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs).
Clinique La Prairie in Switzerland, Lanserhof in Austria, and Buchinger Wilhelmi in Germany are among the elite sanctuaries where guests pay upwards of $50,000 for week-long programs. These retreats combine advanced medical science with five-star hospitality, offering DNA sequencing, stem-cell rejuvenation, and circadian rhythm optimization. The luxury here is not just in the amenities but in the promise of extended vitality and health.
The pandemic and breakthroughs in medical science have fueled this shift. For the ultra-wealthy, the ultimate status symbol is no longer material possessions but the ability to look, feel, and perform younger than their peers. Wellness has evolved from weekend spa trips to a sophisticated industry offering cryotherapy, ozone therapy, and epigenetic reprogramming.
The Gulf region is emerging as a hub for longevity luxury. Dubai’s thriving spa culture is being complemented by science-driven sanctuaries, while Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 includes ambitious wellness tourism projects. SHA Wellness Clinic, a Mediterranean flagship, is expanding to the UAE with a project marketed as the ‘world’s first healthy living island.’
Critics argue that many longevity treatments remain unproven or controversial. However, for billionaires, the cost of failure is negligible. A six-figure gamble on a treatment that might extend vitality by even a year is more compelling than another luxury car or watch.
As the industry grows, longevity is expected to merge with mainstream luxury brands. Imagine Dior Longevity Retreats or Louis Vuitton Biohacking Spas. Technology will also play a key role, with AI-powered health diagnostics and VR wellness sanctuaries on the horizon.
In the 21st century, luxury is no longer measured in carats or horsepower but in decades of life lived well. The ultra-wealthy are no longer asking, ‘What can I buy?’ but ‘How long can I thrive?’
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UAE announces Golden Visa for Waqf donors under new agreement
In a significant move to promote humanitarian work and charitable giving, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced the introduction of a Golden Visa for Waqf donors. This initiative follows a new cooperation agreement signed between the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA-Dubai) and the Endowments and Minors Affairs Foundation (Awqaf Dubai) on October 17, 2025. Under this agreement, Awqaf Dubai will nominate eligible donors—both residents and non-residents—who meet the criteria outlined in Cabinet Resolution No. (65) of 2022 for the Golden Visa category of ‘financial supporters of humanitarian work.’ The GDRFA-Dubai will then issue residency permits based on these nominations. A joint committee will also be established to oversee the implementation and assess the outcomes of this initiative, ensuring it aligns with the intended social objectives. Lt-Gen Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA-Dubai, emphasized that this agreement represents a progressive model of governmental integration, empowering donors to contribute to community development through impactful initiatives that promote the values of giving and sustainability. Awqaf Dubai, which oversees the regulation, investment, and management of endowments, will utilize the generated revenues for sustainable Sharia-compliant projects across the UAE. Ali Mohammed Al Mutawa, Secretary-General of Awqaf Dubai, highlighted that granting Golden Visas to financial supporters of humanitarian work reflects Dubai’s vision of positioning endowment work as a key partner in sustainable development, recognizing their role in fostering solidarity and social responsibility. This initiative underscores Dubai’s commitment to becoming a global hub for tolerance and humanitarian giving, reinforcing its status as a sustainable and human-centered city.
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UAE announces Union March for Eid Al Etihad; registration to open soon
The United Arab Emirates is set to host a spectacular Union March in honor of the 54th UAE National Day on December 4, 2025. The event, announced by the UAE Presidential Court, will take place at the renowned Sheikh Zayed Festival site in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi. Emiratis are encouraged to participate in this grand parade, which symbolizes national unity and pride. Registration for the march will open on October 19, 2025, and close on October 26, 2025. Interested participants can register by calling the toll-free number 8003300 during specified hours. In addition to the march, the National Day celebrations will feature a newly unveiled logo inspired by early street signs, paying homage to the late Sheikh Zayed. The organizers have also invited the public to contribute their creative ideas for designing official National Day merchandise, fostering a sense of community and involvement in the festivities. This event promises to be a memorable occasion, reflecting the UAE’s rich heritage and forward-looking vision.
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Prince Andrew says he’s giving up his Duke of York title as Epstein allegations refuse to fade
In a significant development within the British royal family, Prince Andrew has announced his decision to relinquish his royal title as the Duke of York and other associated honors. This decision comes in the wake of renewed public scrutiny over his association with the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The announcement was made in a statement released by Buckingham Palace on Friday, where Prince Andrew emphasized that the ongoing allegations against him were becoming a distraction from the duties of King Charles III and the royal family at large.
Prince Andrew, 65, has consistently denied any wrongdoing, particularly in relation to the accusations made by Virginia Roberts Giuffre, who alleged that she was trafficked by Epstein and had sexual encounters with the prince when she was 17. Giuffre, who tragically passed away by suicide in April at the age of 41, detailed these allegations in a posthumous memoir set to be published soon. In 2021, Giuffre filed a lawsuit against Prince Andrew, which was settled in 2022 for an undisclosed sum. As part of the settlement, Prince Andrew acknowledged Epstein’s role as a sex trafficker and recognized Giuffre as a victim of abuse.
This is not the first time Prince Andrew has faced public backlash over his ties to Epstein. In a widely criticized BBC interview in November 2019, his attempts to refute Giuffre’s claims were met with skepticism and further damaged his reputation. Following the interview, he stepped down from his royal duties. Now, with the release of Giuffre’s memoir reigniting public interest in the case, Prince Andrew has taken the additional step of giving up his titles, including Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order and Royal Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter. However, he will retain his status as a prince, a title he has held since birth.
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Plan to test Liberian schoolchildren for drugs blocked
Liberia’s Education Ministry has intervened to halt a contentious proposal for mandatory drug testing across all schools in the country. The initiative, spearheaded by the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), aimed to combat the escalating issue of drug abuse among students. Interim LDEA head Fitzgerald Biago argued that such measures would address the growing crisis, which President Joseph Boakai declared a national emergency last year. A recent EU-backed report revealed that one in five young Liberians engages in drug use, underscoring the severity of the problem. However, the Education Ministry expressed reservations, stating that it was unaware of the plan and emphasized the need for evidence-based decision-making. Assistant Minister Sona Sesay-Toure highlighted the potential negative consequences of drug testing, including privacy concerns, social stigma, and adverse effects on students’ academic performance. She stressed the importance of thorough research and case studies from other nations before implementing such measures. Sesay-Toure also noted the establishment of a multi-sectoral committee, led by the Health Ministry, to address drug and substance abuse. Additionally, she emphasized the role of strengthened school health clubs in reducing drug prevalence. The LDEA has undergone recent leadership changes, with Biago appointed as interim head following the dismissal of the previous leadership in August. The debate over drug testing in schools continues, balancing the urgency of tackling drug abuse with the need to protect students’ rights and well-being.
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Portuguese parliament approves bill banning face coverings in public
In a significant legislative move, Portugal’s parliament has passed a bill prohibiting the wearing of face veils for ‘gender or religious’ reasons in most public spaces. The bill, primarily targeting Islamic face coverings such as burqas and niqabs, was introduced by the far-right Chega party and received backing from center-right political groups. While the ban excludes specific locations like airplanes, diplomatic premises, and places of worship, violators could face fines ranging from 200 euros to 4,000 euros ($234 to $4,669). The legislation now awaits approval from President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, who may either sign it into law, veto it, or refer it to the Constitutional Court for further review. If enacted, Portugal would join several European nations, including Austria, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, which have implemented full or partial bans on face and head coverings. Although the number of women in Portugal wearing such garments is relatively small, the issue has sparked debates similar to those in other European countries. Chega has justified the ban by arguing that face coverings perpetuate ‘exclusion and inferiority,’ particularly for women, and contradict principles of ‘liberty, equality, and human dignity.’
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Watch: Dubai Police seize vehicle for reckless driving, nearly hitting delivery rider
In a recent incident highlighting the dangers of reckless driving, Dubai Police seized a vehicle after its driver endangered the life of a delivery rider. The incident, captured in a video shared on X (formerly Twitter), shows the car abruptly changing multiple lanes, narrowly avoiding a collision with the motorbike. The delivery rider is seen attempting to maintain a safe distance from the erratic vehicle and other traffic. Dubai Police emphasized the severe consequences of such behavior, warning that reckless driving not only jeopardizes the driver’s safety but also endangers the lives of others on the road. Under UAE traffic laws, driving in a manner that threatens lives incurs a fine of Dh2,000, 23 black points on the driver’s license, and a 60-day vehicle impoundment. The police urged motorists to prioritize road safety and adhere to traffic regulations to prevent such incidents. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible driving in ensuring public safety.
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Husband guilty in murder case without a body that shocked France
In a case that has captivated France for years, 38-year-old painter-decorator Cédric Jubillar has been found guilty of murdering his wife, Delphine Jubillar, despite the absence of her body. The trial, which lasted four weeks in the southern town of Albi, concluded with Jubillar being sentenced to 30 years in prison. The jury, comprising six civilians and three magistrates, determined that circumstantial evidence was sufficient to convict him, even though Delphine’s remains were never found. Prosecutors had sought the maximum sentence, and Jubillar’s defense team has announced plans to appeal the verdict. Delphine, 33, vanished on the night of December 15-16, 2020, during the Covid pandemic, from the couple’s home in Cagnac-les-Mines, where they lived with their two young children. Jubillar reported her missing at 04:00 on December 16, claiming he had been awakened by their younger child’s cries. Extensive searches, including in nearby abandoned mines, yielded no trace of her. The trial revealed that the couple’s relationship had deteriorated, with Delphine seeking a divorce and beginning an affair with a man she met on a chatline. Prosecutors argued that Jubillar killed her in a fit of rage after she disclosed the affair, likely by strangulation, and disposed of her body in the surrounding countryside. Key evidence included Delphine’s car parked unusually, broken glasses in the sitting room, and Jubillar’s lack of movement recorded on his phone pedometer. Psychological assessments portrayed Jubillar as a troubled individual with a history of substance abuse and difficulty maintaining employment. His defense argued that the evidence was speculative and that no physical traces of a crime were found. However, the jury’s ‘intimate conviction’ of his guilt led to the verdict. The case has sparked widespread media attention and online speculation, with amateur detectives offering theories about Delphine’s disappearance. Jubillar’s lawyers maintain his innocence and plan to challenge the decision in a higher court.